Exam Skills: Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88 (Edexcel GCSE History: British Depth Study (Paper 2, Booklet B))

Exam Questions

3 hours18 questions
116 marks

‘The effective use of naval tactics was the main reason for the English victory over the Spanish Armada.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • fire ships 

  • bad weather 

You must also use information of your own.

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216 marks

 ‘The attitude of the Papacy was the main reason why Catholic opposition to Elizabeth increased in the years 1559-88.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • excommunication

  • Mary, Queen of Scots

You must also use information of your own.

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316 marks

‘There was little change in education in Early Elizabethan England.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • education for girls

  • petty schools

You must also use information of your own.

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416 marks

‘The leisure activities of the rich and the leisure activities of the poor in early Elizabethan England were very similar.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • the theatre

  • football

You must also use information of your own.

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516 marks

‘The problem of Elizabeth’s legitimacy was the main problem she faced when she became queen in 1558.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • Anne Boleyn

  • royal finances

You must also use information of your own.

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616 marks

‘New technology was the main reason why exploration by the English increased in the years 1558-88.’ 

How far do you agree? Explain your answer.

You may use the following in your answer: 

  • navigational instruments

  • Sir Francis Drake

You must also use information of your own.

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