Four phases, one big question
Four phases, one big question

This option is easier when you divide it into four phases: late Qing defensive reform, Republican instability and Japanese pressure, Soviet-style socialist planning, and reform and opening. Across all four, the core question is how China tried to modernise while preserving or recovering sovereignty.
Step-by-step lessons on Edexcel AS Level History The making of modern China, 1860–1997. Each one builds up to exam-style questions.