Time periods of the sources: what the requirement means

1. Specification focus. They will be drawn from the 19th century, and either the 20th or 21st century depending on the time period assessed in Paper 1 in each particular series. The combination selected will always provide students with an opportunity to consider viewpoints and perspectives over time.
2. Why it matters. The skill is assessed through the quality of the response, not through a memorised label. Examiners reward choices that are accurate, relevant and clearly connected to meaning, purpose or audience.

Time periods of the sources: a reliable method

1. Read for orientation. Establish who communicates, what happens or is argued, and the text's overall purpose before focusing on details.
2. Separate explicit and implicit meaning. Record what the text states directly, then infer what attitudes, motives or consequences are suggested.
3. Select precise evidence. Use the smallest quotation or reference that proves the point. Keep evidence relevant to the exact wording of the question.
4. Explain and verify. Show how the evidence supports the interpretation and check it against the surrounding passage so that the inference remains defensible.

Time periods of the sources: worked application

1. Model the thinking. If a narrator says little but repeatedly notices exits and watches other people, the explicit details concern setting and observation; the defensible inference may be anxiety, caution or a desire to escape.
2. Develop rather than list. One developed example normally shows greater control than several labels. Explain the relationship between choice, evidence and effect.