(Interpretation) To what extent do you agree... (16 marks)
Example:
Read the interpretation provided below and answer the question which follows.
William L. Shirer, an American journalist who worked in Germany between 1934 and 1940, writing in his book, The Rise and fall of the Third Reich, published in 1960:
'Visitors to Germany in the 1930s saw a happy, healthy, friendly people united under Hitler.'
To what extent do you agree with this interpretation?
Tips:
This is an essay question, so requires a longer answer. It is worth underlining the key instructions and terms in the question.
This is an interpretation question so you need to discuss the arguments for and against the view expressed in the interpretation and reach a judgement as to its validity. You will need to provide a fully developed answer explaining why you either agree, partially agree, or disagree with the given interpretation.
Always look at alternative viewpoints in your answer even if you wholeheartedly agree with the given interpretation. As with all other interpretation questions pay attention to the attribution and what the interpretation says and why. Look for clues in the attribution as to why it has a particular viewpoint and look carefully at who the interpretation was aimed at.
Also use your knowledge of the topic to reach a judgement. Remember that you might agree partially with the interpretation but make sure you explain why.