🎯 Common Question Types
- “Describe two features of...” (4 marks) — two distinct features, each with supporting detail
- “Describe three features of...” (6 marks) — three distinct features, each developed
- “Why did [X] happen?” (8 marks) — multi-factor causal explanation with judgement
- “How far do you agree that...?” (18 marks) — balanced argument with sustained reasoning
📝 Key Command Words
- Describe — state what happened with specific supporting detail; each feature needs its own evidence
- Explain — show causes and consequences using “because,” “this led to,” “as a result”
- How far do you agree — argue for and against the stated view; make a clear final judgement
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not just list raids without explaining why each raid was significant or how it shows something about Viking strategy
- Do not forget to use specific dates and names — “793” and “Lindisfarne” are much stronger than “a monastery”
- Do not ignore the trading and settlement aspects — treating Vikings as only raiders misses half the story
- In the essay, do not just agree with the statement — you must consider alternative factors and explain why your chosen factor was most important
This exam tips covers 💡 Exam Tips: Viking Expansion within Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050 for GCSE History. Revise Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050 in Component Group 4 — Period Studies for GCSE History with 14 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 13 of 14 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Practice questions for Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050
Describe two features of the Viking raid on Lindisfarne in 793.
Describe two features of Viking longships.
Quick recall flashcards
What was Danegeld?
Silver tribute paid by rulers to Viking leaders in exchange for peace. After the Siege of Paris (885-886), the Frankish king paid 700 pounds of silver to make the Viking fleet of 700 ships leave. English kings also paid Danegeld repeatedly. Rather than genuine peace, it often just postponed the next raid.
What was a knarr and how was it used?
A broader, deeper Viking cargo ship designed for trade and colonisation rather than raiding. Used to carry settlers, livestock, supplies and trade goods on long ocean voyages. Knarrs transported Viking settlers to Iceland (c.874), Greenland (c.985), and North America (c.1000).