Subscriber comments

  • 10 May 2024
    Matthew McDowell
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi Jo,Thanks for the feedback! Thank you.Best,Matt
  • 9 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    4. Finding resources
    Hi Jon All the key publishers do textbooks on the key IB topics - we have been involved with the Pearson ones for Wars (which covers all your chosen wars) and Interwar years for Paper 3 - and also the OUP one for MTGW (see above on this page)....
  • 9 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Choosing your content
    HI MattGreat tp have you in the group. This looks good  and you have some nice overlap between papers;  however you could consider cutting down the number of topics for Paper 3. The  IB recommends 3 sections - and as these are...
  • 8 May 2024
    Jonathan Joseph
    4. Finding resources
    Hi Jo,I'm trying to figure out which textbooks I'll need, as well as additional readings, e.g. The Sleepwalkers by Christopher Clark or The Guns of August by Barbara Tuchman. Also, which books do I need (from which I can take extracts) and...
  • 8 May 2024
    Jonathan Joseph
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi Jo,Thanks for your help. Yes, I'm still planning for Paper 3 to be WW1; Interwar Years; Versailles to Berlin: Diplomacy. Fingers crossed!Jon
  • 7 May 2024
    Matthew McDowell
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi all,New to this group and IB. Thoughts on this progression? We just have HL for juniors and seniors currently. Year 1 - HOTA: Topics 10, 13,16, 17Year 2 - The Move to Global War: Expansion Case Studies (Japan, Germany, Italy) + World...
  • 7 May 2024
    Thomas Quinn
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    Good morning Ms. Thomas. It might seem like an odd question, considering students are taking Papers 1 & 2 today, but how long a break do they get between the papers? I think the answer is only 10 minutes but that seems totally insufficient. 
  • 6 May 2024
    Michael Melzer
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Thank you for the clarification!
  • 6 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    Hi Isaias Due to copyright issues on long historian sources for IB papers we have just created the 'historian' sources ourselves in order to give students an idea of the type and length of sources to expect - and to make sure they have the...
  • Hi Kari Really glad that you are finding the resources useful! Algeria definitely works  for this topic (and we have included this). Egypt could also possibly work though complex regarding gaining full independence given the ongoing British...
  • 6 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hi Mike That is fine - if relevant to the Paper 2 wars question then Korea can be used as well as in a Cold War question.
  • Hello, a student is interested in the Wannsee conference as a topic for the EE. Could you point me in the right direction of how he could pursue this? I was thinking as an investigation into why it was a turning point, a look at the before...
  • 6 May 2024
    Isaias Torres
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    I was trying to find more details about the authors for the final two sources, but couldn't find any more details about them or the original sources for Elizabeth Richardson or Lucien Chang. Are those attributions the appropriate level of detail...
  • 6 May 2024
    Michael Melzer
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hello,What are the guidelines / restrictions for use of the same evidence in each paper? For example, If my students use the Korean War in Paper 2 for "20th Century Wars," can they also use evidence from the Korean War in the same paper 2 but...
  • 5 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi Jon This looks good with nice overlap! Are you still keeping the same approach to Paper 3?
  • 5 May 2024
    Jonathan Joseph
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi Jo,Having read some of your comments for Paper Two, Causes and Effects of 20th-Century Wars, I've adjusted my plan to include 2 interstate, 2 civil, and 2 guerilla wars. Topic One: Causes & Effects 20th Century Wars*Europe: WWII...
  • Thank you for these resources! Which countries in the Middle East would be appropriate case studies for independence movements? I currently teach South Africa, India and Germany for P2 Evolution and Development of Democratic States, and would...
  • 4 May 2024
    Jonathan Joseph
    1. Choosing your content
    Hi Jo,I am new to teaching DP History so please bear with me. I want to create a chronological syllabus with as much overlap as possible, and in which the HL-only topics have some elements applicable to SL topics (perhaps that's what all new...
  • 2 May 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Maintenance of Power
    Hi Josh Yes - different claims / factors can be different perspectives, as well as different contemporary and historians viewpoints.
  • 2 May 2024
    Josh Tillott
    1. Maintenance of Power
    Hi Jo, quick question. On recent IB training I was told that 'different perspectives' could be students using other factors instead of historian's perspectives in their essays. Would this be applicable to this essay? For example, could a student...
  • 30 April 2024
    Alexander Goossens
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Thank you, Jo!
  • 29 April 2024
    Tatjana Merzyn
    6. The Nazi-Soviet Pact
    Great, thank you so much!
  • 28 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi Vikas The student would need to establish what they see as equalling 'success' to be able to argue the RQ; otherwise it could work well.
  • 26 April 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    Extended Essay
    HI Jo,One of my students came up with this RQ for the Extended Essay: How significant was the role of the Red Guards in the success of the cultural revolution? Request your feedbackBest Vikas
  • 25 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    6. The Nazi-Soviet Pact
    Hi Tatjana - Done! Not sure why they had disappeared but back in place now.
  • 25 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hi Alexander Really glad you are finding the site useful!Re your first question, a student would demonstrate conceptual understanding with a focused response identifying causes, consequences, change and continuity, significance of xx (depending...
  • 25 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    HI George If a source is authored at the time it is primary regardless of when published. However if it was both written and published after events then it counts as eye-witness testimony (as has hindsight). Hope that helps!
  • Hi Sarah The role of Castro's forces and the guerilla struggle 1956-59 against Batistia's forces would be the civil war.
  • 24 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi Vikas If the student is focusing on the role of the women then How signficant would work fine. If the student is comparing them to the impact of other groups/factors then TWE would be better.
  • Hi Sergei Many thanks for pointing this out - we have now made the correction.
  • Hi Darryl I think they can be seen as different, The definition of coercion according to the Oxford dictionary is 'the practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats' - thus different to just persuading e.g. by argument.
  • HI Clare That all works well and great overlap. Yes you can use Korea as a war and also cold war crisis. Good luck with next year!
  • Hi Jo, just some feedback on Task 8. Persuasion and coercion are almost synonyms, and in fact appear in the same phrase in the syllabus. Some of the examples given in the list almost seem like examples of "use of force". For example, example...
  • 24 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    3. Theme 3 - Cold War Crises
    Hi Sergei It really fits as part of the Cuban Missile Crisis - one of the factors causing tension between Cuba and US which pushed Castro further in direction of Soviet Union. It wouldn't be a cold war crisis in itself as it was between Cuba...
  • Hi Sara Thanks for letting us know! Click on the second eye - that should now work!
  • Hi I'm planning for next year as I struggled to cover everything this year so I am trying to be more efficient. I've covered WWI (Europe), WWII (Asia and Europe) as we also study Move to Global War for paper 1). I'm planning to cover Cuba,...
  • 24 April 2024
    Sarah McDermott
    Case Study: Cuban Revolution (ATL)
    What aspects of the Cuban Revolution can be used as a Civil War? I just want to be clear with students in this final push. 
  • 24 April 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    Extended Essay
    HI Joe,Your suggestions were very helpful. My student is trying to frame a narrow research question around the suggestions you gave. It is proving tough for her but she is on it.Also wanted to ask if it would be good to start the RQ with 'To...
  • Dear Jo, Hope you are well. I have a question regarding the below essay questions:- Evaluate the short - term political impacts of 2 wars from different region, here is my plan proposition, using WW1 (considered as Europe mostly) & WW2...
  • I am unable to view the second essay! Is there a way to possibly fix that? Thank you! 
  • 23 April 2024
    George Ghaffari
    The IA
    Hi Jo, How long after the date of an event is a primary source allowed to be published? We have a student that has an interview which is a firsthand account however published after the date of the event. Any direction would be great. Thanks, George
  • 23 April 2024
    Sergei Alschen
    3. Theme 3 - Cold War Crises
    Hello again Jo.  A question regarding the Bay of Pigs invasion.  How does the IB classify it?  It seems too short to be considered part of Paper 2 Topic 11: Causes and Effects of 20th Century Wars.  It seems to fit under...
  • 23 April 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    Extended Essay
    Hi JoThank you very much, yes it's of great help.BestVikas
  • 23 April 2024
    Alexander Goossens
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Dear Jo, thanks for the material and the help on this platform! Two questions:1. The assessment criteria state that there should be a "clear understanding of historical concepts." Do you maybe have a suggestion how the students could show...
  • When explaining part 2: What motivated the Soviets to dominate central and eastern Europe, you referred to the Soviet Foreign Minister as Sergei Molotov.  His correct first name was Vyacheslav.  A minor issue but one that should be...
  • 22 April 2024
    Tatjana Merzyn
    6. The Nazi-Soviet Pact
    Hi Jo, would it be possible to create a downloadable PDF of this practice paper, similar to those for the "Rhineland" and the "Invasion of Poland" ones? These are really helpful and much easier to print. Thanks!
  • 22 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi Vikas The focus needs to be narrowed down. Which women specifically does the student want to research? Women as guards and/or women as inmates?  Or their role in resistance or morale in the camps?  There could be a risk of an essay...
  • 22 April 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    Extended Essay
    Hi Joe,Request your feedback on this RQ for the Extended Essay: How significant was the role of women in Nazi concentration camps?Many Thanks
  • 19 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Edit This is fine to cite the museum website but the student should be precise in citing the specific document / artifact / source they are using from the site. 
  • 19 April 2024
    Edit Ringwald
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Jo,It is my first year as a IB teacher and I need advice concerning IA sources. I have a pupil who is writing about the RAF. He references The Imperial War Museum rather frequently in his work. Can students use museum websites as sources? Thanks,Edit
  • 18 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Case Study: Second World War
    Hi Cheuk The question will most likely ask for wars from two different regions - so best to plan for that one!
  • HI Thomas, Sorry - a typo. It is indeed the CPV. It is now corrected.
  • 18 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Quizzes to download
    Hi That is very odd! Have tried uploading again - can you let us know if this works? If there is still a problem we can get the tech team to have a look at what is going on. Many thanks!
  • Hello! I am seeking clarification that in section 2 where it refers to the "CPB" changing its policies, if this is in reference to the Communist Party of Vietnam or CPV.Thank you.
  • 18 April 2024
    Cheuk To
    Case Study: Second World War
    Hi Jo, Thanks for your response! What if the question just asks for a compare and contrast of two wars (not specifically cross region)? Or will the compare and contrast question ask about two wars from two different regions? My student...
  • 17 April 2024
    Sydney Hadziadvic
    2. Japanese expansion: events 1931 to 1939
    Thank you, Jo! :) 
  • Hi Sydney Good point - will add a note. Thanks for raising this.
  • Thanks!
  • 17 April 2024
    Matthew Ryan
    1. Quizzes to download
    I can't seem to access the answer key for the Japan Quiz. It says to login, but I am already logged in.  Thanks!
  • Hi Julien in this case  - Examine... the focus needs to be kept on economic impacts - though the economic impact might affect e.g. political and social policies for example.
  • 17 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Case Study: Second World War
    Hi CheukFor Paper Two questions on wars students should use WW1 and WW2 Asia (not Europe) for cross regional questions.Hope that helps! 
  • 17 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi George Yes this would be a good 'eye-witness' testimony source 
  • Dear Jo, hope you are well. As usual I have a question:In such an essay question: Examine the economic impact of the Cold War on two countries, each chosen from a different region.Would students have to only talk about economy or could they...
  • 17 April 2024
    Sydney Hadziadvic
    2. Japanese expansion: events 1931 to 1939
    Hello! I just want to let you know that the first video on this page ("Japan - Road to War") has the N-word in it. It is at 8:40. I think it is good to note this before viewing -- or have a discussion about it. Thanks! 
  • 17 April 2024
    Cheuk To
    Case Study: Second World War
    Hi Jo,For compare and contrast questions, I know students should not use WW2 Europe comparison to WW2 Pacific. However, could they compare WW1 and WW2, but for WW2 section reference both the Europe and Pacific fronts?Thanks in advance!
  • 16 April 2024
    George Ghaffari
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Jo,We have a student doing a causation essay on the Cuban Revolution. If he interviews someone who experienced the revolution first-hand in Cuba, can he use this as his primary source?Thanks, George
  • 15 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    Have uploaded again - let us know if it works now!
  • 15 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    IA Sample 1: Marshall Plan
    Hi Amy thanks - that is the best way to do it.
  • 15 April 2024
    David Cliff
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    still an issue for me too
  • 15 April 2024
    Amy Bennett
    IA Sample 1: Marshall Plan
    Hi Kevin - I am not Jo, but my student who did a painting as one of her sources included it as an Appendix, and just referred to Appendix A where necessary. 
  • 14 April 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    4. Second World War: Effects
    Hi Jo, It helps a lot. Thanks.
  • Authoritarian states always achieve social and cultural aims.’With reference to one state, discuss this claim.Hi, it seems that the student's essay is not visible. Can you help? Thank you
  • 14 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    Have e-mailed! Let us know if there is still an issue.
  • 14 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    4. Second World War: Effects
    HI JulienYes these points would work. For the economic question, depending on the question - you might need to broaden out to cover more of Europe rather than just Britain and France - also the economic impact on the immediate post war period....
  • 13 April 2024
    Bryce Joling
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    Hi Jo - You may have to email attachment. I'm logged in, and I can access the PDF for the starter activity (Reagan Advice Task). Sorry to create more work for you. Bryce
  • HI Tara Thanks for letting us know. We've put in an alternative video for the task.
  • 12 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    HI Bryce - not sure why this is happening - unless you are on a free trial subscription? In which case won't be able to see PDFs. Otherwise there should be no issue. Let me know if still a problem and we can e-mail the attachment through.
  • 12 April 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    4. Second World War: Effects
    Hello Jo, hope you are well. I have some more questions sorry!Regarding a potential essay on economic or social, political effects of wars:- Regarding economic effects of WW1 for example: would it work to talk about the crisis of the early...
  • 12 April 2024
    Bryce Joling
    1.3 Reasons for end of Cold War
    Hi Jo, once again, thanks for this amazing resource. Here, 1.3 Activity 9: Self-Management Skills, when I click on the link for the "Grid on End of Cold War", I receive a 'denied access' message. What am I overlooking that I need to do to achieve...
  • 12 April 2024
    Tara O'Sullivan
    9b Impact of the First World War on Canada
    Video for part 1 is unavailable.  Can you advise?  Thanks!
  • 10 April 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    Hi Jo, many thanks.
  • 9 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    Hi Julien Some contextual information is Ok and certainly useful to bring in when teaching the topic but when answering the question students should be focused on the specific case study period in their responses to the final question i.e.....
  • 9 April 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Manchurian crisis (1931)
    Hello Jo, hope you are well. I have a question regarding this type of Paper 1 essay question: would it work to use, as part of the answer, some knowledge from the 1853-1931 period (Longer-term causes) such as for example the 1853 commodore...
  • 8 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    c. The July Crisis
    Hi Brian Yes - the July Crisis is part of the short term causes
  • 7 April 2024
    Brian Dailey
    c. The July Crisis
    Is the information presented here considered a short term cause of the war?
  • 7 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    Hi Tom That is correct  - students cannot select a topic from the last 10 years for the IA.
  • 5 April 2024
    Thomas Quinn
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hooray! I realised how obvious your answer was but I was swamped with coursework and didn't take the time to search. Thank you Ms. Thomas, you're an all star. 
  • 5 April 2024
    Thomas Quinn
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    Hello Ms. Thomas.How are you? Quick question: Is there a restriction for the IA that students cannot select a topic from the past 10 years (like there is for the EE)?
  • 4 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Assessment for Paper 3
    Hi Sai This needs to be narrowed down for a RQ. The student could focus on just one totalitarian regime - and keep to the war period. 
  • 4 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hi Tom If you go to a topic for Paper 2 that you are studying - click on drop down menu and you will see sample essays as a heading e.g. for wars: https://thinkib.net/history/page/25736/causes-and-effects-of-20th-century-wars-graded-student-examples- 
  • 3 April 2024
    Thomas Quinn
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hello Ms. Thomas.Quick question: Where can I find sample essays for Paper Two that I can dissect with my students?All the best.Tom Q
  • 3 April 2024
    Sai Priyadarshini Anchala
    2. Assessment for Paper 3
    Hi Jo,Assess the role of propaganda and mass media in influencing public perception and support for totalitarian regimes during World War II, and explore its relevance in shaping modern political discourse and social media manipulation.Is this...
  • 3 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    3. Theme 3 - Cold War Crises
    Hi Sergei, yes this would be a crisis as created a clear escalation of tension between the superpowers. 
  • 3 April 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Stalin's rule (1941 - 1953)
    Hi Julien If the question is on the impact of the GPW or indeed if Q has dates 1941-45 the response should be framed within the dates of this / during the war.  Post-1945 questions would include the effects of the GPW regarding political...
  • 1 April 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    2. Stalin's rule (1941 - 1953)
    Hello Jo. Hope you are doing well. One question regarding the impact of the Great patriotic War on USSR. In a question related to this topic, for example a question requiring to discuss economic & political impact of the war on USSR, shall...
  • 29 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Protests and action
    Hi Isabelle - The video we have above is ths one which is what we intended and which is linked to the questions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkYe5Ke20-s&t=88s 
  • 29 March 2024
    Isabelle SHORTT
    2. Protests and action
    Hi, The video on the Defiance campaign does not seem to be the correct one. 
  • 29 March 2024
    Sergei Alschen
    3. Theme 3 - Cold War Crises
    Hello Jo.  Is it safe to assume that the IB considers the 1960 U2 spy plane incident that led to the collapse of the Paris Summit and the Soviet shootdown of civilian Korean airliner KAL 007 in 1983 legitimate Cold War crises?  Thanks...
  • 27 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Case Study: Spanish Civil War
    Hi Julien yes - there could be a question on the causes of civil wars!
  • 27 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi Lisa Double dipping would only be if the student is using the same research / similar topics or examples / materials for IA/EE/ToK.  
  • 27 March 2024
    Lisa Mave
    Extended Essay
    Hi SueA student of mine is researching the invasion of Parihaka (in NZ) 1881. Specifically she is focusing on how effectively the history of that invasion & its consequences have been told to represent Māori and Pakeha perspectives. We...
  • Hi JoMy student is researching the invasion of Parihaka (in NZ) 1881. Specifically she wants to write about how effectively this event has been recorded by to adequately represent the perspective of the Maori tribe concerned. She has research...
  • 26 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    Case Study: Spanish Civil War
    Hello Jo, hope you are doing well, I have a question: Is this possible that one of the questions about causes of war at the IB would specifically refer to civil war or questions about causes of war would always be about any type of war (civil...
  • 26 March 2024
    paul diamond
    2. Mexican Revolution - leaders
    Hello,Just to let you know that this link is not working:Rainer Grote: The constitution of 1917
  • 25 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi SueSome thoughts below..To what extent did the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 serve as a catalyst for resistance movements during the Holocaust?Its not clear here what the analysis is re claims / counterclaims for this question - To...
  • 25 March 2024
    Sue Swartling
    Extended Essay
     Hello again ; Jo ,  the student has some suggestions ....  - To what extent did the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943 serve as a catalyst for resistance movements during the Holocaust?- To what extent did Irene Sendler’s...
  • 22 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Impact of leaders on the Cold War
    Hi Jo, Thanks for the answer, it helps a lot. Julien
  • Many thanks
  • 22 March 2024
    Sonja Nothegger-Troppmair
    1. Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement
    Hi, it would be great if you uploaded new papers for Case Study 1 and 2. Thanks!
  • Hi Julien - Yes, the US reaction was definitely key in both cases in escalating the crisis so it would be a valid point.
  • Hi Julien That is fine - though if question is compare and contrast - it is probably easier to have them from the same period.
  • Hi Louise Although the mark scheme is in bullet points, your are correct - students should always write in full sentences -  note-form responses often don't offer sufficient development, Hope that helps!
  • Hello,I have a question about qn 1. Are students "allowed" to use bullet points? I have always said no and taught students to write full but brief sentences but this year some students insisted on having seen somewhere that bullet points were...
  • 20 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Impact of leaders on the Cold War
    Hello Jo, One of my student wrote an essay regarding leaders, talking about Truman & Brejnev (Despite the fact that in class we have studied Truman / Stalin)? Can you do this even though the 2 leaders are not in the same period of...
  • Dear Jo, hope you are well. I have a question in relation to causes of Cold War crises, specifically for the North Korean Invasion / Berlin crisis (I am using those 2 with students.One similarity that I have suggested the students to use regarding...
  • 20 March 2024
    John Jenkins
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Hi Jo, That helps a lot! It is good to know they aren't far off with their questions and they just need to be refocussed on the whole. Thank you from me and my students! 
  • 18 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    6. Post-war Iran
    Hi Merna It seems that the free link is not there anymore. It can be read here  however: https://www.ghanaiantimes.com.gh/the-iranian-revolution-why-1979s-uprising-still-shapes-the-middle-east/There is also another article by the Ali Ansari...
  • 18 March 2024
    George Ghaffari
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    Hi,Is there any particular format for the IA? Font, size, etc?Thanks, George 
  • 18 March 2024
    George Ghaffari
    The IA
    Hi,Does anyone know if there is a set formatting style that the IAs need to be in?Font, size, etc.?Any links or help would be much appreciated. Thanks,George
  • 18 March 2024
    Merna Syawish
    6. Post-war Iran
    Hello,The link provided: https://www.historyextra.com/membership/how-last-shah-lost-iran-mohammad-reza-pahlavi-iranian-revolution-middle-east/requires a subscription to read the full article. Is there an update on this or an alternative link?  Thank...
  • Thank you a lot!
  • Hi MehdiFirst quesiton - this might be more succinct:TWE were BM's economic policies successful in achieving autarky between 1935 and 1940 after the imposition of League Sanctions ?The student would need to ensure this is not too much of a...
  • HI Julien We've updated this page -  https://www.thinkib.net/history/page/41047/3-the-league-of-nations-and-europe-in-the-1920s to also include a sample essay
  • Dear Jo,Sorry to bother you. Would you suggest any changes for the following questions? "How successful was Benito Mussolini in achieving autarky through his economic policies between 1935 and 1940, particularly in light of the sanctions...
  • 15 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Topic 08: Independence Movements
    Hi Lexi This is defintely on our list - we will aim to have Cuba up next and Ireland is a good suggestion for an extra one. We will keep you posted on progress!
  • 15 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Isaias It is OK  if the souce is only used briefly in Section B - as long as the 'relevance of the source' to answering the research question is clear for Criteria A. 
  • 15 March 2024
    Michael Melzer
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    Thank you!
  • 15 March 2024
    Sue Swartling
    Extended Essay
    Thank you for the help , Jo. Much appreciated as ever ! Sue
  • 14 March 2024
    Lexi Oudman
    Topic 08: Independence Movements
    Hello,Is there any chance of adding additional case studies?  Would it be possible to do Ireland? Also, Cuba would be much appreciated!
  • 14 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Extended Essay
    Hi Sue Are there any personal circumstances that she can link on to e.g. the impact of Nazi occupation in the area of Poland where her grandmother previously lived and then moved from? Or focus on a particular concentration camp that was particularly...
  • 14 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    HI Mike The title page needs the Research Question and Total Word Count
  • Hi Alan The issue here could be that Andropov's leadership is quite limited re. 'impact' on the development of the Cold War due to very short tenure / unwell / limited policy initiatives etc. It is possible but other Leader options  such...
  • 14 March 2024
    Alan Greenbank
    2. Theme 2 - Leaders and Nations (ATL)
    Good afternoon, Jo. My students have been discussing the suitability of Yuri Andropov as a leader who had an impact on the development of the Cold War (Second Cold War via the invasion of Afghanistan and Operation Able Archer). What do you...
  • 13 March 2024
    Michael Melzer
    3. IA: Graded student examples
    You may have this posted somewhere, but what should go on the title page for the History IA?  Thank you in advance!-Mike 
  • 13 March 2024
    Isaias Torres
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Jo, I really appreciate that you are so responsive to teacher questions. My students are working on their IA and one student chose a source for the source analysis in Section A that ended up not being so significant to her investigation....
  • Thank you very much! 
  • Hi Mehdi1). To what extent did the March on Rome in 1922 play a decisive role in Benito Mussolini's successful rise to power in Italy?This is fine but the student would need to set timeframe re. 'rise to power'2). To what extent did the Munich...
  • 12 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Hi JohnSee below for some thoughts! - How significant was the success of ‘Some Like it Hot’ (1959) in bringing about the ending of the Hayes Code (1968)?This sounds OK - the student could also consider other social factors / rights...
  • 12 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    4. Brezhnev (1964 - 1982)
    Hi Hugh - thanks for letting us know - we've put in a new link.
  • 12 March 2024
    Hugh McDowell
    4. Brezhnev (1964 - 1982)
    Good evening,Are there any options for access to Secrets of War. The Cold War 10, Brezhnev's Kremlin? The above link is not working currently.Many thanks.
  • 12 March 2024
    Sue Swartling
    Extended Essay
    Hello , Jo . A student in my class would like to write her Extended Essay on the Nazi concentration or extermination camps because her grandmother fled Poland as a child during the Second World War , so it is a personal issue for her. I...
  • Hi Dear Jo,I have 3 students, and they have created the following research questions:1). To what extent did the March on Rome in 1922 play a decisive role in Benito Mussolini's successful rise to power in Italy?2). To what extent did the Munich...
  • 12 March 2024
    John Jenkins
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Hi Jo, I have seen here that you have given some great advice to others. I am in my second year of teaching IB, but this is my first experience of guiding students through it from the beginning so I have never had the experience of setting...
  • Hi Julien we've substituted with a good Youtube video from the British Library with the curator discussing the imagery used in the posters. Hope tha works!
  • 11 March 2024
    Julien Bell
    Case Study: Russian Civil War (ATL)
    Link to the British Library article on Russian Revolution Propaganda is broken. :-)  
  • Dear Jo Thomas Ma'am,Greetings of the day!Thank you for your kind reply.The reason for asking;Topic 6-India, Afghanistan and Burma (1750–1919)Topic16: Developments and challenges in South Asia after 1947I wanted to let you know that I have...
  • 10 March 2024
    Cristhian Caballero
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Hola Isabel: Tampoco están desarrollados en inglés. Pero no es un problema; yo los tengo desarrollados por mi cuenta, son temas muy lindos de la Edad Moderna. Solo quería conocer la información que tiene IB. 
  • 10 March 2024
    Cristhian Caballero
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Estimada Jo:Estoy en América del Sur. 
  • Hi Moti Thanks for getting in touch. Some aspects of both Topics are covered under Topic 10 https://www.thinkib.net/history/page/28521/topic-10-nationalism-and-independence-in-india-19191964  We will certainly look at covering these in...
  • 9 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Case Study: Spanish Civil War
    Hi Julien Yes, WW1 and WW2 work well for these questions. Civil wars could work as long as there is a clear peacemaking process.
  • 8 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    15: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945)
    Hello Jo, it would help a lot, thanks, maybe a top mark band written essay would help also. The IB mark scheme is quite clear, it is just a bit difficult to find resources with knowledge about this topic. Thanks!
  • 8 March 2024
    Michelle Parker
    1. Causes of Italian expansion
    Thank you very much!
  • Dear Jo,Greetings of the day!Need resources and ATL activities  for Paper 3(HL) Option 3- History of Asia and Oceania-Topic 6-India, Afghanistan and Burma (1750–1919)Topic16: Developments and challenges in South Asia after 1947Kindly...
  • Hi Julien This is covered to some extent on this page under Poltiical and Economic impact of the other treaties in the Versailles settlement: https://www.thinkib.net/history/page/41038/2-other-treaties-in-the-versailles-settlement  Can't...
  • 7 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    Case Study: Spanish Civil War
    Hello Jo, For questions on effect of wars such as: Examine the effects of the peacemaking processes that followed two 20th-century warsPeacemaking failed, to what extent do you agree (using 2 wars)Territorial changes were the most...
  • 7 March 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    15: Diplomacy in Europe (1919–1945)
    Dear Jo,I have a question regarding the successor states topic (Paper 3 - Diplomacy in Europe (1939-1945)), as per the history guide: "developments of successor States in Central & Eastern Europe". And as per November 2022 exam question:...
  • Hi Patrick You only need to cover one guerilla movement so Cuba would be the obvious option here as already covered under the Cuba section. But we will add an extra page on Cuba to make this clear.
  • 1 March 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Causes of Italian expansion
    Hi Michelle The cartoonist is showing that Mussolini's aims are to cause war - however this not being taken very seriously by the cartoonist as indicated by the fact that Mussolini is shown as more about causing noise  - like a child -...
  • Hi Zach Thanks for letting us know - we have updated the link.
  • 1 March 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Thanks JoI'll talk it over with the student.CheersJohnny
  • 1 March 2024
    Michelle Parker
    1. Causes of Italian expansion
    Hello,I had some problems in finding a correct interpretation regarding the David Low cartoon portraying Mussolini's intentions in the 1920s (UK newspaper, The star, 1923).Thank you 
  • This video is no longer available. 
  • 1 March 2024
    Camden Ducharme
    2. Vietnam War: Practices
    Thanks!
  • Thank you!
  • Are there any plans to add a section on Guerilla Movements to this unit?  Thanks
  • 29 February 2024
    Katherine Janssen
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Thanks, Jo!
  • 29 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Katherine - Yes this makes sense!
  • Hi Ann Yes - they are same region and can be used interchangeably!
  • 29 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    HI Johnny Not sure that there enough evidence on the success side to have an argument here? One suggestion - TWE did failures of economic perestroika Iead to the implementation of political perestroika?  Maybe could then counter argue...
  • 29 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Vietnam War: Practices
    Hi CamThe other 'eyes' also now working!
  • 29 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Hi JoCould you let me know what you think of the Perestroika questions above, please?Thank youJohnny
  • 29 February 2024
    Hatty Rafferty
    1. Spanish Civil War: Causes (ATL)
    Thank you very much. It's a harrowing but impactful documentary.
  • 29 February 2024
    Kevin Hamlin
    IA Sample 1: Marshall Plan
    Hi Jo, I direct my students in Section A to include at an excerpt or image of the source they are analysing (especially the obscure ones). The examples here and others I've seen do not however. I am wondering if that is best practice,...
  • Hi PaulWars is slightly more complex than other topics as youdo  need to cover 2 x wars between states, 2 x civil wars and 2 x guerrilla wars. And case studies for each pair should also be from different regions to cover all question options....
  • Hi Liam You can choose any two authoritarian states - ideally from different regions as exam questions will usually ask for case studies from different regions. You might want to also consider covering three different authoritarian states to...
  • Thank you. Just for clarification, if a prompt asks the students to compare two wars in different regions and the students decide to compare WWI Europe to WWII Pacific, when they reference events/data can they use Asia and Pacific interchangeably...
  • Hi Jo,I am currrently teaching in Dubai and have a few questions.I am doing the following:   Paper 1: Move to Global War.Paper 2: Authoritarian States and Cold War are the two topics I selected at beginning of the course.   Can Hitler...
  • Hello,Thinking of changing topics. Is it really necessary to cover 6 wars: 2 x wars between states, 2 x civil wars, and 2 x guerrilla wars?Thank you, 
  • 26 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Spanish Civil War: Causes (ATL)
    Hi Hatty We've added a new link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UxVth7qRgI 
  • 26 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Case Study: Second World War
    Hi Vijayakumar No IB consider WW2 as one war. You could use instead WW1 Europe and WW2 Pacific as wars from two different regions.  Or WW2 in Europe and a different war in Asia or the Americas. Hope that helps!
  • Hi Ann No IB consider WW2 as one war. You could use instead WW1 Europe and WW2 Pacific as wars from two different regions.  Or WW2 in Europe and a different war in Asia or the Americas. Hope that helps!
  • Hi Julien we've added a new link now. Thanks for letting us know.
  • 26 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Vietnam War: Practices
    Hi Camden - Now fixed but had to create a new page as there was some kind of bug on the other one - so you need to go to the US strategy page and task 9 on that page!
  • 26 February 2024
    Katherine Janssen
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    It does help, Jo, thanks!It's nudged my thinking a bit, and I'd appreciate feedback on whether I'm on the right track.I HAD been thinking that V/L of "content" could address the scope of the general information conveyed by the source. NOW I'm...
  • 26 February 2024
    Camden Ducharme
    2. Vietnam War: Practices
    Hello!  The "eyes" in Activity 14 Task 2 do not seem to show any extra information.  Thanks!
  • http://owlcation.com/humanities/WW1-Overview-of-the-War-On-The-Eastern-Front This link seems to be broken.
  • Hi! I am just wondering, do they consider Asia and the Pacific as two different regions or is it acceptable to consider these the same region?
  • 25 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hi Jo, I got my answer through your last comment, all good! Many thanks for the help.
  • 25 February 2024
    Hatty Rafferty
    1. Spanish Civil War: Causes (ATL)
    The Dictator's Playbook is not available sadly 
  • 25 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    Thanks!
  • 25 February 2024
    Vijayakumar Chellappan
    Case Study: Second World War
    Dear JO,Can WW2 in Europe and WW2 in the Pacific theatre be considered as two wars in different regions? 
  • 24 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    HI  Julien we actually have that essay as an exemplar using Stalin and Truman here; https://www.thinkib.net/history/page/42767/leadersThis follows your second approach which possibly would be the easier approach (though first approach...
  • 23 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    Hi Jo, thanks. Your answer leads me to another question, quick one this time. So for a compare & contrast essay, for example compare & contrast the role of 2 cold war leaders in the development of the Cold war, I am thinking of 2 essay...
  • 23 February 2024
    Bianca Crawford
    1. The Berlin Blockade 1948
    Ah, I see. Thank you for the reply. I'll let them know.
  • 22 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Hi JoHopefully this is the last question check for this year. What do you think of:To what extent did Perestroika, which started in 1986, achieve its aim of destatification of  the economy of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist...
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    Hi Julien Your plan would work. You don't need common themes for the alternative reasons as this is not a compare and contrast essay - so you can talk about the wars separately.
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Katie, Yes, there is a degree of overlap.  Relevance is about how the source can be used to develop arguments or to contribute to overall investigation of RQ. Hope that helps!
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. The Berlin Crisis 1958 to 1961
    Hi Sue Not sure Ceausescu would fit with the bullets for the crisis section in Topic 12 - and not really a crisis that increased tensions between East and West in the same way as other crises above.
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Estimadas Christhian e Isabel, Prueba 2, Temas 4 y 5 tampoco están desarrollados en la página en inglés.En relación a la prueba 3, @Christian, puedes decirnos en que region estás?Un saludo
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Estimadas Christhian e Isabel, Prueba 2, Temas 4 y 5 tampoco están desarrollados en la página en inglés.En relación a la prueba 3, @Christian, puedes decirnos en que region estás?Un saludo
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Estimadas Christhian e Isabel, Prueba 2, Temas 4 y 5 tampoco están desarrollados en la página en inglés.En relación a la prueba 3, @Christian, puedes decirnos en que region estás?Un saludo
  • 22 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    HI Vikas No you do not need to put comments on the EE.
  • 22 February 2024
    Sue Swartling
    2. The Berlin Crisis 1958 to 1961
    Hello Jo ,Can students use the overthrow of Ceausesau in 1989 as an example of a Cold War Crisis ? Many thanks ,   Sue
  • 21 February 2024
    Katherine Janssen
    1. IA: Explaining the criteria
    Hi Jo,Hoping you can offer some clarity in differentiating between relevance of a source, and the value of its content. I realize that identification and explanation of "relevance"  also encompasses factors relating to origin and purpose,...
  • 21 February 2024
    ISABEL BANEGAS
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    Hola! No tengo que ver con la administración de la página, pero entiendo que esos temas no están desarrollados aquí. En inglés sí están todos, pero en español hay muy pocos.
  • 21 February 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    The IA
    Thank you Jo, should we also do this for the Extended Essay?  
  • 21 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    Hi Vikas Yes, you should annotate (though do not obscure student's writing / work).  You will also need to upload a Criteria Marks Form - these will assist moderators in understanding how you awarded your marks for each criteria.
  • HI Ray - Yes the Soviet Union and Germany are classified as the same region.
  • 21 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. Impact of leaders on the Cold War
    Hi Alan We would suggest sticking with a national leader. It is Hard to think of any other 'leader' for which there would be sufficient material to answer the essay Qs and comparative Qs for this Topic.     
  • 21 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    1. The Berlin Blockade 1948
    Hi Bianca it is not a direct quote - it is a condensed version of the section on results of the Berlin Blockade from our textbook on The Cold War.
  • 21 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Thank you very much again Jo.We'll work on the Perestroika question and get back to you, if that's ok?CheersJohnny
  • 21 February 2024
    Vikas Pahwa
    The IA
    Hi Jo,Just wanted to know, do we annotate the final IA sample(History) of the student which is uploaded to the IB.Thank you
  • Hi Jo, My students have covered Mao and Hitler for their two Authoritarian leaders "each chosen from a different region". One of them has done an essay comparing Hitler and Stalin. Please could you confirm that The Soviet Union and Germany...
  • 21 February 2024
    Alan Greenbank
    1. Impact of leaders on the Cold War
    Good morning, Jo. Two of my students have been theorising that a "leader" could be someone other than a national leader e.g. they suggested Che Guevara could be used instead of Fidel Castro. My view is that Guevara does not play a significant...
  • 21 February 2024
    Bianca Crawford
    1. The Berlin Blockade 1948
    Hi, do we know the author of the source in Task 4 above? A student was asking. Thanks :)
  • 20 February 2024
    Alexander Goossens
    a. Long-term causes of the First World War
    Dear Jo,thanks for your input and suggestions! Really helpful! Kind regards, Alexander
  • Hi all,I am using the May 23 paper for our mocks this week. Two of the sources have been taken out for copyright issues on the IB website (M and O).I have found M, but cannot locate O. It is an interview with a professor of political science...
  • 20 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    Hi JohnnyFirst two questions and last question are fine - no suggestions for improvement there.TWE were the economic policies of Perestroika in the RSFSR, which started in 1986, successful at delaying the collapse of the Soviet Union?We are...
  • Hi Alexander - Thank you for the feedback and glad you are finding the site useful! Re your choices, these are two different types of war which is good but from the same region so students would not be able to a question that asks for cross...
  • 20 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    Jo, a follow up question: would you advice that for such a question students would not make a plan as suggested above but would only talk about foreign intervention and therefore not cover any additional themes/factors leading to victory? Sorry...
  • 20 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    1. Essay writing for Paper 2
    Hello Jo,I have another question:Does a compare & contrast question regarding for example the causes of 2 wars require 1 paragraph/portion of the essay being about similarities and another one about differences? Or are we flexible to outline...
  • 20 February 2024
    Julien Vasiliu
    2. Spanish Civil War: Practices (ATL)
    Hello Jo, I have a question related to a potential civil war essay.For the question: Foreign powers did not determine the outcome of civil wars. Discuss using two 20th century wars. I am a bit confused to what type of plan could be used...
  • 19 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Hi JoMy students have been trying to fine tune their RQs. Could you advise on the following, please?TWE was Napoleon’s defeat at Leipzig in 1813 the most important factor in his defeat by the Sixth Coalition in 1814?To what extent was the...
  • 19 February 2024
    Alexander Goossens
    a. Long-term causes of the First World War
    Dear Jo,thank you for providing this amazing material!  I am new to teaching the IB and wondered if you could help me out with a question: For the topic "Causes of 20th century wars" the subject guide asks us to cover two wars. Could...
  • Dear Jo,Greetings of the day!Need resources for Paper 3(HL) Option 3- History of Asia and Oceania-Topic 6-India, Afghanistan and Burma (1750–1919)Topic16: Developments and challenges in South Asia after 1947Kindly guide me for the same. Regards!
  • 17 February 2024
    Moti Jha
    Topic 08: Independence Movements
    Dear Jo ThomasGreetings of the day!Need to have the resources -Paper 2- World history -Topic-7: Origins, development, and the impact of industrialization (1750-2000) and Topic 9:  Emergence and development of democratic states (1848–2000)Kindly...
  • 16 February 2024
    Vijayakumar Chellappan
    2. Sino-US relations, 1947 - 1979
    Dear Jo,Paper 2 , Topic 12:  Can we expect closed questions similar to Paper 3 in paper 2 Cold war topic? Latest papers show open-ended in Paper 2. Please advice.Vijayakumar C
  • Hi Julien Yes - you can use any example of a 20th century civil war for Topic 1.  The same for any war between states.  You do not have to cover World Wars - just  ensure that any selected case studies you choose to...
  • 16 February 2024
    James Desmond
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Hi Jo, I really appreciated your help last year! I was wondering if you could help me with another student's potential topic?"To what extent did the Nuremberg Laws influence the post-World War II experiences of Jews in Germany, and how did...
  • Hello Jo, I have a questions regarding civil wars. Is there a list from IB regarding what civil war to chose? Or could we study any civil war or could kids with specific knowledge about a civil war use it in an IB essay? Same for war between...
  • 15 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Perfect Jo!Thank you.
  • 14 February 2024
    Cristhian Caballero
    Opción 2: Historia de América
    No me aparecen los temas 4 y 5 de la Prueba 2, tampoco los temas 1, 2, 3 de la Prueba 3. La página no los tiene o es solo porque estoy suscripta al plan gratuito de un mes?
  • 14 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    The IA
    Hi JohnHow about this - combination of the two!?TWE were the Taliban's restrictions of women's rights in Afghanistan between 1996 and 2001 due to religious and cultural factors rather than the failures of the international community to act?
  • Hi Barry it seems to be working OK for us. These are the links on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhuIhjru1qc&t=1s and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPS9XDFcFLYYou can also see episode 1 of Red Empire on Daily Motion here: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1hww8e 
  • The video "Red Empire" doesn't seem to be there.
  • 14 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Hi JoSorry to pester you but what do you think of these 2 questions:Was the success of the Taliban in restricting women’s rights in Afghanistan between 1996-2001 due more to religious and cultural factors or the failures of the international...
  • 13 February 2024
    John Mellon
    The IA
    Thanks JoI've talked with the students and they're doing some more research to find the best way to edit their questions based on your suggestions.If it's ok with you, I'll send you the new versions ext Monday?CheersJohnny
  • Thanks, great! 
  • 11 February 2024
    Shona McReaddie
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Ok great thankyou Jo!
  • 11 February 2024
    Jo Thomas
    2. IA: Getting the question right
    Hi Shona  The student needs more of a historical focus for a History IA and a link to historical concepts. They need to have a specific time frame  - maybe compare Notre Dame to other historical dynamics influencing culture?  
  • Hi David We do have reference to Canada and also LA integrated on all pages as per the syllabus but we will definitely look at including a separate page for Canada and/or one Latin America country to cover last BP of spec. Note that we do cover...