IGCSE History: USSR Extract Analysis

This fully editable PowerPoint lesson teaches students how to answer the exam-style question “What impression does Extract A give about…?” using a detailed case study on Stalin’s leadership. It supports the development of AO4 interpretation skills and guides students through impression, evidence selection, tone, language and selection of information.

The lesson includes:

• Clear learning objectives and success criteria focused on extract analysis.
• Starter activity linking key people, events and policies in the USSR.
• Student-friendly explanation of Stalin’s Cult of Personality to build contextual knowledge.
• Step-by-step modelling of how to identify an impression, select quotes, analyse tone and comment on language.
• A structured 5-step method for answering impression questions.
• Guided practice using Extract A and supported tasks for Extracts B–E.
• Sentence starters, key vocab, tone banks and selection-of-information support.
• Mark scheme checklists and a full model answer students can annotate.
• Self-assessment activity to help students evaluate and improve their written responses.

Suitable for:

• IGCSE History exam skills lessons.
• USSR depth-study units.
• Intervention or Revision sessions focused on source analysis.
• Stretch and challenge for high-attaining KS4 students learning impression skills.

Format: PowerPoint (fully editable).