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GCSE Exam Predictions 2025: Anglo-Saxon and Norman England (Edexcel)

Updated: 7 hours ago

Hello all students, as we gear up for the Edexcel GCSE History exams, particularly Paper B1: Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060–88, many of you are probably wondering where to best focus your revision efforts. It's a big period with lots to learn! While crystal balls are unfortunately not part of our historical toolkit, we can look at past exam papers to make some educated guesses about what topics might be coming around the corner.


Let's look for clues in what's been asked recently, what comes up frequently, and – perhaps most importantly – what significant parts of the story haven't been the focus for a while. Remember though, these are just informed predictions, not guarantees! The examiners can always surprise us, so revising the whole course thoroughly is still essential.


Looking Back: What Came Up in 2024?

First, let's see what topics were covered in last year's (2024) exam. Knowing this helps us gauge what might be less likely to appear in the same way immediately:

  • A 4-mark question on features of Anglo-Saxon government.

  • A 12-mark question asking why the Normans built so many castles.

  • A 16-mark question evaluating Edgar the Aethling's claim to the throne.

  • Another 16-mark question assessing the relationship between William I and his son, Robert, focusing on Robert's ambition.

While the themes (like Norman control or succession) are always relevant, these specific questions having just been asked makes them less probable for the upcoming exam.


What Topics Might Be Due an Appearance?

Based on looking at papers from the last five years (2020-2024) and comparing them to the syllabus, some key areas seem 'due' for more attention, especially in the higher-mark questions. These are topics that haven't been the main focus recently or seem under-represented


  1. The Harrying of the North (1069-70)

This was a brutal but significant part of William establishing control. Why did he do it? What were its effects? It feels like a strong candidate for a 12-mark 'explain why' or a 16-mark 'how far do you agree' question about its importance or effectiveness.   


  1. The Revolt of the Earls (1075)

This was a major challenge to William, but this time from his own Norman earls. Why did it happen? Why did it fail? What were its consequences? This seems like another significant event ripe for examination.


  1. The Feudal System in Detail & Church Changes (especially Lanfranc)

We know the Normans changed how land was held and how the Church was run. But the specifics of feudalism (things like homage, knight service, forfeiture) and the huge role Archbishop Lanfranc played in reforming the Church haven't been explored in depth recently. Expect potential questions on how these systems worked or their impact.   


  1. Bishop Odo

William's half-brother was incredibly powerful and influential. His career, involvement in ruling England, and later rebellion against William Rufus make him a key figure who hasn't had his own spotlight in recent exams.


  1. William I's Death and the Succession Crisis (William Rufus vs Robert)

We've seen questions about William and Robert's earlier relationship, but what happened after William died in 1087? The fight for the throne between William Rufus and Robert Curthose (supported by Odo) is a dramatic story that seems overdue for assessment.


Why These Topics?

These areas stand out because they are significant parts of the syllabus that haven't been the main focus of higher-mark questions in the last few years. Examiners like to ensure the whole course gets covered over time, so these 'gaps' often become future questions.


Don't Forget the Core!

While focusing on these potential 'gap' topics is smart, don't neglect the absolute core themes and events:

  • Reasons for the Norman Conquest: Why did William win Hastings? (Leadership, tactics, English weaknesses etc.) This is always fundamental.

  • Methods of Norman Control: Castles came up in 2024, but other methods (like land distribution, government changes) are always relevant.

  • Anglo-Saxon Resistance: The Edwin & Morcar revolt has been covered, but figures like Hereward the Wake and the general theme of resistance are important.

  • Changes to Society: How did life change for ordinary people? How did government change?


How to Use This Information Wisely

  1. Prioritise: Spend some focused time ensuring you really understand the 'high probability' topics listed above (Harrying, 1075 Revolt, Feudalism/Lanfranc, Odo, Rufus Succession).

  2. Practice Questions: Try planning or writing answers to potential 12-mark ('Explain why...') and 16-mark ('How far do you agree...') questions on these topics. Think about the arguments, counter-arguments, and key evidence.

  3. Revise Everything: I can't stress this enough – this is guidance, not a cheat sheet! You must revise the entire syllabus. 4-mark questions can pop up on any detail, and the big themes connect everything.


Final Thoughts

Exam prediction is part guesswork, part analysis. Use these insights to help structure your revision and focus on areas that seem statistically more likely, but don't put all your eggs in one basket. Cover the whole course, practice your exam technique, and you'll be well-prepared for whatever comes up.


Good luck with your revision – you've got this!

 
 
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