GCSE Exam Predictions 2025: Warfare and British Society (Edexcel)

As we gear up for the GCSE History exams, I know many of you are wondering how best to focus your revision for the 'Warfare and British Society' paper (Paper 2, for those keeping track!). It’s a big topic, spanning centuries, plus the detailed study of London during World War II.

Remember, the goal here isn't to spot exact questions – that's impossible. It's about using past patterns to make our revision smarter and more targeted. We look at what came up recently (because direct repeats are rare), what themes pop up often, and crucially, what parts of the syllabus haven't had much limelight lately.

Cracking the Code: Section A - London and the Second World War

Last year (2024), the focus was on why London was a target and the difficulties dealing with bombing effects. Before that, we saw Anderson shelters, the South Hallsville disaster, leisure activities, government news control, preparations in 1939, and the Royal Family's presence. 1

So, what's? Based on what hasn't been the main focus recently, I'd suggest paying close attention to:

• The V1 and V2 Attacks (1944-45): These were a distinct phase of the Blitz with unique challenges. Expect potential questions on their features or a source enquiry about their impact.

• Key Civilian Incidents: The Bethnal Green station disaster (1943) is a significant event yet to be the specific focus of Q1 or Q2. Its impact on morale and shelter policy makes it a strong candidate.

• Home Front Activities: Aspects like the 'Dig for Victory' campaign in London's parks or the symbolic role of the Cabinet War Rooms haven't been explored in detail.

• Evacuation: While 'preparations' were covered, the specific implementation, challenges, and effectiveness of evacuation could be a source focus.

• Propaganda: We've seen censorship, but the government's use of propaganda specifically related to the Blitz is another angle ripe for a source enquiry.

Essentially, look for those specific syllabus points within the London topic that haven't been directly tested in Q1 or Q2 over the last few years.

Navigating the Long View: Section B - Warfare c1250-Present

This is where things get broader. We have the 4-mark comparison, the 12-mark 'explain why', and the two big 16-mark essays.

The 4-Marker (Compare/Contrast)

These often jump between periods. Recent questions have linked the 19th/20th/21st centuries. Logic suggests we might see a swing back towards comparing the Medieval (c1250-1500)and Early Modern (c1500-1700) periods, perhaps focusing on army composition, weapons, or even civilian impact compared to later eras.

The 12-Marker ('Explain Why')

This tests your understanding of cause and effect within a period. We've recently seen Modern attitudes, Medieval army decline, Early Modern recruitment, and Industrialisation's impact. What's due? Perhaps an exploration of civilian experiences in the Medieval or Early Modern periods, the reasons for the development of the standing army (c1500-1700), or the specific impact of tanks or aircraft on modern warfare (a more focused angle than the general 'changes' question from 2020).

16-Mark Essays ('How far do you agree?')

• Period/Theme Rotation: One essay often leans towards earlier periods (Medieval/Early Modern), the other towards the later ones (c1700-Present). Recent questions have hit Medieval weapons, Naseby, Medieval commanders, Early Modern composition, artillery (c1500-1900), rifles, the Home Front, specialist groups, and Cardwell's reforms.

• Untouched Case Studies: Notice how Falkirk (1298) and Balaclava (1854) rarely feature? Balaclava, with its links to reporting and attitudes, seems particularly overdue for an essay evaluating its significance or impact. The Western Front/Somme (1916), while mentioned, hasn't been the core of a 16-marker evaluating its nature or impact in this cycle.

• Thematic Gaps: Consider essays evaluating:

  • The overall significance of Industrialisation (c1700-1900).

  • The importance of recruitment/training changes across the modern era (c1900-present), looking beyond just Cardwell to conscription, women, National Service etc.

  • The impact of tanks or aircraft as the most significant factor in modern warfare.

  • The significance of changes in army composition in the modern era (logistics, specialisation).

My Advice: Use This Wisely!

Think of these predictions as a spotlight, helping you focus your revision energy on areas that seem statistically more likely based on past trends.

However – and this is crucial – do not revise ONLY these topics! Exam boards can, and sometimes do, surprise us. Your foundation must be a solid understanding of the entire syllabus. Use these predictions to add depth and detail to your revision in these likely areas, practice essay plans, and gather specific examples.

Ensure you're comfortable with all the case studies, the key changes in the nature and experience of war across all periods, and, importantly, practice applying your knowledge to the different question types.

No substitute exists for hard work and comprehensive revision. But hopefully, this analysis gives you a strategic edge as you prepare. Now, let's get back to those textbooks!