All fronts were important in determining the outcome of the First World War. Why did Russian armies suffer heavy defeats during the First World War?

Level 4: Explains two reasons. 6 marks
Level 3: Explains one reason. 4-5 marks
Four marks for one explanation, five marks for explanation supported by specific contextual knowledge.
- The Russian army was out-of-date and poorly equipped. It had expectec a short war and simply did not have enough equipment. Soldiers had to train without rifles, and the army was soon short of shells. There was even a shortage of winter clothing for the troops.

Level 2: Identifies or describes valid reason(s); addresses the question but does not explain. 2-3 marks

One Level 2 mark for each identification/description.
- The army was badly led. Their officers had no knowledge of modern fighting techniques such as trench warfare.
- Relations between men and senior officers was poor.
- The army was poorly equipped.
- The leadership of the Tsar.
- Soldiers deserting.

Level 1: Writes about the topic but does not address the question. 1 mark
- The Russians did very badly in the First World War. They lost important battles and eventually had to leave the war.

Accept all valid responses.
Level 0: No creditable response. 0 marks