All fronts were important in determining the outcome of the First World War. 'Civilians were more important than the armed forces in determining the outcome of the war.' How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Level 5: Explains both sides and supports a valid judgement on 'how far'. 10 marks

One explanation or more on each side.
- Although the armed forces were important in winning the war, they would not have been able to keep fighting if they were not supported and supplied by civilians back home. The Allied success in 1918 depended on its armies being well equipped. An important factor in 1918 was that the Allied forces were better equipped and supplied than the German army.

Level 4: Explains both sides. 7-9 marks
For candidates to be awarded this level they must have one explanation on each side.

Seven marks for one explanation on each side; one additional mark for each additional explanation on either side.

Level 3: Explains one side. 4-6 marks
One Level 3 mark for each explanation.
- Civilians were very important in winning the war. They were needed to produce the weapons and military equipment for the armies. In Britain thousands of women were employed in factories to keep supplies going. Without them the armies would have been defeated. Food was also needed to keep the country going, and across Europe women became farm labourers to produce the required food. The situation in Germany and Russia towards the end of the war shows the problems that were caused when civilians began to protest about the war.
OR
- The armed forces were more important because the First World War could only have been won on the battlefield. The failure of the German offensive in 1918 and the Allied counter-attacks were crucial. The French success at the Marne and the Allied victory at Amiens decided who was going to win the war.
Level 2: Identifies or describes valid points; addresses the question but does not explain. 2-3 marks

One Level 2 mark for each identification/description.
- Civilians were producing arms and military equipment for the armies.
- They were keeping morale high.
- They were producing food.
- They were willing to put up with rationing and other hardships.
- Unrest at home caused both Germany and Russia problems.
- Defeating the U-boat threat was crucial.
- The arrival in Europe of the US army was important.
- Allied victories in 1918 such as at Amiens were crucial in defeating Germany.
- The failure of the German offensive in 1918 was important.

Level 1: Writes about the topic but does not address the question. 1 mark
- They were both very important. Civilians did a lot of important work to help the war effort, but the soldiers did the fighting.

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