Knowing the structure for good explanations (PEEL)
Structure of a good explanation
Format to use:
P – Point / Identify factor
E – Examples / Give specific named examples
E – Elaborate / Give detailed description of examples
L – Link / Show how factor has led to or contributed to the outcome

Q: How far do you agree that the main factor that explains Venice’s rise to an empire is its strong navy ? EYA. [12]
“empire”: supreme power in governing; imperial power; sovereignty / a group of nations or peoples ruled over by an emperor, empress, or other powerful sovereign or government: usually a territory of greater extent than a kingdom

Activity 1
• Refer to samples in following slides
• Assess quality of samples using the self-assessment rubric (next slide)

Sample of explanation of given factor (Q13)
Venice’s strong navy is a result of Venetian’s enterprising spirit and application of their extensive shipbuilding knowledge. The shipbuilding industry expanded as a result of trade expansion and the Arsenal was created in 1100 AD to centralize the shipbuilding industry . By 13 th century, the Arsenal was expanded to meet the increasing demand for the production of the great galleys which were superior vessels powered by oars and equipped with weapons to be used both as a merchant and war vessel . Strict compliance of quality and protection of their shipbuilding technology led to Venice possessing a large and powerful naval fleet which was used to facilitate territorial control over trading routes in the East. This not only contributed to increase in wealth but also established Venice as
the “Queen of the Adriatic Sea” as she rose to become a dominant maritime authority / power over the Mediterranean region (empire) in the
15 th century.

Activity 2
Refer to Sample A and Sample B – how many marks would be awarded for the answers? Write down your assessment.
Lvl Descriptors
1 Writes on issue without addressing relevant factors
2 Describes given or other relevant factors
3 Explains how given factor OR other relevant factors leads to the outcome / issue
4 Explains how given factor AND other relevant factors leads to the outcome / issue
Award 7-8 marks for explaining 2 nd relevant factor
Award 9-10marks for explaining 3 rd relevant factor
Mks
1-2
3-4
5-6
7-10