Assessment Questions & Mark Scheme [OCR Y218/01]
Exam Resource Summary
The A Level History A June 2025 International Relations 1890–1941 Paper (OCR Y218/01) combines
the full official examination paper with its detailed mark scheme to provide a clear and comprehensive
revision resource. This paper assesses students’ understanding of major global developments in the late
19th and early 20th centuries, including shifting alliances, imperial rivalries, the causes and consequences
of the First World War, and the interwar attempts at peace and security. Candidates are required to
analyse primary and secondary sources, evaluate historical interpretations, and construct well-supported
arguments. By presenting each question alongside its marking criteria, the resource offers precise
guidance on examiner expectations, analytical depth, and the structured responses needed for higher-band
achievement. This integrated format supports focused revision, strengthens source evaluation and essay-
writing skills, and equips students for success in the May/June 2026 OCR A Level History A
International Relations 1890–1941 examination.
© OCR 2025 [T/506/4281] OCR is an exempt Charity
DC (CE) 358159 Turn over
, 2
Answer Question 1 or Question 2.
1
(a) Which of the following had the greater influence on developments in the Far East during the
period from 1918 to 1941?
(i) The Manchurian Crisis
(ii) The war between Japan and China 1937–1941
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* ‘Militarism was the main cause of the First World War.’
How far do you agree? [20]
2
(a) Which of the following was the more important reason for the outcome of the First World War?
(i) The role of the generals
(ii) The entry into the war of the USA
Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii). [10]
(b)* How successful were the Locarno Treaties in the period from 1925 to 1935? [20]
END OF QUESTION PAPER
© OCR 2025 Y218/01 Jun25
, GCE
History A
Y218/01: International relations 1890-1941
A Level
Mark Scheme for June 2025
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations