Evaluate the contribution of written and unwritten language in two indigenous societies.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the contribution of written and unwritten language in two indigenous societies. Contributions may extend beyond the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may offer equal coverage of written and unwritten language, or they may prioritize their evaluation of one of them. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to literary production, the registry of history and religious rituals, as well as mathematical and scientific developments. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example the role of language in the consolidation of territorial conquests, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates may argue that the conquest destroyed much evidence of indigenous languages so it is difficult to fully evaluate the extent of their contribution. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates make an appraisal of the contribution of written and unwritten language in two indigenous societies.