Date | November 2021 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 21N.3op2.HL.TZ0.34 |
Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of the Americas) | Time zone | TZ0 |
Command term | Evaluate | Question number | 34 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 17: Civil rights and social movements in the Americas post-1945
Evaluate the effectiveness of immigration reform in the United States.
Markscheme
The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the effectiveness of immigration reform in the United States, weighing up its strengths and limitations. Candidates may refer to the Immigration Reform Act of 1965 as the first major attempt to end the restrictive immigration policies established in 1924, which had prioritized European immigration. This change allowed many more immigrants from Asia, Africa and Latin America, creating a more diverse United States. By the 1980s, immigration, especially illegal immigration, had become a major political issue. Candidates may refer to the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 as a positive step, granting amnesty to illegal immigrants and enhancing border security. Immigration legislation and reform continued to be an issue throughout the 20th century, as many Americans saw it as a problem and a threat to their country. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.
Examiners report
The question required the evaluation of the effectiveness of immigration reform in the United States. It was seldom chosen, with poor results. Answers referred to immigration as a whole but showed limited focus or knowledge on laws and reform.