Examine changes in social structures and systems in two societies.

The question requires that candidates consider changes in social structures and systems in two societies. The two societies may or may not come from the same region. Changes may extend beyond the timeframe, but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised by the question. There may be examination of the role of women in, for example, Song China, where foot-binding and concubinage became common. Candidates may examine the growth of city states, and a prosperous merchant class, on the east African coast, and the formation of Swahili culture. The impact of the Black Death and the growth and decline of feudalism in Western European society may be examined. Some societies, such as the Aztecs, became less itinerant. Candidates may also examine urbanization in China, where a new scholarly and bureaucratic elite emerged, and the development of the caste system in India. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider changes in social structures and systems in two societies. Of the few responses seen, most consisted of general comments on modern societies.