Life during World War One wasn't just about battles on... Show more
English Literature
Biology
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
178
•
4 Jan 2026
•
Understanding WW1 Explain Questions for Nat5
647
@user76539
1 / 4
Why New Technology Failed on the Western Front
Ever wondered why all those "revolutionary" WWI weapons didn't actually win the war quickly? The reality is that most new technology was pretty rubbish in practice.
Machine guns like the Vickers were absolute beasts to move around - weighing 20kg and needing 6 men just to operate one! This made them useless for advancing attacks. Artillery bombardments sounds scary, but they actually warned the enemy exactly when attacks were coming. After a week of shelling at the Somme, German troops knew exactly when to get their machine guns ready.
Poison gas seemed terrifying but was incredibly unreliable. Wind direction could change and blow the gas back onto your own troops - imagine that disaster! Plus, only 3% of soldiers actually died from gas attacks, with most returning to fight within 6 months.
Tanks broke down constantly, ran out of petrol mid-battle, and were absolutely horrible to work inside. The heat and toxic fumes from engines made it nearly impossible for crews to breathe or concentrate, turning these "wonder weapons" into metal death traps.
💡 Quick Tip: Remember that WWI was when these technologies were brand new - they hadn't worked out all the problems yet!
Life in Scotland During the Great War
Life on the home front was tough, and many Scots were genuinely fed up with how the war disrupted their everyday lives. The government basically took control of everything.
Working hours got extended thanks to British Summer Time, meaning people lost precious leisure time. Even worse, the government could imprison anyone without trial - talk about unfair! The justice system completely abandoned normal rules.
Food rationing hit hard when German U-boats attacked merchant ships bringing supplies to Scotland. People had to eat horrible substitutes like margarine instead of butter. Even going to the pub became miserable - opening hours were cut and the beer was watered down, ruining people's main social activity.
The Munitions of War Act made strikes illegal in key industries and forced workers to get "leaving certificates" to change jobs. Basically, you couldn't quit without permission! Ironically, some people were also annoyed that women's wages improved, allowing them more freedom to go shopping or to the cinema instead of staying home in "traditional" roles.
💡 Remember: The war changed everyone's life, not just soldiers - and not everyone was happy about it!
Why People Became Conscientious Objectors
Not everyone was willing to fight, and their reasons were often deeply personal and completely legitimate in their minds.
Religious beliefs played a huge role - Quakers, for example, refused to fight or kill anyone regardless of the cause. Their faith simply didn't allow violence, even during wartime. Political opposition also motivated objectors who didn't see Germany as their enemy and refused to kill Germans.
Many held strong pacifist beliefs, viewing all war and violence as completely unjustifiable. They genuinely believed that killing was wrong under any circumstances. Others felt a moral obligation not to participate in violence, regardless of what the government demanded.
Some conscientious objectors believed that peace through negotiation was always better than violence. They thought conflicts should be solved through talking, not fighting. Finally, some objected to their own government's control over people's lives, refusing to accept that the state could force them to kill.
💡 Key Point: These weren't cowards - they often faced prison or harsh treatment for standing by their principles!
Why Rationing Was Introduced
Food became seriously scarce during WWI, and the government had to step in before people literally starved.
German U-boat attacks on merchant ships meant food supplies couldn't reach Scotland safely. Ships carrying essential raw materials were being sunk before they could dock. Meanwhile, food prices skyrocketed faster than people's wages, meaning ordinary families couldn't afford to eat properly.
The government needed to maintain morale on the home front by ensuring everyone got fair access to food. They also had to keep vital war workers properly fed so they could maintain high standards producing weapons and supplies. Hungry workers meant poor-quality equipment for soldiers.
Public health was genuinely at risk, with starvation and malnutrition becoming real problems across Scotland. The government knew that soldiers on the Western Front had to take priority for food supplies to stay strong and healthy, which left even less for civilians back home.
Rationing wasn't popular, but it prevented complete chaos and ensured everyone got at least something to eat during the darkest periods of the war.
💡 Think About It: Rationing continued for years after WWI ended - the effects lasted much longer than the actual fighting!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content in History
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding WW1 Explain Questions for Nat5
647
@user76539
Life during World War One wasn't just about battles on the Western Front - it completely transformed how people lived, worked, and survived back home. These exam questions explore the harsh realities of wartime technology, daily struggles in Scotland, and... Show more
Why New Technology Failed on the Western Front
Ever wondered why all those "revolutionary" WWI weapons didn't actually win the war quickly? The reality is that most new technology was pretty rubbish in practice.
Machine guns like the Vickers were absolute beasts to move around - weighing 20kg and needing 6 men just to operate one! This made them useless for advancing attacks. Artillery bombardments sounds scary, but they actually warned the enemy exactly when attacks were coming. After a week of shelling at the Somme, German troops knew exactly when to get their machine guns ready.
Poison gas seemed terrifying but was incredibly unreliable. Wind direction could change and blow the gas back onto your own troops - imagine that disaster! Plus, only 3% of soldiers actually died from gas attacks, with most returning to fight within 6 months.
Tanks broke down constantly, ran out of petrol mid-battle, and were absolutely horrible to work inside. The heat and toxic fumes from engines made it nearly impossible for crews to breathe or concentrate, turning these "wonder weapons" into metal death traps.
💡 Quick Tip: Remember that WWI was when these technologies were brand new - they hadn't worked out all the problems yet!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Life in Scotland During the Great War
Life on the home front was tough, and many Scots were genuinely fed up with how the war disrupted their everyday lives. The government basically took control of everything.
Working hours got extended thanks to British Summer Time, meaning people lost precious leisure time. Even worse, the government could imprison anyone without trial - talk about unfair! The justice system completely abandoned normal rules.
Food rationing hit hard when German U-boats attacked merchant ships bringing supplies to Scotland. People had to eat horrible substitutes like margarine instead of butter. Even going to the pub became miserable - opening hours were cut and the beer was watered down, ruining people's main social activity.
The Munitions of War Act made strikes illegal in key industries and forced workers to get "leaving certificates" to change jobs. Basically, you couldn't quit without permission! Ironically, some people were also annoyed that women's wages improved, allowing them more freedom to go shopping or to the cinema instead of staying home in "traditional" roles.
💡 Remember: The war changed everyone's life, not just soldiers - and not everyone was happy about it!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Why People Became Conscientious Objectors
Not everyone was willing to fight, and their reasons were often deeply personal and completely legitimate in their minds.
Religious beliefs played a huge role - Quakers, for example, refused to fight or kill anyone regardless of the cause. Their faith simply didn't allow violence, even during wartime. Political opposition also motivated objectors who didn't see Germany as their enemy and refused to kill Germans.
Many held strong pacifist beliefs, viewing all war and violence as completely unjustifiable. They genuinely believed that killing was wrong under any circumstances. Others felt a moral obligation not to participate in violence, regardless of what the government demanded.
Some conscientious objectors believed that peace through negotiation was always better than violence. They thought conflicts should be solved through talking, not fighting. Finally, some objected to their own government's control over people's lives, refusing to accept that the state could force them to kill.
💡 Key Point: These weren't cowards - they often faced prison or harsh treatment for standing by their principles!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Why Rationing Was Introduced
Food became seriously scarce during WWI, and the government had to step in before people literally starved.
German U-boat attacks on merchant ships meant food supplies couldn't reach Scotland safely. Ships carrying essential raw materials were being sunk before they could dock. Meanwhile, food prices skyrocketed faster than people's wages, meaning ordinary families couldn't afford to eat properly.
The government needed to maintain morale on the home front by ensuring everyone got fair access to food. They also had to keep vital war workers properly fed so they could maintain high standards producing weapons and supplies. Hungry workers meant poor-quality equipment for soldiers.
Public health was genuinely at risk, with starvation and malnutrition becoming real problems across Scotland. The government knew that soldiers on the Western Front had to take priority for food supplies to stay strong and healthy, which left even less for civilians back home.
Rationing wasn't popular, but it prevented complete chaos and ensured everyone got at least something to eat during the darkest periods of the war.
💡 Think About It: Rationing continued for years after WWI ended - the effects lasted much longer than the actual fighting!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
3
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Scotland in WWI: Key Events
Explore the pivotal events of Scotland during World War I, including the impact of the war on industry, women's suffrage movements, and significant battles like the Somme. This comprehensive summary covers key concepts such as rent strikes, propaganda, conscription, and the socio-economic changes that shaped post-war Scotland. Ideal for National 5 revision.
HistoryS3
Votes for Women Analysis
In-depth essay evaluating the key factors that led to women's suffrage in 1918, focusing on the roles of the Suffragists, Suffragettes, societal changes, and the impact of WWI. This comprehensive analysis highlights the significance of peaceful campaigning and the contributions of women during the war, providing a nuanced understanding of the women's rights movement. Ideal for Higher History students seeking to grasp the complexities of the suffrage movement.
HistoryS5
Tensions in Ireland: 1910
Explore the complex factors contributing to the growth of tension in Ireland leading up to 1910. This analysis covers the impact of economic disparities, religious divides, the significance of the 1910 general election, and the reactions of unionists and nationalists to the Home Rule Bill. Ideal for students studying Irish history, this summary provides a comprehensive overview of the political landscape and cultural revival during this pivotal period.
HistoryS5
Women’s Suffrage Analysis
Explore the pivotal factors that led to women's suffrage in 1918, including the roles of suffragists, suffragettes, and women's contributions during WW1. This essay evaluates the effectiveness of various tactics and their impact on gaining the vote, highlighting the significance of war work over militant actions. Ideal for higher history students studying women's rights movements.
HistoryS5
Women’s Suffrage Factors Analysis
Explore the critical factors leading to women's suffrage in 1918, focusing on women's war work, suffragist and suffragette campaigns, changing social attitudes, and international influences. This comprehensive essay plan includes evaluations and references, making it ideal for exam preparation and advanced vocational units (AVU).
HistoryS5
Women’s Suffrage in Britain
Explore the pivotal factors that led to women's suffrage in Britain by 1918, focusing on the roles of the Suffragettes, Suffragists, and societal changes. This graded A essay critically examines the significance of 'factor x' and other influences, providing a comprehensive analysis for Higher History students. Ideal for essay preparation and understanding the historical context of women's rights.
HistoryS5
Most popular content in History
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user