Course Summary
Studying history helps students to understand the significance of historical events, the role of individuals in history and the nature of change over time. It will help you to gain a deeper understanding of the past through political, social, economic and cultural perspectives. In particular you will gain an understanding of:
• The nature of causes and consequences, of change and continuity and of similarity and differences over a long period of time
• The links between perspectives, such as political, economic, social or religious as well as appreciating developments relating to the perspectives separately over time
• The role played by individuals, groups, ideas or ideology.
What you will study:
Breadth Study: In search of the American Dream: the USA, c1917–96 Focus on the dramatic political, economic and social transformation of the USA in the twentieth century
Depth Study: South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’ Explore how South Africa changed from an apartheid state into a multi-racial democracy
Breadth & Depth Study: Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors, 1485–1603 Focus on the ways in which Tudor monarchs kept order over a divided country for over a century, with key rebellions and plots explored in detail.
Coursework:
Independent Research Develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history focusing on a chosen question, problem or issue
Skills you will gain:
Analysis, Evaluation, Communication, Research, Prioritisation, Source Skills. The ability to interpret a range of historical sources, the ability to assess information and make an informed judgement, the ability to write a formal essay, supported by relevant historical examples, the ability to argue and debate controversial issues.
Career Paths:
Law, Journalism, Academia, NGOs: Charities and think tanks, Civil Service, Politician, Political advisor, Teacher/lecturer.
Please note: History is well known as a rigorous and academically important subject and is very respected by universities in applications. Complementary subjects include Politics, English Literature and Sociology.
Assessment Method
Paper 1 Breadth study: The examination lasts 2 hours 15 minutes and is marked out of 60.
Paper 2: Depth study: The examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is marked out of 40.
Paper 3: Themes in breadth with aspects in depth: The examination lasts 2 hours 15 minutes and is marked out of 60.
Coursework
● Students carry out an independently-researched enquiry requiring them to analyse and evaluate historical interpretations and to organise and communicate the findings (AO3, AO1)
● The assignment is set by the centre on a question, problem or issue that has generated disagreement among historians.
● The assignment is marked out of 40
Entry Requirements
GCSE History Grade 6 GCSE English Grade 5
General Requirements
- 5 GCSE/i GCSE/WJEC (Welsh GCSE) qualifications with minimum grade 6.0
Specific Requirements