History

Course summary

The study of history at A level enables students to develop skills in critical analysis, communication and interpretation, making the subject a strong foundation for skills required in both other subjects and later life. Component 1: The Tudors: England, 1485 – 1603 (40% of A level / 50% of AS, assessed by external exam) Part one: Consolidation of the Tudor Dynasty: England, 1485 – 1547 (taught in Year 12, examined in Year 12 and Year 13) Part two: Turmoil and Triumph: England, 1547 – 1603 (taught in Year 13, examined in Year 13) - The breadth study enables students to develop a secure understanding of the process of change over time, emphasising the nature of cause and consequence, change and continuity, and similarities / differences over a long period of time. - The time period is covered from a range of perspectives (for example, political, social and religious) as well as considering the impact of key individuals and groups. Component 1 also includes the study of varying historical interpretations. Component 2: Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917 – 1953 (40% of A level / 50% of AS, assessed by external exam) Part one: The Russian Revolution and the Rise of Stalin, 1917 – 1929 (taught in Year 12, examined in Year 12 and Year 13) Part two: Stalin’s Rule, 1929 – 1953 (taught in Year 13, examined in Year 13) - The depth study is focused on a more defined period of significant historical change or development. Students will gain a deep understanding of change and continuity and the complexity of the roles of individuals, groups, ideology and ideas. Student understanding of links and contrasts across the period of change will reflect their precise and refined subject knowledge. Component 2 also ensures students are confident in using and assessing primary / contemporary evidence. Component 3: Historical Investigation (20 % of A level, completed in Year 13, internally assessed) - Students will identify an historical issue and respond to a question that allows them to appreciate and evaluate changing historical opinion. The Historical Investigation covers the concepts of change and continuity across a period of approximately 100 years. In completing this extended writing / research component, students develop an enhanced understanding of the nature and purpose of history as a discipline and how historians work. Students are introduced to a range of research methods, from the more traditional library resources to making accurate use of the internet to obtain primary evidence. The Historical Investigation is completed in the first term of Year 13, assessed internally and moderated by the exam board.