A-Level History

Course Entry Requirements:

A grade 5 in GCSE History

General Course Description:

This subject offers a wide and stimulating choice of content ranging from the quest for Indian independence from British rule, the search for the American Dream and Black Civil Rights, to the Crimean, Boer and First World War. The modules are designed around interesting, balanced and coherent teaching programmes and provide a wide range of opportunities to deepen the breadth and depth knowledge of national and international history. In Year 13, pupils will complete a coursework element evaluating historiography on the contentious issue of the causes of WW1. This supports students' independent study and better prepares them for progression into further education.

Course work An investigation into a historical controversy.

Paper 1 and 2 focus on the search for rights, freedoms and greater equality during the twentieth century. In the USA, the quest for political, social and economic advancement looked mainly to reform existing structures. In India, this quest led to more radical outcomes, bringing an end to imperial rule in India. Studying two different countries allows students to develop a greater understanding of both similarities and differences in the search for greater rights, freedoms and equality in the twentieth century world. Paper 3 explores the British experience of war in different aspects of major overseas conflicts and the changing relationship between the state and the people as the government attempted to create an effective fighting machine and prepare the people for war. Within the primarily military focus on the experience of warfare, this option also gives students the opportunity to explore its political, social and economic dimensions and their part in generating pressure for change. The coursework unit requires students to study and historical controversy, challenging the views of established historians and testing historical interpretations.

Board: Edexcel

Career Pathways:

This course is a good preparation for most careers as the skills of formulating an argument, research and judgement based on evidence are transferable. History is particularly relevant to legal careers, journalism, teaching and the civil service.