History

Are you studying history at GCSE and looking forward to gaining a good grade? Are you someone who has an enquiring mind, enjoys finding out about the past and can think analytically and independently in order to argue a point of view? Do you enjoy discussing and debating current affairs and drawing parallels between past and present?

What will you study and learn?

You will have the opportunity to study a range of periods from history in a variety of ways – with both national and international perspectives. This will include learning about significant events and individuals who have changed and shaped the course of history. At Kingsley we will study a combination of 16th century and 20th century history covering a total of 200 years.

Course content and examinations

Examination board: AQA

Component 1: Breadth Study

The Breadth Study analyses significant historical developments over a period of around 100 years and associated interpretations. We will study The Tudors: England 1485 – 1603. This will include investigating the social, economic, religious, political and foreign changes which occurred through the Tudor period. The breadth study is worth 40%.

Component 2: Depth Study

This is the study in depth of a period of major historical change or development and associated primary evidence. The Depth Study will be Italy and Fascism: 1900-1945. This will include an analysis of the rise and fall of Mussolini and the changes brought about by his dictatorship. The Depth Study is worth 40%.

Component 3: Historical Investigation

The coursework topic is of the student’s own choice. This should provide flexibility and enable a student partly to pursue their own historical interest. For example, past coursework topics have included the Arab-Israeli Conflict and China 1875-1976. The coursework is worth 20% and takes the form of a 4,500 word essay.

A-level exams will be taken at the end of the course – a linear system of Assessment. Students will sit two 2 hour 30 minute exams, each worth 80 marks.

Where could the subject take you?

An A-level in history integrates well with other academic subjects, is highly regarded by universities and will allow you to develop skills needed for a wide choice of careers, including law, academia, administration, civil service, management, marketing and work in the media.