History

AQA

GCSE English Language Grade 6

GCSE History Grade 6

There is no AS Level exam option. This course will be the full A Level course only.

A-level students must take assessments in all three of the following components in the same series:

• Component 1: Breadth study- written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level
• Component 2: Depth study- written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A-level
• Component 3: Historical investigation (Personal study)- 3,500 – 4,500 words, 20% of A-level

AS and A Level History allows the development and acquisition of analytical and evaluative skills regarded as key by both employers, and places of further education. History gives you a depth and breadth of knowledge that allows you to successfully understand why and how the geo-political system of today evolved.

Study includes the use of original source material and many secondary interpretations giving you the unique opportunity to simultaneously see a world no longer here through the eyes and ears of the time while indulging in the ever changing canon of historians’ sentiments.

Furthermore, you will have the chance to investigate your own favourite historical interest nurturing your independent research skills facilitating a thorough grounding for further higher level study.

The British Empire, c1857-1967

This option allows students to study in breadth issues of change, continuity, cause and consequence in this period through the following key questions:

• Why did the British Empire grow and contract?
• What influenced imperial policy?
• What part did economic factors play in the development of the British Empire?
• How did the Empire influence British attitudes and culture?
• How did the indigenous peoples respond to British rule?
• How important was the role of key individuals and groups and how were they affected by developments?

Part one: the High Water Mark of the British Empire, c1857–1914

1) The development of Imperialism, c1857–c1890

2) Imperial consolidation and Liberal rule, c1890–1914

Part two: Imperial retreat, 1914–1967

3) Imperialism challenged, 1914–1947

4) The winds of change, 1947–1967

The Cold War, c1945–1991

This option provides for the study in depth of the evolving course of international relations during an era of tension between communist and capitalist powers which threatened nuclear Armageddon. It explores concepts such as communism and anti-communism, aggression and détente and also encourages students to reflect on the power of modern military technology, what hastens confrontation and what forces promote peace in the modern world.

Part one: to the brink of Nuclear War: international relations, c1945–1963

• The origins of the Cold War, c1945-1949
• The Widening of the Cold War, 1949-1955
• The Global War, 1955-1963

Part two: from Détente to the end of the Cold War, c1963–1991                                                                                                                

• Confrontation and cooperation, c1963-1972
• The Brezhnev era, 1972-1985
• The ending of the Cold War, 1985-1991

The Tudors: England, 1485–1603
• How effectively did the Tudors restore and develop the powers of the monarchy?
• In what ways and how effectively was England governed during this period?
• How did relations with foreign powers change and how was the succession secured?
• How did English society and economy change and with what effects?
• How far did intellectual and religious ideas change and develop and with what effects?
• How important was the role of key individuals and groups and how were they affected by developments?

Part one: consolidation of the Tudor Dynasty: England, 1485–1547
1) Henry VII, 1485–1509
2) Henry VIII, 1509–1547

Part two: England: turmoil and triumph, 1547–1603
3) Instability and consolidation: ‘the Mid-Tudor Crisis’, 1547–1563
4) The triumph of Elizabeth, 1563–1603

France in Revolution, 1774–1815
This option provides for the study in-depth of a key period of history which was to change the relationship between the ruler and the governed, not only in France but throughout Europe and, in time, the wider world. A study of France in revolution embraces concepts such as absolutism, enlightenment, constitutionalism, democracy, republic and dictatorship. It also encourages consideration of issues such as the relationship between rulers and the ruled, the place of the Church in the State, the power of the people and promotes reflection on what makes and perpetuates revolution.

Part one: the end of Absolutism and the French Revolution, 1774–1795

1) The origins of the French Revolution, 1774–1789
2) The experiment in constitutional monarchy, 1789–1792
3) The emergence and spread of the Terror, September 1792–1795

Part two: the rise of Napoleon and his impact on France and Europe, 1795–1815

1) The Directory and Napoleon’s rise to power, 1795–1799
2) The impact of Napoleon’s rule on France, 1799–1815
3) The impact of Napoleon’s rule on Europe, 1799–1815

Studying AS and A Level History is a very sensible choice as it will develop your skills of analysis and evaluation. You will be able to demonstrate the ability to create and pursue a successful argument on paper, remember and organize significant amounts of knowledge, and provide you with a thorough understanding of why and how today’s world operates. History at this level will obviously set you in good stead for the studying of History at University but it is also a key requirement of some courses such as Law. Not only does it help applications to arts based courses but it is seen a very beneficial subject to those pursuing scientific and engineering based futures. This is why History is one of the Russell Group’s facilitating subjects.

Employers always rate this subject as it shows, knowledge, skill and understanding at a high level that can aid any business environment. Nearly every sector values this subject and the skills historians possess