A-Level History
Overview
“We are not makers of history. We are made by history. ”
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
Studying history informs the present and gives you the skills you need to prepare for the future. Apart from being very interesting, history is useful for a host of different careers, and life too! In fact, history is very practical and teaches you vital skills that employers want. At A-Level you will unwrap more complex layers of history, delve deeper into historical evidence and debate issues that inform your understanding of the present.
Key Information
Qualification: A-Level
Exam Board: AQA
Entry Requirements
English 5+
Maths 4+
History 5+
Useful Links
Paper 1: Breadth Study
The study of significant historical developments over a period of around 100 years
written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
three questions (one compulsory)
80 marks
40% of A-level
Section A – one compulsory question linked to historical interpretations (30 marks)
Section B – two from three essays (2 x 25 marks)
Paper 2: Depth Study
The study in depth of a period of major historical change or development and associated primary evidence.
written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
three questions (one compulsory)
80 marks
40% of A-level
Section A – one compulsory question linked to primary sources or sources contemporary to the period (30 marks)
Section B – two from three essays (2 x 25 marks)
Paper 3: Historical Investigation (Personal Study)
Personal study based on a topic of the student's choice. (context of approximately 100 years)
3500–4500 words
40 marks
20% of A-level
marked by teachers
moderated by AQA
students must cover a chronological range of at least 200 years.
Progression
There are a range of degrees that History A-Level can lead on to including Law, Politics, Public sector, Business and many more. Studying history can also open up a world of career opportunities, including:
secondary school teacher.
journalist.
Civil Service administrator.
solicitor.
archivist.
curator.
heritage manager.
academic librarian
What goes well with History?
Psychology
English
Sociology
Geography