History

Why study History?

History makes you valuable - to universities and employers. The bundle of skills, knowledge and attitudes that historical study delivers is highly attractive in both education and industry.

History makes sense of today's world. It demands that you use your intelligence to make sense of the complex forces that have come together to create our local, national and global situations.

History transforms you into a researcher and writer who can organise and communicate ideas and arguments; who can talk confidently about the past, and who is ready to challenge their thinking and that of others.

History opens doors on the whole magnificent mess that is the human past.

Entry Requirements

To study History at A Level, it is usual, but not essential, to have studied the subject at GCSE and have achieved a grade 6 or higher. If you have not studied History, a 6 in another Humanity subject is required.

Special features of the course

• Specialist teachers provide in-depth and up-to-date learning through seminars based on critical reading and discussion

• Our materials are carefully selected to help you access some complex historical debates

• History lessons contain source analysis, essay planning, presentations, role-play and empathy work, close textual analysis, discussion and debate, pair-work, quizzes, problem-solving, research, question analysis, documentary and film, simulations, and many other learning opportunities

Costs

There are no additional costs

Where can I find out more?

Detailed information on the course is available from the History Department. Contact Mr Annat at iannat@ahs.bucks.sch.uk

Subject Presentation

How is the course organised?

We follow the AQA specification; find it here

Unit 1: The Making of a Superpower: The USA, 1865-1975

Unit 2: The Making of Modern Britain, 1951-2007

Unit 3: Individual Assignment (NEA): a chance to research and write on a topic of your choice

Assessment

Paper 1 written exam 2½ hours 40%

Paper 2 written exam 2½ hours 40%

3500-4000 word personal study marked by the AHS History team and externally moderated 20%