History
National 4 / National 5
Course Overview
AIMS OF THE COURSE
History uniquely provides opportunities for pupils to study past societies. Through such studies, learners gain a perspective on, and an understanding of, the forces which have shaped their own society and societies in other countries. Through studying History it is hoped that learners will develop skills to debate issues and, on the basis of evidence, form views and respect those of others. The course also aims to foster in learners an interest in history which will enhance understanding of our modern, multi-cultural society.
COURSE CONTENT
This Course has three mandatory Units; Scottish History, British History and European and World History. Within each Unit there is a considerable degree of flexibility in contexts and themes which can be studied.
HOMEWORK REQUIREMENTS
Throughout the course pupils will be given regular homework to enhance their study skills and prepare for unit assessments. Homework can take a number of different formats, for example, completing course work, revision or research tasks.
Faculty Principal Teacher
Mr N Bentley
Assessment Methods
National 4
All Units for courses at National 4 Level will be internally assessed on a pass or fail basis. Assessments will be taken on a Unit-by-Unit basis or through combined assessment. Learners at National 4 are also required to pass an added value assessment/assignment to gain a full course award.
National 5
This course assessment has two components:
Component 1: Question paper (2hr 20mins)
Component 2: Assignment
The question paper contains three sections. Candidates must answer one part from each section. The question paper allows candidates to demonstrate a depth of factual knowledge and understanding as well as source analysis and evaluation skills:
- The Era of the Great War 1910-1928 (Scotland)
- Changing Britain, 1760-1900 (Britain)
- Free at Last? Civil Rights in the USA, 1918-1968 (European and World)
The question paper has 80 marks out of total of 100. The question paper is therefore worth 80% of the overall marks for the course assessment.
The assignment allows candidates to have an open choice of any historical issue. Their choice is not constrained by the content of the question paper. The assignment involves research leading to an extended piece of writing which assesses the following skills, knowledge and understanding:
choosing, with minimum support, an appropriate historical question or issue
collecting relevant evidence from at least two sources of information
organising and using the information collected to address the historical question or issue
drawing on knowledge and understanding to explain and analyse the causes and/or impact of the historical question or issue
referring to at least two relevant historical sources
identifying different perspectives and/or points of view
structuring information and presenting a reasoned conclusion supported by evidence
The assignment has 20 marks out of a total of 100 marks. The assignment is therefore worth 20% of the overall marks for the course assessment.
Learning and Teaching Approaches
A wide range of teaching strategies will be employed including whole class teaching, group work, and individual study. Learning experiences including document work, active learning, historical research and debates will encourage learners to understand past societies.
Progression Pathways
Through completing this course it is expected that pupils will develop broad, generic skills for life, work and learning. Thinking skills, literacy and employability, enterprise and citizenship skills will be developed to a level appropriate with the level of Course undertaken.
National 4 Pass:
National 5 History
National 5 A - C:
This course or its components may provide progression to: other SQA qualifications in the Social Studies suite of Courses, further study, or entry into employment or training for a diverse range of occupations and careers.