History 

Introduction to A level History video

CIE

Our A level 20th Century History course follows a dynamic and interesting set of topics. These topics will be critically examined by utilising the core skills that are taught to students throughout the two year course. It is always a benefit to have studied History at IGCSE, but our A level course is taught in a manner which allows for those students who are new to the subject to acquire the necessary skills-set, in order to be successful. However, to be successful in this History course, every student must display high level language skills (written and oral).

A level History gives students the exciting opportunity to study some of the most interesting aspects of the past. Students will develop a deep understanding of the complexity of international relations, the dynamics of government and the power relations that bind people, societies and countries together. Students will acquire a range of skills that are useful in everyday life, at school and at university. The ability to analyse and interpret information, to argue a case and to write strong, clear essays are but a few of the skills History gives its students. The study of 20th Century History will produce a greater understanding of the present, not because events repeat themselves, but because all political, social, cultural and economic developments have their roots in the past, and cannot be explained without reference to these roots. In short, this course will help students make sense of the world around them.

PROGRESSION

Most universities appreciate how challenging the A level History course is, and consequently they hold A level History in high regard – viewing it as a ‘hard’ and academically rigorous subject. Students who are successful in this subject represent an attractive proposition to the higher level universities. History provides students with a very flexible and cross-curricular set of skills that are prized by university admissions for any course, but particularly for Law, International Relations, Journalism, Classics, Finance and Politics.

COURSE OVERVIEW

The course consists of four modules, the first two of which are taken at the end of Year 12 for the AS exam, and the remainder taken in Year 13. The AS grade counts towards the full A-level, which is a real benefit to students.

AS Level

Paper 1

Source based study

40% of AS

1 hour 15 minutes

Written Exam

Paper 2

International History 1870-1945

60% of AS

1 hour 45 minutes

Written Exam

A2 Level

Paper 3

The Origins and Development of the Cold War, 1941–1950

40% of A level

1 hour 15 minutes

Written Exam

Paper 4

International History 1945-1991 (The Cold War)

60% of A level

1 hour 45 minutes

Written Exam

WHY TAKE HISTORY?

• Students will be attractive propositions to higher level universities

• Students acquire an understanding and a sound knowledge of the key themes of the 20th Century.

• Students learn how to write a strong, coherent argument

• Students learn how to analyse information and source material to come to a reasoned conclusion

• Students gain an awareness of historical concepts such as change and continuity, cause and effect.

• Students will examine a variety of approaches to History and learn to value differing interpretations.

• Students think independently and make informed judgements.

• Students cultivate empathy with people who have faced, and those who continue to face, challenging situations.

 For more information and exam resources, see the following link: 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ALG73DHIrOXzggxbulaSSRnUa4-wAo4sSeC-XeBowPc/edit?usp=sharing

Sarah Blainey - Curriculum Leader, Humanities