H2 History (HI) 

History (Subject Information Video) 

H1/H2 History (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the content like for JC History?

As highlighted in the video sharing on H2 History, Paper 1 is on International History, while Paper 2 is on Southeast Asian History.

·     In Paper 1, you will examine the interactions between historical actors and their contexts, which shaped the emergence, development and end of the Cold War. You will also examine the outbreak, development and management of selected inter-state and intra-state conflicts, as well as evaluate the growth and challenges of the global economy.

·     In Paper 2, you will examine the key developments that took place within Southeast Asian countries and in the region after independence. Using a thematic-comparative approach, you will learn about the varied experiences of Southeast Asian countries in forming nation-states, pursuing economic goals and forging relations with other Southeast Asian countries.

H1 History focuses on the Development of the Cold War in Europe and in Asia. Superpower rivalry transformed the security order in the European theatre of the Cold War. At the same time, Asia emerged as a second front, and was where the Cold War contestation played out differently than in Europe. H1 History allows you to acquire a deeper understanding of the impact of the Cold War across different contexts and time periods.

2. What is the format of the Assessment?

For H2 History, you will sit for two 3-hour papers, where you will answer one compare and contrast source-based case study question, one assertion source-based case study question, as well as two essay questions. For H1 History, the format is the same; but you will only sit for one paper.

JC1 students offering H1 and H2 History in 2026 will sit for e-examinations during the ‘A’ Level examinations.

·      During the assessment, you will receive a hard copy of the Question Paper but type your responses into a digital answer booklet on a computer.

·      This assessment format allows you to leverage the editing function of the computer to facilitate better planning, organizing of ideas and editing of responses for clarity, coherence and succinctness.

3. Is the assessment demanding?

Yes, and we would say that this applies to every subject offered at the JC level. Not only are you now entering the national curriculum, but you are doing it at a higher level, and therefore, there will be a learning curve. History examinations home in on the skill of argumentation and source analysis, both of which require time to master. Additionally, you are required to do it under a time constraint, where a 3-hour paper isn’t a lot of time. However, with consistency of practice, and with teacher guidance in the process, we will eventually get there!

4. Is it alright if I did not do History in Sec 3 and Sec 4, but still want to do History at the JC level?

Yes! While doing History in Secondary 3 and 4 might give you a foundational understanding in skills (and to some degree, content), there is a new range of content and skills to learn at the JC level. In the regard, everyone is starting from a similar point and will have to go through the two-year process to reap the rewards at the end! The important thing is to have a positive attitude towards the subject, willingness to work hard and consistency in your efforts. Do look at the syllabus overviews for H1 and H2 History, to decide on which may be a better fit for you.

5. What are the more popular subject combinations for students offering History?

The most natural fit (in terms of similarity of skill requirements and modes of thought) would be to pursue an ‘Arts’ combination, mostly popularly, History, Economics, Literature and Math (HELM). Offering CSC together with History has also been a popular combination in recent years, due to the complementary nature of both subjects. However, we have many hybrid combination students as well, with History chosen as a contrasting subject. Some of those combinations include, PCMH and BCMH. If you have interest in the subject, you’re more than welcome to offer history at the JC level!

6. How will lessons be conducted?

Each week, lessons will comprise of lectures, tutorial sessions and blended learning days.

·      During in-class lessons, expect to engage in a variety of hands-on activities, as well as many discussions with your peers! Don’t worry if you’re not confident about this yet; you’ll gradually get used to sharing your opinions and engaging in discussions, both of which are valuable skills in today’s workplace.

·      During your blended learning days, activities may range from watching recorded video lectures, to completing readings, engaging in source-work or completing other tasks.

7. Do you offer H3 History?

H3 History is offered at the end of J1, depending on your performance at the year-end Promotional Examinations and if you meet the school-based criteria to offer H3 subjects.

8. What are the job prospects like for students of history?

History at the JC level and beyond equips you with the critical thinking skills and ability to interpret sources of information critically. Such competencies are highly valued in the workplace today. Students of history find themselves in various fields that require strong writing and communication skills like the civil service, journalism, or even joining the private sector. The history department often invites professors from the various universities in Singapore, offering you a glimpse into the experience of learning history at a higher level.