A-Level
Careers related to studying History:
If you choose to study History, you will develop the ability to form a logical and coherent argument. You will also through your research become familiar with a wide variety of written sources both primary and secondary. As a result, History students are well sought after in a wide variety of careers.
You could consider careers in: media, law, teaching, journalism, publishing, public relations, banking and local government.
Course content:
Through studying this course, you will increase your knowledge of two key periods across a two hundred year period. You will study one period in breadth (Russia 1865-1964) where you will concentrate on the key events which shaped the development of modern Russia. You will also study one period in depth (Britain 1951-2007) which will give you the opportunity to explore specific issues during this exciting period in Britain.
Entry requirements:
If you have taken History at GCSE it would be expected that you have achieved at least a grade 5. A grade 4 in English Language would also be expected.
Subject specific events:
You will be invited to take part in extra-curricular trips to Edge Hill University and a visit to Belfast to explore some of the sites of ‘the Troubles’. There are also opportunities to involve yourself in the debate society, attend virtual lectures to gain a wider context of the periods studied.
Methods of study:
There are five lessons per week which are divided between two subject specialists. Teaching groups tend to be between ten and eighteen in number, and the
course is taught through a range of teaching and learning strategies.
These strategies include group discussion (whole group, small group and pairs), analysis of source material and comparison of the views of historians. You will also prepare presentations (individual, paired or small group) and will report back on your findings.
Much of your work will be produced independently. However, there are frequent opportunities to share ideas either prior to, during or after written assignments. You should expect to complete approximately 5 hours of independent study outside of your lessons. This is especially important during the personal investigation part of your course. During this phase you will be expected to read the works of historians, prepare to argue for and against their views and form your own conclusion.
Methods of assessment:
Component 1 Russia 1865-1964
Breadth study – you will study the history of Russia across a hundred year period. You will focus on the significant historical developments of the period. This is worth 40% of the A level.
Component 2 Britain 1951-2007
Depth study – You will study aspects of British history in depth including domestic and foreign policy. This is worth 40% of the A level.
Component 3 Personal Investigation
You will complete a personal investigation based on an issue of your own choosing around a central theme. You will compare the views of two historians and use primary sources to construct a piece of work no more than 4,500 words This is worth 20% of the overall grade.