A level History

What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

It is not necessary to have studied History at GCSE. However, it is expected that students will have gained a good grade at English since ability at written communication is important.

The subject is likely to appeal to those who have an interest in the development of the modern world and in current affairs generally.

 

What will I learn on the AS-level course?

Students can take the first three modules only for the AS qualification. Those who wish to complete the full A2 level will continue in the upper sixth with modules 4, 5 and 6.

Module 1: Nazi Germany 1933-45 Domestic policies

This is a documents-based paper. There will be four primary and secondary sources and two structured questions on them. Candidates are expected to evaluate the sources and put them into context by using their own wider knowledge. The topics studied will include Nazi anti-Semitic policies, the workings of the Nazi dictatorship, Nazi propaganda methods, the workings of the Nazi political system and opposition to the Nazis.

Module 2: English foreign policy 1547-87

This is an essay paper. Candidates will have to answer one out of two essay questions. The topics will include England’s relations with France, Spain and Scotland. The main focus will be on the foreign policy of Elizabeth 1, leading to the outbreak of war with Spain.

Module 3: Russia 1825-81

The skills for this are exactly the same as for module 2. Topics will include the nature of autocracy under Nicholas 1 and the consequences of the reforms of Alexander 11. The long-term causes of the Russian Revolution of 1917 will be discussed. The links between economic and social backwardness and the power of the Russian Orthodox Church will be analysed. The topic will provide a secure foundation for module 5 in the A2.

 

What will I learn on the A2-level course?

Module 4: Bismarck and the Unification of Germany 1858-71

Candidates are expected to consider and understand different interpretations of this topic. The examination will consist of one essay and one two-part structured question. Bismarck’s aims and methods will be investigated along with the general European situation in the mid-late 19th century. Various reasons for the unification of Germany will be discussed along with the reasons why unification has been interpreted differently by various historians.

Module 5: Russian Dictatorships 1855-1956

Candidates will be examined on their understanding of connections between different elements of the topic. This is a ‘thematic’ module. There will be two traditional style essay questions. Topics will include the similarities between the methods of rule by the tsars and the Bolsheviks. The emphasis will be on common themes and patterns in 19th and 20th century Russian history. Students will not be

expected to follow a ‘blow-by-blow’ account of this period, but must be aware of factors of change and continuity, similarity and difference.

Module 6: Coursework essay of about 2,500 words. Students will be given a choice of essay titles on a topic of their choice. This will be externally marked.

Where might the subject take me?

History is a suitable and valuable subject for many careers and professions. Traditionally, A-level historians have gone into the legal profession, teaching, civil Service, journalism, the media and the armed forces. In recent years the old dichotomy between the ‘arts’ and ‘sciences’ has broken down and we have seen several students go on to read medicine at university having studied A-level History in the interests of broadening their  range of skills and knowledge.