History A-Level Edexcel

History will be kind to me for I intend to write it

Winston Churchill
A man without history is like a tree without roots
Marcus Garvey (1917)
Why choose History?
Think History is not relevant? Or you wont get a job learning History? Think History is not practical?
In fact, History is very practical, because it involves:
Learning about people how they interact, the motives and emotions that can tear people apart into rival
factions or help them to work together for a common cause (useful knowledge for team-building at work!)
Learning about countries, societies and cultures so many of todays conflicts and alliances have their
roots in the past; how can you negotiate with, trade successfully with, or report on a country if you know
nothing of its history?
Learning to locate and sift facts to identify truth and recognise myth, propaganda and downright lies
(useful in every aspect of life!)
Presenting what youve learned in a way that makes sense to others whether in graphs, essays or
illustrated reports and having the confidence to defend your findings.
What will I study?
AS
Unit 1
Exam: 1 hour 20
Value: 25%
You will study aspects of the past in breadth through periods
or themes. The unit addresses breadth of study, requiring
students to address two linked themes from a range of
perspectives, for example social, religious, political and
cultural.
Topic:

Crises,Tensions and Political Divisions in China, 1900-49

Maos China, 1949-76
Unit 2
Exam: 1 hour 20
Value: 25%
You will study British history in some depth. Grounded in an
exploration of source material in its historical context, this
unit enables you to develop an in-depth understanding of the
attitudes, beliefs and structures of the societies they study.
In working with selected sources, students will be required to
demonstrate evidence skills, which enable them to make
reasoned and supported judgements and to address a historical
view or claim.
Topic:
Henry VIII: Authority, Nation and Religion, 1509-40

A2
Unit 3
Exam: 2 hours
Value: 30%
You will demonstrate your understanding by answering an
essay question requiring them to reach a developed and
substantiated judgement. The unit also enables you to
work with secondary sources selected to provide evidence
of differing views about defined associated historical
controversies.
Topic:
From Kaiser to Fhrer: Germany, 1900-45
Unit 4
Coursework extended essay
Value: 20%
You will address key aspects of a chosen theme over a
period of at least 100 years in order to develop their
understanding of the process of change over a long period.
You will investigate issues relating to their causes and
consequences, both long- and short term, and will
demonstrate an understanding of factors that may
accelerate, consolidate or halt the process of change.
Topic:
India 1845 - 1947

How will you learn?

The course is taught using a variety of teaching and learning methods. Class discussions, group
presentations, on line research and well as the use of visual aids such are all common in lessons. Trips
relating to the units will also take place as well visits to specialist conferences for A-level students. The
history department has excellent textbooks and also texts for extended reading which will prepare you
for historical study at university.