History – AS & A Level

Edexcel

Description of the Specification

We study four very different historical courses which cover a wide chronological, geographical and thematic range.  We begin with the origins of Empire, exploring the role of trade, politics and imperial wars in its growth.  The role of the slave trade is subsequently developed as we examine the real reasons behind its rise and fall.  For our British depth unit, we go back to the infamous Tudor monarch, Henry VIII, to examine his personal, religious and political machinations at court, at home and abroad.  Our coursework unit at A2 focuses on the extent to which Russian Tsars, including the intriguing Peter and Catherine the Great, succeeded in enhancing Russia’s influence in Europe and transforming its society at home.  Finally, students explore in depth the nail-biting international clash of superpowers that was the Cold War.  From its birth out of the ruins of World War Two, through hot spots and Detente, to its death in the 1980s, the Cold War is rife with controversy providing the basis for students to investigate clashing interpretations.  We aim to offer a course covering a broad scope of time and place with each unit offering its own set of exciting stories, events, personalities and controversies.

Type and Nature of Work Involved

Students should be able to:

• Support their own opinions about historical issues from their knowledge and historical sources
• Interpret contemporary historical sources and compare these sources with their own knowledge
• Explain reasons for major events and evaluate contrasting interpretations
• Assess the extent and significance of historical change and the impact and significance of particular individuals or events

Method of Assessment

AS

Unit 1 - The Origins of the British Empire c1680-1763 & The Slave Trade, Slavery and the Anti-Slavery Campaigns, c1760-1833

1 hour 20 minute exam / 25% of total A level mark

Unit 2 - Henry VIII: Authority, Nation and Religion 1509-1540

1 hour 20 minute exam / 25% of total A level mark

A2

Unit 3 - A World Divided: Superpower Relations, 1944-1990

2 hour exam / 30% of total A level mark

Unit 4 - Autocracy, Expansion and Enlightenment? Russia, 1682-1796

Coursework / 20% of total A level mark

Specific Entry Requirement:  A minimum of a grade B if this option was studied for GCSE.

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Sixth Form Subjects