History A Level

Do you like to argue your point effectively? Do you like to solve problems? Are you inquisitive? Are you interested in why the world is how it is today? If so, then History is the subject for you.

Why is History Useful?

History helps to develop good written and oral communication skills
It encourages you to question everything – to analyse, evaluate and argue concisely and effectively, and to be discerning
You will develop an understanding of motivation – what makes people think and act as they do; and of causation – the reasons why things happen
Looking at the values of those in the past will help you to develop your own set of values.

Route F: Searching for Rights and Freedoms in the Twentieth Century

Students will study: Paper 1, Option 1F: In search of the American Dream: the USA, 1917- 96 and Paper 2.
Option 2F: South Africa, 1948-94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’

The options in Route F are linked by the common theme of a search for rights, freedoms and greater equality during the twentieth century. Students also study Britain: losing and gaining an empire, 1763-1914 and undertake research coursework on the Russian Revolution.

Course Content

Breadth Study with Interpretations

1F: In search of the American Dream: the USA, c1917–96

Assessment

The examination lasts 2 hours 15 minutes and is marked out of 60.
Students answer three questions: one from Section A, one from Section B and one from Section C.
30% of Final Grade

Depth Study

2F.1 South Africa, 1948-94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’

Assessment

The examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is marked out of 40.
Students answer two questions: one from Section A and one from Section B.
20% of Final Grade

Themes in Breadth with Aspects in Depth

3 Opt 35.1 Britain: losing and gaining an empire, 1763–1914

Assessment

The examination lasts 2 hours 15 minutes and is marked out of 60.
Students answer three questions: one from Section A, one from Section B and one from Section C.
30% of Final Grade

Coursework

4. The Russian Revolution

Assessments

Students carry out an independently-researched enquiry requiring them to analyse and evaluate historical interpretations. It is recommended that students write between 3,000 and 4,000 words for their assignment. It is marked out of 40.
20% of Final Grade

Enrichment

There are opportunities for Sixth Form students to join the Historical Society, take part in debates and attend conferences led by historians. Previous speakers include David Starkey, John Guy, Richard Evans and Robert Service. We also run residential trips. A-level students have visited New York and Washington D.C.

Looking Further Ahead

History develops many skills and actually widens options. Employers and universities see History as a valuable component in a well-balanced education.

Some of the careers for which History is useful include: Law, Archaeology, Tourism, TV work, International Relations, Police work, Town Planning, Environmental Work, Politics, Civil Service, Conservation, Building Restoration, Journalism and Scientific Research.

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