History is one of the most popular subjects at Harris Beckenham. It helps us to understand the society we live in today and enable us to contextualize the lives we lead. Year 12 Searching for Rights and Freedoms in the Twentieth Century: Students will learn about key the political, cultural and social changes experienced by Americans and South Africans in the 20th Century. Americans and South Africans in the 20th Century: The America unit is a study in breadth, in which students learn about the dramatic political, economic and social transformation of the USA in the twentieth century, an era that saw the USA challenged by the consequences of political, economic and social inequalities at home and of its involvement in international conflict. Our study of South Africa comprises a study in depth during its transition from white minority rule to the free elections of 1994, a long, and at times, dramatic process in which South Africa changed from an apartheid state into a multi-racial democracy. Year 13 Tudors Rebellion and Disorder 1485-1603: In this module students study how the Tudors were able to overcome the various challenges they faced, the change in the government over this period and the changing relationship between the crown and society. The option enables students to explore the way in which, despite a shaky start, the Tudors were able to establish their dynasty as one of the most powerful England has seen. Russia and the Cold War Coursework: Students scrutinize the history of dictatorship, the Cold War and how the Soviet Union was governed. Students evaluate historians’ views and engage in independent research and student focused discussion and debating key historiographical debates. How will I be taught? Oral work: Students engage in class discussions, debates, seminars, tutorials and presentations. Independent study: Our students are encouraged to actively seek out academic articles and wider reading which is reflected upon and discussed in class. Students complete Prep work before their lessons so that they can think deeply in their lessons and access challenging academic works. Written work: Students will produce essays, practice exam questions, interpret sources and data, and respond critically to academic readings. What degree courses does this lead to? History is a subject that can lead to an array of degrees due to the skills that it teaches throughout. Many A Level students go on to study courses such as History, Politics Philosophy and Economics, Economics, Law, International Relations, Sociology, Geography and Philosophy. What career opportunities does this open up? Graduates with a history degree find that there are many areas that they can go into. The skills that students learn throughout your study of history can allow them to enter broad fields such as: Journalism, Teaching, Civil Service, Law, Local Government, Consultancy, Charity, Broadcasting and the Media.