History

Course summary

• Studying History at A-Level gives students an unrivalled opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of development and change over time. • At AS Level students will study Democracy and Nazism: Germany 1918-45 as well as The British Empire 1857- 1967. • Students who opt to study A2 History will continue to study these modules chronologically, developing historical analysis and incorporating historiography into their work. The complete A-level will allow for students to analyse change and patterns in History. Students will also complete an independent project on The Tudor Dynasty, 1509-1603, looking at the impact of religion and rebellion on Tudor England. • A qualification in AS /A2 History reveals an ability to think, analyse and present information—this is a valuable skill required for many occupations. Students will continue chronologically with units 1 and 2 in Year 13, which are both assessed by examinations of 2 hours 30 minutes each at the end of the year. Students will also carry out an independent historical investigation alongside their examined units. • Unit 1 is worth 40% of A-level History • Unit 2 is worth 40% of A-level History • Unit 3 is a coursework piece of approximately 3,500 words on a historical issue and is worth 20% at A-Level. Unit 1: This will continue with the study of The British Empire from 1914-67, focusing on • Imperialism Challenged, c1914-1947 • The Winds of Change, c1947-1967 Unit 2: Beginning in 1933, this unit will cover life under Nazi Germany: • The radicalisation of the State • Nazi policies towards the Jews • The impact of war on German society Unit 3: Students will study an overview of the Tudor Dynasty covering the period 1485-1603. From this they will identify an issue or theme which they wish to develop a question from and which will be the focus of their Historical investigation. To ensure that this represents a substantial study, the issue to be investigated has to be placed in the context of approximately 100 years. By undertaking the Historical investigation, students will develop an enhanced understanding of the nature and purpose of History as a discipline and how historians work. They will broaden their study of the past whilst having the opportunity to study a specific issue in great depth. This unit will prepare students well for the demands of higher education. Learning Beyond the Classroom Students will have a number of opportunities to develop their historical understanding and knowledge. These opportunities will include: • An extensive collection of books and resources for student use. • The History department has subscriptions to Modern History Review and BBC History magazine to allow students to keep up to date with current historical thought • Study tours to Germany/Poland/Hampton Court • Lessons from Auschwitz Project • A lecture experience at University College London (UCL). • Visits to the National Archives in Kew. • Visits to relevant exhibitions and museums, including the Imperial War Museum. • External speaker – Holocaust survivor. Skills and Qualities for Study at KS5 and beyond • History challenges students at KS5 to develop their reading, writing and analytical skills. • Students who leave Sacred Heart with an A-level in History will be able to demonstrate to universities and employers that they are able to work successfully as an independent learner, to analyse, write and argue as an academic. • These skills will allow students to demonstrate that they are prepared for the demands of undergraduate study and the working world.