Why should I study History?

History is a fascinating subject not only because it explains the past but also because it helps us to understand how the world around us came to be as it is today. Conflict and change, two of the major themes of History, are the themes that run through both the AS and A2 courses. There is coverage of both the 19th Century and the 20th Century at AS level and A2 level. By the end of the A Level course you will have engaged in historical study covering Britain, two significant European countries, the Middle East and international relations.

What will I study?

AS Units:

Unit 1: Historical Theme in Breadth

A. From Second Reich to Third Reich: Germany, 1918-45

• The fall of the Second Reich.
• The rise of the Third Reich.
• The Third Reich in action.
• The fall of the Third Reich.

B. The Middle East, 1945-2001: The State of Israel and Arab Nationalism

• The foundation of an independent Israel in 1948.
• Arab reaction to the establishment of an independent Israel to 1973
• The rise of Nationalism in Egypt and Syria; the significance of the Iranian Revolution in 1979.
• Arab Nationalism in the 1980s and 1990s.

This represents 50% of the total AS Level marks

Unit 2: British History Depth Study

The Experience of Warfare in Britain: Crimea, Boer and World War One, 1854-1929

• The impact of the Crimean War.
• The impact of the Second Boer War.
• The experience of war on the Western Front.
• The impact of World War One on the Home Front.

This represents 50% of the total AS Level marks.

A2 Units

Unit 3: Depth Study and Associated Historical Controversies

A. World Divided: Superpower Relations 194490

• The post-Stalin thaw and the bid for peaceful coexistence.
• The arms race, 1949-1963.
• Sino-Soviet relations, 194976.
• Détente, 1969-1980.

This represents 60% of the total A2 marks.

Associated Controversies
a) Why did Cold War between the superpowers emerge in the years to 1953?
b) Why did the Cold War come to an end in the 1980s?

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry

The Making of Modern Russia, 1856-1964

Part A- An in-depth enquiry into the short-term significance of a key event, individual, development or movement within the period of study.
Part B- You will set your chosen event or individual in a broader context.
This represents 40% of the total A2 marks.
What are the entry requirements?
Normal college entry requirements apply plus GCSE English grade C. (5 grade C’s from 4 different subjects including Maths and/or English).

What skills do I need?

·No requirement to have studied History at GCSE level.
·Good communication skills
·Ability to make judgements
·Ability to interpret source material.

How will I be taught?

The AS/A2 courses are taught by one teacher using a variety of, methods including worksheets, discussions videos, group work and individual research.

How is the course assessed?

Unit 1: one 1hr 20 mins written examination
Unit 2: one 1hr 20 mins written examination
Unit 3: one 2hr written examination
Unit 4: Internally assessed coursework.

What will this course prepare me for?

Popular degree courses have been history, American studies, European studies, classical studies, archaeology, art history, law, politics, media studies, philosophy.

Former students have progressed to careers in areas such as teaching, law, journalism, civil service, local government, financial services, sales and marketing, accountancy and personnel

Private Study

As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?

Not applicable

Examining Board

EDEXCEL

History is for you if

You enjoy analysing different viewpoints of the past and can construct logical, well - supported arguments.

History is not for you if

You do not enjoy writing essays or analysing source material.

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