An understanding of the past gives us a richer and deeper understanding of the present. This course will develop historical knowledge and understanding, analytical writing and critical thinking skills through the study of four engaging topics. Students take Route E through the Edexcel syllabus and will study; Russia: From Lenin to Yeltsin, 1917-1991, Mao’s China c1945 -76, Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603 and will also complete a piece of independently researched coursework in the form of a 3000-4000 word internally assessed and externally moderated essay.
How is the course structured and graded?
Students completing the full A-level will study two components in the first year, with a further two (including the controlled assessment) in the second year.
In the first year students will study the content for Paper 1: Russia, 1917-1991 which makes up 30% of the total available marks
They also study the content for Paper 2: Mao’s China, c1945 -76 which makes up 20% of the total marks.
In the second year students will complete the coursework assignment which makes up 20% of the total marks.
They will then study the content for Paper 3: Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors 1485-1603 which makes up the final 30% of the total marks. All assessment takes place in the final year of the course.
How will you be assessed?
All examinations take place at the end of Year 13. Candidates will explore concepts such as causation, change, continuity, similarity, difference and significance and are expected to demonstrate, organise and communicate their knowledge and understanding in order to; analyse and evaluate the key features of the topics of study, to analyse and evaluate historical sources of information, and to explore the varied historical interpretations of their topics of study. Coursework will be internally marked and then externally moderated.
Will this course be suitable for me?
This is a traditional A Level course with a level of academic challenge and expectations of independent self-directed study to support classroom teaching. Interesting and thought provoking topics however offer great reward for the hard work put in. As such, candidates are expected to have at least a grade 5 in GCSE English and History, and competence with written communication although a genuine passion and interest for the subject will also be of benefit and candidates could still be considered with experience in similar subjects such as languages or English Literature.
Where might it lead you?
History is a highly respected and valued academic qualification by employers. The subject is popular as it covers interesting topics that are engaging and cover significant moments in British and world history. The course demands dedication, wider-reading and research skills; explanation and analytical skills; the ability to understand different interpretations of events; using and evaluating evidence and forming detailed arguments and conclusions. The skills learnt are transferable to other written and analytical subjects and are an excellent basis for university education. The academic rigour and development of these skills makes it such a well-respected qualification and leads to varied careers such as medicine, accountancy, journalism, law, archaeology, politics, teaching, museum curator, conservation and the civil service.
