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History

Aims

We aim for the GCSE History course to help learners explain and understand the modern world around us today.

Approach

Students will study a wide range of content options and consider themes which demonstrate the relevance of the past in understanding the present. They will develop and extend their knowledge and understanding of specified key events, periods and societies in local, British and wider world history; and of the wide diversity of human experience. Students are encouraged to engage in historical enquiry to develop as independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers.

Topics

Component 1  - Period study and non-British depth study – 50% of total GCSE

International relations: the changing international order 1918 – 1975 and

The USA 1919 – 48 : the people and the state

Component 2 – British thematic study – 25% of total GCSE

Power: monarchy and democracy in Britain c.1000 to 2014

Component 3 – British depth study and a study of the historic environment – 25% of total GCSE

  • The English Reformation c1520 – c1550

  • Castles: form and function c.1000 - 1750

Assessment

The GCSE History course is 100% externally assessed. There are 3 exams, one for each component. 

To be Successful on this Course you will

  • Be inquisitive about the past

  • Be organised and hard working

  • Be reasonably confident with literacy skills such as reading and extended writing tasks

Further Education & Career Opportunities

What do you want to be? Enjoy studying Geography? You are more likely to get a good exam result in a subject you find interesting, and Geography can literally take you places. Any aspect of a Geography course could launch you into a career; interested in the environment and ecosystems? You could become a conservation manager or work for the Environment Agency. While this may be a direct use of your geographical studies, other employers (e.g. marketing and financial services) will look for the problem-solving, analytical and team working skills taught through Geography. So, Geography as an exam option can not only take you to many places around the world; it can also open far more career opportunities than you could possibly imagine.

We aim for the GCSE History course to help learners explain and understand the modern world around us today.