History
History is a fascinating subject where you will be able to study a range of periods, topics and countries. This will help you gain an understanding of significant historical events that helped shape our lives and the world around us.
This GCSE will help you develop skills such as: how to organise information, construct an argument, question the reliability of the information, select evidence and make judgements. Studying History equips students with transferable skills which are valued in other subjects across the school. Furthermore, universities, higher education establishments and employers all recognise the value of a history qualification.
What is the exam board and specification?
What will you study?
The course is broken up into 4 different historical topics.
Exam paper 1: Understanding the modern world
Section A- Germany 1890-1945: Democracy and dictatorship
- How successful was democracy in Germany after WWI?
- Why did Germans vote for Hitler? How did the Nazis control Germany?
- How did life change in Nazi Germany? Who were the winners and losers?
Section B- Conflict and tension, 1918-1939
- Was the Treaty of Versailles fair? Why did Germans hate it so much?
- Why couldn’t the League of Nations keep international peace?
- Who was responsible for the outbreak of WWII?
Exam paper 2: Shaping the nation
Section A- Britain: Health and the people: c. 1000 to the present day
- Why didn’t medicine and health improve during the Middle Ages?
- Who made the greatest contribution to medicine since 1500?
- Why did life expectancy leap from 40 to 80 in the 20th century?
Section B- Elizabethan England c. 1568-1603
- What was life like at Elizabeth’s court?
- In what ways did life change under Elizabethan rule?
- How did Elizabeth maintain control at home and abroad?
How will you be assessed?
Paper 1
50% of GCSE
Written examination
1 hour 45 minutes
Section A
Period Study
Unit 1 – 25% Germany, 1890- 1945
Section B
World Depth Study Unit 2 – 25%
Conflict and tension, 1918- 39
Paper 2
50% of GCSE
Written examination
1 hour 45 minutes
Section A
Thematic Study Unit 3 – 25%
Britain: Health and the people, c. 1000 to today
Section B
British Depth Study Unit 4 – 25%
Elizabethan England c. 1568-1603
What qualities do I need to be successful in the subject?
You must have a passion for history, be ready to get involved in lessons and try your hardest. This course is primarily written based and so competent writing skills are required.
What future opportunities can I have with this subject?
Studying History doesn’t mean you have to become a Historian or a History teacher. The skills you develop in History help you in any career that involves large amounts of information or making judgements. Many who study History go on to careers in Law, English, Politics, Sociology, Business, Journalism, Finance, Psychology, Tourism, Medicine and others.
Who should I contact for further information?
Mr Laing – c.laing@kwschool.co.uk