History A level
Entry requirements
- GCSE History Grade 6 or above
- GCSE English Grade 6 or above
Course outline/objectives
These modules are linked by the common theme of a search for rights, freedoms and greater equality during the twentieth century. In the USA, the quest for political, social and economic advancement looked mainly to reform existing structures. In South Africa, this quest led to more radical outcomes, bringing an end to the apartheid regime. Studying two different countries allows students to develop a greater understanding of both similarities and differences in the search for greater rights, freedoms and equality in the twentieth century world.
Students will also have the opportunity to study a period of early modern British history by investigating challenges faced by Tudor monarchs. As well as this they will be able to hone their research skills by writing a 3000 – 4000 word piece of coursework on a historical debate.
Course content
Edexcel A Level History, Route F: Searching for rights and freedoms in the twentieth century
In search of the American Dream: the USA, 1917–96
- The changing political environment
- The quest for civil rights
- Society and culture in change
- The changing quality of life
South Africa, 1948–94: from apartheid state to ‘rainbow nation’
- The response to apartheid, c1948–59
- Radicalisation of resistance and the consolidation of National Party power, 1960–68
- Redefining resistance and challenges to National Party power, 1968–83
- The end of apartheid and the creation of the ‘rainbow nation’, 1984–94
Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors, 1485–1603
- Controlling a fractious nation – changes in Tudor government, 1485–1603
- Challenges to authority: the succession, religious issues, revolts from peasants, revolts from nobles, issues in Ireland
Coursework:
- Students carry out an independently-researched enquiry requiring them to analyse and evaluate historical interpretations and to organise and communicate the findings.
- The assignment is set by the school on a question, problem or issue that has generated disagreement among historians.
Assessment:
Future opportunities:
- The skills you will learn studying A level history provide an excellent foundation for History, Law, English and Philosophy degrees as well as a range of careers.
- History teaches you a variety of skills which are valuable in your later education or careers, including the ability to research, analyse and evaluate information, to form supported and evidenced judgements and to communicate complex ideas.
- History teaches you to understand the world we live in, without understanding the past how can we know what is happening in the present or see what could happen in the future?
Who to speak to for more information:
Miss E Robertshaw, Head of History, e.robertshaw@kwschool.co.uk