History

Assessment

The History Department offers a two-year linear course covering British, European and world history. This provides the breadth that we know is valued by universities and avoids a narrow focus on the twentieth century while providing depth in each key period. In this way, pupils are well prepared for undergraduate studies, with History being a popular choice of degree course. The A Level (Edexcel) is made up of 4 units, 3 of which will be assessed in written examinations at the end of the course, and 1 coursework unit. These units complement our IGCSE and Key Stage 3 courses and offer considerable variety in terms of perspective and depth of study. Paper 1: Breadth Study with Interpretations England, 1509 – 1603: Authority, Nation & Religion Paper 2: Depth Study The Dutch Revolt, c. 1563 – 1609 Paper 3: Themes in Breadth with Aspects in Depth Ireland and the Union, c. 1774 – 1923 Paper 4: Coursework Twentieth Century Representations Enquiry Students have opportunities to develop analytical and critical skills, learn how to construct structured arguments, address historical claims and debates, and reach judgements by analysis and evaluation. The style of lessons is very different from IGCSE as we like them, as often as possible, to be seminars where students can offer their views and discuss their research.