History

Course summary

The IB Standard and Higher Level courses are based upon the study and investigation of key events and developments in global history. Both SL and HL historians will sit Paper 1 and Paper 2, and complete a piece of coursework. In addition, HL historians sit an additional Paper 3. The precise topics students will study for the examined Papers will depend on the specialty of their teacher. Below is an outline of the options from which teachers will choose: Paper 1: one of either ‘Military leaders’ (Genghis Khan; Richard I of England), ‘Conquest and its impact’ (Spain 1482-92; Mexico & Peru, 1519-51), or ‘Rights and protest’ (USA 1954-65; South Africa, 1948-64). Paper 2 (World History Topics): two from ‘Early Modern States’ (1450-1789); Causes and effects of Early Modern Wars (1500-1750); ‘Origins, development and impact of industrialization’ (1750–2005); ‘Independence movements ‘(1800–2000); ‘Evolution and development of democratic states’ (1848–2000); ‘Authoritarian states’ (20th century); ‘Causes and effects of 20th-century wars’; ‘The Cold War: Superpower tensions and rivalries’ (20th century). Paper 3 (Higher Level only): the teacher will choose one world region (Africa & the Middle East; the Americas; Asia & Oceania; Europe), and will cover three areas for the exam within a time period of 1750 to 2005. Both courses also include an independently researched essay on a topic of the student’s choice that will be internally assessed. It is expected that 20 hours will be spent on this.