History

Course summary

For our OCR A Level course we have selected three examined units which all centre on Revolutions: potent ideas of liberty and equality which challenged British rule over America and then crossed the Atlantic to pose serious questions to the British constitution and continued to reverberate through Europe, arguably culminating in the February Revolution in Russia in 1917. Complementing the American unit we explore the challenges that a rapidly industrialising society posed to the political establishment. Specifically, we look at how governments reacted to the ‘Age of Revolutions’ and their approach to political and social reform. Students are assessed through the critical analysis of contemporary sources and evaluative essays. A thematic approach is crucial to this substantial paper that explores changes and continuities from Tsarist to Communist regimes. The revolutions of 1917 form a watershed but through analysis of Russian society, economy and governments, students will appreciate why Stalin can be called ‘The Red Tsar’. Assessment requires students to grapple with historians’ varied interpretations of events as well write synoptic essays that cover the entire 100 year period. Using the skills developed across their other papers, students select a topic to research and write a 4,000-word essay. This must evaluate both varied historical interpretations of the past and conflicting contemporary evidence in order to reach a clear judgement. History at A level is suitable for those who enjoy learning about the past, and whilst having studied at GCSE level is of benefit, it is not a prerequisite. Textual analysis and fluent writing skills are both highly desirable, but most important is to enjoy setting out an argument and following it through to a thoroughly justified conclusion. History is a highly regarded academic subject and as such is the gateway to many professional careers most notably law, journalism and the media, politics and the Civil Service. Academic careers, such as teaching in schools or universities and research fellowships, are also possibilities. The industry offers innumerable openings: historical sites, tours and retail.