Subject
History
Course
A-Level History
Exam Board
OCR
For more information contact Head of Department:
Mrs L Jones
Brief introduction:
Historians learn to question and analyse historical events to appreciate the shaping of the modern world around them. In addition, they will make justified judgments and learn to have debates over historical issues. Historians are suited to a multitude of careers for this reason.
In year 13 we take a trip to Birmingham Library for research purposes – this proves an invaluable experience in preparation for university.
History works well with lots of subjects – particularly English, where the extended writing and analytical skills will go hand in hand with historical skills.
"Those that fail to learn from history, are doomed to repeat it." Winston Churchill
Course Requirements
5 GCSEs (or equivalent). Grade 6 or higher in History. Grade 5 or above in English Language or Literature.
Year 12
Early Stuarts and the English Civil War (British study)
Germany – Weimar and Nazi period (Non-British study)
Year 13
Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992 (Thematic)
Independent study (Coursework)
Assessment
There are 4 examined components at the end of this course:
Paper 1: British study - Stuarts. 50 marks. 1-hour 30-minute paper. 25% of total A-Level.
Paper 2: Non-British study (Germany). 30 marks. 1-hour paper. 15% of total A-Level.
Paper 3: Thematic (USA Civil Rights). 80 marks. 2 hours 30 minutes paper. 40% of total A-Level.
Independent study – Historical investigation on a topic of your choice. 20% of total A-Level.
Historians are highly employable and suited to a multitude of careers based on the skill set they develop through the subject.
History graduates are trained to question and analyse historical events to appreciate the shaping of the modern world around them. In addition, they will make justified judgments and learn to have debates over historical issues. They develop the ability for independent thinking, in addition to being well versed in research skills and extended written responses.
Graduates enter many different career paths, including teaching, museums, heritage and curators, archivist, law, sociology, journalism, politics, research-based, archaeology, marketing and civil service.
2020-21
100% A*-E 67% A*-B
100% Pass+ 50% D-D*
