History

MODERN HISTORY

Taught at The Westwood Academy & Kenilworth Sixth Form

Exam Board: AQA

Assessment Method:

80% Examination, 20% assessment. The course is comprised of 3 components: a breath study (component 1), a depth study (component 2) these both run throughout the duration of the AS and A-Level course, and the non-examined assessment (component 3).

Why Should I Follow This Course?

A Level History at The Westwood Academy Sixth Form encourages you to explore the events and issues that have shaped the world we live in. The over-arching theme is on modern History with two courses focusing on the development of modern Germany from its unification in 1871 and 20th Century British History after the Second World War. Each student is then given the opportunity to complete an independent, in-depth study on a specially selected area of British or world history.

What will I learn?

Germany 1871-1991: The unification of the German nation and the individuals behind it; The role played by key individuals and groups in shaping Germany’s history; The extent of cultural, social and political change within Germany throughout the Twentieth Century; How it became a democratic country. The Making of Modern Britain: The role of changing governments in shaping modern Britain; Economic policies and their impact; The progression of society and the move towards an inclusive, multicultural Britain; The relationship with other countries and Britain’s contribution to events around the world.

Where Will This Qualification Take Me?

Employers value History students because of the wide range of skills they learn as well as their ability to work independently and as part of a team. An A level in History is good preparation for many careers such as: Law, Journalism, Politics, Media, Police, Social Work, Teaching and many other areas of work. It will enable you to demonstrate your ability to analyse and evaluate the opinion of individuals, whilst constructing a balanced argument. It will also prepare you to effectively communicate your arguments using precise and specific key concepts.

Entry Requirements:

GCSE History Grade 6

EARLY MODERN HISTORY

Taught at Kenilworth Sixth Form

Exam Board: Edexcel

Why Should I Follow This Course?

Students learn a variety of key skills in History that will help them beyond Sixth Form Level, to University and beyond. An A Level in History will give develop analysis, argument and evaluation and other skills relevant to a number of different vocations. Students who study History can go on to study at University in a wide range of subjects from History itself to related areas such as Politics, Economics, Geography, Sociology or Philosophy. It also has links with vocational qualifications such as BTEC Higher National Certificates/ Diplomas in Media/ Journalism or in Travel and Tourism.

What will I learn?

Unit 1: England, 1509 – 1603 Authority, Nation and Religion (worth 30%) This unit looks at the changes across England under the Tudor monarchs from Henry VIII to the death of Elizabeth I. Religion, power & the role of Parliament, causes and consequences of rebellion and cultural change are all covered. There is a depth study on the final years of the reign of Elizabeth I and how far the nation was in crisis.

Unit 2: Luther and the German Reformation 1515 – 1555 (worth 20%) Unit 2 focuses on the development of the Protestant movement in Germany in the early to mid 16th century. Problems with the Catholic Church, the early role of Martin Luther, the development of a Lutheran movement and reasons for it’s survival are all studied. 50% of the course is assessed through source analysis and the other 50% from recall.

Unit 3: Lancastrians, Yorkists and Henry VII, 1399 – 1509 (worth 30%) pg. 60 The final examined unit looks at the split between the royal houses of York and Lancaster. The deposition of Richard II, the reigns of monarchs from both houses, the Wars of the Roses and the successful reuniting under Henry Tudor are all covered.

Unit 4: Coursework – Tudor Controversy (worth 20%) This is an academic piece of research into an area of historical debate. Students must identify and investigate an issue, assessing and evaluating the views of three historians and then develop their own view based on their understanding. The piece is 4000 words in length and completed to a university standard with lessons on how to undertake such a piece delivered first.

Entry Requirements:

GCSE History Grade 6