HISTORY (Edexcel) 

From September 2008 a new specification is introduced that changes the number and content of units for AS and A2 and consequently the new course consists of two units at AS plus another two units to complete the A2 qualification.

For AS students are required to study a period in depth for Unit 1 and we are likely to cover
Russia 1881–1953. This will cover the last years of the Romanov Dynasty, the impact of the changes caused by industrialisation and the First World War, the Bolshevik Revolution and concluding with the impact of Stalin up to his death in 1953.  We will be investigating a broad overview of this period encouraging the girls to assess the significance of events, ideas, attitudes and beliefs and how they influenced behaviours and actions.

Unit 2 is a study in depth of British history and for this we will cover the changing role of women and the suffrage question 1860-1930. Attention is paid to evaluating source material and this is assessed in the exam as well as testing their ability to understand the attitudes, beliefs and structures of the societies they study.

For A2 Unit 3 students research a depth study and historical controversies. We are likely to study Germany from 1900-1945, covering the build up to the First World War, the abdication of the Kaiser, Weimar Government, the rise of the Nazi Party and the impact of Hitler’s rule from 1933-45. This unit also includes source material and introduces pupils to historical debate and varied opinions of historians.

Unit 4 requires the students to undertake an historical enquiry of their choosing from a set time period and context. We will cover British Government and the Poor 1815-1939 or China 1900-2000. As a class we will study the general details of the period or topic and then each girl will select an issue or person or event that interests them to research for themselves. They will write up their choice as a coursework essay and this will be marked by the teacher and then moderated by Edexcel.

For further syllabus information Click here  

History requires a willingness to read and think about new information and discussion of why people act as they do is an important part of this course. A strong written style is very helpful as essays are a key part of the assessment. History encourages students to be active learners and hopefully broadens their understanding of both the past and present day events and as such it is particularly useful for anyone considering a career in Journalism or Law. The most important reason for choosing this subject should be a real interest in investigating key events and individuals and I look forward to watching girls become increasingly confident and knowledgeable as the course progresses.

 Mrs H Corkhill, BEd, (Hons)