History

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

History is a course where students are able to investigate a wide range of historical issues, events and personalities. They will use evidence to formulate convincing arguments and compare different interpretations of events. History encourages scrutiny of sources and encourages questions to be asked. It is a challenging and demanding course although it is one of variety, covering political, religious, social and economic issues.

More On This Course

Unit 1 – USA, The Making of a Superpower 1865-1975: A breadth study that covers a wide range of topics, including US politics, foreign policy, changes to society and developments in economy. The period covered is from the end of the American Civil War to the end of the Vietnam War.

Unit 2 – War of the Roses: 1450-1499: A depth study of the civil unrest which dominated England, assessing issues of legitimacy and factionalism. Covering the reigns of Henry VI, Edward IV, Richard III and Henry VII.

Unit 3: Historical Investigation: An independent research project on the Tudor Rebellions, which will result in a 4000 word essay.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Students will be taught by specialist teachers and will experience a variety of teaching styles. They will have to evaluate and scrutinise historical sources, compare different historical interpretations. In lessons students will work with a variety of materials, including books, media clips and images to help cover the content. Activities are regularly interactive and involve movement around the class and interacting with other students in small groups or as a class. Developing essay-writing skills is a fundamental part of the course and finally reading around topics and reviewing historiography is imperative.

Assessment

In A Level History, students are assessed through two exams and a Historical Investigation.

Exams (80% of the final mark): There are two exams, each 2 hours 30 minutes long, with three essay questions. Each exam is worth 40% of the A-Level grade. Students will demonstrate their ability to analyse historical events, use evidence, and evaluate different historical interpretations.
Historical Investigation (20% of the final mark): Students complete an independent research project culminating in a written report that accounts for 20% of the final grade. This investigation tests students’ ability to carry out independent research and present their findings.

This structure balances exam-based analysis with independent research.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level History develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, as you explore key historical events, themes, and figures. You'll learn to assess evidence, build strong arguments, and communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms. These skills are highly valued in careers such as law, journalism, education, public policy, and research. Whether you want to work as a historian, teacher, lawyer, or political analyst, A Level History provides a solid foundation for a wide range of intellectually stimulating and impactful career opportunities.

Labour Market Information

Subject Combination

A Level History complements a range of subjects because it develops key skills such as critical thinking, analysis, research, and the ability to understand complex events and ideas in context. This includes: English, Classical Civilisation, Law, Politics and many more. By enhancing analytical, research, and communication skills, History provides a strong foundation for a wide variety of subjects.

Business

English Language

English Literature

Classical Civilisation

Law

Politics

Sociology

Economics

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