A-LEVEL HISTORY - AQA

Introduction: Aims of the specification

To promote a study of History at A Level which is coherent and one which requires the study of a substantial element of British history
To promote an understanding of change and development over time, an understanding of change over a short period studied in depth and a study of change over 100 years.

Assessment Framework

AS comprises Units 1 and 2.

Unit 1: The Reformation in Europe, c1500-1564. This unit has the theme of Change and Consolidation and requires students to develop an understanding of change over time, usually of at least 50 years. Students will answer two questions from a choice of three 2-part questions in a written examination.

Unit 2: A Sixties Social Revolution? British Society, 1959-1975. This unit has the theme of Historical Issues: Periods of Change, and requires candidates to study a significant period of History in depth. Students will answer one compulsory 2-part source based question and one structured 2-part question from a choice of 2 in a written examination.

A2 comprises Units 3 and 4.

Unit 3: The Making of Modern Britain, 1951 – 2007. This follows up the themes of Change and Continuity, and requires candidates to show understanding of approximately 50 years of History in both breadth and depth. Candidates will study individuals such as Macmillan, Wilson, Thatcher and Blair.

Unit 4: Popular Dissent and Heresy in Medieval and Early Modern Europe. This will require students to study and write a Historical Enquiry which tests their understanding of 100 years of History.

Description of Teaching and Learning

Pupils are supported through a combination of learning activities including note-taking and mindmapping, discussion, personal research, drama, literature and field trips.

Links to Future Careers

History readily lends itself to careers in Law, Education, Archaeology, Journalism, Management, Research and Politics.

Higher Education Successes of Former Students

Elizabeth Morgan is studying History at Sheffield University. Elizabeth Gill is studying History at Warwick University. Kathryn Jones is studying History at JMU.

Additional Information

Please see Dr Campbell.