The GCSE course provides the opportunity to study modern history from different parts of the world in the twentieth century at key times in their history. We follow the Edexcel course and the areas we study are
- War and the transformation of British Society 1903-1928
- Peace and war and International Relations 1900-1991
- Germany 1918-1939
Two different approaches are adopted, each corresponding to 3 final examination papers:
- A source based paper testing students’ ability to analyse and evaluate a set of sources on a country they have studied.
- An essay based paper testing knowledge and analytical skills and understanding of key world events.
In addition there will be one piece of coursework (25%) which will be based on Government and Protest in America 1945-1970.
A study of History enables people to have a greater insight into the problems of the world today; an understanding of the past helps to explain the present, politically, economically, socially and culturally.
History GCSE develops the ability to think logically and analytically, to argue effectively and to communicate clearly. These skills are highly regarded by university departments and by prospective employers.
Not only is History a valuable and interesting study in itself but it provides very useful background for the study of Law, Politics, Economics, Journalism and International Relations.
Medical, dental, veterinary and other science courses also value highly the skills developed through studying History.
The full examination board specification can be found here.