History

Why should I choose History?

GCSE History is widely regarded as a choice that will open many doors for your future: whatever career path you may choose.   It is seen by employers, colleges and universities as a very academic and rigorous course because it commands many skills as well as knowledge.  Historians, lawyers, doctors, graphic designers, politicians, accountants, teachers, actors, footballers, singers, artists have chosen History to study.  If you pick GCSE History as an option it speaks volumes about the type of student you are and what you are capable of doing. 

What will I study?

For our course we do a variety of activities; including trips, debates, presentations, essays and drama.  The exam questions you will study for in KS4 are the same kind of questions you have done in KS3.  If you enjoy History at KS3 then you will enjoy it in KS4.

In KS3 we study course in line with the national curriculum:

  • the development of Church, state and society in Medieval Britain 1066-1509
  • the development of Church, state and society in Britain 1509-1745
  • ideas, political power, industry and empire: Britain, 1745-1901
  • challenges for Britain, Europe and the wider world 1901 to the present day
  • a local history study
  • the study of an aspect or theme in British history that consolidates and extends pupils’ chronological knowledge from before 1066
  • a significant society in world history and its interconnections with other world developments

At GCSE there are 3 papers but 5 units that you will study:

  • Paper 1 – British Thematic Study with Historic Environment

Medicine in Britain, c1250 to present with The British Sector of the Western front 1914 – 1918; injuries, treatment and the trenches

52 marks 30% weighting 1 hour 15 minutes

  • Paper 2 – Period Study and British Depth Study

Superpower relations and the Cold War, 1941–91 with Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060–88

64 marks 40% weighting 1 hour 45 minutes

  • Paper 3 – Modern Depth Study

Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39

52 marks 30% weighting 1 hour 20 minutes

These units cover a lot of important and interesting subjects that will give you a greater understanding of the world you live in.  You can find out more information on the exam board’s website: 

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/history-2016.html

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through 3 exams at the end of year 11 on all the units.

What do other students think?

‘History is really interesting and challenging’

‘I really enjoy History, you get to learn about changes in the past and it’s gruesome!’

‘I like History: you learn a lot of new and fascinating stories’

‘GCSE History is really fascinating and helps me with all of my other subjects’

‘Studying History has taught me a huge amount, about myself, my country and my world’

History Curriculum Overview