AS/A2 History

AS / A2 History

WHY TAKE HISTORY?
Students choose to study History because it involves a fascinating journey into exploring past societies, individuals, ideas and values. You will also have a choice between two different options for History, allowing you to study the aspects of History which excite and intrigue you most.

History is regarded by employers as an excellent subject for developing analytical ability and the capacity for debate. The subject is highly regarded by admissions tutors for universities, as it equips you with so many transferable skills.

WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF STUDY?
There are two History options for you to choose from.
Option A: Conflict
AS course: European Witchcraze (1580-1650) and Crown, Conflict and Revolution in England (1660-1689) and Crown Parliament and Authority in England (1588-1629).
A2 course: Impact of Fascism in Britain (1925-1960) and the coursework unit Challenge and Rebellion in Tudor and Stuart England, (1509-1660).
OR
Option B: Persecution
AS course: Civil rights in the USA (1945-1968) and Politics, Presidents and Society (1968-2001) and Experience of Warfare in Britain (1854-1929).
A2 course: Impact of Fascism in Britain (1925-1960) and the coursework unit Expansion, Conflict and Civil Rights in the USA (1820 -1981).

WHAT SKILLS WILL I NEED AND DEVELOP?
You should have good written and communication skills. You will
develop the ability to construct academic arguments in addition to evaluating evidence from a wide range of sources.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
In your AS course, Unit 2 is assessed in January and is a source-based exam. Unit 1 is assessed in the summer of your first year and is an essay based paper.

In your A2 course you will complete two pieces of coursework, each worth 20% of your A2 grade. You will also be assessed through a 2 hour exam paper in June which will be worth 60% of your A2 grade.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
There are lots of opportunities to get involved in additional activities including the History Society magazine History Today which is written and edited by students. Over the past two years History students have also visited London, Washington and New York and Rome and Sorrento.