Course Description

The course content in Year 12 centres on the theme of nationalism, dictatorship and democracy in twentieth century Europe, focusing upon in-depth studies of Germany and Italy. In Year 13, students will undertake a British depth study focusing on Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603. Coursework will be focused on the Russian Revolution in 1917.

Contact:	Miss R Griffiths	Exam Board:	EDEXCEL/PEARSON
QAN:	60146771	Subject Code:	Hi

The Course at A Level

Germany and West Germany, 1918-1989. This unit comprises a study in breadth, in which students will learn about key political changes experienced in Weimar Germany 1918-1933, Nazi Germany 1933-45 and in West Germany after the Second World War, 1945-1989.

The rise and fall of fascism in Italy, c1911-1946: This unit examines key developments in the history of Italy in the first half of the twentieth century from the political instability of the liberal democratic state, through the rise and fall of Mussolini's fascist dictatorship, to the return to democracy and the creation of an Italian republic in 1946.

Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603: The focus of this unit is on two given themes on aspects of breadth covering a range of over 100 years and five identified key topics in depth.

Possible Subject Combinations

History combines with all subjects as it involves many skills of enquiry and source analysis as well as understanding complex concepts and ideas. Many History students also study Government and Politics, Ethics, Languages and English Literature. History and Maths or Sciences are also popular combinations.

Notes

Students who have not studied History at GCSE but have been successful in other key subject areas (Geography, English Literature, etc.) could be well placed to take up History at A level.

What do the students say? 

History made me think, it challenged me and I realised when applying for Universities what a highly regarded subject it is

Skills 

In addition to studying interesting content the Edexcel course develops key historical skills in the examination papers and coursework. In particular students will develop organisational and communication skills in their understanding of the period studied, in addition to making substantiated judgements, evaluating source material and analysing the different ways in which aspects of the past have been interpreted.

Visits 

There are History lectures and conferences where appropriate. Other past trips have included visits to the Houses of Parliament and other London sites, Italy, Russia and Washington.

Where can History take me? 

A degree in History is highly regarded and prepares students well for a wide range of careers such as Law, Teaching, Social and Welfare Work, Media, Acting, Journalism and Business. Students also go on to study such subjects as Ancient History, Archaeology, Politics and American Studies. Some Gordano History students are now working in Brussels for the EU, in the House of Commons, in high ranking Banking jobs, the Foreign Office and running their own highly successful businesses.