A Level - History

Studying History is valuable in many ways. The study of History creates an understanding and context of the world in which we live through exploration of the histories of the different cultures and groups that inhabit it. History also enables us to predict the impact of future events using the context of the past. The study of History develops critical thinking and communication skills, invaluable in your studies and future career.

Unit 1: The Early Tudors (1485-1558): Explore the Tudor Dynasty. How did they come to the throne? How did they stay on the throne? How did they deal with internal and external threats? Why did Henry VIII execute so many people? Why did Mary I have people burnt alive at the stake? Was there a mid Tudor Crisis?

Unit 2: American: Civil War and Westward Expansion (1803-1890): Why did the US expand its borders? How did the US create its character? What impact did this have on the Native Americans? How do you define race and citizenship? What does the subjugation of other cultures tell us about the value of human life?

Unit 3: Popular Culture and the Witchcraze of the 16th and 17th Centuries: Why did witchcraft rise and decline during the 16th and 17th centuries? How far did it emerge out of the popular culture of the time? Why was there an increase and subsequent decline in persecutions? What methods of interrogation were used by the authorities and what impact did this have on society? Within this topic you will explore the case studies of Southern Germany, England and the Witchfinder General (Mattew Hopkins) and the Salem Witch trials.

Unit 4: Coursework: You will be given a degree of free choice to choose a topic to write about. Our recommended topics include: The Tudors, the American West; The Korean War; the Vietnam War and Women’s Rights in the early 20th century.

• Unit 1, The Early Tudors, 1 hour 30 minute examination (2 questions), 25%
• Unit 2, The USA, 1 hour examination (2 questions), 15%
• Unit 3, Witchcraft, 2 hour 30 minute examination (3 questions), 40%
• Unit 4, Coursework, 3000-4000 word essay, 20%

• At least a grade 5 in either English Language or English Literature
• At least a grade 5 in Mathematics
• At least 6 GCSE subjects of grades 9-5

If you wish to apply to join our Sixth Form please complete the application process through Kent Choices.