Why should I study History?
Why should I study History?
History is the study of human experience in past ages. It is possible to study the history of almost anything or anyone, and this broad range of subject matter is one of the qualities that makes it so fascinating. A level History at Chigwell focuses on significant individuals, events, ideas, issues and movements between the 16th and 20th centuries. If you have enjoyed History at GCSE level, you are inquisitive about the past, you like reading, writing, debating and above all thinking, then A level History is probably for you. If you are interested in people and turning points in the past it will be a perfect fit.
What skills will I gain?
A level historians often find that by learning about the past they are better equipped to make sense of the present than would otherwise be the case and that they develop a rounded appreciation of different country’s cultural roots and heritage. An historical training is intellectually rigorous and stimulating. You will be exposed to a wide range of sources; you learn to manage large quantities of information critically and analytically; to develop informed opinions supported by reasoned arguments; to make links and draw comparisons within and/or across different periods and aspects of the past; and to communicate your ideas and thoughts effectively, both in written and verbal form. Such skills are very marketable.
In addition, a good pass in History A level is academic ‘hard currency’. It can assist you in securing places at the most selective universities and is particularly helpful if you wish to take a course in Law, Politics, Economics, Philosophy, Archaeology, Anthropology,
Sociology, Education, Theology, languages, literature or many other subjects within the field of the arts and humanities, as well as History itself. Many History graduates find that their degree provides openings into the civil service, law, publishing, journalism, banking, the arts, the media, education, advertising, marketing, business management and many other careers.
What will I learn?
You will study three distinct periods in world history, building upon your knowledge and skills learned at GCSE. During the first year you will study how the Tudor dynasty started with Henry VII and also the reign of Henry VIII. Alongside this you will study the history of Russia from the
Revolution of February 1917 to the start of collectivisation under Stalin in 1929. The second year will see your studies continue with both topics, extending the Tudors until the death of Elizabeth I in 1603 and the Russian element until Stalin’s death in 1953. At the end of the first year and then into the second year you will also conduct an historical enquiry into your choice (subject to exam board approval) of one 100-year period of history and consequently write a 4,500-word essay on your chosen area.
Entry requirements: We normally require a grade 8 in GCSE History.
Examination Board: AQA
Mr I. Goddard
Head of Department