History - OCR A Level

The department is made up of a dedicated, enthusiastic and experienced team of teachers who are here to help support you through the A Level course. We have acess to a well stocked library, with access to the latest publications and make frequent use of this, along side ICT, iPads and textbooks to facilitate learning.

Why study this course?

History is a facsinating subject in its own right, but with a qualification in History, you could go on to Higher education or you could work in a great variety of jobs. Employers value the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills that History students develop during their studies – so its really a very useful subject to study!

Course outline

Britain 1930-1997 (Enquiry topic: Churchill 1930-1951)

This topic focuses on recent British history, looking at the key figures, political, economic and foreign issues of the later twentieth century. This topic contains some radical changes including the development of the welfare state, the power of the Trade Unions and the demise of the British Empire. There is a clear focus on contemporary sources, in particular when studying the enquiry topic on Winston Churchill.

France in Revolution and the Age of Napoleon 1774-1815

This topic focuses on the transition of France from a monarchy to a republican state. The course covers the rule of Louis XVI, his character and attitude as well as the threats to his authority. We look at the causes, events and immediate consequences of the French Revolution.The course extends to include the rule of Napoleon, his key advisors and adversaries and the effects of his rule on the French nation at home and abroad.

Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992

This theme focuses on the struggle of citizens in the United States to gain equality before the law. The course covers four sections of American society; African Americans, Trade Unions, Native American Indians and Women, looking in detail at how each fought to achieve Civil Rights in nineteenth and twentieth century America. Within this there are several depth studies focusing on the effect of the New Deal and key individuals such as Malcom X on the development of Civil Rights.

Coursework: Nazi Germany

This unit is comprised of an independently researched essay of 3000-4000 words. This needs to be based around a historical issue and must make use of a range of primary and secondary material. We are currently advising students to consider Nazi Germany as a topic, but there is the opportunity to undertake research into another topic if a student wishes.

At the end of your second year of study (Year 13), you will be examined in three units. You will sit a separate exam for each unit:

• Britain 1930-1997

• Russia 1894-1941

• Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992

The coursework unit will be internally assessed and externally moderated. It will be completed by February of Year 13

History develops a variety of cross-curricular skills in both written and verbal communication skills. Therefore, it can lead to higher education and a career in law, teaching or working in museums and libraries.