The aim of this course is for students to build knowledge and understanding of key time periods , exploring significant events , people and issues which have influenced human history . All topics are thematically linked and have been carefully selected to provide an unfolding narrative of historical periods which have shaped our world .
The exam will consist of 3 papers , with no controlled assessment . Students develop an understanding of how the past has been represented and interpreted . The application and understanding of knowledge is assessed , as well as how effectively students draw conclusions and reach judgments , supported by appropriate evidence .
Paper 1 – 30 %: Thematic Study and Historic Environment Medicine in Britain , c1250-present and the British sector of the Western Front , 1914-18 : Injuries , treatment and the trenches The topic develops an understanding of change and continuity through time . Starting in c1250 we will explore ideas such as supernatural and religious explanations of the causes of disease , and the treatments on offer to Medieval patients . There is also a detailed study of the Black Death . This topic continues its journey through time looking at the Western Front 1914-18 with an in-depth study of injuries , treatment and infection control in the trenches . It continues to modern day Britain with a look at advances in infection control , the use of technology in diagnosis and treatment and the role of the NHS .
Paper 2 – 40 %: Period Study and British Depth Study Early Elizabeth England , 1558-88 , and the American West 1836 to 1895 This unit looks at society and government during Elizabeth ’ s reign . There is an in-depth study of the Virgin Queen and challenges to her claim to the throne . The issues she faced both at home and abroad . Finally , students will study the Golden Age of Elizabeth , including the significance of the great voyages of discovery and Elizabethan leisure and education .
The second part of this unit is a study of the American West . The first topic covers the early settlement of the West , 1835 – c1862 . Key topic 2 covers the development of the plains , 1862 – 1876 . The third key topic covers conflict and conquest , 1876 – 1895 .
Paper 3 – 30 %: Modern Depth Study Weimar and Nazi Germany , 1918-39 ; The origins of the Weimar Republic through to the challenges it faced , such as hyperinflation and the rise of extreme political parties . There is a focus on post-WW1 recovery , changes in the standard of living , women ’ s position , and political challenges to the Republic . A key part of this topic is the rise of Hitler , the creation of his dictatorship , and consolidation of Nazi control in Germany 1933-34 . The topic completes with a look at the impact of the Nazi regime on all aspects of life for the people of Germany during this time .
Contact Staff : Miss Moore
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