History A Level

TO MAKE AN APPLICATION TO MERCIA SCHOOL PLEASE APPLY VIA THE MERCIA WEBSITE https://www.merciaschool.com

The deadline date for applications is 31st December 2022 (more information is available on Mercia School website)

The unforgettable characters and stories we encounter make history a fascinating subject in its own right; however, an advanced historical education is also an essential tool for understanding and navigating the modern world, and living as informed, critical, and compassionate citizens. Those taking A Level History at Mercia Collegiate Sixth Form will gain an advanced understanding of British and international history and build upon the wide-ranging knowledge and disciplinary skills they developed as successful GCSE historians.

The course is divided into three elements, comprising a breadth study of American history, a depth study of British history and a historical investigation related to topics chosen by scholars themselves. Our component selections will enable scholars to gain an understanding of modern British and American history that far exceeds any GCSE course in depth and complexity, giving them an advanced appreciation of the development of their own nation, and a nation that substantially influenced the course of the 20th century.

History is a highly valued subject that opens doors to a wide range of pathways, both for undergraduate and postgraduate study at university, and for future employment. Scholars will develop skills of communication, critical analysis, and evaluation which are essential for diverse fields of study and work. Crucially, they will build a treasure trove of memorable knowledge and stories that will illuminate their study of other academic disciplines, deepen their understanding of current affairs, and hopefully stay with them forever.

Exam Board: AQA

The course has three main components: • Breadth study: the study of significant historical developments over a period of around 100 years and associated interpretations. Scholars will study Component 1K: ‘The making of a superpower: USA 1865-1975’. This will represent 40% of the A Level. • Depth study: the study of a period of major historical changes and associated primary evidence. Scholars will study Component 2S: ‘The making of modern Britain: 1951-2007’. This will represent 40% of the A Level. • Historical investigation: a personal study of 3500-4500 words, based on a topic of choice. It will take the form of a question in the context of approximately one hundred years. This will represent 20% of the A Level. Assessment is through two papers of two hours and thirty minutes.

In addition to the historical investigation, the latter will be marked by teachers and moderated by the AQA examination board.

At least a grade 7 at GCSE in History

History is an ideal complement to the literary based subjects, or in conjunction with Politics and Philosophy.