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History

Syllabus: Edexcel

1 - Why study History

Apart from being interesting and enjoyable, history enables you to gain a better understanding of the past and how it has shaped the world today, History also offers the opportunity to acquire and develop a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued by both universities and employers.

2 - What will you study?

Year 12

PAPER 1: USA 1917-1996: In SEARCH OF THE AMERICAN DREAM: (30%)

You will learn about the dramatic political, economic and social transformation of the USA during an era which saw this nation challenged by inequalities at home and by its involvement in international conflicts abroad.

  • The changing political environment; Republicanism, anti-communism, liberalism and counter-culture.

  • The quest for Civil Rights – by Black Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans and gay rights.

  • Changes in society, culture and the economy – including the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, the Women’s Liberation Movement, and the impact of immigration and popular culture.

PAPER 2: SOUTH AFRICA 1948-94: FROM APARTHEID STATE TO ‘RAINBOW NATION’ (20%)

A study of South Africa during its transition from white minority rule to the free and multi-racial elections of 1994. It covers:

  • Life under Apartheid: segregation and discrimination
  • Resistance to Apartheid: the Sharpeville massacre 1960, the ANC and Nelson Mandela
  • The growth of Black Consciousness – the Soweto uprising 1976, student movements and Steve Biko
  • The end of Apartheid and creation of the ‘rainbow nation

Year 13

PAPER 3: POVERTY, PUBLIC HEALTH & THE STATE IN BRITAIN 1780-1939 (30%)

This unit covers key developments in 19th-century British political and social history.

  • It explores how the government gradually, and not always successfully, took responsibility for people’s health and welfare, in reaction to a rapidly industrialising society which transformed people’s living and working conditions.

  • You will analyse the pressures for change and how, why and in what ways the Government responded.

  • This topic poses a question that is still relevant today: Does responsibility for health and welfare lie with the individual or with society?

HISTORICAL ENQUIRY – COURSEWORK (20%)

You will analyse and evaluate three historical interpretations as part of an independently researched assignment. The question you focus on will be one that has generated disagreement among historians.

  • The focus is on understanding the nature and purpose of the work of a historian, asking: what is the author’s argument, how convincing is it?

  • You will form a critical view based on relevant reading on the question.

  • It will help you develop the independent research skills required for university and the world of work.

3 - How will you be assessed?

Paper 1: USA (30%) EXAM 2 hour 15 mins

Paper 2: South Africa (20%) EXAM 1 hour 30 mins

Paper 3: Poverty, Public Health and the State in Britain (30%) EXAM 2 hours 15 mins

Coursework: 4000 word essay on a historical debate using historians interpretations

4 - What skills will you develop?

  • Research and Evaluation skills
  • Analytical skills
  • Critical Thinking (the ability to assess evidence and conflicting interpretations)
  • Communicating an argument persuasively (both orally and in writing)
  • Substantiating your judgements with relevant evidence
  • ​Considering situations from various perspectives

5 - What makes a good History student?

  • Willing to read regularly and widely
  • Enjoys discussing and debating
  • Inquisitive, questioning and reflective
  • Willing to listen to and challenge different interpretations and viewpoints
  • Good organisation skills
  • Willing to do regular revision and consolidation

6 - Where can History lead?

History is a subject that is highly-valued by both universities and employers due to the broad skill-set that you will develop. It can lead to careers in:

  • Law
  • Politics
  • Public Sector (national and local government)
  • Media, Journalism and Broadcasting
  • Publishing
  • Economics
  • Business
  • Charity Work
  • Archaeology and museum work
  • Museums and Galleries
  • Teaching and Academia

7 - Reading list and preparation

Background to Apartheid Background to the USA

8 - Stretch and challenge resources:

PIXL Gateway Progression – History 

Nancy L Clark, South Africa: The Rise and Fall of Apartheid (Seminar Studies in History, Routledge 2011)

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