History (Revolution & Reform) A-level

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If your interest is in revolutions and turbulent times, then you will love this option. We move from the events and characters involved in the Russian Revolution and the victory of the first Communist regime, to the violent upheavals of 17th century Britain when the world was turned upside down with two revolutions in one century, before finally exploring the nature of the witch craze that took hold in the late sixteenth century and the changing attitudes to magic and sorcery that eventually contributed to its decline. A fascinating revolutionary course!

What will I study in History (Revolution & Reform) A-level?

This pathway examines the violent upheavals of Britain in the 17th C, in comparison to the years of the Communist Revolution in Russia. These two events overlap, as arguably the 17th C was the only period in which Britain experienced a “revolution” in government, though it wasn’t to last. Our students enjoy exploring a world that has striking similarities to our own but is different enough to seem like a different place, focusing on not only the shifts in politics and religion, but the changes in society, and the beginnings of the British Empire. Students also gain a vast deal from studying the rise of communism in Russia: a period everyone has heard of, but not many know much about despite the overwhelming impact of the USSR in world politics up to the 21st C.

For paper 1 you will study Britain 1625-1701: Conflict, Revolution and Settlement. This paper is a study of the breadth of monarchical and republican rule in England during the period of Stuart rule between 1625 and 1688. You will also study different interpretations considering the nature and effects of the Glorious Revolution of 1688–69, which removed James II from the throne.

For paper 2 you will complete an depth study of the causes, course and consolidation of the Russian Revolution of 1917, which had a momentous effect on twentieth-century Russia and throughout the modern world. This paper has a source focus, requiring you to examine the ways historians use contemporary sources as part of historical enquiries.

Finally, paper 3 requires you to examine the topic of the witch craze that took hold in the late 16th century and lasted well into the 18th. We will research the attitudes towards magic and superstition and how these changed in the face of new scientific discoveries. We will analyse and explore the social, economic, political and dimensions of the phenomenon, and the broad intellectual changes that ushered in what is often called the Age of Reason. This paper also has a source element, asking you to evaluate the utility of a contemporary source to answer two linked enquiries.

Additionally, there is a non-examined assessment or coursework, the purpose of which is to enable history students to develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history in a chosen question, problem or issue as part of an independently researched assignment. Students will be required to form a critical view of an area of historical debate based on relevant reading on the question, problem or issue. Students at Cirencester have the freedom to complete a centre set assignment, based on one of their three examined papers, or they may choose their own topic to research. This offers those students the chance to go beyond the exam specification and really explore a period of history that is interesting to them. Those who choose a centre-set question will also benefit, as their study will take them deeper into and beyond what the exam requires, and they often emerge more confident and with a better understanding of the exam topics.

Entry Requirements

5+ GCSEs at Grade 4 or above from the core subjects, including Grade 5 in English Language and Maths.

Studying GCSE History is recommended but not required. However, if taken, a Grade 4 or above is needed to take A-level History.

How will I learn?

The course will use a variety of different teaching methods ranging from lectures and discussions, to student presentations and individual research. The lecturers aim to bridge the gap between school and university so there is an emphasis on encouraging students to think for themselves. There is a high expectation for students to participate in all sessions.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is through three examinations at the end of the course as well as a coursework module in the second year:

Paper 1: 2 hours 15 mins during which time you will answer two essay questions and one historical interpretations question.

Paper 2: 1 hour 30 mins during which time you will answer one essay question and one primary source analysis question.

Paper 3: 2 hours 15 mins during which time you will answer two essay questions and a primary source analysis question.

The coursework assesses historical interpretations and between 3, 000 and 4, 000 words.

Any trips?

There is the potential opportunity to travel to Civil War battle sites, together with visits to the British Museum, the Tower of London and sites of local interest. We have also taken part in student conferences with the National Archives and the University of Gloucestershire.

Are there any costs involved?

You should expect some small costs for course booklets and stationery. If trips are arranged, these will also require costs for transport and entry fees, but we will do our best to keep this to a minimum.

FAQs

What work experience opportunities are there?

We have had students undertaking work placements in History departments within local schools. This has proven to be invaluable for those wishing to enter the teaching profession.

What enrichment activities are offered?

We run a History Society as part of the College's Enrichment programme. This is run by our students, who take turns to present a short lecture on a period or event of history that interests them. Our lecturers also take part, allowing us to reveal what led us to a study of History.

Will I have to write lots of essays?

Essay writing is one of the very valuable skills we teach you at A-Level History. There are fewer different question types at A-Level than at GCSE. We will teach you techniques for writing essays which develop the skills you already have. You won’t have to do one every week.

Will A-Level History help me to get a place at university?

Yes, it will. The specification has been designed by exam boards in close consultation with universities. It is therefore a highly-regarded qualification which universities particularly value on UCAS applications. History is named a ‘facilitating’ subject by the Russell Group of universities, meaning that it is a subject that universities particularly look for on applications for a wide range of different courses (not just History courses). A good grade in History at A-Level will make you stand out as a strong candidate when applying for university, whatever subject you choose to study.

What jobs do people with qualifications in History go on to do?

History is an interesting and worthwhile subject which broadens your understanding of the contemporary world and your analytical skills. By the time you complete your A-Level in History you will be able to write, argue, persuade, debate, process information, weigh up evidence, reach and present conclusions. These skills are highly prized by employers in a very wide range of fields, including business, management, journalism and the media, law, politics and the civil service, economics, finance and accounting, the arts, tourism and heritage.