The History GCSE course is designed to develop a learner’s knowledge and understanding of a wide range of historical issues, which help them understand present-day Wales, Britain and the world in which we live. Through the course, learners will also develop a range of historical skills which are also useful outside the subject area, for example, evaluating evidence and reaching judgements, understanding how and why different interpretations of people and events are formed, and also analysing cause, consequence and significance. The GCSE is divided into 4 units:
Unit 1: Depression War & Recovery, 1930-1951 (British history study in-depth – worth 25% - exam at end of Year 11)
When Hitler was on the march through Europe, what was happening in Britain? Why were so many people opposed to war at all costs? What impact did rationing, evacuation, propaganda really have? How did attitudes change and shape the setting up of the welfare state? This study focuses, in depth, on the history of Britain between 1930 and 1951, particularly focusing on the economic depression of the 30s, the road to World War II, the impact of World War II and how Britain changed in the subsequent years.
Unit 2: The USA: A Nation of Contrasts, 1910-1929 (World history study in-depth – worth 25% - exam at end of Year 11)
Was America really a land of opportunity for all during this period? Why did America ban alcohol and did it improve society? How did America become such a wealthy nation and why did they lose it all in 1929? How were lives transformed during the Jazz Age, particularly those of women? This study focuses in depth on the history of the USA between 1910 and 1929. Learners will consider the main problems and challenges facing American society during the period, the economic boom and bust of the 20s, and the development of American culture and society. Topics include: the struggle of black Americans, gangsters, the economic boom that led to the Jazz Age as well as the economic collapse of the Wall street Crash, the rise of Hollywood and celebrities, and the changing lives of women.
Unit 3: Changes in Health & Medicine, c.1340 to the present day (Thematic study – worth 30% - exam at end of Year 11)
Where would we be today without Fleming’s discovery of Penicillin or the discovery of X-rays? What would our hospitals look like without Nightingale’s transformation of nursing or the use of anaesthetics in surgery? Where would we be without the NHS and the discovery of vaccinations? This study focuses thematically on the main trends in the history of health and medicine in Britain from c.1340 to the present day. Learners will consider the causes, treatment and prevention of illness and disease, advances in medical knowledge, developments in patient care, and advances in public health and welfare over time. Topics include: the Black Death, the impact of the Renaissance, developments in surgery over time, improvements in the treatment of disease.
Unit 4: Non-Examined Assessment (NEA) (worth 20% - completed during History lessons)
This study comprises two non-examination assessments (coursework pieces completed in exam conditions) focused on Britain’s involvement in the First World War, both involve the use of sources. Assessment Task part (a): Conditions in the Trenches of the First World War (completed in year 10) Assessment Task part (b): How valid is the interpretation that Conscientious Objectors in the First World War were Cowards? (completed in year 11)
Career Route
What do Sacha Baron-Cohen (comedian, actor), Lord Sainsbury (business man), Dina Asher-Smith (world 200m champion), Gordon Brown (ex-Prime Minister) and Dermot Murnaghan (journalist) all have in common? A history degree! Students of history can achieve success in a wide range of careers including; teaching, politics, the law, research, media, the arts and journalism. The skills developed during GCSE History are well respected by colleges and universities, and History makes an excellent addition to a CV as it is valued as a robust and traditional qualification.