Why study A level history?
History enables you to develop key skills such as analysis and evaluation of historical sources, an awareness of different interpretations, presentation skills and essay writing skills in which you can effectively deliver a supported argument. History allows you the opportunity to access a broad range of degree subjects and careers, and employers regard it as a strong academic subject.
Level: A level
Board: AQA
Head of department:
Mrs R Clifton
Entry requirement: Grade 6 GCSE history; five grade 5s at GCSE including English and
maths
How is A level history delivered and assessed?
| Year | Unit | Content | Assessment |
| 12 | Component 1: Breadth study | A thematic study over an extended time period (e.g. The Tudors: England, 1485–1603) | |
| Component 2: Depth study | In-depth study of a significant historical development (e.g. Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia, 1917–1953) | ||
| Historical methods and source evaluation | Source analysis, interpretations, extended writing skills | ||
| 13 | Paper 1: Breadth study with interpretations (40%) | Two essays plus one interpretation question based on component 1 | 2-hours and 30-minute written exam |
| Paper 2: Depth study with source analysis (40%) | One source-based question plus two essays based on component 2 | 2-hours and 30-minute written exam | |
| Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) Independent historical investigation (20%) | A personal study on a topic of the student’s choice (e.g. causes of the American Civil War) | 3,000–3,500 word essay internally marked, externally assessed |
Assessment notes:
- Topics may vary
- NEA encourages independence and historical inquiry on a topic spanning at least 100 years
-
AQA allows flexibility in combining British and non-British topics
