Pupils opt to study either GCSE History or Geography at the end of Y8. There is also the opportunity to study both. In Y9 they follow the GCSE syllabus with extended modules during the year of non-GCSE study to develop their skills and independent learning. We study GCSE Edexcel History.
Number of Sessions Per Week: 5 x 1 Hour lessons over 2 weeks
Homework: Extended homework is set at least twice over the 2 weeks. Pupils are often given a shorter task to complete after each lesson; this may include extended reading or research.
Pupils study Edexcel History GCSE (9–1). Paper 1 covers a Thematic study looking at change and continuity in the study of Medicine in Britain, c1250–present and an evidence skill-based section looking at the British sector of the Western Front, 1914–18: injuries, treatment and the trenches. The written examination for this paper is 1 hour and 15 minutes and represents 30% of the qualification. Paper 2 covers a Period study on Superpower relations and the Cold War, 1941–91 and a British depth study on Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060–88. The written examination for this paper is 1 hour and 45 minutes and represents 40% of the qualification. Paper 3 covers a Modern depth study on Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39. The written examination is 1 hour and 20 minutes and represents 30% of the qualification. During the course students will be taught to discuss important historical issues, analyse events, write essays and evaluate sources to detect motive, bias and reliability. These are all essential skills in the workplace. Pupils are encouraged to undertake independent learning using differentiated work packs and notes. Personalised tracker sheets are created to enable pupils to identify the next steps required for them to move towards their target grade. Our most able pupils have access to additional materials and tasks along with extended reading via epraise.
Detailed specification content can be found at: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/history-2016.html
Assessment
Assessment for the GCSE is based on three externally examined papers at the end of Y11.
CIAG
History opens the minds of students and should develop a questioning attitude that teaches pupils to analyse evidence and recognise the importance of acknowledging different interpretations of events. Social skills developed include teamwork, problem solving, presentation and the ability to use extended writing. Possible careers include: Law, Medicine, Journalism, Police, Social Work, Civil Service, Teaching, Librarian, and Archaeology.
