History (Early Modern) A Level

What does the course involve?

Two key periods in Britain and France, focusing on rulers, their personalities and impact. We look at the reigns of the Tudor family between 1485 and 1603 and the interesting personalities of Henry VIII and his six wives, and Elizabeth I, the first effective female ruler of England. The other taught unit covers the reign of the larger-than-life figure of Louis XIV who built the enormous palace of Versailles, called himself the Sun King and tried to dominate western Europe. We explore how he tried to dominate his country completely, setting the model for later dictators like Hitler and Stalin and why he never fully succeeded. For the coursework component we examine change over the Stuart period (1603-1714) when Britain turned from four kingdoms into one and was a watershed in the change from being ruled by monarchs to being ruled by representatives of the people. Outside of the classroom we have a joint trip with Government and Politics students to the Houses of Parliament in London each year.

Course Outline

In Early Modern History we use a mix of traditional and more interactive teaching methods, such as class discussions, debates, presentations, independent research and investigations, use of media, group work and trips. We have a joint trip with Government and Politics students to the Houses of Parliament in London each year. We give students the opportunity to attend external lectures which will enrich your learning, as well as inviting speakers into college.

Course Components:

Assessment
The course is assessed through two exams at the end of year 2 (40% each), as well as coursework (20%).

Coursework 20%
20% of the course is based on coursework. This is an independent historical investigation which we do at the end of year 1 and start of year 2.

Examination 80%
80% of the course is based on exams in the summer of year 2. (Exam Board AQA)

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