History (OCR)

A level History offers you the opportunity to study a range of fascinating topics in greater depth than is possible at GCSE. You will learn how to critically examine, analyse and evaluate different interpretations of the past and formulate your own conclusions through the examination of primary source material and the work of historians. You will no longer be students of history, you will be historians, consumed by the intricacies and entertainments of the past.

Topics studied

Unit 1: The Later Tudors 1547–1603 – 1 hour and 30 minutes exam, 25% of A level

• Key events of the reigns of Edward and Mary: the stability of the monarchy, religious changes, rebellion and unrest
• Elizabeth I: Elizabeth and religion; the nature of the Elizabethan monarchy, government and parliament; Elizabeth’s management of financial, economic and social affairs; Elizabethan later years 1588–1600

Unit 2: The French Revolution and rule of Napoleon Bonaparte – 1 hour exam, 15% of A level

• The causes of the French Revolution and the key events from 1774–99 including the Robespierre and the Terror
• Napoleon’s rise to power in 1799 and rule of France: 1799–1815
• The reasons for Napoleon’s downfall 1807–15

Unit 3: Russia and its Rulers 1855–1964 – 2 hours and 30 minutes exam, 40% of A level

• The nature of the government: autocracy, dictatorship and totalitarianism
• The impact of dictatorial regimes on the economy and society of the Russian Empire and the USSR
• Impact of war and revolution on the development of the Russian Empire and the USSR
• Russia: Empire, nationalities and satellite states

Unit 4: Independent historical investigation – non-exam assessment, 20% of A level

• Independently researched essay 3000–4000 words in length.
• In-depth study of an area of the French Revolution or the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte

Academic enrichment

Throughout the term, the Pankhurst Society meets regularly to discuss and debate a range of issues picked by students – students’ ownership of their learning and research is incredibly important to us. Students deliver talks throughout the year to the combined humanities departments, as well as being able to contribute independent research at the Humanities Dinner. Students also lead key assemblies throughout the year, such as the Holocaust Memorial Day assembly.

In previous years, we have had talks from historians from external speakers such as Professor Kate Williams from Reading University on Josephine, Empress of France, Dr Susan Doran from the University of Oxford on Elizabeth I, and Professor Michael Broers on the downfall of Napoleon. We regularly attend the Historical Association lectures organised by the Oxford Branch of the HA. Additionally, Oxbridge applicants are enriched through weekly conversations to provide further opportunities to go beyond A level to ensure they are fully supported throughout their journey into higher education.

We encourage students to broaden their interests into other aspects of historical study, for example, history of art with online workshops covering topics such as Elizabeth I’s portraits and Elizabethan miniatures. A level History students have the opportunity to enter the prestigious Duffield History Essay Competition, now in its eighth year. In addition we run a biennial A level History trip to Paris, which complements our study of the French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon..