History (Medieval and Early Modern) (AS/A level)

Specific Entry Criteria

Grade C in English Language plus a C in History if studied at GCSE. If History was not studied at GCSE, then a grade C in another traditional Humanities subject is desirable.

About the Subject

Medieval and Early Modern History is an increasingly popular subject at both AS and A level. Its obvious attraction is that it tackles a period of History very different from Modern History. Yet it requires the same skills. If you have a genuine interest in the past, are prepared to handle information, learn detail and develop an argument AS or A level History will appeal to you. History combines well with other subjects and success indicates a good academic ability.

You may well have looked at the Norman Conquest of England or even the Crusades at High School but you will find that there is much more depth and expanse to the course. There is also the added attraction of being able to include a coursework component. In 2008 we introduced an early modern unit into the second year looking at the Tudor period in response to requests from students.

Course Content

Year 1

This is composed of two modules, one British and one European.

In the first module (Unit 1) students study the transitional period from Anglo-Saxon to Norman England 1035-1087. It begins with the reign of Edward the Confessor and the subsequent succession crisis which enabled William of Normandy to claim the throne. Duke William’s invasion, victory and the effects on England will be key questions to be considered together with the degree of change and continuity.

Unit 2 is document based and explores in depth the origins of the First Crusade, its main events and the establishment of the Crusader states. This includes many intriguing characters and interesting episodes such as the battle of Dorylaeum and siege of Antioch. We study the events through the writings of those who experienced them.

Year 2

Unit 3 is the synoptic paper which is required to cover at least 100 years of History. The theme we have selected is Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors 1485 – 1603. We will look at how the Tudor monarchs attempted to change the political and religious nature of England and how their subjects responded. We also look at the peoples’ response to the social and economic changes of the period.

Unit 4 is the coursework component with two 2000 word pieces, one of which is focused on Historians’ interpretations and the other on source based Investigation. The Interpretations study is focused on the reign of King John, while the Investigation unit looks at the reign of Alfred the Great.

Assessment

Units 1 and 2 will be assessed in June at the end of the year. Unit 3 at the end of the A level year whilst the coursework will be marked internally and assessed externally.