Subject: A2 History

Number of lesson per fortnight: 10

Unit 3: The State and the People – Change and Continuity - HIS3M The Making of Modern Britain, 1951–2007 (B)

This unit promotes an understanding of change and continuity over approximately 50 years of British history, during which Britain enjoyed a period of post-war affluence and boom, followed by an era of reaction. Through the study of key events in depth, candidates will be able to demonstrate an understanding of important individuals such as Macmillan, Wilson, Thatcher and Blair, and the interrelationship of such individuals with the ideas that helped bring about the developments in Britain’s changing relations with the world after 1951 and the enduring debate over European involvement. Students will also examine other factors such as the impact of government policies on industrial relations, trade unions and the nature of the relationship between the state and its citizens. As a result of the study of the period as a whole, students will be able to demonstrate how issues such as economic performance, party-political reinvention and multiculturalism have changed Britain by 2007.

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry - Coursework: assessed by the centre and moderated by AQA

Students will be required to submit a Historical Enquiry, based on the investigation of a historical issue. The principal characteristics of this are that:

• The work is that of an individual working within a framework that is specified by AQA

• The work is based on a historical investigation and demonstrates some awareness of historiography

• A range of sources is considered and evaluated

• The topic chosen must arise from the study of, and be placed in the context of, 100 years

• Synoptic understanding is demonstrated by studying an issue over 100 years

• The enquiry is presented in essay format and written in continuous prose.

Assessment:

Course structure and assessment

A2 examinations

A2 units progress to the relationship of the state and its people and the forces that influence it, as well as diversity in British, European and world history.

Unit 3: The State and the People – Change and Continuity - HIS3M The Making of Modern Britain, 1951–2007 (B)

• Written paper, 1 hour 30 min
• 90 marks – 30% of A-level
• Students answer two of three essay questions

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry

• Coursework
• Analysis of an historical issue, focusing on change over 100 years
• 60 marks – 20% of A-level
• Approx. 3500 words

Homework:

Will be set twice weekly. Pupils will be expected to be independent in their studies, reading the set text and others. They will also undergo extensive exam question preparation and attempt exam questions at home.

Contact:   Miss P Leigh