History

The intent for all plashet historians is that they should possess powerful knowledge, demonstrate second order skills, critically assess and form judgments in order to use the past to make sense of our present.

This is because all history is about us and our understanding of the present is shaped by our past experiences. At Plashet we aim to look at “big picture” history that finds patterns and looks at how our individual histories are connected to our global world. We also examine how our local community has changed over time and how this has shaped our current understanding of self. Our curriculum is one that builds on our prior understanding of topics linking old and new ideas. Ultimately, we want all our students to be critical thinkers through assessing different perspectives and sources of information so when pupils leave plashet as well rounded and informed citizens.

In KS3, your daughter can expect to study a wide range of history. We begin by examining how British History has changed and why power and authority has changed from absolute monarchy to democracy. We assess the power relationships with monarchs and their people, church and how and why this has changed. Students will then look at empires, both Islamic empires and the British empire. Students will examine how empire and industrialisation are interlinked and how this culminated with the world wars in Europe. Plashet Historians are encouraged in year 8 to examine how different aspects of history are significant in the short term and long term, for example, we examine what WW1 did to change medical advances. In year 9, history at Plashet looks at more complex histories such as how women were treated in the 17th century or British civil rights. All units of study are put into context both locally and internationally throughout homework that either looks at “meanwhile elsewhere” or “meanwhile nearby”, for example, when students learn about the Black Death their homework is look at how the Pope persecuted cats or when learning about Henry VIII, students are asked to examine Black Tudors.

Exam Board and Syllabus - AQA History (8145)

The first paper is split into two sections. Section A focuses on the aftermath of WW1 and the failure of the peace settlements in preventing another war. Section B focuses on the development of democracy in Germany, and the rapid shift towards dictatorship in the early 20th Century. Paper 1 awards 50% of the overall marks.

The second paper is a thematic study on popular protest through time, and a British history depth study on the reign of Elizabeth I. Paper 2 awards 50% of the overall marks.

When studying GCSE, History students are expected to read about the topic through homework prior to studying it in class, therefore there is an expectation of prior understanding. This gives time for teachers to apply the knowledge to examination questions and provide specific examples for improvement