Course Live_AC_paperturn-3 - Flipbook - Page 39
HISTORY
MODERN
A Level
History isn’t just about the past—it’s about understanding
the world we live in today. As a Modern History student,
you’ll explore some of the biggest controversies of the 19th
and 20th centuries, debating questions such as:
• Was Stalin simply a ‘Red Tsar’?
Through dynamic discussions, independent research, and
real-world historical investigation, you’ll develop critical
skills that will help you form your own interpretations of the
past.
• Was Mao a brutal dictator or a visionary reformer?
This course offers opportunities to visit key historical sites,
such as:
• Why did it take so long for working people in Britain to
gain the vote?
Experience History First-Hand
COURSE CONTENT
Year 1
Russia 1917–91: From Lenin to Yeltsin
• How did communism evolve up to 1985?
• What caused the USSR’s dramatic
collapse in 1991?
Mao’s China 1949–76
• How did the Communist Party establish
control?
• What were the real origins of the Cultural
Revolution?
Year 2
Protest, Agitation, and Parliamentary
Reform in Britain (1780–1928)
• What role did protest movements play in
expanding democracy?
• How significant were the Suffragettes in
securing votes for women?
Coursework - Your Choice!
• Investigate a question from one of the
exam topics (Modern or Early Modern
History)
• OR choose an entirely different subject,
such as the Renaissance or the causes of
the American Civil War
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER PATHWAYS
Standard Advanced Level entry
requirements
Modern History equips you with analytical
and communication skills that open doors
to a wide range of careers, including:
• Law & Politics – Careers in government,
diplomacy, and international relations
• Education & Research – Teaching,
academia, and historical investigation
• Media & Journalism – Writing,
publishing, and documentary research
ASSESSMENT
80% exam, 20% coursework
TRANSFERABLE SKILLS:
Independent research, critical thinking,
persuasive speaking, analytical writing,
teamwork
Course Highlights
Engaging & Debate-Focused – Challenge
historical interpretations and develop your
own perspective
Immersive Learning – Field trips, historical
archives, and independent research
OTHER INFORMATION:
In recent years we have visited New York,
Washington and Edinburgh in collaboration
with the Politics department. We also run
a research skills trip to The Keep, Sussex
University’s unique archive, as part of the
Historical Investigation. This is particularly
useful for students aiming to study History
at university..
VA R N D E A N S I X T H F O R M C O L L E G E 2 0 2 6
38