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    CCEA as-level History

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    Course overview

    The CCEA as-level History specification covers 11 topics with 33 learning objectives (601/8551/X). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    • 11 topics
    • 33 learning objectives
    Ofqual Regulated: 601/8551/X

    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    601/8551/X
    Awarding Organisation
    CCEA
    Regulatory Type
    GCE AS Level
    National Level & Units
    as-level • 11 units
    Sector Subject Area: History
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.
    11
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    About this course

    About CCEA as-level History

    CCEA AS-Level History offers students a fascinating journey through significant periods of change, focusing on both Irish and European history. The course is designed to develop your analytical skills, encouraging you to evaluate historical interpretations and use evidence to form reasoned judgments. You will explore key political, social, and economic developments that have shaped the modern world.

    The specification is structured into two main modules, each assessed through a separate written examination. AS 1 focuses on 'Germany 1918-1945', examining the Weimar Republic and the rise of Nazism, while AS 2 covers 'Ireland 1900-1925' or 'Russia 1903-1924', allowing you to choose a path that suits your interests. Throughout the course, you will engage with primary sources and historical debates, preparing you for advanced study and developing transferable skills for any future career.

    Assessment Structure

    The CCEA AS-Level History qualification is assessed through two externally examined written papers, each contributing 50% of the total AS grade. AS 1: 'Germany 1918-1945' is a 1 hour 30 minute paper worth 80 marks, while AS 2: 'Ireland 1900-1925' or 'Russia 1903-1924' is also 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 80 marks. Both papers include a mix of source-based questions and extended essay questions, testing your ability to analyse evidence and construct coherent arguments. There is no coursework component at AS level, and the total marks for the AS qualification are 160.

    Why Choose CCEA?

    • CCEA offers a unique focus on Irish history, which is often not covered by other UK exam boards. This allows students in Northern Ireland to study their own national history in depth, making the course more relevant and engaging.
    • The assessment structure is straightforward, with two equally weighted written papers and no coursework, which can be appealing if you prefer exam-based assessment and want to avoid the pressure of extended projects.
    • CCEA's specification is designed to be accessible, with clear learning outcomes and a range of support materials, helping you to build confidence and achieve your potential.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between CCEA AS-Level History and A-Level History?
    The AS-Level is a standalone qualification that typically takes one year to complete, covering two modules. It contributes 40% of the overall A-Level grade if you continue to the full A-Level, which adds two more modules (A2 1 and A2 2) and is studied over two years. The AS-Level content is more focused and less demanding than A2, but it provides a solid foundation in historical skills and knowledge. Many students choose to take AS-Level first to gauge their interest before committing to the full A-Level.
    Is there any coursework or practical assessment in CCEA AS-Level History?
    No, there is no coursework or practical assessment in CCEA AS-Level History. The entire qualification is assessed through two written examinations, one for each module. This can be beneficial if you prefer to demonstrate your knowledge and skills under exam conditions rather than through extended written projects. However, you will still develop strong essay-writing and source-analysis skills through regular practice and feedback from your teacher.
    Can I study both 'Ireland 1900-1925' and 'Russia 1903-1924' for AS 2?
    No, you must choose one of the two options for AS 2. The specification requires you to select either 'Ireland 1900-1925' or 'Russia 1903-1924' as your second module. This choice allows you to tailor your studies to your interests, but you cannot study both at AS level. If you continue to A2, you will have further options, but for AS, it is one or the other.
    What kind of skills will I develop by studying CCEA AS-Level History?
    Studying CCEA AS-Level History helps you develop a range of valuable skills. You will learn to analyse and evaluate historical sources, identify bias, and assess the reliability of evidence. You will also improve your ability to construct logical arguments and write coherent, well-structured essays. These skills are not only essential for further study in history but are also highly transferable to careers in law, journalism, politics, education, and many other fields. The course encourages critical thinking and independent research, which are highly valued by universities and employers.
    Are there any recommended textbooks or resources for CCEA AS-Level History?
    Yes, CCEA provides a list of recommended resources, but you can also use general textbooks on the topics. For 'Germany 1918-1945', popular choices include 'Weimar and Nazi Germany' by John Hite and Chris Hinton, and for 'Ireland 1900-1925', 'Ireland 1900-1925' by CCEA itself or 'Modern Ireland 1600-1972' by R.F. Foster. For 'Russia 1903-1924', 'Russia 1905-1941' by Michael Lynch is useful. Your teacher will likely provide additional materials, and you should also use primary sources and online archives to deepen your understanding.
    Assessment and exam guidance

    What Gets Top Grades

    A*/Grade 9

    Knowledge & Understanding

    Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

    • Uses correct subject-specific terminology
    • Shows detailed understanding of concepts
    • Makes accurate connections between topics
    • Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

    Application

    Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

    • Selects relevant knowledge for the question
    • Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
    • Uses examples appropriately
    • Shows awareness of context

    Analysis & Evaluation

    Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

    • Constructs logical chains of reasoning
    • Considers multiple perspectives
    • Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
    • Acknowledges limitations and nuances

    Key Command Words

    CCEA
    State
    1 mark

    Give a single fact or term

    Identify
    1 mark

    Name, select, or recognise

    Outline
    2 marks

    Set out main features briefly

    Describe
    2-4 marks

    Give an account of what something is like or what happens

    Explain
    3-6 marks

    Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

    Compare
    2-4 marks

    State similarities AND differences (both required)

    Analyse
    6-9 marks

    Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

    Evaluate
    6-12 marks

    Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

    Assess
    6-12 marks

    Make judgments about importance with justification

    Calculate
    2-4 marks

    Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

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