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History B Schools History Project
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Exam board for History B Schools History Project
OCR · GCSE
Course J411
196 syllabus points listed. Open the course to explore its topics.
View course detailsBoards can differ by subject. Check this course on your timetable, or ask your teacher.
About History B Schools History Project
What is History B Schools History Project?
The Schools History Project (SHP) History B GCSE is a dynamic and engaging course that explores history through a variety of lenses, including depth studies, thematic studies, and a study of a historic environment. Unlike traditional history syllabuses, SHP emphasises the process of historical enquiry, encouraging students to think like historians, evaluate evidence, and develop their own interpretations of the past. You will study a range of periods and societies, from medieval to modern times, and investigate key events, individuals, and developments that have shaped the world we live in.
Through studying SHP History B, you will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that are highly valued by employers and universities. You will learn to construct well-reasoned arguments, assess the reliability of sources, and understand multiple perspectives. This subject provides an excellent foundation for further study in history, law, politics, journalism, and many other humanities and social science disciplines, as well as a wide range of careers.
Why Study History B Schools History Project?
What You'll Learn
Where History B Schools History Project can take you
Where History B Schools History Project Can Take You
Career paths and opportunities for History B Schools History Project students
Historian
A historian researches, analyses, and interprets the past, often working in universities, museums, archives, or heritage organisations. The SHP History B course develops the research and analytical skills essential for historical inquiry, such as evaluating sources and constructing evidence-based arguments. Further study at degree level and beyond is typically required, but the GCSE provides a strong foundation.
Journalist
Journalists investigate and report on current events, requiring the ability to gather and assess information critically. The SHP History B emphasis on source analysis and understanding bias is directly relevant to journalism. You will also develop strong written and verbal communication skills, which are crucial for this career.
Lawyer
Lawyers need to analyse complex information, construct persuasive arguments, and understand different perspectives, all of which are central to the study of history. The SHP History B course helps you develop these skills through essay writing and source evaluation. Many law students have a background in history or other humanities subjects.
Museum Curator
Museum curators manage collections, design exhibitions, and interpret historical artefacts for the public. The SHP History B course provides a broad understanding of historical periods and themes, as well as skills in research and interpretation. Work experience or volunteering in a museum can be a valuable step towards this career.
Teacher
History teachers inspire the next generation by sharing their knowledge and passion for the past. The SHP History B course not only deepens your historical understanding but also develops your ability to explain complex ideas clearly. A degree in history or a related subject followed by a teaching qualification is the usual route.
Common questions
- What is the difference between SHP History B and other history GCSEs?
- SHP History B is distinct because it focuses on historical enquiry and interpretation. It includes a study of a historic environment, which allows you to investigate a specific site and its significance. The course also emphasises depth studies and thematic studies, giving you a broad and deep understanding of history. Other GCSEs may have a more traditional chronological approach.
- What topics will I study in SHP History B?
- The topics vary depending on the options chosen by your school, but typically include a depth study such as 'The People's Health' or 'The American West', a thematic study like 'Crime and Punishment' or 'Migrants to Britain', and a study of a historic environment such as a local castle or battlefield. You will also develop source analysis and essay writing skills.
- How is SHP History B assessed?
- Assessment is through three written exams at the end of the course. Paper 1 covers the thematic study and the historic environment, Paper 2 covers the depth study, and Paper 3 is a source-based paper on a specified period. There is no coursework, so your final grade depends entirely on your performance in these exams.
- What skills will I gain from studying SHP History B?
- You will develop skills in critical analysis, evidence evaluation, argument construction, and communication. You will learn to assess the reliability and usefulness of sources, understand different interpretations of the past, and present your own reasoned judgements. These skills are valuable in further education and many careers.
- Is SHP History B a good choice for A-level History?
- Yes, SHP History B provides an excellent foundation for A-level History. The skills you develop, such as source analysis and essay writing, are directly relevant to A-level study. Many students who enjoy SHP History B go on to take History at A-level and beyond. It also complements other humanities and social science subjects.
- What career options does SHP History B open up?
- SHP History B can lead to a wide range of careers, including law, journalism, teaching, museum work, archaeology, politics, and business. The skills you gain, such as research, analysis, and communication, are highly sought after by employers. History is also a respected academic subject for university admissions.
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