OCR GCSE History B Schools History Project
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course overview
The OCR GCSE History B Schools History Project specification covers 13 topics with 588 learning objectives (J411). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
- 13 topics
- 588 learning objectives
Course J411Official specification (opens in a new tab)
- 525
- verified practice questions
- 13
- topics
Your exams
- History Around UsThursday, 20 May 2027, AM
- The People's Health, c.1250 to present with The Norman Conquest, 1065- 1087Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- The People's Health, c.1250 to present with The Elizabethans, 1580-1603Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- The People's Health, c.1250 to present with Britain in Peace and War, 1900-1918Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Crime and Punishment, c.1250 to present with The Norman Conquest, 1065- 1087Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Crime and Punishment, c.1250 to present with The Elizabethans, 1580-1603- WrtnFriday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Crime and Punishment, c.1250 to present with Britain in Peace and War, 1900-1918Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Migrants to Britain, c.1250 to present with The Norman Conquest, 1065- 1087Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Migrants to Britain, c.1250 to present with The Elizabethans, 1580-1603 - WrtnFriday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Migrants to Britain, c.1250 to present with Britain in Peace and War, 1900-1918Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
- Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050 with The First Crusade, c.1070-1100 - WrittenWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050 with Aztecs and the Spanish Conquest, 1519-1535Wednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- Viking Expansion, c.750-c.1050 with Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945 - WrittenWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Mughal Empire, 1526-1707 with The First Crusade, c.1070-1100 - WrittenWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Mughal Empire, 1526-1707 with Aztecs and the Spanish Conquest, 1519-1535Wednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Mughal Empire, 1526-1707 with Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945 - WrittenWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Making of America, 1789-1900 with The First Crusade, c.1070-1100 - WrittenWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Making of America, 1789-1900 with Aztecs and the Spanish Conquest, 1519-1535Wednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
- The Making of America, 1789-1900 with Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945 - WrtnWednesday, 9 June 2027, PM
Always confirm dates and times with your exam centre.
| Paper | Time | Marks | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 2: History Around Us | 60 min | 40 | 20% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
| Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study) | 105 min | 80 | 40% |
Explore your topics
13 topics
British History6 topics
The People’s Health, c.1250 to present
Thematic Study: The People’s Health, c.1250 to present16 specification points covering The characteristic features of medieval Britain: an overview, Living conditions: housing, food, clean water and waste.,…48 objectivesCrime and Punishment, c.1250 to present
Thematic Study: Crime and Punishment, c.1250 to present16 specification points covering The characteristic features of medieval Britain: an overview, Crimes and criminals in medieval Britain, Enforcing law and…48 objectivesMigrants to Britain, c.1250 to present
Thematic Study: Migrants to Britain, c.1250 to present16 specification points covering The characteristic features of medieval Britain: an overview, Jewish communities and their expulsion from England in 1290,…48 objectivesThe Norman Conquest, 1065–1087
British Depth Study: The Norman Conquest, 1065–108715 specification points covering The nature, structure and diversity of late Anglo-Saxon society, Religion in late Anglo-Saxon England, Anglo-Saxon culture:…45 objectivesThe Elizabethans, 1580–1603
British Depth Study: The Elizabethans, 1580–160315 specification points covering Elizabeth and her court: patronage, the Privy Council and the rebellion of the Earl of Essex, Elizabeth and her parliaments…45 objectivesBritain in Peace and War, 1900–1918
British Depth Study: Britain in Peace and War, 1900–191815 specification points covering Britain’s power and wealth at the beginning of the twentieth century: an overview of industry, empire, military strength,…45 objectives
History Around Us1 topic
World History6 topics
Viking Expansion, c.750–c.1050
Period Study: Viking Expansion, c.750–c.105015 specification points covering The Vikings in Scandinavia: landscape, society and everyday life, Viking ships, seafaring and trade c.750, Viking beliefs…45 objectivesThe Mughal Empire, 1526–1707
Period Study: The Mughal Empire, 1526–170715 specification points covering Babur and his invasion of northern India: the beginning of the Mughal Empire, 1526–1530, The nature of the prize: northern…45 objectivesThe Making of America, 1789–1900
Period Study: The Making of America, 1789–190015 specification points covering How and why the USA expanded, from 1789 to 1838, The expansion of southern cotton plantations and of slavery, 1793–1838,…45 objectivesThe First Crusade, c.1070–1100
World Depth Study: The First Crusade, c.1070–110015 specification points covering The Islamic world, including its diversity and its relations with Christians, Pressures on the Byzantine Empire, Latin…45 objectivesAztecs and the Spanish Conquest, 1519–1535
World Depth Study: Aztecs and the Spanish Conquest, 1519–153515 specification points covering The extent and nature of Moctezuma’s Aztec empire in 1519, The wealth of empire: agriculture, crafts and trade, Centre of…45 objectivesLiving under Nazi Rule, 1933–1945
World Depth Study: Living under Nazi Rule, 1933–194515 specification points covering Hitler and the Nazi Party in January 1933, Establishing the dictatorship, January 1933 to July 1933, Achieving total power,…45 objectives
About this course
About OCR GCSE History B Schools History Project
OCR GCSE History B (Schools History Project) offers a dynamic and engaging approach to studying the past, focusing on depth studies, thematic studies, and British depth studies. You will explore key events, individuals, and developments that have shaped history, developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The specification is structured to allow students to investigate different periods and societies, fostering a deep understanding of historical concepts and processes.
The course is divided into three components: a British depth study, a thematic study, and a period study or modern world study. Each component encourages students to engage with historical sources, interpretations, and evidence, building skills valued by universities and employers. The Schools History Project approach emphasises enquiry-based learning, making history relevant and exciting.
Assessment Structure
OCR GCSE History B is assessed through three written exams, each worth a different percentage of the final grade. Paper 1 (British depth study) is worth 30% of the total marks, Paper 2 (thematic study) is worth 40%, and Paper 3 (period study or modern world study) is worth 30%. There is no coursework; all assessment is exam-based. Each paper includes a mix of source analysis, extended writing, and knowledge-based questions, with a total of 168 marks across the three papers.
Why Choose OCR?
- OCR History B offers a diverse range of topic choices, allowing students to study periods and themes that interest them most, from medieval Britain to the modern world.
- The Schools History Project approach is well-regarded for its focus on historical enquiry and interpretation, helping students develop transferable skills such as critical analysis and evidence evaluation.
- OCR provides excellent support materials, including textbooks, online resources, and past papers, making it easier for students to prepare effectively for exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between OCR History B and other GCSE History specifications?
OCR History B (Schools History Project) is distinct because it emphasises historical enquiry and the use of evidence, with a focus on depth and thematic studies. Unlike some other boards that may have a more traditional chronological approach, OCR B encourages students to explore history through key questions and interpretations. It also offers a wide range of topic options, allowing for a more personalised study programme.
How many exams do I have to take for OCR GCSE History B?
You will take three written exams: Paper 1 (British depth study), Paper 2 (thematic study), and Paper 3 (period study or modern world study). Each exam is taken at the end of the course, typically in Year 11. There is no coursework or controlled assessment, so your entire grade is based on these three exams.
What topics can I study in OCR GCSE History B?
The topics are divided into three components. For the British depth study, you might study The People's Health or Crime and Punishment. The thematic study could be Migration to Britain or War and British Society. The period study or modern world study includes options like The Making of America or The First World War. Your school will choose which options to teach, so check with your teacher for the specific topics you will cover.
Is OCR GCSE History B considered a good qualification by universities and employers?
Yes, GCSE History is a respected academic subject that develops valuable skills such as critical thinking, analysis, and communication. OCR is a well-recognised exam board, and the Schools History Project approach is highly regarded for its rigour. Universities and employers value the ability to understand and interpret complex information, which this course fosters.
How can I revise effectively for OCR GCSE History B exams?
Effective revision includes creating timelines, mind maps, and flashcards for key events and concepts. Practise past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and question types, and use the mark schemes to understand what examiners look for. Focus on understanding historical interpretations and sources, as these are heavily assessed. Regular review and active recall will help consolidate your knowledge.
Assessment and exam guidance
Assessment Objectives
AO1
35%Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the key features and characteristics of the periods studied.
AO2
35%Explain and analyse historical events and periods studied using second-order historical concepts.
AO3
15%Analyse, evaluate and use sources (contemporary to the period) to make substantiated judgements, in the context of historical events studied.
AO4
15%Analyse, evaluate and make substantiated judgements about interpretations (including how and why interpretations may differ) in the context of historical events studied.
Exam Structure
OCR GCSE (J411)
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 1: British History (thematic study and British depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 2: History Around Us
1h
Duration
40
Marks
20%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Component Group 3: World History (period study and world depth study)
1h 45m
Duration
80
Marks
40%
Weighting
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Mistake: Believing that most people lived in large, crowded cities. Correction: The vast majority of the population lived in small rural villages, with only a small percentage in growing towns.
- •Mistake: Assuming the government provided healthcare or public health systems. Correction: There was no national government provision for health; the Church and local communities managed care and charity.
- •Mistake: Thinking that medieval society was entirely static and unchanging. Correction: The period saw significant changes, such as the growth of towns and the social upheaval following the Black Death.
- •Mistake: Claiming that medieval people only drank beer because all water was unsafe. Correction: People did drink water from springs and conduits, though weak ale was also a common, safer alternative.
- •Mistake: Assuming there were no efforts to clean medieval towns. Correction: Towns employed muck-rakers and passed by-laws to clear streets, even if these measures were often inadequate.
- •Mistake: Stating that everyone lived in stone castles or large manor houses. Correction: The vast majority of the population lived in basic, timber-framed wattle and daub houses.
- •Mistake: Believing that medieval people understood germs caused the Black Death. Correction: Germ theory was not discovered until the nineteenth century; medieval people blamed God, miasma, or astrology.
- •Mistake: Assuming there was a coordinated national government response to the plague. Correction: Responses were highly localised, with individual towns or monasteries making their own rules.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Use the overview of medieval society to provide context when explaining why certain health practices were adopted.
- •Remember to mention the overarching influence of the Catholic Church when discussing medieval attitudes to disease.
- •Contrast the rural majority with the growing urban minority to show a nuanced understanding of medieval living environments.
- •Provide specific examples of medieval diets, such as pottage, to demonstrate detailed knowledge of living conditions.
- •Differentiate clearly between the living conditions in rural villages and those in growing urban towns.
- •Use terms like 'gong-fermor' and 'cesspit' to accurately describe medieval waste management practices.
- •Link specific actions directly to the beliefs that caused them, such as carrying herbs to counter miasma.
- •Use precise terminology like 'miasma' and 'Four Humours' when describing medieval medical beliefs.
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