AQA GCSE History
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course overview
The AQA GCSE History specification covers 61 topics with 281 learning objectives (8145). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
- 61 topics
- 281 learning objectives
Course 8145Official specification (opens in a new tab)
- 61
- topics
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Your exams
- Paper 1: Understanding the modern world (one section A option plus one section B option)Thursday, 20 May 2027, AM
- Paper 2: Shaping the nation (one section A option plus one section B option)Friday, 28 May 2027, AM
Always confirm dates and times with your exam centre.
| Paper | Time | Marks | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: Understanding the modern world | 120 min | 84 | 50% |
| Paper 2: Shaping the nation | 120 min | 84 | 50% |
Explore your topics
61 topics
AA America, 1840–1895: Expansion and consolidation3 topics
- Part one: Expansion: opportunities and challenges3 specification points covering The geography of North America: attitudes to the Great American Desert; the belief in ‘Manifest Destiny’., Why the early…3 objectives
- Part two: Conflict across America3 specification points covering Increasing conflict on the Plains: the Fort Laramie Treaty (1851) and the failure of the policy of concentration; the Indian…3 objectives
- Part three: Consolidation: forging the nation3 specification points covering The aftermath of the American Civil War: the 13th Amendment; Civil Rights Act; reconstruction in the South, 1866–1877;…3 objectives
AA Britain: Health and the people: c1000 to the present day4 topics
- Part one: Medicine stands still3 specification points covering Medieval medicine: approaches including natural, supernatural, ideas of Hippocratic and Galenic methods and treatments; the…3 objectives
- Part two: The beginnings of change3 specification points covering The impact of the Renaissance on Britain: challenge to medical authority in anatomy, physiology and surgery; the work of…3 objectives
- Part three: A revolution in medicine3 specification points covering The development of Germ Theory and its impact on the treatment of disease in Britain: the importance of Pasteur, Robert Koch…3 objectives
- Part four: Modern medicine3 specification points covering Modern treatment of disease: the development of the pharmaceutical industry; penicillin, its discovery by Fleming, its…3 objectives
AB Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship3 topics
- Part one: Germany and the growth of democracy3 specification points covering Kaiser Wilhelm and the difficulties of ruling Germany: the growth of parliamentary government; the influence of Prussian…3 objectives
- Part two: Germany and the Depression3 specification points covering The impact of the Depression: growth in support for the Nazis and other extremist parties (1928–1932), including the role of…3 objectives
- Part three: The experiences of Germans under the Nazis3 specification points covering Economic changes: benefits and drawbacks; employment; public works programmes; rearmament; self-sufficiency; the impact of…3 objectives
AC Britain: Migration, empires and the people: c790 to the present day4 topics
- Part one: Conquered and conquerors3 specification points covering Invasion: Vikings and Anglo-Saxons; reasons for Viking invasions; creation of the Danelaw; Alfred and Wessex; King Cnut,…3 objectives
- Part two: Looking west3 specification points covering Sugar and the Caribbean: piracy and plunder; the development of the slave trade, including John Hawkins; settlements in…3 objectives
- Part three: Expansion and empire3 specification points covering Expansion in India: causes and impact of British control; East India Company; Robert Clive; Warren Hastings; Indian…3 objectives
- Part four: Britain in the 20th century3 specification points covering The end of Empire: the impact of the First and Second World Wars; the impact of Suez; nationalism and independence in India…3 objectives
AC Russia, 1894–1945: Tsardom and communism3 topics
- Part one: The end of Tsardom4 specification points covering Russia’s economy and society: industrialisation; living and working conditions in cities and villages., Nicholas II’s…4 objectives
- Part two: Lenin's new society3 specification points covering The Provisional Government: its failure to deal with Russia's social, economic and military problems; Lenin and Trotsky; the…3 objectives
- Part three: Stalin's USSR3 specification points covering Stalin the dictator: the power struggle to succeed Lenin; the control of the Communist party over government; the Terror and…3 objectives
AD America, 1920–1973: Opportunity and inequality3 topics
- Part one: American people and the 'Boom'3 specification points covering The ‘Boom’: benefits, advertising and the consumer society; hire purchase; mass production, including Ford and the motor…3 objectives
- Part two: Bust – Americans' experiences of the Depression and New Deal3 specification points covering American society during the Depression: unemployment; farmers; businessmen; Hoover’s responses and unpopularity; Roosevelt's…3 objectives
- Part three: Post-war America3 specification points covering Post-war American society and economy: consumerism and the causes of prosperity; the American Dream; McCarthyism; popular…3 objectives
BA Conflict and tension: the First World War, 1894–19183 topics
- Part one: The causes of the First World War3 specification points covering The Alliance System: the Triple Alliance; Franco-Russian Alliance; relations between the ‘Entente’ powers; the crises in…3 objectives
- Part two: The First World War: stalemate3 specification points covering The Schlieffen Plan: the reasons for the plan, its failure, including the Battle of Marne and its contribution to the…3 objectives
- Part three: Ending the war3 specification points covering Changes in the Allied Forces: consequences of the Bolshevik Revolution and the withdrawal of Russia on Germany strategy; the…3 objectives
BA Norman England, c1066–c11004 topics
- Part one: The Normans: conquest and control3 specification points covering Causes of Norman Conquest, including the death of Edward the Confessor, the claimants and claims., Military aspects: Battle…3 objectives
- Part two: Life under the Normans2 specification points covering Feudalism and government: roles, rights, and responsibilities; landholding and lordship; land distribution; patronage;…2 objectives
- Part three: The Norman Church and monasticism3 specification points covering The Church: the Anglo-Saxon Church before 1066; Archbishop Lanfranc and reform of the English Church, including the building…3 objectives
- Part four: The historic environment of Norman England20 specification points covering The historic environment is 10% of the overall course which equates to approximately 12 hours out of 120 guided learning…20 objectives
BB Britain: Power and the people: c1170 to the present day4 topics
- Part one: Challenging authority and feudalism3 specification points covering Constraints on kingship: the barons’ dissatisfaction with King John’s rule and its resolution; Magna Carta, its terms and…3 objectives
- Part two: Challenging royal authority3 specification points covering Popular uprisings against the Crown: the social, economic, religious and political causes of the Pilgrimage of Grace; the…3 objectives
- Part three: Reform and reformers3 specification points covering The extension of the franchise: radical protest; the Great Reform Act, causes and impact, including further reform;…3 objectives
- Part four: Equality and rights3 specification points covering Women’s rights: the campaign for women’s suffrage, reasons, methods and responses; role of individuals, including the…3 objectives
BB Conflict and tension: the inter-war years, 1918–19393 topics
- Part one: Peacemaking3 specification points covering The armistice: aims of the peacemakers; Wilson and the Fourteen Points; Clemenceau and Lloyd George; the extent to which…3 objectives
- Part two: The League of Nations and international peace3 specification points covering The League of Nations: its formation and covenant; organisation; membership and how it changed; the powers of the League;…3 objectives
- Part three: The origins and outbreak of the Second World War3 specification points covering The development of tension: Hitler's aims and Allied reactions; the Dollfuss Affair; the Saar; German rearmament, including…3 objectives
BB Medieval England4 topics
- the reign of Edward I, 1272–1307 - Part one: Government, the rights of King and people2 specification points covering Henry III’s legacy: the relationship between Edward and his father, Henry III; the problems faced on Edward I’s accession;…2 objectives
- the reign of Edward I, 1272–1307 - Part two: Life in Medieval England3 specification points covering Trade, towns and villages: agriculture and the wool trade; royal finance and taxation; wool tax; Statute of Merchants;…3 objectives
- the reign of Edward I, 1272–1307 - Part three: Edward I’s military campaigns in Wales and Scotland3 specification points covering Medieval warfare, tactics and technology: siege warfare, battlefield use of cavalry, infantry, weapons and armour., The…3 objectives
- the reign of Edward I, 1272–1307 - Part four: The historic environment of Medieval England20 specification points covering The historic environment is 10% of the overall course, which equates to approximately 12 hours out of 120 guided learning…20 objectives
BC Conflict and tension between East and West, 1945–19723 topics
- Part one: The origins of the Cold War2 specification points covering The end of the Second World War: Yalta and Potsdam Conferences; the division of Germany; contrasting attitudes and…2 objectives
- Part two: The development of the Cold War3 specification points covering The significance of events in Asia for superpower relations: USSR's support for Mao Tse- tung and Communist revolution in…3 objectives
- Part three: Transformation of the Cold War4 specification points covering Berlin Wall: reasons for its construction and Kennedy’s response., Tensions over Cuba: Castro’s revolution, the Bay of Pigs…4 objectives
BC Elizabethan England, c1568–16034 topics
- Part one: Elizabeth's court and Parliament2 specification points covering Elizabeth I and her court: background and character of Elizabeth I; court life, including patronage; key ministers., The…2 objectives
- Part two: Life in Elizabethan times3 specification points covering A ‘Golden Age’: living standards and fashions; growing prosperity and the rise of the gentry; the Elizabethan theatre and…3 objectives
- Part three: Troubles at home and abroad3 specification points covering Religious matters: the question of religion, English Catholicism and Protestantism; the Northern Rebellion; Elizabeth's…3 objectives
- Part four: The historic environment of Elizabethan England20 specification points covering The historic environment is 10% of the overall course, which equates to approximately 12 hours out of 120 guided learning…20 objectives
BD Conflict and tension in Asia, 1950–19753 topics
- Part one: Conflict in Korea3 specification points covering The causes of the Korean War: nationalism in Korea; US relations with China; the division of Korea; Kim Il Sung and Syngman…3 objectives
- Part two: Escalation of conflict in Vietnam3 specification points covering The end of French colonial rule: Dien Bien Phu and its consequences; Geneva Agreement, 1954; civil war in South Vietnam;…3 objectives
- Part three: The ending of conflict in Vietnam3 specification points covering Nixon’s War: Vietnamisation; chemical warfare; bombing campaign of 1970–1972; relations with China; widening of the war into…3 objectives
BD Restoration England, 1660–16854 topics
- Part one: Crown, Parliament, plots and court life3 specification points covering Crown and Parliament: the legacy of the English Civil War and Commonwealth; the restoration of the monarchy; the succession…3 objectives
- Part two: Life in Restoration England2 specification points covering Crisis: Great Plague of 1665; causes and contemporary views; measures to combat; records; results; Fire of London of 1666;…2 objectives
- Part three: Land, trade and war3 specification points covering Land: the powers of the East India Company; Bombay; Hudson Bay; Tangier; Captain Henry Morgan and Jamaica., Trade:…3 objectives
- Part four: The historic environment of Restoration England20 specification points covering The historic environment is 10% of the overall course, which equates to approximately 12 hours out of 120 guided learning…20 objectives
BE Conflict and tension in the Gulf and Afghanistan, 1990–20093 topics
- Part one: Tensions in the Gulf2 specification points covering Regional instability: the consequences of the Iran-Iraq war; western and Russian interests in and attitudes towards Iran and…2 objectives
- Part two: The war on Al-Qaeda3 specification points covering Al-Qaeda: aims of Al-Qaeda and the role of Osama bin Laden; 11 September attacks., Afghanistan: its reputation as a rogue…3 objectives
- Part three: The Iraq War3 specification points covering Saddam Hussein's regime: treatment of Kurds and Shia Muslims; the debate about Iraq's links to Al-Qaeda and its reputation…3 objectives
Course topics6 topics
- AB Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship1 objective
- AC Russia, 1894–1945: Tsardom and communism1 objective
- AD America, 1920–1973: Opportunity and inequality1 objective
- AA Britain: Health and the people: c1000 to the present day16 specification points covering 3.3 Shaping the nation, war, superstition and religion and related ideas.16 objectives
- BB Britain: Power and the people: c1170 to the present day17 specification points covering Students will have the opportunity to see how ideas, events or developments in the wider world affected the course of…17 objectives
- AC Britain: Migration, empires and the people: c790 to the present day16 specification points covering Students will study the importance of the following factors as they influenced Britain’s dealings with the wider world:,…16 objectives
About this course
About AQA GCSE History
AQA GCSE History offers students a fascinating journey through both modern world and British history, structured to develop a deep understanding of key events, people, and developments from the medieval period to the present day. The course is designed to build critical historical skills: analysing sources, evaluating interpretations, and constructing well-supported arguments. You'll explore how societies have changed over time, the causes and consequences of major events, and the significance of different historical periods.
The qualification is split into two exam papers, each worth 50% of the final grade. Paper 1 focuses on understanding the modern world, requiring you to study one period study (e.g. Germany 1890–1945 or America 1920–1973) and one wider world depth study (e.g. Conflict and Tension 1918–1939). Paper 2, Shaping the Nation, covers a thematic study (like Health and the People) and a British depth study including a specific historic environment, such as Elizabethan England or Norman Conquest.
Throughout the course, you'll engage with a rich mix of historical sources and interpretations, learning to question evidence and understand how the past is constructed. AQA's specification emphasises enquiry, empathy, and rigorous analysis, preparing you not only for examinations but also for A-Level study and beyond. The content is diverse, covering political, social, economic, and cultural history, ensuring every student finds areas that spark their curiosity.
Assessment Structure
AQA GCSE History is assessed entirely through two written examination papers at the end of the course; there is no coursework or controlled assessment. Each paper is 2 hours long and worth 50% of the final grade (84 marks each, for a total of 168 marks across the qualification). Paper 1 (Understanding the Modern World) includes a period study and a wider world depth study, while Paper 2 (Shaping the Nation) covers a thematic study and a British depth study, including a historic environment question. Questions range from short-answer analysis of sources to extended essays requiring substantiated judgement.
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA's GCSE History offers unmatched flexibility – schools can select topic combinations from a wide range of options, allowing teachers to tailor the course to students' interests while covering all assessment objectives thoroughly.
- The specification is well-respected and widely used, meaning there is an abundance of high-quality revision guides, past papers, and teacher resources available, all specific to AQA, making preparation straightforward and effective.
- AQA places a strong emphasis on historical skills over rote recall, with many questions requiring analysis of contemporary sources and historians' interpretations; this suits students who enjoy thinking critically and arguing a case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What topics can I study in AQA GCSE History?
Your school will choose one period study (options like America 1920–1973, Germany 1890–1945, or Russia 1894–1945), one wider world depth study (such as Conflict and Tension between East and West, 1945–1972), one thematic study (e.g. Britain: Health and the People, c1000–present), and one British depth study (e.g. Elizabethan England, c1568–1603). The historic environment is linked to the British depth study. This means the exact topics vary by school, but all cover a mix of modern and British history.
Is there any coursework in AQA GCSE History?
No, AQA GCSE History is 100% exam-based. There are two written papers, each lasting 2 hours, and both are taken at the end of Year 11. This linear structure means you can focus on building knowledge and skills across the course without the pressure of ongoing assessments contributing to your final grade.
How should I revise for AQA GCSE History?
Effective revision combines secure topic knowledge with regular exam practice. Use AQA-published textbooks and online resources like Seneca or BBC Bitesize aligned to the AQA specification. Create timelines for chronology, flashcards for key individuals and events, and practise planning and writing full essays under timed conditions. Pay special attention to how to structure answers for the different question types: source utility, interpretations, and extended judgement questions.
What is the difference between Paper 1 and Paper 2 in AQA GCSE History?
Paper 1, 'Understanding the Modern World', covers a period study (e.g. America 1920–1973) and a wider world depth study (e.g. Conflict and Tension, 1918–1939), focusing on international events mainly from the 20th century. Paper 2, 'Shaping the Nation', includes a thematic study looking at change over time in Britain (e.g. Health and the People) and a British depth study set in a specific era (e.g. Norman England), plus questions on the historic environment. Both papers are equally weighted at 50% each.
Can I re-take AQA GCSE History if I don't get the grade I want?
Yes, GCSE resits are allowed. If you want to improve your grade, you can re-take the entire qualification in a subsequent exam series, usually in the summer. You'll need to sit both papers again, as all marks are banked from a single sitting. Your school or college can advise on entry procedures, and you can use your initial preparation as a strong foundation for a focused retake.
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
AQA
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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