Eduqas GCSE History
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Course overview
The EDUQAS GCSE History specification covers 16 topics with 0 learning objectives (WJEC-GCSE-History). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
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- 16
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16 topics
Course topics16 topics
- Austerity, Affluence and Discontent: Britain, 1951-1979This study in depth focuses on the political, economic, and social history of Britain between 1951 and 1979, examining the transition from post-war…
- The Development of the USSR, 1924-1991This period study focuses on the key trends and turning points in the development of the USSR between 1924 and 1991, examining the political, social,…
- The Development of the USA, 1929-2000This Period Study focuses on the key trends and turning points in the development of the USA between 1929 and 2000, examining major political, social,…
- The Development of Germany, 1919-1991This period study examines the key trends and turning points in the development of Germany between 1919 and 1991, focusing on political, social, economic,…
- Changes in Health and Medicine in Britain, c.500 to the present dayThis thematic study examines the history of health and medicine in Britain from c.500 to the present day, focusing on the causes, treatment, and prevention…
- Changes in Entertainment and Leisure in Britain, c.500 to the present dayThis thematic study examines the history of entertainment and leisure in Britain from c.500 to the present day.
- The Elizabethan Age, 1558-1603This study in depth focuses on the history of England during the Elizabethan Age, 1558-1603, examining major influences on political and social life,…
- Changes in Crime and Punishment in Britain, c.500 to the present dayThis thematic study examines the main trends in the history of crime and punishment in Britain from c.500 to the present day.
- Germany in Transition, 1919-1939Germany in Transition, 1919-1939, is a non-British Study in Depth focusing on the history of Germany from the end of the First World War through the Weimar…
- The USA: A Nation of Contrasts, 1910-1929This study in depth focuses on the USA between 1910 and 1929, examining the significant social, economic, and cultural contrasts of the era.
- Empire, Reform and War: Britain, 1890-1918This study focuses on Britain between 1890 and 1918, examining key themes of culture, political and social reform, the challenges of Empire, and the impact…
- The Voyages of Discovery and Conquest of the Americas, 1492-1522This study focuses on the voyages of discovery and the conquest of the Americas between 1492 and 1522.
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About this course
About Eduqas GCSE History
This Eduqas GCSE History course invites you to explore the dramatic and transformative events that have shaped the modern world. You will study a diverse range of topics, from the brutal realities of trench warfare in World War I to the sweeping social and political changes in Britain during the 20th century. The course is designed to develop your analytical skills, encouraging you to evaluate historical evidence, understand different interpretations, and construct well-supported arguments.
The specification is structured into three main components: two written examination papers and one non-examination assessment (NEA) component. This structure allows you to engage with history both through in-depth thematic studies and through a personal investigation of your own choosing. By the end of the course, you will have a deep understanding of key historical concepts such as causation, change and continuity, and significance, and you will be well-prepared for further study in history and related subjects.
Assessment Structure
This qualification is assessed through three components: two written examinations and one non-examination assessment (NEA). Paper 1, worth 40% of the qualification, is a 1 hour 45 minute written exam covering a period study and a thematic study. Paper 2, also worth 40%, is a 1 hour 45 minute written exam covering a wider world depth study and a British depth study. The NEA, worth 20%, is a 2,000-word historical investigation on a topic of your choice, which is marked by your teacher and moderated by Eduqas. Each written paper is out of 60 marks, and the NEA is out of 40 marks, giving a total of 160 marks for the qualification.
Why Choose Eduqas?
- Eduqas offers a flexible and engaging specification that allows you to study a broad range of historical periods and themes, from medieval Britain to the 20th century, ensuring you find topics that genuinely interest you. The NEA component gives you the unique opportunity to conduct your own historical research on a topic you are passionate about, which is excellent preparation for university-level study.
- The assessment structure is clear and manageable, with a balanced mix of examination and coursework. Eduqas provides a wealth of free digital resources, including detailed specification guides, sample assessment materials, and interactive revision tools, which are specifically designed to support your learning and revision. Furthermore, the exam papers are known for their accessible language and clear question wording, helping you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Eduqas GCSE History and other exam boards like AQA or Edexcel?
How much coursework is involved in Eduqas GCSE History?
What topics can I choose for the Eduqas GCSE History non-examination assessment?
Are there any specific skills I need to develop for the Eduqas GCSE History exams?
How is the Eduqas GCSE History course structured in terms of teaching time?
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
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
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing the chronological order of specific political administrations.
- •Failing to link social changes (e.g., the permissive society) to broader shifts in attitudes towards authority.
- •Over-generalizing the experience of 'affluence' without acknowledging the persistence of economic problems.
- •Neglecting the significance of the 1979 General Election as a turning point.
- •Confusing the causes of the economic boom with the causes of the Wall Street Crash.
- •Failing to link social developments (like the flapper lifestyle) to broader cultural shifts.
- •Over-generalizing the 'Roaring Twenties' without acknowledging the deep social and racial contrasts.
- •Neglecting the significance of the 1910-1920 period as a precursor to the 1920s developments.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Use a wide range of historical sources to support arguments.
- •Ensure you address different historical interpretations of events and issues.
- •Focus on the complexity of the society during this period rather than just listing events.
- •Avoid combining this option with Component 2, Option 2D: The Development of the UK, 1919-1990 due to content overlap.
- •Focus on second order historical concepts such as continuity, change, cause, consequence, significance, similarity, and difference.
- •Ensure understanding of the complexity of the society and historical situation over the long timescale.
- •Construct balanced, reasoned, and well-substantiated extended responses.
- •Demonstrate chronological grasp and the ability to make connections between different aspects of the period.
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