GCSE History

Studying history gives learners a passion, curiosity and understanding of the changes and events that have happened to their communities, families and others over time.

GCSE History will allow learners to explore a rich tapestry of periods and contexts that will broaden their knowledge and develop an understanding of stories that connect us, both as a nation and with the wider world.

Learning about complex, pluralistic, and diverse societies of the past will foster a sense of cynefin, which the Curriculum for Wales defines as the “historic, cultural and social place which has shaped and continues to shape the community which inhabits it.”

This qualification will give learners the confidence and skills to think like a historian and to develop an understanding of who they are, where they come from and the process of change over time.

What will learners be assessed on?

Learners will be assessed on their:

  • Historical enquiry skills. 

  • Conceptual understanding of history and historical knowledge in breadth and depth.   

  • Knowledge and understanding of historical connections.   

  • Development and application of skills: 

  • source analysis and evaluation to include communicating findings and forming supported judgements   

  • interpretations and historical significance and the ability to transfer knowledge and skills into new and unfamiliar contexts. 

The specification will provide natural and authentic opportunities to explore Human Rights and diversity, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic history, identity, culture, and contributions, through the lens of History.

How will learners be assessed?

Exams (50%):

  • These will assess a learner’s:

  • Ability to apply knowledge and understanding of historical concepts through their chosen context  

  • Historical knowledge of their locality, Wales, and European and World History. 

  • These exams could include digital, on screen assessment.

Non-exam assessment (50%):

  • There will be two non-exam assessments:

  • A historical enquiry (30%)

  • And an assignment (20%).

  • These will be assessed through tasks set by the awarding body.

  • These may be marked by teachers or the awarding body. Tasks that are marked by teachers will be moderated by the awarding body.   

For more details on the purpose and aims, content and assessment arrangements of this qualification, please read the full design proposal.

We also have a Youth Friendly version for you to access.

Studying history gives learners a passion, curiosity and understanding of the changes and events that have happened to their communities, families and others over time.

GCSE History will allow learners to explore a rich tapestry of periods and contexts that will broaden their knowledge and develop an understanding of stories that connect us, both as a nation and with the wider world.

Learning about complex, pluralistic, and diverse societies of the past will foster a sense of cynefin, which the Curriculum for Wales defines as the “historic, cultural and social place which has shaped and continues to shape the community which inhabits it.”

This qualification will give learners the confidence and skills to think like a historian and to develop an understanding of who they are, where they come from and the process of change over time.

What will learners be assessed on?

Learners will be assessed on their:

  • Historical enquiry skills. 

  • Conceptual understanding of history and historical knowledge in breadth and depth.   

  • Knowledge and understanding of historical connections.   

  • Development and application of skills: 

  • source analysis and evaluation to include communicating findings and forming supported judgements   

  • interpretations and historical significance and the ability to transfer knowledge and skills into new and unfamiliar contexts. 

The specification will provide natural and authentic opportunities to explore Human Rights and diversity, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic history, identity, culture, and contributions, through the lens of History.

How will learners be assessed?

Exams (50%):

  • These will assess a learner’s:

  • Ability to apply knowledge and understanding of historical concepts through their chosen context  

  • Historical knowledge of their locality, Wales, and European and World History. 

  • These exams could include digital, on screen assessment.

Non-exam assessment (50%):

  • There will be two non-exam assessments:

  • A historical enquiry (30%)

  • And an assignment (20%).

  • These will be assessed through tasks set by the awarding body.

  • These may be marked by teachers or the awarding body. Tasks that are marked by teachers will be moderated by the awarding body.   

For more details on the purpose and aims, content and assessment arrangements of this qualification, please read the full design proposal.

We also have a Youth Friendly version for you to access.

Page last updated: 14 Dec 2023, 02:03 PM