Advanced Higher History
The course is suitable for a range of candidates including those who wish to develop an understanding of history and those who are seeking to progress and specialise in further historical study.
Deliverer
Aberdeen Grammar School
Course Outline
‘The House Divided’: USA 1850 – 65. A study of American society and the tensions within it, the causes and nature of conflict, and the political, social and economic outcomes of that conflict, focusing on the themes of conflict, rights, identity and authority.
American society on the eve of war, including political, economic and social questions arising out of the newly acquired territories; centralised Federation in conflict with States’ rights; conflict between the Southern slave economy and Northern industrialism.
The coming of war, including the civil rights questions; the failure of compromise; and the outbreak of war.
The Civil War including military events and developments from Union and Confederate viewpoints; the role of foreign powers in the conflict; and the experience of blacks during the war.
The effects of war, including the political consequences; and social and economic conditions in North and South.
Course Assessment
To gain an overall award for the course, students must achieve a pass in each of the two internal assessments, as well as the external exam.
The dissertation
The dissertation will allow learners to apply research analysis and evaluation skills as they investigate a complex historical issue. 50 marks.
The Question Paper (3 hours)
The question paper is marked out of 90. It will be divided into two sections:
- Historical Issues will have 50 marks. This Section will be made up of extended response questions requiring the learner to draw on the knowledge and understanding and skills acquired during the Course.
- Historical Sources will have 40 marks. This Section will be made up of extended response questions requiring the learner to draw on the knowledge and understanding and skills acquired during the course and apply these to unseen historical sources.
Throughout the year, students will be prepared for the question paper through regular practice with source-handling and essay questions, both in class and for homework. For the dissertation, students will also have access to library facilities at the University of Aberdeen.
Links to further information
Potential Pathways beyond this course:
University of Aberdeen History