GCSE Ancient History
Curriculum Intent
Our mission is to create historians who have an enquiring mind, read critically, are able to appreciate how history is constructed, and to be able to make parallels and distinctions between the ancient world and our own.
Course description
Exam Board: AQA
Exam 1: Greece and Persia
1hr 45 mins [100 marks in total and 5 marks for SPAG]
A period study that focuses on the Ancient Middle East and looks at the character, myths and achievements of the four Persian kings; Cyrus the Great, Cambyses ‘the mad’, Darius the Great and Xerxes (the king who fought the Spartans!) The depth study will look at Alexander the Great - his character, relationships and battle tactics.
Exam 2: Rome and its neighbours
1hr 45 mins [100 marks in total and 5 marks for SPAG]
A period study where you will learn the ups and downs of Rome’s history. You will start with the rise of the kings, their ultimate downfall and finish with the rise of the Republic. Our depth study will be on the Ancient Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra. We will study her life, character and her affairs with two Roman leaders: Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
No coursework component
Key Skills
You will develop the following skills:
- Evaluation
- Reading analysis
- Essay writing
- Comprehension
Where can it take me?
A level Classics, A level History and English Literature. Ideal for careers in Law, Journalism, History and Archaeology.
Further information
Please contact: Mrs A Whitehead - Curriculum Leader of Ancient History
Useful Website