HISTORY

What happens in Year 7?

Students follow a course from Years 7 to 9 which follows history through time from
the Middle-Ages to the after-effects of the Second World War.  Students will study
history through a variety of approaches, from role playing and empathy exercises
to independent research and ICT tasks.  They will be encouraged to ask
questions, discuss reasons for events sources and reach conclusions after
investigating a topic.  A range of information will be available, including documents
and printed evidence, pictures, artefacts, photographs, films and oral accounts as
well as the opportunity to study historical buildings and sites through fieldwork.

 What happens in Years 10 and 11?

At the end of Year 9 students will be able to choose a Humanities option at
GCSE.  Should they choose to study History they will embark on a course which
will draw on the skills and knowledge they have gained since Year 7.  The course
chosen at Westborough includes a study of Hitler’s rise to power in Germany
during the 1930’s and a unit called Medicine Through Time.  This takes students
on a tour of history, considering reasons for change in medicine from prehistoric
times to the present day.

How do we help your child achieve their potential?

History is rooted in a belief that the past explains the present and, to this end,
students are encouraged to explore similarities between the past and current
events.  Students have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities and
each unit has recently been revised with a view to encouraging enjoyment and
achievement.  End of unit tests and assessments provide students with a clear
picture of how well they are doing and targets are set to encourage further
achievement.

How can you Help at home?

There are many ways in which you can promote further progress and
achievement in History.  If you have relatives or friends and neighbours who
are willing to share their personal histories, this is a good way of bringing the past
‘alive’.  If possible, consider taking your children to nearby sites of historical
interest.  The Royal Armouries and Thackray Medical Museum in Leeds, for
example, both have relevant and exciting displays which will support your child’s
studies at school.  Talk to them about your own family’s history and encourage
them to watch the news, ask questions and take an interest in current affairs.

Who should you talk to if you want more information?

Mr I Williamson  -  Head of  History

Miss R Priestley – History Teacher