History in S1-3 is the study of the factors contributing to, and the impact of, historical events. Our courses vary from local, national and international events. It aims to develop the skills of investigating and forming views on the basis of evidence, and of explaining and analysing historical events and drawing reasoned conclusions. The experiences undertaken will provide a solid foundation for continuing studies at National level, Higher, Advanced Higher and beyond.
Aims
The S1-S3 experience develops:
- An understanding of change and continuity studying different people/societies.
- Skills work using sources of evidence.
- The ability to communicate ideas and opinions including debating skills and the value of tolerance.
- A life-long interest and appreciation of the past, culture and heritage.
S1 Course
- Timelines and Chronology: How do we measure the past and put it in order?
- Early Peoples in Scotland: Would you want to live in the Stone Age?
- The Romans: Just why were they so successful?
- The Scottish Wars of Independence: Who was the greatest Scot - Alexander III to Robert The Bruce?
S2 Course
- Medicine Through Time: Why are you not dead?
- WWII and Scotland: What was the effect of war and did it make Scotland Stronger?
- The Swinging 60s: Was it a good time to live?
S3 Course
- The Atlantic Slave Trade: Just how much did Britain benefit?
- The Russian Revolution: Why did Russia turn Red?
- WWI: How important was a sandwich in causing the Great War?
Homework
The History Department aims to incorporate homework as an integral part of the programme of study. Homework materials are used to underpin and extend classroom learning. Homework also supplements the formative assessment used with the department to determine the progress of pupils. We believe homework reinforces the skills of self-learning and self-discipline, vital to the nature of courses offered by the Department in the upper school. We operate a 100% homework policy and parents will be informed if tasks are not completed by students. We encourage parents to actively support and encourage pupils to complete homework.
Assessment
Knowledge and Understanding and Skills are assessed by course work, homeworks and end of unit security tasks on key topics. Assessments are marked and pupil progress monitored through Learning Logs, reporting and partnership with parents.
