Introduction

History is a vibrant exciting, informative and vital part of any person’s development, it is a subject not just for school but for life!  Our society today has not emerged by magic overnight it has evolved over centuries and we can only understand where we are now and where we might in the future by understanding where we have come from.  Through history we look at different ideas, cultures, religions and interpretations; this is the single most important lesson of history, understanding different points of view.  In this way we can help to break down prejudice and ignorance to make the world a more harmonious place.  History is vital to help prepare our students to be better prepared for the outside world and to make them better citizens.

Key concepts

In Year 7 start by looking at the skills in History such as sources of information, objectivity and subjectivity and vitally the idea that all history is a matter of interpretation. 

Key processes

All Key Stage 3 classes will be taught using a variety of methods including group work, pair work, role-plays and presentations, discussion and debates, assessment preparation, word frames, peer assessment and essay writing.

Programme of study/content (the main topics covered)

• In the Autumn term students will look at the skills involved in studying history and this will be set against the context of the Palace of Versailles in France.  Students will then learn about the Romans focusing on Boudicca’s significance.  
• In Spring and Summer term students will study Medieval England 1066 -1485. This will include the Norman invasion of 1066, the problems for the Normans of actually ruling England, the role of the monarchy and the emergence of parliament as well as everyday life.

Setting arrangements and amount of curriculum time.

History has just one lesson a week at Key Stage 3 and students are taught in teaching groups.

Assessment

Students will undertake an assessment every half term and these will take a variety of forms including essays and presentations.

Marking criteria

Work will be marked on a regular basis and will be given an effort grade from A-E accompanied by constructive comments celebrating success and giving targets for improvement, and merit points will be awarded where appropriate. Assessments will be marked in line with the National Curriculum and will be awarded National Curriculum grades and an effort grade and merit points. All assessments will be set with an assessment grid informing students what they must do to achieve each grade. This assessment sheet also offers the opportunity for students to assess their own work based on the criteria they have been given.

Homework

Homework will be set weekly and will vary from research, completing classwork, extension activities and assessments.

Curriculum opportunities

History hopes to forge links with Modern Foreign Languages, Technology and English to make it as exciting as possible.

Extra- curricular opportunities

Main texts/useful websites/info on Fronter.Rediscovering Medieval Realms, Contrasts and Connections, SHP-The Norman, Conquest, SHP-King John.