FORM 1 (YEAR 7)

Curriculum Overview

Aims/Objectives

1.         Introduce the study of History and the nature of historical sources/evidence.
2.       Teach a basic set of historical skills
3.       Begin to introduce some local history to show how the period studied affected local people
4.       Introduce the ideas of the State, Government and the key institutions such as Church, Town etc
5.       Introduce the idea of social history

Content

Medieval Realms – Britain 1066–1485

The Crusades

Pupils are introduced to the study of History in a brief course focusing on the use and interpretation of a variety of historical sources.  The study of Medieval Britain begins with the Norman Conquest and its impact, before the course moves on to consider the Medieval Castle, the Church, the Crown and Parliament, as well as life in Town and Country.  Pupils also study the Black Death, the Peasants’ Revolt and England’s relations with Wales, Scotland, Ireland and France.  A special study is made of the Crusades and their impact on both Christian and Muslim cultures.

Projects/coursework/field work

1.         At the start of the Summer Term, pupils visit Goodrich Castle and Belmont Abbey.
2.        In Michaelmas Term, the Junior History Society recreates a battle in which many members of Forms 1 – 3 participate.  In the Lent and     Summer terms, the JHS also stages major events.
3.        If possible the forms go to visit either the Monmouth archaeological site in town and/or the Castle Museum, as well as having a tour of the key areas of interest.

Setting

All taught in mixed ability forms.

Use of ICT

Word processing and desktop publishing skills are reinforced by a class newspaper produced by each form on Thomas Beckett, whilst internet research and evidence skills are taught by an investigation comparing the Battle of Stirling as portrayed by the film ‘Braveheart’ with historical accounts which exist.  Boys are also encouraged to word process assignments where appropriate. CD-Roms are also used in teaching, as well as videos.

Content of End of Year Examination

Course content is examined through multiple choice questions, source-based questions and structured questions/mini-essays.