Introduction
This Cambridge IGCSE History course offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of major global developments during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It is designed to cultivate an enthusiasm for the past and to develop crucial historical skills. As the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16-year-olds, this course provides a robust foundation for future study and encourages learners to understand the world through a diversity of historical perspectives, including social, economic, cultural, and political lenses.
Course Aims
The primary aims of this syllabus are to enable students to:
- Develop a keen interest in and enthusiasm for learning about the past.
- Acquire knowledge and understanding of individuals, societies, and key historical events.
- Understand the nature of historical evidence and its proper use.
- Grasp key historical concepts such as cause and consequence, change and continuity, and similarity and difference.
- Gain insight into significant international issues in history.
- Build essential historical skills, including investigation, analysis, evaluation, and effective communication.
- Establish a solid basis for further academic study and personal interest in history.
Curriculum Content
The syllabus is structured into two main parts: Core Content and Depth Studies. All candidates will study one of the two Core Content options and at least one Depth Study.
Core Content (Choose one option):
- Option A: The Nineteenth Century: The Development of Modern Nation States, 1848–1914
This option focuses on pivotal events and movements of the 19th century. Key questions explore the 1848 revolutions, the unifications of Italy and Germany, the causes and outcomes of the American Civil War, the expansion of overseas empires, and the origins of the First World War.
- Option B: The Twentieth Century: International Relations Since 1919
This option examines the turbulent history of the 20th century. Key questions address the fairness of the Treaty of Versailles, the successes and failures of the League of Nations, Hitler’s role in the outbreak of WWII, the origins of the Cold War, the US policy of containment, and the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe.
Depth Studies (Choose at least one):
In addition to the Core Content, students must undertake an in-depth study of at least one of the following topics:
- A: The First World War, 1914–18
- B: Germany, 1918–45
- C: Russia, 1905–41
- D: The United States, 1919–41
- E: The Second World War in Europe and the Asia-Pacific, 1939–c.1945
Assessment Structure
All candidates will take three components to be eligible for grades A* to G.
- Paper 1: Structured Questions
- Duration: 2 hours
- Weighting: 40% of the final grade
- Content: Candidates answer two questions from their chosen Core Content (Section A) and one question from their chosen Depth Study (Section B). All questions are structured essays.
- Paper 2: Document Questions
- Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Weighting: 30% of the final grade
- Content: This paper assesses the ability to interpret, evaluate, and use historical source material. Candidates answer one question based on a range of provided sources related to a prescribed topic from the Core Content.
- Component 3: Coursework OR Paper 4: Alternative to Coursework
- Weighting: 30% of the final grade
- Option 1: Component 3 – Coursework
- Candidates produce one piece of extended writing (up to 2000 words) based on a Depth Study. This component is internally assessed and externally moderated. It allows for independent research on a topic of significance.
- Option 2: Paper 4 – Alternative to Coursework
- Duration: 1 hour
- This is a written paper for candidates who do not opt for coursework. Candidates answer one structured essay question on a Depth Study.
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for learners who are curious about the past and wish to develop analytical and critical thinking skills. It provides an excellent foundation for advanced studies, such as Cambridge International AS & A Level History, and is recognized by universities and employers worldwide as a mark of strong academic achievement. No previous study of history is required.