HIS4702 - Patterns & Periodisation in History

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

(1) demonstrate an understanding of the broad outline of British history and an ability to discern and discuss patterns within it.
(2) demonstrate an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of studying history through broad surveys.
(3) analyse and comment on the comparative significance of a number of “turning points” in British history.
(4) analyse and critique different approaches to periodisation in history.
(5) demonstrate an ability to write academic essays and undertake group oral presentations.

Content:

Students undertake a broad survey of British history through investigation of a topic such as the making of Britain, the role of the monarchy in England, or the history of childhood. They then analyse the extent to which major events in British history such as the Roman Conquest, Norman Conquest, the Black Death, or the Reformation may be described as turning points, choosing to focus on one in particular and comparing it in terms of significance with other key events. They also consider and critique the periodisation traditionally used by historians of Britain through study of a particular period. Typical topics may include 'Were the Dark Ages really dark?' and 'When did the Industrial Revolution begin - and end?' They develop essay-writing, group work and oral presentation skills.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Learning is supported through a combination of lectures, workshops, and group tutorials. A considerable amount of group work is required of students both in sessions and independently. Informal group work is used in Semester 1 as preparation for assessed group oral presentations in Semester 2. Lectures are only delivered in Semester 2, in order to facilitate the development of independent learning skills in the workshop environment of Semester 1. A diagnostic essay of 1500 words is completed midway through Semester 1 to support the development of essay-writing skills.

Lectures
Contact hours 8
Number of groups 1

Workshops
Contact hours 30
Number of groups 2
Tutorials
Contact hours 2
Number of groups 12

Assessment:

001 Essay 1 x 2000 words (end of sem 1) 40%
002 Essay 1 x 2000 words (end of sem 2) 40%
003 Oral Presentation 15 minutes (by end of sem 2) 20%
900 Essay %


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