WJEC AS/A Level History Past Papers & Mark Schemes

WJEC AS/A Level History is notable for the sheer range of periods and regions candidates can study. With eight options per unit spanning from medieval Wales to Cold War America, the qualification allows centres to construct pathways tailored to their teaching strengths while still meeting a rigorous national standard. Unit 1 (AS, 1 hour 30 minutes, 20% of A Level) assesses a period of approximately 100 years through a breadth study. Options range from Welsh and English governance in the Tudor period to European conflict and cooperation across the twentieth century. Candidates answer two questions: one source-based and one extended essay. Unit 2 (AS, 1 hour 45 minutes, 20%) demands close analysis of a shorter period. Each option is split into two chronological parts, and candidates study Part 1 at AS, returning to Part 2 at A2 in Unit 4. Questions require detailed knowledge of specific events, individuals, and turning points. Unit 3 (A2, 2 hours, 20%) mirrors Unit 1’s broad chronological sweep but at a deeper analytical level. Candidates evaluate primary and secondary sources alongside their own knowledge. Unit 4 (A2, 1 hour 45 minutes, 20%) returns to the depth study begun in Unit 2, completing the chronological narrative. A non-examined assessment (Unit 5, 20%) requires an independent investigation of approximately 3,000–4,000 words. With 372 resources covering every available option, this archive supports whatever combination of periods a centre selects.