About Junior Cycle History
The Junior Cycle History course is designed to give students a strong foundation in historical thinking and understanding. It encourages them to explore the lives of people in the past, understand how historical events and developments have shaped the world we live in today, and to appreciate different perspectives and experiences.
The course is structured around three interwoven strands:
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The Nature of History
Students learn how historians work, how evidence is gathered and interpreted, and how history is constructed. They develop skills in questioning, researching, and presenting historical findings.
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The History of Ireland
This strand covers key periods and events in Irish history, such as the arrival of the Normans, the Plantations, the 1916 Rising, and the development of modern Ireland.
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The History of Europe and the Wider World
Students explore major global themes and events including the Renaissance, revolutions (e.g. the French and American Revolutions), World War I and II, and international cooperation in the 20th century.
Throughout the course, students complete Classroom-Based Assessments (CBAs) that allow them to research a topic of interest and present their findings. This helps develop independent learning and analytical skills. At the end of the three years, students complete a final State Examination, which is a written assessment.
The Junior Cycle History programme aims not only to build students’ knowledge of the past, but also to equip them with the skills to think critically, understand different viewpoints, and become active, thoughtful citizens in today’s world.