Cambridge (CIE) AS History specification (9489)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) AS History exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) AS History specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Cambridge (CIE) AS History (9489) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Cambridge (CIE) specification PDF.
Specification overview
Cambridge International AS Level History develops a range of key skills such as source analysis, critical thinking, argument construction, and evaluation of historical interpretations. Learners engage with significant historical events, issues and individuals, using evidence to understand cause and consequence. The course encourages reflection on different perspectives and helps build strong foundations for further historical study. Students gain transferable analytical abilities applicable across the humanities and social sciences.
Subject content breakdown
Paper 1: Document Question
Option 1: European Option
- 1: The French Revolution, 1774–1794
- 2: The Industrial Revolution in Britain, 1750–1850
Option 2: American Option
- 3: The Origins of the American Civil War, 1820–1861
- 4: The Civil War and Reconstruction, 1861–1877
Option 3: International Option
- 5: Empire and the emergence of world powers, 1870–1919
- 6: The League of Nations and international relations in the 1920s
Paper 2: Outline Study
Option 1: European Option
- 1: Modern Europe, 1789–1917
Option 2: American Option
- 2: The History of the USA, 1820–1941
Option 3: International Option
- 3: International history, 1870–1945
Each outline study includes:
- Key content areas (e.g. causes, consequences, impact of leaders or ideology)
- Focus on thematic understanding and development over time
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Document Question
- 1 hour 15 minutes, 40 marks
- Answer one two-part question from a choice of three options (European, American, International)
- Source-based analysis of five documents
- Focus on contextual knowledge, interpretation, and evaluation of sources
- 50% of AS Level
Paper 2 – Outline Study
- 1 hour 45 minutes, 60 marks
- Answer two questions from one Outline Study option
- Each question requires extended essay responses
- Focus on depth and breadth of knowledge, analytical skills and argument development
50% of AS Level
Both papers taken in the same series for AS Level certification
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) AS History isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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