Leaving Certificate History
Leaving Certificate History at Educate Together Secondary School develops students’ ability to think critically, analyse evidence, and engage in independent historical research.
Course focus
The course focuses on Later Modern History, encouraging students to explore Irish and international history through political, social, cultural, and economic perspectives.
Students develop key skills in historical enquiry, source evaluation, debate, and extended writing, preparing them for the demands of the Leaving Certificate and further study.
Assessment structure
There are three elements to the assessment of Leaving Certificate History:
- Document-Based Question (DBQ)
- Three extended essays
- Research Study Report (RSR)
Document-Based Question (DBQ)
The 2026–2027 Leaving Certificate cohort will complete their DBQ on Movements for Political and Social Reform, 1870–1914.
Case studies include:
- The 1885 General Election
- The Dublin 1913 Strike and Lockout
- The foundation of the GAA up to 1891
Please note: the DBQ topic will rotate from 2027 onwards.
Essay topics
Students can study four topics including the DBQ, with a requirement that at least two are Irish history topics. In line with syllabus amendments introduced following Covid-19, students have the option to omit a fourth topic and focus on their strongest three.
Current 5th and 6th year students are studying:
- The Pursuit of Sovereignty and the Impact of Partition
- The USA and the Wider World
Current 6th years are progressing ahead of schedule and will also study Dictatorship and Democracy to ensure comprehensive exam preparation and maximum choice on the paper.
Research Study Report (RSR)
The Research Study Report is worth 20% of the final Leaving Certificate grade.
Students select a wide range of engaging and high-quality research topics, reflecting strong independent learning and historical curiosity.
Learning beyond the classroom
Educational visits play an important role in supporting students’ understanding of the course.
- 5th and 6th year students availed of the OPW Schools Programme to visit Kilmainham Gaol, supporting revision for February exams (5th years) and mock exams (6th years).
- Students visited Glasnevin Cemetery, a valuable historical resource spanning many course topics. This visit inspired several Research Study Report topics.
What makes History distinctive?
- Strong emphasis on historical enquiry, debate, and evidence-based argument
- Opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with real historical sites
- Encourages skills valuable beyond school, including research, writing, and critical analysis
- Builds a foundation for third level study across a wide range of disciplines
Further information
The official Leaving Certificate History syllabus can be viewed on Curriculum Online:
Want to learn more about Leaving Certificate subjects at ETSS Wicklow?
If you have questions about subject content, assessment, projects, learning opportunities, or how Leaving Certificate subjects support future pathways, please get in touch with the school.