Politics and Society in Northern Ireland (1949-1993)

This period focuses on the socio-political developments in Northern Ireland, including the Civil Rights movement, the emergence of the Provisional IRA, and the various attempts at peace and power-sharing agreements. It also examines the impact of these events on the broader society.

• Key Elements: Civil Rights movement, emergence of the Provisional IRA, fall of Stormont, Direct Rule, terrorism, Sunningdale Agreement, Anglo-Irish Agreement.
• Case Studies: The Sunningdale Agreement, the Coleraine University controversy, the Apprentice Boys of Derry.
• Key Personalities: Terence O'Neill, Ian Paisley, John Hume, Gerry Adams.
• Key Concepts: Civil Rights, gerrymandering, terrorism, power-sharing, sectarianism.

The Research Study Report

The research study is a pivotal component of the syllabus aimed at cultivating a spirit of inquiry and self-directed learning in students. It involves selecting a subject of historical significance and conducting an in-depth investigation. Key elements include:

Choosing a Subject

The subject must be well-defined and narrow enough to allow for detailed investigation. It should be of historical significance and based on primary or specialist secondary sources.

Components of the Report:

• Outline Plan: Defines and justifies the proposed subject outlining the aims, approach, and sources.
• Evaluation of Sources: Assesses the relevance, strengths, and weaknesses of the sources used.
• Extended Essay: Presents the main findings and conclusions, reviewing the research process and its effectiveness.

Assessment for the research study constitutes 20% of the total marks with an emphasis on the outline plan, source evaluation, and extended essay.

Cornell Notes