GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

 

Examinations Board: EDEXCEL

What will I study?
AS Unit 1 – People and Politics
  • How do people participate in the political process?
  • What is the role of elections and referendums in the UK political system?
  • What is the role of political parties in a democracy?
  • How do pressure groups and protest movements operate in a democracy?
AS Unit 2 – Governing the UK
  • What is the nature of the British Constitution?
  • What is the role and significance of Parliament?
  • How powerful are the Prime Minister, Cabinet and Civil Service?
  • What is the role of judges and how do they protect rights?
A2 Unit 3 – UK Political Issues
  • The Economy: what are the different approaches to managing the economy? How has economic policy affected politics?
  • The Welfare State: what policies for social security, education, health care and housing have been followed?
  • Law and Order: how has public policy towards crime, police powers and punishment developed?
  • The Environment: what are the policies towards climate change, pollution and natural resources?
A2 Unit 4 – Governing the USA
  • The Constitution: what are the principles of the US Constitution, powers and rights?
  • Congress: how does Congress function and what is its relationship to the Presidency?
  • Presidency: how does the presidential system operate? What are the role and powers of the President?
  • Supreme Court: what is the composition of the Court. What is the political significance of the Supreme Court?
What are the opportunities after A level?

You will learn and use a variety of transferable skills throughout the course such as analysing information and evaluating ideas and systems. The subject is good preparation for many University courses in Business, Economics, Law, Media, Philosophy, History and, of course, Politics. A wide range of employment possibilities in business, the Government and Civil Service are opened up.

What are the entry requirements?

Five GCSEs at grade A*-C plus a B grade pass in a language-based subject, eg History, Religious Education, English Literature, Business Studies. Grade C or above in English Language is required.  Clearly a strong interest in political ideas and systems and current affairs is an advantage. The subject combines well with all Humanities and Social Science subjects but can also provide a useful contrast for students mainly studying the Sciences.

Contact: Mr Kerr