Specification:

AQA

Qualification type:

A Level

Entry criteria (GCSE grades):

5 in English

Subject description:

This lively, relevant and controversial subject provides a fascinating insight into the workings of government at home and abroad and is one of the most interesting and engaging qualifications you can choose.  Through your study of Politics, you will acquire vital skills that will serve you well throughout your life.  They will include skills of high-quality written communication, an engaging and coherent capacity for debating and the ability to analyse complex information.  They will be acquired by studying political ideas, the government and politics of the UK and the US, and through comparing politics and political systems.

Units studied:

1. Government and politics of the UK

2. The government and politics of the USA (comparative politics)

3. Political ideas

How the course is assessed

Three two-hour exams, one on each of the units studied containing a mixture of medium-length and essay style questions. The exams are at the end of Year 13.

Post-18 opportunities:

Politics gives a good grounding for a wide variety of careers. As it touches on literally every aspect of society, this course has universal appeal.  It's ideal if you're considering politics, sociology, ethics, philosophy, advertising, economics or journalism at University, and it is also highly regarded by employers in areas like international business and charities, the media, government and the civil service.

Teacher responsible:  Mr N Webb