A Level
Exam Board: Edexcel
Subject Leader: Mr Bowker

Course Aims

During the course you will learn about contemporary political structures and issues in their historical context, both within the United Kingdom and globally. You will develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships between political ideas, institutions and processes. You will develop knowledge and an informed understanding of the influences and interests which have an impact on decisions in government and politics. This will include an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of individuals and groups. You will also develop the ability to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate political information to form arguments and make judgements.

How will the course be taught?

Lessons are more like seminars. You will be part of a group discussing issues. You may be asked to present a short (five-minute) paper to the class; or make a joint presentation as part of a small group; the whole class may be asked to assume the roles of various individuals in a particular political setting in order to understand why people acted in a certain way. You will be asked to read and take notes. You will present work in the form of essays, and presentations. You look at a wide variety of sources, ranging from newspaper articles, political speeches and ideas from various social media platforms. You will be encouraged to use the internet and libraries. At all times, you will be encouraged to state your point and be ready to argue about it. Politics is about discussion.

How is the course organised and assessed?

Year 12
Component 1: UK Politics
You will answer three questions. This will examine your subject knowledge and ability to demonstrate your understanding of political participation, including political parties and electoral systems. You will also be examined on the core political ideas of liberalism, socialism and conservatism.

Year 12 & 13
Component 2: UK Government
You will answer three questions. This will examine your subject knowledge and ability to demonstrate your understanding of UK Government, including the constitution and parliament along with the Prime Minister and the Executive. You will also be examined on non-core political ideas with a focus on feminism.

Year 13
Component 3: Comparative Politics
You will answer three questions. This will examine your subject knowledge and ability to demonstrate your understanding of the politics of the United States of America. This will include the US Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation along with comparative theories.

What's next?

This course will provide access to a range of career and HE opportunities. By the end of this course, you will have learned how to evaluate and analyse information, how to weigh up evidence and how to communicate conflicting and complex ideas effectively. These skills are recognised and valued by employers, universities and colleges. Politics A Level provides an excellent foundation for a number of popular careers including journalism, central and local government and business.