A-LEVEL GENERAL STUDIES - EDEXCEL

Introduction: Aims of the specification

General Studies is related to all other A Level subjects and is designed to ensure you have an adequate balance in your A Levels. It can be vital in maximising your point score for university. High points scores at A Level attract bursaries from universities.

Assessment Framework

AS Level:

Unit 1: Aspects of Culture: 20%

Unit 2: Scientific Horizons: 15%

Unit 3: Social Perspectives: 15%

A2 Level:

Unit 4: Cultural Expressions: 15%

Unit 5: Modern Society: 15%

Unit 6: The contemporary World: 20%

New Specifications will be assessed in 2011 not 2010

Description of Teaching and Learning:

General Studies is taught in the Upper Sixth only. A team of teachers ensures that the programme of study is delivered to cover Culture, Science and Society according to a rota of lessons. The AS examination is taken in January and the A2 examination in June.

Links to Future Careers:

It is very useful to have General Studies on your CV to show the broad nature of your education. Students studying only Sciences and Mathematics A Levels benefit by enhancing their essay writing skills which will be needed in their careers and university studies.

Higher Education Successes of Former Students

General Studies has been very helpful to many students in reaching the point score needed for university entrance. It has also enabled students to receive High Achievers’ Bursaries at universities.

Additional Information

Even if your university course does not require General Studies, you should take a longer-term view of its value on your CV. Upton’s results in General Studies are consistently above the national average.

Please see Mr Donovan (Director of Sixth Form)