A-LEVEL GOVERNMENT & POLITICS - AQA

Introduction: Aims of the specification

Government & Politics is a dynamic and exciting subject to study, which allows students to explore issues of relevance and importance in our contemporary world. The AS modules comprise the study of aspects of British Politics and are a good introduction to the study of Politics, while the A2 modules focus on a balance between theories and concepts and ‘cutting edge’ Politics in Action in a more in-depth approach.

Assessment Framework

AS:

Two units of study: People, Politics and Participation and Governing Modern Britain.

Both are written papers, 1 hour and 30 mins.

Each 50% of the total AS level marks and 25% of the total A level marks.

A2 (for examination in 2010).

Two units of study – Ideologies and Political Issues: Ideologies in Action.

Both are written papers, 1 hour and 30 mins.

Each 50% of the total A2 level marks and 25% of the total A level marks.

Description of Teaching and Learning

The department boasts a successful record of achievement, with student attainment of A & B grades at A2 being 80%, 100% and 85.7% respectively in the previous three academic years. Staff are specialised and experienced in the teaching of the subject and standards and expectations are high.

Unit 1(AS) –People, Politics and Participation

Sub-units of study are:Participation and Voting Behaviour, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Protest Movements

Unit 2 (AS)- Governing Modern Britain

Sub-units of study are: The British Constitution, Parliament, The Core Executive, Multi-level Governance

Unit 3b (A2) – Ideologies

Sub-units of study are:Liberalism, Socialism, Conservatism, Fascism

Unit 4b (A2) – Political Issues: Ideologies in Action

Sub-units of study are:Ethnicity and Gender Politics, The Environment, Education, The Economy

Links to Future Careers

Politics is excellent for many career areas and is recognised as a serious academic subject in all universities. The skills used lend themselves to many careers, including Law, Government and Public Service to name but a few.

Higher Education Successes of Former Students

Many of our students go on to study Politics at University. One student has recently completed a placement at Parliament, whilst another is studying Politics at Utrecht University in Holland (Netherlands).

Additional Information

Staff are committed to the success of students and offer one to one support for those who need it. Enthusiasm is our key to success. We arrange many extra-curricular activities including a trip to Parliament for Prime Minister’s Question Time.

Please see Mrs Shore and Ms Cavanagh.