Politics

Why should you take the course? 

• If you are interested in current affairs

• If you want to know more about how we are governed

• If you want to have a deeper understanding of many news stories and extra insight into issues that shape the political agenda

• If you are interested in debates and discussions and are prepared to research details in order to construct convincing and persuasive arguments

• If you are willing to read widely and keep up to date with current events

• Politics combines well with many different combinations of subjects – with arts subjects (English, modern languages, history) and other humanities/social sciences, to add width and depth, or with mathematics and sciences, to add variety. 

What is the course about? 

The course covers three components: UK Politics (including political theory), UK Government & US Politics.

The course explores various features of political participation, electoral systems, voting behaviour and political parties. It also covers key political ideas such as conservatism, liberalism, socialism and nationalism. You will develop an understanding of how British politics operates, the functions of government, parliament and the Prime Minister. You will also explore key issues relating to US Politics; US Constitution, US President, US Congress and US Supreme Court. You will have the opportunity to examine the similarities and differences between the political system in the UK and the political system in the US. 

How is it assessed? 

• Three 2 hour exams at the end of Year 13.

• There is no coursework. 

Where will it take me? 

An A Level in Government and Politics is of value to anyone considering the possibility of studying Politics and related subjects, such as International Relations, Economics, History, Sociology or a combination, at university. The skills and knowledge developed have obvious application to any form of work in which accurate use of language combined with an ability to construct arguments and counter-arguments is needed, such as the law.

It has obvious value for anyone considering a career in journalism and the media as well as anyone interested in working in occupations directly connected to the world of government and politics.