POLITICS

QUALIFICATION:

A level

OVERVIEW:

Politics is the study of power. In today’s changing world, where words like referendum, Brexit and impeachment have become commonplace, understanding who has power and why is vital. The study of politics will allow you to understand the world in which you live, and engage in debates about political systems and ideas. If politics exists because people disagree, studying politics means studying how, why and when people disagree and taking an interest in these disagreements. Therefore, a willingness to debate and discuss, as well as keeping up-to-date with current developments, are vital to the study of politics.

EQUIPMENT:

There is no requirement to purchase any textbooks (all resources will be provided by the department as the textbooks become out of date very quickly).

SKILLS:

Studying this subject will help develop skills of analysis and evaluation, alongside being able to write extended answers and arguments.

ASSESSMENT:

You will be assessed by 3 written papers at the end of Year 13, each paper is 2 hours long.

Component 1: UK Politics

– Political participation: This includes democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media.

– Core political ideas: This includes conservatism, liberalism and socialism.

Component 2: UK Government

– UK Government: This includes the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, and relationships between the branches.

– Non-core political ideas: This will cover one additional political theory.

Component 3: Comparative Politics

-The USA: This includes the US Constitution, federalism, the US Congress, the President, the Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy, participation, and comparative theories.

FUTURE PROSPECTS:

Politics is a valuable qualification for anyone aiming to enter higher education. It is particularly useful for careers in fields such as politics, international relations, law, history, sociology and economics, but is also highly valued in many other areas.

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY:

“A great way to learn about what is happening in the world around me – now I understand what the news is all about.”