Politics
AS / A2 Politics
Politics touches every aspect of our lives; from whether the Monarchy should be preserved to how much tax we pay, what we learn at school and the age we are allowed to vote, marry or drive. If you have an interest in how political decisions are reached and who has the power to influence them you will enjoy this course.
The study of Politics is an exciting intellectual challenge where students can deploy a variety of skills: debate and discussion, the ability to analyse information to make valid judgements and the ability to develop an effective argument.
AS
During the first year of Politics you will study two main themes in British Politics. In the first half of the year, ‘People, Politics and Participation’ introduces issues such as how voting behaviour is changing in elections and whether pressure groups strengthen or weaken democracy.
In the second half of the year you will study ‘Governing Modern Britain’.
This covers issues such as Parliament’s role in the UK political system and whether we have a prime ministerial government in the UK.
A2
The second year of the course is where you will specialise in the Politics of the USA. You will study US political parties and elections, incorporating an in-depth study of the 2008 Presidential Election. There will also be a module concerned with how the US Constitution functions.
Assessment
In both AS and A2 each of the two modules has a written examination. The exams consist of a mixture of long essays and short answers.
Subject Combinations
Politics is a subject that complements a wide range of other subjects. It combines particularly well with History, Law, Philosophy, Sociology and Business Studies, However it can be added to programmes containing Modern Languages, Media and Geography to create an attractive portfolio of qualifications. For students studying Maths or Science based courses, Politics can demonstrate versatility to future employees and universities.
Entry Requirements
It is not necessary to have studied Politics before. It is crucial that you have an interest in current affairs, a lively and enquiring mind and the ability to communicate your ideas effectively.
The Next Step
Many students who have taken A Levels in Government and Politics go on to study Politics at University. From there you might become a researcher or join local or national government. If you want to go into journalism or the media, this course is also very useful. Students also go on to become teachers, work in the legal profession or a business environment.
