Government and Politics

This modular 'A' Level course is run by EDEXCEL (the London Examination Board).

This specification now consists of four units of assessment instead of six, two at AS and two at A2. While there is some continuity with the structure of the previous specification, all content has been updated in the light of recent political developments and students are encouraged to engage with contemporary political debates.

Year 12

The AS course seeks to develop students ability to critically assess a range of opinions and develop analytical skills. The course would sit well in combination with either History or Law.

The course is assessed by two exams of 1 hour 20 minutes and no coursework is involved.

Unit 1 – People and Politics

• The concept of Democracy

• Political Parties and their function

• Contemporary political ideology

• Pressure Groups

• Electoral systems

Unit 2 – Governing the UK

• Nature and potential reforms of UK constitution

• Nature and potential reforms of UK legislature and executive

• Role of Prime Minister and Cabinet

UK Judiciary system

Throughout the course, students will be expected to be involved in student presentations and seminars both as part of a group and as individuals.  This will altogether prepare you for the world of work and University with meetings, debates and the ability to put forward your opinion backed up by analytical essays.

Year 13

The two units which convert the A/S into a full 'A' Level are as follows:

The course is assessed by two exams of 1 hour 30 minutes and no coursework is involved.

Unit 3   -    Key Themes in Political analysis

This unit introduces students to key themes in political analysis.

Students will need to study one of the following topics:

Topic A: UK Political Issues

Topic B: Introducing Political Ideologies

Topic C: Representative Processes in the USA

Topic D: Structures of Global Politics.

Unit 4 – Extended Themes in Political Analysis

This unit extends students’ understanding of key themes in political analysis.

Students will need to study one of the following topics:

Topic A: EU Political Issues

Topic B: Other Ideological Traditions

Topic C: Governing the USA

Topic D: Global Political Issues.

Students will gain a solid understanding of the UK political system as well as developing a broad knowledge of political issue son the world stage.