Sixth Form Handbook 2022-24

POLITICS

Course content and structure Politics at A-Level affords pupils the opportunity to immerse themselves in the struggle for power and influence which resides at the heart of all political debate. It will provide pupils with a thorough grounding in the political structure and processes of both the United Kingdom and of the most powerful democracy in the world, the United States of America. As well as this, it also introduces its pupils to the key ideas which have informed political debate in the last century and to the thinkers who have developed them. The course seeks to challenge the notion that politics is of little consequence to those still at school and, as well as providing its candidates with a high-value academic qualification, it imbues them with a knowledge and understanding of the decision-making process which will enable them to play their part as an active and informed citizen. Topics include the key features of democracy, the conduct of elections and referendums, UK political parties, voting behaviour, the role of the media and three core ideas (Liberalism, Socialism and Conservatism). Component 2 UK Government and Non-Core Political Ideas Topics include the UK Constitution, Parliament, the Prime Minister and cabinet, the relationship between the branches of government and Nationalism. Component 1 UK politics and Core Political Ideas

Component 3 Comparative Politics

Topics include the US Constitution and the three branches of government (Congress, the President and the Supreme Court), federalism, civil rights, US political parties and pressure groups). Assessment overview All units are assessed through a variety of essay questions, some relatively short, others much longer. All components are weighted equally in terms of the By definition, the world of politics is ever-changing and this makes the course uniquely dynamic. Pupils should expect to pay close attention to current affairs and will be expected to read reputable news publications and to watch and listen to the likes of BBC2’s Newsnight and Radio 4’s legendary Today programme. During the course, pupils will have an opportunity to visit the Palace of Westminster and to attend political events in central London. Although formal assessment for this course is conducted exclusively through essays, the lessons are frequently discursive and pupils will find multiple opportunities to debate their opinions with one another. final qualification. Other notes

University and careers links As well as helping to prepare pupils for a career in politics, or in the Civil Service, this course offers much to those considering The Law or to those interested in Journalism and the work of the media. Universities value the skills of critical thinking and the analysis of systems and processes which lies at the heart of the subject.

49