Government and Politics AS/A2 Exam Board: Edexcel

Why Study Politics? If you are fascinated by the way decisions are made, who makes them and the thinking behind them then this subject will interest you. Decisions are constantly being made which will affect you and society at large. Studying Government and Politics will provide a greater insight into political beliefs central to an understanding of the modern world. This course allows you to study contemporary politics and develop a strong understanding of the factors shaping the British systems. This subject also helps in the development of discussion and debating skills.

Qualifications needed? A good standard of English is important, as well as an interest in current affairs. To get the most out of the subject you will need to keep up to date with current events through newspapers, TV, radio and the internet. You will need at least a grade B in both GCSE Citizenship and English, in addition to five A* - C grades, including English and Maths.

What will I study? AS

Unit 1: People & Politics An introduction to key channels of communication between government and the people, as well as concepts surrounding democracy, elections, political parties and pressure groups. Unit 2: Governing the UK An examination of the major governmental processes within the UK, looking at Parliament, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet and the Constitution. The protection and erosion of human rights is also explored. A2: Unit 3: Key Themes in Political Analysis Representative Processes in the USA – An introduction to the American political system through an analysis of the elections, pressure groups, parties and racial politics. Unit 4: Extended Themes in Political Analysis Governing the USA – Building on Unit 3, a look at the main political institutions of the USA, including the Presidency and Federal Bureaucracy, Congress and the Supreme Court. Study of these areas allows students to widen their understanding of the groups looked at in Unit 3.

Highlights of the course? Trips to the Houses of Parliament, lectures at universities and visiting speakers

How will I be assessed? Written examination. Each unit is either an 80 or 90 minute exam.

What are my career options? Well regarded by all universities, Government & Politics A-level can lead directly to single subject degrees in Politics or International Relations, and to a wide variety of combined courses. There is a considerable range of options open to graduates, including TV and newspaper journalism, the law, the home and diplomatic civil service, local government, business management and political research. One main strength, though, is that it will give you the knowledge and transferable skills to evaluate and understand some of the most important forces shaping the future of us all.