Government & Politics - AS/A2
Why choose Government and Politics?
Studying this subject will boost your political awareness and general intellectual skills.
Politics is everywhere and most of us have opinions about politics and politicians, even if we do not think that we are particularly 'political', because politicians often make important decisions that affect us all.
What can I expect to learn?
At AS, students develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the political system of the UK. Key topics include: The British Constitution; Parliament; Prime Minister; Cabinet & Executive; Political Parties; Electoral Systems; British Constitution; the Judiciary and Politics; the European Union.
The A2 course builds on AS knowledge but explores similar concepts and institutions in the United States looking at the Electoral Process and Direct Democracy, Political Parties, Voting Behaviour, Pressure Groups, Constitutional Framework, Legislative Branch, Executive Branch and the Judicial Branch.
How will I learn?
Learning will be done through discussions, presentations, group work, video footage, statistical analysis and the use of ICT.
How will I be assessed?
At both AS and A2 assessment is by examination only.
What subjects combine well with Government and Politics?
Subjects such as history, English, law, sociology and business studies are often taken by students who study government and politics but any subject combination is fine.
Where does this lead? What can I do next?
Many students would want to progress to degree programmes in subjects as diverse as business studies, economics, history and law as well as to careers in business and administration, journalism, the media, teaching, public relations and research.
What background or achievements do I need?
No prior Level 2 qualification is required in Government and Politics though a keen interest in current affairs is recommended and you should enjoy discussion and debate.
"Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber."
Plato
