Government and politics
A-level
One-year AS/two-year A-level
If you are interested in the way Britain is governed, from the importance of the House of Commons to the role of the crown, you will really enjoy this subject. You will develop your knowledge of political systems in Europe and around the world. Issues include the balance of power, the relationship between elected politicians and civil servants and the social and economic situations affecting the lives of people in Britain since 1945.
Required qualifications
Five or more A*-C grades at GCSE including English language.
What will I study?
The course will focus on:
- why people vote the way they do
- the government and the economy
- the rise of nationalism
- the role of the trade unions
- civil rights
- the mass media
On the course you will:
- develop your reading and writing skills
- enhance your analytical and communicative skills
- discuss current affairs
- watch topical films and programmes and read newspapers.
Method of assessment
You will be assessed through two examinations each year. They will consist of a mixture of short answer questions, data response questions and essays.
What will I be able to progress to?
Studying government and politics will help you progress to a variety of degree courses and careers including working in the civil service, local government, law, the health services and education.
More
Laila Parveen (ex-Sarah Bonnell School) studied this subject as one of her A-levels and achieved a grade B. She is now studying politics at Queen Mary, University of London