World development
A-level
One-year AS/two-year A-level
World development is about understanding the economic, social, political and environmental forces that shape our lives both in the developed world as well as the developing. We focus on the future of our planet in the face of problems such as pressure on resources, environmental damage, the globalisation of our economies, cultures and political systems, poverty, unequal access to wealth, political upheaval, refugees and war.
Required qualificationsÂ
Five or more A*-C grades at GCSE including English language.
What will I study?
The course will focus on:
- development, resources and global citizenship
- basic needs, growing pressure on resources and the need for sustainability
- poverty and inequality
- patterns of world poverty
- differences in distribution, access to and consumption of resources.
On the course you will:
- keep up-to-date by reading newspapers, journals and watching relevant television programmes
- take part in discussions and group work
- develop your research skills
- build upon your analytical and evaluative skills.
Method of assessment
Throughout your course you will be assessed on your ability to organise and present information, data, ideas and arguments clearly and logically. You will then be assessed by a written examination at the end of your course and you will also complete a portfolio analysis of world development issues.
What will I be able to progress to?
World development can usefully be combined with any other AS-level subject. The understanding of the modern world acquired through the study of development issues enables entry to a wide range of careers and university courses.
More
Nafisa Ahmed (ex-Plashet School) studied this subject as one of her A-levels and achieved a grade A. She is now studying psychology at City University.