A2 General Studies

OCR (1-2 years
About the Course
General Studies is delivered throughout a 2-year lecture programme which encourages students to debate, to enquire and to test their knowledge. It is based on investigations into the three key areas of the contemporary world:
Culture Science Society
These three areas are integrated into a four unit structure, with overlapping themes relating to everyday issues including health, drugs, politics, the environment, education, entertainment, human rights, civil responsibility and technology. The themes are presented as questions and issues to explore through debate and research.
This qualification is excellent for preparation for both employment and higher education, where a range of problems and conflicting perspectives have to be considered and reconciled. Through the programme, students develop highly-valued study and communication skills. It is widely believed that there is a greater correlation between General Studies and degree result, than for any other A level.
At Peter Symonds College we have developed a comprehensive lecture programme to cover the main topics within the specification. The lectures also encompass wider skills and issues for our student population - the importance of keeping safe, being healthy, equal opportunities and developing AS and A2 study skills. Lectures are all held in our tiered Science Lecture Theatre, giving students the additional advantage of experiencing higher education-style learning. All the lectures have been prepared by subject specialists and are delivered by staff who have specialised in the topic area. To complement the programme and to explain the context of the programme, there are detailed introductory lectures. Comprehensive revision lectures, tailored especially to the demands of AS and A2 General Studies examinations are an integral part of this diverse and innovative programme.
Methods and Patterns of Assessment
The AS course is assessed by examinations taken during the summer series during the first year. The A2 course is assessed by examinations taken during the summer series during the second year.