AS/A2 General Studies

AS / A2 General Studies

WHY TAKE GENERAL STUDIES?
If you have a curiosity about the world we live in and are willing to engage in arguments and discussions, then General Studies may be the course for you. It will help you to develop the ability to think independently and to see through arguments to determine which are strong ones and which are false. It helps you to look at issues that face society today and explore the links between them. You will be able to gain an extra AS/A2
qualification in addition to your core subjects.

WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF STUDY?
In the first year you will look at:
Challenges Facing Society, which is based on science, technology and morals. Topics such as nuclear power, genetics, climate change and what makes a humane society will be covered.
The Individual in Society, which asks what influences behaviour and where values and opinions come from. Topics such as developments in communication, the nature-nurture debate, media, artistic and political trends will be covered.

In the second year the topics will be:
Change and Progress in art science and technology. Topics include education, industrialisation, employment changes, equality, migration and human rights.
Values and Beliefs that guide individuals and groups. Topics include whether we need religious belief, antisocial behaviour, deviance, how we value creativity and why people do what they do.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I NEED AND DEVELOP?
You will need to be able to express yourself clearly through writing longer answers in exams, and a willingness to contribute ideas orally in discussions and debates would be an advantage. You should be prepared to use news reports (papers, television or the web) to give you a deeper understanding of topics covered and real life examples to back up your opinions. You will develop your skills in analysing and presenting arguments, orally and in writing.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
All four units are assessed by written exams that consist of a mixture of multiple choice questions, data response questions and short essays.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities through the College's enrichment programmes that will enhance the course.