Government and Politics AS/A2

AS/A2 Government and Politics
Politics is a stimulating and dynamic subject which relates directly to topical issues and controversies that affect every aspect of our lives. Within the course we study Parliament, political parties, the role of the Prime Minister, the media and pressure groups. We also consider the theory and meaning of concepts such as freedom, equality, democracy and ask how important they are when constructing society. You will understand how the British political system works, where power lies and how it compares to other political systems.

Essential features of the course are: what happened yesterday may well be relevant to any debate in Politics; politics impact directly on our everyday lives; it concerns the way we live together in society, how we are governed, who governs us and what rights we have as individuals.

Government and Politics students at Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin

What will I study on this course?
At AS:
Unit 1: People and Politics

• Democracy and political participation
• Party policies and ideas
• Elections
• Pressure groups

Unit 2: Governing the UK

• The Constitution
• Parliament
• The Prime Minister and cabinet
• Judges and civil liberties

Issues will include:

• Who has power in Britain?
• Has the Prime Minister got much power?
• Should the House of Lords be elected?
• Is the Labour Party still a socialist party?
• Should Britain have a Bill of Rights?

At A2:
Unit 3B: Introducing Political Ideologies

• Liberalism
• Conservatism
• Socialism
• Anarchism
• Unit 4B: Other Ideological Traditions
• Nationalism
• Feminism
• Ecologism
• Multiculturalism

How is this course assessed?
The course is divided into 4 modules, which may be re-sat. There is no coursework element.

AS examinations : there are two papers, each 1 hour 20 minutes long, consisting of 2 structured questions from a choice of 4.

A2 examinations : there are two papers, each 1 hour 30 minutes long, consisting of 3 short answer questions (from a choice of 5) and one essay from a choice of 3.

What kind of student will do well on this course?
The most important quality is a keen interest and willingness to work hard. Most students begin studying Politics having never studied the subject before: this is not a disadvantage. You do, however, need to have a willingness to find our about contemporary politics and genuinely enjoy the following:

• Reading and keeping up to date with politics
• Developing and analysing different points-of-view in writing
• Discussion

Politics will help you to develop a range of analytical, investigative and creative skills which you will be able to use whatever career path you choose .

Exam Board & Specification:
Edexcel AS (8GP01) A2 (9GP01)