Government & Politics A Level
Course Description
If you care about the world around you, Politics is for you. It is a subject that helps you understand why things are the way they are and how they could be different. Politics isn't just about politicians; it's about power, rights, justice and the decisions that affect every aspect of our lives. By studying Politics, you'll develop the confidence to question, debate and influence the world around you, becoming an informed citizen ready to make a difference.
| Contact: | Mr D Eastwood | Exam Board: | EDEXCEL/PEARSON |
| QAN: | 60312233 | Subject Code: | Po |
The Course at A Level
Every major change in history began with people questioning the way things were and arguing for something different. If you enjoy debate, discussion and seeing issues from different perspectives, Politics will challenge and inspire you. You'll explore the ideas, conflicts and decisions that shape our world while developing the skills to think critically, argue persuasively and make your voice heard.
The Government and Politics course gives you an understanding of the concepts and workings of both the British and American systems.
In year 12 you will study
- Component 1: UK Politics including democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media. Core political ideas of conservatism, liberalism, socialism.
- Component 2: UK Government including the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, relationships between these branches. Non-core political ideas of multiculturalism.
In Year 13 you will study
- Component 3: Comparative Politics which covers the politics of the USA including the US
- Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation and comparative theories with the UK.
If you have an interest in the world around you and enjoy debate, discussion and argument then Government and Politics should be a subject you consider.
Possible Subject Combinations
History, Economics, Business, English
Where can Government and Politics take me?
Courses such as Politics, International Studies, Law, Business and Journalism value this A-level for developing skills of analysis, debate and conceptual understanding.
Assessment
| Assessment | |
|---|---|
|
Exam 1 |
Exam 1 will include the topics of: Democracy and participation; Political Parties; Electoral Systems; Voting behaviour and the media; Core Political Ideas of conservativism, liberalism and socialism. |
|
Exam 2 |
Exam 2 will include the topics of: The Constitution, Parliament, Prime Minister and the Executive, Relationships between institutions e.g. the UK Supreme Court and the EU; Non-Core Political Idea of multiculturalism. |
|
Exam 3 |
Exam 3 will also include a comparative element with the UK but will mainly focus on American politics including the US Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation. |







