What will I gain from doing this course

Aims/Objectives

What will I do

The course encourages students to develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions of everyday life. As such, students will apply the economic theories and concepts learned in a range of contexts and appreciate their value and limitations in explaining real world phenomena. They will also analyse, explain and evaluate the market economy and the role of government in it. The subject matter of the modules is of relevance in today’s complex global economy, providing an appreciation of contemporary economic issues in the UK economy, including the global context. Micro and macro economic theories and concepts will be explored and students will develop a critical approach to economic models and methods of enquiry, applying them to a range of present day economic problems. The moral, ethical, social, cultural and spiritual dimensions of Economics will be included – such as the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy, the relationship between rich and poor countries, the distribution of income and wealth within a particular society and the quality of life between and within economies.

Course Content

Style of Teaching and Learning

The one-year AS course can be taken as a stand-alone qualification. This will also form the first half of the full two-year Advanced (A2) course. For the AS qualification, two modules will be taken, comprising two separate written papers containing unseen case studies. Questions will include some short-answer and some data interpretation questions plus one question which requires an answer written in extended continuous prose.
At Advanced (A2) Level there are a further two modules. These include compulsory data response questions and structured essay questions. The second module, ‘The Global Economy’ is a synoptic module which consists of a number of compulsory questions using pre-released stimulus material provided from newspapers, journals and textbooks. Some questions may involve data interpretation and most will require an essay-style answer written in continuous prose. The modules are entitled Markets in Action, The National & International Economy, The Economics of Work & Leisure and The Global Economy.

What support will I receive

Where can I get further information

The course will be taught at Stratford Girls’ Grammar School by 2 teachers. Classes are sized so that full support can be given as necessary. Further details can be obtained from the Head of the Economics & Business Studies Department.