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Politics

Why Politics?

Politics at A-Level will give you an insight into the fascinating world of power and how it is wielded. The study of Politics is concerned with understanding where power lies in society and it will enable you to better understand the world that we live in.

In your first year of study you will acquire an understanding of how Britain is governed, whereas in the second year, we study global political structures, considering global governance and the changing world order. The study of politics will equip you with knowledge that is relevant to the world that they live in as well as the ability to think critically, evaluate information and communicate their ideas effectively.

 

What do I need to know?

Exam board: We study Edexcel Politics.

Entry Requirements: You should aim to meet the standard Sixth Form requirements. It is desirable to have GCSE grade 6 in History or Geography, and English Language.

Key Content: In the first year, we study the nature of democracy and the relationship between the government and the people. You will also gain an understanding of the major governmental processes and institutions of the UK. In the second year, you will study global political issues, including human rights and the environment. Naturally, any understanding of politics is underpinned by the study of ideologies and as such you will study the three core political ideas of conservatism, socialism and liberalism as well as studying Feminism, a political idea that has increasing relevance on our world today.

What is the work like?

As an example of the kind of work that you will cover during the A-Level course, please find to the right the pre-A-Level material that we asked Year 11 to complete before starting their Politics course with us in September 2020.

Politics Phase 1Politics Phase 2Politics Phase 3

Who do I contact if I have any questions?

Mr John will be happy to answer any questions that you might have. You are welcome to email him on gareth.john@twynhamschool.com.

To ask a Politics student more about the course, please email student@twynhamsixthform.com and they will be happy to help you.

 

Curriculum Information

Politics Curriculum

Politics Roadmap

Year 1

Component 1: UK Politics

Students will study democracy, political participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting and the media.

Students will also study the core political ideas of conservatism, liberalism and socialism

Component 2: UK Government

Students will study the constitution, parliament, the role of the Prime Minister and the executive as well as the relationship between government institutions

Students will also study feminism

Year 2

Component 3: Global Politics

Students will study sovereignty and globalisation, political and economic global governance, human rights, the environment, regionalism and the European Union. Furthermore they will study the comparative theories through which global politics is understood.

Assessment

Component 1: UK Politics - 1 x 2hr exam (33.3%)

Component 2: UK Government - 1 x 2hr exam (33.3%)

Component 3: Global Politics 1 x 2hr exam (33.3%)

Additional Costs

We provide:  In class access to:-

Edexcel AS & A level Politics. Provided free however replacement cost £43.00


Other costs:  To be met by students

There are no compulsory additional costs associated with politics. However there are optional costs as follows:

It would be highly advantageous to buy the course textbook. This costs £35 but does cover the full two-year course.

Additional books that are recommended but optional to purchase:-

Edexcel UK Government & Politics for AS & A level (Year 12) £25.00

Global politics for A level (Year 13) £25.00

A subscription to Politics Review magazine is beneficial at a cost of £24 per year

A visit to a place of political interest is offered each year.