Government and Politics

Qualification - A Level

Exam Board - AQA

OVERVIEW OF GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

This course requires an in depth study of UK and US government and politics, with comparisons across the two political systems. You will identify parallels, connections, similarities and differences between aspects of their politics, ensuring a critical awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships between political ideas, political institutions and political processes. You will study some of the great ideas that have shaped our world, including Liberalism, Socialism, Conservatism; and the work and influence of key political thinkers such as Karl Marx, Mary Wollstonecraft and Edmund Burke. You will also explore Nationalism, which with the election of leaders such as Trump, is on the rise in many places around the world.

 

HOW WILL YOU BE ASSESSED?

Unit 1 UK Government and Politics

2 hour written exam

TOPICS: The British Constitution, The structure and role of Parliament, The Prime Minister and cabinet, The Judiciary, Devolution, Democracy and participation, Elections and referendums, Political parties, Pressure groups, The European Union.

CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL GRADE: 33.3%

 

Unit 2 US Government and Politics

2 hour written exam

TOPICS: The constitutional framework of the US government, Congress: The legislative branch of government, President: The executive branch of government, The judicial branch of government, The electoral process and direct democracy, Political parties, Pressure groups, Civil Rights.

CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL GRADE: 33.3%

 

Unit 3 Political Ideas

2 hour written exam

TOPICS: Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism

CONTRIBUTION TO FINAL GRADE: 33.3%

 

 

WHY CHOOSE POLITICS

Lively, relevant, controversial… There is no denying that it’s one of the most interesting and engaging qualifications you can choose. Covering news and current affairs, it helps you understand how the UK and US are run and develops research, written communication and debate skills. It also helps grow your confidence. It’s ideal if you’re considering studying politics, history, sociology, ethics, advertising or journalism at university and is highly regarded by employers in industries such as politics, international organisations, the media, government and the civil service.