This course will encourage you to develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas, institutions and processes. You will acquire knowledge and understanding of the structures of authority and power within the political systems of the UK, EU and USA, plus an informed understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the individual. The course will be made up of 4 units. In Year 12 your studies will include UK political parties, pressure groups, electoral systems and referenda, UK parliamentary elections and voting behaviour in the UK, the constitution, the executive, the legislature, the judiciary and the European Union. In year 13 you will study US Government and Politics including elections, presidential and congressional, political parties, pressure groups, the constitution, congress, the presidency, the Supreme Court and civil rights and liberties. Finally, you will undertake a comparative unit comparing and contrasting different features of British and American politics and, where relevant, making connections to and comparisons with the political system of the European Union. In addition to your timetabled lessons you will be expected to be alert to the course of events in the world of politics through newspapers, television and on the internet. All units are assessed by written examination. The study of politics provides a solid basis for those proceeding into higher education. The subject is well viewed by universities and is recognised as a sound base for further study in the arts, humanities and social sciences. It provides a capacity for analysis, an ability to communicate and an understanding of the decision-making process.