Course information
Economics
Harrow School - Harrow
02088728000
5 High Street, Harrow-on-the-Hill, HA1 3HP
Course summary

Economics is the study of how societies allocate scarce resources in the face of unlimited human wants. Through studying Economics, boys will: • develop an understanding of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life; • learn to explain a variety of real-world phenomena from an economic perspective; and • learn to analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the government's role in it. A good economist needs to be able to use economic theory to help explain the world around them and help solve problems faced by individuals, industries and nations. It is important to be able to analyse economic data and interpret graphs and tables to identify trends. This requires a sharp mind and an ability to think logically and to write good-quality English. For those boys considering an Economics degree, Mathematics A-level is strongly recommended. The best students of Economics follow economic news regularly and are interested in the world around them.

Entry requirements

We welcome applications from boys who: are likely to be predicted at least seven or eight passes at GCSE (or equivalent) at grade 7/8/9 (A/A*); IGCSE requirements: Mathematics grade 7 and English Language grade 7

How you'll be assessed

A-level Economics is a linear course, with all assessments occurring at the end of two years. The assessment is made up of three papers: Paper One: Markets and Market Failure (2 hours, data response and essay questions, 33% of A-level) Microeconomics looks at the behaviour of individuals and how the interplay of supply and demand determines prices and quantities in specific markets. The operation and failings of the price mechanism are used to analyse the behaviour of consumers and firms. The actions of firms in different industries are explored in greater depth through the models of market structure from monopoly to more competitive structures. Boys also gain an understanding of the labour market and the factors that influence wage rates and the distribution of income and wealth. Developments in UK markets and Government microeconomic policy are explored in their global and EU contexts. Paper Two: National and International Economy (2 hours, data response and essay questions, 33% of A-level) Macroeconomic models are used to explain the behaviour of the national economy and to explore issues such as consumption, investment, inflation and unemployment. Boys will gain an understanding of recent economic developments and will use their knowledge to assess government and central bank policy, as well as the role of financial markets and the banking system. Aspects of the international economy such as trade, exchange rates and membership of the Euro are studied in the context of both EU and global events. Paper Three: Economic Principles and Issues (2 hours, multiple-choice and case-study questions, 33% of A-level) This synoptic paper requires boys to apply their knowledge of all aspects of the course outlined in Papers One and Two and tests their ability to produce extended responses drawing on a previously unseen case study

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthorityHarrow
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeBoys
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form Fee£50,550
Address5 High Street, Harrow-on-the-Hill, HA1 3HP