What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? You do not need to have studied Economics at GCSE in order to take an Advanced Level course in the subject although some topics that feature in GCSE syllabuses will be developed at Advanced Level. It is important that you have an interest in economic affairs and a desire to explore why and how the study of Economics contributes to an understanding of the modern world. What will I learn on this course? • how to develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life • how to apply economic concepts and theories in a range of contexts and to appreciate their value and limitations in explaining real-world phenomena • how to analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of government within it • how to participate effectively in society as a citizen, producer and consumer Subject content A Level Economics Individuals, firms, markets and market failure 1 Economic methodology and the economic problem 2 Individual economic decision making 3 Price determination in a competitive market 4 Production, costs and revenue 5 Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly 6 The labour market 7 The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality 8 The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets The national and international economy 9 The measurement of macroeconomic performance 10 How the macro economy works: the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts 11 Economic performance 12 Financial markets and monetary policy 13 Fiscal policy and supply-side policies 14 The international economy What kind of student is this course suitable for? This course will appeal to students who • wish to pursue a career in an economics-related profession • enjoy studying a subject that affects their everyday lives • want to keep their options open - Economics can be combined with a wide range of social science and humanities subjects What could I go on to do at the end of my course? Students with A Level Economics have access to a wide range of possible career and higher education opportunities. You learn and use a variety of transferable skills throughout the course. These include • collecting and analysing economic information from different sources • development of numeracy and written communication skills • development of problem-solving and evaluation skills These skills are in great demand and are recognised by employers, universities and colleges as being of great value. Economics combines well with a range of social science and humanities subjects to lead to University courses in such areas as Law, Business, Accounting, Politics and, of course, Economics. Students will also be given the opportunity to take part in Target 2.0 or the ifs Student Investor Challenge.