Government and Politics A-Level
Samuel Ryder Academy - Hertfordshire
01727859382
Drakes Drive, St Albans, AL1 5AR
Course summary

Entry requirements: Minimum entry requirements and English Language at grade 6. Grade 5 and above in a humanities subject such as History, Geography or Religious Studies would be helpful. Course content: • Component 1: UK Politics • Component 2: UK Government • Component 3: Comparative Politics: US Government and Politics Assessment: • Paper 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas (1 x 2hr exam, 1 sources essay question, two essay questions, 33% of the A-Level) • Paper 2: UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas (1 x 2hr exam, 1 source question, 2 essay questions, 33% of the A-Level) • Paper 3: Comparative Politics - USA (1 x 2hr exam, 2 short essay questions and 2 longer essay questions, 33% of the A-Level) Why Politics at Samuel Ryder Academy? Politics is a widely respected A-Level choice with a variety of transferable skills that prepare students effectively for further study at university or for entering a range of jobs. Politics is a subject rooted in extended written work, essay writing and extensive reading which will excel and develop student’s skillset for a successful future in work or higher education. Politics A-Level is a popular and interesting A-Level where students will study the systems in place that govern their lives and shape their worlds. Studying both the UK and the USA will give students the opportunity to compare and contrast different political systems that are both rooted in democracy but demonstrate this in different ways. The aim of the Politics course is to explore political concepts central to an understanding of a modern world, developing an in-depth understanding of both the UK and the US political and governing systems. Students will partake in in-class discussions developing their critical thinking and oracy skills. Politics A-Level is an excellent opportunity for students to mature their skills and prepare themselves for their futures, becoming global citizens and solidifying their understanding of British values. As former French President Charles de Gaulle once said “politics is too serious a matter to be left to the politicians”. Expectations of students: Students must be able to meet deadlines for essays. Students will be expected to read quality newspapers and watch TV programmes with current affairs content. Reading around the subject is crucial. Students will be expected to develop their discussion skills, their listening skills and their writing skills. Keeping up to date with current affairs is crucial as “a week is a long time in politics” – Former US President Harold Wilson. Career paths: Journalism, law, education, civil service, publishing, archiving and heritage, business, politics, marketing and advertising.

Entry requirements

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School Info

About Education Provider

RegionEast of England
Local AuthorityHertfordshire
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressDrakes Drive, St Albans, AL1 5AR