Curriculum Area: Business and ICT
Economics AS/A Level
Who is the course for?
The course is for anyone who enjoys finding out about the way individuals, firms, consumers and workers interact with each other and the world’s scarce resources. It is a challenging academic course that suits those with an enquiring mind and intending to continue academic study
Advanced Subsidiary (AS)
The Advanced Subsidiary is studied in the first year. The course is divided into separate modules. These are:
| Unit One | Markets and Market Failure |
| Unit Two | The National Economy |
Advanced Level (A2)
| Unit Three | Business Economics and the Distribution of Income |
| Unit Four | The National and International Economy |
The above modules are visited during the second year of the course and the concepts covered in year one are built upon in further detail.
Methods of Teaching and Learning
Students can expect:
- qualified staff
- teacher-led input
- teacher support and guidance
- student centred research
- visits
- group work and student presentations
- use of case studies and the Internet
Enrichment
Trips may be organised to add to the students’ understanding of how Economics is used in a business environment and there is the opportunity to compete in a national economics competition.
Methods of Assessment
The examination board is AQA. The Course will be examined in the following way:
| Unit One | 25 Objective test questions, 1 Data Response question chosen from 2 |
| Unit Two | 25 Objective test questions, 1 Data Response question chosen from 2 |
| Advanced Level (A2) | |
| Unit Three | 1 Data Response from two optional questions, 1 Essay chosen from 3 |
| Unit Four | 1 Data Response from two optional questions, 1 Essay chosen from 3 |
Resources
Internet, text books which are reviewed and updated regularly, journals and statistical reference material, case studies, outside businesses, newspapers and videos.
Progression
Advanced Level Economics courses provide a sound basis for students wishing to go into Higher Education or into a career in a business environment and is generally well regarded by universities
Entry Requirements
Students are required to have five GCSE passes at grade C and above or the equivalent from 4 subject areas including English. GCSE Mathematics at grade B or above is also essential.
Qualification
This course leads to AS and A2 qualifications.
Additional Costs
During the course the students are charged for printing and for extended revision materials. In addition, a number of visits may be arranged which may require students to make a contribution towards travelling costs.
What Students Say
"I enjoy the course and it is fun", "Workshops were very useful"