Online Politics A Level course overview

Politics A Level covers the following areas:

• develop knowledge and an informed understanding of contemporary political structures
  and issues in their historical context, both within the United Kingdom (UK) and globally
• develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships
  between political ideas, institutions and processes
• develop knowledge and an informed understanding of the influences and interests which
  have an impact on decisions in government and politics
• develop knowledge and an informed understanding of the rights and responsibilities of
  individuals and groups
• develop the ability to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate political information to
  form arguments and make judgments
• develop an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics.

Students will investigate in detail how people and politics interact. They will explore the emergence and development of the UK’s democratic system and the similarities, differences, connections and parallels between direct and indirect democracy. They will focus on the role and scope of political parties that are so central to contemporary politics, including the significance of the manifestos they publish at election time and their relevance to the mandate of the resulting government.

Prior learning

Candidates beginning this course are not expected to have studied Politics previously. A qualification in English equivalent to IGCSE would be useful.

Progression

Politics A Level online provides a suitable foundation for the study of Politics or related courses in higher education. It may permit or assist progression directly to university courses in Politics or some other subjects. It is also suitable as part of a course of general education.