Politics

Introduction

Politics is the study of governments – of their roles, responsibilities and functions. It encompasses the relationship between the governed and those in power, considering in particular the role of UK and American governments. It also covers ideologies and how they have shaped political systems and how they inform and educate the electorate.

Board and Specification Code

Pearson Specification Code 9PL0

Is Politics for you?

The most successful Politics A level students are those who relish reading about current affairs, international relations and governments throughout the world. They are inquisitive and curious, enjoy debating and writing argumentative and cogent essays that tackle the key debates shaping British and American politics.

Course content/components

Political Participation: democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media.
Core Political Ideas: conservatism, liberalism, socialism.
UK Government: the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive
Optional Political Ideas: one idea from: anarchism, ecologism, feminism, multiculturalism, nationalism.
The US Constitution and federalism, US congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation

Recommended entry requirement

At least Grade 7/A in GCSE English Literature.

Post-A Level options

An A level in Politics can lead to a wide range of degree subjects beyond merely studying Politics! Many students have gone on to study Law, International Relations and Journalism, as well as joint honours in History.

Well-behaved women barely make history.

Eleanor Roosevelt