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Economics A Level     

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Economics

Board: Edexcel
 
Introduction
 
Students do not need to have studied Economics at GCSE in order to take the AS or A Level course. Lessons will be taught in such a way that all students will have something new to learn, whether or not they have studied the subject previously. A more important attribute than previous knowledge will be an interest in current affairs and a desire to understand more about the world beyond school.
 
On the course, students will develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories by investigating and analysing current economic issues and problems that affect everyday life. You will also learn how to apply economic ideas to the open market economy in which we live. Eventually you will be able to appreciate the value and limitations of economic concepts in explaining real-world phenomena. Study of this course prepares the student for participation in society as a citizen, producer and consumer.
 
 
Course structure 
 
AS
 
 
Unit (code)
Assessment
Time
  Contribution
AS
Advanced
1 (6351)
8 supported choice questions plus 1 data response question from 2
1 hour
30%
15%
2 (6352)
1 data response question from 2
1 hour
30%
15%
 
Unit 1 - Competitive Markets: How they work and why they fail
This module will help to explain why there are so many different types of market. We have unlimited wants but only limited resources to satisfy those wants. Students will explore how market forces help to allocate these scarce resources and why market failures arise and examine possible solutions.
 
Unit 2 - Managing the Economy
Who manages the British Economy? This module introduces students to key measures of economic performance - unemployment, inflation, the balance of payments and growth. It allows students to examine the key objectives of economic policy and also explore various policies, which may help these objectives.
 
 
A2
 
 
Unit (code)
Assessment
Time
  Contribution
AS
Advanced
1 (6351)
10 supported choice questions plus 1 data response question from 2
1¼ hours
--
15%
2 (6352)
1 data response question from 2
1¼ hours
--
15%
 
Unit 3 - Business Economics and Economic Efficiency
This module builds on units 1 & 2 and students will be encouraged to examine and analyse how prices are determined and what factors might influence those decisions e.g. competition, market forces and the government.
 
Unit 4 - The Global Economy
What is the role of the UK in the Global Market? During this module we will examine the performance of the UK economy. You will also be able to identify and suggest policy objectives and measures which government may decide to follow.
 
 
Am I suited?
 
You will be suited if you:
• have an interest in current issues and government policies
• want to know more about the choices facing individuals, organisations and governments
• can apply a logical, scientific and sometimes abstract approach to solving problems
 
Subject complements
 
Clear course overlap is seen in Politics, Business Studies, Law, Sociology and Mathematics. It also combines well with a language where a career in international business or politics is desired.
 
Where does it lead?
 
Economics A Level is an excellent lead-in to a degree in Economics, which can often be combined with Politics, Business, Accounting, or a language.
Economists are in demand throughout industry, commerce and public service, commanding some of the highest salaries and best employment prospects.
 
 
 
For more information on Economics A Level, see the Edexcel web page:
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/economics/Pages/default.aspx
 

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