Politics – A Level

A LEVEL · POLITICS

Question power. Understand democracy.

Examine the ideas, institutions and actors that shape political decisions in the UK and the USA.

QUALIFICATION
A Level

EXAM BOARD
Edexcel

DURATION
Two years

ASSESSMENT
Three written examinations

Why choose Politics?

Politics is all around us. The course develops your understanding of government and political ideas while strengthening independent research, critical analysis and clear, logical argument.

What you will study

UK politics and core ideas
Democracy, participation, political parties, electoral systems, conservatism, socialism and liberalism.

UK government and non-core ideas
The constitution, Parliament, the Prime Minister and anarchism.

Government and politics of the USA
American institutions and processes, compared with government in the UK.

Entry requirements

At least five GCSEs at grades 9–6.

English and History
Grades 9–6 are recommended.

A genuine interest in politics and current affairs is essential.

This course suits you if…

You work hard in a challenging and changing subject.
You contribute thoughtfully to political discussion.
You research new topics independently.
You present balanced arguments clearly in speech and writing.

How you will be assessed

Component

Content

Weighting

Paper 1

UK Politics and Core Political Ideas; 2 hours

33%

Paper 2

UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas; 2 hours

33%

Paper 3

Government and Politics of the USA; 2 hours

33%

The source PDF identifies a course textbook costing £35 and potential visits to Washington DC and the Houses of Parliament.

Where Politics can take you

Politics is highly regarded for university study and careers requiring analysis, communication and an understanding of institutions.

Journalism Law Civil service Finance Public administration Media

“Politics is ever changing and we can see this now more than ever. That’s what makes it such a fascinating and dynamic subject.”