Economics

O V E R V I E W

The broad aims of this course are: • To give students a strong grounding in micro and macroeconomics, drawing on local, national, and global contexts • To encourage pupils to ‘think like an economist’ by developing analytical, questioning and quantitative skills. • To enable students to critically approach the economic policies, theories and concepts that are used by governments to shape our lives

The course is an excellent foundation for those who wish to take the subject at university and can also be seen as a useful course for those who are simply interested in achieving a greater understanding of the news and the world around them.

The main subject areas covered by the course are: • The nature and importance of markets • Market failure and government policy • The nature of the macro economy • Policy approaches to issues such as growth, unemployment, and inflation. • The impact of globalisation

How is the course assessed?

It is a linear course. There is 100% external assessment involving three papers that will be taken at the end of Year 13 each of which comprise 33.3% of the marks available. This assessment covers the working of markets, macroeconomics, and a synoptic ‘Themes in Economics’ paper where theories are applied to real world situations.

The assessments involve multiple choice responses, short answer responses, and also the ability to write lengthy and detailed essays. There is a strong numerical element to the course.

One of the most useful functions of A level Economics is to act as a bridge between the sciences and the humanities. Economics goes equally well with subjects such as English, History and Business as it does with Mathematics and Physics. Economics enables students to keep their options open by offering the possibility of seeking a social science course in Higher Education rather than a course in the humanities or the physical sciences.

Economics is a popular Higher Education subject and is included as part of many other courses. In addition, a working knowledge of economics is useful for those contemplating a career in industry, banking or accountancy.

Entry requirements

We are looking for hardworking pupils with a mature outlook who can cope with the responsibility of a course of this nature. It is not necessary to have studied the subject at GCSE to take this course however, if you have studied at this level then there is a minimum expectation of a grade 6.

There is also a minimum requirement of a 6 in both Mathematics (there is a considerable mathematical component to the course) and English at GCSE level

Head of Department

Mr G A Davey

Examination Board

OCR

Specification

H460