Ecnomics A- Level

Course Leader: Mr Craig Williams

What is it all about?

• Wanting to study for an economics or economics-related degree at university?
• Wanting to know more about how the world works?
• Interested in understanding government decisions and policies?
• An independent thinker with lots of ideas and opinions?
• A problem solver?
• Wanting to study a new subject?

If so, A Level Economics is for you.

What are the requirements?

5 GCSEs at Grades 5 or above, which must include English and Maths.

What will I learn on this course?

Economics is the study of how society uses the world’s resources. It is a subject that is concerned with choices, the allocation of scarce resources and the behaviour of individuals, firms and the government. Economics is divided into two categories: Macroeconomics, which explores the concept of consumers and markets, and Macroeconomics, which looks at economics on a national and international level by considering themes like unemployment, inequality and trade/budget deficits.       

The four main units you will study over the two years are:

• Markets, consumers and firms
• The wider economic environment
• The global economy
• Making markets work

What are the benefits?

Economics is a challenging yet very rewarding A Level. It is highly respected and valued by universities and employers.

Throughout the entire course you will be using problem solving skills in order to make informed decisions and recommendations. Economics is such a useful tool for the future as anything you end up doing in life revolves around economics in some way, therefore this course allows you to be a step ahead at all times

Lessons will be relevant, up-to-date, interesting and challenging learning experiences, which will include debates, lively discussions, presentations and the use of the Internet for research. There will be plenty of opportunities to put your ideas, opinions, independence of thought and initiative to practical use.

You will develop your critical thinking skills in order to act, think and analyse like an economist, hopefully leading you to make better choices for yourself, the community around you and the world.

Where can A Level Economics take me?

A Level Economics is an excellent base for a university degree, especially a degree in Economics, Business, Law, Geography, Philosophy, Politics and Sociology.

Did you know that almost every UK Prime Minister has taken economics as part of their degree? With such a prestigious A Level, a huge range of career possibilities are available. These include economist, business law, banking, investment analyst, stock broker, education sector, business journalism, central or local government and business consultancy. Economic skills, which touch on every part of our modern society are in high demand worldwide and are often very well paid. Even if you do not want to pursue a career in economics, it could help you to better understand how the world economy works, why laws are set, what our government do and how it affects you and your future.

How will I be assessed?

3 two-hour papers worth 100 marks each. Paper 1 will focus on microeconomic issues (units 1 and 4), paper 2 will focus on macroeconomic issues (units 2 and 3) and paper 3 is a synoptic assessment (all 4 units) with a pre-release case study.

For more information contact:

Craig.Williams@westsomersetcollege.org

Or visit: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/economics-b-2015.html