Economics A Level
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Economics
A Level Exam Board: AQA
Entrance requirements:
We would expect all students to have achieved GCSE English Language or Literature and Mathematics at a minimum of grade 7.
Career opportunities:
Economics is highly regarded by both universities and employers. They like to recruit people who can think for themselves, be critical and develop logical arguments. Studying Economics will help you develop these skills and is valuable to anyone thinking of any sort of career in the business world, dealing with finance or tackling major issues such as global warming and world poverty. The subject neatly partners Arts, Humanities, Science and Mathematics subjects.
One of the best things about Economics is that it will help you have a better understanding of the things that shape your life. You will be able to make better sense of the news, current affairs and politics.
Structure of the course
|
Lower Sixth content |
Upper Sixth content |
|
Microeconomics · The economic problem and economic methodology · Price determination in a competitive market · Production, costs and revenue · Competitive and concentrated markets · The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention
Macroeconomics · The measurement of macroeconomic performance · How the macroeconomy works · Economic performance · Macroeconomic policy |
Microeconomics · Further development of some Lower Sixth topics · Individual economic decision making · Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly · The labour market · Distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality
Macroeconomics · Further development of some topics · Financial markets and monetary policy · Fiscal policy and supply-side policies · The international economy |
The course aims to encourage students to:
- Develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life;
- Apply economic concepts and theories in a range of contexts and appreciate their value and limitations in explaining real-world phenomena;
- Analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of the government within it;
- Participate effectively in society as citizens, producers and consumers.
Assessment
Three two-hour papers – one micro (P1), one macro (P2) and one covering all the content (P3).
- Each paper 33.3% of A Level.
- P1 and P2 made up of data response and essay questions.
- P3 made up of 30 marks multiple choice and 50 marks case study questions.
Outside the classroom
- Economics Club runs weekly to push beyond the syllabus and pupils are strongly encouraged to attend.
- Other activities such as debates against other schools also help to enrich the course.
