ECONOMICS - A LEVEL |
In theory, Economics is concerned with "the study of man in the business of life"; in practice, Economics attempts to answer some of the most crucial issues facing society. For instance - what causes inflation? What determines economic growth? Why are there so many unemployed?
| a | INDUCTION |
Induction is an important element during the first few weeks of study at the very beginning of the course. Great care is taken to make sure that each student is guided gently through the transition period from G.C.S.E.'s to 'A' Levels. It is not necessary to have studied Economics previously: capable students regularly take up the subject for the first time in the Sixth Form. During the first few weeks the teachers explain the conduct of the course, the method of assessment, the style of examining and the necessary study habits the successful Sixth Former must soon acquire. Continual assistance and encouragement is of course given throughout the two years. |
| a | SYLLABUS |
The syllabus covers Micro-Economics - which includes types of economic systems; demand, supply, markets and prices; short-run and long-run costs and different market types (perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly) - and Macro-Economics - which includes international trade, banking, national income, public finance, monetary policy and current economic topics. |
| a | STUDY SKILLS |
The study of economics helps the Sixth Formers to develop various skills of analysis and increases their ability to look in a detached and perceptive manner at the essentials of a situation. It also enables them to practise solving some demanding problems |
| a | METHODS OF ASSESSMENT |
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Assessment normally takes the form of three written examination papers at the end of the two year course. There is also an option available whereby the student could choose a Coursework Investigation (between 2500 and 3500 words instead of taking the 3rd written paper). The three papers are as follows: |
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Paper 1 |
Multiple Choice core Paper |
1 hour |
(25%) |
Paper 2 |
Written Core Paper |
3 hours |
Combined Essay & Data Response questions (55%) |
Paper 3 |
Written Case Study Paper or Coursework |
1½ hours |
(20%) |
Apart from normal teaching methods, use is made of competitions, work-books, various publications and computer simulations. |
| a | CAREER IMPLICATIONS |
There are a number of career opportunities afforded by a study of this subject. Economics promotes career opportunities in commerce, politics, banking, teaching, research, government, insurance and it is attractive to employers in other areas like accountancy, financial services, computing, market research, journalism and management. Both in industry and central or local government economists are employed in their own right and in professional capacities in sales forecasting, marketing, control or industrial processes, or in analysing economic trends. |