Government and Politics

Course summary

Politics is a fascinating subject and one which is incredibly relevant to all of our lives. In Politics, students are encouraged to keep up with current affairs, debate key issues and analyse the role of different political institutions such as Parliament. Students are encouraged to keep up with what is happening today through reading the news, listening to podcasts and watching videos about current affairs. The world we live in is polarised and politics plays a key role in how we live our lives. A Level Politics is a two year course where students receive a final grade after sitting three papers at the end of year 12. It is really important that students have an interest in the world around them and a desire to keep up with current affairs so that this can be communicated effectively both in the classroom to the teacher and their peers, but also in their exams. Course Aims: Students are encouraged to: - Develop knowledge and an informed understanding of contemporary political structures and issues in their historical context, both within the UK and globally - Develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of politics and the relationships between political ideas, institutions and processes - Develop knowledge and an informed understanding of the influences and interests which have an impact on decisions in government and politics - Develop knowledge and an informed understanding of the rights and responsibilities of individuals and groups - Develop the ability to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate political information to form arguments and make judgements Develop an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics.