Economics

KS5

Economics – A-Level Qualification

Examining Body:

Edexcel

Entry Criteria:

Ideally Grade 6 GCSE Mathematics and Grade 5 GCSE English Language

Course Leader:

Mr J Trenchard

Why? :

A Level Economics uses logical thinking and detailed analyses to understand the way the domestic and global economies function. It is a way of thinking that is recognised and highly regarded by both universities and employers. As well as leading onto Economics degrees, this course is also a useful supporting subject for people wishing to study degrees such as Mathematics, Business, Politics, History and Geography. Students who have studied Economics have gone on to many different careers including accountancy, banking, management, politics and marketing.

Course Structure:

Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure, covering:

• The nature of economics
• How markets work
• Market failure
• Government intervention

Theme 2: The UK economy – performance and policies, covering:

• Measures of economic performance
• Aggregate demand
• Aggregate supply
• National income
• Economic growth
• Macroeconomic objectives and policy

Theme 3: The UK economy – business behaviour and the labour market, covering:

• Business growth
• Business objectives
• Revenues costs and profits
• Market structures
• The labour market
• Government intervention


Theme 4: The global perspective, covering:

• International economics
• Poverty and inequality
• Emerging and developing economies
• The financial sector
• Role of the state in the macro-economy

Paper 1 – Markets and business behaviour: 2 hours 35% of qualification. This paper assesses Theme 1 and Theme 3 content.

Paper 2 – The national and global economy: 2 hours 35% of qualification. This paper assesses Theme 2 and Theme 4 content.

Paper 3 – Microeconomics and macroeconomics: 2 hours 30% of qualification. This paper assesses content from all themes.

Extended Learning:

Tasks will include case studies, research activities and exam practice questions. In addition, students will be expected to read the news, either online or from a quality newspaper.

Curriculum Road Map - Economics