Politics

A Level Politics (Edexcel)

A Level Politics is a fascinating and highly relevant subject that helps students understand how power is exercised, how decisions are made, and how political systems shape everyday life. Students explore key political ideas, institutions and current issues, developing strong analytical, evaluative and communication skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

The subject is particularly popular because it encourages lively debate, develops critical thinking, and helps students make sense of contemporary political events in the UK and around the world. It is an excellent choice for students interested in law, journalism, public policy, international relations, history, economics and many other fields.

Course Structure

The Edexcel A Level Politics course is assessed through three examination papers at the end of Year 13:

Paper 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas (33.3%)

Students study:

• Democracy and participation
• Political parties
• Electoral systems
• Voting behaviour and the media
• Core Political Ideas: Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism

Paper 2: UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas (33.3%)

Students study:

• The Constitution
• Parliament
• The Prime Minister and Executive
• Relationships between the branches of government
• Non-core Political Idea: Feminism

Paper 3: Comparative Politics (33.3%)

Students study:

• The political system of the USA
• The US Constitution, Congress, Presidency and Supreme Court
• Comparative analysis of UK and US politics and government

Assessment

• Three written examinations
• Each paper is 2 hours
• No coursework
• All examinations are taken at the end of the course

Through the study of politics, students develop the ability to construct persuasive arguments, evaluate evidence and engage critically with some of the most important issues facing society today.