Politics
Head of Department Mrs A J Campbell
Exam board Pearson Edexcel
Qualification name Politics
Qualification codes GCE A Level: 9PL0
What you will study
Unit 1 (9PL0/01): UK Politics
Students will study democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and media, conservatism, liberalism and socialism.
Unit 2 (9PLo/02): UK Government
Students will study the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, relationships between the branches and Feminism.
Unit 3 (9PL0/3A): Comparative Politics
Students will study the US Consitution and federalism, US Congress, US Presidency, US Supreme Courts and civil rights, democracy and participation.
How you will be assessed
Unit 1 – 33.5% of the qualification (84 Marks)
Section A: Political Participation
One 30-mark question from a choice of two (each question uses a source) – students must complete one of these. Plus one 30-mark question from choice of two – students must complete one of these.
All questions assess AO1, AO2 and AO3.
Section B: Core Political Ideas
One 24 Mark question from a choice of two, which assesses AO1, AO2 and AO3
Unit 2 – 33.5% of the qualification (84 Marks)
Section A: UK Government
One 30-mark question from a choice of two (each question uses a source) – students must complete one of these. Plus one 30-mark question from choice of two – students must complete one of these.
All questions assess AO1, AO2 and AO3.
Section B: Non-core Political Ideas
One 24-mark question from a choice of two, which assess AO1, AO2 and AO3.
Unit 3 – 33.5% of the qualification (84 Marks)
Section A: One 12-mark questions from a choice of two, which assess AO1 and AO2.
Section B: One complusory 12-mark questions focused on comparative theories. which assesses AO1 and AO2.
Section C: Two 30-mark questions from a choice of three, which assesses AO1, AO3 and AO3.
Why choose Politics?
If you enjoy debating current affairs and following the news, this may be the course for you. It is a subject which offers a real world insight into political events as they unfold. Politics is a subject which equips students with an essential understanding of the society in which they play a part.
Course requirements
There are no formal GCSE requirements beyond the school’s entry requirements, although having a good GCSE in English will aid essay writing. No prior knowledge is assumed, but a willingness to keep up to date with current affairs is important.
Related subjects at Sixth Form
Politics at Barnard Castle School is a well-established course which can be studied alongside many subjects. It is chosen mainly by those who favour the Humanities and the Arts, but it can also give breadth to scientists. Those considering a career in law may also find this subject useful.
Where could this lead?
Politics can be a useful choice for a wide range of careers, and for students who wish to keep their options open. Politics students are recognised as having good literacy and analytical skills. They are capable of reasoning independently and expressing their ideas clearly. A desire to study Politics suggests a lively and enquiring mind, a desire to explore new ideas and an ability to communicate effectively.
Further important information
Students must show a willingness to switch off Capital Radio and tune in to Radio 4 and Five Live, which may please parents too! Students should watch politics-based television programmes such as Question Time and follow politicians on social media.
