Business Studies – AS & A Level
AQA
Description of the Specification
The specification is designed to help students develop an understanding of organisations and their markets. This includes understanding the management and stakeholders in organisations and an awareness of external influences on business. Students will investigate current business practices and will be able to make business decisions and solve business problems.
Type and Nature of Work Involved
Students should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the subject content
- Apply understanding of and analyse problems and issues arising from a range of situations
- Evaluate arguments and data and distinguish between fact and opinion
Method of Assessment
AS
Unit 1 - Planning and Financing a Business
Short answer questions and extended responses based on a mini case study which will cover starting a business and financial planning.
1¼ hours examination / 20% of total A level mark
Unit 2 - Managing a Business
Multi-part data response questions covering finance, people, operations management and marketing and competition.
1½ hour examination / 30% of total A level mark
A2
Unit 3 - Strategies for Success
Questions requiring extended answers based on an unseen case study drawing upon knowledge from AS units. Areas covered are financial strategies and accounts, strategies for marketing, operations and human resources.
1¾ hour examination / 25% of total A level mark
Unit 4 - The Business Environment and Managing Change
Pre-release research tasks leading to 2 compulsory questions in section A and a choice of one from three essay titles in section B.
1¾ hour examination / 25% of total A level mark
Specific Entry Requirement: A minimum of grade B if this option was studied for GCSE.
