Economics – AS & A Level

Edexcel

Description of the Specification

The study of economics enables students to understand how the material resources of an individual, a community, a country or the world are managed.  It enables us to address questions such as ‘when can we expect another recession?’ and ‘why should students pay university tuition fees?’  This specification contributes to that understanding by enabling students to develop an appreciation of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life.

Type and Nature of Work Involved

During the course students will:

• acquire knowledge and understanding of microeconomics (individual markets) and macroeconomics (the economy as a whole)
• explore economic issues arising from a range of situations, drawing on data from local, national and international sources
• develop a critical approach to economic models and methods of enquiry in order to evaluate economic arguments and make informed judgements

Method of Assessment

AS

Unit 1 - Competitive Markets – How They Work and Why They Fail
Supported multiple-choice questions and one data response question out of a choice of two questions.
1½ hours examination / 25% of total A level mark

Unit 2 - Managing the Economy
One data response question out of a choice of two questions.
1½ hours examination / 25% of total A level mark

A2

Unit 3 - Business Economics and Economic Efficiency
Supported multiple-choice questions and one data response question out of a choice of two questions.
1½ hours examination / 20% of total A level mark          

Unit 4 - The Global Economy
One essay question with two parts from a choice of three topic areas and one data response question out of a choice of two questions
2 hour examination / 30% of total A level mark

Specific Entry Requirement: If Economics or Business Studies was studied for GCSE, a minimum of a grade B is required.

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Sixth Form Subjects