A level in Politics
Edexcel A Level are available for study anywhere in the world.
A Level Politics Examinations can be taken at any registered examination centre in the world. It is recommended students check with examining centres that the chosen exam is available.
Introduction
We are pleased to offer the Edexcel A Level in Politics.
The Edexcel Politics A Level is a fascinating course that covers UK politics along with investigating and studying UK Government and core political
Entry Requirements
Although the A Level Politics programmes build on the course content of GCSE, it is not necessary to have this qualification before undertaking an A-Level. However, in order to meet the demands of the course, it is recommended that candidates have literacy and communication skills equivalent to C or higher at GCSE. Please note that full tutor support is still provided throughout your course duration.
All students must be 16 years of age or above.
A Level Politics Course Duration
2 years.
Study Hours Required
Approximately 350 hours.
Awarding Body
Edexcel A Levels are available for study anywhere in the world. Examinations can be taken at any registered examination centre in the world. It is recommended students check with examining centres that the chosen exam is available.
Examination Information
Students are required to arrange and pay for their examinations and manage the course work element if the subject requires this. Students must check the relevant examination board website for further information and final examination sitting dates for the specification.
All examinations are held during the May / June exam period of every year.
Course Content
A Level Politics Unit 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas (Liberalism; Conservatism; Socialism) (9PLO/01)
In this unit you will examine and critically evaluate British Democracy, including:
- Democracy and participation.
- Political Parties.
- The British electoral systems and alternatives.
- Voting behaviour, including the influence of the media.
- The three core political ideology of Liberalism: Conservatism and Socialism.
A Level Politics Unit 2: UK Government and Non-Core Political Ideas (Nationalism) (9PLO/02)
In this unit you will understand and critically evaluate the workings of the British Constitution. In addition, with the growing popularity of Populist and Nationalist political ideology, you will explore the different ideas behind Nationalism. Your studies will include:
- The separation of powers – Monarchy, Parliament, Government and the Judiciary.
- Devolution, how it operates and how it has impacted on the United Kingdom.
- The European Union´s impact on British sovereignty and governance with some debate of the potential effect of Brexit.
- The different forms of Nationalism, from simple patriotism to the more sinister extreme beliefs.
A Level Politics Unit 3: Comparative Politics (9PLO/03a)
In this unit you will examine and assess the workings of the Government and Politics of the United States of America and make evaluative comparisons with the United Kingdom. The unit includes:
- The US Constitution and Federalism.
- US Congress and Senate.
- The US Presidency.
- US Supreme Court and its role in protecting civil rights.
- US Democracy and participation.
A Level Politics Assessment Objectives
AO1 – Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of political institutions, processes, concepts, theories and issues.
AO2 – Analyse aspects of politics and political information, including in relation to parallels, connections, similarities and differences.
AO3 – Evaluate aspects of politics and political information, including to construct arguments, make substantiated judgements and draw conclusions.
A Level Politics Paper 1 UK Politics: 2 hours
Section A: Political Participation requires candidates to choose two questions from a choice of 4. Each answer being worth 30 marks.
Section B: Core Political Ideas requires candidates to answer one question from a choice of two. The answer is worth 24 marks.
A Level Politics Paper 2 UK Government: 2 hours
Section A: UK Government requires candidates to choose two questions from a choice of 4. Each answer being worth 30 marks.
Section B: Non- Core Political Ideas requires candidates to answer one question from a choice of two. The answer is worth 24 marks.
Paper 3 Comparative Politics: 2 hours
There will be:
One compulsory question on comparative theories, worth 12 marks.
Plus
One short answer question from a choice of two, worth 12 marks.
Plus
Two 30-mark questions from a choice of three.
Progression
Our A Level Politics programmes are eligible for UCAS points, making them a great choice for students aiming to progress to University. UCAS points are awarded according to the grade earned, please see below for details.
A levels are also widely recognised by employers and are useful for students looking to progress their careers or meet requirements for promotion.
UCAS Points Table
A* = 56
A = 48
B = 40
C = 32
D = 24
E = 16