Economics
Economics is taught as a choice at A Level.
Economics is about real life, it affects nearly every aspect of our lives, including employment, growth, welfare, standard of living and government policy.
Studying Economics will give pupils a sound understanding of the UK and Global economy. It will help pupils develop an interest in economic affairs and explore current economic issues and problems that effect every day life.
Exam Boards:
A Level Economics: AQA
Statement of Intent
FHS6 approach to Economics is to apply economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, and encourage students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions. They will also build upon their quantitative skills and appreciate that, when evaluating arguments, both qualitative and quantitative evidence are important. Students will develop an understanding of a range of concepts and an ability to use those concepts in a variety of different contexts. These skills will equip our students for the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of adult and working life.
We have chosen AQA examination board because it enables our students to apply economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, and encourage students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. They can also relate what they are learning to the world around them – locally, nationally and globally. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions. They will also build upon their quantitative skills and appreciate that, when evaluating arguments, both qualitative and quantitative evidence are important.
To drive excellence in the department, we have many up-to-date hard copy economics resources and electronically on the intranet which provides a modern learning experience. They include: PowerPoints, Study notes, videos, textbooks, independent learning links, e-learning materials, past papers, mark schemes, examiner reports, model/exemplar answers etc. Student’s usage of Firefly resources is regularly tracked. Weekly home learning tasks are set to facilitate flip learning and past exam question tasks are set to be completed in independent learning. We use MyPlc to rate student understanding and to identify areas of strength and weakness.
Our assessment in A-level Economics includes questions that allow students to demonstrate their ability to draw together their knowledge, skills and understanding from across the full course of study; and provide extended responses. For example, questions in Section B of Paper 3 are extended response questions which require a student to draw together different areas of the specification (Synoptic). An ‘extended response’ is evidence generated by a student which is of sufficient length to allow that student to demonstrate the ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning which is coherent, relevant, substantiated and logically structured. These assessments include timed class tests at the end of each topic/module and mock exams in January/February. These assessments also measure how students have achieved the following assessment objectives of AO1 –demonstrating knowledge, AO2 – Applying knowledge, AO3 – analyse issues, and AO4 – Evaluate economic augments and use qualitative and quantitative evidence to support informed judgements relating to economic issues.
Year 11 Students choosing to do Economics in year 12 are given transition learning resources in the summer holidays to develop their understanding of the subject. Year 12 students are assessed at the end of the year in a mock examination. They will do two written 1 hour 30 minutes’ examinations in Paper 1 and paper 2, each 70 marks. Year 13 are assessed in January mock examinations, sitting 3 papers; each 2 hours
Our question papers, class activities, worksheets and home learning tasks use a variety of assessment styles including real-life case studies and data exercises to better prepare students for further study and employment. They provide clear opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and skills, enabling them to achieve their potential.
The course is taught over two years in year 12 and 13 and the final exams which consist of three papers 2 hours each sat at the end of year 13. The AS level content is taught in year 12 and the A-Level content is taught in year 12 & 13. The course assumes prior knowledge and understanding of the AS level content and builds on the skills acquired in year 12. Lessons are taught for 9 hours per fortnight including time for assessment/ revision. All AS content will be taught up to the end of February in year 12 followed by A2 content and finish by December in year 13. January to May will be used to consolidate understanding of the two topic areas.
Students use additional time for independent study in school and at home and for completing assignments outside lesson time. We also offer students’ excellent advice on Economics related career options and a varied and rich enrichment e.g. essay competitions, ambitious reading list, etc. which challenge what students have been studying in routine lessons.