Economics
"Economic growth without social progress lets the great majority of people remain in poverty, while a privileged few reap the benefits of rising abundance.”
JOHN F. KENNEDY
Economics at Kings Langley School
We consider Economics to be a rigorous academic subject which develops skills in critical analysis and evaluation, and which helps students to develop an appreciation of micro and macroeconomics. The course breeds critical thinkers at A-Level and there is a specific emphasis on examination technique throughout the two years of study. Topics in A-Level enable students to critically analyse decisions made by Governments in their pursuit of economic growth and question the nature of these decisions in relation to global economic trends. Furthermore, students gain an understanding of the cultural differences between many different economies across the world and gives students the chance to critically analyse government intervention based on local and global variances.
Curriculum Intent
We are a department of dedicated and experienced subject specialists offering Edexcel Economics A-Level. As subject specialists and dedicated professionals we take pride in our commitment to keeping up to date with the fast-changing global, economic environment, which enables up to date context embedded within the curriculum
We aim to deliver a KS5 curriculum that stretches students to think critically and evaluate different decisions taken by governments around the globe. With the knowledge developed and retained using stringent assessment systems, students are encouraged to make informed decisions in relation to different economic contexts and scenarios. This builds confidence in students and gives them an insight into real world decision making.
Throughout the two-year course, we challenge our students to think sensitively and carefully about economic issues faced by some of the poorest economies and the influences on these economies. Ethics and morals are an important part of economics and we explore the concepts surrounding the decisions governments, firms and consumers make in relation to economic problems, trying to balance finite resources with infinite demand.
There is a focus on interpreting data throughout the course in economics. The interpretation of key economic data along with economics diagrams and many aspects of business financial data is significant in understanding economic concepts. These skills are invaluable for future careers and make students highly employable in later life.
Key Stage 5 (A Level)
Students can study Edexcel A Level Economics as part of their A Level options choices. In the first year of the course, students will receive 10 periods of teaching across a two-week timetable. During the second year of teaching, students will receive 11 periods of teaching across a two-week timetable.
A Level Summary:
Students sit three papers for Edexcel Economics A.
The specification can found here:
Edexcel AS and A level Economics A 2015 | Pearson qualifications
Paper 1: Markets and business behaviour – 35% of the total qualification
Questions are drawn from topics across Themes 1 and 3 and focuses on microeconomics.
Paper 2: The national and global economy – 35% of the total qualification
Questions are drawn from topics across Themes 2 and 4 and focuses on macroeconomics.
Both Paper 1 and Paper 2 comprise of three sections. Students answer all questions from Section A and Section B, and one from Section C.
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Section A comprises a range of multiple-choice and short answer questions.
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Section B comprises one data response question broken down into a number of parts.
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Section C comprises a choice of extended open-response questions; students select one from a choice of two.
Paper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
Each question is set in a context, drawing on topics from across Themes 1, 2, 3 and 4.
The paper comprises of three sections. Each section comprises one data response question broken down into a number of parts, including a choice of extended open-response questions; students select one from a choice of two.
All assessments are 2 hours long and comprise of 100 marks.
A Level Assessment Objectives for Economics
AO1: Demonstrate knowledge of terms/concepts and theories/models to show an understanding of the behaviour of economic agents and how they are affected by and respond to economic issues.
AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding to various economic contexts to show how economic agents are affected by and respond to economic issues.
AO3: Analyse issues within economics, showing an understanding of their impact on economic agents.
AO4: Evaluate economic arguments and use qualitative and quantitative evidence to support informed judgements relating to economic issues.
KS5 useful links:
FAQ’s:
Do you set students for Economics A Level?
No. As long as the entry requirements are met, we do not set students. We use differentiation techniques to address differing learning speeds and styles.
What support do you offer struggling students?
As an experienced teaching team, we offer an open door policy to all Economics students. In addition we produce bespoke ‘excess’ resources to aid your child’s revision and understanding of topics. These include model packs, key word documents, exam answer summaries and tip sheets. We aim to offer a holistic approach where Economics is seen as a family, and students truly engage by participating in the subject, content in the knowledge that the teachers are ‘on their side’ doing all they can to ensure grade maximisation.
What’s the most important attribute my child will need to study Economics?
An inquisitive and curious mind. The ability to engage and discuss, debate and disagree as they base arguments on data, feeling, and real world experience and links. We like students to keep abreast of current affairs by reading the news daily as many stories are linked to Economics in some way. If students arrive on time, to all lessons, and are ready to learn and engage, coupled with a desire to succeed and undertake independent study should ensure they are well on the ward toward securing a good grade come the end of year 13.
Staff:
Mr Ellis (Head of Department) - ellisb@kls.herts.sch.uk
Mr D Crisp - Starting September
