Economics A Level 

QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED TO START THE COURSE

• 6+ in Maths

  6+ in English Language or English Literature

  6+ in Economics, if taken

Plus our standard LaSWAP entry requirements for our A level pathway

YEAR 12 COURSE SPECIFICATION

The first theme focuses on microeconomic concepts. Students will develop an understanding of:

• nature of economics
• how markets work
• market failure
• government intervention

The second theme is the UK economy – performance and policies.  This theme focuses on macroeconomic concepts. Students will develop an understanding of:

• measures of economic performance
• aggregate demand
• aggregate supply
• national income
• economic growth
• macroeconomic objectives and policy.

YEAR 13 COURSE SPECIFICATION

Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market

This theme develops the microeconomic concepts introduced in Theme 1 and focuses on business economics. Students will develop an understanding of:

•  business growth
• business objectives
• revenues, costs and profits
• market structures
• labour market
• government intervention

Theme 4: A global perspective

This theme develops the macroeconomic concepts introduced in Theme 2 and applies these concepts in a global context. Students will develop an understanding of:

• international economics

LEARNING AND SKILLS

Economics is taught with lots of Q&A and class discussion

• Analytical writing, diagrammatic analysis and data response are practiced and tested regularly.
• You develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through critical consideration of the current economic issues that affect everyday life.
• Through teacher-led discussion you learn how to analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of government within it.
• There are few absolute answers in economics. You develop a critical approach to economic models and methods of enquiry.

EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT

EXAM BOARD: EDEXCEL

 FUTURE PROSPECTS

Students will develop transferable skills that support study in a wide range of subjects at university and the transition to employment, including quantitative and analytical analysis, forming and testing hypotheses, and commercial awareness. Students can progress from this qualification to:

• higher education courses such as economics degrees with a focus on theory, or degrees in applied economics such as environmental economics, labour economics, public sector economics or monetary economics. Alternatively, students may choose to study a business economics, mathematical economics, actuary science or business degree.
• a wide range of careers ranging from finance, banking, insurance, accountancy, management and consultancy, to becoming professional economists.