Economics A Level
King Ecgbert
Totley Brook Road, Sheffield, S17 3QU
Available start dates
Available start dates
Course Summary
Course Description
We have recently seen unprecedented events in the world of economics. Questions such as: Why has the UK government cut taxes for the rich? Why are energy prices so high? How can we reduce global inequality and poverty? How can economics reduce the impact of climate change? Will the NHS be privatised? All these questions and more will be answered when you study economics. Using a variety of learning experiences, you will gain a wider appreciation of current affairs, the world around you and the consequences of the choices that we make on a daily basis. These are crucial in shaping a successful academic approach to Economics at A Level and beyond.
Further Information about our courses including results
3 year average A*- C grades = 90%
Course Details
Course Content and Teaching Units
Unit 1: Individuals, firms, markets and market failure. This is a micro-economics unit that ensures you gain an appreciation of the allocation of resources, the market model and selected specifics of what makes markets efficient or sees them fail. Then you will develop and use more complex microeconomic models and develop further your critical approach to methods of enquiry. You will develop an understanding of the labour market and factors which influence wages and the distribution of income & wealth.
Unit 2: The national and international economy. This unit introduces you to how levels of macro-economic activity are determined and also investigates key national economic indicators, policies and problems. Building on this you will analyse and evaluate macroeconomic performance in national, regional and global contexts. You will develop an understanding of the ways in which developments in the UK economy can be related to the global and EU contexts.
Trips, visits and extra-curricular
Economics students get the opportunity to visit the City of London (financial district) and also spend a day trading at Sheffield Hallam University on their simulating trading platform.
How will it be delivered and assessed?
Assessment
The course is 100% examined
Paper 1: This tests your knowledge and understanding of Unit 1 with a 2 hour written examination with data response questions and extended writing.
Paper 2: This tests your knowledge and understanding of Unit 2 with a 2 hour written examination with data response questions and extended writing.
Paper 3: Economic Principles and issues Assessment. This synoptic paper draws upon your knowledge and understanding of both units with a 2 hour written examination combining multiple choice questions with data response and extended writing.
Entry requirements
Grade 5 in English Language or English Literature & Grade 5 in Maths
5 in GCSE Business or Merit in BTEC exam if studied.
Your next steps...
A number of KES economics students have gone on to degree level study in economics, PPE, accounting and finance, business management, law, marketing, PR, human resources and other joint honours and business related degrees. This has led to progression into a variety of financially lucrative career paths e.g. banking & finance, law, consultancy, international business and the civil service. If university isn’t for you then economics students are in a great position to apply for L4 apprenticeships in similar industries. Even if you decide to pursue a progression pathway unrelated to economics the transferrable skills that you will develop studying the subject will be invaluable in your preparation for that.
Additional information
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