AGS 6th Form Prospectus

Entry requirement: Grade 7 in GCSE Maths, Grade 6 in English Language (or English) plus 6 grade in Economics, if studied Course summary & assessment Economics is a broad based subject which centres around how we make best use of our scarce resources – human and physical capital, land and enterprise. Microeconomics is the study of resource allocation through themarket mechanism, how it works, what happens when it fails and how governments then have to intervene to ensure welfare is maximised. Macroeconomics considers the wider national and global economies in which we operate, and how governments and the banking mechanism work to try to ensure stability, growth, high employment and competitiveness on an international basis. In Year 12 you will get to grips with the basic economic models and concepts which underpin analysis, and consider how the government intervenes in markets such as alcohol, housing and energy. Furthermore, you will gain an understanding as to how economic performance is measured and analyse the effectiveness of government policy to improve it. In Year 13, the microeconomic course takes more of an in depth view of the labour market, competition and market power, and in macroeconomics we consider development issues, the impact of globalisation and the role of the financial sector. This course has three exams at the end of the two year study period. One each in micro and macroeconomics, plus an additional exam on the ‘themes of economics’ that draws both aspects together. Each exam is two hours in duration and contributes a third weighting to the overall A Level grade. How can I prepare? A keen interest in current affairs and the world we live in is vital; as is the reading of a decent newspaper. A reading list for the subject with suggested texts and online articles can be found on our subject web page. A student subscription to ‘The Economist’ would also be desirable. A level Economics OCR Head of Department email: g.dolphin@alcestergs.com Is it for you? Economics requires an analytical and evaluative mindset. You should be able to blend the numerate with a high level of literacy to assimilate data and structure your argument. What could I do next with A level Economics? You will be equipping yourself for a large variety of Economics related courses in higher education particularly if you also study Mathematics, and/or opening the door to a wide number of career opportunities. Areas that you could specialise in after completing this A level include the economic disciplines of transport, welfare, the environment, European developments, finance, politics and economic history. How can I prepare? The key is to read as many different plays as possible, become familiar with theatre companies and practitioners as well as attending plenty of live theatre events. What could I do next with A level Drama and Theatre? There are a number of courses and careers directly related to the subject such as acting, producing, directing, film making, stage management, as well as working for Media companies such as the BBC, lighting or sound design, costume or set design and make-up. The skills you are going to develop in this A level are key in a wide range of working environments. Skills of teamwork, communication and problem solving are necessary for future success. This can open up a career in a number of fields such as teaching, business or management, public relations, liaison officer, social work and any area where you have to talk publically.