Politics AS-Level Worthing

Worthing AS-Level UK: Politics

Course Information

The AS-Level Politics course at Worthing College comprehensively introduces UK and US political systems, focusing on their structures, functions, and vital political ideologies. Students will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of political parties, electoral systems, and civil rights. The course includes assessments, extra-curricular opportunities, and resources to prepare students for further education in politics and related fields.

A UK AS Level is year one of a two-year A-Level, during which you will achieve only one Level 3 qualification as an international student.

Worthing College is part of the Chichester College Group.

AS-Level Politics Course Outline at Worthing College

Influence Tomorrow's World: Explore the UK and US Political Systems, Debate Contemporary Issues, and Develop Critical Thinking Skills with the AS-Level Politics Course at Worthing College.

Course Overview

The AS-Level Politics course at Worthing College offers students a comprehensive introduction to politics, focusing on the political systems of the UK and the USA. This course aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of political concepts, institutions, and ideologies.

Course Aims

• To understand the structure and functioning of political systems in the UK and the USA.
• Analyse the role of political parties, pressure groups, and electoral systems.
• To evaluate the principles and impacts of political ideologies.
• To develop skills in critical thinking, debate, and essay writing.

Course Structure

The course is divided into two main components: UK Politics and US Politics. Each comprises several key topics. Each component will be covered in a term, with assessments at the end of each term.

Year 1 (AS-Level): UK Politics

• Introduction to Politics:
  • Definition and scope of politics
  • Key political concepts: power, authority, legitimacy, democracy
• The UK Political System
  • The constitution: sources, principles, and reforms
  • The structure and roles of Parliament
  • The Prime Minister and the Cabinet
  • The judiciary and the rule of law
• Major political parties:
  • Conservative, Labour, Liberal Democrat
  • Party ideologies and policies
  • Party organization and leadership
  • Minor parties and their impact
• Political Parties
  • Electoral Systems and Voting Behaviour
  • Different electoral systems used in the UK
  • The impact of electoral systems on party success
  • Voter behaviour and trends
  • Recent election case studies
• Pressure Groups and Political Participation
  • Types and functions of pressure groups
  • Methods used by pressure groups
  • Impact of pressure groups on policy-making
  • Political participation and engagement

Assessment

Students will be assessed through essays, presentations, and end-of-term exams. Regular formative assessments, including quizzes and group discussions, will be used to monitor progress and provide feedback.

Resources

Core Textbooks: "UK Government and Politics" by Philip Lynch and "US Government and Politics" by Anthony J. Bennett.
Supplementary readings from academic journals, news articles, and political commentaries.
Access to online platforms and databases for additional resources and research.

Skills Development

• Critical analysis of political systems and ideologies
• Effective communication and presentation skills
• Research and essay writing skills
• Debating and argumentation techniques

Conclusion

The AS-Level Politics course at Worthing College equips students to thoroughly understand political processes and institutions in the UK and the USA. It fosters analytical skills and critical thinking, preparing students for further education in politics, international relations, or related fields.