A-Level Politics: A Complete Guide
Contents
Taking Politics in A-Level is like diving into the workings of government and how decisions are made. But is it the right path for you? Are you curious about how leaders make choices that impact us all? With this course, you get to explore the ins and outs of political theories, systems, and the real-world issues they address. But, how tough is the curriculum, and what are the secrets to excelling in it? Let's dive deeper and find out.
Is A-Level Politics Worth Doing?
Deciding whether to study A-Level Politics is a significant choice. It opens up a wide range of career and educational opportunities, making it an attractive option for students with a keen interest in current affairs, governance, and social justice. According to recent data, students who study Politics often go on to pursue successful careers in law, journalism, public administration, and even politics itself. But what makes it particularly worthwhile?
- Skill Development: It sharpens critical thinking and analytical skills, equipping students to evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives.
- University Admissions: Many top universities view A-Level Politics favourably, recognizing the analytical and communicative skills it develops.
- Informed Citizenship: It fosters a deeper understanding of political systems and issues, enabling students to become more informed and engaged citizens.
Here is what an expert A-Level Politics tutor has to say:
"Studying A-Level Politics truly opened my eyes to the world around me. My key piece of advice? Stay engaged with current affairs and always question what you learn. Use the past papers early on because they're very important for grasping exam techniques and essay writing skills which will definitely help you get an A*."Experts in education often highlight how studying Politics not only broadens one’s understanding of the world but also enhances employability. A-Level Politics students often exhibit a maturity and depth of understanding that sets them apart, making them highly sought after by universities and employers alike.
Graph showing number of students who took A-Level Politics exams in the past 10 years in the UK
Is A-Level Politics Hard?
A-Level Politics is often seen as challenging, but it's a challenge that many students find rewarding. It requires a deep understanding of historical context and current affairs, an ability to analyse complex ideas, and the skill to construct coherent arguments. But what aspects make it challenging, and how can students manage these challenges effectively?
- Content Volume: The syllabus is broad, covering topics from political ideologies to the intricacies of different political systems.
- Analytical Skills: It demands the development of strong analytical skills to interpret and evaluate political theories and concepts.
- Critical Thinking: Students need to critically assess arguments and evidence, presenting balanced viewpoints.
| Year | A* | A | B | C | D | E | U |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 6.8% | 19.2% | 29.3% | 24.6% | 13.1% | 5% | 2% |
| 2020 | 14% | 25.7% | 28.1% | 21.5% | 8.1% | 2.3% | 0.3% |
| 2021 | 19.5% | 26.9% | 26.2% | 17.8% | 6.8% | 2.4% | 0.4% |
| 2022 | 15% | 23.9% | 29.4% | 18.8% | 8.7% | 2.9% | 1.3% |
| 2023 | 8.2% | 19.2% | 28.6% | 23% | 12.8% | 6% | 2.2% |
Table showing A-level Politics grades distribution
Despite its challenges, A-Level Politics is enriching and intellectually stimulating for many students. It is regarded as a valuable subject for those interested in the complexities of society and governance, offering insights into how decisions are made and their impact on the world.
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What is the A-Level Politics Syllabus?
The A-Level Politics syllabus is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of political systems, political ideas, and international relations. While specific content can vary depending on the exam board, most syllabi share core elements that provide a broad and deep understanding of politics.
- Political Theories and Ideas: Students explore key political ideologies such as conservatism, liberalism, and socialism.
- UK Government and Politics: This includes the structure and function of the UK government, the role of Parliament, and the Prime Minister.
- Comparative Politics: Some boards also include the study of another country's political system, such as the USA, to compare and contrast with the UK.
- International Relations: This covers global issues, international conflicts, and the role of organisations like the United Nations.
Edexcel A-Level Politics Syllabus
The Edexcel A-Level Politics syllabus offers an extensive exploration of political systems, ideologies, and global issues, providing students with a deep understanding of both UK and international politics. It focuses on critical analysis and evaluation, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the political world around them.
| Component | Name | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | UK Politics | - Political Participation (democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour, and the media) - Core Political Ideas (conservatism, liberalism, socialism) |
| 2 | UK Government | - UK Government (the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, relationships between the branches) - Non-core Political Ideas (choose one: anarchism, ecologism, feminism, multiculturalism, nationalism) |
| 3 | Comparative Politics | - Option A: US Politics (US Constitution and federalism, Congress, presidency, Supreme Court, civil rights, democracy and participation, comparative theories) OR - Option B: Global Politics (sovereignty, globalisation, global governance in political, economic, human rights, environmental aspects, power and developments, regionalism, European Union, comparative theories) |
Table showing Edexcel A-Level Politics syllabus
AQA A-Level Politics Syllabus
The AQA A-Level Politics syllabus covers UK politics, comparative politics, and political theories, equipping students to analyze and debate key political issues and ideas.
| Topic | Content |
|---|---|
| Topic 1 | Government and politics of the UK |
| Topic 2 | Government and politics of the USA and comparative politics |
| Topic 3 | Political ideas |
Table showing AQA A-Level Politics syllabus
The syllabus is structured to not only impart knowledge of political theories and systems but also to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. By covering a variety of topics, it prepares students for further education and careers in a range of fields, from journalism to public service. Each exam board offers its unique focus, but all aim to equip students with a deep understanding of the political landscape.
What is the A-Level Politics Exam Structure?
The A-Level Politics exam structure is designed to assess students' understanding of the key terms in the syllabus content and their ability to analyse, evaluate, and form coherent arguments. While the exact format can vary between different exam boards, there are common elements across all:
- Written Examinations: Typically, students sit for three written exams at the end of their course. These exams test a range of skills from knowledge recall to essay writing.
- Essay Questions: A significant portion of the exams consists of essay questions, requiring students to construct well-argued responses on topics such as political ideologies, the functioning of government, and international relations.
- Source-Based Questions: Some papers include source-based questions, where students analyse and evaluate given political texts or data.
- Comparative Politics: For boards that include comparative politics, there may be specific questions comparing the political systems of different countries.
Edexcel A-Level Politics Exam Structure
The Edexcel A-Level Politics exams feature essay and source-based questions, testing students' grasp of political concepts and their analytical skills.
| Component | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | UK Politics | UK Government | Comparative Politics |
| Time | 2 hr | 2 hr | 2 hr |
| Total Marks | 84 | 84 | 84 |
| % of the A Level | 33.3% | 33.3% | 33.3% |
Table showing Edexcel A-Level Politics exam structure
AQA A-Level Politics Exam Structure
The AQA A-Level Politics exams consist of essay questions and case studies, focusing on students’ understanding of political theories, systems, and ability to apply knowledge critically.
| Paper No. | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Syllabus | Government and politics of the UK | The government and politics of the USA, Comparative politics | Political ideas |
| Time | 2 hr | 2 hr | 2 hr |
| Total Marks | 77 | 77 | 77 |
| Assessment | A mixture of medium length ‘explain’ and essay style questions | A mixture of medium length ‘explain’ and essay style questions | A mixture of medium length ‘explain’ and essay style questions |
| % of the A Level | 33.3% | 33.3% | 33.3% |
Table showing AQA A-Level Politics exam structure
Each exam board has its specific guidelines and marking criteria, but the emphasis is on demonstrating a deep understanding of political concepts, critical analysis, and the ability to present balanced arguments. The exams are rigorous, designed to challenge students and encourage a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter.
Choosing the Right Exam Board
When it comes to A-Level Politics, choosing the right exam board is a pivotal decision. Currently, only Edexcel and AQA offer this subject, each with its unique exam style, approach and focus. Making an informed choice requires understanding the nuances of exactly what step up each board offers:
- Edexcel: Known for its comprehensive coverage of political ideologies and global politics, Edexcel tends to emphasise comparative politics, offering a detailed look into different political systems around the world.
- AQA: AQA focuses heavily on UK politics and political theories, with a strong emphasis on current affairs and their impact on society. This board is often praised for its contemporary relevance and the way it engages students with the politics of today.
Key considerations when choosing between Edexcel and AQA include:
- Your Interests: Are you more intrigued by global political systems or the specifics of UK politics?
- Assessment Style: Compare the exam formats and question styles to determine which aligns better with your strengths.
- Resource Availability: Investigate the support materials and resources available for each board.
Both boards offer a robust foundation in political studies, but your decision should be guided by where your interests lie and how you prefer to be assessed. It’s also beneficial to discuss with your teachers, who can provide insights based on their experience with teaching the subject.
How do you get an A* in A-Level Politics?
Achieving an A* in A-Level Politics requires a combination of strategic study, deep understanding of the material, and honing your exam technique. Given the subject's complexity and the depth of knowledge required, here are essential strategies to excel:
- Comprehensive Understanding: Ensure a deep grasp of all syllabus topics, from political theories to the specifics of different political systems.
- Critical Analysis and Evaluation: Develop the ability to critically analyse political ideas and events, offering balanced arguments and evaluations.
- Past Paper Practise: Regularly practise with past exam papers to familiarise yourself with the question formats and to improve your timing and answer quality.
- Effective Note-Making: Utilise TutorChase's study notes for concise summaries and key points on complex topics.
Additionally, consider A-Level Tutoring as a way to enhance your understanding and receive personalised feedback on your work. A tutor can help identify areas for improvement, provide insights into examiners' expectations, and offer strategies for structuring high-scoring answers. With the right approach and resources, securing an A* in A-Level Politics is within reach.
What are the best A-Levels to take with Politics?
Choosing A-Levels that complement Politics can enhance your understanding of the subject and broaden your career and academic opportunities. Here are five recommended A-Levels to take alongside Politics for a well-rounded education:
- A-Level History: Provides context to political theories and systems, enhancing your understanding of how past events influence current politics.
- A-Level Economics: Offers insights into how economic policies and theories impact government decisions and political ideologies.
- A-Level Law: Introduces you to legal systems and frameworks, which are crucial in understanding governmental structures and civil rights.
- A-Level English Literature or Language: Develops analytical and communication skills, essential for constructing well-argued essays and understanding complex texts in Politics.
- A-Level Sociology: Explores societal structures and issues, complementing the study of political systems and ideologies.
Graph showing grades distribution of A-Level Politics in UK 2021-2023
These subjects not only support a deeper understanding of political concepts but also equip you with a range of skills valued in higher education and various career paths. Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for analysing and understanding the complexities of modern society and governance.
Best A-Level Politics Resources
To excel in A-Level Politics, accessing a diverse range of high-quality resources is crucial. These materials should not only deepen your understanding but also engage you actively and prepare you comprehensively for exams. According to educators and top-performing students, the following resources are invaluable:
- Official Exam Board Materials: Start with resources provided by your exam board, including syllabus outlines, past papers, and examiner reports.
- Textbooks and Revision Guides: Key textbooks and guides such as "Pearson Edexcel A level Politics" and "AQA A-level Politics: Government and Politics of the UK, Government and Politics of the USA and Comparative Politics".
- News Websites and Journals: Regularly reading reputable news sources and political journals keeps you informed on current affairs and helps apply your knowledge practically.
- Online Tutoring and study notes: Platforms like TutorChase offer personalised tutoring and high-quality study notes, tailored to the A-Level Politics syllabus.
A balanced approach, incorporating both traditional and digital resources, is recommended by experts. This strategy not only aids in understanding complex political concepts but also makes learning more engaging and applicable to real-world scenarios.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Students studying A-Level Politics face a few common problems, but there are straightforward ways to deal with these:
- Keeping Up with Current Affairs: Politics changes all the time, so it's important to stay updated. A good way to do this is to set aside some time every day to read news from different places and listen to political podcasts.
- Understanding Complex Theories: Some political ideas can be hard to get your head around. To make these easier to understand, try using pictures or diagrams and look for online resources that explain things simply.
- Writing Good Essays: Being able to write clear and convincing essays is key. Improve by practising writing on different topics and asking teachers or friends for comments to help you get better.
- Seeing Both Sides: Politics often involves your own views. Learn to look at issues from different sides and back up what you say with facts.
- Handling a Lot of Information: There's a lot to learn in A-Level Politics. Organising your study time well and making a plan can help make sure you cover everything you need to without getting too stressed.
By addressing these challenges with specific strategies, students can not only enhance their understanding of political concepts but also improve their overall performance in A-Level Politics.
Past Papers and Practise Questions
Using past papers and practise questions is a crucial part of preparing for A-Level Politics exams. This approach not only familiarises you with the exam format and question styles but also helps identify areas where further revision is needed. Here’s how to effectively utilise these resources:
- Regular Practise: Incorporate past paper questions into your regular study routine to continuously test your understanding and application of political concepts.
- Marking Schemes: Review the examiners' marking schemes to understand how answers are graded. This insight can guide you in structuring your responses to maximise marks.
- Timed Conditions: Practise under timed conditions to improve your time management skills during the exam. This helps ensure that you can complete all sections within the allotted time.
- Review and Reflect: After completing a past paper, thoroughly review your answers. Identify mistakes and misunderstandings, then revisit those topics in your study materials.
Incorporating past papers and practise questions into your revision strategy can significantly boost your confidence and performance in the actual exams. This method is not only about testing knowledge but also refining exam techniques and understanding the nuances of effective answer presentation.
Opportunities with A-Level Politics
Securing an A-Level in Politics opens up a myriad of opportunities, laying a strong foundation for further education and a variety of career paths. This qualification deepens understanding of political systems, theories, and current affairs, equipping students with critical thinking, debate, and analysis skills that are highly valued across numerous sectors.
Pie chart showing gender distribution across A-Level Politics
Majors in Higher Education:
- Political Science and International Relations: Direct progression to degrees that delve into government, policy, and global affairs.
- Law: A solid grounding in political theories supports studies in law and legal practices.
- Journalism and Media: Prepares students for careers in reporting, especially in political journalism and communication.
- Public Policy and Administration: Offers a pathway to studies focused on the development and implementation of public policies.
Career Paths:
- Political Analyst: Applying understanding of political systems and theories to analyse current political landscapes.
- Civil Service: Working within government departments to advise on and implement policies.
- NGO Worker: Leveraging knowledge of international relations to work on global issues like human rights and environmental protection.
- Campaign Manager: Organising and directing political campaigns, utilising skills in persuasion and strategic planning.
Skills Development:
- Analytical Skills: Evaluating political scenarios and data to form coherent analyses.
- Communication: Articulating complex political ideas clearly and persuasively in both spoken and written forms.
- Problem-Solving: Addressing societal and political challenges with innovative solutions.
Pursuing A-Level Politics not only prepares students for academic studies in related subjects but also furnishes them with a versatile skill set applicable in a wide range of professional fields, including governance, public relations, education, and beyond. This diversity of opportunities highlights the value of politics in fostering informed, analytical, and engaged individuals.
Conclusion on A-Level Politics
A-Level Politics is a key subject for students who want to understand how governments work and how important decisions are made. It teaches you to think critically, understand complex ideas, and discuss big issues that affect countries and people around the world. This subject opens doors to many career paths, like law, journalism, and government jobs, and is highly valued by universities. In short, A-Level Politics prepares you for a future where you can make a real difference, helping you become a well-informed citizen and a potential leader in making the world a better place.
FAQ
What does AO1 mean in politics?
In A-Level Politics, AO1 stands for "Assessment Objective 1," which focuses on demonstrating knowledge and understanding of political institutions, concepts, processes, and ideologies. It's about showing you can recall accurate information and explain the workings of political systems, key political ideas, and the structure of political arguments. AO1 assesses how well you grasp the content of your course and can lay the foundational knowledge for further analysis and evaluation.
Can I study A-Level Politics online?
Yes, you can study A-Level Politics online through various educational platforms and distance learning providers. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and schedule, which is perfect for those who have other commitments or prefer a self-directed independent study approach. These courses typically provide comprehensive study materials, interactive content, and support from tutors, making it a viable option for gaining this qualification outside of traditional classroom settings.
What skills do I need for A-Level Politics?
For A-Level Politics, critical thinking and analytical skills are crucial, as you'll need to evaluate complex political concepts and arguments. Effective communication, both written and verbal, is also important for expressing your ideas clearly in essays and discussions. Research skills will help you gather and interpret information, while an ability to remain open-minded and consider multiple viewpoints is valuable for understanding diverse political perspectives. These skills not only aid in studying Politics but are also highly transferable to various fields and careers.
How much homework is expected in A-Level Politics?
In A-Level Politics, you can expect around 4-5 hours of homework per week, although this can vary depending on your school or college and how close you are to exams. Homework tasks often include reading assignments, essay writing, and preparation for debates or presentations. This workload is designed to deepen your understanding of the subject matter, improve your analytical and writing skills, and prepare you for assessments. Effective time management is key to managing these commitments alongside your other subjects.
Are there any field trips in A-level politics?
Field trips in A-Level Politics are not as common as in some other subjects, but some schools and colleges might arrange visits to relevant political institutions, such as Parliament, local councils, or political party conferences. These trips offer valuable real-world insights into the political process and can enhance your understanding of the subject. Additionally, some courses may include opportunities to attend talks or debates by political figures, providing direct exposure to political discourse and decision-making.
How does A-level politics support university applications?
A-Level Politics significantly enhances university applications by demonstrating a student's engagement with current affairs and their ability to think critically about complex issues. It shows universities that you have developed key skills such as analysis, evaluation skills, and effective communication, which are valuable across a wide range of courses, especially in humanities and social sciences. Furthermore, the subject's focus on argument formation and understanding of governance aligns well with the critical thinking and research skills favoured in higher education.
What extracurricular activities complement A-level politics?
Extracurricular activities that complement A-Level Politics include joining a debate club, participating in Model United Nations (MUN), volunteering for political campaigns or local community organisations, and engaging in youth parliament initiatives. These activities enhance your understanding of political processes, improve public speaking and argumentation skills, and offer practical experience in political advocacy and leadership. They also demonstrate to universities and employers your active interest in politics and commitment to civic engagement.
Can A-Level Politics help in a business career?
Yes, A-Level Politics can be beneficial for a business career. It develops critical analysis, strategic thinking, and an understanding of the socio-political environment that businesses operate within. Knowledge of political systems and policies can be crucial for roles in corporate governance, public relations, and international trade. Additionally, the skills in argumentation and evaluation cultivated through studying Politics are valuable for decision-making and leadership roles in the business sector.
How to keep up-to-date with political developments?
Keeping up-to-date with political developments involves regularly reading a variety of reputable news sources, following political commentators and organisations on social media, and subscribing to political analysis podcasts and newsletters. Engaging with a broad spectrum of viewpoints can help deepen your understanding of issues and foster critical thinking. Additionally, attending public lectures or debates on current affairs can provide further insights and stimulate interest in ongoing political discussions.
Is work experience important for A-level politics students?
Work experience is not a mandatory requirement for A-Level Politics students, but it can be incredibly beneficial. Gaining experience in political offices, local government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), or related fields can provide practical insights into political processes and systems. It also enhances your understanding of how politics impacts real-world issues. Furthermore, work experience can strengthen university applications and future job prospects by demonstrating a proactive approach to learning and a genuine interest in political affairs. It's a valuable addition to the academic study of politics, offering a hands-on perspective that can enrich your coursework.
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Written by: Dr Rahil Sachak-Patwa
LinkedInRahil spent ten years working as private tutor, teaching students for GCSEs, A-Levels, and university admissions. During his PhD he published papers on modelling infectious disease epidemics and was a tutor to undergraduate and masters students for mathematics courses.
