OCR

Introduction

 

This course aims to prepare you for citizenship and to inform you of your rights and of the influence you have over the government. The course teaches British Politics at AS and American Politics at A2. Comparing the two systems of government, their assets and pitfalls, is an important part of the A2 course.

During the course you will develop the ability to understand different political systems and you will have the opportunity to discuss them in the light of recent developments. The use of a variety of political sources is important in understanding both the way government works and current issues. Apart from acquiring information and skills relevant for careers such as journalism, the media, law, the civil service and local government, you will have the opportunity to develop a lasting interest in politics and current affairs.

 

Course Details

 

AS Unit 1: People, Politics and Participation

                  British political parties and pressure groups.

                  British electoral systems and voting behaviour

      Unit 2: Governing Modern Britain

                  The British constitution, Parliament, the role of

                  the Prime Minister, Cabinet and the Civil

                  Service.

                  The influence of local governement and the

                  European Union.

A2 Unit 3: The Politics of the USA

                  American political parties and pressure groups.

                  American electoral systems and voting

                  behaviour.

                  Comparison of UK and US systems.

      Unit 4: The Government of the USA

                  The US constitution, Congress, the role of the

                  President, Cabinet, the Federal Bureaucracy and

                  the federal judiciary.

                  Comparison of UK and US systems.

 

Subject specific GCSE requirements

You should achieve grade B or above in English.