Economics A Level

About the Course

Economics is one of the most popular A Level subjects.  It is lively, problem solving subject that is firmly rooted in the real world.  The subject is related to politics and so an interest in current affairs is helpful.  you will learn about a wide range of contemporary issues that our economy faces such as: Why are women paid on average less than me in the UK?  Is Amazon too big? What kind of policies can reduce unemployment in the UK?  Why are taxes necessary?  Why are some goods taxed and what might the unintended consequences be of such a tax?  What is the effect of inflation on the value of our currency and what policies can the government use to control inflation:  Why are there rich and poor counties in the world economy?  We will provide you with insights into a whole range of interesting and topical issues that are frequently in the news headlines.  You will learn economic principles to help you make sense of some complex and controversial issues.

Exam Board

Economics at Hall Cross follows the EDEXCEL exam board, where the course consists of 4 modules of equal weighting taken over 2 years. Many students will undertake the full 4 modules over 2 years to achieve an A level qualification. All modules are examined externally in June each year.

Requirements

Please refer to our Sixth Form prospectus for entry requirements.

Course Content

A level students will undertake three examinations each comprising 33.3% of their final grade. The examinations comprise a mixture of multiple choice questions and essay based data response questions. Year 12: Students will cover a range of topics including: Introduction to Markets and Market Failure. A microeconomic study into the way in which markets function and the purpose for an effectiveness of Government Intervention. The UK Economy - Performance and Policies. An introduction to the macro economy, looking at a range of issues from macroeconomic success measures to Government Macroeconomic policy. In Year 13: Students will cover a range of topics including: Business Behaviour and the Labour Market. A microeconomic study of different market structures, explanation for differences in wages and wealth in an economy, investigation in production for businesses and an examination of the labour market. A Global Perspective. Developing a student's knowledge of the macroeconomic factors influencing an economy, including Globalisation and Financial Markets.

Beyond the Classroom

As an ever-evolving discipline, it is important that students follow developments within the Economy by reading the news. Students are also encouraged to attend regularly held revision sessions.

Your Future

A level Economics is highly valued by university admissions tutors and relates to degree study in a number of areas. A significant number of Hall Cross Economics students go on to study Economics, Business Studies, Management and Accountancy courses at university. These courses have excellent graduate employment records. In a recent survey, it was found that those people with a degree in Economics were the second highest earners in this country. Most universities also require A Level mathematics to study economics at degree level, although some degree courses exist without this requirement.