General Studies

GENERAL STUDIES -EDEXCEL8GS01

General studies is offered as an AS option in the 6th form either as a stand alone qualification or as part of the AQA Baccalaureate. It is suitable for all students to study alongside other A level subjects as it provides additional breadth to their studies as well as useful UCAS points. All it requires is a curiosity about the world we live in, and a willingness to engage in arguments and discussions. The course helps  to develop the ability to think independently and to recognise false arguments.  

The course explores three areas: science, culture and society and students will learn how to:          

  •  use thinking and analytical skills· 
  •  recognise the difference between knowledge, truth and belief·          
  • recognise different ways of arguing·          
  • use mathematical reasoning - analysing, interpreting and representing mathematical information.

Below is a breakdown of the units:

Unit number and unit title

Level

Summary of unit content

Unit 1: Challenges for Society

AS

This unit explores the challenges facing society, whether they are scientific, technological or moral. It looks at such issues as nuclear power, genetics, climate change and global warming and asks what makes a humane society.

Unit 2: The Individual in Society

AS

This unit explores the individual in society and asks what influences behaviour and where values and opinions come from. It looks at such issues as developments in travel and new communication systems, peer groups, multi-culturalism, media influences, bloggers.

 

The course units are delivered over one year and assessment will take the form of multiple choice questions, questions based on stimulus material and short essay questions.

Next steps!

If you feel that this course is of interest to you, speak to Mrs Wild or Mr Aubeeluck. You could also look at the Edexcel website (www.edexcel.org.uk) for further information on the qualification.