Economics

Many developed countries, including Britain, are experiencing increased obesity among the population.  What cost does this present society and how should the government tackle the problem?  

It is known that emissions from cars contribute to global warming and deterioration of the environment.  How does government policy encourage a reduction in car use and an increase in the use of public transport?  

The Olympic Games will be hosted by the city of London in 2012.  This represents an enormous opportunity for our potential young athletes, but who stands to benefit the most from the games and who should pay for the spiralling costs?  

If you are interested in current affairs and world issues, then Economics is the subject for you!

WHAT WILL I BE STUDYING ON THE COURSE?

The two AS units are:
·         Markets in Action – what factors fuel our consumer society? Is there really an ‘invisible hand’ at work in the market place, if so whose hand is it?
·         The National and International Economy - with inflation persisting above target, why are interest rates being held at a post war low?
 
The two A2 units are:
·         Transport Economics – is there a viable alternative to the private car? Will Ryanair introduce ‘standing only’ fares? How sustainable is UK transport demand?
·         The Global Economy – is the current economic downturn truly global?  Should PIIGS accept stringent EU and IMF austerity plans?
 
WHAT WILL I BE DOING DURING LESSONS?
Watching videos and discussing current affairs, group research and presentations on topics of interest, using the internet and software packages, listening to guest speakers and going on trips, and developing your analytical and problem solving skills.

HOW WILL THE COURSE BE ASSESSED?
By a mixture of examinations including data response questions, essays and consideration of case study material.

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO TAKE THE COURSE?
You should have at least a grade C in both GCSE Mathematics and English Language.  Experience shows that your chances of success are greater if you have a grade B in both English Language and Mathematics.  The majority of students have not studied Economics before as this is rarely offered at GCSE.  You need to be confident in handling numerical data and in writing essay style answers. 

WHAT OTHER SUBJECTS COULD I DO WITH ECONOMICS?
Economics can be combined with almost any other subject.  If you wish to be a money market analyst in the City of London it is probably a good idea to do some Mathematics, and anyone who wants a career in Economics or Business should strengthen their skills in Modern Foreign Languages.  Many students of Government and Politics find that Economics is helpful, while studying economic development combines well with Geography. Economics is an excellent link subject for Science and Mathematics students, allowing you to demonstrate your extended writing skills. It also allows Humanities students to demonstrate your skills of logic and problem solving.
 
AND AFTER THE COURSE?
Many students go to university where they take a wide range of courses including Econometrics (mathematical study of Economics), Management Sciences, European Management.  If you enter banking or finance Economics would be advantageous.

View the Economics page on the OCR Website.