GOVERNMENT & POLITICS: AS + A2 LEVEL [EDEXCEL]

Course Aims:

• To consider systems of government with a focus on Britain and the USA
• To understand how and why political changes occur
• To evaluate political theories and develop subject specific terminology
• To understand the nature of political participation and related issues
• To express political concepts confidently and effectively

Overview of the AS Modules

Unit 1: People and Politics

This unit introduces you to the key channels of communication between government and people.  It encourages you to evaluate existing systems for ensuring representative democracy and political participation.  Topics include Democracy and Political Participation; Party Policies and Ideology; Elections and Pressure Groups.

Unit 2: Governing the UK

In this unit, key areas of governance will be explored including the Constitution, Parliament, the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Judiciary and Civil Liberties.  Students will usually be given the opportunity to visit both Parliament and the UK Supreme Court and take part in interactive workshops at both of these venues.

Overview of the A2 Modules

Unit 3: Key Themes in Political Analysis - Representative Processes in the USA

You will develop a knowledge and understanding of the electoral mechanisms used in the USA and their significance.  You will be made aware of the factors that explain the outcomes of recent presidential and congressional elections, including voting behaviour and campaign finance. 

You will acquire knowledge of the ideologies, theories and traditions of the Democrats and Republicans, as well as the conflicts and coalitions within each party.  The role of third parties will also be assessed, in particular their impact and the obstacles to their participation.  Students will investigate forms of minority political activism, including the part played by interest groups and the debates about their impact upon democracy.

Unit 4: Extended Themes in Political Analysis – Governing the USA

The unit considers a number of key questions regarding American government.  How much power does a US President actually have?  To what extent does the American Constitution, with its system of checks and balances and separation of powers, allow for effective government?  How successful is Congress in its scrutiny of the executive branch?  Why has the role of the Supreme Court become increasingly controversial?