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A Level Economics

A Level Economics at St Edmund’s College will introduce and expand your knowledge of how individual people and businesses use resources.

Economics combines elements of mathematics, with broader social, financial and cultural perspectives to explore how our economy works and to understand the transfer of wealth. Through A Level Economics, you will explore different economic theories and models, and apply them to some of today’s most topical issues and key challenges of the 21st century.

Enrichment opportunities at St Ed’s include:

  • Class projects, study groups and organised competitions
  • Economics Society
  • Opportunities for social interaction and networking with faculty and St Ed’s alumni
  • London Stock Exchange visit to experience real life trading, including a tour of the London offices
Head of Department Miss E Chilton
Syllabus Edexcel (9ECO)

 

Course structure

  • Unit 1: Introduction to markets and market failure – introduction to microeconomic concepts.
  • Unit 2: The UK economy: Performance and Politics – introduction to macroeconomic concepts.
  • Unit 3: Business behaviour and the Labour Market –  develop understanding of the concepts introduced in Unit 1 and focus on business economics.
  • Unit 4: A global perspective – develop understanding of the concept introduced in Unit 2 and apply these to a global context.

Rhetoric I (Year 12)

Over the course of the year Units 1 and 2 will be studied. The year ends on two internal examinations, on each of the units.

Rhetoric II (Year 13)

Over the final year of study Unit 3 and 4 will be studied. The year ends with three two-hour external examinations:

Paper 1 - 35% 2 hours written

Markets and Business Behaviour

  • Questions are drawn from Unit 1 and 3 and assesses microeconomics.
Paper 2 - 35% 2 hours written

The national and global economy

  • Questions are drawn from Unit 2 and 4 and assesses macroeconomics.
Paper 3 - 30% 2 hours written

Microeconomics and macroeconomics

  • Questions are drawn from all units.

 

Key skills developed
Using language, numbers and ICT to analyse the economy Understanding and interpreting information in verbal, numerical and graphical format and presenting findings using written communication and ICT
Presenting analysis of the impact of events on economies Personal qualities such as initiative, self-confidence and independence
Understanding methods and language used in economic contexts People, communication, planning and teamworking skills
Examining the implications of complex and changing dynamics Knowledge and skills relevant to the economic world through practical participation in a range of activities
Techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in
working life

 

A Level Economics can lead to a range of careers, drawing on the transferable skills developed, such as including collecting and analysing economic information from different sources, developing written communication skills and problem-solving.

Future pathways

A Level Economics is particularly relevant for careers in the finance sector including banking, accountancy, tax advice, actuarial work, investment banking, financial analyst roles, management consultancy, insurance and trading.

Economics can also lead to roles in the management, marketing, journalism, sales and advertising, human resource management, ICT and education sectors.