Economics
KS4 (Years 10 and 11): IGCSE
EDEXCEL 4EC1
The course is designed to give students a sound understanding of economics, and the ability to use knowledge, skills and understanding appropriately in the context of individual countries and the global economy.
What will I learn?
The aims of the course are to
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develop an understanding of economic concepts and apply these concepts to real-life situations
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calculate, interpret and evaluate economic data in order to make reasoned arguments and informed judgements
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develop an awareness of economic change and its impact on developing and developed economies
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understand economic issues, problems and possible solutions that affect mixed economies
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participate effectively in society as citizens, producers and consumers.
Curriculum Content
There are two written papers of 1 hour and 30 minutes each.
What sort of homework will I be set?
Your homework will be to
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read sources to interpret and evaluate economic information
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write extended responses
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respond appropriately to a range of question types, including multiple-choice, shortanswer, data response and open-ended questions
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develop an understanding of economic concepts and apply these concepts to real-life situations.
Sixth form: International AS and A level
EDEXCEL XEC11/YEC11
Students will be taught to select, interpret and evaluate different types of data from multiple sources and in different forms, for example, diagrams, graphs, tables and index numbers; carry out simple calculations, for example, percentages, percentage change and index numbers; distinguish between real and nominal data; use simple statistical tools to analyse changes in distribution, for example deciles and to construct simple graphs.
Curriculum Content
The course is designed to give you
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an introduction to the nature of economics and examines how the price mechanism allocates resources in local, national and global markets.
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An introduction to the key measures of economic performance and the main objectives and instruments of economic policy in an international context.
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An understanding of how pricing and the nature of competition between firms is affected by the number and size of market participants.
How is the course assessed?
There will be two written papers, each of 1 hour 45 minutes, examined at the end of Year 12 to give an IAS in Economics.
At the end of Year 13 there will be a further two written papers, each of 2 hours, to give an IAL in Economics.
What are the GCSE requirements for this course?
Though Economics at IAS & IA2 does not involve significant use of mathematical techniques, it is helpful for students to be at ease with numerical data. Interpretation and analysis of economic variables is a key component of the course. We therefore recommend that students have at least a grade 6/B in Mathematics and English Language. Students choosing IAS Economics will be required to pass Economics at IGCSE level with a minimum Grade C.
Future Career Choices
This course prepares you for careers such as Banking & Finance, International Relations, Diplomatic Core, Local Government, European Markets, Business, Law, Media, Psychology, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Town Planning, and many more