Economics A Level
About the course
In A Level Economics, you’ll look at the fundamental forces which affect our lives, such as employment, prices, international trade and poverty. Economists are often in healthy debate with each other over these issues. It is this controversy which makes economics lively and interesting to study, and which allows you the opportunity to make your own judgements and form your own opinions.
There are several definitions of economics, with each trying to encapsulate the essence of the subject. However, most textbooks seem to agree that economics concerns the allocation of society’s scarce resources in a world where wants are infinite. Economics is a fascinating subject because it includes the study of how people behave and interact with each other. The dynamic between consumers, manufacturers and government makes economics a vibrant subject.
Curriculum Intent
To develop students’ analytical and critical thinking skills to enable them to evaluate the world around them using economic perspectives.
What you will study
Year One
In year one you will focus on both microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics explores issues such as how markets work, fluctuating prices, pollution control, and how governments can intervene in markets.
The macroeconomic issues covered include an overview of different measures of economic performance such as inflation, economic growth, and unemployment, as well as understanding policies that can help achieve government macroeconomic objectives.
Year Two
In year two you will build on your micro and macro knowledge and study key topics related to specific themes in economics. The microeconomic unit focuses on business economics, specifically business growth and objectives, and the implications and possible government intervention related to different market structures such as monopoly markets.
The final unit of the course explores the global economy. This considers the causes and consequences of economic growth in developing economies and the impact of international trade and trading blocs on a national economy.
How the course is assessed
A Level Economics is assessed through three exam papers completed at the end of the two year course.
- Paper 1: Microeconomics - 35%
- Paper 2: Macroeconomics - 35%
- Paper 3: Microeconomics and macroeconomics - 30%
Entry requirements
- Five subjects at grade 4 or above, including English and maths
- Minimum Grade 5 GCSE Maths
Why study Economics at Windsor Sixth Form?
- Specialist teaching - The Economics department at Windsor is extremely well resourced with experienced teachers in a variety of specialisms.
- Employability skills - Studying Economics gives you an insight into how resources are allocated around the world and increases your employability skills and economic understanding.
- Real life learning - The course is applicable to real life, researching and learning global economies and how governments intervene to run them efficiently.
- Specialist teaching - The Economics Department is a sixth form focused department, passionate about their subject and committed to supporting their students.
Other courses that go well with Economics
Students often study Economics A Level with law, business, mathematics, geography, history, politics, philosophy, maths and languages.
What can you do after the course
Economics is a versatile subject that can help you in a number of careers. Not only could you find yourself working for big corporations, banks or the government but your qualification in economics could also be a valuable support in a career like marketing, law, journalism or teaching.
Taking A level Economics can lead to studying economics at degree level or in combination with other subjects such as accounting or maths. You may also be attracted to an apprenticeship route to a career in the legal, accounting or finance sectors.
Where do our students progress to after the course?
Students have progressed to studying economics at university as well as a range of other subjects including business, maths and robotics.