Economics

Head of Department: Mr P Herbert

Students will investigate and explore the role of money and financial markets and their importance to individuals, organisations, and government in achieving their objectives. The role of the government and its economic objectives and why they are desirable. The limitations of markets in allocating resources and the role of government where markets fail. The reasons why countries trade and the importance of international trade to the UK.

This course is offered at Key Stage 4 and is an after-school option only.

See below or click the downloads for detailed curriculum information.

 

If you would like to view related Key Stage 5 courses, please click the links below:

A Level - Economics

 

What is GCSE Economics?

Economics is “a study of how we try to reconcile our infinite wants with the scarce resources available to us.” 

To take this a stage further, Thomas Sowell once stated:

“The first lesson of economics is scarcity: there is never enough of anything to fully satisfy those who want it.  The first lesson of politics is to disregard the first lesson of economics.”

What skills will I develop?

The course is designed for those students who have an interest in economic issues and are perhaps also considering studying economics at A Level.

Students will actively engage in the study of economics to develop as effective and independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.

Additional reading is essential for this subject. 

What syllabus will I follow?

The Examination Board is OCR and the course code is J205

What will the course look like?

The course is based on four learning objectives:

• Introduction to Economics
• The role of markets and money
• Economic objectives and the role of government
• International trade and the global economy

 What homework will I get?

Students are recommended to devote at least one hour a week to independent study. This will include case study questions and additional reading.

How will I be assessed?

Students will sit two written exam papers (1 hour 30 mins each) which will be taken at the end of year 11:

• Introduction to Economics (80 marks)
• National and International Economics (80 marks)

What jobs or further courses of study might this lead to?

This course can lead to studying A Level Economics, which we offer here at Comberton Sixth Form.  It is also a useful course for those students who are considering careers in finance, banking or politics.

Are there any entry requirements for this course?

This course will run as an after-school option and is open to those students who have the capacity to take on an additional GCSE subject.

If I need additional support, what can I access?

Students are provided with a course textbook and useful revision materials including access to the online virtual learning environment.  For after-school options, there is a £300 per year charge to cover the cost of teaching and resources

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