General Studies

This is an AS Level course, one of a group of qualifications open to students mid-year, if they wish to change what they are studying.

Overview

General Studies course is suitable for enthusiastic and able students who will follow a 10-week (2 periods a week) course, leading to the two AS examinations in June.  A high proportion of students then progress to a second short course of similar duration in the Autumn of their second year, leading to the two A2 examinations in January. It is therefore possible to gain a full A Level.

Course Outline

The course explores a wide range of topical issues, which you will find interesting and stimulating, and of relevance to your other subjects.

Units 1 and 3 explore issues relating to Culture and Society.

Units 2 and 4 consider the impact of science and technology on society.

Assessment

The two AS units are examined through a combination of multiple choice and short answer questions, based on stimulus material. The two A2 examinations again make use of multiple choice and short answer questions, but also involve some structured longer answers.

Special Entry Requirements

Candidates should have gained at least C grades in Mathematics, English and Science at GCSE, and an average GCSE score of 5.0 or above. However, the secret of success in this subject is to have a healthy interest in topical issues, and to enjoy discussing and writing about them.

Career and Progression Opportunities

General Studies is a well-respected qualification by admissions tutors in higher education and employers. Evidence suggests that it will be directly or indirectly helpful in gaining a place on a degree course in 70% of cases. Many universities will make an offer based on an aggregate points score, including General Studies.

Employers are looking for applicants for jobs who can demonstrate that they possess a wide range of skills and a broad knowledge of topical issues. General Studies is compulsory in many schools and colleges, therefore by gaining this qualification, you are making yourself more marketable. Finally, the course helps you to adopt an inter-disciplinary approach to the study of many important issues, and to develop well-founded opinions.

Other Information

What will lessons be like?

Lessons will be varied and enjoyable. We will make use of video material, newspapers, simulation exercises, discussions, debates, presentations, visiting speakers, lead lectures and of course examination questions. We have purchased class sets of several useful textbooks, we have collected many relevant articles available for loan, and we have ensured that the Library shelves are well stocked.

How much work will I have to do in my own time?

You would not thank us if we expected you to produce a series of time-consuming written assignments, which interfered with your study of your other AS and A2 courses. Therefore, although you will have plenty of opportunities to complete past questions during lessons, homework assignments will be short tasks which can be completed in a few minutes. We will of course provide independent learning resources and useful research ideas for those of you who want to devote more time to private study.

What will my teachers expect of me?

We expect you to take the course seriously, treating General Studies as you would any AS/A-Level subject. Good attendance and punctuality, a well-organised folder, the completion of simple extension tasks and the effective use of consultation opportunities are the keys to success.

What can I expect of my teachers in return?

We will ensure that a variety of approaches to learning are adopted, provide appropriate resources for further study, give you the opportunity to practise past papers and provide regular feedback on your progress. Finally, you can rely on us to focus on the development of the kinds of skills and techniques which are tested in the examinations.

Among the recent successful students to have taken this course is Jessica Delaney. Jessica came to the College from Arden School. She achieved four As and a B in A Level General Studies, Business Studies, Psychology, Travel & Tourism and History. She has since progressed to Exeter University to study Management with Tourism.