Overview of Course

Higher Politics will develop learners’ understanding of society by helping them to develop an understanding of political theory, political systems in the UK and international contexts, and factors affecting the electoral performance of political parties. Learners develop an awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political theories, systems and parties.

Course Content

Unit 1: Political Theory

This unit critically examines the key political concepts of power, authority and legitimacy, with reference to the work of Steven Lukes and Max Weber and analyses the relevance of these concepts today. Learners study the nature of democracy and the arguments for and against direct and representative democracy. They will also study the key ideas from two political ideologies chosen from: Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism and Fascism.

Unit 2: Political Systems

Learners study the constitutional arrangements in different political systems. Focusing on the role of the executive and legislative branches within each system. Learners will compare and contrast the powers of individual branches of government within two political systems: the UK and the USA.

Unit 3: Political Parties and Elections

Learners will compare the electoral impact of two different dominant ideas from two different political parties chosen from: Conservative Party, Labour Party, Liberal Democrats and Scottish National Party. This is studied alongside the impact of political campaign management strategies and theoretical analysis of voting behaviour.

Assessment

The course assessment consists of an examination and a research assignment. Paper 1 of the exam will assess learners’ abilities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills of analysis and evaluation through the completion of three essays. Paper 2 will allow learners to apply their skills through the completion of two enquiry skill questions. Overall, the exam accounts for 73% of the final grade for the course. The remaining 27% is assessed through the completion of a research assignment on a topic of their own choice.

Skills

Learners build up a framework of political knowledge and understanding through interpreting, evaluating and commenting on political issues. They develop higher-order thinking skills through research and critical-thinking activities. Through essay writing learners will develop analysis and evaluation skills to help them to interpret and understand political issues. This develops attributes that are important for life and work.