IT'S ABOUT YOU! - 16pluspathways

40
GENERAL STUDIES
AND CRITICAL
THINKING
General Studies: AS and A2 Level
The General Studies course draws upon some issues that
you have probably studied at GCSE whilst others will be
new. It will develop greater awareness of human
knowledge, understanding and behaviour and it will
help you to communicate more clearly and to draw
conclusions based upon evidence.
Course details The course involves a study, across the
modules Space, Power, Conflict and Change, of the
following five themes: Science and Technology, Society
and Politics, Arts and Media, Business and Industry, Beliefs
and Values.
How is it assessed? Each unit will be assessed by a 1.5
hour exam, two in the AS year and two in the A2 year.
Course duration One year at AS level. One year at
A2 level.
What do I need to study this subject? Five or more A*-C
appropriate GCSEs or equivalent at one sitting. BTEC
First if used as part of the equivalent must be at Merit
or above.
Where can this lead me? A qualification in General
Studies will provide you with a wide range of career and
higher education opportunities. Major employers and
universities need people who have wide general
knowledge and the ability to make connections between
different subjects. General Studies will fill this need and
boost your chances of a university place or a good job.
What are the enrichment opportunities? Enrichment
opportunities vary from year to year. We visit museums,
the local area, university conferences, theatres and the
cinema. General Studies students have recently had the
opportunity to visit Greece and the USA. It should be
noted that many universities value the subject and some
count it as a full A level course.
Critical Thinking: AS Level
Do you want to improve your thinking? Do you want to
win an argument or two? Do you want to see through the
arguments of those who are trying to manipulate you?
If so, AS Critical Thinking is for you.
Course details AS Critical Thinking is a useful qualification
to have because it shows you are developing your
powers of thought. The course develops the essential
thinking skills necessary for higher study, complex and
technical subjects and everyday life. Students study the
elements of reasoning: evaluate evidence and
arguments, identify assumptions, clarify ideas and
present arguments.
How is it assessed? Two 1.5 hour exams.
Course duration One year full-time.
What do I need to study this subject? A good record of
success at GCSE.
Where can this lead me? This course is specifically for
students wishing to apply to universities that are highly
selective in their intake or for students who want to
enhance their career prospects. This course is highly
valued by universities and employers.
What are the enrichment opportunities? This subject
provides skills which will come in use for all your other
subjects. Enrichment opportunities vary from year to year.