AS / A2 Citizenship Studies

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
If you value your civil liberties and want to explore further the issues surrounding life in a democratic society, this may be the course for you. The Citizenship course focuses on; rights and responsibilities, what it means to be an active citizen and aspects of identity, democracy, justice, power and participation. Students studying Law, Public Services, Sociology or Politics will find the course of particular interest and relevance.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
At AS Level, you will focus on:
Identity and Democracy - What it means to be British, and if there is equality amongst citizens. You will explore a citizen’s rights and responsibilities, and how these are protected and supported.

In Community Action and Active Citizenship you will consider who can make a difference in society, examining the nature of power in the UK. Topics include the influence of the media and the impact of government. You will also explore the role of individual citizens, and how, through pressure groups and campaigns, they work together to bring about change.

At A2 Level, the course focuses on:
Power and Justice. What is crime and justice? Who speaks on the citizen’s behalf? How is the UK governed?
Global Issues and Making a Difference. Universal Human Rights; Global Issues; Active Citizenship.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The two units at AS and A2 Level are all assessed by written examination. The papers consist of source-based questions and short essays.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
You should have a strong interest in current affairs. Study of topical issues will also aid you in developing skills in effective debating, essay-writing and in analysing and presenting arguments. You will participate in an active Citizenship project, developing teamwork and independent study skills. An interest in issues outside the academic curriculum is beneficial. You should be willing to join in discussions and explore arguments in written essays. There will be some topics that will require independent research.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Students have benefited from discussing issues surrounding rights, responsibilities and justice, and used the knowledge gained in interviews for employment and to support University applications. An AS/A2 in Citizenship links well with many University degrees and careers.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Students studying Citizenship have participated in events such as a Parliamentary Day, where they took part in a range of activities organised by visiting speakers from Parliament.