Economics 

Introduction

Economics is a small department at Rishworth as the subject is only taught in the Sixth Form, where it is popular with students pursuing a wide variety of other A Level subjects. Economics is a fascinating subject that deals with the real world in which we all live, seeking to explain how we make the difficult choices we face every day - 'we' being individuals, firms and governments. As well as examining the theoretical background of the subject and its practical application to problems such as conserving the environment, the future for road users, the impact of the rapidly growing Chinese economy and the case for joining the Euro, we also keep a close 'eye' on the news and on current affairs so that our knowledge of Economics is always up to date. Accordingly , there is much emphasis in the classroom on discussion of current affairs.

Economics at Rishworth

Economics is studied to A Level in 2 years. Two modules are studied in year 12.

1.  The Economics of the market ( Demand, Supply and Price), market failure and government policy (including problems such as pollution and congestion)                    

2. The National and International Economy (including problems such as inflation and unemployment, and policies to address them)

Passes in these modules give an AS grade.

Two further modules are studied in the second year.

3.  Transport Economics

4.  The Global Economy (including an in-depth study of UK, EU and global trends)

Passes in these modules, together with AS grades give an A2 grade.

Module examinations at AS Level take the form of compulsory case study questions requiring short and longer answers. Module examinations at A2 follow a similar pattern but have an emphasis on longer answers that involve evaluation and assessment. The final module features pre-released stimulus material.

Outside the Classroom

Students are encouraged to read a broadsheet newspaper and to use the Internet to access up to date information and articles on economic affairs. Sixth form students normally attend a conference each year, featuring influential politicians, economists and journalists, and a chief examiner. Students of Economics in recent years have gone on to study Economics, Law, History and Business-related degrees at university.