Higher Modern Studies

Course Overview

The course consists of three compulsory units and the course assessment unit.

1. Democracy in Scotland and the UK

In this unit learners will examine the electoral systems used throughout the UK as well as influences on voting behaviour. The relationship between Parliament and government will be examined as well as ways in which ordinary citizens can influence decision making.

2. Social Issues in the UK – Social Inequality

In this unit learners will examine the causes of income & wealth and health inequalities. Learners will investigate the impact of these inequalities on different groups in society. Different approaches to tackling inequality will be discussed and judgements made on whether actions taken by governments and other organisations have reduced inequality or not.

3. International Issues – World Powers (The USA)

In this unit learners will look at a leading world power and examine the US political system and its checks and balances as well as opportunities for citizens to influence decision making. Current social and economic issues will be investigated and its wider international role and influence. In addition to these units of study pupils will also develop skills in identifying objectivity, how to draw conclusions and making judgements on the reliability of sources.

Assessment

The course assessment has two components.

1. Question paper 1 (52 marks), Question paper 2 (28 marks)

2. Assignment (30 marks