National 5 Modern Studies

Course Overview

This course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of current political and social issues in local, Scottish, United Kingdom and international contexts. You will develop an awareness of the social and political issues you will meet in your life. You will develop investigating, evaluating and analysing skills in order to understand and explain political, social and international issues.

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

Course Content

1. Democracy in Scotland and the United Kingdom - Democracy in Scotland

In this unit learners will examine the features of a democracy and the main Scottish political institutions. You will examine electoral systems, the work of representatives and look at whether people in Scotland are fairly represented. Learners will also learn methods of participation and how our views can be communicated to those in power.

2. Social Issues in the United Kingdom - Crime and the Law

In this unit learners will look at the nature and extent of crime in Scotland and the UK and examine the different causes of crime. Learners will develop an understanding of the impact of crime on different groups. Learners will also look at how crime is tackled by examining the role of the police and the Scottish court system. Different types of punishments will be examined (custodial and non-custodial) and judgements made on their effectiveness.

3. International Issues - World Powers: USA

In this unit learners will look at a leading world power and examine the US political system, social and economic issues and its wider international role and influence.

In addition to these units of study pupils will also develop skills in decision making, selectivity and how to draw conclusions.

Progression

To other National Courses in the Humanities and to Higher Modern Studies.

Assessment

The course assessment has two components.

1. A question paper (80 marks)

2. An assignment (20 marks)