Embedded Files
This course is optional
What will you study in this course?
What will you study in this course?
This course has three mandatory units designed to develop knowledge and understanding of various themes and concepts but also to develop skills for learning, life and work. Pupils will study:
Democracy in Scotland: Pupils will become familiar with the structure of democracy in Scotland. They will be informed with regards to their rights and responsibilities within a democratic country and be aware of the different methods by which people can participate in a democracy and how decision makers can be influenced.
Social Issues in the UK: Pupils will explore the causes and consequences of crime in the UK. They will learn about the Criminal Justice System in Scotland and investigate ways to tackle crime in society.
International Issues: Pupils will learn about co-operation and conflict on a global scale. Pupils will consider the causes and consequences, as well as evaluating attempts to resolve conflict. The focus throughout will be the Syrian conflict.
Within all units there will be ample opportunities for pupils to develop analytical skills through working with a variety of sources. Pupils will learn to identify accuracy and bias, and make informed judgements and draw conclusions which can be justified and supported. These are skills which will be developed on from S3.
Where does this course lead to?
Where does this course lead to?
Depending on their level of study, pupils can progress through the National Levels or move on to the Higher course.
Course methodology
Course methodology
A wide range of learning and teaching approaches will be employed in order to actively engage pupils in the lessons. Pupils will be encouraged to discuss and share ideas and opinions with a view to helping them to think independently and make informed judgements. Pupils will develop their skills in extended writing in both an analytical and descriptive context. Resources will be varied and include booklets, DVDs, power points, the Internet, and textbooks. There will also be opportunities to link with the wider community through fieldwork and/or inviting visitors into the class.
Assessment in this course
Assessment in this course
National 3
Pupils must pass all of the required unit assessments. These will be internally assessed on a pass or fail basis.
There is no added value unit or internal/external exam.
National 4
Pupils must pass all of the required units, including the Added Value Unit. All will be assessed internally on a pass or fail basis.
There is no external/final examination.
National 5
Pupils will have an internal assessment on each unit. These will be assessed on a pass or fail basis.
Added Value Assignment
The course assessment will provide the basis for grading attainment from A – D. The question paper will be worth 60 marks and the Assignment will be worth 20 marks.
Additional Information
Additional Information
The National 4 Course includes an Added Value Unit. Learners will choose an issue for personal study drawn from one of the course contexts. Pupils will research their chosen issue and present their findings.
National 5 pupils will also be expected to carry out an Assignment, following much of the same process as the National 4s but also a write-up of their findings under exam conditions to be submitted to the SQA.
Regular homework will be integral to the course.
The following resources are very useful for this course:
News sites
Newspapers
Page updated
Report abuse