National 4

Why choose this course?

The Modern Studies course allows students to study the modern world.

We look at political, social and economic issues that affect life in Scotland, the United Kingdom and across the world.

In addition to giving pupils knowledge and understanding of important contemporary issues, the following skills will be developed through the course:

· Finding information to support and oppose a point of view.

· Making conclusions.

· Making decisions.

· Researching the modern world.

Entry requirements

On the recommendation of your Modern Studies teachers in S1-3.

Course Structure

There are three main areas of study within the course:

· Democracy in Scotland and the UK: Democracy in Scotland

· Social Issues in the UK: Crime & Law

· International Issues: Development Issues in Africa

Course Assessment

There are four elements to the course assessment:

· Unit assessment on Democracy

· Unit assessment on Social Issues

· Unit assessment on International Issues

· Added Value Unit – An assignment on a topic of your choice.

Progression / Higher Education & careers

The knowledge and skills you will develop in Modern Studies will be useful in many different careers. If you are successful in passing the assessments, you will receive a national qualification from SQA. After completing National 4 you can progress to study National 5 Modern Studies. Modern Studies is useful for many jobs but especially work in the media, law, politics, teaching, education, government/local council work, business & international work.

Gaelic Medium Option

Nuadh-eòlas (Modern Studies) is available as a Gaelic Medium option in S4.

Pupils in Gaelic Medium Education are encouraged to study subjects through Gaelic in order for their Gaelic skills to continue to develop. There are increasing career opportunities for people with good Gaelic skills. Studying Modern Studies through the medium of Gaelic would be a good option for anyone wanting to pursue a career where Gaelic is an essential or desirable skill.