Economics (GCSE)

Exam Board: OCR

Course Overview:

GCSE Economics provides a well rounded introduction for the advanced study of the subject. By learning how 

to explain and evaluate economic problems and possible solutions, pupils will acquire a way of thinking as economists and develop a logical approach to thinking and reasoning. By learning how to use economic data from a range of sources, such as tables, charts and graphs, pupils will acquire the skills to make informed judgements and to communicate in a clear and concise way. Pupils will benefit from these transferable skills in their further study and employment. Economics is an academic subject that is highly thought of both by universities and employers. Economics degrees have been found to be the second most lucrative degree five and ten years after graduating (after Medicine), but studying economics will help with all career paths – whether in the private, public or charity sector.

Course Content:

GCSE Economics is a two year course covering both microeconomics and macroeconomics. Pupils learn microeconomics in the first year through covering introductory topics and the role of markets and money. 

They then switch to macroeconomics in the second year and cover economic objectives, the role of government, international trade and the global economy.

Assessment Structure:

All assessment is through two exams at the end of the course (with multiple choice, short and longer answer questions):

• Paper 1: Introduction to Economics (1 hour and 30 minutes written paper)

• Paper 2: National and International Economics (1 hour and 30 minutes written paper)

The key areas of study for Year 1 are:

• Main economic groups and factors of production

• The basic economic problem

• The role of markets

• Demand

• Supply

• Price

• Competition

• Production

• The labour market

• The role of money and financial markets

The key areas of study for Year 2 are:

• Economic growth

• Unemployment

• Inequality

• Inflation

• Fiscal policy

• Monetary policy

• Supply-side policy

• Limitations of markets

• International trade

• Balance of payments

• Exchange rates

• Globalisation

Extra Curricular Opportunities:

Debating club, access to trips and talks from the Bank of England. 

Career Prospects and Transferable Skills:

Anyone with an interest in current affairs and knowing more about the way the world works. If pupils have a particular interest in business, human geography, or politics then this could be the course for them. GCSE Economics will enable pupils to become better-informed and more responsible citizens, consumers and producers, by allowing them to develop an awareness for the importance of the economic dimension to our 

lives. This will allow them to become more confident in the economic choices relating to their life and work.

Further Information: Naomi Francis - email:  naomi.francis@scwa.org.uk