Higher Modern Studies

Higher Modern Studies gives you the chance to explore the real issues that shape life in Scotland and across the world, including politics, social inequality, and international affairs. You will develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, research, and confident communication. These transferable skills are highly respected by colleges, universities, and employers. Higher Modern Studies not only supports success after school in a wide range of careers, but also helps you become an informed, active citizen who understands their rights, responsibilities, and role in society.

Unit 1 – Democracy in Scotland and the United Kingdom

Learners will study topics such as: the United Kingdom constitutional arrangement including the role of the Scottish Parliament and other devolved bodies and the impact of UK membership of the European Union; the study of political institutions and processes; voting systems and their impact; the impact of a range of factors which affect voting behaviour; and the ways in which citizens are informed about, participate in, and influence the political process.

Unit 2 – Social Inequality in the UK

Pupils will focus on social inequality in the UK by exploring which groups are unequal in our society and why. There will also be an evaluation of the impact this has on our society and how we can attempt to tackle inequality.

Unit 3 – International Powers – The United States of America 

This section will explore the political arrangements that make up the US political system; and the extent of participation in US politics. The unit will also examine social and economic issues in the USA and their impact on specific groups. The course will further analyse the effectiveness of government responses to these issues. Finally you will examine the USA’s  role within international relations. 

External Examination:

Component 1 - Question Paper (73%)

Paper 1 will consist of three extended-response questions, worth a total of 52 marks, and will have a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Paper 2 will include three skills-based questions, worth a total of 28 marks, and will have a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The examination is marked out of 80 marks in total and will assess content from all three sections of the course. 

Total examination time: 3 hours.

Component 2 – Assignment (27%) 

This element is out of 30 marks and requires learners to choose a Modern Studies issue to research and reach a decision about. The research will be conducted both in class and in their own time but the write up, which is in the format of a report, is done under exam conditions in school written in 1 hour 30 minutes and will be sent away to be externally marked.

The Course is graded A–D and takes both elements into account.