In an increasingly globalised world, understanding economics is not just advantageous; it’s essential. For students aiming to excel in this pivotal subject, A Level Economics offers a robust foundation that supports both academic and professional ambitions. Cambridge Home School Online (CHS) provides an exceptional opportunity to study A Level Economics through a sophisticated online platform that not only prepares students for university but also instils a deep understanding of key economic principles. This article explores the unique aspects of the A Level Economics course offered by CHS, detailing what prospective students can expect and how to apply.
Why Choose A Level Economics at Cambridge Home School Online?
Renowned Educational Excellence
Cambridge Home School Online stands out as a beacon of educational excellence, renowned for its commitment to providing a comprehensive British curriculum to students globally. The school’s A Level Economics programme follows the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) 9708 specification, which is esteemed for its depth and rigour. This course is acknowledged by the world’s leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and Yale, making it an ideal choice for students aspiring to high academic achievements.
Tailored Online Learning Experience
CHS utilises cutting-edge technology to deliver live interactive classes. This method ensures that each student not only engages with the material fully but also benefits from real-time interaction with MA/MSc/PhD qualified teachers. These subject specialist teachers provide personalised support, ensuring that each student has the opportunity to excel.
Course Overview
Qualification Details
- Specification: CIE 9708 Economics
- Qualification: A Level Economics
- Duration: 2 years
- Start Date: The academic year begins in September, with flexibility for mid-year enrolment.
Delivery Method
The course is delivered through state-of-the-art online classrooms that emulate the interactivity of physical classrooms. Each session is supported by one-to-one messaging and email support, allowing students to clarify concepts and deepen their understanding at their own pace.
Detailed Course Content
The A Level Economics course at CHS covers a comprehensive range of topics that equip students with the analytical tools required to analyse and interpret economic data and trends. Below is a table outlining the major areas of study:
| Unit | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| 1. Basic Economic Ideas and Resource Allocation | Scarcity, choice, opportunity cost, factors of production, resource allocation, production possibility curves, money, goods and services |
| 2. The Price System and the Micro Economy | Demand and supply curves, elasticity, market equilibrium, consumer and producer surplus |
| 3. Government Microeconomic Intervention | Taxes, subsidies, maximum and minimum prices, nationalisation and privatisation |
| 4. The Macro Economy | Aggregate demand and supply, inflation, balance of payments, exchange rates, trade |
| 5. Government Macro Intervention | Fiscal, monetary and supply-side policies, corrections for economic imbalances |
Unit 1: Basic Economic Ideas and Resource Allocation
- Scarcity, Choice, and Opportunity Cost: Understand the fundamental economic problem of scarcity, how choices are made in the face of limited resources, and the concept of opportunity costs.
- Positive and Normative Statements: Learn to differentiate between objective statements (what is) and subjective statements (what ought to be) in economic discourse.
- Factors of Production: Explore the resources used in the production of goods and services, including land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship.
- Resource Allocation in Different Economic Systems: Examine how different economic systems (capitalist, socialist, and mixed economies) allocate resources and address economic issues.
- Production Possibility Curves: Analyse diagrams that show the maximum output possibilities for two goods or services, considering available resources and technology.
- Money: Delve into the nature of money, its functions, and its importance in facilitating transactions.
- Classification of Goods and Services: Identify various types of goods such as public, private, merit, and demerit goods and understand their implications on resource allocation.
Unit 2: The Price System and the Micro Economy
- Demand and Supply Curves: Study the laws of demand and supply, and how they create equilibrium in markets.
- Elasticities: Measure how quantity demanded or supplied responds to changes in price, income, or other goods (price elasticity, income elasticity, and cross-elasticities).
- Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium: Explore conditions under which markets are in equilibrium, the effects of external disturbances, and adjustments to a new equilibrium.
- Consumer and Producer Surplus: Evaluate the benefits that consumers and producers receive from market transactions.
Unit 3: Government Microeconomic Intervention
- Maximum and Minimum Prices: Investigate price controls, such as price ceilings and floors, and their impact on markets.
- Taxes and Subsidies: Analyse the effects of different tax types (direct and indirect) and subsidies on market outcomes and economic welfare.
- Transfer Payments: Understand how governments use welfare payments and other transfers to redistribute income.
- Direct Provision of Goods and Services: Explore how and why governments provide certain goods and services directly to the public.
- Nationalisation and Privatisation: Discuss the rationale and effects of transferring ownership of enterprises from the private sector to the public sector and vice versa.
Unit 4: The Macro Economy
- Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply Analysis: Study macroeconomic indicators and their interactions to understand overall economic activity.
- Inflation: Examine causes, types, and consequences of inflation, and how it affects economic decision-making.
- Balance of Payments: Analyse a country’s transactions with the rest of the world and its implications on national economies.
- Exchange Rates: Look at factors influencing exchange rates and their impact on a country’s economic health.
- The Terms of Trade: Understand the ratio of export prices to import prices and its effects on the economy.
- Principles of Absolute and Comparative Advantage: Learn how these principles underpin international trade and the gains from trade.
Unit 5: Government Macro Intervention
- Types of Policy: Detail the various policies governments use, including fiscal, monetary, and supply-side policies, to influence economic activity.
- Policies to Correct Balance of Payments Disequilibrium and Inflation/Deflation: Explore strategies used to stabilise the economy and correct imbalances.
Assessment and Homework
Students enrolled in the A Level Economics course are expected to maintain high academic standards. The school recommends an hour of independent study for every hour spent in class to consolidate learning. The assessment structure is designed to prepare students for the final examinations and includes:
- Internal Assessments: Conducted in June (Level 5) and November (Level 6).
- Mock Assessments: Scheduled for March, with detailed feedback provided.
Parental Involvement
CHS highly values parental involvement in the educational journey. Through a dedicated Teams account, parents can communicate directly with teachers and stay updated on their child’s progress, ensuring a supportive home learning environment.
Application Process
Applying to the A Level Economics course at CHS involves a straightforward process. Prospective students are encouraged to gather their academic records and prepare for an engaging educational experience that begins in September. Mid-year admissions are also considered for students who demonstrate the ability to catch up or have prior knowledge of the course material.
What to Expect After Enrolment
Upon enrolment, students will receive comprehensive guidance on navigating the online learning platform and integrating into the CHS community. The school ensures that every student is well-prepared to embark on their academic journey in economics.
Preparation for A Level
To maximise readiness for the A Level Economics course, CHS recommends several preparatory activities:
- Watch:
- Read:
Conclusion
Choosing to study A Level Economics at Cambridge Home School Online is more than just an academic decision; it’s a step towards understanding the complexities of the global economy and preparing for a successful future. With rigorous academic standards and comprehensive support systems, CHS prepares students not just for exams, but for life.
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FAQ
Why should I choose A Level Economics at CHS?
A Level Economics at CHS is renowned for its robust curriculum and recognition by top global universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The course leverages advanced online platforms for interactive learning and is taught by expert teachers, offering a deep dive into economic theories and applications.
What topics will I study in A Level Economics?
The A Level Economics course at CHS spans a variety of essential topics across five main units: Basic Economic Ideas and Resource Allocation, The Price System and the Micro Economy, Government Microeconomic Intervention, The Macro Economy, and Government Macro Intervention. These areas equip students with the analytical tools necessary for understanding and interpreting economic data and trends.
How is the A Level Economics course delivered at CHS?
CHS delivers the A Level Economics course through state-of-the-art online classrooms that mimic the interactivity of physical classrooms. This setup is enhanced by one-to-one support from qualified teachers, providing a tailored educational experience that promotes high academic achievement.
What is the homework and assessment structure for A Level Economics at CHS?
Students are expected to engage in significant independent study, with a recommended hour of self-study for each hour spent in class. Assessments include internal exams in June and November and mock assessments in March, all designed to ensure students are well-prepared for their final examinations.
How can parents support their child’s A Level Economics studies at CHS?
CHS promotes active parental involvement through a dedicated Teams account that allows parents to communicate directly with teachers and monitor their child’s progress closely. This approach helps create a supportive learning environment and keeps parents informed about their child’s academic journey.