Modern Studies
Modern Studies helps pupils to interpret and participate in the social and political issues they will meet in their adult lives.
Through the study of contemporary social phenomena, at both domestic and international levels, and by focusing directly on social and political issues, Modern Studies aims to: develop a knowledge and understanding of the processes of political decision making in modern societies and develop political literacy using the terminology of the social sciences, especially politics and sociology; develop an understanding of the interactions between, social and economic factors in contemporary societies; encourage pupils to arrive at,and communicate balanced opinions and informed attitudes based on critical thought and evidence; and encourage pupils to develop as tolerant, responsible, reasoning and active participants in society.
SI
The first unit introduces pupils to Modern Studies and develops the ideas of Rights and Responsibilities. In particular, the idea of universal human rights and specific human rights abuse in the UK and around the world are highlighted. At the end of the unit there is a written examination. The first three quarters of the examination is Knowledge and Understanding which relies on the pupil's understanding and recall of information from the course. The final quarter of the exam is Enquiry Skills in which pupils answer questions relating to a variety of sources both written and statistical. The second unit focuses on democracy with students developing their enquiry skills through an investigation of pressure groups.
SII
Pupils study the theme of inequality, through a detailed study of the USA, including immigration, integration and the multicultural society. Political, social and economic inequality are considered against the backdrop of the ‘American Dream’. Two thirds of the marks are devoted to Knowledge and Understanding, while the final third is based on Enquiry Skills, which require pupils to interpret and evaluate information based on source material. Subsequently, there is a more detailed analysis of political, social and economic inequality. Pupils will further develop their enquiry skills by producing their own investigative study on ‘Inequality in the USA’.
SIII–SIV Standard Grade
The Modern Studies course develops an understanding of organisations and processes that underpin political, social and economic life at local, national and international levels. The overall grade in Modern Studies is determined by weighting Enquiry Skills at 60% and Knowledge and Understanding at 40% of the marks.
SV/SVI Higher
Modern Studies at Higher level makes a significant contribution to a well-balanced individual curriculum with appropriate emphasis being given to the skills of communicating learning, creative thinking and critical evaluation. Pupils study political and international issues at the same time as developing an understanding of the political and social processes operating in the contemporary world. Pupils also study participation and representation of citizens in a democratic society as well as focus on the moral and ethical dilemmas facing society today.
SVI Advanced Higher
Advanced Higher Modern Studies is concerned with developing the candidate’s knowledge and understanding, evaluative and investigative skills in relation to Modern Studies topics. They have the opportunity to undertake a study of issues concerning Law and Order. This includes a study of the theories of law, a study of both the Criminal Justice System and the Penal System and an analysis of the causes of crime and public disorder.
Pupils are also taught to assess critically a variety of political and social science research methods, and to carry out independent research to develop their investigative skills (planning, researching, analysing and presenting).