Business Studies – KS5 – A Level
Course name: A Level BUSINESS STUDIES
Examination Board and syllabus no:
AQA – 1131/2131
Course Outline
AS outline
At AS Level, this specification introduces candidates to the challenges and issues of starting a business, including financial planning. It then focuses on how established businesses might improve their effectiveness by making tactical decisions at a functional level:
- Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business
- Unit 2: Managing a Business.
A2 outline
At A2, this specification considers strategies for larger businesses and how managers might measure the performance of the business. Finally, it considers the effects that external factors can have on businesses and how a business can plan for and manage change, including leadership style and change in business culture:
- Unit 3: Strategies for Success
- Unit 4: The Business Environment and Change.
For full details go www.aqa.org.uk
Assessment
There is no coursework in Business Studies
In the first year you’ll sit two papers, one one each of the learning topics you have studied.
Unit 1 examination based on the first topic is usually taken in January.
The paper lasts 75 minutes and accounts for 20% of your total A Level marks.
Unit 2 examination is based on the second topic and is taken in May/June.
The paper lasts 90 minutes and accounts for 30% of your total A Level marks. A pass in year one is recognised with an AS level.
It’s similar in year two.
Unit 3 examination is based on the third topic and lasts 105 minutes
and accounts for 25% of your total A Level marks.
Unit 4 examination is based on the fourth topic also lasts 105 minutes and accounts for 25% of your total.
Unit four is based on a research task
Homework
Homework is given regularly, it may be text book exercises, case studies, examination questions or research tasks. Students are expected to undertake independent study and keep all notes up to date.
Equipment required
Students will need a textbook, they will be expected to bring a folder, calculator and pen to all lessons. A subscription to ‘Business Review’ is also recommended.
Useful publications/websites
Full reading list available on www.aqa.org.uk under Business Studies – Teacher Resource Bank
Students are advised to keep abreast of the news and of current affairs. They should watch relevant business programmes on the television. Students should ensure they read a ‘quality’ newspaper at least two or three times per week.
Supporting your child’s progress
Parents can support student’s progress by discussing events in the news, speaking about jobs and job roles, encouraging them to keep work up to date.