Citizenship

The primary aim of this subject is to improve young people’s understanding of the rights and responsibilities of all citizens, both within the UK and globally.

We will give students an understanding of the history, development and importance of these rights and responsibilities. Students will learn how to become active citizens, having an awareness of issues locally, nationally and internationally. They will learn about different campaigns which have led to progressive and positive changes within our society. Ultimately, we will equip students with the skills needed to participate in society and make a positive difference

Key Stage 3

The course at KS3 covers topics such as; the media, government and politics, human rights law, the legal system in the UK, diversity of UK citizens and the need for mutual respect. Students will study the way elections in the UK work and the actions individuals can take to influence decisions locally, nationally and globally.

What will students learn?

Year 8
  • The law and the justice system.
  • Criminal law and corrective punishment.
  • The structure of Parliament.
  • Understanding of elections.
  • The media and its impact on society and individuals.

 

How will students be assessed?

Students will be assessed through in-class questioning and activities, through weekly homework and an end of unit summative assessment.

Key Stage 4

Citizenship at GCSE allows students to deepen their understanding of key issues that affect people in Britain today, as well as look at examples of being a good citizen, such as Marcus Rashford’s campaign on child poverty. Students research and explore the work of parliamentary democracy in the UK, and the role of citizens and Parliament in holding those in power to account, including the media. Students will also learn practical skills and techniques to enable them to weigh up evidence, make persuasive arguments in a debate and prove conclusions. Students learn to research, analyse and communicate effectively. We follow the AQA GCSE specification. 

What will students learn?

Year 10

Year 11

Term 1

  • An introduction to citizenship.
  • Understanding activism and researching examples where they have impacted on society.

 

Term 2

  • The principles and values of British society.
  • Understanding British identity.
  • The media and the free press.
  • The UKs role in key international organisations.

 

Term 3

  • Laws in contemporary society.
  • Rights and responsibilities within the legal system.
  • How laws protect citizens and deal with criminals.
  • Universal human rights.

 

 

Term 1

  • Activism.
  • Student led project.

 

Term 2

  • Political power in the UK.
  • Legal and devolved government.
  • How to bring about political change.

 

Term 3

  • Revision.

 

How is the course assessed?

There are two examination papers which will be taken at the end of Year 11. Within the exams students must understand the key knowledge, key terminology and have an in-depth understanding of activism. Students will have carried out their own campaigns which they will be assessed on in the exam. Exam preparation will be included within lessons throughout the year.

Students will also have a weekly homework booklet to complete as well as being assessed on a formative basis within lesson and in a more summative way through a key assessment at the end of each unit.    

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