GCSE Citizenship

Students will cover a number of topics in the following areas:

The legal and human rights and responsibilities underpinning society and how they relate to citizens, including the role and operation of the criminal and civil justice systems.
The origins and implications of the diverse national, regional, religious and ethnic identities in the United Kingdom and the need for mutual respect and understanding.
The work of parliament, the government and the courts in making and shaping the law.
The importance of playing an active part in democratic and electoral processes.
How the economy functions, including the role of business and financial services.
The opportunities for individuals and voluntary groups to bring about social change locally, nationally, in Europe and internationally.
The importance of a free press, and the media's role in society, including the internet, in providing information and affecting opinion.
The rights and responsibilities of consumers, employers and employees.
The United Kingdom's relations in Europe, including the European Union, and relations with the Commonwealth and the United Nations.
The wider issues and challenges of global interdependence and responsibility, including sustainable development and Local Agenda 21.

Research a topical political, spiritual, moral, social or cultural issue, problem or event by analysing information from different sources, including ICT-based sources, showing an awareness of the use and abuse of statistics.
Express, justify and defend orally and in writing a personal opinion about such issues, problems or events.
Contribute to group and exploratory class discussions, and take part in formal debates.

Use their imagination to consider other people's experiences and be able to think about, express, explain and critically evaluate views that are not their own.
Negotiate, decide and take part responsibly in school and community-based activities.
Reflect on the process of participating.