A Level Business
What is it about at sixth form level?
Business is possibly one of the most practical and topical A level subjects. It demonstrates the interrelated nature of business using business models, theories and techniques to support analysis of contemporary business issues and situations. The content is designed to engage students through topics and issues that are relevant in today’s society. In addition to the classic business functions you will study key contemporary developments such as digital technology and business ethics, while the impact of globalisation is covered throughout the topics.
Business is an accessible introduction to the key external and internal issues common to all businesses, which are then applied to a wide variety of businesses in different industries. It aims to develop skills similar to those required by a business analyst; these skills will be useful for further study but will also enable A level graduates to look objectively and analytically at their own or other businesses. Whilst no prior knowledge of business is required or needed, just curiosity about why, for example, Apple is one of the most successful firms in the world, how the independent cafés near you survive alongside Starbucks and in Australia for example beat Starbucks or why cigarette manufacturing has left the UK but BMW has not.
Why study it and what skills does it develop?
Business is an accessible introduction to the key external and internal issues common to all businesses, which are then applied to a wide variety of businesses in different industries. It aims to develop skills similar to those required by a business analyst; these skills will be useful for further study but will also enable A level graduates to look objectively and analytically at their own or other businesses.
What prior knowledge and skills are required?
No prior knowledge of business is required or needed. GCSE level Maths is preferred.
How is the course assessed?
Students sitting the A level will sit two papers in May/June of year one and two more at the end of year two, unless they wish to retake the AS units too.
Paper 1 contains four short answer questions and one essay from a choice of three questions. Paper 2 contains two data response questions. Both are based on AS level syllabus.
Paper 3 contains five questions based on a case study. Paper 4 contains 2 questions based on a case study. Both are based on syllabus from year two but assume knowledge of year one.
Paper 1 is worth 40 marks, Paper 2 is 60 marks, Paper 3 is 60 marks, and Paper 4 is 40 marks.
Reading
Coursebook: Cambridge International AS and A Level Business for first examinisation in 2023
By Stimpson & Farqhuarson
9781108921220
Access to business websites such as BBC Business news, tutor2u, Financial Times.
Exam Board and Specification Codes
CAIE Cambridge International 9609
Sarah Ratcliffe
Head of Department
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