Qualification at a Glance

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Chemistry consists of three externally examined papers and the Science Practical Endorsement. Students are expected to carry out sixteen core practical experiments identified in the topics.

Paper 1: Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (Paper code: 9CH0/01)

• Content Covered:
  • Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table
  • Bonding and Structure
  • Redox I
  • Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table
  • Formulae, Equations, and Amounts of Substance
  • Energetics I
  • Equilibrium I
  • Equilibrium II
  • Acid-base Equilibria
  • Energetics II
  • Redox II
  • Transition Metals
• Assessment:
  • Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Marks: 90
  • Types of questions: Multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations, extended writing
  • Mathematics at Level 2 or above: Minimum 20%

Paper 2: Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry (Paper code: 9CH0/02)

• Content Covered:
  • Bonding and Structure
  • Redox I
  • Formulae, Equations, and Amounts of Substance
  • Organic Chemistry I
  • Modern Analytical Techniques I
  • Kinetics I
  • Kinetics II
  • Organic Chemistry II
  • Organic Chemistry III
  • Modern Analytical Techniques II
• Assessment:
  • Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Marks: 90
  • Types of questions: Multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations, extended writing
  • Mathematics at Level 2 or above: Minimum 20%

Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry (Paper code: 9CH0/03)

• Content Covered:
  • Questions may draw on any topics in the specification
  • Includes synoptic questions from two or more different topics
  • Assess conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods (indirect practical skills)
• Assessment:
  • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Marks: 120
  • Types of questions: Short open, open-response, calculations, extended writing
  • Mathematics at Level 2 or above: Minimum 20%
  • Assess conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods

Science Practical Endorsement (Paper code: 9CH0/04)

• Content Covered:
  • Assessment of practical skills is a compulsory part of the course
  • Students must complete a minimum of 12 practical activities covering Appendix 5c
• Assessment:
  • Internally assessed and externally monitored by Pearson
  • Students' practical work assessed by teachers using CPAC
  • Practical endorsement reported separately on certificates

Detailed Topic Breakdown

Topic 1: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table

• Structure of an atom
• Relative mass and charge of subatomic particles
• Atomic and mass numbers
• Isotopes
• Relative isotopic and atomic mass
• Mass spectrometry

Topic 2: Bonding and Structure

• Ionic bonding and properties
• Covalent bonding and properties
• Metallic bonding and properties
• Shapes of molecules and ions
• Electronegativity and polarity
• Intermolecular forces
• Giant covalent structures

Topic 3: Redox I

• Oxidation numbers
• Redox reactions
• Oxidising and reducing agents
• Disproportionation

Topic 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table

• Group 1 and 2 elements
• Trends in properties
• Flame tests
• Halogens and halide ions
• Displacement reactions

Topic 5: Formulae, Equations, and Amounts of Substance

• Moles and molar masses
• Empirical and molecular formulae
• Balanced equations
• Titrations
• Percentage yield and atom economy

Topic 6: Organic Chemistry I

• Alkanes
• Alkenes
• Alcohols
• Halogenoalkanes
• Reaction mechanisms

Topic 7: Modern Analytical Techniques I

• Mass spectrometry
• Infrared spectroscopy

Topic 8: Energetics I

• Enthalpy changes
• Hess's Law
• Bond enthalpies

Topic 9: Kinetics I

• Reaction rates
• Collision theory
• Catalysis

Topic 10: Equilibrium I

• Dynamic equilibrium
• Le Chatelier's principle
• Equilibrium constants

Topic 11: Equilibrium II

• Equilibrium constants (Kc and Kp)
• Effect of temperature on equilibrium

Topic 12: Acid-base Equilibria

• pH and pKa
• Strong and weak acids and bases
• Buffer solutions
• Acid-base titrations

Topic 13: Energetics II

• Lattice energy
• Entropy
• Gibbs free energy

Topic 14: Redox II

• Standard electrode potentials
• Electrochemical cells
• Fuel cells

Topic 15: Transition Metals

• Characteristics of transition metals
• Complex ions
• Ligand exchange reactions
• Redox reactions
• Catalysis

Topic 16: Kinetics II

• Rate equations
• Mechanisms
• Activation energy

Overview

Specification:

• Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Art and Design
• Titles include: Art Craft and Design, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Textile Design, Three-dimensional Design, Photography

Components:

1. Component 1: Personal Investigation

   • Internally set, assessed by the teacher, and externally moderated.
   • Incorporates three major elements: supporting studies, practical work, and a personal study (minimum 1000 words).
   • Accounts for 60% of the total qualification.

2. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment

   • Externally set, assessed by the teacher, and externally moderated.
   • Incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies and a 15-hour period of sustained focus.
   • Accounts for 40% of the total qualification.

Qualification Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives of the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Art and Design are to enable students to develop:

• Intellectual, imaginative, creative, and intuitive capabilities.
• Investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical, and expressive skills, aesthetic understanding, and critical judgement.
• Independence of mind in developing, refining, and communicating their own ideas, intentions, and personal outcomes.
• An interest in, enthusiasm for, and enjoyment of art, craft, and design.
• Experience of working with a broad range of media.
• An understanding of the interrelationships between art, craft, and design processes and an awareness of the contexts in which they operate.
• Knowledge and experience of real-world contexts and where appropriate links to the creative industries.
• Knowledge and understanding of art, craft, design, media, and technologies in contemporary and past societies and cultures.
• An awareness of different roles, functions, audiences, and consumers of art, craft, and design.

Assessment Objectives

All student work will be assessed against the following objectives:

1. Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding.
2. Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques, and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops.
3. Record ideas, observations, and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress.
4. Present a personal and meaningful response that realizes intentions and, where appropriate, makes connections between visual and other elements.

Key Disciplines within Art and Design

Art Craft and Design (9AD0)

• Broad-based course, exploring a range of 2D, 3D, and time-based processes and media.
• Requires working in disciplines chosen from at least two of the other endorsed titles for Component 1 and one or more disciplines in Component 2.

Fine Art (9FA0)

• Engages with aesthetic and intellectual concepts through traditional and/or digital media for self-expression.
• Disciplines include painting and drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and lens-based image making.

Graphic Communication (9GC0)

• Conveys information and ideas through visual means, emphasizing effective communication through the organization of images and words.
• Disciplines include advertising, illustration, branding, and information design.

Textile Design (9TE0)

• Involves creation, selection, manipulation, and application of materials and processes to produce fabrics for different purposes.
• Disciplines include textiles for interiors, fine art textiles, and fashion textiles.

Three-dimensional Design (9TD0)

• Art, craft, and design practices to meet specific needs with sensitivity to function and aesthetics.
• Disciplines include spatial design, product design, and design crafts.

Photography (9PY0)

• Used to record, document, and present everyday life and artistic expression through lens-based technology.
• Disciplines include film-based photography, digital photography, and film and video.

Important Notes

• Component 1: Personal Investigation should include a portfolio of practical work and a minimum of 1000 words of continuous prose.
• Component 2: Externally Set Assignment theme released on 1 February each year, with preparatory studies leading up to a final 15-hour period of sustained focus.

Qualification Overview:

• Qualification Name: Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Arabic (Listening, Reading, and Writing)
• Qualification Code: 9AA0
• First Teaching: September 2018
• First Certification: 2020

Key Features:

• Themes: The qualification covers four engaging themes:

  1. Changes in Arab Society
  2. Artistic Culture in the Arab World
  3. Work and Citizenship in the Arab World
  4. Political Culture in the Arab World

• Assessment: The qualification consists of three externally-examined papers that assess listening, reading, and writing skills:

  1. Paper 1: Translation into English, Reading Comprehension, and Writing (Research Question) in Arabic
     • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
     • Marks: 80
     • Weight: 40% of the qualification
     • Content: Translation, reading comprehension, and writing based on independent research
  2. Paper 2: Translation into Arabic and Written Response to Works
     • Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
     • Marks: 110
     • Weight: 30% of the qualification
     • Content: Translation into Arabic and essays on literary texts and/or films
  3. Paper 3: Listening, Reading, and Writing in Arabic
     • Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
     • Marks: 60
     • Weight: 30% of the qualification
     • Content: Listening comprehension, summarizing, evaluating, and drawing conclusions

Themes and Sub-Themes:

1. Theme 1: Changes in Arab Society

   • Sub-Themes: Family Roles, Media, Social Norms
   • Research Subject: Social Norms in an Arab Country

2. Theme 2: Artistic Culture in the Arab World

   • Sub-Themes: Music, Arabic Art
   • Research Subject: Festivals and Celebrations in an Arab Country

3. Theme 3: Work and Citizenship in the Arab World

   • Sub-Themes: Life and Work, Environmental Responsibility
   • Research Subject: Tourism in an Arab Country

4. Theme 4: Political Culture in the Arab World

   • Sub-Themes: Arab Identity, Political Conditions in the 21st Century
   • Research Subject: Ethnic Minorities in an Arab Country

Aims and Objectives:

• Enhance linguistic skills and promote critical thinking
• Develop control of the language system for practical and intellectual purposes
• Understand and interact effectively in written Arabic
• Engage critically with Arabic texts, films, and materials
• Develop knowledge of Arab culture and society
• Translate texts between Arabic and English
• Foster transferable skills for further study or employment

Assessment Objectives:

• AO1: Understand and respond to spoken Arabic (20%)
• AO2: Understand and respond to written Arabic (30%)
• AO3: Manipulate the language accurately in written forms (30%)
• AO4: Show knowledge and understanding of and respond critically to the culture and society of the Arabic-speaking world (20%)

Support and Resources:

• Free teaching and learning support, including literature and film teaching resources
• ResultsPlus for detailed analysis of exam performance
• Subject advisor service and online community for guidance and idea sharing

Recommended Research Process:

1. Pre-Independent Research:

   • Teacher instruction on research skills
   • Initial conversations on research subjects
   • Guidance on selecting an appropriate research subject

2. Independent Research:

   • Conduct research to find and select appropriate sources
   • Evaluate findings and prepare for assessment

Examination Format:

• All exams are conducted in May/June in a single year
• No dictionaries or research documentation allowed during exams
• Translation and essay questions to be answered in Arabic

Overview

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Biology A (Salters-Nuffield) is a comprehensive course designed for students in schools and colleges. It aims to provide a robust understanding of biological concepts and their applications, preparing students for further education and careers in biological sciences.

Qualification Aims and Objectives

• Knowledge and Understanding: Develop essential knowledge of various biological areas and their interrelations.
• Scientific Methods: Gain a deep appreciation of scientific methods, including practical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
• Interest and Enthusiasm: Foster interest in biology and associated careers.
• Societal Contribution: Understand how biology contributes to societal and economic success.

Assessment Structure

1. Paper 1: The Natural Environment and Species Survival

   • Covers Topics 1-6
   • Exam duration: 2 hours
   • Total marks: 100
   • Weight: 33.33% of the total qualification

2. Paper 2: Energy, Exercise, and Co-ordination

   • Covers Topics 1-4 and 7-8
   • Exam duration: 2 hours
   • Total marks: 100
   • Weight: 33.33% of the total qualification

3. Paper 3: General and Practical Applications in Biology

   • Covers all Topics 1-8
   • Includes a pre-released scientific article
   • Exam duration: 2 hours
   • Total marks: 100
   • Weight: 33.33% of the total qualification

4. Science Practical Endorsement

   • Internally assessed and externally moderated
   • Assessment of practical skills
   • Does not contribute to the overall grade but is reported on the certificate

Core Practical Activities

Students are required to carry out 18 core practical experiments, which are essential for developing practical skills and understanding theoretical concepts.

Key Topics

1. Lifestyle, Health, and Risk: Focuses on the circulatory system, cardiovascular disease, and the impact of lifestyle choices on health.
2. Genes and Health: Covers cell membranes, gas exchange, DNA structure and replication, protein synthesis, and genetic screening.
3. Voice of the Genome: Explores cell development, stem cells, gene expression, and differentiation.
4. Biodiversity and Natural Resources: Examines biodiversity, classification, plant anatomy, and sustainability.
5. On the Wild Side: Discusses ecosystems, photosynthesis, climate change, and evolution.
6. Immunity, Infection, and Forensics: Covers forensic techniques, infection mechanisms, and the immune response.
7. Run for Your Life: Looks at physiology and performance, respiration, and homeostasis.
8. Grey Matter: Focuses on the nervous system, brain function, and the ethical issues surrounding neuroscience.

Progression

Students can progress to higher education in biology-related fields, vocational training, or employment in relevant sectors.

Qualification at a Glance

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Biology B consists of three externally examined papers and the Science Practical Endorsement. Students are expected to carry out the 16 core practical experiments identified in the content. All assessments are completed in May/June in a single year.

• Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Genetics

  • Assessment: 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks
  • 30% of total qualification

• Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution, and Ecology

  • Assessment: 1 hour 45 minutes, 90 marks
  • 30% of total qualification

• Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology

  • Assessment: 2 hours 30 minutes, 120 marks
  • 40% of total qualification

• Science Practical Endorsement

  • Internally assessed and externally monitored by Pearson

Detailed Content Overview

Topic 1: Biological Molecules

• Carbohydrates
• Lipids
• Proteins
• DNA and Protein Synthesis
• Enzymes
• Inorganic Ions
• Water

Topic 2: Cells, Viruses, and Reproduction of Living Things

• Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cell Structure and Function
• Viruses
• Eukaryotic Cell Cycle and Division
• Sexual Reproduction in Mammals
• Sexual Reproduction in Plants

Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity

• Classification
• Natural Selection
• Biodiversity

Topic 4: Exchange and Transport

• Surface Area to Volume Ratio
• Cell Transport Mechanisms
• Gas Exchange
• Circulation
• Transport of Gases in the Blood
• Transfer of Materials between the Circulatory System and Cells
• Transport in Plants

Topic 5: Energy for Biological Processes

• Aerobic Respiration
• Glycolysis
• Link Reaction and Krebs Cycle
• Oxidative Phosphorylation
• Anaerobic Respiration
• Photosynthetic Pigments
• Photosynthesis

Topic 6: Microbiology and Pathogens

• Microbial Techniques
• Bacteria as Pathogens
• Action of Antibiotics
• Antibiotic Resistance
• Other Pathogenic Agents
• Problems of Controlling Endemic Diseases
• Response to Infection

Topic 7: Modern Genetics

• Using Gene Sequencing
• Factors Affecting Gene Expression
• Stem Cells
• Gene Technology

Topic 8: Origins of Genetic Variation

• Origins of Genetic Variation
• Transfer of Genetic Information
• Gene Pools

Topic 9: Control Systems

• Homeostasis
• Chemical Control in Mammals
• Chemical Control in Plants
• Structure and Function of the Mammalian Nervous System
• Nervous Transmission
• Effects of Drugs on the Nervous System
• Detection of Light by Mammals
• Control of Heart Rate in Mammals
• Osmoregulation and Temperature Regulation

Topic 10: Ecosystems

• The Nature of Ecosystems
• Energy Transfer Through Ecosystems
• Changes in Ecosystems
• Human Effects on Ecosystems

Practical Skills

Practical skills are central to any study of biology and are developed through 16 core practical activities:

1. Investigate a factor affecting the initial rate of an enzyme-controlled reaction.
2. Use a light microscope to observe and measure cells.
3. Make a temporary squash preparation of a root tip to show stages of mitosis.
4. Investigate the effect of sucrose concentrations on pollen tube growth.
5. Investigate the effect of temperature on beetroot membrane permeability.
6. Determine the water potential of plant cells.
7. Dissect an insect to show the structure of the gas exchange system.
8. Investigate factors affecting water uptake by plant shoots using a potometer.
9. Investigate factors affecting the rate of aerobic or anaerobic respiration using a respirometer.
10. Investigate the effects of different wavelengths of light on the rate of photosynthesis.
11. Investigate the presence of different chloroplast pigments using chromatography.
12. Investigate the rate of growth of bacteria in liquid culture.
13. Isolate individual species from a mixed culture of bacteria using streak plating.
14. Investigate the effect of gibberellin on the production of amylase in germinating cereals.
15. Investigate the effect of different sampling methods on estimates of the size of a population.
16. Investigate the effect of one abiotic factor on the distribution or morphology of one species.

Science Practical Endorsement

The Science Practical Endorsement assesses practical skills in the lab. It is a compulsory requirement, reported separately on the student’s certificate. Teachers assess students against Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC).

Criteria include:

1. Follows written procedures
2. Applies investigative approaches and methods when using instruments and equipment
3. Safely uses a range of practical equipment and materials
4. Makes and records observations
5. Researches, references, and reports

Assessment Objectives and Weightings

• AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques, and procedures - 31-33%
• AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding in various contexts - 41-43%
• AO3: Analyse, interpret, and evaluate scientific information, ideas, and evidence - 25-27%

Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments

Pearson provides various access arrangements and reasonable adjustments to ensure fair access for all students, compliant with the Equality Act 2010.

Overview:

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Business is designed for use in schools and colleges and is part of a suite of GCE qualifications offered by Pearson. This qualification focuses on developing a holistic understanding of business in various contexts and critical understanding of organizations.

Course Structure:

The A-Level Business course is structured into four main themes and consists of three externally examined papers.

Themes:

1. Theme 1: Marketing and People

   • Introduction to the market
   • Marketing and people functions
   • Entrepreneurs and business start-up

2. Theme 2: Managing Business Activities

   • Finance and operations functions
   • External influences on business

3. Theme 3: Business Decisions and Strategy

   • Business growth and development
   • Impact of external influences

4. Theme 4: Global Business

   • Business activity in a global context
   • Ethical and moral dimensions of global business activities

Assessment:

1. Paper 1: Marketing, People, and Global Businesses

   • Questions drawn from Themes 1 and 4
   • Sections A and B: Data response questions including extended open-response questions
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Marks: 100
   • Weight: 35%

2. Paper 2: Business Activities, Decisions, and Strategy

   • Questions drawn from Themes 2 and 3
   • Sections A and B: Data response questions including extended open-response questions
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Marks: 100
   • Weight: 35%

3. Paper 3: Investigating Business in a Competitive Environment

   • Questions drawn from all four themes
   • Section A: Broad context provided in pre-released document
   • Section B: At least one strand within the context provided
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Marks: 100
   • Weight: 30%

Key Learning Objectives:

• Develop enthusiasm for studying business.
• Gain a holistic understanding of business in a range of contexts.
• Understand that business behavior can be studied from various perspectives.
• Generate enterprising and creative approaches to business opportunities.
• Be aware of ethical dilemmas and responsibilities in business.
• Apply numerical skills in business contexts.

Additional Skills Developed:

• Independent research
• Critical thinking
• Extended writing
• Project management

Supporting Resources:

• Extensive resources and guidance provided through Pearson’s School Support Hub.
• Professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their skills in delivering the course effectively.

Progression:

• Higher education courses such as Business Management, Business Administration, Accountancy and Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, and International Business.
• Careers in banking, sales, product management, public sector organizations, and more.

Qualification Overview

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Economics A is structured into four themes and consists of three externally examined papers. Students build knowledge and understanding of core economic models and concepts in Themes 1 and 2 and then build on this and apply their knowledge to more complex concepts and models in Themes 3 and 4.

Themes

Theme 1: Introduction to Markets and Market Failure

• Nature of economics: Understanding economic concepts and the need for assumptions in economic models.
• Positive and normative economic statements: Distinguishing between factual statements and value judgments.
• The economic problem: Scarcity, choice, and opportunity costs.
• Production possibility frontiers: Graphical representations of opportunity costs, economic growth, and efficiency.
• Specialisation and division of labour: Advantages and disadvantages in production and trade.
• Free market economies, mixed economy, and command economy: Comparing different economic systems and their implications.

Theme 2: The UK Economy – Performance and Policies

• Economic growth: Measuring GDP and understanding its limitations.
• Inflation: Understanding the causes and effects of inflation and deflation.
• Employment and unemployment: Measuring unemployment and its economic impacts.
• Balance of payments: Understanding components and implications of the balance of payments.
• Aggregate demand (AD) and aggregate supply (AS): Analyzing the components and determinants of AD and AS.
• National income: Understanding the circular flow of income and related concepts.
• Economic growth: Identifying causes and impacts of economic growth.
• Macroeconomic objectives and policies: Exploring the goals and tools of fiscal, monetary, and supply-side policies.

Theme 3: Business Behaviour and the Labour Market

• Business growth: Understanding why businesses grow or remain small and the impact of different growth strategies.
• Business objectives: Exploring different objectives like profit maximisation, revenue maximisation, and satisficing.
• Revenues, costs, and profits: Calculating and interpreting different types of costs and revenues.
• Market structures: Analyzing perfect competition, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, and monopoly.
• Labour market: Understanding wage determination and the impact of government intervention in labour markets.

Theme 4: A Global Perspective

• Globalisation: Examining the characteristics, causes, and impacts of globalisation.
• Specialisation and trade: Understanding comparative advantage and the pattern of trade.
• Terms of trade and trading blocs: Analyzing the factors influencing trade and the role of the WTO.
• Restrictions on free trade: Exploring protectionist policies and their effects.
• Balance of payments and exchange rates: Understanding the components and factors influencing exchange rates and trade balances.
• International competitiveness: Measuring and understanding factors influencing competitiveness.
• Poverty and inequality: Exploring the causes and measurements of poverty and inequality.
• Emerging and developing economies: Analyzing factors and strategies for growth and development.
• The financial sector: Understanding the role and functioning of financial markets and central banks.
• Role of the state in the macroeconomy: Examining public expenditure, taxation, and macroeconomic policies in a global context.

Assessment Structure

• Paper 1: Markets and Business Behaviour (9EC0/01): Focuses on microeconomics (Themes 1 and 3).
• Paper 2: The National and Global Economy (9EC0/02): Focuses on macroeconomics (Themes 2 and 4).
• Paper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics (9EC0/03): Synoptic paper assessing content across all four themes.

Skills Developed

• Quantitative skills: Includes calculations, interpretations, and applications relevant to economics.
• Transferable skills: Includes research, critical thinking, data interpretation, and effective communication.

Resources and Support

• Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): Encourages development of independent learning skills through research projects.
• Teaching and learning materials: Provided to support the development of skills and understanding.

Course Structure:

1. Theme 1: Markets, Consumers, and Firms

   • Introduction to Markets and Market Failure:
     • The nature of economics
     • The role of markets
     • Market failure
   • The Role of Consumers in Markets:
     • Consumer behavior
     • Elasticities
     • Utility theory
   • Business Growth and Competitive Advantage:
     • Business objectives
     • Business growth
     • Competitive advantage

2. Theme 2: The Wider Economic Environment

   • Business Growth and Competitive Advantage:
     • Business objectives and strategies
     • Growth of firms and market structures
     • The competitive environment
   • The Impact of Globalization on Global Companies:
     • Globalization and international trade
     • Global companies and global competitiveness
     • The global economy
   • The Economic Cycle:
     • Economic growth and development
     • Economic cycles and economic stability
     • Government policy and economic stability

3. Theme 3: The Global Economy

   • Globalization:
     • The causes and consequences of globalization
     • The global context of business
     • Global trade and protectionism
   • Global Economic Environment:
     • International economic issues
     • The global financial system
     • Exchange rates and international competitiveness
   • Emerging and Developing Economies:
     • Growth and development in emerging economies
     • Challenges and opportunities for developing countries
     • Policies to promote development

4. Theme 4: Making Markets Work

   • Market Failure and Government Intervention:
     • Causes and consequences of market failure
     • Government intervention in markets
     • Evaluating the effectiveness of government policies
   • Competition and Market Power:
     • Market structures and competition
     • Market power and business behavior
     • The role of competition policy
   • Labour Market Economics:
     • The demand and supply of labour
     • Wage determination and labour market issues
     • Government intervention in the labour market

Assessment Structure:

1. Paper 1: Markets and Market Failure

   • Assessment based on themes 1 and 4
   • Mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, data response, and extended open-response questions

2. Paper 2: The National and Global Economy

   • Assessment based on themes 2 and 3
   • Mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, data response, and extended open-response questions

3. Paper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics

   • Synoptic assessment based on all themes
   • Mix of data response and extended open-response questions

Qualification Overview

• Qualification Code: 9EN0
• First Teaching: September 2015
• First Certification: 2017
• Total Qualification: 100% externally assessed.

Qualification Structure

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in English Language consists of three externally examined components and one non-examination assessment component. The assessment is conducted in May/June of any single year.

1. Component 1: Language Variation

   • Code: 9EN0/01
   • Weight: 35% of total qualification
   • Content:
     • Exploration of how language varies depending on mode, field, function, and audience.
     • Study of language choices in personal identities and language variation in English from c1550 to the present day.
   • Assessment:
     • Written examination lasting 2 hours 15 minutes.
     • Two sections: one question in Section A (Individual Variation) and one question in Section B (Variation over Time).
     • Total of 60 marks available.

2. Component 2: Child Language

   • Code: 9EN0/02
   • Weight: 20% of total qualification
   • Content:
     • Exploration of spoken language acquisition and children's writing development between ages 0-8.
     • Study of the relationship between spoken language acquisition and literacy skills.
   • Assessment:
     • Written examination lasting 1 hour 15 minutes.
     • One question based on a set of unseen data.
     • Total of 45 marks available.

3. Component 3: Investigating Language

   • Code: 9EN0/03
   • Weight: 25% of total qualification
   • Content:
     • Development of research and investigation skills.
     • Students select a research focus from five topic areas and undertake a focused investigation.
   • Assessment:
     • Written examination lasting 1 hour 45 minutes.
     • Two sections: one question from Section A and one question from Section B.
     • Total of 45 marks available.

4. Non-examination Assessment: Crafting Language

   • Code: 9EN0/04
   • Weight: 20% of total qualification
   • Content:
     • Research and writing within a selected genre.
     • Production of two pieces of original writing and a commentary reflecting on the writing process.
   • Assessment:
     • Internally assessed and externally moderated.
     • Advisory total word count of 2500-3000 words.
     • Total of 50 marks available.

Assessment Objectives and Weightings

• AO1: Apply appropriate methods of language analysis using associated terminology and coherent written expression (24.4%).
• AO2: Demonstrate critical understanding of concepts and issues relevant to language use (24.4%).
• AO3: Analyse and evaluate how contextual factors and language features are associated with the construction of meaning (24.4%).
• AO4: Explore connections across texts informed by linguistic concepts and methods (15%).
• AO5: Demonstrate expertise and creativity in the use of English to communicate in different ways (12%).

Synoptic Assessment

Synoptic assessment requires students to work across different parts of a qualification and show their accumulated knowledge and understanding of a topic or subject area. This qualification assesses synoptically through Component 3 and the Non-examination Assessment, where students draw together skills synoptically in their analysis and evaluation of texts.

Progression

Students can progress from this qualification to higher education courses such as degrees in English, English language, linguistics, creative writing, or related subjects like English literature, law, journalism, media, speech and language therapy, teaching, and drama. This qualification provides a basis for a wide range of careers directly related to English language or in areas such as publishing, journalism, media, advertising, marketing, public relations, arts administration, record offices, libraries, national and local government, and civil service.

Qualification Overview

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in English Language and Literature is designed for use in schools and colleges. It is part of a suite of GCE qualifications offered by Pearson.

Purpose of the Specification

This specification sets out:

• Objectives of the qualification
• Prior knowledge and skills required
• Assessment methods and associated requirements
• Criteria for measuring student attainment

Qualification Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives are to enable students to:

• Develop knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation
• Apply concepts and methods for language analysis
• Engage creatively and critically with a wide range of texts
• Explore connections across texts and contexts
• Develop skills as producers and interpreters of language

Course Components

Component 1: Voices in Speech and Writing

• Content: Study of Voices in Speech and Writing: An Anthology and one drama text from a prescribed list.
• Assessment: 2 hours 30 minutes written examination, open book. Comparative essay question and an extract-based essay on the chosen drama text.

Component 2: Varieties in Language and Literature

• Content: Study of non-fiction texts on a chosen theme, two literary texts (one compulsory prose fiction anchor text and one other literary text).
• Assessment: 2 hours 30 minutes written examination, open book. Essay on an unseen prose non-fiction extract and a comparative essay on the prose fiction anchor text and another text from the theme.

Non-examination Assessment: Investigating and Creating Texts

• Content: Study of two texts (one fiction and one non-fiction) on a chosen topic.
• Assessment: Two assignments: two pieces of original writing (fiction and creative non-fiction) and an analytical commentary. Total word count: 2500-3250 words.

Themes and Prescribed Texts

1. Society and the Individual

   • Prose Fiction: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald or Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
   • Drama: Othello by William Shakespeare, A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
   • Poetry: The Wife of Bath’s Prologue and Tale by Geoffrey Chaucer, The Whitsun Weddings by Philip Larkin

2. Love and Loss

   • Prose Fiction: A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood or Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy
   • Drama: Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare, Betrayal by Harold Pinter
   • Poetry: Metaphysical Poetry edited by Colin Burrow, Selected Poems by Sylvia Plath

3. Encounters

   • Prose Fiction: A Room with a View by E.M. Forster or Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
   • Drama: Hamlet by William Shakespeare, Rock ‘N’ Roll by Tom Stoppard
   • Poetry: The Waste Land and Other Poems by T.S. Eliot, The New Penguin Book of Romantic Poetry edited by Jonathan Wordsworth

4. Crossing Boundaries

   • Prose Fiction: Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys or Dracula by Bram Stoker
   • Drama: Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare, Oleanna by David Mamet
   • Poetry: Goblin Market, The Prince’s Progress and Other Poems by Christina Rossetti, North by Seamus Heaney

Assessment Objectives

• AO1: Apply concepts and methods from linguistic and literary study (25%)
• AO2: Analyse ways in which meanings are shaped in texts (25%)
• AO3: Understand the significance of contexts in text production and reception (25%)
• AO4: Explore connections across texts (13%)
• AO5: Demonstrate expertise and creativity in the use of English (12%)

Progression

• Higher education courses such as degrees in English, literature, creative writing, journalism, media, and related fields.
• Careers in teaching, editing, writing, publishing, journalism, advertising, public relations, arts administration, and more.

Access Arrangements

• Reasonable adjustments and special consideration are provided to ensure equal opportunities for all students.

Additional Information

• Appendix 1: Transferable skills development
• Appendix 2: Level 3 Extended Project qualification details
• Appendix 3: Codes for qualification and assessment components
• Appendix 4: Non-examination Assessment Authentication Sheet
• Appendix 5: Prescribed texts for Component 1 and Component 2