Business Studies
"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing"
WALT DISNEY
Business at Kings Langley School
Business is a rigorous and thorough academic subject which develops skills in analysis and evaluation, and which helps students to develop an appreciation of the environment in which we live. The courses breed critical thinkers both at GCSE and A-Level and there is a specific emphasis on examination technique throughout the two years of study in both key stage 4 and 5.
Business supports student’s moral and cultural development and prepares them for the diversity of life with the application of real world scenarios. Topics in both GCSE and A-Level enable students to critically analyse decisions made by businesses in their pursuit of profit, and question whether these decisions are morally, and ethically, correct. Students also gain an understanding of the differences between varying economies across the globe and gives students the chance to offer critical opinions on how managers should make decisions based on these differentials.
Curriculum Intent
Students can study business as a GCSE option (AQA) from Year 10. It is a popular choice amongst many at Kings Langley School. Students will gain an understanding of current business decisions and develop an insight into the choices small, medium, and large businesses face in the changing external environment. Students will develop valuable analytical and evaluative writing skills, which are a necessity in further education. The course focuses on the decisions entrepreneurs and established managers make to start or grow their business.
How are students assessed on the GCSE Business 9-1 course?
Students sit two papers for AQA GCSE Business (9-1):
- Paper 1, includes the topics: Business in the real world, Influences on business, Business Operations and Human Resources.
- Paper 2, includes the topics: Business in the real world, Influences on business, Marketing and Finance.
The length of both exams are: 1 hour 45 minutes, each paper is worth 90 marks and accounts for 50% of the overall GCSE grade.
Curriculum overview: Business: KS4:
The specification can be found at: AQA | GCSE | Business | Specification at a glance
Key stage 5: A Level Business
Students can study AQA A Level business as part of their A Level options choices. In the first year of the course, students will receive 10 periods of teaching across a two-week timetable. During the second year of teaching, students will receive 11 periods of teaching across a two-week timetable. Although studying GCSE business will help students understand some concepts taught at A Level, it is not a necessity to have studied business at GCSE level.
A Level business will provide learners with a breadth of knowledge and understanding in relation to business activity in the modern world. The course focuses on the management and strategic decision-making businesses take, to survive or grow in a modern-day economy.
How are students assessed on the A Level business course?
Students sit three papers for AQA A Level Business
Paper 1: All content from two years of teaching
Section A has 15 multiple choice questions worth 15 marks.
Section B has short answer questions worth 35 marks.
Sections C and D have two essay questions (choice of one from two and one from two) worth 25 marks each.
Paper 2: All content from two years of teaching
Three data response compulsory questions worth approximately 33 marks each and made up of three- or four-part questions.
Paper 3: All content from two years of teaching
One compulsory case study followed by approximately six questions.
The length of all exams are 2 hours. They are individually worth 100 marks and each account for 33.3% of the A Level grade.
All papers test the four LO (Learning objectives):
A01: Knowledge AO2: Application AO3: Analysis AO4: Evaluation
Curriculum overview: Business KS5:
The course specification can be found at:
AQA | AS and A-level | Business | Specification at a glance
FAQs
Do you set students for Business GCSE or A Level?
No. As long as the entry requirements (for A Level) are met, we do not set students. At GCSE, we also not set students. We use differentiation techniques top address differing learning speeds and styles.
What support do you offer struggling students?
As an experienced teaching team, we offer an open door policy to all Business and Economics students. In addition we produce bespoke ‘excess’ resources to aid your child’s revision and understanding of topics. These include model packs, key word documents, exam answer summaries and tip sheets. We aim to offer a holistic approach where Business is seen as a family, and students truly engage by participating in the subject, content in the knowledge that the teachers are ‘on their side’ doing all they can to ensure grade maximisation.
What’s the most important attribute my child will need to study business?
An inquisitive and curious mind. The ability to engage and discuss, debate and disagree as they base arguments on data, feeling, and real world experience and links. We like students to keep abreast of current affairs by reading the news daily as many stories are linked to business in some way. If students arrive on time, to all lessons, and are ready to learn and engage, they are half way toward receiving a good grade come the end of year 11/13.
Staff
Mr B Ellis (Subject Leader) - ellisb@kls.herts.sch.uk
Mr A Sharp (Teacher) - sharpan@kls.herts.sch.uk
