Global Perspectives and Independent Research is a course designed to enable young people to engage with topics of global importance. From ‘Alternatives to Oil’ to ‘Globalisation of Economic Activities’, ‘The Religious Secular Divide’ to ‘Medical Ethics and Priorities’, the scope of possible topics is very broad. The subject is truly multidisciplinary, it encourages students to think critically and develop a set of skills, which will enhance their ability make meaningful connections between the world around them and their own personal experiences and beliefs.
By following the critical path of deconstruction, reconstruction and reflection, students will develop the ability to distinguish between fact, opinion and persuasive writing and thus effectively analyse and evaluate arguments and different perspectives. They will enhance their independent research and planning skills and become self-directed learners.
Global Perspectives (first year) - As well as ongoing internal assessment and evaluation the first year of the course has 3 externally assessed components.
Component 1: Written Exam Paper 1h30min – Where students will be assessed on their thinking and reasoning skills focussing primarily on analysis and evaluation of arguments, evidence and contexts.
Component 2: Essay 1750-2000 words – Where students write an essay on a global issue of their choice from the topics studied during the course. They should be able to identify different perspectives, understand arguments, reasoning or claims upon which these perspectives are based, offer a critical view of them and reach a personal supported view.
Component 3: Presentation 15 min max with transcript – The presentation will be based on a Resource Booklet or CD issued by CIE containing a range of source materials crossing different themes. Candidates’ presentations should be firmly based on a question that engages directly with an issue, an assumption, a piece of evidence and/or a line of reasoning in the stimulus material. Presentations should address contrasting perspectives and should be aimed at a non-specialist audience.
Independent Research Report (second year) The students will submit 4500-5000 word dissertation or report based on work done beyond individual subject syllabuses, on a topic chosen by the candidate. It gives the candidate the opportunity to:
- dig deeper in a chosen specialism, or
- cross boundaries with an inter–disciplinary enquiry, or
- make a new departure with a study in a non–school subject, perhaps one that the candidate plans to read at university.
The skills knowledge and understandings gained in this course are not only important for students as active members of the global society but will benefit them when undertaking research and investigations in other AS and A level subjects and more importantly it is excellent preparation for university.
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