Citizenship

Citizenship is a challenge to us to be active, engaged members of our communities.

Barack Obama

Intent

The intent of the AQA GCSE Citizenship course is to cultivate informed, active citizens who understand their role within society. Citizenship is crucial for empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for active participation in their communities and democracy. By emphasising the importance of both rights and responsibilities, students gain awareness of fundamental human rights and the legal protections available to them, fostering a sense of duty toward civic engagement. The course encourages critical thinking and analysis, allowing students to evaluate diverse political perspectives and engage in informed debates. Active participation is promoted through community projects, where students apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and develop advocacy skills to champion causes important to them. Additionally, the curriculum addresses global citizenship, highlighting the interconnectedness of local actions and global issues such as climate change and social justice. Ultimately, the course aims to instil a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, equipping students with transferable skills that will benefit them in various aspects of life, thereby preparing them to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.

Design Rationale

The AQA GCSE Citizenship course has been designed to empower students to become informed, active participants in their communities and society at large. Recognising the importance of civic education in fostering democratic values, the course emphasizes key concepts such as rights, responsibilities, and the structures of political systems.

The curriculum addresses diverse perspectives and contemporary issues, ensuring that students can relate the material to their own experiences and the world around them. This relevance encourages engagement and motivates students to explore topics deeply. By incorporating critical thinking skills, the course prepares students to evaluate information, understand multiple viewpoints, and engage in informed discussions. This analytical approach is essential for navigating complex social and political landscapes. Understanding global citizenship is integral to the curriculum, encouraging students to consider the interconnectedness of local and global issues. This perspective helps cultivate empathy and a broader understanding of citizenship beyond national borders. Finally, the course is structured to develop transferable skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, preparing students not just for exams but for lifelong civic engagement.

Delivery

The AQA GCSE Citizenship course will be delivered through a dynamic and interactive approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Lessons will include a mix of discussions, group work, and project-based activities to engage students actively in the learning process. Real-world case studies and current events will be integrated to connect concepts to contemporary issues, fostering critical thinking and informed debate.

Impact

The impact of the AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies course will be measured through a combination of formative and summative assessments, along with feedback mechanisms. Formative assessments, such as quizzes and research homework, will provide ongoing insights into students' understanding and inform instructional adjustments. Summative assessments, including end-of-unit tests and the final examination, will evaluate overall mastery of the curriculum. Additionally, self-assessment and peer feedback will encourage reflection on personal growth and collaborative learning. Finally, the long-term engagement of students in civic activities post-course will help gauge the lasting impact of their learning. Together, these methods will provide a comprehensive evaluation of both academic performance and personal development in civic responsibility.

Knowledge Organisers

• Year 10 and 11 Citizenship - Life in Modern Britain Knowledge Organiser download_for_offline
  download_for_offlineYear 10 and 11 Citizenship - Life in Modern Britain Knowledge Organiser
• Year 10 and 11 Citizenship - Politics and Participation Knowledge Organiser download_for_offline
  download_for_offlineYear 10 and 11 Citizenship - Politics and Participation Knowledge Organiser
• Year 10 and 11 Citizenship - Rights and Responsibilities Knowledge Organiser download_for_offline
  download_for_offlineYear 10 and 11 Citizenship - Rights and Responsibilities Knowledge Organiser

Long Term Plans

GCSE Citizenship

• Year 10 Citizenship Long Term Plan download_for_offline
  download_for_offlineYear 10 Citizenship Long Term Plan
• Year 11 Citizenship Long Term Plan download_for_offline
  download_for_offlineYear 11 Citizenship Long Term Plan