Modern Studies is the study of contemporary society. It examines social, economic and political issues that concern all individuals at local, national and international levels.
The extent of our freedom and democracy depends upon thoughtful and informed participation as citizens. As the pace of change in society increases it is important that the citizens of tomorrow have a secure knowledge of the issues that may affect them. They require to be informed about issues such as law and order, citizens rights, the influence of new technologies, the influence of the European Union and other international relations. These are important life skills necessary for all young adults at the start of the 21st century.
In the first two years the course comprises the following topics:
The Scottish Justice system, Legal rights and Human Rights, Our Government, The Scottish Parliament, The influence of the media, The economy and poverty in the UK, The developing world and fair trade, International conflicts and conflict resolution.
Throughout the first two years, pupils will be encouraged to work with a wide variety of multi-media resources. Pupils will also conduct their own investigations and will be involved in group and project work.
The Standard Grade Modern Studies course in S3 and S4 aims to help pupils to understand the complex issues that can affect individuals and groups in society. In Modern Studies, these issues are presented mainly from a social, political and economical viewpoint. The Standard Grade Modern Studies course enables pupils to become well-informed, active and responsible citizens.
The Standard Grade Study Themes are as follows:
‘Living in a Democracy’
• The political system of the UK
• The work of Trade Unions and Pressure Groups
‘Changing Society’
- The Elderly
- Families
- Employment and unemployment
‘Ideologies’
- The USA, the effect of capitalism, inequalities, immigration and the political system of the USA
‘International Relations’
- The politics of aid – Developing countries
- International Alliances – NATO, the United Nations and the European Union.
During the course, the pupils will work with a wide variety of resources that will enable them to develop their critical thinking skills and interpret data and statistics in order to draw conclusions, make comparisons and use evidence to argue a point of view. They will also have the opportunity to carry out an investigation.
While in S3, the pupils will be given the opportunity to visit the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. They will attend a session in the debating chamber and will get the chance to have a discussion with their local MSPs or government ministers.
In S5 or S6 a pupil may study for Intermediate 2 and Higher Modern Studies.
The course covers the following topics:
Political Issues:
- Voting behaviour and electoral systems
- Decision making in Central Government
Social Issues:
- Health and wealth
International Issues:
- China – communism and foreign investment, social issues and human rights
- The USA – the political and judicial system, capitalism and inequality, the immigration debate before and after 9/11
Modern Studies is a recognised and very valuable entrance qualification for Universities and further Education establishments. A Modern Studies qualification is also valuable when considering a career in any of the following; nursing or other career in the NHS, police, civil service, office work, teaching, journalism, business enterprise, local government, social work, law, media, and the armed forces.
Modern Studies fosters an awareness of current affairs and is a survival kit for life.
