The Higher Modern studies examines current political and social issues and builds on knowledge, literacy skills and using sources to draw conclusions.

The Higher Course includes the following units:

• Democracy in Scotland and the UK: UK Parliament Pressure Groups, Voting Systems, Voting Behaviour and Impact of the Media.
• Social Inequalities: Social Class, Poverty, Gender/Race Inequality, Welfare State.
• World Powers China: System of Government, Social and Economic issues.
• World Issues: Conflict in Syria.

Higher Assignment:
This assignment has two stages:

• A research stage which will include:

Identifying an issue; collecting a range of evidence; analysing, evaluating and synthesising information from a range of sources; reaching a decision while showing an awareness of alternatives. This stage has been designed to be capable of completion over a period of eight hours.

• A production of evidence stage which must be completed within one hour and 30 minutes

The following methods are used to deliver the course:

• Debating
• Active learning.
• Project work.
• Co-operative learning

Higher Modern Studies course is assessed in a number of ways:

• Unit Assessments (ongoing throughout the year)
• Higher Prelim Exam
• Higher Assignment

Pupils will maintain a Pupil Profile Folder where assessments will be filed allowing them to reflect on their learning as they progress in the Senior Phase.

Pupils will have clearly identifiable next steps to enable them to raise their attainment.

Pupil attainment will be tracked within the Faculty and support put in place where necessary.