Modern Studies

Introduction

Modern Studies focuses on contemporary social, political and economic topics, encouraging students to engage with current affairs and develop informed opinions on pressing global issues. This subject nurtures media literacy, research skills and the ability to evaluate different perspectives – all essential for active participation in our democratic society. 

Staff

Ms. M. Beaton, Modern Studies, (NQT)

Ms. H. McAllister, Modern Studies & History

Mrs. H. Redden, Modern Studies

Curriculum

In S1 and S2, you will study the crises afflicting the lives of children in the modern world, and the exercise of power and persuasion in democratic and authoritarian nation states. 

In S3 you will have chosen to specialise in Modern Studies. You will continue to explore key concepts related to contemporary social and political issues affecting the lives of people in Scotland and around the world. 

In S4 you will study Modern Studies under different topics at National 4 or National 5 level: 

  • Democracy in Scotland 
  • Social Issues in the United Kingdom: Crime and the Law 
  • World Powers: China 

Pupils will also plan, investigate and write-up an Assignment to demonstrate their report-writing and research skills. 

Higher Modern Studies equips students with a deeper understanding of contemporary political and social issues. Pupils develop critical thinking skills, learning to analyse more complex topics from multiple perspectives and construct evidence-based arguments. Students also learn to critically examine more complex sources to assess their reliability, draw conclusions and detect bias. 

The topics studied as part of the Higher course are: 

  • Democracy in the UK 
  • Social Issues in the United Kingdom: Social Inequality 
  • World Powers: USA 

Pupils in Higher will also produce an Assignment based on information collected via independent research using a range of primary and secondary sources. 

Advanced Higher Modern Studies offers pupils the opportunity to develop a higher-level theoretical understanding of political issues. Students will acquire more advanced source evaluation and academic writing skills, whilst extending their research skills through independent study. The topic studied for the Advanced Higher course is Political Issues and Research Methods. 

The Advanced Higher Modern Studies dissertation requires students to select a complex contemporary issue, conduct extensive independent research and draw reasoned conclusions in the form of a 5000-word essay. It demonstrates their ability to evaluate sources, construct analytical arguments and synthesise information to develop a sustained and coherent line of argument. 

Learning Experiences

Pupils will experience Modern Studies for one twelve-week block of learning in S1, led by a subject-specialist teacher, before rotating to Geography or History. They will repeat this process in S2, after which they will have the option to further pursue their studies in Modern Studies in S3/4 and beyond. 

At all stages of Modern Studies, pupils can expect to work both independently and collaboratively in a wide range of contexts to develop key skills in the subject. These include: 

  • Current affairs analysis: Regular discussions and debates on contemporary issues. 
  • Media studies: Critically analysing news reports, documentaries and social media content. 
  • Role-play simulations: Mock elections, parliamentary debates, court cases. 
  • Research projects: In-depth investigations into a range social or political issues in Scotland, the UK and around the world. 
  • Guest speaker sessions and educational visits: Pupils in Modern Studies regularly benefit from talks from politicians, members of the criminal justice system, social workers and the police, as well as enjoying visits to Glasgow High Court and the Scottish Parliament. 

Life and Work

Studying Modern Studies can provide numerous benefits for your later life and career. Here are just some of the ways Modern Studies can prepare you for life, work and learning: 

  • Political literacy: Modern Studies enhances your understanding of political systems and processes. This knowledge is crucial for political analysts, civil servants and journalists who report on current affairs. 
  • Media analysis: Modern Studies teaches you to critically evaluate media sources and understand their influence, an essential skill for public relations specialists and social media managers. 
  • Global awareness: Studying international relations fosters a broader worldview, essential for those pursuing a career in international law or business. 
  • Research skills: You will learn to conduct thorough research on contemporary issues. This ability is crucial for market researchers, academic scholars and investigative journalists who need to delve deep into various topics. 
  • Debating and argumentation: Modern Studies encourages the development of persuasive argumentation skills. Lawyers, politicians and advertising executives all benefit from this ability to construct and present compelling arguments.

Resources

All classroom resources will be posted on Google Classroom, from S1–S6. This includes PowerPoints, pupil work booklets, revision notes, video clips and links to external sites. 

SQA Modern Studies – Links to past papers, course specifications and Understanding Standards can be found here: https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/45629.html  

BBC Bitesize – Useful revision tool for exploring key areas of knowledge pertinent to the course: