Christian Head, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, CA17 4HA

017683 71693

Kirkby Stephen Grammar School

A Co-operative Academy

GCSE Business Studies

Board: Edexcel 1BS0
Exam papers: 2
 

Why study Business Studies?

Business Studies is not just a theory-based subject, it is about real life. It will help you to learn about businesses and the way they operate in today’s society. You will gain skills which will be useful in a wide range of jobs, in the further study of Business Studies and in your personal life.

Knowledge & Understanding

This GCSE specification requires students to:

  • actively engage in the study of business and economics to develop as effective and independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds
  • use an enquiring, critical approach to distinguish facts and opinions, to build arguments and make informed judgements
  • develop and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary issues in a range of local, national and global contexts
  • appreciate the range of perspectives of different stakeholders in relation to business and economic activities
  • consider the extent to which business and economic activity can be ethical and sustainable

Skills

The following are skills within business contexts you would expect a student to develop during the course:

  • practical skills – time management, personal organisation and action planning
  • presentational skills – addressing audiences using a variety of media and forms
  • personal skills – showing evidence of progression
  • interpersonal skills – communication and group work
  • cognitive skills – reflection and review of own and others’ performances

Course Structure

Unit 1 (50%): Investigating small business

90 minute examination assessed externally.

Students explore five topics in this unit:

  • spotting a business opportunity
  • showing enterprise
  • putting a business idea into practice
  • making the start-up effective
  • understanding the economic context

Unit 2 (50%): Building a business

90 minute examination assessed externally

Students explore five topics in this unit:

  • marketing
  • meeting customer needs
  • effective financial management
  • effective people management
  • the wider world affecting business