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