A Guide To Choosing Your A-level Subjects

By Author: Mark Johnson
Total Articles: 15
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Subjects you choose for A-level have a direct bearing on your career, so you need to research the options in order to make an informed decision. Going through A-level subject guides, subject syllabuses and reference books, and talking to your teachers will help you take an apt decision.

Choosing your subjects for A-level is difficult, but if you follow a methodical approach, take your time and discuss it with the people who know, you will be able to find the right A-level subjects.

There are many sources which will help you in making a decision – A-level subject guides, current teachers, sixth form teachers, AS and A2 subject syllabuses, texts and reference books, and other students.

A-level subject guides

Sixth form colleges you have chosen will have a guide to the subjects they offer. The guide will provide you an outline of the content and skills required, and information about the assessment methods. The guide will advise you whether there are any restrictions on subject combinations.

AS and A2 subject syllabuses

The exam board syllabuses describe the covered topics ...
... in detail. Exam board syllabuses for the AS and A2 parts of each A-level subject are available online. Several A-level subjects are offered by all three boards – AQA, EDEXCEL and OCR. You need to find out which board exams your sixth form conducts.

Current teachers

Talking to your current teachers regarding the subjects will help you a lot. Your current teachers know your strengths and weaknesses, and they can provide you with valuable opinion.

Sixth form teachers

Make sure you visit the sixth form and spend some time talking to the staff. The teachers may give you A detailed account of their subjects. They will be capable of answering all sorts of questions which you have. Students who stay in school often tend to choose subjects taught by the teachers they like and respect. It certainly makes a difference, but it should not be the only criteria for choosing a course.

Other students

Discuss the subjects with the sixth-formers who are currently studying the subjects. Ask them what they like about the subjects they have chosen and what they don’t. Tell them about the subjects you have shortlisted and inquire whether they may be right for you.

Texts and reference books

Going through a book in your chosen subject area can give you an insight. If you are contemplating something you aren’t very familiar with, it will be particularly useful.

Some A level subjects are essential for popular degree courses and choosing these may provide the foundations of a good career. These points may help you –

• A level in Chemistry is essential or useful for Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Bio related subjects.

• Chemistry is required to study Medicine along with two other A-levels, one of which should be a science subject.

• A law degree needs no essential subjects, though they will prefer you having subjects which show logical aptitude and the ability to write.

• Business Studies and Computing degrees requires no essential subjects, though Math is useful.

• Psychology needs no essential subjects, though a blend of Arts and Science subjects is good.

• For engineering, Math and Physics are essential.

Top colleges in London provide students with the right infrastructure and small classes, which helps teachers focus on the students. Getting enrolled in one such college will help you make a robust foundation for a rewarding career.

The writer recommends Lansdowne College International, a leading A level college in London. They offer a wide selection of GCSE and A Level courses.