FAQ

The course will be delivered via a mixture of written content, videos and online group sessions. It is designed so that a new topic is covered each week, with my videos explaining key concepts whilst my written materials will provide writing frames and examples. My online group sessions will deal with a variety of matters, such as techniques for examination questions, troubleshooting challenging material and discussing the latest developments in US politics. All material will be accessible via a shared area and can be used at students’ convenience.

I will set regular examination questions and will provide feedback on the work which is submitted. My feedback will provide guidance on how to meet assessment objectives, strategies for structuring answers and key knowledge. This will help students identify what their strengths and weaknesses are, and how they can sharpen their work. My online sessions will also help students progress as they will provide an opportunity to address and clarify problem areas.

Actually, it is better! Unlike regular classroom teachers who are stretched by the innumerable demands of their jobs, I am dedicated and committed to the delivery of this program alone. My classes are deliberately kept small to ensure there is sufficient room for a more personalised learning experience and to enable students to build their confidence. I understand that classes in schools and colleges are likely to be larger and I can fully appreciate that openly participating in those classes may feel daunting. My aim here is to provide a friendly space in which students can check their understanding, develop their skills and knowledge and then apply it all elsewhere. The way I have designed the course is such that it provides opportunities for interaction alongside space for structured independent study. Furthermore, if a student happens to be ill or cannot attend one of my sessions, then the work and materials can still be accessed easily at their convenience. This means they don’t need to worry about falling behind as my course provides a safety net. Moreover, my course is designed so that some specialist issues like gun control are covered in detail. This means my students get to explore political topics which go beyond the examination specification.

The very nature of politics is that it is constantly changing, and in the USA there are all manner of developments at federal and state levels. What may be a key issue today may seem less important tomorrow and what may be significant in one state might be rather less significant in another state. But that is all part of what makes politics a unique and fascinating subject: there is a lot of material to explore. My course uses both historic and recent examples, and my sessions will relate to the latest major developments. I also complete examination board training regularly to ensure that my knowledge and understanding of the specification remain relevant.