A level choices - facilitating subjects again

[Ireallydontseewhy]

Feel sure I must have missed a thread on this, as it is the right time of year, but.... Another dc coming up to A level choices, and we're wondering is the Russell Group booklet on 'facilitating subjects' - Informed Choices - still up to date? Seeming a bit more restrictive this time round, now that many dcs are going to be doing only 3 subjects rather than 4 in sixth form. If anyone knows if it is still considered up to date I would be most grateful! Still available on the internet so I assume it is (or I could e-mail the RG, but always nice to get mners views!)

DS1 did an EPQ when he was in sixth form (couple of years back and with the full AS/A2 system). Found it interesting and not overly onerous. Not sure what bearing, if any, it had on his uni offers. Time and content management seem to be key for EPQ - there are many tales on these threads of DCs becoming bogged down in epics that would seemingly shame many in doctoral thesis :)

That's interesting, boys3.

I think it will be useful preparation for time management and research skills for university as the A levels will otherwise all be terminal exams (unless ds chooses art).

I'd agree ralph that the research skill is a fundamental element and benefit of a good EPQ. If I remember correctly the marking also covered approach, a critical reflection on the process of researching and completing the EPQ as well as the actual content.

DS2 very likely to be at the same sixth form (selective state) that DS1 attended. They are clear that it will be 3 A levels, no AS (aside from any subject that has not yet moved to linear), with an EPQ "encouraged". Only main exception likely to be, as with yours, for FM as a fourth.

I have to admit I'm in two minds about the demise of AS. The benefit that AS did give DS1 was that his initial 4th subject assumed to be dropped after AS, became part way through Y12, clear that it would actually be one the three he'd take through to A2 in Y13. DS2 has to get his choices right from the very start. On the flip side a year without exams (much like the sixth form I, and I suspect most if not all contributors to this thread, had) may provide for a better learming experience

Good summary