university foundation programme in business management

UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION PROGRAMMEIN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

INTRODUCTION

COURSE OUTLINE

This course is specifically designed for High School students who wish to progress onto undergraduate courses in the UK to study on business-related programmes.

There is a strong emphasis on developing the learning skills required for studies at higher education level in the UK. Teaching of the three depth modules – Business Studies, Accounting, and Economics – encourages students to evaluate and apply information, and to appreciate the relationship between theories and concepts and the real world of business management. As an integral part of the programme, students are given comprehensive knowledge of UK universities and of different aspects of living and studying in the UK. Students are also assisted in the application process through UCAS and made aware of UKVI regulations with regard to visas. Class sizes are small with a maximum of 15 students per group in order that teachers can more easily differentiate and give individual assistance to each student.

Module % of overall grade Tuition hours per week

Term 1Statistics for Business

Themes in Social Science

Communication Skills

Study Skills

Academic English

Term 2 & 3Business Studies

Accounting

Economics

Academic English

10%

5%

5%

5%

-

35%

20%

20%

-

5 hours

4 hours

3 hours

5 hours

6 hours

8 hours

5 hours

5 hours

6 hours

PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES

GRADING GUIDE

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

1

1

1

2

2

2

3

3

3

4

4

5

6

To prepare students for business-related undergraduate degree programmes of UK universities.To increase student knowledge of basic business, accounting, statistical and economic theories, and concepts.To help students develop an analytical approach to their studies, and to be able to apply information effectively to practical business and organisational contexts.To improve generic study skills such as essay construction, research methods, knowledge of presentational software, and rules of plagiarism.To improve English language skills both in terms of written and oral communications.To provide students with detailed information concerning UK universities and career opportunities. To advise them on all aspects of UK university application processes.

To proceed to the second term, students must achieve an overall percentage of at least 50% in Term One module assessments. Students must pass all second and third term assessments in order to be awarded a certificate of successful completion. Students are permitted to retake all exams once. The maximum that they can score in a re-take is capped at 50%.

All students must have an English language level equivalent to 5.0 IELTS with minimum of 5.0 in reading and writing. For students who have not achieved this, pre-sessional English language tuition is available. Interview, usually through Skype. Suitable reference.All students must have completed Senior High School. Academic entry requirements vary from one country to another;

A 70 – 100%

B 60 – 69%

C 50 – 59%

Fail 0 – 49%

Notes on Assessment

Bahrain Tawjahiya (leaving cert) Average grade of 70% (passes in 5 subjects)

Bangladesh High school certificate Average grade of 70% (passes in 5 subjects)

Brazil Certificado de Ensina Medio Average grade of 60%Cameroon Cameroon Baccalaureat Overall grade of 13/20China High school certificate Average grade of 65%Ghana WASSCE Four subjects A – CIndia High school cert (10+2) Average grade of 55%Indonesia SMU3 Average grade of 60%Iran High school diploma Overall grade of 13/20Jordan Tawjihi Average grade of 70%Kazakhstan Attestat Average grade of 3Kuwait General Sec School Cert Overall grade of 70%Libya Sec. education cert Average grade of 70%Malaysia SPM/STPM Passes at A gradeMexico Bachillerato Average grade of 80%Nepal School leaving certificate Average grade of 80%Nigeria WASSCE Four subjects A – CQatar Thanawaya Aam Qatari Average grade of 70%Russia Attestat Average grade of 3.0Saudi Arabia Tawjihi Average grade of 70%South Korea High school graduation Average grade of 70%Sri Lanka Sri Lankan A levels B grades in 3 subjectsTaiwan Senior high school diploma Overall grade of 65%Thailand Mathayam Suksa Average grade of 4Turkey High school diploma Average grade of 5UAE Tawjihi Average grade of 70%Vietnam Upper sec school diploma Average grade of 65%

DELIVERY OF THE PROGRAMMEGreat emphasis is placed on the need to ensure that all students are prepared for the style of teaching and learning at UK universities. Many students are more accustomed to methods focused on recall of information, and SCL recognises the need for students to adapt and become more secure in evaluating and applying theories and concepts.

There is a strong emphasis on informal assessments throughout the programme. At the start of each module, students undergo an assessment to identify individual strengths and weaknesses.

Termly reports are given to students and parents after the first and second terms.

ASSESSMENTS

ACADEMIC PROGRESSION AND EMPLOYABILITY

In order to ensure that all assessments are carried out in a correct manner, the following processes are in place: • All formal assessments, whether exams or coursework are set and assessed by SCL.• All pieces of formal coursework are submitted electronically.• Turnitin is used to ensure against plagiarism for all formally assessed coursework.• Exam room regulations adhere to JGF regulations.

The primary objective of most students is to progress onto business related degree programmes at UK universities. Therefore, a strong emphasis is placed on detailed information on UK universities and their business-related courses.

Students receive individual help in the application process through UCAS and are given guidance on personal statements.

Several trips to universities are arranged each year as well as inviting representatives of universities to come and speak to our students.

A key element of the course is to develop attributes, skills and knowledge to enhance student opportunities of securing rewarding and fulfilling jobs once they have graduated from university.

The course develops many transferable and practical skills including: • the ability to evaluate and apply knowledge and concepts; • developing logical and balanced arguments; • performing well in interviews; • communicating in professional contexts; • making effective presentations; • improving Excel skills; • writing a professional CV; In addition, there is a full programme of talks from representatives of companies in different fields of business.

EQUALITY AND DIVERSITY

STATISTICS FOR BUSINESS

SCL is committed to providing equality, opportunity, and anti-discriminatory practice for all students. In particular, we aim to: • Provide a secure environment in which all our students can flourish and in which all

contributions are valid. • Provide positive non-stereotyping information about different ethnic groups and people with

disabilities. • Make inclusion a thread which runs through all our activities in the delivery of the programme. • Create an ethos in which students and staff feel valued and secure. • Build self-esteem and confidence in our students, so that they can then use these qualities to

influence their own relationships with others. • Remove or minimize barriers to learning, so that all students can achieve. • Ensure that our teaching considers the learning needs of all students through our schemes of

work and lesson planning. • Make clear to our students what constitutes aggressive, discriminatory, and racist behaviour. • Identify clear procedures for dealing quickly with incidents of discriminatory and behaviour.• Make students and staff confident to challenge discriminatory, racist, and aggressive behaviour. • Promote equality of opportunity between disabled people and non-disabled people.

First Term

5 hours per week

10% of overall grade

Introduction and AimsThis module introduces a range of techniques for understanding and analysing data essential in the decision-making process. There is a strong emphasis on understanding how different techniques can be applied to practical situations. The module is taken in the first term of the programme.

Course Content • Probability• Binomial distribution• Normal distribution• Estimation• Correlation and regression

• Sampling• Probability distributions• Time series analysis• Hypothesis testing

Objectives • Develop an understanding of statistics and

statistical processes.• Develop the ability to construct a logical

statistical argument and recognize incorrect statistical reasoning.

• Apply statistical concepts and theories in a range of contexts.

• Recognise how a situation may be represented statistically and understand the relationship between practical problems and statistical models.

Lesson plan - Term 1 (Week 1-11)

Week Lesson Topic

1 Initial assessment of students followed by introduction to programme

2 Probability3 Binomial Distribution4 Normal Distribution5 Estimation

Week Lesson Topic6 Correlation and Regression, Sampling7 Probability Distribution8 Time Series Analysis9 Hypothesis Testing

10 Revision and Mock Testing11 Exam Week

Teaching and Resource StrategiesThe following resources are used during this course:

Assessment100% examination at end of first term – 2 hours (AO1, 2, 3)

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Recall and relevant selection of statistical facts, concepts and methods.

AO2 Application of facts, concepts and methods in a logical fashion to solve logistical problems.

AO3 Accurate use of calculators, formulae and statistical tables.

Author Title PublisherR. Williamson Advanced Maths for AQA:

Statistics 1Heinemann 2004

R. Williamson Advanced Maths for AQA: Statistics 2

Heinemann 2004

Performance Description

Grade A

Students recall or recognise almost all the statistical facts, concepts and techniques that are needed, and select appropriate ones to use in a wide variety of contexts. Students use graphs, sketches and diagrams, all with high accuracy and skill. They correctly refer results from calculations using the model to the original situation; they give sensible interpretations of their results in the context of the original realistic situation. They correctly refer the results of calculations back to the given context and make sensible comments or predictions. Candidates make appropriate and efficient use of contemporary calculator technology and other permitted resources.

Grade B

Candidates recall or recognise most of the statistical facts, concepts and techniques that are needed, and usually select appropriate ones to use in a variety of contexts. Candidates use graphs, sketches and diagrams, all with a reasonable level of accuracy and skill. They often correctly refer results from calculations using the model to the original situation; they sometimes give sensible interpretations of their results in the context of the original realistic situation. Candidates usually make appropriate and effective use of contemporary calculator technology and other permitted resources. They usually present results to an appropriate degree of accuracy.

Grade C

Candidates recall or recognise some of the statistical facts, concepts and techniques that are needed, and can select appropriate ones to use in a variety of contexts. Candidates use graphs, sketches and diagrams, mostly with a reasonable level of accuracy and skill. They correctly refer results from calculations using the model to the original situation; they sometimes give sensible interpretations of their results in the context of the original realistic situation. Candidates can make appropriate and effective use of contemporary calculator technology and other permitted resources. They usually present results to an appropriate degree of accuracy.

THEMES IN SOCIAL SCIENCE First Term

4 hours per week

5% of overall grade

Introduction and AimsThis module introduces different subject areas within social science and provides a basis for the depth modules. It is primarily a skills-based module using appropriate topics to develop student ability to research, debate, and make considered judgements, putting into practice skills learnt in the Study Skills module.

Course Content • Introduction to different social sciences

including business, politics, law, and economics

• Business & Society: corporate social responsibility.

Objectives• Develop a basic understanding of different

fields of social science.• Develop research skills and an ability to

evaluate information.• Improve ability to debate issues.

• Theories and practice of democracy.• Political ideologies• Crime & Punishment• Role of the media• Cultural differences

• Be able to construct effective and structured arguments and make considered judgements.

• Be aware that in many social science issues, there are a wide range of valid opinions.


Week Lesson Topic

1 Introduction to Business and Economics

2 Introduction to Politics and Law

3 Business & Society: Corporate Social Responsibility

4 Democracy: Origins of Democracy; Different Types; Aspects of Democracy. Rights and Responsibilities of Individuals

Week Lesson Topic

5 Political Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Nationalism

6 Crime and Punishment7 Role of the Media8 Presentations9 Cultural Differences

10 Revision Week11 Exam Week

Teaching and Resource StrategiesThis module has no specific textbook. A wide range of different resources are used as a basis for class discussions and activities.

AssessmentGroup presentation and debate Reflective self-assessment

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Knowledge of theories and principles discussed during the term

AO2 Ability to construct well developed arguments with appropriate evidence and illustrations, and to make considered judgements AO3 Use of appropriate terminology and quality of English AO4 Positive contribution to class debate

Grade A

Candidate demonstrates secure knowledge of topics discussed and is able to construct effective and well organised arguments making effective use of evidence to illustrate them. Candidate reaches confident and well considered judgements. Candidate uses good range of appropriate terminology in spoken and written assessments making only a small number of grammatical and spelling mistakes. Candidate prepares well for teaching sessions and makes well informed and relevant contributions to these sessions.

Grade B

Candidate demonstrates secure knowledge of topics discussed and is often able to construct effective and well-structured arguments sometimes making effective use of evidence to illustrate argument. Candidate reaches logical and valid judgements. Candidate uses satisfactory range of appropriate terminology in spoken and written assessments making some grammatical and spelling mistakes. Candidate prepares for teaching sessions and makes valid contributions to these sessions although on an inconsistent basis.

Grade C

Candidate shows a satisfactory knowledge of topics discussed and sometimes shows an ability to construct effective and well-structured arguments. Candidate uses a range of terminology in spoken and written assignments but with frequent mistakes in the quality of English. Candidate prepares for teaching sessions on an inconsistent level and makes some contributions to these sessions.


COMMUNICATION SKILLSFirst Term

3 hours per week

5% of overall grade

Introduction and AimsThis module is taken in the first term of the programme. It focuses on verbal and IT related communication in a variety of contexts, aiming to introduce new skills and instil confidence in the communication process.

Course Content• Verbal communication in different

contexts such as meetings, interviews, and presentations.

• Creating effective spreadsheets.• Understanding the concepts of face to face

communication, including the importance of language, gestures, body language and cultural differences when communicating.

• Producing a range of letters; produce a fax; produce a memo; produce a report.

• Recognising the purpose of interviews. Planning an interview. Different types of interviews.

Objectives• Improve verbal communication skills in a

variety of contexts• Increase awareness of the different skills

required in different situations• Develop skills in making an effective

presentation.

• Appreciating telephone tactics and techniques; speak with confidence on the telephone and understand telephone messages clearly.

• Preparing and delivering a speech or presentation with clarity and confidence, using visual aids.

• Web development.• Presentation software.• Considering the purpose and different

types of meetings. Preparing for a meeting, including the agenda. Understanding the terminology of meetings, motions and resolutions.

• Make effective use of word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software.

• Understand the means by which data can be summarised and presented.


Week Lesson Topic

1 Introduction to course. Methods of Communication

2 Non-verbal Communication; Importance of Body Language

3 How to Perform Effectively in an Interview

4 Effective Communication in Meetings5 How to make an Effective Presentation

Week Lesson Topic6 Presentations

7 Use of Excel in Creation of Spreadsheets

8 Designing Web Pages; Web Development and Web Technologies

9 Presentation Software10 Completion of Spreadsheet

Coursework11 Exam Week

Teaching and Resource StrategiesEssential Reading

Author Title PublisherBPP Study Text Managing Communications

and Achieving ResultsBPP Learning Media 2013

Recommended Reading

Author Title PublisherC. Lehman & D. DuFrene Business Communication

(seventeenth edition)Cengage Learning 2011

J. J. Parsons et al New Perspectives on Microsoft Excel

Cengage Learning 2013

AssessmentPresentation on agreed topic 60% (AO 1, 2, 3) Creation of a spreadsheet using Excel 40% (AO 4, 5)

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Evidence of appropriate research in preparing presentation

AO2 Clarity and organization of presentation AO3 Clear and effective delivery of presentation AO4 Effective use of software in delivery of presentation AO5 Evidence of understanding of how to create an Excel spreadsheet

Grade A

Students make an appropriate choice of subject and show evidence of using a wide variety of appropriate resources in researching their topic. They structure the presentation in a logical and organised fashion and deliver it in a clear and confident fashion. The student uses presentational software, which is well designed, attractive, and appropriate to the presentation. Students answer questions showing evidence of a thorough mastery of their subject.

Grade B

Students make an appropriate choice of subject and show evidence of using a variety of appropriate resources in researching their topic. They structure the presentation in a logical and organised fashion and deliver it in a coherent and articulate fashion. The student uses presentational software, which is well designed, and appropriate to the presentation. Students answer questions showing evidence of a reasonable mastery of their subject.

Grade C

Students make an appropriate choice of subject and show evidence of using resources which are appropriate in researching their topic. They structure the presentation in a fashion which shows some organisation and clarity although at an inconsistent level and deliver it in an understandable fashion. The student uses presentational software, which is adequately designed, and appropriate to the presentation. Students answer questions showing evidence of an inconsistent level of knowledge of the topic.


STUDY SKILLS First Term

5 hours per week

5% of overall grade

Introduction and AimsThe Study Skills module helps students to prepare for undergraduate studies in the UK. It addresses the challenges of taking a course in a second language and adapting to a very different style of teaching and assessment. It also gives guidance to students on writing personal statements for university applications.

Course Content • Effective note taking in lectures.• Paraphrasing and summarising sources.• Data response questions.• Rules on plagiarism.• Evaluating and applying information.

• Structuring essays.• Research skills; locating relevant and

appropriate sources.• Harvard referencing system.• Writing an effective personal statement.

Objectives• Appreciate how to use sources effectively

and how to avoid plagiarism.• Develop an ability to select and apply

information in a logical and appropriate fashion.

• Structure written answers in a coherent way, developing arguments and reaching balanced conclusions.

• Be able to take effective and useable notes from a lecture.

• Be able to carry out a research project using a range of sources, and showing an understanding of the Harvard referencing system, and compiling a bibliography in the correct format.

• Complete a well-structured personal statement.


Week Lesson Topic

1 Guidance on Writing Personal Statements for University Applications

2 Note Taking Skills for Lectures3 Answering Data Response Questions4 Evaluation and Application of Sources5 Structuring of extended pieces of work.6 Research Skills: Accessing Different

Types of Sources

Week Lesson Topic

7 Harvard Referencing System; Bibliographies

8 Choosing Topics for Assessment Project, Submission of Proposals

9 Mentoring on Assessment Project10 Completion of Assessment Projects11 Exam Week


Author Title PublisherS. Drew & R. Bingham The Student Skills Guide

(second edition)Gower 2011

S. Cottrell The Study Skills Handbook (fourth edition)

Palgrave 2013

AssessmentWritten project of approximately 1,500 words on a business-related topic negotiated with the tutor (AO1, 2, 3, 4, 5).

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Effective use of a range of appropriate sources

AO2 Effective paraphrasing and summarising of sources AO3 Ability to evaluate and apply information AO4 Ability to structure written work

AO5 Correct use of Harvard referencing system and compilation of bibliography

Grade A

Students use a wide and varied range of appropriate sources and select appropriate information and arguments from these sources which is paraphrased or summarised in a coherent fashion, avoiding plagiarism. They structure their project effectively with a suitable introduction and well-balanced conclusion. References are made in the correct fashion with only a small number of errors and a bibliography is created in the correct format, again with only a small number of errors.

Grade B

Students use a variety appropriate sources and select some appropriate information and arguments from these sources which is paraphrased or summarised in a mostly coherent fashion, avoiding plagiarism. They structure their project effectively with a suitable introduction and conclusion. References are made in the correct fashion with some errors and a bibliography is created in the correct format, again with some errors.

Grade C

Students use more than two sources and select some appropriate information and arguments from these sources which is paraphrased or summarised in a basic fashion, avoiding plagiarism. They structure their project adequately but with a poor introduction and conclusion. References are made in the correct fashion with frequent errors and a bibliography is created in the correct format, again with frequent errors..


ACADEMIC ENGLISHAll three terms

6 hours per week

Not internally assessed

This is a non-assessed but essential module to raise all English language skills and help prepare students for their IELTS tests. Lessons focus on the four language areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking and all disciplines are combined in each lesson. They also give an insight into the nature of the IELTS test in terms of exam technique and time management.

ResourcesTeachers use a range of written and audio-visual material to supplement the main textbooks: • Achieve IELTS • IELTS Express • Focus on IELTS • IELTS Foundation

Practice tests are set at least once a month to measure progress.

BUSINESS STUDIES Second and Third Term

8 hours per week


Introduction and AimsThe course introduces students to the ways in which business organisations of all types function. It examines the global environment in which businesses operate and how they can respond to external factors. While the principal aim of the course is to prepare students for degree programmes in business and management related programmes, there is a strong practical element to the course allowing theories to be applied to practical situations. The coursework element of the assessment allows students to trace the different stages of starting a business and appreciating the internal and external challenges which businesses encounter.

Course Content • The macro environment• PESTEL• Management structures and organisations• Motivation, recruitment and training• Leadership methods• Stakeholders within a business• Marketing objectives

Objectives• Understand the political, social, and

economic, environmental, technological, and legal context in which businesses operate.

• Appreciate the ways in which businesses can respond to a changing macro environment.

• Develop a critical understanding of the different ways in which organisations are structured.

• Develop a critical understanding of how the individual and the organisation relate to each other in terms of goals, motivation, and leadership.

• The 4 P’s• Positioning and branding• Marketing internationally• Budgeting and forecasting• Management of cash flow• Stock control, lean management• Quality management

• Appreciate the importance of recruitment and training.

• Understand the different perspectives of a range of stakeholders.

• Develop a critical understanding of the main tasks and concepts associated with marketing planning and the marketing management process.

• Develop the skills to create a business plan for a new organisation.

• Appreciate the need for effective management control of operations.

• Show an ability to evaluate different theories and apply them to practical situations.


Week Lesson Topic

1

International Business Environment; The Macro-environment; PESTEL; How Does the Political Environment Affect Businesses?

2 International Business Environment; Economic and Socio-cultural Factors; Technological, Environmental and Legal Factors.

3International Business Environment; Assessment of Different National Markets

4 International Business Environment; Socio-cultural Differences in International Business

Week Lesson Topic

5The Human Resource; Different Management Structures and Organisation

6 The Human Resource; Different Ways of Motivating Employees.

7 The Human Resource; Recruitment and Training of Staff

8 The Human Resource; Leadership Theories.

9 Employer/Employee Relations; Different Stakeholders.

10 Revision of HRM and Exam.11 Exam Week

Lesson plan - Term 3 (Week 1 – 11)

Week Lesson Topic

1 Marketing: The Marketing Mix (The 4 P’s)

2 Marketing: Positioning & Branding3 International Marketing Planning

4Finance & Operations Management: Business Plans, Budgeting, and Cash Flow Forecasts

5 Finance & Operations Management: Managing Capital. Why Businesses Fail

6 Finance & Operations Management: Stock Control. Lean Management

Week Lesson Topic

7Finance & Operations Management: Quality Management Techniques. Consumer Protection Legislation

8 Starting and Managing a Business: Introduction to Module and Factors in Choosing a Business Project. Budgeting and Planning. External Factors

9 Starting and Managing a Business: HR, Marketing, and Financial Factors

10 Starting and Managing a Business: Completion of Project

11 Exam Week


Other Resources:• A-Z Business Training Ltd- Topical case study material• Photocopied articles from other books and journals• Tutor2U.net resource downloads• Times2resources.com – quotes, exercises• Newspaper articles from periods of study• Business Review Magazine

Author Title PublisherI.Marcouse Business Studies (fourth

edition)Hodder 2011

Assessment

International Business Environment

Supported MCQ answers 50%Questions based on data 50%

The Human ResourceSupported MCQ answers 50%Questions based on case study 50%

MarketingSupported MCQ answers 50%Questions based on case study 50%

Operations ManagementShort answer questions 50%Analysis of a business plan 50%

Starting & Managing a Business

Synoptic assessment drawing together knowledge and skills from the 4 previous modules. Project based on creating a business plan for a proposed new organisation

100%

Assessments for each module count for 15% of overall mark. Synoptic assessment counts for 40%

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of topics taught.

AO2 Application of knowledge and understanding to examples of organisations which may or may not be familiar. AO3 Analysis of problems, issues and situations. AO4 Ability to evaluate information and theories from a range of sources and develop a well-structured business plan using appropriate terminology.

AO1 AO2 AO3 AO4Exams 40% 40% 20% N/ASynoptic Business Plan 30% 25% 25% 20%

Grade A

Students recall or recognise almost all of the key business concepts in the syllabus. They show an ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations and are aware of issues arising from these situations. They show confidence in analysing problems and situations and can build logical arguments. They are able to evaluate information appropriately for specific situations.

Grade B

Students recall or recognise most of the key business concepts in the syllabus. They show an ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations although, on occasions, this application is not secure. They show an ability to analyse problems and situations but sometimes their arguments lack a solid foundation. They are able to evaluate information although not always in an appropriate fashion.

Grade C

Students recall or recognise most of the key business concepts in the syllabus. They show a basic ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations although, usually, this application is not secure. They show some ability to analyse problems and situations but usually their arguments lack a solid foundation. They are able to evaluate information only on a basic level.


ACCOUNTINGSecond and Third Term

5 hours per week


Introduction and AimsAn understanding of the basic concepts of financial and managerial accounting is valuable not only for students who wish to consider a career in accountancy, but also as a way of understanding how businesses work in general. No prior knowledge of accounting is required for this module. The module gives students an introduction to financial and managerial accounting principles and helps them to apply these principles in different situations.

Course Content • Term Two: Principles of accounting and

financial accounting

Objectives• To introduce students to the language

of accounting, its principles, concepts, standards, conventions and practices.

• To introduce students to the regulatory and legislative context that has emerged.

• To familiarise students with current issues in accounting

• Term Three: Managerial accounting

• To enable students to prepare financial accounting statements and reports from raw financial data.

• To enable students to interpret financial statements and to report their funding to management.


Week Lesson Topic

1

The necessity of keeping financial records, and the uses of financial information. The historical evolution and the impact of statutory control (Main Companies Acts) – limited liability balanced by the doctrine of disclosure

2

Accounting principles – distinction between revenue and capital transactions, reparation of private financial affairs to record all transactions that affect changes in the monetary values of the assets, liabilities, and equity of the business entity

3 Financial Reporting standards (FRS)

4

Business entity concept, money measurement concept, historic cost concept, going concern concept, realisation concept, accruals/matching concept

5

Classifying, recording and summarising business transactions according to the traditional division of the ledger system to facilitate preparation of end of year trial balance, and simple financial statements for internal use in respect of sole traders and partnerships. Preparation of end of year accounts from incomplete records

Week Lesson Topic

6

The capital structure of limited companies and the disclosure requirements of the Major Companies Acts (limited liability the doctrine of disclosure). This will include the issue of ordinary shares, the issue and redemption of preference shares and debentures of different types, and also the classification of reserves and their uses

7

Forms of accounting information Profit & loss account, Balance sheet, Cash flow statement, Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses, Notes to the Accounts. The Directors Report, the Chairman’s Statement, the Auditors Report and the Operating and Financial Review

8

Preparation of company profit & loss accounts and balance sheets for both internal and external publication from raw data. Preparation of company cash flow statements from financial data

9 Interpretation of company financial performance using ratio analysis

10 Review of the topics discussed during the term

11 Exam Week


Week Lesson Topic

1

What is management accounting? Similarities with financial accounting and the case with which the two systems can be integrated

2

Elements of cost, cost classifications, direct and indirect costs. The classification of overheads, overhead analysis and overhead absorption rates including a comparison between traditional methods and Activity Based Costing

3 Week 2 topics continued

4Preparation of Job Costing, Process Costing and Contract Costing statements from financial data

5 Week 4 topics continued

Week Lesson Topic

6

The utility of Cost-Profit-Volume analysis for short term decision making including exercises involving the limiting factor and make or buy decisions

7

Budgeting and Budgetary Control including the preparation of functional budgets, flexible budgets, cash budgets etc, also motivational aspects of budgeting

8 Variance analysis – simple computations to explain its utility

9

Capital investment appraisal techniques including payback accounting rate of return, discounted cash flow and internal rate of return calculations

10 Review of the topics discussed during the term. Mock tests

11 Exam Week

Teaching and Resource StrategiesEssential Reading:

Other Resources:• www.bized.ac.uk• www.nelsonthornes.com/aqa• www.pearsoned.co.uk/wood• www.triplealearning.co.uk• www.tutor2u.net

Exams equally weighted.

Author Title PublisherF. Wood & A. Sangster Business Accounting

(twelfth edition)Pearson 2012

Assessment

Term Two Written ExamCreation of P&L account and balance sheet from given data.Data response questions.

Term Three Written Exam Data response questions.

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding – to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of accounting principles, concepts and techniques.

AO2 Application – to select and apply knowledge and understanding of accounting principles, concepts and techniques to familiar and unfamiliar situations. AO3 Analysis and evaluation – to order, interpret and analyse accounting information in an appropriate format. Evaluate accounting information, taking into consideration internal and external factors to make reasoned judgements, decisions and recommendations, and assess alternative courses of action using an appropriate form and style of writing.

Grade A

Student demonstrates a secure knowledge and understanding of accounting principles. Student is able to apply knowledge using appropriate techniques for use in familiar and unfamiliar situations Student is able to order, interpret, and analyse accounting information in an appropriate format. Student is able to evaluate information, taking into consideration internal and external factors to make reasoned judgements, decisions, and recommendations, and to assess alternative sources of action using an appropriate form and style of writing.

Grade B

Student demonstrates a reasonable knowledge and understanding of accounting principles. Student is able to apply knowledge using mostly appropriate techniques for use in familiar situations Student is able to order, interpret, and analyse accounting information in a mostly appropriate format Student is able to evaluate information, taking into consideration internal and external factors to make mostly reasoned judgements, decisions, and recommendations, and to assess alternative sources of action.

Grade C

Student demonstrates a basic knowledge and understanding of accounting principles. Student is able to apply knowledge sometimes using appropriate techniques for use in familiar situations. Student shows a limited ability to order, interpret, and analyse accounting information in an appropriate format. Student is sometimes able to evaluate information, taking into consideration internal and external factors to make reasoned judgements, decisions, and recommendations, and to sometimes assess alternative sources of action.


ECONOMICSSecond and Third Term

5 hours per week


Introduction and AimsThis course combines a study of micro and macro content in exploring a range of economic issues drawn from national and international contexts. It promotes an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life. Although prior study of economic theories is useful, no prior knowledge is necessary. The course is valuable in a general understanding of the world around us and offers essential background knowledge and understanding to students wishing to progress to business related degree level studies.

Course ContentMicroeconomic Theories and Practice • Supply and demand• Price elasticity• Producer’s theory• Market structures• Government policies and other externalities

Objectives• To introduce students to the language

Develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life.

• Apply economic concepts and theories in a range of contexts and appreciate their value and limitations in explaining real-world phenomena.

Macroeconomic Theories and Practice• Aggregate demand and supply• National income and fiscal policy• Financial systems and monetary policy• Unemployment and inflation• International trade, balance of payments,

and exchange rates

• Analyse, explain, and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the role of government within it.

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the specified subject content.

• Apply knowledge and critical understanding to economic problems and issues arising from both familiar and unfamiliar situations.

• Analyse economic problems and issues.• Evaluate economic arguments and evidence,

make informed judgments.



Week Lesson Topic

1 Introduction to Microeconomics: Positive & Normative Statements

2Markets, Demand and Supply: Demand, Supply and Price Determination

3 Markets, Demand and Supply: Consumer Theory

4 Markets in Action: Price Elasticity of Demand; Price Elasticity of Supply

5Producer’s Theory: The Supply Decision; Short Run Costs; Long Run Costs

Week Lesson Topic

1Aggregate Demand and Supply: Macroeconomic Objectives; Circular Flow of Income

2 Aggregate Demand and Supply

3The Determination of National Income and Fiscal Policy: National Income; Equilibrium; The Multiplier

4

The Determination of National Income and Fiscal Policy;Unemployment and Inflation: a Keynesian view Keynesian analysis of the business cycle; the role and effectiveness of Fiscal Policy

5Financial System and Monetary Policy: Functions of Money; The British Financial System

Week Lesson Topic

6 Producer’s Theory: The Supply Decision; Revenue; Profit Maximization

7 Market Structures: Degree of Competition; Perfect Competition

8 Market Structures: Monopolistic Competition; Oligopoly; Monopoly

9 Market Failures and Government Policy: Externalities and Public Goods

10 Revision and Mock Test11 Exam Week

Week Lesson Topic

6

Financial System and Monetary Policy: Demand and Supply of Money; Money Market Equilibrium - Monetary Policy and its effectiveness

7Unemployment and Inflation: The Philips Curve; Monetarist views; New classical views; Keynesian views;

8Unemployment and Inflation: Demand side policy; Supply side policy; Economic Growth and Productivity

9

International Trade, Balance of Payments and Exchange Rates: Free Trade and its gains; Trade Restrictions; Globalisation; Debt and developing countries

10 Revision and Mock Test11 Exam Week

Teaching and Resource StrategiesThe following resources are used during this course:Essential Reading:

Author Title PublisherAlain Anderton A level Economics (fifth edition) Pearson 2008

Other Resources:• Use of DVDs such as Niall Ferguson’s “Ascent of Money”. • Newspaper articles and relevant websites are also employed to keep abreast of current

developments and to put economic theories into practical contextsUseful websites: • The Economist: www.economist.co.uk • The Financial Times, Special Reports: www.ft.com/reports • BBC News; Economics: www.bbc.co.uk/news/business/economy

Each exam has equal weighting.

Assessment

Term Two Written examination on microeconomic topics. 2 hours

Part A: MCQ supported answers 50% Part B: Data response questions 50%

Term Three Written examination on microeconomic topics. 2 hours

Part A: Data response questions 50%Part B: Essay questions 50%

Assessment ObjectivesAO1 Knowledge and understanding of the specified content.

AO2 Ability to apply knowledge and understanding of the specified content to problems and issues arising from both familiar and unfamiliar situations. AO3 Ability to analyse economic problems and issues. AO4 Ability to evaluate economic arguments and evidence, making informed judgements

Grade A

Students demonstrate detailed knowledge of the key terminology and concepts in the syllabus. They show an ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations and are aware of issues arising from these situations. They show confidence in analysing problems and situations and can build logical arguments. They are able to evaluate information appropriately and reach logical conclusions.

Grade B

Students consistently demonstrate secure knowledge of key terminology and concepts in the syllabus. They show an ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations although, on occasions, this application is not secure. They show an ability to analyse problems and situations but sometimes their arguments lack a solid foundation. They are able to evaluate information although not always in an appropriate fashion.

Grade C

Students demonstrate knowledge of key terminology and concepts in the syllabus although not with much consistency. They show a basic ability to apply relevant concepts and knowledge to specific situations although, usually, this application is not secure. They show some ability to analyse problems and situations but usually their arguments lack a solid foundation. They are able to evaluate information only on a basic level.


AO1 AO2 AO3 AO4Term Two 50% 30% 20% N/ATerm Three 30% 40% 25% 20%

university foundation programme in business management

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