Politics, Society and Economics (PGW)
In the subject Politics, Society and Economics—abbreviated PGW—students gain a deeper understanding of the complex workings of politics. The course covers current political and societal issues and examines the interplay between politics and the economy.
To make politics more tangible and engaging, the school offers a variety of events and extracurricular activities, including simulations and field trips. For example, students may visit the city hall or take part in political discussions. A particularly noteworthy event was the visit of local parliament members to BS11, where students debated the topic “Olympic Games in Hamburg.”
Course Focus
In Grade 11, students focus on the foundations of political and social structures, and receive an introduction to the roles and influence of the European Union.
In the qualification phase (Grades 12 and 13), this foundation is expanded to include labour law and international relations.
Topics Overview:
Preparatory Year:
- Parliamentary Democracy
- Socialisation
- Europe
Qualification Phase:
- Semester 1: Politics and the Democratic System
- Semester 2: Society and Social Policy
- Semester 3: Social Welfare and Labour Law
- Semester 4: International Relations
Students may take PGW as a presentation-based oral Abitur subject. The exam begins with a 15-minute presentation on a chosen topic from the four semester themes, followed by a discussion covering the presentation and an additional topic. Alternatively, students may also sit for the written Abitur examination in PGW.