Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
5th Year Politics and Society.
Politics and Society aims to develop the learner's ability to be an active, participatory citizen. This Leaving Certificate subject explores concepts of power, human rights, and sustainable development in both an Irish and global context.
01Power and Decision-Making in Ireland
This unit explores the nature of power and how it is exercised within the Irish political system. Students will examine the role of the Oireachtas, media influence, and social stratification.
Students will investigate different definitions of power and how it manifests in contemporary society. The topic introduces key political thinkers and their perspectives on authority and influence.
An examination of the institutions of the Irish State, focusing on the Oireachtas, the President, and the electoral process. Students will evaluate the effectiveness of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote (PR-STV).
This topic critically analyses the role of traditional and social media in shaping public opinion and political outcomes. Students will learn to identify media bias and understand the impact of digital echo chambers.
Students will explore how social class and economic inequality impact political participation and policy-making in Ireland. The topic addresses structural barriers that prevent equitable access to power.
02Active Citizenship and Participation
This unit focuses on the rights and responsibilities of citizens in a democratic society. It examines how individuals and groups, including NGOs and trade unions, can effect political and social change.
An exploration of what it means to be an active citizen beyond voting in elections. Students will discuss the moral and civic duties of individuals in their communities.
Students will evaluate the role and effectiveness of NGOs and civil society groups in advocating for policy changes. The topic includes analyzing successful and unsuccessful campaign strategies.
This topic covers the historical and contemporary significance of trade unions in Ireland. Students will examine collective bargaining, strikes, and the ongoing struggle for workers' rights.
Students will learn the practical steps of designing and implementing a citizenship action project. This prepares them for the practical coursework component of the Leaving Certificate assessment.
03Human Rights and Responsibilities
This unit introduces the foundational concepts of human rights, examining their application in Ireland and globally. Students will analyze international law, human rights abuses, and the mechanisms for protecting vulnerable groups.
An introduction to the philosophical origins of human rights and key documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Students will debate the universality versus cultural relativism of human rights.
Students will examine how human rights are protected under Bunreacht na hÉireann (the Irish Constitution) and domestic legislation. The topic highlights contemporary human rights issues faced by minority groups in Ireland.
This topic explores the role of international bodies, such as the UN and the European Court of Human Rights, in enforcing human rights. Students will investigate why states sometimes fail to uphold these international standards.
An analysis of how armed conflict impacts human rights and the role of international humanitarian law. Students will look at case studies of post-conflict societies attempting to rebuild and achieve transitional justice.
04Globalisation and Localisation
This unit investigates the interconnected nature of the modern world, focusing on economic globalisation, sustainable development, and cultural identity. Students will assess Ireland's place in the global community.
Students will define globalisation and examine its economic, political, and social dimensions. The topic evaluates how global trade and multinational corporations impact the Irish economy.
An exploration of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the global climate crisis. Students will discuss Ireland's environmental policies and the tension between economic growth and sustainability.
This topic addresses the stark disparities in wealth and development between the Global North and Global South. Students will critically evaluate the effectiveness of international aid and development programs.
Students will reflect on how globalisation influences national and cultural identities. The topic explores the concept of global citizenship and how diversity is shaping modern Irish society.