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TRANSCRIPT
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MISSION STATEMENT
Ark Academy has at its core the pursuit of highest standards possible in education. We
believe in high aspirations, high motivation and high achievement for all. Through our
extended curriculum and community life we seek to meet the needs of the whole person.
Civitas – Citizenship – is at our core. We will build a community of civic pride and social
justice in which all members are equally valued. We are committed to the service of young
people and to helping them play their full part in society.
In light of this we aim to:
Provide every student with the knowledge, skills, self belief and motivation to be
successful in their learning and lives
Welcome, value and respect all who come to the school
Build a community based on justice and a sense of personal responsibility
Provide opportunities for all to experience CIVITAS whilst developing a spirit of
tolerance and understanding for all cultures, traditions and faiths
Promote dialogue and co-operation with the wider community
Our Driving Principles are:
Excellence
Citizenship
Participation
Persistence
Our goal
Our goal is that all students should be able to access higher education and participate fully in our
democratic society.
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Introduction
Year 11 – it’s finally here!
We have reached the most important year for our year 11 students so far and the culmination of their work in key stages 3 and 4 is on the horizon. This booklet, focuses both on the year 11 curriculum and the upcoming GCSE examinations and has been designed as a ‘go to guide’ for you to reference during the key months ahead.
In the first section you will find:
A comprehensive timeline of the year, including dates for key assessments, mock exams & the GCSE exams themselves, parents’ evenings and the Sixth Form application process;
Details of final controlled assessments to be taken – worth a percentage of each subject GCSE – and information on upcoming re-sits to boost year 10 grades;
An overview of the external exam process including GCSE exam entries and tiers of entry; Our plan for supporting all students to achieve their best this year through independent
study, targeted intervention and revision.
The second section of the curriculum booklet is focussed on individual subjects, including both core and options subjects. Each Head of Department has given clear and specific guidelines for students in their subject detailing:
The curriculum for the final months in the run up to the GCSE;
Controlled assessment this year, including o Remaining controlled assessment dates & what students need to do to attain well; o The process of rewriting of year 10 controlled assessment (where applicable);
What students need to do to prepare well for the mock examinations;
Information on the structure of the GCSE exam;
How best to complete revision and recommendations for appropriate revision websites / textbooks and wider reading.
Should you have any questions about the curriculum and assessment plans for the year please speak to individual teachers or the relevant Head of Department. Alternatively contact Ms Ryan (VP - Curriculum and Assessment [email protected]), Miss Downey (AP & Head of Key Stage 4: [email protected]). or the Head of Year, Mr Foster ([email protected])
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Year 11 Controlled Assessment Calendar – 2016/17
As you know by now, controlled assessments afford every student the opportunity of gaining a good grade in part of their GCSE well in advance of the terminal exam. By the same token, if students aren’t working hard enough on their controlled assessments, they may miss out on reaching their potential grade in June of year 11. We expect our students to ‘step up’; to work steadily in class and to study and revise independently at home, in order to get the best grade in controlled assessments. This does mean that a high attendance record is paramount in every half term of year 10 to ensure there are no gaps in learning.
AUTUMN 1
Weekly Y11 Business & Media CA completed in class
Weekly Y11 completion of Food, Textiles, RM & Graphics CA
October – date TBC Y11 PE Practical Activity CA 1 & Art Tutorial in class
End of October – date TBC
Y11 MFL Writing CA in class
Thursday 20th October Y11 Science ISA resit for selected students
AUTUMN 2
Dates TBC Y11 Business & Media CA completed
Date TBC Y11 Drama Practical Performance 4 (all week in lessons)
Date TBC Y11 Music Practical Performance: time slots to be allocated
Date TBC Y11 PE Practical Activity CA 2 & Art Tutorial in class
Date TBC Y11 MFL Speaking CA in class
Date TBC Y11 Business & Media CA completed
Monday 12th December Y11SC ISA resit for selected students
SPRING 1
Weekly Y11 Music CA completion in class
Date TBC Y11 PE Practical Activity CA 3 & Art Tutorial in class
SPRING 2
Exact dates still TBC by exam board
PHYSICAL EDUCATION External Moderation Day
Date TBC Y11 Music CA completion in class Date TBC Y11 PA Showcase Mock Performance exam (1 day per class) Date TBC Y11 PA CA Evaluations in class
SUMMER 1
Exact dates still TBC by exam board
PERFORMING ARTS externally moderated controlled assessment
Exact dates still TBC by exam board
DRAMA externally moderated controlled assessment
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GCSE Exams - Starter for Ten
Mock examinations
This coming term is a very important one for teachers and heads of department in every subject, who look carefully at each student’s progress and attainment and use it to decide the appropriate tier of entry for their first mock exams.
The first set of mock exams will take place before the Christmas holidays from 28th November - 8th December. Students will sit full GCSE papers in every subject in an exam hall and their overall result will be decided by both their controlled assessment grade (where possible) and their written paper grade.
The second set of mock exams take place in spring 2 half term, from the 13th – 24th March. Again, students will sit full GCSE papers in every subject in an exam hall and their overall result should be indicative of how they will achieve in their real GCSE exams.
Exam Entries
The results of these exams, scheduled, will determine the GCSE entries including the tier of entry for every student. Each student and their parents will then attend the Exam Entry evening at Ark Academy on 19th January, where both will sign off on all GCSE and tier entries.
More detailed information on the exam entries process, including information on the deposit needed for external exams will be sent out next half term.
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GCSE Exam timetable 2016-17
Our school Exams Officer, Mr Richard Tandoh, has created the first PROVISIONAL GCSE exams timetable, shown below. The final exam timetable for the full set of GCSE examinations will be circulated in February.
Board Year Code Name Timetable date
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5FR011F LISTENING (F) 16/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5FR011H LISTENING (H) 16/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5FR033F READING (F) 16/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5FR033H READING (H) 16/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL1FP BIOLOGY UNIT 1 TIER F 16/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL1HP BIOLOGY UNIT 1 TIER H 16/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB1FP SCIENCE B UNIT 1 TIER F 16/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB1HP SCIENCE B UNIT 1 TIER H 16/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 45201 INFORMATION & COMM TECH UNIT 1 17/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 40552 RELIGIOUS STUDIES B UNIT 2 17/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH1FP CHEMISTRY UNIT 1 TIER F 18/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH1HP CHEMISTRY UNIT 1 TIER H 18/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB2FP SCIENCE B UNIT 2 TIER F 18/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB2HP SCIENCE B UNIT 2 TIER H 18/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 42401 DRAMA UNIT 1 18/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5SP011F LISTENING (F) 19/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5SP011H LISTENING (H) 19/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5SP033F READING (F) 19/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5SP033H READING (H) 19/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5PE0101 THEORY OF PHYSICAL ED. 19/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 90301F GEOGRAPHY A UNIT 1 TIER F 22/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 90301H GEOGRAPHY A UNIT 1 TIER H 22/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 48101 MEDIA STUDIES UNIT 1 23/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 45701 D&T: TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY UNIT 1 23/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 413001 APPLIED/BUSINESS STUDIES UNIT 1 24/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH1FP PHYSICS UNIT 1 TIER F 24/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH1HP PHYSICS UNIT 1 TIER H 24/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB3FP SCIENCE B UNIT 3 TIER F 24/05/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 SCB3HP SCIENCE B UNIT 3 TIER H 24/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 1MA0 1F NON CALCULATOR (F) 25/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 1MA0 1H NON CALCULATOR (H) 25/05/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5HB011A MEDICINE & PUBLIC HEALTH 05/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 45451 D&T: FOOD TECHNOLOGY UNIT 1 05/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 90302F GEOGRAPHY A UNIT 2 TIER F 06/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 90302H GEOGRAPHY A UNIT 2 TIER H 06/06/2017
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Board Year Code Name Timetable date
AQA GCSE 2016 40554 RELIGIOUS STUDIES B UNIT 4 07/06/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 1MA0 2F CALCULATOR (F) 08/06/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 1MA0 2H CALCULATOR (H) 08/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL2FP BIOLOGY UNIT 2 TIER F 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL2HP BIOLOGY UNIT 2 TIER H 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL3FP BIOLOGY UNIT 3 TIER F 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 BL3HP BIOLOGY UNIT 3 TIER H 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 413002 BUSINESS STUDIES UNIT 2 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 42701 MUSIC UNIT 1 09/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH3HP CHEMISTRY UNIT 3 TIER H 14/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH2FP CHEMISTRY UNIT 2 TIER F 14/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH2HP CHEMISTRY UNIT 2 TIER H 14/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 CH3FP CHEMISTRY UNIT 3 TIER F 14/06/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5HB022C GERMANY 1918-45 14/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH2FP PHYSICS UNIT 2 TIER F 16/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH2HP PHYSICS UNIT 2 TIER H 16/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH3FP PHYSICS UNIT 3 TIER F 16/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 PH3HP PHYSICS UNIT 3 TIER H 16/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 45601 D&T: RESISTANT MATERIALS TECH UNIT 1 16/06/2017
EDEXCEL GCSE 2016 5HB033A SURGERY C1845-C1918 20/06/2017
AQA GCSE 2016 45501 D&T: GRAPHIC PRODUCTS UNIT 1 20/06/2017
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Study support for your child in year 11
In addition to all the hard work taking place in lessons every day, special support will be provided for Year 11 in this crucial year. Staff will be going above and beyond to ensure that every student can fulfil their potential in the GCSE exams in the summer.
These additional levels of support will be available in a variety of ways:
1. Study Support (3.35-4.30pm)
Like last year, students will be targeted in subjects where they would benefit from extra time at the end of the school day. The table shows the following departments providing sessions for the autumn & spring term:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
Autumn term
Science
RE
Drama
MFL
Media
DT - FD, TX, GD, & RM
Independent study support – A quiet room with internet access for optional independent study
Spring term
Maths
Art
History
Geography
English
PE
IT
Business Music
Performing Arts Geography
Independent study support – A quiet room with internet access for optional independent study
Summer term is TBC
2. Saturday and holiday revision sessions
Some students will be asked in on Saturdays at different points in the year to complete crucial controlled assessments or coursework. There will also be comprehensive revision programmes put in place over the half terms and Easter holiday to best prepare the students for their exams (see the timeline above for more details).
3. Independent learning
Finally, it is absolutely essential that students are completing independent work (in addition to homework) outside of school. By making this investment of time now it will pay huge dividends in the exams this summer. The subject pages below are a clear guide to the curriculum content & types of exams students will sit with reference to how students can best prepare for these and should be a good start to getting revising early. In addition, there is a sample revision timetable on the following page to give you an idea of what we expect students to use from the beginning of year 11
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Year 11 Revision Timetable 2016 - 17
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Wee
k 1
Session 1
Session 2
Sessions 3
Wee
k 2
Session 1
7
Session 2
Sessions 3
Wee
k 3
Session 1
Session 2
Sessions 3
Revision Tips
1. Plan your time using the revision timetable 2. Treat Sat OR Sun as a school day – do a minimum of 6hrs work 3. Take regular 15 minute breaks and make sure that you stay hydrated 4. Use revision guides, past papers, revision cards and highlighters 5. Do not work on things that you are already good at 6. WORK HARD AND BE NICE!
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English Language and English Literature GCSEs
In year 11, students study for both their English Language and English Literature GCSEs –the focus moves to exam preparation as this contributes to the majority of their overall grade. Students will both study new material and revise every week.
What we’ll be studying each half term:
Half Term Learning Assessments Revision focus
Autumn 1
Non-fiction writing
skills.
Relationships poetry:
Students study 15
poems connected by
the theme of
relationships
Media and non-fiction mock
exam
Homework comprehension
task and revision red book
challenge Three mini poetry essays
One mock poetry exam
Half Term Revision Focus: Read the play Macbeth
Revise each of the 15
relationships poems
Autumn 2
Media and non -
fiction paper and
writing skills.
Students study the
classic play An
Inspector Calls by
J.B. Priestley.
Three mini essays on the
play
Grammar tests
Homework comprehension
and writing tasks
One mock modern novel
exam
Christmas Revision Focus:
Create revision cards on
characters, themes and plot
from novel studied
Create revision matrix on 15
relationships poems
Spring 1
Preparation for
Unseen poetry.
Students will learn
drills for exam
technique and
practice the needed to
be successful.
Three mini essays on the
play
Paper 1 and Paper 2 practice
papers and an example essay
for English each week.
One mock modern drama
exam
Half Term Revision Focus:
Essay practice on poetry,
novel and play studied
Non-Fiction Writing
Grammar and accuracy crib
sheet
Spring 2
Students will
concentrate on the
Media and non-fiction
paper and also
revisiting content on:
- Poetry
- Unseen poetry
- Novel
- Play
Three mock exams on the
Non-Fiction and Media
Paper to help us identify
skills and knowledge gaps
with students.
Grammar tests
Homework Media and non-
fiction practice paper and
writing tasks
Easter Revision Focus:
Paper 1 + Paper 2 – revise
approach to each question
Attempt a mock essay
question on relationships
poetry, novel, play and
unseen
Learn 5 key quotes for
poetry, play and novel each
day respectively
Summer 1
Final revision based on the individual needs of classes and students:
Modelling of confident responses to essay questions for Paper 1 and 2 in English Literature
Giving additional past papers and targeting questions that are problematic for English Language exam
Providing regular tests on quotations and key knowledge ‘nuggets’ needed for poetry, play and novel
analysis
The GCSE Lowdown: Our exam board is AQA and they have removed tiers. All students will sit the same exams on these dates:
GCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE Monday 22nd
May – Shakespeare and 19th
Century Novel and Friday 26th
May – Modern texts and poetry
GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE Tuesday 6th
June – Paper 1: Explorations in Creative reading and writing and
Monday 12th
June – Paper 2: Viewpoints and perspectives
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Keeping up with your revision:
Study support: Year 11 students are targeted for study support sessions Monday 4pm – 5pm for the entire autumn term. This is compulsory. The sessions will focus on revision and exam preparation and will be invaluable – attendance needs to be 100%.
Red Revision book: Students will receive an extra revision exercise book, which they should be using weekly for consolidation of topics taught in class and revision for upcoming assessments.
CPG books: Students will receive a CPG exam questions workbook. It contains a bank of questions, which need to be fully completed and then revisited and re-attempted (using the revision book).
Online resources: BBC bitesize, Englishbiz and Podbean are all credible tools to help consolidate understanding of the Literature texts covered. Equally, every week from Autumn 2, Ms Hanna will be emailing out additional revision activities to support the ongoing consolidation of lessons in order to help memorise key facts and information.
Getting in touch: If you have any questions please contact your child’s English teacher
Class Teacher Name Email Address
11EnBlue Mr. Thompson [email protected]
11EnGreen Ms. Clark [email protected]
11EnOrange Ms. Lewis-Smith [email protected]
11EnPurple Mr. Cooper [email protected]
11EnRed Ms. Hanna [email protected]
11EnSilver Mr. Suttle [email protected]
11EnTurquoise Mrs Wada [email protected]
11EnYellow Ms Johnstone [email protected]
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𝑨 = 𝝅𝒓𝟐 𝒙 =−𝒃±√𝒃𝟐−𝟒𝒂𝒄
𝟐𝒂 Mathematics 𝒂𝟐 + 𝒃𝟐 = 𝒄𝟐 𝑽 =
𝟏
𝟑𝝅𝒓𝟐𝒉
What we’ll be studying each half term…
Below is a guide to year 11 mathematics & the final GCSE topics we need to study. You can use it to plan the extra revision you do prior to each assessment or support work during half term holidays.
Topics Assessment
Au
tum
n 1
o Properties of numbers o Using index laws to simplify and evaluate expressions including
indices o Simplify expressions which include surds & rationalise
denominators
o Estimating & rounding correctly o Finding the upper and lower bound of an estimation o Calculating area, volume, speed, density and evaluating the
effect of rounding on these measures
Students will sit a full non-calculator GCSE paper
before the end of the half term.
There will be two revision lessons preparing students
for this.
Au
tum
n 2
o Functional maths problems – using number, shape and space and statistical methods to solve multi-step, real life problems
o These are typical type exam questions and are a mix of calculator & non-calculator work
o Simplifying algebraic expressions, forming and solving equations and plotting the equivalent graph
o Changing the subject of the formula & evaluating formulae given the value of each variable
o Problems involving speed, distance, time & acceleration
Students will sit one full non-calculator GCSE paper
and two full calculator GCSE papers during the
first mock exams.
Again, there will be two revision sessions preparing
students for this.
Spri
ng
1
o From now on, students will be given exam packs of specific types of questions and later full past paper packs.
o
EXAM QUESTION FOCUS:
o How do I answer questions where I'm asked to explain something? E.G. geometry, proofs, graphs & data handling
o How do I use my calculator efficiently? What is the right amount of working out on a calculator paper? E.G. trigonometry, area & volume & quadratics
Students will sit a full non-calculator GCSE paper
before the end of the half term.
Spri
ng
2
EXAM QUESTION FOCUS:
o How do I solve a problem I've never seen before? E.G. 3D problems, vectors, forming and solving equations
o How do I use my time well in an exam situation? Practise of past papers and timing
Students will sit one full non-calculator GCSE paper
and two full calculator GCSE papers during the
second mock exams
Sum
mer
1
o How can past examiners' tips help me reach my potential in GCSE maths?
o Practise of past papers - using mark schemes & student answers as guidance
TIME FOR THE REAL THING!
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The GCSE Lowdown…
GCSE Mathematics A (1MA0)
HIGHER
GCSE Mathematics A (1MA0)
FOUNDATION
Number, structure
& timing of papers
Three written papers, each of which contains 80 marks in total. The first is non
calculator and the other two are both calculator. Each paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes in
total
Each paper is worth 33.3% of the qualification (there is no coursework).
Tier entry Students will be entered for Higher tier (H) or Foundation tier (F).
All three papers will be taken at the chosen tier.
Content of the
papers
The content is not specifically linked to
either paper.
The content is not specifically linked to
either paper; however, Foundation Tier
content is subsumed in the content for
Higher Tier.
Grades available Grades 4 - 9 available Grades 1 - 5 available
Functional Maths
content 20-30% of each paper 30-40% of each paper
Keeping up with your revision…
Study support: Year 11 students will have the opportunity to participate in study support during the spring term in the build up to mock 2. The sessions will focus on revision and exam preparation and will be invaluable for those lucky enough to attend.
Green revision book: Students have an extra revision exercise book which they should be using weekly for consolidation of topics taught in class and revision for upcoming assessments.
Manga High: Students will be set activities in order to practise particular skills both for homework and for independent study / revision.
Getting in touch…
If you have any questions – please email your child’s maths teacher:
Ms Ozeke [email protected]
Mrs Bowley [email protected]
Ms Ryan [email protected]
Miss Butler [email protected]
Mr Ding [email protected]
Mrs Milea [email protected]
Miss Iliffe [email protected]
Miss Holmes [email protected]
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𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐𝜽 + 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐𝜽 = 𝟏 Additional 𝒙 =−𝒃±√𝒃𝟐−𝟒𝒂𝒄
𝟐𝒂
(𝒙 + 𝒂)𝒏 = ∑ (𝒏𝒌
)𝒙𝒌𝒂𝒏−𝒌𝒏
𝒌=𝟎 Mathematics 𝒇(𝒂) = 𝟎 ∫ 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟓𝒙 + 𝟔
𝟒
𝟏
What we’ll be studying each half term…
Below is a guide to year 11 additional mathematics & the final topics we need to study. As with maths, you can use it to plan the extra revision you do prior to each assessment or support work during half term holidays.
Topics Assessment
Au
tum
n 1
No formal new unit of work - instead we will revisit topics studied in year 10 during allocated lessons & study support including
o Trigonometry (in right & non right angled triangles) equations & identities
o Coordinate geometry : the equation of a line & a circle
o The binomial expansion & probability o Factor & remainder theorem
Students will sit a modified paper this half term
There will be one revision lessons & autumn term study support sessions
preparing students for this.
Au
tum
n 2
Calculus
o Differentiation and links to the gradient function o Integration & calculation of areas o Application to kinematics
Inequalities
o Express real situations in terms of linear inequalities
o Use graphs of linear inequalities to solve maximisation & minimisation problems
Students will sit a full practice paper in the first mock exams.
Students’ results will determine whether their entry to the Ad maths exam.
Again, there will be two revision lessons & study support sessions preparing
students for this.
Spri
ng
1
o From now on, students will be given exam packs of topic related questions and later full past paper packs.
Students will sit a full practice paper this half term.
Spri
ng
2
From now on, students will study through past paper packs & examiners reports.
Second mock exam: Again students will sit a full paper as extra practise.
Sum
mer
1
o As with last half term, students will study through past paper packs & examiners reports.
TIME FOR THE REAL THING!
16
The qualification lowdown…
The full name of the qualification run by the OCR exam board is: OCR Free Standing Mathematics Qualification (Advanced)- Additional Mathematics
There is only one tier in Ad Maths, with grades A, B, C, D and E available. Students will gain a Level 3 qualification which includes UCAS points – relevant for future university
applications.
The exam in more detail…
The exam is two hours and totals 100 marks. There will be two sections to the paper:
Section A About ten compulsory short questions. These questions will not necessarily be equally weighted. Each will carry a maximum of 7 marks. [Total: 52 marks]
Section B Four equally weighted compulsory questions. Each question will carry 12 marks. [Total: 48 marks]
Keeping up with your revision…
Study support: Year 11 students are targeted for study support sessions Monday 4pm – 5pm for the entire autumn term. This is compulsory for anyone not studying a fourth option. Most students working towards taking additional mathematics will attend the additional mathematics study group. Others will be given all of the resources and will catch up at different times (with their teacher’s help of course!)
Green revision book: Students have an extra revision exercise book which they should be using weekly for revision of Ad Maths units of work from year 10 and consolidation of the final units to be taught in year 11.
Textbooks are available to borrow from Mrs Bowley to practise consolidation and exam style questions – students just need to ask. These books are:
o Additional Mathematics for OCR Paperback – by Val Hanrahan o OCR Additional Mathematics Practice Book Paperback – by Val Hanrahan (Author)
Getting in touch…
If you have any questions – please email:
Mrs Bowley [email protected]
17
Triple, Double & Single Science
GCSE 2017
General information (broad timelines):
All students completed the Core Science curriculum last year (Unit 1 in biology, chemistry and physics plus one controlled assessment).
Double and triple science students are on their way to completing the remainder of the Additional Science curriculum (Unit 2 in biology, chemistry and physics).
Triple scientists will be commencing Unit 3 (biology, chemistry, physics) work later this term and this will be completed next term.
Examination entries:
Triple science (Blue, Green)
AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics higher tier (3x GCSEs)
Double science (Orange- Turquoise)
AQA Science A (core) and Additional Science
Single science (Yellow)
AQA Science A (core)
Examinations: all exams are one hour long
Single Science (3 exams)
Core Biology (B1)
Core Chemistry (C1)
Core Physics (P1)
Double science (6 exams)
Core Biology (B1), Chemistry (C1) and Physics (P1)
Additional Biology (B2), Chemistry (C2) and Physics (P2)
Triple science (9 exams)
Biology: unit 1, unit 2, unit 3
Chemistry: unit 1, unit 2, unit 3
Physics: unit 1, unit 2, unit 3
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Controlled assessment (ISA)
There is no preparation recommended or necessary for these assessments in terms of revision.
Students are taken on the day through the exact requirements and given detailed guidance on how to maximise their performance.
Students who do not perform to the expected level are given the opportunity to re-take papers up to a maximum of two further re-sits (a maximum of three attempts altogether)
Revision framework and support
In-class support - Exam technique tips and advice (including the setting up of revision timetables) will be provided
throughout the course and with greater intensity throughout the revision programme This programme will
commence for single and double scientists after the mock examinations in January and will be aimed at addressing
areas of weakness as a result of the mocks as well as general reinforcement.
Homework - is exclusively exam based and will be set weekly.
Additional material - students will be provided with revision/exam question packs in advance of the mock
examinations to support them in preparing for these.
Enrichment – Targeted science enrichment is taking place throughout the autumn term, with a number of Y11
science clinics running.
Revision guides - the department will shortly receive a batch of CGP revision guides which, as an Academy, we are
able to purchase at a very significant reduction and then pass this saving on to parents.
Text books – we recommend the Oxford AQA science textbooks edited by Lawrie Ryan retail at about £20 but can be
obtained much cheaper second hand, copies are also available to use from the school library.
Recommended websites - apart from the well-known BBC Bitesize website,
(http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/), which contains a lot of useful revision material, http://www.my-
gcsescience.com/ is a very good website, which requires a free subscription, containing hundreds of videos covering
every single aspect of the AQA syllabus.
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ASDAN: Certificate of Personal Effectiveness Level 1
In this course students complete a set of challenges that build essential life skills, thus enabling them to make a
successful transition into further education or employment.
In order to receive the award all students must have 12 credits from the modules listed below:
Modules covered CoPE Assessed Skills
1. Communication 2. Citizenship and Community 3. Sport and Leisure 4. Independent Living 5. The Environment 6. Vocational and Diploma Preparation 7. Health and Fitness 8. Work Related Learning and Enterprise 9. Science and Technology 10. International Links 11. Expressive Arts 12. Beliefs and Values
• Introduction to Working with Others • Introduction to Improving own Learning and
Performance • Introduction to Problem Solving • Planning and Carrying out a Piece of
Research • Communication through Discussion • Planning and Giving an Oral Presentation
There is no exam therefore students are required to keep their own portfolio of evidence which must include:
Supporting evidence can include: Where to collect evidence
• Witness statement
• Diaries
• Interview transcripts
• Minutes of meetings
• Letters
• Certificates
• Annotated photographs
• Programmes of events
• Rough planning notes
• Internet
• Magazines
• Library
• Catalogues
• Textbooks
• Television
• People- Interviews
• Radio
• Podcasts
• Newspapers
In order to ensure that students have enough time to complete the challenges in full and produce the evidence for
their portfolio students MUST attend every lesson. The portfolios are sent for external moderation in March 2015.
If you require any further information, please contact [email protected] or [email protected]
20
Art & Design Overview:
Over the course of year 11 students will work on two separate projects which cover each of the Edexcel assessment
objectives and produce a portfolio of work that answers the assessment objective questions. Project 1: Unit 1:
Portfolio/ Internally set exam paper and Project 2: Unit 2: Eternally set exam paper - an exam paper issued by the
exam board.
60% of the course is based on continual Controlled Assessment carried out in school during year 10 and the start of
year 11. The final 40% is studied in year 11 in the Spring and Summer terms. This 40% takes the form of an
externally set exam paper in which students must demonstrate independent work meeting all assessment objectives
and culminates in a 10 hour exam in which they produce their final outcomes.
Assessment Objectives:
In Year 11, students focus on completing controlled assessment tasks on the theme of ‘Identity’ (project 3) up until
the mock exam in January; having already completed two coursework projects in Year 10. In January they will be set
an ‘Externally set assignment’ by the exam board. They will work independently to produce a body of work that will
lead to a final outcome which they will construct during the 10 hour exam in the summer term.
Controlled assessment is ongoing (all lessons and work completed contributes to the final controlled assessments) it
is therefore vital that students do not miss lessons or independent work - 100% attendance is imperative.
Term by Term:
Unit 2: Portfolio
Au
tum
n 1
:
Un
it 1
: Id
enti
ty
Focus of assessment
Au
tum
n 2
:
Un
it 1
: I d
enti
ty
Focus of assessment
Photographer research and response. Artist researches and responses. Interpretation and development of ideas through personal investigations.
Developing Ideas. Refining Ideas. Planning final outcome construction
Construction of final ideas
(MOCK EXAM)
Evaluation
21
Spri
ng
1:
Un
it 2
: Et
ern
ally
set
exam
pap
er
Unit 2: Externally set exam paper Exam board issued paper
Focus of assessment
Exploration of theme set
Photographer research and response. Artist researches and response. Interpretation and development of ideas through personal
investigations.
February
Early May
Focus of assessment
Developing and refining ideas through further artist researches and exploration of appropriate techniques and processes. Planning final outcome construction.
Construction of final ideas.
(10 Hour EXAM) -Evaluation
Homework:
Students will receive a schedule which outlines the focus for independent study every week. It is imperative that
pupils take responsibility for this independent work to ensure they stay up to date with their course work. Every two
weeks this independent work will form the basis of a one to one tutorial with their classroom teacher and a
discussion of how the work was completed and where it fits into the project.
Useful Resources:
- The Learning Centre
- GCSE Art and Design Handbook (also available on ‘Student Share’ drive)
- GCSE Bitesize: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/art/
- Edexcel: http://www.edexcel.com/i-am-a/student/Pages/home.aspx
To extend and develop understanding:
Students are encouraged as part of the course to interact with other artist work- and therefore would encourage you
to take your child to as many art exhibitions and galleries as possible- this will allow them to meet Assessment
Objective 1.
22
Overview: In Years 10 and 11 in Business Studies students work towards gaining one single GCSE. In this course, students study the breadth of the subject from Setting up a Business to Growing as a Business.
The course breaks down as follows:
Studied in year 10
Studied in Year 11
Studied in Year 11
AQA GCSE Business Course
Unit No. 1 2 3
Unit Name Setting up a Business Growing as a Business Investigating Businesses
Brief overview of
assessment
This unit introduces candidates to issues concerning the setting up and operation of a business. It explores the activities of business and the reasons for success or failure. It encourages candidates to appreciate that businesses must operate within society and that this involves businesses engaging with a wide range of stakeholders who will hold differing perspectives.
This unit builds upon the content of Unit 1, allowing candidates to study businesses as they grow and the issues that expansion raises. Begin Au1 focusing on finishing Unit 2 theory.
This unit is a controlled assessment unit. The work must be each candidate’s own individual response and must be produced under controlled conditions. All controlled assessment tasks will be set by AQA. Tasks will be replaced each year and will only be available for one assessment opportunity. The main areas to focus on: Preparation, Research, Planning and a Written Report of Findings.
% of Overall Grade 40% 35% 25%
Assessment Method Written Exam Paper Written Exam Paper Controlled Assessment*
Time for Assessment 1 hour 1 hour Approx. 11 hours
Assessed by: Externally Assessed by
AQA
Externally Assessed by
AQA
Internally Assessed by
Business Studies teaching
staff, Externally
Moderated by AQA
*The controlled assessments take place in school on dates timetabled which students will be notified about. It is
imperative that students are in school at these times as it will be difficult students to catch up if they miss out.
Homework: Students will receive homework every other week, these will vary and include keyword/glossary definitions to research, exam style questions, revision from their Business revision guide as well as completing questions from this guide, creating revision resources in preparation for their half termly and end of year assessments. Each piece of homework will centre around one of the elements of their exams for Unit 1, Unit 2 or linked to their Controlled Assessment. Students are set the homework for completing in 7 days in most cases.
Students are expected to do further revision on top of this and keep up to date with business trends and
news articles.
Students will be assessed at the end of each fertile question. These will be used to track the knowledge and
understanding of students to identify where they are at the time, where they need to go next and how
they will get there. Intervention will be targets at times to support the progress of students to ensure they
stay on track to achieve their very best possible outcome.
23
Independent learning, revision and support outside the classroom: Y
ear
10
Aut1 Aut2 Spr1 Spr2 Sum1 Sum2
Unit 1 Unit 1 Unit 1 Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 2
How can a
business plan for
success?
How will the
location of the
business impact
your profit?
Why can money
make or break a
business?
Do you know
your target
market?
Ingredients
to success.
The 4 P’s
Recruitment:
Choosing the
right people
Yea
r 11
Aut1 Aut2 Spr1 Spr2 Sum1 Sum2
Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 3 Unit 1 & Unit 2
Does efficiency
equal quality?
What Business
will I investigate
Revision for
Mock 1
7th
December
2015
Revision for Unit 1 and Unit 2 Written Exam
Revision
AQA Official
Exam
GCSE Bitesize Business Studies: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/business/ Business Balls: http://businessballs.com/ AQA Exam Board Tips: http://www.aqa.org.uk/student-support/for-students/so-its-exam-day BBC Business News: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/business/
Recommended reading:
AQA GCSE Business Studies: Student's Book
ISBN-13: 9781408504352
Price: £25.99
24
Design & Technology
D&T has four disciplines, Food Technology, Graphic Products, Resistant Materials and Textiles Technology.
All the disciplines are assessed in a very similar formant, the main difference being in materials theory and
project outcomes. The exam board used in D&T is AQA. There is one tier of assessment entry covering
grades A* to G. Students qualification is made up of two units:
Unit 1: Written Paper – 2 Hours: Unit 2: Design and Making:
40% of the grade will be in the form of a written
exam at the end of year 11.
The Exam is split in two sections. Section 1 is
based on Pre-release material issued in March.
60% of the grade will consists of a design & make
activity selected from a range of set tasks.
This is predominately completed in year 10 with
the final sections at the start of year 11.
Unit 2: Design & Making Controlled Assessment:
It is vital to understand the importance of doing well in the controlled assessment. Students who have
done poorly in their controlled assessment rarely go on and achieve a good grade. The same is true for the
opposite – students who do well in controlled assessment set themselves in a strong position to achieve a
high grade. Students should be towards the end of their controlled Assessment. The deadline for all
controlled assessment is the end of Autumn 2. There will be study support on Thursdays this term to aid
the completion of controlled assessment. Students are encouraged to approach their subject teachers for
additional support after school on Fridays. There will also be booster revision sessions closer to the exams.
The table below shows the units of work covered in KS4 for controlled assessment
Autumn 1 Autumn 2 Spring 1 Spring 2 Summer 1 Summer 2
Yr 1
0
Investigating the design context
Investigating the design context
Development of design proposals
Development of design proposals
Making Making
Yr 1
1
Making Testing and evaluation
Marking & Moderation
Additional Exam Practice and Revision
Unit 1: Written Paper:
For each discipline a ‘CGP revision guide’ and ‘exam practice work book’ will be provided to every student.
Please ensure the ‘CGP revision guide’ is returned on completion of the course. The following pages give
more details about the different disciplines within D&T and the topics students need to have covered for
their unit 1 written exam. For more information please feel free to contact the teachers mentioned below.
Food Technology: [email protected] & [email protected]
Graphics Products & Resistant Materials: [email protected]
Textiles Technology: [email protected]
25
GCSE D&T: Food Technology (4545) - Food Technology helps students develop their creativity, with
making of food products a vital feature of their experience of taking this specification. This specification
requires students to develop their application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas,
planning, producing products and evaluating them.
Materials and Components 1. Understand the functional properties of food
2. Understand the nutritional properties of food
3. The effects of combining different ingredients and the
interaction of foods during the preparation and cooking
4. The importance of appropriate proportions on the
structure, shape and volume of mixtures
5. The effects of acids and alkalis
6. Understand the use of standard components in food
processing
7. Demonstrate competence in a range of practical food
skills/methods/processes to produce quality outcomes
Design and Market Influences 8. Investigate the design opportunities
9. Identify and use stages in the development of a food
product prototype
10. Product prototype development
11. Labelling, packaging, product information and codes of
practice
12. Social, economic, cultural and environmental
considerations
Processes and manufacture 13. The use, need and effect of additives
14. The impact and effect of using a range of different
equipment to produce food items of quality and
consistency
15. Storage of Food and Food Products
16. Manufacturing/Large Scale Production Requirements
17. Technological Developments
Useful websites: www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/design/foodtech/
www.getrevising.co.uk/revision-
ests/gcse_aqa_food_technology_functions_of_nutrients
GCSE D&T: Graphic Products (4550) - Graphic Products enables students to design and make
products with creativity and originality, using a range of graphic and modelling materials. Students will be
encouraged to learn to use, understand and apply colour and design through images, to develop spatial
concepts, and to understand graphic materials and their manipulation. They will design and make product
using graphic media and new technologies to prepare them for the world of work.
Materials and components 1. Sketching techniques 2. Types and properties of paper, card and boards 3. Thermoplastics 4. Smart and modern materials 5. Key designers
Process and manufacture 6. Techniques and processes 7. Pictorial drawings 8. Working drawings 9. Surface developments of nets 10. Information drawings 11. Paper engineering and bought in components 12. Products and applications 13. Evaluation techniques
14. Moral, social, cultural ,environmental ,economic and sustainability issues
15. Health and safety
Design and market influences 16. Systems, controls procedures and industrial practices 17. Printing 18. Print finishes 19. Packaging 20. Patents, copyrights, registered
designs and trademarks.
Useful book: AQA GCSE Design and Technology: Graphic Products - £16 on amazon.
26
GCSE D&T: Resistant Materials (4560) - Resistant Materials helps students develop the ability to
design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of materials and techniques. This
specification requires students to develop their knowledge of woods, metals, plastics and composite
materials. Other materials may also be used and the use of new technologies is also encouraged.
Materials and components
1. Material properties
2. Woods, Manufactured boards, Metals ,Plastics &
Composites
3. Smart and modern materials
4. Sustainability of materials
5. KD fittings and fixings
6. Mechanical methods of joining materials
7. Adhesives
8. Surface preparation
9. Applied finishes
Process and manufacture
10. Workshop safety
11. COSHH
12. Hand tools
13. Power tools
14. Techniques and processes
15. Mechanical systems.
16. Electrical systems.
17. Design and market influences 18. Market pull and technology push
19. Social and cultural influences
20. Moral implications
21. Sustainability and environmental issues
22. Designers, manufacturers and product sustainability
23. The 6 R’s
24. Drawing techniques
Useful book: AQA Design and Technology –
Resistant Materials Technology -
£16 on amazon.
GCSE D&T: Textiles Technology (4570) - Textiles Technology enables students to develop a working
knowledge of a wide range of textiles materials and components appropriate to modelling, prototyping
and manufacturing. Students will learn about design and market influences, processes and manufacture,
environmental issues and the use of ICT in relation to the manufacturing of material products
Materials and components 1. Fibres and Fabrics
2. Properties and characteristics
3. Product maintenance, suitability and fitness for purpose
4. Finishing Processes
5. Dyeing and printing
6. Decoration and enhancement
7. Finishes
8. Components
9. Manufactured Components
Design and market influences 10. Product Design
11. Evaluation Techniques
12. Evaluation of quality of own product compared with
market alternatives
13. Social, Cultural, Moral, Health and Safety and
Environment Issues
14. Social and cultural influences on the consumer market
15. Consumer choice and ethical issues
16. Moral and environmental issues
17. Environmental effects: the disposal of chemicals used to
manufacture products; the need to dispose of waste in a safe
and environmentally friendly way
18. Health and Safety issues
Processes and manufacture 19. Techniques And Processes
20. Range of processes used for textile production and
manufacture
21. Production Planning
22. Planning the development and manufacture of a product
23. Quality Assurance
24. Information and Communication Technology
Useful websites: http://textiles4u.wikispaces.com/ http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/design-and-technology/gcse/design-and-technology-textiles-technology-4570 http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/design/textiles/fibresrev1.shtml
27
Year 11 Overview:
It’s time to apply everything you have learned so far!
Alongside your practical work in year 11 you will also be required to attend some live theatre performances and take
part in workshops at school by visiting practitioners. Before your practical assessments you will be required to be at
rehearsals after school or at lunch time. Therefore, you must commit to high attendance, excellent behaviour and
hard work!
The AQA Drama course consists of:
Written exam – 40%
Teacher observations of your work, development and contribution in lessons – 15%
Practical performances throughout the course – 45% The topics we will cover across year 11 will be within the following areas from the Drama syllabus: Theatre in Education Candidates must prepare for, and perform, a piece of Theatre in Education based on a theme designed for a specific target audience. Acting Candidates must prepare for, and perform, an extract from a script for a play. The script used may be either a published or unpublished text. Scripted drama must be learned.
Term Focus Assessment
Autumn 1 and 2
Unit 2 / Theatre In
Education
Prepare and perform “The
King’s New Clothes”
Unit 1/ Written Paper
Teacher observations
Student research and notes
Practical group performance
Written mock examination of Unit 1: section C
Spring 1
Spring 2
Unit 2 / Acting
EXTERNALLY
MODERATED
PERFORMANCE
Practical group performance- teacher marked and externally moderated
Student research and notes
Summer 1 UNIT 1 Written Exam Written Exam
Homework:
Students have one piece of homework each week. This may be a practical homework (to rehearse before the next
lesson with their group) or a piece of research to make up part of their coursework.
Students should constantly keep a rehearsal log for any sessions in or out of class. This will be used to help their
exam preparation at the end of the year- the more detailed the better.
Useful Resources:
The Ark Academy Learning centre
www.fronter.com/ark - The Drama Room
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/drama/
28
Year 11 GCSE Geography
Course content:
Your child is studying AQA Geography A specification. Your child will need to revise everything they have studied in
Year 10 and 11 for the final external exams in summer 2017.
Controlled assessment:
Students are currently writing their controlled assessment in lessons, which is worth 25% of the final GCSE grade.
This is the write-up of the data collected in their Year 10 summer term fieldwork trip to Swanage. Students are not
able to work on this outside class, however they can familiarise themselves with what they need to write in each
upcoming section by reading the Student Guidance Booklet. They can also review the geographical concepts of river
processes from their GCSE textbook. There are many useful resources saved in the student shared area:
S:\Geography\GCSE Controlled Assessment. The completed project is due on 30th September 2015.
Tiers of entry:
The geography department is currently deciding the tiers of entry for GCSE
geography, for which there is a higher and foundation paper. The highest
available mark for foundation paper is a C grade, and for higher paper A*.
Homework:
Weekly homework focuses on answering past paper exam questions and creating
revision resources. It is essential that all homework is completed to the highest
possible standard and handed in on time, so that teachers are able to give
targeted feedback to your child to improve their learning.
Revision:
Students should be actively creating resources using the information from lessons in their folders and textbooks
from both Y10 and Y11. Key pieces of revision material for GCSE geography include A4 case study sheets, revision
flashcards and detailed mind maps. If you would like to buy revision guides, make sure they are for AQA Geography
A, but be aware that your child is often likely to have studied case studies which are more up-to-date than those in
books. The department has a number of revision guides for sale at a cost of £3.25.
GCSE geography exam structure
Unit 1: Physical Geography
Written paper
1 hour 30 min
37.5% of GCSE
Unit 2: Human Geography
Written paper
1 hour 30 min
37.5% of GCSE
Unit 3: Controlled assessment
Controlled assessment
25% of GCSE
Remaining course content for Y11 geography GCSE
Aut1 Aut2 Spr1 Spr2
Controlled
assessment write
up
Water on the
Land
The
Development
Gap
Population
Change
Controlled
assessment
project
GCSE past
paper GCSE past
paper GCSE past
paper – all units
Useful websites:
Geography Fronter page
http://www.bbc.co.uk/scho
ols/gcsebitesize/geography/
http://www.s-
cool.co.uk/gcse/geography
http://revisionworld.com/gc
se-revision/geography
http://www.coolgeography.
co.uk/GCSE/AQA%20GCSE.h
tm
Contacts:
Mr Chandler: [email protected]
Mr McGregor: [email protected]
Mrs Haslam: [email protected]
Miss Tamburello: [email protected]
29
Sitting and ‘reading’ a book is not an effective way to revise… students need to be ACTIVE. Our
favourite revision methods are:• Creating flashcards and learning them• Mind maps using image and colour• Writing answers to past exam questions (pupils
will be given plenty to practice!)
Pupils will sit GCSE past papers: Unit 1a: Medicine through time
Unit 2c: Germany 1918-1945Unit 3a: The Transformation of surgery,
1845-1918 Each will last 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pupils should prepare for their mocks in the same way as their final GCSE examinations
• Year 11 will spend Autumn Term completing their Controlled Assessment pieces• Year 11 will spend the rest of the year preparing for the 3 examined units of the GCSE History course• Pupils are following the Edexcel GCSE History B curriculum
The table below shows the breakdown of teaching and assessment in Year 11
All students have a textbook for each topic. These & their exercise books and revision guides are the best
resources for revision. However, the following websites will also be useful:
My Revision Notes: There is a book available as well as this websitehttp://www.hodderplus.co.uk/myrevisionnotes/gcse-history/edexcel-b /BBC Bitesize:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/history/shp/John D Clare: http:// www.johndclare.net/Weimar1.htmHistory Learning Site: http:// www.historylearningsite.co.uk/weimar_germany.htmEdexcel/Pearson pages for Parents and Students : http:// www.edexcel.com/i-am-a/student/Pages/home.aspx
Please contact Miss. Sanders, Head of History: [email protected]
30
ICT
Months Controlled Assessment Theory
September Unit 2 in lesson Unit 1 Revision
October Unit 2 in lesson Unit 1 Revision & Assessment
November Unit 2 in lesson Unit 1 Revision
December Unit 2 in lesson Unit 1 Revision
January Unit 3 in lesson Unit 1 Revision & Mock Exam
February Unit 3 in lesson Unit 1 Revision
March Unit 3 in lesson Unit 1 Revision
April Sent off to AQA for moderation Unit 1 Revision
May N/A Unit 1 Revision
Unit 2 Total Marks: 100 Unit 3 Total Marks: 100
30% of overall GCSE grade 30% of overall GCSE grade
Internally assessed Externally moderated Internally assessed Externally moderated
Unit What How When
2 Applying ICT Skills Designing / Making / Testing / Self Evaluating / Report / Peer Evaluating
Autumn Term in every lesson – attendance is crucial
3 Practical Problem Solving
Planning / Management / Independently use ICT / Designing / Making / Testing / Self Evaluating / Report / Peer Evaluating
Spring Term in every lesson – attendance is crucial
40%
30%
30%
ICT AQA GCSE Course Structure
Unit 1: Theory Exam
Unit 2: ControlledAssessment
Unit 3: ControlledAssessment
Final Months
Controlled Assessments
31
Total Marks: 120
40% of overall GCSE grade
Externally assessed – A calculator may be used
Section A: 10 structured questions featuring a range of types of questions from very short questions requiring 2 or 3 line answers. (72 marks)
Section B: 3 structured questions featuring short and extended answer questions. (36 marks)
Section C: 1 essay question from a choice of 2. (12 marks)
Resource: How to use:
Exercise Book Student should review class learning, identify key examples, exam questions and answers and prepare
neat and clear revision notes.
Revision Guide Students have all been issued with an ICT revision guide which is a fantastic resource for home revision.
These contain: All topics across Unit 1, Example exam answers, Space for students to answer exam
questions and self-assess with answers at the back. There is also a great tool that breaks down the exam
command words and tips.
Mind Maps Mind maps are a brilliant way for students to visually prepare revision notes. Step 1. Pick a topic 2. Build a
mind map using exercise book notes, revision guide content using a range of colours 3. Ask someone at
home to test you 4. Re-write the mind map on a blank page from memory 4. Repeat the process until you
no longer need to look back at the original mind map so you are completing purely from memory.
Homework Each week students are expected to complete over 1 hour of revision. Students have been issued with a
revision exercise book and should create a minimum of 2 pages of neat and clear revision notes on topics
covered so far.
Past Papers These will be invaluable – students can practice at home in a quiet space and time themselves – please
help them by insisting technology is switched off and no distractions are around. Then students can use
mark schemes to self -assess. Examiner reports are also available that provide descriptions of what
students did well and need to improve in a particular exam e.g. common mistakes. Where? Library –
Student Share Network – AQA GCSE ICT website.
Online Students should avoid using unreliable websites such as Wiki’s.
Some sites that may be of use:
AQA GCSE ICT
BBC Bitesize GCSE ICT
www.teach-ICT.com (Lots of keywords, videos and fun quizzes)
Transferable
Skills
Students require to write with a high quality of written communication so should use their English
language skills in all areas of the course. In addition numeracy is important; there will most certainly be a
few exam questions that require students to use the mathematical skills to answer questions showing
working out. Calculators are allowed.
Unit 1 Theory Exam Structure
Revision: Mocks & End of Year Exam
32
Year 11 Overview:
The first term in Media Studies will comprise of completing the final controlled assessment which is focussed upon
web design. This assessment is the largest one that students will complete and therefore carries the most amount of
marks (30% of overall GCSE grade). Alongside the last controlled assessment, students will also be studying for the
external exam: TV Gameshows. This requires all students to take a vested interest in TV gameshows and to start
watching a variety of them now!
The AQA Media Studies course consists of:
Unit One: External exam (40% of overall GCSE) Students will complete an external exam in June 2017. The exam assesses both practical and theoretical skills that students have learnt over the two year course. Pre-release materials that give students vital information about the exam will be given out four weeks prior to the exam. Students will be invited in at a scheduled time to collect the materials and have a student led discussion about the paper to consolidate their ideas about preparation work they will need to complete. It is essential that students turn up to this session before their exam. Dates will be released closer to the exam. Unit 2: Controlled Assessment (60% of overall GCSE) In Year 10, two of the three controlled assessments that make up the 60% of the GCSE grade were completed. This year, the final and largest controlled assessment will be completed. This controlled assessment requires students to analyse a variety of websites before carefully planning and producing their own. Students will be given time in lessons to complete this, but for students aiming for the higher grades, a significant amount of time outside of lessons will need to be utilised. Preparing for the controlled assessment outside of lessons: The controlled assessment in Media Studies is informal which means that students can work on it outside of lessons. In order to create a high quality production, students will need to spend time on their website design independently. In order to be successful, a range of independent work can be carried out, including:
Looking at and analysing a variety of genre – specific websites
Planning their own design (colour/font/genre etc – creating mood boards help)
Planning location, costume and actors to produce material (photos or videos) for their webpages
Ensuring they have the technology to upload photos/videos to their webpages
Homework:
Students have been given a guided booklet to complete research on TV Gameshows. Each week they will be
expected to watch a TV Gameshow and then complete the relevant pages in the booklet. This will build their
repertoire of the genre and ensure that they are well-read enough to succeed in the external exam. Towards the end
of the term and after Christmas, homework will be focused upon past exam paper practice.
Useful Resources:
The Ark Academy Learning centre
AQA GCSE Media Studies textbook (available from Mr Gardiner)
33
MFL: french & spanish
The focus for the Autumn Term will be on the Writing Controlled Assessment (see date above). Students are familiar with the format for the Controlled Assessments. To support them, please ensure
that your child is familiar with the following: The date for their writing CA Revision strategies to ensure they meet/ exceed their target grade
It is crucial that all weekly homework deadlines set by your child’s teacher are met and that regular
and thorough revision is taking place. The Spring Term will be centred around developing listening and reading skills in preparation for the exams in May.
Edexcel Revision Workbooks will be issued to students in January at the price of £5. These workbooks
will be used to complement revision both at home and in class.In the meantime, the following resources will be of benefit as students pursue independent study:
Quizlet: http://www.quizlet.com
Languages Online: http://www.languagesonline.org.uk/
Conjuguemos: https://conjuguemos.com/
GCSE Bitesize French: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/french/
GCSE Bitesize Spanish: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/spanish/
BBC Languages: http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/
Wordreference: http://www.wordreference.com
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or Ms Bouquin Head of MFL ([email protected] )
34
Music
AUTUMN TERM
The focus for this term is completing the performance and composition controlled
assessments. Pupils are aware that they need to commit to doing extra work on their compositions during this time, either at lunchtime or during targeted enrichments.
Also, pupils should be practising their solo performance piece frequently as that assessment is coming up in the next couple of weeks.
The Music for their ensemble performances will be given to them as soon as we have finished their solo performances. They will need to meet as an ensemble to rehearse
these pieces.
SPRING TERM
This term will be centred around developing listening skills in preparation for the
Listening Paper in June, and finishing the Unit 2 Composition. The Music department has purchased listening revision books for pupils and these will
be given out in due course. It is vitally important that these are kept safe as they will be an invaluable resource.
Pupils have already been given a range of resources and revision guides to aid their composition work. Students must be constantly revising their key words.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Miss Sharp, Head of Music- [email protected]
35
Year 11 Overview:
It’s time to apply everything you have learned so far!
Alongside your practical work in year 11 you will also be required to attend some live theatre performances and visit
a range of Performing Arts venues. Before your practical assessments you will be required to be at rehearsals after
school or at lunch time. Therefore, you must commit to high attendance, excellent behaviour and hard work!
The AQA Performing Arts course consists of:
Unit One: Skills Development Portfolio - Ongoing and submitted in April 2017 Create a portfolio of work completed during the course. 60% of marks Students will to produce a portfolio which evidences their work over the two year course. This should be a practical working record which includes: • An indication of their initial skills level and the activities carried out to improve the skills • Materials showing research into the performing arts industry • Three observations during the course about their working practice by suitably qualified people.
Unit 2: Showcase Performance- February 2017. Work as a production company to put on a performance in response to a showcase brief. 40% of marks During the course you will develop skills in a variety of performance areas throughout Year 10 and 11 and then you will present a final performance in April/May 2016 responding to the brief set by AQA. The showcase brief includes: • A description of what has to be produced • Constraints which may limit what you are able to do, such as a limited budget or particular performance space • The target audience which will have to be investigated before choosing material. Rehearsing and preparing for the Showcase. During this time you will be working, both as a theatre company and independently, in order to ensure that the Showcase is of the highest possible standard.
You should demonstrate that you can: • stick to deadlines and schedules • rehearse or carry out suitable activities so that they are ready to produce the highest possible standard of performance • observe safe working practices • take responsibility for communicating their performance needs to others, eg set, props, costumes, positioning of equipment such as musical instruments or microphones • take responsibility for their own equipment, props, costumes etc depending on their role/responsibility, especially during performances and clearing up.
Homework:
Students have one piece of homework each week. This may be a practical homework (to rehearse before the next
lesson with their group) or a piece of research to make up part of their portfolio.
Students need to keep an up-to-date rehearsal log for sessions in or out of class and include this in their portfolio.
Useful Resources:
The Ark Academy Learning centre
Show my Homework
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/performingarts/
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The table below shows all the topics your child will be studying in Year 11 in order to complete the specification:
Section 1.2: Your Healthy, Active Body Topic 1.2.1:
Physical activity and your healthy mind and body
Topic 1.2.2:
A healthy, active lifestyle and your cardiovascular system
Topic 1.2.3:
A healthy, active lifestyle and your respiratory system
Topic 1.2.4:
A healthy, active lifestyle and your muscular system
Topic 1.2.5: A healthy, active lifestyle and your skeletal system
Controlled Assessments: We have one remaining physical activity; Fitness. This will take place during the Autumn 2 term and this
will also include completing the Personal Exercise Programme alongside the practical performance.
All other practical lessons will be used to top up and consolidate existing practical performance grades
Practical Exam (The date is to be confirmed but will take place between March and May):
As part of the GCSE Physical Education we will be visited by an external moderator from Edexcel. This will
be one full day where pupils will be expected to perform to the best of their ability in the activities that are
being submitted as part of their practical grade (60% of the total GCSE). Pupils cannot be absent on this
day.
Revision for the mock exam
Our mock exam will include all the information learnt in Year 10 as well as all of the topics in section 1.2 that are listed above. Pupils must revisit the year 10 content on a regular basis during their study support session times as well as at home. We advise the completion of past paper questions found on Edexcel’s website as well as produce revision cards and mind maps.
The mock exam will mirror the structure of the final exam in the summer term. It will include 10 multiple choice questions followed by short and extended answer questions. The paper will be out of 80 marks with pupils required to apply their knowledge using sporting examples and comparisons.
Useful Resources for revision:
The Ark Academy Learning centre
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/pe/
http://www.teachpe.com
http://www.briamnmac.co.uk
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/pe/Pages/default.aspx
Once we have completed the above topics all theory
lessons will focus on revision (Spring Term).
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Recommended for Wider Reading and Revision:• AQA Religious Studies B: Religious Philosophy and Ultimate
Questions by Marianne Fleming et al • AQA Religious Studies B: Religion and Life Issues by Marianne
Fleming et al• http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/
What you need to do to revise for the RE exam:• You should now be using your Year 9 and Year 10 exercise books. You will
have notes and worksheets as well as exam answers that have been teacher assessed and this will remind you of the content we have learnt as well as how to answer certain questions. Get these books out at home and/or bring them
to your morning study group.• You will be given a revision guide in Aut 2 that will have notes, activities and
exam questions on each topic. You should also bring this to study group and complete the activities whenever you have time.
• Read through the notes in your book and/or revision guide. Highlight any key pieces of information and make notes about these in a mindmap or on revision cards. Read over these notes and then use them to answer an exam
question on the topic.
Structure of the exam: You will have 2 exam papers that will last 1.5 hours each. In each exam, you will have to answer 4 questions and each question will
have 5 parts to it. Each question is usually set out as follows:
Part 1) Key word definition (1 or 2 marks) Part 2) Give 2 reasons why.... (2 or 3 marks)
Part 3) “A statement.” Do you agree? (3 marks) Part 4) Explain question (e.g a TMA question) (5-9 marks)
Part 5) “A statement.” Do you agree? (6 marks)