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TRANSCRIPT
CAISTOR
YARBOROUGH
ACADEMY
YEAR 9 Choices Booklet
2014 – 16
Your pathway to success!
NAME: ………………………………………………………
2
CONTENTS
Pages
Letter from Mr Newnham and Mrs Watson 3
Key Dates 4
Advice for students 4
The English Baccalaureate 5
The National Curriculum and Choices 5
What Next? 6
The Core Compulsory Subjects
Mathematics 7-8
English Language & English Literature 9
GCSE Science & Additional Science 10-11
Physical Education 12
Everyone Matters (EOM) 13-14
Option Subjects
GCSE Geography 16-18
GCSE History 19-21
GCSE French 22-23
GCSE Spanish 24-25
Other GCSE & BTEC Qualifications
GCSE Art & Design 26-27
BTEC Level 2 First Award in Performing Arts (Acting) 28-29
BTEC Level 2 First Award in Music 30-31
GCSE Resistant Materials 32-33
BTEC Level 1/2 First Award in Hospitality & Catering 34-35
GCSE Biology, Chemistry & Physics 36
BTEC Sport 37
GCSE Information & Communication Technology (ICT) 38
Riseholme College – Land Based Studies 39
Pages for your notes 40
3
Dear Parents/Carers and Students,
Welcome to your 2014 Choices Booklet – the start of you and your child making one of
the most important decisions since starting at Caistor Yarborough Academy.
The purpose of this booklet is to provide an outline of the entire Key Stage 4 Curriculum
along with information to help with the making of choices.
This is also a great opportunity for students to select and design part of their timetable
for the next two years at CYA.
That means studying subjects that they enjoy. They do not have complete freedom to
choose subjects. Some are compulsory, and some have an element of choice, but there
is sufficient choice available to personalise the curriculum to suit their strengths,
aspirations and interests.
We are very proud of the range of choices and have designed the curriculum to provide a
broad and balanced education, so giving the best life chances.
All students will receive advice and support to make the right choices. All students
should work closely with their tutor. Remember the vertical system gives them the
opportunity to discuss courses with Year 10 and 11 students.
Students should make careful decisions and listen closely to the advice of teachers and
parents.
We look forward to seeing you at our Choices and Parent Consultation Evening on
Monday 10th February 2014 from 5.00-8.30 pm at CYA.
Please make sure that you have all of the information you need. If you have not, then
please email us on [email protected] or telephone us on 01472 851383.
Yours sincerely
Jeremy Newnham Pam Watson
Headteacher Assistant Headteacher
4
Key Dates
Friday 31th January Choices Booklet issued
3rd – 7th February Subject talks in lessons
Monday 10th February Choices/Parents’ Consultation Evening
Wednesday 26th February Final date for return of Choices Forms
3rd March – 4th April Individual student interviews with Mrs Watson
W/B 3th May Choices finalised and letter sent home
Mid/late June Start Year 10 curriculum
Monday 21st July Final date for any Choices changes
Advice to Students Make your choices for the right reasons. Before making your final choices, you should
make sure that:
you read all the information in the booklet;
you enjoy studying the subject (being careful to distinguish between your opinion
of the subject and the teacher);
you have listened to advice from your tutor, subject teachers, parents and older
students;
you are capable of studying the subject to examination level. (Consult your current
subject teachers);
if you have a particular career area in mind make sure you check if specific
subjects are required;
wherever possible leave your choices as wide as possible so you keep your
options open at the end of Year 11;
make sure you do not choose subjects to be with your friends - these are choices
about your future. The Academy will decide on the structure of teaching groups,
and friendships will not be a factor.
5
THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE
The government has introduced the English Baccalaureate to recognise achievement in a
range of subjects. This shows that students are able meet the demands of an
increasingly competitive world either in education or in work and training. This is not a
qualification as such. However, it is recognition that a student has a well-rounded
academic education and a Grade C or above in all of the following subjects:
GCSE English Language and English Literature
GCSE Mathematics
Two GCSE Sciences
GCSE History / Geography
GCSE French / Spanish
Universities are likely to look favourably on students who have achieved the English
Baccalaureate. We strongly recommend this for students who wish to continue on to A
Levels and university.
THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM AND CHOICES
All students must study certain subjects at Key Stage 4 (KS4). These are listed below.
English
Mathematics
Science
Physical Education
Personal, Social Health, Citizenship and Cultural Studies Education
Students will have FOUR choices. One of these must be History,
Geography, French or Spanish
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WHAT NEXT?
Please read this Choices Booklet carefully with your child and encourage them to ask
questions of the staff who teach them now, and who may teach them in the subjects that
are new at KS4.
We will be discussing the booklet with them over a series of activities culminating in the
Choices Evening / Parents’ Consultation Evening from 5pm until 8.30pm, on Monday
10th February 2014.
Students should not complete their choices until after the Choices Evening. The
application booklet that they need to fill in will be available on that evening.
Students will be supported in the Academy to enable them to complete the Choices form.
The Choices form must be returned by Wednesday 26nd February and handed to Mrs
Watson. It must also be signed by a Parent/Carer.
We offer an open option system so that students are given the widest possible choice,
and do our very best to give students the choices they selected. Please understand that
it may not always be possible or feasible to do so. If this is the case we will speak to
students individually about this.
It is important to recognise that there must be a final day to change choices, as once a
course of study has begun it becomes increasingly difficult to change. This year, the final
date for changing subject choices will be Monday 21st July 2014. After this time it will
not be possible to alter choices or groups.
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THE CORE COMPULSORY SUBJECTS
Mathematics (CORE)
You will follow the Edexcel linear GCSE course
and will study number, algebra, geometry,
statistics and handling data. The exam can be
taken either at higher (A*-D) or foundation level
(C-G). There will be marks awarded for quality
of communication and questions about problem
solving, interpreting and applying mathematics.
There are 2 written papers each contributing 50% of the final grade – these will be sat at
the end of Year 11.
Each paper will be 1 hour 45 minutes and 100 marks on each paper.
• Paper 1: Non-calculator
• Paper 2: Calculator
The functional elements of mathematics are assessed on each paper:
30-40% of the Foundation Tier papers
20-30% of the Higher Tier papers.
If there is any additional information you require, please feel free to ask any member of
the Mathematics team.
GCSE Statistics (Edexcel) will be taken alongside GCSE Mathematics by most
students.
Is this the right subject for me?
The age of statistics is upon us.
Statistics are being used at an increasing rate in business, politics and science. In the
real world we are constantly bombarded through the media with graphs, economic data
such as Retail Price Index (RPI) and various other statistical statements.
If you want to learn about the role statistics plays in all aspects of everyday life and how
to interpret and use statistical statements then our GCSE in Statistics is the right subject
for you.
What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?
You will need very little previous statistical knowledge to be able to take this course. In
Key Stage 3 you will have done some data-handling work which will be repeated at the
beginning of this course.
Foundation students need to have a basic understanding of accuracy, fractions, decimals
and percentages. Higher-level students need, in addition, to be familiar with the
equation of a straight line and have a basic understanding of the shapes of exponential
curves.
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What will I learn?
In this course, you will learn:
• how to collect, summarise and represent unbiased data
• the skills necessary to read, analyse and interpret data and various diagrams and
statistical statements accurately
• to develop your ability to reason and discuss results
• how to predict what will happen in the future by making forecasts based on statistical
results and considering the probability of something happening.
How will I be assessed?
Task (teacher assessed)
Approximately 8 to 10 hours
Written paper:
Foundation Tier 1 hour 30 mins
Higher Tier 2 hours
This will involve you choosing, with the help
of your teacher, a task to investigate. You
will make a plan, collect data, analyse it
and then write up a report on your work.
Some of this will be done during lesson
time.
Each paper will have some short and some
long questions. Many of them will involve the
use of real-world data. You could be asked, for
example, to design questionnaires, draw box
plots and scatter diagrams, interpret
diagrams, carry out calculations and interpret
statements.
What can I do after I have completed the course?
You can use the skills you have acquired when studying further subjects at all levels.
Biology, psychology, economics, geography, engineering and archaeology are among the
many subjects that rely at times on an understanding of statistical data. You might also
use these skills to make decisions about things in your own life such as investing
savings, choosing electrical equipment and buying cars. Studying statistics at AS Level
and university can lead on to a variety of jobs including areas such as manufacturing,
insurance and civil service. Statisticians are needed in most walks of life.
9
English Language and English
Literature (CORE)
You will receive two separate GCSE grades. Literature will be taken at the end of Year
10, followed by English Language in Year 11.
Both courses will be assessed by a blend of final examination and controlled assessment
at the end of the course.
English Literature
You will either follow the course for AQA or EDEXCEL iGCSE in English Literature. Both
courses will include a study of novels, plays and poetry.
AQA – 25% controlled assessment, 75% terminal exam.
EDEXCEL – 100% terminal exam.
English Language
Producing creative texts 15%: Two controlled assessment tasks to develop and
assess your writing skills.
Reading Response 15%: A controlled assessment responding to a literary text.
Spoken Language Study 10%: A controlled assessment analysing language use
in spoken forms.
Exam (2 hours 15 minutes) 60%
Response to non-fiction texts followed by two writing tasks.
As we continually strive to produce the best results possible and meet individual needs,
we may enter you for alternative boards for this exam.
Although Speaking and Listening does not contribute to your final mark for some
examination boards, it is still an integral part of your development in English, so we will
give you plenty of opportunities to use these skills.
Controlled Assessment
These are completed in controlled conditions and cannot be taken home. There is also a
limit on the amount of time you can spend on it and deadlines must be met.
It is not an exam, because you are aware of what you are being asked to do and will have
prepared beforehand. You are permitted to have one page of notes. However, you will
need to work independently and silently.
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GCSE Science and Additional
Science (CORE)
SCIENCE to be completed in Year 10 and
ADDITIONAL SCIENCE to be completed in
Year 11.
Examination Board — Edexcel
AIMS
Development of students’ understanding of the science around them that affects
their everyday life.
Developing students’ questioning, analytical and evaluative approach to scientific
problems and issues.
To further develop their practical skills in science and an understanding of how
science works.
To encourage enthusiasm about science; this could lead to continued study.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE
The course builds on all the work done in Science so far and in the same way it includes
some Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The Year 10 course is split up into 3 units; one
each of Biology B1, Chemistry C1 and Physics P1. Each unit contains topics on the
specialist subject.
This pattern is repeated in Year 11 for the GCSE Additional Science (B2, C2, P2 + CAT).
As the groups are usually smaller than those in Year 9, we are able to do a great deal of
practical work in many of the topics.
The topic areas are:
Biology Chemistry Physics
B1
Classifications, variation
and inheritance
Responses to a changing
environment
Problems of, and solutions
to, a changing environment
C1
The Earth’s sea and
atmosphere
Materials for the Earth
Acids
Obtaining and using metals
Fuels
P1
Visible light and the Solar
System
The electromagnetic
spectrum
Waves and the Universe
Waves and the Earth
Generation and
transmission of electricity
Energy and the future
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Students are placed into ability groups based on their Year 9 Teacher Assessment.
Some regrouping may take place at appropriate times throughout the course.
SKILLS REQUIRED
The course builds on many of the skills already acquired during Key Stage 3. In order to
achieve the highest marks, independent research using books, CD ROMs and the
internet are encouraged. An essential skill for success is to have an inquiring mind and
we would expect students to question ideas rather than simply accepting them as fact.
How the marks make up the final Science GCSE grade
The final GCSE Science grade comes from these different areas:
Each Year 10 Unit has an examination accounting for 25% of the GCSE marks, 75%
in total.
Controlled Assessment Tasks (CATs) are also taken which make up the remaining
25% of GCSE marks.
An identical pattern of assessment exists in Year 11 for the award of GCSE
Additional Science.
HOMEWORK
Homework will be set regularly and part of this will be to learn the classwork thoroughly
before tests. All homework is expected to be completed by the deadlines given and
recorded in the student’s planner. A coursebook is provided which will greatly assist the
completion of homework and preparation for Unit tests.
CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
The two GCSEs in Science and Additional Science will be useful in almost all careers but
particularly those involving technology of any kind. This includes Engineering, Computing
and any careers associated with Medicine, Health & Beauty or working with animals.
It is expected that all students will achieve a pass grade in both GCSEs with many
achieving grades A* to C, which will provide a sound basis for continued study at A level,
GNVQ and other qualifications.
It is hard to imagine a career which does not make use of science!
Biology Chemistry Physics
And additionally:
B2
The building blocks of cells
Organisms and energy
Common systems
And additionally:
C2
Atomic structure and the
periodic table
Ionic compounds and
analysis
Covalent compounds and
separation techniques
Groups in the periodic table
Chemical reactions
Quantitative chemistry
And additionally:
P2 Static and current
electricity
Controlling and using
electric current
Motion and forces
Momentum, energy, work
and power
Nuclear fission and nuclear
fusion
Advantages and
disadvantages of using
radioactive materials
12
Physical Education (CORE)
AIMS
Physical education is a compulsory (foundation)
subject for all students in Key Stage 4. It aims to
provide an enjoyable and satisfying programme,
with opportunities for every student to develop
as performers, observers, coaches and officials.
Key Stage 4 PE particularly aims to:
Promote the development of skills and tactics appropriate to each activity studied
alongside knowledge of safety relevant to these activities.
Promote the ability to monitor and develop personal training.
Promote awareness and understanding of physical fitness and its contribution to
the “quality of life” through participation in physical activity.
Develop appreciation of the concept of fair play.
Develop personal skills such as co-operation, responsibility, initiative and
organisation.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE
At Key Stage 4 all students will follow courses in games and athletics. The programme is
structured to fulfil the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum and to allow
some flexibility through the introduction of a variety of complementary activities.
Major games/activities studied are basketball, badminton and trampolining.
Complementary activities include football, rugby, netball, hockey, table tennis, tennis,
volleyball, rounders, circuit training and aerobics.
Sports Leaders UK Level 1 Award
There will also be an opportunity for interested students to follow a Sports Leadership
Award, which is a recognised qualification and will run alongside core P.E.
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Everyone Matters (EOM) (CORE)
EOM 1: Be Healthy
EOM 2: Stay Safe
EOM 3: Enjoy and Achieve
EOM 4: Make a Positive Contribution
EOM 5: Achieve Economic Well-Being/
Financial Capability
AIMS
To develop the confidence and responsibility to make the most of their abilities
To develop a healthier life style
To develop good relationships, respecting and understanding the differences
between people and their beliefs
The Careers strand of EOM is designed to:
identify the range of post-16 options
help students to use careers advice and support networks to plan and negotiate
their career
set realistic goals
The Cultural Studies strand of EOM is designed to:
continue the study of Cultures and Faiths begun in Y9 in compliance with the
statutory requirement to study different religious beliefs
complement the Full Course study of RE for those opting for that subject
WHAT YOU WILL DO DURING THE COURSE
Students will study or be involved in:
personal finance and the tools available e.g. bank machines and different
accounts
personal health decisions, including the possible risks of alcohol, tobacco and
illegal drugs and the consequences of certain actions
accessing professional health advice and having confidence to seek it
the diversity and differences of ethnic and cultural groups
the identifying of offensive behaviour and how to challenge it
the developing of positive relationships, managing feelings and emotions
supporting the local community
understanding the wider community
understanding their rights as a citizen
Enterprise Education and Work Related Learning
one week of work experience, including appropriate Health & Safety training,
consideration of work related Key Skills and working as a member of a team
the choices open to them when they leave the Academy, e.g. Further Education,
Modern Apprenticeships, 6th Form
self-assessment and decision making exercises
using computer assisted learning programmes for careers
visiting places of Further Education
writing a personal CV, an application form and a letter of application
taking part in a role-play interview
taking part in a Mini-Careers Convention
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SKILLS REQUIRED
To be able to assess their own personal qualities, skills and achievements
To be able to research information
To learn and practise interview skills
To present themselves confidently
To be able to use praise and criticism effectively
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OPTION SUBJECTS
YOU SHOULD CHOOSE FOUR
REMEMBER YOU MUST CHOOSE AT
LEAST ONE FROM HISTORY,
GEOGRAPHY, FRENCH OR SPANISH
- THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE
SUBJECTS
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GCSE Geography (Edexcel Geography A)
Aims
The course will help you develop a sense of
place, both local and worldwide, as well as to
see the challenges and constraints that face
people in other countries including sustainable
development.
You will develop an appreciation of the
planetary environment, including climate change and how people can care for it.
The course will help you to form your own opinions about world issues.
You will acquire and apply skills in map work, fieldwork and related ICT including
Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
What will you study during the course?
The study of Geography is a valuable part of general knowledge and this knowledge will
help you with your studies. Students will be expected to build upon knowledge gained in
KS3 and use their inquisitive minds to explore relevant issues and current affairs.
The overall course comprises of 4 units each worth 25%
Unit 1 - Geographical skills and challenges
This unit will develop skills including map work, drawing and interpreting graphs, field
sketches, using photographs, satellite and aerial images to make conclusions about
the geography of an area and include the use of GIS.
It also includes a section on ‘Challenges to the Planet’ which includes causes, effects
and responses to climate change as well as sustainable development.
Unit 2 - The Natural Environment is split into two sections:
1. ‘The Physical World’ = Coasts, Rivers & Plate Tectonics
This covers Physical Geography, so that students gain an understanding of what
creates many of the features that can be taken for granted, but also understand
the damaging effect that the natural world can have on lives and investigate some
of the possible solutions. Topical events such as the recent storms causing
coastal flooding in nearby areas will be used as case studies and students will be
encouraged to discuss and use their own personal experiences. There will also be
a fieldwork visit to the Holderness coast, to study coastal erosion which will incur
a cost of approximately £15. Students will get to benefit from seeing the places
being studied first hand.
2. ‘Environmental Issues: A Wasteful World’ – an investigation into how waste is
managed locally.
This will involve discovering what happens to your household waste as well as
looking at the National and International aspects of waste. Half the topic involves
studying energy alternatives: renewable energy such as wind turbines, solar
energy and ground sources, as well as non-renewable energy like gas, nuclear
and wood. Students will use their creativity to design an eco-friendly house based
on what they have learnt during the topic. We hope to include a visit to Hemswell
Recycling Centre so students can find out in greater detail what really happens to
their waste once it leaves the wheelie bin.
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Unit 3 – The Human Environment
1. ‘The Human World’ will study
a. Economic change: primary, secondary and tertiary industry; globalisation;
development of new technologies; deindustrialisation of rural areas.
b. Settlement change: site, situation, growth and shape of settlements; the
movement of populations from and to rural areas; land use in towns; the
need for more housing and the impact on the countryside; redevelopment
of ‘Brownfield’ sites; rapid growth of urban areas in Low Income Countries
(LICs).
c. Population change: The reasons for the growth of the world population;
factors which enable people to move through technology, transport
developments and relaxation of national boundaries; retirement migration
2. ‘People Issues’ will be studied through tourism, with particular reference to
Cleethorpes, Blackpool, the Peak District, Cyprus, Zanzibar and ecotourism in
Gambia. This enables students to find out about the range of holidays which are
now available and investigate a variety of tourist destinations in detail.
Unit 4 - Investigating Geography
This is an internally assessed piece of work taken under controlled conditions and
externally moderated. It will involve fieldwork as well as the production of a report.
The titles change each year. This year students are studying changes in Caistor over
recent decades whereas last year they looked at reasons why Lincoln is attractive to
tourists.
Fieldwork will take place in the summer term of Year 10, with final deadline of the
summer holidays. The cost will vary depending where this takes place.
So Why Choose Geography?
GEOGRAPHERS CAN:
Make a concise report
Handle data
Ask questions and find the answers
Make decisions about an issue
Analyse material
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Manage themselves
Solve problems
Be independent thinkers
This makes young people more employable, which is vital in such a competitive job
market. If you are enjoying studying Geography and are good at it – carry on studying it.
You are more likely to obtain your best results in a subject you enjoy and are good at!
The transferable skills which Geography fosters are an asset in the complex world of
employment today. You must remember that the nature of peoples’ working lives is
changing. It is less likely that you will spend all your life with one company or organisation
(the ‘job for life’). Most Geographers will use their skills in general careers such as
management, administration, finance, retail and in the media. But some specific careers
where you can use your subject knowledge include:
Teachers
Environmental advisors such as
for the Environment agency
Geologists
Tourist related jobs
Armed services
Flood prevention
Town planning
Engineering
And in some less common careers
such as:
Civil aviation e.g. pilot, air traffic
control
Astronauts
Volcanologists
Seismologists
Meteorologists
Hydrologists
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GCSE History (OCR)
Paper 1: 45%
Aspects of International Relations - A New World? 1945 - 2005.
German Depth Study, 1918 - 1945
Paper 2: 30%
How was British society changed, 1890 - 1918?
Controlled Assessment: 25%
A land of Freedom? America 1945-75
GCSE history is all about your opinion on key questions.
A New World? 1945 – 2005 Paper 1.
Germany 1918 - 1945
How effective has terrorism been since 1969?
Aims, motives and methods of the PLO, PIRA & AL-Qaeda.
Can terrorism ever be justified?
Leadership of terrorist groups.
Government reactions.
Effectiveness of terrorist groups
How secure was the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe?
Opposition in Hungary 1956 & Prague 1968
Building of the Berlin Wall 1961
Importance of Solidarity
Gorbachev and the decline of the USSR
What is the significance of the Iraq War?
Reasons for the invasion by the multinational force in 2003.
Legality of the war in Iraq.
Timescale of the invasion.
Consequences of the invasion inside Iraq and internationally.
Was the invasion of Iraq success?
20
How was British society changed, 1890 – 1918? Paper 2.
Protesting is not a modern invention - what caused these demonstrations?
What was the real impact of the First World War?
Controlled Assessment
America - A land of freedom? 1945-75
Communism and the Red Scare, Civil Rights movement
Who voted me into power?
How could I kill 13 million people?
AND start a world war?
Is it true I only wanted to be an artist?
German Depth Study
Students will study four key questions connected to
Germany in the period 1918 – 1945.
Was the Weimar Republic doomed from the start?
Why was Hitler able to dominate Germany by 1933?
How effectively did the Nazis control Germany?
What was it like to live in Nazi Germany?
Living and working conditions for the
poor.
Social reforms
Suffragettes and suffragists
Women and the war effort.
The right to vote.
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Why History matters?
GCSE history teaches you to:
form your own opinions
articulate them effectively
engage with the world around you
GCSE history shows employers:
You are literate
You are hard working
You have excellent communication skills
Employers look for history as it develops a wide variety of transferable skills.
Career options...
Game designer – Assassins Creed, COD based on historical accuracy.
Researcher.
Politician – (we spend a lot of time arguing - it’s good practice)
Journalism.
The Law.
You must be prepared to read and write a lot. Your opinions will be challenged!
22
GCSE French
Why choose to study a GCSE in a Modern Foreign
Language?
Speaking a second language enhances
understanding of our own culture and opens doors to
others. It offers advanced job prospects and the
opportunity to travel. Interested? Read on!
What does the course entail?
If you choose to continue with your French studies you will follow the WJEC French GCSE
course. This particular course allows you to undertake written and spoken controlled
assessment, counting for a full 60% of your final mark.
The controlled assessment is spread evenly throughout the 2 year course with all pieces
being completed under controlled conditions in the Academy. You will complete 4 pieces
of controlled assessments for the written element and two speaking exams. Your best
two pieces of written work will be chosen for your portfolio.
At the end of the course, there will be examinations in the 2 remaining skill areas (Units)
– Listening and Reading. You will be entered for either Higher or Foundation tier.
Foundation - Targets Grades C to G
Higher - Targets Grades A* to C
Topics to be covered include:
Personal and social life
Self, family, friends, home life, shopping, meals, healthy living, illness and accident, free
time, fashion, relationships, future plans.
Local community
Home town, school, education, local environment, pollution, recycling, local facilities,
comparisons with other towns and regions, weather and seasons.
The world of work
Work experience, part-time jobs, future careers, technology (sending messages,
accessing information).
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The wider world
Travel and holidays, media, social issues (e.g. life
of young people today, homelessness, crime,
drugs, healthy living, religion, politics), life in the
countries and communities where the language is
spoken.
Details about the Units
Listening (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)
You will listen to a CD and you will hear everything twice. You answer in a question
booklet with a variety of responses e.g. tick-boxes, responses in English, multi-choice etc.
Reading (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)
You will have a variety of reading tasks, including signs, messages and brochure extracts.
Speaking (30%) Exam length: 15 minutes (approximately- per exam)
The speaking exam takes place with your language teacher and is recorded. You will
deliver a prepared presentation and take part in a discussion and a conversation.
Writing (30%) Exam length: 1 hour (each piece of work)
The written assessments take place throughout the two year course and will be
completed in exam conditions in the hall. You will write between 200-300 words per
piece of work per topic area.
Reference Materials
We use the textbook, Metro 4. In addition, students will also use authentic reading and
listening materials, such as articles from French magazines and newspapers and texts
from the Internet. They will also have access to French DVDs, offering relevant and
interesting insights into French culture. Ideally, you will need your own bilingual
dictionary and CGP revision guide. (We can order these through the Academy for you).
Careers in Languages
Foreign languages are increasingly essential for careers in many different fields.
The demands of working in an international dimension make knowledge of one or
more languages a useful tool in many areas of work. Languages are also very
important for personal and social development and enjoyment!
Employers say they value the key skills developed by language learners – these
include: communication skills, team working skills, interpersonal skills,
presentation skills, problem solving skills, organisational skills and positive learning
strategies…
Overseas inward investment into this country means that multilingual employees
are needed in the UK - communication barriers lead to missed business
opportunities.
Some Universities are thinking of making a language qualification a requirement for
entry.
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GCSE Spanish
Why choose to study a GCSE in a Modern Foreign
Language?
Speaking a second language enhances understanding
of our own culture and opens doors to others. It offers
advanced job prospects and the opportunity to travel.
Interested? Read on!
What does the course entail?
If you choose to continue with your Spanish studies you will follow the WJEC Spanish
GCSE course. This particular course allows you to undertake written and spoken
controlled assessments, counting for a full 60% of your final mark.
The controlled assessment is spread evenly throughout the 2 year course with all pieces
being completed under controlled conditions in the Academy. You will complete 4 pieces
of controlled assessments for the written element and two speaking exams. Your best
two pieces of written work will be chosen for your portfolio.
At the end of the course, there will be examinations in the 2 remaining skill areas (Units) -
Listening, Reading and Speaking. You will be entered for either Higher or Foundation
tier.
Foundation - Targets Grades C to G
Higher - Targets Grades A* to C
Topics to be covered include:
Personal and social life
Self, family, friends, home life, shopping, meals, healthy living, illness and accident, free
time, fashion, relationships, future plans.
Local community
Home town, school, education, local environment, pollution, recycling, local facilities,
comparisons with other towns and regions, weather and seasons.
The world of work
Work experience, part-time jobs, future careers, technology (sending messages,
accessing information).
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The wider world
Travel and holidays, media, social issues
(e.g. life of young people today,
homelessness, crime, drugs, healthy living,
religion, politics), life in the countries and
communities where the language is
spoken.
Details about the other Units:
Listening (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)
You will listen to a CD and you will hear everything twice. You answer in a question
booklet with a variety of responses e.g. tick-boxes, responses in English, multi-choice etc.
Reading (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)
You will have a variety of reading tasks, including signs, messages and brochure extracts.
Speaking (30%) Exam length: 15 minutes (approximately- per exam)
The speaking exam takes place with your language teacher and is recorded. You will
deliver a prepared presentation and take part in a discussion and a conversation.
Writing (30%) Exam length: 1 hour (each piece of work)
The written assessments take place throughout the two year course and will be
completed in exam conditions in the hall. You will write between 200-300 words per
piece of work per topic area.
Reference Materials
We use the textbook, Listos 3. In addition, students will also use authentic reading and
listening materials, such as articles from Spanish magazines and newspapers and texts
from the Internet. They will also have access to Spanish DVDs, offering relevant and
interesting insights into Spanish culture. Ideally, you will need your own bilingual
dictionary and CGP revision guide. (We can order these through the Academy for you).
Careers in Languages
Foreign languages are increasingly essential for careers in many different fields.
The demands of working in an international dimension make knowledge of one or
more languages a useful tool in many areas of work. Languages are also very
important for personal and social development and enjoyment!
Employers say they value the key skills developed by language learners – these
include: communication skills, team working skills, interpersonal skills,
presentation skills, problem solving skills, organisational skills and positive
learning strategies…
Overseas inward investment into this country means that multilingual employees
are needed in the UK - Communication barriers lead to missed business
opportunities.
Some Universities are thinking of making a language qualification a requirement
for entry.
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OTHER GCSE AND BTEC QUALIFICTIONS
GCSE Art & Design
Art and Design is both a form of communication and
a means of expressing ideas and feelings. The
course aims to encourage students to develop their
imagination, the way they look at objects and how
they record what they see. The syllabus has been
devised to combine both breadth and depth of
study with the freedom of choice to accommodate a
wide range of abilities and material resources.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE
The course requires you to produce at least four coursework projects, consisting of two
set projects, a Year 10 Examination and a Mock Examination at the beginning of Y11.
Students also have to complete a Timed Examination project at the end of the course. All
five projects will be submitted, at the end of the course, in the form of a portfolio. From a
common starting point students will have the opportunity to develop and refine their
skills in a variety of media in order to achieve a final outcome. Personal research is
important. The techniques and media available to each student will include drawing,
painting, collage, printmaking, graphic design and clay. Each project must link to the
work of an artist or designer. The topics and themes covered may include portraiture, a
still life project, studying the work of William Morris and two more topics of your own
choice.
SKILLS REQUIRED
The most important requirements for this course are to be independent, creative,
dedicated, determined, organised and to be able to meet deadlines. To do the latter you
must be self-disciplined and driven. Good observational drawing skills are an advantage
but not essential.
ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES
Your 4 coursework projects and Y11 Examination will be marked on the following criteria:
Observational Drawing
Show a range of drawing styles through the completion of drawings from first hand
observation. These drawings must be of high quality and variety.
Artist Link
Research and investigate 2 or 3 artists’ work. Copy the work of the artists and develop
your own drawings, using the style of each artist.
Development
Using your original drawings to create and modify your ideas using a range of media.
Select and research the work of one or more artist as stimulus to further develop your
drawings and ideas.
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Personal Response
For each project a final piece must be created. It must be creative and original. This final
piece must reflect everything you have done in Assessment Objectives 1, 2 and 3. It is
the ending to the project.
ART AND DESIGN PORTFOLIO
A certificate is awarded on the successful completion of:
2 coursework projects
Year 10 Examination (which will be included in the coursework portfolio)
Year 11 Mock Examination (which will be included in the coursework portfolio)
Year 11 Examination (4 weeks preparation time, 10 hour Examination)
HOMEWORK
To complete the course, Art students are expected to use their own initiative and
demonstrate that they are prepared to study in their own time. It is imperative that all Art
students complete all coursework if they are to achieve the highest grade possible.
GCSE students have access to the Art Room (T7) every lunch time. They are expected to
come to the GCSE catch up session on Tuesday lunchtime and the after-school session,
on a Monday night 3.45pm – 5.00pm.
CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Careers and occupational opportunities following this course could include:
fine art, photography, printmaking, printing industry, fashion, hairdressing and related
beautician skills, television, film, animation, theatre design and production work,
restoration, carving, bookbinding, fabric design, landscape garden design, interior design
and associated decorating skills, graphic design, book illustration and ceramic work.
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BTEC Level 2 First Award in
Performing Arts (Acting)
AIMS
Students will learn techniques in acting using a range of styles and genres
Students will interpret published play texts for performance
Students will learn how to structure a range of materials into pieces of devised
drama for performance
Students will learn how to prepare for and perform a solo audition piece
WHAT YOU WILL BE STUDYING DURING THE COURSE
Through drama workshops you will learn how to develop your vocal and movement skills
to enable you to show a range of acting techniques, characterisations and emotions. You
will read a range of play texts from which you will take information to help you to create
characters which are original, creative and believable. You will also be exploring a range
of issues, themes and ideas through drama.
The final externally assessed unit requires you to apply for an imaginary acting job and
prepare a solo audition piece to perform in front of an External Examiner. Your work will
be videoed on a regular basis and you are expected to keep a Working Log of all the work
and research that you do.
SKILLS REQUIRED
You are expected to have strong acting skills and a willingness to work co-operatively and
creatively in small groups. You should enjoy reading and acting out extracts from play
texts as well as trying out different ideas. It is expected that students who opt for this
course are committed to improving their acting and creative skills. Many skills acquired
during the course can be transferred to those needed in the workplace in any area or
further study.
You will be directed as if part of a theatre company with the emphasis of ensemble work
(working together) and acquiring those skills and attitudes that a performer must have in
order to progress.
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COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS
All units, except the Solo Project will be assessed by your teacher. Students must pass all
three units and can be awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction. The evidence needed for
each unit is made up of a student’s Working Log of ideas, research, personal evaluations
and targets for improvement. There will also be video evidence of workshops, rehearsals
and performances. Finally your teacher will keep a file of statements and reports relating
to your progress, effort and achievement on the course.
CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
This course will enable you to move directly on to study for the BTEC National Diploma in
Performing Arts, which is available at many of our local Further Education Colleges, or AS
and A Level Theatre or Media Studies. It is designed to develop confidence as well as
skills which can assist in many professions.
Career opportunities include:
performing in the entertainment industry,
teaching,
directing or technical design in specialist areas such as lighting, sets, make-up
and costume.
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BTEC Level 2 First Award in
Music 2014
The BTEC First Certificate in Music has been developed to focus on:
Education and training for musicians
Providing opportunities for musicians to achieve a nationally recognised Level 2
vocationally specific qualification (equivalent to 1 GCSE)
Providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of specific musical skills/
techniques, personal qualities and attitude essential for successful performance
in working life
What you will study on the course:
Unit 1: Working in the music industry (externally assessed - EXAM)
In this unit you will study and research the various organisations and jobs within the
music industry. This unit is designed to open your mind to the wide variety of careers
available to you as musicians.
Students will complete a 60 minute externally assessed unit on Unit 1: The Music
Industry.
Students will answer a variety of questions about organisations and career roles within
the music industry. Questions can be in the form of multiple choice, single answer or
extended writing.
Unit 2: Managing a music product (internally assessed by your tutor)
In this unit you will plan, develop and deliver a music product. You will be responsible for
promoting and managing the product/ event. You will then review the success of the
product/ event. This unit is designed to introduce you to the work skills required when
working in the music industry.
Unit 4: Introducing music composition (internally assessed by your tutor)
In this unit you will create a composition portfolio of musical starting points or ideas. You
will develop and extend some of these ideas before choosing to develop one into a full
scale four minute composition. This unit is taught through the medium of music
technology (Cubase 6) which will help you develop your skills in this area further.
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Unit 5: Introducing music performance (internally assessed by your tutor)
In this unit you will perform either as a soloist or as part of a group. With guidance from
your tutor and instrumental teachers you will chart your progress as a performer
reviewing your skills and areas to develop. Your performances in concerts will be used
as part of this unit.
Skills required:
A keen interest in music
You will need to be able to play an instrument or be prepared to sing
A willingness to explore lots of different musical styles and genres
A willingness to perform in front of others
The ability to work co-operatively with others
The ability to meet and keep to deadlines
A willingness to attend rehearsals / concerts outside of normal lesson/ school
times
Careers and opportunities:
This course will enable you to move directly on to study the BTEC National Diploma in
Music or A level Music / Music Technology.
Careers include:
teaching,
performing or working in the live / recorded sound industry.
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GCSE Resistant Materials
Resistant Materials is a course that focuses on the way in which products are made and
the materials that they are made from.
Everything around us has been designed and manufactured at some point and the
Resistant Materials course will give those participating on it a broad understanding of a
wide range of materials and manufacturing processes.
Who should study this course?
This course will suit those who have:
an interest in making things
an interest and ability in drawing
the ability to work very neatly and accurately
the ability to plan, manage and organise your time and work
patience, and a willingness to repeat things to improve them
self-discipline
a desire to learn about this subject
Students will spend Year 10 completing a range of skill building practical activities as
well as learning crucial theory knowledge.
Midway though Year 10 students begin their major project which can be selected from a
range of tasks set by the exam board. Students produce an A3 portfolio along with a final
functional product that they design and manufacture from scratch, using a range of
materials.
Resistant Materials would suit any student that has an inquisitive mind and would like to
progress towards a Product Design, Engineering or Architectural career.
Exam Board & Final
Qualification
EDEXCEL - GCSE Design and Technology: Resistant
Materials
Time allocation: 5 hours per fortnight
Coursework
1. The coursework requires the completion of a design and make task which is supported
by a number of focused practical activities, culminating in the production of a design
folder and product made from resistant materials (wood, metal or plastic). The project
should clearly demonstrate a wide range of graphical, planning and practical skills.
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2. Theory: this will be closely linked to the coursework requirements in the form of
associated knowledge and understanding of materials and components,
manufacturing, control and aesthetics.
Assessment
1. Coursework 60% - A design and make task which includes a 20 page A3 folder and a
practical outcome.
2. Terminal Examination 40% - This tests the understanding of designing and making.
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BTEC Level 1 / 2 First Award in
Hospitality and Catering
Why study the BTEC in Hospitality and
Catering?
AIMS
There any many reasons for choosing the course:
to learn about the hospitality industry
to learn about products and services
to learn the importance of customer service
to learn how to plan a hospitality event
to learn about healthy food and special diets
to learn craft skills in preparation, cooking and serving food
to learn about how to apply work based skills
to learn about the different foods around the world
to learn about different types of ingredients used in cooking
to learn how to present and serve food to people
to develop life skills
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING DURING THE COURSE
UNIT 1: Investigating the Hospitality Industry: Students will research all aspects of
hospitality which will include visits to organisations and listening to guest speakers.
UNIT 2: Products and Services: Students will learn about products and services
provided and used by the hospitality industry.
UNIT 3: Exploring buffet food: Students will design and make a range of buffet foods for
an event.
UNIT 4: Preparing and cooking foods: Students will have the opportunity to plan, prepare
and cook a wide range of foods.
UNIT 5: Planning and running hospitality events: Students will plan and organise
hospitality events for the school and wider community.
UNIT 6: Preparing for and sitting an exam: Students will use the research and
experience in the classroom to prepare for the exam
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COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS
Although the course has a large practical element where students will plan, develop and
make recipes, it also requires you to research and evaluate food related topics. The
written work is an important aspect of the course requirements and takes up at least
50% of lessons. The practical element and written coursework is worth 80% of the
course marks for a pass.
In addition to the practical work and written work there is an exam which is worth 20% of
the course marks.
CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Students may be interested in a food-related career that requires you to have an
understanding of food nutrition, cooking and development.
Students may wish to learn to cook so that they can take care of themselves when they
eventually become independent. An example of this could be living away from home
when studying at university.
The Academy has a close relationship with the Grimsby College of Further and Higher
Education. Students have the opportunity to visit the college and discuss the
opportunities in hospitality and catering as a career choice. There are a number of
career paths students can take once they have gained the qualification.
If you are interested in the BTEC Hospitality and Catering course but would like to know
more, please come to the Choices Evening. The evening will include a detailed
presentation of the course where you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions
about the course content and expectations.
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GCSE Biology, Chemistry &
Physics (This only counts as one choice as it
replaces Core Science)
Students may choose to study separate GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE
Physics instead of the core GCSE Science & Additional Science. These courses help
students to develop their questioning, analytical and evaluative skills alongside core
practical skills.
It is strongly recommended that students aspiring to achieve the EBacc award should
choose these three GCSE separate science subjects to enhance their chances of
success.
This option choice is particularly suitable for students who are likely to choose science
subjects at A level. This will include those interested in pursuing careers in Science and
Engineering.
Any student choosing this option would be expected to achieve Level 6 or 7 in the Year 9
Assessments.
Studying separate GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics counts as ONE option choice, as
this replaces Core Science & Additional Science.
Course structure:
Each award comprises the relevant content from GCSE Science and GCSE Additional
Science, plus specialist extension units for that subject.
The extension units for Biology, Chemistry and Physics contain:
Extension Unit B3 (Biology) Control systems, behaviour, biotechnology
Extension Unit C3 (Chemistry) Qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, electrolytic
processes, gases, equilibria and ammonia, organic chemistry
Extension Unit P3 (Physics) Radiation in treatment and medicine, X-rays and ECGs,
production, uses and risks of ionising radiation from radioactive sources, motion of
particles, kinetic theory and gases
External assessment (75%) For Biology, three examinations B1, B2 and B3 are taken at
various times in Year 10 & Year 11. Each examination accounts for 25% of the final
GCSE Biology grade.
Internal assessment (25%) The remaining 25% is from CATs in Biology.
An identical pattern of assessment is used for GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics.
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BTEC Sport
Qualification
BTEC First Award in Sport: Level 2 vocational qualification graded at Pass, Merit,
Distinction, Distinction*. 120 learning hours: broadly equivalent to one GCSE.
COURSE OUTLINE
Core Units:
Unit 1: Health & Fitness for Sport & Exercise (externally assessed)
Unit 2: Practical Sports Performance
Optional Specialist Units:
Unit 3: The Mind & Sports Performance
Unit 4: The Sports Performer in Action
Unit 5: Training for Personal Fitness
Unit 6: Leading Sports Activities
Optional Generic Units:
Unit G1: Volunteering in the Community
Unit G2: Work Experience
Unit G3: Carrying out a Vocationally Related Project
Why Study BTEC Sport?
The BTEC Sport course will be appropriate for you if you:
Have a keen interest in sport and always look forward to your PE lessons.
Take part in physical activity outside of college.
Are considering a sports related career or further studies in sport beyond CYA.
Assessment
Learners must complete both Core Units plus two further Units.
Unit 1 will be assessed externally by EDEXCEL.
All other Units will be assessed and marked internally.
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GCSE Information & Communication
Technology (ICT)
The GCSE in ICT qualifications enable students to: • become independent and discerning users of ICT, able to make informed decisions
about its use and aware of its implications for individuals, organisations and society
• acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT
in a range of contexts
• develop ICT-based solutions to solve problems
• develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies and their social
and commercial impact
• develop their understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental
issues raised by ICT
• recognise potential risks when using ICT, and develop safe, secure and responsible
practice
• develop the skills to work collaboratively
• evaluate ICT-based solutions.
Unit 1: Living in a Digital World
In this unit, students explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals,
organisations and society. They learn about current and emerging digital technologies
and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts (learning and earning, leisure,
shopping and money management, health and wellbeing and on the move). They develop
an awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure
and responsible practice.
Overview of assessment
• This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute examination paper set and marked
by Edexcel.
• The total number of marks available for the examination paper is 80.
Unit 2: Using Digital Tools
Overview of content
This is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability.
They work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions
in a range of contexts.
They learn to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe,
secure and responsible practice.
Overview of assessment
The unit is internally assessed under controlled conditions.
Students must complete a controlled assessment task provided by Edexcel.
Students must complete the task within 40 hours.
Marking of the task is carried out by teachers and moderated by Edexcel against set
assessment criteria.
The total number of marks available for the controlled assessment task is 80.
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Riseholme College – Land
Based Studies
Courses leading to City and Guilds Certificates in Land Based Studies are offered at
Riseholme College near Lincoln.
We currently have access to the following courses:
• Animal Care
• Agriculture and Countryside Skills
Engineering
• Horse care
• Agriculture
Choosing from this suite of subjects will take up one option and will require travelling to
Riseholme College, near Lincoln, for one day a week. We are currently reviewing the
funding mechanism for this travel.
If you are interested in this choice, Mrs Kirkby from Riseholme College will be available to
discuss it with you on Choices Evening.
In the meantime if you require further information please contact Mrs Peach, who will be
available to talk to you about the courses.
This course is strictly limited in number and we may need to apply a further testing and
interview procedure to those who wish to apply. This will aim to ensure students are
completely trustworthy and capable of completing the course.