choosing your year 10 & 11 options 2016-18
DESCRIPTION
A guide for Year 9 students at Tupton Hall SchoolTRANSCRIPT
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2016-2018
Choosing Your Year 10 & 11 Options
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Section Heading
Inside this booklet
Making the right Guided Choices
Advice for parents and students
Core and Option courses explained
Option blocks
Core subjects
Option subjects
Important dates
Contact details
Options forms
PAGE
2 - 3
4 - 5
6 - 7
8
9
11 - 22
23 - 55
56
57
58 - 59
Contents
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This booklet is yours - don’t lose it!
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It is important, and if used properly will help you make some difficult but very important decisions over the next few months.
Inside you will find:
Information about the courses in Years 10 and 11
Information about what you have to do
• Guidance on how to do it
This is your chance to get advice and information and to make wise
choices for Years 10 and 11.
Do your very best to prepare yourself before you are interviewed
about your choices.
Life will be so much more straightforward if you think before the event
rather than after it.
Changing subjects once you have started them is very difficult.
YOU MUST BRING THIS BOOKLET TO THE OPTIONS INFORMATION EVENING
ON 21ST JANUARY!
4
Guided choices for Key Stage 4
Be informed
Making decisions about the subjects you will study in Years 10 and 11 is the first step in moving from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4.
Making the right decisions is really important if you are to be successful at Key Stage 4.
To make the right choices you need to be as informed as possible about what the different subjects involve, how they are examined and what level of qualification you can gain. Make sure you:
Read the subject information you are given.
Talk to your subject teachers about this information.
Talk to older students who study those subjects.
Look at your Year 9 report, your levels of attainment and your test results.
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5 Footer
What are my choices?
The right choices…
...are personal to you.
...will be subjects that you think you can do well in.
...will give you as many options as possible for future study or job opportunities.
...are the subjects that you will want to study for the next two years – changing courses once you get in to Year 10 is very difficult.
...will be subjects that you will enjoy – liking something makes it easier to work hard at it.
Think about…
...what you have enjoyed this year - because of the subject, not the teacher.
...the skills you will need in each subject.
Try to choose a broad and balanced range of subjects
But remember - you will also be expected to choose at least one from: history, geography or a language. This still leaves two other choices from a range of subjects.
Don’t choose a subject just because your friend is doing it, because your parents have told you to or because your older brother or sister did well in it.
Think about the commitment you are making. You will have to live with these choices for a long time.
Guided choices for Key Stage 4
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6 6
Advice for students and parents
The information in this booklet will be relevant for the majority of students, some students will be invited to consider different pathways and choices but you will be contacted individually if this is the case.
You must choose three option subjects - one from each block (turn the page tosee the option blocks diagram).
You must choose at least one from: history, geography or a language. You can choose these from any of the three option blocks.
You then choose two subjects from the remaining blocks.
You can not choose two Design and Technology courses.
Considering further and higher education?
The entry criteria for our Sixth Form (and most others) is currently 5 GCSEs at grades A*- C including English and Maths. This will change in the coming years to reflect national changes to the grading system, with the alphabetical A*-U system being replaced with numerical 1-9.
Only one GCSE equivalent subject (e.g. BTEC/ECDL) will be accepted in the total of five.
Some subject departments expect students to have achieved a grade B or above, or to have been entered at the higher level at GCSE. This is to ensure students are able to cope with the demands of A Level study in particular subjects. You should check these criteria with teaching staff in that department.
If you are thinking of going to university, keep your option choices open. If you have a specific career pathway or degree in mind you need to check whether there are specific GCSE requirements for that course on the UCAS website. See: www.ucas.com
Students can - but do not have to - fulfil the requirements of the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) certificate through our options system.
The EBacc is not a qualification in itself but recognises where pupils have secured a C grade or better across a core of academic subjects – English, mathematics, history or geography, the sciences and a foreign language.
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Advice for students and parents
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Do you know what job you want to do?
If so, make sure you know the entry requirements and routes into the occupation. You may have to take particular subjects or qualifications now in order to gain entry to higher education or employment at a later date.
Details of entry requirements and routes-in to particular careers are available in the Job Profiles section of the National Careers Service website: nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk
University not for you?
If you would like to look at other options available to you at age 18, like apprenticeships and traineeships, check out www.notgoingtouni.co.uk
The website offers a range of information on apprenticeships including higher apprenticeship vacancies, training courses and gap year opportunities.
Progress Review Days - February 2016
During your Progress Review Day on in February 2016, you will have a discussion with your adviser (a senior member of staff) about your choice of courses.
You will need to bring this booklet and a copy of your report to that meeting. Your adviser will be checking whether you’ve worked hard in the courses that you are considering and that your behaviour and attendance are good.
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Core and Option Courses
Option Choices
Options are chosen using a ‘blocks’ system. These are shown in the table on the next page.
The following pages will tell you all about the core and option courses available at Tupton Hall School.
If you need more information or advice on any course, speak to the subject staff in that department.
Year 9 students and their parents are invited to an Options Information Evening on Thursday 21st January 2016 from 6pm - 8.30pm where you can find out more about the process and speak to subject staff.
The deadline for choosing your options is Friday 26th February 2016.
Core Subjects
You will study the 7 core subjects:
English Maths
Science IT (European Computer Driving Licence)
Physical Education Religious Studies
Life Learning
You can then choose three ‘options’, which must include at least one of:
History Geography
A Modern Foreign Language
9 9
Option Blocks
CORE SUBJECTS
11
English
Science
PE
Religious Studies
Maths
IT
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Core Subject: English
Course Title: GCSE English Language
COURSE CONTENT
You will study the new AQA GCSE specification. This course tests your core reading and writing skills. Most students will take this course alongside GCSE English Literature.
SKILLS INVOLVED
You will learn to read accurately and analytically, studying non-fiction and literary non-fiction texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. You will also learn to write for a range of purposes and in a variety of styles. At the same time, you will learn how to express yourself clearly and effectively using spoken English.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
You will be expected to complete a certain amount of work at home. Homework might involve close or wider reading, technical exercises, or preparatory work for tasks to be completed in school time.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Unlike in previous years, there is now no controlled assessment or coursework. Instead, the course is 100% assessed by examination at the end of the course in Year 11. These exams are both 1 hour and 45 minutes long and are worth 50% of the GCSE.
For both exams, you will need to read and respond to previously unseen non-fiction texts, followed by the completion of a written task. To ensure you are well prepared for the final examinations, there will be interim assessments completed in exam conditions throughout the course. It is important that you prepare for these appropriately, using them as an opportunity to practise the skills you have learned in the pressurised situation of the exam room.
You will also complete two speaking and listening tasks as part of the course, a presentation and discussion, although these will not contribute towards your final grade.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
All jobs require the skills covered in this course, be it keeping accurate records as the owner of your own business, confidently articulating your ideas in a meeting, or writing an email applying for a promotion! This is a course that will give you real life skills that will support you throughout your life.
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Core Subject: English
Course Title: GCSE English Literature
COURSE CONTENT
You will study the new AQA GCSE specification. This course tests your ability to respond to a range of literary texts, including novels, plays and poetry.
SKILLS INVOLVED
You will learn to read accurately and analytically, looking at the way writers craft their writing using linguistic, structural and dramatic devices. You will also consider the effect of context on our understanding of a text. You will also be taught how to shape your ideas into coherent written responses.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
You will be expected to complete a certain amount of work at home. Homework might involve close or wider reading, research tasks, or preparatory work for tasks to be completed in school time.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Unlike in previous years, there is now no controlled assessment or coursework. Instead, the course is 100% assessed by examination at the end of the course in Year 11. Both exams are ‘closed book’ which will mean you will be required to have an excellent understanding of the texts you have studied. This will include learning key quotations to support your ideas about the texts.
For Paper 1 you will need to answer two questions based on texts you have studied; one question will be based on a play by William Shakespeare and the other on a 19th century novel. This exam is 1 hour and 45 minutes long.
For Paper 2 you will be required to respond to a more modern text that you have previously study, a poetry anthology and two previously unseen poems. This exam is 2 hours and 15 minutes long.
To ensure you are well prepared for the final examinations, there will be interim assessments completed in exam conditions throughout the course. It is important that you prepare for these appropriately, using them as an opportunity to practise the skills you have learned in the pressurised situation of the exam room.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Journalism, advertising, teaching, librarianship, theatre work, television, legal work, marketing, civil service, business management, local government etc.
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Core Subject: Science
Course Title: GCSE Science * Changes to the curriculum mean we are unable to give a detailed outline of next year’s course content.
Last year’s course structure was as follows:
COURSE CONTENT
In Year 10 and 11, students have 5 Science lessons per week, and will normally have two teachers. Students will follow the new science GCSE course leading to two science GCSE qualifications, In Year 11 some students may complete the BTEC qualification and gain a GCSE equivalent called ‘Applications of Science’.
Core Science:
Biology Unit 1 – Influences on life (25%) Topics: Classification, variation and inheritance; Responses to a changingenvironment; Problems of, and solutions to, a changing environment.
Chemistry Unit 1 – Chemistry in our world (25%) Topics: The Earth’s sea and atmosphere; Materials from the Earth; Acids; Obtaining and using metals; Fuels.
Physics Unit 1 – Universal physics (25%) Topics: 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.
Controlled Assessment (25%) to be completed in Year 11.
Additional Science:
Biology Unit 2 – The components of life (25%) Topics: The building blocks of cells; Organisms and energy; Common systems.
Chemistry Unit 2 – Discovering chemistry (25%) Topics: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Ionic compounds and analysis; Covalent compounds and separation techniques; Groups in the periodic table; Chemical reactions; Quantitative chemistry.
Physics Unit 2 – Physics for your future (25%) Topics: 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.
Controlled Assessment (25%) to be completed in Year 11.
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Core Subject: Science
HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
* Last year the assessment format was:
These are two year courses and will be examined through externally marked examinations and a piece of controlled assessment work which is externally moderate.
Each subject will have three written examinations; Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 and a controlled assessment piece of work per year, which will all be sat in the summer of Year 11.
Each section of the assessment has equal weighting of 25% of the final marks.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Students will be set homework regularly, and will be a range of independent activities, looking at pupils’ research skills, learning and recall skills, literacy and numeracy.
BTEC First Level 2 in Applied Science (Year 11 only)
Some students who find the usual academic route of numerous external examinations difficult may find that it is recommended that they follow the Edexcel BTEC route (which is equivalent to one GCSE qualifications). The course studies Biology, Chemistry and Physics, but has less emphasis on external examinations and relates the use of science to everyday scenarios. This route will only be recommended if a student is finding the GCSE route particularly difficult.
The course is split into four units, mainly assessed by course work (75%), with one external examination (25%).
CAREERS USING SCIENCE
Medicine
Veterinary science
Dentistry
Nursing
Midwifery
Biomedical science
Paramedic
Engineering
Meteorologist
Teacher
Pharmacist
Astrophysics
Electrician
Forensic science
Pilot
Zoologist
Physiotherapist
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Core Subject: Physical Education
Course Title: Core Physical Education
COURSE CONTENT
Pupils will tackle complex and demanding physical activities. They will get involved in a range of activities that develops personal fitness and promotes an active, healthy lifestyle. Our aims:
Use and develop a variety of tactics and strategies to overcome opponents in team and individualgames.
Develop technique and improve performance in other competitive sports.
Take part in further outdoor and adventurous activities in a range of environments which presentintellectual and physical challenges and which encourage students to work in a team, building on trust and developing skills to solve problems, either individually or as a group.
Evaluate own performance compared to previous ones and demonstrate improvement across arange of physical activities to achieve their personal best.
Continue to take part regularly in competitive sports and activities outside school throughcommunity links or sports clubs.
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Core Subject: Physical Education
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18
Core Subject: Religious Studies
Course Title: GCSE Religious Studies
Religious Studies is a core subject studied in one lesson per week. So that this time is used as productively as possible, students are given the opportunity to gain an extra exam board qualification by working towards a full course GCSE in this subject.
This is a brand new course and will be examined for the first time in 2017. The syllabus is still under development and subject to change but current details can be found below.
COURSE CONTENT
Students will study units from Edexcel syllabus 1RB0 Religious Studies; Beliefs in Action.
The course involves a study of some of the most prominent personal, social and global issues of our time. It is studied and evaluated from a personal and religious perspective. Pupils will look at the philosophical viewpoints of different faiths and consider their significance in the real world.
Pupils study the role and impact of religion both positive and negative. They are challenged to think independently to evaluate and justify their own ethical viewpoints and those commonly held within the Christian and Muslim faith.
SKILLS INVOLVED
A qualification in Religious Studies helps students to develop a wide range of transferable skills which they will need when they leave school. These skills are recognised and valued by a wide range of employers and future education providers and include:
Acquiring knowledge
Developing understanding
Evaluating different viewpoints
Special skills developed by Religious Studiesinclude the development of a person’s sensitivity in trying to understand the views of other people.
The ability to reflect upon and develop yourown values, opinions and attitudes.
Paper 1: Religion and Ethics (Islam) Paper 2: Religion, Peace and Conflict (Christianity)
Belief in God Marriage and the Family Living the Religious Life
Matters of Life and Death
Belief in God Crime and Punishment Living the Religious Life
Peace and Conflict
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Core Subject: Religious Studies
HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
The course is assessed through final exams at the end of Year 11. Students will sit two, two-hour examinations. On each paper they will answer four, four-part exam questions. There is no controlled assessment or coursework to complete. Students will be set regular homework to consolidate and extend their progress in class.
RELIGIOUS STUDIES AND THE FUTURE
Religious Studies has much to offer in terms of personal development. We live in a diverse society and Religious Studies helps us all to understand ourselves and the world around us better. In addition, it helps students to explore some challenging issues which most of us as individuals, if not all of us, will be faced with at some point in our lives and which puzzle most human beings some or much of the time.
A qualification in Religious Studies also develops a range of transferable skills which are of use to us all in today’s world. They can help us all with personal issues and relationships, in the world of work and in considering issues which face us all globally.
These skills are valued massively and even actively sought out by many employers and future educators such as colleges/universities.
Many employers consider Religious Studies students to be honest, thoughtful, young people. It is a valuable qualification for many careers, including: nursing; medicine; teaching; leisure and tourism; social work.
Below are some examples of organisations/employers who actively seek Religious Studies as a valid and useful qualification:
Boots PLC
Marks and Spencer PLC
Major banks
The Royal Mail
Local and national government
National Health Service
The armed forces
The police service
The energy industry (suppliers and producers)
The Association of Chartered Accountants
(...continued)
Core Subject: Maths
Course Title: GCSE Mathematics
COURSE CONTENT
All Mathematics courses will build upon work already started in previous years, though the new 1-9 GCSE will be far more rigorous than in the past. Pending confirmation, the exam board specification we are most likely to use from September 2016 is Edexcel 1MA1.
The Mathematics courses at higher and foundation level will be based around text books specific to the course. Using and applying mathematics will be covered by problem solving questions, rich tasks and are linked to specific topics being covered.
SKILLS INVOLVED
The courses will help you to develop oral, written and practical skills; develop a feel for number; apply Mathematics in everyday situations; solve problems and interpret results; appreciate patterns and relationships in Mathematics; acquire knowledge to apply Mathematics in other subjects; understand systems of measurement in everyday use; and use mathematical instruments including a calculator (all students will need to continue to provide a set of simple drawing instruments and an appropriate calculator).
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Students following the ‘higher’ or ‘foundation’ courses should expect 30 to 45 minutes of homework twice a week, although this may be combined into a larger “assignment” style piece.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Internal assessments will take place at regular intervals throughout the course.
External assessment will be by a linear exam at the end of Year 11.
Level of Entry GCSE Grades Targeted
Higher 9 8 7 6 5
Foundation 5 4 3 2 1
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Almost all careers and courses demand an appropriate level of competence in Mathematics.
20
Core Subject: IT
Course Title: European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
COURSE CONTENT
The course contains 4 units of study during Year 10.
Units are:
Word Processing
Spreadsheets
Presentation
Improving Productivity
SKILLS INVOLVED
In ECDL the effective IT user skills will help you unlock the potential of your computer and the programmes you use. You’ll discover new, faster ways to communicate, solve tasks and access information.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
The nature of the course means that there will be coursework at regular interval times and support work for this will be the homework for the course. All preparation work can be taken home and completed by students using their own computers, or via lunchtime clubs and the library facilities.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
All of the above units are assessed via on-line tests. These tests can be re-sat in order to gain target grades; there is no final terminal exam or major piece of project work.
At Level 2 all of the units are graded as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*, equating to grades C, B, A and A*
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
ECDL is the world’s number one IT user qualification – recognised and valued in workplaces around the globe as proof of competence in IT. It is tried, tested and trusted. ECDL programmes have been delivered to over 13 million people, in 41 languages across 148 countries. Over 2.5 million people have taken ECDL in the UK alone.
21
22
Core Subject: Life Learning
Course Title: Life Learning
COURSE CONTENT
As one of the core curriculum areas, all students follow a Life Learning course in Years 10 and 11. The Life Learning programme includes elements of Citizenship, Health and Relationships;Study Skills; Enterprise; Careers Education and Guidance; and Work Related Learning. Students also take part in a Work experience programme in Year 10.
DELIVERY
Life Learning is delivered through a weekly one-hour lesson that is at a different time every week. Students also have a Life Learning tutorial in form time every week.
CAREERS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCE
This programme continues from Year 9 with close liaison with the Derbyshire LEA Careers Service.
There is a particular focus in Year 11 when students are making decisions about their career choices after completing GCSEs. All students have the opportunity of a one-to-one interview with an independent adviser.
All students register with a comprehensive careers website, U-Explore, which provides students to research careers options, to prepare an action plan, a CV and application forms, and to update these whenever they need to in their own personal web space.
Year 11 students also take part in a Careers Day in the autumn term. They are given mock interviews by local employers, and have the opportunity to speak to a range of training providers. They also work on other interview techniques and how to write a letter of application.
WORK RELATED LEARNING
All students learn about work, through work, for work.
In Year 10 students are expected to complete a work experience placement at the end of the summer term.
OPTION SUBJECTS
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Art & Design
Computing
Dance
Food Preparation and Nutrition
D&T Product Design
D&T Resistant Materials
D&T Textiles
Drama
Geography
History
Leisure and Tourism
Modern Languages
Music
PE
Science
Sociology
24
Option: Art and Design
Course Title: GCSE Art and Design
COURSE CONTENT
The Art course enables students to work with a wide range of materials and media including: drawing and painting, photography, digital image manipulation, printmaking, mixed media, textiles, sculpture using a variety of materials, ceramics, 3D card construction, wire, plaster and papier mâché. It is designed to encourage students to develop knowledge, skills, and understanding along with creativity and imagination. It provides an opportunity for learners to experiment and take risks with their work whilst developing their own style.
At the start of Year 10 students will have the opportunity to explore and experiment with a wide range of art techniques and media to improve and develop their technical art skills before embarking on the first assessed component.
Students will be assessed on 2 components: a portfolio and an externally set task.
Component 01: Portfolio The portfolio is a body of practical work developed from a theme and resulting in a final piece. It forms 60% of the overall GCSE mark and is produced over the 2 year course. Themes for the portfolio are individual and chosen through discussion with your Art teacher. All selected work produced for the component, including the research, planning and development work produced in the preparatory period must be submitted for assessment.
Component 02: Externally set task The externally set task forms 40% of the overall GCSE mark. The task will be issued on 2 January in Year 11 and will give students a choice of five themes, each with a choice of visual starting points or stimuli. From this paper, students are expected to choose one option. Students will be given a preparatory period during which they will research, plan and develop ideas for their
own response to the option they have chosen. They will then produce a final outcome within a 10-hour supervised time period. All selected work produced for the component, including the research, planning and development work produced in the preparatory period must be submitted for assessment.
SKILLS INVOLVED
• Working from direct observation and experience.
• Exploring the qualities of materials, processes and techniques.
• Developing a theme in a personal and/or imaginative way.
• Relating to the work of artists, designers or craftspeople.
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Option: Art and Design
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework is set on a regular basis and is varied. We expect you to spend a minimum of 2 hours outside lesson time each week on your artwork. It includes: research, sketchbook work, developing ideas and work on final pieces. Individual homework is often set for students depending on the nature and direction of their work. There are art classes available at lunchtime and after school where students can receive extra help and gain access to art materials they may not have at home.
The majority of work must be produced in school under informal supervision from your teacher to conform to the examination board’s guidelines. This is to ensure that the work you submit is your own unaided work. We therefore recommend that all students attend the available sessions held at lunchtime and after school within the Art Department to continue with their art work.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
60% Portfolio
40% Externally Set Task
The course is taught and assessed in line with the OCR exam board specification. The portfolio and the externally set task are assessed internally and moderated by an external examiner.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Art and Design provides many varied and different career opportunities. Some of our students go on to take A Level Art and then apply to do Art and Design related degrees at university.
Possible careers include:
Architecture; art historian; ceramicist; graphic designer; product designer; gallery or museum work; interior designer; illustrator; photographer; teacher; costume designer; fashion designer; practising artist; theatre set designer; web design.
You will also learn lots of other skills, which can help you in all kinds of careers:
Creative thinking
Independence
Flexibility
Planning
Organisation
Research skills
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Option: Computing
Course Title: GCSE Computer Science
COURSE CONTENT
The course contains three units of study over two years. There is a mixture of non-exam assessment and externally set exams; the course is taught according to the OCR exam board specification.
Units covered are:
1. Unit 01: Computer Systems (40%)
2. Unit 02: Computational thinking, algorithms andprogramming (40%)
3. Unit 03 / 04: Programming Project (20%)
This qualification will suit students who want to know HOW computer systems work, who want to explore future trends in technology and apply creative and technical skills to the programming of computers.
SKILLS INVOLVED
You will explore:
Computers systems and networks
Data storage and representation
Computer software and programming
Algorithms and computational logic
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
For this qualification homework will be set via:
Theory consolidation and extension
Online tasks/tests on Dynamic Learning
(continued...)
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Option: Computing
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Unit A451: Computer systems and programming (1 ½ hour written exam)
Unit A452: Practical investigation (20 hour controlled assessment)
Unit A453: Programming Project (20 hour controlled assessment)
This award will attract the full range of grades associated with a GCSE, including A*.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
The world is becoming increasingly dominated by the use of computer systems, which influence every aspect of our everyday lives.
Modern citizens need to be equipped with knowledge and skills to enable them to participate in a technical society.
This qualification will be useful towards a career in computing, engineering, ICT and business support.
(...continued)
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Option: Business
Course Title: GCSE Business
COURSE CONTENT
This Edexcel course is made up of 3 units. Two are assessed through exams and the third through a controlled assessment, which is like coursework but it is all completed during lesson time over a 3 week period.
The course covers all of the key aspects of business including: Enterprise; How to start a business effectively; Marketing; Finance; The wider world affecting a business; The economic aspect. You will investigate real businesses!
SKILLS INVOLVED
To be able to succeed on this course you will need to be committed and well motivated as well as be able to communicate your ideas, write reports, think creatively, work with numbers to solve problems and complete research effectively.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
You will receive homework on a regular basis which will build on your learning in lessons and help you to develop important skills and knowledge. A lot of it will be research.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Exam 1: 45 minutes (25% of your grade) Exam 2: 1h 30 minutes (50% of your grade) Controlled Assessment: A two week block of work (25% of your grade)
You will be awarded a grade ranging from A*- G according to the results of your assessments.
FURTHER STUDY OR POSSIBLE CAREERS
You can study Business or Economics in the Sixth Form, at college and later at university. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue a career after your GCSEs. Whatever you choose to do it is certainly a subject that will help you achieve success as it will help you develop a range of personal skills such as organisation, communication, numeracy, literacy, teamwork, risk-taking and decision making. These skills, in addition to the knowledge and understanding of business you will have gained through your studies, make this an excellent choice whatever your future plans.
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Option: Dance
Course Title: GCSE Dance
COURSE CONTENT
Performance
Set phrases through a solo performance
Duo/trio performance
Choreography
Solo and group tasks based on different stimuli.
Appreciation
Written exam based on the syllabus content and critical appreciation of professional dance works.
SKILLS INVOLVED
An interest in dance from Key Stage 3.
Knowledge and appreciation of a variety of dance forms/styles.
The ability to perform in front of an audience in a solo or a group.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
1 hour per week - planning, rehearsal, research, background reading, video analysis, etc.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
The course follows the AQA exam board specification.
Component 1: Performance and Choreography - 60%
Component 2: Dance Appreciation – 40%
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Teaching and coaching in dance Primary / secondary education Post 16 – A Level Dance/PE/Sports Studies
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Option: Food Preparation and Nutrition
Course Title: GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition
*All exam boards will follow the same structure and form of assessment. We have yet to confirm the Examination Boardhowever the basic content is detailed below.
This course aims to promote the careful and thoughtful use of ingredients and components to encourage the development of a wide range of skills and knowledge.
CONTENT OVERVIEW
Food Preparation and Nutrition will be based on the different food sections of the Eatwell Plate.
Topics covered will include:
Nutrition, food provenance and food choice, cooking and preparation, skill requirements - preparation and cooking techniques.
Practical work will take place weekly to support the course content applying knowledge and skills.
SKILLS INVOLVED
There are many styles that will be used during the two years to help you develop your skills as an independent learner such as: Individual and group research, focused practical tasks to develop your food handling skills, developing communication and ICT skills, using outside speakers and videos.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework may consist of collecting information from shops, books, the Internet, planning and evaluating practical work, written tasks, practice examination questions both long and short.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Both practical and written work is assessed throughout the course. The final assessment is in the form of a written examination and 2 practical tasks all taking place in Year 11.
The titles of the practical task will be set by the examination board, marked internally, then moderated by the examination board to ensure consistency.
Food Investigation task
This is a short assessment task taking 7 hours in lesson time, which will show your investigation and recording skills. It is worth 15% of the final grade
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Option: Food Preparation and Nutrition
Food Preparation task
This is a longer task taking approx. 20 hours and will involve a 3 hour practical session where you will prepare 3 dishes under exam condition.
In preparation for this you will undertake research into the task to show your food preparation and presentation skills. This is worth 35% of the final grade.
The 2 food preparation tasks are completed in Y11 although practice tasks will take place in Y10.
Written examination
This will be 1 hour and 30 minutes in length and questions will cover all aspects of the specification content. There will be 10 compulsory questions including structured and free response questions.
It is worth 50% of the total GCSE marks and is externally assessed.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Food technician
Advertising
Marketing
Environmental health
If you need more information please see Mrs Pratt or Mrs Slater.
Product development
Education
Catering/chef
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Option: D&T Product Design
Course Title: GCSE Design & Technology Product Design
COURSE CONTENT
Can you think of anything that has not beendesigned? The chairs we sit on, much of the food that we eat and the clothes we wear have all been carefully designed.
A product designer wants to design things that people will want and enjoy, and most of all that will improve people’s lives. We come into contact with thousands of designed products every day. Very often, we take design so much for granted that we don’t even notice it! It is only when things don’t work or are uncomfortable that that we begin to notice them! The door handle that is stiff, the shirt that itches, the chair that is uncomfortable – all these make us question their design. In fact, things that don’t work properly are often the start of good product design.
Product Design is all about looking at the manufactured world around you and being able to understand how/why things have been designed.
Tasks in Product Design might include looking at products which already exist and producing a redesign of that product. You might also look at how products work by disassembling them and studying individual parts of a design to gain a better understanding of the designed world.
Product Design is a very creative subject and as such many links will exist between Product Design and Art and Design.
Product Design is made up of 60% Controlled Assessment consisting of a rigorous portfolio and a manufactured item and 40% writtenexamination.
SKILLS INVOLVED
There are many styles that will be used during the two years to help you develop your skills as anindependent learner such as:
Individual and group research, focused practical tasks to develop your drawing, communication and ICT (including 3D and 2D computer aided design) skills along with practical work to develop your modelling and making skills.
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Option: D&T Product Design
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Product Design is taught from the AQA examination board specification and as with all GCSE subjects in Design and Technology from AQA the assessment takes the form of two distinct parts:
A Controlled Assessment Project which is worth 60% of the overall mark.
A written examination which contains the remaining 40% of the overall mark.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
This GCSE course forms a very good foundation for students wishing to continue with DT Product Design at AS and A2 Level.
The skills learned in product design also feature in a range of career areas such as: marketing; printing; product development; town planning; education; architecture; apprenticeships; engineering design.
If you need more information please see Mr Fullwood or Mr Trigg.
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Option: D&T Resistant Materials
Course Title: GCSE Design & Technology Resistant Materials
COURSE CONTENT
It is closely linked to the other areas of Design and Technology (as they all share the same assessment criteria) but the materials you will be working in are timber, metal, plastics and smart materials.
This course aims to promote the careful and thoughtful use of design and construction techniques with a range of solid materials and pre-manufactured components to encourage the development of a wide range of theoretical and practical skills and knowledge.
It involves studying 2 units over the two years.
Unit 1 Written Paper – 2 hours (40% of the GCSE)
This unit focuses on the skills, knowledge and understanding of products using resistant materials. You would look at:
The principles of designing and product planning.
A range of skills, tools and equipment used in practical work – drawing techniques, scale drawing for plans, manufacturing processes, use of CAD / CAM packages and the making of quality products.
Health and safety with basic risk assessment.
Product analysis, evaluation of existing products, look at the life cycle analysis of a variety of products.
This is assessed through an externally set and marked examination.
Unit 2 Design and Making Practice (60% of the GCSE)
This unit involves a design task along a chosen theme set by the examination board. You will research and design a product to show your skills in designing, making and evaluating.
A chosen theme could be: ‘my environment’, ‘low-voltage lighting’.
This is a controlled assessment unit meaning you would produce a portfolio of work over a given time scale of around 45 hours of school time.
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Option: D&T Resistant Materials
SKILLS INVOLVED
There are many styles that will be used during the two years to help you develop your skills as an independent learner such as:
Individual and group research, focused practical tasks to develop your practical skills, developing communication and ICT skills.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework will consist of collecting information from outside, books, using the Internet, planning and evaluating practical work, written tasks.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
This course is taught from the AQA examination board specification.
Unit 1 is an externally set examination worth 40% of the overall grade.
Unit 2 is a portfolio task that is worth 60% of the overall grade.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
This GCSE course forms a very good foundation for students wishing to continue with Design Technology Product Design at AS and A2 Level.
Manufacturing industries
Construction industries
DIY
If you need more information please see Mr Fullwood or Mr Barksby
Pattern making
Apprentice
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Option: D&T Textiles
Course Title: GCSE Design & Technology Textiles Technology
COURSE CONTENT
It is closely linked to the other areas of Design and Technology but the material you will be working in is textiles. This course aims to promote the careful and thoughtful use of fibres and fabrics, pre-manufactured items such as fastenings, threads, beads, etc. It follows the OCR exam board specification and involves studying 4 units over the two years.
Unit 1 Introduction to designing and making
In this unit you will develop: Research and investigation skills; Drawing skills; Modelling / trialling; Evaluation of a process or product.
This is a controlled assessment unit meaning you would produce a portfolio of work over a given time scale.
Unit 2 Making quality products
In this unit you will develop: Designing for a need; Working with tools and equipment; Making a product; Evaluating the product.
This is a controlled assessment unit meaning you would produce a portfolio of work over a given time scale.
Unit 3 Sustainability and technical aspects of designing and making
This unit focuses on the knowledge, skills and understanding underpinning the design and the manufacture of products made from textiles. You will develop skills in:
• Consideration of products
• Consideration of the environment
• Consideration of society and the economy
• Working with tools and materials
• Selecting processes
• Designing for success
The assessment of this unit is through an externally set and externally marked test.
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Option: D&T Textiles
SKILLS INVOLVED
There are many styles that will be used during the two years to help you develop your skills as an independent learner such as:
Individual and group research, focused practical tasks to develop your skills handling fabrics and equipment, developing communication and ICT skills, using outside speakers, visits and videos.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework will consist of collecting information from shops, books, using the internet, planning and evaluating practical work, written tasks.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Unit 3 is an externally set exam and is worth 40% of the overall grade.
Units 1 and 2 are through portfolio tasks that are worth 60% of the overall grade.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
creative textiles
fashion designer
fashion buying
textiles design
fashion stylist
illustrator
manufacture
retail
If you need more information please see Mrs Pratt, Mrs Huckle or Mrs Slater.
Option: Drama
Course Title: GCSE Drama
COURSE CONTENT
We follow the syllabus specification set by the Edexcel exam board.You will explore a variety of genres, issues and practitioners. Component one and two requires students to participate in two performances and complete a piece of coursework. Component three is a written exam based on the practical exploration of a set text and a theatre evaluation.
SKILLS INVOLVED
Performing Boosting confidence and speaking and listening skills.
Communication Teamwork is essential in any career. In Drama you will develop your com-
munication skills in a variety of ways.
Analysis Learning how to empathise and developing evaluation and analysis skills -
vital skills that are needed in any subject.
Improvisation Role-play, exploration and development of characters and situation, acting
and use of explorative strategies.
Design skills If you are not the world’s best actor, there is a chance to do design skills,
set, lighting, props, costume and make-up.
Interpersonal and
Group working skills
Essential in the modern workplace. Drama teaches us about history, humanity and culture as well as
developing our ability to empathise and the ability to reason.
Creative skills Drama develops creativity and creative thinking skills, which are vital in
times of financial difficulties, where markets are competitive and people are required to be innovative.
Text - Practical exploration of play scripts and other stimulus material.
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Option: Drama
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework will consist of written evaluations, lesson diaries, research and line learning.
Over the two years students are required to complete rehearsals at lunchtime and after school at different stages of the course.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Component one (40% of the final mark)
Students will create and develop a devised performance from a stimulus. Part of the assessment will be analysing and evaluating the process and final performance. This can be completed through a written portfolio or recorded verbal evidence.
Component two (20% of the final mark)
Students will interpret and explore two key extracts from a chosen performance text and perform to an external examiner.
Component three (40% of final mark)
Students will complete a written exam based on the exploration of a set text and evaluation of a live theatre performance.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Acting
Marketing
Teaching
Therapist
Stage Management
Management
A Level Theatre Studies
Degree in Dramatic Arts
PR
Journalism
Broadcasting and Television
Youth work
Directing
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40
Option: Geography
Course Title: GCSE Geography
COURSE CONTENT
The final decision about which syllabus to follow has not yet been made. However the likely course content will be:
Paper 1: Living with the physical environment. This unit comprises of three sections: natural hazards, physical landscapes in the UK (coasts and rivers) and the living world.
Paper 2: Challenges in the human environment. This unit consists three sections: urban issues and challenges, the changing economic world and the challenge of resource management.
Paper 3: Geographical applications. This unit looks at evaluating a particular issue and fieldwork (possible locations include the East Coast, Chesterfield, the Peak District, as well as an optional residential fieldtrip to Italy or Iceland on alternating years).
SKILLS INVOLVED
Critical thinking and problem solving Map reading Drawing maps, sketches, graphs Field work - collecting information Extended writing ICT and communication skills Be aware that this subject requires detailed,
well-structured written responses.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Once every three weeks and will include: Completing exam questions Analysing fieldwork data
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
35%Paper 1: Living with the
physical environment
Written exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Answer questions from three sections. Question types: multiple-choice, short answer, levels of responses, extended prose
35%Paper 2: Challenges in the
human environment
Written exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Answer questions from three sections. Question types: multiple-choice, short answer, levels of responses, extended prose
30%Paper 3: Geographical
applications
1 hour written exam. Pre-release resources made available from March in the year of the exam. Questions based on fieldwork carried out during the course.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
GCSE Geography is a gateway to being a…
Where can geography take you?
Geography is described as a ‘facilitating subject’. This means that it is one of a number of subjects most commonly required for entry to degree courses at leading universities.
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Option: Geography
‘Geography makes you think globally, but act locally.’
Surveyor
Planning officer
Architect
Teacher
Civil servant
Volcanologist
And many other careers!
Course Title: GCSE History
COURSE CONTENT
Students are likely to study:
Medicine in Britain 1250-present
Medicine on the Western Front 1914-1918
The American West 1835-1895
Germany 1918-1939
Students will also study one of the following British units:
Anglo-Saxon and Norman England c1060-1088
Henry VIII and his ministers 1509-1540
Early Elizabethan England 1558-1588
This decision will be made later this academic year as publishers confirm the resources available to teach these.
SPECIFIC CONTENT
Medicine Britain 1250-Present
The reasons for and results of key medical discoveries during these dates.
How treatments have changed over these years in addition to our understanding ofthe causes of illness.
Medicine on the Western front
The trench system and types of wounds facing medical teams at this time.
The positive and negative impact war had on the development of medicine.
The American West
The lifestyle of the Plains Indians and the reason for conflictbetween them and White Americans.
Cattle ranching, law and order and the Homesteaders.
Germany 1918-1939
Post war Germany including the Treaty of Versailles and the’Golden Years’ of the 1920s.
The rise of the Nazis and life under Nazi rule.
BRITISH UNIT
The content will depend upon the unit taught.
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Option: History
“Some people make headlines while others
make history” – Philip Elmer-DeWitt
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” – George Santayana
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Option: History
ASSESSMENT
Students take 3 exams at the end of Year 11
Paper 1 - 1 hour 15 minutes
Paper 2 - 1 hour 45 minutes
Paper 3 - 1 hour 20 minutes
Government changes to GCSE History means that there is now no con-trolled assessment or coursework.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework will be of a variety of types over the year. Exam questions will be used as frequently as possible to prepare students for the final exam.
Homework will, in general, be set weekly. Students will be expected to read their class notes regularly even when specific homework is not set.
SKILLS INVOLVED
The course gives students the ability to:
Investigate historical events, changes, people and issues. Understand how the past has been represented and interpreted. Use historical sources critically. Draw conclusions and reassess other historical conclusions. Analyse interpretation of people and events.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
A qualification in History shows an employer that a student has developed certain skills which can be used in a variety of jobs and tasks. These skills include the ability to:
Observe - Pick out the important elements of information from a variety of formats.
Describe - Communicate observations both orally and in writing.
Question - Clarify and provide more detailed observations.
Analyse - Carefully consider observations.
Evaluate - Make a judgement based on investigations.
Many careers demand these skills. A very small selection is: accountancy administration, the armed forces, business management, journalism, law, local government, the media, police, tourism, teaching and many others.
History A Level is also one of the ‘facilitating subjects’ for the esteemed Russell Group of universities.
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Option: Leisure and Tourism
GCSE Leisure and Tourism gives you the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the ways in which the Leisure and Tourism industries work to meet the ever increasing demand of people using their leisure time. Leisure and Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world and provider of a wealth of career opportunities. Students will gain an insight into related sectors such as business, retail and distribution and hospitality and catering. They will be prepared to make informed decisions about further learning opportunity and career choices.
COURSE CONTENT
The course is split into 2 units which give a broad insight into both the Leisure and Tourism industries:-
THE NATURE OF THE LEISURE AND TOURISM INDUSTRY
Different types of Leisure and Tourism organisations The reason why people use Leisure and Tourism facilities Where people go in their leisure time and why they select their chosen destination How people travel and why they select their chosen method of transport The impact of tourism on communities and environments, including eco-tourism Visitor attractions and activities, both in the UK and internationally The use of up-to-date business systems, using I.T. Employment opportunities in the Leisure and Tourism industry
SALES, PROMOTION AND BUSINESS OPERATIONS IN LESIURE AND TOURISM
Sales and selling situations in leisure and tourism contexts. Promotional techniques and materials in leisure and tourism contexts. Designing your own promotional material for a leisure and tourism organisation. The impact of new technology and business systems on the operations of leisure and tourism.
organisations
Students will plan and carry out tasks in which they:
Analyse issues and problems. Identify, gather and record relevant information and
evidence. Analyse and evaluate evidence. Make reasoned judgements and present conclusions.
Investigations may include:
Visiting industry and talking to people who work there. Research using the internet and printed material. Conducting surveys. Gathering information and studying company brochures, leaflets and published reports.
SKILLS INVOLVED
During your course you will also develop the skills you need in order to apply your knowledge and understanding in a work environment. These are called ‘key skills’. They will enable you to:
Course Title: Leisure and Tourism
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Option: Leisure and Tourism
Use information technology. Communicate effectively. Work with others. Solve problems. Improve your own learning and performance.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework will usually include: Collecting data, researching topics and writing up investigations.
Exam practise questions.
How much homework is completed and how long it takes will depend on you. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it and the more successful you will be.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
The course follows the Edexcel exam board specification. A range of methods is used to add variety to your work and assess your potential. Assessment includes:
Exam (40%) Controlled Assignment (60%)
WHO IS IT FOR?
Students who have enjoyed studying Tourism in Geography at Year 9. Students who have a particular career interest in Leisure and Tourism or in related industries. Students who prefer coursework to final exams. Students who enjoy carrying out research. Students who want to progress to higher level qualifications such as A Levels.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
This GCSE can be the basis for further education, including A Levels, or for entering a job in the field of leisure and tourism or related industries. These may include a variety of jobs from the following components:
Sports centres, health and fitness complexes e.g. Fitness First. Holiday centres e.g. Centre Parcs. Travel agencies e.g. Co-op Travel. Tour operators e.g. Thomas Cook. Transport providers e.g. airlines, rail, coach, ferry and cruise
companies. Accommodation and catering e.g. hotels, restaurants. Visitor attractions, historical properties, museums and galleries
e.g. Alton Towers, Chatsworth House. Government run agencies and departments e.g. national parks,
tourist information centres e.g. local government leisure, recreation and tourism department.
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Option: Modern Languages
Course Title: GCSE Modern Languages (French, German, Spanish)
COURSE CONTENT
GCSE Modern Foreign Language courses each follow the AQA exam board specification.
There are 3 main themes for each language:
Theme 1: Identity and culture
Me, my family and friends • Relationships with family and friends• Marriage/partnership
Technology in everyday life • Social media• Mobile technology
Free time activities • Music• Cinema and TV• Food and eating out• Sport
Customs and festivals in French speaking countries /communities
Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest
Home, town, neighbourhood and region
Social issues • Charity/voluntary work• Healthy/unhealthy living
Global issues • The environment• Poverty/homelessness
Travel and tourism
Theme 3: Current and future study and employment
My studies
Life at school/college
Education post-16
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Option: Modern Languages
SKILLS INVOLVED
Students get the chance to develop the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, writing.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Students will be set a learning or writing homework every week. Much of the homework will focus on preparation for the exams. The more time a student spends on homework, the better prepared they will be. Students will be entered for either Foundation or Higher Level in Year 11.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
Exams - June of Year 11
Paper 1 - Listening exam, 35 or 45 mins (25%) Paper 2 - Speaking exam, 7-9 or 10-12 mins (25%) Paper 3 - Reading exam, 45 or 60 mins (25%) Paper 4 - Writing exam, 60 or 75 mins (25%)
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
A GCSE in a language shows an employer that a student has developed certain transferrable skills that would be useful in a variety of jobs. These skills enable students to:
Communicate effectively and with greater confidence.
Express and justify opinions.
Listen for gist and detail.
Develop a greater understanding of grammar and how a language works.
Structure their written work logically, using a wide range of vocabulary and expressions.
Careers with languages: the tourism industry; teaching; journalism; civil service; armed forces; engineering; law; sciences and many more.
An independent study has shown that British firms lose an average of 20% of their profits due to a lack of language skills - studying a language at GCSE and A Level increases your job prospects considerably!
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Option: Music
Course Title: GCSE Music
COURSE CONTENT AND ASSESSMENT
The course is taught and assessed according to the AQA exam board specification.
Performing Coursework (30%)
Students will develop their performance skills both as a soloist and as a member of a group during the course. They will be assessed on this during the second year of the course.
Students can perform on an instrument, or voice.
Composing Coursework (30%)
Students will learn how to develop musical ideas and compose music that is musically convincing through two compositions. One must be in response to an externally set brief (Composition 1) and the other a free composition (Composition 2). The combined duration of the compositions must be a minimum of three minutes and a maximum of four and a half minutes.
Listening Test (40%)
Students will sit a 1½ hour exam, listening to extracts of music and answering questions about them. There are four areas of study which will be tested in the listening exam.
1. Western classical tradition 1650–19102. Popular music3. Traditional music4. Western classical tradition since 1910
Two of these areas of study will be studied in more detail with specific set works and longer answer questions.
SKILLS INVOLVED
Demonstrate the skills required for performance.
Develop a basic understanding of music theory, including reading musical notation.
Develop ideas musically to produce composition work.
Recognise and describe accurately different elements and details heard in extracts of music, and use key words appropriately
Develop key skills in communication, IT and working with others.
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Option: Music
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
This will be set on a regular basis and will involve research or theory work, some composition tasks and solo performance preparation.
HOW MUSIC CAN HELP WITH CAREERS
GCSE music is a good preparation for further musical study, whether AS or A Level Music or Music Technology or a BTEC National Diploma in Music or the Performing Arts.
It can help lead to a career in:
Music Industry - publishing, recording
Entertainment Industry
Teaching - in school, as a peripatetic or privately
Arts Administration in orchestral, operatic or ballet companies
Sales in music shop or company
Journalism reviewing concerts CDs etc.
Music therapy
Developing music websites
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Option: Physical Education
Course Title: GCSE Physical Education
DRAFT COURSE CONTENT
Theoretical Assessment (60%)
Paper 1 Topics
Applied Anatomy and Physiology: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the factors underpinning physical activity and sport performance.
Movement Analysis: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of movement and their effect on performance in physical activity and sport.
Physical Training: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the principles of training and training methods in order to plan, undertake, monitor and evaluate PEPs and training programmes.
Use of data: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of data analysis (quantitative and qualitative) in relation to key areas of physical activity and sport.
Paper 2 Topics
Health fitness and well being: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of participating in physical activity and sport to health fitness and well being.
Sport psychology: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the psychological factors that can affect performers and their performance in physical activity & sport.
Socio cultural influences: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the socio-cultural factors that impact on physical activity and sport.
These are classroom based lessons usually 2/3 lessons.
Practical Assessment (30%)
Students will be required to perform in 3 different activities in the role of player/performer. For each activity students will be required to demonstrate their skills in isolation /unopposed situation and demonstrate their skills in a competitive/formal scenario.
Personal Exercise Programme (10%)
Design, evaluate and undertake a training programme
Analyse and evaluate their performance
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Option: Physical Education
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
1 hour per week - embedding knowledge and understanding in order to apply to practical context. This must include background reading and research.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED (DRAFT)
We follow the Edexcel exam board course specification.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
As well as being the ideal preparation for the A Level Physical Education course, GCSE Physical Education allows for progression to related vocational qualifications, such as BTEC Firsts and Nationals in Sport or Sport and Exercise Sciences. The course develops the transferable skills and key skills that employers are looking for and can lead to a wide variety of employment opportunities. This can include further training in areas such as recreational management, leisure activities, coaching, officiating, the fitness industry, the armed forces and the civil service.
SKILLS INVOLVED
The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in Key Stage 3 Physical Education. It will give you exciting opportunities to be involved in a number of different physical activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
You should have an interest in physical education and sport, enjoy being active and appreciate the benefits of keeping fit and healthy.
You will be happy working in both a practical and classroom based environment.
The theory content will suit students who enjoy science based subjects and now has the greatest weighting in the qualification of 60%.
Component 1 Fitness and Body Systems
36% of the qualification Written examination 1h 45m
Component 2 Health and Performance
24% of the qualification Written examination 1h 15m
Component 3 Practical Performance
30% of qualification Candidates will be assessed in 3 activities (team and individual)
Component 4 Personal Exercise Programme
10% of qualification Production of a PEP and will require analysis and evaluation of performance. (Non Examined Assessment)
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Option: Science
Course Title: Biology, Chemistry, Physics(Triple Science GCSE)
COURSE CONTENT
* Changes to the curriculum mean we are unable to give a detailed outline of next year’s course content.Last year’s course structure was as follows:
In Year 10 and 11, students have 8 Science lessons per week, and will normally have three teachers.
Students will follow the NEW Science course leading to three separate Science GCSE qualifications in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
GCSE Biology Course
Unit 1 – Influences on life. Topics:Classification, variation and inheritance; Responses to a changing environment; Problems of, and solutions to a changing environment.
Unit 2 – The components of life. Topics: The building blocks of cells; Organisms and energy; Common systems.
Unit 3 – Using Biology. Topics: Control systems; Behaviour; Biotechnology.
GCSE Chemistry Course
Unit 1 – Chemistry in our world. Topics: The Earth’s sea and atmosphere; Materials from the Earth; Acids; Obtaining and using metals; Fuels.
Unit 2 – Discovering chemistry. Topics: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Ionic compounds and analysis; Covalent compounds and separation techniques; Groups in the periodic table; Chemical reactions; Quantitative chemistry.
Unit 3 – Chemistry in action. Topics: Qualitative analysis; Quantitative analysis; Electrolytic processes; Gases, equilibria and ammonia; Organic chemistry.
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Option: Science
GCSE Physics course
Unit 1 – Universal physics. Topics: 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.
Unit 2 – Physics for your future. Topics: 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
Unit 3 – Applications of physics. Topics: Radiation in the treatment of medicine; X-ray and ECGs; Production, uses and risks of ionising radiation from radioactive sources; Motion of particles; Kinetic theory and gases.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Students will be set homework regularly, and will be a range of independent activities, looking at pupils’ research skills, learning and recall skills, literacy and numeracy.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
* Last year the assessment format was:
These are two year courses and will be examined through externally markedexaminations at the end of the two years, and a piece of controlled assessment work which is externally moderate.
Each subject will have three written examinations; Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Medicine; veterinary science; dentistry; nursing; midwifery; biomedical science; engineering; pharmacist; astrophysics; paramedic; meteorologist; teacher; electrician; forensic science; pilot; zoologist; physiotherapist.
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Option: Sociology
Course Title: GCSE Sociology
COURSE CONTENT
“The study of human society”.
Year 10 Topics
Studying Society – understand the ways in which sociology differs from psychology, biology and journalism and learn about the different methods sociologists use to study society e.g. questionnaires, observations and interviews.
Education – investigate the role of education in society and explore how factors such as class, gender and ethnicity influence educational achievements.
Families – challenge the definition of ‘family’, describe patterns related to divorce, marriage and the nature of the family, and explore how gender roles have changed.
Year 11
Crime and Deviance – be able to provide different explanations for why some groups commit more crimes than others and investigate the ways in which crimes are measured and recorded.
Mass Media – look at the increasing importance of different types of media in everyday life, investigate the ways in which the media portrays stereotypes of different groups and discover the influence it has on the way people live their lives.
Social Inequality – be able to describe different explanations of poverty and which groups in society are more likely to be poor. Look at the ways in which a person’s employment can influence their entire existence.
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Option: Sociology
SKILLS INVOLVED
Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
Collection of information for different purposes
Interpreting and analysing data
Applying knowledge to society
Evaluating research
In order to study Sociology you should ensure that you have good written skills as your assessments will require you to write some long mini essay style answers. It would also be useful if you are someone who is able to express an opinion about the world we live in.
NATURE OF HOMEWORK
Homework is set, usually once a week and may include written tasks, reading or doing research.
HOW THE COURSE IS ASSESSED
The course is taught and assessed according to the AQA exam board specification. Students are assessed via two separate exam papers, which are examined at the end of Year 11. Both papers are 1 hour 30 mins in length and are worth 50% each.
HOW THE SUBJECT CAN HELP WITH POSSIBLE CAREERS
Sociology is useful for any career or further studies involving people and how society works. The subject gives you a general appreciation of the society we live in so is beneficial to a whole range of future options. Sociology is available to study at A Level in our Sixth Form.
Sociology could help lead to a number of careers including:
Probation Officer
Nursing
Media
Personnel
Market Research
Journalism
Occupational Therapy
Counselling
Social Work
Social Service
Prison Service
Teaching
IMPORTANT DATES!
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Thursday 21st January 20166pm - 8.30pm Options Information Evening
For Year 9 students and their parents / carers to find out more about the options process and speak to subject staff. Please remember to bring this booklet with you.
Friday 26th February 2016 Deadline for choosing options
21
JAN
26
FEB
CONTACT DETAILS
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Tupton Hall School
Tel: 01246 863127
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.tuptonhall.derbyshire.sch.uk
Facebook: facebook.com/TuptonHallSchool
Twitter: @TuptonHalls
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