The Charter School

Preparing for Success

at Key Stage 4

14 May 2009 Engaging Parents in EPR

Introduction We are delighted that you could come along tonight.  I hope that you will find this booklet helpful.

The key drivers for success at Key Stage 4 are as follows:

Attendance and punctuality in school.  Research confirms time and time again the importance of attending school.  Missing just 5 days a year can severely at affect examination results.

Completing coursework.  Finishing coursework on time and to a high standard is crucial.  For some subjects it makes up a considerable % of the final grade.  Completing coursework early allows more time to focus on revision for exams.

Understanding the subject.  We have included a brief overview of the curriculum for each subject for Years 10 and 11.  It is possible to read the complete course specification on the examination board websites.

Tracking progress.  We produce interim reports at the end of each module (approximately every 7 weeks).  This outlines whether your child is above target, on target or falling behind. Tutors and Year leaders will be in regular dialogue with students regarding their progress towards aspirational target grades. Trackers for progress in Year 10 coursework and also in Year 11 are also posted on the notice board so pupils can assess their progress at any given time.  Annual reports are produced for Year 10 in February and Year 11 in January - which is timed to coincide with the results of Year 11 practice exams in December.

ConcernsIf you have any concerns about the progress of your child, please contact their tutor or subject teacher in the first instance.  The best way is either by email or via the planner.

If you would like to ask any further questions or provide feedback from this evening’s event, please do email us at enquiriesks4@charter.southwark.sch.uk

Simon Williams, Director of Learning, KS4

CONTENTS:

1. Year 10 Course Descriptions

2. Year 11 Course Descriptions

3. Coursework deadlines

4. Revision resources

5. General Hints and Tips for Revision

6. Diary Dates

1. YEAR 10 COURSEWORK DESCRIPTIONSArt In Year 10 students extend their creative, imaginative and practical skills

to enable them to communicate and express their experiences, ideas and insights. They learn to use primary and secondary observation techniques, and to investigate and interpret the codes and conventions of art, craft and design in contemporary societies, and in other times and cultures. Students apply their findings to their own drawings, paintings, prints and sculptures.Keeping a sketchbook during Year 10 is compulsory. It is used to document progress and development, and will be submitted as part of their final examination.

Business BTEC This course is examined by 100% coursework. Students will aim to complete 3 pieces of coursework in Year 10 which will make half of the BTEC Diploma course (equivalent to 4 GCSEs) These units are unit 1 (Investigating Business) which considers all of the functions that a business has inside of it such as marketing, HRM, finance. Students will need to investigate two organisations thoroughly. Unit 3 (Customer service) which considers the importance of customer service and the ways in which it can be delivered. Students will have to demonstrate customer service skills. Unit 9 (personal selling) which requires students to create a business and actually participate in a sales task.

Business Studies GCSE Business - Short course - students are working on Unit 1 – Introduction to small business in the first year of this new pilot course. This section covers the key issues and skills involved in enterprise. This section provides a framework for looking at the marketing, financial, human and operational issues in starting and running a small business. This will continue in Year 11.GCSE Business – Single award - students are working on Unit 1 – Introduction to small business in the first year of this new pilot course. This section covers the key issues and skills involved in enterprise. This section provides a framework for looking at the marketing, financial, human and operational issues in starting and running a small business. This will be examines at the end of Year 10 by a GCSE examination which will count for 50% of the grade.

Citizenship In Year 10 student have started the GCSE Short Course in Citizenship Studies. The course is split into two distinct sections: Section A: 60% written exam, taken at the end of Year 11. Section B: 40% coursework, to be completed by the end of Year 10. The course is made up of three main themes: Human Rights, Power and Politics and The Global Village. In Year 10 students have examined Theme 1A and the areas of roles, rights and responsibility and communities and identities. Theme 2A students explored democracy, the electoral process, voting and the role of Parliament. In Theme 3A students explored globalisation, anti-globalisation, the global economy, sustainable development and local solutions to global problems. The coursework is a participatory project which will involve students engaging with the local community.

Creative & Media In Year 10 students will have completed 3 Units of the diploma. These units are Scene, Performance and Artefact. Students have attended a range of visits and worked alongside creative arts professionals. They will also have completed their two week work experience in a theatre. During the summer term students will complete the project another compulsory part of this qualification. Students have also taken functional skills test in English, Maths and ICT. Alongside subject knowledge students will have developed a range of personal learning skills including research, organisation, team work, independent and creative thinking.

Design & Technology

All students on Design Technology GCSE courses have been working towards the following assessment objectives:Coursework project (60% of grade) - This is to be internally assessed and externally moderated. The work will consist of practical work towards making a high quality finished product, research and investigation, analysis, generating a design specification, design development, modelling and testing, evidence of industrial practises and evaluation as well as use of ICT.Written Paper (40% of grade) - Questions will test the application of knowledge and understanding, materials, processes, techniques, and the evaluation of commercial products and practises. There are two tiers of entry. Higher (A*-D) Foundation (G-C)

Engineering The Engineering Diploma is a new qualification. It is comprised of several different elements: Seven units of principal learning related to different engineering

topics. These include such topics as Computer Aided engineering and electronic circuit construction and testing. All but one of these units are assessed by coursework

Functional skills tests in English, Maths and use of ICT Work experience and other work related learning An extended project to be completed in Year 11.

Drama Year 10 students will have worked on all three units of the GCSE curriculum.Paper One, Units One and Two : Exploration of ideas and exploration of a play.Students use dramatic devices to explore issues. They have learnt how to use a variety of performance techniques to express their understanding and opinions. They will complete the first unit of coursework based on a play text.Paper Two performanceStudents have studied, learnt and performed extracts from written scripts. They have used music, costume, lighting, props and set to develop their performance work; and have worked on how to perform in the style dictated by the Playwright.

English For GCSE English and English Literature students complete coursework in the following areas : speaking and listening; response to literature (pre-1914 prose fiction, Shakespeare and 20th century Drama), response to a media text; and original writing. Coursework is worth 40% of the final grade in English and 30% in Literature.Students are also prepared for examinations in the following areas: understanding and responding to non-fiction texts; writing to argue, persuade and advise; writing to inform, explain and describe; analysis of poetry; analysis of a 20th Century prose text.Students receive 2 GCSEs.

French Pupils continue learning to understand, speak, read and write in French. They are more confident using sounds, written forms and grammar, and use this knowledge with increasing competence to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing. They improve their understanding of French by listening to speech and talking about a range of different subjects.They produce two pieces of coursework referring to past, present and future events.They start to prepare oral presentations.Topics studied in Year 10 include: Home Life and Relationships, Going out and Hobbies, School and Work, Town and Countryside, Life in French speaking countries.At the end of Year 10 pupils will be able to use the present, perfect, imperfect, future and conditional tense.

Geography Year 10 GCSE Geography pupils have begun to develop their knowledge and understanding of places, environments and themes. They have studied the significance and effects of values and attitudes of those involved in the decision making process. They have improved their geographical skills of identifying geographical issues, collecting and presenting data, analysing data, drawing conclusions and communicating their findings. The two units studied in Year 10 include ‘Climate, Environment and People’ and ‘People, Work and Development’. In addition, both pieces of coursework are completed, comprising 25% of the final grade. The first piece is about tourism in Kenya and the second piece is a local study focusing on quality of life in cities, using Dulwich and Borough as a case study.

History Pupils studying GCSE Modern World History (AQA) in Year 10 have had the opportunity to develop their historical skills of Interpretation, evaluation and analysis. There is also considerable emphasis placed on independent study through the course work tasks.Pupils examine the entire of Paper 1 of the GCSE course, with a mock exam to assess their progress at the end of the year. Paper 1 focuses on International Relations from 1900-1939 and Britain in WW2. Pupils also complete both course work tasks, the first focusing on Civil Rights in the USA and the second on Multi-cultural Britain. Combined these are worth 25% of their total grade.

ICT – OCR National Students are currently undertaking the Level 2 National Award in ICT, which is part of the OCR Nationals suite of qualifications. The course is worth 1 A*-C grade GCSE in this subject, and is formed of 2 separate units, although some students may be able to gain further GCSEs in this subject by completing further units during the course. Those students who have elected to take the additional ICT option are expected to achieve a minimum of 3 A-C grade GCSEs. In Year 10, students have been focusing on the first of these units, ICT Skills For Business, which focuses on the use of generic office applications and systems software to complete a variety of tasks that are directly relevant to the modern workplace. Students then demonstrate these skills through a portfolio of evidence, and this methodology is repeated throughout all of the units studied.

Mathematics Yellow and Green Pathways - In Mathematics we follow the OCR Board, which offers a modular route to GCSE comprising of two modular examinations (25%each)and a final examination in Year 11 (50%). Modules are taken in January and June of Year 10. Pupils cover the four key areas of mathematics: number, algebra, space and shape, and data handling. There are two tiers of entry for the final examination in Year 11, Higher (grades A*-D) and Foundation (grades C-G). Students were placed in the current sets based on their SATs results, though movement between sets is possible when a pupil’s module grade and their teacher’s assessment show it to be appropriate.Blue Pathway – Students are currently studying for a BTEC in Mathematical Applications. This is a 100% coursework qualification and at the end of the year their folder will be submitted to see if it achieves the Level 1 standard (D grade GCSE equivalent). Then in Year 11 Students who have passed the level 1 will continue to study Level 2 which is the equivalent of a grade A-C at GCSE. Students will also be taking a Linear GCSE at the end of Year 10 and will also have the opportunity to retake this examination at the end of Year 11 to gain a GCSE in mathematics.

Media Studies The course is designed to enable students to develop a critical understanding of the role of the mass media in society. In Year 10 students are introduced to the key concepts of the course (Media Language; Representation; Audience and Institutions) through both written and practical assignments. Students study aspects of Film; the Music Industry; Advertising and Television. They are given opportunities to develop and apply a range of ICT/video skills.The work builds towards producing a portfolio of 3 assignments and one practical assignment, which represents 50% of the total marks. The Controlled Test at the end of Year 11 accounts for the other 50% and will have a specific theme.

Music Listening Exam (40%) - Analysing music within the Areas of Study in preparation for their Listening and Appraising exam.Composing (30%) - By the end of Year 10 pupils must have completely finished their first composition, including a written score/commentary, recording and evaluation. (15%) Pupils should also have started a second composition, with a view to completing the work in full over the summer holidays. This has to be from a different Area of Study(15%)Performing (30%) - Pupils will complete a solo performance exam during Year 10. (15%) All pupils MUST be receiving instrumental/vocal tuition, and work on performance preparation in partnership with their instrumental/vocal tutors. The ensemble performance coursework (15%) will be a focus for the remaining summer term and Autumn term of Year 11.

PE In Year 10 students have been assessed in their ability to combine skills and techniques with consistency and precision. Pupils are also expected to self reflect, and analyse the specific skill related activities of others within a practice and competitive environment. As part of the theory component pupils will be completing their personal exercise plan.

RE At KS4 all pupils follow the Edexcel GCSE RE (short course) “Religion and Life”. The course consists of five thematic units in which pupils engage with religious and non-religious perspectives : “Believing in God” looks at why people do and do not believe in God; “Matters of Life and Death” explores the issues of life after death, abortion and euthanasia; “Marriage and Family Life” looks at issues around relationships in and outside marriage, family life and divorce; “Social Harmony” focuses on prejudice and discrimination based on race, gender and religion; “Religion and the Media” explores how religion is portrayed in a film, soap opera and in the variety of religious programmes on TV.  The course is assessed by one exam paper at the end of Year 11.

Science Students follow the single award 21st Century Science course in Year 10 which is assessed by four exams and two pieces of coursework. The course is split into nine modules which are : You and your Genes, Air quality, The Earth and the Universe, Keeping Healthy, Material Choices, Radiation and Life, Life on Earth, Food Matters and Radioactive Materials. They learn the processes of ‘How Science Works’ which enables students to acquire an understanding of scientific ideas and how they develop over time. They learn the process of scientific enquiry and the nature of scientific knowledge.

Spanish Pupils continue learning to understand, speak, read and write in Spanish. They are more confident using sounds, written forms and grammar, and use this knowledge with increasing competence to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing. They improve their understanding of Spanish by listening to speech and talking about a range of different subjects.They produce two pieces of coursework referring to past, present and future events.They start to prepare oral presentations.Topics studied in Year 10 include : Home Life and Relationships, Going out and Hobbies, School and Work, Town and Countryside, Life in Spanish speaking countries.At the end of Year 10 pupils will be able to use the present, perfect, imperfect, future and conditional tense.

Textiles All students on Design Technology GCSE courses have been working towards the following assessment objectives:Coursework project (60% of grade) - This is to be internally assessed and externally moderated. The work will consist of practical work towards making a high quality finished product, research and investigation, analysis, generating a design specification, design development, modelling and testing, evidence of industrial practises and evaluation as well as use of ICT.Written Paper (40% of grade) - Questions will test the application of knowledge and understanding, materials, processes, techniques, and the evaluation of commercial products and practises. There are two tiers of entry. Higher (A*-D) Foundation (G-C)

2. YEAR 11 COURSEWORK DESCRIPTIONS

ART During Year 11 students have used a range of two and three-dimensional approaches to record observations, experiences and ideas. All students use primary and secondary research methods to record observations, experiences and ideas. They learn to explore and review possible solutions and to modify their work appropriately.The course explores a range of materials, equipment and processes and develops students’ understanding of other people’s work.For the practice exam pupils are given 4 weeks in which to collect information and develop their ideas.Keeping a sketchbook during Year 11 is compulsory and will be submitted as part of the final examination.

BUSINESS STUDIESGCSE Single Award

Students are working towards the second half of their GCSE course this year after completing the first half unit 1 last year. This year focuses on Unit 2 entitled “Managing a Business?” and is equivalent to 50% of the final grade. This encompasses a diverse range of topics involved in running a business from financial management to handling customers to the issues surrounding managing employees. Many students have also chosen to re-sit their unit 1 exam from last year in the hope to improve their grade. Students are encouraged to attend after school support sessions that are available each week on a  Monday and a Thursday from 3pm – 4pm.

BUSINESS STUDIESGCSE Double Award

Students have just begun Unit 6, their final unit. Unit 6 will be examining how change affects business. Their first task will be examining the role technology has played in the changing way that music is sold and their next task will be to examine the reasons for Woolworths going bust. Having completed 3 other units worth 75% of their final grade, students have an accurate idea of how they are progressing. All coursework deadlines are due in before Easter.After Easter students will have the opportunity to improve their courseworks or prepare to retake their Year 10 exams. Coursework classes after school on Wednesdays and Thursday are available to ensure students reach their target grade

CITIZENSHIP Students are completing the short course GCSE in Citizenship Studies this year. Module one examines the UK’s place in the world. Students studied the making of the UK, the European Union, the Commonwealth and also the United Nations. They have recently completed a module which was based on communities and identities. Within this module discussions on identity took place with activities based on what makes a community and how different communities interact. Module three examines the Law, which includes the study of criminal and civil law, how courts work and it examines the roles of the different people in courts. It also examines different types of sentences, what is most effective and should the system of punishments be reformed. This completes the course and the end of the year will focus on revisiting the whole course and checking coursework is to an acceptable standard.

DRAMA During Year 11 students complete their second unit of coursework and the practical exam.Paper 1 Unit 2 Exploration of a play. (60% grade)This year the play studied was Blood Brothers by Willy Russell. In this unit students explore the themes and structure of the play through practical activities. They are marked for response, development and evaluation. Their evaluation is a written review of a live Theatre performance. Students produce a portfolio of written evidence to support their practical work.Paper 2 Practical Exam. (40% of grade) An external examiner assesses students on their performance in an extract from a play or a piece of devised drama. The results from all 3 units are amalgamated to give the final grade, sent to the school in August.

ELECTRONICS All students on Design Technology GCSE courses have been working towards the following assessment objectives:Coursework project (60% of grade) - This is to be internally assessed and externally moderated. The work will consist of practical work towards making a high quality finished product, research and investigation, analysis, generating a design specification, design development, modelling and testing, evidence of industrial practises and evaluation as well as use of ICT.Written Paper (40% of grade) - Questions will test the application of knowledge and understanding, materials, processes, techniques, and the evaluation of commercial products and practises. There are two tiers of entry. Higher (A*-D) Foundation (G-C)

ENGLISH In GCSE English and English Literature students complete coursework assessment in speaking and listening, response to literature and media texts, and original writing. Coursework is worth 40% of the final grade in English and 30% in Literature.In addition students are prepared for examinations in the following areas: understanding and responding to non-fiction texts; writing to argue, persuade and advise; writing to inform, explain and describe; analysis of poetry; analysis of a 20th Century prose text. Students receive 2 GCSE qualifications.

FOOD TECHNOLOGY Students on the Food Technology GCSE courses have been working towards the following assessment objectives:Coursework project (60% of grade) - This is to be internally assessed and externally moderated. The work will consist of practical work towards making a high quality preparation of a number of food products and dishes , research and investigation, analysis, generating a design specification, design development, planning and testing, evidence of industrial practises and evaluation as well as use of ICT. This is presented in the form of a power-point presentation.Written Paper (40% of grade) - Questions will test the application of knowledge and understanding, materials, processes, techniques, and the evaluation of commercial products and practises. There are two tiers of entry. Higher (A*-D) Foundation (G-C).

FRENCH Pupils continue learning to understand, speak, read and write in French. They are more confident using sounds, written forms and grammar, and use this knowledge with increasing competence to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing. They improve their understanding of French by listening to speech and talking about a range of different subjects. They produce three pieces of coursework referring to past, present and future events. They prepare a presentation for their oral exam and follow a revision plan in the third term.Topics studied in Year 11 include: Past holidays, Home, the Media, Food, Travelling in a French speaking country, Pollution.

GEOGRAPHY GCSE Geography pupils have increased their knowledge and understanding of places, environments and themes. They have further studied the significance and effects of values and attitudes of those involved in the decision making process. They have developed their geographical skills of identifying geographical issues, collecting and presenting data, analysing data, drawing conclusions and communicating their findings. The two units studied in Year 11 include ‘People and Place’ and ‘Water, Landforms and People’. In addition, the second and final piece of coursework is completed, comprising 15% of the final grade. This year the focus was quality of life in cities, using Dulwich and Borough as a case study.

HISTORY Having completed the coursework and the course content for Paper 1 last year, History students are expected to improve their coursework in their own time and develop their Historical skills of interpretation, evaluation and analysis through studying Paper 2 topics.Paper 2 focuses on two Depth studies; Germany 1918-39 and Russia 1914-41.  Pupils learn how to write extended essays and make complex judgements about historical sources.  From Christmas pupils are expected to be revising for both Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams in June.

ICT CIDA Students are currently working towards the Certificate in Digital Applications (or CIDA) which is worth 2 A-C grade GCSEs in this subject. The course is made up of two coursework units, one of which was completed during Year 9 and was worth 50% of their final grade. During Year 10, students worked on a practice project to develop the skills necessary to pass the second unit, including developing a corporate identity, break-even analyses and effective marketing. Students are now using what they have learnt to complete their final SPB which is worth the other 50% of their grade in this subject.

ICT OCR NATIONAL Students are currently working towards either the First Award or National Award in ICT. The First Award is worth a single A-C grade GCSE and requires the completion of two full coursework units to pass standard, with the National Award being worth double, but requiring three completed units. The course involves the mandatory ICT Skills for Business unit which requires students to undertake a number of tasks in a real-life setting, as well as the Spreadsheets and Databases units. Each unit is 100% coursework and assessed by a paper-based portfolio of evidence. Students are provided with assessment grids which show how to get Pass, Merit or Distinction grades, and are expected to be completing a large portion of their coursework independently outside lessons.

MATHEMATICS In mathematics we follow the OCR Board, which offers a modular route to GCSE comprising of 3 or 4 modular examinations (of which the best two results are taken) these modules carry 25% of the total assessment grade. The final examination carries 50% and tests pupils’ knowledge in the following areas; number, algebra, space and shape and data handling. There are 2 tiers of entry for the final examination, Higher and Foundation. Students were placed in sets based on their ability and will take the level of entry appropriate to them.Some students also take a GCSE in Statistics with AQA. Their course is 25% coursework and 75% terminal examination.

MEDIA STUDIES The course is designed to enable students to develop a critical understanding of the role of the mass media in society.Year 11 builds on the work done in Year 10. The key concepts (Media Language; Representation; Audience and Institutions) are studied through aspects of the mass media e.g. Film; Television; the Music Industry; Magazines and newspapers and Advertising. There is an emphasis on evaluation and analysis of texts and of the practical work produced at this stage of the course.Students are required to undertake a practical production together with a supporting account of 700-800 words alongside completing 3 other assignments. This portfolio represents 50% of the total with the Controlled Test accounting for the other 50%.

MUSIC During Year 11 students cover all 4 of the Areas of Study in detail in preparation for their final Listening and Appraising Exam.AoS1 : Western classical music 1600-1899: Ground bass, variations, ternary form, rondo.AoS2 :New directions in Classical Music: serialism, minimalism, experimental music, electronic music.AoS3 : Popular song in context: Dance Music 1985 to the present day, Songs From Musicals, Brit Pop.AoS4 : World music :Indian raga, African Music (Sub-Saharan) and Fusions.2 compositions, each taken from a different AoS, must be submitted to the exam board (deadline end of this term)2 performances, a solo and an ensemble, must be submitted to the exam board. One of these performances must come from the same AoS as one of the two compositions (deadline end of this term).

PHYSICAL EDUCATION GCSE P.E. 60% practical and 40% theoretical.All students follow practical modules in: football, basketball, badminton, fitness and rounders. Students are required to follow an observation and analysis programme based on fitness.The coursework assessment is based on a Personal Exercise Programme, which has be planned and performed over 6 weeks.There is a written exam covering - Exercise and Training; Safety Aspects and Risk Assessment in Physical Activity and Sport Anatomy; Physiology.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION During Year 11, pupils continue working through the short course GCSE. They start the year by studying how the media represents religion, looking in detail at religious themes in one film, moral themes in a soap opera and one specifically religious programme. After Christmas we learn about the concept of social harmony and how issues such as racism and sexism are dealt with by Christianity and Islam.

SPANISH Pupils continue learning to understand, speak, read and write in Spanish. They are more confident using sounds, written forms and grammar, and use this knowledge with increasing competence to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing. They improve their understanding of Spanish by listening to speech and talking about a range of different subjects. They produce three pieces of coursework referring to past, present and future events. They prepare a presentation for their oral exam and follow a revision plan in the third term.Topics studied in Year 11 include: Past holidays, Home, the Media, Food, Travelling in a Spanish speaking country, Pollution.

SCIENCE Students follow either an Additional Science course or an Applied Science course.The Additional Science course is a concept-led course developed to meet the needs of students seeking a deeper understanding of basic scientific ideas. The course focuses on scientific explanations and models and gives students an insight into how scientists develop scientific understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit. The course comprises 4 module exams worth 67.7% and coursework worth 33.3%.The Applied Science course meets the needs of candidates who wish to develop their scientific understanding through authentic, work related contexts. The course focuses on procedural and technical knowledge that underpins the work of practitioners of science and gives candidates an insight into what is involved in being a practitioner of science. Students study 3 modules in Life Care, Scientific Detection and Material Performance, each worth 16.7% and coursework is worth 50%.

TEXTILES All students on Design Technology GCSE courses have been working towards the following assessment objectives:Coursework project (60% of grade) - This is to be internally assessed and externally moderated. The work will consist of practical work towards making a high quality finished product, research and investigation, analysis, generating a design specification, design development, modelling and testing, evidence of industrial practises and evaluation as well as use of ICT.Written Paper (40% of grade) - Questions will test the application of knowledge and understanding, materials, processes, techniques, and the evaluation of commercial products and practises. There are two tiers of entry. Higher (A*-D) Foundation (G-C)

3. KEY STAGE 4 COURSEWORK CALENDAR(please note some subjects don’t have coursework)

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

Art & Design Edexcel This will vary according to projects taught. Minimum of 3 pieces.

24th November Mid year standardisation all sketchbooks and coursework taken in.

10th NovemberMid yearstandardisation all sketchbooks and coursework taken in

BTEC Business studies

Edexcel 3 (certificate)

6 (Diploma)

Unit 1 – Investigating business (already due in 4th March)Unit 2 –Customer service (already due in 16th March)Unit 3 – Finance – 7th JulyUnit 4 - Communication– 27th May

Creative and Media Diploma

Edexcel 7 Units and a Project

4 Units completedUnit 1 Scene Dec 4th 2009Unit 2 Performance Feb 12th 2010Unit 3 Artefact April 9th 2010The project July 2010

Drama Edexcel 2 Units Unit 1 Exploration of a theme completed by July 2009 (Year 10)

Unit two practical exploration of set text completed by December 2010 ( Year 11)

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

Engineering Diploma

Edexcel Unit 3 CADCAMUnit 6 electronicsTo be completed May

Unit 2,4,5,7 and extended project. Completed by Easter 2010

English AQA 5 All completed in Year 10. Media – October Original Writing – NovemberGreat Expectations – JanuaryShakespeare – February/MarchDrama – April/May

French AQA

AQA

2

1

Before Christmas holidaysBefore Easter holidays

Before Christmas holiday

Geography OCR (spec B Avery Hill)

2 – 25% in total

Christmas – Report about tourism in Kenya 10%May half term – Research report about quality of life in Dulwich vs Peckham 15%

Mathematics – Statistics

AQA 1 None Begin course work in the summer term – hypothesis and plan due at the end of the year

Coursework started in Year 10 is to be completed by Easter break.

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

Media studies

AQA 3 written assignments + 3 related practical pieces and one big practical piece with 800 word evaluation

Film: 2 written assignments (min. one on Hitchcock) + film trailer and evaluation.May 2009TV: assignment on TV sitcoms and creative proposals. March 2009Advertising: 2 assignments on advertising and print/video based practical. June 2009

Music Edexcel PerformingOne soloOne ensemble pieceComposinga)Ternary Formb)One other AoS composition

Solo performance to be recorded Spring Term of Year 10 – absolute deadline is June Solo Performance Exam dayTernary Form composition to be recorded by May Year 10, including final evaluation and scoreEnsemble performance pieces to be ready to record July Year 10 where possible

Composition Two to be recorded by January Year 11Ensemble performance piece to be recorded by March Year 11 – may be own composition, or a written piece – prepare with instrumental tutor in negotiation with class teacher

Product design

Textiles or resistant materials

AQA One folder of aprox 25 A3 pages and a completed practical outcome

Major product development either a garment or a lamp

Final completion Easter 2010

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

ScienceYear 10 Core Science

Year 11 Additional Or ..Year 11 Additional Applied

Triple ScienceYear 10/11

OCR

OCR

OCR

OCR

2

1

2

6

Case Study – 4 July 2009

Biology Investigation

Data AnalysisDecember

Work Related Report July

Chemistry Investigation

Full InvestigationDecember

Standardised ProcedureDecember

Physics Investigation

Spanish AQAAQA

21

Before Christmas holidaysBefore Easter holidays

Before Christmas holiday

ICT – Current Year 10

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

ICT – Single Award

OCR 2 n/a Unit 1 – ICT Skills for Business

This coursework includes:AO1 – Managing files and foldersA02 – Internet research and Email tasksA03 – PresentationsA04 – Letters, Leaflets and ReportsA05 – SpreadsheetsA06 – Databases

Unit 23 – Creating Video

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing existing video clipsA02 – Designing and storyboardingA03 – Creation of a video clip of 45 seconds or longerA04 – Testing the video clip

First Draft due before Christmas. Final deadline - Easter.

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

ICT – Triple Award

OCR 4 (plus 2 from core)

n/a Each A0 submitted separately throughout Year 10. Final deadline for all to be re-drafted and submitted will be Summer of Year 10.

Unit 7 – Databases

This coursework includes:A01 – Planning a databaseA02 – Building a databaseA03 – InterrogationsA04 – ReportsA05 – User InterfacesA06 – Testing

Final deadline before May Half Term

Unit 20 – Animation for the Web

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing AnimationsA02 – Designing AnimationsA03 – Creating AnimationsA04 - Testing

Final deadline before February Half Term

Unit 2 – Web Design

This coursework includes:A01 – Design a websiteA02 - Creating webpagesA03 – HyperlinksA04 – Interactive ElementsA05 – User FeedbackA06 – TestingA07 - Evaluating

Final deadline before October Half Term (Year 11)

Unit 21 – Computer Graphics

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing GraphicsA02 – Sketch DiagramsA03 – Navigation BarsA04 – Navigation ButtonsA05 – Advertising BannersA06 – Client Presentations

Final deadline before May half term.

ICT - Current Year 9 Please note this reflects the planned delivery of the curriculum for Year 10 from Sep 2009, and actual units studied may be subject to change

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

ICT – Single Award

OCR 2 n/a Unit 23 – Creating Video

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing existing video clipsA02 – Designing and storyboardingA03 – Creation of a video clip of 45 seconds or longerA04 – Testing the video clip

First Draft due before Christmas. Final deadline before Feb Half Term.

Unit 1 – ICT Skills for Business

This coursework includes:AO1 – Managing files and foldersA02 – Internet research and Email tasksA03 – PresentationsA04 – Letters, Leaflets and ReportsA05 – SpreadsheetsA06 – Databases

Each A0 submitted separately throughout latter half of Year 10 and Year 11. Final deadline for all to be re-drafted and submitted will be Easter of Year 11.

Subject Exam Board

No of pieces required in total

Year 9 Dates and descriptions

Year 10Dates and descriptions

Year 11Dates and descriptions

ICT – Triple Award

OCR 4 (plus the two from the core)

n/a Unit 7 – Databases

This coursework includes:A01 – Planning a databaseA02 – Building a databaseA03 – InterrogationsA04 – ReportsA05 – User InterfacesA06 – Testing

First Draft before Christmas. Final deadline before Feb Half Term

Unit 22 – Creating Sound

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing existing sound clipsA02 – Designing and scriptingA03 – Creating an audio clipA04 – Testing

First Draft before June Half Term. Final deadline before Summer.

Unit 2 – Web Design

This coursework includes:A01 – Design a websiteA02 - Creating webpagesA03 – HyperlinksA04 – Interactive ElementsA05 – User FeedbackA06 – TestingA07 - Evaluating

First Draft before Oct Half Term. Final deadline Christmas.

Unit 21 – Computer Graphics

This coursework includes:A01 – Reviewing existing graphicsA02 – Planning and draftingA03 – Navigation/ menu barsA04 – Navigation buttonsA05 – Advertising BannersA06 – Presenting to a client

4. BEST REVISION AIDS

BOOKS

Letts

Letts is the market leader in study aids and revision guides and publishes a range of resources for every age group from pre-school to A-level. Books for younger children feature puzzles, characters and real-life scenarios to help children engage and learn, while A-level guides include visual aids and practice questions.

Collins

The Revise and Shine series provides a day-by-day, week-by-week plan that aims to get children ready for key stages two and three exams in eight weeks. GCSE revision guides include test-yourself sections at the end of each topic and provide model answers. Practice papers are also available.

Oxford revision guides

Based on the principle that pictures are easier to memorise than words, this subject-by-subject series features annotated diagrams and concise notes on each topic. Available from key stage three to A-level.

Amazon.com is currently offering 40 per cent off revision guides and past papers:

Past papers

A number of departments can get past papers for pupils at cost price – please check with your subject teacher.

ONLINE REVISION RESOURCES

General www.bbc.co.uk/schools/revision

Comprehensive guide to revising for key stages two and three, GCSE and AS-levels. There are activities and quizzes for the younger age group, detailed subject-based resources for GCSE and AS-levels and printable planners listing educational TV programmes.

www.s-cool.co.uk

GCSE and A-level revision with topic by topic subject notes, sample exam questions and discussion forums where students can share revision tips.

www.gcse.com

Detailed revision notes for English, Maths, Physics, ICT and French GCSEs, including written exam practice, speaking and listening practice for language students, and tips on getting the most from revision.

SUBJECT SPECIFIC SITES

Business http://www.coursework.info – essay questions to attempt www.bbc.co.uk/gcsebitesize - general business http://www.tutor2u.net – general revision http://www.revisiontime.com – general revision / A level standard http://www.samlearning.com/examrevision/index.html - general revision http://www.s-cool.co.uk/default.asp - general revision /A level standard http://www.revision-notes.co.uk/GCSE/Business_Studies - general business studies www.bized.co.uk

www.businessstudiesonline.com

Citizenship www.amnesty.org.uk www.byc.org.uk www.le.ac.uk/education/centres/citizenship/cs.html www.kickitout.org www.citfou.org.uk www.refugeecouncil.org.uk www.unicef.org.uk www.foe.co.uk www.britkid.org www.bbc.co . uk

English http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ks3bitesize/

French Excellent interactive Reading and Listening papers practice by topic with correction and

feedback. http://www.appliedfrench.co.uk/exams/exams_index.htm Videos and gapfill listening exercises about each topic, with script and check up.

http://www.ashcombe.surrey.sch.uk/Curriculum/modlang/french/index_fr_video.htm To watch the latest news in French http://videos.tf1.fr/video/news/       The BBC's website for GCSE French   www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/french   Online interactive exercises for Year 7 to Year 13 students in French 

http://www.didcotgirls.oxon.sch.uk/depts/mfl/exercises/exercisesindex.htm http://www.suttonhighmfl.110mb.com/gcsefre.htm http://gcsemg.pbworks.com/

Geography www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/geography/

History www.johndclare.net www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/history/mwh/ http://www.ilovehistory.co.uk/index.php/?page_id=28 http://www.historygcse.org/

Maths

www.mymaths.co.uk –Your child can log onto this website and complete lessons or revision worksheets using the “booster packs”. They must sign in using their own personal login and password and then their work will be marked and sent to their teacher

www.emaths.co.uk/learn.htm -Online tutorials and lessons targeted at grade C

http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse/mathematics_c_graduated_assessment_j516/ documents.html - Link to past papers that can be printed out and done at home.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/maths/ - Revision materials A good set of revision exercises and tests which show the level of each topic and give

instant feedbackPE

www.teachpe.com/gcse www.s-cool.co.uk/gcse/pe

RE http://www.fitzwimarc.org.uk/GCSE/entry.htm - a good school’s website with excellent

revision resources http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse-leg/rs/rs-a/Pages/default.aspx - this is the exam

board’s website that includes the specification and a keyword glossary http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/

Science www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize additional science OCR 21st century science

Spanish http://www.vokabel.com/ Vokabel is a  free vocabulary-training program. Just write the

words you  want to learn and let the  programme  test  you. The  program has  intelligent  functions that  help  you  focus on  words you  don’t know  so  well. There  are  many  different  tests you  can  do (why  not  play  a  game against  a friend and learn  something new?). All  this  to  make the  usual homework more fun  and efficient.

  Online interactive exercises for Year 7 to Year 13 students in Spanish -

http://www.didcotgirls.oxon.sch.uk/depts/mfl/exercises/exercisesindex.htm

5. TIPS AND HINTS ON REVISION.... A HANDY GUIDE

Please find below some tips and hints on how to help your child prepare for their forthcoming exams.

How should revision be structured?

Your child has received a personalised timetable with all the dates and times of the exams. You can work out with your child what needs to be done and by when, and draw up a timetable.

Don't let them leave the difficult subjects until the last minute. Advise them to target specific topics, cover them, then move on. Help your child work out when they are at their brightest and most alert -

morning or evening. Most people have an energy low after lunch, so suggest that they go for a

walk or relax away from books. Forty minutes is about as long as a child can concentrate in one stretch.

Then a break for a drink or snack is advisable. Be warned that if the break involves television, it can be hard to get started again. Advise them to tackle a different subject on their return.

Remind the hard workers that as well as their revision, they must structure in some free time.

Some students work well revising with friends – if this works for them let them do it, but manage the time sensibly.

How can I make revision effective?

Make sure your child has a quiet space in which to revise. If there isn't one at home, come into school library or use the local library.

Successful revision requires variety to ensure the information sticks. Encourage your child not to rely on their own notes but to use crib books or websites, too a list is attached at the bottom and are available from subject teachers.

Some students learn best through being able to picture the information on the page: hence the growing popularity of coloured mind maps.

Students who find it easy to learn by listening can benefit from taping their notes and then playing them back.

Don't forget to revise exam technique, too, using past papers. There are plenty of these on the web too. Set a time and keep to it. Every question should be attempted and the answer planned out before starting to write. Encourage your child to keep notes which can be handed in as a crib sheet.

Teachers are always happy to mark practice questions and give constructive feedback.

How can you help?

Don't interrupt revision if it is going well, even for a family outing. Never say that you worked much harder than they are working. Keep the television off. Recognise that children who are worried about exams will tend to be grumpy. Reassure them that you value their efforts more than perfect results. On the morning of an exam, avoid wishing them "good luck". Talk of luck can

raise anxiety levels. School exams are not a lottery, they are an appraisal of information already (hopefully) learnt. Instead, say: "I hope everything goes well."

What if your child gets anxious?

Some anxiety is good, but if a child is really worried, please feel free to contact us.

Remind them of stress-reduction techniques - exercises and breathing. In extreme cases - if a child isn't sleeping, for example - seek medical advice.

What if my child hasn't revised enough?

It will be an opportunity for your child to learn that they may want to do things differently next year, and that they may need parental help in structuring a revision timetable and sticking to it in future.

Reassure your child that there will always be another chance, that very few people will ask about their A Level results, etc, in 10 years time. If they don't get the grades for the university they had hoped for, there is usually another university that will take them with lower grades.

Remind your child that lots of well-known and successful people (Richard Branson, Jamie Oliver, etc) didn't do well at school but went on to succeed in life.

A RELAXED APPROACH

Take a look at the revision timetable with your child. Even the most ambitious student will need to have some breaks and they won't be a disaster.

Organise things that they will want to do: sports, hobbies, cinema, shopping trips.

If you're planning a half-term holiday, allow time for revision or give your child the option of staying at home to work (supervised by family or friends).

Remind the over-eager that staring at notes doesn't mean anything is going in.

Explain to your child that their brain needs time to process what they've learnt.

Make sure your child is eating well – many find stress reduces their appetite – remember protein in important for the brain!

Sleep is vital. Hot baths help relaxation. Don't ban last-minute cramming if it makes children feel more secure Encourage your child to get all the things they need for the exam ready the

night before – ensure they have the correct equipment – such as calculators where appropriate

If they have two exams in a day – make sure they have enough to eat and drink.

On the day of the examination

Make sure you have all the necessary equipment – ideally get this ready the night before.

Have a good breakfast Don’t be tempted to try and do last minute revision on your own – some

subjects hold breakfast clubs before examinations Ensure you are drinking enough water Leave home in enough time so you are not rushing to school

After the examination

Don’t discuss the paper just done – it will only cause stress Forget that subject and move on to the next one. Have a break before you start revising again Make sure you eat properly

We have also teamed up with Revision World so members of Get Revising can benefit from all their resources and help.

5 ways RevisionWorld can help with revision

1. QUICK REVISE - Click on the Quick Revise button on any of their revision pages and you'll get an advert free revision guide that is ideal for printing out and revising from.

2. SEARCH - RevisionWorld uses Google to help you trawl our site to see if the topic you need is covered. The search tab can be found on every page.

3. REVISION ADVICE - Top tips showing you how to get better grades

4. ASK FOR HELP - Why not ask our subject guides or fellow students for help? 5. DOWNLOAD MATERIALS - In every TEACHING ZONE (found within each subject) there is a section where revision resource materials can be downloaded.

6. KEY DIARY DATES

29 June–9 July................- internal exams 8 July...............................- Sports Day20 July.............................- Year 9 Graduation21 July.............................- School finishes at noon27 August.......................- GCSE results day4 September..................- School reopens for pupils25 September................- Inset Day23 October.....................- Inset Day26–30 October...............- Half termDecember.......................- Practice Exams for Year 1118 December.................- Break up for Christmas4 January 2010..............- School reopensJanuary...........................- Annual report for Year 11 (current Year 10s),

Including results from practice exams  8–12 February...............- Work Experience for Year 1015–19 February.............– Half termFebruary.........................- Annual reports for Year 10 1 April.............................- Break up for Easter19 April...........................- School reopens31 May–4 June...............- Half term23 July.............................- School breaks up

One more inset day to be announced.   Other events will be added to the diary dates section on the school’s website – www.charter.southwark.sch.uk

All information correct as at 13.05.2009.