Year 10. Key Stage 4 Curriculum Handbook 2017

Transcription

1 Year 10 Key Stage 4 Curriculum Handbook 2017

2 The Key Stage 4 Curriculum This Handbook is designed to give you as students and parents or carers the information about our Key Stage 4 curriculum that you need in order to make choices for Year 10 and to begin planning for Year 11 and beyond. Key Stage 4 and Post 16 education involves a combination of courses which students take from 14 to 19 years old and which can include the more academic GCSEs and A levels, technical courses such as Cambridge Nationals and BTECs as well as NVQ courses which might be taken at college. Our aim is to guide students in making the best choices in order to make the most of their individual interests, aptitudes and talents and to encourage them to achieve at the highest level. In order to make this possible we must provide opportunities for students to make informed choices based on their personal strengths and their developing career aspirations. We do this through our PSE lessons and coaching programme, by providing you and your children with detailed information about what is on offer and by being available to discuss alternative choices until we arrive at a final decision. Changes are underway in the education system. For some time now there has been a growing emphasis on providing a suitably challenging academic curriculum for those students who can benefit most from it. Students starting Year 10 in 2017 will be working on the new 9-1 GCSE courses in English, Maths, Science, Languages, History and Geography. Almost all the GCSE option courses that they study in Year 10 will follow the new GCSE s. The key features of the new courses are: Less coursework or controlled assessments Longer written answers in examinations All students study English Language and Literature All students study two or three Science GCSEs All exams are taken at the end of the course Graded 1-9 where 9 is the top grade At Allerton High we provide a demanding academic curriculum, including Languages and the Humanities, for those who can make the most of this approach. Recent results show that we are very successful in all subjects in the English Baccalaureate (EBacc). We also provide a very wide range of technical courses and encourage students to combine academic and technical courses where this meets their needs. Details of all these courses can be found in

3 the pages that follow and more information will follow in our Learning and Handbook issued in June. Students in Year 9 this year will be asked to choose one or two subjects to study in Year 10. Students will also be asked for one or two reserve choices, which may be used if one or more of their first choices are unavailable. Every effort will be made to give students their first choices, but students currently in Year 10 will be given priority as they move into their final year of Key Stage 4. Student choices must be returned to school by Monday 30 January. In order to help parents/ carers and students to make their choices we will be providing information, advice and guidance as follows: This Curriculum Handbook will be sent home with students and posted on our website ( by Friday 20 January. The Handbook gives information about all our courses, different pathways that students might follow and how to make choices. Our January PSE programme will include activities designed to help students make sensible choices. These lessons will be supported by assemblies in the week beginning 3 January and 9 January. Assemblies will feature a presentation explaining how the curriculum will work and how to make choices. The presentation will be included in the Key Stage 4 Curriculum Handbook and posted on our website. Curriculum teams will outline the courses they are offering in assembly and will be available to answer questions at lunchtime on Friday 6 and 13 January. Parent/ Carers and students will be invited to our Key Stage 4 Curriculum Showcase on Tuesday 24 January at pm. There will be a presentation starting at 6.50pm prompt, followed by the opportunity to meet teachers and students in curriculum areas and discuss different courses. Careers Advisors will also be available at the event. Subject staff and Careers Advisors will be available by appointment in the week after the Showcase evening if you require more information. We are all very concerned about the economic climate and the prospects that will meet our young people as they complete their compulsory education or training when they are 18 years old in It is now even more important that we all work together to make sure that students at the end of Key Stage 4 have the best possible record of achievement to take them on to the next stage of their education and training. Please contact me either before or after the Showcase event if you require further information. Yours sincerely Andy Haigh Deputy Headteacher

4 Year 10 Key Stage 4 Curriculum Handbook Contents Contents Page Core Curriculum 1 Choice of Subjects 2 Course details for Core Curriculum Areas English GCSE English Language 3 GCSE English Literature 4 Mathematics GCSE Maths 5 Science GCSE Combined Science 6 GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics 7 Personal and Social Education (PSE) 8 Religious Education GCSE Religious Studies 9 Course details for other Ebacc subjects 11 Humanities GCSE Geography 12 GCSE History 13 Modern Foreign Languages GCSE French 14 GCSE Spanish 15 GCSE Modern Hebrew 16 GCSE Panjabi 17

5 Course details for other Curriculum Areas Art and Design GCSE Art and Design - Fine Art 18 GCSE Photography 19 Business Studies GCSE Business Studies 20 Cambridge National in Business and Enterprise 21 Drama GCSE Drama 22 Health & Social Care Cambridge National in Health & Social Care 23 GCSE Child Development 24 ICT GCSE Computer Science 26 GCSE ICT 27 Cambridge National in ICT 28 Media Cambridge National in Creative imedia 29 Music BTEC First Award in Music 30 GCSE Psychology 31 GCSE Sociology 32 Physical Education Cambridge National in Sports Science 33 GCSE PE 34 Design and Technology GCSE Food and Nutrition 35 GCSE Hospitality and Catering 37 GCSE Product Design 38 GCSE Textiles 39 Wider Key Skills 40 Young Apprenticeships & Learning Providers 41 Careers Education and Guidance 42 Powerpoint Presentation Individual Student Curriculum Plan Year 9-11

6 Core Curriculum These subjects take up 30 of the 50 hours each fortnight. All students will study the following subjects: English Science Physical Education Mathematics Personal and Social Education Religious Studies Guided Choice In the remaining 20 hours, students are given some choice about the subjects that they study. These choices can be difficult to make and it is important that students review their current progress in their two chosen courses and listen to the advice given in assemblies, PSE lessons and during Coaching time. We firmly believe that different students do better with different styles of curriculum. Some students need the greater academic challenge offered by GCSE course whilst others will do better with technical courses in their curriculum. These courses have certain advantages: Flexibility in the timing and style of assessment Clear relevance to the real world outside school An emphasis on practical skills and useful knowledge Other students will be guided to follow the Wider Key Skills course which helps students to develop the skills needed to be an effective learner and many of the skills needed in the world of work. Making an informed choice of subjects is very important. Students are strongly encouraged to talk to subject teachers, family, friends and students presently in Years 10 and 11 about their choices. The school reserves the right to make the final decision about the most appropriate Key Stage 4 curriculum for each student. Subjects You Can Choose Analysing the performance of students in previous years allows us to make these strong recommendations: Most students will follow a Language GCSE and a Humanities (History or Geography) GCSE course from Year 9 through to the end of Year 11 when examinations will take place. 1

7 In Year 10 and 11 students continue their study of Humanities but choose either History or Geography with examinations taken at the end of Year 11. These students will also continue to study a Language for 5 hours each fortnight. They will continue this course through Year 10 and 11 and take their examinations at the end of Year 11. In addition to their Language and Humanities courses, these students will have one free choice in Year 10 and 11. This course will be studied for 10 hours a fortnight. Students can choose to take a second Language or a second Humanity as one year courses of 10 hours/fortnight in Year 10 or Year 11. Although GCSE and technical courses all contribute to a student s record of achievement at the end of Year 11, progression to Post 16 courses is affected by the type of course taken. A Level courses in some subjects will require an grade 6 in a new GCSE, rather than a Merit grade in a technical course. Technical courses offer excellent progression to Applied Post 16 courses. More information on the requirements for admission to particular Post 16 courses can be obtained from our website or Post 16 Director Mr Harding. Technical Courses (10 hours each fortnight) These are available to all students. Business Health and Social Care Ict Media Music Sports Science Wider Key Skills GCSE subjects (10 hours each fortnight) These courses are available to all students. Art Business Studies Child Development Computer Science Drama French Food and Nutrition Geography Hebrew History Hospitality and Catering ICT Panjabi PE Product Design Psychology Sociology Spanish Textiles 2

8 English Students in Year 9 follow a transitional unit from June. This develops their skills in preparation for the GCSE. In Year 10 and Year 11, all students will study for the GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature awards. They will be assessed by external examinations at the end of the 3 year period of study in Y11. Course Title English Language A GCSE qualification in reading and writing (each area is worth 50% of the English Language GCSE). Spoken language is non-examination but it will be assessed by the subject teacher. Although it does not contribute to the overall GCSE grade, a certificate is awarded by the AQA examination board. Students who may not achieve the lowest grade will also be entered for Entry Level English All students GCSE Awarding Body and AQA Specification A Grading Levels 1-9 Unseen reading and analysis of one literature fiction text; one nonfiction text and one literary non-fiction text. Students will be expected to explore the writers techniques, viewpoint and perspectives. The writing components assess the students ability to write for specific purposes and readers. Spoken language will be a classroom-based assessment and will allow the student to create and deliver a presentation. Students will then respond to any questions and feedback. Preparatory work: each unit will be internally assessed using GCSE criteria and feedback will be given using PINS. There will be an examination in the summer term of Year 10. Internal assessment. Two written examination papers in June External assessment. Spoken language assessed by the subject teacher. GCE A Level English subjects and the Humanities. 3

9 Course Title English Literature A GCSE qualification in the critical appreciation of Shakespeare, the 19 th century novel, modern texts (post-1914 prose fiction and drama), poetry and unseen poetry. All students with an interest in reading and drama. GCSE Awarding Body and AQA Specification A Grading Levels 1-9 Students will study a Shakespeare play; a 19 th century novel; a modern novel and a collection of poetry on a common theme. Students will explore the texts focusing on the techniques used by the writer and the skills required to write effectively about literature. A range of poetry from the Power and Conflict section of the GCSE Literature Anthology will be studied to enable students to analyse effectively and compare poets and their poetry. Approaches to unseen poetry will be taught in this unit. Preparatory work for the examination: each unit will be internally assessed using GCSE criteria and feedback will be given using PINS. Two written examination papers in June External assessment. Paper 1 (Shakespeare and the 19 th century novel) is 40% of the GCSE Literature award. Paper 2 (modern texts and poetry) is 60% of the GCSE Literature award. GCE A Level English subjects and the Humanities. 4

10 Mathematics The Maths team offers the AQA Mathematics linear course, which involves assessment at the end of the course in Year 11. Students begin a 3 year linear course at the start of Year 9. A new qualification was published in autumn of 2014 with teaching commencing in September Schemes of work are highly differentiated to account for students varying starting points and allow for a more in-depth understanding of the key concepts in Mathematics. There is no controlled assessment for Mathematics. Course Title GCSE Mathematics A linear course in Mathematics Compulsory for ALL students All Students GCSE Mathematics Awarding Body and AQA or Edexcel linear dependent on group Grading 1-9 All students will follow the requirements of the National Curriculum through the assessment objectives Applying Maths, Number and Algebra, Shape, Space and Measures, Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change and Handling Data. 3 written papers at the end of the 3 year course: 1 non-calculator paper (worth 1/3 of final grade) 2 calculator papers (worth 1/3 of final grade per paper) Higher and Foundation papers are 1 hour 30 minutes, each paper has 80 marks available Students who complete the Higher tier at GCSE can progress to GCE A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics if they achieve a Grade 7 or higher. Students will be required to achieve a Grade 4/5 or higher to progress to sixth form or most post 16 courses. GCSE Maths at Grade 4/5 or above allows students to progress to most post 16 courses or employment. 5

11 Science In Year 10 all students continue the GCSE course covering Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics. These are taught for 9 lessons per fortnight by 3 subject specialists. They will be assessed on a termly basis in order to monitor progress and aptitude for courses in the future. In the summer of Year 10 students complete mock exams and are assigned to final courses (Separate Sciences GCSE or Combined Science GCSE) based on their performance in these and other assessments throughout Year 9 and Year 10. GCSE Combined Science Students will study the disciplines of Biology Chemistry and Physics. Each discipline has two examinations worth 16.7% of the grade, to be taken in summer of Year 11. A proportion of the marks will be on questions relating to set practical work which has been done in class during the GCSE. The results of each of the exams will be combined to produce 2 GCSE grades on the 9-1 scale. Eg 6-7, 5-5 or % of the marks will test students knowledge, understanding and application of the 21 required practicals that will be completed throughout the course. 20% of the total marks for Combined will be awarded for Mathematical skills. Students must achieve a grade 5 or better in these courses to be considered for A Level Science courses. Course Title Awarding Body and GCSE Combined Science (2 GCSEs) A GCSE science qualification in Science aimed at students with an interest in science None All students GCSE AQA Grading 9-1 A range of topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Understanding how science and scientists work. Practical investigative skills. Mathematical Skills. Six 1hr 15 min written exam papers worth 16.7% each grade A levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. AQA Level 3 certificate in Applied Science 6

12 GCSE Biology Chemistry and Physics From Year 11, one class, from each side of the year group, containing students making the greatest progress, will take three separate GCSE. Each course has six module tests, 2 Biology, 2 Chemistry, and 2 Physics (50% each). All of these exams will be completed in Year % of the marks will test students knowledge, understanding and application of the 28 required practicals that will be completed throughout the course. Mathematical skills will be assessed in the examinations (10% of the questions in Biology, 20% of questions in Chemistry, 30% of the questions in Physics) Course Title Awarding Body and GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics A GCSE science qualification in Biology, Chemistry and Physics aimed at students with a strong interest in the sciences and high ability in the subject. All three science GCSEs must be taken together making significant demands in terms of homework and independent study. Students with enthusiasm for science and the ability to work independently. GCSE AQA Grading 9-1 A wide range of topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Understanding how science and scientists work. Practical investigative skills. Mathematical Skills. Biology 2 x 1hr 45 min written papers worth 50% of the grade each Chemistry 2 x 1hr 45 min written papers worth 50% of the grade each Physics 2 x 1hr 45 min written papers worth 50% of the grade each A level Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science 7

13 Personal and Social Education (PSE) PSE is a compulsory course for every student in Years 9, 10 and 11. It is a course designed to develop students knowledge, understanding, attitudes and abilities and help them to relate their own lives and experiences to the wider world. It is an essential part of the curriculum which aims to help students successfully navigate some of the key changes they will go through during their time at school and better prepare them for life beyond the school gates. It should provide students with increased self-awareness, a positive self-image and a basis on which to build personal values and judgements. in PSE is focused around encouraging independence and the development of Thinking Skills. The program of study for all years will include a module focused on developing Study Skills relevant to their academic stage e.g. tips for better time management, developing effective revision techniques and advice on Options choices. PSE in Year 10 will help students prepare for a variety of future roles, e.g. employee, parent, friend, team worker, voter and consumer. In Year 10 students cover 4 key areas via a carousel program. This allows issues to be explored in greater depth with specialist teachers. These topics are Crime, SRE, Financial Capability and Political Literacy. These topics aim to engage students with the issues facing them as citizens on a personal, local and national scale. Students are provided with all the relevant factual information they need, while lessons are often focused around discussion - encouraging students to form and express their own opinions on the topics covered. 8

14 Religious Education The GCSE course is studied in core RE lessons. All students will follow a course in moral and social issues and be examined at the end of Year 10. The course allows students to explore different ethical viewpoints ranging from concerns regarding equality, racism, the institution of marriage, to the arguments for and against medical treatments and explore religious views on this from two religious perspectives. Students have the opportunity to opt for GCSE Sociology in Year 11. This will be an excellent preparation for the popular A levels in Sociology and Philosophy and Ethics. Students with a strong interest in one religion may be able to study independently and in their own time for a GCSE which focuses on that religion. The RE team will advise them and ensure that they are entered for the examination but there will be no formal classes. Interested students must discuss this with their teacher. Course Title Religious Studies Religion and Ethics, Religion, Peace and Conflict at contemporary moral issues from an ethical and philosophical perspective. None Students with an interest in examining contemporary issues Full Course GCSE Awarding Body and EDEXCEL Grading A*-G Unit 1 Religion and Ethics from a Christian Perspective Believing in God looking at religious experience, design arguments and scientific explanations of the world. Matters of life and death exploring belief about life after death and the ethical issues surrounding abortion and euthanasia Marriage and the Family reflecting on attitudes to marriage, divorce, family life, contraception and homosexuality. Living the Religious Life investigating charity, pilgrimage, worship, the local and global church in a multi faith society. Unit 2 Religion Peace and Conflict from a Islamic Perspective Believing in God looking at religious experience, design arguments and scientific explanations of the world. 9

15 Religion, peace and conflict investigating reasons for warfare, just war and holy war theories, bullying and forgiveness. Religion crime and punishment reflecting on theories of punishment, justice, ethics of capital punishment and attitudes to drugs and alcohol Living the Religious Life investigating charity, pilgrimage, worship, the 5 pillars of Islam, the importance of the Night of Power. 100% examination GCE A Level Philosophy and Ethics 10

16 Ebacc Courses The English Baccalaureate (Ebacc) is made up of: English Language and Literature Maths Two sciences Language History or Geography Although the Ebacc is not a qualification in itself, it is a good measure of academic success and students considering Higher Education should seriously consider choosing a Language and History or Geography as part of their guided choices. All students will study two English GCSEs, Maths and two Sciences. To achieve the Ebacc a good grade (9-4 using the new grading system) must be achieved in all subjects. Strong teaching and a good allocation of curriculum time in all of these subjects mean that Allerton High is much more successful in the Ebacc than most schools. Languages and Humanities In Year 10 most students will continue to study the Language they have studied in Year 9 for 5 hours each fortnight. They will continue this course through Year 11 and take their examinations at the end of Year 11. These students must also follow a Humanities course, including both History and Geography, for 5 hours each fortnight. In Year 10 and 11 students continue their study of Humanities but choose either History or Geography with examinations taken at the end of Year 11. Once students have started on this three-year programme it will not always be possible to change to a different set of courses. It is possible to take a second Language or Humanity GCSE in Year 10 or

17 Geography The Geography curriculum covers both physical and human topics and uses up to date case studies to support the course. Course Title GCSE Geography A contemporary geography course for students who are interested in what is going on in the world today. None Students with a proven interest or ability in Geography GCSE Awarding Body and AQA Grading 1-9 The course comprises 3 Units: Unit 1: LIVING WITH THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT A: The challenge of natural hazards B: The living world C: Physical landscapes in the UK Unit 2: CHALLENGES IN THE HUMAN ENVIRONMENT A: Urban issues and challenges B: The changing economic world C: The challenge of resource management Unit 3: SKILLS AND FIELDWORK (1 hour written exam 30%) All Units are exam-assessed. Units 1 and 2: 1.5 hour exam for each unit. (35% weighting per unit) Unit 3: 1 hour exam (30% weighting) GCE A Level Geography 12

18 History Course Title GCSE History A GCSE course for students interested in history. is through two written examinations. Open to anyone with interest and commitment GCSE Awarding Body and AQA Grading 1-9 We will be studying WW1, its causes and the war itself. This will be followed by a study of America from 1920 until 1973, covering the roaring twenties, the Great Depression, the civil rights movement and other forms of popular protest and American culture. In the second paper we will be looking Britain and health from the medieval period until the present day which will involve investigating early beliefs about medicine and its development through science and technology. The second part of the paper will involve a study of the Normans (Battle of Hastings, feudalism and medieval life) or Restoration England (the Great Plague, the Great Fire of London, Charles II s court and culture). Each exam is worth 50% of the overall grade. GCE A Level History, Politics or Sociology 13

19 Modern Foreign Languages In addition to the three-year course currently being followed by the majority of students, the Modern Foreign Language team is committed to preparing students for GCSE accreditation in a second language where students show aptitude and interest and, for those determined to achieve at the highest level, A Level examinations. The Modern Foreign Language GCSEs encourage the development of an understanding of the spoken and written forms of that language in a range of contexts. All languages offered will develop the ability to communicate effectively through both the spoken and the written word using a range of vocabulary and structures. Students will develop knowledge of grammar and the ability to apply it. They will also learn about the different cultural aspects of the country of their chosen language. In addition, a GCSE qualification in a Modern Foreign Language is highly regarded by further and higher education institutions. Course Title GCSE French A GCSE qualification in a Modern Foreign Language is aimed at students with a strong interest in languages and aims to provide them with the ability to communicate in their chosen specialist language. Students with a strong interest in languages, the wider world and other cultures. GCSE Awarding Body and AQA GCSE French 8658 Grading 1-9 Students study a range of topics based on the following three themes; Theme 1: Identity and culture Theme 2: Local, national and global areas of interest Theme 3: Current and future study and employment. The course will focus on developing students speaking, writing, listening, reading and translation skills, whilst broadening their knowledge of the culture of French-speaking countries. This is through 4 units; Unit 1: Listening Examination (25%) Unit 2: Reading Examination (25%) Unit 3: Spoken Examination (25%) Unit 4: Written Examination (25%) GCE AS Level French 14

20 Course Title GCSE Spanish A GCSE qualification in a Modern Foreign Language is aimed at students with a strong interest in languages and aims to provide them with the ability to communicate in their chosen specialist language. Students with a strong interest in languages, the wider world and other cultures. GCSE Awarding Body and AQA GCSE Spanish 8698 Grading 1-9 Students study a range of topics based on the following three themes; Theme 1: Identity and culture Theme 2: Local, national and global areas of interest Theme 3: Current and future study and employment. The course will focus on developing students speaking, writing, listening, reading and translation skills, whilst broadening their knowledge of the culture of Spanishspeaking countries. This is through 4 units; Unit 1: Listening Examination (25%) Unit 2: Reading Examination (25%) Unit 3: Spoken Examination (25%) Unit 4: Written Examination (25%) GCE AS Level Spanish 15

21 Course Title Awarding Body and Grading GCSE Modern Hebrew A GCSE qualification in a Modern Foreign Language is aimed at students with a strong interest in languages and aims to provide them with the ability to communicate in their chosen specialist language. It is advisable to have a background in this language. If the number of students choosing this course is small it may be offered as a twilight session or with an element of independent study during the school day. Students with a strong interest in languages, the wider world and other cultures. GCSE AQA A*-F Please note that the GCSE in Modern Hebrew will only change to 1-9 Grading when students start their course in 2017, to be examined in June This is a general modern foreign language course covering various topics and themes such as Lifestyle, Work and Education, Home and Environment, Leisure This is through 4 units; Unit 1: Listening Examination (25%) Unit 2: Reading Examination (25%) Unit 3: Spoken Examination (25%) Unit 4: Written Examination (25%) GCE A Level Modern Hebrew 16

22 Course Title GCSE Panjabi A GCSE qualification in a Modern Foreign Language is aimed at students with a strong interest in languages and aims to provide them with the ability to communicate in their chosen specialist language. It is advisable to have a background in this language. If the number of students choosing this course is small it may be offered as a twilight session or with an element of independent study during the school day. Students with a strong interest in languages, the wider world and other cultures. GCSE Awarding Body and AQA GCSE Panjabi Grading 1-9 Students study a range of topics based on the following three themes; Theme 1: Identity and culture Theme 2: Local, national and global areas of interest Theme 3: Current and future study and employment. The course will focus on developing students speaking, writing, listening, reading and translation skills, whilst broadening their knowledge of the culture of Panjabi-speaking countries. This is through 4 units; Unit 1: Listening Examination (25%) Unit 2: Reading Examination (25%) Unit 3: Spoken Examination (25%) Unit 4: Written Examination (25%) AS level Panjabi 17

23 Course Title Qualification Art and Design Fine Art A GCSE qualification in Fine Art GCSE Awarding AQA Body and Grading 1-9 Exams - School Based (ISA or Controlled ) Top tips for revision or task completion Revision resources, wider reading and websites A 10 hour exam spread over 2 days with 10 weeks preparation work to be completed in lesson time and for homework. The exam is worth 40% and coursework is worth 60% of the final award. All work is assessed by Art staff and moderated by the exam board. 1 Unit of work that is assessed by Art staff and moderated by the exam board. Students are able to select 1 question and answer it by creating their own work from the exam paper set by the exam board. 40% of the final award is from this exam. The exam is marked out of 80. Length of the exam is 10 hours spread over 2 days 5 hrs per day Style of question can be found on the AQA web site The Art exam will take place in late March early April time Mock exams students will complete a timed element and complete a final piece for one of their projects under exam conditions in December. 2 Units/projects of work that are set and assessed by Art staff and moderated by the exam board. There is now a bigger emphasis on the drawing element of the course that must be fulfilled within all units of work including the exam. 40% of the award is from the final exam. Course work is worth 60% of the final award, is completed over the period of the course is marked in school. Exam papers will be handed out around the 1 st January. Materials, resources and strategies we offer after school clubs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 3 till 4.30 pm. An Art pack of materials can be purchased from school. Make sure you meet deadlines; project 1 to be handed in by the end of the 1 st week in September project 2 to be handed in by 1 st week in January Websites that you could use

24 Course Title Qualification Art and Design - Photography A GCSE qualification in Photography GCSE Awarding AQA Body and Grading 1-9 Exams - School Based (ISA or Controlled ) Top tips for revision or task completion Revision resources, wider reading and websites A 10 hr exam spread over 2 days with weeks to prepare work to be completed in lesson time and homework s. Exam is worth 40% and Course work is worth 60%of final award. All work is assessed by Art staff and moderated by exam board. 1 Unit of work that is assessed by Art staff and moderated by the exam board. Students are able to select 1 question and answer it by creating their own work from the exam paper set by the exam board Proportion (40%) of final award from this exam. Exam is marked out of 98 Length of exam is 10hrs spread over 2 days 5hrs per day Style of question can be found on the AQA web site The Art exam will take place in late March early April time Mock exams students will complete a timed element and complete a final piece for one of their projects under exam conditions in December. 2 Units/projects of work that are set and assessed by Art staff and moderated by the exam board. There is now a bigger emphasis on the drawing element of the course that must be fulfilled within all units of work including the exam. 40% of the award is from the final exam. Course work is worth 60% of the final award, is completed over the period of the course is marked in school. Exam papers will be handed out around the 1 st January. Materials, resources and strategies we offer after school clubs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 3 till 4.30 pm. An Art pack of materials can be purchased from school. Make sure you meet deadlines; project 1 to be handed in by the end of the 1 st week in September project 2 to be handed in by 1 st week in January Websites that you could use

25 Course Title GCSE Business Studies A course for students who want to learn about how businesses operate and who want to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in business or for further study in the area Students will develop not only an in-depth knowledge of the way in which businesses are run, but they will also learn the external influences which can impact upon a business s success. Awarding Body and Grading None Students who are interested in the world around them, and how decisions taken by businesses and governments impact on them GCSE Business Studies OCR A*-G Finance you will develop a knowledge of not only the different ways in which a business can source finance but they also look at the different ways a business manages finance throughout its operation by looking at financial documents such as cash flow and profit statements. Marketing you will develop a knowledge of how businesses research and market their products using the marketing mix and assessing their business using SWOT analysis. Students understand how and why businesses develop business plans. Enterprise you will develop a knowledge of the different skills entrepreneurs have and what goes into making their businesses successful. Human Resources you will look at the different ways in which staff are hired and retained. Production you will develop a knowledge of the different production methods used by businesses and how businesses work out and manage production costs. External Influences you will investigate the different external influences that are placed upon businesses which can change the way they operate, such as economic, environmental factors, the government, globalisation and ethics. 75% examination - 1 exam 50% 1 exam 25% Controlled 25% Direct progression to sixth form courses in A Level Economics or A Level Business courses. 20

26 Course Title Awarding Body and Grading Cambridge National Business: Enterprise and Marketing This course includes an in-depth development of the process of creating a business and marketing it to meet a specific need. You will develop a business idea and present your proposals when you have completed a detailed business plan for your idea. None Students who wish to develop applied knowledge and practical skills in enterprise and marketing who want to progress onto other related study. Cambridge National Level 1/2 in Business OCR L1, or L2 Pass, merit, distinction, distinction* Enterprise and marketing concepts Through the first topic learners will understand the main activities that will need to happen to support a start-up business, and what the key factors are to consider when starting up a business. Design a business proposal In the second topic, learners will develop the skills to design a business proposal to meet a specific business challenge. They will identify a customer profile for a specific product, complete market research to generate product design ideas, and use financial calculations to propose a pricing strategy and determine the viability of their product proposal. Market and pitch a business proposal In the third topic, learners will develop the skills to create a brand identity and promotional plan for their specific business product proposal developed in the second topic. They will develop pitching skills in order to pitch their business proposal to an external audience. Finally, they will review their pitching skills and business proposal using their learning, self-assessment and feedback gathered. Unit 1: Enterprise and marketing concepts 1hr written examination Unit 2: Design a business proposal Coursework Unit 3: Market and pitch a business proposal - Coursework Direct progression to GCSE Business Studies at Year 11. Cambridge Technical Level 3 Business or A Level Business Studies, at Year

27 GCSE Drama Drama GCSE encourages students to be inspired, moved and changed through a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. Students will work imaginatively, generating, developing and communicating ideas through practical exploration of drama and performance. It is available to Year 10 and 11 students. Course Title Most suitable for GCSE Drama This GCSE course gives students the opportunity to delve further into drama, exploring deeper issues and situations, as well as looking closer at characterisation and motivation. Students will study plays and playwrights, as well as going to see live theatre. GCSE Drama involves practical work (40%) which is supported by written coursework and a final exam (60%) You must be keen to get involved in practical drama, either as a performer or a designer (set, lighting, sound, costume) Students with a keen interest in practical drama, performance and technical support (lighting, sound, set, costume) Qualification GCSE gained Awarding Body Eduqas (WJEC) and Grading 1 9 Main areas of knowledge understanding and skills Component 1: Devising Theatre in groups of 2-5 actors and up to 4 designers you will create a devised piece using the techniques of Bertolt Brecht, Kneehigh or Frantic Assembly. This is accompanied by a Process portfolio and Evaluation. Component 2: Performing from a Text in groups of 2-4 actors and up to 2 designers, you will perform an extract of a text that you will be allowed to choose from a selection given to you by your teacher. Component 3: Interpreting Theatre Section A: Short and long answer questions on the text Hard to swallow from the point of view of an actor, director or designer. Open book exam. Section B: A long answer response on a performance of live theatre that you have seen. Component 1: Devising Theatre 40% - Internally assessed, externally moderated. Component 2: Performing from a Text 20% - Externally assessed by a visiting examiner. Component 3: Interpreting Theatre 40% - External written exam 1 ½ hours. Allows progression to AS and A Level Drama 22

28 Health and Social Care If you are interested in working with children, working in a health or social care setting or just want to find out if this could be a future career choice, then these courses are just right for you. The courses will provide you with knowledge and understanding of what health and social care and early years work is about. They will develop your personal skills in areas such as team working, problem solving and career planning. They will help you to build up the skills you need to either continue studying or to start work. You will learn in an interesting and varied way including placement work. There are no examinations in this subject. You will produce portfolios of work which will be internally assessed by your teachers. Course Title Cambridge National (Level 1/2) in Health and Social Care This is a vocationally-related qualification that takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to learning and assessment. Suitable for all students Students with an interest in this vocational area and the ability to work independently to deadlines Cambridge National Certificate (Level 1/2) Awarding Body and OCR Grading Pass Merit Distinction Distinction * Two mandatory Units Essential values of care for use with individuals in care settings Written paper 1 hour Communicating and working with individuals in health, social care and early years settings Centre assessed tasks moderated by OCR Approx 10 hours Two units of Centre assessed tasks moderated by OCR (approx 10 hours) from: Understanding body systems and disorders Pathways for providing care in health, social care and early years settings Understanding life stages Planning for employment in health, social care and children and young people s workforce Creative activities to support individuals in health, social care and early years settings Understanding the development and protection of young children in an early years setting Understanding the nutrients needed for good health Using basic first aid procedures Research a project approach One written exam and three coursework units assessed by teachers GCSE child development and Level 3 Cambridge Technical in the sixth form 23

29 GCSE Child Development If you are interested in a career which involves working with children, e.g. nursery nursing / education, primary school teaching, children s nursing, social work or many others, then this course is for you. If you would like to find out more about the way children develop and the different factors that influence their development GSCE Child development is for you. This qualification focuses on the development of a child from conception to the age of five, developing knowledge and understanding in all aspects of child development. To be successful on the course you will need: To be willing to embrace a flexible approach to your own learning A wish to understand the special strengths and qualities needed for work in childcare sectors Course Title Awarding Body and Grading Unit B011 Child Development Short Tasks Candidates submit three short tasks chosen from a list of tasks provided by OCR Unit B012 Child Study Task Candidates submit one individual task chosen from a list of themes provided by OCR Unit B013 Principles of Child Development Family and parenting GCSE Home Economics Child Development You will develop knowledge, in relation to the roles and responsibilities of the family. This includes preconception, conception, pregnancy, birth and post-natal factors. The course also includes diet and health in relation to young babies and children, along with the stages and conditions of development and support available to the child and family. Suitable for all students interested in working within early years settings Students with an interest in this area and the ability to work independently to deadlines. GCSE OCR A*-G Three mandatory Units 60 marks (20 marks per task) 30% of the total GCSE marks Controlled assessment - Three OCR-set short tasks 21 hours: 7 hours per task (1 hour planning, 4-5 hours execution and 1 hour evaluation) This unit is internally assessed and externally moderated 60 marks 30% of the total GCSE marks Controlled assessment 22 hours This unit is internally assessed and externally moderated 80 marks 40% of the total GCSE marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper This unit is externally assessed 24

30 Preparation for pregnancy and birth Physical development Nutrition and health Intellectual, social and emotional development Community support One written exam and four coursework tasks assessed by teachers and externally moderated Post 16 courses e.g. L3 OCR Cambridge Technical Health & Social Care 25

31 ICT Course Title Awarding Body and GCSE Computer Science Computing knowledge and practical skills based qualification. Best suited to students who enjoy doing practical work using a computer and learning about a wide range of Computer Science theory. Students need to be confident in both aspects and ideally should have some prior programming skills. Students with sound ICT skills who also want to learn about Computer Science in a wide range of modern day contexts. Students who enjoy doing both practical and theory assessments. Students must have an aptitude for problem solving and computational thinking. Students must be capable of achieving at least GCSE grade B in both maths and English. Computer Science is an intensely creative subject that involves invention and excitement, helping learners to develop the skills to solve problems and design systems. These skills will be the best preparation for learners who want to go on to study Computer Science at AS or A Level and beyond. The qualification will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills. GCSE TBC Grading 9-1 Mixture of hands on practical and theory based work with a significant emphasis on Computer Science theory, programming skills and computational thinking. Combination of written papers and non-exam assessment where candidates will be challenged by a range of exciting and engaging tasks to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned. All types of Advanced Level (Level 3) Computer Science qualifications. 26

32 Course Title Awarding Body and Grading GCSE ICT ICT knowledge and skills based qualification. Best suited to students who enjoy doing practical work using a computer and learning about a wide range of ICT theory. Students need to be confident in both aspects. Students with sound ICT skills who also want to learn about ICT in a wide range of modern day contexts. Students who enjoy doing both practical and theory assessments. GCSE FULL or Short Course. OCR A*-G ICT skills and knowledge used to complete a wide range of ICT and business related units of work, examining in particular the effective use of new and emerging technologies in today s society. Mixture of hands on practical and theory based work. - Unit B061 ICT in today s world Written paper or Computer-based test 1 hour 60 marks 20% of the Full GCSE - Unit B062 Practical applications in ICT Controlled assessment 60 marks 30% of the Full GCSE - Unit B063 ICT in context Written paper or Computer-based test 1 hour 60 marks 20% of the Full GCSE Written paper based on pre-release material Candidates take either Unit B064 or Unit B065 - Unit B064 Creative use of ICT Controlled assessment 60 marks 30% of the Full GCSE Solving a problem by creating and developing a multimedia solution with appropriate creative elements Unit B065 Coding a Solution Controlled assessment 60 marks 30% of the GCSE Solving a problem using basic programming techniques 1.1 All types of Advanced Level (Level 3) ICT qualifications. 27

33 Course Title Awarding Body and Grading Cambridge National Certificate in ICT From personal computers to smartphones, from apps to websites, all of our lives, every day, are enhanced through the use of ICT. The new Cambridge Nationals in ICT reflect this and provide students with a solid foundation for understanding and applying this subject in their future working lives. Best suited to students who enjoy doing practical work using a computer and learning about some ICT theory. Students need to be confident in both aspects. They use both internal and external assessment. Students with sound ICT skills who also want to learn about ICT in a wide range of modern day contexts. Students who enjoy doing both practical and theory assessments. Cambridge Nationals in ICT are targeted at year olds in a school environment. They re available as an Award, Certificate and Diploma. OCR Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*. ICT skills and knowledge used to complete four ICT and business related units of work, examining in particular the effective use of new and emerging technologies in today s society. Two Mandatory Units Understanding computer systems written exam Using ICT to create business solutions coursework Two optional coursework units from the list below: Handling data using spreadsheets Handling data using databases Creating an interactive product using multimedia components Creating digital images Creating dynamic products using sound and vision Introduction to computer programming Exploring computer hardware and networks Developing control systems Understanding technology - a project approach 25% of external assessment by written exam. 75% coursework set and moderated by OCR and marked in school.cre Level 3 ICT qualifications 28

34 Media OCR levels 1/2 Cambridge Nationals in Creative imedia Course Title Awarding Body and Grading Creative imedia This course will give you a broad understanding of how different sectors of the Media industry work, with key areas of focus being research, planning and development of real life projects including a digital publication and a digital video product. Must be fairly competent in different media and processes or at least be a creative worker in order to create new ideas. Must have good English, research and analytical skills as there is a lot of research and writing during the early phase of the course in order to understand what we are creating. Students interested in aspects of how the different media industries such as film, television, web design and advertising work. Students who enjoy being creative and developing ideas as you would in Art or Technology would enjoy this course. Level 1/2 Cambridge National Certificate in Creative imedia OCR The following grades can be achieved in this qualification; Distinction* at Level 2 (*2) Distinction at Level 2 (D2) Merit at Level 2 (M2) Pass at Level 2 (P2) Distinction at Level 1 (D1) Merit at Level 1 (M1) Pass at Level 1 (P1). Two mandatory units: RO81 - Pre-production skills RO82 - Creating digital graphics Plus the following units: RO85 - Creating a multipage website RO89 - Creating a video production R081 externally assessed examination (1 hour 30 minutes written paper) R082, R085 and R089 are internally assessed coursework. Extra-curricular trips Students will have the opportunity to experience how the Media industry works first hand. All students have the opportunity to attend The Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter. The course would give a solid grounding for anyone wishing to go on to AS/A2 Media Communication and Production. Will also be useful for any English or other Media based courses that you may wish to undertake. 29