Year 10 & 11 Examination Guide

Transcription

1 Year 10 & 11 Examination Guide Downlands Community School, Dale Avenue, Hassocks, West Sussex BN6 8LP 1

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3 CONTENTS PAGE PAGE NUMBER Introduction 4 New GCSEs 4 Different types of course and methods of assessment 5 Understanding Assessment 6 Terminal Examinations 7 Developing your own calendar 7 Important differences between KS3 and KS4 8 Homework Expectations 8 Plagiarism 9 Importance of regular attendance and punctuality 9 Enjoyable events for KS4 10 Support for Students 10 Exam Board Web sites 11 Useful websites and other support 11 Essential Information KS4 Controlled Assessment & Coursework Schedule Information on GCSE English Internal Appeals Process 23 Exam Board Notices Forward Planner Calendar Key Dates for Year

4 KEY STAGE 4 YEAR 10 BOOKLET INTRODUCTION Key Stage 4 is the most important phase in your education so far. Years 10 and 11 are where you study for either GCSEs or other recognised national qualifications. By its end you will have to make a decision which will affect the rest of your life; will you stay on into further education at college or will you seek employment with a local company? Do you see yourself going on to university, training through a modern apprenticeship or training elsewhere? These decisions are yours to make, BUT only if you succeed at Key Stage 4. REMEMBER.. Success at the end of Year 11 allows YOU to choose where you go next; failure gives you NO choice. Your future is NOT decided yet YOU decide it over the next few years and it begins NOW NEW GCSE s Current Year 10 students will study new GCSE s in all subjects apart from some Design and Technology qualifications (Child Development, Product Design, Resistant Materials and Art - Textiles). The new GCSE s will be graded using the numerical 1 to 9 system whilst the Design and Technology Qualifications listed above will be graded using the old A*-G system. The diagram below shows the appropriate comparison between the two qualifications. New GCSE Points Old GCSE Grades G/F- F/E E+/D C C+/B- B/B+ A A+/A* A* New GCSE Grading Structure U 4 = C and and above above Broadly the same proportion of students will achieve a grade 4 and above as currently achieve a grade C and above. Broadly the same proportion of students will achieve a grade 7 and above as currently achieve an A and above. The bottom grade 1 will be aligned with the bottom of grade G. A* A B C D E F G U CURRENT GCSE GRADING STRUCTURE 4

5 DIFFERENT TYPES OF COURSE AND ASSESSMENT The most important reason for understanding the structure of the next two years is so you can cope with the demands of Key Stage 4 courses. All subjects are assessed through either COURSEWORK, EXAMINATIONS or CONTROLLED ASSESSMENTS and some use a combination. Some subjects have little coursework or controlled assessments whilst others have a lot; 75% in some cases! Controlled Assessments have replaced coursework in GCSE subjects. A full breakdown of course requirements can be found later in this booklet. Coursework is usually done at school or at home, working at your own speed although to a deadline Formal exams are done in the hall, in silence, against the clock! CONTROLLED ASSESSMENTS are prepared for and completed in school A major challenge for all students of your age is to be able to cope with the pressures of completing Coursework and Controlled Assessments on time AND to a high standard. You will find that at various points during the next two years, many subjects will be asking for work at the same time. This can be very demanding and the better prepared you are for it, the better you will cope with it. To succeed, you will need to produce work to the best of your ability. And on time! It s NOT enough to leave tasks to the last minute then simply say I DIDN T HAVE ENOUGH TIME. 5

6 UNDERSTANDING ASSESSMENT Students have more chance of success in subjects when they have a clear idea of the course content and structure, and when they understand how the course is assessed. Subjects, which are assessed through a combination of coursework, controlled assessments or exams, need to be understood in terms of achieving a good mark. GCSE courses grade any grade as a pass. The diagram below shows an example of how courses are actually assessed. 100% Exam Paper 2 80% 60% Exam Paper 1 Controlled Assessment Grade C Mark (or grade 4) If you study subjects with high course work content, you must ensure you complete tasks on time and to the highest standard you are capable of. Every mark you score on the coursework means the less you need to score in the exams to achieve a good grade. or coursework 0% In subjects with less controlled assessment you still need to complete tasks to the best of your ability, but on these courses you need to pay particular attention to revision and practice examination questions as well, as these carry the bulk of the marks. The Cambridge National Award in Sports Studies is equivalent to GCSE and is accepted by all colleges, employers and training establishments. The equivalencies with GCSE are as follows: Level 1 Level 2 Distinction Merit D E Distinction* A* Distinction A- Pass F/G Merit B Pass C This qualification consists of 7% coursework and 25% examination. Most GCSE subjects are now assessed by controlled assessment and terminal examination. This means that the examination is at the end of the course, i.e. June

7 TERMINAL EXAMINATIONS Terminal examinations mean that all of the course content from years 10 and 11 are examined in June It is vital that work covered in lessons is learnt effectively and that notes are kept carefully and safely so that they may be used for revision. Students will need to start revising for their terminal examinations from February half-term onwards in Year 11!! Students will receive additional support in Key Stage 4 to help them develop revision techniques. Mock examinations will take place the week after the February half term in Year 11. DEVELOPING YOUR OWN CALENDAR At the back of this booklet is a 2-year blank planner, a schedule of coursework dates and when they are set for each subject and a guide to homework requirements. Over the next few weeks your teachers will help you fill in the dates of assessments, exams and coursework and module test dates. As you complete your calendar, you will be able to see times of most pressure, where you will be under most stress. This should help you plan ahead, to ensure you give yourself enough time for coursework tasks, exam revision etc. Write your option subjects in the four spaces provided. You can also use the other spaces to mark dates of particular importance to you e.g. trips, visits, exams etc. If, for example, English plan to do a piece of controlled assessment in the second full week after half term of Year 10, and Computer Science do likewise, you should draw lines across the relevant dates (as shown below). This will allow you to identify times when you will be under most pressure and to plan your time accordingly. Nov Day Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat English Maths Science French History PE ICT 7

8 IMPORTANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN KEY STAGES 3 AND 4 There are many differences between Key Stages 3 and 4. Apart from the amount and the level of work, the most important of these differences is the level of responsibility required from you in Years 10 and 11. Full attendance is a must as work tends to be covered more quickly and only once, if you miss it, it s up to you to catch it up. The pace at which work is covered is much faster than at Key Stage 3. Clearly, taking a holiday during term time will severely hinder your chances of keeping up with the work and apart from in exceptional circumstances, holidays will not be authorised by the school. Concentration in class is vital the level of work is more demanding than you will be used to and you need to ensure you understand it all. Full completion of homework is essential this forms a vital part of each course and can often be the preparation for a piece of coursework. Developing a clear overview of each course you follow is very important this will help you understand the demands you face. Essential is an understanding of HOW each course is assessed and WHEN. This will help you concentrate your efforts properly and appropriately, and let you know when to begin revising! Commitment to success is essential you need to be determined to achieve the best grades you can. HOMEWORK EXPECTATIONS Teachers enter homework on SIMS and parents and pupils will be able to access it from home via Moodle. (Please contact the school if you require a login.). As outlined on the attached sheets each subject will set you homework; it will vary in type, length and complexity. Subject staff will discuss with you when it will be set each week. Homework forms a vital element of courses at Key Stage 4. You must complete it fully. At this age, you need to understand the importance of homework and accept it s contribution to your chances of success. REMEMBER: You are not achieving anything by NOT doing homework. You only cheat yourself by not doing homework. 8

9 PLAGIARISM In short, this is a posh word for copying. You MUST understand the seriousness of trying to enter work, which is not yours. If caught, the exam boards reserve the right to withdraw you from EVERY subject you are entered for in the series of exams you don t just fail the one in which you cheated, you fail them all. Examples of plagiarism include, amongst others, the copying of other students essays, results data, coursework etc. Copying from the Internet is strictly banned, as is using any practical work completed by someone else. Allowing another student to use your work is also considered an act of plagiarism and will result in failure. Where help and support has been received i.e. help with coursework and practical assignments, this MUST be detailed in your work (in accordance with exam board rules). THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY As mentioned earlier, regular attendance is essential for success. Key Stage 4 courses are very demanding, as staff have to cover a comprehensive subject syllabus, which do not have catch-up times built into them for student absence from school. If you miss sections of work you will need to catch them up in your own time not easy, as you will also be doing other new work. Further, if you miss the beginning of a topic it is often very difficult to follow later work that uses the first bit as its foundation. Students who take time off regularly or who go on family holidays will find it very difficult to keep up; Give yourself the best chance of success be here and work hard! Whilst opportunities are available to re-take missed assessments, it is better to do them when they are planned, as this tends to be immediately after the relevant course has been covered. 9

10 ENJOYABLE EVENTS FOR KEY STAGE 4 Work experience in the Summer Term of Year 10 offers you the chance to spend a week in the workplace, in an employment environment of your choice (where this can be arranged). Senior student interviews occur towards the end of Year 10, when you will have the chance to put yourself forward to take some responsibility for events throughout Year 11. This can be hugely rewarding and support later applications for jobs, college etc. The Prom, held after the GCSE Summer examinations, has become a rite of passage, and an event not to be missed! The Yearbook will be issued to Pupils in May. Please note: many of the events detailed above are not available to students with poor records of attendance, punctuality or behaviour. SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS Subjects offer support sessions after school; help is available with homework, coursework, topics covered in missed lessons, work you didn t understand fully and revision etc. Pastoral staff (form tutors, Year Heads/deputies), Student Support Staff and Senior Managers are all there to help; use them to support your learning! Revision sessions are held in most subjects in lesson time and after school towards exams. A full timetable will be published in the spring term of Year

11 EXAM BOARD WEB SITES There are four exam boards. All your courses will be studied and assessed through one of these. They are: OCR AQA EDEXCEL WJEC EDUQUAS ( ( ( ( ( Each course syllabus can be found through the links on the appropriate exam board site. These will allow you to understand the content of each subject and how it is assessed. If you look at the content for a particular subject, you will be able to check if you really understand what you can be tested on in the actual exams. Your teachers will be able to help you understand the subject syllabus if you find it difficult to follow. Additionally, the exam board subject web sites often have useful support information, including specimen exam questions with mark schemes, past exam questions, recommended reading lists, support materials etc. These can be really useful in helping you prepare for your exams and with the completion of coursework assignments. USEFUL WEB SITES AND OTHER SUPPORT Try them! Individual subject documents offer web-sites which support individual courses. There are many web-sites, more than those listed and too many to name here! If you use a search-engine for a particular subject or topic you will find lots of sites, some of which will prove very useful and others less so. New web sites are coming on-line all the time; you need to be selective of the sites you use. The BBC has a very useful web-site and their Bite-Size is particularly good. This supports revision and course understanding. Try this too! or 11

12 AND FINALLY why is this so important? If you could travel forward in time and see yourself in 20 years, what would you like to see? Forget looks and think about your job; will you be happy in your choice of career, will people respect who you have become and what you have achieved? Take a few minutes to think about the following: Will you be satisfied when you are older that you made the most of your time at school? What, realistically, would you like to do and what will you need to be able to do it? All these things will be decided over the next few years..beginning now! Good Key Stage 4 grades will allow you to get the college place, apprenticeship, training opportunity or job you need to begin working up the ladder towards your goal. Speak to the careers adviser if you need further information regarding jobs, qualifications, how to achieve professional positions etc., and remember we are all here to help! 12

13 ESSENTIAL INFORMATION (all GCSEs unless stated) SUBJECT WEEKLY HOMEWORK OTHER COMMENTS Terminal examination of English Language in June 2017 (current Year 10). English Language & Literature (AQA) 1 hour minimum Terminal examination of English Literature in June 2018 (current Year 10). Mock assessments throughout Years 10 and 11. Mathematics (Edexcel) A written homework followed by an online homework. 1 written homework 1 Mymaths/MethodMaths Bi-weekly Students will study the linear Edexcel course with two exam papers sat at the end of Year 11. Top Tier Further Maths IGCSE (AQA) Combined Science One piece of homework in each subject every 2 weeks. Gives 2 Science GCSEs Study Biology, Chemistry and Physics over 2 years (A teacher for each subject) New GCSE has mathematical input and must complete assessed practicals All GCSE examinations in year 11 A HW in each subject every 2 weeks Assessment:- 6 GCSE papers to be sat. Each worth 16.7% and taking 1hr 15mins each. Triple Science Course (AQA) One piece of homework in each subject every 2 weeks. Gives 3 Science GCSEs - Biology, Chemistry and Physics Study Biology, Chemistry and Physics over 2 years (A teacher for each subject) New GCSE has mathematical input and must complete assessed practicals All GCSE examinations in year 11 A HW in each subject every 2 weeks Assessment 2 papers each in Biology, Chemistry and Physics Each paper worth 50% of final GCSE Written exams: 1 hour 45 minutes 13

14 SUBJECT WEEKLY HOMEWORK OTHER COMMENTS Component 1 Art & Design (AQA) Students should spend at least 1-2 hours per week on homework. All homework contributes towards the coursework portfolio. Independent gallery visits may be set as part of homework. 60% Coursework Portfolio. This is completed during the first four terms (and includes homework). The coursework will contain two projects and a series of workshops This will be completed by December Component 2 40% Externally set assignment. This will be prepared for in the Spring Term in response to a choice of questions from the exam board. The preparatory work will include both class work and homework and is marked with the final piece. The final piece will be completed in the art rooms during two, five hour sessions. All work must be submitted and marked by mid May Child Development (OCR) 1-1½ Hours, may vary according to the unit being studied, could involve some local surveys and information gathering plus coursework. 60% Controlled Assessment and 40% Final Examination. Three Controlled Assessments, lasting approximately 7 hours each are completed in Year 10; One each term. One Child Study completed in the Autumn/Spring terms of Year 11. Exam 1: Computer systems, 40% Computer Science (OCR) Homework is 1 hour a week and will include preparation and research for Controlled Assessment work, and theory work in preparation for the final exam. Exam 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming, 40% Programming project - Controlled Assessment. Approx. 20 hours, 20% The Programming Project involves students developing programming solutions to a series of problems set by the exam board. Design & Technology (AQA) Product Design: Minutes-1 Hour linked to class work or Controlled Assessment work. Resistant Materials: Minutes-1 Hour linked to class work or Controlled Assessment work Product Design: 1 Controlled Assessment Task 60% of total GCSE 1 External Examination 1 ½Hrs 40% of total GCSE Resistant Materials: 1 Controlled Assessment Task 60% of total GCSE 1 External Examination 1 ½Hrs 40% of total GCSE 14

15 SUBJECT WEEKLY HOMEWORK OTHER COMMENTS Drama (OCR) Regular attendance for rehearsing after School is essential. There will be written evaluations, exam preparations, a drama portfolio and 60% Non-Exam assessment (Both practical performance and written portfolio work) taking place through Y10 and Y % externally marked written paper (1½ hr.). The Assessed performances are based on scripted work as Foundation Learning One piece of homework per fortnight. Students are also expected to prepare themselves for lessons with either sports kit or food containers, as required. Closer to assessments students are expected to spend more time revising and preparing. The course has two components. BTec Jamie Oliver Home Cooking Skills. This course is 100% coursework and students are expected to maintain a portfolio of work which is then submitted for assessment. Portfolios remain in school with Ms Reid. The BTec award is worth half a GCSE. VCert in Health and Fitness. This course is 75% practical and 25% theory. Students sit one 45 minute exam to achieve their theory grade. Students study a range of health and fitness components and have to produce two assessment case studies. French (Edexcel) 2 homeworks per week. Approximately 1 hour total to include regular vocabulary learning as well as written work Pupils will sit terminal exams in Listening, Reading and Writing in May/June of year 11. They will complete a speaking exam in April/May of year 11. Each language skill is worth 25% of the final grade. Everyone is required to spend a significant amount of time EACH WEEK on Vocab Express practising vocabulary learning as well completing written and speaking tasks to practise productive skills. The ability to persevere and keep practising makes all the difference when learning a foreign language and is crucial to making progress! Food & Nutrition (Eduquas) 1 Hour as per scheme of work which can be accessed on Moodle. 50% Controlled Assessment and 50% Examination. One Food Study task to be completed in Year 11. Geography (Eduquas Spec B) Approximately 45 minutes per week. To include past exam questions, vocabulary tests and wider reading tasks. Component 1: 40% 1 hour 45 mins Examination Changing Place and Economies. Changing Physical Environments. Environmental Issues. Component 2: 30% 1 hour 30 mins Examination Problem Solving and Decision Making (using Component 1 topics) Component 3: 30% 1 hour 30 mins Examination Fieldwork and geographical skills (to include 2 fieldtrips; 1 physical and 1 human). 15

16 SUBJECT WEEKLY HOMEWORK OTHER COMMENTS German (Edexcel) 2 homeworks per week. Approximately 1 hour total to include regular vocabulary learning as well as written work. Pupils will sit terminal exams in Listening, Reading and Writing in May/June of year 11. They will complete a speaking exam in April/May of year 11. Each language skill is worth 25% of the final grade. Everyone is required to spend a significant amount of time EACH WEEK on Vocab Express practising vocabulary learning as well completing written and speaking tasks to practise productive skills. The ability to persevere and keep practising makes all the difference when learning a foreign language and is crucial to making progress! Thematic Study Medicine in Britain, c1250-present (20%) History (Edexcel) Information and Communication Technology (Edexcel) Music (Edexcel) 1 Hour a week Practice and revision for past exam questions. Research and written tasks in preparation for exam questions, length and time duration variable. Homework is 1 hour a week and will include preparation and research for Controlled Assessment work, and theory work in preparation for the final exam. Homework will be no more than 1 hour a week and take the form of research into the set works, exam practice, music theory exercises and composition. Additionally, they will be expected to be practicing regularly in preparation of performances and undertaking their own composing preparation in the lead up to and during the composition controlled tests in year 11. It is expected that each student will participate in one extracurricular group each week. Historical Environment - the British sector of the Western Front : injuries, treatment and the trenches (10%) Period Study Superpower relations and the Cold War, (20%) British Depth Study Early Elizabethan England, (20%) Modern Depth Study Weimar and Nazi Germany, (30%) 60% Controlled Assessment, 40% Examination: For the Controlled Assessment Task students have a total of 40 hours. Students must produce a variety of digital products based on a brief provided by the exam board. The overall task is broken down into a number of activities which must be completed during lessons. 60% Controlled Assessments, 40% Examination. The music course involves the study of music theory, performance and composition. There will be a concentrated focus on music theory during the first term with the possibility of sitting an ABRSM exam in November The pupils study eight separate set works from four different areas of study, this gives an insight into the music of the last 400 years and provides the subject matter for the final exam. Coursework consists of two compositions and two performances. The compositions are completed as timed assessments during lesson time, while performances are worked on in class, with individual music tutors and at home through personal practice. All coursework will be completed in year 11. All students will need to be receiving instrument or singing tuition and participate in at least one extracurricular music group 16

17 SUBJECT WEEKLY HOMEWORK OTHER COMMENTS 60% THEORY: Students will sit two examinations in year 11; both are worth 30% each. The exams cover the following topic areas - Physical Education (AQA) Cambridge National Award in Sport Studies (OCR) Level 1/2 Religious Studies (AQA syllabus A) For more information, go to: Search: RS,GCSE syllabus A Spanish (Edexcel) One piece of homework is set per week (30 Minutes 1 Hour). We also recommend that students attend extra-curricular clubs on a weekly basis, Homework will be set once a fortnight when necessary. Additional help will be available at lunch time and after school when necessary (exact timings to be confirmed) 1 Hour per half term: REACT marked and response. There is no coursework, but we expect pupils to keep up to date with current events (e.g. changes to law regarding euthanasia, etc.) and there will be research assignments. 2 homeworks per week. Approximately 1 hour total to include regular vocabulary learning as well as written work PAPER 1: The human body and movement in physical activity and sport PAPER 2: Socio-cultural influences and well-being in physical activity and sport 40% PRACTICAL: Practical performance in three different physical activities in the role of player/performer. PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE 1: Individual activity PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE 2: Team activity PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE 3: Either a team or individual activity Analysis and evaluation of performance to bring about improvement in one activity. 75% Coursework assessed internally. Students will complete a series of coursework tasks covering 3 units: Developing Sports Skills, Sport & the Media and Sports Leadership. 25% Assessed through external examination in Contemporary Issues in Sport. Exam in January % Examination. Two written exams at the end of Year 11 each lasting for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Paper 1: Religions Beliefs and Practices (Christianity and Judaism) Paper 2: Religious Themes (War & Peace) Pupils will sit terminal exams in Listening, Reading and Writing in May/June of year 11. They will complete a speaking exam in April/May of year 11. Each language skill is worth 25% of the final grade. Everyone is required to spend a significant amount of time EACH WEEK on Vocab Express practising vocabulary learning as well completing written and speaking tasks to practise productive skills. The ability to persevere and keep practising makes all the difference when learning a foreign language and is crucial to making progress! 17

18 KS4 Controlled Assessments Schedule for 2016/2018 (correct at time of writing) L = Lesson/ H = Homework GCSE Subject Total Controlled Assess % Autumn Term Year 10 Spring Term Year 10 Summer Term Year 10 Autumn Term Year 11 Spring Term Year 11 Summer Term Year 11 Art & Design - Fine Art 60% Coursework Portfolio (3 projects) 40% externally set task Project 1 - Project 2 - Project 3 Jan-April Natural Identity Mock Externally set task Environment Externally set task Child Development 60% 3 Short tasks + 1 child Study Resource task(1) L/H Resource Task 2 L/H Resource Task 3 L/H Child Observation Study = 30% L/H Computing 60% Controlled Assessment throughout Yr. 10 and Yr. 11. Design & Technology: Resistant Materials Technology Design & Technology: Product Design Drama % Controlled Assessment Design & Making Project % Controlled Assessment Design & Making Project 60% (5-6pieces) Controlled Assessment External Exam 60% 2 hours (40%) Controlled Assessment External Exam 60% 2 hours (40%) Units of Coursework on-going throughout years 10 & 11. Exam at end of Year 11. French Speaking 25% Speak Ass 3 April Food & Nutrition 50% (4 pieces) Short Task 1 Short Task 2 Short Task 3 Food Study Task German Speaking 25% Speak Ass 3 April ICT 60% Controlled Assessment 40% Examination Music 60% (6) L/H L/H L/H Jun/Jul L/H L/H Jan L/H March L/H 18

19 KS4 Controlled Assessments Schedule for 2016/16 (correct at time of writing) L = Lesson/ H = Homework GCSE Subject Total Controlled Assess % Autumn Term Year 10 Spring Term Year 10 Summer Term Year 10 Autumn Term Year 11 Spring Term Year 11 Summer Term Year 11 P.E 60% (1) Controlled Assessments throughout year. Sport Studies (OCR) Level 1/2 75% coursework assessed internally. 75% Coursework assessed internally. Students will complete a series of coursework tasks covering 3 units: Developing Sports Skills, Sport & the Media and Sports Leadership. Spanish Speaking 25% As French /German above Science 25% (1) Controlled Assessments (ISA s) throughout year. 19

20 AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature (Current Year 10) 20

21 AQA GCSE English Language and English Literature (Current Year 10) 21

22 GCSE English Language & English Literature = 2 GCSEs These courses build in skills explored and developed in KS3. All students will study for both courses., following a common curriculum. GCSE English Language P1: Creative Reading and Writing - 50% P2: Writers Viewpoints and perspectives - 50% Reading : 20th Century Fiction Text Analysis Reading: Comparison of 2 non -fiction texts (19th and 21st century) 20% of the marks are based on spelling, punctuation and grammar. Writing: descriptive or story opening Writing: extended writing task - non-fiction GCSE English Literature P1: Shakespeare and the 19th century novel - 40% P2: Modern Texts and poetry - 60% Shakespeare: analysis of extract and then write about the play as a whole 19th Century novel: analysis of extract and then write about the text as a whole Skills and interests developed over the course of study: Modern Text: Poetry: A comparison between one named poem and a chosen poem Unseen poem: analysis and comparison with another unseen poem Both examinations are closed book - candidates will not have copies of the text. An interest in reading a variety of texts and genres. An interest in writing creatively and analytically, exploring how writers shape ideas. The ability to work independently, researching ideas from a variety of sources. The ability to participate in both small and whole-class groups, contributing ideas and listening carefully and respectfully to others. 22

23 Downlands Community School INTERNAL APPEALS PROCEDURE Policy on Internal Assessments for Qualifications with English Awarding Bodies. In accordance with the Code of Practice for the conduct of external qualifications produced by the QCA, Downlands Community School is committed to ensuring that:- Internal assessments are conducted by Staff who have the appropriate knowledge, understanding and skills. Assessment evidence provided by candidates is produced and authenticated according to the requirements of the relevant specification for each subject. The consistency of internal assessments is assured through internal standardisation as set out by the Awarding Bodies. Staff responsible for internal standardisation and/or assessment attends any compulsory training sessions. Written Appeals Procedure Each Awarding Body publishes procedures for appeals against its decisions and the Examination Officer will be able to advise pupils and parents of these procedures. Appeals may be made to the school/college regarding the procedures used in internal assessment, but not the actual marks or grades submitted by the school/college for moderation by the Awarding Body. A pupil or parent wishing to appeal against the procedures used in internal assessments should contact the Examination Officers, Mr D Hall, as soon as possible to discuss the appeal and a written appeal must be received by the School at least two weeks before the date of the last external exam in the subject. On receipt of a written appeal, an enquiry into the internal assessment will be conducted by the Examinations Officer and the Director of Studies/Curriculum Manager. This enquiry will consider whether the procedures used in the internal assessments conformed to the published requirements of the Awarding Body. The appellant will be informed in writing of the outcome of the appeal, including details of any relevant communication with the Awarding Body and of any steps taken to further protect the interests of the candidates. Statement for Pupils: If at any stage during your exam courses you have concerns about the procedures used in assessing your internally marked work for public exams (e.g. Coursework, Portfolio, Projects) you should see the Examination Officer, Mr Hall, as soon as possible. "The school has a more detailed policy Internal Appeals Policy for Assessment Decisions at GCSE. If any pupil or parent requires a full copy they may contact the school. 23

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29 Day Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sep- 16 Eng- Math Sci- Coursework/Homework Forward Planner Calendar Oct Day Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Eng- Math Sci- 29

30 Nov Day Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Dec Day Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri English Maths Science English Maths Science 30

31 Jan Day Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Feb Day Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues English Maths Science English Maths Science Sun Mon Tues 31

32 Mar Day Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri Apr Day Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun English Maths Science English Maths Science 32

33 Jun Day Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri May Day Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed English Maths Science English Maths Science 33

34 Jul Day Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sep Day Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat English Maths Science English Maths Science Sat Sun Mon 34

35 Oct Day Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Nov Day Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs English Maths Science English Maths Science 35

36 Dec Day Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Jan Day Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed English Maths Science English Maths Science 36

37 Feb Day Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Mar Day Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat English Maths Science English Maths Science 37

38 Apr Day Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon May Day Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs English Maths Science English Maths Science 38

39 Jun Day Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur s English Maths Science Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur s Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur s Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thur s Fri Sat 39

40 Key Dates for Year 10 (all dates subject to change) September Study Skills Information Evening 6.30 pm in the Hall 28 PE FC Porto Trip Meeting 5pm October &2 Duke of Edinburgh tbc 7 INSET day 11 Art trip to Wakehurst Place 13 Art Trip to Wakehurst Place 14 History Trip to Ypes 15&16 Duke of Edinburgh tbc 24 Break up for Half Term November Music Trip to Glyndebourne w/c 2 November Child Development Controlled Assessments 25 Winter Art Exhibition 26 Christmas Market 30 Ski Trip Information Evening December School closed w/c 5 December English assessments 7 Year 10 Treat Event 8 Battle of the Bands 9 Science Trip to Science Live 14 Christmas Lunch 16 Break up for Christmas Holidays. School finishes at 1.30pm January Bank Holiday 6 Year 10 Reports to Parents 12 Year 10 Parent Consultation Evening 26 Flexiday February Science Intervention Evening 20 Break up for Half Term w/c 27 Feb Child Development Controlled Assessments/English Assessments March Spring Concert w/c 20 March MFL Speaking assessments 40

41 April School breaks up for Easter. School ends at 3.05pm Art Trip to Paris 24 INSET day May Bank Holiday 29 Break up for Half Term June Reports to Parents 15 Technology Coursework Information Evening w/c 19 June Sports Leaders trip to Eastbourne (tennis) 22 Art & Textiles Creative Arts Exhibition 24 Downlands Fayre 28 Science Big Bang Evening 29 PE Awards Evening July Sports Day 13 Awards Evening w/c 17 July Year 10 Work Experience 25 Break up for Summer Holidays. School finishes at 1.30pm. Please note that all dates are subject to change. 41

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