Key Stage 4 Options 2017 Subject information booklet
Year 8 is the time when you need to make important decisions about your future. In the next few weeks you will need to choose the subjects that you intend to study at GCSE. There are some subjects (Compulsory subjects) that every student has to take. You are able to choose four additional subjects plus a choice of GCSE Philosophy or PE. The PE department will discuss your suitability for either BTEC or GCSE PE if you select it as an option subject. Before deciding anything, there are some fundamental questions you should ask yourself. Do I like the subject? If not, be very cautious - you are unlikely to do well in a subject you dislike. How good am I at the subject? It is better to take subjects you think you can be successful in. Do I understand what the course involves? Read the subject details carefully, including the subject content and the methods of assessment. How does the subject fit in with my plans for the future? Do I want to enter the Sixth Form, go to College or start an Apprenticeship? Will I be hoping to go to University? If you haven t thought much about your long-term future, now is a good time to start! You will need to study this booklet carefully with your parents/carers. You will have the opportunity to talk to a variety of people who can help you make the right choices your subject teachers, your form tutor, Key Stage Coordinator or Careers Advisor. At the OPTIONS evening for Year 8 you will hear a presentation about your choices. There will be displays from all Key Stage 4 subjects, with subject teachers available to help you with your decision making. Independent Careers advice is available on the evening from Beacon East. Every effort will be made to ensure that each option choice is fulfilled. Where this is not possible you will be interviewed and further discussions with your parent / carer will be needed. From 2018 most GCSE subjects will be graded from 9-1. A grade 5 or above will be considered a good GCSE pass You may not have decided what you would like to do as a career in the future but your choices need to give you the widest possible chances and opportunities. Expecting to go to university is a really important start. You cannot get to university without 3 or more very good A level qualifications (or equivalent) and you cannot begin A level courses unless you have 5 9-5 GCSE grades including English, maths and science. In addition, it is expected that a foreign language or history or geography would be the best indicator that you are able to think for yourself and to work independently of teachers and other adults help. Good luck with your future choices and courses - Mr Carter Vice Principal (Teaching, learning and curriculum)
Core subjects These subjects are compulsory for all students from Y9 11 English Language/English Literature (2 GCSEs) Mathematics Science (2 GCSEs) PE (Practical not examined) Philosophy & PSHE (Not examined)
GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE What is English Language? English Language is the development of critical readers; accurate and fluent writers and confident users of spoken language. Why study English Language? The study of English Language will prepare you to use language to participate effectively in society and employment. You will develop written accuracy, and advanced reading skills; essential skills transferable to study across the curriculum. What makes a successful English Language Student? Successful students will have an ability to read and understand complex texts; develop and sustain their own perspectives and interpret those of canonical writers. In addition, they will be able to write effectively and imaginatively with close attention to detail. Students will be following the AQA English Language qualification. Unit Title Responding to 20 th Century Fiction Descriptive and Narrative Writing Reading for Meaning Responding to Non-fiction Writing to Present a Viewpoint Responding to Literary Non-fiction Spoken Language Study Examination Examination Examination Examination Examination Examination Teacher Assessed Weekly homework will be set please check Show My Homework for updates. Where relevant, opportunities will be provided to participate in workshops with professional writers, external agencies and Post 16 Education establishments. English Language is essential to progression to any post 16 educational routes or career opportunities. Contact Miss C Oakey (Head of English) at claireoakey@inspirationtrust.org or any other member of the English Department for further details
GCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE What is English Literature? English Literature develops the ability to make informed personal responses to a range of texts within the genres of prose, poetry and drama. You will study a wide range of texts from the literary cannon to contemporary fiction. Why study English Literature? The study of English Literature will enable students to become critical readers and experience social, cultural, historical and influential material. You will develop understanding of how writer's work to influence and impact their readers. What makes a successful English Literature Student? Successful students will have an ability to read and analyse complex texts whilst making links and comparisons. They will display original and imaginative interpretation in their response to a range of classic and contemporary texts. Unit Title Shakespeare Poetry from 1789 to Present Day Post 1914 Prose or Drama Jekyll & Hyde (R. L. Stevenson) Unseen Poetry from the 20 th / 21 st Century Examination Examination Examination Examination Examination Students will be set weekly homework- check Show My Homework for updates. Where relevant, opportunities will be provided to participate in workshops with professional writers and further educational lecturers. We also attend live performances relevant to GCSE texts studied. Students studying this course could progress to A-Level Literature. Additionally, the critical and analytical thinking skills are transferable and desirable for many academic courses and occupations. Contact Miss C Oakey (Head of English) at claireoakey@inspirationtrust.org or any other member of the English Department for further details.
GCSE MATHS What is Maths? Maths is the study of the measurement, properties, and relationships of quantities and sets, using numbers and symbols. Why study Maths? Maths develops numerical and logical skills which can be applied in the real world, for example household budgeting and personal accounting. What makes a successful Maths Student? Successful students will have an enquiring mind, logical thought processes, systematic approaches to problems and confidence. At the end of the examination course students will undertake 3 x 90 minute examinations (2 calculator papers and 1 non-calculator) which will cover all units Subject content 1 Number 2 Algebra 3 Ratio, proportion and rates of change 4 Geometry and measures 5 Probability 6 Statistics Progression to A level or Further Education. Essential if you are interested in a career in the following areas finance, education, engineer, architect, medicine, however maths qualifications are widely required by a vast number of occupations. Contact Mr Delph (Head of Maths) at adriandelph@inspirationtrust.org or any other members of the Maths Department for further details
GCSE Science To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle, requires creative imagination and marks real advance in science. Albert Einstein Over the course of year 9, the pupils will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics units from the GCSE AQA Combined Science Trilogy course. This course is designed to introduce the main principles of Science, building on the understanding gained at KS3 and preparing the pupils for additional science routes. The units in year 9 will cover some of the following topics: Biology Chemistry Physics Cell Biology Organisation Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table Bonding, Structure and the Properties of Matter Energy Electricity Infection and Response Quantitative Chemistry Particle Model of Matter Bioenergetics Chemical Changes Atomic Structure Energy Changes Throughout the course, each pupil will be monitored and assessed and upon completion of year 9, the pupil will go on to study either the triple science award (leaving school with 3 GCSEs, 1 in each discipline), or a combined science award (worth 2 GCSEs in science). A science qualification is essential in many careers so each option is designed to support progression into further education and employment. For students with a passion for Science, enrichment opportunities are available to explore chemical reactions beyond the depth of the GCSE syllabus in Cool Chemistry or to develop engineering and teamwork skills in Eggcellent Adventures For more information about the courses offered: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse For science inspiration: http://www.funfactz.com/science-facts/ For further information, please contact Adele Turner (Head of Science) at adeleturner@inspirationtrust.org
Block 1 Choose 2 subjects To achieve the English Baccalaureate students must pick a language GCSE and a humanity GCSE Modern foreign languages A choice from: French Spanish Humanities A choice from: Geography History A small number of students will be offered the opportunity to follow a study skills option that will include extra literacy and numeracy, in place of a language. Please see Mr Carter if you think this might be suitable for your child
GCSE FRENCH French French is a major world language spoken in around 29 countries by 270 million people. It is a Latin based language and it is an official language of the European Union and United Nations. It is at the core of a particularly rich and key European culture. An alternative course will be offered to those students who may not be suited to study it at GCSE. Why study French? The study of any language boosts confidence and communication skills and can help with your understanding of English. Having a qualification in a language gives you many social and professional opportunities in our ever expanding global environment. Many Britons travel and do business with France. Britain and France have close links. What makes a successful Language Student? Successful students will have an interest in language learning and enjoy the challenges that studying a Foreign Language presents. Unit Title Listening Examination 25% Speaking Examination 25% Reading Examination 25% Writing Examination 25% The course has some excellent resources in the form of computer software and web pages. Homework will be submitted electronically and there will be regular and rigorous learning of vocabulary and grammar. Students will have workbooks to use from home. We will seek opportunities to communicate with French Speaking students either via the internet or by post and run at least one trip abroad to France. Progression to A level or Further and Higher Education. Essential if you are interested in a career in the following areas: Travel & Tourism, Translation, Language Teaching, Interpretation, International Banking and International Relations. A language will certainly help you in a variety of career fields such as: Journalism, Nursing and any business or firm that deals with foreign countries. Contact Mrs Torin (Head of MFL) at ninatorin@inspirationtrust.org or Miss Young (Teacher of MFL) at carolineyoung@inspirationtrust.org for further details
GCSE SPANISH Spanish Spanish is a major world language spoken in around 20 countries by 440 million people. It is a Latin based language and is at the core of a particularly rich and vibrant culture. Why study Spanish? The study of any language boosts confidence and communication skills and can help with your understanding of English. Having a qualification in a language gives you many social and professional opportunities in our ever expanding global environment. Spanish is an official language of the United Nations. More and more Britons are travelling and doing business with Spanish speaking countries, in particular Spain. What makes a successful Language Student? Successful students will have an interest in language learning and enjoy the challenges that studying a Foreign Language presents. Unit Title Listening Examination 25% Speaking Examination 25% Reading Examination 25% Writing Examination 25% The course has some excellent resources in the form of computer software and web pages. Homework will be submitted electronically and there will be regular and rigorous learning of vocabulary and grammar. Students will have workbooks to use from home. We will seek opportunities to communicate with Spanish Speaking students either via the internet or by post and there will be at least one abroad trip to Spain. Progression to A level or Further and Higher Education. Essential if you are interested in a career in the following areas: Travel & Tourism, Translation, Language Teaching, Interpretation, International Banking and International Relations. A language will certainly help you in a variety of career fields such as: Journalism, Nursing and any business or firm that deals with foreign countries. Contact Mrs Torin (Head of MFL) at ninatorin@inspirationtrust.org or Miss Young (Teacher of MFL) at carolineyoung@inspirationtrust.org for further details
GCSE GEOGRAPHY What is Geography? Geography allows students to understand more about the world, the challenges it faces and their place within it. Why study Geography? The study of Geography enables young people to become globally and environmentally informed and thoughtful, enquiring citizens. Geography also opens up a wide range of employment options. What makes a successful Geography Student? Successful students will have an enquiring mind, particularly those who want to know why things happen. They will have an interest in how the world works and how people interact with it. Unit Title The Physical Environment The Human Environment Geographical Investigations Examination (37.5% of GCSE) Examination (37.5% of GCSE) Examination (25% of GCSE) The course has some excellent resources which are shared via Google Drive and you will be able to access work from home. Homework will be set to aid you with your understanding and revision purposes. There will be planned fieldwork trips to support the Investigations unit. Progression to A level or Further Education. Essential if you are interested in a career in the following area: Town Planning, Development, Mapping, Geology, Environmental Science and Natural Hazard Management. More detail can be found from visiting: https://successatschool.org/advicedetails/231/why-study- Geography%3F. Contact Miss Clinnick (Teacher of Geography) hayleyclinnick@inspirationtrust.org for further details
GCSE History What is History? GCSE History is the study of specified key events, periods and societies in local, British, and wider world history; and of the wide ranging different experiences that people faced. Why study History? The study of history at GCSE should inspire students to deepen their understanding of the people, periods and events studied and enable them to think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, make informed decisions and develop perspective and judgement. This, in turn, will prepare them for a role as informed, thoughtful and active citizens. The discipline of History and a knowledge and understanding of the past will also help them to understand their own identity and significant aspects of the world in which they live, and provide them with the basis for further wider learning and study. What makes a successful History Student? A successful History student will have a passion for the subject with an engaging mind and the ability to organise and communicate their historical knowledge in different ways. Unit Title Year 9 FOUNDATION STUDY: Ancient Medicine/Causes of WW1 & 2/British Society 1903-28 Internal assessment Not examined Unit 1 Medicine in Britain c1250 present/injuries & Treatment Exam 30% in WW1 Unit 2 Henry VIII and his ministers/international Relations during Exam 40% the Cold War Unit 3 Weimar & Nazi Germany 1919-39 Exam 30% Further History resources can accessed via Show My Homework and from a wide range of history websites. The Academy also has a wide range of reading material in its Learning Resource Centre (LRC). There will also be opportunities to extend historical knowledge and understanding through off-site visits ie residential visits to the WW1 Battlefields. History is a highly valued subject that has many transferrable skills that can lead to careers in a range of professions such as teaching, museum services, archaeology, journalism/media, social work, administration and the law. Contact Mr Speck (Teacher of History) at robertspeck@inspirationtrust.org, Mr Carter (Teacher of History) at dancarter@inspirationtrust.org or Mr King (Teacher of History) at robking@inspirationtrust.org for further details.
Block 2 Choose 2 subjects and a reserve Students have a free choice of any two subjects from this block Art Computer Science Drama (BTEC) French Geography History Music (BTEC) Product Design Spanish Students cannot pick any subject more than once they must pick a reserve option as we cannot guarantee that all options will run, or that all combinations of subjects will be practically possible
GCSE Art and Design What is Art? The expression and application of creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated in the main for their beauty and/or emotional power. Why study Art? Studying Art creates a rounded student with the ability to form opinions and express complex ideas. The study of Art helps with your understanding of life and the world around us. As the UK is known globally for its cultural creativity, there are many different and varied career pathways to follow after secondary school. What makes a successful Art Student? Successful students will have an enquiring and experimental mind, particularly those who want to have an avenue to express their own creative ideas. Unit Title: Coursework (60%) Externally Set Exam Unit (40%) : Departmental assessment and externally moderated Departmental assessment and externally moderated There are planned trips to the galleries in Norfolk, London and the rest of the UK alongside field trips to the local countryside and coastlines as well as specific art workshops designed to support the focus of various projects. When possible workshops and activities have been supported by successful practicing artists from the local area such as Samuel Thomas. Progression to A level or Further Education. Essential if you are interested in a career in the following areas practicing fine artist, illustrator, fashion/textile designer, architect, animator, gallery curator, art teacher, interior designer and theatre designer among many other career paths linked to creativity. Contact Mr Merry (Teacher of Art and Second in CADT) at sammymerry@inspirationtrust.org for further details
GCSE Computer Science What is Computer Science? Computer Science is the study of how computers work, and how to program them. Why study Computer Science? If you ve ever wanted to know how your Computer or Smart Phone worked, then this is the course for you. The course opens up many options including valuable life skills like programming. What makes a successful Computer Science Student? A computational thinking ability, a logical approach towards solving puzzles and developing and designing creative ideas. Unit Title Component 1 Computer systems 1 hour and 30 Minute Exam Paper (40%) Component 2 Computational thinking, algorithms 1 hour 30 Minute Exam Paper (40%) and programming Component 3 Programming project 20 hours controlled assessment (20%) Skill based websites such as; www.codecademy.com, www.code.org/learn, www.khanacademy.org, which can be used for building up skills online. Also using online IDE websites such as; www.ideone.com, www.scratch.mit.edu to help develop the students own creativity to develop their own programs and applications. Progression to A level and basic fundamentals needed for degree level Computer Science. If you re looking at becoming a Computer Programmer, working in Robotics, or Games development, this is the course for you. Contact Mrs K Harper (Teacher of Computer Science) at kirstyharper@inspirationtrust.org for further details.
GCSE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY What is Design and Technology? Design and Technology focusses on the creation of products that are either needed or wanted by a particular consumer market Why study Design and Technology? The study of Design and Technology promotes creative problem solving and teaches you how to successfully communicate your ideas before learning how to make quality physical outcomes. Studying Design and Technology opens up many creative and practical career pathways. What makes a successful Design and Technology student? Successful students will have a creative mind and be able to present ideas to a high visual standard through drawing and computer aided design techniques. It is important as a Design and Technology student, that you are able to make your ideas a reality using the manufacturing opportunities that we have at the Academy including a Laser Cutter, 3D Printer, Metal casting and Wood working facilities. Unit Title Controlled Assessment Design Task You will complete an extended project during which you will design a number of solutions to a set brief before making a prototype of the best outcome and testing its effectiveness at meeting the brief. Written Exam Paper At the end of the course you will sit an exam paper which will test your knowledge of design and manufacturing practices, both small scale and industrial. Application of mathematical and scientific skills will underpin the exam paper. Where possible groups are set design tasks that can be entered for competitions to see their design ideas used both locally and nationally. A recent example was the front cover for the Cromer Carnival which was designed by a Design and Technology student from the Academy. Studying Design and Technology can help you progress onto an A level or Further Education course. This GCSE is particularly useful if you are interested in a career in the following areas Product Designer, Engineer, Architect, Graphic Designer. Contact Mr Nutt (Teacher of Design and Technology and Curriculum Leader for CADT) at johnnutt@inspirationtrust.org
BTEC PERFORMING ARTS - Drama What is Drama? Performing Arts is the study of Drama through a practical demonstration of performance skills and techniques. The course looks specifically at developing your skills as an accomplished performer. Why study Performing Arts? The study of Performing Arts helps with your communication skills, confidence and creativity. It is an opportunity to explore acting and the theatre industry in a very practical way. What makes a successful Performing Arts Student? Successful students will have the confidence to perform in front of small audiences and larger audiences and work effectively with their peers. They should have a practical approach to learning, be prepared to develop new skills and reflect upon your progress. BTEC First Award in Performing Arts (Acting) Unit Title: Individual Showcase Preparation, Performance & Production Acting Skills Written Controlled Assessment and 2 monologue performances Extended group performance and logbook Participation in practical workshops and performances Students have a number of performance opportunities throughout the year including the whole school production, Christmas Concert, plus other events such as Awards Evening and performances in the local community. Progression to A level or Level 3 courses. There are many careers in the Performing Arts industry that the course prepares you for. Contact Mr Hensley (Drama teacher/second in Performance) at carlhensley@inspirationtrust.org for further details
BTEC PERFORMING ARTS - Music What is Performing Arts? Performing Arts is the study of Music through a practical demonstration of performance skills and techniques. Why study Performing Arts? The study of Music helps with your creative skills and confidence. It is the opportunity to showcase your talents in either a music. What makes a successful Performing Arts Student? Successful students will be willing to perform in front of small audiences and work effectively with their peers. They should have a practical approach to learning and be prepared to develop new skills. BTEC First Award in Performing Arts (Acting) Unit Title: Individual Showcase Preparation, Performance & Production Acting Skills Written Controlled Assessment and 2 monologue performances Extended group performance and logbook Participation in practical workshops and performances Students have a number of performance opportunities throughout the year including the whole school production, Christmas Concert, plus other events such as Awards Evening and performances in the local community. Progression to A level or Level 3 courses. There are many careers in the Performing Arts industry that the course prepares you for. Contact Mrs Hough at nicolahough@inspirationtrust.org for further details.
Block 3 Choose 1 subject To offer a broad and balanced curriculum we offer students the opportunity to enhance one of their core subjects either PE or Philosophy into an examined option Physical Education (GCSE or BTEC) Philosophy
Physical Education (GCSE PE or Level 2 Sport BTEC award) What is Physical Education? Physical Education is the study of the body in movement including both theoretical and practical components. Why study Physical Education? The study of physical education aims to provide students with learning experiences that enable them to develop expert knowledge and understanding within the subject. They will also develop competence to lead others to be physically active through sports coaching, officiating and leading. Studying a physical education course opens up a variety of higher education and career options within the sport and science pathways including sports nutrition, sports psychology, personal training, physiotherapy and sports therapy, coaching, PE teaching, sports science and many more. What makes a successful PE Student? Successful students will be highly motivated towards the subject, practically minded, enjoy learning about the physical movement and be able to work successfully both within a team and independently. What is the current structure of the course? GCSE PE Current unit Unit 3.3.1: Applied anatomy and physiology, unit 3.3.2: movement analysis, Unit 3.3.3: physical training and unit 3.3.4: use of data. Practical performance and analysis of performance Current method of Assessment 60% is assessed from two written theory exams, 75 minutes each, both worth 30%. (human body and movement in physical activity and socio-cultural influences and wellbeing in physical activity) 40% is assessed through a non-exam assessment from practical activity areas (1 individual activity, 1 team and 1 from either) and an analysis of performance. Level 2 Sport BTEC award Current unit Current method of Assessment Unit 1: Fitness for sport and exercise A one hour online exam which includes multiple choice, short and long answer questions. Unit 2: Practical sports performance Internally assessed with evidence from controlled coursework Unit 5: Training for personal fitness Internally assessed with evidence from controlled coursework Unit 6: Leading sports activities Internally assessed with evidence from controlled coursework There are many opportunities which include visits to local gyms to complete fitness training programmes, visits to local primary schools and local competition providers to deliver coaching sessions. What kind of course can this subject prepare me for? Progression can be to A level GCSE PE or Level 3 BTEC Sport and it can also help to reinforce your learning in science and catering. Contact Mrs Leavey (Head of Performance) at nicolaleavey@inspirationtrust.org.
GCSE PHILOSOPHY What is Philosophy? Philosophy is exploring our opinions and beliefs along with the beliefs of others across different cultures. This GCSE also explores the impact of beliefs upon people regarding everyday issues. Why study Philosophy? Studying Philosophy is important because it helps you develop your opinions and personality. It helps you to develop you values and have clear thinking about who you are and what you believe. It also helps you to show understanding and tolerance of different beliefs in our society. Studying Philosophy opens up many different and varied career pathways. Some of our GCSE students said: Your mind is so important it deserves space to think and be developed Philosophy help you have confidence in who you are and what you believe. It helps you to live your life better. Philosophy helps you to make sense of life What makes a successful Philosophy Student? Successful students will have an enquiring mind and a desire to explore their own and other people s beliefs that shape their everyday lives. Unit Title Citizenship Life and Beliefs 100% Exam 100% Exam Various trips to support your learning outside of the classroom will help you to see how beliefs affect the world around us. Homework completed will give you important feedback which can then be used later for revision purposes. There will be extra-curricular opportunities such as debating and involvement with other departmental leadership roles. You can study Philosophy at A level and beyond. Philosophy and Religious Studies are subjects that can be useful for most career paths. Many employers really value philosophy, as it shows you have developed your pinions and understanding of others you may work with. Contact Mrs Burgoyne (Philosophy teacher/head of Humanities) at jenniferburgoyne@inspirationtrust.org for further details
OPTIONS 2017 FINAL PREFERENCE FORM NAME FORM BLOCK 1 Choose 1 Language & 1 Humanities subject BLOCK 2 Choose 2 of any subject and one reserve BLOCK 3 Choose 1 subject Languages French Spanish Art Computer Science Design Technology Philosophy PE Drama (BTEC) French Humanities Geography History Geography History Music (BTEC) Spanish For each of the OPTION blocks above please select a first and second preference. BLOCK CHOICES BLOCK 1 Language: Humanity: BLOCK 2 Choice 1: Choice 2: Reserve choice: BLOCK 3 Choice: PLEASE RETURN TO STUDENT SERVICES BY FRIDAY 24 th FEB YOU WILL BE INFORMED OF THE OUTCOME BY JUNE