Tonbridge Grammar School GCSE Curriculum Information September 2016 1
Introduction We aim to develop students as inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. The curriculum mirrors the IB philosophy and prepares students for the Diploma Programme: Breadth Rigour Internationalism Core Experience In Years 10 and 11 there are a range of opportunities to meet our learners needs; exploring subjects in depth, increasing their breadth of knowledge and following non examined courses. Most subjects* have adopted the new reformed GCSE (9-1). These have been chosen as their academic content and assessment objectives prepare girls better for success in the Diploma Programme. *Drama, only, follows the IGCSE syllabus. Drama and Product Design grades remains A* to G 2
Preparation for the Sixth Form Diploma Programme From GCSE to the Sixth Form IB Group English Language English Literature and Performance 1 ENGLI SH French French Spanish Spanish Latin Latin New subjects introduced in the Sixth Form Ab initio Italian, Japanese and Spanish 2 LANGUAG ES Philosophy Geography History New subjects introduced in the Sixth Form Philosophy Geography History Economics Psychology Classics 3 HUMANITIES Biology Chemistry Physics Computer Science Product Design Biology Environmental Systems and Societies* Sports Science Chemistry Physics Computer Science Design Technology 4 SCIENCES Mathematics Mathematics Mathematical Studies 5 MATHS Visual Arts Visual Arts Literature and Performance Literature & Performance (in Group 1) Music Music Or a second language, science or humanities subject 6 ARTS & ELECTIVES * Environmental Systems and Societies is only available in Group 4, Sciences Please note our IB Diploma offer is reviewed annually and may not include all the choices above. 3
GCSE Curriculum (from September 2016) Core GCSE Subjects (8 Examination Subjects) Mathematics English Language English Literature Biology Chemistry Physics Humanities Option (either Geography or History) Language Option (French, Latin or Spanish) Open Options GCSE subjects (2 Examination Subjects): Computer Science Product Design Drama French Geography History Latin Music PE Visual Arts: Art & Design Spanish Core CAS (3 Non-examined subjects): Physical Education Philosophical Enquiry Health & Social Education Option CAS (1 Non-examined subjects): Chinese Art Drama Italian Music PE Textiles Food Computing 4
Academic Core Curriculum Mathematics Examination Board: GCSE Edexcel Grading structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: 1MA1 Subject Leader: Dr Billinge An understanding of mathematics is an essential component in understanding the world in which we live. This subject allows students to develop logical, analytical problem-solving skills as well as providing the key mathematical skills that are so crucial for many careers. Students will study a range of applications, but equally importantly will study pure mathematics that will allow them to develop their appreciation of abstract mathematics itself. The course, and the teaching methods used, will provide excellent preparation for sixth form study of a wide range of subjects from Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science to Psychology, Geography and Economics with a particular emphasis on problem solving, reasoning, interpretation and communication of Mathematics. For GCSE Mathematics, students study a wide range of topics and techniques including: Number Proportional Reasoning Algebra Geometry Probability Statistics 100% Examination, with three 1½ hour papers, equally weighted. One paper is a noncalculator paper and two require a scientific calculator. 5
English Language Examination Board: AQA GCSE Grading structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: 8700 Subject Leader: Mrs Barker Students draw upon a range of texts as reading stimulus and engage with a variety of different contexts. They have the opportunity to develop higher-order reading and critical thinking skills that encourage genuine enquiry into different topics and themes. 100% examination with an internal mark for Spoken Language. Spoken Language is internally assessed and must be undertaken, but it has no weighting in the overall exam. Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing (50%) 1hr 45 Paper 2: Writers Viewpoints and Perspectives (50%) 1 hr 45 Non-examination : Language Spoken A: Reading: students undertake a comprehension on a literature fiction text. (40 marks) B: Writing: students write one extended essay with a focus on descriptive or narrative writing. (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy) A: Reading: students undertake a comparative comprehension on a nonfiction text and a literary non-fiction text. (40 marks) B: Writing: students write one extended essay with a focus on presenting a point of view. (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy) Teachers set a range of presentation tasks throughout the course which is internally assessed. 6
English Literature Examination Board: AQA GCSE Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8702 Subject Leader: Mrs Barker Students are encouraged to develop knowledge and skills in reading, writing and critical thinking. English Literature enables students to develop culturally, giving them the skills to read widely for pleasure. Students study four texts: a novel (Pride and Prejudice), a Shakespeare play (Romeo and Juliet), a modern play (An Inspector Calls), and poetry from an anthology on Love and Relationships. Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19 th - century novel (40%) 1hr 45 A: Shakespeare: students will answer one question on the play. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the play and then to write about the play as a whole. (30 marks plus 4 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar) B: The 19 th -century novel: students will answer one question on the novel. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the novel and then to write about the novel as a whole (30 marks) Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry (60%) 2hrs 15 A: Modern Text: students will answer one essay question from a choice of two on a modern drama text. (30 marks plus 4 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar) B: Poetry: students will answer one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from their chosen anthology cluster. (30 marks) C: Unseen Poetry: students will answer one question on one unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem. (32 marks) 7
Science Triple Award Students study scientific knowledge in detail whilst developing the skills of scientific enquiry essential to these subjects. Experimental and investigative skills are still integral to the course, but are assessed through examination papers rather than coursework. The course is excellent preparation for the further study of each subject in the sixth form. Biology Examination Board: AQA GCSE Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8461 Subject Leader: Mr Kennedy The course aims to encourage students to develop their curiosity about the living world, enable students to engage with Biology in their everyday lives and to make informed choices about further study in Biology at Higher or Standard Level and related disciplines such as Environmental Systems & Societies and Sport, Exercise and Health Science. The Biology course follows a topic-based specification designed to stimulate students' enthusiasm for Biology and scientific enquiry. Topics include cell structure, human biology, defending ourselves against infectious disease and variation and inheritance. 100% Examination. Paper One 50% (1h 45mins) Paper Two 50% (1hr 45mins) Chemistry Examination Board: AQA GCSE Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8462 Subject Leader: Mr McDaid Chemistry is the natural science that involves the study of matter and its properties. It relates how matter is made up and how the particles of matter are joined together. Many students who take Chemistry in the IB go on to study Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and chemically related degree subjects at university. 8
During the course, students learn about bonding, energetics, equilibrium, kinetics, analytical methods and carbon based chemistry. 100% Examination. Paper One 50% (1h 45mins) Paper Two 50% (1hr 45mins). Physics Examination Board: AQA GCSE Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8463 Subject Leader: Mrs Boddy Physics is the natural science that involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts such as energy and force. Many students who take Physics in the IB go on to study Engineering, Architecture, Astronomy and Physics related courses at university. During the course, students learn about mechanics, thermal physics, waves, nuclear physics, space and electricity. 100% Examination. Paper One 50% (1h 45mins) Paper Two 50% (1hr 45mins). 9
Humanities Option Subjects Geography Examination Board: AQA Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8035 Subject Leader: Miss Hewett Geography is wide-ranging in nature and develops a very wide variety of skills as well as knowledge of the world in which we live. It is also a bridge between the Sciences and the Humanities and reinforces a range of skills learnt in other subjects. The course includes a balance of Physical and Human Geography: In Physical Geography, students learn about tectonic activity & hazards, ecosystems & global environments, river processes & pressures, and coastal processes & pressures, focusing on physical processes, landforms and how people interact with and manage their natural environment. In Human Geography, students learn about contemporary population issues, contemporary issues in urban settlements, globalisation in the contemporary world and contemporary issues in tourism. The focus here is on contemporary and topical issues. Geographical skills are taught throughout the course and include map-work, satellite imaging and use of GIS as well as constructing, using and interpreting graphs, diagrams, maps and photographs. Fieldwork is an integral part of the course and during the course we undertake a minimum of three days of fieldwork, visiting The East Sussex Coast, Seven Sisters Country Park and East London. 100% examination. Paper 1-35% (90 mins) Paper 2 35% (90 mins) Paper 3-30% (75 mins) 10
History Examination Board: OCR Grading structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: J411BF Subject Leader: Ms Anderson History is a key subject for the worlds of university study and employment, giving students essential skills such as in the analysis of varied types of information, the ability to summarise, the ability to present a coherent and articulate argument, and the ability to criticise thoughtfully the arguments of others. It opens up a wide range of career options, from politics to journalism, law to research because it equips you with the skills to succeed. The course chosen, and the options within it, is designed to give the opportunity to explore a range of topics in history which are interesting and stimulating. Students explore some of the key periods, events and ideas. The course, and the teaching methods used, will provide excellent preparation for sixth form study of History and of related subjects. Students study the following: The People s Health c1250 to the present The Elizabethans, 1580-1603 History around us, including a visit to Dover Castle The making of America, 1789-1900 Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-45 100% examination. Paper 1-40% (1 hour 45 mins) Paper 2 20% (60 mins) Paper 3-40% (1 hour 45 mins) Language Option Subjects French Examination Board: AQA Grading structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: 8658 Subject Leader: Mrs Lawrence French is spoken by over 120 million people in 40 countries. The course offers insights into the rich and varied culture of France and other Francophone (French-speaking) countries and communities. By the end of the two-year course, GCSE French students are able to communicate effectively in a wide range of practical situations in a French-speaking country. Students also gain an 11
insight into everyday life in Francophone countries while developing their spoken, listening, reading and writing skills. Students study the following topics: Everyday activities Personal and social life The world around us The world of work The international world In year 10, on alternate years, students have the opportunity to go on a cultural trip to Paris, studying in a language school and visiting landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre or on an exchange to St Lo in Normandy. 100% examination Listening 25%; Reading 25%; Speaking 25%; Continuous writing 25% Latin Examination Board: OCR Grading Structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: J281 (2012 specification) Subject Leader: Miss Johnson The Latin GCSE course allows for the development of many useful skills; the language elements of the course encourage clear thinking and logical problem-solving, the literature elements involve interpretation and creativity, and the sources unit provides an enthusiasm for the personalities, ideas and achievements of the ancient world. Studying Latin creates a broader perspective on the cultural and linguistic heritage of Europe, and prompts a systematic approach to grammar and meaning in all languages, including English. Latin is well-respected at university and beyond. It can be studied at Higher or Standard Level in the IB Diploma. The course involves further study of the Latin language as well as reading selections of literature by Roman authors. A substantial proportion of the grammatical content covered by the end of Year 9; in Year 10, therefore, students soon begin to encounter unadapted Latin literature and start to discuss the style and content of what they have read. Previous literature selections have included Virgil s account of Dido s doomed love affair and subsequent suicide, Pliny s letter describing the eruption of Vesuvius, Catullus love poetry, and the Druids practices of human sacrifice. There is also a sources unit which teaches candidates about the society of the Roman world and puts their language studies into context through the study of historical primary sources 12
from ancient times. Topics include the baths, women, gladiators, chariot racing and the army amongst others. 100% examination at the end of Year 11. There are 4 examination papers (each at 60mins): 25% Language 1: unseen translation and comprehension 25% Language 2: similar to Language 1 25% Verse Literature: translation, comprehension and analysis of poems prepared in class 25% Sources for Latin: interpretation of Roman sources in written and visual form. Spanish Examination Board: AQA Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8698 Subject Leader: Ms Acosta Spanish is spoken in 21 different countries and is the world s third most widely spoken language after English and Mandarin. It is also increasingly important as a business language in many parts of the globe. By the end of the two-year course, GCSE Spanish students are able to communicate effectively in a wide range of practical situations in a Spanish-speaking country. Students also gain an insight into everyday life in Spain and Latin America while developing their spoken, listening, reading and writing skills. The GCSE course is an excellent preparation for the IB Languages courses. In Year 11, students have the opportunity to go on an exchange and experience life in a Spanish speaking family and school. Students study the following topics: Everyday activities Personal and social life The world around us The world of work The international world 100% examination Listening 25%; Reading 25%; Speaking 25%; Continuous writing 25% 13
Core CAS subjects Physical Education Subject Leader: Miss Duncan All students take general PE with the aim of maintaining a basic level of health and fitness. The variety of available activities, both indoor and outdoor, increases in these two years. Students have the opportunity to develop their skills further in a variety of activities including trampolining, basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, table tennis, badminton, self-defence, yoga, tennis, rounders and athletics. All students have the opportunity to take the Level 1 or Level 2 Award in Sports Leadership in Year 10. Health & Social Education Subject Leader: Mr Sullivan Health & Social Education encompasses a range of issues and how they affect individuals, human development and interactions. It includes an appreciation of these effects in different cultural settings and at different times. It also provides students with opportunities to inquire into physical, social and emotional health and intelligence; key aspects of human development that can lead to a complete and balanced lifestyle. Through the area of Health & Social Education, students can identify and develop skills that will enable them to function as effective members of society, as well as learning about how they are changing and how to make informed decisions that may relate to their welfare. Health and Social Education will be integrated into subject teaching within the normal curriculum as well as being a focus during Learning Community time. Philosophical Enquiry Subject Leader: Miss Wood This is a new course designed to include aspects from Religious Studies, Philosophy, Ethics and Theory of Knowledge. It leads into the IB Diploma Programme curriculum and helps to develop many of the core thinking skills which are crucial for success in the Sixth form. The course will cover topics such as; Are humans free to do as we wish?, Could we create a human robot?, What is knowledge and why does it matter? and Do my senses deceive me?. We will also look at key moral issues such as abortion and euthanasia. The lessons will be project based and you will work independently, in small groups and in whole class discussions. We will use your own experiences of the world to access the topics and you will have opportunities to develop your personal opinions. 14
GCSE Open Option Subjects You should choose two options, they can be selected from the subjects listed here and/or from the those in the Humanities Option and Language Option You must choose a reserve subject Computer Science Examination Board: AQA Grading structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8520 Subject Leader: Mr Owen Computer Science gives students an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. Students learn what goes on behind the scenes to investigate computer programming. The course develops critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills, which can be transferred to other subjects and applied in everyday life. The course will stimulate interest and engagement with technology and technology-related careers and provides good preparation for further study in the Sixth Form. This syllabus aims to encourage students to develop computational thinking, that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes consideration of the data required. Learning computational thinking involves learning to program and write computer code, because this is the means by which computational thinking is expressed. Paper 1: Computational thinking and problem solving. 40% of GCSE (90mins) Computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and applied computing as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science. Paper 2: Written assessment. 40% of GCSE (90 mins) Theoretical knowledge. Non-exam assessment. 20% of GCSE. The non-exam assessment (NEA) assesses a student's ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical programming problem. 15
Design & Technology: Product Design Examination Board: AQA Specification code: 4555 Subject Leader: Mr Seedhouse Grading structure: A* - G The Design & Technology Product Design course prepares students to become designers through utilising and developing key thinking skills for use in all subject areas. Students explore a wide range of materials and processes while learning how products are designed and manufactured. Students experience design first hand by creating their own high quality products as well as learning from the work of practicing designers. Opportunities are given for further inspiration outside of the classroom through subject related trips and visits. Towards the end of Year 10, students use their knowledge and skills to begin completing an internally assessed coursework project. Students select a suitable design brief and then design, plan, make and evaluate their own product- packaged ready for sale. There is also a written examination at the end of Year 11 in which students answer questions related to the coursework content. 60% coursework; 40% examination Drama Examination Board: CIE Specification code: 0411 Subject Leader: Ms McKenzie Grading Structure: A* to G Working mostly in groups, students enjoy a lively collaborative learning experience, exploring the many aspects of performance through devised and scripted work. Students explore a variety of theatrical conventions from physical theatre, commedia delle arte and choral work to more traditional play scripts. They are assessed on three performances, two group and one individual in addition to their final exam. Students are given the opportunity to attend as many theatrical performances as they can to further enhance their knowledge and skills of drama. 40% written exam (150 mins); 60% coursework 16
Music Examination Board: Edexcel Grading Structure: Numerical grades 1-9 Specification code: 1MU0 Subject Leader: Mr S Hayward Music is an exciting, vibrant subject. It offers a wide range of experiences including performing, composing and listening to music in all styles: Popular, Classical, Music Theatre, Jazz and music from all around the world. It is a genuinely international subject that broadens the mind while building confidence and creativity. The course suits those who like performing on an instrument or voice. This can be in any musical style. Those who have taken Music can go on to study music as part of the IB Diploma at both Higher and Standard levels. Universities and employers often desire students who have studied music it shows a very wide range of skills. These include dedication to practice and working with others; imagination and craftsmanship in composition; confidence in presenting and performing; reflecting upon and understanding different styles of music; and musicians are great at communication. Students can go on to study music at university as an academic or practical subject. There are opportunities to go to concerts in London and GCSE Music students are expected to be involved in the school s musical life and perform at events in school and beyond. The Music department has extensive numbers of enrichment opportunities, clubs and competitions for all music students to be involved in. The Music Junction Project with the London Chamber Orchestra offers students the chance to work with other schools in the south-east and leads to a London concert where a composition is premiered. Throughout the course candidates prepare performances as soloists and in groups, compose pieces using a range of different stimuli and study 8 set works from the four areas of study: Instrumental Music 1700-1820, Vocal Music, Music for Stage and Screen and Fusions. 30% Performing: controlled assessment students perform and record one solo and one group piece 30% Composing: controlled assessment students compose two pieces of music in contrasting styles 40% Listening: examination students study 8 set works and answer questions on these and other related pieces in an examination with recordings 17
Physical Education Examination Board: AQA Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 8582 Subject Leader: Miss Duncan The GCSE Physical Education Course is an exciting and varied course that gives students an insight into topical issues relating to the participation in sport at any level. Students develop an understanding of the benefits to living a healthy and active lifestyle. The course allows students who may be interested in pursuing careers that relate to sport such as physiotherapy, leisure industry, teaching or coaching to develop practical and theoretical knowledge and skills. The course is divided into practical and theoretical units. In practical lessons students participate in a range of activities throughout the course. The course provides flexibility for all students as there are so many practical options. They are able to select from the following forms of participation: player/performer; organiser, leader/coach, choreographer or official. The final practical assessment will consist of their four highest assessment grades, which are submitted to the examination board as controlled assessments. The four activities must be chosen from at least two of the following groups: games, gymnastics, dance, athletics, lifesaving, outdoor and adventurous, fitness and health activities. In theory lessons, students study a range of physiological, psychological, social and cultural aspects of sport relating to participation in physical activity. Much of this theory is taught through practical lessons and projects. The written examination consists of three sections multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended answer questions and is taken at the end of Year 11. The course provides excellent preparation for sixth form study of IB Sport, Exercise & Health Science. 60% examination; 40% controlled assessment Paper 1-30% (75 mins) Paper 2 30% (75 mins) 18
Visual Arts : Art and Design Examination Board: AQA Grading Structure: Numerical Grades 1-9 Specification code: 82022 Subject Leader: Mrs Bellingham To be a creative student means learning to be able to view all of life as an opportunity for self-expression, ask the big questions, take risks, follow personal passions, connect the dots and surround themselves with beauty. GCSE Art and Design gives students the chance to express themselves and develop skills which are now more and more useful in any career they venture into. GCSE Art and Design is based on personal exploration. The course enables students to effectively reflect and evidence the nature of their experiences and individual engagement with the learning opportunities provided. The sketchbook is vital to this course and follows and supports student s progress of ideas, observations and critical and contextual studies. The course is comprised of three projects in total (two coursework plus final examination) with each requiring students to demonstrate their abilities by developing thoughtful and imaginative conclusions from research into various art forms, media and recorded ideas and observations. 60% Coursework; 40% Controlled 19