Walsall Academy Key Stage 4 Curriculum 2014-2017 Information for Students and Parents Reviewed: 13 February 2014
What is Key Stage 4 about? Key Stage 4 covers Year 9 to Year 11 and is a very important phase of education. The qualifications students achieve in Key Stage 4 will be a platform for career prospects at 16 whether that is in the world of work or in continued education. Students will study both GCSEs and BTECs through Key Stage 4 providing opportunity to experience academic and vocational courses. A BTEC Level 2 course is the equivalent of one GCSE at grade A*-C. We want our students to have the widest range of choice when they leave the academy. This is the reason that we plan programmes of study which keep options open and blend GCSE with Vocational qualifications. The English Baccalaureate is a new suite of qualifications introduced by the Government. Students have access to this programme of study which consists of five GCSE subject areas: English, Mathematics, Science, Modern Foreign Languages and either History or Geography. Students who achieve GCSE grades A*-C in these subjects are likely to improve their prospects of university entrance. With the support of parents we can expect a great deal from each individual student. Outcomes will vary for students but you can be sure that Personal Tutors will be supporting students to achieve the best they can. The Senior Leadership Team will keep the predicted grades for students under regular review and work with parents if there is any risk of under-achieving. During Key Stage 4, if requested, students are required to attend additional lessons between 4.00pm and 5.15pm. These lessons are provided to boost performance. Homework, sporting and Session 3 activities will be organised to take this into account. In line with agreements made with parents on entry to the School, we are planning for the provision of education for our students up to the age of 18. Courses taken during Key Stage 4 will naturally fit into our plans Post 16. We, therefore, view the 13-18 phase as a complete experience for students at Walsall Academy. N.B Course specifications and grading are subject to change in accordance with government guidelines. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 1
What Qualifications are available to me? BTEC First These qualifications recognise student competence in work related areas. The BTECs are studied at Level 2 and provide pathways for study at BTEC National Level 3 in the sixth form or the Applied GCEs. They are currently the equivalent of one GCSE pass at A*-C and represent real advantage to students. They enrich learning and allow students to make an informed choice about vocational courses in the Sixth Form. All BTEC courses will include external assessments validated by outside assessors or externally marked examinations. GCSE These are the traditional examinations known as the General Certificate of Secondary Education. Students who achieve high GCSE grades can progress onto AGCE (Advanced General Certificate of Education) in the Sixth Form. GCSE qualifications also provide a good foundation for Applied A Level courses. BTECs and GCSEs provide progression to Higher Education and Training as follows:- AGE BTEC/National Certificates GCSEs & A Levels AGE 13-16 BTECs, National and GCSEs combined 13-16 16-18 Applied A Levels/BTECs or AGCEs or a combination 16-18 18+ Higher or Degree Programme Degree Programme 18+ 21+ Post Degree Programme Post Degree Programme 21+ Early Entry Programme New government education policy has resulted in the change from modular assessment throughout the course to examinations held at the end of the course. This means that the demands placed on students at the end of Year 11 will be more challenging. We recognise this extra pressure so where possible students may be entered for subjects earlier than the end of Year 11, where it is appropriate. In English Language and Mathematics, students who are ready and able to take a GCSE at the end of Year 10 will be entered. Other subjects may enter students for part of the qualification at various stages throughout Key Stage 4 (e.g. BTEC external assessments). Some students may then progress on to more advanced qualifications such as AS level qualifications. If a student does not reach the expected level of achievement, they will be expected to retake that qualification. Usually a grade A/ B at GCSE is acceptable. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 2
Compulsory Subjects What will my subjects be? There are a number of compulsory subjects that all students will study: English Mathematics Sciences Physical Education Modern Foreign Languages Compulsory Curriculum Area with Preference There are two areas of the curriculum which are compulsory but within which there are elements of student preference: Design Technology or Art and Design History or Geography Personal Preference Subjects In addition there are a range of subjects from which students can make a preference. It is important when considering these preferences that subjects are chosen which provide the student with opportunities for their career aspiration and also allow the student to maximise their performance in the assessment of the subject. Work Related Study Skills In addition, some identified students may be advised to consider a work related study skills course which may eventually link to a work related educational experience. This may be off site and will be agreed and negotiated. Additional Courses There will also be short courses in Religious Education and Health & Sex Education which will be planned into each student timetable throughout Key Stage 4. The Citizenship programme of study will be delivered across all curriculum areas and within Personal Tutor sessions. Careers Guidance will also be available, which will allow all students to build a Personal Careers Plan in preparation for the next stage of education or work. Partnerships Each student s individual needs are the main focal point in our partnership with parents. It is the Academy s responsibility to ensure that parents and students are properly advised before decisions are made. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 3
Every student is entitled to an individual programme and the Academy is committed to providing these programmes. However, in the interest of deploying the school s resources effectively, the Academy reserves the right to implement minor amendments to a student s curriculum profile if necessary. What happens next? You will find further details about each subject at the end of this booklet for your information. Mr Clarke, Deputy Head will be co-ordinating your Personal Programme of Study. Programme 4 March 2014 - Year 8 Information Evening and distribution of Personal Programme of Study Packs 12 March 2014 Deadline for the return of Personal Preference Forms to be handed in to Personal Tutors By 24 May 2014 Letter to parents and student providing information on the Personal Programme of Study agreed Reviewed: 13 February 2014 4
What will my subjects be? Compulsory subjects: English Mathematics Sciences Physical Education Modern Foreign Language Geography or History One choice from option 1: Option 1 Art & Design Design Technology Guidance If you wish to study both Art and Design Technology, you may choose Design Technology as one of your 2 choices in option 3, then choose Art in option 1. One choice from option 2: Geography History Option 2 Guidance If you wish to study both Geography and History, you may choose History as one of your 2 choices in option 3, then choose Geography in option 2. Two choices from option 3: Option 3 Performing Arts Dance* Performing Arts-Drama* Music / Music Technology** Health and Social Care History*** Hospitality and Catering Design Technology**** ICT Business Studies Travel and Tourism Guidance *You can study either Dance or Drama **You can study either Music or Music Technology ***Only choose History if you wish to study both Geography and History. ****Only choose Design Technology if you wish to study both Design Technology and Art. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 5
Compulsory Subjects GCSE English In Year 9 students study an English course that combines aspects of literature and language to create a standalone English qualification which bridges the gap between KS3 and KS4. In Year 9 students study three units: Unit 1 - Understanding and Producing Non-Fiction Texts. Unit 2 - Speaking and Listening Unit 3 - Creative Texts. This course includes the study of functional English, a play by Shakespeare, an anthology of poetry and a novel. In Year 10 and 11 most students take both Edexcel s English Language and English Literature GCSEs. English Language consists of three units. 60% of the award is examination based while the remaining 40% is through controlled assessment. Edexcel s English Literature course also consists of three units. 75% of the award is based on examination while 25% is by controlled assessment. These GCSEs offer a broad and balanced range of study which includes a play by Shakespeare, a modern play, two novels, an anthology of poetry, linguistics, functional English and speaking and listening. GCSE Mathematics Students continue to develop their skills, concepts and understanding of the four broad areas of the subject Number, Algebra, Shape and Handling Data. They will also prepare for the new statutory element of mathematics called functional mathematics. Assessment is made at two tiers called Foundation and Higher. No decision is made about the Tier of Entry for a student until the end of Year 10. Students of outstanding ability can take the examination at the end of Year 10 and then progress to GCSE Statistics or AS level work in Year 11. GCSE Sciences In Key Stage 4, students will continue to study Science as three subjects, leading to either 1, 2 or 3 GCSE s depending on the recommendation of the teaching staff. Students will complete controlled assessments, practical investigations, and examinations at the end of the course depending on the route taken. There are three pathways that can be taken: GCSE Science and GCSE Additional Science GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics BTEC Science Reviewed: 13 February 2014 6
GCSE in a Modern Foreign Language The course builds on the foundation established in Key Stage 3 and students will continue with the language programme they have been following in Year 8. Over the three years students will develop their confidence and ability in the four skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. There are four modules. After each module there will be a spoken or written assessment, worth 15% of the course, and the marks from this will go towards the final grade. In order to complete all units, students will be expected to cover a variety of different topics, including Lifestyle, Leisure, Home & Environment, and Work & Education. Teaching will be conducted primarily in the target language. 40% external examination - Unit 1 & Unit 2 (externally assessed) 60% controlled assessment - Unit 3 & Unit 4 (internally/externally assessed) It is possible that some students will not study a language, but will have additional Numeracy or Literacy sessions instead. Parents and students will be advised accordingly in these circumstances. Physical Education Throughout Key Stage 4 all students will receive one practical session and one theory session each week. All students will follow a sport/leisure related theory course depending on the recommendation of teaching staff. There are two courses which can be followed: BTEC First Award in Sport Students will complete 3 coursework units and one externally assessed unit, one of which will be based on practical sport. Students will study: BTEC Level 2 Award in Sport equivalent to 1 GCSE grade A* - C. Students will study two compulsory units and two further optional units depending on the pathway chosen. Compulsory Units: Fitness for Sport and Exercise Practical Sport Performance Reviewed: 13 February 2014 7
Additional Units: The Mind and Sports Performance The Sports Performer in Action GCSE Physical Education 60% coursework including practical scores, observational analysis and a training plan to improve fitness and 40% theory assessed in an external examination. The areas of study include: Health, fitness and lifestyle and training Physical and mental demands and diet The participant as an individual, leisure, recreation and social factors Practical performance in four different sporting activities across a wide range of sports Reviewed: 13 February 2014 8
Compulsory Curriculum Area with Preference (Option 1) Design & Technology There are three main areas of study within Design & Technology: Product Design Resistant Materials Art and Design Students must indicate a preference to study either Product Design or Art and Design. Students are able to study both Art and Product Design. GCSE Design Technology Product Design This course combines the use of graphic media, textiles, resistant materials and CAD/CAM. Final routes to examination will be based upon the recommendation of teachers following assessment of students skill set. A final project enables students to develop a product of their own. CAD/CAM is used to develop both products and electronic circuits. A series of projects in these areas will prepare students for coursework projects and theory work necessary for the examinations. All students follow a core course in Product Design in Year 9. 60% Coursework and 40% examination GCSE Design and Technology - Resistant Materials This specification has been designed to encourage candidates to be able to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of materials and techniques. Candidates will be enthused and challenged by the range of practical activities possible. A working knowledge of woods, metals, plastics and composite materials will be required, but other materials may be used in addition. The use of new technologies is encouraged in this specification. 60% Coursework and 40% examination GCSE Art and Design This course involves the use of a broad range of media and approaches to build up coursework for all students including drawing, painting, printmaking and ceramics. Students also have opportunities for developing more personal themes and ways of working. Students have the opportunity to work with Artists in Residence. There will be a final examination involving time to prepare personally chosen themes from an examination paper for a ten hour final piece. Students will need to produce extensive preparatory work as part of the examination project. 60% Coursework and 40% examination Reviewed: 13 February 2014 9
Compulsory Curriculum Area with Preference (Option 2) Students must indicate a preference to study either Geography or History. Students are able to study both Geography and History. GCSE Geography GCSE Geography involves the study of both the physical and human environment. GCSE Geography students follow the OCR B Specification. Students will study 4 topics throughout the course: Hazards; Rivers & Coasts; Economic Development and Population & Settlement. The course is made up of 3 units: Key Geographical Themes; Sustainable Decision Making and Geographical Enquiry. The Key Geographical Themes is worth 50% of the final grade; it is examined at the end of year 11 and covers 3 of the 4 topics studied. The Sustainable Decision Making is assessed by an exam at the end of year 11; it is worth 25% and covers 1 of the 4 topics. The Geographical Enquiry is assessed through 1 piece of controlled assessment involving fieldwork and is worth 25%. GCSE History During the GCSE History course the students will cover: Germany 1919-1945 This course looks at Germany between the period 1919 and 1945; this is a significant and interesting part of European History. The course studies the Weimar Republic; Hitler and his accession to power; how the Nazis controlled Germany and what it was like to live in Nazi Germany. As part of learning the skills required for this course there is a trip to Belgium which looks at the Battlefields of World War I. This allows a deeper understanding of the context of Europe at the start of the 20 th Century. Medicine through Time, (a development study) Medicine through Time will examine medicine and how it has developed over a period of time (Pre-history to Twentieth Century). Students will learn how different factors can affect either the progression or regression of Medicine at certain times in History. At the end of the course there are 2 exams. The first exam will contain Germany and Medicine through Time and will contribute 45% to their overall GCSE grade. The second exam is a source investigation on a specified area of British medicine and worth 30% of their overall grade. Controlled Assessment During Year 10, students will have to complete one controlled assessment. They will answer a question that is based on the philanthropy of the Darby family in Coalbrookdale during the Industrial Revolution. The students will visit this area as part of their research and the assessment is worth 25% of their grade. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 10
Optional Curriculum Areas (Options 3 and 4) Key Stage 4 Subjects BTEC Level 2 Award in Music Technology This programme of study consists of four units which address key aspects of knowledge and understanding of the music industry, as well as focusing on broader musical aspects such as studio recording and music using ICT. There is a compulsory specialist unit that gives students the opportunity to take an in-depth look into the music profession, focusing on the jobs available within the music industry. This qualification also offers optional specialist units which will allow students to focus on areas of interest. All students will study: BTEC Level 2 Award in Music Technology equivalent to 1 GCSE grade A* - C Students will study two compulsory units and two further optional units depending on the pathway chosen. Compulsory Unit (s): Working in the Music Industry Professional Development in the Music Industry Optional Units: These units cover topics related to the music industry and beyond. Including, planning and leading musical events, studio recording, production and promotion and music using ICT. BTEC Level 2 Award in Music This programme of study consists of four units which address key aspects of knowledge and understanding of the music industry, as well as focusing on broader musical aspects such as musical performance and music composition. There is a compulsory specialist unit that gives students the opportunity to take an in-depth look into the music profession, focusing on the jobs available within the music industry. This qualification also offers optional specialist units which will allow students to focus on areas of interest. All students will study: BTEC Level 2 Award in Music equivalent to 1 GCSE grade A* - C Reviewed: 13 February 2014 11
Students will study two compulsory units and two further optional units depending on the pathway chosen. Compulsory Unit (s): Working in the Music Industry Professional Development in the Music Industry Optional Units: These units cover topics related to the music industry and beyond. Including; practical musical performance, exploring musical theory and composition. Some students will study a GCSE if they have an aptitude and interest in studying Music at AGCE level. GCSE Music The GCSE music course will provide opportunities for students to enjoy and develop their practical musical skills and musical knowledge. There are three areas of study within the Music GCSE course: Performing 30% coursework Students will develop their performing skills on any chosen instrument including voice and will be encouraged to take up instrumental tuition at the Academy. Three performances will be recorded and assessed. Composing and Appraising 30% coursework Students will develop their composing and appraising skills and submit two compositions for assessment. The use of ICT will feature heavily. Listening and Musical Analysis 40% with final examination There will be a variety of musical styles studied through 12 set works and students will further develop their listening skills. The Listening Paper is a series of musical examples taken from these set works with related questions. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 12
BTEC Level 2 First Award in Performing Arts (Dance) No previous Dance experience is required just an enthusiasm and interest. This qualification is aimed at students who not only have a passion for Dance performance but also those who may wish to pursue a career as a choreographer, teacher or Dance analyst. Students will be formally assessed during each unit through coursework and recorded performances that will take place in front of an invited audience. This will ensure students finish their course a confident Dance performer. The BTEC Level 2 First Award in Performing Arts (Dance) is equivalent to 1 GCSE grades A* - C. Students will study one compulsory unit and one further optional specialist skills unit which are assessed internally. They will also study another unit which is assessed externally. Compulsory Units: Preparation, Performance and Production (Internally Assessed) Individual Showcase (Externally Assessed) Unit Optional specialist Dance Skills BTEC Level 2 in Performing Arts (Acting) BTEC Drama is suitable for all students who are interested in performing as well as studying the business of acting. The course is delivered in three units where students will be expected to record their work in written format. They will be formally assessed throughout each unit through coursework and recorded performances that will take place in front of an invited audience. The course covers scripted plays, devised performances as well as studying the business of performing arts including the integration of technical elements such as lighting and sound. BTEC Level 2 in Performing Arts (Acting) is equivalent to 1 GCSE grade A* - C Compulsory Units: Individual Showcase External Assessment Preparation, Performance and Production Unit Optional specialist Acting Skills Reviewed: 13 February 2014 13
Business Studies This programme of study consists of an introductory year to business studies where students will learn key terms, concepts and develop employability skills which will support the remaining two years of study at key stage 4. In year 10 students will study BTEC Level 2 First Award in Business, or those who show an aptitude for the subject will progress on to GCSE Business Studies. BTEC Level 2 First Award in Business Students will develop the following skills: Analysing and selecting information Communicating effectively Teamwork Understanding and interpreting numerical data Problem solving Computer literacy Meeting deadlines Organising time and prioritising work Writing reports The course consists of three units assessed by portfolio work and one external onscreen examination. Core Units Unit 1 Enterprise in the Business World (Internal) Unit 2 Finance for Business (External) Specialist Units Unit 8 Recruitment, Selection and Employment (Internal) Unit 4 Principles of Customer Service (Internal) When completing portfolio evidence students will be assessed in the following ways: Written evidence Creative work Role play/ video evidence GCSE Business will be offered to students who show an aptitude for this subject. In their first year of study students will focus on how businesses start-up before conducting research into a local business to support their controlled assessment. In their final year of study students will learn about business expansion. Assessment is split into 3 units of work: Unit 1 Introduction to Small Business (Externally Assessed, 25% of total GCSE) Unit 2 Investigating Small Business (Controlled Assessment, 25% of total GCSE) Unit 3 Building a Business (Externally Assessed, 50% of total GCSE) Reviewed: 13 February 2014 14
BTEC First level 2 in Health and Social Care Students will study the following units of work: Unit Core units (compulsory) Human Lifespan Development Externally Assessed Health and Social Care Values Unit Optional Effective Communication in Health and Social Care Social Influences on Health and Wellbeing Promoting Health and Wellbeing The Impact of Nutrition on Health and Wellbeing Cultural Diversity in Health and Social Care Individual Rights in Health and Social Care Students will take part in a range of activities including: Visiting health/ social/ educational services Role play activities Creating and designing leaflets/posters/ websites Written documents. Students will be assessed in the following ways: Written evidence Creative work Role play/ video evidence An external assessment BTEC Level 2 First Award in Hospitality This is a course based over a three year period and is a vocational course leading to progression at key stage 5 to the BTEC National Level 3 Post -16. The students will learn about a wide variety of topics giving them a good understanding of the Hospitality and Catering Industry in the UK. They will also develop practical skills in Food Preparation, Food Service and Customer Service skills. In year 9 students will initially complete an induction course where they will develop basic practical skills and take their Chartered Institute of Health Level 1 Certificate in Food Hygiene. The course consists of three units assessed by portfolio work and one external written examination. Core Units Unit 1 Introducing the Hospitality Industry (Theory Unit, External Assessment) Unit 2 Working in the Hospitality Industry (Theory and Practical Unit, Internal Assessment) Reviewed: 13 February 2014 15
Mandatory Unit Unit 3 Food Safety and Health and Safety in Hospitality (Theory Unit, Internal Assessment) Specialist Unit Unit 6 Planning, Preparing, Cooking and Finishing Food (Theory and Practical Unit, Internal Assessment) When completing portfolio evidence students will be assessed in the following ways: Written evidence Creative work Role play/ video evidence Practical Assessment Students will be involved in preparing, cooking and serving food and drinks. To develop their employability skills students are encouraged to support a range of different events, some of which can count as evidence for practical assessments. BTEC First Travel and Tourism Students will study the following compulsory units of work: The UK Travel and Tourism Sector - To gain understanding of the UK travel and tourism sector and start a journey to explore the world of travel and tourism, an exciting and vibrant global sector. Understanding Customer Service in Travel and Tourism - To explore the different approaches to customer service, and appreciate how these lead towards meeting the expectations of customers. Understanding the Nature and Effects of World Travel - To gain awareness of the world from the perspective of the worldwide traveller. Students then study a selection of the following optional units: Development of the UK Travel and Tourism Sector Developing Customer Service Skills in Travel and Tourism UK Tourism Destinations European Holiday Destinations Worldwide Holiday Destinations Holiday Planning Exploring Marketing in Travel and Tourism Students will be assessed in the following ways: Each of the units of the course is assessed individually. Each piece of assessed work must display enough evidence of understanding to receive either a Pass, Merit or Distinction. Evidence for assessment may include activities such as reports, presentations or role plays. There will be an external assessment. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 16
Information Communication Technology (ICT) In Year 9 all students will complete an introductory course preparing them for CiDA and GCSE courses. This will develop skills in online services, mobile technologies, hardware and software systems, programming skills and Microsoft Applications. All students will study the Certificate in Digital Applications (CiDA) award in Year 10. Students who successfully complete the CiDA award will then be given the opportunity to complete the GCSE Computing course in Year 11. Year 10 - Certificate in Digital Applications The new revised Certificate in Digital Applications is designed to engage and encourage students with an interest in creative media production and to equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to design and make effective digital products. It teaches students how to express their creativity in an informed and responsible way and encourage them to reflect on what they produce and strive for excellence. It gives students the skills they need to support future learning and to exploit the creative and commercial employment opportunities on offer in the digital world. It is the equivalent of one GCSE grade A*-C. The new Certificate in Digital Applications includes an external examination which comprises of 25% of the total assessment for the qualification. The external examination takes the form of a practical, computer-based task. Compulsory Unit Developing Web Products External Assessment - Students are expected to use web authoring and other software tools to build and test a web-based product Optional Units Creative Multimedia Artwork and Imaging Game Making Year 11 Computing Science GCSE Computing Science will be offered to students who show an aptitude for this subject. This will include examination and coursework elements. Reviewed: 13 February 2014 17
GCSE History (If you wish to study both Geography and History) During the GCSE History course the students will cover: Germany 1919-1945 This course looks at Germany between the period 1919 and 1945; this is a significant and interesting part of European History. The course studies the Weimar Republic; Hitler and his accession to power; how the Nazis controlled Germany and what it was like to live in Nazi Germany. As part of learning the skills required for this course there is a trip to Belgium which looks at the Battlefields of World War I. This allows a deeper understanding of the context of Europe at the start of the 20 th Century. Medicine through Time, (a development study) Medicine through Time will examine medicine and how it has developed over a period of time (Pre-history to Twentieth Century). Students will learn how different factors can affect either the progression or regression of Medicine at certain times in History. At the end of the course there are 2 exams. The first exam will contain Germany and Medicine through Time and will contribute 45% to their overall GCSE grade. The second exam is a source investigation on a specified area of British medicine and worth 30% of their overall grade. Controlled Assessment During Year 10, students will have to complete one controlled assessment. They will answer a question that is based on the philanthropy of the Darby family in Coalbrookdale during the Industrial Revolution. The students will visit this area as part of their research and the assessment is worth 25% of their grade. GCSE Design Technology Product Design (If you wish to study Art and Design Technology) This course combines the use of graphic media, textiles, resistant materials and CAD/CAM. Some students may follow an electronics course. This course involves the theory of electronics and its applications; all work will involve designing and making electronic products. Final routes to examination will be based upon the recommendation of teachers following assessment of students skill set A final project enables students to develop a product of their own. CAD/CAM is used to develop both products and circuits. A series of projects in these areas will prepare students for coursework projects and theory work necessary for the examinations. All students follow a core course in Product Design in Year 9. 60% Coursework and 40% examination Reviewed: 13 February 2014 18