AS and A Level

Course Handbook

2014-2015

A Level Course Prospectus

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO AS AND A LEVEL COURSES ACCOUNTING ART AND DESIGN (FINE ART) ART AND DESIGN (GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION) ART AND DESIGN (TEXTILE DESIGN) BIOLOGY BUSINESS STUDIES CHEMISTRY ECONOMICS ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE GEOGRAPHY GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS MUSIC PHYSICS PSYCHOLOGY SOCIOLOGY UNIVERSITY ACCESS (FOUNDATION) COURSE IN BUSINESS

A Level Course Prospectus

INTRODUCTION A Level courses offer students aged 16-19 the opportunity to specialise in the subjects they enjoy and in which they have done well at GCSE level or equivalent. A Levels remain the most popular route into UK Universities and our University Counsellor works closely with all A Level students to make sure they are making the right choices of course and university and to support and encourage them in making their UCAS applications. A Levels are based on six units of approximately equal size. Three of the units make up the AS Level (Advanced Subsidiary) which represents the first year of the course and which represents a qualification in its own right and is worth half an A Level in terms of UCAS points. In the second year, students continue with a further three units, known as A2, at the end of which successful candidates will receive the full A Level. The papers at AS level are graded A to E for pass grades, with U (unclassified) for fail. At the second year A Level there is now an additional A* grade to recognise outstanding work. At Padworth, students normally study up to 4 AS Levels during the first year with supporting courses, such as IELTs where needed. It is possible to study fewer subjects or in very exceptional cases to study 5 AS subjects. At the end of the first year, students may choose to stop one of their AS level subjects and carry the remainder through to A Level. Padworth offers a wide range of subjects including Accounting, Art and Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Economics, English Language and Literature, Geography, Government and Politics, Mathematics (Pure Maths, Mechanics and Statistics), Further Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, and Sociology. Please note that Further Mathematics counts as two A Levels – it incorporates all the single subject Mathematics papers as well as others. Further Mathematics is only for very capable Mathematicians. The range of courses is constantly under review and new subjects are offered from time to time. Equally it cannot be guaranteed that all subjects listed will run in any particular year as this depends upon the number of students who wish to take them. Prospective students and parents may specifically request subjects that do not form part of our standard A Level curriculum, e.g. French. While it will not always be possible to meet such requests, some subjects can be offered as an optional extra. There may be extra tuition costs with these subjects. Please ask for further details. If you require any further information, please contact the Principal or Deputy Principal to discuss your requirements. Tel: +44 (0) 118 983 2644 Email: info@padworth.com Fax: +44 (0) 118 983 4515

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL ACCOUNTING

Exam Board: OCR

Accounting is a subject that will appeal to students who enjoy working with numbers, analysing data and problem solving. In the first year, various accounting concepts and principles are introduced and applied to a range of accounting situations. The second year builds on the first year and covers aspects of management accounting and company accounts.

The course provides an excellent foundation for further study of accountancy at university or later. Students wishing to follow a wide range of careers in business or industry will find the decision-making and interpretation skills in particular to be very useful.

Qualification The A level consists of four units.

AS Level - Year 1

Unit 1: Accounting Principles – 40% of AS, 20% of A Level, 1 hour, 80 marks Introduction to Accounting Principles, The Trial Balance, Accounting Concepts, Classification of Expenditure, Changing Asset Values, Ledger Entries and Adjustments, Final Accounts.

Unit 2: Financial Accounting – 60% of AS, 30% of A Level, 2 housr, 120 marks The Journal, Correction of Errors, Control Accounts, Accounting Adjustments and Statements, Organisations, Sole Trader, Partnerships, Clubs and Societies, Analysis and Evaluation of Accounting Statements, ICT in Accounting.

A2 Level - Year 2

Unit 3: Company Accounts and Interpretation – 30% of A Level, 2 hours, 120 marks The Preparation of Final Accounts for Limited Companies, Financing, The Role of Accounting Standards, Analysis and Interpretation of Accounts.

Unit 4: Management Accounting – 20% of A Level, 1 hour, 80 marks Budgeting and Budgetary Control, Standard Costing and Variance Analysis, Capital Expenditure Appraisal, Stock, Costing and Decision Making, Costing Applications, Social Responsibility.

Assessment In the first year, assessment for AS level is undertaken by examinations in Unit 1 and Unit 2 in June. In the second year, students take examinations in Unit 3 and Unit 4 in June.

Entry requirements It is not necessary to have studied Accounting before starting the course, as no prior knowledge is assumed. However an interest and aptitude for mathematics is advisable.

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN COURSES Exam Board: AQA: 2203C (Graphic Communication), 1202B (Fine Art) A range of AS/A Level art and design courses are offered with different specialisms. Students wishing to follow a full-time Art and Design course may choose a combination of 2 A Levels from the following. Students should have a Grade C or above in GCSE Art or equivalent. A good level of drawing ability is required. AS/A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN (FINE ART) Qualification Students are introduced to a variety of experiences whilst exploring a range of media, processes and techniques. This course is particularly suitable for those wishing to study fine art, architecture or interior design at university Areas of study may be selected from the following:

- Painting, drawing and mixed media - Sculpture - Land art, installation and construction - Printmaking - Photography

Assessment Practical coursework: Unit based around a chosen theme incorporating a written personal study (1000-3000 words) – A Level only Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 5 hour exam for AS and a 15 hour exam for A Level AS/A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN (GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION) Qualification Students are introduced to a variety of experiences whilst exploring a range of graphic media and techniques. Suitable for those wishing to study graphics, animation, marketing, media or web design at university Areas of study may be selected from the following:

- Advertising and computer graphics (Photoshop) - Illustration - Packaging - Editorial work

Assessment Practical coursework: Unit based around chosen theme incorporating a written personal study (1000-3000 words) – A Level only Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 5 hour exam for AS and a 15 hour exam

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN (TEXTILE DESIGN) Qualification Textile students will select subject matter from the natural world to inspire their coursework such as marine life or flowers and leaves. They will learn textile techniques such as: Painting on silk Embroidery techniques Designing a repeat pattern Constructed textiles In their work they will consider colour, texture, pattern and form. This course is suitable for those wishing to study courses such as fashion or textiles at university. Assessment Practical coursework: Units based around a chosen theme, for A level this work incorporates a written personal study (1000-3000 words) Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 5 hour exam for AS and a 15 hour exam at A level.

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL BIOLOGY Exam Board: AQA This course is taught over two years. After one year, however, students are awarded AS Level, which counts a stand-alone qualification. The second year of the course cannot be taken without having been awarded the AS level. Students wishing to study this course must have GCSE grade C or higher in Biology, Maths, English and preferably Chemistry. As with the GCSE course, the complex scientific vocabulary demands a confident speaker of English. Over the two years, students explore ways in which living organisms are affected by and fight disease, find food, use energy, regulate their bodies, get rid of waste substances, exploit their environments and produce offspring. Students also study the impacts of certain biotechnological advances. Students are encouraged to think for themselves and to take responsibility for their studies (in preparation for university), but the course is clearly structured, with a variety of regular assignments and plenty of practical work and practice on past papers. Skills and qualities that are developed include experimental design, observation, safe use of scientific apparatus, data analysis and statistics, exam technique, awareness of human effects on our planet and respect for all life. AS Level (Year 1) Qualification Topics covered include: Unit 1:

- The normal structure and function of mammalian digestive and gas exchange systems and how they can be affected by communicable and non-communicable diseases.

- How the body defends against disease. - The interpretation of data relating to risk factors for diseases.

Unit 2: - The influence of genetic and environmental factors on intra-specific variation - How the variety of life is reflected in similarities and differences in biochemical basis

and cellular organization - The effect of size and metabolic rate on an organism’s requirements, and how this

gives rise to adaptations Unit 3:

- Investigative Skills Assessment (ISA) – practical skills assessment carried out in the contexts of Units 1 and 2

Assessment The AS specification comprises three units, each of which is assessed and contributes to the total grade. The first two Units are assessed by external exams, and Unit 3 is a centre -assessed unit evaluating practical and investigative skills. Unit 1 is 33% of the total AS-Level grade (16% of the total A-Level grade), Unit 2 is 46% (23%) and Unit 3 is 20% (10%).

A Level Course Prospectus

A2 Level (Year 2) Qualification Topics covered include: Unit 4:

- How living organisms form ecosystems through which energy is transferred and chemical elements cycled.

- How human activity affects the ecological balance in a variety of ways - How genetic variation and isolation may lead to the formation of new species.

Unit 5:

- The biology behind the workings of the nervous and endocrine systems - Homeostasis and the maintenance of a constant internal environment - Genes and Genetic Expression - Gene technology

Unit 6: - Investigative Skills Assessment (ISA) – practical skills assessment carried out in the

contexts of Units 4 and 5 Assessment The A2 specification comprises three units; two assessed by external exams, and one a centre assessed practical unit. Units 4, 5 and 6 are worth 16%, 23% and 10% of the total grade, respectively. Entry Requirements GCSE grade C or higher in Biology, Mathematics, English and preferably Chemistry. For more information about this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL BUSINESS STUDIES Exam Board: AQA Qualification The course provides a good foundation for the further study of Business in higher education as well as providing a good general education. It is also useful for students intending to pursue careers in any area of business. Students will develop an understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. They will also study business behaviour and be made aware of the economic, environmental, ethical, governmental, legal, social and technological issues associated with business activity.

- Planning and Financing a Business - Starting a business, Financial planning - Managing a Business – Finance, People in business, Operations management,

Marketing and the competitive environment - Strategies for Success - Functional objectives and strategies, Financial strategies and

accounts, Marketing strategies, Operational strategies, Human resource strategies - The Business Environment and Managing Change - Corporate aims and objectives,

Assessing changes in the business environment, Managing change Assessment AS Level - Year 1 Planning and financing a business - Examination 1 hour 15 minutes and consists of short answer questions and extended responses based on a mini case study. 40% of the AS level and 20% of the A Level Managing a business – Examination 1 hour 30 minutes and consists of compulsory, multi-part data response questions 60% of the AS level and 30% of the A level A level – Year 2 Strategies for Success – Examination 1 hour 45 minutes 25% of the A Level and consists of questions requiring extended answers based on an unseen case study drawing upon knowledge from AS units. The Business Environment and Managing Change – Examination 1 hour 45 minutes 25% of A level and consists of pre-release research tasks leading to the first section of a two section examination. The second section will consist of a choice of essays. All questions will be essay style and synoptic therefore drawing upon knowledge from all four units. Entry requirements No prior business studies knowledge is required to undertake this two-year course of study. Students must have an acceptable level of English language understanding (at least GCSE English grade C or equivalent) as written essays are a major part of assessment. For more information on this course, please visit http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL CHEMISTRY Exam Board: AQA Chemistry is the study of the substances that help to make our life more comfortable. Materials developed by chemists can be seen in the clothes we wear, the fuels that we burn in our homes and cars, fertilisers used in the production of our food and in the medicines we take. Chemists need also to study how and why substances react together and how they can change the properties of compounds so as to produce those characteristics that will be beneficial to humans. Qualification The course develops those skills learnt at GCSE or its equivalent and develops the students' interest and enjoyment of chemistry. It aims to produce an appreciation of the interlinking patterns that exist amongst the chemical elements so that predictions can be made about the likely structure and reactions of elements not previously studied. AS Level – Year 1 At AS Level candidates are given a solid grounding in foundation Chemistry. The specification introduces the chemical reactivity of atoms and molecules and provides an understanding of their structures. The development and use of the periodic table is explained. The introduction of Practical Skills Assignments allows credit to be given for work done in routine class practicals.

- Unit 1 Foundation chemistry - Particles, composition of the nucleus, isotopes and use of mass spectrometer, Calculating the amount of substance, Ionic, covalent and metallic bonding and intermolecular forces, The construction of the periodic table Organic chemistry, Alkanes from crude oil.

- Unit 2 Chemistry in Action - Collision theory and effect, Definitions of oxidation and reduction, Redox properties of halogens and halide ions, The extraction of Metals, Haloalkanes and alkenes

- Unit 3: Investigative and Practical skills - Making observations and measurements, Analysing and evaluating results

Assessment

- Unit 1: 1 hour 15 minutes weighting: 33% of total AS Level. 4 - 6 short answer questions plus one or two longer structured questions.

- Unit 2: 1 hour 45 minutes weighting: 46% of total AS Level 23% of total A Level marks mark. 6 - 8 short answer questions plus two longer questions.

- Unit 3: Internal Assessment Weighting: 20% of total AS Level marks 10% of total A Level marks. Teacher assessment of practical skills (PSA) 12 marks. Teacher assessment of investigative assignment (ISA) 38 marks.

A Level Course Prospectus

A Level - Year 2 At A2 Level the specification develops the concepts of physical chemistry introduced at AS. Candidates will study kinetics, equilibria, organic chemistry and spectroscopic techniques to determine the molecular formulae and structures of organic compounds. Candidates will continue to be assessed through PSA, gaining credit for work done in routine class practicals.

- Unit 4: Kinetics, Equilibria and Organic Chemistry - Acids and bases, Nomenclature and Isomerism in organic chemistry, Compounds containing the carbonyl group, Amines; base properties and nucleophilic properties, Polymers, Organic synthesis and analysis.

- Unit 5: Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry – Thermodynamics, Periodicity; reactions of Period 3 elements, Redox equilibria, General properties of transition metals.

- Unit 6: Investigative and practical skills - Making observations and measurements, Analysing and evaluating results.

Assessment

- Unit 4: Written exam paper (1 hr 45 mins) accounting for 20% of total marks - Unit 5: Written exam paper (1hr 45 mins) accounting for 20% of total marks - Unit 6: Internal assessment of practical and investigative skills accounting for 10% of

total marks Entry requirements Pre-requisites for taking the course are GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or higher in Chemistry, Mathematics and English. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL ECONOMICS Exam Board: OCR We all play a role in the economy and all our lives are influenced by economic events. This course aims to develop an understanding of economic models and theories so that they can be applied to the real-world issues reported by the media. Students are given the opportunity to learn the tools of economic analysis and to acquire the skills for evaluating the decisions made by consumers, producers, citizens and governments. By adopting an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach to the study of economics, students are able to develop both their enthusiasm for the subject and also their ability to think as an economist. The course offers a sound basis for progression into higher education in Economics or related subjects, including Finance and Investment Banking, Business Administration, Environmental Planning, Transport and Logistics and Globalisation Studies. This qualification also offers students the opportunity to enter directly into employment, particularly in the fields of business, finance and the professional service sector. Qualification AS Level – Year 1 Unit 1: ‘Markets in Action’.- We use micro-economic models to explain how markets work, why markets can fail and why they may need government intervention. Unit 2: ‘The National and International Economy - This unit explains how levels of macro-economic activity (such as the level of investment by firms) are determined and how the government tries to maintain economic growth. A Level – Year 2 Unit 3: ‘Transport Economics’ - Should the airline companies compete in a free market or should their services regulated by the government? Transport Economics applies micro-economic theory to the markets in which the transport services operate. Unit 4: ‘The Global Economy’ - Macro-economic theory is applied to current world issues, such as international trade and integration, sustainable economic development and the process of globalisation. Assessment Each unit is assessed by a written examination paper which accounts for 25% of the total A Level marks. Unit 1: Written paper 1 hour 30 minutes. Unit 2: Written paper 1 hour 30 minutes. Unit 3: Written paper 2 hours. Unit 4: Written paper 2 hours (based on pre-released stimulus material). Entry requirements No previous study of this subject is required but students should have an interest in current affairs. Students will require a Grade C or above in GCSE English and Mathematics or equivalent. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.ocr.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE Exam Board: AQA English Language and Literature B Qualification AS Level – Year 1 At AS level, this specification will enable candidates to study language and literature using an anthology of literary and non-literary texts and a chosen set of paired texts. Further study will focus upon the ways in which different writers have approached similar subjects and the ways in which language and style are affected by change over time and contextual variation. Unit 1: Introduction to Language and Literature Study

- The study of an Anthology of thematically linked spoken and written texts which will offer candidates the opportunity to consider the three major literary genres and a range of non-literary texts.

- Significant features of writers' uses of language and their attitudes towards a specified theme.

Unit 2: Themes in Language and Literature

- Major prose genres, including fiction and literary non-fiction - Developing reading and writing skills through the in-depth study of writers' crafting - The study of one set of paired texts from a prescribed list - for example: Charlotte

Bronte's Jane Eyre and Jean Rhys's Wide Sargasso Sea. Assessment Unit 1: Assessment is by examination consisting of a written paper (1 hr 30 mins) with a weighting of 60% of total AS / 30% of total A Level marks - Two compulsory questions: one on an unseen text(s) which will be related to the themes of the Anthology; one on the Anthology itself. The questions will address thematic and stylistic issues, with a focus on: a) writers' or speakers' use of language and b) their attitudes towards a particular theme. Unit 2: Assessment will be by two-part coursework assignment which accounts for 40% of the total marks for AS level and 20% of total A Level marks. The first part will focus on candidates' ability to structure a comprehensive and informed discussion of a set theme, by appropriately using selected extracts from a studied text pairing. The second will focus on candidates' ability to write creatively and demonstrate skills in a way which also provides evidence of their understanding of the texts as a whole. A Level – Year 2 The course includes coursework as a means of applying the knowledge, understanding and insights gained from literary and linguistic studies to transform an original work into a different genre or sub genre. Candidates will demonstrate the use of appropriate terminology when analysing set texts. Drama texts will be included at A2 level. Unit 3: Talk in Life and Literature

- The skills and knowledge of literary and linguistic concepts and approaches to a variety of transcripts of real life, spoken situations

- The construction, conveyance and interpretation of meanings, both in drama and in real life speech

A Level Course Prospectus

- The further development of key skills of communication and self-learning and performance.

Unit 4: Text Transformation The choice of two literary works from a selection of prescribed authors and their transformation into different genres or sub-genres The development of key skills of communication, self-learning and performance and problem solving. Assessment Unit 3: Assessment is by examination (2 hrs) which accounts for 30% of the total A Level marks. There are two questions: One is based on an extract from a prescribed play and one question requiring candidates to compare two unseen texts; one transcript and one literary text on the same theme. Unit 4: Assessment will be by the production of a coursework folder (accounting for 20% of total A Level marks) that includes the transformed texts and associated commentary or commentaries. Candidates will apply the knowledge, understanding and insights gained from literary and linguistic studies to transform the original work into a different genre, or 'sub genre' and to provide a commentary which reflects upon their work, demonstrating greater understanding of the creative process. Entry requirements Students must have an acceptable level of English language understanding (at least GCSE English grade C or equivalent) as written essays are a major part of assessment. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL GEOGRAPHY Exam Board: AQA Unit Summary of content Qualification This course provides a flexible, issue-centred study of environmental processes and issues which are relevant to the 21st century. A level Geography helps to develop skills of understanding, analysis, interpretation and communication. Geographers are well placed to find employment in sectors as diverse as Government administration; The Environment Agency, Law, the European Union, Transport, Education and Research. Fieldwork is an essential component of A level Geography studies, as experiencing phenomena in the field helps to reinforce information taught in the classroom. Candidates also develop skills of observation, recording, data collection and analysis- valuable transferable skills. AS fieldwork includes visiting the world famous Jurassic Coast in Dorset, to observe coastal landforms and to evaluate the impact of tourism. At A2, fieldwork involves a week-long residential visit to Dale Fort, Pembrokeshire in west Wales. This visit is run in conjunction with the Biology department, and Ecosystems are studied which are a major component of both subjects. Unit 1 (AS year) Physical and Human Geography

- The study of core geographical concepts along with contrasting themes of contemporary or environmental impact, management and sustainability. Candidates must study the core topics of Rivers, floods and management and Population change.

- One topic from Cold environments, Coastal environments and Hot desert environments

- One topic from Food supply issues, Energy issues and Health issues Unit 2 (AS year) Geographical Skills

- A geographical skills paper based on the content of Unit 1. Skills include: investigative, cartographic, graphical, ICT and statistical skills.

Unit 3 (A2 year) Contemporary Geographical Issues. An issues-based approach to contemporary geographical themes. Candidates must select three topics: at least one from the physical options of Plate tectonics and associated hazards, Weather and climate, or Ecosystems: change and challenge and at least one from the human options of World cities, Development and globalisation, or Contemporary conflicts and challenges Unit 4A (A2 year) Geographical Issue Evaluation or Geography Fieldwork Investigation Assessment AS Level

- Unit 1: Physical and Human Geography - 2 hour written exam 120 marks for 70% of AS and 35% of A Level

- Unit 2: Geographical Skills -1 hour written exam for 50 marks. 30% of AS and 15% of

A Level Course Prospectus

A Level A Level

- Unit 3: Contemporary Geographical Issues. A 2 hours 30 minutes written exam for 90 marks. 30% of A Level

- Unit 4: Geography Fieldwork or Geographical Issue. 1 hors 30 minutes written exam for 60 marks. 20% of A level

Course requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English and Mathematics. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL GOVERNMENT & POLITICS Examination Board: AQA Students should be prepared to read newspapers and follow current events. Conferences will include some leading British politicians. Qualification AS Year 1

- Unit 1: People, Politics and Participation. Political behaviour in the UK - it explores how people's different patterns of participation can be explained and the forms of participation in a democracy. The importance of voting behaviour, the influence of electoral systems in communicating political opinion and the controversies surrounding the use of referendums are crucial topics for analysis.

- Unit 2: Governing Modern Britain. The process of governing the UK, with power dispersed from local to European levels. The role of Westminster in providing a democratic element in government is examined as well as the degree to which power rests in the hands of unelected bureaucrats.

A2 Year 2

- Unit 3: The Politics of the USA. Amongst a number of topics we study the main characteristics of presidential and congressional elections and campaigns and the main influences on their outcomes.

- Unit 4: The Government of the USA. We study a number of features of the government apparatus of the USA grounding all our work on the nature and significance of the US Constitution and the framework of government that it lays down. The importance of the constitutional principles of the separation of powers and checks and balances to the operation of government and the way that these apply in practice today.

Assessment

- Unit 1: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. 50% of AS, 25% of A Level

- Unit 2: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. 50% of AS, 25% of A Level

- Unit 3: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. Two topics from a choice of four. 25% of A Level.

- Unit 4: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks topics from a choice of four. 25% of A Level.

Entry Requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English. For more information on this course please go to www.aqa.org.uk/

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL SINGLE MATHEMATICS (Single Award) Single Mathematics is a valuable qualification for students intending to study Mathematics and related subjects at university. It is very necessary for Medicine and Engineering and preferable for those studying the sciences at A Level and at university. A number of the social sciences also require a mathematical background to this level. Exam Board: Edexcel Qualification In Year 1 three papers are studied for the AS qualification

- Core Mathematics 1 - Core Mathematics 2 - Mechanics 3

In Year 2 three papers are studied to complete the A Level qualification.

- Core Mathematics 3 - Core Mathematics 4 - Statistics 1

Assessment Each unit is assessed with a one and a half hour paper (which is allocated 75 marks). Each unit carries equal weighting. Core Mathematics 1 is a non-calculator paper. For all other papers calculators are allowed. Entry Requirements GCSE Mathematics or equivalent to grade “B” or above For more information on this course, please go to http://www.edexcel.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL FURTHER MATHEMATICS (Double Award) Exam Board: Edexcel 9371 and 9372 Qualification This option is for those who are very keen on Mathematics and who are likely to consider studying Mathematics, or a closely related subject, at university. In Year 1 six papers are studied for the AS qualification

- Core Mathematics 1 - Core Mathematics 2 - Core Mathematics 3 - Core Mathematics 4 - Mechanics 1 - Statistics 1

In Year 2 - six units are studied - Further Pure 1 - Further Pure 2 - Further Pure 3 - Decision 1 - Statistics 2 - Mechanics 2

Entry Requirements IGCSE mathematics or equivalent to grade “A” or above Assessment Each unit is assessed with a one and a half hour paper (which is allocated 75 marks). Each unit carries equal weighting. Core mathematics 1 is a non-calculator paper. For all other papers calculators are allowed. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.edexcel.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL PHYSICS Exam Board: AQA

Physics is a subject of enormous breadth. It examines the workings of the Universe with its billions of stars and ranges down to the behaviour of tiny particles inside atoms from which we and everything around us are made. Areas of study include natural philosophy and raise many questions that current research seeks to answer. Physics is increasingly extending into every area of our lives - computers, the Internet, mass media, modern transportation systems and medicine. Experimental skills are considered very important in Physics and these are developed in a dedicated Physics Laboratory with computer links. Emphasis is given to progress in current research and we use scientific literature, videos, etc to keep up to date and to promote discussion. The study of Physics finds applications in many varied fields such as:

- Scientific research - what is the nature of reality - Engineering - the appliance of science to change our surroundings - Computing and Electronics - producing ever increasing complexity - Medicine, scanners, nuclear medicine, and micro- and nano - technologies - Financial World - modelling financial systems - Management - developing problem-solving skills - Media storage and communication technology

Qualification AS Level – Year 1

- Unit 1 - Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity - Unit 2 - Mechanics, Materials and Waves - Unit 3 - Investigative skills assignment

A2 Level – Year 2

- Unit 4 - Fields and Further Mechanics, - Unit 5 - Thermal Physics, Nuclear Physics and Medical applications of Physics - Unit 6 - Investigative skills assignment

Assessment Assessment will be by examinations. In year 1 there is a 75 minute exam for unit 1 and another for unit 2. In year 2 the exams are 1 hour 45 minutes; one for unit four and one for unit 5. Units 3 and 6 are Investigative skills assignments which are Controlled Assessments carried out at the College. Entrance requirements Students will normally be required to have a Grade C or above in GCSE Physics or equivalent. Students also need to be confident in using their mathematics For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY Exam Board: AQA Psychology A Level is one of the fastest-growing subjects in Britain. It is of interest to students both of the sciences and the humanities. Qualification The A level course consists of four units.

- Unit 1 – Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods. A one hour 30 minutes paper making up 50% of the total AS marks. Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one 12 mark question requiring extended writing in which Quality of Written Communication (QWC) will be assessed.

- Unit 2 – Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences. A one hour 30 minutes paper making up 50% of the total AS marks. Three compulsory structured questions. Questions include short answer, stimulus material and one or more 12 mark questions requiring extended writing in which QWC will be assessed.

- Unit 3 – Topics in Psychology. A one hour 30 minutes paper making up 25% of the total A Level marks. Three essay-style questions chosen from eight topics: Biological rhythms and sleep, Perception, Relationships, Aggression, Eating behaviour, Gender, Intelligence and learning, Cognition and development. QWC will be assessed in each essay.

- Unit 4 – Psychopathology, Psychology in Action and Research Methods. A two hour paper making up 25% of the total A Level marks. Three sections: Psychopathology, Psychology in Action, Research Methods.

Assessment Assessment is by means of written examination only. Entry requirements No previous study of Psychology is required but students will normally be required to have a Grade C or above in GCSE English and Maths or equivalent. It is also desirable to have a good general knowledge and an interest in current affairs. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

AS/A LEVEL SOCIOLOGY Exam Board: AQA Specification 2190 "Studying Sociology may not change your life but it should change the way you look at life, at people and at society, both in the United Kingdom and worldwide" (Sociology for AS, 2008) Sociology is a particular way of looking at society and social life and has several ways of doing this, but they all have one thing in common- they do not take anything at face value. If you are interested in challenging pre-conceived ideas about the way society works, then Sociology could be for you. AS Level - Year 1 Candidates will acquire knowledge of contemporary social processes and social changes. They will be encouraged to develop their own sociological awareness through active engagement with the contemporary social world.

- Unit 1: Culture and Identity, Families and Households, Wealth, Poverty and Welfare. - Unit 2: Education, Health, Sociological Methods.

Assessment

- Unit 1: A one hour written paper making up 40% of the total AS and 20% of total A Level marks. Candidates choose one topic from three and answer one question. Each question consists of five parts.

- Unit 2: A two hour written paper making up 60% of the total AS and 30% of total A Level marks. Candidates choose one topic (Education or Health) and answer one question on the chosen topic, one question on sociological research methods and one question on free-standing research methods.

A Level – Year 2 Candidates will continue to focus on contemporary society but they should demonstrate a wider range and greater depth of knowledge and understanding and more highly developed skills of application, analysis, interpretation and evaluation.

- Unit 3: Beliefs in Society, Global Development, Mass Media, Power and Politics. - Unit 4: Crime and Deviance, Stratification and Differentiation, Theory and Methods.

Assessment

- Unit 3: A one hour 30 minutes paper making up 20% of the total A level marks. Candidates choose one topic from four and answer one compulsory question and one question from a choice of two.

- Unit 4: A two hour paper making up 30% of the total A Level marks. There are three questions - one question on the chosen topic, one on sociological research methods and one question on theory and methods.

Entry Requirements No prior knowledge is required for AS Sociology, but you should possess good communication skills, including an acceptable level of English language (minimum grade C at GCSE or equivalent). For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

A Level Course Prospectus

UNIVERSITY ACCESS COURSE (Business Foundation) This is a one-year foundation in business course which acts in place of A Levels as an entrance qualification to British Universities. Qualification The course is designed to improve academic achievement in the subjects which students plan to study at University, to foster the more analytical approach to learning which is required in British universities and to ensure that students attain the standard of English Language required to successfully undertake a degree course. Students work in small classes of 10-12 students facilitating individual attention and tuition from the highly qualified and experienced teachers. The course requires three terms of study, normally September to June. In very exceptional circumstances a university may accept a two-term course starting in January, but is more likely to require a student to continue classes through July and August. Most university programmes in Britain start in late September or early October. However the University of Buckingham offers courses beginning in January and therefore accepts students from Padworth who begin the course in January and complete it in December. The structure and content of the course is tailored to the individual student depending on the academic subjects they choose and their English Language ability. In general, there are 24 hours of tuition per week of which approximately 12 hours will be spent following classes in at least two academic subjects appropriate to his or her planned degree course. Students who need to improve their English Language skills in order to achieve the minimum entrance requirement receive about 6 hours of intensive language teaching per week. However the course is extremely flexible and where appropriate, a student may follow up to 12 hours of English Language tuition and only one academic subject, or alternatively, native speakers and non-native speakers who already have an acceptable language qualification may select a third academic subject. The remainder of the course comprises 3 hours per week of Information Technology with 3 hours of either study skills or GCSE Mathematics which is a compulsory requirement for university admission in the UK. In addition each student has a weekly tutorial session with the Course Director. Assessment Throughout the year, the student compiles a portfolio of coursework which includes a series of fifteen written assignments. Internal examinations take place mid-year to monitor progress and at the end of the course. The overall result is an average of the grades for the coursework and the final written examination, both of which are internally assessed. University Entrance Padworth has an excellent record in placing its Access students on university courses. We provide individual counselling for each student to support and guide them in the selection and application process. The course is recognised by an increasing number of British universities as an entrance qualification for undergraduate study and in recent years, students who have successfully completed the course have been admitted, or have been offered a place by the following universities:

A Level Course Prospectus

St Andrews University Exeter University Aston University Business School

Royal Holloway College University of London Brunel University

University of Buckingham Coventry University University of Kent

Middlesex University Oxford Brookes University South Bank University

University of Surrey Cardiff University Winchester University

Whilst the University Access course provides an entry qualification for a wide range of courses at British Universities, students interested in the University Access course are advised that some of the more competitive degree courses are only open to students with at least 3 A Levels. Padworth provides a comprehensive range of A Level courses and specialist English Language support for all students. Entry requirements The course is especially suitable for students aged 17+ wishing to go to university in the UK who have completed their high school education but who have not taken A level examinations or their equivalent. With regard to level of English, we will usually require an IELTS equivalent of 5.0. For more information about this course, please contact Jane Joy