SKI Options Booklet - As of 17.01.13

7/29/2019 SKI Options Booklet - As of 17.01.13

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Learning Pathways

General course details

All pupils will follow the AQA English Language and English Literature courses.

What sort of activities will I be doing in class?

A range of speaking and listening tasks.

Writing for different audiences and purposes.Reading contemporary texts as well as texts from The English Literary Heritage.

The set texts for the exams are: "Of Mice and Men" and " An Inspector Calls". "Of Mice

and Men" is also studied for a Controlled Assessment. For the Shakespeare and the

Literary Heritage assessed work pupils will study “Romeo and Juliet” and one other

text from the English Literary Heritage.

What sort of homework will I be expected to do?

You should expect to complete two pieces per week

How will I be assessed?Coursework has now been replaced by controlled assessment – about 20 hours over

the course, comprising 5 or 6 individual pieces of work. All controlled assessments are

done in school.

Speaking and listening are practical assessments and there will be approximately six

over the two years.

English Language: 40% written controlled assessment; 20% speaking and

listening; 40% External examination.

English Literature: 25% written controlled assessment; 75% external examination.

Outstanding work demonstrates originality, an understanding of wider contextual

issues and is fluent and engaging. Extensive reading and research are also required.

Do I need any special skills and/or equipment?

It‟s a good idea to get hold of your own copy of the exam texts for the literature

paper.

What enrichment opportunities are there?

Theatre visits. Poetry Live. Participation in the English Speaking Union

Is there any other specific advice you would give?

Develop a love of reading. Read a range of texts (both fiction and non-fiction) on aregular basis.

GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE CORE

& ENGLISH LITERATURE CONTACT: MRS K

AWARDING BODY: AQA

ENG LANG EXAM

= 40%

ENG LIT EXAM = 75%

ENG LANG CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%

ENG LIT CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 25%



Learning Pathways 2

What could this course lead to in the future?

AQA Religious Studies B 4055Two units of work for a Full Course GCSE:

Religion and Life Issues 40552

Religion and Morality 40553

UNIT 2 Religion and Life Issues:This unit is intended to encourage candidates to reflect upon religion and life including

animal life and environmental issues, prejudice, the right to life, war and peace, religion and

young people. In the examination candidates will be expected to illustrate their answers by

reference to actual examples in relation to the issues raised, and to make appropriate

references to religious stories, teachings and practices that they have studied.

UNIT 2 Religion and Morality:The aim of this unit is to enable candidates to address fundamental questions about the basis

for religious beliefs and behaviour and to investigate ways in which religious beliefs and

values are relevant to specified moral issues and behaviour such as medical ethics, crimeand punishment, euthanasia, drug abuse and poverty.

What sort of activities will I be doing in class?Lessons will include a variety of activities including group work, source work, presentations

and also extended writing.

What sort of Homework will I be expected to do?You will be required to research a number of issues and the response of different religions

using websites such as www.reonline.org.uk , www.request.org.uk and

www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/ as well as Boardworks power point presentations.Also questions from past exams will be set to help students gain experience in answering

GCSE questions.

How much homework can I expect each week?Homework is set every week.

Do I need any special skills?

1. The ability to select and organise information to demonstrate a sound knowledge of a

topic.

2. The ability to describe, explain and analyse the relevance of religion to daily life and

moral issues using knowledge and understanding.

GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES CORE CONTACT: MR M WILLIAMS

AWARDING BODY:AQA B 4055

EXAM 100%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = NONE

http://www.reonline.org.uk/



http://www.request.org.uk/



http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/rs/







Learning Pathways 3

3. Use evidence and reasoned argument to express and evaluate personal responses,

informed insights, and differing viewpoints.

How will my work be assessed?

Assessment: Two written Papers, 1 hour 30 minutes.


We will invite visitors in to talk about a range of topics from Animal Rights and the

Environment to Drug Abuse and Third World Aid.


Keep your eye on the news - there will be lots of stories which link to the issues we study.

Those stories could figure in exam papers, which are written about fifteen months before you

sit the exam, and often use topical stories. News stories certainly give you a bigger range of

examples to use in your answers when you are trying to explain a point.

What could this course lead to in the future?This course leads on to a Religious Studies A level in Philosophy and Ethics.



Learning Pathways 4


GCSE Science A - Year 10Biology 1

How do human bodies respond to changes inside them and to their environment?

What can we do to keep our bodies healthy?

How do we use/abuse medical and recreational drugs?

What causes infectious disease and how can our bodies defend themselves against

them? What determines where particular species live and how many of them there are?

Why are individuals of the same species different from each other?

What new methods do we have for producing plants and animals with the

characteristics we prefer?

Chemistry 1

How do rocks provide building materials?

How do rocks provide metals and how are metals used?

How do we get fuels from crude oil?

How are polymers and ethanol made from oil?

How can plant oils be used?

What are the changes in the Earth and its atmosphere?

Why have some species of plants and animals died out?

How do new species of plants and animals develop?

How do humans affect the environment?

Physics 1

How is heat (thermal energy) transferred and what factors affect the rate at which

heat is transferred?

What is meant by the efficient use of energy?

Why are electrical devices so useful?

How should we generate the electricity we need?

What are the uses and hazards of the waves that form the electromagnetic

spectrum? What are the uses and dangers of emissions from radioactive substances?

What do we know about the universe and how it continues to change?

How will I be assessed?

GCSE Science A

There are three teaching units and three 1 hour written tests (tiered), to be sat in

June 2014. This will make up 75% of your marks.

The Investigative skills assignment (ISA) 25% will be coursework based.

There are at least two pieces of assessed coursework.

To achieve the highest grades your work should demonstrate an applied

understanding of the concepts taught.

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

EXAM

= 75%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 25%

GCSE SCIENCE CORE

CONTACT: MR R KHODABACKSH

http://www.wjec.co.uk/



Learning Pathways 5

GCSE Additional Science (Year 11)Biology 2 [B2]

What are animals and plants built from?

How do dissolved substances get into and out of cells?

How do plants obtain the food they need to live and grow?

What happens to energy and biomass at each stage in a food chain? What happens to the waste material produced by plants and animals?

What are enzymes and what are some of their functions?

How do our bodies keep internal conditions constant?

Which human characteristics show a simple pattern of inheritance?

Chemistry 2 [C2]

How do sub-atomic particles help us to understand the structure of substances?

How do structures influence the properties and uses of substances?

How much can we make and how much do we need to use?

How can we control the rates of chemical reaction?

Do chemical reactions always release energy?

How can we use ions in solutions? Physics 2 [P2]

How can we describe the way things move?

How do we make things speed up or slow down?

What happens to the movement energy when things speed up or slow down?

What is momentum?

What is static electricity, how can it be used and what is the connection between static electricity and electric currents?

What does the current through an electrical circuit depend on?

What is mains electricity and how can it be used safely?

Why do we need to know the power of electrical appliances?

What happens to radioactive substances when they decay? What are nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?


GCSE Additional Science

Three 1 hour papers (tiered) containing structured questions, available in June

2015 [B2+C2+P2] – 75%

The science 2 centre-assessed unit (coursework – 25%)

The investigative skills assignment (ISA)

GCSE Science A, GCSE Additional Science and the separate sciences all have a

common type of centre-assessed unit.The investigative skills assignment (ISA) assesses the pupil‟s ability to undertake a task

and collect, process and evaluate data. The ISA can be carried out at any time

during the course.

Pupils carry out a practical task set by AQA, under normal laboratory conditions they

then take two written test under controlled conditions. The test asks questions

concerning the data collected during the practical task as well as that provided as

part of the tests. The tests are marked by the teacher using detailed marking

guidance from AQA.

What sort of activities will I be doing in class?Practical Experiments/ Group work/ Role play/Fieldwork for Biology



Learning Pathways 6


Two one hour pieces of homework per week per subject

Explanation, evaluation, graphical analysis


Calculator, revision guides (essential) (which you can purchase from school)


There will be opportunities to attend lectures outside the department, however the

key is application to the „real world‟ – which is how the course is designed


Ensure that you are aware of key examination dates and use resources which are

available on the internet

What could this course lead to in the future?Science offers an entrance to all careers. It is advantageous, whatever route you

decide to take – as science prepares you for real life.

To make informed decisions based upon data, to critically evaluate evidence and to

balance ethical, religious and moral issues with a scientific perspective



Learning Pathways 7


We follow the Edexcel examinations board specification. The GCSE course combines

both coursework and a final examination project.

The coursework comprises of two extended projects, which last two terms each. This is

worth 60% of the final GCSE grade. They are thematic projects, which are internally set

by the Department.The final examination is externally set by the examination board and is also thematic in

content. The paper is released 8 weeks prior to a ten-hour terminal exam. It is worth 40%

of the final GCSE grade.


A range of art activities in a variety of media, sizes and styles in 2D and 3D.

Both the coursework and terminal examination projects will include the exploration of a

variety of media, processes and techniques. The projects will include working from the

observed, the imaginative and the studied. There will be opportunities to work in both 3-

dimensional and 2-dimentional media. All units of work cater for the individual andprogress is monitored and targets set via personalised learning programmes and

individual tutorials.


Homework is set each lesson. The homeworks set vary weekly and include collecting

research, producing images in a variety of media, composition and designing. The

expected homework allowance is 2-4 hours per week.

Art clubs are available to pupils to support the learning.

How will I be assessed?Coursework assignments are set throughout the course. You will be led through this

process and it will be personalised for you. The class teacher regularly assesses units of

work in progress and verbal and written feedback tutorials are given following these.

In all you will complete 45 hours of class work and 30 hours of externally set assignment.

At the end of a project the work is provisionally assessed supported by written and

verbal feedback. At the end of the course the teacher assessor marks all of the work. A

representative of the examination board then moderates this.


A strong interest in Art is essential.

GCSE ART OPTION

CONTACT: MR R MCPAUL

AWARDING BODY:

EDEXCEL

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%




Learning Pathways 8

An ability to sustain an interest in a theme for a given length of time.

The ability to work independently.

It is advisable that all pupils buy some art equipment to help with homework. Drawing

pencils, coloured pencils and a small paint set and paint brushes.Each teaching class will be allocated an amount of art equipment for them to use. It will

be possible for pupils to „borrow‟ this equipment overnight and for the holidays.

Parents will be required to purchase sketchbooks for their child throughout the course.

(2 to 4 books on average)


There will be opportunities to visit art galleries, museums and work with visiting art

practitioners.

Is there any other specific advice you would give?In our experience the most successful pupils are those who are able to work

independently and who attend extra- curricular clubs regularly.

In addition be honest about what you have done/not done and when you require

additional assistance.

Speak to the Mr McPaul about the course and ask to see the portfolios of the current

Year 11 pupils.


Students who study Art can look forward to a varied and engaging list of careers. You

could directly implement your developed skills and become an Artist, GraphicDesigned, Photographer, Architect or Web Designer. You could work in the world of

fashion, beauty, film or print media. A GCSE in Art is an indication to any potential

employer that you are a diverse and creative thinker, who is able to work independently

To produce unique outcomes.



Learning Pathways 9


In years 8 to 9 pupils have been introduced to Citizenship in discreet lessons once a

week. They have been introduced to the range and content of the subject by looking at

the key concepts of democracy, justice, life in the UK, and rights and responsibilities.

Pupils have been continually assessed during their studies and will sit an end of Key stage

3 test which will enable the school to assess their level. These studies provide the basis for

the skills and content of the new GCSE course, and should offer most pupils a strong

background in the issues covered.

Pupils follow the Edexcel Examination board GCSE course. This comprises of two written

exams each worth 20% of the final grade, and two practical projects (controlled

assessment), each worth 30%.

You will study the following units:

Unit 1 – Citizenship Today – Exam taken at end of year 11 worth 20%

Building on the year 8 and 9 programmes of study you will cover the following key areas.

1) Human Rights

- Communities and Identities in Britain (national culture, diversity, discrimination)

- Roles, Rights and Responsibilities (Consumers, Employment, Legal and human rights)- Criminal and Civil Justice Systems (how and who puts law into practice)

2) Power, Politics, and the role of the media

- Power and Politics (Government and Local council powers, Role of MPs, Parties)

- Voting and the Democratic process (Getting elected, How choices are made)

- Role and Power of the media (Influence, Ownership, Control over)

3) The Global Village

- Business and the Global Economy (How economy works, Globalisation)

- Environmental Issues (Sustainable Development, Solutions, Taking action)

- The UK‟s role in the world (EU, UN, Security, Global issues)

Unit 2 – Participating in Society – Controlled assessment worth 30%

GCSE CITIZENSHIP OPTION

CONTACT: MR J BUTLER

AWARDING BODY:

EDEXCEL 2CS01

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%




Learning Pathways 10

Citizenship is about being active as well as studying important issues happening in

the world around you.

Your task is to complete a school or community based activity in small groups and try

to effect change.

You will choose a topical issue relevant to one of the 3 main themes of citizenship.You will choose something that you think needs change.

You will then enquire (research) into the issue, communicate with two people in positions

of authority (eg your MP), and finally plan and carry out an action which may be:

- Setting up a website

- Raising awareness in school of an issue

- Planning and carrying out a lesson

- Creating a school display

- Making a film for assembly

When the activity is completed you must write up what you have done. You will have 3hours to do this in controlled conditions in school. You will also have to keep evidence

throughout the project and submit this portfolio when you are finished.

Although the activity is group based, the write-ups will be assessed individually (in other

words marks will be higher or lower according to the quality of write up and individual

contributions).

Unit 3 – Citizenship in context – Exam worth 20% overall

Pupils choose one of the following topics to study in depth in class and in their own time.

Option A: Environmental change and sustainable developmentOption B: Changing communities: social and cultural identities in the UK today

Option C: Influencing and changing decisions in society and government

(Politics/Economy//Law)

Unit 4 – Citizenship campaign – Controlled Assessment worth 30%

Citizenship is all about advocacy, getting your point across. The campaign element to

the course gives you the chance to make your voice heard.

Pupils choose an issue they want to make a difference on. They then work on a

campaign aiming to achieve some degree of change, or improvement, in the situation.

They must plan carefully and keep evidence in a portfolio of this and any actions taken.Teamwork, determination, co-operation, passion are a must!

The campaign must link to one of the nine key citizenship categories:

1. Politics

2. Law and crime

3. Democracy

4. Rights and Freedoms

5. Media

6. Sustainable development

7. The economy

8. UK diversity




9. The EU/Commonwealth/UN).


Enquiry, group work, debate, critical evaluation, participation in action, research and

case studies.


On average one hour per week.


You will be set controlled assessment tasks twice, once in year 10 and once in year 11.

Thorough planning, keeping of evidence, independent working skills, collaboration and

co-operation will ensure that you are well prepared for these assessments. The best

pieces of work comprise analysis, examples, evaluation, critical thought processes,

reasoning and detail. In summary, outstanding work demonstrates excellent knowledge

and understanding and key concepts like democracy, justice rights and responsibilitiesand life in the UK and an awareness of the range and context of the course.


Successful pupils will need to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current events and issues. You

must relate your knowledge to local, national and global contexts.

2. Obtain, explain and interpret different kinds of information in order to form and

express an opinion in writing. You must also analyse and present evidence on a

variety of issues, problems and events.3. Plan and evaluate citizenship activities, demonstrating your own contribution

to them. Recognise the views and contributions of others.

Choose Citizenship if you are interested in the world around you, debate current

affairs and events, campaigning and humanities in general. It complements other

humanities options.


Question time with your MP, Citizenship Display Day, professional guest speakers in law,

politics and human rights.


Choose Citizenship if you are interested in the world around you, debate current affairs

and events, campaigning and humanities in general. It complements other humanities

options.


This is the course for you if you are thinking about A-level courses in subjects like Law,

Government and Politics, Geography, Sociology,

Economics and Media Studies.





GCSE Drama is all about understanding drama as an „art form‟ and all the skills and

techniques that will help you to learn your art. You will play many parts in different imaginary

situations. You will have the opportunity to create your own work as well as look at plays

written by other people.

The GCSE Drama is in four parts:

1. in part one of the course you will explore a range of drama skills and techniquesto express your feelings and ideas about a range of issues.

2. in part two of the course you will apply these learnt skills to a theme, creating

devised performances.

3. in part three of the course you will look at a play to see how a playwright expresses

their ideas and explore ways of making the play work on stage

4. in part four of the course you will have the choice of being involved in the

performance of a play from an existing script or one you can create yourself.


Improvisation, physical theatre, documentary theatre, abstract and a host of other skills that willbe employed to create drama.


One piece per week – usually practical.


60% workshops with video evidence and supportive port-folio of work.

40% Practical performance to examiner either devised or scripted.

You will be required to present one portfolio per year. There is a six hour workshop in Year 10 on

devised work and a six hour workshop in Year 11 on scripted work.To be successful in your assessments you will need to continually practice and develop your

skills. You should produce a clear portfolio that reflects all your ideas and developments

C I

T I Z E N S H I P

GCSE DRAMA OPTION

CONTACT: MRS K BLAIR

AWARDING BODY: EDEXCEL EXAM = 40% CONTROLLEDASSESSMENT = 60%





throughout the process using a variety of presentational devices. All coursework is written in

school under exam conditions.

The examination for GCSE Drama is a practical performance. You will take part in a play that

you have created as a group or rehearsed from a script. You can either be examined on your

acting skills in the performance or on your design and technical skills (stage design, costume,

masks and makeup, lighting or sound). You will perform the play in front of an audience and

the examiner will be present at one of the performances.


The ability to imagine and grow in confidence is very important. You will enjoy this course if you

want to study a subject that is both practical and creative. You may have done some acting

before or helped out backstage on a production. You may have always wanted to have a go

at making a play, performing, making costumes, building a set or operating the lights but never

had the chance. You will enjoy this course if you enjoy working as part of a team as Drama

involves a lot of group work.


You will see at least one live theatre trip.


Make sure you apply all the skills/techniques that have been taught in an original way.


As well as acquiring the skills involved in creating and performing Drama, you will also be able

to acquire a range of broader skills, for example, working with others, problem solving and

communication. You will also find that Drama will help you feel more self-confident andprepare you to deal with a range of different situations and people.

There are many things you can go on to do with a GCSE in Drama. If you are unsure about

what to do next, the best thing to do is to speak to your Drama teacher who will know about

the choices on offer.

You could go on to take an AS or Advanced GCE in Drama and Theatre Studies, or an

Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education in Performing Arts or a BTEC National

Certificate or Diploma in Performing Arts.

You may wish to take a GCSE in Drama for its own sake, perhaps to form the basis of a futureinterest or as part of a range of other subjects. Or you might wish to go into a job where it is

useful to have had experience of Drama, or where you will need to use some of the skills

developed during this course. These might include careers in such fields as theatre, journalism,

media, retail, travel and tourism, sales and marketing or any career that involves meeting

people face to face. The study of Drama can help you develop transferable skills you can take

into any career or job.





AQA Food Technology follows a design and make process as part of the National

Curriculum. It offers the opportunity to design and develop a wide range of marketable

food products.


During Year 10 you will undertake mini design modules. These will help to develop skills indesigning, making and introducing new material. The majority of class time will be spent on

practical activities and investigating the design process. Pupils will be able to develop new

products and modify product ranges.


Homework will consist of designing and planning for practical activities, research, working

on a design folder and revision work for tests and the final 2-hour examination.

Time for homework = 2½ hours per week.

How will I be assessed?Individual assessment occurs every half-term on your chosen design brief; peer assessment is

on-going. Guides are given at the end of each module. The main project will be finished by

the end of February in Year 11.

In order to do well in your assessments you will need to include design ideas, analyse and

evaluate your work, show initiative, carry out sensory tests and bring in ingredients for your

practical lessons.


Organisation, listening, patience and an awareness of the technological world around us

are very important. A good imagination to think of new ideas and flexibility to accept theneed to change them and to develop the ideas through to final design are also required.

GCSE FOOD TECHNOLOGY OPTION

CONTACT: MS M CONTEH

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%





You should also make sure you are well equipped with pencils, fine liners, black pens and

colouring pencils. You will need an A3 Folder and have access to a computer and space to

work at home.


Visits to professional shows for example the „Real Food Festival‟

Opportunities to celebrate different occasions – Multi-cultural feast, Jubilee celebrations

(mini projects and charity events)


You will need to bring ingredients to practical sessions on a regular basis. This will involve

planning and shopping in advance so you will need to be very organised.

To find out more, talk to the technology teachers, in particular Ms Conteh and current Year

11 pupils. Visit the careers section of the library. Talk to people involved in the food industry.


Design and make tasks, they compile a folder that could be shown at colleges (catering

and hospitality). They carry out:-

-Researches

-Design ideas

-Developments

-Industrial process

-Final product





GCSE geography builds upon the knowledge and skills developed in key stage three and

investigates the topics in more detail.Homework will be set regularly to support and enhance class work.

The GCSE course covers the following modules

Rivers and Coasts

Population and Settlement

Natural Hazards

Economic Development

Rivers and Coasts

Water gives us life on earth and this topic looks at the hydrological cycle and the part that

rivers play in the hydrological cycle. You will study the reasons for rivers flooding, theconsequences of these floods and how we manage rivers to prevent them from flooding in

the future. Rivers also erode the landscape, producing landforms and you will investigate

some of these landforms produced. Coastal geography is also studied in this topic and we

will look at the causes, consequences and management of coastal erosion and why the

management of coastlines is important.

Population and Settlement

In this topic you will study the different population structures of countries and the causes

and consequences of natural population over time as well as population movements due

to migration. You will study the pattern of land use within cities and how it is changing andwhat affects the provision of services in settlements.

GCSE GEOGRAPHY OPTION CONTACT: MR M SPICER

AWARDING BODY:

OCR SYLLABUS B

EXAM

= 75%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 25%





Natural Hazards

Natural hazards affect people and places in different ways depending on the countries

level of development. You will study the causes of these hazards; their effects and how

people and places can be protected by the impact of hazards.

Economic Development

Development measures economic well-being and quality of life and there are variations

throughout the World in economic development. You will study the reasons behind a

countries level of development and the economic activities that make up a countries

economy. You will also study how economic activity affects the physical environment.


Lessons will include a variety of activities including individual work, group work,

presentations and extended writing.

What sort of homework will I be expected to do?Two hours a week.


You will complete one piece of controlled assessment in year 10, this forms 25% of the GCSE.

It will be based on fieldwork in which you will undertake research. In the summer

examinations in year 11 you will sit two exam papers: a one and a half hour paper and a

one hour decision making exercise.


Access to the internet at home would be useful, if you do not have this facility at home youcan use the school library.


Enrichment opportunities include fieldwork and visiting speakers.


The knowledge, skills and understanding developed in KS3 will be explored in more detail in

GCSE Geography. It would be beneficial to read through your KS3 notes during the summer

holidays. It would also be useful to regularly read newspapers and watch the news for articles of geographic interest.


Engineering, Geology, Armed Services, Tourism, Civil Aviation, Astronaut, Nature

Conservation, Business and Commerce, Local Government and of course Teaching.








The course consists of three components - units 1, 2 and 3.

All modules will be assessed at the end of Year 11.

Unit 1: International Relations: Conflict and Peace in the 20th Century

Written Paper – 1 hour 45 mins: 60 marks – 37.5%

Topics covered in Year 11 are: The causes of World War II

The origins of the Cold War

The development of the Cold War

Unit 2: Twentieth Century Depth Studies

Written Paper – 1 hour 45 mins: 60 marks – 37.5%

Topics covered in Year 10 are:

USA - The Roaring Twenties

USA - 1930‟s Depression and New Deal

USA – Race Relations 1954-1968

Unit 3: Historical Enquiry on either Britain at War or the British people at War. This includes

both World Wars and is a Controlled Assessment worth 40 marks or 25% of their final

grade.


Lessons will include a variety of activities including group work, source work,

presentations and also extended writing.

What sort of homework will I be expected to do?There will be one home work per week which may be research, evidence work or

written assignments.


Unit 1 – Written Paper – 1hr 45 mins – 37.5%

Unit 2 – Written Paper – 1hr 45 mins – 37.5%

Unit 3 – Historical Enquiry (controlled assessment) – 25%


An interest in History and the ability to write extended pieces of work are essential. Aninquisitive mind is also required.

GCSE MODERN WORLD HISTORY OPTION

CONTACT: MRS R HOYLE

AWARDING BODY:

AQA SYLLABUS B

EXAM

= 75%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 25%






Students will visit the Imperial War Museum which is part of preparation for their

controlled assessments students will be encouraged to get involved with and lead The

Humanities Society.


Pupils should ensure they engage fully with Year 9 lessons about World War One and

World War Two as this knowledge and understanding will be very beneficial


Studying History will be useful if you are thinking of a career in Law, Journalism,

Teaching or Politics.





The pupils will follow a two year course to achieve a single award GCSE in ICT or a

Double award GCSE in ICT. They will cover units of work designed to enable them to

make informed decisions about ICT and its use, develop ICT based solutions and to

solve problems while developing skills to work collaboratively with others.


We will be following the National Qualifications Framework Criteria for KS4. Activities

will include work on

Presentations

Databases

Spreadsheets

Designing digital products, eg. web pages, online advertising, posters

Evaluation of your solution

Gaining an understanding of the impact of ICT on the individual, organisation

and society.


Related to Controlled Assessment, which will assist in consolidating and extending

their learning. Some design work in preparation for creating their digital products.

Some homework will be administered online in preparation for external examination -

the only requirement will be access to the internet.


Single Award – two units:

Unit 1 – The Digital World 40% external exam (1½ hour)

Unit 2 – Using Digital Tools 60% controlled assessment

Double Award – four units:

Unit 1 – The Digital World 20% external exam (1½ hour)

Unit 2 – Using Digital Tools 30% controlled assessment

Unit 3 – Exploring digital Design 20% external exam (1½ hour)

Unit 4 – Creating Digital Products 30% controlled assessment

GCSE INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION OPTION

TECHNOLOGY CONTACT: MR J RAISIN

AWARDING BODY: EXAM =

40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%




Do I need any special skills and/or equipment? Access to a computer and the internet at home.


Opportunities to use online tutorials to extend learning.


Access to the internet is needed to carry out some of the homework.


Almost anything, as a recent report expects 90% of jobs will involve ICT in some form

or another.

NOTE: This course may be replaced by the new AQA GCSE in Computer Science

which will involve computer programming and an understanding of computingfundamentals





Coursework will be prepared in lessons and completed in class under controlled

conditions. There will be three pieces in all. The speaking exam, which is worth 30% of the

total mark.

To be successful in your assessments you need to use more than one tense, a number of

adjectives and be able to give opinions.


The ability to listen and to work with others are essential.


Pupils will be entered for the Edexcel GCSE in French or Spanish. There are two tiers of

entry for each skill area, Foundation and Higher. These skill areas are Speaking,

Reading, Listening and Writing. Pupils will be examined at the end of Year 11 in all four

skills.

The topics studied are:

My World Home and Abroad

Holiday Time and Travel Education Training and Employment

Work and Lifestyle Home Daily Routine

The Young Person in Society Media, Entertainment and YouthCulture


You will be practising the key skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking. Some of

this will be completed in group work.


Every week you will be expected to complete two pieces of about 30 minutes each.

GCSE MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES OPTION

CONTACT: MRS V MCGRAIL

AWARDING BODY:

EDEXCEL

EXAM

= ?

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = ?




Pupils are advised to purchase a bilingual dictionary for home and class use. They will

also benefit from purchasing their personal copy of the Lonsdale Revision Guide or other

suitable Revision Guides (Bitesize, etc).


We strongly recommend that pupils go on the exchange trip organised for each

language.


For any further information speak to your languages teacher and to Mrs McGrail


Possible future careers involving languages:

premier football league

travel and leisure hotel and catering

communications

translating

tourism

financial services

media

Sales and marketing

http://www.flickr.com/photos/christs_school/7394125644/in/photostream







popular, world, jazz and other. Pupils must come to the course with an open mind to

working with music of all styles.


Writing your own music

Listening and analysing music

Performing on your own and with others


Performing and composing tasks will be on-going and continuous throughout the

course. At any given time pupils will probably have two or three performance or

composition projects going: “homework” is a case of continually developing these

projects, which may be individual work or work with a group of pupils. Individual

practising of instruments is of course an integral part of pupils‟ necessary

development.

In addition, there will be more traditional homework assignments connected to the“Strands of Learning” and the five “Areas of Study”.


Teacher assessment is continuous and individualised. Performing and composing

activities are on-going throughout the course. Some practical assignments have to

be done under controlled conditions in school.

Outstanding pieces of work require a high level of technique, musicianship,

originality, aural discrimination and knowledge of terminology. To prepare for

assessments pupils must learn theory and musical structures, as well as create,

experiment and prepare for performances.In summary, assessment involves:

Performance (1 solo, 1 ensemble): 40%

Composition (2 compositions): 30%

Listening/theory: 30%


“The ability to play an instrument (or sing) is a real advantage to those wishing to

take GCSE music” – this is a large part of the music course (see above)


GCSE music students are expected to play a full role in the host of extra-curricular

activities/events organised by the department


Make sure you have:

enthusiasm

an open mind

creativity

the ability to work independently





Music is considered to be an excellent part of a general KS4 education, whether or

not students are wishing to continue beyond GCSE. For those wishing to develop

music beyond GCSE, there are a range of courses post-16 (A levels in music, music

technology, performing arts and a variety of vocational courses). A knowledge and

understanding of music is a great advantage in many areas of work/careers today.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/christs_school/5407323980/in/set-72157625826831893/





The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in Key

Stage 3 Physical Education. It will give pupils exciting opportunities to be involved in

a number of different physical activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.

The course also contains a theory aspect where pupils learn how exercise affects

the body, the theory of training, looking at ethical and moral issues and sport within

society.

The syllabus aims to enable pupils to improve: their knowledge of exercise and how training can improve performance

practical skills in a range of sports and in a variety of roles

ways of developing and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle through

participation in physical activity

Full Course

Unit 1 Knowledge and understanding for the active participant - Written paper 1hr

30mins (40%).

Health related exercise, factors affecting performance, the interaction

between sport and society The principles of training

Factors affect individual performance and participation

Social and cultural factors affecting participation

Unit 2 The active participant - Controlled assessment (60%)

Section1- 4 assessments in the role of player /participant, leader or official.

Section2- analysis of performance in one of the chosen activities, written

Personal exercise programme


In practical lessons you develop your knowledge and ability in different sports and

you will be continually assessed as a player/participant in a variety of sports. You

also develop skills to become effective in roles such as a leader and official.

Theory lessons will include a variety of activities including group work, presentations

and also extended writing.


Homework is set at least once a week, taking around 1-2 hours

GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION OPTION

CONTACT: MS C NEEDHAM

AWARDING BODY: EDEXCEL

EXAM = 40%

CONTROLLEDASSESSMENT = 60%





The practical aspects of the course are assessed in school by your teachers, and

verified by an external moderator who attends a session in school to judge practical

work and written coursework. There are four practical performances in the role of

either player/participant, leader or official. An outstanding piece of practical work

should include:

Player/participant - high levels of generic skills and consistently high levels of skill

execution in specific activities and understanding of tactics and strategies

needed to succeed.

Official - an understanding and ability to relate the rules/laws to

player/performance. The ability to consistently referee/umpire matches

Leader/coach - an ability to lead a group of pupils to improve their

performance both individually and collectively, also an ability to be able to

observe, analyse and improve an individual and teams performance.

Theory knowledge is assessed by examination. On the Full Course there is one paper of 90mins. An outstanding pieces of work here would comprise a solid knowledge

and understanding of the subject presented with clarity and accuracy.


Pupils should have an interest in physical education and sport, enjoy being active

and appreciate the benefits of keeping fit and healthy.

Extra training outside of school is expected in order to gain the highest marks

possible.

What enrichment opportunities are there?Extra-curricular clubs, leadership awards, outward bound trip and coaching links

with external clubs.


Pupils wanting to opt into this course must be organised, self-motivated, an

independent learner, have the ability to meet strict deadlines, be focussed on their

work and have the desire to work hard in order to achieve highly.


A-level Physical Education BTEC firsts and Nationals in Sport or Sport and ExerciseSciences.

Careers in sport related fields, leisure and teaching.







This course is intended for those pupils who wish to specialise in graphic design and

modelling and therefore develop skills and knowledge by using graphic equipment

and techniques.

Pupils take part in design and making projects that are linked to their own interests,

industrial practice and the community. Projects may involve an opportunity to

design to meet a need, manufacture products and evaluate the whole design andmaking process.

Pupils will be encouraged to express themselves through a variety of media –

writing, sketching, use ICT to help with their work including computer aided design

and manufacture. Using CAD/CAM software and ICT based sources for research;

pupils will be able to apply this knowledge to assist in the realisation of their

products.

Pupils will consider how technology affects society and their own lives and learn

that new technologies have both advantages and disadvantages. Building an

awareness of the environment.


Designing, analysing and making products.


During the Year 10 part of the course you will undertake mini design modules in

different situations in various material areas, card, Styrofoam and foam board. The

purpose of these modules is to allow the acquisition of skills and knowledge and to

work to deadlines, at the same time learning how to develop and produce a design

folio, assembly skills and discipline. The major project will begin at Easter in Year 10

and will continue until the following February. You should expect about two hours ofhomework each week.


Coursework takes one year to complete, so it will be continuous! The practical

assessment comprises 20 hours for 3 products made from wood, metal or plastic.

You need to have a sound knowledge of tools and how to use them appropriately

for each material. This is supported by a portfolio of about 25 pages. Neat, clear

presentation and in-depth analysis are essential to achieve the highest marks for

your portfolio.

GCSE RESISTANT MATERIALS OPTION

CONTACT: MS V BUSBY

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%





This subject is very ICT based for designing and making so access to a computer

and printer at home is important

You will also need to bring pencils and colouring pencils to every lesson.

Patience is also really important!


Visits to relevant exhibitions and galleries

Opportunity to produce items for school events and celebrations


You should be aware that the general teaching requirements for health and safety

apply to this subject.


This course provides use with portfolio pages and products to show colleges leadingto Art & Design courses or practical courses





All Triple Scientists will take the Science A modules – B1, C1 and P1 and Additional

Science Modules – B2, C2 and P2 as well as the Triple Science Modules, below.

Biology 3 [B3]

How do dissolved materials get into and out of animals and plants?

How are dissolved materials transported around the body?

How do exchanges in the kidney help us to maintain the internalenvironment in mammals?

How are microorganisms used to make food and drink?

What other useful substances can we make using micro-organisms?

Chemistry 3 [C3]

How was the periodic table developed and how can it help us understand

the reaction of elements?

What are strong and weak acids and alkalis? How can we find the amounts

of acids and alkalis in solutions?

What is in the water we drink?

How much energy is involved in chemical reactions? How do we identify and analyse substances?

Physics 3 [P3]

How do forces have a turning effect?

What keeps bodies moving in a circle?

Why are electrical devices so useful?

What provides the centripetal force for planets and satellites?

What do mirrors and lenses do to light

Thus, 3 GCSEs will be awarded – CORE, Additional and Further Additional (Triple

Science Award)


Practical work eg. dissections in B3, group work and role play


One piece of one hour homework per week in Year 10

Two pieces of one hour homework per week in Year 11


Examinations to be taken in Year 11 (June 2015) GCSE Science

GCSE TRIPLE SCIENCE OPTION

CONTACT: MR R KHODABACKSH

AWARDING BODY: AQA EXAM = 75% CONTROLLEDASSESSMENT = 25%




Year

Group

Units Taken Course Gained –

June 2013

Course Gained –

June 2014

Year 10 B1 + C1 + P1 + ISA CORE N/A

Year 11 B2 + C2 + P2 + ISA N/A Additional

Year 10& 11 B3 + C3 + P3 + ISA N/A Further Additional

The centre-assessed units (CAUs)

GCSE Further Additional Science has 3 specific centre-assessed units.

These assessments have two parts:

The practical skills and assessment (PSA) assesses the pupil‟s ability to work in

an organised and safe manner whilst working practically in the laboratory. It

can be carried out at any time during the course.

The investigative skills assignment (ISA) assesses the pupil‟s ability toundertake a task and collect, process and evaluate data. The ISA can be

carried out at any time during the 2 year course.

Pupils carry out a practical task set by AQA, under normal laboratory conditions

they then take a written test under controlled conditions. The test asks questions

concerning the data collected during the practical task as well as that provided

as part of the test. The test is marked by the teacher using detailed marking

guidance from AQA.

Do I need any special skills and/or equipment?Calculator, revision guide and an inquiring mind


Fieldwork, guest speakers and external lectures


Be aware of key examination dates and use resources on the Internet


Medicine – Law – Forensics – Physicist theoretical – Physicist practical – Optometry – Pharmaceutical

Indeed any career that has a fundamental science requirement





We will be following the AQA examination board specification.

The GCSE course combines designing and making products based on textiles. The

final major project will give the pupils an opportunity to design and make items

such as bags, wall hangings, and interior and fashion products. Each pupil will have

the opportunity to design and make a product that shows off their abilities to the

best. The subject itself gives the pupils an opportunity to design, develop and

problem solve. This equips them well for post 16 education and employment.The GCSE Course comprises of 60% course work and 40% final exam.


Making and designing individual products based on a design brief.

In Year 10 we will study a range of practical skills and design processes in depth by

undertaking a variety of small projects.

In addition to the practical work pupils will learn about the properties of textiles,

industrial practises and the work of leading textile, fashion and interior designers.

What sort of homework will I be expected to do?Homework will be set each week. It will vary between research, designing, working

on your folder and revision for the final examination. You should allow 1.5 hours per

week. Extra-curricular clubs are available weekly to support independent learning.


There will be individual assessment with your teacher every half-term; peer and self-

assessment occurs throughout the course.

There is one major continuous coursework assignment starting July of Year 10 –

completed in March of Year 11. This will comprise one portfolio of 20-25 pages and

one finished practical piece. To gain the highest marks your work needs to be wellthought out and explained and your practical works needs to be original with a

quality finish.


A strong interest in design and textiles.

An ability to develop an idea through from the beginning to the final product.

The textile department is well equipped with all the materials needed to sample

ideas.

For the final project pupils may need to purchase their own fabric and some

specialised materials such as sequins and beads.The final project will also require an A3 folder.

GCSE TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY OPTION

CONTACT: MRS V BUSBY

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%





Visits to relevant exhibitions and galleries.

Ventura Design project linked with the Design Museum

Lunchtime clubs to produce textile items for school events and celebrations.


The textile GCSE course is a practical and theory based course so you must be

able to focus in class and meet deadlines.

Be aware of designers and craft makers around you and try to look at the work of

successful professionals.

Be open to new ideas and be prepared to take risks particularly in Year 10

To find out more information, speak to the textile teacher, Mrs Busby, about the

course and ask to see the exemplar work in the textiles room.

What could this course lead to in the future?This course provides you with the opportunity to show a wide range of skills such as

analysis, research and evaluation as well as designing and making skills to

prospective sixth form colleges or employers.

This could lead to a wide range of employment opportunities such as working in

theatre and television as production or costume designers , buyers for fashion

chains , working in galleries and museums, writing for design magazines and a wide

variety of design related jobs.





We will be following the AQA examination board specification.The GCSE course combines designing and making products using a range of

materials such as paper, card, wood, plastics and textiles. The final major project will

give the pupils an opportunity to design and make items such as interior products,

seating and storage solutions, games, packaging and much more. Each pupil will

have the opportunity to design and make a product that shows off their abilities to

the best. The subject itself gives the pupils an opportunity to design, develop and

problem solve. This equips them well for post 16 education and employment.

The GCSE Course comprises of 60% course work and 40% final exam.

What sort of activities will I be doing in class?Making and designing individual products based on a design brief.

In Year 10 we will study a range of practical skills and design processes in depth by

undertaking a variety of small projects. At the end of year 10 we will start the major

project which will account for 60 % of your GCSE mark.

In addition to the practical work pupils will learn about the properties of a range of

materials, industrial practises and the work of leading product and graphic designers.


Homework will be set each week. It will vary between research, designing, working on

your folder and revision for the final examination. You should allow 1.5 hours per week. Extra-curricular clubs are available weekly to support independent learning.


There will be individual assessment with your teacher every half-term; peer and self-

assessment occurs throughout the course.

There is one major continuous coursework assignment starting July of Year 10 –

completed in March of Year 11. This will comprise one portfolio of 20-25 pages and

one finished practical piece. To gain the highest marks your work needs to be well

thought out and explained and your practical works needs to be original with a

quality finish.


GCSE PRODUCT DESIGN OPTION CONTACT: MRS V BUSBY

AWARDING BODY:

AQA

EXAM

= 40%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT = 60%




A strong interest in product design and graphics.

An ability to develop an idea through from the beginning to the final product.

The technology department is well equipped with all the materials needed to sample

ideas.

For the final project pupils may need to purchase some of their own specialised

materials.

The final project will also require an A3 folder.


There will be regular after school sessions to enhance and develop your skills. There

will also be planned trips to museums and galleries as well as potential visits from

industry experts.


The product design GCSE course is a practical and theory based course so you must

be able to focus in class and meet deadlines.Although we prepare you for the practical work throughout Year 10, your

commitment is needed to bring in your own research and build on your influences.

Be aware of designers and craft makers around you and try to look at the work of

successful professionals.

Be open to new ideas and be prepared to take risks particularly in Year 10

To find out more information, speak to Mrs Busby or Mrs Perkins about the course and

ask to see some exemplar work.


This course provides you with the opportunity to show a wide range of skills such asanalysis, research and evaluation as well as designing and making skills to

prospective sixth form colleges or employers.

This could lead to a wide range of employment opportunities such as designing for

print, furniture, kitchen products, graphic design and a wide variety of other design

related jobs.





Pupils will follow the two-year course for GCSE with the Edexcel examination board,

for which there is no Coursework .

All sets will follow the above course, and take the examinations in June of Year 11.

Sets 1, 2 and 3 will take the higher exam and set 5 the foundation exam. Pupils in set4 will take the higher or foundation examination as appropriate at time of entry in

Year 11.

The two tiers of entry for the Mathematics allow the following grades.

Foundation: For grades G to C,

Higher: grades C to A*


The pupils will be taught mainly through teacher led lessons. Pupils are encouraged

to demonstrate their understanding, and to explain their methods to the person next

to them.There is a test every two to three weeks, and the result will be recorded in their class

book for parents to see.


Homework is set regularly, at least twice a week. It is recommended that work in the

subject be done after every lesson. There is an ample supply of additional material

for the ambitious pupil. We also set online homework using the „My maths‟ website.


You will be assessed in a final examination at the end of Year 11.


A scientific calculator is essential, as it is a requirement of one of the examination

papers. Pupils need to be proficient in the use of their particular calculator for this

examination. Pupils are expected to bring a calculator to all lessons.

All pupils would benefit from access to broadband or the internet in order to use our

„My Maths‟ website for homework and revision, along with other revision packages

which can offer them online as well.

What enrichment opportunities are there?Pupils performing at A* level will get the added opportunity to take their GCSE

mathematics exam in November of Year 11, with the intention of following the

GCSE MATHEMATICS CORE

CONTACT: MR L HARTNETT

AWARDING BODY:

EDEXCEL LINEAR 1380

EXAM

= 100%

CONTROLLED

ASSESSMENT =




Additional Mathematics course, OCR 6993, to further their understanding of the

subject.


Maths Watch Disc: This is an excellent Mathematical Tutorial disc which all students

at KS4 should have. The Maths department sells these (£5 each – 2013)


Taking most A-Level courses Sixth Form Colleges require Grade C or above

Taking A-Level Mathematics normally requires a Grade B or above

Taking further Mathematics A-level requires grade A* or Grade C on the

Additional Maths Course

Documents

SKI Options Booklet - As of 17.01.13