GCSE OPTIONS INFORMATION BOOKLET 2022
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GCSE OPTIONS INFORMATION
BOOKLET
2022
0
But perhaps the best reason for studying English is that we
offer TWO GCSEs for the price of one ................................... 12
Table of Contents Exam Board: ............................................................................ 12
The Options Process...................................................................... 6
Information about the number of papers / overview of
GCSE Options that are available ................................................. 7 papers (content): ................................................................ 12
Core and Recommended Offering ............................................. 7 Recommended revision guides, IBSN numbers and
Remaining Options ....................................................................... 7 suppliers. .............................................................................. 13
GCSE Options Information............................................................ 8 Assessment objectives for each subject: .......................... 13
Maths GCSE ................................................................................... 9 Key skills: ............................................................................... 14
Why study this course?.............................................................. 9 Revision techniques: ........................................................... 14
Maths lets us predict the future ............................................ 9 Key apps / websites / content to support: ........................ 14
Maths is changing all the time – what will you contribute? Combined Science GCSE.......................................................... 15
................................................................................................ 9 Why study this course? ........................................................... 15
What skills will I get if I study maths?......................................... 9 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 15
Exam Board ............................................................................... 9 Overview of assessment and assessment topics: ............. 15
Information about the number of papers / overview of Our assessment objectives ................................................. 15
papers (content): .................................................................. 9
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 16
Assessment objectives for each subject: ........................... 10
Recommended revision techniques: ................................ 16
Key skills:................................................................................ 10
Science: Biology (As part of separate Sciences) GCSE .......... 17
Revision techniques: ............................................................ 10
Why study this course? ........................................................... 17
Key apps / websites / content to support: ........................ 11
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 17
English Language and English Literature .................................. 12
Overview of Assessments and Topics: ............................... 17
Why study this course?............................................................ 12
Our assessment objectives: ................................................ 17
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 18
1
Recommended revision techniques: ................................. 18 Geography GCSE ....................................................................... 26
Science: Chemistry (As part of separate Sciences) GCSE ...... 19 Why study this course? ........................................................... 26
Why study this course?............................................................ 19 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 26
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 19 Overview of papers/units: .................................................. 26
Overview of Assessments and Topics: ................................ 19 Key Skills: ............................................................................... 26
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 20 Key Websites: ....................................................................... 27
Recommended revision Guides: ........................................ 20 Textbooks: ............................................................................ 27
Recommended revision techniques: ................................. 20 Spanish & German GCSE ........................................................... 28
Science: Physics (As part of separate Sciences) GCSE........... 21 Why study this course? ........................................................... 28
Why study this course?............................................................ 21 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 28
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 21 Overview of papers: ........................................................... 28
Overview of Assessments and Topics: ................................ 21 Facilitating subjects: ............................................................ 28
Our assessment objectives:................................................. 21 Revision guides: ................................................................... 29
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 22 Spanish ................................................................................. 29
Recommended revision Guides ......................................... 22 German ................................................................................ 29
Recommended revision techniques: ................................. 22 Key Skills: ............................................................................... 29
History GCSE ................................................................................ 23 Revision techniques: ........................................................... 29
Why study this course?............................................................ 23 Key apps/websites for support: .......................................... 30
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 23 Art and Design GCSE – Fine Art ................................................. 31
Overview of papers/units: ................................................... 23 Why study this course? ........................................................... 31
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 24 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 31
Key Websites ........................................................................ 24 How is the course assessed? .............................................. 31
Revision guides:.................................................................... 24 What does the course cover? ........................................... 31
2
Assessment objectives for coursework and exam: ........... 32 Key Skills: ............................................................................... 41
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 32 Key performance skills: ....................................................... 41
What skills will the course help you develop? ................... 32 Key Websites........................................................................ 41
Equipment: ........................................................................... 32 Drama GCSE ............................................................................... 42
What do learners who study this course go on to do? ..... 32 Why study this course? ........................................................... 42
Useful Resources: ................................................................. 33 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 42
Why study this course?............................................................ 34 OCR ......................................................................................... 42
Business Studies GCSE ................................................................ 36 Overview of papers/units: .................................................. 42
Why study this course?............................................................ 36 Key Skills you will develop: .................................................. 43
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 36 Revision Techniques ............................................................ 43
Overview of papers/units: ................................................... 36 Key Websites........................................................................ 43
Computer Science GCSE ........................................................... 38 Design Technology GCSE .......................................................... 44
Why study this course?............................................................ 38 Why study this course? ........................................................... 44
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 38 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 44
Overview of papers / unit: .................................................. 38 How is the course assessed? .............................................. 44
Practical Programming: ...................................................... 38 What does the course cover? ........................................... 44
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 38 What skills will the course help you develop? ................... 45
Key Websites and Resources: ............................................. 39 What do learners who study this course go on to do? .... 45
Computer Science Revision and Text Books: .................... 39 Useful Resources: ................................................................. 45
Dance (Btec Performing Arts – Tech Award) ............................ 40 Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE....................................... 46
Why study this course?............................................................ 40 Why study this course? ........................................................... 46
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 40 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 46
Overview of papers/units: ................................................... 40 What does the course cover? ........................................... 46
3
Subject Content .................................................................. 46 Why study this course? ........................................................... 56
What skills will the course help you develop? ................... 47 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 56
Assessments .......................................................................... 47 How is the course assessed? .............................................. 56
Where will GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition take What does the course cover? ........................................... 56
you? ...................................................................................... 48 Assessment objectives for exam: ....................................... 56
Textbooks:............................................................................. 48 Key Skills: ............................................................................... 57
Health & Social Care (BTEC Tech Award Level 2) .................... 49 Useful Resources: ................................................................. 57
Why study this course?............................................................ 49 Why study this course? ........................................................... 58
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 49 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 58
Who is this qualification for? ............................................... 49 What does the course cover? ........................................... 58
What does the qualification cover? .................................. 49 Entry Requirements: ............................................................ 58
What can the qualification lead to? ................................. 50 Why should I take this course? ........................................... 58
Media (Cambridge National Certificate) ................................. 51 What careers might this course lead to? .......................... 59
Why study this course?............................................................ 51 Religious Studies GCSE............................................................... 60
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 51 Why study this course? ........................................................... 60
Key Skills: ................................................................................... 52 Exam Board: ............................................................................ 60
Key Websites and Resources:................................................. 53 How is the course assessed? .............................................. 60
Music GCSE ................................................................................. 54 Overview of papers/components: .................................... 60
Why study this course?............................................................ 54 Assessment objectives: ....................................................... 60
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 54 Key Websites: ....................................................................... 60
Overview of units: ................................................................ 54 - ............................................................................................. 60
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 55 Textbooks: ............................................................................ 61
Revision Techniques............................................................. 55 Why study this course? ........................................................... 62
4
Exam Board: ............................................................................ 62 Useful Resources: ................................................................. 63
How is the course assessed? ............................................... 62
What does the course cover? ............................................ 62
Assessment objectives:........................................................ 62
Key Skills: ............................................................................... 63
5
The Options Process
Year 9 Virtual Options
Year 9 Options Parents/Carers sit and
Parents/Carers Evening
Assembly 20th January discuss and agree
and Options form
Morning options with their child
released 20th January
Follow instructions on
Viability of options to Submit Form by the 11th the form when
run checked of February selecting Options
26th of January
Learners and
Parents/Carers
informed of options
that have been agreed
8th May 2020
6
GCSE Options that are available
(Subject to learner numbers, and viability)
Core and Recommended Offering
English Language and English
Maths Combined Science Humanities Modern Foreign Languages
Literature
All learners will study these 2 All Learners will study GCSE All learners will study combined A small group of learners may This is a recommended option
GCSE courses maths science unless Triple Science pursue a different option if we but not compulsory. However,
option is taken feel that they would find these at Northampton International
courses too demanding Academy we want as many
learners as possible to take a
language; it is favourably
viewed by employers and
universities.
Remaining Options
Learners will need 3 courses, but we would ask for the top 5 choices (3 you really want and 2 as reserves) to allow learners to be assigned a preferred option if one course
does not run. Please note a Maximum of 1 BTec course can be chosen only.
Art or Graphics Food Preparation & Nutrition Religious Studies Dance (BTEC) Media (BTEC)
Business Studies Geography Sociology Health & Social Care (BTEC) Music (BTEC)
Computer Science German Spanish PE (BTEC)
Design Technology History Triple Science
Drama Psychology
7
GCSE Options Information We know that choosing your options can be a daunting task. Suddenly, you have choices to make about the things you enjoy doing and the things that you will want for your future. As always, we are here to help you and you only need to speak to your teachers or form tutor for information and advice. What follows is a summary of the courses that we are offering you next year and lots of information on why you may wish to study it, what the course looks like, and where you can get started on it already, through revision and websites. Take your time to read the information that follows before you make your selection. You will be emailed a link to your online options form. Please use this time to really think about what you want to study. 8
Maths GCSE expand on what they already know to discover new theories
and inventions.
Why study this course?
Now Mathematicians and philosophers have debated for
Just as languages provide the building blocks and rules we centuries the exact definition of maths but it is more than
need to communicate, maths uses its own language, made performing simple operations.
up of numbers, symbols and formulas, to explore the rules we
need to measure or identify essential problems like distance, What skills will I get if I study maths?
speed, time, space, change, force and quantities. Infact,
maths is the only universal language, and if there were to be Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical,
any communication from extra terrestrials, we would only be research and problem solving skills. Not only will studying
able to decode it using maths! maths help give you the knowledge to tackle scientific,
mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help
Studying maths helps us find patterns and structure in our lives. you develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning
Practically, maths helps us put a price on things, create projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively.
graphics , build websites, build skyscrapers and generally
understand how things work or predict how they might
change over time and under different conditions.
Exam Board
Maths lets us predict the future Pearson
Information about the number of papers / overview of
For example, if I want to throw a custard pie so it lands on top
of your head on a very windy day, studying the maths can papers (content):
help me work out the speed, force and angle I need to throw Each paper is equally weighted (33.33%) and there are three
it to hit just the right spot. Or, more helpfully, maths helps me to sit, one where calculators are not permitted and two with
work out how long it will take me to get somewhere if I know calculators permitted. Each paper is 1hour and 30 minutes
the distance I have to travel and the speed I'm going. long and can cover the entirety of the maths content:
number, algebra, geometry and measures, statistics, ratio and
In this sense, studying maths helps predict the future... probability.
Maths is changing all the time – what will you contribute? Questions are a mixture of types of questions ranging from
skills based questions, generally worth one to two marks, to
But it doesn’t stop there. As a subject, maths is also continually interpretation based questions, often worth between 2 to 4
growing and changing, as mathematicians and scientists
9marks and problem solving questions which carry a large Assessment objectives for each subject:
amount of marks built up from the use of skills and reasoning. The objectives cover the whole of content and can come up
There are also marks available with some topics to explain in any of the three papers. The questions will cover a variety of
mathematical justification, deeming it necessary to fully concepts from the following strands:
comprehend a skill as well as applying it.
• Number
Recommended revision guides, IBSN numbers and suppliers. • Algebra
• Geometry and Measure
The tier for learners will not be decided until nearer the time
• Statistics
they will sit the exams. We need to ensure learners are
• Ratio and Proportion
entered on the most appropriate paper based on their ability
• Probability
to access the different tiers. There are many excellent revision
guides available for Edexcel GCSE maths, however learners
often prefer the CGP revision guides due to the light hearted
way the editors phrase concepts can make them Some problem solving questions will require skills from multiple
memorable. The revision guides are available at most book strands
stores, including WH Smith and online retailers using the Key skills:
following information: Questions are a mixture of types ranging from skills based,
CGP Foundation Revision Guide: ISBN 9781782944003 generally worth one to two marks, to interpretation based
questions, worth between 2 to 4 marks, and problem solving,
CGP Higher Revision Guide: ISBN 9781782944041 which carry a large amount of marks built up from the use of
skills and reasoning. There are marks available with some
topics to explain mathematical justification, deeming it
necessary to fully comprehend a skill as well as applying it.
Revision techniques:
The best way to revise maths is to practise the content
regularly, particularly content that has not been studied in a
while to reinforce the concept. We have invested in several
online resources, accessible on any internet enabled device
to aid in supporting this revision.
10Key apps / websites / content to support: chains of reasoning to achieve a given result, interpret and
www.hegartymaths.com - Learners login using their communicate information accurately, present arguments
name/DOB/ and a password of their own creation and proofs, assess the validity of an argument and critically
evaluate a given way of presenting information.
mathsapp.pixl.com - Learners login using NI6051, then their
initial and surname for both username and password AO3 - Solve problems within mathematics and in other
contexts Learners should be able to: translate problems in
www.diagnosticquestions.com - Learners can create their mathematical or nonmathematical contexts into a process or
own account on this free to use website, where there is a a series of mathematical processes, make and use
multitude of multiple choice quizzes where learners can justify connections between different parts of mathematics,
their reasoning. Many quizzes also include exam questions interpret results in the context of the given problem, evaluate
which is useful. methods used and results obtained, evaluate solutions to
All of the above analyse common misconceptions and identify how they may have been affected by assumptions
frequent mistakes by the user to enable timely input into made.
working through these.
Diagnostic Questions
Better results, more confidence, less time
www.diagnosticquestions.com
Assessment Objectives:
AO1 - Use and apply standard techniques such as: accurately
recall facts, terminology and definitions, use and interpret
notation correctly, accurately carry out routine procedures or
set tasks requiring multi-step solutions
AO2 - Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically
Learners should be able to: make deductions, inferences and
draw conclusions from mathematical information, construct
11English Language and English Literature
Information about the number of papers / overview
of papers (content):
Why study this course?
English is a unique subject on the Key Stage 4 curriculum as it
English Language: Paper 1:
enhances the work of all other subjects. English lessons are
This paper is 1h45 and it includes a reading section (based on
where we learn the nuances of language to help us to
an unseen 20th or 21st century literary text) and a writing
understand the exams and lesson content of the other
section where learners must write a description based on an
subjects, even maths. English lessons provide the structures to image.
extended writing questions in subjects such as Science, History
and Geography.
English Language: Paper 2:
This paper is 1h45 and it includes a reading section where
However, more importantly, the study of English Literature learners must compare two non-fiction texts (texts will be from
allows learners to explore new ideas/concepts and exposes different centuries, either 19th, 20th or 21st) and a writing
them to a vast array of language that more factual subjects section where learners will be asked to produce a non-fiction
simply do not offer. We do this through the study of texts from style text (e.g. Speech, letter, leaflet, essay, article).
the 16th century to the modern day in the form of plays, novels
and poetry, introducing our learners to the likes of English Literature: Paper 1:
Shakespeare, Shelley, Owen and Agard This paper is 1h45 and includes questions on Macbeth and A
Christmas Carol. They are both extract-based questions but
In English Language our learners engage with a wide variety this exam is closed book, meaning learners have to memorise
of prose from extracts from novels to newspaper articles. quotations. The questions are often phrased as: ‘Starting with
Learners learn to write in many forms, such as summaries, this extract, how does the author present…..’. It may be a
letters, essays and articles. character or theme question.
We also cover spoken language, and all learners receive a
separate grade for their use of spoken English.
English Literature: Paper 2:
This paper is 2h15 and includes questions on An Inspector
But perhaps the best reason for studying English is Calls, Power Conflict poetry anthology and unseen poetry.
that we offer TWO GCSEs for the price of one This exam is closed book, meaning learners will have to
memorise quotations.
Exam Board: Non-exam assessment: speaking and listening. This is not
AQA credited with a GCSE, however learners will be given a ‘pass’,
12‘merit’ or ‘distinction’ which will show on their exam Collins: Unseen Poetry Workbook: New GCSE Grade 9-1
certificates. They will be required to give an individual English Literature AQA ISBN: 978-0008355319 (£3.99 on
presentation on a topic of their choice. Amazon)
Recommended revision guides, IBSN numbers and Assessment objectives for each subject:
suppliers. English Language:
There are a few copies of revision guides and set Literature AO1- Identify and interpret explicit and implicit information
texts available in the library. and ideas
Synthesise evidence from different texts
English Language: AO2- analysis of language and structure, using relevant
• CGP: GCSE English Language AQA Complete subject terminology
Revision & Practice - Grade 9-1 ISBN: 978- AO3- Compare writers’ ideas and perspectives in two or more
1782944140 (£5.99 on Amazon) texts
• CGP: New GCSE English Language AQA Practice AO4- evaluate texts critically
Papers - for the Grade 9-1 Course ISBN: 978- AO5- communicate clearly, effectively and imaginatively,
1782944126 (£5.77 on Amazon) creating coherence
AO6- Accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar
English Literature (all CGP except the unseen
English Literature:
poetry):
AO1- Critical writing style, including using quotations
• New GCSE English Literature AQA Poetry Guide: Power
effectively
& Conflict Anthology - for the Grade 9-1 Course ISBN:
AO2- Analysis of language, structure and form, using relevant
978-1782943617 (£3.77 on Amazon)
subject terminology
• Grade 9-1 GCSE English Text Guide - An Inspector Calls
AO3- Understanding the importance of context
ISBN: 978-1841461151 (£3.99 on Amazon)
(social/historical info about the text)
• Grade 9-1 GCSE English Text Guide – A Christmas Carol
AO4- Accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar
ISBN: ISBN-101782943099 (£5.95)
• Grade 9-1 GCSE English Shakespeare Text Guide –
Macbeth ISBN: 101841461164 (£4.46 on Amazon)
13Key skills:
Technical accuracy (punctuation and grammar)
Writing analytically (using what? How? Why? Paragraphs)
Writing appropriately for purpose and audience
Knowledge of the set texts
Revision techniques:
• Read for 30 minutes a day to improve vocabulary,
writer’s voice and punctuation accuracy (a mixture of
fiction and non-fiction)
• Re-read the Literature texts and write key quotations
on post-it notes (display these in your room/house)
(Copies are available in the library)
• Use blank copies of the poetry anthology (and unseen
poems) and practise annotating them from memory,
at speed
• Complete practice papers for each of the Literature
texts and the Language papers. Use
highlighters/success criteria/mark schemes to assess
your work.
• Writing practice- use headlines from the news/photos
on your phone as stimulus
Key apps / websites / content to support:
www.sparknotes.com has revision resources for A Christmas
Carol, An Inspector Calls and Macbeth (it also includes a ‘No-
Fear Shakespeare’ version of Macbeth
www.pobble365.com gives a picture stimulus every day,
which can be used as practice for Language Paper 1 writing.
14Combined Science GCSE Cell Biology
Organisation
Homeostasis
and
Atomic
structure
The rate
and extent
Energy
Electricity
Forces
Waves
Infection and response and the of chemical Particle Magnetism
Why study this course? response Inheritance, periodic change model of
Science is the subject which allows you to study and question Bioenergetics variation table Organic matter
and Bonding, chemistry Atomic
the world around you and the reason behind everyday evolution structure Chemical structure
phenomena such as how electricity travels around devices Ecology and analysis
properties Chemistry
and how the body works. Within Combined Science, you will of matter of the
learn about topics relating to the 3 Science disciplines: Quantitative atmosphere
chemistry Using
Biology, Chemistry and Physics, so you can fully understand Chemical resources
the scientific world. By studying science, you will develop your and
energetic
investigative and problem-solving skills as well as enhancing changes
practical techniques. 6 x 1hr 15min exam
Foundation and Higher tier
75 Marks per assessment
Each exam is worth 16.7% of GCSE
As one of the core subjects, Science is one of the subjects
that all pupils study at either Combined or Triple Science
Our assessment objectives
levels. GCSE Science qualifications are a perfect
AO1 Are students able to recall the key information
steppingstone for continuing to A Level Science qualification
40% covered within the Science GCSE?
which can lead to medicine related careers, engineering and
Can students suggest why some things happen in
many other STEM related careers Science?
AO2 Are students able to accurately describe the
40% scientific process behind why things happen?
Exam Board: Can students describe how to investigate the
AQA science behind a big idea?
AO3 Can students apply their knowledge to new and
20% unusual situations?
Overview of assessment and assessment topics:
Biology Chemistry Physics
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 1 Paper 2
15Key Skills:
• Learners will develop scientific knowledge and
Recommended revision techniques:
conceptual understanding through the specific
disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Regular review over covered topics is essential. By using the
• Learners will develop understanding of the nature,
workbook to answer 1-2 pages per week, learners will recap
processes and methods of Science, through different
all of the Science content in 6 months.
types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer
scientific questions about the world around them. YouTube also has a lot of resources to help learners revise,
• Learners will develop and learn to apply including: Primrose Kitten
observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBgvmal8AR4QIK2e0EfJ
problem-solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the
waA, Free Science Lessons:
field and in other learning environments.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqbOeHaAUXw9Il7sBV
• Learners will develop their ability to evaluate claims
based on science through critical analysis of the G3_bw , Khan academy:
methodology, evidence and conclusions, both https://www.youtube.com/user/khanacademy, Seneca
qualitatively and quantitatively. Learning is a free learning platform where learners can access
AQA AQA AQA AQA a range of courses from KS3 to their GCSEs. All learners can
Combined Combined Combined Combined sign up at any level and can pick and choose which topics
Science Science Science Science they want to revise.https://www.senecalearning.com/
Higher Level Higher Level Foundation Foundation
Revision Workbook Level Revision Level
Guide Guide Workbook
ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978-
1782945598 1782944850 1782945604 1782944867
16Science: Biology (As part of separate separate qualification for each of the Science disciplines as
you will study concepts in more detail.
Sciences) GCSE
Why study this course?
By studying GCSE Biology, you will delve further into the study Exam Board:
of living organisms and how they interact with the AQA
environment around them. This will include:-
Overview of Assessments and Topics:
• how cells build up to organisms and how the parts of
the organisms lead to a living organism Paper 1 Paper 2
• How organs work like the heart, lungs, eyes and kidneys Cell Biology Homeostasis and response
Organisation Inheritance, variation and
• How genes are past and how this leads to evolution
Infection and response evolution
• How humans affect the environment and the Bioenergetics Ecology
organisms that live in them 2 x 1hr 45 min exam
• How pathogens infect humans, and how infections are Foundation and higher tier
fought 100 Marks per assessment
Each exam is 50% of the GCSE
• How Biology advancements, such as cloning and
monoclonal antibodies, are being used in the modern
world *Although the topics listed are similar to the topics in GCSE Combined Science, there
is additional content that learners are required to learn.
Alongside the theory you will learn about, you will develop not
only your practical skills but also problem solving and Our assessment objectives:
analytical skills. AO1 Are students able to recall the key information
40% covered within the Science GCSE?
A GCSE in Biology is also a fantastic step towards studying A Can students suggest why some things happen in
Level Biology, which in turn is a step towards a career in Science?
medicine and health care, marine Biology, Neurology and AO2 Are students able to accurately describe the
many other STEM careers. 40% scientific process behind why things happen?
Can students describe how to investigate the
If you choose to study GCSE Biology, as part of Separate science behind a big idea?
Sciences, instead of Combined Science you will gain a AO3 Can students apply their knowledge to new and
20% unusual situations?
17Key Skills:
Learners will develop scientific knowledge and
• Recommended revision techniques:
conceptual understanding through the specific
discipline of Biology.
Regular review over covered topics is essential. By using the
• Learners will develop understanding of the nature,
workbook to answer 1-2 pages per week, learners will recap
processes and methods of Science, through different
types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer all of the Biology content in 3 months.
scientific questions about the world around them. YouTube also has a lot of resources to help learners revise,
• Learners will develop and learn to apply including: Primrose Kitten:
observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBgvmal8AR4QIK2e0EfJ
problem-solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the
waA Free Science Lessons:
field and in other learning environments.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqbOeHaAUXw9Il7sBV
• Learners will develop their ability to evaluate claims
based on science through critical analysis of the G3_bw Khan academy:
methodology, evidence and conclusions, both https://www.youtube.com/user/khanacademy
qualitatively and quantitatively.
Seneca Learning is a free learning platform where learners
Recommended revision Guides
can access a range of courses from KS3 to their GCSEs. All
AQA Biology AQA Biology AQA Biology AQA Biology learners can sign up at any level and can pick and choose
Higher Higher Level Foundation Foundation which topics they want to revise.
Revision Workbook Revision Level https://www.senecalearning.com/
Guide Guide Workbook
ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978-
1782945598 1782944928 1789083248 1789083262
18Science: Chemistry (As part of separate If you choose to study GCSE Chemistry, as part of Separate
Sciences, instead of Combined Science you will gain a
Sciences) GCSE separate qualification for each of the Science disciplines as
you will study concepts in more detail.
Why study this course?
By studying GCSE Chemistry, you will delve further into the
study of atoms and how atoms they interact with each other
Exam Board:
to create new products. This will include: AQA
• How atoms and the Periodic Table were discovered Overview of Assessments and Topics:
and developed
• How atoms form particles and molecules, and how Paper 1 Paper 2
these interact with each other Atomic structure and the periodic The rate and extent of chemical
table change
• How products and the amounts of products being
Bonding, structure and properties Organic chemistry
made can be predicted of matter Chemical analysis
• How we use resources of the earth within the modern Quantitative chemistry Chemistry of the atmosphere
world Chemical and energetic changes Using resources
• How research in Chemistry has led to products in the 2 x 1hr 45 min exam
modern worlds, such as Nanoparticles and smart Foundation and higher tier
100 Marks per assessment
materials Each exam is 50% of the GCSE
Alongside the theory you will learn about, you will develop not
*Although the topics listed are similar to the topics in GCSE Combined Science, there
only your practical skills but also problem solving and
is additional content that learners are required to learn.
analytical skills.
A GCSE in Chemistry is also a fantastic step towards studying
A Level Chemistry, which in turn is a step towards a career in
medicine and health care, Biochemistry, Pharmaceuticals
and many other STEM careers.
19Key Skills:
Recommended revision techniques:
• Learners will develop scientific knowledge and
conceptual understanding through the specific
discipline of Chemistry. Regular review over covered topics is essential. By using the
• Learners will develop understanding of the nature, workbook to answer 1-2 pages per week, learners will recap
processes and methods of Science, through different
all of the Chemistry content in 3 months.
types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer
scientific questions about the world around them. YouTube also has a lot of resources to help learners revise,
• Learners will develop and learn to apply including: Primrose Kitten:
observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBgvmal8AR4QIK2e0EfJ
problem-solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the waA Free Science Lessons:
field and in other learning environments.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqbOeHaAUXw9Il7sBV
• Learners will develop their ability to evaluate claims
G3_bw Khan academy:
based on science through critical analysis of the
methodology, evidence and conclusions, both https://www.youtube.com/user/khanacademy
qualitatively and quantitatively. Seneca Learning is a free learning platform where learners
Recommended revision Guides: can access a range of courses from KS3 to their GCSEs. All
AQA AQA AQA AQA learners can sign up at any level and can pick and choose
Chemistry Chemistry Chemistry Chemistry which topics they want to revise.
Higher Higher Level Foundation Foundation https://www.senecalearning.com/
Revision Workbook Revision Level
Guide Guide Workbook
ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978-
1782945574 1792944836 1789083224 1789083255
20Science: Physics (As part of separate Exam Board:
AQA
Sciences) GCSE
Why study this course? Overview of Assessments and Topics:
By studying GCSE Physics, you will delve further into the study
of the Paper 1 Paper 2
Energy Forces
• How atoms are structured and how unstable atoms Electricity Waves
can be used to generate energy Particle model of matter Magnetism
Atomic structure Space
• How energy is stored and transferred
2 x 1hr 45 min exam
• How electricity interacts with components and can be Foundation and higher tier
used to generate magnetism 100 Marks per assessment
• How the universe, stars and planets are formed and Each exam is 50% of the GCSE
how gravity causes these to orbit around each other
• How forces cause motion and how this can be used in *Although the topics listed are similar to the topics in GCSE Combined Science, there
the modern world is additional content that learners are required to learn.
Alongside the theory you will learn about, you will develop not Our assessment objectives:
only your practical skills but also problem solving and AO1 Are students able to recall the key information
analytical skills. 40% covered within the Science GCSE?
Can students suggest why some things happen in
A GCSE in Physics is also a fantastic step towards studying A Science?
Level Physics, which in turn is a step towards a career in AO2 Are students able to accurately describe the
engineering, astrophysics, radiography and many other STEM 40% scientific process behind why things happen?
careers. Can students describe how to investigate the
science behind a big idea?
If you choose to study GCSE Chemistry, as part of Separate AO3 Can students apply their knowledge to new and
Sciences, instead of Combined Science you will gain a 20% unusual situations?
separate qualification for each of the Science disciplines as
you will study concepts in more detail.
21Key Skills:
• Learners will develop scientific knowledge and Recommended revision techniques:
conceptual understanding through the specific
discipline of Physics. Regular review over covered topics is essential. By using the
• Learners will develop understanding of the nature,
workbook to answer 1-2 pages per week, learners will recap
processes and methods of Science, through different
all of the Physics content in 3 months.
types of scientific enquiries that help them to answer
scientific questions about the world around them. YouTube also has a lot of resources to help learners revise,
• Learners will develop and learn to apply including: Primrose Kitten
observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBgvmal8AR4QIK2e0EfJ
problem-solving skills, both in the laboratory, in the
waA Free Science Lessons
field and in other learning environments.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqbOeHaAUXw9Il7sBV
• Learners will develop their ability to evaluate claims
based on science through critical analysis of the G3_bw Khan academy:
methodology, evidence and conclusions, both https://www.youtube.com/user/khanacademy
qualitatively and quantitatively. Seneca Learning is a free learning platform where learners
Recommended revision Guides can access a range of courses from KS3 to their GCSEs. All
AQA Physics AQA Physics AQA Physics AQA Physics learners can sign up at any level and can pick and choose
Higher Higher Level Foundation Foundation which topics they want to revise.
Revision Workbook Revision Level https://www.senecalearning.com/
Guide Guide Workbook
ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978- ISBN: 978-
1782945581 1782944843 1789083231 1789083293
22History GCSE • Making connections between factors and events
• Looking at different perspectives.
Why study this course? Exam Board:
History is a well-respected subject that forms part of the Edexcel
EBACC qualification. A GCSE in History can offer many
exciting job opportunities: Overview of papers/units:
Paper 1 - British Thematic Study with Historic Environment
• As effective writers and communicators, many who
[52 marks, 30% weighting, 1 hour 15 minutes]
study History become successful journalists, authors,
Thematic study (20%)
editors, content managers and marketing
-Medicine in Britain, c1250 to present
professionals.
• History and Law are very similar subjects so many Historic Environment (10%)
pursue careers as lawyers, diplomats and politicians. -The British sector of the Western Front: injuries, treatment and
• The course will teach you how to locate, organise and the trenches
manage information. This enables you to become
outstanding researchers, librarians, information Paper 2 - Period Study and British Depth Study [64 marks,
managers and administrators. 40% weighting, 1 hour 45 minutes]
• You can also pursue further studies to become
Period study (20%)
teachers or museum facilitators.
- The American West, c1835–c1895
Even if a career in History is not for you, GCSE History will teach
you the following skills that are useful in all professions: British Depth Study (20%)
- Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88
• Researching
• Forming an argument Paper 3 - Modern Depth Study [52 marks, 30% weighting,
• Reading 1 hour 20 minutes]
• Writing Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-1939
• Spelling, punctuation and grammar
• How to analysis events and opinions
• Making judgements
• Debating
23Key Skills: AO1/ AO2 ‘[Statement.]’ How far do you agree? Explain your
answer. 16 marks
Paper 1 – British Thematic Study with Historic Environment
[52 marks, 30% weighting, 1 hour 15 minutes] Paper 3 – Modern Depth Study [52 marks, 30% weighting,
1 hour 20 minutes]
Section A: Historic environment 10%
AO1 Describe two features of… 4 marks Section A
AO3 How useful are Sources A and B for an enquiry into…? 8 AO3 Give two things you can infer from Source A about... 4
marks marks
AO3 How could you follow up Source [A/B] to find out more AO1/ AO2 Explain why.... 12 marks
about…? 4 marks
Section B
Section B: Thematic study 20% AO3 How useful are Sources B and C for an enquiry into...? 8
AO1/ AO2 Explain one way in which X was [similar/different] marks
to Y. 4 marks AO4 What is the main difference between the views? 4 marks
AO1/ AO2 Explain why… 12 marks AO4 Suggest one reason why Interpretations 1 and 2 give
AO1/ AO2 ‘[Statement.]’ How far do you agree? Explain your different views about... 4 marks
answer. 16 marks + 4 marks for SPaG AO4 How far do you agree with Interpretation [1/2] about...?
16 marks + 4 marks for SPaG
Paper 2 – Period Study and British Depth Study [64 marks,
40% weighting, 1 hour 45 minutes] Key Websites :
GCSE BBC Bitesize, BBC Teach.
Booklet P: Period Study 20%
AO1/ AO2 Explain two consequences of… 8 marks Revision guides:
AO1/ AO2 Write a narrative account analysing… 8 marks • GCSE History Edexcel Revision Guide - for the Grade 9-
AO1/ AO2 Explain two of the following: The importance of X 1 Course (CGP GCSE History 9-1 Revision)
for Y. 16 marks • Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) History Early Elizabethan
Booklet B: British Depth Study 20% England Revision Guide and Workbook: with free online
AO1 Describe two features of… 4 marks edition (Revise Edexcel GCSE History 16)
AO1/ AO2 Explain why… 12 marks
24• Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) History Medicine in Britain
Revision Guide and Workbook: with free online edition
(Revise Edexcel GCSE History 16)
• Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) History The American West
Revision Guide and Workbook: with free online edition
(Revise Edexcel GCSE History 16)
• Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) History Weimar and Nazi
Germany, 1918-39 Revision Guide and Workbook with
free online edition (Revise Edexcel GCSE History 16)
25Geography GCSE Key Skills:
Paper 1 – Living in the UK Today [30% weighting, 1 hour]:
Why study this course?
Geography helps us to explore the world around us and • Knowledge of locations, places, environments,
recognise the great differences and diversity in cultures, processes on different scales (global and local)
political systems, economies, landscapes, and environments • Knowledge of social, political and cultural contexts
across the world, while enabling us to explore the links and impact on geographical material
between them. It is a fantastically connective subject that has • Understanding of interactions between people and
crossovers and links to other subject areas. The skills that you environments
learn in Geography, such as independent learning, • Understand changes in places and processes over
teamwork, research, data analysis, report and essay writing, space and time, and understand interrelationship
are highly transferable with other subject areas and therefore between geographical phenomena at different scales
can support your learning elsewhere.
Exam Board: Paper 2 – The World Around Us [30% weighting, 1 hour]:
OCR Specification A
• Knowledge of locations, places, environments,
Overview of papers/units: processes on different scales (global and local)
Unit 1 – Living in the UK Today [30% weighting, 1 hour]: • Knowledge of social, political and cultural contexts
Landscape of the UK / People of the UK / UK Environmental and impact on geographical material
Challenges • Understanding of interactions between people and
environments
• Understand changes in places and processes over
Unit 2 – The World Around Us [30% weighting, 1 hour]:
space and time, and understand interrelationship
Ecosystems of the Planet / People of the Planet /
between geographical phenomena at different scales
Environmental threats to our planet
Unit 3 – Geographical Skills [40% weighting, 1 hour 30 minutes]:
Geographical Skills / Fieldwork Assessment
26Paper 3 – Geographical Skills [40% weighting, 1 hour 30
minutes] :
• Develop fieldwork skills, using maps and Geographical
Information Systems, and researching secondary
evidence including digital sources
• Develop enquiry and investigation approaches.
• Apply geographical skills to real work contexts and
contemporary situations
• Develop cartographic skills, graphical skills, and
numerical and statistical skills
Key Websites:
GCSE Bite size, Cool Geography, Geography on the Internet.
Textbooks:
• “Geographical Skills and Fieldwork OCR GCSE (9-1)
Geography A and B” – Steph Warren – ISBN
9781471865961
• OCR A GCSE “Geography: Geographical Themes
Student Book” – Simon Ross, Alan Parkinson, Jo Debens,
Jo Payne – ISBN 9781471853081
27Spanish & German GCSE Paper 2: Speaking –
Communicating and interacting effectively in speech for a
Why study this course? variety of purposes (25%)
Learning a language gives learners capability and The speaking exam is formed of three parts: photo
confidence for a wide range of challenging opportunities. By card, role play and general conversation.
having a GCSE qualification in a language, learners will have
a valuable talent that is applicable to everything they do. Paper 3: Reading –
Russell Group Universities, such as The University of Oxford, Understanding and responding to different types of written
Cambridge, York and Exeter, consider a language GCSE a language (25%):
facilitating subject. Learning a language develops key skills
that employers value and there are unlimited areas of interest Section A: Questions in English, to be answered in English.
in the working world where languages are an asset: tourism, Section B: Questions in Spanish/German, to be answered in
business, retail, law, teaching, international banking and Civil Spanish/German.
Section C: Translation from Spanish/German into English.
Service. In addition, learning a language helps your memory,
creativity, communication skills and confidence meaning
you’ll develop essential skills that will help you in any subject
Paper 4: Writing –
Communicating effectively in writing for a variety of purposes
or any career in the future. With a language, the prospects
(25%):
are endless.
Exam Board: Theme 1: Identity and culture (social media, music, sports,
AQA relationships)
Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of
interest (towns, environment, holidays, Spanish and German
Overview of papers: festivals)
Paper 1: Listening – Theme 3: Current and future study and employment (jobs,
Understanding and responding to different types of spoken school life)
language (25%):
Section A: Questions in English, to be answered in English. Facilitating subjects:
Section B: Questions in Spanish/German, to be answered in - English
Spanish/German. - Sciences
- Business Studies
- German
28A GCSE in a language will equip you with essential
Revision guides: communication skills (for use with any language) for life. This is
a key asset that employers seek.
Spanish:
GCSE Spanish AQA Complete Revision & Practice (with CD &
Revision techniques:
Online Edition) - Grade 9-1 Course (CGP GCSE Spanish 9-1
• Revise a range of vocabulary for the topics (teachers
Revision) - 978-1782945482 – Amazon, WHSmith, Waterstones
provide vocabulary lists printed or on Quizlet). The best
Revise AQA GCSE (9-1) Spanish Revision Workbook: for the 9-1
thing to do is study little and often! Do not leave it all to
exams (Revise AQA GCSE MFL 16) - 978-1292131412 - Amazon,
the last minute. 10 minutes, 5 days a week would really
WHSmith, Waterstones
make a difference. Some useful methods of revising
Viva!
vocabulary are:
AQA GCSE Spanish Grammar and Translation Workbook - 978-
• Creating mind maps
1292133195 - Amazon, WHSmith, Waterstones, could also
• Look, cover, write, check
order from school if necessary
• Using Quizlet
• Finding the opposites of words (dictionary required)
German: • Finding synonyms for key words (dictionary required)
GCSE German AQA Complete Revision & Practice (with CD & • Listen to as much Spanish or German music as you can
Online Edition) - Grade 9-1 Course (CGP GCSE German 9-1 • Watch as much Spanish or German TV shows/films as you
Revision) - 978-1782945543 - Amazon, WHSmith, Waterstones can (you change the language on hundreds of films on
Revise AQA GCSE (9-1) German Revision Guide: includes Netflix so you can watch a familiar programme but in
online edition (Revise AQA GCSE MFL 16) - 978-1292131436 - Spanish or German!)
Amazon, WHSmith, and Waterstones • Speak as much of the language as possible: practise with
Stimmt! a friend; teach a family member; seek opportunities if
AQA GCSE German Grammar and Translation Workbook - you’re travelling or visiting to that country; record yourself
978-1292132617 - Amazon, WHSmith, Waterstones, could also speaking and listen to it back.
order from school if necessary • Read your favourite books or magazines in Spanish or
German (you can find various online or buy translated
Key Skills: copies fairly cheap from Amazon)
Listening, reading, writing, speaking, translation, intercultural • Don’t get frustrated when you come across something
understanding. difficult or complicated. Learning a language is really hard
but it’s important to not give up because you CAN do it.
When getting frustrated or stuck, make a note of the
29You can also read
