Y8 GCSE Options 2018-2021 - A guide to support students with making choices that will ensure their next steps towards being a successful learner ...
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Y8 GCSE Options 2018-2021 A guide to support students with making choices that will ensure their next steps towards being a successful learner and world citizen. Page 1 of 26
Y9 GCSE Options 2018-2021 Your first steps towards determining your own future: You are swiftly approaching the first point in your school career to date in which you are asked to take ownership of your learning by deciding which subjects you wish to continue through to GCSE. Your choices are hugely important: the subjects you choose will influence your future prospects for Higher Education, training and employment. You will, in fact, be taking your first steps in determining the rest of your life. It is vital that you are as well informed about your choices and their impact in later life as possible. This booklet is designed to provide information about the subjects you will study in years 9, 10 and 11. There are a number of subjects that are compulsory and that all students must study, but you will also need to make decisions about the four other options you may wish to take for your GCSE examinations. you must think very carefully about your options and gathering as much information as possible is vital at this stage. This booklet is a good start, but you should also: 1. Talk to your teachers: do they feel you would enjoy and/or do well? What is the nature of the work like? Is this a subject you would be happy to continue with for a further three years? 2. Talk to your Form Tutor: which subjects are you doing well in and stand a good chance of future success? Do the subjects you are considering fit your post-16 education plans? 3. Talk to your Head of Year: which is the correct path for you? Academic (mostly GCSE) or Vocational (mostly BTEC)? How well are you performing in the subjects you are considering for study? 4. Talk to your Parents: talk through your future intentions with them – do they have ideas about what would be a useful subject for you to realise your future ambitions? 5. Talk to current GCSE pupils: perhaps the best people to talk to are current GCSE students – they can give you a student-voice evaluation of the positives and considerations for all GCSE options. GCSE or BTEC? Points to consider: Which is the right course for you? Which qualification will get you on the path towards your Post-16 destination? In general, your intended Post-16 destination will dictate your choices: • GCSEs - Academic route: this is for students who wish to progress on to study A-Levels, with the ultimate ambition of entering university and qualifying as a graduate. • Students who are considering the Academic route should be working on at least a Grade 2 in their intended GCSE subjects and/or English and Maths by the end of Y8. • BTEC – Vocational route: this is for students who wish to progress on to GNVQs, NVQs, and other employment specific training for their Post-16 destination. • There are no specific entry requirements for students who wish to take the Vocational Route. Page 2 of 26
Positive and negative reasons for making a GCSE choice: Positive reasons to choose a subject: Negative reasons to choose a subject: You find it interesting enough to study for a You like the teacher further three years (after all, you may not get that teacher for GCSE) You think it will be an easy option You are achieving well, with high grades and a (all GCSEs are challenging – there are no easy good Attitude to Learning (ATL 3+) options!) You know someone who has taken it and they You like the way in which learning takes place in like it (but remember, they are not you and will that subject enjoy different things) Your parents want you to do it (they don’t have It is necessary for your future Post-16 destination to do the work for the next three years – you do. ambitions This is your choice, not theirs!) Your friends are doing it It will combine well with your other option choices (your friends may have different Post-16 to give you a variety of subjects destinations than you do – show some independence). Compulsory GCSE subjects for students sitting exams in Summer 2021: Some subjects are compulsory; this means that you must take them. This is the same for all students, in all Secondary schools, throughout the country. Compulsory subjects include: • GSCE English Language, • GCSE English Literature, • GCSE Maths, • GCSE Science (either Combined Science or Triple Award – see below), • GCSE Spanish, • Core PE (note: this is not an examined subject unless selected as a GCSE option), • PSHCE (note: this is not an examined subject – this is part of your Pastoral Education) In addition, all students are required to choose one of the following subjects: • GCSE History or • GCSE Geography. Page 3 of 26
Y9 GCSE Options 2018-2021: contents Section 1: Compulsory GCSE subjects • GCSE English Literature – page 5 • GCSE English Language – Page 6 • GCSE Mathematics – Page 7 • GCSE Spanish – Page 8 • GCSE Combined Science – Page 9 • Either GCSE History – Page 10 • Or GCSE Geography – Page 11 Section 2: optional GCSE/BTEC subjects • GCSE Art and Design – Page 12 • GCSE Design Technology (Resistant Material, Product Design) – Page 13 • GCSE Design Technology (Textiles, Product Design) – Page 14 • GCSE Photography – Page 15 • GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition – Page 16 • GCSE Religious Studies – Page 17 • GCSE Sociology – Page 18 • GSCE Computer Science – Page 19 • GCSE Physical Education (PE) – Page 20 • BTEC Music – Page 21 Section 3: BTEC GCSE Alternative subjects • BTEC Home Cooking Skills (in place of GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition) – Page 22 • BTEC Physical Education (in place of GCSE PE) – Page 23 • BTEC CIDA (Certificate in Digital Applications) – Page 24 • BTEC Health and Social Care (in place of GCSE Sociology) – Page 25 Options return form: • To be completed and returned to Form Tutors by Wednesday 23/03/18 – page 26 Page 4 of 26
GCSE English Literature Studying English literature enables students to develop a love of their literary history and heritage, allowing them to appreciate and value the world in which they live. Having a wealth of literary knowledge and understanding will enable all students to value and appreciate diversity and culture, helping them to develop into well rounded citizens. Acquiring skills, such as critical and analytical thinking and confident communication will equip students with valuable skills and assets that will benefit them in higher education and beyond. With English literature, students can embark on career paths such as: journalism, law, teaching, politics, media and public relations. What will I learn in English Literature? Students of English Language will students will explore and analyse fours works from British literary greats. In Year 11 students will complete two papers, consisting of the following components: Paper 1: Shakespeare and the Nineteenth Paper 2: Modern Text and Poetry Century Novel Section A: William Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’. Section A: JB Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls’. Section B: Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ Section B: Power and Conflict Anthology. OR Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’. • GCSE English Literature is assessed through two written exams. Paper 1 is 1 hour and 45 mins long, and Paper 2 is 2 hours and 15 minutes long. • The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade. How would I learn in English Literature? This compulsory course is specifically designed to allow all students to appreciate the depth and power of the English literary heritage where they are encouraged to read widely for pleasure. This course will enable all students to access and read a wide range of literature fluently, obtaining a secure understanding through in depth, critical and evaluative analysis where they will be able to confidently discuss and explain their understanding and ideas. Through reading an expansive range of literature, students will develop and refine the art of writing accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading, acquiring and using a wide vocabulary they need to criticise and analyse what they read. Page 5 of 26
GCSE English Language The world of English opens many doors in life. When mastered, a secure command of the spoken and written word is a skill and art that will never be forgotten. English language is an invaluable tool and resource that will be needed in every learner’s future, no matter what career path they decide to take. GSCE English language will help students to become: independent, creative, think critically and logically and communicate ideas with extreme confidence. With English language, students can embark on career paths such as: journalism, law, teaching, politics, media and public relations. What will I learn in English Language? Students of English Language will students will explore and analyse a range of texts, including: fiction, non-fiction and literary non-fiction, from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. In Year 11 students will complete two papers, consisting of the following components: Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Paper 2: Writer’s Viewpoints and Perspectives Writing Section A: Reading –Students will analyse and Section A: Reading –Students will compare, answer both short and long essay questions on analyse and answer both short and long essay either a twentieth century or a twenty-first questions on a non-fiction nineteenth century text century text. and either a twentieth century or a twenty-first century text. Section B: Writing-Students will construct a Section B: Writing-Students will construct a non- creative piece of writing that is linked to the fiction piece of writing that is linked to the reading reading extract. extracts. •GCSE English Language is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes. •The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade. How would I learn in English Language? English language is a subject that is fuelled by discussion, where the emphasis is placed upon students being able to discuss their understanding of a writer’s purpose and use of language, and the effect that this has on the reader. Students will be provided with many opportunities to develop higher-order reading and critical thinking skills that will encourage genuine enquiry into different topics and themes. By studying a range of literary and non-literary texts, students will be able to use and apply their knowledge, gained from wide and critical reading, to inform and improve their writing where they write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately and accurately. Page 6 of 26
GCSE Mathematics Why study GCSE Mathematics? Maths, like its good friend English, is a core subject at school, which we must all study. All universities and employers will want you to have a grade 4 in maths at GCSE. Studying maths helps us find patterns and structure in our lives. Practically, maths helps us put a price on things, create graphics , build websites, build skyscrapers and generally understand how things work or predict how they might change over time and under different conditions. Maths ig good for pretty much any career and gives you bags a n r ec ognise of skills. People with good Maths qualifications can go into: as a them accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic go here Edxcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games Higher/Foundation Student Book development, scientific research, programming, the civil service, design, construction and astrophysics to name a few… What would I learn in GCSE Mathematics: Breakdown of course by unit title or equivalent – edit table accordingly: Topic Areas Number Algebra Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change Geometry and Measures Statistics and Probability • 100% Exam Based. Three Papers (Paper 1 Non-Calculator, Paper 2 and Paper 3 Calculator) How would I learn in Mathematics)? Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical, research and problem-solving skills. Not only will studying maths help give you the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help you develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively. We will make sure in lessons to develop these skills by talking about practical applications and through investigations. If you want to get ahead in maths why not get a revision guide and workbook and start studying this summer? Page 7 of 26
GCSE Spanish Why study GCSE Spanish? Spanish is the second most spoken language by native speakers in the world. More than 400 million Spanish speakers in 21 countries have Spanish as its national language; other places such as the USA have adopted and integrated Spanish into culture and everyday life. Spanish has emerged as the most important language for the UK in an analysis made by the British Council A career in languages is vital preparation for an increasing list of careers that extends beyond the options of the typical nts can associations with translating, interpreting and teaching. . The recogn i se importance of foreign languages is evident in areas such as The core textbooks and online importing, exporting, and the stock-market. Other resource for GCSE Spanish professions where languages are an advantage are: a flight attendant, the police, nursing, a scientific researcher, a photographer and in hotel management. A language is also increasingly valuable in the successful progression to university in a wide range of disciplines. What would I learn in GCSE Spanish? This course follows the AQA Board of Examinations Code 8698 and extends across three main themes. Theme 1: Identity and culture Theme 2: Local, national, international Theme 3: Current and future and global areas of interest study and employment Topic 1: Me, my family and friends • Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood Topic 1: My studies Relationships with family and friends and region Topic 2: Life at school/college Marriage/partnership Topic 2: Social issues • Topic 3: Education post-16 Topic 2: Technology in everyday life • Charity/voluntary work • Topic 4: Jobs, career choices and Social media • Mobile technology Healthy/unhealthy living ambitions Topic 3: Free-time activities • Music • Cinema and TV • Food and eating out • Topic 3: Global issues • The Sport environment • Poverty/homelessness Topic 4: Travel and tourism • • GCSE Spanish is assessed through four exams, Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking • The GCSE is 100% exam based with no coursework and each skill is worth 25% of the final grade. How would I learn in GCSE Spanish? Students will learn to express themselves in the target language across the following key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking and Translation. Questions across all of the language skills are set in common contexts, addressing a range of relevant contemporary and cultural themes. Students will be using authentic materials, such as film,audio and literary texts to build vocabulary and will be expected to speak and respond spontaneously to questions across a range of topics. Page 8 of 26
GCSE Combined Science Why study GCSE Combined Science Science is a core subject which helps us understand the world and its many wonders. Qualifications in Science provide endless opportunities in a wide range of fields. All universities and colleges are more likely to consider students with good grades at Science GCSE since the skills and knowledge acquired are valuable in a variety of careers. The possibilities in Science are endless, especially considering the fact that modern Science and technology are rapidly changing and developing. We will be preparing our students at Starbank to become future The core textbooks for Science leaders and innovators. GCSE Combined Science What will I learn in GCSE Combined Science? Biology Chemistry Physics 1. Cell biology 8. Atomic structure and the periodic 18. Forces 2. Organisation table 19. Energy 3. Infection and response 9. Bonding, structure, and the 20. Waves properties of matter 4. Bioenergetics 21. Electricity 10. Quantitative chemistry 5. Homeostasis and response 22. Magnetism and electromagnetism 6. Inheritance, variation and 11. Chemical changes 23. Particle model of matter evolution 12. Energy changes 24. Atomic structure 7. Ecology 13. The rate and extent of chemical change 14. Organic chemistry 15. Chemical analysis 16. Chemistry of the atmosphere 17. Using resources 15. Chemical analysis Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject. All students will sit either Higher or Foundation written exams at the end of year 11 with individual papers lasting 1 hour 15 minutes. There will be two papers per Science, 6 exams in total. Each paper counts towards approximately 17% of the final grade. Students receive 2 GCSE grades for combined science. How would I learn in GCSE Combined Science? Being one of the core subjects, all students will be undertaking a Science GCSE. They will be completing units in Chemistry, Biology and Physics from the AQA trilogy schemes from year 9 through to year 11. Exceptional students will be offered separate Sciences from year 10 onwards. Students will be developing their knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas. They will interpret, evaluate, make judgements and draw conclusions on a range of experimental procedures while developing their own skills and techniques. Page 9 of 26
GCSE History Why study History? GCSE History covers a variety of topics. We learn about how today’s world has been shaped, and this will deepen your understanding of life around you. Studying History leads to a diverse range of further study opportunities and careers. It is the skills you develop when you ‘think like a historian’ that make History a well- respected and attractive subject to universities and employers. Law, politics, civil service, business, marketing, finance, accountancy, journalism, economics, teaching, crime investigation, social work, archaeology The core textbooks for and heritage offer a snapshot of the many career avenues GCSE History. that studying History can lead you down. What would I learn in GCSE History? History Students will complete 5 units, consisting of the following topics: Thematic study and historic environment *Crime and punishment in Britain, c1000–present. *Whitechapel, c1870–c1900: crime, policing and the inner city. Period study and British depth study *Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88. *The American West, c1835–c1895 Modern depth study *Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39 • GCSE History is assessed through three written exams. These range in length from 1 hour 15 mins to 1 hour 45 mins. • The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade. How would I learn in GCSE History? GCSE History is taught through analysis of historical sources and critical evaluation of the views of historians. This will in turn provoke debate and the opportunity to discuss and share ideas with others. History is a rigorous academic subject, and as such involves a good degree of writing. Students are expected to produce extended written answers as GCSE exam practice on a regular basis and to retain significant amounts of subject specific content. Page 10 of 26
GCSE Geography Why study GCSE Geography? The study of geography stimulates an interest about places, people and the environment. It helps young people make sense of a complex and dynamically changing world and how society, the economy and environment combine to bring about change. At University level, Geography graduates become some of the most sought after graduates by employers due to the holistic overview the subject offers on many of the world’s current issues- at a global scale and locally. The Russell At GCSE we teach the Edexcel B 9-1 Group Universities and key employers recognise Specification. Revision resources are Geography as ‘one of the key facilitating subjects for entry supplied by Pearson and Hodder Education to degree level study.’ What would I learn in Geography? GCSE Geography consist of three units consisting of the following components: Global Geographical Issues UK Geographical Issues People and Environmental (Paper 1) (Paper 2) Issues- Making Geographical Decisions (Paper 3) Topic 1: Hazardous Earth Topic 4: The UK’s evolving Topic 7: People and the physical landscape biosphere Topic 2: Development Dynamics Topic 5: The UK’s evolving Topic 8: Forests under threat human landscape Topic 3: Challenges of an Topic 6: Geographical Topic 9: Consuming energy Urbanising World investigations (one physical and resources one human fieldwork trip) Topic 10: Making a geographical • The GCSE is 100% exam based with three examinations. decision • Global Geographical Issues and UK Geographical Issues are both 90 minute examinations worth 94 marks and 37.5% of the qualification respectively. • People and Environmental Issues- Making Geographical Decisions is a 90 minute exam worth 64 marks and 25% of the qualification. • Two fieldwork trips are compulsory to the teaching of the course. How would I learn in Geography? The specification content is framed by geographical enquiry questions that encourage an investigative approach to each of the key ideas. As part of the enquiry process, students are encouraged to use integrated geographical skills, including appropriate mathematics and statistics, in order to explore geographical issues. All three examinations include multiple-choice questions; short open responses; calculations and extended writing tasks that focus on spelling, punctuation and grammar. Students are desired to have a good level in English and Maths at KS3 on entry to GCSE Geography. Page 11 of 26
GCSE Art and Design-Fine Art Why study GCSE Art and Design, Fine Art? Learners need to find an outlet to express themselves. Art and Design gives learners a positive outlet to express themselves. Through studying Art and Design learners are developing their communication skills, independence, creativity, problem solving, learning to work with others. Art and Design will create many different avenues for learners to go down in the future. Learners can explore fields such as; Architecture, Fashion, Construction, Web designers, Vehicle design, Product design, Film, Photography and Promotions. All these career paths require some form of creativity. What would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Fine Art? Unit Content Unit 1- Initial project The first initial project is based on a pre-selected starting point. Learners will be guided through how to create an “insightful and meaningful” response to a starting point. Unit 2-Mock Exam Project Learners will be given two starting points to select from. Learners will have the opportunity to make a response to the starting point and will be able to create a final outcome in a 5 hour mock exam. Unit 4- Art and Design Portfolio Learners will make a more independent decision on what their starting point will be. This project will count for 60% of the overall grade. Learners will have approximately 45 hours contact time to complete the unit. This unit will be marked out of 120 and will be marked internally but moderated externally. Unit 4- Art and Design OCR-set Task Learners will be given the exam paper in January 2019. They will select a starting point from the exam paper and create a portfolio based around their selected starting point. Learners will create the final outcome in a 10 hour exam. This unit will count for 40% of the overall grade. This unit will be marked out of 80 and will be marked internally and moderated externally How would I learn in GCSE Art and Design. Fine Art? Method of Assessment: The GCSE Art and Design course aims to allow learners to make a Students will be assessed against the meaningful and insightful response to a select starting point. It will allow OCR assessment objectives. the learner to explore different materials and allow them to make • Assessment Objective 1 independent choices on which materials will be most appropriate to (AO1) - Develop what they intend on achieving. The course provides learners with an • Assessment Objective 2 outlet to express themselves visually. Throughout the course learners will (AO2) - Refine develop observational skills and how to record ideas through a range of • Assessment Objective 3 materials and processes. They will also work with 2D and 3D relief (AO3) - Record techniques and learn to carry out independent study researching artists • Assessment Objective 4 and their relevance and influence on their work. (AO4) - Present Page 12 of 26
GCSE Design Technology (RM/ textiles/product design) Why study GCSE Design Technology? Design Technology can offer the student, an opportunity to explore their creative potential in designing and manufacturing every day products in a range of materials. It allows the development, of useful life skills and building independence. Areas explored within design technology, will allow students a sound base for future enjoyment of the subject, in to adult hood or even give students a strong base for which, to base a professional career on. The core textbooks for GCSE Design Technology What would I learn in GCSE Design Technology)? • AO1: Explore- Stakeholders of the set task/ design issues • AO2: Create- In a number of ways and 5 different materials areas. • AO3: Evaluate- own work and that of others and stakeholders. (NEA) Coursework 50% 40hours in class Exam 50% 2 hours Set task from the Exam board- set in September Controlled exam set by the exam board in June year 11. year 11. -Identifying problems -Core principles -Learn from existing/ relating products -In-depth- specialised material area. -Implications of wider design and making issues. -Design thinking and communication -Material testing and technical understanding -Manufacturing/ creating viable design solutions. • X5 In depth materials areas: Man-made and natural timbers/ textiles/ polymers(plastics)/ metals/ papers and boards. How would I learn in GCSE DT? Year 9: Basic skills and knowledge building of the core elements and the x5 materials areas. Both practical and theory based. Year 10: Mock NEA Coursework and set task- as well as continued practical skills building in a chosen area of study from the x5 different materials areas. Year 11: Set NEA practical task in a materials area of choice. Set 2 hour written exam- both core and In depth material areas covered. Page 13 of 26
GCSE (Art Route) Textiles/3D product design (DT led) Why study GCSE textiles/3D Product design? Textiles/3D Product Design can offer the student, an opportunity to explore their creative potential in designing and manufacturing every day products in a range of materials. It allows the development, of useful life skills and building independence. Areas explored within Textiles/3D product design, will allow students a sound base for future enjoyment of the subject, in to adult hood or even give students a strong base for which, to base a professional career on. What would I learn in GCSE Textiles/3D product design? • AO1: Develop ideas through investigations. • AO2: Refine work through materials experiments and selecting and rejecting. • AO3: Recording ideas to help progress work. • AO4: Present work in a meaningful way related to visual language. (NEA) Coursework 60% in class portfolio Exam 40% 10 hour+ prep time. Ongoing portfolio building from September Year Controlled exam set by the exam board in June 11 based on a given theme. year 11. -Identifying problems -Identifying problems -Implications of wider design and making issues. -Researching the possible solutions. -Design thinking and communication -Design thinking and communication -Material testing and technical understanding -Material testing and technical understanding -creating final pieces to the related theme. -creating final pieces to the related theme. -Manufacturing/ creating viable design solutions. -Presenting/ analysing and evaluating work. -Presenting/ analysing and evaluating work. • X5 In depth materials areas: Man-made and natural timbers/ textiles/ polymers(plastics)/ metals/ papers and boards. • (This course is delivered alongside the GCSE DT course as an alternative route.) How would I learn in GCSE Textiles/3D Product design? Year 9: Basic skills and knowledge building of the core elements and the x5 materials areas. Both practical and theory based following the GCSE DT course. Year 10: Mock NEA Coursework as well as continued practical skills building in a self- chosen area of study from the x5 different materials areas. Year 11: Set NEA practical task in a materials area of choice. Set 10 hour practical exam- and preparatory studies. Page 14 of 26
GCSE Art and Design- Photography Why study GCSE Art and Design, Photography? ‘With the ever-changing world that we live in, never before has technology been to prevalent and important. Through studying Photography learners are developing their communication skills, independence, creativity, problem solving, learning to work with others. Art and Design will create many different avenues for learners to go down in the future. Learners can explore fields such as; Videographer, Cinematographer, Film, Photography and Promotions. All these career paths require some form of creativity. What would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Photography? Unit 1- Surrealism The first initial project based on a pre-selected starting point. Learners will be guided through how to create “Insightful and meaningful” response to a starting point. Unit 2- Text The second Project will be based on the starting point of “Text”. This project will be more self-lead as students will be more confident on how to create a successful project. Unit 3-Mock Exam Project Learners will be given two starting points to select from. Learners will have the opportunity to make a response to the starting point and the project will be able to create a final outcome in a 5 hour mock exam. Unit 4- Art and Design Learners will make a more independent decision on what their starting point will be. This Portfolio project will count for 60% of the overall grade. Learners will have approximately 45 hours contact time to complete the unit. This unit will be marked out of 120 and will be marked internally but moderated externally Unit 4- Art and Design OCR- Learners will be given the exam paper in January 2019. Learners will select a starting set Task point from he exam paper and create a portfolio based around their selected starting point. Learners will create the final outcome in a 10-hour exam. This unit will count for 40% of the overall grade. This unit will be marked out of 80 and will be marked internally and moderated externally. How would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Photograph? Method of Assessment: Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject. Students will be assessed against the OCR The GCSE Photography course aims to engage learners to assessment objectives. become effective and independent learners through developing their critical and reflective thinking and enquiring minds. The • Assessment Objective 1 (AO1) - Develop course allows students to develop creative skills, through • Assessment Objective 2 (AO2) - Refine learning to use imagination and intuition when exploring and • Assessment Objective 3 (AO3) - Record creating photographic and digital art. Throughout their journey • Assessment Objective 4 (AO4) - Present students will become confident in taking risks and learning from their mistakes when exploring and experimenting with ideas, materials, tools and techniques. Students will develop competence, with increasing independence, in refining and developing ideas and proposals, and personal outcomes or solutions. They will learn how to actively engage with the experience of working with a broad range of media, materials and techniques including, where appropriate, traditional and new media and technologies. Page 15 of 26
GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition. Why study GCSE Food preparation and nutrition? A course in food allows students to become more self- sufficient when they are adults. It allows them to be creative and inventive with their own tastes and develop healthy eating habits, as well as developing their knowledge and skills in food preparation, to keep them safe and healthy with future domestic cooking. It also gives them a good base of skills and understanding, for them to build on in the future if they wish to take food preparation to a professional level, thus aiding their future employability within the food industry. The core textbooks for What would I learn in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition: GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition. • Unit A: Nutrition: Looking at healthy eating, nutritional needs of different groups of people, nutrient contents of the food groups and energy balance. • Unit B: Food provenance and food choice: Exploring food sources and supply, food processing and production, technological advances and emerging new food types and factors influencing food choice. • Unit C: Cooking and food preparation: Students will plan and make a range of dishes exploring food science, sensory qualities of food, food provenance as well as food safety. Cooking practical’s are performed by students weekly or fortnightly throughout the course. • Unit D: Skills requirements: Develop a range of preparation, cooking styles and methods through practical tasks over the three years eg: doughs, raising agents, sauces, knife skills etc. NEA 1: Food Science NEA 2: Food planning and Final written exam Investigation (15%) preparation task (35%) 1 ½ hour- (50%) Set by the exam board – Set by the exam board January Set by the exam board June of September of year 11 of year 11. year 11. -Planning the set investigation -Planning the task -Range of marked questions styles -Practical investigation -3 hour/ 3 dish practical -x2/3 long answer essay style assessment. questions -Analysis of the practical task -Analysis of the task -variety of short answer questions -Evaluation of the practical task. -Evaluation of the task Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject. How would I learn in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition)? • Weekly/fortnightly skills practical’s in year 9. • Mock and actual NEA tasks and exams in year 10/11 • Taught theoretical sessions covering the main units of the course- with a range of learning activities **Please note all ingredients for practical sessions need to provided throughout the course- this Page 16 of 26 financial cost needs to be considered when choosing this course.
GCSE Religious Studies Why study GCSE Religious Studies? The world we live in is changing rapidly. Technology and transport advances have allowed humans to move all over the globe, creating a rich diversity of beliefs and behaviours, of different ways to make sense of the world around us and live as ethical human beings. GCSE Religious Studies encourages students to look at the world around them and to make sense of how people think and act, through the development of key skills such as empathy, critical thinking and social analysis. It is critical for any future career that will The core textbooks for involve working with other people. GCSE Religious Studies What would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies? Students of Religious Studies will complete four units, consisting of the following components: Focus on Christianity Focus on Islam Part 1: Beliefs and Teachings Part 3: Beliefs and Teachings Practices Practices Part 2: Relationships and Families Part 4: Relationships and Families Religion and Life Religion and Life The Existence of God and Revelation The Existence of God and Revelation Religion, Peace and Conflict Religion, Peace and Conflict Religion, Crime and Punishment Religion, Crime and Punishment Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice • GCSE RE is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 90 minutes. • The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade. How would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies? A great deal of Religious Studies content is taught through discussion and exploration of your views in comparison to those of others – be prepared to talk, and sometimes to argue! Religious Studies is an academic subject, and as such involves a good degree of writing. Students are expected to produce extended written answers as GCSE exam practice. Students should be scoring at least a Grade 2 in English to consider GCSE Religious Studies. Page 17 of 26
GCSE Sociology Why study GCSE Sociology? Sociology is the scientific study of human culture, relationships and behaviour. Sociologists observe, study and predict how and why human beings act as individuals and as in groups. Sociologists employ a range of alternative perspectives to examine the world from different perspectives; using a toolkit of different ways of thinking to analyse group behaviour. You will learn how to ‘read’ people’s actions and learn new ways to make sense of Society at large! If you want to learn how and why humans ‘work’, this is the subject for you! What would I learn in GCSE Sociology? Students of GCSE Sociology will study the following units: Sociological Method Applied Sociology Part 1: The Sociological approach 1. The function and purpose of the family Social Structure 2. Education – how do you train a society Social Processes 3. Crime and Deviance Social Issues 4. Social Stratification Part 2: Sociological Research Methods 5. Wealth and Poverty P.E.T Methods Conducting Sociological Research • GCSE RE is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes • The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade. How would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies? Sociology is a Social Science. This means that the learning is expressed through a combination of short and long-length extended writing and Scientific research methodologies. There is a quantity of material to read and there will be an expectation that students engage in flipped learning: that they read material before they enter the lesson, in order to access the learning. Students will also plan, conduct, evaluate and review their own Sociological experiments, describing their outcomes as extended writing pieces. This course will allow students to continue on to A- Level Sociology at Post-16 education. Page 18 of 26
GCSE Computer Science Why study GCSE Computer Science? s Technology is everywhere within our modern society. Everything from mobile phones, smart TVs, games consoles, traffic lights, theme parks to sport depend on technology. GCSE Computer Science will give you an in- depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on 'behind the scenes'. The course will help you develop critical thinking, analysis and problem solving skills. It is an interesting way to develop these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects, especially mathematics and other sciences and even applied in day-to-day life. For studying the subject at A level or University this GCSE What would provides I learn a solid in GCSEand foundation Computer Science? underpinning of Computer • Unit Science Knowledge. 1: Computer Systems : The first unit is focusing on Computer systems which involves: Systems Architecture, Memory , Storage, Wired and wireless networks, Network topologies, protocols and layers, System security, System software, Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns. • Unit 2 Algorithms & programming: The second unit is focusing on computational thinking, algorithms and programming which involves: Algorithms, Programming techniques, Producing robust programs, Computational logic, Translators and facilities of languages, Data representation. • Unit 3 Programming Project: The final unit is a Programming project set out by OCR every year and will involve: Programming techniques, Analysis, Design, Development, Testing, Evaluation and conclusions. Unit 1: Computer Systems Unit 2: Algorithms & NEA: Programming Project (40%) EXAM 1 programming (40%) EXAM 2 Controlled Conditions (20%) Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board - May of year 11 May of year 11. Controlled assessment Year 11 -80 Marks -80 Marks -40 Marks -1 hour and 30 minutes -1 hour and 30 minutes -20 Hours -Written paper -Written paper -Controlled Conditions Exam 40% of total GCSE 40% of total GCSE 20% of total GCSE How would I learn in GCSE Computer Science? • Computer science is taught predominantly through Theory based lessons with a strong emphasis on Computer Architecture, Computational Thinking, Computational logic and Mathematical skills. • This is required in order to prepare for the formal written exams which make up 80% of the course. • A higher level programming language will be taught with a strong emphasis on independent learning for the remaining 20 % of the course. • Mock tasks and exams in year 9, 10 and 11. ** Due to the majority of this course being assessed externally it is essential that students are motivated to work independently and have exceptional Mathematical / Computational ability. Computing teachers will advise on suitable students for all Computer Science / ICT / CIDA courses. Page 19 of 26
GCSE Physical Education (PE) Course Description: The GCSE PE course aims to allow the learners to understand the combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students. They also learn about physical education through a range of different contexts and the impact it has on everyday lives. It encourage the learner to immerse themselves in the world of sports and PE with the chance to perform or coach a sport (through the non-exam assessment component), and delve into the how and why of physical activity and sport. Students have the opportunity to develop a practical set of key skills, including dealing with pressure, split second decision-making, interpreting and analysing data, and more. Subject Content: Unit 1- Physical Factors Affecting Performance: Learners will start to explore the way in which the parts of the human body work and function during physical activity and physiological adaptations that can occur due to diet and training. They will also develop their knowledge and understanding of the principles of training, why we train in different ways and how training plans can be made to optimise results. Unit 2-Socio-cultural Issues and Sports Psychology: Learners will develop their knowledge and understanding of the benefits of participating in physical activities and sports to their health, fitness and wellbeing. The physical, emotional and social aspects will be understood as well as the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle. Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of ethical and socio-cultural issues in physical activities and sports. Unit 3 – Performance within Physical Education: • Part 1: Performance of three sports or activities, one team, one individual and one free choice from either list on DfE list. • Part 2: Performance analysis of a sport or activity from the approved DfE list. Why study this subject? Learners will have the opportunity to develop a wide-ranging set of key skills, including communication using appropriate language, dealing with pressure, split-second decision making, interpreting and analysing data, as well as analysing and evaluating performance so improvements can be made. The specifications also encourage the development of strong literacy and numeracy skills. The acquisition of such a diverse range of skills is of great benefit to your students as they continue their education. Page 20 of 26
BTEC Music Why study (BTEC Music)? With a BTEC Tech Award in Music, students are able to explore, challenge and realise their potential. During the course, students can see whether the industry is one they want to be in, where they could go, and gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their next steps. After completing the course, students can continue on to further vocational and academic study at level 2 and level 3, as well as apprenticeships and traineeships. What’s more, the transferable skills students master during their studies such as self-reflection, communication, teamwork and problem solving will also support their progress. The core textbook for (BTEC Music) What would I learn in (BTEC Music)? Students of BTEC Music will complete three components, consisting of the following: Components 1 & 2 Component 3 Explore musical styles and techniques. Explore a brief and produce responses and ideas. Gain an understanding of roles in the industry. Respond as a composer, performer or producer. Explore different styles and genres of music. Develop response choice for performance. Take part in practical workshops. Practise musical skills. Learn about the roles in the music industry. Put skills into practice. Develop a range of skills. Review and reflect approach to a brief. Reflect on progress, and areas for improvement. Present your final response (solo or in a group). Apply skills and techniques in a music Choose an area of the industry that excites them performance, creation or production. (composer, performer, or producer). • Components 1 & 2 are internally assessed and contribute 30% each (total 60%) to your final mark. • Component 3 is externally assessed and contributes 40% towards your final mark. How would I learn in (BTEC Music)? With the new BTEC Tech Award in Music, you will learn about the various music products, develop valuable skills and techniques in music creation, performance and production, and explore potential careers in the industry. Page 21 of 26
My Skills: BTEC (Jamie Oliver) Home Cooking Skills L1/2. Why study BTEC Home cooking skills? A course in food allows students to become more self- sufficient when they are adults. It allows them to be creative and inventive with their own tastes and develop healthy eating habits, as well as developing their knowledge and skills in food preparation, to keep them safe and healthy with future domestic cooking. It also gives them a good base of skills and understanding, for them to build on in the future if they wish to take food preparation to a professional level, thus aiding their future employability within the food BTEC Course website: industry. www.jamieshomecookingskills.com. What would I learn in BTEC (Jamie Oliver) Home Cooking Skills (L1/2) Level 1: Focuses on giving young people the skills to prepare delicious and nutritious home- cooked food - using fresh ingredients - as well as an understanding of the value of passing on cooking knowledge Level 2 (Equivalent of ½ GCSE) Develops the student's ability to plan and prepare a series of nutritious home-cooked meals for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner, and helps them understand how to cook economically Portfolio of practical and theoretical skills Final assessment- Year 10/11 Ongoing evidence throughout year 9/10/11 -Regular skills based practical’s throughout Level 1: Plan and prepare x2 course meal. yr9/10/11 -Evaluations of practical’s Level 2:Plan and prepare x3 course meal. -Theoretical studies of nutrition, food Evaluation of practical task. provenance, safe food preparation and planning meals for the home. How would I learn in BTEC Home Cooking skills? • Weekly/fortnightly skills practical’s in year 9. • Mock and actual assessment tasks • Taught theoretical sessions covering the main units of the course- with a range of learning activities **Please note all ingredients for practical sessions need to provided throughout the course- this financial cost needs to be considered when choosing this course. Page 22 of 26
My Skills: BTEC Physical Education (PE) Course Description: Through this BTEC course you will learn independently through completing projects, tasks and assignments that are realistic to the work place within the sports industry. You will develop skills such as ICT skills, problem solving, working with others, independent learning, organisational skills and meeting deadlines, all of which are essential qualities for successful performance in working life. Students have the opportunity to develop a practical set of key skills, including dealing with pressure, split second decision-making, interpreting and analysing data, and more. Subject Content: Unit 1- Fitness for Sport and Exercise 25% externally assessed – 1hr online test – 50 marks Learners will start to gain an appreciation and understanding of the different fitness components, training principles, training methods and fitness tests to improve performance. Physical and skill-related components, including aerobic endurance, body composition and power, are related to positive health and wellbeing . Unit 2-Practical Sports Performance 3 Assignments This unit focuses on developing and improving your own practical sports performance. This is achieved through your active participation in practical activities and reflection on your own performance and that of other sports performers. This unit introduces you to a variety of different sports and, through participating in different sports, it is expected that you will develop knowledge of the associated rules, regulations, scoring systems, skills, techniques and tactics. Unit 3 – The Mind and Sports Performance 3 Assignments Why do some sports people produce their best performances under the greatest pressure whilst others fall apart? Performance in sport is the outcome of a combination of various physiological, sociological and psychological factors. Physiological and sociological factors will affect the potential that the individual has to reach the top level in sport. However, of equal importance is having the right psychological approach to achieve success and remain at the top. This unit looks at the concepts that influence the mind in sporting situations and, most importantly, explores the effects that they can have on sports performance. Unit 6 – Leading Sports Activities 3 Assignments This unit introduces you to sports leadership, enabling you to start on the ladder of leadership and coaching, through delivering components of sports sessions and whole activity sessions. You will be ntroduced to the basics of sports leadership and then will be required to plan, deliver and evaluate your ability to lead a sports activity session or component of a session. Page 23 of 26
ICT CiDA CiDA – Certificate – Certificate inin Digital Digital Applications Applications Why study ICT CiDA? The Certificate in Digital Applications (CiDA) Level 2 can act as a stepping stone for a student’s future college study of Level 3 ICT/Computing Qualifications. This exciting yet professional course is aimed at creative learners with a passion for digital content. Although an established well recognised course, being taught in schools for over 10 years, the progressive new elements to this ICT/Computing qualification contains a higher level of computing knowledge. What would I learn in ICT CiDA? There are two parts to the assessment. The assessment for Unit 1 represents 25% of the total mark for the qualification. It is assessed through an external practical examination marked by Edexcel. The assessment for the Optional Unit represents 75% of the total assessment. It is an internally assessed project under controlled conditions. Your teacher will decide on the optional Unit. Unit 1: Developing Web Products (25%) Optional Units - students study either: Unit 2 Creative Multimedia Unit 3: Artwork and Imaging Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board - Summer of year 10 / 11 Autumn Year 10 / Summer Year 11. -1 hour Practical Exam -Internally Assessed Controlled Conditions 25% 75% How would I learn in ICT CiDA? CiDA includes a website build requiring the student to learn a HTML language. Students will explore independently through the CiDA web resource the online project, using peer and teacher feedback to review and develop their products. There are a number of websites that students can access at home to help improve their knowledge and understanding of ICT. These include: the CiDA website, SAM Learning, Bitesize, Teach-ICT and watching online shows like BBC Click. Students should be encouraged to learn the "The whole limit in the system is that software used on the course, and become familiar there aren't enough people who are with the tools and skills needed. Initial programs used trained and have these skills today“. Mark Zuckerberg talking about the will be Adobe Dreamweaver, Fireworks, as well as shortage of web based Computing Microsoft Office. Students worldwide. ** Computing teachers will advise on suitable students for all Computer Science / ICT / CIDA courses. Page 24 of 26
BTEC Heath and Social Care Page 25 of 26
Options return form – Submit to Form Tutor by 13/03/18 Personal Details My name: __________________________________ My form: __________________________________ Choice one: Humanities option: 1) You must select EITHER History OR Geography – your choice here will be guaranteed. 2) Place a tick in the box next to your choice. • GCSE History • GCSE Geography Choice two: GCSE optiona: 3) You must select FOUR other subjects. 4) Place a number between 1-4 in the box next to your choice, to indicate your preference 5) You will be allocated subjects based on your preferences: once allocated, your subjects are not transferable. You will not be able to swap subjects once placed – so choose something you want to study for three years! 6) Some subjects, as indicated, offer a BTEC alternative: should teachers feel it to be the best option for success, then students may be placed in BTEC choices to match preferences, rather than GCSE. Preference Subject Alternative Option 1-4 • GCSE Art and Design • GCSE Design Technology (Resistant Material, Product Design) • GCSE Design Technology (Textiles, Product Design) • GCSE Photography • BTEC Home Cooking • GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition Skills • GCSE Religious Studies • BTEC Health and • GCSE Sociology Social Care • BTEC CIDA • GSCE Computer Science • BTEC Physical • GCSE Physical Education (PE) Education • BTEC Music Page 26 of 26
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