Archbishop McGrath Catholic School

KS4 Options Booklet

2014

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Page Introduction 2

Compulsory Subjects

Religious Studies 4

English 5

Cymraeg / Welsh 6

Mathematics 8

Science 9

Physical Education 10

Optional Subjects

Art and Design 12

Business Studies / Applied Business 13

Catering 14

Child Development 15

Design Technology 16 Drama 17

French 18

Geography 19

History 20

Information Technology 21

Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector 23

Media Studies 25

Music 26

Physical Education 27

BTEC Work Skills 28

Welsh Baccalaureate 29

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At the end of Year 9, you will be embarking upon a new phase in your school career when you begin to study for your GCSE examinations. This part of your education is known as Key Stage 4 and will take place over the last two years of your compulsory schooling. In Key Stage 4 you will study 2 different types of subjects: 1. Core subjects

All pupils will follow courses in these subjects:

RE

English

Welsh

Mathematics

Science

PE (non-examination) 2. Optional subjects For the first time in your school career, you can choose some of the subjects you will study. You can make 3 option choices from the option blocks on Careers Wales Online. This booklet and the Options Evening should help you make your final choices. It is really important to think hard about your choices and get as much advice as possible. Involve your parents or carers in this decision and ask your teachers for their help. Do

Choose subjects you enjoy Choose subjects you are good at Find out if you need a particular subject to follow a career path you are interested in Make a balanced choice

Don’t

Choose a subject just because your friend is taking it

Choose or reject a subject because of the teacher

Choose a new subject without finding out more about it

Choose a subject without giving it a great deal of thought Good luck with your choices!

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Religious Studies Head of Department: Miss J Pearson

The GCSE Religious Studies course followed by all students at Archbishop McGrath Catholic School is examined by the WJEC. The governing body has adopted the Catholicism programme because it provides a thorough, rigorous and systematic study of the beliefs and practices of the Catholic Church and the opportunity to evaluate challenges to this in society today. It is examined at the end of Year 11 by two 1¾ hour exam papers. There is no coursework element in GCSE Religious Studies. The following are key topics studied:

Understanding of the nature of God and philosophical arguments for God’s existence

The problem of evil and suffering

The life and teachings of Jesus Christ

The role of the Bible, church teaching and personal conscience as sources of authority for Catholics

The role of the Church in the life of Catholics

The place of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the Catholic Church

Benefits and challenges of being a Catholic

The celebration and significance of baptism, confirmation, marriage and funerals

Key feasts and seasons in the Church’s year

Forms of and aids to worship in Catholicism

The celebration and significance of the Mass

Pilgrimage

Catholicism and other faiths

Catholic teaching on the sacredness of life, including abortion and evaluation of euthanasia issues

Catholic beliefs about life after death

Catholic beliefs about marriage, the family and sexual relationships

Catholic beliefs about respect for self and others

Catholic understanding of vocation

The work of CAFOD

Catholic beliefs about violence, war and peace

Catholic teaching regarding crime and punishment and an evaluation of capital punishment We believe that this course of study provides students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of Catholic Christianity and the skills to analyse, evaluate and respond to religious claims and to a commitment of faith. Religious Studies, validated by the WJEC.

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English Head of Department: Dr J Webb

There are two courses, English Language and English Literature. Two separate GCSEs will be awarded. Some groups will do both, whilst others will concentrate on English Language. Assessment for both subjects is made through a combination of controlled assessments and terminal examination. The courses allow candidates to demonstrate fully their abilities in English and English Literature. Differentiation in the terminal examination will be achieved by two tiers of papers. The tiers of papers are as follows: Foundation Tier: this covers the grade range G to C. Higher Tier: this covers the grade range D to A*. Candidates may be entered for one tier only. Schemes of Assessment: English Language There are four units to this course:

Unit 1 – Examination (30%), 1 hour 45 mins This will test reading of unseen prose and contain one imaginative writing task. Unit 2 – Examination (30%), 1 hour 45 mins This will test reading of non-fiction texts and contain one persuasive writing task. Unit 3 – Controlled Assessment (20%) Reading and Writing These include both a non-fiction reading task and an imaginative writing task. Unit 4 – Controlled Assessment (20%) Speaking and Listening This comprises two tasks: a presentation or talk and a group discussion.

English Literature There are three elements in this course: Written Paper (35%). This will examine the study of one set text of different cultures prose. There will also be a response to an unseen poem. Written paper (40%). This will examine the study of two set texts, one prose and one drama. Controlled Assessment (25%). This piece concentrates on the study of a Shakespeare play and poetry taken from a WJEC anthology.

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Cymraeg / Welsh Head of Department: Miss N Lewis

There are two different GCSE examination courses – traditional Welsh GCSE Second-language and Applied Welsh Second-language. Each GCSE course has a different focus, with the traditional preparing the student better for further study and becoming a fluent Welsh speaker, while the Applied course has more emphasis on the use of Welsh, especially in the world of work. Welsh Second-language GCSE There are 4 modules, each worth the same marks (i.e. 4 modules each worth 25% of the total GCSE). Modules 1 and 2 are based on Context A, and modules 3 and 4 on Context B.

Unit 1 - Written paper - 1 hour (25%) Unit 2 - Controlled Assessment (25%) - oral 20%, written 5% (non-tiered) Unit 3 - Group speaking exam (25%) Unit 4 - Written paper - 1 hour (25%) This is a comprehensive course which sees pupils reaching a high standard of spoken and written Welsh, and it also is a solid grounding for those wishing to further their study and knowledge of the language. Applied Welsh Second-language GCSE There are four modules in the full course, with 60% of work being assessed in Controlled assessments. There are two contexts, and the full course study all four, while the Short Course option only follow Context A:

Context A Context B

Holidays Leisure time

Sports Alcohol, drugs and smoking

Fashion / Shopping The environment

Welsh celebrities Keeping fit and healthy

Cinema / Films Family and friends

Pop music The home

Charity / part-time work Weekends

Area The media

Welsh culture Technology

Wales Celebrations

Myself School experiences

Special events

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Context A Context B

The World Around Us tourism, the area, Wales and the world

The future voluntary work careers

The World of Work applying for jobs in the workplace rules – signs, policies, health and safety

The Use of Welsh bilingualism opportunities for learners potential to use Welsh

Unit 1 - Written paper – 1 hour (20%). This paper includes skills such as proof-reading, taking memos, replying to e-mails and simple translation work. Unit 2 - Controlled Assessment (30%) – non-tiered - oral 20%, reading 5%, writing 5% Unit 3 - Controlled Assessment (30%) – non-tiered - oral 5%, reading 10%, writing 15% Unit 4 - Group speaking exam (20%)

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Mathematics Head of Department: Mrs J Earnshaw

All pupils follow the linear WJEC GCSE. Pupils will be entered into one of two tiers based mainly on their assessment at KS3. The two tiers are as follows:

Higher Tier – covering grades A* – D

Foundation Tier – covering grades C – G Examinations There are 2 examinations, Paper 1 (Non Calculator) and Paper 2 (Calculator). Both examinations will be taken in the Summer of Year 10 with opportunities for further sittings to improve grades in Year 11. The foundation tier exams are 1¾ hours in duration and the higher tier exams are 2 hours in duration. There is no coursework element to this subject. Lunchtime troubleshooting sessions are held once a week with Mrs Earnshaw.

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Science Head of Department: Mr G Davies

As a result of their performances in the Year 9 examinations, pupils will be placed into one of six sets. Sets 1 – 3 will follow the WJEC GCSE Science course and, depending on their progress, they will have the opportunity to follow the Additional GCSE Science course in Year 11. Assessment will be through on-going, externally-marked examinations, worth 75% of the available marks, and internally assessed practical work, worth 25% of the marks. Candidates will be entered for the examinations at two different tiers – Foundation (covering grades G to C) and Higher (covering grades D to A*). Sets 4 – 6 will follow the Edexcel BTEC First Certificate in Applied Science. This course has equivalence with the GCSE course but is more vocational in nature, and assessment is via the completion of written assignments and not through a formal examination.

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Physical Education Head of Department: Mr J Barry

PE remains statutory for all pupils under the National Curriculum. Its importance in today’s health-conscious world cannot be over-emphasised. A wide range of activities are undertaken. These are: Rugby, Soccer, Basketball, Hockey, Fitness, Swimming, Cross Country Running, Outdoor Education, Cricket, Baseball, Athletics, Tennis, Netball, Dance (including Folk Dancing), Gymnastics, Rounders and Stoolball. Fixtures against other schools are played where there is an interest shown. It is also the aim of the department to promote qualities that will help the individual pupils in their life after school. These are: 1. To develop a capacity to work alone and with others cooperatively and competitively; 2. To develop an awareness and understanding of physical fitness and its contribution to general health; 3. To encourage the participation in games and sports after leaving school. A full GCSE in PE may be chosen from the option blocks.

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Art and Design Head of Department: Mrs J Price

All pupils follow the WJEC specification for GCSE Art and Design. Coursework Assessment 1: Candidate portfolio – 60% The theme is selected and developed for all the assessment objectives to be met. This will consist of all coursework completed in lessons and exercises at home. Assessment 2: WJEC set paper – 40% Pupils select one question from the examination paper and are given plenty of time to develop and plan for the 10 hour examination. Pupils will have the opportunity to develop their skills in the following:

Drawing

Painting

Textiles

Graphics

ICT

Three Dimensional Art Work Pupils will be entered for the endorsed area in Textiles and use all of the above skills. Regular lunchtime sessions are given to help support GCSE pupils. The examination paper is opened in the January of Year 11 and pupils complete the 10 hour examination before the Easter of that year.

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Business Studies /

Applied Business Head of Department: Mrs C Evans

The course is suitable for pupils who want a good understanding of the business world and who wish to progress to Higher Education. It also provides essential preparation for those entering the world of work. The course is made up of 2 units: 1. Business and Its Environment (60%) This unit will help you to understand how businesses organise themselves in order to meet their aims and objectives. You will investigate how ownership affects the running of the business. You will explore businesses which produce a range of different goods and services and find out how such business activities are changing in the UK as a whole. You will investigate the different functional areas of a business, how they affect each other and how they communicate. 2. Business Finance and Decision Making (40%) This unit provides an introduction to decision making and business finance. You will look at how businesses can measure their performance through keeping accounts and you will find out the value of ICT in helping them manage their finances. You will learn about simple recording systems, how to interpret financial documents and how to identify different options for businesses when faced with financial decisions. Pupils will be assessed by a combination of both written examination and controlled assessment.

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Catering Head of Department: Mrs A Townsend

This course has been designed to give candidates an introduction to the catering industry. It will provide opportunities to develop the candidates’ interdisciplinary skills, a range of key skills and their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence. The content of the course encourages the investigation and study of catering in a variety of contexts enabling candidates from all cultures and both genders to develop an interest in and enjoyment of this vocational area. The methods of assessment for this course are: - 1. One un-tiered written paper of 1¼ hours - 40% Candidates will be required to respond to short-answer, structured and free response questions from all the areas of the specification. 2. Controlled Assessment Tasks - 60% (Practical Tasks) a) Task 1 - to be selected from a bank of three set by the WJEC - 20% This is to be carried out in the first half of the course. b) Task 2 - to be selected from a bank of three set by the WJEC - 40% This is to be carried out in the latter half of the course. Practical Sessions Candidates will be expected to undertake practical work every week in order to learn skills, which would enable them to complete the two practical tasks. It is assumed that they will practice these skills at home also. They must be prepared to use free time / lunchtimes in school, where necessary, to complete practical work.

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Child Development Head of Department: Mrs A Townsend

GCSE Child Development has been designed to enable candidates to acquire appropriate skills, knowledge and understanding of the development and care of children from conception to the age of 5 years. It will help them develop their design and technological capability and their interdisciplinary skills including all six key skills. The subject content promotes an understanding of the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of the child which is interlinked through the study of the family, community and the responsibilities of parenthood. Pupils will in the course of their study complete six compulsory units as follows: 1. Family and child 2. Food and health 3. Pregnancy 4. Physical development 5. Intellectual development 6. Social and emotional development Assessment This takes on the following form: 1. An un-tiered examination compiled of questions drawn from all 6 compulsory sections. 1½ hours encompassing 40% of final mark. 2. Controlled Assessment. Child Study – 30% of final mark. This involves observation of a child, drawing on the pupil’s ability to use their knowledge and understanding of children learnt from the compulsory units. Pupils select one task from a bank of 3 set by the WJEC. Pupils will carry out visits (outside school time) and complete the task within 15 hours of directed class time. This is carried out in Year 10. This is a demanding piece of work which draws on the pupil’s ability to use their knowledge and understanding of children learnt from the core units. It is a compulsory element and pupils must be prepared to find a child to study and undertake the visits in the second half of Year 10. It is very important to choose a child that lives nearby and the pupil has easy access to (family member) as observations need to be undertaken regularly. 3. Controlled Assessment. Child Focused Task – 30% of final mark. This task is set by the WJEC and carried out in 15 hours of class time during Year 11. This is a Design Technology type task based on areas of a child’s development.

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Design Technology Head of Department: Mr S Green

Design Technology / Product Design offers pupils the opportunity to identify and solve real problems by designing and making products or systems in a wide range of contexts relating to their personal interests. Design Technology develops the candidates’ interdisciplinary skills, all key skills and their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence. Design Technology is essentially a practical activity involving a combination of skills with knowledge and understanding in order to design and make quality products. Candidates will be expected to analyse and evaluate situations, design and make products and then appraise their performance. They will work with a range of materials, tools and equipment and understand and practice processes and methods used. They will also use a broad range of ICT with the appropriate use of CAD/CAM. The methods of assessment for this course are: - 1. Coursework – 60% This will take 30 hours of school time. Candidates will be required to design, make, test and evaluate a product. 2. An un-tiered examination – 40% This will be based on a range of areas specific to Resistant Materials and will be covered during the duration of the course.

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Drama Head of Department: Dr J Webb

UNIT ONE: Devised Practical Performance (60%) Controlled Assessment 120 marks (120 UMS) TASK ONE – 40% Devised Performance (AO1, AO2) Candidates will devise a practical performance based on a theme, linked with a practitioner or genre.

Candidates may choose either acting or a theatre design skill

Teachers record the work on DVD / Video

Internally assessed and externally moderated with task two TASK TWO – 20% Devised Performance Report (AO3) Candidates will complete a written report on the practical work they completed in Task One, under formal supervision.

The report should include details of live performances candidates have seen which have influenced their practical work; details on decision making; the inclusion of technical elements and the content of the piece and an evaluation of their own work and that of the group

Internally assessed and externally moderated with task one UNIT TWO: Performance from a Text (20%) External Assessment 50 marks (40 UMS) Candidates will be assessed on either their acting or a theatre design skill, in a scene from a published play.

Candidates to work in groups of between 2 to 5 members

No more than two additional design candidates per group, each working on a different skill

Externally assessed by a visiting examiner in April / May UNIT THREE: Written Examination (20%) Written Paper: 1½ hours 50 marks (40 UMS) Candidates will be assessed on their ability to analyse one set text as an actor, designer and director and to evaluate practical work completed in Unit 2.

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French Head of Department: Mrs M Williams

The French course aims to develop the ability of pupils to communicate at a practical level in French. The course builds on skills developed at KS3 and covers a range of useful, everyday topics. The four skill areas to be assessed at GCSE are listening, speaking, reading and writing. Speaking and writing carry 60% of the total mark and are assessed throughout the two year course via coursework / controlled assessment. Reading and listening carry 40% of the final mark; pupils will be assessed in these skills in an examination at the end of Year 11. Pupils will be entered for either Higher or Foundation Tier following discussions with their teacher after the mock examinations. Pupils will follow the WJEC French course. All pupils following the GCSE are taught to converse on key topics of practical interest and have frequent conversation lessons with a French Language Assistant. Lessons are also conducted in French and supplemented by audio-visual materials with the aim of developing pupils’ listening skills. Reading is frequently practised, building on skills developed at KS3: pupils are encouraged to read a variety of texts ranging from French road signs to letters and brochures in order to extract meaning. Writing is frequently practised with the emphasis on practical communication: letter-writing and responding to job advertisements, for example.

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Geography Head of Department: Miss S Robinson

What will I study? By studying Geography you will:

gain both knowledge and understanding of a range of places and environments.

develop a sense of place and appreciation of the environment and the interactions within it.

develop an understanding of global citizenship.

appreciate that the study of Geography is ever changing.

gain and apply new skills and techniques which will be useful whatever ‘A’ level you choose to take on. Year 10 (40% of final mark)

Theme Topic

1 Water

2 Climate Change

3 Living in an Active Zone (Hazards)

4 Population Change

5 Interdependence

6 Development

Year 11 (35% of final mark)

Theme Topic

11 Retail and Urban Change

7 Coasts

10 Tourism

How will I be assessed? This qualification is available through the WJEC Awarding Body.

Regular internal assessments using a range of teaching and learning styles.

The exam for this course will be at the end of June 2015. WJEC will now make this course linear not modular from 2015.

Coursework is worth 25% of the total marks (see below):

Decision Making Exercise (Year 10) Fieldwork (Year 11)

15% 10%

60 marks 40 marks

Where next – there are advanced level courses in Geography in our Sixth Form at ‘AS’ and ‘A’ level. This qualification can lead into a large variety of careers such as urban planning, GIS specialist and environmental management.

For the latest information, follow the Geography Department on Twitter: @abishopmcgrath

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History Head of Department: Mr D O’Leary

The KS4 / GCSE syllabus provides pupils with comprehensive knowledge of the Twentieth Century. The syllabus aims to stimulate candidates’ interest in History and allow them to understand contemporary trends in the modern world. In doing so, they will:

acquire knowledge and understanding of the human past

investigate historical events, people, changes and issues

develop understanding of how the past has been represented and interpreted

use historical sources critically in their historical context

draw conclusions and appreciate that these and other historical conclusions are liable to reassessment in the light of new or reinterpreted evidence The course is divided into 3 areas or modules:

1. European / World History studies in depth (Paper 1): a) Russia in Transition, 1914 – 1924 (1 hr 15 mins duration) b) Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918 – 1945 (1 hr 15 mins duration) 2. Non-British Outline Study (Paper 2: 1 hour 20 mins duration): a) The United States of America, 1930 – 2000 3. Coursework will constitute 25% of the total marks and means that candidates will be in a position to

influence, perhaps significantly, their final grade.

The tasks will take the form of two investigations based upon local, Welsh or Welsh / English History. It is intended that pupils will become ‘detectives of the past’, selecting topics of their own interest which will provide them with both knowledge and understanding, and allowing them to interpret and evaluate sources. Each investigation will be no longer than 1500 words – the emphasis is on quality rather than quantity.

It is intended that History will cease to be regarded as a ‘dead’ subject, but rather as the provider of important knowledge leading to an understanding of the modern world. History is a most useful qualification for an endless list of occupations: Archaeology, Architecture, Barrister, Solicitor, Broadcaster, Economist, Town Planner, the Diplomatic Service, Journalism, Probation Officer, Social Services and Education (teaching, lecturing and administration).

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Information Technology Head of Department: Mr S Farrow We believe that ICT is one of the cornerstones of our pupils’ education. GCSE IT will build on the Essential Skills Wales qualification that pupils will have attained in Year 9. WJEC – GCSE ICT – Year 10 Students follow the first year of the WJEC GCSE in Information and Communications Technology. By the end of Year 10 students will have completed one of the controlled assignments (worth 30% of final grade) and one of the modular examinations (20% of the final grade). Unit 1 Understanding ICT

Module 1 - Data and the Quality of Data Module 2 - Home Entertainment Module 3 - Home and Personal Communication Systems Module 4 - Home Business Module 5 - Organisations: School, Home and the Environment Module 6 - ICT and Learning Module 7 - Emerging Technologies Module 8 - Applications Software Information Handling; E-Mail & Security; Spreadsheets; Data

Logging; Desk Top Publishing; Web and Presentation Software Unit 2 Solving Problems with ICT

Practical Applications of Applications Software such as: Information Handling; E-Mail & Security; Spreadsheet; Data Logging; Desk Top Publishing; Web and Presentation Software

The controlled assignment will be based upon Unit 2 and the end of year modular examination is based on Unit 1.

Year 11 Students follow the second year of the WJEC GCSE ICT syllabus. The main focus this year is the controlled assignment (30%) which is due to be completed by February half-term. There is also one examination (20%) at the end of the year. Unit 3 ICT in organisations

•Data validation •Data and the quality of data •Web and presentation software •Multimedia and multimedia components •Digital Imaging •Animation •Sound and music •Networks •Computer Interfaces •Organisations and ICT •ICT and Retailing •Computer Control in Hospitals •Billing Systems •CAD/CAM •Health Issues •Social and environmental impacts •Legal and ethical issues •Staying safe online •Computer Misuse Act •Data Protection issues / methods and Act •Copyright Law •Emerging technologies •CAL and the use of Computers in School Administration

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Unit 4 Developing multimedia solutions Practical activities including planning, creating and evaluating:-

•Templates •Graphical images •Flash Animations •Sound •Multi-Layer Movies •Websites

The controlled assignment will be based upon Unit 4 and the end of year modular examination is based on Unit 2.

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Introduction to the

Hair and Beauty Sector Head of Department: Mrs H Wilson

The City and Guilds Diploma in Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector is Level 1 only at Key Stage 4 and priority is given to Pathway B pupils. Places are restricted and will be decided after interview. Potential job opportunities: Beauty Consultant Beauty Therapist Salon Assistant Hairdresser Beauty Therapy As a beauty therapist you could find yourself in a salon, a health farm or even on a film set. This range of qualifications can provide you with the skills you need whatever your level of experience. Nail Industries As a nail technician you can provide nail services for natural or artificial nails whilst working within hair, beauty or nail industries.

The students will learn the structure of the nail and influences that affect nail growth.

The students will learn how to shape and paint nails and be given an introduction to nail art; this will allow the students to show their creativity.

An introduction to hand and arm massage is included; hopefully this taster will encourage the student to study further. This is also lovely for the family as well as the students as the students are always looking for models to practice on!

Course Modules Customer Service: What motivates a client to use a salon? Reception Duties: Positive image is a must to maintain your client list. Personal Presentation: The importance of how the client and peers see you. Health and Safety: This will give an understanding of working within health and safety standards. Beauty Industry and Occupation Awareness: This will give a clear overview of the industry. Assessment The students will be expected to complete one assignment for each unit. There is also the option of a multiple choice online test. The coursework needs to be handed in on time and support will be given to those that require it.

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The students will learn basic hairdressing skills such as shampooing, styling women’s hair and creating an image through colour techniques. The student will also learn basic skin care. This will include:

Cleansing, toning and moisturising

The structure and functions of the skin and hair

The bones of the face and hands and, if included, the bones of the feet The student will be able to show their creativity through learning the correct application of day and evening make-up and various hair styling techniques. The student will learn the importance of working as part of a team and will be encouraged to change who they work with every lesson to widen their working experiences. The Diploma: A New Way of Learning Diplomas provide an alternative to traditional learning and are the biggest change to the country’s education system since the introduction of the GCSEs. Developed in partnership with employers, diplomas have been introduced to increase further education and employability opportunities for 14 – 19 year olds by providing:

an alternative to traditional styles of learning

high quality, credible, work-related learning opportunities

an exciting, stretching and relevant programme of learning

the flexibility to progress into work or continue into further or higher education

a combination of essential skills and knowledge, including Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills

exposure to sectors and industries of interest The Diplomas are comprised of 3 key learning areas:

Principal Learning – focuses on developing relevant knowledge, skills and attitudes related to the primary line of learning (eg, Creative and Media)

Generic Learning – developing the broad essential skills and knowledge for learning, employment and personal development, comprised of Functional Skills (English, Mathematics, ICT), Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS), work experience and a project

Additional and Specialist Learning (ASL) – a range of employer endorsed study options allowing students to specialise or take up complementary learning

Diplomas are available at three levels – Foundation (Level 1), Higher (Level 2) and Advanced / Progression (Level 3). Why choose City and Guilds? A City and Guilds qualification is proof that you have the right skills to do your job well, which is why so many employers look for people who have one. You can be confident that your qualification is well respected within your industry.

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Media Studies Head of Department: Dr J Webb

Media Studies involves the exciting opportunity to research, analyse and create a range of media texts such as magazines, newspapers, films, television programmes and radio. The framework for the course is divided into three key areas: media texts, media audiences and media organisations. Examination: 40% (2 hours 15 minutes) Coursework: 60% The Examination is an external assessment which covers: Section A: Thinking about the Media – Investigating Four questions: candidates respond to stimulus material chosen from a topic set by WJEC and assess the way the contemporary media is convergent. Section B: Thinking about the Media – Planning Candidates demonstrate planning and creative skills through a series of creative tasks which demonstrates knowledge of the convergent nature of the contemporary media. The Coursework involves building a folder containing the following: Three pieces of work from at least two different media:

two textual investigations on two different media areas [one must be print-based] (20%) and one media production consisting of research, planning, the production itself and an evaluation of the production (40%).

Careers: The ability to analyse texts, understand industries and be creative applies to many careers or forms of further academic study. Links: Complements all subjects particularly English, Business Studies, Art, Design and Music.

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Music Head of Department: Mr G Price

The course which is studied at Key Stage 4 is based on the WJEC GCSE Music syllabus and is designed to build directly on skills, knowledge and understanding established by the National Curriculum at Key Stage 3.

There are three main areas of study in the GCSE examination: PERFORMING (30%) LISTENING AND APPRAISING (40%) COMPOSITION (30%) PERFORMING (30%): The aim is to develop performing skills to enable candidates to participate in the wide range of musical activities which can be found in the school and in the community. Each candidate should offer:

1. Singing or playing individually (15%): Each candidate will perform a solo part or piece of music. This can be on any orchestral / band instrument, piano, keyboard, guitar, recorder, voice or any suitable solo instrument.

2. Singing or playing as part of a group (15%): In addition the candidate will perform an individual part with other members of a group, band or ensemble.

The assessment will take the form of prepared performing tests which will be marked by the Centre (School) and externally moderated by a visiting moderator in March. Involvement in individual instrumental lessons by, for example, visiting woodwind and string teachers would be an important element in preparing for GCSE. LISTENING AND APPRAISING (40%): The candidate will sit a 1½ hour written paper which is externally set and marked and is based on recorded excerpts of music. The questions require candidates to show a knowledge and understanding of a wide variety of music, from Handel to Reggae! Candidates must provide an evaluation of a performance / composition undertaken during the course as part of this exam. COMPOSING COURSEWORK (30%): The candidate will present a composing coursework file which should include two compositions lasting 4 to 5 minutes in total. The file will be assessed by the Centre and externally moderated in April / May. This is an enjoyable course and should appeal to anyone with an interest in listening to and performing music.

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Physical Education Head of Department: Mr J Barry

The GCSE Physical Education course is designed principally to encourage the purposeful and enjoyable practice and study of Physical Education. The syllabus is designed so that all pupils may fulfil the requirements, which are based on a broad course in Physical Education. This ‘broad course’ involves both the practical and theoretical study of Physical Education. Pupils are encouraged to plan, perform and evaluate physical activities; to improve their knowledge, skills and understanding of a broad range of physical activities; and to increase their awareness of the significance of sport and physical exercise in contemporary society. The course consists of two elements:

1. Practical (60%):

Students will present practical work for 4 practical activities.

2. Theory (40%):

Students will sit one theory paper which lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is based on a range of theoretical aspects to do with physical education, sport and physical activity.

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BTEC Work Skills Head of Department: Mrs A Moore

We offer Work Skills at Level 1 and 2 Award and Certificate. The qualification aims to provide:

the knowledge, understanding and skills learners need to enter employment

opportunities for learners to gain a nationally recognised qualification relating to work skills

opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life

Examples of the units studied are:

Managing your own money

Searching for a job

Applying for a job

Preparing for an interview

Working in a team

Interview skills

Learning from work placement

Preparing for work placement The subject is 100% coursework, which is internally marked and externally verified.

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Welsh Baccalaureate Head of Department: Mrs L Winstanley

The Welsh Baccalaureate is an over-arching qualification designed for 14 – 19 year olds studying in Wales. Its unique core, made up of four components (Key Skills; Wales, Europe and the World; Personal and Social Education; Work-related Education), provides breadth and balance to the 14 – 19 curriculum, ensures that a wide range of young people’s learning activities are properly recognised, and helps them to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills that they will need to progress to further education and employment. The Intermediate qualification is equivalent to 3 GCSEs at grade A – C. The Foundation qualification is equivalent to 3 GCSEs at grade D – G. Students will study for their Key Skills qualifications, which form an essential part of the qualification. The course is 100% course work which is internally marked and externally verified. To gain a Welsh Baccalaureate Diploma, students must achieve the core certificate and optional qualifications:

Four key skills, which must include one from Communication, Application of Number and ICT, and evidence of having pursued all six key skills

Diary records and verification statements where relevant, for Personal and Social Education, Wales, Europe and the World and Work Related Education

For Intermediate, the Individual Investigation Level 2 plus 4 GCSEs at A* – C

For Foundation, the Individual Investigation Level 1 plus 4 GCSEs at D – G