ks4 preferences booklet - - gosford hill school · students will study one drama or prose text. ......

KS4 PREFERENCES BOOKLET

GUIDE TO COURSES FOR YEAR 9 STUDENTS IN SEPTEMBER 2015

I N T R O D U C T I O N

Year 8 Subject Preferences for Key Stage 4 (letter below sent to parents 8 Dec 2014 and reproduced here for your convenience)

Dear Parent/Carer

Information Evening, Wednesday 21 January, 6 – 8 p.m.

Year 8 Subject Preferences for Key Stage 4 (GCSE or equivalent) starting September 2015

In January 2015 you will receive information about the courses offered to students in Year 9. Your son or daughter will study four subjects in addition to the core subjects English, Mathematics, Science, Physical Education and Religious Education. It is important that all students pursue the right courses to ensure maximum examination success for them. You may be aware that the government is proceeding with a number of significant changes to qualifications and examinations which will be addressed at the information evening. Following a brief presentation in the Main Hall at 6pm you will have the opportunity to gather further information and speak to subject staff. Careers staff, Curriculum Advisors for the 14-19 phase, House Leaders and Senior Staff will also be available for consultation in the School Hall and the main foyer during the evening. The Year 8 Parents Consultation Evening on Wednesday 14 January will also provide a timely update on the progress your son/daughter has made, which may help support subject preference decisions. I look forward to seeing you at the forthcoming Year 8 events. Yours sincerely,

Dominic Ward Deputy Headteacher (Curriculum)

A copy of the preference form is overleaf and shows the courses available and the preferences that can be selected. There is also a colour copy of the preference form which should be completed and returned to your child’s form tutor by Friday 30 January. All students study the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, PE and RPE (Religious and Personal Education). All students on the mainstream pathway are also required to study either a Humanities subject (History or Geography) OR a Language (French or German) OR Computer Science. NB – Late return of the preference form may mean that some of your child’s preferences may not be available if courses are full. February onwards: The information from the Preference form will be considered and where necessary further discussions will be held with parents before a final curriculum is determined for your son / daughter.

Term 5: Confirmed preferences agreed and parents / students notified.

The information in this booklet is correct at the time of going to print but may be subject to change. Courses will run if they are economically viable, based on group size. If a course does not run then other student preferences will be considered. The school reserves the right to adjust course selection of individual students where prior attainment data indicates a preferred personalised curriculum that has a higher probability of course success. Please read / study the subject information section in this booklet for further details on KS4 subjects / courses.

Year 9 September 2015 – KS4 Preference Form Please indicate below 6 subjects that you have a preference for studying at KS4. Please give an order of priority for each of your subject preferences. For example if German is the subject you would most prefer to study mark it priority 1. If Geography is the second subject you would prefer to study mark it priority 2 and so on. Since not all courses may run and certain combinations may not be possible it is important to indicate 6 subject preferences, even though only 4 will actually be studied. Please also be aware, that the Government and Department for Education have emphasised the importance of studying the following subjects: a Language (French / German); a Humanities (History / Geography); Computer Science. In order to reflect this change in emphasis students must study at least one of these subjects.

Subject Preference Priority 1-6

Art

Business Studies

* Computer Science

Cooking and Nutrition

Drama

Fashion and Textiles

* French

* Geography

* German

Health & Social Care

* History

ICT

Music

Resistant Materials/Product Design

Sport Studies

One of the subjects marked with an asterix (*) must be one of your top 4 preferences Computer Science is suitable for those students who already achieve highly in Mathematics and Science

We are committed to providing a broad and balanced curriculum at KS4 and have selected an appropriate range of subjects and courses to this end. Please list, however, any subject(s) not listed above that you would have been interested in studying: ______________________________

Name of Student: _________________ (please print) Tutor Group: ________

Parent / carer signature: _____________________Date: _______________

Form tutor signature: ____________________ Date received: ____________

Please return this preference form to your son / daughter’s form tutor by Friday 30 January NB:

Courses will run if they are economically viable, based on group size. If a course does not run then other student preferences will be considered. Certain combinations of subjects may not be possible.

The KS4 curriculum will be prioritised and designed to ensure that: 1. All mainstream pathway students study at least one subject marked above with an asterix 2. Any student wishing to follow an English Baccalaureate subject combination is able to do so 3. The most popular preference combinations indicated by students are accommodated wherever possible

The school reserves the right to adjust course selection of individual students where prior attainment data indicates a preferred personalised curriculum that has a higher probability of course success.

D. Ward (Deputy Headteacher – Curriculum)

All students must study the following core subjects:

ENGLISH

MATHEMATICS

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS

SCIENCE

This course should encourage students to read fluently and write effectively. They should be able to demonstrate a confident control of Standard English and they should be able to write grammatically correct sentences, deploy figurative language and analyse texts.

Exam board: AQA

This course is compulsory for ALL students

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY?

Students will study a range of texts. Students will have opportunities to develop reading and critical thinking skills that encourage enquiry into different topics and themes. GCSE English Language is designed on the basis that students should read and be assessed on high quality, challenging texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.

HOW WILL YOU BE ASSESSED?

Paper 1 - Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing - written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (80 marks - 50% of GCSE) Reading (40 marks) (25%)– one single text Writing (40 marks) (25%) - 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy) Paper 2 - Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives - written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (80 marks - 50% of GCSE) Reading (40 marks) (25%) – two linked texts Writing (40 marks) (25%) - 1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy) Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language

teacher set throughout course

marked by teacher

separate endorsement (0% weighting of GCSE)

FUTURE IDEAS?

Attaining at least a C in English Language at GCSE is often a requirement for many opportunities post-16.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

This course should encourage students to develop knowledge and skills in reading, writing and critical thinking. Through literature, students have a chance to develop culturally and acquire knowledge of the best that has been thought and written. Studying GCSE English Literature should encourage students to read widely for pleasure, and as a preparation for studying literature at a higher level.

Exam board: AQA



Students will study ONE Shakespeare text. Students will study ONE 19th century novel. Students will study ONE Drama or Prose text. Students will study one cluster of poems taken from the AQA poetry anthology, Poems Past and Present. The titles of the two clusters are:

Love and relationships

Power and conflict. Unseen poetry In preparing for the unseen poetry section of the examination students should experience a wide range of poetry in order to develop their ability to closely analyse unseen poems.


Paper 1 – Shakespeare and the 19th Century Novel

written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (64 marks, 40% of GCSE) Questions Section A Shakespeare: students will answer one question on their play of choice. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the play and then to write about the play as a whole. Section B The 19th-century novel: students will answer one question on their novel of choice. They will be required to write in detail about an extract from the novel and then to write about the novel as a whole. Paper 2 – Modern Texts and Poetry

written exam: 2 hour 15 minutes (96 marks, 60% of GCSE) Questions Section A Modern texts: students will answer one essay question from a choice of two on their studied modern prose or drama text. Section B Poetry: students will answer one comparative question on one named poem printed on the paper and one other poem from their chosen anthology cluster. Section C Unseen poetry: Students will answer one question on one unseen poem and one question comparing this poem with a second unseen poem.

FUTURE IDEAS?

Students who are considering taking English Language and Literature or English Literature at A Level should receive a good foundation upon which to build.

ENGLISH LITERATURE

The new GCSE course will cover Number, Geometry and Measures, Algebra, Statistics and Probability. Ratio, Proportion, and Rates of Change (formerly included as part of Number) become increasingly more important, and will be applied to a variety of different contexts. Exam board: Edexcel



You will be expected to use number and algebra skills in a range of different contexts. You will be expected to know and be able to use formulae such as finding the area of a trapezium. The new style GCSE will be significantly more difficult than the current GCSE, and students at all levels will be challenged!


You will be solely assessed by written examination at the end of year 11. There are three papers, each of 1.5 hours. The first paper is non-calculator. All papers will contain a mixture of all topics.

FUTURE IDEAS?

Mathematics GCSE is always regarded highly by employers. Students who succeed are usually able to solve problems in a range of different contexts. Whatever you decide to do, you will be required to achieve a good GCSE in Mathematics.

MATHEMATICS

All students are expected to participate in a range of indoor and outdoor sporting/fitness activities to the best of their ability.



Through Core Physical Education you will continue to build upon work covered in Key Stage 3. Students cover sports or activities in modules of 6-7 weeks duration where you will learn advanced skills, tactics, strategies, coaching, refereeing and umpiring. The range of sports / activities offered to students in Year 9,10 and 11 include:

Rugby

Hockey

Netball

Basketball

Football

Dance

Trampolining

Tennis

Cricket

Athletics

Volleyball

Squash

Rounders

Softball

Fitness


There is no formal assessment

FUTURE IDEAS?

Learning and undertaking activities in physical education (PE) contribute to achievement of the curriculum aims for all young people to become: • successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve • confident individuals who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives • responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

All students in year 9 follow the exam course in philosophy and ethics. At the end of year 9, students can choose to continue the exam course or pursue the non-exam course.

Under the proposed new model all students will study the beliefs, teachings and sources of wisdom of at least 2 religions for the first half of their GCSE. Currently, students study Christianity, Islam and Buddhism and we propose to continue with this.

Exam board: OCR



You will most likely study how the teachings of Christianity, Islam and Buddhism inform their thinking on philosophical or ethical issues. For example, in philosophy, you may study what one of the religions believes about how the world and humanity began, or what happens after we die, as well as being able to contrast this with your own beliefs. For an ethical issue, you may study the religious views about euthanasia, or fertility treatment, or attitudes towards equality of race or gender


It is likely that there will be 2 substantial written exams

FUTURE IDEAS?

RE Philosophy and Ethics is an excellent GCSE to enable students to formulate a viewpoint and contrast that viewpoint with other views. It builds an ability to write and communicate ideas. It develops an understanding and tolerance and interest in other people and other cultures. As such, it is a useful general subject, respected by sixth forms, colleges and employers. It gives a good foundation for studying A level’s such as Philosophy and Ethics, Psychology and Sociology.

PHILOSOPH

Y AND ETHICS

All students will follow the same programme of study in Year 9 with regular internal assessment and monitoring. Based on this, we will then determine the appropriate route for students in years 10 and 11 which will either be Double or Triple Science.

Exam board: AQA


Double Science You will study Science as two GCSE’s which each cover the main aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students will achieve two separate GCSE qualifications: Core Science and Additional Science. This route provides a sound basis for further study at A-Level. Some of the topics covered include: Biology: Cells, organ systems, photosynthesis, proteins, respiration, keeping healthy, nerves and hormones, the use of drugs, interdependence and adaptation, energy and biomass in food chains, waste materials from animals and plants, genetics, and evolution Chemistry: Atomic structure and bonding, analysis and quantitative chemistry, rates of reaction, exothermic and endothermic reactions, acids and bases, electrolysis, limestone, metals, crude oil and fuels, polymers, plant oils, the atmosphere, and the structure of the Earth Physics: Forces and motion, energy transfer, electrical circuits, thermodynamics, radioactivity, efficiency, electrical appliances, generating electricity, electromagnetic and mechanical waves, nuclear fission and fusion, and the life of stars and the Universe Triple Science Some of our most able students will have the opportunity to study Science as three distinct GCSE’s; namely Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These students will achieve three separate GCSE qualifications: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This route provides a sound basis for further study at A-Level. Students will cover all of the topics appropriate for “Double Science” as well as the following: Biology: Molecular transport in cells, transport systems in organisms, homeostasis, humans and their environment Chemistry: The periodic table, water, calculating energy change, substance analysis, production of ammonia, alcohols, carboxylic acids, and esters Physics: Medical physics, optics, mechanics, electromagnetic induction, transformers, and motors


Course Biology Exam Chemistry Exam Physics Exam Practical Exam

GCSE Science (Core) 25% 25% 25% 25% GCSE Additional Science 25% 25% 25% 25%

Course Unit 1 Exam Unit 2 Exam Unit 3 Exam Practical Exam

GCSE Biology 25% 25% 25% 25% GCSE Chemistry 25% 25% 25% 25% GCSE Physics 25% 25% 25% 25%

FUTURE IDEAS?

Courses and careers require at least one Science GCSE. You could progress to A Levels in Sciences, BTEC Level 3 courses or an apprenticeship.

SCIENCE

Students may state a preference for the following non-core subjects but must choose at least one of the subjects * (i.e. Geography, History, French, German or Computer Science):

ART

BUSINESS STUDIES

COOKING AND NUTRITION

*COMPUTER SCIENCE*

DRAMA

FASHION AND TEXTILES

*FRENCH*

*GEOGRAPHY*

*GERMAN*

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE

*HISTORY*

ICT

MUSIC

RESISTANT MATERIALS/PRODUCT DESIGN

SPORTS STUDIES

The aim of Art GCSE is to produce imaginative and skilful artists who can create artwork from personal experience, research and direct observation. The course is designed around the development of skills, techniques and ideas through the exploration of a wide variety of media, techniques and processes.

Exam Board: Edexcel

CONSIDER THIS COURSE IF ……..

This course is open to all students who are keen to build on the foundation developed during Key Stage 3 and is an excellent preparation for students who wish to continue their art studies to AS Level in the Sixth Form or to an Art specific College course. To succeed in Art and GCSE you need to be able to work independently in class and at home. You also need to be able to take risks with your work and enjoy experimenting with new and sometimes unusual materials and techniques. As the course involves an element of written communication you also need to be able to research the work of other artists and respond to their work in writing as well as visually. You will also be expected to annotate your own work as it progresses to explain your thoughts and ideas and connections with the theme and artists studied.


You will use direct observation and research as the starting point from a chosen theme. You will then be encouraged to investigate the work of artists and designers and to develop ideas in both two and three dimensions. Disciplines used will include: drawing, painting, printing, collage, photography, ceramics, sculpture and mixed media. You will be expected to work in at least 2 of these areas to show your different skills and to include observational drawing as a core element of your work. During the course you will produce a portfolio of work which will be presented both in a sketchbook and on larger boards to show the journey you have been on in the development of your ideas. You will also use this to demonstrate evidence of visual research, preparation, experimentation and the refinement of your ideas.


The GCSE awarded is based on a portfolio of all work produced in Years 10 and 11. The final grade is split between a portfolio of coursework (60%) and an externally set assignment from the exam board (40%) which will conclude in a 10 hour examination. All work including final pieces will be marked according to the assessment criteria with equal weighting on research, recording of information, development & refinement of ideas and the final response.

FUTURE IDEAS?

There are many choices open to you following a GCSE qualification in Art and Design. You may choose to go on to study at A level before embarking on an Art foundation course and possibly on to degree level. GCSE Art provides many opportunities for further study especially when combined with other creative courses and may lead to careers in Graphics, Photography, Architecture, Illustration, Fashion or Design.

ART

This exciting and valuable qualification will help you to understand how businesses operate and what you need to do to become more employable or indeed to set up your own business. The course is up-to-date and relevant, reflecting the blend of business knowledge, practical skills, communication and team-working skills needed for the future. Exam board: AQA


The practical application of business and economic concepts excites you. There will be a number of class activities such as presentations, case studies, discussions on topical and current issues, and end of unit assessments. There will be an opportunity to visit businesses and also have visits from business speakers.


Unit 1 – Setting up a Business This unit introduces you to issues concerning the setting up and operation of a business. It explores the activities of business and the reasons for success or failure. It will encourage you to appreciate that businesses must operate within society and that this involves businesses engaging with a wide range of stakeholders who will hold differing perspectives. 1. Starting a Business 2. Marketing 3. Finance 4. People in Businesses 5. Operations Management Unit 2 – Growing as a Business This unit builds on Unit 1, allowing you to study businesses as they grow and the issues this raises. Students also examine the legal status of businesses and key business functions such as finance and marketing. 1. The Business Organisation 2. Marketing 3. Finance 4. People in Businesses 5. Operations Management Unit 3 – Investigating Businesses This unit is a controlled assessment (coursework) unit. The work must be your own work and must be produced under controlled conditions at school. You will undertake a business investigation and write a report.


Unit 1 - Assessed by an external written examination of 1 hour in length. Unit 2 - Assessed by an external written examination of 1 hour in length. Unit 3 - Assessed internally 25%

FUTURE IDEAS?

Business Studies is a useful subject for any course post 16 but typically to A Levels in Business or Economics or Diplomas in Business, Administration and Finance and apprenticeships in related areas.

BUSINESS STUDIES

s of the course are:

GCSE Cooking and Nutrition is not just for those who want a career in the catering industry. It is designed to

Develop students’ life skills

Increase students’ knowledge and understanding of the nutrition that underpins the UK and global food issues.

Prepare students for progression to employment and/or further training/education in the food and nutrition sector of the industry, such as product development, chef, dietetics and nutritionist.

This will be done through practical work and investigation that helps to build up students’ knowledge and understanding of food and cooking. Exam board: AQA


You are organised, like new challenges and want to further your knowledge of cooking and nutrition. It is also a good course to take if you are interested in a career with food for instance as a chef or dietician.


Nutrition and Commodities

Culinary Skills and equipment

Serving Food

Menu planning

Special diets

A variety of cooking methods, and meal adaptions. Students will also be expected to bring in ingredients for practical lessons approximately once per week. The list of ingredients will normally be given well in advance (a weekend in between) to allow parents/carers to buy these.


Students will partake in a variety of formal and informal assessment pieces of work. Some will be moderated by the exam board and some internally through school, including a variety of controlled assessment pieces and a formal written exam which is expected to be sat in the summer of year 11.

FUTURE IDEAS?

After completing GCSE Cooking and Nutrition students could continue their studies at A Level, BTEC Level 2 or 3 including catering and hospitality courses or an apprenticeship.

COOKING AND NUTRITION

This is an exciting course through which students will learn how digital systems work, how they are designed and programmed, and the fundamental principles of computing. Computer Science equips students to apply information technology to create products and solutions.

Computing is of enormous importance to the economy, and Computer technology continues to advance rapidly. The growth in the use of mobile devices and web-related technologies has exploded, resulting in new challenges for employers and employees. Businesses today require an ever-increasing number of technologically-aware individuals. This is even more so in the gaming, mobile and web related industries. Computer Science is the start of the journey into these worlds.

Exam board: OCR


You want to gain a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. This course will give you an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many students find absorbing. The course provides excellent preparation for higher study and employment in the field of computer science. The increasing importance of information technologies means there will be a growing demand for professionals who are qualified in this area.


at least one programming language – learn to control 3D games such a Minecraft with

python;

to control real world systems using input/ output devices such as the Arduino board;

about the parts of a computer and what they do;

how computer networks are put together and how they enable electronic communication.


Unit Time Weighting

Unit A451 - Computer systems and programming Written paper

1 hour 30 mins

40%

Unit A452 - Practical investigation. Controlled assessment - investigative task. Brief set by Exam Board.

Approx 20 hours 30%

Unit A453 - Programming project. Controlled assessment. Approx 20 hours 30%

FUTURE IDEAS?

Computer Science ensures that students become digitally literate – able to use, and express themselves through, information and communication technology – at a level suitable for the future workplace and as active participants in a digital world.

Students who’ve taken a GCSE in Computing and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or university will have an advantage over their colleagues who are beginning the subject at these levels.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Drama GCSE is not just for those who want a career in Drama! Whilst practising their art, students will develop essential skills in areas such as co-operation, communication, awareness of body language, confidence, verbal literacy, and group work. This is an exciting course that is broken into three main units which look at their ability to explore a wide range of themes/topics as well as professional scripts. The final unit provides students with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of practical drama skills through their application to a live performance. This course is aimed at those who enjoy accessing learning from a practical perspective but also develops written analysis and evaluation through a variety of essays. Exam board- Edexcel


The course is open to anyone who has enjoyed Drama in Key Stage 3 and is interested in learning more. Anyone keen to develop strong group work and communication skills should be interested. The course fits with the other Performing Arts options to provide excellent training in performance. Most lessons will be spent doing practical work – from developing individual skills through work on voice, movement etc. to rehearsing for full-scale performances. Students will be active in all lessons and will maintain detailed records of their work in individual portfolios.


Students will evaluate their own performance and each other’s. They will develop performance skills in a range of theatre disciplines. Students will need to be good at working with others.

Within each unit of work there will be a written exploration of the practical work they have done during lessons. This ranges from 1,000-2,000 words. A performance log will be kept and lessons written up to aid with this process.

Students will also have a number of opportunities to go to the theatre to see live performances where a written review will be required.

As part of unit 1, students will study a topic, issue or theme to explore. Unit 2 is focussed on studying a play script and unit 3 is performing their own devised piece of drama or a scripted piece that inspires them.


You will complete three units over the three years, Unit 1- Drama Exploration, Unit 2- Exploring Play texts, Unit 3- Drama Performance. All these units are assessed through your practical work in lessons and in performance as well as your written evaluations. This work will be sent off to the moderator. For unit 3, an examiner will come in and assess your performances.

FUTURE IDEAS?

This course will prepare you for further study of Drama & Theatre Studies. You will need to be prepared to work to high expectations and to commit yourself to the work of the group. Drama is an excellent subject to study if you are thinking of a career in journalism, media, law, marketing or any presentational or sales type of work due to the confidence and vocal awareness associated with jobs.

DRAMA

This GCSE course aims to teach students to explore, create and evaluate within the theme of fashion and textile products. Students will learn from other people’s designs and use their research to influence their designs and develop their creativity with fabrics and garments. Students will spend time making garments and textiles products to build on what they have done in KS3 and broaden their skills in making and the theory that goes along with it. GCSE Design and Technology is currently under consultation and the specifics of the course may change slightly, however we will keep the course as practical and appropriate as possible. Exam board: AQA


You enjoy being creative with your ideas and making products from fabric. If you are an avid watcher of the sewing bee this is the course for you! If you are interested in a design and technology based career such as fashion designer, fabric design and working in the clothing retail industry.


In Design & Technology: Fashion and Textiles you will make lots of mini projects to learn about materials and their construction. You will also learn about solving design problems, other designers’ work, how we can think about the environment in our work and apply our knowledge to other areas of design. While our focus will be on Fashion and Textiles, there will be some general knowledge around a wider aspects of design and technology learning including graphics.


Students will partake in a variety of formal and informal assessment pieces of work. Some which will be moderated by the exam board and some internally through school including a controlled assessment project and a formal written exam which is expected to be sat in the summer of year 11. The overall GCSE course is made up of a coursework project worth 60% and an exam worth 40%.

FUTURE IDEAS?

After completing GCSE Fashion &Textile students could consider continue their studies at A Level, BTEC Level 2 or 3 including fashion related courses or an apprenticeship.

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY: Fashion and Textiles

Through studying a GCSE in a modern language, students will develop their ability and ambition to communicate with native speakers in speech and writing. They will be encouraged to develop new ways of seeing the world and develop their ability to communicate confidently. Students will listen to and understand speech and deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary. Pupils will also develop skills and ways of thinking to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material. Exam board: Edexcel


You enjoy your current French lessons and are keen to improve and extend your skills. Along with literacy and numeracy, knowledge of a foreign language is a skill and a qualification sought by employers, both in the UK and abroad. For anyone who is interested in other people and their way of life, a language is essential. For anyone who is considering studying languages at university or a career abroad or requiring languages skills.


The course will cover a range of themes relating to: • identity and culture • local, national, international and global areas of interest • current and future study and employment • literary texts can include extracts and excerpts, adapted and abridged as appropriate, from poems, letters, short stories, essays, novels or plays from contemporary and historical sources Students will cover all 4 of the following skills: Listening and reading Identifying key points, details and opinions in a variety of short and longer spoken and written passages, recognising the relationship between past, present and future events Speaking Taking part in a short conversation, asking and answering questions, exchanging opinions, conveying information and responding to unexpected questions using accurate pronunciation Writing Writing short texts, using simple sentences and familiar language using of a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures with reference to past, present and future events Pupils will also be required to translate sentences and short texts from English into the assessed language


In listening- 30% of the marks will be awarded for responses to questions set in the language. In speaking- they will be required to express themselves solely in the assessed language. In reading- 40% of the marks will be awarded for responses to questions set in the language. In writing- candidates will be required to express themselves solely in the assessed language including translations

FUTURE IDEAS?

In addition to the traditional language-based careers of travel, tourism, journalism, teaching, interpreting, and translating, using German is an essential skill for jobs in areas such as retail, business consultancy, science and engineering, marketing, law, accountancy, banking, transport, public relations and secretarial work. A language is also increasingly required as part of many university degree courses.

FRENCH

The course will comprise the study of the two key geographical disciplines; human (the effects of people’s actions on place and environment) and physical (changes to and effects on places and people as a result of physical characteristics of the land). Both halves of the course teach students to read and interpret data from graph, charts, diagrams and pictures. Students learn how to describe, explain and evaluate patterns, causes and effects of geographical change. It is likely that there will be some element of field work, but as yet this has not been confirmed by Ofqual.

Exam board: AQA


You have an interest in the natural world You want to understand the human and physical world around you and like asking questions such as “why?” and “what if...” You would like to improve the human or physical world for future generations You are interested in different places and cultures You like making arguments and having debates


Human geography will most likely involve the study of topics from this list - population, tourism, changing environments and the differences in development between places; physical geography will probably include study from these topics - rivers, coasts, natural hazards such as earthquakes and hurricanes and eco-systems


It is likely that there will be two or three substantial written exams, one of which might be based on the field study

FUTURE IDEAS?

Geography is a useful subject for any courses post 16, but typically, A levels in Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, IT, Business, History, Sociology. It gives a good grounding in data interpretation and written communication, as well as rounded knowledge about the world. It supports careers in natural and environmental sciences, geology, meteorology, charity and development work, journalism, local government, jobs in transport management, planning or the environment, education or careers based in tourism and leisure, among many others.

GEOGRAPHY

Through studying a GCSE in a modern language, students will develop their ability and ambition to communicate with native speakers in speech and writing. They will be encouraged to develop new ways of seeing the world and develop their ability to communicate confidently. Students will listen to and understand speech and deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary. Pupils will also develop skills and ways of thinking to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material. Exam board: Edexcel


If you have some knowledge of German and are keen to improve and extend your skills. A three-year GCSE course gives students time to refresh their basic language before preparing for assessments.

Along with literacy and numeracy, knowledge of a foreign language is a skill and a qualification sought by employers, both in the UK and abroad.

For anyone who is interested in other people and their way of life, a language is essential.

For anyone who is considering studying languages at university or a career abroad or requiring languages skills.


The course will cover a range of themes relating to: identity and culture; local, national, international and global areas of interest; current and future study and employment. Literary texts can include extracts and excerpts, adapted and abridged as appropriate, from poems, letters, short stories, essays, novels or plays from contemporary and historical sources. Students will cover all 4 of the following skills: Listening and reading: Identifying key points, details and opinions in a variety of short and longer spoken and written passages, recognising the relationship between past, present and future events Speaking: Taking part in a short conversation, asking and answering questions, exchanging opinions, conveying information and responding to unexpected questions using accurate pronunciation Writing: Writing short texts, using simple sentences and familiar language using of a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures with reference to past, present and future events Pupils will also be required to translate sentences and short texts from English into the assessed language


In listening- 30% of the marks will be awarded for responses to questions set in the language. In speaking- they will be required to express themselves solely in the assessed language. In reading- 40% of the marks will be awarded for responses to questions set in the language. In writing- candidates will be required to express themselves solely in the assessed language including translations

FUTURE IDEAS?

In addition to the traditional language-based careers of travel, tourism, journalism, teaching, interpreting, and translating, using German is an essential skill for jobs in areas such as retail, business consultancy, science and engineering, marketing, law, accountancy, banking, transport, public relations and secretarial work. A language is also increasingly required as part of many university degree courses.

GERMAN

This course will give learners the opportunity to gain a broad understanding and knowledge of the health and social care sector. It will enable students to develop their personal skills and techniques to enter employment within a range of job roles across the health and social care sector. It will support progression to a more specialised level 3 vocational or academic health and social care course or an apprenticeship. Exam board - Edexcel BTEC L2 First Award


You want to find out more about working in the sectors which are involved in caring for and supporting individuals, families, groups, communities and society. Students will learn the skills, values and attitudes that are required to work successfully in these areas. The course is especially suitable for those students who are thinking of a career in health or social care services such as nursing, physiotherapy, paramedic, primary school teaching, social worker, nursery nursing.


Students study a range of core and option subjects which include the following areas: • Human Lifespan Development • Values in health and social care • The impact of nutrition • Effective Communication in health and social care


The course is assessed through internally assessed assignments (75%) and one external examination (25%). All coursework assignments are externally moderated by BTEC EDEXCEL.

FUTURE IDEAS?

This course is especially suitable for students who are thinking of a career in health and social care services such as nursing, childcare, physiotherapy, social worker. Students can progress from this course to A Levels, BTEC Level 2 & 3 and apprenticeships.

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

The course will most likely comprise the study of different and contrasting time periods in history. There may be a study of change over time, covering a much longer time period, as well as depth studies, covering a much shorter time period but in more detail. Exam board: AQA


You have an interest in understanding why current events happen in the way they do You have an interest in understanding the modern world and how it got to be like this You like asking questions such as “why?” and “what if...” You like handling and interpreting and sorting information You like making arguments and having debates You are interested in people’s stories


Students will learn how to infer from sources of information, how to explain and evaluate change and continuity, as well as evaluate significance, explain causation and measure the impact of a change, individual or event. At the moment we study Medicine Through Time and the American West. If these options are still available then we will be following these topics. There is also likely to be a local study, including a field visit.


It is likely that there will be two or three substantial written exams, one of which might be based on field study.

FUTURE IDEAS?

History is a well-respected and useful subject for any future study post 16. It provides a foundation of skills and context in knowledge for A levels in History, Geography, Politics, Law, Sociology, Psychology, English Lit, Art and Drama. It gives good grounding in handling and interpreting information and being able to communicate arguments well in writing. It supports careers in journalism and the media, the law, accountancy, politics and local government. It is useful for jobs in tourism, leisure and museum work, archives and libraries. It links with jobs in archaeology, education, charity and development work among many others.

Year 10 using “thinking hats” to plan out a solution to a problem

HISTORY

Year 11’s working on revision timeline

This is an exciting and rewarding course that allows students do develop their expertise and creativity with ICT. It is made up of two compulsory units, “Understanding computer systems” and “Using ICT to create business systems”, and two optional units at our discretion. This year at Gosford Hill School, we have chosen two creative optional units: “Creating digital images” and “Creating interactive multimedia products” (web design).

Exam board: OCR Cambridge National in


you would like to: • to use graphic editing software such a Photoshop and Fireworks creatively.

• to make websites using software like Dreamweaver

• to code websites using html


You will study the ‘real life’ use of ICT and how computer systems work, develop and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT in a range of contexts, specifically equipping you for the world of work; In addition you will develop your understanding of current and emerging technologies and their social and commercial impact; and further your understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental issues raised by ICT, and be conscious of E-safety.


Unit Description Weighting

R001: Understanding computer systems

Written paper OCR set and marked1 hour – 60 marks

25%

R002: Using ICT to create business solutions

Centre assessed tasks - OCR moderated Approx 10 hours – 60 marks

25%

R005: Creating an interactive product using multimedia components

Centre assessed tasks – OCR moderated Approx 10 hours – 60 marks (60 UMS)

25%

R006: Creating digital images

Centre assessed tasks - OCR moderated Approx 10 hours – 60 marks (60UMS)

25%

FUTURE IDEAS?

Those studying in preparation for employment in the Information and Communication Technology sector particularly in job roles where they will be expected to use ICT skills, liaise with users and carry out ICT support roles.

ICT will look good on your CV whatever you go on to do. Today virtually all workers need to be confident operators of digital devices. Taking ICT will give you valuable digital know-how which is a key skill that you can use in all walks of life.

ICT

The BTEC First Award in Music is for students who enjoy preparing for solo and ensemble performances; writing and recording compositions; researching different music organisations; finding out about different job roles, career pathways and progression opportunities available within the music industry. Exam board: Edexcel


You enjoy practical music making and the opportunity to perform in front of a range of audiences. The course is best suited to keen, motivated students who are passionate about singing and/or playing an instrument. You will have time to explore different styles of music and look at the way the music industry works. The aim is have a broad range of experiences that have a flavour of the music business throughout the course.


This course requires students to demonstrate their skill and knowledge in practical situations which has proved to help build confidence and self-esteem. You can access music software packages including Cubase and Sibelius 6 to support your work enabling you to develop their your fully. You can develop your talents, continuing on from the work completed in KS3. The new syllabus includes 2 core units on The Music Industry and Managing a Music Product. Students then have optional units that cover introductions to Live Sound, Composition, Performance, Recording and Sequencing For homework you are expected to practice regularly every week. Other activities include writing a blog/podcast about your learning; review of any live performance attended; develop ideas for composition tasks; research composers, musical styles and different structures and listen to and explore different types of music.


Evidence can be presented in a number of ways including; video recordings supported with a written report, audio clips, scores, power-point presentations, copies of the music you have performed, blogging and much more. Assignments will need to be completed to a high standard and students must meet deadlines. Three units are internally assessed during the course and students’ depth of knowledge will be tested and assessed through performance, music writing, journal evidence and coursework folders. There is a one hour written exam paper on core unit 1 The Music Industry which is 25% of the grade and the rest is modular and will be assessed by your teacher and checked by the exam board.

FUTURE IDEAS?

After completing the BTEC First Award in Music, students have gone on to study A Level Music or the BTEC First Diploma in Music at a Sixth Form. Following this, students have chosen to study Performance, Composition, Conducting and Recording at a Music College. Some students have chosen a Degree course in Music (BA Hons) or a Music Technology Degree at a University. A number of students have gone on to do a Teaching degree with their specialism in music at primary and secondary. Other students have gone to work in jobs in business, the civil service, childcare, therapy or joined the armed forces. Music can open many doorways and has excellent links with all sorts of professions including the medical profession and sport.

Music

This GCSE course aims to teach students to explore, create and evaluate within the theme of products made from wood, metal and plastic. Students will learn from other people’s designs and use their research to influence their designs and develop their creativity. Students will spend time making products to build on what they have done in KS3 and broaden their skills in making and the theory that goes along with it. GCSE Design and Technology is currently under consultation and the specifics of the course may change slightly, however we will keep the course as practical and appropriate as possible. Exam board: AQA


You enjoy being creative with your ideas, making models and products. If you enjoy problem solving through research and ideas. If you are interested in a design and technology based career such as engineering, product design, or carpentry.


In Design & Technology: Resistant Materials/Product Design you will make lots of mini projects to learn about materials and construction. You will also learn about solving design problems, other designers’ work, how we can think about the environment in our work and apply our knowledge to other areas of design. While our focus will be on Resistant Materials and Product Design, there will be some general knowledge around wider aspects of design and technology learning including graphics, resistant materials and systems and control.


Students will partake in a variety of formal and informal assessment pieces of work. Some which will be moderated by the exam board and some internally through school including a controlled assessment project and a formal written exam which is expected to be sat in the summer of year 11. The overall GCSE course is made up of a coursework project worth 60% and an exam worth 40%.

FUTURE IDEAS?

After completing GCSE Fashion &Textile students could consider continue their studies at A Level, BTEC Level 2 or 3 courses such as furniture making or an apprenticeship.

Design & Technology: Resistant Materials/Product Design

GCSE specifications in physical education should equip students with the knowledge, understanding, skills and values to develop and maintain their performance in physical activities and understand the benefits to health, fitness and well-being. This will require them to: • develop theoretical knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport, and use this knowledge to improve performance • understand how the physiological and psychological state affects performance in physical activity and sport • perform effectively in different physical activities by developing skills and techniques and selecting and using tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas • develop their ability to analyse and evaluate to improve performance in physical activity and sport • understand the contribution which physical activity and sport makes to health, fitness and well-being • understand key socio-cultural influences which can affect people’s involvement in physical activity and sport Exam board: Edexcel


The course is open to all students who have a keen interest in Physical Education and have been committed to PE in Primary and Secondary School. Students studying the GCSE must have at least two sports that they play to school level, one of which they should be actively involved in at club level. The theory element of the course demands sound scientific knowledge and an interest in elite sportspeople.


In the theory side of the course you will study: Applied anatomy and physiology Sports Psychology Social and cultural influences Health, fitness and well being


Students will be assessed as performers in two practical activities. This will account for 30% of their final grade. The remaining 70% will be assessed through an exam at the end of the year.

FUTURE IDEAS?

After completing GCSE Sports Studies students could consider future opportunities/careers in the health and leisure industry or look to continue their studies at A level and higher education, BTEC L2 or 3 courses or apprenticeships.

SPORTS STUDIES

ks4 preferences booklet - - gosford hill school · students will study one drama or prose text. ......

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