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LORETO COLLEGE

KEY STAGE 4

2016 - 2018

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Contents

Introduction from the Headmistress 3 Core Subjects RE 4 English 4 Mathematics 5 Science 5 Modern Foreign Languages 6 Curriculum Support 6 Optional Subjects Art 7 Business & Communication Studies 7 Classical Civilisation 7 Latin 8 Product Design 9 Food Preparation & Nutrition 9 Textiles Technology 10 Drama 10 Geography 11 History 12 Music 12 Information Technology 13 Physical Education 14 Enrichment Subjects Physical Education 15 PCSHE 15

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Introduction

You are now approaching a time in your education when you are going to be able to have a choice in the subjects you study. Our aim is that each one of you achieves your full potential in your studies and in all other aspects of school life. It is important, therefore, that you think very carefully about your options and seek helpful information and advice. In making your choices it is wise to ensure that you have a "balanced educational diet", so that you do not close any doors to yourself in the future. Try to focus on what is right for you, rather than worrying about what your friends are planning to do. There are certain subjects that all students take: Religious Education, English, Mathematics and Science. We also expect the majority of girls to continue with a modern foreign language. All students also study PCSHE and Physical Education as non-examination subjects. In this booklet there is a brief outline of each of the subjects we intend to offer in the forthcoming year. Read these carefully before making any decisions about your future. Mrs M Lynch Headteacher

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Core Subjects

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

You will actually begin this course in the summer of Year 9. You will be the first students to study a new course which focusses on the study of Christianity and Judaism. Further details about this will be provided later in the year. The RE exams are not tiered, so everyone will sit the same papers at the end of Y11.

ENGLISH All pupils take English Language and English Literature. We use the AQA specification. Both subjects are tested by examination at the end of Year 11, and both Language and Literature involve two papers. In English Language, the students explore different ways to read unseen non-fiction and fiction texts, as well as producing their own creative, descriptive and persuasive writing. There is also a separate Speaking and Listening element, which receives a separate accreditation but does not contribute to the overall English Language. Literature includes examination on modern drama, a Shakespeare play, a 19th century novel and prepared and unseen poetry. Throughout the course, pupils are taught and encouraged to use standard English in speech and writing, to discuss and share ideas and interpretations, to write fluently and accurately and to read with understanding and enjoyment and as widely as possible.

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MATHEMATICS All pupils are prepared for the Edexcel GCSE in Mathematics, Specification A. They are taught in groups according to their ability. Assessment is based on three written examination papers. The written examination papers consist of one non-calculator paper and two in which efficient use of a calculator is expected. The aims of the course are:

To be able to use and apply mathematics in practical tasks, solving challenging problems and presenting reasoned arguments.

To feel confident in the use of numbers, using calculators and computer software appropriately, and developing flexibility in mental methods of calculating and estimation.

To explore relationships through algebra, and to learn how algebra can be used to model real-life situations.

To explore shape and space through drawing and practical work, and through the use of computer software.

To formulate questions that can be investigated using statistical methods of analysis, to gain an appreciation of some of the principles which govern random events, and to examine some of the ways in which representations of data can be misleading or inconclusive.

To be successful in Mathematics, pupils’ written work needs to be well organised with all calculations clearly set out. They must continue to bring all their mathematical equipment to lessons, and complete all homework on time. Whilst pupils will be taught efficient use of their calculator, they will be encouraged to use mental calculation as much as possible. SCIENCE In Year 10 you will have 5 hours of Science each week. There will be 6 sets in Y10 drawn from across all five tutor groups, unlike this year where there are two bands. The pupils in two sets will be prepared for “Triple Science”, and will sit GCSEs in Biology, Physics and Chemistry at the end of Year 11. The other four sets will be prepared for “Double Science”: these students will sit GCSE Core Science exams in Year 10, and GCSE exams in Additional Science of Applied Science at the end of Year 11. You will be placed into your Y10 Science set based on your scores in the Year 9 assessments. Triple Award students are expected to achieve a Science Level 7 by February of Year 9, and then an overall grade A in the Year 9 exam at the end of the year. They should also have achieved a minimum of a Level 6a in KS3 English and Maths.

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MODERN LANGUAGES The two modern languages taught in Key Stage 4 are French and German. Both build on the learning which has taken place in Key Stage 3. The Edexcel specifications for both subjects consist of four units based on the following skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. What are the aims of the course? To understand, communicate and be able to converse in the relevant foreign language, and to learn about the culture of our European neighbours. What sort of work will you be doing? A variety: on your own, in pairs and in groups, using ICT, CDs, DVDs and authentic materials to practise the various skills. It is essential to have a dictionary. In order to enhance your skills, it is also essential to read and listen to as much of the language as you can, using online resources as advised. Assessment You will be assessed in all skills at the end of the course, in the summer of 2018. Each skill will be worth 25% of the total marks available. The new examination has increased emphasis on the culture and identities of the countries and communities where the language is spoken and on an introduction to literary texts. There will also be a requirement to translate from and into the foreign language.

CURRICULUM SUPPORT Curriculum Support is offered to pupils who have been identified as needing additional assistance in coping with the GCSE curriculum. These classes are offered in place of the core Modern Foreign Language, which means each Specialist Support Teacher will meet with her group for two hours a week. The classes aim to support other subject areas by providing additional guidance, instruction and ICT opportunities. In addition, the girls are provided with tuition in revision techniques, exam preparation and time management.

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Optional Subjects

ART This course is designed to encourage self-expression and creativity through a number of individual projects. Students are given the opportunity to work on their own lines of enquiry and to develop strong independent learning skills that are essential for higher education in any subject. Assessment is through coursework (60%) and a final exam (40%). The coursework load has recently been reduced by the Awarding Body, Edexcel so the idea is that students submit their best work for assessment. Students will use a wide range of media and processes and will partake in a trip to a professional print studio at the end of Year 10 to supplement the techniques we can offer at school. Students choosing GCSE Art should be enthusiastic about the subject, keen to explore their own creativity and willing to try new things! BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS This course is ideal for students who wish to develop their computer skills. It will introduce them to various aspects of the world of business and encourage them to consider the impact of workplace organisation, human resources management and effective communication on the running of businesses. Pupils following this course will acquire useful practical skills on a wide range of computer applications. They will also develop sound knowledge and understanding of communication within the workplace. This course of study will be of practical use and personal value in building a foundation of knowledge, understanding and skills, which could form a basis for further study and assist in future employment. It will also introduce skills which will be helpful across all subjects. Assessment is based on a 1 hour written paper (40%), a 11/2 hour practical paper (35%) and a controlled assessment (25%). There is no coursework for this subject. CLASSICAL CIVILISATION This subject is available to all students. It focuses on the social history and literature of the Greeks and Romans, but does not involve the study of their languages. As well as featuring the variety of approaches to learning which you will be familiar with from your Year 9 Classics lessons, this course also provides several opportunities to develop confidence in responding to exam-style questions.

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You will study these four topics and be assessed as indicated here:

Life in Ancient Athens – 1 hour exam

Life in Pompeii – 1 hour exam

Ovid’s Metamorphoses (mythology) – 1 hour exam

Sophocles’ Antigone (Greek tragedy) - Controlled Assessment Each topic counts towards 25% of the final mark. All assessments take place in Y11. LATIN This subject is only available to pupils who have studied Latin in Year 9. Next year you will continue to use the Cambridge Latin Course, following the fortunes of Quintus and Salvius, and meeting new characters too. These stories are used to introduce new language features, and by the end of Year 10 you will be ready to study genuine Latin passages such as poems, stories and letters, all written around 2,000 years ago by some of the greatest Roman authors. So that you will fully understand the culture that produced this literature, you will also continue to study various aspects of Roman life, learning about topics such as science and medicine, Roman Britain, the Roman Army, the city of Rome, and early Christians. You will sit three exams at the end of Y11:

Latin Language – 1 hour 30 minutes, worth 50% of the final mark

Literature and Culture – 1 hour, worth 25% of the final mark

Latin Verse Literature – 1 hour, worth 25% of the final mark

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PRODUCT DESIGN Product Design GCSE replaces the previous options of Graphics and Resistant Materials as this new course combines those two subject areas. In Year 10, you work in a range of materials, in groups and alone to create new products. You study the work of existing designers through attending exhibitions and will consider how products are sold and marketed. This prepares you for Year 11 where you complete a design project which accounts for 60% of the final grade. Some examples of possible products are jewellery, small furniture, or party stationery such as invitations and decorations. You design using CAD computer modelling and make the product in the workshop. An exam accounts for the other 40% of the mark, where you are tested on your materials knowledge as well as sketching out product ideas in design questions. Even if you don’t want to be a designer in the future, then Product Design GCSE is still for you. Employers and Universities want students who can think creatively, solve problems, innovate and multi-task and this course will help to build those key skills. FOOD PREPARATION AND NUTRITION This new GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. The course encourages practical cookery skills to give a strong understanding of nutrition. It encourages learners to cook, enables them to make informed decisions about food and nutrition and allows them to acquire knowledge in order to be able to feed themselves and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life. The main core topics include food, nutrition and health, science, safety, choice and provenance. Assessment: 50% written paper, 50% practical and investigation. The course qualifies students to go on to further study, or embark on an apprenticeship or full time career in the catering or food industries.

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TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY Textiles GCSE students will learn new techniques, make a wide range of high quality products which will extend their skills and develop their creativity and design awareness. In Year 10 a common starting point is the child’s dress, which will develop a range of specific skills and results in an outstanding finished product! Topics covered during the course include colour, fashion, ethics, sustainability, the textiles industry, safety, fabrics and textures. The written paper (40%) focuses on knowledge and understanding of textiles materials, components, processes and techniques, evaluation and design. In previous years, Controlled Assessment projects (60%) have included play-mats, ball gowns, children’s dresses, educational toys, cushions, dolls.

DRAMA Course Content Students follow the AQA specification. This includes practical skills in Drama, exploration of social, historical and cultural influences, investigation of plays and other styles of dramatic presentation. What is Drama G.C.S.E. about? The course is mainly concerned with the components that go to make Drama. It covers a range of dramatic styles and influences and looks at the ways in which Drama can be used to express and explore ideas. Assessment 60% of your marks will be awarded for your performance in practical projects throughout the course. The remaining 40% is for the written paper, taken at the end of Year 11, which examines your ability to analyse live theatre and your ideas for interpreting a play, taking it from page to stage. Do I need experience in Drama to take this option? There is no need for you to have studied Drama previously. Commitment and enthusiasm are essential and you should be prepared to give up some of your own time for additional group rehearsals. You must also be prepared to take advantage of the opportunities offered to see productions both locally and in London.

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GEOGRAPHY The new linear Geography GCSE course is an exciting and very relevant course which studies both human and physical themes. Students will travel the world from their classroom, exploring case studies in the United Kingdom, higher income countries, newly emerging economies and lower income countries (LICs). Topics of study include climate change, poverty, deprivation, global shifts in economic power and the challenge of sustainable resource use. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society, by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes. Living with the Physical Environment This unit explores:

Natural hazards including earthquakes, volcanoes and hurricanes.

Extreme weather in the UK.

Climate change.

Physical landscapes including Rivers and Coasts.

The living world including Tropical Rainforests and Cold Environments such as The Arctic and Antarctica.

Challenges of the Human Environment This unit explores:

Urban issues and challenges including the challenges of the growth of cities in the developing world.

The changing economic world including ways to reduce the development gap and how development is leading to social and cultural change.

The future of the UK economy.

Resource management and the problems of managing either food, water or energy.

Fieldwork Pupils will undertake 2 pieces of fieldwork during the course, one based on urban areas and one on coastal areas.

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HISTORY Students will follow the new GCSE History syllabus. This course covers the major world events of the twentieth century and some of the great changes that took place in British society. Students must study the content of two Papers. Paper 1 and 2 are both assessed in exams at the end of Year 11. There is no coursework or Controlled Assessment. Paper 1: Understanding the modern world This Paper helps students understand key developments and events in modern world history.

America 1920-1973: Opportunity and inequality

Conflict between East and West, 1945-1972 Paper 2: Shaping the nation This Paper enables students to understand key developments and events in the history of Britain.

Britain: Power and the people: c1170 to the present day

Elizabethan England, c1568-1603 (this includes a Depth Study of an historic site connected to Elizabethan England)

MUSIC Course Content We follow the Edexcel specification. This covers The musical skills of performing, composing and listening are taught by exploring various topics, ranging from Moby to Handel and on to World Music. Students can either opt to perform ‘live’ or do learn about and use music technology, including the recording studio. What is G.C.S.E. music about? Anyone with a genuine interest in any aspect of music making would find the G.C.S.E. Music course a valuable and challenging experience, as it is about making and listening to music. Assessment The course is divided into 3 papers, with 60% of the course being teacher assessed and 40% marked externally.

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Instrumental Tuition To support the Performing element of the course, half-hour individual instrumental / singing lessons are essential. 50% of the fees for a half hour lesson are covered by the County, provided that the lessons take place at school or at a H.C.C. Music Centre. Would I enjoy G.C.S.E. Music? Do you already learn an instrument or taking singing lessons? Do you enjoy learning about music? Do you find composing music challenging and interesting? Are you interested in knowing more about a wide range of different music? Do you want to find out how music works? If the answer is ‘yes’ to any three of the above, then you have the potential to undertake the course. However, although music is an enjoyable subject, you must be prepared to work consistently hard to achieve a good result. What could I do next with G.C.S.E. Music? G.C.S.E. Music is a good preparation for further musical study, such as AS/A2 in Music and Music Technology or it can be taken for its own sake, perhaps to form the basis of future interests or to show that you have developed good creative thinking skills. You may also be interested in one of the many careers in the music industry, where you will need to show experience of music and may need to use the skills developed during the course. These might include careers in areas such as: music publishing, record production, music management and sound engineering as well as jobs in teaching, entertainment and the wider media or any job where you need well developed communication and expressive skills. Further information? If you require further information about any aspects of the G.C.S.E. Music course, then please do not hesitate to see Mrs Brown on Parents’ Evening or contact her at school. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY This course contains two units:

Unit 1 - Living in a Digital World Unit 2 - Using Digital Tools Unit 1 is worth 40% of the final mark and students will learn about current and emerging technologies and the contexts in which they are used.

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Unit 2 is worth 60% of the final mark and students will broaden and enhance their ICT skills using a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts. Students will make use of a range of new software and hardware to produce the work required for this course, including making websites and videos. PHYSICAL EDUCATION G.C.S.E. Physical Education is changing for 2016. We will be following the OCR course which is delivered through both practical and theoretical lessons. GCSE Physical Education can help your learning in other subjects, increase teamwork and leadership skills, keep you active and is desirable in many career options, for example: Physiotherapy, Sports Psychology, Teaching, Sports Ergonomics, Sports Journalism, Personal Trainer, Sports and Leisure Industry, Tourism Industry, Events Management, National Governing Bodies and Sports Councils e.g. Sport England The examination is 40% practical. Students are marked on their performance, knowledge and understanding in 3 chosen activities. There must be one team, one individual and one other activity. We offer netball, trampoline, hockey, athletics, rounders, and tennis but it is also possible to include an activity that is performed outside of school to a high standard e.g. swimming, horse riding, and football etc. They will also be required to write a controlled assessment on analysing performance. The theory examination is worth 60% of the G.C.S.E. marks and consists of two papers (both 30%) which are taken in the summer of Year 11. This involves anatomy and physiology, physical training, socio-cultural influences, sports psychology and health, fitness and well-being. It must be stressed that participation in extracurricular activity is an essential part of this course. If you have a genuine interest in Physical Education and enjoy the subject, then this is the course for you. Please see Miss Baxter or any member of the PE department for more information.

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Enrichment Subjects

As part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum all students will also follow a course in Physical Education and in Careers Education

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The Upper School programme aims to prepare pupils for their future involvement in sport, and to promote the benefits of fitness and a healthy lifestyle. They will follow a health-related exercise programme and continue with games and athletic activities. Emphasis will be on organisational and officiating skills as well as personal performance. Students will explore the facilities available to them for sport in their community.

PERSONAL, CAREERS, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION (PCSHE) In Key Stage 4 this course includes sessions on personal and social issue, study skills, academic monitoring and careers education. The aim of the Careers sessions is to help students to develop the skills and confidence needed to make realistic and informed decisions about their future. Students will be helped to assess their personal strengths, skills and identify interests in relation to their future. In both Years 10 and 11 all students have an interview with the school leadership team to track progress and explore Post-16 options. In Year 11 students will investigate choices at 16 plus, and be given access to impartial advice and guidance. A careers fair takes place in the November of Year 11 to help students explore various options. One-to-one sessions are also organised throughout the year.

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Support and Advice

The decisions you make about your future must be based on what is right for you personally. Therefore if you are not sure what path you want to take, talk to the adults who know you best, and ask them for advice. You might also find it helpful to receive some Careers Guidance from our Connexions Advisor, Ann Rabinowitz. You can see her with your parents at the Y9 Parents Evening, or you can make an appointment to see her in school – if you would like to do this, let your form tutor know. To help you gather your thoughts, take a look at the Kudos website. Enter the address given below, then click on the “USE” button (as shown below) and enter the Licence Code to get started.

Address: www.kudosonline.co.uk Licence code: newsopen45

Once you have registered, there are various options available to you:

Don’t be afraid to explore the other various tabs and options available. The better you understand the site, and the more information you provide about yourself, the better the ideas it will throw up. Remember though, they are only ideas: do not expect this website to work out and plan your future. That’s your job.