Mount Grace School

Year 9 Options 2021

Image design and creation by C. Lee and X.Nikolli - GCSE Design and Technology students.

A Note to Students Welcome to the Year 9 options information process. The content of this booklet outlines the process for the important next step in your Mount Grace School journey. It combines an overview of our Key Stage 4 curriculum and details of the range of courses on offer with step by step guidance and advice on the different factors to consider when making your options choices. At Mount Grace School the curriculum through year 7 to year 9 aims to expose you to a broad range of subjects and learning experiences. This gives you the opportunity to make informed decisions about which subjects you might be best suited to for further study in years 10-11, and indeed beyond! Our aim is to support you to make the choices that will not only make you feel happy and successful in school but will open doors to future opportunities in line with your educational and career aspirations. Over the coming weeks your form tutors and subject teachers will be talking to you through your remote lessons about the process and answering any questions you have.

A Note to Parents/Carers A lot may have changed in terms of qualifications and options since you were at school and understanding how best to support your child is vital. We hope this booklet, the Video Presentation released on Thursday 25 February and the individual interviews Tuesday 16 March will provide opportunities to seek further guidance on how to support your son/daughter through this important time in their education.

Key contacts For subject specific advice please contact the Head of Faculty in the first instance (see below) and for general advice about the options process, the Form tutor. There will be an opportunity to answer individual questions during the 1:1 Options interviews on Tuesday 16 March so look out for details soon about how to book an appointment.

Mrs Horn – English Language, English Literature, German and French Ms Careddu – Citizenship, History, Geography Ms Grenyer – Maths and Science Mr McCarthy – Art, Food, Design & Technology, Business, Health & Social Care Mr Roberts – Sport, Music, Performing Arts (Dance or Drama) Ms White – SEND and Learning Support Ms Budu - Head of Learning Year 9 Mrs Patel - Deputy Headteacher Achievement and Curriculum

Year 9 Options 2021

GCSE Reforms

GCSE courses have now all been reformed and are grades on a 9-1 scale, the diagram below outlines the comparison between the old GCSE (A*-G) grades and the new (9-1) grades:

The English Baccalaureate (EBACC) The Department for Education (DfE) agenda around the EBACC is that students study a broad range of subjects to include traditionally academic subjects. This is not a new qualification in itself but recognises students’ achievements across selected academic subjects by getting strong passes (grade 5+) in English, Maths, Science, a language and a humanities subject. At Mount Grace School we support the EBACC initiative and encourage those students capable of achieving good grades in the EBACC subjects to follow this route. We recognise that this combination of subjects is not suitable for everyone but we do advise that some schools will enforce this combination to support the DfE’s ambition for children. This means achieving in two of the following three areas: 1) MFL (French or German) 2) Humanities (History or Geography) 3) Triple Science

Grade 9 is only awarded to the top 20% within the grade 7-9 cohort

Grades 7-9 cover the same proportion of students previously attaining grades A and A*

Grade 5 is considered a ‘strong pass’ and is approximately two thirds higher than an old C grade

Grade 4 is considered a ‘standard pass’ and the same proportion of students will achieve a grade 4 or above who

previously were awarded a grade C or above. A grade 4 is the minimum level that students need to reach in English and Maths otherwise they need to continue to study

these subjects as part of their post-16 education.

Year 9 Options 2021

Key Dates and Timeline

THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY 2021 Options Video Presentation link shared with Year 9 parents and students

↓

BY FRIDAY 26 FEBRUARY 2021 Electronic version of the Options Booklet shared and hard copy version sent by post.

↓

From 1st MARCH Details about bookings for individual appointments for Options Interviews are shared.

↓ FROM 1st – 5th MARCH

Form Tutors and Individual Subject teachers will start talking to students about the options subjects. They will use the current Google Classroom structure to post

messages or presentations. Some sessions may be live discussions. FROM 8th MARCH

Information assembly for students about the process and timeline.

↓ BEFORE TUESDAY 16 MARCH

Parents and students to read the Options Booklet and watch the Options Presentation Video if they haven’t done so already.

↓ TUESDAY 16 MARCH

Options Interviews with slots between 3:45-6:45pm. Students/parents will have a 15 minute video meeting to guide through the process and combination of subjects

↓ MONDAY 22 MARCH

Deadline for Year 9 Options Application to be completed online. Where parents indicated difficulties with online completion during the interview, paper versions of the

form will be sent home in the post.

The Options Online Application Form can be accessed via a link which will be sent to you via text message on 16 March 2021.

Year 9 Options 2021

Key Stage 4 Courses 2021-2023

Compulsory Qualification Subjects These are the core subjects that all students at Mount Grace School study and receive a GCSE qualification for: • Mathematics • English Language • English Literature • Science (either Combined – two qualifications, or Triple – three qualifications) • Citizenship

Compulsory Subjects of Study These are the core subjects that all students study and participate in either through formal lessons or form time/assemblies/drop down days but do not lead to a formal externally recognised qualification: • Core Physical Education • Thrive

Optional Qualification Subjects These are optional subjects that students can select from. The vast majority of students will study four additional subjects towards a formal externally recognised BTEC or GCSE qualification. Triple Science French German Geography History Art Music Food Preparation and Nutrition Design and Technology BTEC Sport BTEC Performing Arts (Dance) BTEC Performing Arts (Drama) BTEC Enterprise – Business BTEC Health and Social Care

Year 9 Options 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the difference

between BTEC and GCSE?

BTEC and GCSE are different types of course and qualification but are equivalent in value. BTECs exist at different levels, but the courses on offer here are BTEC Tech Awards, which are Level 2 awards. Each one is equivalent to one GCSE and a step towards post-16 education. BTEC awards are predominantly assessed through the completion of coursework assignments in school. There is also a small externally examined component which may be a written or online exam. The only way they differ to GCSE is perhaps in the style of working and format of examination.

Should I study Triple Science or Combined

Science?

It is possible for more able students to study for three Science GCSEs (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and this is a secure stepping stone for students considering A Level Sciences or a career path linked closely to the sciences. Combined Science still covers all three sciences but counts as two GCSEs. Triple Science is more demanding than Combined Science because it is worth an extra GCSE and therefore if you select Triple Science then this will count as one of your four option subjects.

Year 9 Options 2021

Am I suitable for studying Computer Science?

Computer Science is a highly scientific course with an emphasis on coding and programming. It requires a demanding level of mathematical and scientific skill and should be reserved for the most able in these subjects. We are currently exploring opportunities to offer this as an afterschool provision for select students. This is likely to be hosted by MGS but taught remotely by a specialist teacher. There is space on the options form to express your interest in this.

A small number of students will be advised to select three options instead of four to allow for the Learning Support Core option. This option is by invitation only and whilst it reduces the number of qualifications a student can gain, the provision will support students to make progress in their other subjects. Your eligibility for this option can be discussed during your interview but places are based on an evaluation of need.

I have Learning Support lessons at

the moment, will I be able to continue this?

Do I need to express a

preference order?

In the interview with a member of staff, you will discuss your preference order but the final form will only require you to make your four selections. You will make 2 reserve choices. R1 and R2. These are in preference order and it is very important that you choose reserves that you would be happy to study. Due to the complexities of timetabling, student numbers and staffing, student choices are not guaranteed. On the rare occasion where we have to allocate a subject outside of the four choices and reserves we will be in touch by telephone before doing so. We have not had to do this in previous years!

I’ve heard of something called Progress 8 or P8

score. What is it?

Progress 8 is calculated by adding a student’s attainment in eight subjects (English and Maths, three subjects out of Combined/Triple Science, Computer Science, Geography, History, Modern Foreign Languages and then the best three other grades from other subjects) this number is then compared to other students nationally with the same KS2 SATS results to produce a score. This is a DfE school performance measure and the final calculation has no impact on an individual student’s qualification grades.

YES! It is a big task to analyse the choices of every student in the year group and in some cases it is appropriate to adjust the blocking within the timetable structure if it will allow more students to be able to study their top four choices. No preference will be given to applications that come in early as we look to achieve a best fit for all concerned. However, we can not guarantee to prioritise the choices of applications that come in late if the structuring process has already started.

Is the 22nd March deadline important?

I’ve heard something

called EBACC. What is it?

Please see the full explanation earlier on in this booklet but EBACC is a particular combination of subjects that include Languages and Humanities and Science in addition to Maths and English. Whilst we recognise that this combination does not suit every student, we strongly advise students for whom it is appropriate to choose at least one modern foreign language or humanities subject as part of their options and many will choose to study both (or one if they have already selected Triple Science)

Year 9 Options 2021

Further Guidance about the Options Subjects

Triple Science The study of science is a core compulsory requirement. Combined Science where students study elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics and gain two GCSE qualifications in Science, is part of the Core curriculum. However, for students who have a strong interest in science and may aspire to pursue Biology, Chemistry or Physics A Level at 6th form or students who simply want to learn science at a deeper and more detailed level, Triple Science is recommended. Triple Science counts as one of your options (in Block D). You will have more Science lessons a week than those who do not select it as an option.

Modern Foreign Languages and Humanities

Many schools will limit the choices students have in order to support the DfE’s ambition that students study a particular combination of subjects which include MFL and Humanities. Therefore, we request that at least one of your choices is either French, German, History or Geography. Many students will want to select both an MFL subject and a Humanities subject and therefore will select French or German and History or Geography.

BTEC SUBJECTS

BTEC subjects carry the same value as GCSEs and allow access to Post-16 courses such as A Levels in the same way that GCSEs do. However, the mode of study is very different. There is a greater demand on time throughout the two years to complete high volumes of coursework rather than 100% examination at the end of the course. BTEC subjects still include formally examined components.

BTEC Performing Arts

This is a BTEC qualification where students either follow the dance route or the drama route - they cannot study both. If for any reason we are not able to accommodate drama or dance, we will not assume the student will want to study the other unless they select it as a reserve.

Computer Science

Computer Science is a highly scientific course with an emphasis on coding and programming. It requires a demanding level of mathematical and scientific skill and should be reserved for the most able in these subjects. We are currently exploring opportunities to offer this as an afterschool provision for select students. This is likely to be hosted by MGS but taught remotely by a specialist teacher. There is space on the online application to express your interest in this

Year 9 Options 2021

CORE COMPULSORY SUBJECTS

English Language GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8700 Web link: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/subjects/AQA-4705-W-SP-14.PDF

Content Unit 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing Unit 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspective Spoken Language Study (non-examination assessment)

How is this course assessed? Two External examination papers both 1 hour 45 minutes each. Both equally weighted.

English Literature GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8702 Web link: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-literature-8702/specification-at-a-glance

Content Unit 1: Shakespeare and the 19th Century Novel Unit 2: Modern Texts and Poetry

How is this course assessed? English Literature is assessed through Two written exams. Paper One: 1 hour 45 minutes; 40% of final grade. Paper Two: 2 hours 15 minutes; 60% of final grade.

Mathematics GCSE Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 1MA1 Web link: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/mathematics-2015.html

Content The content of the maths curriculum is divided into four main categories:

- Number - Geometry and Measures / Statistics and Probability - Algebra - Ratio, Proportion and Rates of change

How is this course assessed? There are two tiers of entry:

Higher allowing for grades 4 – 9 Foundation allowing for grades 1 - 5 Students complete three examination papers (one of which is non-calculator) at the end of the course in year 11. Class teachers will make the decision as to which tier of entry will allow the student to maximise their grade based on the progress made in lessons, homework and in exams.

Citizenship GCSE Exam Board: OCR Specification code: J270 Web link: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-citizenship-studies-j270-from-2016/

Content The course content covers four themes: - Rights, the law and the legal system in England and Wales - taking citizenship action - Democracy and government - the UK and the wider world

How is this course assessed? Three written exams

Current Specifications (subject to change)

SCIENCE – Students must select COMBINED or TRIPLE

Combined Science GCSE Double award Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8464 Web link to specification: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464

Indicative content and skills

Biology: Cell Biology; Organisation; Infection and response; Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation, evolution and Ecology. Chemistry: Atomic structure and the periodic table; Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter; Quantitative chemistry; Chemical changes and Energy changes, The rate of chemical change; Organic chemistry; Chemical analysis; Chemistry of the Atmosphere. Physics: Energy, electricity, particle model of matter. Atomic structure, forces, waves. Magnetism and electromagnetism. Working scientifically: Working scientifically is the sum of all the activities that scientists do, which will include investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and thinking about them.

How is this course assessed? There are six exam papers taken at the end of year 11: two Biology, two Chemistry and two Physics.

Future progression: A Level sciences; College courses; Apprenticeships

Triple Science GCSE Triple award Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8461/8462/8463 Web link: GCCE Biology http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/biology-8461

GCSE Chemistry http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/chemistry-8462 GCSE Physics http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/physics-8463

Indicative content and skills

The core content is the same as for ‘Combined Science’ but several topics are covered in more depth. The following are only covered as part of the Triple Science course: Biology: Growing bacteria; Plant diseases and defences; Plant hormones; Monoclonal antibodies; The brain and eye; Homeostasis (body temperature & kidney); Reproduction in fungi and malaria; DNA structure, protein synthesis, gene expression, mutation; History of genetics and evolution; Rates of decomposition; Trophic levels, biomass, food security and production. Chemistry: transition elements; nanoparticles; testing for + and – ions, instrumental analysis; Yield and atom economy; Titration and gas volumes; Chemical cells, batteries and fuel cells; Alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids, esters; Polymers; Using resources (rusting, alloys, polymers, ceramics, Haber process, fertilisers). Physics: Infrared radiation; Gas pressure and volume; Moments, levers and gears; Moments and equilibrium; Conservation of momentum, impact forces and safety; Forces and pressure; Sound, ultrasound and seismic waves; Light and lenses; Electromagnets in devices; Generators and transformers; Nuclear fission, fusion and radiation in medicine; Space. Working scientifically: Working scientifically is the sum of all the activities that scientists do, which will include investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and thinking about them.

How is this course assessed? There are six exam papers taken at the end of year 11: two Biology, two Chemistry and two Physics.

Future progression A Level sciences; College courses; Apprenticeships

Year 9 Options 2021

OPTION SUBJECTS:

French and/or German GCSE Exam Board: WJEC Eduqas Specification code: French C800 / German C820 Web link to specifications: German: http://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/german/gcse/eduqas-gcse-german-spec-from-2016-e.pdf?language_id=1 French: http://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/french/gcse/eduqas-gcse-french-spec-from-2016.pdf?language_id=1&dotcache=no&dotcache=refresh

Indicative content and skills The course covers 5 main themes:

• Identity and culture (relationships, friends & family, food, shopping, social media, festivals, media) • Local area, holiday and travel (weather, sights, things to do & see, holiday plans and experiences, travel &

accommodation, problems, eating out, directions) • School (school types, school day, subjects, rules, pressures, trips) • Future aspirations, study and work (using languages beyond the classroom, jobs & careers, further study,

volunteering) • International and global dimension (bringing the world together, environmental issues)

These topics are studied in the context of both the students’ home country and that of countries and communities where the language is spoken, using authentic situations and stimuli.

How is this course assessed? The course in French/German consists of four externally examined papers based on the following skills. Each skill is worth 25%.

• Listening • Speaking • Reading • Writing

Each paper is available at Foundation tier or Higher tier. Students must be entered for a single tier across all papers. The use of dictionaries is not permitted in any of the exams.

Future progression Students who achieve at least a level 6 will be able to undertake an A Level course in the language. A GCSE in a foreign language is becoming a pre-requisite for study at an increasing number of good universities. Whilst not an essential for many jobs, a GCSE in a language is useful for careers in engineering, customer services, business, the travel industry, health and medical services, finance, the media, advertising – and using a language at work will help your communication skills and could raise your salary by 8-20%.

Year 9 Options 2021

Geography GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8035 Web link to specifications: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/geography/specifications/AQA-8035-SP-2016.PDF

Indicative content and skills The course is made up of the following units: Challenges with the Human Environment, Living with the Physical Environment, a unit on geographical applications as well as a unit on geographical skills. The geographical skills unit requires you to attend 2 compulsory days in the field collecting data. These days are normally spent in Walton-on-the-Naze and Radlett/Borehamwood but this will be confirmed nearer to the time and costs an average of £20. You will need to demonstrate the ability to:

• recall knowledge of locations, places, processes and environments • geographical understanding of: concepts and how they are used in relation to places, environments and

processes; the interrelationships between places, environments and processes • apply knowledge and understanding to interpret, analyse and evaluate geographical information and issues to

make judgements • select, adapt and use a variety of skills and techniques to investigate questions and issues and communicate

How is this course assessed? Three written exams

Future progression Geography is the second most employable subject after Maths. GCSE Geography allows progression to A level Geography however it will support a wide variety of post-16 courses.

History GCSE Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 1HI0 Web link to specifications: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/history-2016.html

Indicative content and skills It is important to realise that embarking on a History GCSE requires a high level of literacy. This means good standards of reading and writing are required. The course consists of four units of study: Crime and Punishment in Britain c1000 to the present; Germany, 1918-1939; Elizabethan England as the British study and the Cold War, 1941-1991 as the depth study. You will need to demonstrate the ability to: recall knowledge, communicate the causes and consequences of historical events, analyse sources and identify and explain a variety of historical interpretations.

How is this course assessed? Three written exams

Future progression History A Level, careers that require analytical thinking and articulation such as law, crime etc.

*Computer Science GCSE Exam Board: OCR Specification code: J276 Web link: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-computer-science-j276-from-2016/

CONTENT Computer Science is a highly mathematical and scientific subject giving students a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works.

• Use of algorithms in computer programs • Become independent and discerning users of IT • Acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of IT in a range of contexts • Develop computer programs to solve problems • Evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of computer technology in society.

How is this course assessed? Two written papers which include a requirement for students to write code.

Future progression Combined with other qualifications, successful completion of this course often leads to

progression to Level 3 qualifications (A Level Computing), or to apprenticeships. *Currently under review

Year 9 Options 2021

Art GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8202 Web link to specifications: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/art-and-design/specifications/AQA-ART-GCSE-SP-2016-V1-0.PDF

Indicative content and skills The specification has been designed to allow students to develop knowledge and understanding during the course through a variety of learning experiences and approaches, including engagement with sources. This will allow them to develop the skills to explore, create and communicate their own ideas. Students will demonstrate these skills through the development, refinement, recording, realisation and presentation of their ideas through a portfolio and by responding to an externally set assignment.

How is this course assessed? Component 1 (60%): Portfolio of work: students will be required to complete a portfolio that in total shows explicit coverage of the four assessment objectives. Component 2 (40%): Externally set assignment: this is a preparatory period followed by 10 hours of supervised time

Future progression • A level Art • Foundation Course in Art and Design • College Art courses • Art degrees

Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8585 Web link to specifications: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/food-preparation-and-nutrition/gcse/food-preparation-and-nutrition-8585 Pupils will cover many topics on the course which will enable them to understand all areas of nutrition, the working characteristics of food and how to apply technical skills and creative presentation to food preparation. The following areas are the focus of the GCSE.

• Food, nutrition and health • Food science • Food safety • Food choice • Food provenance • Food preparation

50% of this GCSE course is Non-Exam Assessments (NEA). Pupils are required to provide all of their own ingredients, failing to do so will have a detrimental impact on their grade.

How is this course assessed? Unit 1 (50%): Written examination. 1:45 hours, section 1: 20% section 2: 30%. Unit 2 (50%): Two Non-Exam Assessments (NEA) tasks. Task 1: 15%, Task 2: 35%.

Future progression • A level Product Design and A level Food • Catering college

Year 9 Options 2021

Design & Technology GCSE Exam Board: AQA Specification code: 8552 Web link to specifications: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/design-and-technology/gcse/design-and-technology-8552/specification-at-a-glance Course Synopsis Design & Technology GCSE is a very exciting course that enable students to participate successfully in an increasingly technological world. They will learn from the wider influences of the subject including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. The course covers core technical theory, design philosophies and making principles – including a broad range of design processes, materials, techniques and equipment. Students will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth through a chosen material area (Graphic Products and Resistant Materials). The course is delivered with a Graphics and Resistant Materials focus, but has no bias on materials or subject strands. This will allow the pupils to gain a wider understanding and be able to develop all aspects of design in order to produce the most appropriate outcome to the brief. The course by nature is a future proofing subject that evolves constantly to reflect the world in which we live.

Indicative content and skills • Design and CAD skills

• Knowledge of design movements and trends

• Product Analysis, gathering and handling data

• Manufacturing methods and skills

• Materials and components (papers, cards, plastics, smart materials, metals, timbers and compliant materials e.g. concrete…)

• Market influences

• Sustainable implications

How is this course assessed? Unit 1 (50%): Written examination. 2 hours, Section A: Core technical principles, Section B: Specialist technical principles, Section C: Design and making principles. Unit 2 (50%): Non-examination assessment (NEA) task. 35 hours. The controlled assessment unit typically consists of a portfolio of 15,000 words, designs and final product.

Future progression • A level Product Design

• Foundation Course in Art and Design

• Apprenticeship in the design and manufacturing industry

• Design degrees

• Interior & Architectural design

• Industrial design

• Graphic communication, marketing, advertising

• Film, special effects, animatronics

• Civil engineering

Year 9 Options 2021

Music GCSE Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 1MU0 Web link to specifications: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/music-2016.html

Indicative content and skills The course aims to enable students to engage actively in the process of music study both through the practical aspects of performance and composition and by developing a working knowledge of a broad range of musical styles and theory. Students are encouraged to develop an awareness of how technology is used in the creation and presentation of music. It is hoped that students are able to then broaden their musical experience and interests, develop their imagination and foster creativity.

How is this course assessed? 1. Performing assessment 30%

• Solo performance • Ensemble performance

2. Composing assessment 30% • Composition 1 – free choice • Composition 2 – in response to a given brief

3. Appraising examination 40% • Listening questions on 8 set works (relating to Instrumental music, Vocal music, Music for stage and screen and

Fusions) and an unfamiliar piece. • Comparison question • Short melodic or rhythmic dictation

Future progression A level Music, A level Music Technology, a wide variety of music and performing arts degrees

Sport Level 2/ PE BTEC / GCSE Exam Board Sport Level 2: Edexcel Exam Board PE: OCR

Specification code: 600/4779/3 Specification code: J587

Indicative content and skills You need an interest in the practical application and the theoretical concepts of Sport. It is not essential to be an elite performer to take the course. Each student will be expected to represent the school in as many sports as possible. Assistance in the running, organising and support of the PE Department is essential for all Sport students! The course is designed to offer opportunities for all types of Sports Students. - Anatomy and Physiology - Health and Fitness - Sports Leadership - Practical sport

How is this course assessed? Assessment is through practical performance, theoretical application within exam(s) and coursework based activities.

Future progression This course is useful if you want to…

• Study the LEVEL 3 BTEC Sport and A Level PE. You may also use the qualification to take up a position in:

• PE teacher • Sports/Exercise Scientist • Physiotherapist • Sports Management • Nutritionist • Leisure Centre / Health & Fitness Club • Sports Administration and Coaching

Year 9 Options 2021

• Police, Fire Service or the Armed Forces

Enterprise (Business) BTEC Tech Award Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 603/1916/1 Web link to specifications: https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/btec-tec-awards/enterprise/2017/specification-and-sample-assessments/BTEC_L12_TechAwd_Enterprise_Spec_Iss3.pdf

Indicative content and skills This course will be of interest to anyone who has an interest in business. Business employers value employees who are able to communicate effectively both verbally and using electronic communication methods and this will be fully developed throughout the course. Learners are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and achievement. The course will help to develop research and organisational skills. Units available for the course include: 1. Exploring Enterprises (Internal assessment) 2. Planning for and Pitching an Enterprise Activity (Internal assessment) 3. Promotion and Finance for Enterprise (External assessment) How is this course assessed? Units will be assessed using Pass, Merit or Distinction criteria Units 1 and 2 will be coursework pieces and will be assessed internally (moderated externally) Unit 3 will be an external written assessment

Future progression Combined with other qualifications, successful completion of this course often leads to progression to level 3 qualifications, or to apprenticeships.

Health & Social Care BTEC Tech Award Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 603/0395/5 Web link to specifications: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-tech-awards/health-and-social-care.html

Indicative content and skills Through a combination of practical experience and written assignments, this vocational qualification will provide level 2 learners with the knowledge, skills and understanding needed for a career in the Health and Social Sector. BTEC Tech Awards can help you take your first steps towards a career caring for people and communities. You’ll learn the essential skills needed to support people with a wide range of needs, from babies and toddlers to adults and the elderly. Components available for the course include: Component 1: Human Lifespan Development Component 2: Health and Social Care Services and Values Component 3: Health and Wellbeing

How is this course assessed? Components will be assessed using Pass, Merit or Distinction criteria Components 1 and 2 will be coursework pieces and will be assessed internally (moderated externally) Component 3 will be a formal controlled assessment (external)

Future progression Combined with other qualifications, successful completion of this course often leads to progression to level 3 qualifications, or to apprenticeships.

Year 9 Options 2021

Performing Arts (Dance) BTEC Tech Award Performing Arts (Drama)

Exam Board: Edexcel Specification code: 603/0406/6

Web link to specifications: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-techawards/performing-arts.html

Indicative content and skills Component 1: Exploring the Performing Arts(Internal): 36GLH Learning aims –

• Examine professional practitioners’ performance work

• Explore the interrelationships between constituent features of existing performance material. Component 2: Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts (Internal) : 36GLH Learning aims

• Develop skills and techniques for performance

• Apply skills and techniques in rehearsal and performance

• Review own development and performance. Component 3: Performing to a Brief (External) : 48GLH Learning aims –

• AO1 Understand how to respond to a brief

• AO2 Select and develop skills and techniques in response to a brief

• AO3 Apply skills and techniques in a workshop performance in response to a brief AO4 Evaluate the development process and outcome in response to a brief

How is this course assessed? 1. Component 1: Exploring the Performing Arts-– Internally assessed

• Study three contrasting dance pieces or drama plays

• Research Journal and study log

• Perform to an audience 2. Component 2: Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts – Internally assessed

• Rehearse and perform a dance or drama play to a live audience

• Research Journal and study log 3. Component 3: Performing to a Brief-Externally assessed.

• Perform to a live audience and examiner

• Rehearsals and workshops Journal and research notes

Future progression This course is essential if you want to progress onto the Level 3 course in Performing Arts and/or study a Dance or Drama related course at University, such as Theatre Arts and Performing Arts. This course is also fully aligned with the requirements for progression into an apprenticeship or the workplace.

Year 9 Options 2021

Community languages at Mount Grace School Mount Grace School is very keen to support those students who are competent in speaking, listening and writing in other Modern Foreign Languages / Community Languages. The following subjects are currently available for sitting (not for study) at GCSE so whilst we are unable to offer teaching in these subjects, we can support students to complete examinations and receive a GCSE qualification for:

Arabic Edexcel Modern Hebrew

AQA

Bengali AQA Punjabi AQA

Chinese Edexcel Persian/Farsi OCR

Dutch OCR Polish AQA

Gujarati OCR Portuguese OCR

Hindi OCR Russian Edexcel

Italian AQA /Edexcel Spanish

Edexcel / OCR/AQA Japanese Edexcel

Latin OCR Turkish OCR

Modern Greek

Edexcel Urdu AQA

The school is committed to supporting students who may have an additional language and will pay the examination costs for appropriate candidates. It may also be able to provide extra support to prepare students for the examination. If you feel your child might be a suitable candidate to sit one of these languages at GCSE then there is a space on the options form for you to indicate this. Alternatively, please contact Ms H Baker for further information.

Year 9 Options 2021

The Sixth Form As you plan your GCSE courses, it is sensible to be thinking about what happens after them. It is a good idea to consider your current option choices as part of a three or four year programme. It is logical, therefore, to be thinking about what will allow you access to the Sixth Form. It is possible to study a wide range of subjects in the Sixth Form at Mount Grace. We offer a broad range of courses at level 2 and 3. Many students mix vocational courses with traditional A levels, providing a real path to success. As a member of the Sixth Form you will be expected to play an active role as a senior member of the school. Sixth Formers are encouraged to help younger students and to participate in a range of activities, designed to develop skills for the future. The Sixth Form is very successful, with many students achieving high grades in their A level and Level 3 Vocational qualifications. These students recognise that school offers continuity, a chance to build on the success of previous years and an environment in which to prepare for university or employment. The pre-requisite for entering the Sixth Form is a commitment to learning and a determination to succeed. If you want to develop and progress in familiar surroundings with peers and tutors who know you, and who you know, where you will be encouraged to develop as an individual and where achievement is closely monitored, Mount Grace Sixth Form is for you. For further information, please contact Miss L. Gardner (Head of Learning – 6th Form)

What to do next… Discuss the contents of this booklet and watch the video presentation. Engage in any discussions about options with your form tutor and subject teachers. You should prepare for your interview by working through the form on the next page. Individual Interviews will be via video and take place on 16 March 2021 3:45pm-6:45pm during a 15 minute appointment. Please have this booklet and your thoughts from the last page to hand during the interview.

Year 9 Options 2021

PREPARING FOR THE OPTIONS INTERVIEW. My appointment is on Tuesday 16th March at ________pm with ___________ Complete the following which will inform the discussions about your future during the individual options Interview appointment.

CHOOSING YOUR OPTIONS 1) CHOOSE ONE SUBJECT FROM EACH GROUP by writing X in the box next to the subject. (total 4) 2) CHOOSE TWO RESERVE SUBJECTS from any group(s) by writing R1 and R2 in the boxes.

(R1 is first preferred reserve, R2 is your second choice reserve)

BLOCK A BLOCK B BLOCK C BLOCK D

LEARNING SUPPORT CORE*

LEARNING SUPPORT ADDITIONAL*

ART

BUSINESS ENTERPRISE BTEC

MUSIC HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE BTEC

FOOD PREPARATION & NUTRITION

SPORT BTEC

FRENCH DRAMA -PERFORMING ARTS BTEC

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

GERMAN DANCE – PERFOMRING ARTS BTEC

HISTORY

GEOGRAPHY

HISTORY BUSINESS BTEC

TRIPLE SCIENCE

SPORT BTEC

NB: Learning Support Core in BLOCK A and Learning Support Additional in BLOCK B are by invitation only. If you are eligible for this option you will have been contacted by Mr Say or Ms White prior to your interview.

Year 9 Options 2021