year 10 subject choice january...

YEAR 10

SUBJECT CHOICE

JANUARY 2021

CONTENTS

YEAR 10 SUBJECT CHOICE ............................................................................................ 1

ART & DESIGN ................................................................................................................. 2

BUSINESS STUDIES ........................................................................................................ 4

DOUBLE AWARD SCIENCE (COUNTS AS 2 GCSEs) ..................................................... 5

Biology (Double Award) .................................................................................................... 5

Chemistry (Double Award) ............................................................................................... 5

Physics (Double award) ................................................................................................... 5

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY – OPTION A (MULTIMEDIA) .................................................... 7

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY – OPTION B (PROGRAMMING)............................................... 8

DRAMA .............................................................................................................................. 9

ENGLISH ..........................................................................................................................11

ENGLISH LITERATURE ...................................................................................................12

FURTHER MATHEMATICS .............................................................................................13

GEOGRAPHY...................................................................................................................14

HISTORY ..........................................................................................................................16

HOME ECONOMICS - CHILD DEVELOPMENT ..............................................................18

HOME ECONOMICS FOOD and NUTRITION .................................................................19

LANGUAGES (FRENCH, IRISH, SPANISH) ....................................................................20

MATHEMATICS ................................................................................................................22

MOVING IMAGE ARTS ....................................................................................................23

MUSIC ..............................................................................................................................25

PHYSICAL EDUCATION ..................................................................................................27

RELIGIOUS STUDIES ......................................................................................................28

TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN – SYSTEM DESIGN .............................................................30

TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN – PRODUCT DESIGN ..........................................................31

Year 10 Subject Choice Booklet

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YEAR 10 SUBJECT CHOICE

The deadline for your son’s/daughter’s choice of GCSE subjects is:

Thursday 4 February 2021

o Your son/daughter must choose NINE GCSE subjects by then (TEN if he/she is selected to do Further Mathematics — please note pupils are selected for Further Mathematics based on their mathematical ability.)

o Everyone must do English, English Literature and Mathematics to GCSE level.

Your son/daughter will select 6 other GCSE subjects from the list below.

Art and Design Business Studies Digital Technology (Option A or B) Drama Double Award Science (counts as 2 GCSEs) French Geography History Home Economics Food or Child Development Irish Moving Images Art Music PE Religious Studies Spanish Technology and Design Product Design or System Design

In the following pages, you will find information about all subjects offered at GCSE level in St. Mary’s. The Subject Choice for GCSE form MUST be submitted to your son’s/daughter’s Form Teacher on or before 4 February 2021.


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YEAR 10 FOCUS ON SUBJECTS

ART & DESIGN

1. What are the key topics in this subject for GCSE?

You will develop your practical skills through participating in a wide range of Art & Design Activities – You may select:

1 Fine Art – Drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture and print making

2 Graphics – Illustration, advertising, packaging design, computer graphics, multimedia web design, photography, moving image

3 3D Design – Ceramics, sculpture, jewellery

4 Product Design – from rigid materials, clocks, tables, chairs

5 Textile Design – Fashion and costume, hats and handbags

2. What particular skills / abilities / interests are needed for this subject?

You must be interested in the process of exploring and recording ideas, by looking at natural and made objects, people and places

You must enjoy experimenting with various media and evaluating your own work

You must be interested in practical exploration of the processes and contexts of practitioners

3. How will the pupil be assessed in May / June

Component 1

(60%)

Exploratory Portfolio Part A- 25% 50 Marks Investigating the Creative and Cultural Industries Part B- 35% 70 Marks

Component 2

(40%)

Externally Set Assignment Students will complete a minimum of 20 hours of prep work in response to a set theme issued early January of Year 12. Within a period of 10 hours students will complete a final outcome under controlled examination conditions.

4. What Controlled Assessment or Coursework is involved?

60% - Exploratory Portfolio & Investigating the Creative and Cultural Industries 40% - Externally Set Assignment


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5. Any additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide.

If you excel in Art & Design, don’t dismiss it for GCSE because whilst enjoying what you do what you are more likely to get a top grade when you are exercising your strengths and talents.

While Art & Design continues to be a desirable option for students wishing to pursue ‘traditional’ creative careers, such as Architecture, Interior Design or Painting / Fine Art related professions, the internet has seen an explosion of exciting, new roles emerge. The fact is employment within the UK’s creative industries is increasing at more than twice the rate of the wider UK economy. More and more employers are seeking individuals who can prove they possess fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving skills, lateral thinking ability, complex analysis and critical thinking skills. These particular skills are clearly evidenced in an Art & Design portfolio. A large quantity of the work that is assessed is completed during class or homework time over the duration of the two years. This means the pupil has the control over producing their best work for final moderation without the stress of an exam. In the last academic year 100% of our pupils achieved A*- B in GCSE Art & Design.


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BUSINESS STUDIES


1. Business Start up

2. Production and Marketing

3. Finance

4. Managing People

5. Business Growth and Business Planning

2. What particular skills/abilities/interests are needed for this subject?

Interest in current affairs

Ability to investigate and analyse problems

Enjoy solving problems

Decision making skills

3. How will the pupil be assessed?

Unit 1:

External written exam – Year 11 Business Start Up (Business Start Up; Production; Marketing) Format: Structured questions Weighting: 40%

Unit 2:

External written exam – Year 12 Business Development (Finance; Managing People; Business Growth; Business Planning) Format: Structured questions Weighting: 40%

4. What controlled assessment or Coursework is involved?

Format: Candidates complete one task from a choice of two, released in September each year (20%)

5. Any additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide?

6. Progression Pathways

The skills developed in Business Studies will equip students in any professional career. Although it is not an essential subject in any of the professional disciplines, it is studied to some extent in many of the following areas: financial services; accounting; estate management; public relations; marketing; it will also help those students who have entrepreneurship ambitions.

The skills developed in Business Studies will equip students in any professional career. GCSE Level Business Studies is a great attribute on your CV, it shows future employers you understand how a business works, so you may be considered for higher positions. Business Studies also opens up a variety of career opportunities and also for further study at college or university. it is studied to some extent in many of the following areas: financial services; accounting; estate management; public relations; marketing; it will also help those students who have entrepreneurship ambitions.


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DOUBLE AWARD SCIENCE (COUNTS AS 2 GCSEs)

BIOLOGY (DOUBLE AWARD)


GCSE Science Double Award is a two-year unitised course. This course covers Biology, Chemistry and Physics and is the equivalent of two GCSE qualifications.

Biology Unit 1 - Year 11

You will learn about: Cell; Ecology; Photosynthesis; Nutrition and Health; Enzymes and Digestion; Respiration; Nervous System and hormones; Excretion and Kidney

Biology Unit 2 - Year 12

You will learn about: Osmosis;Transport in plants and animals; How we defend ourselves against disease; Human Reproduction; DNA; Variation in living things.

CHEMISTRY (DOUBLE AWARD)


Chemistry Unit 1 Year 11

Atomic Structure, Bonding and Structures, Chemical Formula and Equations, Periodic Table, Quantitative Chemistry, Acids and Alkalis, Chemical Analysis

Chemistry Unit 2 Year 12

Reactivity Series, Rusting, Oxidation and Reduction, , Quantitative Chemistry, Rates of Reaction, Equilibrium, Energetics, Gas Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Electrochemistry

PHYSICS (DOUBLE AWARD)


Physics Unit 1 Year 11

Motion, Force, Moments, Energy, Density, Kinetic Theory, Radioactivity, Nuclear Fission and Fusion

Physics Unit 2 Year 12

Waves, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetism and Space Physics


You will develop many skills including Problem solving skills, Experimental and investigative skills and Numeracy skills.

Knowledge of health and body

Awareness of environmental issues

A keen interest in exploring our world and how it works and how chemistry impacts on our daily lives: health care, conservation of our natural resources, protection of the environment, provision of everyday needs – food, clothing and shelter

Taking science will open up a variety of career options for your future providing you with skills that will make you very employable


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Physics is concerned with the observation, understanding and prediction of natural phenomena and the behaviour of man-made systems. It deals with profound questions about the Universe and important practical, environmental and technological issues. It is both theoretical and practical.

It encourages you to develop your curiosity about the physical world and provides insight into experience of how science works, applying physics to your everyday lives.

3. How will the pupil be assessed in May / June?

Unit 1 Biology

Summer Examination series in Year 11. 3 Externally assessed written examination consisting of a number of short answer questions and at least one structured questions Time - 1 hour Each paper accounts for 11% of the final GCSE marks. All 3 papers will account for 33% of the total marks for Double Award Science.

Unit 1 Chemistry

Unit 1 Physics

Unit 2 Biology

Summer Examination series in Year 12. 3 Externally assessed written examination consisting of a mixture of short answer and structured questions. Time - 1 hour 15 minutes Each paper accounts for 14% of the final GCSE marks. All 3 papers will account for 42% of the total marks for Double Award Science.

Unit 2 Chemistry

Unit 2 Physics

Practical Skills

Booklet A 7.5% Externally marked Students carry out three pre-release practicals (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) during Jan- June in Year 12. Booklet B 17.5% Externally assessed written examination consisting of a mixture of short answer and structured questions including calculations, all set in a practical context from Physics, Chemistry & Biology.

4. What coursework is involved?

None


In Double Award Science you will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In Year 11 there are 4 periods of Biology, Chemistry and Physics per fortnight. In

Year 12 there are 4 periods of Biology, Chemistry and Physics per fortnight. You will do a Unit Exam in each of the three subjects in Year 11 and in Year 12 and

carry out two pieces of controlled assessment. Grades are awarded on an eight grade scale from A*A* -GG, with A*A* being the

highest. Double intermediate grades such as AB and BC are also awarded. Pupils wishing to study Biology at AS/A2 level currently require 80% in the Biology components of Double Award Science. Pupils wishing to study Chemistry and Physics at A Level must achieve 80% in the Chemistry or Physics Components of Double Award Science.


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DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY – OPTION A (MULTIMEDIA)

Digital Technology will provide opportunities for students to:

Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts associated with the development of solutions using digital technology

Analyse problems through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging solutions

Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically

Understand the components that make up digital systems, how they communicate with one another and with other systems

Understand the impact of digital technology on the individual and on wider society 1. What are the key topics in this subject for GCSE?

Characteristics of systems architecture

Applications of digital technology

Database applications, and the role of data analytics (‘big data’)

Cloud technology

Cyber security: forms of attack, methods of identifying vulnerabilities, and ways to protect software systems

Networks, including connectivity, types, security, protocols

The ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy and cyber security

Designing solutions using appropriate tools, including User interface design

Designing simple applications, such as a game, using appropriate tools

How key concepts such sequencing, selection and repetition can be used to complete a task

Web technology, including HTML tags

Multimedia technology

The significance of testing and the development of an appropriate test plan 2. What particular skills/abilities/interests are needed for this subject?

Problem solving

Gaming

Web development


Unit 1 External Written Exam 30% – End of Year 11


Unit 3 Controlled Assessment 30% (Website and Database) – Year 12


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DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY – OPTION B (PROGRAMMING)

Digital Technology will provide opportunities for students to:

Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts associated with the development of solutions using digital technology

Analyse problems through practical experience of solving such problems, including designing, writing and debugging solutions

Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically

Understand the components that make up digital systems, how they communicate with one another and with other systems

Understand the impact of digital technology on the individual and on wider society


Characteristics of systems architecture

Applications of digital technology

Database applications, and the role of data analytics (‘big data’)

Cloud technology

Cyber security: forms of attack, methods of identifying vulnerabilities, and ways to protect software systems

Networks, including connectivity, types, security, protocols

The ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy and cyber security

Designing solutions using appropriate tools, including flowcharts

Creating and evaluating algorithms to solve problems in a procedural or object-oriented language

Programming structures such sequencing, selection and repetition and how each can be used to complete a task

The concept of data types and data structures

Simple error handling techniques

The significance of testing and the development of test plans


Students should have an interest in:

Problem solving

Coding

Logical thinking

Debugging and testing




Unit 5 Controlled Assessment 30% (Programming in C#)


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DRAMA


1 Skills Development

2 Careers in Drama

3 Health and Safety in the Industry

5 Theatre Design - Costume

6 Approaches to Rehearsal

7 Performance Analysis

8 Improvisation Performance

9 Devised Performance

10 Scripted Performance


Students working towards this qualification should be:

Independent Enquirers

Creative Thinkers

Reflective Learners

Team Workers

Self-Managers

Effective Participators and should have an interest in:

Live Theatre

Devising and Performing

Scriptwriting

Directing

Theatre Production and Design (set design, lighting design, sound design etc.)

3. How will the pupil be assessed in May / June? GCSE Drama

Unit 1

Unit 1: Understanding Drama (40%)

This unit is assessed by a written examination at the end of the GCSE course which lasts for 1 hour 30 minutes. It will have two questions on a set text and one question on Scripted Performance. The exam is an open book exam. Pupils may use a clean copy of the set text during the exam. The set text pupils will study is Juno and the Paycock.

Unit 2

Unit 2: Drama Performance (60%)

This unit is assessed by two controlled practical assessment tasks, one of which must be Scripted Performance. Pupils will be assessed in one other practical task from the following options:

Devised Performance; Improvisation;


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Dance Drama; Mime; Design Support.

Pupils who choose to be assessed in a Design Support role may focus on one of the following areas:

Costume Design; Set Design; Lighting Design; Multimedia Design

4. What controlled assessment is involved?

Controlled Assessment in GCSE Drama is practical in nature. GCSE DRAMA Pupils’ work in Unit 2: Drama Performance constitutes the Controlled Assessment component of the GCSE Drama programme. Controlled Assessment is worth 60% of the final grade awarded to pupils. Scripted performance is worth 35% and Devised is 25%. For each practical unit, pupils are required to record and evaluate their preparation and performance work in a Student Notebook which must be made available to the moderator during the moderation process.

Additional information about the course in Drama will be provided during Subjects in Focus Week.


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ENGLISH


1 Speaking and Listening – Formal and Informal presentations, dramatic explorations, group and class discussions, debates

2 Reading – Fiction, Non-fiction and Media texts

3 Writing – Argumentative, Functional, Creative, Personal


An ability to communicate effectively with others

An ability to write in a variety of forms for a variety of audiences

An ability to analyse a writer’s purpose, tone and technique

An ability to manage time and information effectively

An ability to employ creative and thinking skills


Module 1

Year 11

Module 1 is taken at the end of Year 11 1 hour 45 minutes Section A – Writing for Purpose Section B – Reading to Access non-fiction and media texts 30%

Module 2

Year 12

Module 2 is taken in January of Year 12 1 hour 45 minutes Section A – Personal & Creative Writing Section B – Reading literary and Non-fiction texts

30%


Controlled Assessment in English is worth 40% of a pupil’s final mark 20% of the Controlled Assessment mark is awarded for Speaking and Listening. Pupils will complete six tasks over the course of the two years 20% of the Controlled Assessment mark is awarded for their performance in two written tasks

Task A: The Study of Written Language – 10% Task B: The Study of Spoken Language – 10%


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ENGLISH LITERATURE


1 Study of Prose – Of Mice and Men & 19th century Unseen prose

2 Study of Drama – Blood Brothers

3 Study of Poetry – CCEA Anthology (Relationships)


An understanding and appreciation of literature

An ability to construct and sustain a logical argument

An ability to analyse a writer’s purpose, tone and technique

An ability to employ creative and thinking skills

An ability to express a personal opinion about characters, themes and situations


Module 1 May of Year 11

Pupils will answer 2 questions: 1 hour 45mins - 30% One question on Of Mice and Men and one question on a 19th century Unseen prose extract

Module 2 May of

Year 12

One essay on Blood Brothers and one essay on the CCEA Poetry Anthology 2 hours - 50%


Controlled Assessment in English is worth 20% of a pupil’s final mark. Pupil complete one extended writing question on a theme which is set by CCEA and changes each year e.g. Explore the theme of ambition in Macbeth


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FURTHER MATHEMATICS


Unit 1 Pure Maths (50%) – Trigonometry, Calculus, Algebra, Logarithms, Matrices

Unit 2 Mechanics (25%): Kinematics, Vectors, Forces, Newton’s Laws of Motion, Moments

Unit 3 Statistics (25%): Terminology, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability, Bivariate Analysis, Binomial Distribution and Normal Distribution


Keen interest in Mathematics

Excellent ability in Mathematics

Keen interest in how Maths is used in other subjects and in life situations

Interested in a future career which requires Mathematics


Unit 1 Pure Mathematics (2 hours) – End of Year 12

Unit 2 Mechanics (1 hour) – End of Year 12

Unit 3 Statistics (1 hour) – End of Year 12


None


Further Maths is an excellent bridge between GCSE Maths and A Level Maths and would be advised if pupils would like to continue on to A Level Maths. Mechanics is similar to work covered in Physics and they help each other at both GCSE and A Level. Statistics is used in a number of subjects at both GCSE and A Level, for example Biology, Geography and Economics.


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GEOGRAPHY


Module 1

Understanding Our Natural World: River Environments, Coastal Environments, Our Changing Weather and Climate, The Restless Earth.

Module 2

Living in Our World: Population and Migration, Changing Urban Areas, Contrasts in World Development, Managing our Environment.

Module 3

Fieldwork: Students base their answers on their knowledge and experience of fieldwork.


Having an interest in the world around you

Having an interest in people and the environment

Being aware of current affairs

Being competent in literacy, numeracy and ICT


The format of assessment is as follows.

Unit 1: May

Year 11

Understanding Our Natural World: An external written exam lasting 1½ hours. It is worth 40% of the Final GCSE mark.

Unit 2: May

Year 12

Living in Our World: An external written exam lasting 1½ hours. It is worth 40% of the Final GCSE mark.

Unit 3 May

Year 12

Fieldwork: External written exam lasting 1 hour. Students base their answers on their knowledge and experience of fieldwork.

4. What coursework is involved? 5. Any additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide.

Students will take part in appropriate fieldwork activities as part of their preparation for Unit 3.

The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Geography explains why and helps to prepare you for those changes.


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Reasons for studying Geography include: It makes you look smart. Knowing basic geography can help you avoid embarrassing moments and put current events in context. Geography not only puts current events in perspective, it helps us understand history.

Without a basic sense of geography, it’s impossible to get the most out of travel experiences. Geography allows you to understand the place where you live. Globalization has been one of the biggest forces in world history for decades. The saying “it’s a small world” reflects this change: the world is as big as it always was, but it’s just more interconnected than ever. Understanding the changes that have swept the world as a result of this interconnection is impossible without appreciating the geography on which it is taking place. Every aspect of human culture is affected by its geography. Geography helps you understand and appreciate the incredible diversity of cultures around the world and puts culture in context.

Geographic skills guide important decisions every day.

Geography combines well with a variety of other subjects, as it links with sciences, arts and social science subjects. Studying Geography will enable you develop skills that will be useful to you in the future. including communication skills, teamwork, management skills, analytical skills as well as being spatially, socially and environmentally aware and equipped with these skills, Geographers are among the most employable people in the world of work today. Geography is part of our everyday lives, so come and discover the world around you.


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HISTORY


1 The USA 1920 – 33: Gangsters, Flappers, the Wall Street Crash. In this option,

students focus on how the lives of American people were affected by the significant political, economic and social changes that took place in the United States of America in the 1920s. These include the background to and consequences of the Wall Street Crash and the impact of the Great Depression up to 1933.

2 Changing Relationships: Britain, Northern Ireland and Ireland 1965 – 1998: Civil Rights to Hunger Strikes, Paramilitaries and Paisley, Downing Street Declaration and Good Friday Agreement. Students enhance their understanding of the unfolding narrative of significant historical developments, events and personalities in a particular period in Northern Ireland’s past. They also examine the interplay of the complex relationships between Northern Ireland and its neighbours.

3 The Cold War 1945 – 2003: Vietnam, Korea, Kennedy and Khrushchev: tensions in the Middle East. In this unit, students focus on the significant events and developments associated with the Cold War and the new ‘war on terror’. Students learn about how and why conflict occurred, attempts at resolving tensions and how international relations have been affected by the Cold War and the ‘war on terror’.


An interest in how the past has influenced the present

Recognise that their historical knowledge and skills help them understand the present and provide them with a basis for their role as responsible citizens

A healthy curiosity about the past, draw your own conclusions and defend them

Be able to work independently and a desire for the best grade possible


Paper 1

1 Hour 45 minutes paper on Section A Life in the United States of America 1920-33 and section B Changing Relation Northern Ireland 1965-98. In section A students answer 5 questions including short response questions, structured questions and an essay question. In Section B students answer 6 questions which include source based questions, short response questions and an essay question. This is worth 60% of the GCSE

Paper 2

1 hour 15 minutes exam on International Relations. Students answer 6 questions including source based questions, a structured question and an essay question. Worth 40% of GCSE


There is no controlled assessment offered


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There are many different reasons to study history, as it is a fantastic combination of all the other school subjects. There are many arguments over the importance of history, and these still go on today.

History helps you discover how your world evolved.

History helps you develop the skills to look beyond the headlines, to ask questions properly, and to express your own opinions.

History trains your mind and teaches you how to think and process information.

History students are rounded individuals who develop an understanding of both past and present.

The pursuit of historical events and people is fun - a form of time travel.

History helps you make sense of most other subjects.

A lack of historical knowledge prevents people from truly understanding the world they live in.

History helps you understand the origins of modern political and social problems.

History lets you learn how and why people behaved as they did, whether they are Elizabeth I, Hitler or John Lennon...

History makes you appreciate that people in the past were not just 'good' or 'bad', but motivated in complex and inconsistent ways, just like us.

History provides you with the skills employers are looking for.


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HOME ECONOMICS - CHILD DEVELOPMENT


1 Unit 1: Parenthood, Pregnancy and the Newborn Baby

2 Unit 2: The Development of the Child (0-5 years)

3 Unit 3: Controlled Assessment Investigation Task


An interest in babies and learning how children develop in the first five years of life

An interest in learning more about a healthy diet and lifestyle in pregnancy

Ability to work independently and to meet deadlines

Ability to analyse, make decisions and solve problems in a specified content (e.g. for coursework tasks)


Unit 1:

Parenthood, Pregnancy and the new born baby

External assessment: 1 hour 15 minutes examination 30% (June 2022)

Unit 2:

The development of the child (0–5 Years)

External assessment: 1 hour 15 minutes examination 30% (June 2023)


Unit 3: Controlled Assessment Investigation Task One controlled assessment task (coursework) to be carried out in school. 40% (June 2022)

5. Additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide and progression

pathways.

This subject is useful for all students as it will help to develop skills necessary for the future when they are parents. It is also useful for those students who may be planning to pursue a career in Health Care, dietetics, teaching, nursing, and child psychology.


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HOME ECONOMICS FOOD and NUTRITION


1 Component 1: Food and Nutrition

2 Component 2: Practical Food and Nutrition


An interest in nutrition and diet throughout the life cycle.

An interest in practical cookery and an ability to demonstrate creativity when working with food.

An interest in consumer issues and being an effective consumer.

Ability to work independently and to meet deadlines.

Ability to analyse and make decisions and solve problems in a specified content (e.g. for coursework tasks)


Component 1

External assessment 50% in June 2023 2 hour examination Multiple choice, short and structured questions and questions requiring extended writing. All questions are compulsory.


Component 2: Food and Nutrition

(Controlled Assessment) 50% - to be done in June 2023

5. Additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide and progression

pathways. This subject is useful for students who have an interest in diet, health and nutritional

requirements. Students will learn how to prepare, cook and creatively serve a wide range of healthy dishes. It is also useful for those students who may be planning to pursue a career in Health promotion, dietetics, teaching, environmental health, sports nutritionists and food related industries.


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LANGUAGES (FRENCH, IRISH, SPANISH)


1 Identity, Lifestyle and Culture

2 Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest

3 School Life, Studies and the World of Work


Understand and respond to different types of spoken language (Listening)

Communicate and interact effectively in speech (Speaking)

Understand and respond to different types of written language (Reading)

Communicate in writing (Writing)


Unit 1

Listening Paper: This paper includes a variety of items of stimulus material in the Target Language recorded on CD, for example announcements, messages, dialogues and narratives of various types from a range of contexts. Pupils’ responses may require selection, gap filling and answers in English and answers in the Target Language. Pupils are required to understand gist, identify main points and details, recognise points of view, attitudes and emotions and draw conclusions. (25%)

Unit 2

Speaking: The teacher conducts and records the Speaking Examination under controlled conditions and it is marked by the Exam Board. Candidates must respond and converse in the Target Language. The examination comprises two role-plays and one general conversation on two topics, and it covers all three Contexts for Learning. Candidates prepare Topic 1 in advance during normal class time. (25%)

Unit 3

Reading Paper: This paper includes a variety of stimulus material in the Target language for example notices, announcements, advertisements, extracts from letters, magazines or newspaper articles and forms of imaginative writing. Pupils’ responses may require selection, gap filling, answers in English and answers in the Target Language. Candidates need to understand gist, identify main points and detail, recognise points of view, attitude and emotions, and draw conclusions. (25%)

Unit 4

Writing Paper: Writing is assessed by examination paper. Candidates must respond and write in the Target Language. The writing paper includes a variety of stimulus material. (25%) The Foundation Tier paper has four questions: Question 1 is a listing and short phrase task in the Target Language Question 2 requires short phrase/sentence responses in the Target Language Question 3 is a short translation exercise from English into the Target Language Question 4 is a structured, extended writing task in the Target Language (candidates answer one question from a choice of 3)

The Higher Tier Paper has four questions: Question 1 requires short phrase/sentence responses in the Target Language Question 2 requires short responses in the Target Language to one or more pieces of text Question 3 is a short translation exercise from English into the Target Language Question 4 is a structured, extended writing task in the Target Language (candidates answer one question from a choice of 3)


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None


A language pass at GCSE is essential if you are hoping to attend some of the universities in the Republic of Ireland. A language pass at GCSE shows employers that you have good communication skills and an ability to work with others. The British Council has recently spoken of an “alarming shortage” of Language graduates” and has said that Languages are “of the same status as Sciences and Maths”. Employers in the UK are looking abroad for workers due to the shortage of Modern Language speakers here. There are enormous opportunities that come from studying a Modern Language.


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MATHEMATICS


1 Algebra

2 Number

3 Shape and Space

4 Handling Data & Probability

5 Using and Applying Maths


Ability to interpret, analyse and solve problems

Be able to use a calculator and other mathematical instruments

Be able to apply Mathematics to real life situations

3. How will the Further Maths students be assessed?

Further Mathematics pupils will sit GCSE Mathematics Modules M4 and M8 in Year 11. They will sit Module M4 in the January exam series and Module M8 in the June exam series. They will then go on to sit GCSE Further Mathematics Units 1-3 at the end of Year 12.

4. How will the Non-Further Maths students be assessed?

Non Further Maths Students will sit either Module M3 or Module M4 at the end of Year 11 and Module M7 or Module M8 at the end of Year 12


None


There are 3 tiers of entry within Higher Tier: M3 and M7, M4 and M7 or M4 and M8

M3 and M7 allows pupils to achieve up to a grade B.

M3 / M4 is one 2-hour paper (calculator permitted).

M4 and M7 allows pupils to achieve up to a grade A. M4 and M8 allows pupils to achieve up to a grade A*.

M7/M8 has two 1¼ hour papers – 1 non-calculator and 1 calculator and is completed in Year 12 of the GCSEs. Module entry for non Further Mathematics pupils is decided during the course of Year 11 and Year 12.


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MOVING IMAGE ARTS (MIA)


Unit 1

(Year 11)

In Year 11 students will gain the theoretical and practical skills to enable them to

complete the following four coursework tasks:

Task 1: Storyboarding (create a storyboard based on a short film script);

Task 2: Camera and Editing (shoot and edit your own film);

Task 3: Sound Editing (create sound effects for an animated film sequence);

Task 4: Stop-Motion Animation (shoot a short animated film).

Unit 2

(Year 12)

In Year 12 students will build on the knowledge and skills obtained in Unit 1 to:

Create a live action film and a written body of work to form a coursework portfolio.

Unit 3

(Year 12)

This is a 1 hour 30-minute online theory examination taken at the end of Year

12. Students will recall their theoretical and practical knowledge to respond to

questions based on film clips and scenarios.


YOU should have an interest in finding out how films are made (movies, documentaries and

animation).

YOU should be imaginative, open to creativity, a problem solver and ultimately, be

interested in telling a stories through visual images (film).

YOU should enjoy learning new practical skills and techniques, be willing to take on the

challenge of starting and successfully completing a project and, be open to becoming an

independent learner and filmmaker.


Unit 1 Acquisition of Skills in Moving Image Production – End of Year 11 - (20%)

Unit 2 Planning and Making a Moving Image Product – Year 12 – (40%)

Unit 3 Online Examination (1 hour 30 minutes) End of Year 12 – (40%)


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See number 1 above.


The study of Moving Image Arts at St. Mary’s is extremely enjoyable and

rewarding experience.

Being part of the MIA department at GCSE and A Level will help you gain confidence

and develop transferable skills that will allow you to study film-making at a higher level

and link into other academic subjects.

The Film and Creative Arts industry is a thriving and developing employer within

Northern Ireland.

We have been host a number of Professional Master Class workshops by industry

experts in, for example in:

Camera use and technique

Creating Sound for Film

Editing Techniques for Film and Animation using industry standard hardware and

software

Some destinations of past pupils include:

Creative Arts and Technologies (BSc Hon, UU),

Computer Science (BSc Hon, QUB),

Film Studies (BA Hon, QUB)

Animation (BA Hon, UU),

Photography with Video (BA Hon, UU).


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MUSIC


1 Composition – 30%

2 Solo Performance – 17.5%

3 Group Performance – 17.5%

4 Listening and Responding to Music – 35%


Being able to sing or play a musical instrument. All students must be receiving lessons in their chosen instrument/voice for the duration of the GCSE course. Students need to have reached at least grade 2 standard in their chosen instrument (or entry will be subject to an practical audition).

Being able to work and perform with others

Students will be expected to contribute to the extra-curricular life of the Music Department. This will help to develop their solo/ensemble performance skills.

Being able to show creativity through Composing

Being able to use ICT in Music by making use of Music specific software including Garageband and Sibelius

Having an interest in a wide range of Musical styles

3. How will the pupil be assessed in May / June? Listening: There will be one paper in May of Year 12 lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Paper 1

Responding to Music including Western Classical Music, Musical Traditions of Ireland, Film Music and Pop Music from 1980-present day.

Performance: An examiner will visit the school in April/May to assess the solo

and group performances Composition Portfolio: The compositions will be internally assessed by both

Music teachers and then sent to CCEA for external standardisation


Composing two contrasting compositions, one in response to a stimulus Performing one piece as a soloist, lasting approximately 2-3 minutes Performing one piece as part of an ensemble, lasting approximately 2-3 minutes


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Music is one of the biggest industries in the world. Not all A Level Music pupils will study third level Music, but many will use it as a subject that they enjoy and one that they are confident they can achieve a top grade in. There is now a bigger demand for musicians in careers such as Sound Recording, Computer Game Creation and Primary School Teaching. GCSE Musicians develop skills in Self Presentation, Performance, Creativity, ICT and Listening. Many pupils avail of lessons in and outside of school and are therefore already well prepared for the Performance element of the GCSE course (35% of the course). GCSE pupils will have the opportunity to perform in their own chosen style of Music and, if they wish, learn a new instrument. Past pupils are now touring the world as professional musicians. Others have gone on to study at some of the top Music Colleges and Musical Theatre Academies in the UK and Ireland. Grade 5 Music Theory/Practical does not equate to a GCSE Grade in Music. This is a common misconception of many external Piano tutors. Queen’s University have one of the best Sonic Arts Centres in the UK.


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PHYSICAL EDUCATION


1 Component 1: Factors Underpinning Health and Performance

2 Component 2: Developing Performance

3 Component 3: Individual Performances in Physical Activities and Sports


Good practical ability

Involvement in a sport at a high level

Good fitness levels

Interest in improving one’s health and fitness


Paper 1

(Component 1)

Paper 2 (Component 2)

Component 1: Factors Underpinning Health and Performance External written examination 1 hour 15 mins - 100 marks - 25% of GCSE Component 2: Developing Performance External written examination 1 hour 15 mins - 100 marks - 25% of GCSE

Component 3

Controlled assessment: 3 physical activities/sports/event manager 3 × 50 = 150 marks and analysis of performances 1 x 50 marks - 50%


3 (a) the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of performances in physical activities and sports; 3 (b) the quality of analysis and evaluation of performances.

Worth 50% of GCSE


Pupils need to have a good level of practical ability and fitness and should play a number of sports at a high level


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RELIGIOUS STUDIES


1 St Mark’s Gospel in a contemporary context – Year 11 This course examines the Gospel of St. Mark in a contemporary context. Students will examine the life, teachings, miracles and eventual death of Jesus. Pupils will evaluate the relevance of this Gospel to the 21st century debating whether we can still believe in miracles, the prospect of life after death and exploring some of the obstacles faced by Christians in living out their faith today.

2 An introduction to Christian Ethics – Year 12 This course will provide students with the opportunity to explore issues such as relationships, abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, environment, justice, racism, pacifism and war. Pupils will examine varying arguments which are presented on these controversial topics, whilst also exploring Christian teaching.


Recall passages – noting specific details

Examine the stories to see what we can find out about Jesus

Apply these passages to situations today e.g. What can we learn about coping with ‘storms’ in our own lives from reading

the scripture passage ’The Calming of the Storm? Do miracles really happen?

Evaluate and justify using scripture and the actions of Christians e.g. Christians should help charity organisations? What do you think? You should refer to passages from Marks’ Gospel to justify your answer.

3. How will the pupil be assessed in May/June?

Paper 1:

Pupils will sit a modular examination at the end of Year 11 (1½ hour written paper on Mark’s Gospel)

Paper 2:

Pupils will sit a modular examination at the end of Year 12 (1½ hour written paper on Ethics)


None


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5. Any additional information to help the Year 10 pupil decide?

Religious Studies is a great subject to choose both at GCSE and Advanced Level. It will help develop important key skills needed for university such as analysis, empathy, evaluation, interpretation and reflection. It is helpful in any job which involves working with other people. Doctors and nurses need a firm understanding of medical ethics. Judges and lawyers need to understand how religious beliefs and teachings affect how people live and act. Teachers and social workers have to work with children from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds and must be able to understand and empathise. Most employers regard GCSE and A Level Religious Studies as desirable qualifications. It shows you are aware of other people’s beliefs and the nature of the society we live in.


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TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN – SYSTEM DESIGN


1 Product Design

2 Systems Design

3 Materials Processes & Manufacture

4 Electronics, Mechanisms, Pneumatics, Computer Control

5 Specialist option - Electronic & Micro Electronic control Systems


Design – Graphics/CAD skills – Must be able to draw free hand sketches

Manufacturing/practical skills

The ability to problem solve and creativity

The ability to work independently and with initiative on project work


Unit 1: 25%

External Exam (1 hour 30) Topics: Materials & process, Electronics, Mechanisms, Pneumatics, Computer Control

Unit 2: 25%

External Exam (1 hour 30) Topics: Electronic & Micro Electronic control Systems

Unit 3: 50%

Internal Assessment (Coursework) 40 hours Assessment: Systems Design – 10* A3 pages Manufactured project – Working model


Controlled assessment totals 50% A design and manufacture project.


Career Options: Product Design, Graphic Design, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Teaching, Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Set & Special Effects Engineering, Biomedical Engineer, Computer Operator, Telecommunications Engineer, Computer Programmer, Web Designer, Inventor, Network and Communications Analyst, Construction, Interior Designer, Manufacturing Engineer, Automotive Engineer.


Page | 31


TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN – PRODUCT DESIGN


1 Product Design

2 Systems Design

3 Materials Processes & Manufacture

4 Electronics, Mechanisms, Pneumatics, Computer Control

5 Specialist option – Product Design


a. Design – Graphics/CAD skills – Must be able to draw free hand sketches

b. Manufacturing/practical skills

c. The ability to problem solve and creativity

d. The ability to work independently and with initiative on project work


Unit 1: 25%

External Exam (1 hour) Topics: Materials & process, Electronics, Mechanisms, Pneumatics, Computer Control

Unit 2: 25%

External Exam (1 hour) Topics: Product Design

Unit 3: 50%

Internal Assessment (Coursework) 40 hours Assessment: Product Design – 10* A3 pages Manufactured project – Working model


Controlled assessment totals 50% A design and manufacture project.


Career Options: Product Design, Graphic Design, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Teaching, Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Set & Special Effects Engineering, Biomedical Engineer, Computer Operator, Telecommunications Engineer, Computer Programmer, Web Designer, Inventor, Network and Communications Analyst, Construction, Interior Designer, Manufacturing Engineer, Automotive Engineer.

year 10 subject choice january...

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