year 9 options evening booklet 2014

OPTIONS EVENING 2014

Dear Students

There are few opportunities in your life to shape its future direction; your choice of the subjects you study in Years 10 and 11 is one of them. The decisions you make now will stay with you for the rest of your time in education and beyond into the world of work. It is essential that you choose the right courses in order to be able to secure your aspirations for Post 16 and beyond.

We offer a curriculum which gives the opportunity to personalise the courses you study to play to your strengths and interests. This includes a range of academic and applied courses so that if you have a particular talent there will be an appropriate route of study.

You will already be aware of the English Baccalaureate from recent publicity which is for students who successfully complete English, mathematics, an academic science course, geography or history and a language subject. This course has become more important to universities and the more successful sixth form colleges when selecting candidates. These subjects are known as facilitators and are recognised as a good academic basis for any future studies, thus keeping post 16 choices open. It is worth serious consideration if you feel it likely that you will go onto university in the future.

With decisions as significant as these it is important that you seek appropriate advice; although this booklet is a good place to start, your subject teachers, Progress Manager, and your parents are invaluable sources of information.

I look forward to seeing you at the options evening.

Stuart WilliamsPrincipal

Welcom

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Principal’s Welcome

[email protected] | www.catmosecollege.com | facebook.com/catmosecollege

English Language & English Literature GCSE 4

English Language & English Literature IGCSE 5

Mathematics GCSE 6

Mathematics IGCSE 7

Triple Science GCSE 8

Computer Science GCSE 9

ICT GCSE 10

Geography GCSE 11

Modern World History GCSE 12

Philosophy & Ethics GCSE 13

Spanish, French, German IGCSE 14

Art & Design GCSE 15

3D Studies/ Art and Design 16

Textiles GCSE 17

Photography - Lens Based Media GCSE 18

Graphics GCSE 19

Resistant Materials GCSE 20

Food GCSE 21

PE GCSE 22

Sport Award BTEC 23

Dance GCSE 24

Drama GCSE 25

Music GCSE 26

Music BTEC 27

Con

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Contents


Course Description The work undertaken at GCSE is a natural extension of the schemes of work developed for Years 7, 8 and 9 arising from the attainment targets of speaking and listening, reading and writing.As the study of literature is inherent to the English curriculum, all students will experience the reading and discussion of prose, poetry and drama, including pre 20th century literature. Most students will be assessed at the end of the course for a separate GCSE award in English Literature, in addition to GCSE English Language.

Why take this course?English is a compulsory subject at GCSE level. It is highly valued in both education and employment. Local colleges provide a range of opportunities to study English and related studies at AS and A Level, including English Language and Literature (combined); English Literature; communication studies, media studies, drama and theatre studies.GCSE English at grade C or above is essential for entry to university. Assessment• English Language: Controlled assessments = 40%

Terminal exam = 60%• English Literature: Controlled assessments = 25%

Terminal exam = 75%• English: Controlled assessments = 40%

Terminal exam = 60% For both exams there are 2 tiers of entry and students will be entered for the tier most appropriate to their ability in English.Higher level = A* - DFoundation level = C - G

EnglishG

CSE


English Language & English Literature: GCSE

Course Description

IGCSE (International Level 1 / Level 2 Certificate; Board: Cambridge International Examinations) 0522/ 0476.

The IGCSE offers alternative methods of assessment to the GCSE, though both examination systems are based on terminal examinations. Students opting for the IGCSE English must also take IGCSE English Literature. Ideally students should be at level six or above in English.

IGCSE has the same standing at College and Universities and one is not regarded as being better than the other.

As with GCSE students are encouraged to read widely. This course also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as synthesis, inference and the ability to enter facts and present opinions effectively.

Why take this course?This English language course allows students to develop writing skills through coursework. Both the IGCSE language and literature courses prepare students for the rigors of A level.

Assessment English Language: Compulsory Terminal Exam Reading = 40% and Either Terminal exam Directed Writing and Composition or Coursework Portfolio = 40%Speaking & Listening coursework = 20% English Literature: Terminal exam = 100%

English: Controlled assessments = 60% (includes Speaking & Listening at 20%) Terminal exam = 40%

Engl

ish

IGC

SE

5

English Language & English Literature: IGCSE


Course Description Exam Board: Edexcel Linear 1MA0The syllabus covers 6 areas of mathematics; number, algebra, geometry, measures, statistics and probability. Its design promotes and encourages flexibility in a variety of both teaching and learning styles which will allow students to show what they know, whilst also applying their knowledge to everyday situations which is called the functional skills element.

The specification builds on the content, knowledge and skills developed in key stage 3. As a team we will take time to maintain and consolidate prior learning and extend knowledge and understanding of the links between different aspects of mathematics.

Assessment arrangements: 100% examinationThere are 2 levels of entry: Higher and Foundation

Higher: Grades A* - DFoundation: Grades C - G

There are 2 written papers taken at the end of year 11, both worth 50% of the final grade. One is a calculator paper and one is a non-calculator paper.

Mathem

aticsG

CSE


Mathematics GCSE

Mat

hem

atic

sIG

CSE


Mathematics IGCSE

Course Description Exam Board: Cambridge 0580Like the GCSE, the IGCSE covers the 6 areas of mathematics; number, algebra, geometry, measures, statistics and probability. The course helps students appreciate the interdependence of the different branches of mathematics whilst developing an ability to apply mathematics to other subjects, in particular science and technology. This course provides a good foundation for further study of mathematics or subjects of a similar nature. Both the GCSE and IGCSE have the same standing at colleges and one is not regarded as being better than the other.

Ideally students should be at grade B or above in maths if they wish to take this course.

Why take this course?This course is particularly suited to those who are considering mathematics at A-level and aiming to achieve an A/A* in year 11.

Assessment arrangements: 100% examination

There are 2 written papers taken at the end of year 11:

• 1.5 hours long and worth 35% of the final grade

• 2.5 hours long and worth 65%.

ScienceG

CSE


Triple Science GCSE

Course Description

Triple Science is an excellent background for those wanting to specialise in the separate sciences. It is a modern course that will stimulate students’ interest in working scientifically. This is the preferred choice if you think that you may want to take your science studies further, at post 16, with A levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Why take this course?Triple Science is the syllabus that is followed by those students that wish to pursue their studies beyond GCSE to A level sciences. It is a challenging course and we would advise anyone considering this option to ask their teacher for guidance and advice before making a decision. It gives the student access to subject areas such as:

Assessment • Three 1 hour written papers for each unit • Three centre-assessed investigative skills assignments (ISA)

Chemistry Physics Biology

• Periodic Table• Acids and Bases• Energy• Analysis• Water

• Forces• Light and Sound• Electromagnetism• Space

• Exchange of Materials• The Body• Microbiology

Course Description

Computing is the science of computation. Through this course, students will develop their problem solving skills and learn about how both computers and humans analyse and implement solutions to problems. They will learn to program in both graphical and console-based environments and will learn about the low-level factors that make computers operate, such as binary, logic and memory-processor architecture. Other topics include database management and SQL, networking, hardware and software classification and the development lifecycle. There is a high level of maths content and you should be at least a grade C to access this course.

Why take this course?As computing is applied mathematics, students who enjoy maths, in particular the logic and problem-solving aspects of it, should consider Computing. The project work gives you a chance to be creative and the theory work will give you knowledge and skills that are essential for a future career in software development, network administration or engineering. The course leads on to A-Level Computing, which is a widely respected qualification.

AssessmentThis course comprises of three units:• Written examination paper, taken at the end of Year 11. (40%)• Practical investigation requiring students to independently research and show understanding

of topics beyond the scope of the exam. (30%)• A 3-part programming project, which makes use of console and graphical techniques. (30%)

Com

pute

rSc

ienc

e

9

Computer Science GCSE


ICT

GC

SE

10

Course Description:

GCSE ICT focuses on the use of ICT systems in the real world. Students will learn about e-safety, e-commerce, consumer goods and the product development lifecycle. They will develop the skills required by many careers such as data analysis, database management, multimedia development and consideration of users.

Why take this course?ICT is an essential requirement in every aspect of the modern world. All career paths require basic proficiency in ICT and this course will ensure students can approach these opportunities with confidence. Students who are interested in how ICT is used in business and society should consider this course.

Assessment:This course comprises of two units:• Written examination paper, taken at the end of Year 11. (40%)• Practical project requiring the student to produce a wide range of materials for a business

scenario, considering end user requirements and managing their time effectively. (60%)


ICT GCSE

Geo

grap

hyG

CSE


Geography GCSE

Course Description

This GCSE course is designed to actively engage learners in the process of geographical enquiry by encouraging independent learning and reflective thinking. The content of the course is highly relevant and includes a significant practical element in the form of fieldwork in local and more remote locations.

There are four key themes:Theme 1: Rivers and CoastsTheme 2: Population and SettlementTheme 3: Natural HazardsTheme 4: Economic Development

Why take this course?Students will be encouraged to appreciate the differences and similarities between people’s views of the world, its environments, societies and cultures. Students will appreciate their responsibilities as global citizens and learn to develop and apply their skills in the real world.

AssessmentSustainable Decision Making (Unit B561) 25% of assessmentThis is an exam of 1 hour 30 minutes and is based on one of the four key themes.

Geographical Enquiry (Unit B562) 25% of assessmentAlso known as the Fieldwork Focus.The task involves a question or hypothesis and includes the collection of primary data through fieldwork. The task is based on one of the key themes of the specification. (Rivers and Coasts, People and Settlement and Economic Development). Following the fieldwork students are expected to produce a 2,000 word report.

Key Geographical Themes (Unit B563) 50% of assessmentThis is an exam of 1 hour 45 minutes and is based on the three remaining key themes.

World H

istoryG

CSE

12

Course Description

GCSE Modern World History is an exciting and rewarding course. Students will investigate the origins of both world wars. They will also study the inter-war experiences in America and the Vietnam War. Students will develop their independence, both through their enquiry into the experience of the British people during both wars and the nature of the assessment process throughout the course.

Why take this course?The study of the past is fascinating in itself. This increases when we realise how important the past is to understand the world we live in today. GCSE History develops transferable skills of enquiry and analysis. In addition, history enables students to make progress in structuring arguments, evaluating evidence and develop critical thinking. Higher education providers and employers hold History in high regard for the skills that students develop through its study.

AssessmentUnit 1 - International Relations (37.5% 1hr 45min exam).Investigate the origins of the First World War, peacekeeping between the wars, Hitler’s foreign policy and the origins of the Second World War.

Unit 2 - 20th Century depth studies (37.5% 1hr 45min exam).

Examine the changes that took place in the USA during the 1920s and 1930s, from the roaring 20s to the economic depression of the 30s. The final area of study is the events of the Vietnam War and reasons for USA’s failure in this war.

Unit 3 - Historical Enquiry – British History (25% Controlled Asessment)

This is the controlled assessment completed in College under supervised conditions. Students will compare and examine the experiences of people in Britain during both world wars through source analysis and independent investigation.

Modern World History GCSE


Philo

soph

y&

Eth

ics


Philosophy & Ethics GCSE

Course Description

OCR Philosophy & Ethics

In each module 2 topics will be examined:

Philosophy 1. Belief in Deity; End of Life 2. Good & Evil; Religion & Science

Ethics 1. Religion & Medical Ethics; Poverty & Wealth 2. War, Peace & Justice; Religion & Equality

Why take this course? Philosophy & Ethics is a thought-rovoking, broad and worthwhile course of study, which challenges and inspires students. This equips them to lead constructive lives in the modern world.

They will be encouraged to adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach while developing convincing arguments which explain their opinion confidently.

Philosophy & Ethics is not dependent upon the candidate having any particular belief and is suitable for those of any religious persuasion or none.

This subject is valued by universities and colleges and is useful for A levels including philosophy, sociology, politics, law and history.

Assessment 4 x 1 hour exams: 25% each.

Examinations in May and June of year 11

LanguagesIG

CSE


Spanish, German & French IGCSE

Course Description

We offer three languages (French, German and Spanish) each of which follow the IGCSE course.

The course is divided in to four equally weighted skill areas:• Listening• Speaking • Reading• Writing

A focus on learning about the culture and lifestyles of the relevant countries provides a context in which to work and ensures that the subject is relevant and engaging. Throughout the course students develop their grammar, vocabulary and skill areas through exposure to a variety of materials and teaching methods.

Throughout the course students are required to undertake independent study in order to further their knowledge of the chosen language and develop deeper cultural understanding. Why take this course?A Language IGCSE is a challenging and demanding course which forms a firm foundation for further academic study and can open up a wide range of long-term career prospects, opportunities to study and work abroad as well as having the confidence to communicate with people of other countries during holidays and visits abroad.

AssessmentFor all levels of attainment, an ability to read, write and listen to the foreign language is essential and it is vital for all students to speak the language as fluently as possible.

The assessment is broken down into the four skill areas and is assessed equally over four externally assessed exams at the end of year 11. Each exam is worth 25% of the total mark.

Art

& D

esig

n


Art & Design

Within Art and Design there are four subjects 3D, Art & Design, Textiles and Photography

Why take an Arts course?Art is both a form of communication and a means of expression of ideas and feelings. It is a language which complements those of the literary, mathematical, scientific and factually based subjects, and is especially concerned with the development of those complex mental processes involved in visual perception and aesthetic experience. Students gaining this qualification can go on to take AS and A levels, BTEC and Diploma qualifications. They are then well equipped to follow a career in the Visual Arts sector. As individuals, students are able to improve their own home environment through the understanding of colour and design, thus enabling them to make informed judgements. They will also have an appreciation of the rich historical and cultural diversity of the world they live in.

Assessment - all four Art & Design subjects are assessed by;

• Art and Design• 3D Studies• Textiles • Photography - Lens based media

• Portfolio, Coursework 60%• A portfolio of work showing their personal response to a starting point, brief, scenario or

stimulus, devised and provided by the centre. The unit is internally assessed and externally moderated.

• Exam piece 40%• Candidates work on their selected question for 6 weeks prior to the exam, building

evidence. The exam is a supervised 10 hour practical exam. The exam piece will be internally marked by the College and externally moderated by an external examiner.

Art &

Design:

3D


Art & Design: 3D GCSE

Course Description

Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials including papier-mâché, re-cycled materials, Mod-roc/plaster, clay, wire and card constructions through a variety of techniques and processes. Final outcomes are three dimensional.

Skill set • Develop observational skills.• Improve on how to experiment with a wide range of materials• Grow critical analysis skills of own and other Artists/Craftsperson’s work• Progress controlling materials and equipment• Become an independent learner, confident in making own choices and decisions

Art & Design GCSE

Course Description

GCSE Art and Design is a broad course, developing skills in observational drawing and critical analysis. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials and techniques including a variety of printing and textile techniques, as well as developing skills using Photoshop. There is scope for students to choose which area of art and design they wish to develop further in the controlled test and examination.

Skill set• Develop observational drawing skills • Grow critical analysis skills of own work and that of other Artists and Designers• Learn new techniques and how to experiment with a wide range of material• Use new technologies to aid the creative process and the development of ideas• Become an independent learner, confident in making own choices and decisions

Text

ile D

esig

nG

CSE

17

Art & Design: Textile Design GCSE

Course Description

This course is practically based and is all about creativity. You will have the opportunity to experiment with various techniques and processes such as applique, embroidery, weaving, fashion and fabric manipulation.

Skill set• Develop observational skills• Improve on how to experiment with techniques using a wide range of materials• To become confident in critical analysis of your own work and that of other designers• To become an independent learner, confident in making your own choices and decisions

Y11 Student quotes “ I love Textiles because I enjoy researching other artists/designers and then using their style I can design and make my own piece.” Sophie Elliott

“ Textiles is totally different to my other subjects, so if you fancy a change then textiles will be amazing for you as the whole course is based around your imagination.” Eleanor Firth

“ I like Textiles because it is rewarding when you make something, creating your own idea and then making into your own image, you then get a good grade for it.” Isaiah Wilks


Art &

Design:

Photography


Course Description

This includes traditional and digital, documentary, photojournalism, experimental imagery, photographic or digital installation, animation, video and film.

Skill set• Have a keen eye for composition and what makes an eye-catching photograph• Originate creative ideas which are thought-provoking and have high visual impact• Willing to experiment with different media such as pencil, paint and image editing

software to enhance and modify images• Be able to research other people’s work in a clear and coherent manner• Have a desire to understand how cameras work from function to performance

Y11 Student quotes “I enjoy the freedom of being able to explore a theme of my choice.” Charlotte Bell

“ The facilities we are able to use are really good, and they allow me to produce high quality results.” Eleanor Firth

“ It is completely different to all my other subjects and allows me to express myself in a way that I otherwise can’t.” Natalie Hall

Art & Design: Photography - Lens and digital Media

Gra

phic

sG

CSE

19

Course Description

This course has been designed to encourage students to be able to design and make products with creativity and originality using a range of graphic and modelling materials. Students will be enthused and challenged by the range of practical activities possible. They will be encouraged to learn through images to use, understand and apply colour and design, to develop spatial concepts and to understand graphic materials and their manipulation. They will design and make product(s) using graphic media and new technologies to prepare them for the world of work.

Why take this course?Graphics is all around us in our daily lives in instances such as advertising on television, in shops or on the Internet. It is an essential feature in packaging and promoting a wide range of products. In Graphics, GCSE students will follow a brief from the exam board to research, analyse, design, evaluate, plan and produce graphical products or promotional materials.

Assessment 40% of this course is based on a 2 hour exam,

60% is coursework. Coursework is based upon independent learning skills in the following areas:

• Market research• Product development and designing• Modelling and analysing• Recording and justifying decisions• Through evaluations and testing along with production planning schedules

Coursework needs to be presented to a high standard in the form of an A3 portfolio and based upon one of the chosen themes provided by the exam board. This leads to the development and manufacture of a commercially viable product(s).


Design and Technology: Graphics GCSE

ResistantM

aterials

20

Course Description

GCSE Design and Technology: Resistant Materials helps students develop the ability to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of materials and techniques. The course requires students to develop their knowledge of woods, metals, plastics and composite materials. The course has been designed to encourage students to be able to design and make products with creativity and originality, using tools to produce high quality end products.

Resistant Materials allows students to design and make quality products and is designed to foster awareness amongst students of the need to consider sustainability and the environmental impact of their designing. Credit is given to candidates who undertake innovative work and make effective use of CAD/CAM facilities, whilst there will be opportunities for students to develop skills in woodwork, electronics and metalwork.

Why take this course?This course is designed to make students think critically about the design process from the conception of a design, all the way through to the end of the product’s life. Students will be asked to come up with creative and innovative solutions to problems, through varied and detailed research, testing and analysis. If you enjoy solving design problems, carrying out detailed research into existing products and processes, then developing and testing your own ideas through sketching, modelling and making, then you will enjoy GCSE Resistant Materials.

Assessment40% of marks - 2 hour exam.60% of their overall mark is a coursework folder centred around the CAT set by the exam board and assessed internally


Design and Technology: Resistant Materials GCSE

Food

GC

SE


Design and Technology: Food GCSE

Course Description

This OCR course is taught over two years and involves students completing one examination and two pieces of coursework. The programme provides students with the opportunity to actively engage with, and explore the processes and disciplines within the exciting world of food. Students will be encouraged to make decisions, consider issues such as sustainability and apply a range of newly acquired skills. These factors combined with a detailed knowledge and understanding of the subject will equip students with the capability to design and produce fine quality products.

Why take this course?Food Technology provides an opportunity to learn important concepts about food, healthy eating, food preparation skills and nutrition. In addition, you will learn about modern food production and processing methods.

Through the completion of the coursework, students will develop a new marketable food product, based on a theme provided by the exam board.

Assessment40% of this course is based upon an exam.The examination is based on Sustainability and Technical Aspects of Designing and Making

60% is coursework. The coursework completed is based upon independent learning skills in market research, product development and designing. Students will then make their chosen products in conjunction with producing production schedules, testing and evaluations.Coursework will be presented to a high standard in the form of an A3 portfolio, and is based upon the chosen themes provided by the examination board.

PhysicalEducation


Course Description

Students receive an extra three PE lessons a week, two of which are theory and one practical. In the theory lessons students will study many aspects of sport, including: health and fitness, principles of training, nutrition, international events, social influence on sport and factors affecting performance.

The additional practical lessons focus on developing skills and techniques in a variety of different sports. Four assessments will be submitted, of which two must be assessed as a player/performer. Other roles the candidate can perform include: leader/coach, referee, official/judge and organiser.

Why study Physical Education?GCSE PE is an excellent stepping stone for studying sport in Further Education and beyond. The course will provide the fundamental skills and knowledge for AS/A Level PE and other equivalent qualifications.

AssessmentThe GCSE Physical Education course is assessed through both practical demonstration of skills (60% of your final grade) and a written examination (40% of your final grade).

Theory: All theory content is assessed via a 1h 30min external examination which is sat at the end of year 11.

Practical: Students have to choose four activities from at least two of the activity groups below:

• Games Activities: Team games, racket sports and martial arts• Gymnastic Activities: Gymnastics, trampolining and cheerleading• Dance Activities: Street dance and modern educational dance• Athletic Activities: athletics, swimming, and golf• Outdoor and Adventurous Activities: Personal Survival, skiing, lifesaving and horse-riding• Exercise and Fitness: Circuit Training, yoga, indoor rowing

Given the high standards required on the practical section of the course we recommend that you only choose GCSE Physical Education if you play for College teams and/or compete for a club outside of College.

Physical Education GCSE

Spor

t Aw

ard

BTEC

23

Course Description:

As with GCSE PE the BTEC First (NQF) Sport Award covers both the theoretical and practical elements of Sport. The first unit ‘Fitness for Sport and Exercise’ is assessed via an external examination, with the remaining three units being assessed through coursework. Learners will submit assignments and then receive detailed formative feedback on how they can be improved. The additional coursework units offered are: Practical Sports Performance; Training for Personal Fitness and Leading Sports Activities.

Why take this course? The course is an ideal stepping stone for students wishing to study the Level 3 BTEC in Sport or possibly AS/A level Physical Education. It will also help to lay the foundations for careers in coaching, leisure and tourism and the health service.

Assessment There is one online examination and three pieces of coursework. The coursework takes the form of extended essays, case studies and presentations. The grading system used is comparable to that of a GCSE.

BTEC Sport GCSE

Distinction * A*

Distinction A

Merit B

Pass C

Sport Award BTEC


Dance

GC

SE

24

Dance GCSE


Course Description

The GCSE dance course gives students the opportunity to obtain an accredited qualification. GCSE dance is based on three main aspects, appreciation of professional dance works, choreography and performance.

Students should preferably have previous dance experience to excel in this GCSE to manage the technical nature of the steps involved. There will be numerous performance opportunities as well as workshops with other dance artists in a variety of styles.

Why take this course?The GCSE dance course will aid further dance study/careers and will also enhance students’ own knowledge of this skilled performing art. Although the course is mainly practically based it will also develop students’ analytical skills through constant self-evaluation and opportunities to reflect.

AssessmentChoreography based tasks (40%)Written examination (20%); Contemporary dance performance (20%) Performance task (20%)

Dra

ma

GC

SE


Drama GCSE

Course Description

The GCSE Drama course gives students the opportunity to study a variety of performance options including: Devised Thematic Work, Acting (Scripts), Improvisation, Theatre in Education and Physical Theatre as well as the support options: Set Design, Costume, Make-up, Properties, Masks, Puppets, Lighting, Sound and Stage Management. Students will have the opportunity to create their own work and perform to a variety of audiences. They will look at the work of Theatre practitioners and Performance groups to inform their work. Students will also study scripted plays and watch and evaluate live performance.

Why take this course?The course provides the opportunity to study performance to a higher level. Students will be encouraged to develop their creative thinking, problem solving, self-confidence and performance skills further. Working within groups and as individuals, students will examine feelings and issues and learn how to structure performance effectively. In the written element of this course students explore their own practical work, scripted plays and live performance. Students are expected to attend arranged theatre visits and rehearse outside lesson time. Local FE providers give a range of opportunities to study performance at AS, A Level and BTEC.

AssessmentUnit 1 – Written Paper (40%) Based on practical work, study of a scripted play and the study of a live theatre production.

Unit 2 – Practical Work (60%)Candidates complete two of the following option choices: Devised Thematic work, Acting, Improvisation, Theatre in Education, Physical Theatre, Set Design, Costume, Make-up, Properties, Masks, Puppets, Lighting, Sound and Stage Management.

• Process and understanding of skills development (7.5%)• Final presentation: either performance or demonstration/artefacts (22.5%)

Internally assessed and externally moderated.

Course Description

The GCSE Music course gives students the opportunity to learn about various types of music, ranging from ‘classical’ to ‘pop music.’ You will study 12 set works which covers four areas of music, which are: ‘Western Classical Music’, ‘Music in the 20th Century’, ‘Popular Music in Context’ and ‘World Music.’ As well as studying the set pieces, you will have the chance to perform and compose music.

Why take this course?If you enjoying learning about different styles of music and can sing or play an instrument to at least grade 3 (or equivalent) standard and above, then this is the course for you. Performance is an important element of this course, as well as having confidence with the theoretical aspects of music. The performance features of this course will encourage students to develop creative thinking, critical awareness, self-confidence and self-motivation with regards to music making within group settings, as well as individually. In the composition aspects of this course, students will be encouraged to explore a range of compositional starting points and investigate a range of techniques for developing and manipulating ideas, to then turn them into completed pieces of music.

AssessmentUnit 1:Performing Music (30%) – One solo performance and one ensemble performance.

Unit 2:Composing Music (30%) – Two compositions based on two different Areas of Study.

Unit 3:Listening and Appraising (40%) – 1h 30 min listening exam paper, based on the 12 set pieces of music.

Music

GC

SE

26

Music GCSE


Mus

ic

BTEC

27

Course Description

The BTEC Level 1/2 First Award in music is a vocational course which is great for students who have a real interest in Music. This course consists of four modules which delve into areas of music, such as researching into a particular musician/performer or understanding what the steps are to produce a professional sounding recording using ‘industry standard equipment.’The ability to play a musical instrument is not essential for this courseThe four units which you study are: Unit 1: The Music Industry – Researching different job roles within the music industry.Unit 2: Managing a Music Product – Working collaboratively to make a class Album.Unit 6: Introducing Music Recording – Learning how to record an array of instruments. Unit 9: Introducing Music Sequencing – Creating music from scratch using music

software programs.

Why Take This Course?This is an excellent subject to study for those who enjoy music and are interested in learning new things. The most successful music students are willing to devote regular amounts of their own time to practising what is learnt in class, and who will attend extra-curricular sessions to improve their teamwork and overall musical skills. As well as leading to careers in musical performance, those who study music often follow music-related careers in broadcasting, journalism, artist management and advertising.

AssessmentThe assessment for the BTEC Level 1/2 First Award in Music is displayed below: Unit 1: The Music Industry (External exam that is worth 25% of the final grade).Unit 2: Managing a Music Product (Internally assessed)Unit 6: Introducing Music Recording (Internally assessed)Unit 9: Introducing Music Sequencing (Internally assessed)

By the end of the course, students will receive one of the five outcomes listed below:Level 1 Pass - equivalent to one ‘D’ grade at GCSELevel 2 Pass - equivalent to one ‘C’ grade at GCSELevel 2 Merit - equivalent to one ‘B’ grade at GCSELevel 2 Distinction - equivalent to one ‘A’ grade at GCSELevel 2 Distinction * - equivalent to one ‘A*’ grade at GCSE


Music BTEC

Catmose FederationHuntsmans DriveOakham, Rutland, LE15 6RPCompany number: 7552631

01572 [email protected]

Principal: Stuart Williams

year 9 options evening booklet 2014

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mathematics gcse

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