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Contents

Choosing your Options PAGE 3

The Free option Form PAGE 4

Further sources of Information PAGE 5

Information about your subjects at KS4 PAGE 6 on

THE CURRICULUM AT KS4

Throughout Year 7, 8 and 9 at Cathays High pupils study the subjects set down by the National Curriculum for Wales. The Curriculum at Key Stage 4 must also include subjects required by the National Curriculum, but there is also some choice. Pupils continue to study the following subjects which form the ‘core’ curriculum: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENGLISH LITERATURE MATHEMATICS MATHEMATICS - NUMERACY SCIENCE (AT LEAST TWO GCSEs) RELIGIOUS EDUCATION WELSH

WELSH BACCALAURATE PE / GAMES

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CHOOSING YOUR OPTIONS

Stage 1 - Free Choice (November 2017) In this booklet there is information on all the courses we offer for study in Year 10 and Year 11. Some of these are compulsory but others are optional. We therefore need information from you as to which of these each of you would ideally like to study. This is called your free choice. Choose carefully at this stage because if not enough pupils pick a subject it will not be offered at stage 2. This will be discussed at a special evening on November 23rd. 2016 with a chance to discuss choices with senior staff.

Stage 2 - Final Options (Jan 2018)

This process continues with the Parents’ Evening on Thursday 19th. Jan 2017 when there will be a chance to talk to subject teachers about your choices. This time you will not have a free choice but will have to choose one subject from each of 3 lists or Option Blocks.

Stage 3 – (if necessary) Hopefully most pupils will get the options of their choice at Stage 2 but, for some pupils, there are sometimes problems because

too few pupils have finally opted for the subject

too many pupils have chosen that subject and the class is full. In these cases, the issues will be discussed with the pupils and their parents and they will be helped to make a different choice.

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Year 9 Free Choice Options

My name is: My Form:

Pick 3 choices from the list below:

You can only pick Triple Science if you get level 6 in English, Maths, and Science.

At this stage you can pick Triple Science if you have at least level 5 in all three.

Subject

Put a number next to your choices 1- first choice 2-second choice

3-third choice

Art & Design GCSE

Business GCSE

Computer Science GCSE

Child Development GCSE

Drama GCSE

Spanish GCSE

Geography GCSE

History GCSE

PE GCSE

Product Design GCSE

Sociology GCSE

Textiles Technology GCSE

Triple Science – This is Biology Chemistry and Physics - 3 GCSEs

ICT BTEC

Food & Nutrition GCSE with Home cooking skills

Music GCSE

Health & Social Care GCSE

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Further Sources of Information

We are a happy to discuss issues relating to this booklet and the option choices with pupils or parents at other times. Should you have any further queries please contact one of the following: Mr. H. Picken: Assistant Headteacher- for general queries on the whole process Mr. D. Jay: Head of School- Pupil Development Miss H. Martin: Head of Year 9 Mrs. C. Hutchins - Careers Wales Adviser – for general careers advice (Careers Office). www.careerswales.com For more information on individual subjects, please speak to your teacher (for subjects currently studied) or the following for new subjects:

Miss. B. Churches – Business

Mrs E. Powell-Jones – Sociology & Health and Social Care

Mrs. E. Webb – Child Development & Home Cooking Skills

Choose wisely to reach

your goals!

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Art and Design (GCSE)

The course offers opportunities to:-

• Develop art skills further.

• Use many different art materials in creative and imaginative ways.

• Work like a real artist producing original work based on your own ideas.

• Study the works of other artists, craftspeople and designers.

• Explore other cultures from around the world.

• Build your self-confidence, self discipline and commitment.

Coursework (60%) – To present an Art sketchbook along with final outcomes (paintings, sculpture, prints, batiks, collage) based on a given theme.

Final Examination (40%) – Six weeks to prepare a second sketchbook on another theme followed by a 10-hour examination to produce a final outcome.

• Take this course if you enjoy drawing and painting.

• Take this course if you are keen to use different art materials.

• Take this course if would you like to make larger work based on your own ideas.

• Take this course if are you interested in commenting on other artists’ works.

• Take this course if are you prepared to sketch, draw and research for homework.

• Consistency of effort is the key to success.

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GCSE Business

GCSE Business enables learners to apply their knowledge and understanding to different business

contexts, including businesses ranging from small enterprises to large multinationals and businesses

operating in local, national and global contexts.

Pupils are required to develop an understanding of how these contexts impact on business

behaviour.

You will gain an understanding of the important role played by these business organisations in the

economy of Wales and the rest of the UK. You will be expected to be familiar with current issues in

business and develop an understanding of the dynamics of business activity and consider data which

relates to the Welsh business environment. You should investigate the real business world to

develop an understanding of contemporary business opportunities and issues.

You will be expected to apply your knowledge and understanding of the subject content to business

decision-making, including:

the interdependent nature of business activity, influences on business, business operations,

finance, marketing and human resources; and how these interdependencies underpin business

decision making;

how different business contexts affect business decisions; and

the use and limitation of quantitative and qualitative data in making business

decisions.

The subject is divided into two units:

Unit 1: Business World: Written examination (2 hours)

62.5% of qualification – 100 marks

A mix of short answer and structured questions based on stimulus material covering

all of the specification content of both units.

Unit 2: Business Perceptions: Written examination (1 hour 30 minutes)

37.5% of qualification – 60 marks

Data response questions covering all of the specification content of both units.

You will be expected to use a range of mathematical skills and make justifiable decisions, using both quantitative and qualitative methods applied in the context of GCSE Business.

Two exams – both exams cover content from each unit.

Organisation is important and you must be able to work to deadlines.

GCSE Business will help you with any education or training you decide to follow at the end of

Year 11.

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Computer Science GCSE (WJEC)

Employers are needing more and more young people with computing

skills to fill skilled jobs, and universities are asking for students to have

Computing skills for a wide range of courses. In WJEC Computer Science

GCSE course you will learn how computers really work, and not just how

to use them.

You will program the computer using Python and create web pages using HTML and learn

how information is processed, stored and communicated over the Internet, how networks

work and about the hardware and software that make up a computer system.

Unit 1: Understanding Computer Science – this is a written paper

to assess understanding of the theory content of the course at

the end of year 11. This is 45% of the GCSE

Unit 2: Solving Problems Using Computers – This is an on screen

exam consisting of a series of tasks designed to assess the

practical application of knowledge and understanding. This is 30%

of the GCSE

Unit 3: Developing Computing Solutions – This is a controlled assessment task set by the

WJEC and completed over 15 hours. It involves creating a developing a computer program

to solve a given problem. This is 25% of the GCSE.

You cannot choose this course and IT BTEC. It's either one or the other.

• 25% coursework, one written exam and one on screen exam.

• You learn how to program a computer.

• A combination of theory and hands on practical lessons.

• You DO NOT need programming skills to start this course.

• You can go on to Computing A level

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Child Development (GCSE)

This course is a must for anyone who knows they would like to work with children or for those who simply want to learn about families, pregnancy and how a child develops –physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually up to the age of 5 years old.

There are 6 main areas of study:

Section 1 – Family and Child Section 2 – Food and Health Section 3 – Pregnancy Section 4 – Physical Development Section 5 – Intellectual Development Section 6 – Social and Emotional Development.

The course is offered by the WJEC examining board. The examination will consist of:

Coursework (30%) – This will take the form of a child study which will involve the observation of a child over a period of time.

Practical Task (30%) – This will be carried out during lesson time and will consist of a design folio and practical item.

Theory paper (40%) – There will be one written examination paper.

Coursework is a demanding part of the course (60%).

Contact with young children is required.

Organisation is important and you must be able to work to deadlines.

Much of the coursework is timed work in class; therefore preparation will be vital.

Studying GCSE Child Development can lead to careers in Childcare, Social work and Psychology.

You must be willing to learn about a variety of topics including contraception and conception.

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Drama (GCSE)

The WJEC GCSE in Drama is an exciting, inspiring and practical

course. With a large practical element pupils will be involved in and

explore drama, as performers and/or

designers. Additionally it provides opportunities to attend live theatre

performances

and to develop skills as informed and thoughtful audience members.

Across its 3 units the pupils will study:

the techniques of either a theatre practitioner or a genre of

drama

two complete performance texts, one explored through a performance of key

extracts and the other explored and studied as theatre for the written

examination.

Pupils will have the opportunity to work practically as designers and/or performers

on:

one devised performance using the techniques or characteristics of their

chosen theatre practitioner or genre.

one performance based on two 10 minute extracts from a performance text.

The Drama course is broken down into three main elements.

Unit 1 Devising Theatre 40%

Unit 2 Performing Theatre – 20%

Unit 3 Interpreting Theatre - 40%

• A largely practical course.

• Develop your performance and analytical skills.

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• Create one performance portfolio.

• Two set text to study through practical exploration.

• One written examination.

• Two practical assessments.

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English Language (GCSE) – core

You will be examined in the three Attainment Targets for English, namely Speaking and

Listening, Reading, Writing. These will be assessed by two oracy tasks and by

examination.

This course consists of the following elements:

Unit 1 Non Examination Assessment 20%

Task 1 : Individual presentation and response to questions.

Task 2: Group discussion on a topic set by the exam board.

UNIT 2 Exam- Reading and Writing 40%

Section A 20%: Reading of narrative, description and exposition texts. To include an editing task.

Section B 20%: one writing task from a choice of two which could be narrative, description or exposition. To

include a proof reading task.

UNIT 3 Exam - Reading and Writing 40%

Section A 20%: Reading of one argumentation, one persuasion and one instructional text.

Section B 20%: two writing tasks: one argumentation and one persuasion.

You will learn how to:

• Develop an understanding of a wide range of fiction and non-fiction texts.

• Understand how writers influence readers in a variety of different ways.

• Analyse a writer’s work in detail.

• Understand and evaluate how writers use language effectively in a range of texts.

• Form independent views and challenge what is heard or read on the grounds of reason, evidence or argument.

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English Literature (GCSE) - core

It is expected that as many pupils as possible will be entered for this examination.

Assessment is through one internal assessment and by examination.

There are two tiers of examination: Higher for grades A* - D and Foundation for grades C-G. Candidates will be entered for the tier which is best suited to their abilities, but this decision will be delayed as long as possible in order to give pupils every opportunity to develop and progress during the length of the course.

Unit 1 Examination: Other Cultures Prose and unseen contemporary poetry 35%

Section A 21% (INDIVIDUAL TEXTS IN CONTEXT) Different Cultures Prose: Of Mice and Men (Steinbeck); OR Anita and Me (Syal); OR To Kill a Mockingbird (Lee); OR I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Angelou); OR Chanda’s Secrets (Stratton) Section B 14% (COMPARATIVE STUDY) Contemporary: Unseen poetry comparison, the preparation for which will include the study of contemporary poems.

Unit 2 Examination: English/Irish/Welsh Literary Heritage Drama and Contemporary Prose 40%

English/Welsh/Irish Literary Heritage Drama: Othello (Shakespeare); OR Much Ado About Nothing (Shakespeare); OR An Inspector Calls (Priestley); OR Hobson’s Choice (Brighouse); OR A Taste of Honey (Delaney) (20%) Contemporary Prose: Paddy Clarke, Ha Ha Ha (Doyle); OR Heroes (Cormier); OR Never Let Me Go (Ishiguro); OR About a Boy (Hornby); OR Resistance (Sheers) (20%)

Unit 3: Shakespeare and Welsh Writing in English 25%

Section A: Shakespeare: 12.5%

A play by Shakespeare chosen by the centre (but not Othello or Much Ado About Nothing). WJEC will set a task on a specific theme which teachers may use or modify.

Section B: Welsh Writing in English: 12.5%

Specified poetry from the Library of Wales anthology Poetry 1900-2000: One Hundred Poets from Wales. Students study fifteen specified poems listed for the chosen theme. WJEC will set tasks on the theme. Teachers may use or modify one task. The task must include comparison of at least two poems.

You will learn how to:

Develop a detailed knowledge of your set texts.

Understand how writers influence readers in a variety of different ways.

Analyse a writer’s work in detail.

Understand and evaluate how writers use language effectively in poetry, prose and drama.

Form independent views and challenge what is heard or read on the grounds of reason, evidence or argument.

Explore how texts from different cultures and traditions may reflect or influence values and assumptions.

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Food & Nutrition (GCSE)

This course is a must for anyone who wishes to develop their practical skills and to

develop an understanding of nutrition, food preparation, food safety and food storage. It is

an essential option for students who wish to work within the food industry.

The course comprises six units:

1. Food commodities 2. Principles of nutrition

3. Diet and good health 4. The science of food

5. Where food comes from 6. Cooking and food preparation

The course covered by WJEC.

There are TWO units:

Unit 1 (exam): Principles of Food and Nutrition (40%)

Written Paper: 1½ hours

Section A: questions based on stimulus materials.

Section B: a range of question types to assess all content related to food and nutrition.

Unit 2: Food and Nutrition in Action (60%)

2 Non-examination assessments: internally assessed, externally moderated Assessment 1:

10 hours Assessment 2: 15 hours

Assessment 1: The Food Investigation Assessment: 20% of the total marks

This consists of a scientific food investigation which will assess the learner's

knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the scientific principles

underlying the preparation and cooking of food.

Assessment 2: The Food Preparation Assessment 40% of the total marks

This task assesses the learner’s knowledge, skills and understanding in

relation to the planning, preparation, cooking and presentation of dishes to

form a menu.

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You will develop your food preparation and food handling skills through

regular participation in practical sessions which will involve meal

production, experimental work, food testing and modifying recipes.

• If you enjoy cooking then this is the course for you!

• You need to have a basic understanding of healthy eating.

• Coursework is an essential and demanding part of the course (60%).

• Organisation is important and you must bring in ingredients when required.

• Much of the coursework is timed work in class; therefore preparation will be vital.

• Studying GCSE Food and Nutrition can lead to many careers in the food and catering

industry.

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Spanish (GCSE)

If you enjoy communicating with other people, finding out how language works and learning about

different countries and cultures, studying GCSE Spanish is an excellent choice for you!

You will…

• Be able to share your interests, ideas and opinions with other people who speak the language.

• Learn about countries where the language is spoken.

• Add an international dimension to your choice of GCSE subjects.

• Learn many skills which are useful in a wide range of careers, such as the ability to communicate

clearly, being confident about speaking in public and using problem solving strategies.

• Create greater opportunities to work abroad, or for companies in the UK with international links.

Many employers look for people with language skills.

Unit 1: Speaking Unit 2: Listening Unit 3: Reading Unit 4: Writing

Speaking exam worth 25%

of the overall GCSE

qualification.

Tree tasks:

Role Play

Photo card

discussion

Conversation Part

1 and Part 2

Listening exam worth

25% of the overall

GCSE qualification.

Written exam (35 or

45 minutes).

Listening

comprehension tasks

with written

responses.

Reading exam worth 25%

of the overall GCSE

qualification.

Written exam (1 hour or

1 hour 15).

Reading tasks with

written responses,

including one translation

task.

Writing exam worth

25% of overall GCSE

qualification.

Written exam (1

hour or 1 hour 30).

Writing tasks

including one

translation task from

English/Welsh into

French.

• Students who study Spanish to GCSE level tend to do very well in relation to their other grades.

• By continuing your language studies, you are leaving open a wide range of options later on.

• Once you have dropped Spanish, you cannot then take it up again later in your school career – don’t

allow yourself to lose out later on!

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Geography (GCSE)

Geography is the study of places and the environment and is therefore a very important and relevant

subject for all young people. The GCSE course gives pupils a clear understanding of the

world in which they live and enables them to make well informed decisions about it.

Full use is made of up to date information and current events happening in the world.

In September 2016, the new GCSE Geography specification will be in place and the first

examination of this will be in the summer of 2018. This new course will consist of:

Unit 1 – Changing Physical and Human Landscape

Section A: Core Themes

Two structured, data response questions assessing Core Theme 1 (Landscapes and Physical

Processes) and Core Theme 2 (Rural-urban Links).

Section B: Options

One structured question (from a choice of two) assessing either Theme 3 (Tectonic Landscapes and Hazards) or

Theme 4 (Coastal Hazards and their Management). These themes provide additional breadth of study for the

content assessed in the core themes.

Assessment will be by data response questions. Some questions will require extended responses.

Unit 2: Environmental and Development Issues

Section A: Core Themes

Two structured, data response questions assessing Core Theme 5 (Weather, Climate and Ecosystems) and Core

Theme 6 (Development and Resource Issues).

Section B: Options

One structured question (from a choice of two) assessing either Theme 7 (Social Development Issues) or Theme

8 (Environmental Challenges). These themes provide additional depth of study for the content assessed in the

core themes.

Assessment will be by data response questions. Some questions will require extended responses.

Unit 3: Fieldwork Enquiry

This requires a written report from the learner, to include evidence of their understanding of the enquiry

process and their independent ability to process/present data and complete extended writing.

Geography develops the full range of Key Skills and therefore helps you with other subjects. You will

learn to interpret maps, photos, diagrams, tables, text and graphs. You will find things out using

primary and secondary data and communicate your ideas using ICT in reports, extended writing,

presentations and decision-making exercises.

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Your final grade is based upon:

Unit 1 – 1 ½ hour written examination - 40%.

Unit 2 – 1 ½ hour written examination - 40 %

Unit 3 - 2 ½ hour written report based on Fieldwork Enquiry - 20%

Geographers are.....

• Interested in the physical environment and how humans interact with it.

• Willing to learn about a wide range of topics e.g. natural hazards, climate change, floods,

cities, globalisation.

• Keen to develop a wide range of skills e.g. maps, communication, number, ICT, thinking.

• Flexible thinkers who are able to see more than one point of view and come to their own

conclusions.

• Happy to work with others to solve problems.

• Concerned about the future of our planet and the people who live on it.

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Health and Social Care (GCSE)

The GCSE Health and Social Care course develops specific knowledge, and skills, learners

need to work successfully in the care industry, such as:

l. Gaining knowledge of Health, Social Care and Children’s Services used by the range of

service users from babies, toddlers, through to adults with specific needs and the elderly.

2. Studying the main roles and skills of people who provide Health, Social Care and

Children’s Services.

3. Studying human growth and development.

There is one external examination (40% of the final award)

There is one controlled assessment based on an investigation into local Health and Social

Care Services (60% of the final award)

We all use health and social care services (so you know some things about them already)

The Care Industry is an expanding Industry

You’ll need to be aware of what is going on in the news about health and social care stories.

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History (GCSE)

The study of interesting, dramatic and thought-provoking topics and issues from British and World History.

The development of important skills, valued by employers and essential for the rest of your life - written and

oral communication; decision making; reading and evaluating evidence; understanding the causes and

consequences of events; investigating how and why things change; making reasoned judgements and

developing analytical thinking.

Consistently excellent exam results with most pupils achieving well in comparison with target grades and

grades in other subjects.

1. In-Depth Study: The USA 1910-1929

An investigation into the features and changes in American life during a period of

wealth, crime, music, war, technology, fashion, sport, racism and change!

We study: The treatment of black Americans and immigrants; The prohibition of

alcohol, corruption and the power of gangsters; The ‘Jazz Age’ and the development in sports, music, cinema

and the lives of women; The Economic Boom and the impact of mass production and the car industry; The Wall

Street Crash and the end of the prosperity of the 1920s.

2. Controlled Assessment: The Impact of the First and Second World Wars on Britain

Two written tasks based on the study of different pieces of evidence about the

experience of British people during the World Wars.

We study: Trench warfare and the experiences of soldiers during World War One; The

motivation and treatment of conscisnetious objectors during the First World War; Life

for the people of Britain on the Home Front during the Second World War; The impact

of the Blitz on the people of Britain during World War Two; The evacuation of men from Dunkirk in 1941 and its

importance.

3. In-Depth Study: Austerity, Affluence and Discontent in Wales and Britain 1951-1979

We study: Problems and developments in Welsh and British life - poverty, housing, employment and the

development of new towns, transport and industry in the 1950s; Changing lifestyles in the 1960s and 70s-

music, women’s rights, TV, American culture, youth culture; Challenges to authority since the 1950s – public

scandals, the death penalty, drugs, protest movements; changes in Wales and Britain in the 1960s and 1970s –

political developments, language, immigration, race relations.

4. Thematic Study: Changes in Patterns of Migration – 1500 to the present day.

We study: The causes of immigration into Britain since 1500 – industrialisation, war, empire, emigration from

Asia, Africa and the Carribbean, European integration and the European Union; The experiences of new

immigrants since 1500 - work, race relations, the development of a multicultural society; The causes of

emigration from Britain since 1500 – religious persecution, poverty, work, colonisation; the expeirences of

Britisn people emigrating aborad since 1500 e.g. in America, Australia, Patagonia

• Covers events in modern International and British History.

• Develops important communication, thinking and problem solving skills.

• No higher or foundation tiers – everyone sits the same exam papers.

• It is not about memorising dates or writing long essays.

• Helps you understand the world we live in and how things have changed in the last hundred years.

• Covers developments in war, crime, racism, religion, terrorism, fashion, music, sport, women’s freedoms

and the lives of rich and poor over the last century in different parts of the World.

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Information Technology First Award (BTEC ICT)

Edexcel’s BTEC Level 1/2 First Certificate in Information and Creative

Technology is a vocational qualification, which means it will prepare

you for the world of work. The course offers you the opportunity to learn a

wide range of IT skills from web design to multimedia, and will give you

valuable skills for employment or further study.

The BTEC First Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSEs at grades A*-C.

After successfully completing this course you can continue your studies in the Sixth Form,

where you can study Level 3 ICT which gives you the skills and knowledge to apply for

University to Study IT or an apprenticeship in an IT company.

You will receive one-to-one support from your teachers in class, and

then detailed feedback so that you can improve your work. There are

two online exams, one about how the Internet works and is used for

work and leisure, and another about IT systems.

In addition, you will have four skills units to complete. You will learn

how to create a website using Dreamweaver for a company, and an

online e-portfolio to showcase your BTEC work. You will also complete three practical

units about Graphics, Audio and Multimedia production.

You cannot choose this course and Computing (GCSE). It's either one or the other.

• Two online exams about how the Internet works and technology systems.

• You can resubmit work after your teacher has initially marked it.

• Hands on practical lessons with one computer per student.

• You DO NOT need programming skills to join this course.

• You will not be left without help – your teachers will guide you.

• The more effort you put in, the higher your grade.

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Mathematics (GCSE) – core Mathematics-Numeracy (GCSE) - core

All pupils follow a course in Mathematics that relates to the

National Curriculum statements of:

Number and Algebra

Shape and Space

Data Handling

Using and Applying Mathematics

Pupils will be grouped according to the levels they achieved during Key Stage 3. There

will be some movement between groups during Years 10 and 11.

This subject is now worth two full GCSE’s.

1) Students will have four examination papers at the end of

the course. Two papers allow the use of a calculator, the

other papers do not. These will cover all aspects of the

course studied.

2) There is no coursework, as using and applying Maths is

incorporated into the final exam.

3) There are 3 overlapping tiers of entry for GCSE:

Higher Tier may result in grades A* to C.

Intermediate Tier may result in grades B to E

Foundation Tier may result in grades D to G.

• This is a compulsory subject.

• You need good numerical skills in other subjects, too.

• Maths is fun.

• Everyone can improve their understanding of Maths.

• Maths is needed for everyday life.

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Music (GCSE)

Music GCSE offers an integrated approach to the three distinct disciplines of performing, composing and

appraising through four areas of study. The four areas of study are designed to develop knowledge and

understanding of music through the study of a variety of genres and styles. The four areas of study are:

Area of study 1: Musical Forms and Devices

Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble

Area of study 3: Film Music

Area of study 4: Popular Music

The course is assessed in three ways

Unit 1: Performing – 35%

A minimum of two pieces, one of which must be an ensemble performance of at

least one-minute duration. The other piece(s) may be either solo and/or ensemble.

One of the pieces performed must link to an area of study of the learner's

choice.

A programme note for one performance linked to an area of study.

Unit 2: Composing – Two composition 35%

One composition in response to a brief set by WJEC.

The second composition is a free composition for which learners set their own

brief

An evaluation of the composition composed in response to a brief set by WJEC.

Unit 3: Appraising 30%

This unit is assessed via a listening examination.

Eight questions in total, two on each of the four areas of study.

Two of the eight questions are based on prepared extracts set by WJEC.

70% coursework and one written examination worth 30%

Engage actively in the process of music study

Develop performing skills individually and in groups to communicate musically

with fluency and control.

Develop composing skills to organise musical ideas.

Broaden musical experience and interests, develop imagination and foster

creativity

If you are interested in finding out more information about the different units please come and see a member of the music department.

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WJEC GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The GCSE in Physical Education provides an introduction to the

sporting sector for those pupils looking to build a career in sport.

These include careers in exercise and fitness, coaching, PE teaching

and sports development.

The course is made up of four units:

Unit 1: Factors affecting exercise, performance, health, well-being and lifestyle choices (40%)

Unit 2: Practical Performance in Physical Education (60%)

Unit 1: Factors affecting exercise, performance, health, well-being and lifestyle choices (50%)

Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes Section A

Compulsory questions to test knowledge and understanding of physical fitness, its assessment and factors affecting participation, provision and performance in sporting, health and well-being activities.

This is assessed through a series of short answer, extended writing questions based on video extracts.

Section B Compulsory questions to test knowledge and understanding of physical, psychological and tactical/ technical factors that have an influence on performance, health and well-being.

This is assessed through a combination of short answer and extended writing questions.

Unit 2: Practical Performance in Physical Education (50%)

Assessment of three practical activities and a Personal Exercise Plan.

This sports course will appeal to you if you:

Have a keen interest in sport and recreation and always look forward to your PE lessons

Want to do a course that develops your knowledge and understanding through practical sports.

Want to improve your performance in a range of sporting roles.

Are considering a sports-related career, A’ Level Sport or a Level 3 BTEC course.

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Religious Education (GCSE) - core G

Religious Education is a statutory requirement throughout your time in school.

You are given the opportunity to gain a Full course GCSE in the subject which will be

graded A* to G.

You began your GCSE study for RE GCSE in Year 9

The topics we study make you think and involve everyday life, whether you follow a

religion or not.

The topics we look at are:

The core beliefs of Christianity

The core beliefs of Islam

Life and death

Relationships

Human Rights

Good and evil

• There will be two final examination papers.

• RE is a very useful subject to have if you wish to undertake

many careers as it leads to an understanding of people.

This is a compulsory subject.

• You do not have to be religious yourself to enjoy this course.

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Design Technology - Product Design (GCSE)

In GCSE Product Design, as in other projects, you have carried out in Years 7, 8 and 9 you will

be following a Design and Make process. This involves the production of a design folder and a

product made from Resistant Materials (woods, metals and plastics). In Year 10 you will carry

out a variety of tasks that will make you familiar with manufacturing processes in a wide

selection of materials that will allow you to tackle most design problems.

You will build upon your knowledge of hand tools and learn how to use machinery and power

tools effectively. You are able to choose what you wish to make for your Year 11 project

following tasks set by the exam board. Candidates in previous years have made children's toys, chairs and

jewellery items.

You will be able to improve upon your graphical skills and gain a working knowledge of both CAD (computer

aided design) and CAM (computer aided manufacture).

The course covered is WJEC – D&T Resistant Materials Technology.

There is only one tier level covering grades A*-G.

There are two units: - Unit 1: Written paper- 50% Unit 2: Design and make task – 50%

You will be required to select a design brief from a list of Controlled Assessment Tasks. A

design folder and product made from resistant materials (wood, metals and plastics) must be completed in

the workshop over a period of approximately 45 hours.

• If you enjoy designing and making in Resistant Materials then this could be just the subject for you.

• You will need to be creative and good at communicating your ideas through sketches, models and written information

• Computer skills are required for presentation of work and the use of CAD and CAM

• The coursework completed during year 11 is timed and preparation and an ability to work independently is essential.

This counts for 50% of your overall mark and is an essential part of the course.

• Many of the materials used will be provided by school but you may need to purchase some components depending on the

task you choose.

• You will be expected to arrive at every lesson with the necessary drawing equipment in order to cover the graphical side

of the course. We do put together a stationery pack containing all that is needed for pupils who wish to purchase it.

• GCSE Resistant Materials leads on well to AS and A level Product Design.

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Science – GCSE

Year 10 and Year 11 Double Award Science This is a two-year course. The first year of the course is designed to interest and engage candidates in Science. The second year of the course builds on the progress that pupils have made in Year 10. Year 10 and Year 11 Separate Science This is a two-year course. This course is aimed for students who gain a level 6 or above in English, Mathematics and Science. Separate Science is an additional four lessons a fortnight. GCSE Separate Sciences will give successful pupils a perfect grounding for studying Science and Science related subjects at a higher level. Double Award Science • The practical assessment makes up 10% of the final mark for the GCSE. • The course is modular so you sit examinations in both June of Year 10 (worth 45% of the qualification) and June of Year 11(worth 45% of the qualification). There is the opportunity to re-sit the June Year 10 examinations once in June of Year 11. Separate Science • The practical assessment up 10% of the final mark for each of the three GCSEs. • The course is modular so you sit examinations in both June of Year 10 (worth 45% of the qualification). and June of Year 11(worth 45% of the qualification). There is the opportunity to re-sit the June Year 10 examinations once in June of Year 11.

Double Award Students • Double Award students will gain 2 GCSEs by the end of Year 11. • You will gain the skills to better understand the world around you. • If you want to go on to study Science A levels then you need to gain at least 2 Bs in the subject. Separate Sciences Students • Separate Science students will gain 3 GCSEs by the end of Year 11. • If you want to go on to study Science A levels then you need to gain at least 2 Bs in the three subjects. • You will gain the skills to better understand the world around you.

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Sociology (GCSE)

Sociologists are interested in how the world we live in affects us and

how we in turn affect our world.

• How does the way we are brought up influence our future?

• Should girls and boys be treated equally?

• Why are some groups in society more likely to become criminals than

others?

• Should rich people be forced to give more money to those less well off?

• What is the perfect family type?

These are just some of the topics that we study. If you have an inquiring mind and like a good

debate, then you are half way to becoming a sociologist!

There are two examination papers of one and a half hours each.

You can gain A* to G. There is no coursework

Paper 1

Key concepts and processes of cultural transmission

Families

Education

Sociological research methods

Paper 2

Social differentiation and stratification

Crime and deviance

Applied methods of sociological enquiry

• Sociology is about the world you live in.

• It’s modern and up-to-date.

• It helps you look at society in a new way.

• It’s not common sense.

• You’ll need to be aware of what is going on in the news.

• It’s not easy.

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Textiles Technology (GCSE)

In GCSE Textiles, as in previous D&T projects, you will be

working through the `design` and `make` process. This

involves producing a design folder and a creative product

made from fabric. You are able to choose what to make

following the tasks that are given to you from the examination

board. Candidates in the past have made a wide selection of

products from fashion garments to creative bags and cushions.

You are expected to improve your skills working with different

tools and equipment, fabrics and components. There will also

be a large input of computer skills required including CAD

(computer aided design) and CAM (computer aided manufacture).

Alongside the coursework a wide variety of topics are covered:- the fashion industry, modern

fibres and fabrics, creative techniques and processes, using modern technology etc.

The course covered is WJEC – D&T Textiles

Technology. There is only one tier level covering

A*- G.

There are TWO units:-

Unit 1: Written paper – 40% of marks

Unit 2: Design & make task – 60% of marks

You will be required to select a design brief from a list of Controlled

Assessment Tasks. A design folder and product made from fabric

must be completed in the classroom over a period of

approximately 45 hours.

• If you enjoy designing and making in textiles this is the course for you.

• You need to be creative and enjoy working with different fabrics and components.

• Coursework (producing both design folder and product) is an essential and demanding part

of the course (60%).

• Computer skills are required for presentation, CAD and CAM.

• Much of the coursework is timed work in class therefore preparation will be vital.

• Studying GCSE Textiles can follow on to AS and A level Product Design in Years 12-13.

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Welsh / Cymraeg (GCSE) Core

It is a statutory requirement that all pupils study Welsh language in Key stage 4. We prepare all pupils for a GCSE qualification in Welsh Second Language. The course gives all pupils the opportunity to reach their potential in Welsh. Pupils develop their interest in Welsh and enthusiasm for the language. They will develop essential skills which fulfil the needs of candidates, employers and further education. They will develop the skills to make practical use of the language in order to communicate effectively in the bilingual Society of the 21st century

The GCSE course is taught in years 10 and 11.

Pupils will sit Unit 1 which is a listening examination in Year 10 and then Unit 2 (Oral), Unit 3

(Reading) and Unit 4 (writing) in Year 11.

The assessment units have been designed for the full range of ability and will be un-tiered.

Everybody follows this course.

It builds on the Welsh you have learnt throughout Key stage 3.

It will prepare you to continue studying at AS level, to use Welsh in your future work and to confidently communicate with Welsh speakers in the community.

UNIT % SKILLS ASSESSMENT

UNIT 1 25% Listening 15% Speaking 10%

(50 marks)

Non-examination assessment (summer term)

UNIT 2 25% Speaking 20% Listening 5%

(50 marks)

Non-examination assessment (summer term)

UNIT 3 25% Reading 15% Writing 10% (100 marks)

Examination (summer term)

UNIT 4 25% Writing 15% Reading 10% (100 marks)

Examination (summer term)

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Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification at KS4

The new and improved Welsh Baccalaureate seeks to inspire learners and challenge them to fulfil their

potential. It has been designed to help 14 to 19-year-olds to develop the skills required for higher education,

employment and life. It’s a flexible, inclusive qualification than underpins learners’ choices of GCSE and

vocational qualifications.

The Welsh Baccalaureate is primarily about the development and assessment of essential skills such as literacy,

numeracy, digital literacy, critical thinking and problem solving, planning and organisation, creativity and

innovation and personal effectiveness.

To achieve the Welsh Baccalaureate, learners will need to complete:

1. Skills Challenge Certificate (1 GCSE)

Individual project: This is an independent, research based assignment on an individually selected

subject.

Enterprise and Employability Challenge: For learners to develop enterprising skills and attributes and

enhance employability.

Global Citizenship Challenge: For learners to understand and

respond appropriately to global issues.

Community Challenge: For learners to identify, develop and

participate in opportunities that will benefit the community.

2. GCSEs

GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths – Numeracy

3. Supporting qualifications

For example other GCSEs and vocational qualifications.

• All pupils will study for the Welsh Baccalaureate qualification.

• Pupils will be taught on a carousel basis focusing one on skill a term.

• The WBQ encourages you to be much more independent and is praised by employers and universities.

• Through the WBQ you get involved in your local community, aware of global issues and develop employability

skills.

• Cathays High School is one of the most experienced WBQ centres in Wales.

‘From our perspective, we expect students to come

to Oxford to be independent thinkers, highly motivated for the subjects that they’re planning to study, and also be prepared to be flexible. I truly believe that the new qualifications from Wales, especially the refocused and strengthened Welsh Baccalaureate, will help students in that direction.’ Dr Samina Khan, Acting director of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach, Oxford University

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Additional Qualifications In addition to the options and core subjects offered at Cathays, there are also additional qualifications available to pupils. These are delivered through bespoke interventions and after school drop-in sessions. Currently we offer The European Computer Driver’s License (ECDL) and Equality and Diversity. ECDL “The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is the internationally recognised qualification for computer users. ECDL improves learners’ understanding of computers and promotes efficient use of software. The course opens up a variety of opportunities through the broad range of skills it provides. The qualification is widely recognised by employers as proof of ability and competence when working with IT.”

Sweet Sweet is a skills development BTEC course that is equivalent to GCSE. It focusses on Personal and Social Development, with core themes of PSE and topics covered in the Welsh Baccalaureate.

IFM Students taking this qualification will gain knowledge about the practical and legal constraints on the sources and uses of money, the methods of organising their money through personal budgeting, the considered use of appropriate bank and building society accounts and the concepts and consequences of overspending.

Sharpen your IT Skills in Microsoft Word, Powerpoint and Excel

Online tests with immediate results

Earn grades from Distinction * to Pass (Equivalent to A* to C)

100% Coursework

Develops personal and social skills

Earn a Level 1 or a Level 2 Pass

Learn practical information about finance and managing money

Online tests with immediate results

Earn grades to A* to C