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SIXTH Form Studies 2016 2018

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Page 1: SIXTH - fluencycontent-  · PDF fileSixth Form Studies 2 ... Ps ych olg 2 Learning Support 23 ... organisational skills. Furthermore, involvement in these activities inevitably

SIXTHForm Studies

2016

20

18

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Sixth FormStudies

2 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

Greek History Latin Mathematics Further Mathematics (15 periods) Further Mathematics (24 periods)* Music Philosophy and Ethics Physical Education Physics Psychology Spanish

*Counts as two A Levels

A LEVEL CHOICES AVAILABLE FOR STUDYArt & Design Biology Business Chemistry Classical CivilisationComputer Science Design Technology Drama &Theatre StudiesEconomics English French Geography Government and Politics

Important Contacts

Head of Admissions Mary-Ann [email protected]

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“It’s very different, Sir” is the most common response that I get fromSixth Formers in answer to the question “How would you compare thelife of the Sixth Former to that of a member of Year 11?”

It is different; deliberately and necessarily so. Our aim in the Sixth Formis to prepare pupils for life beyond School. For the vast majority thiswill mean being equipped with all the necessary skills and charactertraits needed to flourish at university. For some it will mean beinglaunched into a specific vocation.

In the classroom, the emphasis moves from the recall of facts to anadded emphasis of judgement and analysis. The fact that SixthFormers are able to specialise changes the atmosphere as they arestudying in smaller groups with pupils who have made the same,active choice. It is not enough to simply listen and take notes. Youhave to play a full part in the shaping of the lessons and to have amore direct involvement in the curriculum.

This choice and responsibility is a continued theme in other areas ofSixth Form life from co-curricular activities, chaplaincy, excursions,lectures, debates, community action and school leadership. Therelationship between the School and the pupil starts to shift. The most successful Sixth Former is the one who fully engages in all that is on offer.

The key indicator of how different life is in the Sixth Form is the tutorsystem. Pupils are able to select their individual tutor from the full listof Common Room, who they meet each week, which is unusual. It is a significant commitment on our part to ensure that we are ablesupport and guide pupils in a specific fashion. There is no typical DeanClose Sixth Former: they choose different directions and differentmethods of travel. We believe that the Sixth Form at Dean Close allowsfor this difference.

Bradley Salisbury

Contents Page no.

A Word from the Headmaster 3Sixth Form Life 4Personal Tutor 5Co-Curricular Programme 6What the students say 7A Level Choices 8Flecker Library 11Extended Project Qualification 12Art & Design 13Biology 13Business 14Chemistry 14 Classics 15Computer Science 15 Design Technology 16Drama & Theatre Studies 16Economics 17English 17 Geography 18 Government & Politics 18 History 19Mathematics 19 Modern Languages 20Music 20 Religious Studies 21Physical Education 21Physics 22Psychology 22Learning Support 23English as an Additional Language 23

3 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

A word from the Headmaster

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LifeSixth Form

Sixth Formers serve on numerous schoolcommittees, captain sports’ teams and playprominent roles in drama and music, themost talented having opportunities toperform concertos or direct a play. Thosewho demonstrate initiative are encouraged,for example, to start up their own societiesor organise charity events. A team ofprefects, led by the Head of School, isresponsible for much of the School’sleadership and Sixth Formers play a majorrole in every house.

Pupils take great pleasure in leaving theiruniforms behind to dress in business suitsand many comment on how they enjoyrelationships with tutors and teachers which

become more adult, with greater freedomssuch as boarders going into town atweekends.

Regular opportunities arise to hear and meethigh profile speakers, some of the mostrecent being Sir Steve Redgrave, Stephen Fry,Dan & Peter Snow, Will Gompertz, PrueLeith, Cath Kidston and Katie Piper.Dedicated facilities include a sixth formsocial centre, a great place to meet andchat, play pool or grab a coffee with friends;sixth form only boarding houses for bothgirls and boys; single study/bedrooms withen-suites and studies for all sixth formers intheir day houses.

The Sixth Form is a distinct part of the School community and consequently its members enjoy new privileges and responsibilities.

4 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

Cheltenham Literature Festival

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The School greatly values the individual,something that is borne out in the one-to-onetutorial system. This system is designed toensure that each pupil has an adult who takes aparticular interest in them, not just academically,but in terms of their wider well-being andinterests. Sixth formers choose their own tutors,often picking someone who teaches one of theirA level subjects, and the tutor-pupil relationshipis usually a very strong one which can last alifetime. This is a crucial time with impendingchoices about careers and university options andtutors work closely with their tutees, supportingthem as they make these important decisions.

Every Sixth Former meets weekly with their tutorto discuss things from an academic and pastoralview. The content of these meetings will varyaccording to individual needs but will includemanaging workload, time planning, learninghow to work independently, discussingassessments and helping with exam preparation.Tutors also help with decisions on co-curricularactivities, advise on university applications, sharein successes and are a shoulder to cry on whenthings go wrong. The tutor system works inconjunction with the boarding and day housesand the academic departments to ensure life inthe Sixth Form is as happy and successful aspossible.

Personal Tutor

5 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

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6 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

The Co-curricularProgramme The Sixth Form opens up a wide range of

opportunities to develop specific intellectual,sporting and cultural interests. Besides theobvious enjoyment that is derived fromthese activities, university admissions tutorsvalue active participation in drama, outdoorpursuits, community action, sport and musicas they provide obvious opportunities forthe development of leadership andorganisational skills. Furthermore,involvement in these activities inevitablypromotes virtues such as patience, tenacity,resourcefulness and commitment. Allstudents are expected to be fully involved inthe co-curricular programme.

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7 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

The Co-curricularProgramme

CCF –This provides a wide range ofactivities, both military and non-military,which develop leadership, confidence, self-reliance and discipline skills as well as givinga taste of life in the Armed Forces, althoughthere is no requirement to join up and servewith the Armed Forces at any point. Sixthformers can opt for officer training, leadingto supervisory roles as NCOs.

Community Action - The thriving CommunityAction programme works on projects withinthe local community and the wider world. Itencourages young people to see howrewarding it is to make a difference throughlocal projects including supporting thechildren’s ward at Gloucester Royal Hospital,helping children with disabilities, visitingnursing homes regularly to establishrelationships with residents, assisting in avariety of charity shops and reading withasylum seekers who desperately need tolearn English.

Drama - For a School of its size, Dean Closedrama really packs a punch and expects agreat deal in terms of acting standards andcommitment. There is a policy to performworks of major playwrights as well as thebest of contemporary drama, with up to 10productions annually.

Duke of Edinburgh - With so many studentspacking every moment of their school daywith constructive activity, the Duke of

Edinburgh Award scheme compliments allthat the Dean Close has to offer. On average12 students complete their gold award eachyear on both walking and cyclingexpeditions. The Scheme is also a goodvehicle for students who need a bit moremotivation to get involved.

Leiths Cookery Course - This popular andprestigious cookery course is completed overthe first five terms of the Sixth Form.Students who pass the examination attainthe coveted Leiths qualification at eitherOrdinary, Merit or Distinction level, aprofessional certificate in food and wine.

Music – There are in excess of 50 concertseach year, ranging from informal lunchtimerecitals to major choral and orchestralevents, providing performing opportunitiesfor musicians at every level of ability. ChapelChoir and Chamber Choir sing Evensong inSt Paul's Cathedral and Tewkesbury Abbeyeach year. There are also ampleopportunities for bands to perform bothinformally and as part of the RocSoc.

Sport – Dean Close has a tradition ofperforming at a high level on the sports fieldand teams regularly achieve results thatmight not be expected of a School of thissize. During the last few years, teams haverepresented the School in a number ofNational Finals in hockey and equestrianevents.

Uganda Project - In 2004 the Schoolestablished a link with the NyakatukuraMemorial School in Uganda. Since then ithas been committed to raising money forspecific projects including building a girls’dormitory and drainage system. Every twoyears a group of students from Dean Closevisit the School and involve themselves inteaching lessons, playing with the childrenand basic maintenance around the school site.

Some activitiespresently offeredinclude:

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Eve Metcalf - GeneralDean Close provides fun and interestinglessons that help you understand subjects;Some of which I never imagined I wouldenjoy and understand! Since joining DeanClose my dreams and ambitions have risenby miles and I have started achieving gradeswhich I didn't know were possible for me.Dean Close has helped me gain confidencewithin myself and my academics and thiswill help me flourish in the future.

What our students say...

Chrystabel Chinye - ScienceDean Close offers an extremely wide rangeof academic opportunities; from the arts tosciences and social sciences in between. Asan all-science student. I have experiencedworld class teaching both in the classroomand in the laboratories. The high importanceplaced on practical activities and field workmakes the learning experience challengingbut very fulfilling as it promotes applicationof scientific theories to everyday life. Thewarmth and willingness of teachers to helpand support me make the learning processso much easier and I highly recommend thescience department to anyone coming toDean Close.

Bella Acland - ArtArt at Dean Close has no limits; no one tellsyou that your ideas aren’t realistic or thatyour canvas is too large, the teachers arereally supportive and enthusiastic allowingyour imagination and ideas to beincorporated into your final piece from startto finish. The small class sizes, strongrelationships with teachers and huge rangesof materials all make the art school a reallyinspirational place to build up confidenceand work on skills such as painting,modelling, photography and pretty mucheverything else you might want to fitinto your art portfolio or exam.

Harry Caro - DramaDrama is a passion of mine, my recentfavourites being 'Chicago' and Shakespeare's'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. Drama has given me an opportunity to express mycharacter in a way I hadn't before. I'vedeveloped skills (including public speaking)which will be useful throughout life. I haveto juggle my drama commitments with myacademic work which I find relatively easydue to the support and understanding frommy teachers. I will often attend clinics and

arrange times outside oflessons to go over

topics withteachers andthey're onlytoo happyto helpwith this.

Amy Porter – Music and DramaAs someone who loves getting involved inco-curricular activites, Dean Close has beenperfect for me. I have had an incredibleamount of opportunities, especially in dramaand music as I particularly love acting inplays and musicals. You work with peopleacross year groups who you would notnormally see, so it is a great way of buildingfriendships. Recently, the choir had theopportunity of touring New York which wasan amazing experience. We visited theempire state building and cycled roundCentral Park. These are just a few of thememories I will treasure from my time atDean Close.

Guy Toye - SportSport at Dean Close has enabled me to buildon existing skills, develop teamwork andmake lifelong friendships. The individualtuition and guidance has increased myconfidence and allowed me to perform at ahigher level to pursue my personal, physicaland leadership development. My experienceof being in the Gloucester Rugby Academyhas given me an insight into a professionalrugby lifestyle and has broadened myknowledge on all aspects of a professionalsportsman. It has given me the confidence toconsider professional rugby and has also ledme to pursue a sports performance degreeat university. I feel part of so much morethan a team, I feel part of Dean Close.

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A LevelChoices

ExpectationsThe choice of subjects is very important andit should be done in conjunction with yourtutor, Housemaster/mistress andparents/guardian. You should have a realinterest in the subjects and show someevidence of having the necessary skills tocope with the course through the work youhave done at GCSE. A Level study is moreintensive than that involved in the coursesyou are currently studying. A Levels involvemore developed skills of independent studyand a real commitment to extending youracademic interests and abilities.

We Expectn You to work independently and to takeresponsibility for your learning. This willtypically involve taking full advantage of theresources that the Library and academicdepartments provide. You will be expected toread around your subject and do more thanthe bare minimum of completing thehomework tasks. There will never be a timewhen you can claim, ‘I don’t have any workto do!’

n Sixth Form Pupils to undertake post-16courses which are demanding and ofsufficient breadth to enable them todifferentiate themselves in a competitiveuniversity admissions market.

n All pupils to play a full and committedpart in the co-curricular life of the School.

Entry At Dean Close we believe the mostappropriate qualification in preparation forentry to university is the GCE A Level. It isthe most widely recognised qualification inthe UK by a substantial margin, and allowspupils to study subjects in which they have aparticular interest to a good level of depth,whilst being able to broaden their curriculumthrough a very wide choice of subject areas.In order to undertake the full A level coursewe expect pupils to have obtained at least sixgrade B passes at GCSE. It is, however, ourexperience, that if you do not gain an A inthe subject of your choice at GCSE - orrelated field in the case of subjects whichappear in the Sixth Form but not at GCSE -you are likely to find the course extremelydemanding. The decision about suitability tostudy a particular subject lies with theDirector of Sixth Form Studies.

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Government reform of A levels meansyou need to study for the full two yearsto obtain the qualification. Wewelcome the move to linearity and arecommitted to offering a coherentacademic programme that will allow allpupils to enjoy their learning and to besuccessful in public examinations. From2016, all subjects with the exception ofClassical Civilisation, Design Technology,Government and Politics, Mathematicsand Further Mathematics will be linear.

The Lower Sixth Form year is a veryimportant year in the academic life of aSixth Form student; it lays thefoundations for the Upper Sixth yearand it plays a significant role indetermining university and furthereducation options. We will ask A Levelstudents to choose three subjects tostudy, although very able students maydo four. Hand-in-hand with this, we willdedicate more teaching time to our ALevels in the first year, thus givingstudents more time with teachers toboost their learning experience. Inaddition we will be developing anenrichment block containing a selectionof examined and non-examined courses.

This will enable pupils to retain abreadth of subjects and interests inaddition to their primary academicinterests in addition to a qualification,in some cases.

On Friday 20th November 2015, therewill be a Fifth Form A Level OptionsEvening, at which there will be theopportunity to discuss possible choiceswith Heads of Department and withteachers. Initial choices need to besubmitted by the end of half term ofthe Lent Term 2016. We use these todecide on the “blocks” for the followingyear. You can of course make changes toyour preferences later in the year, andeven up to the point of starting theLower Sixth, but these changes need tobe within the settled “blocks” for theyear, and subject to space in the sets (a subject can prove unusually popularin a given year, and we like to set anormal maximum cap of 16 pupils perset).We cannot guarantee that we will meet every pupil’s choice, but we would expect to meet most.

Government A Level Reforms

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How do youchooseyour A Levels

Choose subjects that you will enjoy. A levels are hard enough without having to knuckle down to a subject youonly chose because it will look good on a UCAS application.

Choose subjects you will be good at. For many careers or courses, grades matter more than subjects.

Check your combination of subjects.Ensure that the combination of subjects you choose meets the requirementsof any careers or courses that you are considering. You can do this and stillkeep your options open – very few careers or courses specify more than one ortwo subjects within their overall requirements.

Please note that it is only possible to run courses, at Alevel, if there are sufficient takers. The provision of coursesdescribed in this booklet represents the School’s intentionsat the time of publication and may be subject to change.

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8 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

At Dean Close, pupils of all abilities achieveexcellent results at A2 Level across a broadrange of subjects. Whilst each cohort mayvary slightly in ability, typical results, basedon the last five years are:

• 16% A* • 50% A*/A

• 77% A*- B • 100% pass

The average UCAS points score for everyexam taken is 106 points (where A=120 andB=100) which is a reflection of the quality ofteaching and learning and a strong tributeto the effort and performance of every DeanClose pupil in the Sixth Form. TheHeadmaster meets personally with everySixth Form pupil to work through their UCAS

interview and to discuss their form.Furthermore, the Careers Department is onhand to provide university and careersadvice, counselling, testing, contacts andpractical assistance, with particular attentiongiven to UCAS forms and personalstatements.

About 70% of pupils are successful ingaining a place at their first choiceuniversity. In a typical year, about 5% ofleavers gain a place at Oxford or Cambridge,and over 50% of leavers go on to RussellGroup universities or similar. In addition, asmall number win places at elite Drama,Music and Art schools.

AcademicResults andLeavers’Destinations

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Degree Course Possible RequirementsAnthropology Biology at least to AS level is recommended for some

courses.

Art Foundation Art A Level plus a good portfolio. Some institutions may accept DT, depending on the course. Check with the colleges you are interested in.

Biology Biology and another science (normally Chemistry) or Maths.

Chemistry Chemistry, and sometimes Maths and/or another science.

Dentistry Chemistry plus Biology usually required. Check individual institutions.

Economics Many universities require Maths A Level – please check carefully.

Engineering Maths and Physics (or Maths and Chemistry for Chemical Engineering).

Law Any, but preferably traditional ‘academic’ subjects – high grades will generally be necessary.

Medicine Chemistry, usually Biology. Will not accept Maths and Further Maths, or other subjects which strongly overlap, as two subjects.

Natural Sciences Maths required at most institutions.

Physiotherapy One science – usually Biology. Some universities ask for TWO sciences, so please check carefully.

Psychology A science subject such as Psychology or Biology is usually required.

Sports Science Some universities require Biology and another science.

Veterinary Science Chemistry and one or two other sciences. Like medicine, Vet Schools will not accept subjects which overlap as two subjects e.g. Maths and Further Maths.

Popular Degree Course Requirements

9 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

Talk to your current teachers for an honest, informedassessment of your potential in individual subjects. What’sessential, what’s preferred and what’s useful for universitycourse. Bear in mind that some careers and courses needparticular A levels and increasingly universities are looking backto GCSE results when making their offers. Some courses (such asMedicine) might specify a certain numbers of A* grades at GCSE.

Think about... whether thespecification plays to your strengths

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The Flecker Library is Dean Close School’scentral nexus of discovery, exploration anddevelopment. Our purpose: to supportlearning, cultivate advanced informationliteracy and champion the unmatchedpotency of reading. Our dedicated goal: toempower pupils through a wide-ranging,specialist information service.

Within its warm, wooden boughs, theFlecker Library offers both a haven forimagination, study and research, and aprofessional environment facilitated bytechnology and modern innovation. Ourever-evolving catalogue of academic non-fiction, biographies, young adult novels,contemporary fiction, graphic novels andliterary classics unswervingly supportsreading and research for both learning andleisure.

The Library catalogue can be accessed bothon and off site, providing users with theability to search for and reserve resourcesthey wish to borrow. As well as beinghome to over 14,000 books, pupils alsohave access to journals, magazines anddaily newspapers, and a thriving DVD and

digital media library. From Shakespeare toFrench Cinema, there is a vast range offilms and documentaries with whichscholars can supplement their learning.The ground floor of the Library affordspupils ample space for individual learningunderneath the vaulted ark of the FleckerHall, while the first floor hosts a full IT suitefor independent work and research. Oursecond floor is designated for Libraryteaching and Sixth Form group work,offering further presentation facilities andadditional computers. Throughout,dedicated Wi-Fi enables pupils to work ontheir own devices. Extending our physicallimits, pupils have access to acomprehensive selection of online academicjournals, digital periodicals, subject-specificstudy centres, encyclopaedias, and astreaming portal for documentaries andfeature films. Staffed by three dedicatedand specialist Librarians, we are available allday to assist in learning, resource discoveryand research.

Exam SuccessSuccess at A-level requires range and depthof knowledge, critical application of

understanding, and a fine-tuned academicskill set. Working closely with their subjectteachers, the Library strives to providepupils with the right opportunities andassistance to extend knowledge, challengethinking and develop key informationmanagement skills, - all key preparation forthe academic and professional demands oftheir future. The Library also offers aspecially tailored Study Skills programme ofworkshops and one-on-one tutorials tosmall groups of students, focussing on thefollowing academic and professionalessentials:

n Advanced research methods

n Information mapping and note-making

n Critical writing

n Presentation techniques

n Revision & exam strategies

We are an ever-changing library for an ever-changing world. Visit us now atdcslibrary.com.

Zach Suckle Head Librarian & Study Skills Coordinator

10 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

LibraryFlecker

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11 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is new to Dean Close. This additional andoptional qualification is equivalent to half an A level in terms of UCAS points and isintended to be accessible to students with a wide range of abilities. It requires pupils toproduce an independently researched piece of work on almost anything that intereststhem. It can be an extended essay, a physical artefact or an activity. For those who chooseto do it, the Extended Project is an opportunity to take their learning off at a tangentwhere you can demonstrate greater depth in an existing area of study or take theopportunity to investigate something completely fresh or different. It’s an excellent wayto showcase your organisational, research, critical thinking, extended writing andpresentation skills and hugely valuable preparation for degree-level study. ManyUniversities that demand the highest grades have given their support to this qualification.

The EPQ requires pupils to keep a detailedlog book to demonstrate their progress andexplain how they have overcome anyproblems that they have encountered. It isnot entirely unsupported; each student isallocated a supervisor who will help themframe their title and be someone off whomthey can bounce ideas. They will also betaught a variety of research skills, whichwill not only help them at Dean Close, butwill be useful for when they go touniversity. At the end of the project, theywill be required to present it to a few oftheir teachers and fellow students. It isanticipated that most pupils will start their EPQ during the Trinity Term of theLower Sixth.

Alastair Milne Head of EPQ

“The University recognises that the EPQwill provide an applicant with theopportunity todevelop research andacademic skills relevant for study atOxford. Candidates are encouraged todraw upon relevant EPQ experiencewhen writing their personalstatement.”

university of Oxford

“The Cambridge Colleges welcome the introduction of the Extended Project …primarily because of the benefit werecognise in the skills it will develop inlearners and the consequent easing ofthe transition from study in secondaryto higher education.”

university of Cambridge

“The University recognises that some ALevel students may also choose to offerthe Extended Project. In such casessome admissions tutors may make twoalternative offers, one of which involvessuccess in the Extended Project.”

university of Bristol

Extended ProjectQualification

Library

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12 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

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ArtWhy study Art at A level? The course is directed at all those with a genuineinterest, aptitude and enthusiasm for the subjectregardless of their future intentions and aspirations.

Are you a creative and original thinker who enjoysindependent research? Do you relish the opportunity forhands-on experimentation with materials as a means tovisually communicating your ideas? If so, then this is thesubject for you. If you are intending to study art and/ordesign at a higher level, and/or are hoping to enter acareer where an art and design background would berelevant or useful, this course must be consideredessential to achieving such goals.

With a view to careers, other than Fine Art, the followingfields stem from the study of art and design:Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Fashion andTextiles, Interior Design, Printing, Photography, MediaStudies, Graphic Design, Theatre Design, Product Designand Teaching, while industries of all descriptions arebecoming increasingly interested in employing peoplewith creative skills and imagination.

What will I learn?The Edexcel A level Art & Design specificationencourages an adventurous and enquiring approach.The Fine Art endorsement will enable you to explore anddevelop skills in an exciting range of two and threedimensional media within your study either as free-standing or related experiences.

Work produced will aim to demonstrate skilful use of theformal elements, advanced creative skills and givevisual form to individual thoughts, feelings, observationsand ideas.

The course aims to develop:n Intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive

powers.n Investigative, analytical, experimental, practical,

technical and expressive skills. n Aesthetic understanding and critical judgement.n Knowledge and understanding of art and design in

contemporary society and in other times and cultures.

The studio based courses are regularly enhanced andenriched by exhibitions, masterclasses and trips.

Throughout the course you will be required to keep workjournals for each unit. The work journal can be definedas a combination of sketchbook and time-based recordwhich contains evidence of the development of yourideas and should show your understanding of meanings,contexts and your ability to make skilled judgements,using appropriate visual/verbal form. The work journal isa vital tool in supporting and stimulating the artistic

process and has a major role in the production ofpreparatory work. Such study is essential in meeting theassessment objectives of the course at all stages.

How am I assessed?The 2 year course is divided into 2 assessable units:

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60%)Incorporates 3 major elements: supporting studies,practical work and a personal study:n Supporting studies and practical work will comprisea portfolio of development work and outcomes based onthemes and ideas developed from personal startingpoints.n The personal study will be evidenced through criticalwritten communication showing contextual researchand understanding in a minimum of 1000 wordscontinuous, written prose. It comprises 12% of the totalqualification.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%)Incorporates 2 major elements: preparatory studies andthe 15-hour period of sustained focus.n Preparatory studies will comprise a portfolio ofpractical and written development work based on thetheme and suggested starting points provided in theESA paper which is released on Feb 1st of the secondyear of the course.n During the 15 hour period of sustained focus underexam conditions, students will produce final outcomesextending from their preparatory studies.

Pearson Edexcel Art & Design Specification.

Caroline Evans Head of Art

BiologyWhy study Biology at A level? Biology is the study of life, covering everything that we are andhow we function. From understanding the distant evolutionarypast to our future survival, advances in biological fields fromecology to medicine and biotechnology will be vital for thehuman race in the coming decades.

Studying Biology A level will teach you the basics of thesubject, inform you about the issues that affect all living thingson the planet today and help you to understand more aboutthe functioning of your own body. As well as opening the doorto future study in the biological and related sciences, it willalso help develop your analytical and investigative skills andprovide you with the tools to critically evaluate Science andhow it is represented in the press.

Essential for study of medical and biological subjects atuniversity (for which many courses may also require aminimum of AS study in Chemistry), Biology also combineswell with almost all other subjects. Several of this year’sleavers have successfully gained places to study medically orbiologically related subjects at university.

Experiments, Practical Work, and Biology beyond theClassroomBiology is a practical subject best illustrated through hands-onlaboratory work. The new A level course embeds a wide rangeof experiments and investigations to develop of biologicaltechniques and a variety of study skills. By the end of thecourse, students will be confident in planning their ownpractical work and in critically evaluating their own and others’experimental designs and data.

Students will have the opportunity to carry out field work in theSchool grounds and the local countryside where they study theeffects of various biotic and abiotic factors on speciesdiversity.

Students have the chance to take part in the Biology Olympiadin the New Year, as well as being stretched and stimulated inBiochemistry, MDV, and Ethics sessions.

Course and Assessment The specification consists of 8 units: Biological Molecules;Cells; Exchange; Genetics & Diversity; Energy Transfer;Homeostasis and Response; Genetics, Populations andEvolution; Control of Gene Expression.

There is no longer any coursework or controlled assessment.Instead practical skills are developed over the two years of theA level and the progress and mastery of these skills trackedand monitored through the completion of a practical folder.

There are twelve ‘core’ practical investigations that studentswill complete, as well as many others that will also be carriedout throughout the course.

The A level is examined at the end of the course with studentssitting three 2 hour papers. Paper 1 is on material from Units1-4; Paper 2 is on material from Units 5-8; and Paper 3 is onall material from Units 1-8 including a focus on all relevantpractical skills.

Studying Biology at Dean Close gives you the opportunity togain an excellent understanding of a subject that underpins allhuman, animal and plant life and the chance to experience itat first hand, through practical work and field study, as well asto hear perspectives from experts in the field.

Matt Wiltes Head of Biology

13 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

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18 | Sixth Form Studies 2016 ~ 2018

Business

Chemistry

Why should I take Business?The last two decades have seen a revolution in attitudes toentrepreneurial activity and the development of globalisation.As a result, Business has become one of the fastest growing A levels, offering pupils an opportunity to find out how realbusinesses organise themselves to achieve a wide range ofobjectives in a highly competitive global economy.

What will I learn?You will learn about risk, what makes a successfulentrepreneur, financing your business, marketing, humanresource management, organising business operations,strategic decision making, investment appraisal and the globalenvironment, and much, much more.

A level Business is non-vocational, despite the fact that it usesreal business case studies as its foundation.

Do you see yourself as thenext Sir Alan Sugar? …ormaybe a Dragon?Are you interested inrunning your own business?What about going globaland following in thefootsteps of Sir RichardBranson and Virgin?

What help will I get?Business is taught by experienced teachers with a track recordof success. Delivery is via taught lessons using currentbusiness examples, backed up with the latest texts and onlineresources. The Department works with the DCS Business Clubto provide pupils the opportunity to hear from successfulpeople in business and to source examples of aspects of thespecification in applied settings.

Jonathan Hardaker Head of Economics & Business

If you have tried to come up with an answer then you maywant to study chemistry at A level. The answer will berevealed, as well as explanations of what was really going onin your GCSE chemistry. Chemistry at A level suits anyone whohas an enquiring mind, is fascinated by the composition ofmaterials and enjoys finding patterns that can be explained.

Also:n Chemistry can be fun. You will be able to

do many of the practical activities that lower down the School were said to be too dangerous.

n If you want to stretch yourself chemistry will provide the opportunity to do so and it will look impressive on your CV.

n It is an essential subject if you are aiming at a career in the medical profession and is very useful if you want to study any science at a higher level.

But isn’t chemistry really difficult?Chemistry is a challenging subject and should not beattempted by someone who found GCSE chemistry difficult.The majority of Dean Close chemists achieve A or B grades atA-level; this suggests that chemistry cannot be too difficult.

What will I learn?We follow the AQA chemistry specification.

The outline is as follows:

Year 1 (Lower Sixth)Physical Chemistry: basic atomic structure, calculations,bonding, energetics, rates of reaction and reversible reactions.

Inorganic Chemistry: periodicity, group 2 and group 7elements.

Organic Chemistry: organic mechanisms, alkanes, alkenes,haloalkanes, alcohols and analysis of organic molecules.

Year 2 (Upper Sixth)Physical Chemistry: acids and base calculations, redoxtitrations, thermodynamics, rate equations andelectrochemical cells.

Inorganic Chemistry: transition metals, complex ions andperiodicity of period 3 elements and oxides.

Organic Chemistry: compounds containing the carbonylgroup, amines, polymers, amino acids, DNA, aromaticcompounds, organic synthesis and isomerism.

How am I assessed?Chemistry is a linear subject, meaning that all formal writtenassessment occurs at the end of year 2 (Upper Sixth) only.

There will be three written papers taken at the end of theUpper Sixth, with various compulsory practical tasks takingplace during normal lessons, throughout the whole of the two-year course. These are not formally assessed until thewritten papers at the end of the Upper Sixth.

There is no coursework in A level chemistry.

The three papers are all two hours in duration and are basedon the following topics;

Paper 1: Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and practical skills. 35% of A level.

Paper 2: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and practical skills. 35% of A level.

Paper 3: Synoptic and a greater amount of practical skills. 30% of A level.

Aron Needs Head of Chemistry

What is this?

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Classics: Latin & Greek n Classical Civilisation

Computer ScienceWhy Study Computer Science?If you are constantly tinkering with your computerwondering “What happens if I change this?” and “Howdoes it work?”, or if you have a fondness for problemsolving, mathematical reasoning and logic then A LevelComputer Science may be the perfect choice for you.

A level Computer Science is accepted as an appropriatequalification for entry to many degree courses and givesa very good start for pupils wishing to take ComputerScience at degree level. Weather you chose to StudyComputer Science at university or not, you will find thepractical skills you have developed through the courseto be invaluable in supporting further study in scienceand engineering courses at undergraduate level.

It is expected that pupils will achieve a minimum of agrade B in GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Physics inorder to take this subject in the Sixth Form. GCSEComputing is not necessary.

Pupils will be based in Computer suites which areespecially equipped to facilitate the delivery of thecourse. They will be able to access their files using DeanClose School networked PCs, remote access via theInternet is also available. A selection of microcontrollersand associated kits will be made available for possibleuse in A level projects or co-curricular activities.

What will I learn?Pupils will take a detailed look ‘under the hood’ ofcomputer systems to learn about what really goes oninside those chips and circuit boards. They willinvestigate the nature and role of software, taking apractical approach; by designing and developing theirown software applications using various programinglanguages including; Python, Visual basic and PHP.

They will learn how data is processed, represented andstored by computers, creating algorithms that can beapplied to solve computational problems. They also useOffice productivity software to demonstrate anddocument progress throughout the course, and areexpected to do a substantial amount of both practicaland theory work outside the classroom.

How am I assessed? Specification: OCR Computer Science - H446 (from 2015)

Computer Systems (40%) 2.5 hoursThis unit gives a broad overview of Computer Science,looking at the elements of a computer system(hardware/software/operating systems), the structureand nature of data, the role of the processor and theimplications of computer use. Pupils also examine therole and importance of databases to commerce andbusiness.

Algorithms and Programming (40%) 2.5 hoursThis unit focuses on computational thinking, includingdesigning, creating and evaluating computer programs.

A variety of practical tasks are covered in differentcomputer languages, such as Visual Basic and Python.pupils are encouraged to develop practical skills in anumber of areas and will create desktop programs,mobile apps and robotics-based solutions.

Programming Project (20%)Pupils research and design a complex informationsystem and create a working program to solve a real-world problem. The project and accompanyingdocumentation form the assessment for this unit.

Darren Fitzgerald Head of Computer Science

Why study Latin and Greek? Post GCSE, the aims of the department are two-fold:firstly we aim to sharpen and develop the linguistic skillsthus far acquired (to enable the pupil to cope with thewider range of syntax and vocabulary to beencountered.) and, secondly, to develop the historicalperspective necessary to appreciate each author in hisperiod. No one should think of tackling A level Latin orGreek unless he or she is excited by literature, historyand language. We try to grapple with the great minds ofthe past, to study contemporary problems and we areever conscious of the derivation of our native tongue. Webelieve that the discipline required to master thelanguage is of great value; we know that the businessworld and the professions value the Classics graduatefor his clear thinking and analytical ability. We alsobelieve that the past has valuable lessons for thepresent. Latin and/or Greek can be successfullycombined with any Arts or, indeed, Scientific subject.University Classics Departments are crying out forClassics scholars and B/C grades may ensure entry toall but Oxbridge, Durham and Bristol. MeanwhileClassics students have pursued successful careers inaccountancy, banking, computing, law and business.

How am I assessed?Candidates must sit two papers at AS, the first of whichrequires the translation of two Latin prose passages intoEnglish. Paper 2 is a literature paper and examines oneprose and one verse text. Candidates must sit twopapers at A2, deemed prose and verse, in both of whichan unseen translation is set alongside the examinationof a set text.

Examination Board: OCR

What is Classical Civilisation and Why should Istudy it?This subject involves an extensive survey of manyof the chief aspects of Graeco-Roman civilisationand, as such, is a particularly good companionsubject to English, History and History of Art. Aworking knowledge of the achievements, cultureand mythology of Greece and Rome will certainlyenhance an A level candidate's appreciation ofEuropean literature and thought. All texts arestudied in translation and no knowledge of Greek

or Latin is assumed or required nor is it necessaryto have studied the subject at GCSE.

What are the requirements?Answer - an interest in the past, an ability torespond critically to both a body of literature andthe material remains of a culture that continues toexcite debate today and a willingness toempathise with peoples from a past not so unlikeour present. There are two modules at AS leveland two modules at A2 level which enable one tostudy literary, historical and art historical/archaeological subjects. At AS there is anopportunity to grapple with Homer’s Iliad, thecornerstone of European literature and to explorethe development of Greek sculpture and templearchitecture. At A2 we study Virgil’s great Romanepic, the Aeneid and one of the most significantepisodes in European history, the Persian Invasionsof Greece. For more information, particularly aboutthe extra-curricular activities run by thedepartment (the Classical Tour, the ClassicalSociety), go to the Classics Department section ofthe school website.

How am I assessed?Candidates are expected to sit two papers at bothAS and A2 level in which knowledge andunderstanding are examined through one contextquestion and one essay.

Examination Board: AQA

Jon Allen Head of Classics

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The CourseThe AS/A2 level specification is a progressivedevelopment of knowledge and understanding requiredfor examination.

You will gain knowledge and skills during the LowerSixth Form that will go on to help you in developing yourown coursework project where you will work with aclient of your own to provide solution/s to problems thatyou identify. The course is technical and has a focus onindustrial application of designing and manufacturing.

Preferably, you will have studiedDesign Technology at GCSE leveland achieved either an A or A*.

However, our course is directed atanyone with a genuine interest,capability and enthusiasm for thesubject regardless of their futureintentions.

If you enjoy creative and practicalproblem solving and working in anindependent manner then this maywell be a subject option for you.

What are our aims? Theatre Studies is about everything that happens onstage in a theatre: the drama, acting and directing, theset and staging, costumes, design... We read and studyplays from the angle of performance and staging.

We go and see a great deal of live theatre. We studyacting techniques in lessons and through workshopsand learn about great practitioners such as Stanislavskiand Brecht.

What does it involve? You will need to be able to act, and act well. An A gradein GCSE drama is a complete requirement. There is astrong practical element to the course but there are alsoimportant theoretical aspects, and the artistic andintellectual ability to transport a text from page to stageis a core part of the subject; hence, design, costumes,period, background are all just as important as ideas onhow to perform or direct a role. Theatre Studies is notabout achieving fame or bolstering ego: it involveslearning about dramatic interpretation and possibility.

The AS courseWritten exam: interpreting a set text for performance –how to direct, act, design, etc and a question onresponse to Live Theatre.

Practical exam: performance of an extract from a play,with a portfolio of 3000 words.

The A2 CourseWritten exam: on a further two texts (eg Chekhov and Arthur Miller).

Practical performance: of Devised Piece by the SixthFormers themselves, with supporting notes.

Trips, workshops, theatre visits A great many visits to live performances in Stratford (RSC), Malvern, Cheltenham, London, Bath andothers. An all-day visit to Stratford: workshops withprofessional actors, visits to Shakespeare’s birthplaceand tomb, and a performance at the RSC. An all-dayvisit to The Globe Theatre in London, with workshopsfrom professional actors and directors, followed by aperformance at The Globe.

Workshops/visits with working actors Over the last few years we have been visited by DAMEJUDI DENCH, JEREMY IRONS, NIGEL HAVERS, DOMINICWEST and others. In rehearsals for The History Boys wehad a wonderful workshop with Jamie Parker (from theoriginal cast and film), as well as a workshop fromRoger Sloman (star of cult Mike Leigh film Nuts in Maywith Alison Steadman). It is compulsory to attend allSchool productions so that pupils get the benefit andawareness of a wide range of genres and performancestyles; in the last two years pupils will have seen AMidsummer Night’s Dream, Arcadia, The Crucible, ThePrime of Miss Jean Brodie, Romeo and Juliet and othercontemporary productions. Exceptionally talented pupils

who pass auditions will be invited to attend the annualvisit of Close Up Theatre at the Edinburgh Fringe: CloseUp has been awarded Sell Out Status from the Fringe forthe last 11 years.

Careers In the last five years, a significant number of studentshave gone on to major drama schools: LAMDA, RADA,Mountview, Central School of Speech and Drama andothers. In addition, an Old Decanian theatre company,No Prophet, performed at the Fringe in 2012 and 2013,garnering 5 star reviews and no little press interest.One OD in this company – Will Merrick – is also inRichard Curtis’ new film About Time, released in 2013and a member of the RSC. But studying the subject doesnot mean that a career in acting is the only option; it willopen up opportunities in the arts, advertising, PR,journalism, theatre management and film. We find that Theatre Studies improves confidence, public speakingand sense of organisation and self-discipline.

Lloyd Allington Director of Drama

Design Technology

The Director of Drama will be very glad to meet anyone and discuss their potential in this subject; ideally they should be prepared to discuss their experience of acting andtheatre. It is expected that candidates will express a genuine interest in theatre beyond West End musicals.

Drama & Theatre Studies

The course is aimed to:• Stimulate and sustain the interest of design andtechnology

• Develop awareness in all aspects of design activityincluding sensitivity to aesthetic factors andrefinement and accuracy in the choice and use ofmaterials

• Develop the ability to discriminate and make valuejudgements

• Provide an opportunity for you to exercise initiative,imagination, resourcefulness and time managementskills in the solution of design problems

• Provide a body of knowledge and skills which will beof considerable benefit to your personal and workinglife, whether or not you continue further studies inthis or related subject areas

• Give an understanding and appreciation of the role ofboth design and technology in meeting human needsand an awareness of modern technologicaldevelopments against a background of their historicperspective

• Encourage you to apply your knowledge andunderstanding of design technology, to familiar andunfamiliar situations and problems.

• Develop numerical and communication skillsappropriate to design technology examinationrequirements.

Facilities and ExperiencesThe workshop based course is enhanced by drop insessions and trips or visits with designers and engineersoffering and sharing experiences. There is regularaccess to the school facilities both during the school dayand during co-curricular times.

Results and CareersOur A level pupils have gone on to read Engineering,Architecture, Product Design and Industrial Designto name but a few courses.

If you are intending to study design or engineeringcourses at a higher level, and/or are hoping to entera career where a design technology backgroundwould be relevant or useful, this course must beconsidered an essential element in you’re A levelportfolio.With a view to careers, other than fine art,the following fields stem from the study of art anddesign technology: architecture, landscapearchitecture, fashion and textiles, interior design,printing, photography, media studies, graphicdesign, theatre design, product design and teaching,while industries of all descriptions are becomingincreasingly interested in employing peopledemonstrating a mixture of imagination and bothtechnical and creative skills.

Dom Evans Head of Design Technology

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Economics

Why study A Level English Literature?This course will:

n Encourage pupils to read widely and independently

n Furnish a lifelong love of reading

n Deepen appreciation and understanding of a widerange of Literature

n Develop knowledge of literary analysis and theways in which writers shape meaning

n Teach the significance of cultural and contextualinfluences on readers and writers

n Teach valuable transferable skills of sustainedresearch, critical thinking and coherent expression

n Give pupils confidence to articulate and defendtheir point of view

n Give pupils the opportunity to learn outside theclassroom, with frequent theatre trips, lectures, andvisits to landscapes that inspired our poets andwriters, and hopefully our pupils too.

What will I study?The two year course consists of three components:

Component 1 – Shakespeare ( Hamlet), plus one dramatext and one poetry text pre-1900 (for example,Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi and Milton’sParadise Lost) Worth 40% of the final A Level

Component 2 - a wide ranging study of a particulararea of Literature, for example Gothic Literature orAmerican Literature. Worth 40% of the final A Level

Component 3 – coursework on post-1900 Literature,one collection of poetry, one play and one novel, one of which must be published post- 2000Worth 20% of the final A Level

Kate Ledlie Head of English

Why should I take Economics?Economics is an academic subject that is held in highregard by major universities. Pupils wishing to gain entryto Oxbridge should consider combining Economics witha combination of Mathematics, History or Politics. Thecourse is fairly rigorous in its approach so a taste for

Economics has become highprofile. The credit crunch,bankers’ bonuses and fearsof a Euro meltdown are justthree topics rarely out ofthe news in recent years.

mathematical-type reasoning is usefulalthough the mathematical content of thecourse is not in itself demanding.

What will I learn?In the study of microeconomics you willlearn how markets operate, why they fail,what governments can do to intervene, thenature of competition amongst firms andhow firms make pricing and outputdecisions.

In the study of macroeconomics you willlearn about key Government objectives inthe economy and policies to controlunemployment, inflation, interest rates,exchange rates and economic growth. Youwill develop an understanding of economicmodels and apply these to the UK and theglobal economy as you examine the UK’seconomic relationships with othercountries.

What help will I get?As with Business Studies you will be taughtby experienced teachers with a track recordof success. Delivery is via taught lessonsusing current economic data, backed upwith the latest texts and online resources.

The Department runs class trips to revisionconferences in the U6. Extensionopportunities include Upper Sixth formessay competitions, clinics and excursions.

Jonathan Hardaker Head of Economics

English

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As the committee of ministers at the Assembly for Europe stated:

‘Environmental issuescannot be taught solely inthe form of knowledge. Theyshould be related to theworld in which pupils liveand to real-life situations.’

Why study Geography at Dean Close?Geography is an increasingly popular subject at DeanClose with many opting to continue to study someaspect of Geography at university. Geography isconcerned with the multicultural society andinterdependent world in which we live, where incidentsin one place are caught up in chains of events spanningthe globe.

The world in which we live is likely to change more in thenext 50 years than it has ever done before and asGeographers our understanding of that change is moreimportant than ever. Students will at all times beencouraged to look beyond the classroom and enhancetheir geographical skills by “Thinking like a geographer”.

Why study Politics? Politics affects everyone, everywhere at any time. Thestudy of Politics at A level gives you an understanding ofthe Political processes of the UK, an awareness of thecurrent state of British Politics and knowledge ofPolitical ideologies.

The study of Politics helps you to understand whydecisions are made on your behalf which will impact onyour life, your futures and careers. Politics complementsmany subjects choices - Arts and Humanities,Economics and Science - because it affects all areasand is multi disciplinary.

What will I learn?At AS you are given a thorough grounding of UK Politics.In Unit 1 there is a study of “People and Politics” lookingat issues such as the state of Democracy in the UK andwhere current Political Parties stand in the UK.

Unit 2 entitled “Governing the UK” complements thisstudy with an overview of the UK Political system,looking at the consitiution, Parliament, the role of P.M.and the legal system.

A2 takes you on a journey through the main Politicalideologies ranging from Liberalism to Anarchism, andConservatism to Socialism in Unit 3.

Unit 4 extends this with a study of other ideologivcaltraditions such as Feminism, Multiculturalism andEcologism.

How am I assessed?AS Politics

Unit 1: People & Politics (50% : 1 hour 20 Minutes)

• Democracy and Participation

• Elections and Electoral Systems

• Party Policies• Pressure Groups

Unit 2: Governing the UK (50% : 1 hour 20 Minutes)

• The Constitution • Parliament• Prime Minister and Cabinet• Judges and Civil Liberties

A2 Politics

Unit 3B: Introducing Political Ideologies(50% : 1 hour 30 Minutes)

• Liberalism• Conservatism• Socialism• Anarchism

Unit 4B: Other Ideological Traditions(50% : 1 hour 30 Minutes)

• Nationalism• Feminism• Ecologism• Multiculturalism

Are there other opportunities? We are extremely fortunate to be able to welcome a number of politicians to Dean Close eachyear. Sixth Formers have the opportunity to meet andquestion a number of politicians.

In recent years we have met Gordon Brown, DavidBlunkett, William Hague and Tony Benn as well ashaving regular visits from our local MP.

• Each year Politics students have the opportunity tovisit the Houses of Parliament.

• A number of students are offered work placementswith local MPs at the House of Commons.

• Many Politics students take part in the EuropeanYouth Parliament competition. Dean Close reachedthe National Finals in 2012.

• Each year a number of students go onto study a number of politics-based degrees atuniversity including PPE and International Relations.

Catherine Feltham Head of History and Politics

GeographyWhat will it give me?Today’s students can’t open newspapers or watch thenews without being confronted with issues such asclimate change; the impact of hurricanes and floods; orthe future supply of energy and food. Geographers morethan any other subject group, have considered the inter-relationships between different aspects of economic,social, environmental, political and cultural issues.Geography looks to the future and will prepare studentsfor the world of the 21st Century – providing aneducation for life.

Career path - A Level Geography enables students todevelop a wide variety of transferable skills that are ingreat demand from employers, universities andcolleges. Literacy, numeracy, statistical and ICT skills willbe enhanced throughout the course.

What will I learn?Geography develops the ability to combine scientificprinciples with economic awareness, environmentalconcern and an appreciation and tolerance of peoples’attitudes and values. On October 31st 2011, the world’spopulation passed the 7 billion milestone. The continuedgrowth of global population and the inevitable strain onglobal resources will play a key role in shaping the 21stcentury world. Geography is therefore a verycontemporary subject, tackling a wide variety of issuesand questions in both the physical and humanenvironment. Fieldwork is an integral part of this coursenot only as a fundamental basis for one of the modulesbut it also allows students to observe in detail and try tomeasure and quantify the real world rather than study itfrom the isolation of the classroom. In the new syllabusthere is a mandatory 4 days of fieldwork to becompleted both human and physical.

Government & Politics

Content will be taken from:1. Water and Carbon cycle (Carbon stores andchanges; Water stores and changes; climatic links)

2. Landscape systems (drylands, coastal landscapes,glaciated landscapes)

3. Global systems and Global Governance (Internationaltrade and access to markets; Human developmentand life expectancy; global population migration)

4. Changing place; Changing places (Changingdemographic and cultural characteristics; economicchange and social inequalities; food production,circulation and consumption)

AssessmentThe A level is made up of three mandatory units whichare externally assessed. There will be one human andone physical paper each being around 2hrs 30mins inexam conditions, consisting of short answer questionsand extended prose essays. The third unit is aGeographical Investigation, which will be in the region of4000 words and is worth 20% of the A level.

Alisdair Cradock Head of Geography

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History

Mathematics

Why study History? The History Department seeks to create an enjoyment of the study of History, combined with arigour for learning. The Department is staffed byenthusiasts with a commitment to bring the subject tolife by using a variety of techniques. We encourage ourstudents to develop the skills of critical enquiry, analysisand the construction of sharply focused and detailedargument. In doing so our aim is that each studentachieves their individual potential in the subject. In thelong term we wish their study of History to give themthe capacity to understand and appreciate the world,both past and present.

What does History offer?History offers the opportunity to study a range ofcomplex issues in depth and links to a number of othersubjects at A level, most notably English, Geography,Philosophy and Politics. It teaches you to analyse andevaluate many different types of information, to expressyourself in a clear and precise manner as well as gainan understanding of different people and cultures. SixthForm Historians are naturally inquisitive, interestedstudents who love to debate issues and get to the rootof an argument. Students studying History go on tomany different professions including Law, the CivilService and the City. Each year a number of studentsfrom Dean Close study History-based degrees atuniversity, including Oxford and Cambridge.

What will I learn?History A level is assessed as a linear course. Studentschoosing to study History will complete the full A leveland will be examined at the end of the two years. In linewith Government guidelines, students choosing to studyHistory at A level MUST:

• Study the History of more than one country• Study a minimum of 20% British History• Study topics from a chronological range of at least

200 years.

Catherine Feltham Head of History and Politics

Outside the classroom: There are a number of opportunities to meet historians and visit key historical sites at Sixth Form. In recent years students have held court withthe likes of David Starkey and Philipa Gregory. Many students go on to study History at top universities such as ULC, Warwick, Exeter, Durham & Bristol.

Written examination 2 hrs 30 minutes, includes bothessay and interpretation analysis.

Written examination 2hrs 30 minutes, includes bothessay and evaluation of primary sources .

This is a personal/ independent research study basedon a topic of student’s choice. 3000-3500 words.Worth 40 marks (20%) of the overall total.

Paper 1: Breadth study: the study of a 100 yearperiod of significant historical development.(40%). Topics: Either The Age of the Crusades,c1071–1204 OR The Quest for Political Stability:Germany, 1871–1991

Paper 2: Depth study: the study in depth of aperiod of major historical change ordevelopment (40%). Topics: Either ReligiousConflict and the Church in England, c1529 –c1570 OR The Making of Modern Britain, 1951–2007

Component 3: Coursework (20%)

At Dean Close School the course currently offers the following:

Why should I choose to study Maths? Maths A level is essential for many degree courses, andextremely useful for many more. According to UCAS it isthe most widely required A level by UK universities.Furthermore, it is a lot of fun, as long as you areprepared to work hard and ask lots of questions!

How am I assessed? Pupils are entered for the Edexcel A/S and A2 examseries. All pupils syudy the compulsory core mathsmodules (C1-C4). There is a choice of statistics ormechanics. In Upper Sixth, devision maths, the linkbetween ITC and mathematics is studied.

What help will I get? At Dean Close you will be taught by committed, highlyqualified teachers using the latest ICT teaching aids.Maths clinics are held two times a week, which are verypopular with AS & A2 students. In addition, there is aseries of lectures looking at Maths beyond theclassroom.

And more over… A recent study showed that employees with a Maths Alevel earned 10% more than those without one. Asimilar survey by the big four UK ManagementConsultant firms showed that the top professions allrequired at least an A level in Mathematics. At the end ofthe Lower Sixth we invite a speaker from companiessuch as Hewlett-Packard, General Electric and WilliamHill, to explain how they use maths on a daily basis.

Peter Garner Head of Maths

Consider the following mathematical challenges.

What do we mean by the critical path of a network?

Consider the sequence What is the 100th term? What isthe millionth?

What do we mean by saying that the sum of all the termsup to infinity is 1?

Why are curves like these so important in Statistics?

If these have got you thinking, you should consider studying A level Maths.

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Why study Modern languages? Few experiences in life can match the sense ofachievement and pleasure of being able tocommunicate with someone in a foreign language.You will find it a challenge but very rewarding to studylanguages beyond the confines of the GCSE syllabus.You will benefit from a weekly individual lesson with ourFrench and Spanish language assistants. They will notonly help your fluency but can also help you target yourareas for improvement and are extremely well versed inthe exam boards.

Universities like to see languages on a UCAS form. Youcan combine languages with almost any degree andgain more course credits. Universities are very keen torecruit linguists and you could well receive a moregenerous grade offer when you apply for a degree. Ifyou are considering Russell Group universities orOxbridge, we have a good track record of successfulapplicants for languages.

In an increasingly monolingual United Kingdom you willbe a valuable commodity. Language graduates earnmore than any other non-vocational degree. If you workin banking or multi-national corporations, you could findyourself in the minority if you can only speak English.You also go to school in a town with one of the highestnumber of linguists working in intelligence gathering.Look at what is happening on your doorstep.

What will I learn?Languages change to the new Linear A levels inSeptember 2016. The exam boards have not releasedfinal specifications yet. You will cover a book or film inthe Lower Sixth as well as the usual listening, readingand speaking exams. In U6 the course extends to

Who can study Music at A level? It is preferable to have taken GCSE but it is sometimespossible to take Music at A level if you haveconsiderable practical ability, and a good generalmusical awareness and knowledge.

Performance counts for 30% of the A level overall, so ifyou are of a standard equivalent to Grade 6 plus on aninstrument or voice you can secure a considerablepercentage fairly easily.

As a musician you will be developing your practicalskills anyway through your instrumental lessons andindependent practice during the Sixth Form and bytaking A level Music you will be able to use these skillsto enable you to achieve a high grade.

What will I Learn and How will I be AssessedThe exam board is Edexcel and there are six units:

Performing Music performed on any instrument/s,either solo or ensemble for 5/6 minutes.

Composing under controlled conditions.

Developing Musical Understanding focussing onlistening to familiar music and understanding how itworks.

Extended Performance with the standard at Grade 7 inorder to gain a high mark.

Compositions and Technical Study completed undercontrolled conditions.

Further Musical Understanding focuses on listening tomusic, familiar and unfamiliar, and understanding how itworks

What goes on? The Music Department at Dean Close is thriving with ahost of musical activities Choirs, Orchestra, ConcertBand, Jazz Band, Sinfonia, Choral Society andensembles - and a full programme of concerts, musicals(bi-annually) and Choir tours abroad, including recenttrips to New York, Venice, Paris, Salzburg and Vienna.

Concerts at the stunning Pittville Pump Room (generallyinvolving student concertos) and Evensongs at St Paul’sCathedral and Tewkesbury Abbey occur annually.Masterclasses and concerts given by professionalshappen on a regular basis as do Music Society trips toconcerts and operas.

What will Music A level give me? Although Music has a practical element it is still considered a fully academic subject by universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. Some of our musicians go on to study at the leadingConservatoires, sometimes on studentships, whileothers choose to study Music at University.

There is a strong tradition of Oxbridge Choral and Organstudentships with six past pupils on such awards atpresent. However, there are others who purely enjoy thewelcome break Music can provide as a contrast to theirother subjects, thereby giving a more rounded educationand a chance to pursue creativity.

With a high chance of a top academic grade andstudying within a friendly and vibrant department, whynot consider Music?

Helen Porter Director of Music

another book and film and introduces translationelements which are fun and make you think aboutFrench grammar and constructions in more detail aswell as improving your phraseology in English.

What is the specification?We do not foresee a huge change from the current ALevel Specification and we are likely to remain with the

Music

AQA board. Pre-release content is pointing towards twocultural topics (books/films/historical periods) in theUpper Sixth year instead of the existing one.

Chris Hooper Head of Modern Languages

Modern Languages

Do you enjoy Classical Music?

Do you play an instrument or sing to Grade 6level?

Do you aspire to becoming a better musician?

If the answer to these questions is yes, A levelMusic could be the perfect choice for you.

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Religious Studies

Physical Education

Why study Religious Studies? The study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics shouldappeal to anyone with an inquiring mind. Religion is aprimary influence on the social, political andphilosophical elements in our culture. This courseexplores a broad range of questions, looking inparticular at the ways in which ethical and philosophicalinsights have influenced the social, cultural and politicaldevelopment of Western society. Personal religious beliefis neither an advantage nor disadvantage as pupils areexamined on how they argue, rather than what theybelieve.

The course will provide pupils with the opportunity todevelop a range of transferable skills. These include theskills of collecting, synthesising and interpretinginformation from a number of sources. Those taking thecourse will be expected to read primary texts and tocommunicate the findings of their research effectively.

Pupils do not need to have studied Religious StudiesGCSE to do this course, but an ability to researchindependently and to write clear English, as well as acommitment to the subject, are essential.Religious Studies can dovetail nicely with manysubjects - Maths and Science, Classics and Art, aswell as the more traditional English and Humanities.

Religious Studies A Level has historically be consideredone of the most valuable subjects for a variety ofuniversity course and careers, including: Law and theCivil Service, Social Work, Politics and Business,Research; Debate and analysis, Teaching.

What will I learn?Religious Studies involves an investigation into importantquestions that affect our beliefs and the way we live. It isa rigorous academic discipline that requires: an openmind, an interest in current affairs, an ability to argue acase rationally and consider the implications of a view.

The course is split into two parts: Philosophical, Ethicaland Social Scientific Studies of Religion; and secondly,Textual Studies, which involves a the critical analysis ofselect New Testament passages.

Brian Poxon Head of Religious Studies

Why study PE at A Level?The study of Physical Education is becoming ever morepopular both in our School and across the country as awhole. PE is now recognised by universities as beingjust as valuable as other A levels, and in recent yearsthis subject has become increasingly popular and canlead to a variety of career options in:

Sports Science Leisure ManagementSports Studies Sports PsychologySports Physiotherapy JournalismTeaching and Coaching

In each of the two years here you will be taught by threedifferent teachers who each utilise their different areasof knowledge, expertise and experience to give you abroad understanding of the modules they lead.

What will I learn?The course is split in to six topic areas across two years.Across the two years you will cover applied Anatomyand Exercise Physiology, Biomechanical movement, SkillAcquisition, Sports Psychology, Sport and Society andthe role of technology in physical activity and sport.

These give a wide and fascinating insight in to manyareas of sport from the body and its systems to how welearn and memorise skills to how sport is organisedaround the world.

How am I assessed?At the end of your two years you will have completed acoursework module which makes up 30% of your finalmark. This coursework is made up of one practicalactivity and one evaluation & analysis of performancefor improvement task. The remaining 70% of the courseis examined in one 2 hour exam, worth 30%, and two 1hour exams, worth 20% each.

What extra is there?Pupils who choose to study PE get a lot of extra supportoutside of normal lessons. We take all A level studentsto revision conferences in the Lent term, as well asvisiting the Oxstalls campus at the University ofGloucestershire to do some hands on Exercise

Physiology testing. As well as that we are able to offerthe chance to have top Olympic athletes come to talk.Events by relevant individuals at the CheltenhamLiterature Festival, such as Ben Fogle and JamesCracknell, Steve Redgrave and Sir Ranulph Fiennes arealso attended by those doing PE at A level.

All our pupils get the chance to go on major school tourssuch as the New Zealand rugby tour in 2008, SouthAfrica hockey tour in 2010, Singapore and Australianetball and rugby tour in 2012, and the upcoming SouthAfrica hockey tour in 2016.

A level PE is not just about playing sport. However if you feel dedicated to achieving success bothacademically and practically, then this may be theperfect subject for you.

Rhona DonaldsonHead of Academic PE

AS Unit 1Philosophical, Ethical andSocial Scientific Studies ofReligion[25%]

AS Unit 2Textual Studies[25%]

n Proofs for the existence and non-existence of God, gods or an ultimate reality.n Two ethical theories: utilitarianism and virtue ethics and their application to particular

issues.n Approaches to religion and religious experience chosen from the fields of psychology,

sociology and anthropology.

n Examining the meaning of select New Testament texts the material; its literary features,ideas, authorship and audience and its relationship with other texts and/or sources ofwisdom and authority from the religion.

n Legal/ theological/ ethical content and the role of a text or texts in religious law makingand codes for living.

n The social and historical context of the texts and issues that arise from the formation, transmission and translation of text.

n The religious, cultural and other significance of the texts and influence beyond areligious community.

n Religious language - how it has changed over time; the verification/falsification debateand language games theory; God being understood symbolically and analogically.

n A comparison of the key ideas of two key scholars; developments in how these ideasapply to contemporary issues.

n How philosophical, ethical and social scientific studies have influenced and beeninfluenced by developments in religious beliefs and practices or textual interpretation.

n Methods and methodology in interpretation; Modern and historical commentary on theselected texts, including allegorical or other interpretations; the scientific and historical-critical challenges to the authority of texts.

n The religious or intellectual assumptions that underpin different interpretations.n How textual interpretations have, over time, influenced and been influenced by

developments in philosophical, ethical and social scientific studies of religion ordevelopments in religious thought.

AS Unit 3Philosophical, Ethical andSocial Scientific Studies ofReligion[25%]

AS Unit 4Textual Studies[25%]

If you are interested in how thebody works, the structure ofsport, how we learn and refineskills, how to improve practicalperformance, and enjoy playingsport, then A level PE may wellbe for you.

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Why study Physics?Surveys consistently suggest that a Physics A Level isone of the most highly regarded qualifications you cantake at school. If you want to study Science, Medicine,Engineering, Computer Science or Maths at a gooduniversity then A level Physics will certainly be usefuland may be essential. All sorts of career opportunitiesopen up having taken A Level Physics, and they do notnecessarily relate to Science. And then of course, youshould study Physics for the beauty and fun of it.

What will I learn? The topics that will be studied will include areas asdiverse as:

Mechanics: Learning just how the word moves aroundyou

Cosmology & Particle Physics: Finding out just why theUniverse is structured as it is

Relativity:What happens to objects close to the speed oflight

Wave theory: How musical instruments work and whydiamonds sparkle

Heat: Superconductivity through to cooking at home

Modelling: Decay curves, Simple harmonic Motion andParticle Theory

Physics will of course also teach you to think broadlyand to analyse. It will help you become better equippedto consider problems and to come up with answers. Inessence, Physics will teach you to appreciate the Worldaround you and how you can interact with it

The Science of Mind and Behaviour With the study of mind and behaviour at its core, Psychologyis a diverse and fascinating subject. The course contentspans the spectrum of traditional subjects giving wideappeal to pupils whose strengths lie in Humanities,Creatives or Science.

What will I learn? Students will gain insights into behaviour, brain structureand functioning, cognition and psychological research. Thecourse also delves into the real life applications ofpsychological knowledge e.g. Criminal and ClinicalPsychology. The topics are captivating and wide-rangingincluding:

n Obedience, prejudice and aggression

n Brain damage and brain abnormalities e.g. in casesof criminals or individuals with a mental illness

n How we learn and how our behaviour can be shapedand controlled

n The causes of and treatments for mental illness

n The problems with witness testimony and theprocesses involved in jury decision-making

In Psychology, students will also consider a range of issuesand debates including the ethics of animal and humanresearch and whether rehabilitation is effective. A furtherarea for discussion is the extent to which humancharacteristics such as mental illness or criminality arepredetermined before birth or are a product of upbringing.The course also provides the opportunity for students toconduct their own research, engaging participants in avariety of activities to investigate psychological issues.

Why study Psychology?Interest: students report that Psychology is their mostinteresting subject.

Compatibility: Psychology is compatible with anycombination of A level subjects. Prior knowledge of thesubject is not a prerequisite; but it is recommended thatstudents have good grades in Maths, English and Science atGCSE or equivalent.

Valuable skills: Universities and employers value the skillsthat Psychology students can offer, which include criticalanalysis, using evidence to formulate discussions,interpersonal awareness, practical research and problemsolving.

Valuable knowledge: Psychology students can go on tobecome professionals in the field, such as ClinicalPsychologists and Forensic Psychologists. Others applywhat they have learned to a wide variety of careers such asLaw, Medicine, Education, Politics, Sport and Business.

Exam success: Psychology appeals to a wide range ofstudents who have gone on to achieve success in thesubject. Each year the department is able to report excellentresults and progression to top universities.

Opportunities and Activities in PsychologyThe course combines a wide range of activities toencapsulate the diversity of the content. From discussions,debate, practical demonstrations and role plays (e.g. jurymembers of a court case), to research investigations,conferences and enrichment visits.

Practical InvestigationsOne aspect of Psychology that students enjoy is designingtheir own research, including experiments and observations,collecting data from real participants and assessing theoutcomes of their own findings.

Contemporary IssuesA key element of the course is exploring current issues suchas football hooliganism, the influence of the media and theoccurrence of psychological disorders such as anorexia andschizophrenia.

How am I assessed?In each topic, in year 1 and 2, there will be opportunities toapply the knowledge that has been learned to a key issue insociety and a practical investigation. The key issue takes theform of an essay, while the investigation is produced as ascientific report. Practice papers will be given as trial examsto enable students to develop their skills and assess theirprogress ready for the formal exams that take place in thesummer of year 2. The course concludes with three 2 hourexams which comprise of short answer questions plus 1-2extended response questions. Paper 1 focuses on theFoundations of Psychology. Paper 2 assesses knowledge ofthe Applications of Psychology and Paper 3 will testPsychological Skills.

Enrichment and Extension Programme Our provision of opportunities to explore the subject beyondthe classroom is varied and exciting. Students can becomementors, participate in PhD research and attend higher levelseminars. They are offered work experience at OxfordUniversity and entrance to national competitions. We have visited the Autism Research Centre, ErlestokePrison and Milestone School for children withdevelopmental disorders. In addition, visiting speakers haveshared their expertise in fields such as Clinical, Child andCriminal Psychology. The Psychology Enrichment andExtension Programme elevates students’ learning andenhances their university application.

Tracey Williams Head of Psychology

How am I assessed? Exam Board: OCR

Course: Physics B, Advancing Physics, H557

Physics is a linear, two year course with no exams sat atthe end of Lower Sixth that count towards the finalgrade. The exams are all taken at the end of UpperSixth.

There are three written papers plus also a PracticalEndorsement

Two written papers (both 2¼ hrs) examine coursecontent and are worth 41% and 37 % of the total grade

The third written paper (1½ hr) examines practical skillsand is worth the remaining 22%

The Practical Endorsement is awarded by the Schoolwhen the student has shown a level of proficiency incertain practical skills. It does not affect the overallgrade.

Psychology

Paul Harvey Head of Physics

PhysicsDo Black Holes really look like this?

Have you ever wondered what amagnetic field really is?

Can you think laterally? Do youenjoy thinking your way throughquestions like ‘how does this work?’or ‘why does this happen?’

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Although there is no regular, all year round support for Sixth Form students, the LearningSupport department works together with theDirector of Sixth Form Studies and the StudySkills Teacher to offer ‘trouble shooting’tutorial help on specific issues. The durationof support varies with the student/issue butmost students attend a series of 2-3 tutorials,often with a follow up tutorial some timelater to check the issue has been managed.

We aim to offer well-targeted support,working closely with tutors and subjectteachers. Examples of areas we deal with are:

• organisation• note taking• structure in essays• planning for essays• focus in lessons• time management• efficient learning and retention• effective revision• revision planning and organisation• exam technique• exam nerves• anxiety in presentations or

performances• software for speech recognition,

screen reading, mind mapping and proof reading

The Learning Support Centre has a drop-inlounge where a limited number of studentscan work during their private study periods.Here, they have access to the School intranet,a colour printer, a wide range of stationeryand tea and coffee making facilities.

Dean Close Sixth Form welcomesstudents from overseas and recognisesthat they come with different levels ofEnglish. The EAL Department pridesitself on its flexibility and dedication toindividual needs and works on an‘open door’ policy to ensure allstudents are supported pastorally andacademically.

All new international students are encouraged to attend the Overseas Induction weekend prior to the startof term, in order to familiarisethemselves with the School and itsfacilities, to meet key members ofstaff, to take part in activities andprepare themselves for the start ofSixth Form.

Students for whom English is a secondlanguage are assessed during thisweekend (or on arrival if they cannotattend) to identify if extra languagetuition is needed. If so, typically, twolessons of one-to-one support duringstudy periods are arranged. However,there may be more or less supportgiven, depending on needs andtimetables. The assessment willidentify the particular strengths andweaknesses in the student’s language,and the type and level of support willbe adjusted accordingly.

Support is also offered for somecurriculum subjects, particularly whereessay writing may be a difficulty. Thiscould be lessons in a small group, orindividual support depending onnumbers. Students may attend theselessons at any time during the school

year, either at their own request orwhen advised by the teaching/Housestaff. This support is highly-valued andviewed as giving weaker students thebest chance of achieving good gradesat A Level.

All students are expected to achieve a language qualification which isaccepted by British-speakinguniversities by the end of the LowerSixth Form. Therefore if students haveNOT taken and passed GCSE English,or have NOT got a minimum score of6.5 in the International EnglishLanguage Testing System (IELTS) whenthey enter Sixth Form, they will berequired to attend lessons ordemonstrate the intention to take thetest independently. Both IELTS tuitionand language support is charged on a per-lesson basis as set out in theFees Schedule.

Alongside lessons, the School strivesto achieve integration betweeninternational students and Britishnationals, with Sixth Formers playing avital role. Many overseas studentsbecome either school or houseprefects in Upper Sixth. There is alsoan Overseas Students Committee ofSixth Form students, who mentor andsupport younger students fromoverseas, and regular get-togetherswhich the Sixth Form are encouragedto arrange. Above all, overseasstudents are encouraged to take fulladvantage of all that Dean Close hasto offer in order to receive an all-round education.

Learning Support in the Sixth Form

English as an Additional Language

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DEAN CLOSE SCHOOLShelburne RoadCheltenhamGloucestershireGL51 6HE

Telephone01242 258000Email [email protected]

www.deanclose.org.uk

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