Year 10 GCSE options 2021-22 · Web viewThis is now the standard science course offered to all students at GCSE. There is no longer a single science option. Topics are studied from

Sixth Form Options 2021 -2022

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Year 10 Options 2021-2022

CONTENTS

Year 10 GCSE options 2021-22......................................................................4Option choices in Year 10................................................................................5Questions about the different types of courses................................................7Subject Staff.....................................................................................................9Help and advice for students.........................................................................10Work Experience............................................................................................11Extra-curricular activities................................................................................11Course Information........................................................................................11Core Subjects................................................................................................12

English........................................................................................................12English Language GCSE...........................................................................12English Literature GCSE............................................................................12Entry Level English – Step Up to English...................................................13Mathematics...............................................................................................14Entry Level Mathematics............................................................................15Science (Trilogy)........................................................................................16Entry Level Science....................................................................................17Short Course Beliefs and Values (Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics)........................................................................................................18Computer Science GCSE...........................................................................19Information Technology..............................................................................20

Other Subjects...............................................................................................21Art and Design............................................................................................21Business Studies........................................................................................22Drama.........................................................................................................23Food Preparation and Nutrition..................................................................24French GCSE.............................................................................................26

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French FCSE..............................................................................................28Geography..................................................................................................30German FCSE............................................................................................32History........................................................................................................34Home Cooking Skills Award.......................................................................35Home Cooking Skills Award.......................................................................37Music..........................................................................................................39GCSE Physical Education..........................................................................40BTEC First Award in Sport.........................................................................41Spanish GCSE (9-1)...................................................................................42Spanish FCSE............................................................................................43BTEC First Award in Travel and Tourism...................................................45ASDAN (Bronze, Silver and Gold)..............................................................47

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Year 10 GCSE options 2021-22

During Year 9, students at New College Worcester have been mostly following the same curriculum, studying a wide range of subjects. Many of these subjects will continue to be studied in Years 10 and 11 as part of the core curriculum but students also have the opportunity to choose some of the other subjects they would like to study.The information in this booklet will help to explain what subjects are available, how choices can be made and whom to consult for further information. Students should talk to subject teachers, their form tutor and parents before their final choices are made.There is information in this booklet about all aspects of the curriculum in Years 10 and 11 and, therefore, it will be useful to keep this booklet to refer to over the next two years.

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Option choices in Year 10

All students will be following courses in these subjects:Science (Trilogy) at GCSE or Entry level Science. This is worth 2 GCSEsEnglish Language and English Literature at GCSE or entry level English languageMathematics at GCSE or entry levelBeliefs and Values Short Course. It is a requirement for RE, in some form, to be included in the curriculum IT Either the Level 1 or 2 ITQ qualification or GCSE ComputingA Humanities Subject – either GCSE History, GCSE Geography or Travel and Tourism

The following subjects will also form part of a student’s core curriculum as timetabled lessons:ILS (Independent living skills)Physical EducationPSHCE (including careers advice)Learn2Learn – This is where there is a focus on the development of skills through a personalised programme of studyMobility and IT Support continue where a need has been identified. We want our students to have a balanced and appropriate curriculum which is tailored as much as possible to the individual needs of the student. This means that some students may be guided towards doing fewer subjects which will allow more time for additional support with literacy and numeracy or towards more vocational courses.There are a range of more vocational BTEC courses offered which are of an equivalent level to GCSE so that students who are more suited to coursework and a modular structure can achieve well.

These are the GCSEs and BTECs that we offer at Key Stage 4 in addition to the core subjects:GCSE French GCSE SpanishGCSE GeographyGCSE History

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GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE Business StudiesGCSE DramaGCSE Art and DesignGCSE MusicGCSE Physical Education ASDAN (Bronze, Silver and Gold)

In addition to the core subjects listed above students choose a Humanities subject and two additional subjects of their choice. A full programme of GCSEs would enable a student to achieve nine GCSEs. If a student is fluent in another language, even if it is a language that is not taught on the curriculum we aim to facilitate the student to gain a GCSE in that language. If there are any questions about any aspect of the curriculum please get in touch with Mrs Fiona Madden [email protected],uk

We try to enable all students to follow their chosen subjects. However, it will be necessary to create option blocks from provisional choices and the final choices will need to be based on these. If the number of students choosing an option is very small, it cannot be guaranteed that the course will run.

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mailto:[email protected],uk

Questions about the different types of courses

What are GCSEs?GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. How are GCSEs assessed?Testing understanding and skills is more difficult than testing knowledge. So, although all GCSEs include a final exam, many require controlled assessments or coursework to be undertaken during the two years of the course.What grades are awarded for GCSEs?The way that GCSEs are graded has changed recently. The old system of letter grades and the new system of numbered grades do not directly relate but the table below shows a comparison between the two systems:

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Current GCSE grading structure Previous GCSE grading structure

9 –

8 A*

7 A

6 B

5 (Good pass) B/C

4 (Standard pass) C

3 D/E

2 E/F

1 G

U (Ungraded) U (Ungraded)

* * *In the new system a good pass would be considered by the DFE to be a 5 however a 4 is still a Level 2 pass. In the current system a grade C is level 4 and above. Level 9 is higher than the current A*.What are BTECs?BTEC stands for the Business and Technology Education Council. BTECs are specialist work-related qualifications. They combine practical learning with subject and theory content.How are BTECs graded?There are three grades given: Distinction, Merit and Pass.

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BTEC Firsts are available from entry level to level 2 (similar standard to GCSEs). These offer an introduction to work in a vocational sector. Combined with other qualifications, these can enable you to go on to further study, to an apprenticeship, or into employment. What are Entry Level Certificates?The Entry Level Certificate is primarily targeted at students working at a level below that required for a grade 1at GCSE. It is designed as a one or two year course for learners at Entry Levels 1 to 3, as a route towards GCSE.

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Subject Staff

The following staff have responsibility for their subjects, although other staff may also be involved with the teaching of the subjects. These staff will be available at the Parents’ Consultation and, in addition, students are encouraged to speak to them to gather more information than that given in the subject descriptions at the end of this booklet.

* * *Art and Design: Ms Gilbert/ Mrs KingAsdan – Bronze, Silver, Gold: Mrs R. BarterBusiness Studies: Mr S. SnowdonCareers Education and Guidance: Mr S RandallFood Preparation and Nutrition: Ms N. EmmanuelDrama/Performing Arts: Miss R JonesEnglish: Mr D HindsFrench: Mrs B Molina/ Mr I LythgoeGeography: Mr S SnowdonGerman: Mr I LythgoeHistory: Dr J Normanton ErryInformation Technology: Mr J FoggMathematics: Mrs S LockMusic: Mrs J ChristiePersonal and Social Education: Mrs C WrightPhysical Education, BTEC Level 2: Mrs J PriceReligious Education: Mrs R BarterScience: Mr W StarkSpanish: Mrs B Molina

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Help and advice for students

There are a number of ways in which decisions can be made but the best decision-making techniques involve careful planning – considering all the advantages and disadvantages of possible decisions so that the result is rational and satisfactory. Tutorial work in the second half of the Spring Term will be aimed at helping you to make your decisions in this way and you will have the opportunity to try ‘taster’ lessons. Although the final decision is yours, you should discuss your option choices with people who can help and advise you:Talk to your Form Tutor who can give you help with the process and with making choices.Subject teachers know a lot about their subjects. Ask them for more information.Speak to the Careers Education Co-ordinator Mr Randall.Don’t forget your parents or guardians. They know you very well and want what is best for you.There are several points to bear in mind when choosing your options:Consider the subjects that you enjoy.Find out as much as you can about new subjects that you have not experienced yet.Think about which subjects develop your talents and interests.Do not choose a subject just because a friend has chosen it. What is right for them may not be right for you.It is not a good idea to base your decisions on whether you like or dislike a teacher.You should not think that some subjects are only for girls or for boys as this is certainly not the case.While it is important to think carefully about your option choices, try not to worry too much about them. The option blocks are designed in such a way that you will be studying a balanced group of subjects, ensuring that a wide range of further education and career opportunities will be available for you regardless of your individual option choices.

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Work ExperienceAll students in Year 11 undertake a week of work experience, following their examinations in the Summer Term. Following discussions with the students, the Work Experience Co-ordinator tries to match placements to the student’s interests.

* * *Extra-curricular activities

At New College Worcester, we want students to do well in their academic work but we also encourage all students to take part in some of the extra-curricular opportunities on offer. There are so many activities available, there is likely to be something to interest everyone.

* * *Course Information

The following pages summarise information about the different courses students may take in Years 10 and 11. Subject staff will be pleased to discuss any of the courses in more detail.

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Core Subjects

English Awarding Body: AQAIt is expected that all students will study both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature over the two years.

English Language GCSECourse Content: You will study a wide range of non-fiction texts from the 19th century and the 20th or 21st century, and also develop your own writing skills in a range of non-fiction pieces such as articles, speeches and letters. 100% of the assessment for GCSE will be by examination, the two examinations being taken at the end of the second year. The grading system will be according to a numerical grading structure, 9 to 1. There are two papers. One is on Creative Texts and the other on Viewpoints and Perspectives. Each paper consists of a reading section and a writing section which carry equal marks.There will be a Spoken language component which will involve making a presentation to the class. Spoken language will not be assessed by examination and the grade (ranging from Fail to Distinction) for this component will appear on final certificates but not as part of the GCSE grade.

Progression Routes: It is important to aim for at least grade 4 in English Language GCSE, particularly for certain kinds of employment or if you are considering taking A levels and going to university.

English Literature GCSECourse Content: You will study literature, including 19th century prose (‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ or ‘A Christmas Carol’) , for Paper 1, and modern prose and/or modern drama (‘An Inspector Calls’), an anthology of poetry supplied by the exam board (‘Power and Conflict’), and a Shakespeare play (‘Macbeth’), for Paper 2. There will also be an unseen poetry section in paper 2 of the examination.Assessment will be by two examinations at the end of the second year. Texts will not be allowed in the examinations.

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Entry Level English – Step Up to EnglishStep Up to English helps Entry Level students build basic and relevant literacy skills. This is for students who are not quite ready for GCSE.

There are two Components – Literary Topics and Creative Reading and Writing. This involves three classroom assessments with each assessment involves a reading, writing, and speaking and listening assessment.

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MathematicsLevel: Level 2Awarding body: EdexcelLength of course: 3 years (starting in Year 9)

Course content: The GCSE mathematics syllabus has been completely reformed and the new GCSE is broader and covers more challenging material at both Foundation and Higher level. Consequently year 9 students began the course at the start of year 9 to give everyone the time needed to cover the broader content. At New College Worcester we have adopted the Edexcel suite of GCSEs which give suitable exam lengths for our students but more importantly has provided excellent support in making the transition to the new GCSE. There are new text books but also a comprehensive and detailed scheme of work which allows clear assessment and measures of progress throughout the course.

The GCSE is wholly assessed by three final exams sat at the end of the course each of 1½ hours nominal duration. There is no coursework component. The course assesses the traditional areas of Algebra, Number, Shape and Space and Data Handling but there is now a new separate strand which covers work on Ratios. There is now a much greater emphasis on mathematical reasoning, which maths teachers at NCW already know underpins progress in mathematics.

Skills needed: Mathematics is a compulsory subject in Key Stage 4 so students of nearly all abilities can access the GCSE course and our department is vastly experienced in providing support in those areas of maths such as shape and space where extra skills are required in order to be able to achieve as well as possible in the exams.

Progression routes: Mathematics GCSE is, along with English is seen as an essential requirement for progression into many career areas. Most employers and places of higher education will look for a good pass at GCSE mathematics as essential. Mathematics is the building block for many career choices, and along with A level mathematics can provide a route into a wide selection of careers such as science, engineering, finance and business in general.

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Entry Level MathematicsLevel: Level 1Awarding body: OCRLength of course: 1 year/2 year

Course content: Entry Level mathematics is designed to support those who are not ready to sit GCSE mathematics and aims to build their mathematics confidence towards possibly sitting the GCSE and also recognises achievements in mastering key mathematics skills. The course is assessed in the classroom by the teacher with written and aural tasks so there is no final exam. The course duration is flexible so can run over one or two years allowing for consolidation if a student finds maths difficult.

Skills needed: Candidates need to be determined and able to communicate their ideas effectively.

Progression routes: The course is designed to develop and reward achievement in mastering key mathematics skills. It shows potential employers that students have overcome barriers to achievement in maths.

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Science (Trilogy)Level: Level 2Awarding body: AQALength of course: 3 years (including Year 9)

Course content: This is now the standard science course offered to all students at GCSE. There is no longer a single science option. Topics are studied from all three sciences, Biology Chemistry and Physics. Each science will be examined at the end of Year 11. Science Trilogy will be graded on a 17-point scale from 1-1 up to 9-9. Foundation tier will lead to a maximum grade of 5-5. The topics include the following:

Biology – Cells, Tissues, organs and organ systems, photosynthesis, organisms and their environment, respiration, inheritance, speciation keeping healthy, nerves and hormones, drugs, interdependence and adaptation, food chains, waste materials from plants and animals, genetic, and evolution.

Chemistry – Structure and bonding, structure and properties, atomic structure, rates of reaction, exothermic and endothermic reactions, acids bases and salts, and electrolysis, atoms, metals and their uses, crude oil, useful substances from crude oil, plant oils, earth’s atmosphere.

Physics – Energy transfer, efficiency, electrical appliance, generating electricity, waves for communication, the expanding universe, forces, kinetic energy, electric current, mains electricity, radioactive substance, nuclear fission and fusion.

Skills needed: Practical skills will be developed throughout the course. ICT skills would be useful to access additional resources. There is no longer any controlled assessment in science but practical skills will be tested in the final exams. There are 6 exams in total in Year 11, 2 from each of the sciences.

Progression routes: Success in this course enables students to take one or more AS or A-levels in Physics, Chemistry or Biology in Year 12.

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* * *Entry Level ScienceLevel: Entry level (just below GCSE)Awarding body: AQALength of course: 1 or 2 years

Course content: This course is a good grounding for GCSE Science and some students may decide to start their GCSE Science course after this, or even progress to a level 3 BTEC science course after this. The course involves practical work and internally set exams. The exams are completed before the Year 11 exam series, so it works well for students who struggle with exams. The course content includes:

Biology – The human bodyEnvironment, evolution and inheritance

Chemistry – Elements, mixtures and compoundsChemistry in our world

Physics – Energy, forces and the structure of matterElectricity, magnetism and waves

Skills needed: Practical skills will be developed throughout the course. ICT skills would be useful to access additional resources. There are six internally set assessments (ESAs) on each of the topics in the three sciences, and there are also six internal practical tasks (TDAs). These are all short in length.

Progression routes: Success in this course enables students to consider following a GCSE Science course in the sixth form, or progress to a Level 3 Science BTEC.

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Short Course Beliefs and Values (Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics)

The Beliefs and Values Short Course is an accredited course and is offered as the Religious Studies/Education area of study within Year 10/11.

Students will study key modules:

Values, beliefs and decision-making through Medical Ethics Environment Crime and punishment Peace and conflict Beliefs and practice through Human Relationships Inspiration

Modules support student learning and skills across the curriculum in particular PSHE and Citizenship. It also covers knowledge and issues examined within GCSE Science, History, Geography and Social Sciences.

The Short Course is a continuous assessment course with no examination component.

Types of assessment include:

Written evidence

Participation in group discussion

Presentations

Students can be awarded certification (Pass/ Fail) for individual modules and on completion of all components.

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Computer Science GCSELevel: GCSE (9-1)Awarding body: OCR Length of course: 2 years

Computer Science is engaging and practical, encouraging creativity and problem solving. It encourages students to develop their understanding and application of the core concepts in computer science. Students also analyse problems in computational terms and devise creative solutions by designing, writing, testing and evaluating programs. Course content:Computer systems central processing unit (CPU), computer memory and storage, wired and wireless networks, network topologies, system security and system software. It also looks at ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns associated with computer science.Computational thinking, algorithms and programming develop skills and understanding in computational thinking algorithms, programming techniques, producing robust programs.The skills and knowledge developed within this component will support the learner when completing the Programming Project.Examinations:Computer systems (01): 50%Computational thinking, algorithms and programming: 50%Skills/interests which would be beneficial:A genuine interest in how computer systems work in the modern world, a desire to develop programming skills and good basic digital literacy skills.

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Information Technology Course: VocationalAssessment: 100% courseworkLevel: Level 1 & 2Awarding body: OCR Length of course: 2 years

Brief Description:The course involves the study and assessment of a variety of software applications. These include word processing and file management, spread sheets, web page design, internet and communication. There is also the flexibility within the course to include assessment specifically tailored to the student for example audio editing, video editing etc. Skills/interests:An interest in the use of computers and a willingness to investigate the various options available in different software application.

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Other Subjects

Art and Design Level: Level 2Awarding Body: Eduqas part of WJEC

Course content:The Art and Design GCSE begins in the summer term of year 9 and students wishing to continue with the subject can do so in years 10 and 11. Sixty per-cent of the assessment is based on coursework and the remaining 40% is assessed through the exam. The work is assessed internally and moderated externally. GCSE is a broad based course exploring practical and critical/contextual work through a range of 2D and/or 3D processes, new media and technologies. Students gain a first-hand experience of the work of professional artists through workshops led by visiting artists and visits.

Skills needed:Students need to have demonstrated an ability to use either 2D or 3D skills learnt at KS3 to follow a course of study. NCW students are expected to have reached grade 3 in year 9 in the subject before taking a GCSE course. Students will need good writing skills, IT research skills and have the ability to work independently on homework every week.

Progression routes: Students can go on to study AS and A levels in this subject.

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Business StudiesLevel 2Examination Board: AQA

Content overviewStudents must complete both components (01 and 02) to be awarded the AQA GCSE (9-1) in Business.Business 01: Influence of operations and HRM on business activityExam: 1hr 45mins, 50% of the marksWhat's assessed Business in the real world – The purpose of business activity, the role of

business enterprise and entrepreneurship, and the dynamic nature of business.

Influences on business – The importance of external influences on business and how businesses change in response to these influences.

Business operations – What business operations involve, their role within the production of goods and the provision of services, and how they influence business activity.

Human resources – The purpose of human resources, its role within business and how it influences business activity.

Business 02: Influences of marketing and finance on business activityExam: 1hr 45mins, 50% of the marksWhat's assessed Business in the real world Influences on business Marketing – The purpose of marketing, its role within business and how it

influences business activity. Identifying and understanding customers, segmentation, market research and the marketing mix.

Finance – The purpose of the finance function, its role within business and how it influences business activity. Sources of finance, cash flow, financial performance of businesses.

Skills/interests which would be beneficial:Business studies cannot be taught in isolation from the real world and community at large, therefore, students should have an interest in following economic events and developments.

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DramaExamination board: WJEC

GCSE Drama is available for students who have had some experience of Drama and would like to explore all its aspects further. The course is 60% practical and 40% written exam. The GCSE Drama specification is designed to give students a broad and balanced experience of drama. You will learn about how drama and theatre is developed and performed across a range of dramatic activities. Across three different units you will study: one complete play two extracts from a second contrasting play either the techniques of an influential theatre practitioner or the

characteristics of a genre of drama.You will have the opportunity to work practically as a designer and/or performer for the different practical units.

WHY TAKE THIS SUBJECT?If you have enjoyed Drama in the past and would like to explore all its aspects further then this is the course for you. You will learn excellent communication skills and develop in confidence through performance and improvisation. You will also learn to work as a team and develop focus and concentration. This is an excellent subject to do if you wish to demonstrate that you can work creatively, think outside the box and communicate well in different contexts.

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Food Preparation and NutritionLevel: GCSEAwarding body: EDUQAS

Course content: Component 1: Principles of Food Preparation and NutritionWritten examination: 1 hour 45 minutes (plus any additional time)50% of qualificationThis component will consist of two sections both containing compulsory questions and will assess the six areas of content:1. Food Commodities2. Principles of Nutrition3. Diet and Good Health4. The Science of Food5. Food Provenance6. Cooking and Food Preparation

Component 2: Food Preparation and Nutrition in ActionNon-examination assessment: 2 assessments internally assessed, externally moderated 50% of qualificationAssessment 1: The Food Investigation AssessmentA scientific food investigation which will assess the learner's knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to scientific principles underlying the preparation and cooking of food.Assessment 2: The Food Preparation AssessmentPrepare, cook and present a menu which assesses the learner’s knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to a brief set by the exam board.

This is a dynamic, creative and practical course which offers our learners opportunities to explore food, investigate its properties and to develop a range of kitchen skills and cooking methods which can all be used in everyday life. It is a course which will have relevance to any learner as we all need to have knowledge about food to make informed choices and to consider the consequences to our well-being by making poor choices.

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Entry requirements: Motivation, enthusiasm and a passion for food.

Progression routes: GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition can lead to continued studies within sixth form focusing on level 3 Food Science and Nutrition.

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French GCSEAwarding body: Pearson EDEXCEL (Code: 1FR0)

Course content: Over two years, you will follow a course which revises and further develops topic areas covered in the first three years of French. You will meet a lot of interesting, varied and up-to-date vocabulary. Our GCSE course is the next step to becoming more confident in French as it builds on four practical skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing). The GCSE French Course deals with five themes: Identity and culture Local area, holiday and travel School Future aspirations, study and work International and global dimension.Each theme will be broken down into relevant sub-themes.

As well as new course books, you will have access to authentic material on the Internet, CD and MP3 files (on the students’ “Q” Drive) and videos/DVDs.

There may be an opportunity to go to our partner school in Paris sometime during the course.

At the end of the course, there will be exams in listening, speaking, reading and writing: All four exams will be set and marked by the Awarding Body. The Speaking exam will be conducted by your teacher and the recording will be sent off to Pearson Edexcel to be marked. There are no mixed tiers; you choose to do either Foundation or Higher Tier. So you sit exams in all four skills at the same tier. The four skills are equally weighted, which means they are worth 25% of the total GCSE. Dictionaries are not allowed in any of the exams. There will not be a controlled assessment option.

Skills needed: For those of you with an interest in France and the French language, who have enjoyed the FCSE French course, our “GCSE” course is the next step to

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becoming more confident in French, as it builds on the four practical skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing) gained at Key Stage 3.

Progression routes: In this world of international trade and travel, a GCSE in a European foreign language is a distinct advantage. Speaking French can strongly increase your relationship possibilities in business, friendship, commerce and holidays …If you want to find out more, come and have a chat!À bientôt!

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French FCSEFCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education)

WHY START A NEW LANGUAGE?

Speaking a foreign language will prove to be a distinct advantage both at home and abroad. Modern Foreign Languages can naturally complement and enhance many other subjects and will help you acquire life skills like thinking independently. Also on a wider level, learning languages broadens our minds and allows us to gain an insight into other cultures and societies.

WHY FRENCH?

French is a world language and it is spoken by more than 300 million people on the five continents. It is the second most useful language in the world for business. Studying French is likely to lead to less unemployment and higher earnings. Therefore, speaking French will be a very valuable competitive advantage because it strongly increases your relationship possibilities in business, friendship, commerce, holidays…

WHY THIS COURSE?

This qualification can be used as a standalone accreditation and it can be a perfect starting point to learn a new language.

This is the course for you if you want to:

- Start to develop all four language skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing if you take a full FCSE. (There are also short course options available in Listening and Speaking or Reading and Writing.)

- Improve your communication skills- Gain an insight into another culture and society

LANGUAGE BROUGHT TO LIFE!

Specifically tailored and developed resources to deliver this course.

Access to authentic material on the Internet, CDs, MP3 files (all accessible on the students’ “Q” Drive) and videos/DVDs.

Taking your language skills outside the classroom – We have links with a school for vision impaired students in Paris called INJA and we would

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potentially be able to offer a trip to France at some point during your FCSE course.

KEY FRENCH FCSE UNITS:

You will study a minimum of three of the following units:

Unit 1 – Relationships, Family and Friends

Unit 2 – Education and Future Plans

Unit 3 – Holidays and Travel

Unit 4 – Leisure

Unit 5 – Healthy Lifestyle

Unit 6 – Food and Drink

Unit 7 – Local Area and Environment

Unit 8 – Celebrations

HOW WILL YOU BE ASSESSED?

There will be centre-assessed assignments and there will be three levels of award: Pass, Merit or Distinction.

Once the units are covered over the duration of the course (typically two years for a full FCSE) and the assessments have been carried out, the teacher will submit to the exam board a portfolio of evidence from three out of the eight units for moderation.

CAN’T WAIT TO GET STARTED?

Do not hesitate to approach any teacher at the MFL department to find if this is the best course and subject to develop your talents!

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GeographyLevel: Level 2Awarding body: AQACourse content: There are three external exams paper 1 and 2 being worth 35% each and paper 3 being worth 30% of the GCSE

Paper 1 Living with the physical environment: The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the tectonic, geomorphological, biological and meteorological processes and features in different environments, and the need for management strategies governed by sustainability and consideration of the direct and indirect effects of human interaction with the Earth and the atmosphere.This component is divided into three sections: Topic 1: The challenge of natural hazards – tectonic hazards, weather hazards and climate change.Topic 2: The living world – In this section, students are required to study Ecosystems, Tropical rainforests and one from Hot deserts or Cold environments.Topic 3: Physical landscapes in the UK – In this section, students are required to study UK physical landscapes and two from Coastal landscapes in the UK, River landscapes in the UK and Glacial landscapes in the UK.

Paper 2 Challenges in the human environment:The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the factors that produce a diverse variety of human environments; the dynamic nature of these environments that change over time and place; the need for sustainable management; and the areas of current and future challenge and opportunity for these environments.This component is divided into three sections:Topic 4: Urban issues and challenges – urban growth, changes in cities and urban sustainability.Topic 5: The changing economic world – global variations in economic development and quality of life and reducing the global development gap. Major changes in the economy of the UK have affected, and will continue to affect, employment patterns and regional growth. Topic 6: The challenge of resource management – The changing demand and provision of resources in the UK create opportunities and challenges.

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The demand for water resources is rising globally but supply can be insecure, which may lead to conflict. Different strategies can be used to increase water supply.Paper 3 Geographical applications – questions based around pre-released material and fieldwork. Skills needed: The topics covered in the syllabus are very much based around people and the environment, so an interest in social and environmental issues would be an advantage. Also an interest in world events would be useful as many will have geographical links.Progression routes: Geography GCSE can lead to level 3 geography or travel and tourism courses. The skills students acquire studying geography can be applied in lots of other areas not just geography.

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German FCSEFCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education)



WHY GERMAN?

Germany has one of the strongest economies in Europe and is one of the top-exporting nations in the world. Knowing German creates business opportunities and it would get you closer to the rich cultural heritage of German-speaking countries. Therefore, speaking German will be a very valuable competitive advantage because it strongly increases your relationship possibilities in business, friendship, commerce…

WHY THIS COURSE?








Taking your language skills outside the classroom – We have links with a school for vision impaired students in Marburg, Germany, called BLISTA and

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we would potentially be able to offer a trip to Germany at some point during your FCSE course.

KEY GERMAN FCSE UNITS:





Unit 4 – Leisure










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HistoryLevel: GCSE Awarding body: EDUQAS

Course content: The course encourages students to develop their interest in and enthusiasm for history. They will develop their understanding of specific historical events, periods and societies. It allows study of aspects of British and world history over the last fifteen hundred years.

Topics covered:Crime and Punishment c. 500 to the present day, including an environment study on Pentonville prison.

The Elizabethan Age, 1558-1603: This unit looks at developments in entertainments and politics and religion, including plots against Elizabeth and the Spanish Armada.USA 1929-2000: topics studied include the Civil Rights movement, social change in the 1960s and America in the Cold War.Germany 1919-45: this includes study of the impact of the First World War, the rise of the Nazis and the Third Reich.

Exam/coursework structure: 100 per cent exam: 2 exams split into two papers.All papers test knowledge and understanding, as well as the use of historical sources and interpretations.

Skills needed:History is a literary subject and, therefore, a willingness to read is essential. Due to the nature of the course, an interest in, and awareness of, events in the world today would be useful.

Progression routes: GCSE can lead to A Level, but History is a subject which develops skills which are useful for any further study or career path.

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Home Cooking Skills AwardLevel: BTEC Level 1 or Level 2 depending upon learner’s aptitudeAwarding body: EdexcelLength of course: 1 year This course forms part of the ILS Core curriculum for all students.Course content: This award has been developed to give learners the opportunity to develop: the knowledge, understanding and confidence to cook meals at home an understanding of how to economise when planning a meal an ability to transfer learnt skills to different recipes an ability to inspire others by transferring that knowledge.Being able to cook is an essential life skill and this qualification accredits our transition programme into the sixth form.In this unit, learners will be introduced to basic cooking skills by following recipes for simple dishes and learning how to use kitchen equipment safely. Each recipe is underpinned with knowledge about sourcing food, nutrition and hygiene and food safety where relevant. Learners will consider the value of acquiring skills for cooking at home and explore ways to pass on their knowledge of cooking skills to others.This unit aims to give learners the skills and confidence to enjoy cooking at home, to continue cooking for themselves and their families and to inspire others to do so.

Final assessment will consist of two elements: planning and preparing a recipe, demonstrating food hygiene, safety and

independent working recording ways that home cooking skills may be useful to you in the future,

and how you could pass this information onto others.Level 1 is worth 4 UCAS points. Level 2 is worth 6 UCAS points

Skills needed: Enjoy cooking Motivation to succeedEntry requirements: None required.

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Progression routes: GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition.

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Home Cooking Skills Award Level: BTEC Level 2Awarding body: Edexcel Length of course: 1 year

Course content: Building upon the Level 1 Home Cooking Skills Award, in this unit, learners will develop their cooking skills by exploring recipes for nutritious meals. Each recipe is underpinned with knowledge about planning and sourcing food, hygiene and food safety. How to cook different elements of a meal to serve them at the same time are considered in this unit. The importance of presenting food well and how this contributes to its enjoyment is reflected on in this unit. Ways to economise when shopping for ingredients and cooking meals at home are significant aspects of this unit.Learners will demonstrate their skills by selecting recipes for a nutritious two course meal and following the recipes to prepare, cook and present the meal.This unit aims to give learners the skills and confidence to enjoy cooking meals at home, to apply skills to new recipes to continue cooking for themselves and their families and to inspire others.Assessment is through 3 assignments: 1. produce a plan to prepare and cook a two-course meal 2. follow recipes to prepare ingredients and cook and present a two course meal, demonstrating food safety and hygiene 3. record ways to cook economically at home and evidence of passing on information about cooking meals at home from scratch. This is worth 6 credits.

Skills needed: Enjoy cooking Motivation to succeed ability to teach others key skills

Entry requirements: Pass at Level 1 BTEC Home Cooking Award.

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Progression routes: GCSEs and/or A Levels Diplomas ApprenticeshipsBTEC specialist qualifications may also enhance learners’ self-development by providing valuable life skills.

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MusicLevel: GCSELength of course: 2 yearsAwarding body: EDUQAS

This subject will appeal to anyone who enjoys performing and composing and who has an interest in learning more about a variety of musical styles including the Western classical tradition, popular music and film music. An ability to read musical notation would be an advantage but only small amounts are required and support will be given to the student in acquiring these skills. Music technology can be used for recording and composing.

Performance – 30% of the qualificationStudents are required to perform both a solo and an ensemble piece. The solo can be accompanied by a backing track or live accompaniment with the ensemble needing to be accompanied by at least one other person live.

Composition – 30% of the qualificationStudents typically have to compose two pieces, one free choice and one related to music studied in the course. A written appraisal of one of the compositions is required.

Listening Paper – 40% of the qualificationThe listening paper has an accompanying CD of music examples that the questions are based on. It is a written paper that requires students to answer questions relating to a variety of music genre studied during the course, using their knowledge of features of the styles and elements of music.

Progression routeTo A Level Music, Music Technology or BTEC Level 3 Performance, Composition or Music Technology.

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GCSE Physical Education Awarding body: Edexcel

Course ContentThe theoretical content now worth 60% of the qualification assessed through examination.Non-examined assessment is worth 40% of the qualification. This comprises the practical performance and performance analysis, both of which will be internally assessed and externally moderated. Practicals are 30% of the qualification and must be three activities as a player/performer – one team activity, one individual activity and a free choice.Performance analysis is worth 10% of the qualification. The theory content is made up of:Component 1: Fitness and Body Systems 36%Component 2: Health and Performance 24%Component 3: Practical Performance 30%Component 4: Personal Exercise Programme (PEP) 10%

Skills needed: You need to be regularly participating or leading sport activities. You need to be able to record your work in writing or using audio or video. This course is closely linked to the practical, so keeping up with what is happening in the sporting world using TV, Radio, and the internet is very important.

Progression routes: To A Level Physical Education

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BTEC First Award in Sport Level: Level 1/2Awarding body: Edexcel

Course content: First Year Unit 1 – Fitness for Sport and Exercise; you will learn about the components of fitness and the principles of training, explore different fitness training methods and investigate fitness testing to determine fitness levels. This unit is assessed externally via an on-line exam.Unit 2 – Practical Sports Performance; you will be expected to learn the rules regulations and scoring systems for two sports. You will also be required to show-off your skills, techniques and tactics in two sports. Knowing what to look for in a good performance and being able to review your own performance is the third component of this unit.Second YearUnit 3 – Training for Personal Fitness; you will get to design and carry out your own personal fitness training programme. You will also learn about exercise adherence factors (how to stick to your training programme) and what strategies to use to ensure continued success. Also, continually recording and reviewing your training sessions, and, finishing with a terminal review (Did you achieve your aims and objectives?).Unit 6 - Leading Sports Activities; will test your skills as a leader, and planner of a series of sporting activities for other children.

Skills needed: You need to be regularly participating or leading sport activities. You need to be able to record your work in writing or using audio or video. This course is closely linked to the practical, so keeping up with what is happening in the sporting world using TV, Radio, and the internet is very important. Each unit has assessment criteria clearly set out in the unit assignment outline. So it is important to be able to follow these closely when you are completing your assignments.

Progression routes: This course can lead to a Level 1/2 First Certificate in Sport or Level 3 First Award in Sport.

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Spanish GCSE (9-1)Awarding body: OCR (J722)

Course content: Over two years, you will follow a course which revises and further develops topic areas covered in the first three years of Spanish. You will meet a lot of interesting, varied and up-to-date vocabulary.The Full Course deals with three main “themes”: 1. Identity and Culture; 2. Local, National, International & Global Areas of Interest; 3. Current & Future Study & Employment. Each theme will be broken down into relevant sub-themes.As well as new course books, you will have access to authentic material on the Internet, CD and MP3 files (on the students’ “Q” Drive) and videos/DVDs.

At the end of the course, there will be exams in listening, speaking, reading and writing: All four exams will be set and marked by the Awarding Body. The Speaking exam will be conducted by your teacher and the recording will be sent off to OCR to be marked. There are no mixed tiers; you choose to do either Foundation or Higher Tier. So you sit exams in all four skills at the same tier. The four skills are equally weighted, which means they are worth 25% of the total GCSE. Dictionaries are not allowed in any of the exams. There will not be a controlled assessment option.

Skills needed: For those of you with an interest in Spain and the Spanish language, our “GCSE” course is the next step to becoming more confident in Spanish, as it builds on the four practical skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing) gained at Key Stage 3.

Progression routes: In this world of international trade and travel, a GCSE in a European foreign language is a distinct advantage. If you want to find out more, come and have a chat!

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Spanish FCSEFCSE (Foundation Certificate of Secondary Education)



WHY SPANISH?

In the recent Languages for the Future report published by The British Council, Spanish was highlighted as the most important language for people in the UK to learn.

427 million people speak Spanish in 21 countries as their first official language and if we add those that have learnt it as a foreign language a grand total of 500 million people currently speak Spanish in the world!

Therefore, speaking Spanish will be a very valuable competitive advantage because it strongly increases your relationship possibilities in business, friendship, commerce, holidays…

WHY THIS COURSE?







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Taking your language skills outside the classroom – We have links with the Spanish organization for the blind called ONCE and we would potentially be able to offer a trip to Spain at some point during your FCSE course.

KEY SPANISH FCSE UNITS:





Unit 4 – Leisure










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BTEC First Award in Travel and TourismLevel: Level 1/2Awarding body: Edexcel

Course content: First Year Unit 1 – The UK Travel and Tourism Sector In this unit, you will gain an understanding of the range of organisations involved with different types of tourism in the UK, including their roles, how they work together and how they use technology to meet changing customer needs. This understanding is useful for a wide range of travel and tourism jobs, including travel services, tourism services, conferences and events, visitor attractions and passenger transport.Unit 2 – UK Travel and Tourism DestinationsThis unit will give you an understanding of what the UK travel and tourism industry has to offer to tourists. It will enable you to identify and locate tourist destinations, major UK airports and seaports, as well as to discover sea routes and three-letter airport codes. Meeting different types of customer needs is a fundamental part of travel and tourism provision, so you will investigate the appeal of different types of UK destinations to different customer types. Second YearUnit 3 – The Travel and Tourism Customer ExperienceIn this unit you will look at the definition of customer service and what the main aims of customer service are; this may differ depending on the size and type of the travel and tourism organisation. You will look at different types of customers, both internal and external to travel and tourism organisations. Internal customers are important – a happy workforce will want to keep the external customers happy. Determining what a customer needs may depend on what products and services are available, which is why all travel and tourism organisations will investigate their customer needs first.Unit 5: Factors Affecting Worldwide Travel and TourismIn this unit you will study climatic conditions that affect travel and tourism around the world. You will develop an awareness of varying climatic conditions in different parts of the world. You will gain knowledge of monsoons, dry and wet seasons and hurricane seasons that influence the timing of travel and holidays. You will also learn where and when snowfall results in the availability of winter-sports holidays.

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You will identify time zones, calculate worldwide time differences and examine the effect these can have on visitors travelling across time zones. You will learn how different countries control visitor numbers through visa requirements. In addition you will learn the causes and symptoms of some major diseases and the precautions visitors need to take to avoid becoming unwell.Skills needed: This is a vocational course so you will need to have an interest in people and want to help them. It would be beneficial if you had an interest in travel and the world around you.The first unit is examined with an external exam while the other three are examined by internal assessments.Progression routes: This course can lead to a Level 1/2 First Certificate in Travel and Tourism or Level 3 First Award in Travel and Tourism.

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ASDAN (Bronze, Silver and Gold)Level: 1Awarding body: ASDAN (Award Scheme Development Accreditation Network) Length of course: Approximately 1 year for each level but is dependent on individual students.

Course content: The course is 100% individual portfolio work. Each student undertakes a range of challenges from a wide variety of modules. These include:CommunicationSport and LeisureHealth and SurvivalHome ManagementThe EnvironmentExpressive ArtsBeliefs and ValuesThe emphasis is on Personal development and achievement.

Skills needed: A willingness to engage in a variety of skills. The emphasis is on Literacy, Numeracy, IT, Independence, Team work, Coping with problems.

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Documents

Year 10 GCSE options 2021-22 · Web viewThis is now the standard science course offered to all students at GCSE. There is no longer a single science option. Topics are studied from