A-LEVEL COURSES

UPDATED MARCH 2015

APPROVED FOR OPENING SEPTEMBER 2015

NEW COURSES ADDED

CONTENTS

Page 3 Introduction

Page 4 A-level Art

Page 5 A-level Biology

Page 6 A-level Chemistry

Page 8 A-level Computer Science

Page 9 A-level Economics

Page 10 A-level English Literature

Page 11 A-level French

Page 12 A-level Geography

Page 13 A-level History

Page 14 A-level Mathematics

Page 15 A-level Further Mathematics

Page 17 Pre-U Music

Page 18 A-level Philosophy and Ethics

Page 19 A-level Physics

Page 20 A-level Psychology

Page 21 A-level Spanish

Page 22 A-level Sports Science

Page 24 The Extended Project Qualification

WELCOME

Dear Student,

You are making extremely important choices at the moment which will, without doubt, influence your future. This guide will assist you in making those decisions.

Harington places a great emphasis on academic achievement and on providing challenging opportunities for personal development, through the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the individual Extended Project. These are essential when applying for the most prestigous universities. There will also be the opportunity to take the ABRSM grades in Music.

When choosing your A-level subjects, you should take into consideration not only your personal strengths but also the requirements of any future courses you will wish to study post-18.

Should you wish to find out more information about university requirements, the websites below may be of use:

Visit Bright Knowledge website for advice on A-levels, careers and degree subject choices.www.brightknowledge.org/knowledge-bank/education-pathways/a-levels

The Russell Group represents 20 leading UK universities which are committed to maintaining the very best educational experience. ‘Informed choices’ is a pre-16 guide to choosing the right A-levels to maximise your chance of gaining a place at university. www.russellgroup.org/informedchoices-latest.pdf

This is a very exciting time to join Harington School and our goal is to help you achieve the success you need to progress on to the next important stage of your education.

A-LEVEL BIOLOGY (EDEXCEL)A-LEVEL ART (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level Art?

Art and Design at this level is a challenging but rewarding subject that combines the intellectual with the practical and requires a high level of energy and commitment. There is a lot of fun amidst the independent thinking and the creative effort! This is an essential subject for those wishing to pursue a career in any of the creative industries. The aims of the course is to enable students to learn how to develop and produce personal creative work within an art and design context, understood across a broad number of creative disciplines. You will learn to analyse your own visual work as well as evaluate and learn from work by other artists, designers and crafts people.

Content

The main purpose of any course in art, craft and design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world, respond in a personal and creative way and contribute for the benefit of everyone. You will develop a working knowledge of materials, practices and technology within art as well as the skills to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings using art, craft and design, building on your imaginative and creative powers and experimental, analytical and documenting skills.

Progression

Many continue to specialist study at degree level and then on to employment as artists, illustrators, architects, fashion designers or graphic designers. They end up working in television, animation, film, advertising and the fashion industry. Art A-Level demonstrates creativity, concentration and independent learning, skills that all University Courses are looking for. Many use Art as a supporting subject for applications to courses as diverse as medicine and Geography.

A-LEVEL BIOLOGY (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level Biology?

To develop a scientific curiosity and logical approach to answering problems. It does this via students’ natural interest in how the human body functions and how we fit into the world around us. Students will learn about everything from the Biochemistry of living things, up to the Ecological aspects of how all organisms fit together within the Earth community. As a result of studying Biology to A-level, the key skills of how to be analytical, critical and logical will develop scientific interest and stimulate inquiring minds. Consequently, Biology makes an interesting and useful addition to any subject combination for any potential career.

Content

An extensive practical and theoretical course which embraces the cellular basis of diseases, biochemistry behind Stem Cell Therapy, DNA and how changes to its structure have profound biological effects, biodiversity and ecology, physiology of the human body, human nervous system and its effect on human perception.

Progression

This course is vital to many careers such as medicine, dentistry, science and veterinary science, but also opens up great opportunities in diverse fields. The search for plentiful, healthy foods, new medicines, and sustainable agriculture always requires the versatile, investigative and analytical skills of biologists, which are also valued in many non-scientific industry sectors. The course is suitable for progression to biological and some medical courses. Biology is required for courses such as medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine.

A-LEVEL ART (EDEXCEL)

A-LEVEL CHEMISTRY (AQA)

Why choose A-level Chemistry?

To enable students to develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for Chemistry, and appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues, understanding how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. It encourages students to develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works and essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of chemistry and how they relate to each other. It is an interesting and engaging subject requiring and developing a variety of skills and a qualification in Chemistry is highly valued, leading to a wide variety of careers.

Content

Chemical principles will be developed in the context of how chemistry is used in industry and at the frontiers of research through the three main branches of the subject: Physical Chemistry (thermodynamics, molecular and atomic structure and reaction kinetics), Inorganic Chemistry (underlying trends and patterns across the Periodic Table) and Organic Chemistry (Study of the molecules on which life is built ranging from synthetic polymers to biochemical structures).

Progression

Students who study Chemistry to A-level might ultimately work in the chemical industry, become doctors, dentists, pharmacologists and environmental scientists. They are able to work in areas as diverse as publishing, technical writing, patent law, intellectual property law, finance and investment analysis as well as in the public services, academia and teaching.

A-LEVEL ECONOMICS (AQA)A-LEVEL COMPUTER SCIENCE (OCR)

Why choose A-level Computer Science?

The world of Computing is changing fast. There is a shortage of qualified candidates for jobs, and a Computing course offers you the opportunity to gain the skills that employers and universities are seeking. Not only do you learn about programming concepts and practice, you will also become a proactive and independent thinker. The subject demands both logical discipline and imaginative creativity in the selection and design of algorithms and the writing, testing and debugging of programs. It relies on an understanding of the rules of language at a simple level and it encourages an awareness of the management and organisation of computer systems.

Content

The course is ideal for any who are seriously considering a career working with computers. With the emphasis on Computer Science, students will learn to become effective designers and implementers of computing solutions. During your first year you will produce a programmed solution to a scenario set by the Exam Board. In preparation for the written exam you will investigate the following topics: Hardware and communication; Organisation and structure of data; Algorithms and programming; Nature and type of software; Systems analysis and design; Characteristics of computer applications; Consequences of current trends in the uses of computers.

Progression

Computing and Mathematics and/or Physics complement each other extremely well and they are often taken together. However, Computing integrates well with many subjects across the curriculum and prepares you very well for a range of degrees including: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Games Production, Information Systems, Forensic Computing, Computer Technologies, Network Management and Web Design and Services.

A-LEVEL ECONOMICS (AQA)

Why choose A-level Economics?

When you open a newspaper what do you read? “…a report from our economics correspondent”. Turn on the news on TV and what do you see? An item on the state of the economy. Economics affects our daily lives. Continually we are being made aware of local, national and international economic problems, and are faced with economic problems and decisions of our own.

Many people think Economics is all about money, and to some extent this is true; how are wage levels in an economy decided, how much people spend, what level of profits can firms earn. But economics is about much more than this. It is the study of how best to satisfy unlimited wants with limited resources. It offers a unique insight into how the world works and will help students to understand many of the big questions facing people today.

Content

The course is split into two areas: Microeconomics considers how the price of goods and services are determined and why this does not always work, causing government to intervene. Students will look at issues such as the smoking ban in public places, legalisation of drugs and environmental policies to save the planet! Macroeconomics considers how the government can create a situation whereby the country can produce more; reduce unemployment while keeping prices stable.

Students will consider the UK’s place in the global economy within the EU and further afield. Students study how competition affects markets, whether or not it is fair that some people are paid less than others and how such wages are determined.

Progression

Economics students develop the kind of skills that employers demand and often progress to work for large corporations, banks and the government. A qualification in Economics can also be valuable support in a career like marketing, law, journalism or teaching.

A-LEVEL FRENCH (AQA)A-LEVEL ENGLISH LITERATURE (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level English Literature?

This is an ideal choice for anyone who loves reading and books, literature and is interested in the big questions affecting human existence. It is also a highly respected A-level that can be instrumental in helping students gain university places in a variety of subjects. Students will also gain a great deal of academic prowess through a subject that promotes the development of transferable skills. English students are taught to think analytically, consider different interpretations and listen and respond to one another sensitively in preparation for the seminar style environment they are likely to find at university. One of the most important skills they learn is how to write coherently and critically. This is an essential skill that will aid them in other subjects and is invaluable in higher education and the world of employment.

Content

The course will study poetry between 1800 and 1945 whilst also providing extensive work on literature from 1900 to the modern day. Texts studied will cover a variety of genres from ‘The Great Gatsby’ to ‘Atonement’. At least one Shakespeare play will be studied which will be contrasted with the work of at least one other playwright.

Progression

English Literature is a highly regarded A-level that can take students onto almost any course of study. It is an essential choice for students considering an English degree, but would be a good option for students considering Humanities subjects, Languages or Law. It could lead onto many careers the most obvious of which are Law, Journalism, Business Management and Publishing.

A-LEVEL FRENCH (AQA)

Why choose A-level French?

A foreign language is a skill, and the ability to possess this is becoming increasingly important. Sectors where French plays a key role include commerce, leisure and tourism, education, banking and transport. Indeed many firms in the private sector are looking beyond these shores for markets to sell their goods. The integration of Europe is bringing countries closer together in terms of trade and industry.

Linguists are required in all EU languages in this expanding trading block. French is one these key languages, and at present Britain has a shortage of qualified linguists. Students will develop an understanding of French in a variety of contexts and will be able to communicate confidently and clearly for a range of purposes. Furthermore the course aims to deepen awareness and understanding of the society and culture of France. Students will also acquire knowledge, skills and understanding for practical use and for further study and employment.

Content

Building on the four language skills from GCSE (listening, writing, speaking, reading) the course will develop not only the quality of language used but the content. The course is taught through the social, cultural, historical and political context of France.

Progression

There are many courses at university where you can combine languages with another subject, including business, law, travel and tourism and teaching. Speaking a foreign language will also improve your job prospects and career opportunities. Employers value language skills highly and language graduates are always much sought after by employers.

A-LEVEL HISTORY (EDEXCEL)A-LEVEL GEOGRAPHY (AQA)

Why choose A-level Geography?

Geography covers both the physical and human environments and the complex interaction of processes that shape our world. It also, importantly, shows how human intervention affects the environment and how people adapt and mitigate the effects of processes on their environment. This is complex and dynamic and varies from place to place depending on people’s resources, technology and culture. You will be able to show your understanding of a range of opinions and illustrate your answers with case studies from local, national and international examples.

Learning is through a variety of mediums such as maps, GIS skills, data analysis, photos, videos, podcasts, as well as attending lectures and study days. You will be encouraged to frame your own questions using higher level thinking skills and showing your grasp of complex issues through report and essay writing.

Content

The study of Geography falls into two main areas: Human and Physical, while at the same time ensuring that geographical skills are developed through suitable fieldwork opportunities. This course will cover a range of contemporary issues including: fluvial and coastal environments, population change, globalisation, the development of world cities, plate tectonics and world weather patterns.

Progression

Geography combines well with both arts and science subjects. For careers in sustainability and green issues, urban regeneration, energy supply, retail location, managing the effects of hazards and climate change geography is an obvious choice. In the world of business an understanding of global economics forms an important part of geography. Geography is a good choice to give your A-level options the breadth that universities like, as well as enhancing your skills of writing essays and extended reports.

A-LEVEL HISTORY (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level History?

History combines the excitement of exploration and discovery with the sense of reward born of successfully confronting and making sense of complex and challenging problems. The purpose of historical inquiry is not simply to present facts but to search for an interpretation of the past. Historians attempt to find patterns and establish meaning through the study of evidence. History complements other subjects. It provides skills and understanding that will always be valuable in any career.

The study of History has a civilising influence on our society. It is the source of our political, social and ethical ideals. Students at Harington will enjoy the study of people, patterns and changes in the past.

Content

The course will offer students the opportunity to study different societies that have undergone significant change and reason/effects of that change. There will be particular focus on, for example, British Colonisation, France at the time of the Revolution, Civil Rights in the USA and England under Henry VIII.

Progression

History goes well with other arts and social science subjects like English, Geography or Philosophy. Students can go on to university and then specialise in a range of subject areas, from the History of Art to transport history. With a qualification in History, you can go on to work in a great variety of jobs in law, business and administration, the police service, the armed forces, journalism and the media, leisure and tourism, as well as more ‘obvious’ History-related careers like teaching or working in museums or libraries.

A-LEVEL FURTHER MATHEMATICS (EDEXCEL)

A-LEVEL MATHEMATICS (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level Mathematics?

If you enjoy Maths and feel confident with the work you have met so far at GCSE, then you should seriously consider this course. It is an exciting subject studying numbers, quantities, shape, space, their relationships, and a lot more. It attempts to describe this world as accurately and rigorously as possible, and thus is widely regarded as “the most precise human language”. The subject has got a huge number of fields and branches, and is fundamental to much of science and technology.

Content

This course will cover Pure Mathematics including calculus, functions, sequences and series, functions, trigonometry and vectors. It will also include units of work on mechanics and statistics.

Progression

Mathematical ability is very highly regarded by both universities and employers. An A-level in Maths is essential for many degree courses (such as physics, engineering and, of course, mathematics itself) and is highly desirable in a wide range of subjects such as chemistry, natural sciences, architecture, computing, economics. There is a national shortage of mathematicians, and employment prospects are good.

A-LEVEL FURTHER MATHEMATICS (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level Further Mathematics?

This is a challenging qualification, which both extends and deepens your knowledge and understanding beyond the standard A-level Mathematics. For someone who enjoys mathematics, it provides a challenge and a chance to explore new and/or more sophisticated mathematical concepts. As well as new learning new areas of pure mathematics you will study further applications of mathematics in mechanics, statistics and decision mathematics. Students who take Further Mathematics find that the additional time spent studying mathematics boosts their marks in single A-level Mathematics.

Content

This course builds on all that is covered in A-level Maths and will embrace advanced algebra, advanced mechanics and also introduces Decision Mathematics.

Progression

A-level Maths makes the transition from sixth form to university courses which are mathematically rich that much easier. If you are planning to take a degree such as Engineering, Sciences, Computing, Finance/Economics, etc., or perhaps Mathematics itself, you will benefit enormously from taking Further Mathematics, at least to AS Level. AS Further Mathematics introduces new topics such as matrices and complex numbers that are vital in many STEM degrees. Further Mathematics qualifications are highly regarded and are warmly welcomed by universities. Some prestigious university courses require you to have a Further Mathematics qualification and others may adjust their grade requirements more favourably to students with Further Mathematics.

PRE-U MUSIC

Why choose Pre-U Music?

The Pre-U is accepted by all universities as a valid alternative to an A-Level in music, and gives students far more opportunities to personalise the course and work independently than the available A-Level courses. In addition, for any student wishing to continue their music studies beyond school, it offers a far better preparation for university study. You need to be a competent performer, ideally Grade 7 standard for the compulsory performance paper (taken at the end of the course) in order to get the highest marks. You need to have a firm grip of notation (treble and bass clefs) and harmony to be able to develop your analytical skills. Anyone who has followed the GCSE course will be adequately prepared for this, however, Grade 5 music theory is not required, although a student with this level of knowledge will certainly have an excellent preparation for the course.

Content

The Pre-U music course is divided study into three components: Listening, Analysis & Historical Study; Performing; and Composing. You will learn about a wide range of Western music from the Baroque period up to the 20th Century, including the detailed study of some key set works. All students are required to perform on at least one instrument or voice, usually demonstrating skills as both a soloist and as an ensemble musician. In composition, you will develop your skills in free composition alongside learning how to complete exercises in stylistic composition, imitating the chorale harmonisations of Bach and the string quartets of Haydn & Mozart. Finally, the Pre-U offers the opportunity to undertake extended, independent Personal Study in one of these three areas, writing a dissertation on a free choice topic, offering an advanced performance recital, or undertaking additional composition or music technology work.

Progression

Music is very well regarded by admissions tutors whatever subject you choose to study at university, largely due its stimulation of analytical skills, essay writing and independent study.

A-LEVEL PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS (AQA)

Why choose A-level Philosophy and Ethics?

Studying Philosophy and Ethics will help you develop your thinking skills. You will gain an understanding of different responses to the big questions of life, and the views of philosophers and modern thinkers. Philosophy is about enquiry and using reason to answer fundamental questions that have occupied enquiring minds since the ancient Greeks. Students will develop skills in absorbing and evaluating the ideas of philosophers and using them to address questions such as whether we can believe the evidence of our senses and whether there are rational grounds for believing that God exists.

Content

Key philosophical ideas will be studied, such as ‘what is truth?’, ‘why should I be moral?’, ‘am I free or determined?’ The students will extensively study moral philosophy, political philosophy, ethics, the philosophy of religion and epistemology.

Progression

Philosophy is a good choice for ambitious students seeking careers with international organisations, the Civil Service, law firms and accountancy/consulting firms, and leading businesses especially in information technology and environmental sectors. The key skills of understanding ideas and arguments, clear and critical thinking and writing, and making rational decisions, are highly valued at senior management levels.

Prestigious universities also value Philosophy qualifications as it demonstrates a capacity for independent thought and research. Philosophy is relevant for degrees offering combined qualifications such as Philosophy Politics and Economics, and degrees with philosophy modules e.g. Law, Geography and Psychology.

A-LEVEL PHYSICS (OCR)

A-LEVEL PHYSICS (OCR)

Why choose A-level Physics?

Physics is a challenging and interesting subject which will help you to understand the world and universe around you! It is also an important qualification for many careers. If you have an inquisitive mind and want to understand how the world works, the study of physics will provide many of the answers. This course will develop your essential scientific knowledge and understanding, as well as establish sound links between theory and experiment. The ability to work in groups as well as independently is paramount in your development during the course. A-level Physics also allows you to apply physics knowledge in another subject area at university as it is highly regarded as a test of problem-solving ability and logical thought.

Content

The Physics course will effectively cover the ‘rules of the Universe’ and will include: mechanics, properties of matter, thermal physics, oscillations and waves, electricity, fields and forces, quantum physics, energy and astrophysics.

Progression

A-level Physics can also lead to a wide range of careers, including Applied Physics, Astrophysics, Geophysics, Material Technology, Forensic Science, Engineering, Meteorology, and Medical Physics. Physics compliments intended careers in Medicine, Mathematics, Computing, Finance, Law, Accountancy and many more areas.

A-LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY (AQA)

Why choose A-level Psychology?

Psychology is one of the most popular A-level subjects and a very popular degree course. It is a fascinating yet challenging academic subject that demands the ability to compose a logically developed discussion, using scientific evidence to support your arguments. To succeed in psychology you will need a high standard of English and a logical approach to problems. Psychology is applied to many aspects of life. Sports teams, the police, schools, businesses and the media, all utilise psychological theory to improve performance, solve crime and understand behaviour.

Content

The Psychology A-level will equip you with the skills and knowledge to decode human behaviour in everyday life. You can expect to develop an understanding of different areas of psychology such as cognition, child development, social psychology and individual differences. You will also learn how topical issues, such as eyewitness testimony, the media and stress, can be better understood and managed by looking at them from a psychological perspective.

Progression

The Psychology A-level will open the door for further study at degree level, a range of vocational courses and employment in many different areas. The opportunities in the job market are varied and wide ranging. You could choose to specialise in educational psychology, forensic psychology, sports psychology or counselling. Further study can lead to work in teaching and the skills developed on the course can be transferred to gain employment in healthcare, law and the media. At university level you can expect to gain access to courses like social science, criminology, health studies or further study in psychology.

A-LEVEL SPANISH (AQA)

Why choose A-level Spanish?

Spanish A-level aims to develop the students’ speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, in order to provide students with the means to express their ideas through the language. The use of Spanish as the principal means of communication in the classroom plays an important part in this and is preparation for role-play, discussion and general conversation in the final exam.

Spanish is a world language: it is spoken by some 350 million people in 21 different countries. There are almost three times as many native speakers of Spanish as there are of French. Spanish is third in the list of the world’s most spoken languages.

Content

Building on the four language skills from GCSE the course will develop not only the quality of language used but the content. The course is taught through the social, cultural, historical and political context of Spain and the Spanish speaking world, including modern Spanish literature including the work of Camilo José Cela.

Progression

A-level in Spanish can help with a number of career paths. For those who want to specialise in language, there is translation or teaching whilst for those looking towards a career in travel, business and tourism being proficient in a language will give you even broader career options in a number of fields including engineering and designing.

A-LEVEL SPORTS SCIENCE (EDEXCEL)

Why choose A-level Sports Science?

A fascinating subject for those interested in understanding how their bodies work and how to train their bodies and minds for peak performance. Learning how to teach others new skills and analyse performances and the prominent role sport has played as a political tool in the past, and as a marketable commodity in the present. Students will be a school team or club player in chosen assessment sports with a commitment to improve their performance via training outside of session time. A competent scientist, particularly in Biology (grade B at GCSE or above), who possesses a keen interest in the theory behind improving sports performance.

Content

The course aims to gain an understanding of the physiological and mechanical basis of performance in sport, the psychological factors influencing behaviour in sport and the historical and cultural aspects of participation in sports. To improve performance and coaching skills in two sports. Anatomical, physiological and psychological theories will be studied and how they are applied to sporting activity. Developing a range of transferable skills: leadership, communication and organisational skills from practical work, your ability to research and analyse topic areas in theory areas.

Progression

Students wishing to enter Sports Science should combine this course with at least one science, for a career in teaching, students often choose Geography, Sociology or English and for the sporting or leisure industry, Psychology or Business Studies. A-level PE leads onto many sports-related degree courses and is also valuable for medical-related courses such as occupational therapy and physiotherapy. Its wide variety of skills will stand you in good stead for most university courses.

The sport industry is huge and offers a wide variety of career opportunities in areas such as sport science, sports studies, sports coaching and development, sports therapy, sports psychology, teaching, biomechanics, leisure management, sports technology or the Armed Forces.

EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION

What is the Extended Project Qualification?This is an independent piece of research. It is a Level 3 qualification equivalent to half an A-level. An EPQ is graded, and carries the same UCAS points as an AS Level, except that an A* grade is available.

The Extended Project Qualification offers you a unique opportunity to develop essential skills for higher education and the workplace, in a subject area of your own choice. It gives you more control over your studies.

You have a free choice of project topic, so you can explore further aspects of a subject you’re studying, or another subject, or topic in which you have a personal interest.

Students have to complete a production log documenting the project process, plan, research and carry out their project, and deliver a presentation on the outcome. This level of choice and flexibility means you gain valuable research and project management skills along the way.