gcse subject book - thedearnealc.org · your understanding of how you can use your voice and...
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BTEC Dance (Performing Arts) Why study BTEC Dance?
This is a fantastic course for students who enjoy dance and performing. You will learn
about the performance industry by going through the process of creating a letter of
application and audition pieces. The course focuses primarily on dancing but also gives you
an opportunity to explore the dance industry. During the course, you will perform set pieces
of dance in addition to choreographing your own pieces whilst studying the professional
works by a number of different choreographers. Finally, you will learn about the different
career routes you can take in the dance and performing arts industry.
What qualities will you need to study BTEC Dance?
You need to have a keen interest in all aspects of dance, especially in performing to
audiences.
You need to be flexible in your approach towards dance and be interested in developing
skills in a number of different dance styles.
Additionally, you will need the commitment to act on feedback after performances and
keep improving your performance skills.
Finally, the written element of the course will require you to act on feedback, meet strict
deadlines and develop your understanding further by completing work outside of lessons
and attending school organised theatre trips.
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Where will the study of BTEC Dance take me?
Perhaps one of the most important qualities you will develop whilst studying BTEC dance
includes the confidence you will acquire when performing in front of an audience. Possible
careers directly linked to this course include: dance performer; choreographer; teacher;
stage director; costume designer; interviewer/critic.
Topics to be studied at BTEC Dance include:
Dance skills, preparation, performance and production and the externally assessed unit
called 'Individual Showcase'.
Where can I find more information?
Mrs Salked [email protected]
http://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Firsts/Performing-Arts/2015/specification/Pearson_BTEC_International_Level_2_qualifications_in-Performing-Arts.pdf
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BTEC Drama Why study BTEC Drama?
Drama is a subject that allows you to utilise your imagination and creativity through
expressing yourself in different roles within devised and scripted performances. It develops
your understanding of how you can use your voice and movement in order to communicate
an intention for a performance.
BTEC drama will not only develop your acting skills but also your independence,
communication, cooperation, confidence, concentration, leadership abilities, and personal
management skills; these are highly valued by employers and universities.
What qualities will you need to study BTEC Drama?
You should be ready to perform in front of others.
You should have enthusiasm and a commitment for developing your acting skills.
You should have a creative and imaginative mind.
Where will the study of BTEC Drama take me?
By studying drama, it will support you on every level of education and employment as it
allows you to develop many key life skills. In terms of employment there are specific careers
that the BTEC drama is linked to, which are: actor; stage/studio managers; journalism;
drama teacher; theatre director; youth and community worker; presenter; community arts
projects; television production assistant; radio; drama therapy.
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Topics to be studied at BTEC Drama include:
Unit 1- Individual Showcase
This unit is externally assessed. You will be given a theme, to which you will have to create
two contrasting monologue performances where you will implement your vocal, physical
and interpretation skills. This unit also includes a written exam of writing a letter of
application for either a college course or a job. You are permitted to make notes in previous
lessons and take them into the exam.
Unit 2- Preparation, Production and Performance
You will work together as a theatre company to create and produce a performance. You will
have to consider the performance material, whether that be devised or script, and apply
your acting skills to your given role within the rehearsals that you’ve scheduled. You are in
charge of this show and will have to monitor your progress and meetings as your group.
Unit 3: Acting Skills
You will baseline your vocal, physical and interpretive skills then take part in workshops in
order to develop your understanding and performance ability. This will be showcased in a
performance. Whilst this is happening you will keep a consistent record of how your skills
are developing through the workshops.
Where can I find more information?
More information about the Edexcel syllabus can be found at http://qualifcations.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-firsts/performing-arts-2012- nqf.html
Speak to Mrs Orwin: [email protected]
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BTEC Music (Performing Arts) Why study BTEC Music?
Join the Performing Arts Team and choose BTEC Music. This course is perfect for budding
performers who can play an instrument or sing. You will develop your performance skills
and take part in lots of different performances throughout the two years taken to complete
the course. During the course, you will research performance techniques and will prepare
performances for various audiences. Finally, you will learn about the different career routes
you may take in the music and performing arts industry with extra opportunities available to
look at how audio and lighting are used in a performance.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Leisure and Tourism?
• You must be able to play an instrument or sing.
• You need to have a keen interest in all aspects of music, especially in performing to
audiences.
• You need to be interested in different styles of music and committed to improving your
performance of the instrument you choose to specialise in.
• Finally, you should enjoy working in groups and with a variety of people.
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Where will the study of BTEC Music take me?
Perhaps one of the most important qualities you will develop whilst studying BTEC Music
includes the confidence you will acquire when performing and speaking in front of an
audience. Possible careers directly linked to this course include: musician; teacher;
performer; session musician; musical theatre; musical director.
Topics to be studied at BTEC level include:
Music performance skills, preparation, performance and production and the externally
assessed unit called 'Individual Showcase'.
Where can I find more information?
http://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Firsts/Music/2013/Specification-and-sample-assessments/BF033226_BTEC_AWD_L12_MUSIC_NEW.PDF
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GCSE Art and Design Why study GCSE Art and Design?
GCSE art and design provides students with a wide range of creative, exciting and
stimulating opportunities to explore their interests in ways that are both personally relevant
and developmental in nature.
This course enables students to develop their ability to actively engage in the processes of
art and design – to build creative skills through learning and doing, to develop imaginative
and intuitive ways of working and develop knowledge and understanding of media,
materials and technologies in historical and contemporary contexts, societies and cultures.
What qualities will you need to study Art and Design GCSE?
Show a high level of commitment, both in school and on visits to external facilities and in
completion of work out of school hours.
Provide themselves with basic equipment e.g. sketchbook, glue stick, crayons etc.
To visit art galleries, libraries, museums and other places relevant to the course (either
independently or through school trips).
Consider their own suitability for a course, which relies heavily on self-discipline in a
practical area.
Students will be expected to complete a range of independent research tasks, personal
preparation and gather material for use in their own work on a weekly basis.
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Where will the study of Art and Design take me?
It is a strong foundation for further progression to art and design related courses such as A-
level Art and Design and enhanced vocational and career pathways.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Unit 1: Portfolio of work (Controlled Assessment) 60% of overall grade
Unit 2: Externally set task 40% of overall grade
There are three different art and design courses to choose from:
Three-Dimensional Design: This course involves ceramics, sculpture, installation,
jewellery, body adornment, exhibition design, design for theatre, television and film, interior
design, product design, environmental art and design, and architectural design.
Fine Art: This course covers drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, land art,
installation, printmaking, lens-based and/or light-based media: film, animation, video and
photography.
Graphic Communication: This course includes illustration, advertising, packaging design,
design for print, communication graphics, computer graphics, multimedia, web design,
lens-based and/or light-based media: film, animation, video and photography.
Where can I find more information?
Exam board link: www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/art-and-design/gcse
Please speak to:
Three-Dimensional Design: Mr Barry
Fine ART: Miss Holt
Graphic Communication: Miss Burn
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GCSE Business Studies Why study GCSE Business?
GCSE Business Studies is an interesting and ‘hands on’ course with students learning the
skills required to run a business. Looking at the integral elements of success in an
entrepreneurial environment from managing money and increasing profit potential to
marketing and advertising, students develop the creative ability to devise a business idea
assessing potential and risks along the way.
What qualities will you need to study Business GCSE?
You will need to be a creative thinker and have a passion for creating new things!
You must have good writing skills to apply to the business plans and justifications with
everything you do.
Some degree of maths skill to calculate how much profit your business will make.
Overall you need to be dedicated, hardworking and prepared to knuckle down each and
every lesson.
Where will the study of Business take me?
Anywhere! Most jobs you will look for in the future will be in a business and therefore
business studies are one of those GCSE's that can really be applied to any future. You
could look to management within a company or even set one up yourself and be your own
boss. The skills learnt in a business GCSE really do mean the possibilities are endless.
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Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
With a 40%, controlled assessment skills are put to the test when answering a crucial
business dilemma, giving supporting evidence from a wide range of scenarios. With 60% of
the course being exam based justifications and analysis are developed, leaving no stone
unturned when grabbing those all-important marks.
Where can I find more information?
Exam board link: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-
gcses/business-2009.html
Please speak to:
Miss Campbell - [email protected]
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GCSE Child Development Why study GCSE Child Development?
Child development is an interesting and exciting subject. Its study enables pupils from a
wide ability range to focus on the development of young children from conception to the
age of five years. It encourages knowledge and understanding of pregnancy, the needs of
young children, the roles and responsibilities of parents and the social and environmental
influences affecting family life. The subject aims to encourage children to think critically,
make informed choices and manage resources enabling them to lead effective lives as
individuals and family members as well as members of the wider community.
What qualities will you need to study Child Development GCSE?
You will need to have good oral and written communication skills.
Be able to work in a team or independently.
Have good ICT skills with the ability to research information.
Enjoy learning about children.
Where will the study of GCSE Child Development take me?
Studying GCSE child development will provide you with a solid foundation needed to work
in this expanding industry. It can offer you job opportunities within the industry such as
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nursery nurses, childminders and teaching assistants. You also have the opportunity to
progress to further level 3 qualifications and above. This course will be valuable to those
interested in: teaching, nursing, midwifery, police force, occupational therapy, medicine,
physiotherapy, radiography, social work or any job where you will be working with children.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
The specification content is delivered in six topics: family and parenting; preparation for
pregnancy and birth; physical development; nutrition and health; intellectual, social and
emotional development; community support.
Where can I find more information?
You can discuss this with Miss Eager at [email protected] or visit the AQA Website http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/home-economics/gcse/home-economics-child-development-4580
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GCSE Combined Science Why study GCSE Combined Science?
Building an aptitude for science can be helpful in many other areas of study. An interest in
science is an interest in how things were once understood compared to how they are
understood now. Hand-in-hand with every lab experiment is the lab report and so writing
becomes a crucial part of science. Even study of language is a part of science as the
scientific names of animals and many elements of the periodic table are in Latin. Science is
the basis for much of our life. Agricultural science dictates how our food is produced,
biomedical science keeps us healthy, physics and mechanical science takes from place to
place, even our basic day to day household objects are constructed according to scientific
principles. We almost literally eat, sleep and breathe science!
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Combined Science?
As a scientist, you should have:
• Good numerical skills.
• An enquiring mind.
• Problem solving skills.
• Patience and persistence.
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• A logical and methodical approach.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good spoken and written communication skills.
• The ability to work in a team.
Where will the study of Science take me?
Literally anywhere! Science has 1000's of job opportunities from plant scientist to animal
breeders, a genetic counsellor to a neurologist, a computer programmer to a banker. There
really is a scientific job out there for whatever your passion in science is. You will need to
get the equivalent of two GCSE’s at grade B or above to study A levels on biology,
chemistry or physics.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Science is a set of ideas about the material world. The main applications for the new
science specification are; investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and
thinking about them. The way scientific ideas flow through the course will allow the
students to build a deep understanding of science. This will involve talking about, reading
and writing about science plus the actual doing, as well as representing science in its many
forms both mathematically and visually through models. Some of the topics covered over
the course are:
All students will sit 6 exams at the end of year 11. Two for each biology, chemistry and
physics units, all the exams are worth 16.7% each.
Where can I find more information?
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464
Please speak to: Mr Hirst: [email protected]
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GCSE Computing Why study GCSE Computing?
GCSE Computing is a vastly different subject to ICT. In Computing you learn about the
fundamentals of how computers work and their place in society. Several topics involve
using maths and developing your logical thinking skills. Problem solving is a large part of
computing and this will be put to the test when developing your own programs and learning
the theory behind different programming languages.
What qualities will you need to study Computing GCSE?
Computing is a difficult subject; it relies on those undertaking it to be patient, hard-working,
be good problem solvers and have a logical mind.
There are no simple answers to computing problems, you need to look at this as an
opportunity to develop your logic skills and look at alternatives when solving problems.
A strong interest in computer programming, maths and extending your knowledge into the
science behind how computers work is essential.
Where will the study of GCSE Computing take me?
Computing can lead you into A levels in computing and degrees in a number of computing
related specialisms. If you’re the next budding Steve Jobs or Bill Gates, or you want to
develop the next ‘Angry Birds’, this is the course for you!
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Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
In computing we follow the OCR GCSE computing course which consists of a practical
investigation controlled assessment (30%), programming project controlled assessment
(30%) and an end of Y11 exam on computer systems and programming (40%).
In Year 10 we concentrate on the first controlled assessment piece which involves
developing programming skills in JavaScript as well as the theory aspect of the course.
Topics covered include: databases; binary logic; encryption; computer systems and IT
legislation.
In Year 11 the second piece of controlled assessment work is covered which centres on a
large programming project. This will develop your programming and coding skills as well as
covering the second half of the theory aspect of the course.
Where can I find more information?
Exam board link:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-computing-j275-from-2012/
Please speak to Mr Child; [email protected] or Mr Earp.
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GCSE English Language and English Literature Why study GCSE English Language and English Literature?
As we all know English is a highly regarded subject for Post 16 study, University level
education and for all employers. Throughout their lives, students will always be asked to
provide information about their English GCSE results. In addition, the study of English
Literature allows students to explore ideas, characters and cultures beyond their own
experience through the reading of prose, poetry and drama.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE English Language and English Literature?
Students will be required to read an extensive array of literature both fiction and non-fiction
so reading at home will play a significant part of students’ ‘prep’ for lessons.
Where will the study of GCSE English Language and English Literature take me?
The course ensures students at The Dearne ALC will end Year 11 with an ability to read
fluently and write effectively; providing the foundations for their future studies at Post 16
and beyond. It will benefit courses such as: A Level English Language; A Level English
Literature; A Level Creative Writing; A Level/ BTEC Media; A Level History; A Level Law.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
All students will study a combined English course made up of English Language and
English Literature which leads to an award of two GCSEs from the subject. The two-year
course is assessed through four examinations which are sat at the end of Year 11: Paper 1
Language – Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing; Paper 2 Language – Writer’s
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Viewpoints and Perspectives; Paper 1 Literature – Shakespeare and the 19th Century
Novel; Paper 2 Literature – Modern Drama/ Prose, the Poetry Anthology and Unseen
Poetry.
Throughout Years 10 and 11 students will read and experience a wide range of texts to
develop and enhance their language and literature skills to ensure a breadth and depth of
understanding. Spoken language remains a significant part of the English curriculum at Key
Stage 4 and students will receive a separate endorsement for their skills in this area.
Where can I find more information?
A Moore – Head of English and Communication Faculty
www.aqa.org
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GCSE Food Why study GCSE Food?
GCSE Food will equip students with the knowledge, understanding, skills and
encouragement they need to cook. It will give them the ability to apply the principles of food
science, nutrition and healthy eating.
Students will be able to make informed decisions about a wide range of further learning
opportunities and career pathways, and develop vital life skills so that they can feed
themselves and others affordably and nutritiously.
What qualities will you need to study Food GCSE?
Because of the nature of the assessment and written exam it is essential that students who
choose this course have good English skills.
Show a high level of commitment, in completion of work out of school hours.
Consider their own suitability for a course, which relies heavily on self-discipline in a
practical area backed up with strong English skills.
Students will be expected to complete a range of independent research tasks and personal
preparation. They will also have to provide their own ingredients.
Where will the study of GCSE Food take me?
The study of GCSE food can lead to further study of food and related subjects such as
hospitality and catering at A level, BTEC Level 3 and beyond. There are many different
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career pathways a young person can take in the food industry from restaurant management
to basic food preparation.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Written exam: 50% of overall GCSE. Course work two written or electronic report (1,500–
2,000 words) including photographic evidence of practical work.
Where can I find more information?
Speak to Mr Barry and Mr Darby.
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GCSE French Why study GCSE French?
• Speaking more than one language increases your brain capacity, improves your long-term
memory skills.
• It’s really impressive to be able to speak a foreign language. It's a real achievement that
your friends will envy and employers will love!
• You can understand and talk to lots more people when you go abroad.
• Using a language at work could raise your salary from 8-20%.
• Learning languages really improves your communication skills.
• They make you and your CV stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs.
• A language GCSE builds on what you’ve already learnt in years 7, 8 and 9 and you
probably know more than you think.
What qualities will you need to study French GCSE?
Learning a language requires a certain amount of drive, patience, resilience and
enthusiasm.
Where will the study of GCSE French take me?
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Some advanced level subjects are more frequently required for entry to degree courses
than others. These subjects are known as ‘facilitating’ because choosing them at advanced
level leaves open a wide range of options for university study. A modern foreign language is
one of the “facilitating subjects” for entry to University. In order to study A level French you
would need to have studied GCSE French and achieved the equivalent of grade C.
Your ability to speak to a client will certainly impress your boss and colleagues. Knowing
another language makes you a huge asset to any employer, so it’s in your best interest to
keep your skill level up to help you get further in the future.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
All students follow these themes on which the assessments are based.
Theme 1: identity and culture.
Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest.
Theme 3: Current and future study and employment.
Where can I find more information?
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/languages/gcse/french-4655
For further information contact: Mrs L Bunce
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GCSE Geography Why study GCSE Geography?
There are many reasons - Here are just two quotes:
“Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future" - Michael Palin,
“Geography prepares for the world of work - geographers, with their skills of analysis are
highly employable!"
In geography, you will: develop a knowledge and understanding of current events from the
local area to the global; investigate the Earth and its peoples; study the features of the Earth
- such as mountains, rivers and seas - and how they were formed; develop a range of
useful skills such as map reading, data collection, ICT and problem solving and gain an
understanding and appreciation of the cultures and backgrounds of people from all over the
world.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Geography?
You should have a keen interest in the world around you.
You should be prepared to work hard and research topics by yourself.
Where will the study of GCSE Geography take me?
For a start, you will probably visit lots more countries than your parents and travel to areas
of the world only normally seen on television. Geography could lead you to exciting career
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prospects - remember geography achieves good examination results nationally and is one
of the most versatile subjects. Geography is classified as a science subject in many
universities when studied at A Level. Geography is classified as a science subject in many
universities when studied at A Level.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Physical Geography: Earthquakes and volcanoes; rivers and coasts; tropical rainforests;
tropical storms.
Human Geography: Water management; urban environment; development; sustainability
Where can I find more information?
Speak to Ms Spencer in the humanities department.
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GCSE Health and Social Care Why study GCSE Health and Social Care?
GCSE Health and Social Care is an ideal qualification for those pupils who want a broad
background in health and social care or are considering a career in the care profession.
This GCSE course is designed to suit those studying the subject for the first time. Grades
will be awarded from A*-G.
GCSE Health and social care will also help you develop a number of skills that are highly
valued by employers and universities.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Health and Social Care?
• You will need to have good oral and written communication skills.
• Be able to work in a team or independently.
• Have good ICT skills with the ability to research information.
• Enjoy learning about people.
Where will the study of GCSE Health and Social Care take me?
Studying GCSE Health and Social Care will provide you with a solid foundation needed to
work in this expanding industry. It can offer you job opportunities within the industry such
as nursery assistants, support workers, health care assistants. You also have the
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opportunity to progress to further level 3 qualifications and above which will be useful if you
decide to follow any of the careers below.
This course will be valuable to those interested in: teaching, nursing, midwifery, police
force, occupational therapy, medicine, physiotherapy, radiography social work or any job
where you will be working with people.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Life stages
Factors effecting growth and development
Self-concept
Life events
Jobs in health and social care
Care values in health and social care
Client health investigation
Where can I find more information?
You can discuss this with Miss Eager or visit the AQA Website:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/health-and-social-care/gcse/health-and-social-care-4820
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GCSE History Why study GCSE History?
History’s ability to promote understanding between cultures and traditions remains as
important as ever. With the GCSE course we continue to develop these areas through a
range of investigations into events that have shaped the world we live in today.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” – George Santayana
GCSE History will also help you develop a number of skills that are highly valued by
employers and universities.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE History?
• You should enjoy reading and investigating the past.
• You should be ready to write for extended periods of me.
• You should have an inquisitive and be ready to challenge everything you read.
Where will the study of GCSE History take me?
Studying history at GCSE is perfect preparation for a number of subjects. Currently, the top
ten careers taken by history graduates are: solicitor; archaeologist; secondary school
teacher; broadcast journalist; archivist; politician’s assistant; museum curator; heritage
manager; editorial assistant; historic buildings inspector.
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Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Paper 1: Thematic study and historic environment:
Medicine in Britain, c1250–present and The British sector of the Western Front, 1914–18:
injuries, treatment and the trenches.
Paper 2: Period study and British depth study: Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c1060–
88 Superpower relations and the Cold War, 1941–91
Paper 3: Modern depth study: Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39
Where can I find more information?
More information about the Edexcel syllabus can be found at:
http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/history- 2016.coursematerials.html#filterQuery=category:Pearson-UK:Category%2FSpecification-and-sample-assessments
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GCSE ICT Why study GCSE ICT?
GCSE ICT enables you to develop your ICT skills over a wide range of projects and
activities. ICT skills are relevant for any future career and this course will enable you to
improve the skills you already have and to develop new ones.
What qualities will you need to study ICT GCSE?
• To successfully study ICT at GCSE you need to be up for the challenge of balancing a
range of controlled assessment activities alongside the theory aspect of the course.
• Weekly deadlines are set to keep on track with all work and must be adhered to.
• You do not have to have the best ICT knowledge, you simply need to be motivated, hard-
working and have an interest in technology.
Where will the study of ICT take me?
This course allows you to develop your technical skills which will give you a foundation for
achieving an A level in an IT related course, BTEC Level 3 ICT and Computing A Levels. The
vast majority of jobs have aspects of ICT within them. This GCSE opens doors to diverse
career paths. Jobs with a particular focus on ICT are: games/web designer; animation
developer; mobile app development; network management; network security; digital
forensics; computer technician/engineer; administrative work.
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Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
You will study a variety of ICT aspects, covering both theoretical and practical activities as
part of the GCSE ICT course. The course is comprised of 2 controlled assessments which
account for 60% of the overall mark and two external examinations which cover both
theoretical aspects and a pre-release case study. In year 10 your controlled assessment is
based around creating a professional website. In year 11 you continue with the B062
spreadsheet work, building on previous skills learnt. You learn to use more advanced Excel
skills, develop your systems, test and evaluate your work. Following controlled assessment
completion, you will cover a range of theoretical topics in preparation for the two external
exams. Topics include: ICT in society, digital safety, networks, database handling software,
the legal, social and ethical issues and data.
Where can I find more information?
Exam board link:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-ict-j461-j061-from-2012/
Please speak to Mr Earp for more details [email protected]
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GCSE Leisure and Tourism Why study GCSE Leisure and Tourism?
Are you interested in tourism? Perhaps thinking of a job in the sun when you leave school?
Fancy becoming a manager of a hotel chain, or even opening your own? Leisure and
tourism is the first step on that ladder. You will find out about job opportunities, why people
visit places, and also investigate some of the wonders of the world and most famous sites
on the planet.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Leisure and Tourism?
• Determination and hard work are a must.
• You need to have an open mind and be able to use your mind set to investigate and think
for yourself.
• As well as work in groups and research based tasks there will also be a requirement to
study hard and practise how to write longer exam style questions that are on every exam
paper.
• You need to have an interest and a drive to achieve the best grade you can in a
challenging yet thoroughly enjoyable course.
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Where will the study of GCSE Leisure and Tourism take me?
If you are interested in travel and/or tourism and potentially a job in this area then this is the
course for you. A perfect stepping stone to courses in colleges and sixth forms around
travel and tourism.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Unit 1 is called Understanding leisure and tourism destinations. This unit is worth 40% of
your final mark and you will have to sit a one hour examination. In this unit we cover topics
on types of tourist destination, including natural a attractions. You can find out about
famous historic sites such as Stonehenge, The Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu. We also
look at sporting and entertainment venues such as Wembley Stadium, the O2 Arena and
the Nou Camp in Barcelona. Part of the course could be a visit to some of the tourist a
attractions in the UK. We also look at travelling to destinations, evaluating modes of
transport and why tourists choose to visit locations. Unit 2 is called the nature of leisure and
tourism. This unit is worth 60% of the final grade and it is all based around controlled
assessment. This involves an investigative study looking at why tourists are a attracted to
the city of York and what they take part in while they are there.
Where can I find more information?
See Mr Allen for more details or log on to the AQA website – www.aqa.org.uk and find
GCSE Leisure and Tourism for a full breakdown of the course.
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GCSE Photography Why study GCSE Photography?
This course provides students with a range of creative, exciting and stimulating
opportunities to explore their interests in photography in ways that are relevant and
developmental. All students can study the themes which most interest them. This motivates
them to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding. The course is current and
reflects developments in design and new media technologies.
Skills students develop: creativity; imagination; research; investigation and experimentation;
the development of ideas from first-hand experience and, where appropriate, secondary
source materials.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Photography?
• Show a high level of commitment, both in school and on visits to external facilities and in
completion of work out of school hours.
• Provide themselves with basic equipment e.g. sketchbook, glue stick, crayons etc.
• To visit art galleries, libraries, museums and other places relevant to the course (either
independently or through school trips)
• Consider their own suitability for a course, which relies heavily on self-discipline in a
practical area.
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• Students will be expected to complete a range of independent research tasks, personal
preparation and gather material for use in their own work on a weekly basis.
Where will the study of Photography take me?
It is a strong foundation for further progression to Art and Design related courses such as
A-level Photography and enhanced vocational and career pathways.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Candidates should work in one or more areas of lens-based and light-based media such as
those listed below. They may explore overlapping and combinations of areas: portraiture;
landscape photography (working from the built or natural environment); still life
photography, (working from natural or manufactured objects); documentary photography,
photo journalism, narrative photography, reportage; fine art photography, photographic
installation; photography involving a moving image, (television, film and animation); new
media practice such as computer manipulated photography and photographic projections.
Where can I find more information?
Speak to Mr Barry or Miss Holt.
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GCSE Triple Science Why study GCSE Triple Science?
Triple science builds on the combined science award. With the bridge towards A level
science, the concepts, depth and challenge is increased with triple science. This course
taken alongside combined science will result in the students leaving with three separate
GCSE’s in biology, chemistry and physics. By taking sciences separately at GCSE level you
will cover more content and you’re better prepared if you want to take science A Levels.
Pupils who take separate GCSE Science are also more likely to get higher grades in their A
level science courses.
What qualities will you need to study GCSE Triple Science?
As a scientist, you should have:
• Scientific, technical and numerical skills.
• An enquiring mind.
• Problem solving skills.
• Patience and persistence.
• A logical and methodical approach.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good spoken and written communication skills.
• The ability to work in a team.
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Where will the study of Triple Science take me?
Literally anywhere! Science has 1000's of job opportunities from plant scientist to animal
breeders, a genetic counsellor to a neurologist, a computer programmer to a banker. There
really is a scientific job out there for whatever your passion in science is. With this option,
you will be well placed to do any of the A levels in the sciences as long as you achieve
good grades (usually B’s in all three sciences). Medicine is a very competitive course and
they demand high grades in science GCSE’s as well as A levels. Most top universities
prefer applicants for Science subjects to have taken the triple award option at GCSE.
Topics to be studied at GCSE level include:
Science is a set of ideas about the material world. The main applications for the new
science specification are; investigating, observing, experimenting or testing out ideas and
thinking about them. The way scientific ideas flow through the course will allow the
students to build a deep understanding of science. This will involve talking about, reading
and writing about science plus the actual doing, as well as representing science in its many
forms both mathematically and visually through models. All students will sit 9 exams at the
end of year 11. Three for each biology, chemistry and physics units.
Where can I find more information?
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-trilogy-8464
Please speak to: Mr Hirst: [email protected]