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KEY STAGE 4

OPTION CHOICES 2016 -2018

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Key Stage 4 Courses New qualifications starting in September 2016 have resulted in changes to the option choices available to pupils at key stage 4. To understand what is happening in Welsh education and why, please read the guide produced by the Welsh Government that accompanies this booklet. This booklet is designed to help students (in consultation with their parents/carers and teachers) to choose the courses they wish to follow at Key Stage 4. Important Dates:

Wednesday 13th January Options evening (5.00 pm – 7:00 pm)

Monday 25th January Return Option forms

Please Note Students will be guided in their choices in an effort to ensure the courses they follow at Key Stage 4 will allow them to develop their potential. Choices made at this stage do not guarantee a place on specific courses. If only a small number of students choose a subject it may not be possible for that subject to run or if a subject exceeds its allocated number of places a student may have to be placed on another course – this is why students have to make second choice. Pupils in their last 2 years at school can follow a variety of courses at GCSE level 1 & 2. Vocational courses (at level 1 & 2) maybe offered through negotiation with Cross Keys College and partnership schools. Subjects have coursework or controlled assessments. These are set by the Examination Boards – we cannot vary them. If a student misses these they may become ineligible for examination entry. Examination dates are set by the Examination Boards. WE CANNOT VARY THEM. To ensure desired grades are achieved please avoid booking holidays during these periods. Exam dates and further information available from:- www.wjec.co.uk www.aqa.org.uk www.asdan.org.uk

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KEY STAGE 4 – OPTION CHOICE INDEX

Page No Course Information 1 Compulsory Core Subjects

2/3 English and English Literature

4/5 Mathematics

6 AQA Science

7 Religious Studies

8/9 Welsh

10/11 Welsh Baccalaureate

12 Physical Education (non examinable)

13 Personal and Social Education (non examinable)

14 Option Choice Subjects

15 Art & Design

16 Design Technology

17 Food Technology

18 Graphic Products

19 Product Design

20 Textiles Technology

21/22 Drama

23/24 French

25 Geography

26 History

27 Home Economics [Child Development]

28/29 Media Studies

30 Music

31 Physical Education

32 OCR Level 2 Nationals in ICT – First Award

33 WJEC Computer Science

Option Choices

Course Planning Form

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Compulsory Core Subjects

English language

Numeracy

Mathematics

Science

Religious Education

Welsh

Welsh Baccalaureate

Non-Examinable

Physical Education

Personal and Social Education

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GCSE English Language and English Literature Awarding Body: WJEC GCSE English Language is changing; however it remains one of the most important qualifications you can gain. The course will require you to write in many different ways for a variety of people and purposes. There is a greater emphasis on the accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar. You will have the opportunity to develop creatively as well as extending functional skills such as letter writing and problem solving. You will also be involved in discussions with different groups of people. You may find yourself debating or giving a talk to your peers. You will also continue to read in a critical way; the critical analysis is developed further in the English Literature elements of the course.

What does the course involve? The course will be delivered through a mixture of traditional classroom teaching, group activities combined with hands-on activities. You will be encouraged to bring your personal response to the texts examined and develop creatively as writers and critics. This course is designed to enable you to:

Use language and communication skills accurately and confidently.

Respond imaginatively and with understanding to what you hear, read

and experience in a variety of written forms and media.

Enjoy and appreciate literature.

Understand yourself, others and the world around you!

How will I be assessed? Assessment is through non-examination assessments

and external examinations. GCSE English Language Unit 1: Non-examination assessment – Oracy 20% One individual presentation. One group discussion. Unit 2: External Examination – Reading and Writing 40% 2hrs Section A – Reading (20%) Understanding of at least one description, one narration and one exposition text. An editing task focusing on understanding short texts at word, sentence and text level (2.5% of qualification total). Section B (20%) – Writing One writing task to be selected from a choice of two that could be either description, narration or exposition. This section will also include one proofreading task focusing on writing accurately.

Unit 3: External Examination – Reading and Writing 40% 2hrs

Section A (20%) – Reading Understanding of at least one argumentation, one persuasion and one instructional text. Section B (20%) – Writing (40 marks)

One compulsory argumentation writing task and one compulsory persuasion writing task.

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GCSE Literature Some pupils will also complete an additional qualification in English Literature. However English Language will be prioritised. External Examination 35% 2hrs Unit 1 Prose (different Cultures) and poetry (Contemporary) Of Mice and Men (Steinbeck) or To Kill a Mocking Bird (Lee) Contemporary: Unseen poetry comparison Unit 2a – External Examination 40% 2hrs Literary Heritage drama and contemporary prose An Inspector Calls (Priestley) Heroes (Cormier) Unit 3 - Non-examination Assessment 25% Section A – Shakespeare Section B – Welsh Writing in English.

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Mathematics (New GCSE) The faculty follows the WJEC linear syllabus in Mathematics and Numeracy. It will be the first time students have the opportunity to achieve two GCSEs in the area of Mathematics. The Assessment of these specifications is tiered as follows:

Higher Tier: A*- C

Intermediate Tier: B- E

Foundation Tier: C-G ( C grade only awarded in exceptional circumstances)

Mathematics- Numeracy Exam This has been introduced in order for students to have a greater understanding of problem solving and dealing with real life numerical problems. It is a full GCSE and is split:

Paper 1 ( non -calculator)

Paper 2 (calculator)

Mathematics GCSE This is closer to the traditional examination and covers all the subject areas and closely resembles what the GCSEs have previously looked like. It is a full GCSE and is split:

Paper 1 (non- calculator)

Paper 2 (calculator)

In each paper the assessment will take into account the quality of written communication (including mathematical communication) used in the answers to specific questions. Whilst the new numeracy GCSE will require some in depth reading in order to extract the necessary information to solve numerical problems.

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FOUNDATION/INTERMEDIATE/HIGHER

Year 10 (approx. 152 hours available)

UNIT TIME Algebra 1 Algebraic manipulation 5 hours

Number 1 Rounding and accuracy 1 2-3 hours

Geometry and Measures 1 Properties of shape 6 hours

Number 2 Properties of number 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 1 3 hours Number 3 Calculation 6–8 hours

Algebra 2 Sequences & Substitution 4 hours

Enrich, Engage, Explore

Geometry and Measures 2 Angles and polygons 5 hours

Statistics 1 Data collection and representation 6 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 2 3 hours Number 4 Equivalence of FDP 2-3 hours

Algebra 3 Equations and inequalities 6 – 8 hours

Geometry and Measures 3 Area, volume and dimensional analysis 8 – 9 hours

Number 5 Quantity 3 – 4 hours

Statistics 2 Probability 1 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 3 3 hours

Number 6 Ratio and proportion 4 – 5 hours

Geometry and Measures 4 Location, scale drawings and bearings 3 hours

Applications 1 Money 8 – 10 hours

Algebra 4 Graphs 1 3 hours

Number 7 Venn diagrams 3 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 4 3 hours

Algebra 5 Graphs 2 5 – 6 hours

Geometry and Measures 5 Transformations 2 – 3 hours

Applications 2 Time and travel 2 – 3 hours

Enrich, Engage, Explore

Geometry and measures 6 Measures 3 - 4 hours

Statistics 3 Averages and spread 3 – 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 5 3 hours

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Science At key stage 4 leaners will have the opportunity to follow the following routes:-

Double Award Applied Science

Double Award Science

Triple Award Science Course Aims All the courses look to develop: -

1. Encourages learners to develop a critical approach to scientific evidence

2. Explore the implication of science of science for society 3. To develop scientific literacy 4. To develop practical skills 5. To develop mathematical skills within Scientific Contexts

Triple Award Science

Double Award Science

Double Applied Science

Worth 3 GCSE 2 GCSE 2 GCSE

Grade range A* - G A*-G A*-G

Year 10 Exams Available in May /June Year 10 Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Available in May /June Year 10 Biology 1 hour 15minutes Chemistry 1 hour 15 minutes Physics 1 hour 15minutes

Available in May /June Year 10 Paper 1 - 1 hour 30minutes The paper will have questions from all 3 areas of science.

Year 11 Exams Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Paper 2 – 1 hour and 30 minutes The paper will have questions from all 3 areas of science

Practical Exams 6 hours This exam will take place during January- February of Year 11

4 hours This exam will take place during January- February of Year 11

4 hours This exam will take place during November / December of Year 11

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RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Pupils study WJEC GCSE Religious Studies Spec B, Unit 1 Religion and Life Issues, comprising of the following topics: Relationships, Is It Fair? Looking For Meaning, Our World. Unit 2 Religion and Human experience, comprising of the following topics: Religion and Conflict, Religion and Medicine, Religious expression, Religion, State and Authority. All topics are covered from the perspectives of Christianity and Islam. There is no coursework. It is a 3 year course that is delivered through 3 lessons a fortnight, beginning in year 9.

How will I be Assessed?

Pupils will sit two exams, in Year 11 on the four units in Religion and Life Issues and one in Year 11 on the four Units in Religion and Human Experience. The two exams make up 100% of the course and each exam lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes.

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CYMRAEG - WELSH Cymraeg – Welsh

WJEC Welsh Second Language.

Short Course.

Higher and foundation levels.

The aim of the Welsh Second language short course is to encourage pupils to

become confident users of the language in a variety of familiar situations. Pupils

develop their oral, written, listening and reading skills. Pupils cover topics that are

relevant to their personal experiences.

The topics covered include:

Fi fy hunan: this includes personal details, description, likes and

dislikes etc.

Y FIlltir Sgwar: this includes the family, the home, holidays, school etc.

Cymru: this includes Holidays in Wales, Welsh stars, Cardiff and

S4C etc,

Hamdden: topics covered include going out, sports, shopping, TV

and radio, friends etc.

Delwedd : fashion, shopping, clothes, etc.

Y Cyfryngau: TV programmes, cinema, computer games, magazines,

books etc.

Coursework.

Pupils will complete their coursework during year 10 and 11. There are two oral

pieces and one written.

External examination.

There is an external reading and writing examination in year 11.

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Full course.

In addition to the above, pupils will study two further units of work to include:-

Pwysau cyfoedion: the area, alcohol, smoking, drugs etc.

Gwaith: the world of work, part time and full time jobs, work

experience etc.

Technoleg: technology such as mobile phones, computers etc.

Yr Amgylchedd: the environment, pollution, sustainability, recycling.

Cadw`n iach: keeping fit, healthy eating

Prodiadau`r ysgol: school related experiences.

Dathlu: celebrating.

Coursework is the same as the short course and will be completed in year 10.

Examination.

There is a pair or group external oral examination in year 11.

There is a one hour additional reading and writing examination in year 11.

Grades available:

Higher Tier: A* - E

Foundation Tier: B - G

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WELSH BACCALAUREATE

Exam Board: WJEC

The Welsh Baccalaureate is made up of The Skills Challenge Certificate, GCSE English Language, and GCSE Maths – Numeracy plus, supporting qualifications such as GCSEs or vocational qualifications.

Aims The aim of the Welsh Baccalaureate is to enable learners to develop and demonstrate an understanding of and proficiency in essential and employability skills. These are the skills that employers and next-stage educators value and that learners need for progression and effective performance in learning, work and life. The essential and employability skills are:

Literacy

Numeracy

Digital Literacy

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Planning and Organisation

Creativity and Innovation

Personal Effectiveness. All of these skills areas will be developed in a variety of ways across the curriculum. The Skills Challenge Certificate

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Pupils will be required to undertake an Individual Project which is worth 50% of the award alongside three Challenges, which between them make up the remaining 50% of the Welsh Baccalaureate Challenge Certificate. (See below) Challenges can be completed as an individual or by working in a small group (of three to six learners). Within the three Challenges, each learner will complete one Challenge as an individual and one as part of a group.

Challenge Area Area of study Percentage of overall

grade

Enterprise and Employability Challenge

Develop enterprising skills and attributes and enhance employability.

20%

Global Citizenship Challenge

Understand and respond appropriately to a global issue.

15%

Community Challenge

Identify, develop and participate in opportunities that will benefit the local community.

15%

Individual Project Planning and Organisation, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Digital Literacy

50%

Learning and Assessment Pupils will be assessed through their Skills Development File and the completed Individual Project and Challenges. All work will be internally assessed by their teacher and externally moderated by the WJEC.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Non - examinable) Pupils follow the recommendations of the National Curriculum, which is to study in greater depth, competitive and health, fitness and wellbeing activities, and any other activities on offer. It is our intention to offer pupils the opportunity to obtain either National or school based Certificates, providing they complete the requirements in that activity. Physical Education Sports Leaders UK Pupils will have the option to follow a Sports Leaders UK Course in their core PE lessons. Pupils will gain a recognised qualification; this is also valued by employers. Pupils will learn how or organise, communicate and to involve people in sporting activities. They will become role models; helping others to achieve their potential. Pupils are assessed through continuous practical tasks with a final teaching assessment of 20 minutes with year 7 pupils.

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PERSONAL AND SOCIAL EDUCATION (non-examinable) All pupils receive one lesson of PSE each fortnight, which is delivered by either their Tutors or outside providers. The outside providers include the police and medical professionals who provide information in their specialist fields. Through structured units of work pupils study Preparation for Lifelong Learning, Active Citizenship, Health and Emotional Wellbeing, Education for Sustainable development and Global Citizenship. In KS4 this is combined with the Welsh Baccalaureate, which supports the pupils’ personal development and employability skills. The programme aims to promote the development of responsible young people, with a sense of moral values, and to ensure they are fully able to achieve their potential whilst in school and in the future.

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Option Choice Subjects

Art Design Technology

Food Technology Graphic Products Product Design Textiles

Drama French Geography History Home Economics Child Development Media Studies Music Physical Education Welsh ICT Computer Science

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ART & DESIGN The Art and Design Department currently offer the WJEC GCSE course in Art and Design. Within this course pupils will be able to explore and develop their skills in a wide range of media techniques and process’s including:- -Painting and drawing -felt making -Printmaking -3 dimensional studies -ICT Pupils will investigate visual and other sources of information. Develop ideas through experimentation and record from direct observation and imagination. Pupils select work showing their range of skill and produce a portfolio to be entered for assessment at the end of the course. Portfolios are worth 60% of the final grade. Pupils will be expected to identify different types of Art, craft and design, appreciate work of other artists, make critical judgements and use their findings to inform and inspire their own work. Pupils will need to be confident and independent learners who are able to set themselves targets and high goals. Pupils will have to discuss the progress of their work and consider ways of developing and improving it further. Pupils will sit a 10 hour terminal examination towards the end of the course. This will be worth 40% of the final grade. Pupils will be assessed on:-

Contextual understanding

Creative making

Reflective recording

Personal response and presentation

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Design and Technology WJEC Design and Technology can be studied though one of 4 areas

Food Technology

Graphic Products

Product Design

Textile Technology The assessment includes

Unit 1 40% of the GCSE – made up of:

One examination paper in 2 sections: (2 hours)

Section A: Written paper 20%

Four compulsory questions related to the world of Design and Technology and Subject Specific.

Section B: Written paper 20%

Four compulsory questions based on the subject specification content. These questions are common topics across all Design and Technology Subjects.

Unit 2 Controlled assessment 60%

During the year 11 Pupils will select a task set by the examination board – this is the controlled assignment (coursework). The controlled assignment task will be carried out in 30 hours within the normal classroom / workshop environment. Pupils are allowed supervised access to resources (during controlled assessment time) these may include information gathered outside the 30 hours of controlled assessment time. Part A: Carry out an analysis of the design problem, write a design specification, generate a range of ideas, develop a solution and produce the details of the final solution. (Time allowed 10-guided hours) Part B: Plan the making process, carry out the making and evaluate the project. (Time allowed 20-guided hours) Both parts have to comply with the controlled assessment rules.

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Food Technology Are you interested in a career in the exciting and ever changing food industry? GCSE Food

Technology can give you a good start.

Do you like cookng or baking? Are you interested in eating new foods? Do you like

watching TV food programs like Great British Bake Off or Jamies Superfoods? GSCE Food

Technology allows you to do all of these things.

The food industry in the UK is enormous it includes: Restaurants run by famous, and not so

famous, Chefs; Supermarkets with a wide range of food products; Hotel and Event catering;

catering for Schools; Wedding catering etc. GSCE Food Technology helps to prepare you

for a career within this varied industry.

This course is designed to help students learn basic food skills; study Chefs; understand the

properties and functions of food materials; as well as experienceinga wide range of cooking

skills. It is a design and make course where students follow the design process used in

industry to create their own ideas to given Briefs.

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Graphic Products

Want a career in the exciting, innovative and creative design industry? GCSE Graphic Design is the course for you.

Do you ever wonder how companies create their logo and brand identity? Do you ever feel like you could design posters, CD covers and packaging for products? Graphic design allows you to research all of these avenues plus a lot more! We live in a world that is driven by emerging technologies and new materials but one thing is always around us, branding. From the magazines you read, music you listen to and fashions you follow, branding has affected all of them and YOU! This is your chance to understand this world of branding and study the areas in detail. The course is designed to give students the ability to understand the importance of design, creativity, innovation and branding. Students will learn this through the media of Computer aided design (CAD) work and Computer aided manufacturing (CAM) work, as well as learning the hand skills needed to draw accurately and to model prototypes from different materials. The course is made up of coursework and an exam to be sat in YR 11: Coursework – 60% 2 hour Exam - 40% The coursework is in the form of a Controlled assessment booklet (CAT Book) consisting of 15 pages containing research through to manufacture. The students will be designing and making a suite of prototypes for a chosen brief. The exam will cover all knowledge learnt over the 2 years including a designer research section that students will study in detail in YR 10.

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Product Design

Want a career in the exciting, innovative and creative design industry? GCSE Product Design is the course for you.

Do you ever wonder how products are made or how new technologies work? Do you ever feel like you have the next new idea that could make millions? Product design allows you to research all of these avenues plus a lot more! We live in a world that is driven by emerging technologies and new materials. This is your chance to understand this world of innovative technology and study the areas in detail. The course is designed to give students the ability to understand the importance of design, creativity and innovation. Students will learn this through the media of Computer aided design (CAD) work and Computer aided manufacturing (CAM) work, as well as learning the hand skills needed to draw accurately and to model prototypes from different materials. The course is made up of coursework and an exam to be sat in YR 11: Coursework – 60% 2 hour Exam - 40% The coursework is in the form of a Controlled assessment booklet (CAT Book) consisting of 15 pages containing research through to manufacture. The students will be designing and making a prototype or block model for a chosen brief. The exam will cover all knowledge learnt over the 2 years including a designer research section that students will study in detail in YR 10.

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Textiles Technology Textiles are used in all aspects of our lives, in our homes, in the clothes we wear and

the items we use to help us every day in school, work and when shopping!

Do you like buying and wearing the latest fashions? Do you like changing your

bedroom to reflect your style and favourite colours? Are you particular about the style

and design of your school bag?

Are you interested in the new wearable tech. ideas that are being developed, e.g.

lights, music and ICT displays, in both clothing and personal products?

This course is designed to enable students to develop an understanding of the

materials, techniques and decorative aspects that are used in fashion and home

wear products. It is mainly a design and make course which encourages students to

produce their own ideas to given Briefs, following the same design processes as the

Textile and Fashion industries.

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DRAMA

Exam Board: WJEC Drama GCSE offers pupils the opportunity to experience all aspects of theatre, developing performance skills in scripted and devised theatre as well as learning new skills and techniques in theatre production. Emphasis is placed on positive teamwork. Drama seeks to promote individual prowess alongside social skills. GCSE Drama requires organisation and commitment as pupils must be prepared to rehearse in groups to create assessed pieces of drama coursework. Clear commitment to rehearsals, to the creative process and towards other team members is vital. Pupils will be required to rehearse their work during lunchtime and after school session.

Assessment: Assessment is via two units of practical performance course work (60%) and an externally set written examination (40%)

Coursework / Controlled Assessment Unit 1: Devising Theatre Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated 40% of qualification 60 marks Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of devised theatre using either the techniques of an influential theatre practitioner or a genre, in response to a stimulus set by WJEC. Learners must produce:

a realisation of their piece of devised theatre

a portfolio of supporting evidence

an evaluation of the final performance or design. Unit 2: Performing from a Text Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner 20% of qualification 60 marks Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners study two extracts from the same performance text chosen by the centre. Learners participate in one performance using sections of text from both extracts.

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Written Paper / External Assessment Unit 3: Interpreting Theatre Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 40% of qualification 60 marks Section A: Set Text A series of questions on one set text from a choice of five: 1. Romeo and Juliet William Shakespeare 2. 1984 George Orwell, adapted by Robert Icke & Duncan Macmillan 3. Cysgod Y Cryman Islwyn Fowc Ellis, adapted by Sion Eirian 4. Dau Wyneb Manon Steffan Ross 5. 100 Imaginary Body (Nick Hern Books). All texts will be available in both English and Welsh. Section B: Live Theatre Review One question from a choice of two requiring analysis and evaluation of a given aspect of a live theatre production seen during the course.

A minimum of two theatre trips will be arranged during the course to allow pupils to develop their knowledge and understanding of drama and live theatre. It is essential

that pupils attend to enable them to answer Section C of the written examination.

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FRANÇAIS/FRENCH

The WJEC GCSE French course is based on four broad topic areas:

a) PERSONAL AND SOCIAL LIFE -self, family and friends -home life -shopping -food -healthy life-styles -illnesses and accidents -free time -fashion

b) LOCAL COMMUNITY -home town

-school and education -pollution -recycling -weather

c) WORLD OF WORK -work experience -part time jobs -future careers

d) THE WIDER WORLD -travel and holidays

-the media -crime -drugs -religion and politics

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ASSESSMENT

As of September 2016, WJEC are changing the way French is assessed at GCSE level. This is the new assessment framework: Unit 1: Speaking Oral test: 7-9 minutes (Foundation tier) 10-12 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Three tasks: One role play One photo card discussion One conversation

Unit 2: Listening Written examination: 35 minutes (Foundation tier) 45 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Listening comprehension tasks with written responses. Unit 3: Reading Written examination: 1 hour (Foundation tier) 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Reading tasks with written responses, including one translation task from French into English. Unit 4: Writing Written examination: 1 hour 15 minutes (Foundation tier) 1 hour 30 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Writing tasks including one translation task from English into French.

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GEOGRAPHY

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HISTORY

The History course comprises of 3 topics in the WJEC History Syllabus B. Each will take approximately 1 term to teach.

In Depth Topic 1: German 1929 – 1947

The pupils will study the Rise of the Nazi Party and Hitler and its Consolidation of Power 1929-34, changing life for the German people 1933-39 and War and its impact on life in Germany 1939-47. This will include a study of the Holocaust and the Jewish question. The programme of study will finish with an examination of Germany in the aftermath of the war and the support of the allies in rebuilding the country and the punishment of the Nazi leaders in the Nuremburg Trials.

In Depth Topic 2: Depression, War and Recovery, 1930-51

This topic is an examination of the impact of the World economy, on Wales and England during the 30s. Also looking at the rise in the new industries producing new fangled consumer goods in the Midlands and Southern England. Pupils will also study the road to war in 1939, with the efforts of Hitler to break the Treaty of Versailles and Prime Minister Chamberlain’s policy of Appeasement culminating in Germany’s occupation of Czechoslovakia and declaration of war on Germany. The Unit studies the impact on women of the Second World war and the establishment of the Welfare State under the Labour party, Nationalisation and the Parties fall from power in 1951.

Outline Topic 3: Changes in Health and Medicine, c.1000 to the present day

Medicine stands still (Medieval), Beginning of change (Renaissance & early modern), Revolution in medicine (industrial) , Modern medicine (20th & 21st centuries) 7 factors: war, religion, chance, government, communications, science, individuals. Includes topics on surgery and public health as well as diseases and cures.

The coursework element covers British History concepts which will rotate annually:

Jack the Ripper’s London Explores life and crime on the streets of London during the 1880s This is split into two essays. a) The lives of people in the East End of London were very difficult towards the end of the nineteenth century. Discuss using sources. b) Some historians argue that Jack the Ripper was not caught because of police failures. Discuss using sources. The coursework element is worth 25% of the overall grade.

The History GCSE requires a great deal of written work and independent learning and therefore a real interest in the subject is needed to achieve success.

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Home Economics Child Development

Controlled Assessment - Child Study 30%

The duration of the study is 15 hours, which is commenced in the first half of the course in year 10. For the Child Study each student will need access to a child between the ages of birth and 4 years old to be able to access information for their studies. 1 task is selected from a bank of 3 tasks set by WJEC.

Controlled Assessment – Child Focused Task 30%

Duration is 15 hours, which is carried out in the second half of the course, in year 11. One task is selected from a bank of 2 tasks set by WJEC, to include researching, planning, making, and evaluating.

Written paper – Principles of Child Development 40%

1½ hours paper which is untiered and externally set and marked. This examination targets the full range of GCSE grades.

What can the course lead to? This GCSE is a good basis for further study at 16+ including vocational courses such as A/AS Home Economics, GNVQ Intermediate and Advanced Health and Social Care and National Diplomas/Certificates in Health Studies/Care.

What will you study?

1. Family and Child –Types of Family, Functions/Responsibility of Family, Roles and Relationships within families, Disability and Support for Family and Child.

2. Food and Health –Principles of a Healthy Diet, Dietary Aims and Goals, Special Dietary Needs, and Food safety.

3. Pregnancy –Preparation for Pregnancy, Foetal Development, Ante-natal Care, Birth of the Baby, and Post-natal Care.

1. Physical Development –Stages of Physical Development, and Factors affecting Physical Development.

2. Intellectual Development –Stages of Intellectual Development, Learning Aids, Learning through Play, Types of Play and Factors affecting Learning.

3. Social and Emotional Development –Stages of Social Development, Factors affecting Social Development, Stages of Emotional Development and Factors affecting Emotional Development.

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MEDIA STUDIES – Double Award (Two GCSEs)

Hoping for a career in the exciting, innovative and competitive entertainment and media industries? GCSE Media Studies will give

you a great head start.

Do you: watch TV and films, listen to music, use Social Networking sites, watch videos on YouTube, read magazines, play video games? GCSE Media Studies allows you to study all of these things!

Today we are surrounded by media wherever we look. There’s the Internet, TV, film, radio magazines, papers … the list goes on. GCSE Media Studies gives you the unique opportunity to study all of these areas.

The course is designed to enable students to develop a critical understanding of the role of mass media in society, the way that media is produced and have an understanding of the media industry.

GCSE Media Studies also involves undertaking various media production skills within the course assessment. This can include pitches, adverts, storyboards, posters, press packs, magazine articles, the design of websites, recording of radio shows and filming and editing your own movies! You will also have the opportunity to use the latest Apple Mac software to create your work.

Subject Content:

The Media Studies course will cover up to four units and pupil can obtain up to two GCSE’s.

You will study the following:

Television

Film

Radio

Popular Music

Newspapers

Magazines and Comics

Computer games and Websites

Advertising

Coursework / Controlled Assessment

Understanding the Media – 30% of the total award (GCSE One)

(Completed in Year 10)

Three assignments based on three different types of media.

This could be analysis of your favourite film, advert, website, pop star or magazine.

The creation of your own band or artiste and promotion of them. The development of a new product and the advertising campaign that will be

used to launch it.

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Coursework / Controlled Assessment (continued)

Responding to a Media Brief - 30% of the total award (GCSE Two)

(Completed in Year 11)

Research, Planning and Presentation of a Media Product. You will design and create media campaign for a client. This will involve filming and editing your own short film using the Apple Macs.

External Assessment / Examination

You will sit two short written examinations over the two years of the course.

Investigating the Media – 20% of the total award (GCSE One)

(Completed at the end of Year 10) 1 hour and 30 minutes The paper consists of four questions and will be based on the Music Press both in print and online. A brief will be given to you six weeks before the examination and you will be expected to prepare research your answers. There will also be a production task that will require you to create a storyboard, website design or magazine mock up.

Exploring Media Industries – 20% of the total award (GCSE Two)

(Completed at the end of Year 11) 1 hour and 30 minutes A written test comprising of two sections based on two media industries that you have studied over the two years.

It is essential that pupils with an interest in taking GCSE Media Studies (Double Award) are prepared to work in their own time to develop their design and production

skills to ensure that their coursework is of the best possible standard. This may require extra sessions during lunchtimes and after school

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GCSE MUSIC GCSE MUSIC (Wales) SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENT

Unit 1: Performing Total duration of performances: 4-6 minutes 35% of

qualification 84 marks Section A: Performing (30%) A minimum of two

pieces, one of which must be an ensemble performance of at least one minute

duration. The other piece(s) may be either solo and/or ensemble. One of the

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

Section B: Programme Note (5%) A programme note for one of the pieces

chosen for performance, linked to an area of study.

Unit 2: Composing Total duration of compositions: 3-6 minutes 35% of

qualification 84 marks

Section A: Composing (30%) Two compositions, one of which must be in

response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners will choose one brief from a choice

of four, each one linked to a different area of study. The briefs will be released

during the first week of September in the academic year in which the

assessment is to be taken. The second composition is a free composition for

which learners set their own brief.

Section B: Evaluating (5%) An evaluation of the piece composed in

response to a brief set by WJEC.

Unit 3: Appraising Written examination: 1 hour 30% of qualification 72

marks This unit is assessed via a listening examination. Eight questions in

total, two on each of the four areas of study. Area of study 1: Musical Forms

and Devices Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble Area of study 3: Film Music

Area of study 4: Popular Music Two of the eight questions are based on

prepared extracts set by WJEC

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION

GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION (September 2016) Theory: Introduction to Physical Education Assessment: Written examination: 2 hours (60% of Final Grade) Pupils will be assessed through a range of short and extended questions. The questions will be based on (audio-visual) stimuli and other sources. Practical: The active participant in Physical Education Non-exam assessment (40% of Final Grade) This component is internally assessed and externally moderated. Pupils will be assessed in three different activities in the role of performer in at least one individual and one team sport. Pupils will be further assessed through a written analysis and evaluation of their personal performance in one of their chosen activities.

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OCR LEVEL 2 CAMBRIDGE NATIONALS CERTIFICATE

The OCR qualification is designed to create confident users of ICT, who are able to apply their skills purposefully and effectively.

Key Features

Work related learning qualifications

Enable learners to develop range of skills for vocational sector

Can be started in KS4 and continued at college

Vocational qualification that is practical and job related

Benefits

They offer a fresh approach to learning as learners can study at their own pace

Learners receive certificates for individual units

Learners can gain recognition for their achievements as they progress

Gives real workplace knowledge

Industry recognised qualifications

OCR Nationals at Risca

In Year 10 pupils will work towards the Compulsory Unit 1: Understanding Computer Systems. This unit is assessed via an EXTERNAL WRITTEN EXAM.

In Year 10 pupils will also work towards Unit 2: Using ICT Skills to create Business Solutions.

In Year 11 pupils will work towards Unit 5 : Creating an interactive product using multimedia and Unit 7: Creating dynamic products using sound and vision

In order to gain the qualification pupils MUST complete all 4 units; Unit 1, Unit 2, Unit 5 and Unit 7

OCR Cambridge Nationals Certificate is equivalent to 1 GCSE

***Please note, there is an EXTERNAL WRITTEN EXMANIATION worth 25% of total grade****

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WJEC Computer Science

The specification offers students the opportunity to gain an understanding of the way

computers work, and to create and review computer programs for real-life purposes based

on their own interests. It encourages them to create their own applications and other

systems, rather than simply use those designed by others.

Assessment is divided into three units:

1. Understanding Computer Science (45%) - 90 minute examination to assess

understanding of the theory content of the specification.

2. Solving Problems Using Computers (30%) - 2 hour external assessment to

assess the practical application of knowledge and understanding through a series of on-

screen tasks.

3. Developing Computing Solutions (25%) - internally assessed and externally

moderated 15 hour controlled assessment to develop a piece of work using programming

software following a task brief issued by WJEC.

This specification in Computer Science enables learners to:

become discerning computer users, able to make informed decisions regarding

hardware, software, storage, memory, networks and programming

acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of

computers and computer programs in a range of contexts

understand how computer systems work

improve their understanding of current technologies and trends towards the future

develop their understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental

issues that arise in this digital age

recognise potential risks when computing, and develop safe and secure systems

using professional standards

communicate effectively both orally and in writing

be better prepared for further education, training or employment

think creatively, innovatively, analytically, algorithmically, logically and critically

show that they can follow a brief to meet requirements

use computational thinking to design, create and develop their own programming

solution to a problem

use abstraction to model, decompose and generalise

detect errors in computer programs and correct them

manipulate data, sequence instructions, test designs and explore ideas

adopt safe, secure and responsible practice when using computers

evaluate and improve systems they have created as well as those of others

Please note: This course does involve the use of Maths to solve problems and a lot of logical thinking to try and create solutions to problems. Topics such as coding using a variety of programming languages feature heavily on the specification.

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OPTION CHOICES

OPTION A OPTION B OPTION C OPTION D Textiles Computer Science ICT Welsh Baccalaureate

Product Design Art History

Graphics Media Drama

Food Tech PE Music

Geography Child Development French

Art

Partnership courses as appropriate

COURSE PLANNING FORM 2016/2018 NAME_________________________________________ FORM_____________________

CHOICE OPTION A OPTION B OPTION C OPTION D

1ST Skills Challenge Welsh Baccalaureate

2ND Skills Challenge Welsh Baccalaureate

Signed Pupil _______________________________ Date ________________ Signed Parent/Carer _________________________ Date ________________ Option return deadline Friday 22nd January