preparing young people to play an active part in a them ... 27th january 2017 individual guidance...

Preparing young people to play an active part in a technologically mature society by providing

them with exceptionally high level skills, qualifications and attitudes that will

benefit themselves and a wider community in an internationally

competitive world

Tudor Grange Academy Dingle Lane

Solihull West Midlands

B91 3PD

0121 705 5100

www.solihull.tgacademy.org.uk [email protected]

Year 8Curriculum Choices 2017

Tudor Grange Academy

Choosing your courses Route 1: The English Baccalaureate Pathway

We encourage and expect most students to follow this route which will lead to students gaining the English Baccalaureate. This was introduced by the government in 2010 and is designed to ensure that students demonstrate achievement across a range of academic subjects. The subjects include; English, Mathematics, Modern Foreign Language, Science and Geography OR History.

Students following this route will choose to study ONE of the curriculums below:

Route 1a: English Baccalaureate (with science Trilogy)

Route 1b: English Baccalaureate (with separate sciences)

English - Literature and Language English - Literature and Language

Mathematics Mathematics

Science - Combined sciences (Trilogy) Science - Separate sciences (Separates)

Geography OR History GCSE Geography OR History GCSE

MFL - French, German or Spanish GCSE MFL - French, German or Spanish GCSE

RS - GCSE RS - GCSE

PE - Core PE - Core

PSHE PSHE

GCSE Option A GCSE Option A

GCSE Option B GCSE Option B

GCSE Option C Consequently students following the above routes will need to make the following choices:

1. To study Geography OR History

2. Select top 5 subject choices from the options listed below (3 of these will be studied by students selecting Route 1a and 2 of these subjects will be studied by students selecting Route 1b):

Art and Design History

Business Studies Media Studies

Cambridge National in Child Development MFL - Second Foreign Language Option

Cambridge National in ICT Music

Computer Science Photography

Design and Technology Physical Education

Drama Psychology

Food Preparation and Nutrition Sociology

Geography

Choosing your courses Route 2 - Humanities Pathway

This route is for students experiencing difficulty with their Modern Foreign Language. Without a language they cannot achieve the English Baccalaureate. The decision not to continue with their Modern Foreign Language should not be taken lightly and students are encouraged to discuss this decision with their language teacher before making a final decision.

Students following this route will study the following curriculum:

Route 2: Humanities English - Literature and Language

Mathematics

Science - Combined sciences (Trilogy)

Geography AND History GCSE

RS - GCSE

PE - Core

PSHE

GCSE Option A

GCSE Option B

GCSE Option C

Consequently students following this route will need to make the following choices:

1. To study Geography AND History

2. Select top 5 subject choices from the options listed below (3 of these will be studied):

Art and Design Media Studies

Business Studies Music

Cambridge National in Child Development Photography

Cambridge National in ICT Physical Education

Computer Science Psychology

Design and Technology Sociology

Drama Food Preparation and Nutrition

Curriculum Choices Timeline

Please find below a timeline of events that have been put in place to support you and your child in the curriculum choices decision making process. Further support is available through your son/daughter’s tutor.

Date Process

Tuesday 10th January 2017 Year 8 Assembly.

16th - 27th January 2017 GCSE taster session(s) to run in Year 8 timetabled lessons.

Friday 20th January 2017 Letters and option booklets, together with guidance meeting letters to be distributed via tutors.

Friday 27th January 2017 Individual Guidance Meetings.

Monday 30th January 2017 Individual Guidance Meetings.

Tuesday 31st January 2017 Curriculum Choices Evening.

Friday 3rd February 2017 “Apire to Be” Day.

Friday 10th February 2017 Deadline for curriculum choices options to be made online.

The individual guidance meetings are an opportunity for your child to ask any specific questions about any of the option subjects or future career pathways. These meetings will be with a senior member of staff.

During the Aspire to Be Day your child will have a one-to-one meeting with a Sixth Form student to discuss their hopes, fears and dreams for the future, as well as discussing their upcoming options choices.

GCSE Art and Design offers an exciting opportunity to explore a wide range of skills and techniques. You will work with a variety of materials and media including drawing, painting, textiles, ceramics, sculpture and photography throughout the course. The course encourages you to push the boundaries of your own abilities, taking risks, learning through experimentation and adapting your work to create excellent outcomes. As part of the course you will study the work of other artists who may influence and inform your own work, analysing what they do and how it has informed your own ideas and development. Students have previously benefited from a range of educational experiences, for example working with visiting artists and designers. Students have also had the opportunity to visit galleries, public works of art and exhibitions in Birmingham, Liverpool and London, as well as exciting residential trips to Paris and Ingestre Hall. Art and Design can be a powerful subject, with many career links and opportunities. It would benefit students who are interested in careers in; architecture, the film industry, theatre design, fashion, interior design, art therapy, graphic design, printmaking and illustration, to name a few.

How will I be assessed?

Component 1:

This is made up from a selection of thematic projects and workshops the students complete over the duration of the course. This usually consists of a minimum of two sketchbooks and final pieces that accompanies the work. Portfolio of work - 60%.

Component 2:

This is set in Year 11 by the Exam Board. Students will choose one starting point out of the seven they are provided with. They will then have a preparatory period where they will cover all four of the assessment objectives, which is usually completed in a sketchbook. They will then conclude this component with a 10 hour practical examination, during which they complete their final piece. Externally set assignment - 40%.

Art and Design

For further information please see Mrs G Smith

In GCSE Business Studies you will look at many different businesses ranging from small enterprises to large multinationals throughout the course and develop many transferable skills. You will start by looking at what a business is, the reasons why people choose to start their own business and the skills needed to do so. You will also investigate how a business is run, covering the main areas of Finance, Human Resources, Marketing and Operations.

As you go through the course you will start to look at specific influences on a business and the issues around running one, as well as developing your business etiquette and presentation skills. You will find out how to manage large numbers of workers, how production lines work and how to promote your business to potential customers.

No matter what job you go into after school or university it is useful to have some business knowledge and an understanding of how businesses are run. It is also useful to be able to read and understand business accounts, understand the different pay options open to you and how the law protects you when you are at work. These are life skills that you will learn as part of the course.

Business Studies is very skills based and you will learn how to analyse, by looking at business decisions from lots of different viewpoints, and consider the impact on different groups. You will also work on justifying your opinion by saying what action you think is best for the business and be able to say why.

You will also further develop your maths skills by analysing accounts and using financial ratios to help you make decisions on the best way forward for a business.


There is no coursework, this qualification consists of two examinations:

Paper 1 - Influences of Operations and HRM on Business Activity Written examination - 1 hour and 45 minutes - 50% of the GCSE.

Paper 2 - Influences of Marketing and Finance on Business Activity

Written examination - 1 hour and 45 minutes - 50% of the GCSE.

Business Studies

For further information please see Miss Burrell

For further information please see Mr Jennings

Cambridge National in Child DevelopmentThis qualification is for students who wish to develop knowledge and practical skills in Child Development. It is designed with both practical and theory elements, which will prepare students for further qualifications in Child Care, Health and Social Care, Psychology, Sociology and Biology.

In Years 9 and 10 the theory part of the course will cover the following topics:

Understanding reproduction and the roles and responsibilities of parenthood. Understanding antenatal care and preparation for birth. Understanding postnatal checks, postnatal provision and conditions for development. Understanding how to recognise, manage and prevent childhood illnesses. Child safety.

In Year 11 students will complete 2 pieces of coursework to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the above topics. The first piece will need to show an understanding of the equipment and nutritional needs of children from birth to five years. The second piece will need to show an understanding of the development of a child from birth to five years.

How will I be assessed?Unit 1 (R018): Health and Well-Being for Child Development Written examination: 1 hour and 15 minutes - 50% of the qualification (80 marks).This examination will cover the five areas delivered in Years 9 and 10; understanding reproduction and the roles and responsibilities of parenthood, understanding antenatal care and preparation for birth, understanding postnatal checks, postnatal provision and conditions for development, understanding how to recognise, manage and prevent childhood illnesses and know about child safety.

Unit 2 (R019): Understanding the Equipment and Nutritional Needs of Children from Birth to Five Years Non-examination assessment which will be internally assessed and externally moderated - 25% of the qualification. This should be completed in 10 hours (60 marks).

The students will be expected to investigate the different equipment and nutritional requirements of children from birth to five years. On completion of this unit, students will be able to apply their knowledge and understanding, through a practical activity, to show how the needs are met to promote the well-being and development of the child. They will cover the following areas:

LO1: Understand the key factors when choosing equipment for babies from birth to 12 months.LO2: Understand the key factors when choosing equipment for children from one to five years.LO3: Know the nutritional guidelines and requirements for children from birth to five years.LO4: Be able to investigate and develop feeding solutions for children from birth to five years .

Unit 3 (R020): Understanding the Development of a Child from Birth to Five Years Non-examination assessment which will be internally assessed and externally moderated - 25% of the qualification. This should be completed in 10 hours (60 marks).

Students will be expected to investigate the developmental norms of children from birth to five years. Students will develop an understanding of the impact of play on the developmental norms. On completion of this unit, students will be able to apply their knowledge and understanding, through practical activities, to show how play affects the development of individual children. They will cover the following areas:

LO1: Understand the physical, intellectual and social developmental norms from birth to five years.LO2: Understand the benefits of learning through play.LO3: Be able to plan different play activities for a chosen developmental area with a child from birth to five years.LO4: Be able to carry out and evaluate different play activities for a chosen developmental area with a child from birth to five years.

Cambridge National in ICT

For further information please see Mr Brown

From personal computers to smartphones, from apps to websites, our lives are enhanced through the use of ICT. The Cambridge National in ICT reflects this and provides students with a solid foundation for understanding and applying this subject in their future working lives.

Course Content

R001: Understanding Computer SystemsAs the first mandatory unit and a foundation for others, this unit will give students a solid base to develop knowledge and understanding of computer systems and the implications of working with data to enable them to use computers effectively.

R002: Using ICT to create Business SolutionsIn the second mandatory unit, students will refine their existing knowledge of computers to reflect the working practices of the commercial world. This includes using a wide range of software efficiently.

Business strand

Students will undertake one of the following units:R003: Handling Data using SpreadsheetsIn this unit, students will process and present data into meaningful information that can be used to support the decision-making process in real-life scenarios, including budgeting, cost modelling, reporting, trend analysis and forecasting.

R004: Handling Data using DatabasesThis unit will enable students to gain the necessary additional skills and knowledge to modify an existing database by adding fields and then to further enhance a database by creating new table structures to produce a relational database structure. They will also learn how to test and interrogate a database.

Creative strand

Students will undertake one of the following units:R005: Creating an Interactive Product using Multimedia ComponentsStudents will be able to develop and demonstrate their creative flair by combining multimedia components to create a vibrant, energetic or stimulating webpage or interactive product.

R006: Creating Digital ImagesThis unit will enable students to acquire the underpinning knowledge and skills to enable them to create, edit, enhance and save different types of digital images.

R007: Creating Dynamic Products using Sound and VisionStudents can focus on developing their expertise in music, video or animation. They may create products such as a music recording and/or mix, video news clip or animation for a webpage.


Students complete four units in total. Each unit is worth 60 marks and 25% of the overall qualification.

Unit R001 is a timetabled examination. The question paper is based on a pre-release case study. It consists of two sections, each comprising short answer and extended response questions. All other units are centre assessed and moderated tasks. These units assess the quality of written communication.

The Computer Science GCSE is a cutting edge qualification designed to meet the demands of a modern and evolving computer science industry and educational sphere. Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world problems. It is an intensely creative subject that involves invention and excitement. This qualification places real emphasis on computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems and design systems that do so. These skills will be the best preparation for students who want to go on to study Computer Science at A Level and beyond. The qualification will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills. This course is only suitable for students with a high mathematical ability.

ContentThe course is comprised of 3 components:

Component 1 – Computer SystemsThe first component is focused on computer systems covering the physical elements of computer science and the associated theory; Systems architecture • Memory • Storage • Wired and wireless networks • Network topologies, protocols and layers • Network security • System software • Moral, social, legal, cultural and environmental concerns.

Component 2 – Computational Thinking, Algorithms and ProgrammingThis component is focused on the core theory of computer science and the application of computer science principles; Translators and facilities of languages • Algorithms • High and low-level programming • Computational logic • Data representation.

Component 3 – Programming Project (non-exam assessment)This component is the non-exam assessment where students will be challenged by a range of exciting and engaging tasks in order to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned; Programming techniques • Design • Development • Effectiveness and efficiency • Technical understanding • Testing, evaluation and conclusions.

How will I be assessed?Component 01 – Computer SystemsWritten examination - 1 hour and 30 minutes - 80 marks = 40% of the total GCSE.

Component 02 – Computational Thinking, Algorithms and ProgrammingWritten examination - 1 hour and 30 minutes - 80 marks = 40% of the total GCSE.

Component 03 – Programming ProjectExternally moderated non-examination assessment - 40 marks = 20% of the total GCSE.

Computer Science

For further information please see Mr Brown

Design and TechnologyThe study of Design and Technology seeks to prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world; and be aware of, and learn from, wider influences on design technology, including historical, social/cultural, environmental and economic factors. GCSE Design and Technology enables students to work creatively and apply technical and practical expertise, in order to:

Use imagination, experimentation and combine ideas when designing to develop realistic design proposals for products to solve problems in everyday life.

Develop the skills to critique and refine their own ideas whilst designing and making. Communicate their design ideas and decisions using different media and techniques such as

sketching, 2D and 3D design software. Develop decision making skills, including the planning and organisation of time and resources when

managing their own project work. Develop a broad knowledge of a wide range of materials, components and technologies and practical

skills to develop high quality, imaginative and functional prototypes. Be ambitious and open to explore and take design risks. Consider the costs, commercial viability and marketing of products.

The Design and Technology GCSE has no restrictions on material and students are encouraged to explore a variety of materials from textiles to card. There are strong links to other GCSE’s including Art, Business Studies, Maths and Science.


Controlled assessment - 50%

The project is based on 30 hours work in normal lesson time plus homework tasks and is worth 50% of your final grade. You are required to produce a design folder and a quality manufactured product that solves a problem or enhances living. There are a range of contexts to choose from, and you will be given guidance by your teacher to help choose a suitable topic. Context examples include:

Responding to the unexpected. Improving living and working spaces (environments and objects). Securing a sustainable future. Promoting health and wellbeing. Developing and communicating personal, social, and corporate identity.

Examination - 50%

There is one final examination that is designed to test your understanding of technology through questions based around designing and manufacturing

For further information please see Mr Evans

Drama

For further information please see Miss Cottom

GCSE Drama seeks to develop an insight into and an understanding of a wide range of themes, ideas and issues through both original drama and existing scripted work.

Students will develop collaborative and group skills and consider the way in which their ideas can be communicated effectively to an audience. They will develop the ability to evaluate the work of others and analyse the effectiveness and impact of a range of live professional performances.


Unit 1 :

Understanding Drama (40%)

Students will sit a written examination which will assess their knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre, alongside their ability to analyse and evaluate theatre. For this component, they will also be required to study one set play.

Unit 2 :

Devising Drama (40%)

Students will be required to keep a written log that demonstrates the process, evaluation and analysis of a devised piece of theatre. For this unit, their practical skills will also be marked in the final performance of their devised piece.

Unit 3:

Texts in Practice (20%)

Students will be required to perform two extracts from one play and will need to demonstrate a wide range of skills. This includes the ability to commit dialogue to memory, interpret and create characters, develop appropriate physical and vocal skills, engage with other performers, as well as the audience, and adopt safe working practices.

Food Preparation and NutritionThe Food Preparation and Nutrition course equips students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. It encourages students to cook, enables them to make informed decisions about food and nutrition and allows them to acquire knowledge in order to be able to feed themselves and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life.

The theory side of the course will cover a range of topics, for example:

Cooking and food preparation. Food commodities. The science of food. Diet and good health. Principles of nutrition. Where food comes from.

These topics will be covered in Years 9 and 10. Students will cook at least one dish per week and these dishes will usually link to their theory lessons to consolidate their learning of a topic or skill.

In Year 11 students will complete 2 pieces of coursework. The first piece will be to investigate the working characteristics and the functional and chemical properties of different ingredients. An example could be the different ingredients needed to achieve a perfect shortcrust pastry. The second will be to plan, prepare, cook and present a selection of dishes, to meet particular requirements such as a dietary need, lifestyle choice or specific context.

How will I be assessed?Component 1: Principles of Food Preparation and NutritionWritten examination: 1 hour and 45 minutes - 50% of the qualification.This component will consist of two sections both containing compulsory questions and will assess the six areas of content as listed in the specified GCSE content:Section A: Questions based on stimulus material.Section B: Structured, short and extended response questions to assess content related to food preparation and nutrition.

Component 2: Food Preparation and Nutrition in Action Non-examination assessment which will be internally assessed and externally moderated - 50% of the qualification.Assessment 1: 8 hours Assessment 2: 12 hours

Assessment 1: The Food Investigation Assessment A scientific food investigation which will assess the student’s knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to scientific principles underlying the preparation and cooking of food.

Assessment 2: The Food Preparation Assessment Prepare, cook and present a menu which assesses the student’s knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking and presentation of food.

For further information please see Miss Powley

Geography

For further information please see Ms Stewart-Parker

The Geography course will follow the new AQA GCSE specification and will provide you with the opportunity to understand more about the world, the challenges it faces and your place within it. The course will deepen your understanding of geographical processes, highlight the impact of change and the interactions between people and the environment. Geography is a dynamic subject and always changing so the course will also help you to understand topical issues in the news and the world around you. You will be taught a wide variety of different topics and skills. These include:

Geographical Skills and FieldworkUsing a range of maps, atlases, satellite images and other digital material, including the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS). You will undertake fieldwork in two different environments (one on location e.g. in a city and one in a physical location e.g. in a river).

Human Geography Urban city environments, global economic development issues and resource management (with a focus on water).

Physical GeographyHazards (including earthquakes and volcanoes, climate change, extreme weather conditions and natural weather hazards), rivers, coasts and ecosystems (rain forests and deserts).

The GCSE is a natural progression from Key Stage 3 Geography and also provides ideal preparation for A Level studies. GCSE Geography is a very versatile subject because it bridges the gap between science and the arts. Geography helps you to develop a range of skills including communication, problem solving, analytical, organisational and IT skills. You will be handling data, writing reports and justifying decisions you make. These are all important transferable skills and this is why employers rate a GCSE in Geography highly.


You will be assessed through three written examinations at the end of the course. Everyone will sit the same examination as there are no different levels of entry:

Paper 1 - Physical Geography examination (35% of the GCSE).

Paper 2 - Human Geography examination (35% of the GCSE).

Paper 3 - Fieldwork and Geographical Skills examination (30% of the GCSE).

HistoryThe GCSE course aims to provide students with a broad knowledge of History. Students will cover Medieval to Modern History and consider countries such as America, Britain, China and the USSR.

It is important to remember that History is not just about facts and dates. It is a subject for anyone who wants to understand why humans have behaved the way they did in the past. This is also a subject for anyone interested in the events that have shaped the world we live in today and for anyone interested in solving puzzles, developing arguments and taking part in debates. Studying History will develop your ability to think clearly and logically, research, analyse, hypothesize, argue and criticise. History is a subject which allows you to develop your writing skills, which will complement many other subjects in the curriculum, and the GCSE course is ideal preparation if you are considering choosing History at A Level.

All the skills mentioned above are vitally important in all professions and this is why employers rate highly a GCSE in History. As well as the more obvious professions such as law, museum work, teaching and archaeology, many other jobs in journalism, the civil service, finance, management and public relations actively look for people with History qualifications.

How will I be assessed?The GCSE is assessed by 2 examination papers, sat at the end of Year 11. Each is worth 50% of the GCSE and will last 1 hour and 45 minutes, with all students sitting the same examination papers:

Paper 1 1B: Germany 1890 – 1945

Germany and the growth of democracy - Kaiser Wilhelm II and WWI/Weimar Germany. Germany and the Depression - The impact of the Great Depression, the failures of the Weimar Republic, the rise of the Nazi Party. Life in Nazi Germany - Social and economic changes under the Nazis, Jewish persecution and the Final Solution, Nazi culture,

opposition and resistance to the Nazis.

Conflict and Tension 1945 – 1972 The origins of the Cold War - End of WWII, Yalta and Potsdam Conferences, the atom bomb, Soviet expansion, the Truman Doctrine,

Marshall Plan and Berlin Blockade. The development of the Cold War - China and Korea, NATO, Warsaw pact, the arms race,Hungarian uprising. Transformation of the Cold War - Berlin Wall, Cuban Missile Crisis, Prague Spring, Détente, SALT.

Paper 2 2A: Britain: Health and the People

Medieval Medicine and the Black Death. Renaissance Medicine, Vesalius, Jenner and vaccination. The Revolution in medicine; discovery of germs, Louis Pasteur, Anaesthetic and Antiseptics, Cholera and Public Health. Modern Medicine; Penicillin, impact of WWI, technology and medicine, the NHS and Welfare State.

Elizabethan England c1568 – 1603 Elizabeth’s court, her advisors, issue of marriage. Elizabeth’s ‘Golden Age’ and the Age of Discovery. Troubles at home and abroad, including Mary Queen of Scots and the Spanish Armada. The Historic Environment; An in-depth study of a specific site (e.g. The Globe Theatre).

For further information please see Miss Curtis

Media StudiesGCSE Media Studies is a subject that offers students an exciting opportunity to analyse and create media products from a number of different platforms.

The course is designed to broaden students’ understanding of the media industry and has been created to allow students to show off their ability to investigate as well as create media products.

Why choose Media Studies?

Extensive and meaningful analysis of the media industry.

Creative practical work.

Choice and independence encouraged in practical work.

Opportunities to learn about real media products and industries.

Opportunity for progression to A level.


The course is split up into two key units:

Controlled Assessment – 30% Students will complete controlled assessments over a choice of topic areas including; the global magazine and comic book industry as well as film promotion and advertising.

In each of the study areas students will create detailed projects that will both theoretically investigate the topic and then present their findings in an imaginative way. After their investigation, students will then create practical and artistic independent versions of the different media products that they have been analysing.

Examination - 70%In media studies there will be two examinations that will both be around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The examinations in media studies will challenge the students to explore a range of theoretical frameworks in relation to independent case studies and unseen stimulus material.

For further information please see Mr Bargh

For further information please see Mrs Fitzroy

MFL (French/German/Spanish as a second foreign language)Students following the English Baccalaureate pathway will all continue to study the language they commenced in Year 7 to GCSE level. In addition, the MFL Department are pleased to be able to offer English Baccalaureate students the option to study a second foreign language. For example, a student who started with French in Year 7 will continue with French to GCSE but may also decide to start Spanish or German from beginners’ level in Year 9 and complete a GCSE in this language in Year 11. As students will be studying the language for 3 (rather than 5) years before taking the GCSE , this option is particularly suitable for able linguists.

The course in a second foreign language will provide students with:

An understanding of the language in a variety of contexts. The ability to communicate effectively in the language. A knowledge of important vocabulary and grammatical structures. An insight into the culture of the target language speaking countries.

Why study another language?75% of the world’s population do not speak English and over 60% of British trade is with non-English speaking countries.

Why French?French is an official language of many of the world’s organisations such as the United Nations, NATO, UN-ESCO, the International Red Cross Association and numerous other international committees. Apart from English, French is the only language spoken on five continents.

Why German?200 million people speak German world-wide and it is the most widely spoken language in Europe. Germany is an important trading partner due to its position as the world’s second-largest exporter.

Why Spanish?Spanish is a global language spoken by at least 350 million people around the world. Spanish culture has made major contributions in the arts, architecture and literature.

How will I be assessed? There will be terminal examinations in all four skills at the end of Year 11: Listening, Reading,

Speaking and Writing.

Each of these examinations will have a 25% weighting.

There will be an emphasis on grammatical knowledge, creativity and the student’s ability to manipulate the language accurately and spontaneously.

Music

For further information please see Mr Dunne

Is GCSE Music for me?

If you enjoy playing an instrument or singing and are in a position to reach a standard equivalent to Grade 4 by Year 11.

If you are willing to take lessons on your instrument/voice and to practise regularly.

If you are happy to perform in front of others.

If you enjoy exploring a wide range of new styles of music.

If you enjoy working both individually and in groups to create your own music.

If you are able to read some musical notation.

If you meet the above criteria then GCSE Music would be an excellent choice!

If you opt for GCSE Music, you will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in appraising, composing and performing through completing the following three units:

How will I be assessed? 1. Performing (non-examined assessment - worth 30%) You will need to perform as a soloist and as a member of an ensemble, for a combined duration of at least 4 minutes.

Your performances will be recorded in Year 11 and need to be of a standard equivalent to at least Grade 4 if you are to achieve a strong mark.

2. Composing (non-examined assessment - worth 30%) You will compose two pieces of at least 3 minutes combined duration.

One composition will be a free composition and the other will be in response to a choice of briefs set by the Exam Board.

3. Appraising (assessed in a listening exam - worth 40%) The examination will take place in the summer term of Year 11 and will contain some questions based upon set works that you have studied during the course.

Additionally, there will be some questions based upon unfamiliar music. However, all questions will be linked to topics and styles that you have explored during the course, which will include film music, classical music and popular music.

Photography

For further information please see Mr Reeves

GCSE Photography offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of skills and techniques, using a range of photography methods and creative techniques. This will include; digital and hand manipulation methods, drawing and experimental processes when developing and producing work. The course encourages you to push the boundaries of your own abilities, taking risks, learning through experimentation and adapting your work to create excellent outcomes. As part of the course you will study the work of other photographers who may influence and inform your own work, analysing what they do and how it has informed your own ideas and development. Students have previously benefited from a range of educational experiences, for example working with visiting artists and designers. Students have also had the opportunity to visit galleries, public works of art and exhibitions in Birmingham, Liverpool and London, as well as exciting residential trips to Paris and Ingestre Hall. Photography is a strong subject, with many career links and opportunities in today’s ever changing society. The course would benefit students who are interested in a career in; media, the film industry, journalism, sports photography, medical photography, theatre design, fashion and interior design, to name a few.


Component 1:

This is made up from a selection of thematic projects and workshops the students complete over the course. This usually consists of a minimum of two sketchbooks (digital or practical) and final pieces that accompany the work. Portfolio of work - 60%.

Component 2:

This is set in Year 11 by the Exam Board. Students will choose one starting point out of the seven they are provided with. They will then have a preparatory period where they will cover all four of the assessment objectives, which is usually completed in a sketchbook. They will then conclude this component with a 10 hour practical examination, during which they complete their final piece. Externally set assignment - 40%.

Physical Education

For further information please see Mrs Maisey

Is GCSE PE for me?

If you enjoy playing sport and regularly participate in sport inside and/or outside of school.

If you have three strong sports and are playing at least one of them outside school to a good level.

If you enjoy learning about the mind and how it can affect your performance.

If you are happy to perform in front of others.

If you are willing to practice your sport by regularly attending wider curricular activities.

If you enjoy biology and learning about the body and what happens when you exercise.

If you meet the above criteria then GCSE PE would be an excellent choice for you!

What will I cover in GCSE PE?

If you opt for GCSE PE, you will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills in five key topics which are:

Applied anatomy and physiology - this is to do with the body and how it moves during exercise.

Physical training - this is to do with the requirements on your body when you train.

Socio-cultural influences - this is to do with factors that may impact why you participate in sport.

Sports psychology - this is to do with our mind and how it can impact our performance.

Health, fitness and well-being - this is to do with how our lifestyle choices can impact performance.


Controlled Assessment - 40% This will include an internal assessment and external moderation of practical ability in three different sports, together with evaluating and analysing performance in a sport of your choice. In this section of the course you will either need to select two individual sports and one team sport or vice-versa from the list provided by the Exam Board.

Theoretical Assessment - 60% This will involve two written examinations covering the topics mentioned above. These examinations will be taken at the end of Year 11 and will both last for 1 hour and 30 minutes each.

Where can GCSE PE take me?

It leads directly to A Level PE.

Sports Therapy.

Sport Psychology.

Sports Nutritionist.

Physiotherapy.

Coaching and officiating.

Sports Journalism.

Sports Marketing and Media.

Teaching.

Psychology

For further information please see Miss Mortimer

Psychology is an exciting subject which covers content that is relevant to everyday life. GCSE Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour and this course will give you a sound understanding of topics in psychology at an introductory level. The topics you will study include: Development Early brain development in the womb focusing on high level scientific neural structures in the womb. Looking at the reasons behind the development of children. Develop your own learning style by studying Psychologists who are revolutionising teaching; Carol Dweck and the growth mindset.

Memory This includes theories of how our memory works and the differences between short and long term memory. Memory gives you new and innovative revision strategies to bolster your exam practice for GCSE’s. We also study eye witness testimony and how people can be given false memories in unforgiving circumstances.

Brain and Neuropsychology Delve into the complexities of the human brain, not just its functions and brain scanning, but what can go wrong when neurological damage is sustained, ranging from stroke to concussion from sport.

Perception From sensory deprivation torture studies, to optical illusions. Perception is how you experience the world and we will be looking at how you can manipulate the viewpoint of others.

Psychological ProblemsFrom the coldest isolation of depression to the hot flashes of bipolar, all the way to the gutter of addiction, covering explanations and the therapies used to treat them. As well as wider issues surrounding stigmatisation and the challenges that people face suffering from mental illnesses.

Social Influence Such as conformity, the factors that turn everyday people into people who have committed the most villainous crimes. Mob behaviours and why we riot. Obedience to the law and people in powerful positions, but also how situations can lead to good outcomes in Pro-social Psychology. Language, Thought and Communication Ever wonder why you talk the way you do? Are you interested in the way animals communicate (from dolphins to bees)? This topic takes you through a wide range of communication styles from evolution to emoticons (emojis).

Research Methods Understanding how psychologists conduct scientific investigations.

As the topics above suggest, psychology is a subject for anyone who is interested in people and their behaviour. Psychology is a blend of scientific practice, social science and human intuition, along with mathematical content. In psychology you will learn about relevant research and theories and you will develop your ability to analyse, evaluate, think critically, conduct investigations and write reports. The GCSE is also seen as a strong basis for progression to A Level. The skills mentioned above are transferable and relevant to any career or further study. Psychology is both relevant and useful for any career that involves other people. This would include a psychologist (clinical or educational), the education sector, business, research, sport, health and social care, public services, marketing, public relations, management and human resources.

How will I be assessed?There is no coursework in the GCSE Psychology course, there will be 2 examinations, 1 hour and 30 minutes each, both taken at the end of Year 11.

Psychology

Sociology

For further information please see Miss Rogers

GCSE Sociology is an increasingly popular subject which offers students an opportunity to develop a theoretical understanding on many topical issues including the balance of power between men and women, the impact that the media has on our lives and explanations of criminal and deviance behaviour.

The new GCSE course aims to explore a range of issues including;

How have the role and functions of the modern family changed?

Why do people succeed or fail in education?

How does a patriarchal society lead to an increase in female crimes?

Is society still defined by social class?

During the course students will gain a wider understanding of the world around them including contemporary social and political debates.

Sociology is an exciting and interesting subject, which provides a well respected GCSE for people wanting to work in law, politics, public relations, teaching and many other careers.


Students will sit two examinations each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes.

The examinations contain a mixture of short answer questions and 12 mark essay type questions, therefore a sound written ability is essential.

There is no coursework in the GCSE Sociology course and examinations will be taken at the end of Year 11.

Notes:

preparing young people to play an active part in a them ... 27th january 2017 individual guidance...

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