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YEAR 9 PATHWAYS BOOKLET 2021
                              MACARTHUR

GCSE
PATHWAYS
 MACARTHUR
 2021-23
                                        1
YEAR 9 PATHWAYS BOOKLET 2021
                                                                         MACARTHUR

    CONTENTS
    Letter from King Henry School Headteacher Mr R Leitch          3
    Making your choice: A student’s Guide                          4
    The Process of Choosing Courses                                4

    CORE SUBJECTS
    English                                                        6
    Mathematics                                                    7
    Combined Science                                               8

    SUBJECTS
    Art and Design                                                10
    Art and Design – Photography                                  11
    Business                                                      12
    Creative I media                                              13
    Design Technology                                             14
    Drama                                                         15
    BTEC Engineering                                              16
    French                                                        17
    Geography                                                     18
    History                                                       19
    Media Studies                                                 20
    BTEC Music                                                    21
    Religious Studies                                             22
    Sociology                                                     23
    Spanish                                                       24
    BTEC Sport                                                    25

    CHOICES FORM
    Year 9 Option Choices                                         26

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February 2021
Dear Student,
Welcome to your KHS Year 9 Pathways Choice Booklet. Whilst
COVID-19 and the latest lockdown means that we won’t be able to have
a physical Pathways Options Evening, we are determined to provide you
with as much information as possible to make the right choices about
your future studies.
During your first three years here at KHS, you will have followed a
very similar curriculum to your friends and peers - one that has included
a wide range of different subjects. This has provided you with a broad
and balanced educational experience – a strong foundation for a truly
extraordinary life ahead.
In September 2021, you will enter Year 10 and the start of Key Stage 4. This is a
significant milestone in your school life as it will enable you to focus your learning on
specific areas of study that will lead up to your GCSE examinations at the end of Year 11.
This is a crucial transition and will require you to make some important decisions about which
subjects you would like to study over the next two years. It is essential that you make the right
choices so that you end up with a range of subjects that are interesting and stimulating and will
provide you with the best chances of being successful in your examinations.
Some subjects are compulsory and must be studied by all students. These include:
 • English (both Language and Literature)          • Mathematics
 • Science                                         • Physical Education (non-examined)
However, in order to support these compulsory subjects, you will also have the opportunity to
select three other subjects of your own choice. This booklet contains a list of the different subject
choices available to you.
Please read this booklet carefully with your parents or carers and talk to them about the areas that
interest you, complement your talents and may help you to achieve your future ambitions. Over
the next few weeks, you will also have the opportunity to talk with your form tutor in our virtual
form time, watch videos from each subject area and experience virtual taster sessions in subjects
that are new (not taught in KS3), giving you a real insight to what you would be studying if you
select one of these.
Once you have read this booklet and discussed all the available options presented to you with
your parents or carers, you will be given a link to an online form, which will ask you to enter your
choices. Should you have any queries about the options process at any stage please direct them to
Miss Northwood, Head of KS4 (knorthwood@kinghenry.org.uk).
We will do our very best to ensure you get the subjects of your choice. However, should there
be a lack of demand, it may be necessary to remove a particular subject from the list and place
those students affected into their second choice. Not all first choices can be accommodated so it is
important that when you choose a second choice you recognise that these may be used. You will
be notified of your final course allocations in writing.
I hope you find this information useful and look forward to your continued success in the next
phase of your time at King Henry School.
Yours faithfully

Mr R Leitch
Headteacher, King Henry School

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MAKING YOUR CHOICE: A
STUDENT’S GUIDE
As you know, you have to make some choices for the subjects you will study in Year 10. You
should have already given this a lot of thought and have an idea of which subjects you want to
choose.
Your teachers will give you clear guidance to help you select courses in which you will do well and
help you reach your future ambitions. At all times, think about why you making your choices,
and keep your extraordinary life ambitions at the heart of your decision making.
Remember there are three main reasons why you have to make a choice:

TIME
there is just not enough time to study everything and so some choices must be made.

ABILITY
not everyone can be good at everything, so you should choose the subjects you are
best at.

PERSONAL PREFERENCE
you will work best at those subjects you enjoy most.
Remember to make your choices as carefully as you can; you may already have an idea of the kind
of work area you would like in the future.
However, it is important to realise that most people are likely to have several changes of job
during their working lives and that most employers will wish to see a balance of subjects studied.
Information about all the subjects is given on the following pages. Core subjects are outlined
first, then comes information about the other courses you can choose. In every case, you are given
a brief outline of the subject.

THE PROCESS OF CHOOSING
COURSES
This booklet contains descriptions of all the courses we are offering for Year 10 next September.
(Inevitably, some of these will not run if the uptake is too small). Please read the descriptions
very carefully and discuss your preferences with your parent or your carer over the next few
weeks.
You do not need to make any response at this time.

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CORE
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    ENGLISH
    Name of Course                  :   GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature

    Examination Board               :   AQA

    Course Description              :   English Language/English Literature is a two-year course.

    Content                         :   English Language at GCSE is a linear course assessed by terminal
                                        external examination. Students will sit two exam papers at the end of
                                        their course of study each weighted at 50% which assess their reading
                                        and writing skills.
                                        English Literature at GCSE is also a linear course assessed by terminal
                                        examination. Students will sit two exam papers at the end of their
                                        course, one exploring Shakespeare and the 19th Century novel and the
                                        other exploring modern texts and poetry. The exams are weighted at
                                        40% for paper 1 and 60% for paper.
                                        In addition they will complete a separate spoken language assessment.
                                        This is a separate qualification which will earn a pass, merit or
                                        distinction grade (0% weighting).

    Who would be suited to the      :   English is a core subject and as such is compulsory for all Key Stage 4
    course?                             students.

    How is the course assessed?     :   By external examination.

    Where will this qualification   :   The new grade 5 will be the standard that will be expected for all
    take me?                            further education courses and will be recognised as the baseline by most
                                        employers.

    Staff Contact                   :   Miss C Grealish – Curriculum Leader for English
                                        Miss G Brown – Deputy Curriculum Leader for English

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MATHEMATICS
Name of Course                  :   GCSE in Mathematics

Examination Board               :   Edexcel

Course Description              :   Continuation of Key Stage 3 Maths, taken in one of two tiers (Higher/
                                    Foundation) to suit the ability of individual students.

Content                         :   •   Number
                                    •   Algebra
                                    •   Ratio, proportion and rates of change
                                    •   Geometry and measures
                                    •   Statistics and probability

Who would be suited to the      :   Mathematics is a core subject and as such is compulsory for all students.
course?

How is the course assessed?     :   Three equally-weighted written examination papers at either Foundation
                                    tier or Higher tier. Paper 1 is a non-calculator assessment and a
                                    calculator is allowed for Paper 2 and Paper 3. Each paper is 1 hour and
                                    30 minutes long.
                                    The qualification will be graded and certified on a nine-grade scale from
                                    9 to 1 using the total mark across all three papers where 9 is the highest
                                    grade.
                                    Foundation tier: grades 1 to 5.
                                    Higher tier: grades 4 to 9.

Where will this qualification   :   A grade 5 will be considered mandatory for all further education courses
take me?                            and be recognised as the baseline by most employers.

Staff Contact                   :   Mr P Wear - Curriculum Leader for Mathematics

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    COMBINED SCIENCE
    Name of Course                  :   GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy)

    Examination Board               :   AQA

    Course Description              :   Two GCSE qualifications

                                        The course consists of equal amounts of biology, chemistry and physics
                                        - each assessed externally at the end of Year 11.
    Content                         :
                                        In addition each student will need to complete 21 compulsory
                                        practical’s.

                                        As with all core subject students will be expected to complete this
    Who would be suited to the
                                    :   course. Students who may require the qualifications to study science at
    course?
                                        sixth form.

                                        2 x 75 minute examinations in Biology, chemistry and physics at the
    How is the course assessed?     :
                                        end of Year 11 (AQA Combined Science: Trilogy).

    Where will this qualification       2 GCSE qualifications allowing access to AS and A level science courses
                                    :
    take me?                            and BTEC Level 3 Medical Science programmes.

    Staff Contact                   :   Mrs E O’Donnell - Curriculum Leader for Science

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CHOICES
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 ART & DESIGN
 Name of Course                  :   GCSE Art Craft and Design

 Examination Board               :   Edexcel

                                     This is a broad course exploring practical and critical/contextual
                                     work through a range of 2D and/or 3D processes and new media and
                                     technologies. Candidates should produce practical and contextual work
 Course Description              :   associated with one of the endorsements below.
                                     Candidates will learn how to develop and produce their ideas. Build
                                     upon knowledge, understanding and the capability to evaluate:

                                     Study a variety of approaches, methods and intentions of contemporary
                                     and historical artists from different cultures and their contribution to
                                     continuity and change in society.
                                     Students undertaking the Art, Craft and Design title are required to
                                     create work associated with areas of study chosen from at least two of the
                                     five endorsed titles for Component 1. For Component 2, Art, Craft and
                                     Design students are required to create work associated with at least one
 Content
                                     area of study.
                                       • Art and Design (Fine Art)
                                       • Art and Design (Graphic Communication)
                                       • Art and Design (Textile Design)
                                       • Art and Design (Three-dimensional Design)
                                       • Art and Design (Photography)

                                     This course would be suited to students with a keen interest in Art and
 Who would be suited to the
                                 :   Design, who are able to work on an independent basis, are motivated and
 course?
                                     interested in learning new 2D and 3D skills and techniques.

                                     60% Portfolio of Work Assessment (coursework) and 40% weighting
 How is the course assessed?     :
                                     for the externally set examination task.

                                     This qualification can lead onto ‘A’ Levels in Art and Design, Graphics,
 Where will this qualification
                                 :   Textiles and higher level BTEC Diploma courses. It can also work well
 take me?
                                     as a stepping stone for creative apprenticeships.

 Staff Contact                   :   Mr C Calderbank - Head of Art

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ART & DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY
Name of Course                  :   GCSE in Art and Design (Photography)

Examination Board               :   Edexcel

Course Description              :   This is a specific Digital Photography course which seeks to explore
                                    the relationship between Photography and Art as well as learning
                                    about exposure, camera function and studio lighting. The course will
                                    be supported by visits to photographic and art galleries and the use of
                                    Digital SLR cameras and professional studio lighting.

Content                         :   Students will study a variety of approaches, methods and intentions of
                                    contemporary and historical photographers from different cultures and
                                    their contribution to Art. The course is a ‘hands on’ practical one where
                                    students will learn key skills in digital imaging through manipulation of
                                    images on the computer and be set a series of assignments based on the
                                    main genres in Photography. Students will look at Portraiture, Still life,
                                    Fashion and Landscape.

Who would be suited to the      :   This course would be suited to students with a keen interest in
course?                             Photography and Digital Imaging, who are able to work on an
                                    independent basis, who are motivated and interested in learning new
                                    skills and techniques.

How is the course assessed?     :   60% Portfolio of Work Assessment (coursework) and 40% weighting
                                    for the externally set examination task.

Where will this qualification   :   This qualification can lead onto A’ Levels in Art and Design,
take me?                            Photography, and higher level BTEC Diploma courses. It can also work
                                    well as a stepping stone for creative apprenticeships.

Staff Contact                   :   Mr R King - Head of Visual Arts

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 BUSINESS
 Name of Course                  :   GCSE Business

 Examination Board               :   OCR

                                     This qualification equips learners with the skills andconfidence to
                                     explore how different business situations affect business decisions.
                                     It allows learners to gain an insight into related sectors such as
                                     Economics, Business Management and Accounting.
 Course Description              :
                                     It encourages learners to make informed choices about a wide range of
                                     further learning opportunities and career pathways as well as develop
                                     life skills that enable them to become financially and commercially
                                     aware.

                                     The course is made up of 2 mandatory units which are expected to be
                                     covered over the two years.
 Content                         :
                                     These units are: Business 1: business activity, marketing and people (01)
                                     and Business 2: operations, finance and influences on business (02).

                                     This course will appeal to you if you enjoy a subject that uses real
 Who would be suited to the          life experiences and you want to find out more about Business
                                 :
 course?                             through personal investigation, using skills which include analysis and
                                     evaluation. This is a course that is active and enjoyable.

                                     Assessment is at the end of Year 11. The assessment consists of two
 How is the course assessed?     :   exams, 90 minutes each. Both question papers have a section with
                                     multiple choice questions.

                                     Students choosing this course can choose to continue taking Business in
 Where will this qualification
                                 :   Post 16. This course is an excellent foundation for students to study any
 take me?
                                     aspect of Business and Economics in the future.

 Staff Contact                   :   Mrs S Aggrey-Solomon - Head of Business Department

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Creative - iMedia
Name of Course                    Level 1/2 Cambridge National Certificate in Creative iMedia J817

Examination Board             :   OCR
Course Description            :   This qualification will assess the application of creative media skills through practical
                                  use. It will provide you with essential knowledge, transferable skills and tools to
                                  improve your learning in other subjects.

                                  The qualifications will encourage independence, creativity and awareness of the
                                  digital media sector. It will equip you with a range of creative media skills and provide
                                  opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research,
                                  planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts
                                  effectively.

                                  Through the use of these skills, you will ultimately be creating fit-for-purpose creative
                                  media products. The Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia will challenge all
                                  learners, including high attaining learners, by introducing you to demanding material
                                  and techniques; encouraging independence and creativity and providing tasks that
                                  engage with the most taxing aspects of the National Curriculum.
Content                       :   R081: Pre-production skills
                                  You will be introduced to a range of essential pre-production techniques used in
                                  the creative and digital media, including client brief, time frames, deadlines and
                                  preparation techniques.
                                  R082: Creating digital graphics
                                  Building on the skills and understanding that you’ve developed in the previous unit,
                                  you will explore where and why digital graphics are used and the techniques that are
                                  involved in your creation.
                                  R085: Creating a multipage website
                                  You will explore the different properties, purposes and features of multipage websites.
                                  You will be able to demonstrate your creativity by combining components to create a
                                  functional, intuitive and visually pleasing website.
                                  R087: Creating interactive multimedia products
                                  You will develop your knowledge and understanding of about where and why
                                  different interactive multimedia products are used and what features are needed for
                                  a given purpose. You will learn how to interpret a client brief, and how to use time
                                  frames, deadlines and preparation techniques as part of the planning and creation
                                  process.
Who would be suited to        :   This would suit all students who are creative and want to pursue a career in the
the course?                       creative multi-media aspects of the IT Industry.

How is the course assessed?   :   The course consists of 4 units, 1 externally assessed exam and 3 unit internally
                                  assessed and externally moderated. Written feedback is regularly provided to you for
                                  improvements to your work. Marks can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction level
                                  for both Level 1 and Level 2 (including Distinction * at Level 2).
Where will this               :   Students choosing this course can choose to continue doing ICT in Sixth Form. We
qualification take me?            currently offer the OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma in IT
                                  course.

Staff Contact                 :   Ms A Sutherland - Head of IT and Computer Science Department

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 GCSE IN DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY MATERIAL FOCUS
 RESISTANT MATERIALS
 Name of Course                  :   GCSE Design and Technology 8552

 Examination Board               :   AQA

 Course Description              :   GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate
                                     confidently and successfully in the increasingly technological world,
                                     including Rapid 3D Protoyping.
                                     You will carry out a realistic design proposal where, working with a
                                     real client, you will design and manufacture a prototype - to solve a
                                     genuine design problem, which could later be put into production.

 Content                         :   You will produce a Design Portfolio (a folder of artistic work)
                                     which will illustrate your journey from an initial idea to the product
                                     actually being manufactured in the school workshops; demonstrating
                                     your knowledge and understanding of materials and numerous
                                     manufacturing processes. You will analyse similar products and
                                     improve on ideas/products that already exist. You will learn how to
                                     communicate your design ideas - drawing by hand, using 3D Design
                                     software and creating actual scale models. You will demonstrate high
                                     levels of creativity, designing and making skills.

 Who would be suited to the      :   Students who wish to enter the highly lucrative industry of designing
 course?                             and manufacturing original and bespoke items for a variety of
                                     industries. This is the perfect course for those of you who are creative
                                     and innovative and like to solve everyday problems that will help
                                     others. You will use the latest technologies, such as 3D printing and
                                     laser cutting.

 How is the course assessed?     :   1. Written exam: 2 hours, 100 marks, 50% of GCSE marks
                                     2. A portfolio (design folder of ideas and creative solutions) and a
                                        prototype product, manufactured in the school workshops, is also
                                        worth 50% of the total marks

 Where will this qualification   :   Product Design, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Architecture and
 take me?                            Interior Design, Jewellery Design, Games Industry, Film and Media,
                                     Advertising and Marketing.

 Staff Contact                   :   Mr M Martin - Head of Design Technology Department

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DRAMA
Name of Course                  :   GCSE Drama

Examination Board               :   Edexcel

Course Description              :   GCSE Drama offers the chance to extend knowledge of Drama and
                                    theatre as well as enhancing confidence and team-building skills. It will
                                    offer an insight into how theatre is created and the design elements of
                                    performance (Costume, Lighting, Set and Sound) as well as the chance
                                    to develop as a performer learning new styles and drama techniques
                                    within a supportive environment.

Content                         :   Component 1 – 40% of the overall qualification.
                                    Devising (40 % Practical & 60% Written coursework)
                                    Component 2 –20% of the overall qualification.
                                    Performance from a text (100% Practical)
                                    Component 3 – 40% of the qualification.
                                    Theatre makers in practice (2 part written exam. 75% Text analysis and
                                    25% theatre review)

Who would be suited to the      :   Students interested in Drama and theatre either as actors or designers,
course?                             students who want to develop their confidence or build their team
                                    work skills.

How is the course assessed?     :   Practical Exams - 40%,
                                    Coursework - 20%
                                    Written Exam - 40%

Where will this qualification   :   This qualification can lead onto A Levels in Drama or theatre and
take me?                            higher level BTEC Diploma course such as BTEC Performing arts or
                                    creative design courses.
                                    It can also work well as a stepping stone for creative apprenticeships or
                                    jobs in the theatre, film or TV industry.

Staff Contact                   :   Ms K Mapp – Head of Performing Arts

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 ENGINEERING
 Name of Course           :   BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Engineering 600/4788/4

 Examination Board        :   Pearson EdExcel

 Course Description       :   This qualification is a Technical Award equivalent in size to one GCSE.
                              It has been designed to give students the opportunity to gain a broad
                              understanding and knowledge of the engineering sector and provides a
                              clear progression route to level 3 academic or vocational qualifications
                              or an apprenticeship or for those who want to take study of this subject
                              further. A Pass in each unit is equivalent to a Grade 5 GCSE, a Merit is the
                              equivalent of a Grade 6/7, a Distinction is the equivalent of a Grade 7/8 and
                              a Distinction* is the equivalent of a Grade 9 GCSE.

 Content                  :   Four Units composed of:
                              Unit 1: The Engineered World - In this unit students will investigate the
                              processes used to manufacture modern products within different engineering
                              sectors. Students will also study some of the new developments in materials
                              and engineering technology. (An online exam consisting of multi choice and
                              short answers. Anyone achieving 50% or higher will automatically achieve a
                              Level 2 qualification when combined with the other 3 units.
                              Unit 2: Investigating an Engineering Product - In this unit students will
                              investigate a manufactured product to learn what considerations a designer
                              would keep in mind when writing a technical specification. Students will
                              also investigate the materials and commercial production processes used to
                              manufacture the product.
                              Unit 3: Health & Safety - Students will learn how to work, safely, in a
                              workshop, following all the current Government regulations, and to select
                              the correct PPE etc.
                              Unit 4: Computer Aided Engineering - Students will be taught how to
                              manufacture a product using 3D software (Solidworks) and then make a
                              Rapid Prototype of a component using a 3D printer.

 Who would be suited to   :   Students who wish to have a broad understanding of working as an engineer,
 the course?                  with around 25% of the course being practical. It will help students decide
                              which field of Engineering they would like to work in – eg Electrical or
                              Mechanical, Civil Engineering or Aeronautical etc etc.

 How is the course        :   Unit 1 is a 1 hour online exam and determines if the Award will be made
 assessed?                    at Level 1 or Level 2 (equivalent to a GCSE). The rest of the course (Units)
                              comprises of short essay type answers to prove an understanding of realistic
                              engineering scenarios.

 Where will this          :   This qualification can lead onto a higher level BTEC Diploma course such
 qualification take me?       as BTEC Engineering or a Degree in Engineering (studied at University)
                              It can also work well as a stepping stone for apprenticeships or jobs in the
                              many Engineering sectors

 Staff Contact            :   Mr M Martin - Head of Design Technology Department

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FRENCH
Name of Course                  :   GCSE French

Examination Board               :   AQA

Course Description              :   The course builds on the previous three years of study at Key Stage 3
                                    and prepares students for further study. The curriculum for KS4 will
                                    prepare students for AS level if they wish to pursue learning languages.

Content                         :   Content of the course is divided into four themes:
                                    • Lifestyle (Health and Relationships)
                                    • Leisure (Free time and Holidays)
                                    • Home and Environment (Home, Local Area and Environment)
                                    • Work and Education (School and Future Plans, Current and Future
                                       Jobs)

Who would be suited to the      :   This course is open to all students who have enjoyed languages in Key
course?                             Stage 3 and students prone to achieve an EBACC.

How is the course assessed?     :   Listening (25%) at Foundation or Higher Tier Reading (25%) at
                                    Foundation or Higher Tier Speaking (25%) externally assessed Writing
                                    (25%) externally assessed.

Where will this qualification   :   As well as broadening job prospects, the qualification will also open
take me?                            doors to sixth form colleges in the area which are using MFL as part of
                                    their recruitment process.

Staff Contact                   :   Mrs S Dacoury-Tabley , Head of Modern Foreign Languages

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 GEOGRAPHY
 Name of Course                  :   GCSE Geography

 Examination Board               :   Edexcel Geography B

 Course Description              :   The GCSE geography course is designed to develop skills and knowledge
                                     gained at KS3. You will also learn many transferable skills which are valued by
                                     employers. The course has a real-world focus, is enquiry based and includes
                                     engaging fieldwork. Both physical and human geography are covered as well as
                                     geographical skills.

 Content                         :   The GCSE is made up of three components:
                                     Component 1: Global Geographical Issues
                                     The component is divided into three sections: Hazardous Earth, Development
                                     dynamics and Challenges of an urbanising world. It focusses on Geographical
                                     theory at a global level.
                                     Component 2: UK Geographical Issues
                                     The component is divided into three sections: The UK’s evolving physical
                                     landscape (Rivers and Coasts), The UK’s evolving human landscape focussing
                                     on London and Geographical investigations where students will complete
                                     fieldwork to support them in the exam.
                                     Component 3: People and Environment Issues –
                                     Making Geographical Decisions
                                     This component has three sections: People and the biosphere, Forests under
                                     threat and Consuming energy resources. Students get a resource booklet in the
                                     exam to base their answers on.

 Who would be suited to the      :   Geography is a fascinating subject, with both human and physical topics that
 course?                             are hugely relevant to the 21st century. If you are interested in current affairs,
                                     how our world works and completing Geography fieldwork, this is the subject
                                     for you!

 How is the course assessed?     :   GCSE Geography is divided into three components and students will sit three
                                     examinations at the end of the two year course. Paper 1 is worth 37.5%, paper
                                     2 is worth 37.5% and paper 3 is worth 25% of the GCSE.

 Where will this qualification   :   ‘A’ Level Geography, vocational courses and a huge range of careers: architect,
 take me?                            estate agent, public relations, military GIS analyst, coastal engineer, lawyer, aid
                                     worker and many more because of the huge range of skills you can develop.

 Staff Contact                   :   Miss E Page, Head of Geography Department
                                     Mr H Macdonald, Curriculum Leader for Humanities

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HISTORY
Name of Course           :   GCSE History

Examination Board        :   Edexcel

Course Description       :   The GCSE History course is designed to develop what you have already learned
                             in History. You will also learn many transferable skills which are valued by
                             employers.

Content                  :   The GCSE is made up of four components:
                             Component one is entitled Medicine Through Time 1250 - Modern Day in which
                             students study the following: how ideas about causes, treatments and prevention
                             have developed from religious and ‘common sense’ ideas to scientific methods, as
                             well as how medicine changes in the context of World War One.
                             Component two is entitled Early Elizabethan England, 1558-1588 in which
                             students study the following: The Virgin Queen, problems of her legitimacy,
                             gender and marriage, challenge from home and abroad, religious division, Mary
                             Queen of Scots, The Spanish Armada, Drake and Raleigh.
                             Component three is entitled The era of the Cold War 1943-91 in which students
                             will study the following: Why the Cold War began: the widening gulf between the
                             USA and the USSR and the development of the Iron Curtain; the development of
                             the Cold War in Europe: dividing Germany and Europe, the Three Cold War crisis
                             of Berlin, Cuba and Czechoslovakia, why the Cold War ended.
                             Component four is entitled Weimar and Nazi Germany 1918-1939 in which
                             students study the following: The establishment of the Weimar Republic and its
                             early problems, the recovery of Germany 1924-29, the rise of Hitler and the Nazis,
                             life in Nazi Germany and Hitler’s foreign policy.

Who would be suited      :   Anyone who has enjoyed studying History at Key Stage 3 or has an interest in
to the course?               history outside of the classroom. The GCSE also requires a good level of written
                             communication, so strong results in English are encouraged. If you have an interest
                             in 20th century and modern history, this is the course for you.

How is the course        :   GCSE History is divided into four components and students will sit three
assessed?                    examinations at the end of the two year course.
                             • Paper 1 (Medicine Through Time) is worth 30% of the total GCSE.
                             • Paper 2 (comprising both Elizabethan England and the Cold War) is
                             • Worth 40% in total- 20% each unit.
                             • Paper 3 (comprising Weimar and Nazi Germany) is worth 30% of the total
                               GCSE.

Where will this          :   GCSE History will help any student with an interest in a career in Law,
qualification take me?       Journalism, Teaching, Writing and it will allow students to choose from a wide
                             variety of subjects at Sixth Form because of the excellent analysis and written skills
                             that you will develop.

Staff Contact            :   Mrs L Turner, Head of History Department
                             Mr H Macdonald, Curriculum Leader for Humanities

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 MEDIA STUDIES
 Name of Course          :   GCSE Media Studies
 Examination Board       :   OCR
 Course Description      :   GCSE Media Studies is designed to widen the intellectual horizons of the students
                             through the analysis of a wide range of media forms and contexts. By the end of
                             the courses, students will have developed a wider understanding and appreciation
                             of the media in both a historical and contemporary context.
 Content                 :   GCSE Media Studies introduces learners to a range of contemporary media
                             forms. This includes in-depth case studies of audio/visual, print, online and
                             social media. This qualification enables learners to analyse, compare and produce
                             media products using the Media Studies theoretical framework and theoretical
                             perspectives.
                             Paper 1: Television and Promoting Media (35%)
                               • In section A: Television, students engage with an in-depth study of one
                                 contemporary and one historic television products, responding to questions
                                 covering the whole of the theoretical framework and a range of media contexts
                               • In section B: Promoting media, students study media products from the same
                                 global conglomerate producer illustrating the media forms of film, advertising
                                 and marketing, and video games.
                             Paper 2: Music and News (35%)
                               • In section A: Music, students engage with one in-depth study covering
                                 magazines, a comparative study of music videos and a study of contemporary
                                 radio.
                               • In section B: News, students engage with one in-depth study of online news,
                                 including its social and participatory media. Students also study contemporary
                                 and historical newspaper front pages and how they illustrate changing social,
                                 cultural, historical and political contexts.
                             Creating Media: Non-Examined Assessment (30%)
                               • Students apply their knowledge and understanding of media language and
                                 representations to create media products of their own.
 Who would be            :   Students who would like to combine practical and theoretical knowledge and
 suited to the course?       enjoy being creative in areas that interest them such as: film, music, news and
                             television.
 How is the course       :   GCSE Media Studies is a linear qualification with 70% external assessment
 assessed?                   through examination and 30% through non-exam assessment. The qualification
                             consists of two components that are externally assessed and one component that is
                             assessed by the centre and externally moderated by OCR. Students must take all
                             three components to be awarded the OCR GCSE (9-1) in Media Studies.
 Where will this         :   A GCSE in Media Studies will allow students to progress to further qualifications,
 qualification take          either vocational or general. This qualification provides a strong foundation for
 me?                         students to progress to OCR’s A-Level in Media Studies or Level 3 vocational
                             qualifications. It also equips students for progression into the workplace and
                             careers such as: journalism, marketing and the creative industries.
 Staff Contact           :   Miss G Brown – Deputy Curriculum Leader for English

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MUSIC
Name of Course                  :   BTEC Level 1 / Level 2 First Award in Music

Examination Board               :   Edexcel

Course Description              :   To encourage personal development through practical participation
                                    and performance in music. It gives students a wider understanding
                                    and appreciation of music through defined pathways.

Content                         :   The qualification is 120 GLH, which is the same size and level as a
                                    GCSE, and is aimed at everyone who wants to find out more about the
                                    music industry.
                                    You will study the following two mandatory units, covering the
                                    fundamental knowledge, skills and understanding required for the
                                    music sector:
                                     • The music industry
                                     • Managing a music product.

                                    You will build on the knowledge gained in the mandatory units, and
                                    explore two subsectors of the music industry, by choosing a further two
                                    units, covering areas such as:
                                     •   introducing live sound
                                     •   introducing music composition
                                     •   introducing music performance
                                     •   introducing music recording
                                     •   introducing music sequencing

Who would be suited to the      :   Those who enjoy performing music. It will also give students the
course?                             opportunity to develop a range of skills, techniques and personal
                                    attributes essential for successful performance in working life.

How is the course assessed?     :   Coursework both written and practical and an externally assessed unit.
                                    All units have to be passed to obtain the qualification.

Where will this qualification   :   An excellent grounding for those who wish to consider a Level 3 course
take me?                            of study in music or music technology, and a stepping stone into the
                                    music industry.

Staff Contact                   :   Miss C Baycroft-Willmott - Music Department

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 RELIGIOUS STUDIES
 Name of Course           :   GCSE Religious Studies A

 Examination Board        :   AQA

 Course Description       :   The GCSE Religious Studies course is designed to challenge students with
                              questions about belief, values, meaning, purpose and truth, enabling them to
                              develop their own attitudes towards religious issues.

 Content                  :   This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all their
                              exams at the end of the course. The GCSE Religious Studies is made up of 2
                              components:
                               • Component 1 is called The Study of Religions: Beliefs, Teachings and
                                 Practices. In this component, students will study beliefs, teachings and
                                 practices of two main religious traditions in contemporary British society.
                                 Main religious traditions in Great Britain include Christianity, Islam,
                                 Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism.
                               • Component 2 is called Thematic Studies. In this component, students will
                                 study religious, philosophical and ethical arguments related to four main
                                 themes, and their impact and influence on the modern world. The main
                                 themes include: Relationships and families, Religion and life, Crime and
                                 punishment as well as Human rights and social justice.

 Who would be suited      :   Anyone who has enjoyed studying Religious Studies at Key Stage 3. It is an
 to the course?               extremely interesting course for both religious believers and staunch atheists
                              alike. If you are naturally good in terms of If you enjoy debating and have an
                              interest in learning about religious traditions in contemporary British society,
                              this is the course for you. The course also requires a good level of written
                              communication.

 How is the course        :   GCSE Religious Studies is divided into two components and students will sit
 assessed?                    two examinations at the end of the two-year course.
                               • Paper 1: The Study of Religions: beliefs, teachings and practice, is worth
                                 50% of the total GCSE. It is a 1 hour 45 minutes written exam.
                               • Paper 2: The Thematic Studies is also worth 50% of the total GCSE. It is
                                 also a 1 hour 45 minutes written exam:

 Where will this          :   The essay writing and opinion-forming skills students develop in GCSE
 qualification take me?       Religious Studies will help students to choose from a range of subjects at Sixth
                              Form.
                              GCSE Religious Studies will help any student with an interest in a career in
                              Law, Politics, Teaching, and Journalism.
                              Many employers (especially the police, armed forces and caring professions)
                              regard GCSE Religious Studies as a good qualification. It involves a lot of
                              thinking skills and writing skills, and shows that you are aware of other
                              people’s beliefs and the nature of the society you live in.

 Staff Contact            :   Mr K Kalifungwa, Head of Social Sciences
                              Mr H Macdonald, Curriculum Leader for Humanities

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SOCIOLOGY
Name of Course           :   GCSE Sociology

Examination Board        :   AQA

Course Description       :   Students will develop a wide range of knowledge and understanding about
                             society, and how sociologists study and understand its structures, processes
                             and issues. Sociology is exciting, interesting and relevant to students’ lives
                             because it looks at how families, schools, the police, the media and other social
                             institutions work.

Content                  :   Students will be following the AQA course. Students will be encouraged to
                             explore and debate contemporary social issues to enable them to challenge
                             taken-for-granted assumptions and to question their everyday understanding of
                             social phenomena. This will be assessed in 2 examined papers at the end of Year
                             11.
                              • Paper 1 (Students will examine key ideas of classical sociologists including
                                 Durkheim, Marx and Weber, referencing their view of the world and their
                                 contribution to the development of sociology). They will also study the
                                 sociology of families and education in greater detail and how to apply
                                 various research methods to different sociological contexts.
                              • Paper 2 (Students will examine the sociology of crime and deviance and
                                 social stratification. They will be introduced to sociological terms and
                                 concepts concerned with social structures, social processes and social issues).

Who would be suited      :   Anyone who has an interest in looking at how society works will enjoy learning
to the course?               GCSE Sociology. It also uses very similar skills to History and Geography and
                             complements both subjects well.

How is the course        :   Students will sit 2 exams which will account for 100% of their GCSE mark.
assessed?                    Both of these exams are sat at the end of the 2 year course and are both 1hr 45
                             minutes long.

Where will this          :   By studying GCSE Sociology students will be able to choose a wide variety of
qualification take me?       subjects at Sixth Form. Sociology will help students who want a career in law,
                             journalism, teaching or social care, or indeed any job where you have to work
                             with people.

Staff Contact            :   Mr K Kalifungwa - Head of Social Science Department
                             Mr H Macdonald, Curriculum Leader for Humanities

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 SPANISH
 Name of Course           :   GCSE Spanish

 Examination Board        :   AQA

 Course Description       :   The course builds on the previous three years of study at Key Stage 3 and
                              prepares students for further study. The curriculum for KS4 will prepare
                              students for AS level if they wish to pursue learning languages .

 Content                  :      Content of the course is divided into four themes:
                                 • Lifestyle (Health and Relationships)
                                 • Leisure (Free time and Holidays)
                                 • Home and Environment (Home, Local Area and Environment)
                                 • Work and Education (School and Future Plans, Current and
                                   Future Jobs)

 Who would be suited      :   This course is open to all students who have enjoyed languages in Key Stage 3
 to the course?               and students prone to achieve an EBACC.

 How is the course        :   Listening (25%) at Foundation or Higher Tier
 assessed?
                              Reading (25%) at Foundation or Higher Tier

                              Speaking (25%) externally assessed

                              Writing (25%) externally assessed

 Where will this          :   As well as broadening job prospects the qualification will also open doors to
 qualification take me?       sixth form colleges in the area which are using MFL as part of their recruitment
                              process.

 Staff Contact            :   Mrs S Dacoury-Tabley, Head of Modern Foreign Languages

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SPORT
Name of Course                  :   BTEC Level 1 / Level 2 First Award in Sport

Examination Board               :   Edexcel

Course Description              :   The BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award is a 120 guided learning
                                    hour qualification comprising core and specialist units which cover
                                    aspects of knowledge, understanding and competency necessary for
                                    employment within the sector. Students will study 4 units over 2
                                    years. Over the duration of the course students will have a series of
                                    assignments to complete to pass the unit, as well as an exam.

Content                         :   The qualification consists of the following units:
                                     1.   Fitness for Sport and Exercise
                                     2.   Practical Performance in Sport
                                     3.   Applying the Principles of Personal Training
                                     4.   Leading Sports Activities

Who would be suited to the      :   Students who have a commitment and passion for sport. Students who
course?                             work better at coursework assignments than exams, however 25% of
                                    the course is exam based.

How is the course assessed?     :   In BTEC firsts ¾ units are internally assessed.
                                    All assessments are based on the achievement of all the specified
                                    learning outcomes.
                                    - to achieve a ‘Pass’ a learner must satisfy all the pass criteria
                                    - to achieve a ‘Merit’ a learner must satisfy all the merit criteria
                                    - to achieve a ‘Distinction’ a learner must satisfy all the distinction
                                    criteria

Where will this qualification   :   BTEC firsts prepare you for employment and provide a good
take me?                            grounding to go on to more advanced courses such as BTEC Level 3.
                                    With further training, students can go into careers in: Sports Centres,
                                    Sports Coaching, P.E. Teaching, Physiotherapy, BTEC Level 3
                                    Subsidiary Diploma.

Staff Contact                   :   Mr P Crowe - Head of Physical Education Department

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Year 9 Option Choice Application Form

Macarthur
Choose ONE subject from Box A and Two from Box B
plus ONE reserve subject.

CHOOSE 1                   CHOOSE 2
SUBJECT FROM               SUBJECTS FROM THIS BOX
THIS BOX                   PLUS ONE RESERVE
         BOX A                                      BOX B
GCSE     French            GCSE                   Art & Design
GCSE     Geography         GCSE                   Art & Design – Photography
GCSE     History           GCSE                   Business
GCSE     Spanish           Cambridge National     Creative I Media
                           GCSE                   Design Technology
                           GCSE                   Drama
                           BTEC                   Engineering
                           GCSE                   French
                           GCSE                   Geography
                           GCSE                   History
                           GCSE                   Media Studies
                           BTEC                   Music
                           GCSE                   Religious Education
                           GCSE                   Sociology
                           GCSE                   Spanish
                           BTEC                   Sport

 • Make your choices carefully; listen to advice from your teachers and your parents or carers.
 • Avoid choosing a particular subject just because your best friend has chosen it.
 • Remember that you will need to study each subject for 2 years and if you don’t like it or it doesn’t
   hold much interest for you, it will make the next two years very difficult for you.
 • Once you have reached your decision complete the online application form.
 • You will be sent a link via email on 22nd February and we would be grateful if you could
   complete this by no later than Monday 8th March.

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YEAR 9 PATHWAYS BOOKLET 2021
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Notes

                                  27
YEAR 9 PATHWAYS BOOKLET 2021
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                       Year 9
                       Pathways Booklet 2021-23

     MacArthur
             Ellen MacArthur DBE
     Dame Ellen MacArthur first hit the headlines in 2001
     when she raced single-handedly non-stop around the
     world in the Vendée Globe when only 24 years old.
     After 94 days at sea, Ellen returned to a different life,
     she had come second in one of the hardest races in
     offshore sailing and the response was massive. Prior
     to her Vendée success, she won the solo transatlantic race from the UK to the USA and went
                on to win the Route du Rhum from France to the Caribbean in 2002.

     After this successful run in the monohull Open 60 class, Ellen turned her attention to the
     multihull circuit leading to her departure from Falmouth, UK in 2004 on board the 75ft
     trimaran B&Q... she returned 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes, 33 seconds later, having sailed
     over 26,000 miles to become the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe single-handed.
     She was knighted by the Queen in 2005 and has received the Legion d’Honneur from
     French President, Nicolas Sarkozy. She is a founder of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust,
     a charity, set up in 2003, which works with hospitals across the UK to take young people
     aged between 8-24 sailing, helping them regain their confidence after treatment for cancer
                           & leukemia. www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org

                          King Henry School      |   Headteacher: Mr R Leitch
                 Address: King Henry School, Avenue Road, Erith, Kent, DA8 3BN.
         Tel: 01322 348 231 | Email: info@kinghenry.org.uk | Web: www.kinghenry.org.uk
                                  Part of the Odyssey Trust for Education

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