GCSE Options 2019 A guide for Year 9 pupils and their parents on GCSE/ IGCSE subject choices - Alderley Edge School for Girls
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GCSE Options 2019 A guide for Year 9 pupils and their parents on GCSE/ IGCSE subject choices
Message from the Headmistress Dear Girls For the last three years, in Years 7 to 9, you have had a very full and varied programme of subjects to study. This is because we wanted you to have as much opportunity as possible to experience these subjects before making your choices for GCSE. However, now it is time for you to make some choices! This is a very exciting time but can also worry some of you a little as you think about the implications of these choices. There are some compulsory subjects which you will take through to GCSE – English Language, English Literature and Mathematics. You will also take all three Sciences (Biology, Physics, and Chemistry) which will result in a double GCSE award or a triple Mrs Jeys GCSE award. You will also take a Modern Foreign Language Headmistress (French, German or Spanish). All the other subjects that you study at present will be chosen from the option blocks - and you must choose three (or two if you choose Triple Science). You must think very carefully about this and choose for the right reasons (am I good at it, is it a subject I enjoy?) and not the wrong reasons (is my friend doing it, do I like the teacher?). You will have lots of help and guidance from your subject teachers, tutors and from the Heads of Year but it is really important that you make the choice that is right for you. Please read the booklet carefully and start to think about the exciting opportunities which await you in Years 10 and 11. If anything at all is unclear, please ask. Mrs Jeys
How to make your choice of
GCSE subjects
This booklet has been prepared Some points to remember are:
to help you in your choice of
GCSE subjects. For the first • choose subjects which you
time in your school career you like and want to do
are being asked to make a
major decision, namely which • choose subjects which you
optional subjects you will are capable of doing and with
continue to study. The decision which you feel at ease
is an important one and you
must discuss it with your • do not choose a subject just
parents and teachers. It is because your friend is doing it
important that you read this
booklet carefully and if you are • do not choose a subject just
unsure of anything you must because you like the teacher
ask for help.
• choose subjects which
give you a wide choice for
the future.
Timeline for making your choice
of GCSE subjects
1. PSHE lessons in the Autumn 5. On Thursday 10 January, Remember it may not be
Term will focus on GCSE you are invited to attend the possible to change subjects
Option Choices. Year 9 Parents’ Evening with once you have made your
your parents. You will have choice.
2. The School’s GCSE Option the opportunity to discuss
Choices Booklet will be your choice of GCSE subjects
available electronically at the with your subject teachers.
end of the Autumn Term.
6. Friday 18 January is the
3. In the week commencing latest date for handing in
Monday 7 January, your your GCSE Option Choices
subject teachers will advise Form to your Form Tutor.
you about the requirements
for studying their subject at It is very important that you
GCSE level. seek help and advice from your
teachers. If you have a particular
4. You will have an individual career in mind you must check
appointment with Mrs with Mrs Hilsley or your subject
Hilsley, the School’s Career teachers that you have chosen
Adviser, during school time. the correct subjects.
Curriculum for Years 10 and 11
Examined Subjects It may not be possible to offer
all of the subjects listed if there
These subjects are divided into is not sufficient demand.
two groups:
Non-Examined Subjects
• Core Subjects
• Optional Subjects It is important for your general
education that you follow
Core Subjects courses in non-examination
subjects. You will have such
You must study all of these lessons in PE and PSHE.
subjects at GCSE level:
• English Language
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• A Modern Foreign Language
– You must choose a
language you are already
studying, either French,
German or Spanish
• Science – either Double or
Triple Award.
Please note: If you choose
Triple Award Science as a core
subject, you may only choose
two optional subjects. If you
choose Double Award Science
as a core subject, you may
choose three additional
subjects from the option blocks
below:
Year 10 Option Blocks 2019-2020
You should choose one subject from each block/column. Subjects in the same block
cannot be taken together as they are taught at the same time on the timetable.
Option A Option B Option C Option D
French Design Technology Art Business
German Drama Computer Science Food
Spanish Geography DT History
Core Skills History Geography Latin
Triple Science ICT PE
Music Religion and Philosophy
Religion and Philosophy Second Language
Information on GCSE reform
and the new grading system
“New” GCSE Grading System (reformed)
U 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
U G F E D C B A A*
“Old” GCSE Grading System (non-reformed)
The process of reforming all GCSEs will be graded from 9
GCSE qualifications began (the highest) to 1 (the lowest).
in September 2015. The The chart above shows how
government’s stated intention the current grading of GCSEs
in reforming GCSEs is to make compares with the new grading
the courses more rigorous, by system. The proportion of
introducing a new grading pupils who achieve a grade 4
system and by moving away and above will be the same as
from Controlled Assessments the proportion who currently
towards longer final achieve a grade C or above.
examinations at the end of the A grade 4 will count as a
two year course. ‘standard’ pass; a ‘good pass’
will be a grade 5. In addition, the
proportion of pupils achieving
grade 7 and above will be the
same as the proportion who
currently achieve a grade A or
A*, making the new grade 9
equivalent to an A** grade.
Non–Examination subjects in the curriculum
Physical Education – PE Pupils also pursue a period of The underlying aims of the
work experience at the end of programme are to encourage
All pupils throughout Key either Year 10 or Year 11 for pupils to develop mutual
Stage 4 will continue to have which they are prepared during respect and support, think
timetabled lessons of PE and their PSHE lessons. about issues concerning
will participate in a variety of themselves, social problems in
activities including Hockey, The Citizenship programme society and the environment
Netball, Athletics, Tennis, aims to encourage pupils ‘to and to develop informed
Rounders, Badminton and play a helpful part in the life of opinions. It also encourages
Fitness. their schools, neighbourhoods, pupils to be aware of and care
communities and the wider for others, to talk about feelings
Pupils are made aware of the world’. Topics that are covered and be sensitive to the feelings
many benefits of regular include Human Rights, Citizens of others. Throughout the
exercise to their health and as and the Law, Democracies in programme pupils learn to be
a purposeful way in which to Action and Global Concerns. constructively critical and
use their leisure time. Pupils questioning. They are expected
will continue to be encouraged The PSHE programme aims to be responsible for their own
to attend extra-curricular to advance and support each behaviour and learning.
activities and may represent pupil's personal and social
AESG in matches. development and to raise
awareness of a variety of health
PSHE issues.
In Years 10 and 11 the pupils The Religious Studies
follow a PSHE course. During programme ensures that, for
this course they follow a those girls who do not choose
programme of study relating RS as a GCSE option, key areas
to Careers Education and are covered and discussed in an
Guidance, Citizenship, and open forum. RS plays a vital
Religious Studies (non-examined). role in preparing girls to face
the society that awaits them
The Careers Education as young adults and to make
and Guidance programme informed, balanced and
encourages pupils to sensible decisions.
undertake a series of activities
which aim to increase their Although there is no formal
self-development, manage their assessment involved in these
careers and explore opportunities areas of study, pupils are
available to them. encouraged to develop key
skills of problem solving,
communication and working
with others.
Homework and School Examinations
The homework allocation for Homework Allocation Year 10 and Year 11
each subject is shown here.
You must remember that in Art and Design Up to 2 hours
some GCSE subjects there is Business Studies 2 x 40 minutes
an element of Controlled Design and Technology 2 x 40 minutes
Assessment. In some subjects Drama 2 x 40 minutes
}
pupils will have to hand in English Language 3 x 40 minutes
their homework the next day, English Literature
in others they may be given Food Technology 2 x 40 minutes
an extended period of time French 2 x 40 minutes
to complete the work. It is Geography 2 x 40 minutes
obviously very important that German 2 x 40 minutes
pupils organise their time History 2 x 40 minutes
carefully and meet any given Information Technology 2 x 40 minutes
deadlines. Latin 2 x 40 minutes
Mathematics 2 x 40 minutes
Pupils will have school Music 2 x 40 minutes
examinations in all subjects in Religious Studies 2 x 40 minutes
November and May in Year 10. PE 2 x 40 minutes
These are internal examinations Sciences
to assess progress and, although Physics double 1 x 45 minutes
important, do not count towards triple 2 x 40 minutes
the final GCSE grade. Chemistry double 1 x 45 minutes
triple 2 x 40 minutes
Mock examinations will be held Biology double 1 x 45 minutes
in November of Year 11 and if triple 2 x 40 minutes
you achieve a satisfactory mark
in these examinations you will Spanish 2 x 40 minutes
be entered for the appropriate
tier in the GCSE examinations Allocations are minutes per subject per week.
in May and June.
Additional Information
GCSE Controlled Entry Tiers at Support available for
Assessments GCSE/IGCSE level GCSE pupils
The importance of the work For some GCSE subjects, two All departments provide
carried out during Year 10 levels of entry are possible: lunchtime clinics for pupils who
and Year 11 cannot be over- Foundation Level and Higher need extra help with revision,
emphasised, particularly Level. The vast majority of homework, exam questions or
because Controlled Assessments entries at AESG are made at some other aspect of their GCSE
form part of many GCSE Higher Level, but occasionally course. In addition, some pupils
courses. A Controlled the Foundation Level is receive support from Mrs Hill
Assessment may take the form recommended for a particular our Learning Enhancement
of a project, a piece of research pupil in a particular subject. Co-ordinator.
or some fieldwork.
The final level of entry is Pupils who have been identified
Controlled Assessment tasks decided upon in consultation as Gifted or Talented in a
are time limited and are between the subject teacher, particular GCSE subject are
carried out in lessons during the pupil and her parents. encouraged to attend lunchtime
the school day. masterclasses, complete
Grouping for GCSE extension tasks and attend
In general, performance in a subjects relevant events publicised by
Controlled Assessment task is Mrs Billington, who, alongside
assessed by teachers in school You will be taught in ability Mrs Millar and Mrs Dawson,
and then moderated by the sets for: co-ordinates our Gifted,
Examination Board. Talented and Interested
English programme, ‘Symposium’,
For subjects in which and ‘Lunch and Learn’ events.
Controlled Assessment is an Mathematics
integral part of the GCSE
course, failure to complete this Double Award Science
work could mean that a pupil
would not be awarded a GCSE French/Spanish
grade for the subject.
For all other subjects your
groupings will depend upon
your choice of subjects.
Accuracy of information
in this booklet
All of the information in this
booklet is correct at the time of
printing. However, examination
specifications can change.
Pupils will be notified of any
major changes to the content or
structure of any GCSE course
they choose.
Core Subjects
GCSE English Language
AQA Specification A
Why study GCSE English The preparation and assessment of
Language? Spoken Language is also a
GCSE English Language is a compulsory requirement of the
compulsory subject for all pupils course of study. You will develop
and the skills which you will gain are speaking and listening skills and be
transferable across the curriculum. encouraged to use spoken Standard
You will learn how to read texts English effectively through a range
actively and critically, employing of activities.
close reading skills to retrieve
information. In the course of your How will you be assessed?
studies, you will be encouraged to This is a linear course and as such,
make inferences and give informed is designed to be taken over two
comments on language in use. You years with all assessments taken at
will also produce your own writing, the end of the course. There will be
experimenting with different two terminal written examinations,
audiences and purposes. In short, each comprising 50% of the final
studying English Language will mark. Each exam is 1 hour 45
develop crucial reading, writing, minutes long and worth 80 marks.
speaking and listening skills which Both papers will assess Reading in
are fundamental to any further Section A and Writing in Section B.
studies.
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative
What will you study? Reading and Writing
You will read and be assessed on This paper examines a response to
high-quality, challenging texts from one literature fiction text in Section A
the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. and descriptive or narrative writing
The texts will be taken from a range in Section B.
of genres and types and will act as
stimulus material to help develop Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints
your own writing by providing and Perspectives
effective style models. The texts will This paper examines a response to
include literature and extended one non-fiction text and one literary
literary non-fiction, and other writing non-fiction text in Section A and
such as essays, reviews and writing to present a viewpoint in
journalism (both printed and online). Section B. Non Examination
The literary fiction texts will be used Assessment: Spoken Language You
to help pupils consider how will also receive a separate grade for
established writers use narrative Spoken Language. For this unit, you
and descriptive techniques to will be assessed on your ability to
capture the interest of readers. You present, respond to questions and
will also explore how writers have feedback and on your use of
particular viewpoints and Standard English. The tasks will be
perspectives on issues or themes set and assessed by the teacher
that are important to the way we throughout the course and will be
think and live our lives. You will be separately endorsed at the end. This
taught how to produce your own does not contribute to your final
creative text to demonstrate your GCSE English Language grade.
narrative and descriptive skills in
response to a written prompt,
scenario or visual image. You will
learn how to write for a specified
audience, purpose and form.GCSE English Literature
AQA Specification A
Why study GCSE English How will you be assessed?
Literature? Assessment takes the form of two
GCSE English Literature is an external examinations. Paper 1 is
excellent course for developing entitled Shakespeare and the
analytical skills and improving your 19th-century novel. This is a
ability to present an argument in an written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes
academic style. By studying GCSE in length and constitutes 40% of the
English Literature, you will become final GCSE mark. In Section A you
more aware of the cultural, social will answer one question on a
and political context in which Shakespeare text and in Section B
literature was created. Not only will you will answer one question on a
this course widen your reading, it 19th century novel. In both sections,
will also help increase your you will be required to write in detail
confidence to offer and deliver your about an extract from the texts and
own opinions. GCSE English then to write about the texts as a
Literature is a compulsory subject whole.
for all pupils at AESG.
Paper 2 is entitled Modern texts
What will you study? and poetry and comprises 3
This course allows you to sections: modern texts, poetry and
experience a range of Literature with unseen poetry. This is a written
a wide variety of appeal drawn from paper of 2 hours 15 minutes in
contemporary and modern texts, length and constitutes 60% of the
texts from across the globe and final GCSE mark. In Section A:
texts which have had a significant Modern Texts, you will answer one
influence on our literary and cultural essay question from a choice of two
heritage. To that end, you will study on your studied modern prose or
one Shakespeare text and one drama text. In Section B: Poetry, you
nineteenth century novel alongside will answer one comparative
more modern prose and drama question on one named poem
texts. The focus is on you engaging printed on the paper and one other
with your reading through exploring poem from your chosen anthology
key themes, ideas and issues, cluster. Section C requires you to
characterisation and settings in respond to an unseen poem and to
order to build confidence in your compare this poem with a second
skills of critical evaluation. Poetry unseen poem.
will also be studied in preparation
for an examination module; you will
study a cluster of thematically linked
poems from the anthology.
Throughout the course, you will also
learn the skills necessary to enable
you to respond to a previously
unseen poem. You will learn to read
in depth, critically and evaluatively,
so that you are able to discuss and
explain your understanding and
ideas and make connections across
your reading. In addition, you will
develop your writing skills to
produce work which is accurate,
effective and analytical. You will be
encouraged to acquire and use a
wide vocabulary, including the
grammatical terminology and other
literary and linguistic terms.Mathematics
Edexcel GCSE
Why study GCSE Mathematics? What happens next? Handling Data:
Mathematics is all around us in Many Sixth Forms, Universities or Representation and interpretation of
everyday life. In fact, the world as careers require you to have reached data and the study of probability.
we know it would not exist without a minimum standard in Mathematics. Information is all around us – it is
mathematics! The apps on your If you achieve a high grade and enjoy important to know how to analyse
phone, the prices you pay, the cars the subject, you may choose to take and interpret it correctly.
on the streets and the gas and A Levels in either Mathematics or
electricity bills for your homes all rely both Mathematics and Further The new style GCSE places an
on mathematics. However, studying Mathematics. increased emphasis on problem-
Mathematics has far wider benefits. solving questions.
It helps develop logical thinking, What will be studied?
pattern recognition, reasoned GCSE courses build on the work How will you be assessed?
argument and clear communication, studied in Years 7 to 9, developing There are two Tiers of entry in GCSE
for example. Harder topics help and extending topics already met Mathematics:
develop abstract ideas and and introducing new concepts and
speculative questioning. techniques. These fit into four broad Foundation Tier (aimed at grades
areas: 1- 5) and Higher Tier (aimed at
Many of the techniques you learn grades5-9).
will be useful in other subjects Number:
including Physics, Design, Including indices, surds, proportion, At Foundation Tier, around half
Geography, Business, Economics, ratio, fractions, decimals and the marks are targeted at grades 4
Computing, Psychology and percentages. A large focus on this and 5; at Higher Tier around half the
Biology. part of the course is an appreciation marks are targeted at grades 7-9.
of ratio and proportional change. A grade 5 has the same value at
Mathematics is a compulsory both Tiers; it doesn’t matter how
subject and there is the opportunity Algebra: you earn it!
for able and interested students to Including linear equations, quadratic
study extra courses in Further equations and simplification of Your examination is taken in the
Mathematics and/or algebraic expressions. Questions summer of Year 11. There are three
Statistics. may use algebra to model real life examination papers; one non-
situations. calculator paper and two calculator
papers. Each paper is worth 80
Shape, Space and Measure: marks, and your final grade is based
Including area, volume, similar on the total score from all three
shapes, Pythagoras’ theorem, papers. Some of the questions will
trigonometry, circle theorems and be set in the context of ‘real-life’
vectors. This is a key topic in any situations; it is important that you
design-related activity. learn how to identify important
information, plan your route through
a solution and communicate your
steps clearly.IGCSE Modern Foreign Language – French
Cambridge
You must choose a language you Why study GCSE French? The International World:
are already studying: either The ability to communicate in Tourism at home and abroad, life in
French, German or Spanish. You French is a valuable asset in the field other countries, world issues.
may study two languages. of commerce and industry. In
addition, a foreign language can be You will also have regular lessons
an important qualification in Travel, with our French assistant in small
Tourism, Banking, Journalism and groups, to help develop your
the Diplomatic Service. It can be listening and speaking skills.
studied in conjunction with any
other subject at university, and How will you be assessed?
university courses which include Assessment is by final examination
French typically include a year to at the end of Year 11.
be spent studying or working in a
French-speaking country, such as Paper 1 (Listening) 25%
Switzerland, Canada or even La Paper 2 (Reading) 25%
Réunion. Paper 3 (Speaking) 25%
Paper 4 (Writing) 25%
What will you study?
You will be taught the language Is this for you?
skills necessary to enable you to IGCSE French is for you if you enjoy
communicate in a French-speaking the structures and sounds of French
country and, at the same time, you and want to build further upon the
will develop an understanding of the solid foundation which you already
culture and countries where French have. Learning the French language
is spoken. You will use the target gives you access to an exciting
language actively in role-play culture of art, music, literature,
situations and learn to talk about theatre and food. It will also open
events and express opinions. The doors in the world of business.
use of authentic texts in listening
and reading activities helps to
promote your comprehension skills.
Through enjoyable and intellectual
stimulation you will acquire the
skills, language and attitudes
needed for study, work and leisure in
your adult life.
You will study five areas of
experience:
Everyday Activities:
Home life and school, food,
health and fitness.
Personal and Social Life:
Self, family and personal relationships,
holidays and special occasions.
The World Around Us:
Home town, environment,
people, places and customs.
The World of Work:
Continuing education, careers,
communication in the work place.IGCSE Modern Foreign Language – German
Cambridge
You must choose a language you Why study GCSE German? You will build on the knowledge
are already studying: either German is one of the most gained in Years 8 and 9 and acquire
French, German or Spanish. commonly spoken languages in the language skills to enable you to
Europe. An ability to communicate communicate in a German-speaking
in German is a valuable asset to country as well as learn about
have when considering future different aspects of the culture. The
careers since many employers learning of grammar and vocabulary
actively recruit those with language is an integral part of the course. You
skills. As fewer people now study will use German actively in role-play
German at school it is also a unique situations and learn to converse on
selling point to have on your CV. a wide range of topics. You will read,
German combines well with many hear and see authentic texts and
other subjects at university. situations. You will learn to write
creatively and with a high degree of
The IGCSE German course is an accuracy.
international qualification which
aims to develop a high level of How will you be assessed?
competence in the four skills of Assessment is by final examination
Speaking, Listening, Reading and at the end of Year 11.
Writing.
Paper 1 (Listening) 25%
What will you study? Paper 2 (Reading) 25%
You will study five areas of Paper 3 (Speaking) 25%
experience: Paper 4 (Writing) 25%
Everyday Activities: Is this for you?
Home life and school, food, This IGCSE is for you if you have
health and fitness. enjoyed learning German so far,
enjoy working out puzzles and like a
Personal and Social Life: challenge. Not only are you learning
Self, family and personal relationships, a practical skill which can sit easily
holidays and special occasions. alongside any career path you
decide to follow, but you are
The World Around Us: learning all sorts of thinking skills
Home town, environment, which will stand you in good stead
people, places and customs later in life.
The World of Work:
Continuing education, careers,
communication in the work place.
The International World:
Tourism at home and abroad, life
in other countries, world issues.IGCSE Modern Foreign Language – Spanish
Cambridge
You must choose a language you Why study GCSE Spanish? The World of Work:
are already studying: either Spanish is one of the most widely Continuing education, careers,
French, German or Spanish. spoken languages in the world, and communication in the work place.
therefore, Spanish would be a useful
complement to other subjects for The International World:
future career opportunities since Tourism at home and abroad, life in
many employers seek linguists. other countries, world issues.
The IGCSE is an international
qualification and provides You will also have regular lessons
progression to Spanish A Level and with our Spanish assistant in small
other equivalent qualifications. groups, to help develop your
Spanish combines well with many listening and speaking skills.
other subjects at university and
offers many transferable skills. How will you be assessed?
Assessment is by final examination
What will you study? at the end of Year 11.
You will be taught the necessary
skills to enable you to communicate Paper 1 (Listening) 25%
in a Spanish-speaking country Paper 2 (Reading) 25%
whilst simultaneously gaining an Paper 3 (Speaking) 25%
insight into the culture of the same Paper 4 (Writing) 25%
communities. You will learn to use
the language actively in role-play Is this for you?
situations and to express your This IGCSE is for you if you enjoy
opinions. You will understand the Spanish language and culture.
authentic Spanish with listening and Equally, if you like the challenges
reading activities. Grammar and presented by piecing together new
vocabulary will be learned as part of structures and possess the
each language theme. problem-solving skills required to
work out the meanings of words
Through enjoyable and intellectual from the context given, this is a
stimulation you will acquire the good choice of IGCSE for you.
skills, language and attitudes
needed for study, work and leisure
in your adult life.
You will study five areas of
experience:
Everyday Activities:
Home life and school, food,
health and fitness.
Personal and Social Life:
Self, family and personal relationships,
holidays and special occasions.
The World Around Us:
Home town, environment,
people, places and customs.GCSE Combined Science – Trilogy (Double Award)
AQA
Why study GCSE Combined What will you study? In your Physics lessons you will
Science – Trilogy (Double Award)? In your Biology lessons, you will learn about forces, energy resources
Studying Science will help you to learn about organ systems in the (including the use of fossil fuels and
learn about how and why things human body, including the nervous global warming as critical problems
work in the way they do. From the system and the digestive system. for this century), waves (including
complex functioning of the human The specification also includes modern technologies such as
body to the development of the topics on the environment, imaging and communication
most sophisticated means of inheritance and photosynthesis. systems), electricity, magnets, the
modern communication; Science There are opportunities to learn particle model of matter and finally
is all around us. It is not just about about relatively new techniques radioactivity and nuclear physics.
learning facts; Science is also about and technologies, such as genetic
developing the skills of critical engineering and the therapeutic How will you be assessed?
thinking, data analysis, problem use of stem cells. The course is divided into Biology,
solving and application. Chemistry and Physics topics
In your Chemistry lessons you will that will be assessed via six
It is, therefore, not surprising that learn why chemical reactions occur. examinations taken at the end of
Science is a core subject of the The specification includes topics on Year 11. Each examination is 1 hour
National Curriculum and that a combustion, extraction of metals 15 minutes long. Questions testing
GCSE Science qualification is a and neutralisation. Factors such as experimental and investigative skills
minimum requirement for entry to how to alter the rate of a reaction are also included in each
many university courses. The and how to analyse substances are examination.
Double Award Science course also covered. You will also find out
combines the study of Biology, how chemists strive to minimise the Biology Paper 1 16.67%
Chemistry and Physics and leads to use of limited resources and energy Biology Paper 2 16.67%
the award of two GCSE grades. You consumption in the manufacture of Chemistry Paper 1 16.67%
are taught by three different subject useful products and how chemists Chemistry Paper 2 16.67%
specialist teachers and have 12 develop ways of disposing products Physics Paper 1 16.67%
Science lessons per fortnight. at the end of their useful life in ways Physics Paper 2 16.67%
that ensure that materials are used
If you take the Double Award course sustainably. There are no Controlled
and later wish to continue a Science Assessments.
subject to A Level, you will be able
to do so, provided you achieve the Remember
required grades. You must choose either Double
Award or Triple Award Science.GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics (Triple Award)
AQA
Why study GCSE Biology, How will you be assessed? Is this for you?
Chemistry, Physics (Triple Award)? Each Science GCSE covers a range Triple Award Science is a course
Following the GCSE Triple Science of topics that are examined in two that is designed for pupils who have
course gives pupils the opportunity written papers at the end of Year 11. a genuine interest in Science and
to spend more time on their study Questions testing experimental and are keen to learn more about
of Science (18 periods per fortnight, investigative skills are also included Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
compared with 12 periods per in each examination. Each In order to succeed you will need
fortnight for Double Award Science) examination is 1 hour 45 minutes to have already demonstrated an
and leads to the award of three long. This means that you will have a aptitude for Science. You are
separate GCSE grades in Biology, total of 6 Science examinations at expected to have strong analytical
Chemistry and Physics. The the end of Year 11. and evaluation skills as well as the
transition from Science GCSEs to ability to apply your knowledge to
Science A Levels may be easier for Biology GCSE unfamiliar problems.
pupils who have followed the Triple Biology Paper1 50%
Science course, as several topics Biology Paper 2 50% It is also important to remember that
for each Science are covered in taking the Triple Award Science
more detail and additional topics are Chemistry GCSE option gives you one fewer option
introduced. Chemistry Paper 1 50% choice. If you wish to follow a
Chemistry Paper 2 50% broader curriculum and keep your
What will you study? future options open, the Double
Biology – the specification covers all Physics GCSE Award Science course may be more
of the Double Award Biology GCSE Physics Paper 1 50% suitable for you.
topics, plus some further topics Physics paper 2 50%
including the structure of DNA, Remember
cloning methods in plants and There are no Controlled You must choose either Double
animals, evolution and a study of Assessments. Award or Triple Award Science.
ecosystems.
Chemistry – the specification covers
all the topics studied in the
Chemistry sections of the Double
Award Science GCSE plus further
topics including the properties of
transition metals, chemical cells and
fuel cells, synthetic and naturally
occurring polymers and additional
quantitative chemistry.
Physics – the specification covers all
the Double Award Science GCSE
topics plus further topics including
moments, pressure, lenses, static
electricity and space physics.Optional Subjects
GCSE Art and Design (Fine Art)
AQA
Why study GCSE Art and Design? What will you study? Unit 2 – Externally Set Task
Choosing Art and Design enables The Fine Art endorsement will allow This is the examination element
you to explore your creativity and you to explore and produce work provided by AQA. You will receive an
develop your skills in a diverse range using a range of the following examination paper with a choice of
of media through an exciting techniques: drawing, painting, seven starting points. You will
practical based course. printmaking, mixed media, collage, choose one question from the paper
assemblage, sculpture and and produce work on it in a very
Art and Design has increasing photography. Your teacher will similar way to the sustained project
relevance to many aspects of our guide you in order to develop your for the portfolio. The examination
daily lives. Virtually everything that technical skills, and support you will be carried out over a number of
we own or look at has been in trying new processes and weeks beginning in January of Year
designed. We now live in a visual techniques so that you can develop 11 and will conclude with a final
world that has its roots in Art and the confidence required to realise piece of work undertaken during
Design. Think about television and your ideas. 10 hours of supervised time.
film, web pages, interior design,
architecture, cars, fashion and much, Unit 1 – Portfolio How will you be assessed?
much more. Art is everywhere; it’s This is the coursework element, in You will be assessed on your
not just a painting on a wall. Modern which you will complete a sustained portfolio, which is worth 60% of
businesses need people who have project in response to a given your total mark, and the externally
the ability to think creatively and theme. You will demonstrate your set task, which is worth 40% of your
adopt a disciplined approach to knowledge, skills and understanding total mark.
difficult situations. Many of the of methods of recording,
study skills that you learn in Art and experimenting with materials and Is this for you?
Design can be used in a lot of your techniques and the work of other If you answer yes to some of the
other subjects. In fact, Art is very artists documenting your journey following questions, then GCSE Art
cross curricular as every subject from the initial starting point through and Design could be for you.
expects you to think creatively, to to your final piece/s. You will also
explore, experiment and be curious. be required to present a selection • Do you enjoy expressing yourself
of further work that has resulted creatively?
from mini projects, workshops and • Do you enjoy having more
responses to gallery, museum or freedom to develop your own
site visits. ideas?
• Are you independent, motivated
and determined?
• Do you have a willingness to
experiment and explore?
• Do you enjoy working in a
creative and progressive working
environment?
• Do you struggle with revision
based courses?
• Are you hoping to go into an Art
and Design based career?GCSE Business
Edexcel
Why study GCSE Business In Year 11, we move on to look at the Is this for you?
If you have enjoyed doing Enterprise growth of business, focusing on the This GCSE is fun, lively and thought
in Year 9, then you will really four main functions in the context provoking – we look at product
enjoy GCSE Business! This is an of larger businesses: marketing, development, talk about what is
accessible and fascinating subject operations, finance and human happening in the business world
which has an impact on every area resources. You will look in more and review marketing campaigns.
of our everyday lives. In the GCSE depth at successful marketing – the By the end of the course you will
course we apply knowledge to product life cycle, building a brand have a solid understanding of how
different real world organisations and how to build an effective businesses operate.
ranging from small enterprises to marketing mix. In operations, you
large businesses which operate will learn about the importance of
across the globe. research and development, how we
manufacture quality products,
You will already be familiar with manage stock, stay competitive
many of the concepts and ideas and deliver good customer service
we discuss and should find it that meets legal requirements. You
easier to add more depth to your will also revisit some of the financial
understanding and analysis. We concepts from Year 10 including
also use a mixture of qualitative and cash flow, revenue, costs, break
quantitative data so, whether you even and profit. In the topic on
prefer essay based or numerical people, you learn about motivation,
subjects, there is something which how organisations can be
links to your personal strengths. structured, remuneration and the
vital role of communication. Finally,
What will you study? you will look at the wider world of
As shown in the course details business: ethics, environmental
below, the design of the course issues, economic issues and
starts with small businesses and international trade, and the impact
more simple concepts which of government and the EU.
gradually build into a thorough and
detailed understanding of the world How will you be assessed?
of business by the end of Year 11. There are two written examinations
which are taken at the end of Year 11.
In Year 10 we focus on the start up
of small businesses. The topics Theme 1 on Investigating Small
includes what inspires entrepreneurs Businesses is a 90 minute, 90 mark
to start a business and what skills paper with a variety of multiple
they need to have to be successful; choice, short answer and extended
for example, understanding answer questions.
customers, researching the market
and thinking creatively. You will also Theme 2 which is about Building a
learn about the use of social media, Business has a similar structure and
the reliability of data in market is also 90 minutes long and worth 90
research and how businesses use marks. The papers have equal
technology. weighting and there is no Controlled
Assessment as part of the course.GCSE Computer Science
OCR
Why study GCSE Computer What will you study? Is this for you?
Science? Computer Science is an intellectually Computer Science is at the centre
Take a look at the world around you. challenging yet very practical and of a STEM (Science Technology
How close to a computer are you? rewarding subject. It is an intensely Engineering and Maths) education.
When was the last time you used creative subject where you can Studying this subject will give you a
one? Life without computers is apply the knowledge and skills real advantage in today’s technology
almost unimaginable. The power learned in the classroom in exciting driven world. You will make the leap
of computers is utilised in all areas and inventive ways. from using other people’s software
of life, from medicine to space to being able to design and create
exploration. Computer Science You will learn to: your own. Maybe you could invent
goes way beyond just writing code. • think creatively, innovatively, the next Facebook or Snap Chat?
analytically, logically and critically GCSE Computer Science will give
Steve Jobs (Apple Co-Founder) • apply the principles of computer you the skills to become a
once remarked... science, including abstraction, Technology Entrepreneur… but
“Everybody in this country should decomposition, logic and data even more than this, it will give you
learn how to program a computer… representation the skills you need for any career
because it teaches you how to think”. • analyse problems in because Computer Science teaches
computational terms and solve you how to think.
By studying this highly valued them by designing, writing and
subject you will develop the skills debugging programs
and knowledge to give you that • apply mathematical skills relevant
competitive advantage in any to computation.
future career. You will develop
computational thinking skills such How will you be assessed?
as analysis, decomposition, logic You are assessed by two written
and algorithmic thinking. papers:
“Computational thinking will be a Unit 1: Computer Systems (50%)
fundamental skill used by everyone
by the middle of the 21st Century. Unit 2: Algorithms, Computational
Just like reading, writing and Thinking and Programming (50%)
arithmetic”. Wing (2011)
You will also complete a Practical
Programming Project which is
compulsory but does not count
towards your final grade.GCSE Design Technology
OCR
Why study GCSE Design How will you be assessed?
Technology? The examination will make up 50%
Every product is designed. of your final mark. The examination
Designers find solutions to brings together your core
problems, make our lives better and knowledge of all material areas and
enhance our lives aesthetically. The in-depth knowledge of textiles. A
Design Technology GCSE course minimum of 15% of the paper will
allows you to explore the design assess your mathematical and
process to create products that science skills as applied within a
meet real life needs. design and technology context. The
controlled assessment project will
What will you study? make up the final 50% of your mark.
In Year 10 you will be taught all the
key skills you need to succeed. We Is this for you?
will build on the knowledge you have If you are interested in the world
already and you will become familiar around you, curious about how
with woods, metals, plastics, papers products develop and reach the
and boards as well as our specialist market and are keen on problem
area of textiles. You will use this solving then you will enjoy Design
knowledge to develop product Technology. The course has a 15%
design ideas and solutions and you design related mathematics content
will make prototypes using our so you should be comfortable with
Laser cutter, 3D printer and sewing basic mathematics. The course can
machines. In Year 11 the exam support you in many future careers
board will release a ‘context’ upon including fashion, engineering,
which you will base your controlled architecture, industrial design and
assessment project. You will business.
develop your own design brief and
work through the design process to
create your final product. Your
project will have a textiles focus but
can also incorporate any of the other
material areas as part of your final
product. Your controlled
assessment will be worth 50% of
your final mark.GCSE Drama
Edexcel
Why study GCSE Drama? How will you be assessed? Is this for you?
In Drama lessons you are encouraged Component 1: This course is perfect for you if you
to explore and engage actively in a Devised Performance have a genuine interest in theatre
wide range of creative activities to • 40% of the GCSE – 60 Marks and performance. A willingness to
enable you to develop as a successful • Internally assessed (by your work collaboratively and creatively
and independent learner. You will be Drama Department) and Externally with your peers is essential!
given the opportunity to demonstrate Moderated.
competence in a range of practical,
creative and performance skills. You There are two parts to the
will learn how to work imaginatively assessment:
and creatively in collaboration with 1) A portfolio examining the entire
others; generating, developing and devising process
communicating your ideas. You will 2) A performance of the devised
develop a multitude of skills, including performance
collaboration, communication and
an understanding of how to evaluate Component 2:
and make progress. The course Performance from Text
has a balance between engaging • 20% of the GCSE – 48 Marks
prescribed texts and stimulating • Externally assessed by a visiting
devising work; this will provide you examiner.
with variety, challenge and fun.
Component 3:
You may not wish to pursue a Theatre Makers in Practice
career as a performer but many • 40% of the GCSE – 60 Marks
career paths will benefit from the • Written examination 1 hour and
study of Drama, for example, 30 minutes.
marketing, advertising, the law and
teaching; indeed, anything which Section A
requires public speaking or good • 45 Marks
communication skills. • One question (broken into six
parts) on an unseen extract from
What will you study? the chosen performance text
Component 1: (40%) Devised studied.
Performance
– Create, rehearse and perform a Section B
piece of drama • 15 Marks
– Evaluation of the devising process • Two questions on a live theatre
and performance performance you have seen
• Pupils may take notes of up to 500
Component 2: (20%) Performance words into the examination for this
from Text section.
– Presentation of two key extracts
from a performance text
Component 3: (40%) Theatre
Makers in Practice – Written
examination
– Practical exploration and study
of one play
– Live Theatre EvaluationGCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition
Eduqas
Why study GCSE Food This new GCSE in Food Preparation How will you be assessed?
Preparation and Nutrition? and Nutrition is an exciting and Written examination
The food industry is one of the creative course which ensures
world’s fastest growing industries. you will develop a thorough Paper 1:
In fact over 20% of the top 100 understanding of nutrition, food Theoretical knowledge of food
British Companies are in food provenance and the working preparation and nutrition and from
manufacturing. characteristics of food materials. the five core topics (above)
At its heart, this qualification 1 hour 45 minutes
The food and drink industry is focuses on nurturing your practical 100 marks
booming, with employment cooking skills to give you a strong 50% of GCSE
reaching the heights of 650,000 understanding of nutrition.
people and an annual turnover of NEA – Non-exam assessment
£66 billion. The opportunities to Food preparation skills are 100 marks
work within the food industry really integrated into five core topics:
are endless. • Food, nutrition and health Task 1:
• Food science Food investigation - understanding
Some examples of careers in • Food safety the working characteristics,
food are: • Food choice functional and chemical properties
food scientist, dietician/nutritionist, • Food provenance of ingredients. A written or
food sales and promotion, product electronic report (1500 – 2000
development, consumer What will you study? words) including photographic
technologist (sensory analysis and During the course you will be given evidence of the practical
product tasting), chef / baker / the opportunity to practise a wide investigations.
caterer, food journalist / food critic, range of skills along with developing 30 marks
environmental health officer, health a greater understanding of nutrition;
& safety inspector, food service the science behind food as a Task 2:
management, delicatessen / material, and wider environmental Food Preparation Assessment –
restaurateur, food wholesaler, aspects associated with food. knowledge, skills and
production & manufacturing, quality understanding in relation to the
assurance / standardisation, This qualification is linear, and planning, preparation, cooking,
purchaser (buys and sells food from consists of examination assessment presentation of food and application
around the world), packaging and non-examination assessment at of nutrition related to the chosen
technologist, teacher. the end of the course. task. Pupils will prepare, cook and
present a final menu of three dishes
The course is taught in a “hands on” within a single period of no more
practical way; consequently the than 3 hours, planning in advance
purchase of additional ingredients is how this will be achieved. 70 marks
essential. Time will also need to be
allocated to visiting the supermarket. Task 1 and Task 2 together will count
for 50% of the GCSE.
In Year 10 you will cook
approximately once a week along Is this for you?
with completing a series of modules You will enjoy Food Preparation and
involving written work and food Nutrition if you are organised and
experiments. enjoy experimenting with food.
When choosing this course, it is
In Year 11 you will concentrate on more important to enjoy a large
completing two Non-Examination variety of foods than have a natural
Assessments (NEAs) using a variety flair for cooking: we will teach you
of research and investigation how to cook! You will also have an
methods. You will respond to one inquiring mind and want to know all
of three specified tasks set by the about the food you eat and what it is
exam board. You will experiment needed for in the body.
and trial ideas for the NEA and
prepare for your examination in
the Summer term. You will work
independently on the task which
is set by the examination board.GCSE Geography
AQA
Why study GCSE Geography? Fieldwork Investigation How will you be assessed?
Geography is a varied and wide Pupils need to undertake two days You will take three examination
ranging subject which incorporates of Fieldwork. This will enable you to papers at the end of Year 11:
aspects of both the physical and gain an understanding of the
human environments. It develops environment by first hand Paper One:
written, graphical and oral skills and investigation and by applying Living with the physical environment
it also helps us to understand the knowledge and concepts learned in (worth 35% of GCSE)
world in which we live. Geography is the classroom. The two Fieldwork
an excellent ‘bridging’ subject inquiries will be carried out in Paper Two:
between the Arts and Sciences and contrasting environments and will Challenges in the human
allows pupils to keep their options include aspects of both physical environment (worth 35% of GCSE)
open when considering A Level and human geography. There will
studies in the future. be a compulsory overnight Paper Three:
residential trip to Cranedale in York Geographical applications (worth
What will you study? in Year 11 (usually towards the end 30% of GCSE) Is this for you?
This exciting and relevant course of September but this is subject to
presents geography in a balanced availability and approval: Yes if:
framework of physical and human approximate cost is £235 • You enjoy learning about people
themes and investigates the link per pupil). This specialist centre has and their societies, economies,
between them. You will travel the an excellent academic reputation cultures and managing their
world from the classroom, exploring and Health & Safety record – environments
case studies in the United Kingdom see https://cranedale.com/ • You are keen to learn and develop
(UK), newly emerging economies a wide range of skills.
(NEEs) and lower income countries Geography Field Trip
(LICs). Topics of study include We run a biennial residential trip to
climate change, poverty, Iceland which will give you the And finally... If you are interested in a
deprivation, global shifts in opportunity to develop your career that involves travel, you will
economic power and the challenge knowledge and understanding of not be disappointed. Geographers
of sustainable resource use. the topics covered in class and to really can work anywhere in the
improve your fieldwork techniques. world!
In lessons, we aim to provide you In four days we visit many features
with a variety of activities to meet of the island in order to build up real “Geography is a living, breathing
your needs. We pay particular life examples in preparation for your subject, constantly adapting
attention to examination technique examinations. We also make sure itself to change. It is dynamic and
alongside group and pair work there is time to enjoy the geothermal relevant. For me geography is a
activities that develop your learning pools the island has to offer! great adventure with a purpose.”
and confidence in the subject. Michael Palin
Mentoring sessions will also provide
you with an opportunity to ask for
further help and advice. We
encourage you to order ‘Wider
World’ magazine to extend your
wider reading within the subject. We
also encourage the use of ICT and
video clips to help improve your
understanding of the patterns and
processes we investigate.GCSE History
AQA
Why study GCSE History? Section B: Section B:
Wider World Depth Study – Conflict British Depth Study including the
History is amazing – it’s all about and tension, 1918–1939 Historic Environment: Restoration
people and their lives! It also helps This study covers the aftermath of England, 1660–1685
us understand the world that we live World War I and the failed attempts You will study the relationship
in today. This course enables you to to prevent World War II. You will between Crown and Parliament (e.g.
study the most interesting parts of study the attempts to make a fair the issue of succession), together
British, European and World History. peace settlement after WWI, the with religious intolerance (e.g. the
Diversity is assured and it offers Treaty of Versailles (e.g. Article 231) Popish Plot) and the character of
something for everyone! and its impact (e.g. German Charles II as King. You will also look
resentment). You will also look at at crises (e.g. the Great Plague) and
What will you study? the formation and successes and the development of popular culture
You will study people’s lives in a failures of the new international (e.g. coffee houses). This section
range of historical contexts. You will peace-keeping organisation, the also includes a study of the growth
also be supported with additional League of Nations and the reasons of empire (e.g. East India Company),
subject clinics to enhance your for its final collapse. Finally, you will trade (e.g. slave trade) and war. A
performance (if you need them!) look at the growing international castle/stately home specific to the
and trips to develop your learning tension following Hitler’s Restoration must also be studied
outside the classroom. The appointment as Chancellor, how and referred to in your examination.
department has successfully run this escalated and the events
GCSE Trips to the USA in 2012, immediately preceding WWII How will you be assessed?
2014 and 2016 and plans to run its (e.g. Poland). You will sit two examinations at the
next in 2019. end of the two year course. Both will
Paper 2: last 1 hour 45 minutes and will be
The course is divided into four Shaping The Nation worth 50% of the GCSE.
sections which are examined in two
papers; each section is worth 25% Section A: Is this for you?
of your final mark. The options that Britain: Power and the people: History is an extremely popular
will be taught are as follows: c.1170 to the present day subject which provides excellent
The story of how British people support for anyone thinking about
Paper 1: fought to gain the rights that we careers in management, business,
Understanding The Modern World enjoy today. You will look at the media, law, journalism or
medieval constraints on kingship politics, to name but a few! History
Section A: (e.g. Magna Carta), the origins of develops study skills and thinking
America, 1920-1973: parliament (e.g. role of Simon de skills and is therefore outstanding
Opportunity and inequality Montfort) and popular revolt (e.g. preparation for life in the Sixth Form.
You will study how America became Peasants’ Revolt). You will also
so rich in the 1920s and how examine popular uprisings in the
American society changed, looking Early Modern era (e.g. Pilgrimage
in detail at the changing role of of Grace), ‘Divine Right’ vs.
women, the growth of the Parliamentary authority (e.g.
entertainment industry (Hollywood) English Civil War) and the right
and American attitudes towards to representation (e.g. American
racism, immigration and organised Revolution). You will look at the
crime (Al Capone). You will also extension of the vote in the 19th and
study the impact of The Wall Street 20th centuries (e.g. Chartism) and
Crash on American lives and the various forms of popular protest
attempts by President Roosevelt to (e.g. the Anti-Slavery Movement).
help America recover. (The “New Finally, you will study women’s
Deal”) You will also learn about the rights (e.g. Suffragettes), workers’
impact of WWII and how it changed rights (e.g. the1926 General Strike)
American Society. Finally, you will and minority rights (e.g. Brixton
study post-war America and the Riots) and Britain’s development as
development of television, Rock and a multi-racial society.
Roll, Martin Luther King Jr and
racism. You will also look in detail at
the social policies of Presidents
Kennedy and Johnson and the
campaign for racial, gender and
human rights. (e.g. Roe vs. Wade).You can also read
