Y8 GCSE Options 2018-2021 - A guide to support students with making choices that will ensure their next steps towards being a successful learner ...
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Y8 GCSE Options 2018-2021
A guide to support students with making choices
that will ensure their next steps towards being a
successful learner and world citizen.
Page 1 of 26
Y9 GCSE Options 2018-2021
Your first steps towards determining your own future:
You are swiftly approaching the first point in your school career to date in which you are asked to take
ownership of your learning by deciding which subjects you wish to continue through to GCSE. Your choices are
hugely important: the subjects you choose will influence your future prospects for Higher Education, training
and employment. You will, in fact, be taking your first steps in determining the rest of your life. It is vital that
you are as well informed about your choices and their impact in later life as possible.
This booklet is designed to provide information about the subjects you will study in years 9, 10 and 11. There
are a number of subjects that are compulsory and that all students must study, but you will also need to make
decisions about the four other options you may wish to take for your GCSE examinations. you must think very
carefully about your options and gathering as much information as possible is vital at this stage. This booklet is
a good start, but you should also:
1. Talk to your teachers: do they feel you would enjoy and/or do well? What is the nature of the
work like? Is this a subject you would be happy to continue with for a further three years?
2. Talk to your Form Tutor: which subjects are you doing well in and stand a good chance of future
success? Do the subjects you are considering fit your post-16 education plans?
3. Talk to your Head of Year: which is the correct path for you? Academic (mostly GCSE) or
Vocational (mostly BTEC)? How well are you performing in the subjects you are considering for
study?
4. Talk to your Parents: talk through your future intentions with them – do they have ideas about
what would be a useful subject for you to realise your future ambitions?
5. Talk to current GCSE pupils: perhaps the best people to talk to are current GCSE students – they
can give you a student-voice evaluation of the positives and considerations for all GCSE options.
GCSE or BTEC? Points to consider:
Which is the right course for you? Which qualification will get you on the path towards your Post-16
destination? In general, your intended Post-16 destination will dictate your choices:
• GCSEs - Academic route: this is for students who wish to progress on to study A-Levels, with the
ultimate ambition of entering university and qualifying as a graduate.
• Students who are considering the Academic route should be working on at least a Grade 2 in their
intended GCSE subjects and/or English and Maths by the end of Y8.
• BTEC – Vocational route: this is for students who wish to progress on to GNVQs, NVQs, and other
employment specific training for their Post-16 destination.
• There are no specific entry requirements for students who wish to take the Vocational Route.
Page 2 of 26
Positive and negative reasons for making a GCSE choice:
Positive reasons to choose a subject: Negative reasons to choose a subject:
You find it interesting enough to study for a You like the teacher
further three years (after all, you may not get that teacher for GCSE)
You think it will be an easy option
You are achieving well, with high grades and a (all GCSEs are challenging – there are no easy
good Attitude to Learning (ATL 3+) options!)
You know someone who has taken it and they
You like the way in which learning takes place in like it (but remember, they are not you and will
that subject enjoy different things)
Your parents want you to do it (they don’t have
It is necessary for your future Post-16 destination to do the work for the next three years – you do.
ambitions This is your choice, not theirs!)
Your friends are doing it
It will combine well with your other option choices (your friends may have different Post-16
to give you a variety of subjects destinations than you do – show some
independence).
Compulsory GCSE subjects for students sitting exams in Summer 2021:
Some subjects are compulsory; this means that you must take them. This is the same for all students, in all
Secondary schools, throughout the country.
Compulsory subjects include:
• GSCE English Language,
• GCSE English Literature,
• GCSE Maths,
• GCSE Science (either Combined Science or Triple Award – see below),
• GCSE Spanish,
• Core PE (note: this is not an examined subject unless selected as a GCSE option),
• PSHCE (note: this is not an examined subject – this is part of your Pastoral Education)
In addition, all students are required to choose one of the following subjects:
• GCSE History
or
• GCSE Geography.
Page 3 of 26
Y9 GCSE Options 2018-2021: contents
Section 1: Compulsory GCSE subjects
• GCSE English Literature – page 5
• GCSE English Language – Page 6
• GCSE Mathematics – Page 7
• GCSE Spanish – Page 8
• GCSE Combined Science – Page 9
• Either GCSE History – Page 10
• Or GCSE Geography – Page 11
Section 2: optional GCSE/BTEC subjects
• GCSE Art and Design – Page 12
• GCSE Design Technology (Resistant Material, Product Design) – Page 13
• GCSE Design Technology (Textiles, Product Design) – Page 14
• GCSE Photography – Page 15
• GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition – Page 16
• GCSE Religious Studies – Page 17
• GCSE Sociology – Page 18
• GSCE Computer Science – Page 19
• GCSE Physical Education (PE) – Page 20
• BTEC Music – Page 21
Section 3: BTEC GCSE Alternative subjects
• BTEC Home Cooking Skills (in place of GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition) – Page 22
• BTEC Physical Education (in place of GCSE PE) – Page 23
• BTEC CIDA (Certificate in Digital Applications) – Page 24
• BTEC Health and Social Care (in place of GCSE Sociology) – Page 25
Options return form:
• To be completed and returned to Form Tutors by Wednesday 23/03/18 – page 26
Page 4 of 26
GCSE English Literature
Studying English literature enables students to develop a
love of their literary history and heritage, allowing them
to appreciate and value the world in which they live.
Having a wealth of literary knowledge and understanding
will enable all students to value and appreciate diversity
and culture, helping them to develop into well rounded
citizens. Acquiring skills, such as critical and analytical
thinking and confident communication will equip students
with valuable skills and assets that will benefit them in
higher education and beyond. With English literature,
students can embark on career paths such as: journalism,
law, teaching, politics, media and public relations.
What will I learn in English Literature?
Students of English Language will students will explore and analyse fours works from British literary greats. In
Year 11 students will complete two papers, consisting of the following components:
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the Nineteenth Paper 2: Modern Text and Poetry
Century Novel
Section A: William Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’. Section A: JB Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls’.
Section B: Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’ Section B: Power and Conflict Anthology.
OR
Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’.
• GCSE English Literature is assessed through two written exams. Paper 1 is 1 hour and 45 mins long, and
Paper 2 is 2 hours and 15 minutes long.
• The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade.
How would I learn in English Literature?
This compulsory course is specifically designed to allow all
students to appreciate the depth and power of the English
literary heritage where they are encouraged to read widely for
pleasure. This course will enable all students to access and read
a wide range of literature fluently, obtaining a secure
understanding through in depth, critical and evaluative analysis
where they will be able to confidently discuss and explain their
understanding and ideas. Through reading an expansive range
of literature, students will develop and refine the art of writing
accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading,
acquiring and using a wide vocabulary they need to criticise and
analyse what they read.
Page 5 of 26
GCSE English Language
The world of English opens many doors in life. When
mastered, a secure command of the spoken and written
word is a skill and art that will never be forgotten. English
language is an invaluable tool and resource that will be
needed in every learner’s future, no matter what career
path they decide to take. GSCE English language will help
students to become: independent, creative, think
critically and logically and communicate ideas with
extreme confidence. With English language, students can
embark on career paths such as: journalism, law,
teaching, politics, media and public relations.
What will I learn in English Language?
Students of English Language will students will explore and analyse a range of texts, including: fiction,
non-fiction and literary non-fiction, from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. In Year 11 students will
complete two papers, consisting of the following components:
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Paper 2: Writer’s Viewpoints and Perspectives
Writing
Section A: Reading –Students will analyse and Section A: Reading –Students will compare,
answer both short and long essay questions on analyse and answer both short and long essay
either a twentieth century or a twenty-first questions on a non-fiction nineteenth century text
century text. and either a twentieth century or a twenty-first
century text.
Section B: Writing-Students will construct a Section B: Writing-Students will construct a non-
creative piece of writing that is linked to the fiction piece of writing that is linked to the reading
reading extract. extracts.
•GCSE English Language is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 1 hour 45 minutes.
•The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade.
How would I learn in English Language?
English language is a subject that is fuelled by
discussion, where the emphasis is placed upon
students being able to discuss their understanding of a
writer’s purpose and use of language, and the effect
that this has on the reader.
Students will be provided with many opportunities to
develop higher-order reading and critical thinking skills
that will encourage genuine enquiry into different
topics and themes. By studying a range of literary and
non-literary texts, students will be able to use and
apply their knowledge, gained from wide and critical
reading, to inform and improve their writing where
they write effectively and coherently using Standard
English appropriately and accurately.
Page 6 of 26
GCSE Mathematics
Why study GCSE Mathematics?
Maths, like its good friend English, is a core subject at school,
which we must all study. All universities and employers will
want you to have a grade 4 in maths at GCSE.
Studying maths helps us find patterns and structure in our
lives. Practically, maths helps us put a price on things, create
graphics , build websites, build skyscrapers and generally
understand how things work or predict how they might change
over time and under different conditions.
Maths ig good for pretty much any career and gives you bags a n r ec
ognise
of skills. People with good Maths qualifications can go into: as a them
accounting, medicine, engineering, forensic go here
Edxcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics
pathology, finance, business, consultancy, teaching, IT, games
Higher/Foundation Student Book
development, scientific research, programming, the civil
service, design, construction and astrophysics to name a few…
What would I learn in GCSE Mathematics:
Breakdown of course by unit title or equivalent – edit table accordingly:
Topic Areas
Number
Algebra
Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
Geometry and Measures
Statistics and Probability
• 100% Exam Based. Three Papers (Paper 1 Non-Calculator, Paper 2 and Paper 3 Calculator)
How would I learn in Mathematics)?
Maths is one of the best subjects to develop your analytical,
research and problem-solving skills. Not only will studying
maths help give you the knowledge to tackle scientific,
mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will also help you
develop logic to tackle everyday issues like planning projects,
managing budgets and even debating effectively. We will
make sure in lessons to develop these skills by talking about
practical applications and through investigations.
If you want to get ahead in maths why not get a revision guide
and workbook and start studying this summer?
Page 7 of 26
GCSE Spanish
Why study GCSE Spanish?
Spanish is the second most spoken language by native
speakers in the world. More than 400 million Spanish
speakers in 21 countries have Spanish as its national
language; other places such as the USA have adopted and
integrated Spanish into culture and everyday life. Spanish has
emerged as the most important language for the UK in an
analysis made by the British Council
A career in languages is vital preparation for an increasing list
of careers that extends beyond the options of the typical nts can
associations with translating, interpreting and teaching. . The recogn
i se
importance of foreign languages is evident in areas such as The core textbooks and online
importing, exporting, and the stock-market. Other resource for GCSE Spanish
professions where languages are an advantage are: a flight
attendant, the police, nursing, a scientific researcher, a
photographer and in hotel management. A language is also
increasingly valuable in the successful progression to
university in a wide range of disciplines.
What would I learn in GCSE Spanish?
This course follows the AQA Board of Examinations Code 8698 and extends across three main themes.
Theme 1: Identity and culture Theme 2: Local, national, international Theme 3: Current and future
and global areas of interest study and employment
Topic 1: Me, my family and friends • Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood Topic 1: My studies
Relationships with family and friends and region Topic 2: Life at school/college
Marriage/partnership Topic 2: Social issues • Topic 3: Education post-16
Topic 2: Technology in everyday life • Charity/voluntary work • Topic 4: Jobs, career choices and
Social media • Mobile technology
Healthy/unhealthy living ambitions
Topic 3: Free-time activities • Music •
Cinema and TV • Food and eating out • Topic 3: Global issues • The
Sport environment • Poverty/homelessness
Topic 4: Travel and tourism
•
• GCSE Spanish is assessed through four exams, Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking
• The GCSE is 100% exam based with no coursework and each skill is worth 25% of the final grade.
How would I learn in GCSE Spanish?
Students will learn to express themselves in the target
language across the following key skills: Listening, Reading,
Writing, Speaking and Translation. Questions across all of
the language skills are set in common contexts, addressing
a range of relevant contemporary and cultural themes.
Students will be using authentic materials, such as
film,audio and literary texts to build vocabulary and will be
expected to speak and respond spontaneously to questions
across a range of topics.
Page 8 of 26
GCSE Combined Science
Why study GCSE Combined Science
Science is a core subject which helps us understand the
world and its many wonders. Qualifications in Science
provide endless opportunities in a wide range of fields.
All universities and colleges are more likely to consider
students with good grades at Science GCSE since the
skills and knowledge acquired are valuable in a variety of
careers. The possibilities in Science are endless,
especially considering the fact that modern Science and
technology are rapidly changing and developing. We will
be preparing our students at Starbank to become future The core textbooks for
Science leaders and innovators. GCSE Combined Science
What will I learn in GCSE Combined Science?
Biology Chemistry Physics
1. Cell biology 8. Atomic structure and the periodic 18. Forces
2. Organisation table 19. Energy
3. Infection and response 9. Bonding, structure, and the 20. Waves
properties of matter
4. Bioenergetics 21. Electricity
10. Quantitative chemistry
5. Homeostasis and response 22. Magnetism and electromagnetism
6. Inheritance, variation and 11. Chemical changes
23. Particle model of matter
evolution 12. Energy changes 24. Atomic structure
7. Ecology 13. The rate and extent of chemical
change
14. Organic chemistry
15. Chemical analysis
16. Chemistry of the atmosphere
17. Using resources
15. Chemical analysis
Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject.
All students will sit either Higher or Foundation written exams at the end of year 11 with individual papers
lasting 1 hour 15 minutes. There will be two papers per Science, 6 exams in total. Each paper counts
towards approximately 17% of the final grade. Students receive 2 GCSE grades for combined science.
How would I learn in GCSE Combined Science?
Being one of the core subjects, all students will be undertaking a
Science GCSE. They will be completing units in Chemistry, Biology
and Physics from the AQA trilogy schemes from year 9 through to
year 11. Exceptional students will be offered separate Sciences
from year 10 onwards.
Students will be developing their knowledge and understanding of
scientific ideas. They will interpret, evaluate, make judgements and
draw conclusions on a range of experimental procedures while
developing their own skills and techniques.
Page 9 of 26
GCSE History
Why study History?
GCSE History covers a variety of topics. We learn about
how today’s world has been shaped, and this will deepen
your understanding of life around you.
Studying History leads to a diverse range of further study
opportunities and careers. It is the skills you develop
when you ‘think like a historian’ that make History a well-
respected and attractive subject to universities and
employers. Law, politics, civil service, business,
marketing, finance, accountancy, journalism, economics,
teaching, crime investigation, social work, archaeology The core textbooks for
and heritage offer a snapshot of the many career avenues GCSE History.
that studying History can lead you down.
What would I learn in GCSE History?
History Students will complete 5 units, consisting of the following topics:
Thematic study and historic environment *Crime and punishment in Britain, c1000–present.
*Whitechapel, c1870–c1900: crime, policing and
the inner city.
Period study and British depth study *Early Elizabethan England, 1558–88.
*The American West, c1835–c1895
Modern depth study *Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39
• GCSE History is assessed through three written exams. These range in length from 1 hour 15 mins
to 1 hour 45 mins.
• The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade.
How would I learn in GCSE History?
GCSE History is taught through analysis of historical
sources and critical evaluation of the views of
historians. This will in turn provoke debate and the
opportunity to discuss and share ideas with others.
History is a rigorous academic subject, and as such
involves a good degree of writing. Students are
expected to produce extended written answers as
GCSE exam practice on a regular basis and to retain
significant amounts of subject specific content.
Page 10 of 26GCSE Geography
Why study GCSE Geography?
The study of geography stimulates an interest about
places, people and the environment. It helps young
people make sense of a complex and dynamically
changing world and how society, the economy and
environment combine to bring about change.
At University level, Geography graduates become some of
the most sought after graduates by employers due to the
holistic overview the subject offers on many of the world’s
current issues- at a global scale and locally. The Russell At GCSE we teach the Edexcel B 9-1
Group Universities and key employers recognise Specification. Revision resources are
Geography as ‘one of the key facilitating subjects for entry supplied by Pearson and Hodder Education
to degree level study.’
What would I learn in Geography?
GCSE Geography consist of three units consisting of the following components:
Global Geographical Issues UK Geographical Issues People and Environmental
(Paper 1) (Paper 2) Issues- Making Geographical
Decisions (Paper 3)
Topic 1: Hazardous Earth Topic 4: The UK’s evolving Topic 7: People and the
physical landscape biosphere
Topic 2: Development Dynamics Topic 5: The UK’s evolving Topic 8: Forests under threat
human landscape
Topic 3: Challenges of an Topic 6: Geographical Topic 9: Consuming energy
Urbanising World investigations (one physical and resources
one human fieldwork trip)
Topic 10: Making a geographical
• The GCSE is 100% exam based with three examinations. decision
• Global Geographical Issues and UK Geographical Issues are both 90 minute examinations
worth 94 marks and 37.5% of the qualification respectively.
• People and Environmental Issues- Making Geographical Decisions is a 90 minute exam worth
64 marks and 25% of the qualification.
• Two fieldwork trips are compulsory to the teaching of the course.
How would I learn in Geography?
The specification content is framed by geographical enquiry
questions that encourage an investigative approach to each of
the key ideas. As part of the enquiry process, students are
encouraged to use integrated geographical skills, including
appropriate mathematics and statistics, in order to explore
geographical issues.
All three examinations include multiple-choice questions; short
open responses; calculations and extended writing tasks that
focus on spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Students are desired to have a good level in English and Maths at
KS3 on entry to GCSE Geography.
Page 11 of 26GCSE Art and Design-Fine Art
Why study GCSE Art and Design, Fine Art?
Learners need to find an outlet to express themselves.
Art and Design gives learners a positive outlet to express
themselves. Through studying Art and Design learners
are developing their communication skills,
independence, creativity, problem solving, learning to
work with others. Art and Design will create many
different avenues for learners to go down in the future.
Learners can explore fields such as; Architecture,
Fashion, Construction, Web designers, Vehicle design,
Product design, Film, Photography and Promotions. All
these career paths require some form of creativity.
What would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Fine Art?
Unit Content
Unit 1- Initial project The first initial project is based on a pre-selected starting
point. Learners will be guided through how to create an
“insightful and meaningful” response to a starting point.
Unit 2-Mock Exam Project Learners will be given two starting points to select from.
Learners will have the opportunity to make a response to the
starting point and will be able to create a final outcome in a 5
hour mock exam.
Unit 4- Art and Design Portfolio Learners will make a more independent decision on what
their starting point will be. This project will count for 60% of
the overall grade. Learners will have approximately 45 hours
contact time to complete the unit. This unit will be marked
out of 120 and will be marked internally but moderated
externally.
Unit 4- Art and Design OCR-set Task Learners will be given the exam paper in January 2019. They
will select a starting point from the exam paper and create a
portfolio based around their selected starting point. Learners
will create the final outcome in a 10 hour exam. This unit will
count for 40% of the overall grade. This unit will be
marked out of 80 and will be marked internally
and moderated externally
How would I learn in GCSE Art and Design. Fine Art?
Method of Assessment:
The GCSE Art and Design course aims to allow learners to make a
Students will be assessed against the
meaningful and insightful response to a select starting point. It will allow
OCR assessment objectives.
the learner to explore different materials and allow them to make
• Assessment Objective 1 independent choices on which materials will be most appropriate to
(AO1) - Develop what they intend on achieving. The course provides learners with an
• Assessment Objective 2 outlet to express themselves visually. Throughout the course learners will
(AO2) - Refine develop observational skills and how to record ideas through a range of
• Assessment Objective 3 materials and processes. They will also work with 2D and 3D relief
(AO3) - Record techniques and learn to carry out independent study researching artists
• Assessment Objective 4 and their relevance and influence on their work.
(AO4) - Present
Page 12 of 26GCSE Design Technology (RM/ textiles/product design)
Why study GCSE Design Technology?
Design Technology can offer the student, an opportunity
to explore their creative potential in designing and
manufacturing every day products in a range of
materials. It allows the development, of useful life skills
and building independence.
Areas explored within design technology, will allow
students a sound base for future enjoyment of the
subject, in to adult hood or even give students a strong
base for which, to base a professional career on.
The core textbooks for
GCSE Design Technology
What would I learn in GCSE Design Technology)?
• AO1: Explore- Stakeholders of the set task/ design issues
• AO2: Create- In a number of ways and 5 different materials areas.
• AO3: Evaluate- own work and that of others and stakeholders.
(NEA) Coursework 50% 40hours in class Exam 50% 2 hours
Set task from the Exam board- set in September Controlled exam set by the exam board in June
year 11. year 11.
-Identifying problems -Core principles
-Learn from existing/ relating products -In-depth- specialised material area.
-Implications of wider design and making issues.
-Design thinking and communication
-Material testing and technical understanding
-Manufacturing/ creating viable design solutions.
• X5 In depth materials areas: Man-made and natural timbers/ textiles/ polymers(plastics)/
metals/ papers and boards.
How would I learn in GCSE DT?
Year 9: Basic skills and knowledge building of the
core elements and the x5 materials areas.
Both practical and theory based.
Year 10: Mock NEA Coursework and set task- as
well as continued practical skills building
in a chosen area of study from the x5
different materials areas.
Year 11: Set NEA practical task in a materials area
of choice.
Set 2 hour written exam- both core and In depth
material areas covered.
Page 13 of 26GCSE (Art Route) Textiles/3D product design (DT led)
Why study GCSE textiles/3D Product design?
Textiles/3D Product Design can offer the student, an
opportunity to explore their creative potential in
designing and manufacturing every day products in a
range of materials. It allows the development, of useful
life skills and building independence.
Areas explored within Textiles/3D product design, will
allow students a sound base for future enjoyment of the
subject, in to adult hood or even give students a strong
base for which, to base a professional career on.
What would I learn in GCSE Textiles/3D product design?
• AO1: Develop ideas through investigations.
• AO2: Refine work through materials experiments and selecting and rejecting.
• AO3: Recording ideas to help progress work.
• AO4: Present work in a meaningful way related to visual language.
(NEA) Coursework 60% in class portfolio Exam 40% 10 hour+ prep time.
Ongoing portfolio building from September Year Controlled exam set by the exam board in June
11 based on a given theme. year 11.
-Identifying problems -Identifying problems
-Implications of wider design and making issues. -Researching the possible solutions.
-Design thinking and communication -Design thinking and communication
-Material testing and technical understanding -Material testing and technical understanding
-creating final pieces to the related theme. -creating final pieces to the related theme.
-Manufacturing/ creating viable design solutions. -Presenting/ analysing and evaluating work.
-Presenting/ analysing and evaluating work.
• X5 In depth materials areas: Man-made and natural timbers/ textiles/ polymers(plastics)/
metals/ papers and boards.
• (This course is delivered alongside the GCSE DT course as an alternative route.)
How would I learn in GCSE Textiles/3D Product design?
Year 9: Basic skills and knowledge building of the core
elements and the x5 materials areas. Both practical and
theory based following the GCSE DT course.
Year 10: Mock NEA Coursework as well as continued
practical skills building in a self- chosen area of study
from the x5 different materials areas.
Year 11: Set NEA practical task in a materials area of
choice.
Set 10 hour practical exam- and preparatory studies.
Page 14 of 26GCSE Art and Design- Photography
Why study GCSE Art and Design, Photography?
‘With the ever-changing world that we live in, never before has
technology been to prevalent and important. Through studying
Photography learners are developing their communication skills,
independence, creativity, problem solving, learning to work with
others. Art and Design will create many different avenues for learners
to go down in the future. Learners can explore fields such as;
Videographer, Cinematographer, Film, Photography and Promotions.
All these career paths require some form of creativity.
What would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Photography?
Unit 1- Surrealism The first initial project based on a pre-selected starting point. Learners will be guided
through how to create “Insightful and meaningful” response to a starting point.
Unit 2- Text The second Project will be based on the starting point of “Text”. This project will be more
self-lead as students will be more confident on how to create a successful project.
Unit 3-Mock Exam Project Learners will be given two starting points to select from. Learners will have the
opportunity to make a response to the starting point and the project will be able to
create a final outcome in a 5 hour mock exam.
Unit 4- Art and Design Learners will make a more independent decision on what their starting point will be. This
Portfolio project will count for 60% of the overall grade. Learners will have approximately 45
hours contact time to complete the unit. This unit will be marked out of 120 and will be
marked internally but moderated externally
Unit 4- Art and Design OCR- Learners will be given the exam paper in January 2019. Learners will select a starting
set Task point from he exam paper and create a portfolio based around their selected starting
point. Learners will create the final outcome in a 10-hour exam. This unit will count for
40% of the overall grade. This unit will be marked out of 80 and will be marked internally
and moderated externally.
How would I learn in GCSE Art and Design, Photograph?
Method of Assessment:
Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject.
Students will be assessed against the OCR The GCSE Photography course aims to engage learners to
assessment objectives. become effective and independent learners through developing
their critical and reflective thinking and enquiring minds. The
• Assessment Objective 1 (AO1) - Develop course allows students to develop creative skills, through
• Assessment Objective 2 (AO2) - Refine learning to use imagination and intuition when exploring and
• Assessment Objective 3 (AO3) - Record creating photographic and digital art. Throughout their journey
• Assessment Objective 4 (AO4) - Present students will become confident in taking risks and learning from
their mistakes when exploring and experimenting with ideas,
materials, tools and techniques. Students will develop
competence, with increasing independence, in refining and
developing ideas and proposals, and personal outcomes or
solutions. They will learn how to actively engage with the
experience of working with a broad range of media, materials
and techniques including, where appropriate, traditional and
new media and technologies.
Page 15 of 26GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition.
Why study GCSE Food preparation and nutrition?
A course in food allows students to become more self-
sufficient when they are adults. It allows them to be
creative and inventive with their own tastes and develop
healthy eating habits, as well as developing their
knowledge and skills in food preparation, to keep them
safe and healthy with future domestic cooking.
It also gives them a good base of skills and
understanding, for them to build on in the future if they
wish to take food preparation to a professional level,
thus aiding their future employability within the food
industry. The core textbooks for
What would I learn in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition: GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition.
• Unit A: Nutrition: Looking at healthy eating, nutritional needs of different groups of people, nutrient contents of
the food groups and energy balance.
• Unit B: Food provenance and food choice: Exploring food sources and supply, food processing and production,
technological advances and emerging new food types and factors influencing food choice.
• Unit C: Cooking and food preparation: Students will plan and make a range of dishes exploring food science,
sensory qualities of food, food provenance as well as food safety. Cooking practical’s are performed by students
weekly or fortnightly throughout the course.
• Unit D: Skills requirements: Develop a range of preparation, cooking styles and methods through practical tasks
over the three years eg: doughs, raising agents, sauces, knife skills etc.
NEA 1: Food Science NEA 2: Food planning and Final written exam
Investigation (15%) preparation task (35%) 1 ½ hour- (50%)
Set by the exam board – Set by the exam board January Set by the exam board June of
September of year 11 of year 11. year 11.
-Planning the set investigation -Planning the task -Range of marked questions
styles
-Practical investigation -3 hour/ 3 dish practical -x2/3 long answer essay style
assessment. questions
-Analysis of the practical task -Analysis of the task -variety of short answer
questions
-Evaluation of the practical task. -Evaluation of the task
Eye-catching image to illustrate your subject.
How would I learn in GCSE Food Preparation and
Nutrition)?
• Weekly/fortnightly skills practical’s in year 9.
• Mock and actual NEA tasks and exams in year
10/11
• Taught theoretical sessions covering the main
units of the course- with a range of learning
activities
**Please note all ingredients for practical sessions
need to provided throughout the course- this
Page 16 of 26
financial cost needs to be considered when choosing
this course.GCSE Religious Studies
Why study GCSE Religious Studies?
The world we live in is changing rapidly. Technology and
transport advances have allowed humans to move all
over the globe, creating a rich diversity of beliefs and
behaviours, of different ways to make sense of the world
around us and live as ethical human beings.
GCSE Religious Studies encourages students to look at
the world around them and to make sense of how
people think and act, through the development of key
skills such as empathy, critical thinking and social
analysis. It is critical for any future career that will The core textbooks for
involve working with other people. GCSE Religious Studies
What would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies?
Students of Religious Studies will complete four units, consisting of the following components:
Focus on Christianity Focus on Islam
Part 1: Beliefs and Teachings Part 3: Beliefs and Teachings
Practices Practices
Part 2: Relationships and Families Part 4: Relationships and Families
Religion and Life Religion and Life
The Existence of God and Revelation The Existence of God and Revelation
Religion, Peace and Conflict Religion, Peace and Conflict
Religion, Crime and Punishment Religion, Crime and Punishment
Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice
• GCSE RE is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 90 minutes.
• The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade.
How would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies?
A great deal of Religious Studies content is taught
through discussion and exploration of your views in
comparison to those of others – be prepared to talk, and
sometimes to argue!
Religious Studies is an academic subject, and as such
involves a good degree of writing. Students are expected
to produce extended written answers as GCSE exam
practice.
Students should be scoring at least a Grade 2 in English
to consider GCSE Religious Studies.
Page 17 of 26GCSE Sociology
Why study GCSE Sociology?
Sociology is the scientific study of human culture,
relationships and behaviour. Sociologists observe, study
and predict how and why human beings act as
individuals and as in groups.
Sociologists employ a range of alternative perspectives
to examine the world from different perspectives; using
a toolkit of different ways of thinking to analyse group
behaviour. You will learn how to ‘read’ people’s actions
and learn new ways to make sense of Society at large!
If you want to learn how and why humans ‘work’, this is
the subject for you!
What would I learn in GCSE Sociology?
Students of GCSE Sociology will study the following units:
Sociological Method Applied Sociology
Part 1: The Sociological approach 1. The function and purpose of the family
Social Structure 2. Education – how do you train a society
Social Processes 3. Crime and Deviance
Social Issues 4. Social Stratification
Part 2: Sociological Research Methods 5. Wealth and Poverty
P.E.T Methods
Conducting Sociological Research
• GCSE RE is assessed through two written exams, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes
• The GCSE is 100% exam based: this means that there is no coursework to supplement your grade.
How would I learn in GCSE Religious Studies?
Sociology is a Social Science. This means that the
learning is expressed through a combination of
short and long-length extended writing and
Scientific research methodologies.
There is a quantity of material to read and there will
be an expectation that students engage in flipped
learning: that they read material before they enter
the lesson, in order to access the learning.
Students will also plan, conduct, evaluate and
review their own Sociological experiments,
describing their outcomes as extended writing
pieces.
This course will allow students to continue on to A-
Level Sociology at Post-16 education.
Page 18 of 26GCSE Computer Science
Why study GCSE Computer Science?
s
Technology is everywhere within our modern society.
Everything from mobile phones, smart TVs, games
consoles, traffic lights, theme parks to sport depend on
technology. GCSE Computer Science will give you an in-
depth understanding of how computer technology works
and a look at what goes on 'behind the scenes'. The
course will help you develop critical thinking, analysis
and problem solving skills. It is an interesting way to
develop these skills, which can be transferred to other
subjects, especially mathematics and other sciences and
even applied in day-to-day life.
For studying the subject at A level or University this GCSE
What would
provides I learn
a solid in GCSEand
foundation Computer Science?
underpinning of
Computer
• Unit Science Knowledge.
1: Computer Systems : The first unit is focusing on Computer systems which involves: Systems
Architecture, Memory , Storage, Wired and wireless networks, Network topologies, protocols and layers, System
security, System software, Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns.
• Unit 2 Algorithms & programming: The second unit is focusing on computational thinking, algorithms and
programming which involves: Algorithms, Programming techniques, Producing robust programs, Computational
logic, Translators and facilities of languages, Data representation.
• Unit 3 Programming Project: The final unit is a Programming project set out by OCR every year and will involve:
Programming techniques, Analysis, Design, Development, Testing, Evaluation and conclusions.
Unit 1: Computer Systems Unit 2: Algorithms & NEA: Programming Project
(40%) EXAM 1 programming (40%) EXAM 2 Controlled Conditions (20%)
Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board -
May of year 11 May of year 11. Controlled assessment Year 11
-80 Marks -80 Marks -40 Marks
-1 hour and 30 minutes -1 hour and 30 minutes -20 Hours
-Written paper -Written paper -Controlled Conditions Exam
40% of total GCSE 40% of total GCSE 20% of total GCSE
How would I learn in GCSE Computer Science?
• Computer science is taught predominantly through Theory based lessons
with a strong emphasis on Computer Architecture, Computational
Thinking, Computational logic and Mathematical skills.
• This is required in order to prepare for the formal written exams which
make up 80% of the course.
• A higher level programming language will be taught with a strong
emphasis on independent learning for the remaining 20 % of the course.
• Mock tasks and exams in year 9, 10 and 11.
** Due to the majority of this course being assessed externally it is essential
that students are motivated to work independently and have exceptional
Mathematical / Computational ability. Computing teachers will advise on
suitable students for all Computer Science / ICT / CIDA courses.
Page 19 of 26GCSE Physical Education (PE)
Course Description:
The GCSE PE course aims to allow the learners to
understand the combination of physical performance and
academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for
students. They also learn about physical education through
a range of different contexts and the impact it has on
everyday lives. It encourage the learner to immerse
themselves in the world of sports and PE with the chance
to perform or coach a sport (through the non-exam
assessment component), and delve into the how and why
of physical activity and sport.
Students have the opportunity to develop a practical set of
key skills, including dealing with pressure, split second
decision-making, interpreting and analysing data, and
more.
Subject Content:
Unit 1- Physical Factors Affecting Performance: Learners will start to explore the way in which the parts of the
human body work and function during physical activity and physiological adaptations that can occur due to diet
and training. They will also develop their knowledge and understanding of the principles of training, why we
train in different ways and how training plans can be made to optimise results.
Unit 2-Socio-cultural Issues and Sports Psychology: Learners will develop their knowledge and understanding of
the benefits of participating in physical activities and sports to their health, fitness and wellbeing. The physical,
emotional and social aspects will be understood as well as the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.
Learners will also develop their knowledge and understanding of ethical and socio-cultural issues in physical
activities and sports.
Unit 3 – Performance within Physical Education:
• Part 1: Performance of three sports or activities, one team, one individual and one free choice from
either list on DfE list.
• Part 2: Performance analysis of a sport or activity from the approved DfE list.
Why study this subject?
Learners will have the opportunity to develop a wide-ranging
set of key skills, including communication using appropriate
language, dealing with pressure, split-second decision
making, interpreting and analysing data, as well as analysing
and evaluating performance so improvements can be made.
The specifications also encourage the development of strong
literacy and numeracy skills. The acquisition of such a diverse
range of skills is of great benefit to your students as they
continue their education.
Page 20 of 26BTEC Music
Why study (BTEC Music)?
With a BTEC Tech Award in Music, students are able to
explore, challenge and realise their potential. During the
course, students can see whether the industry is one they
want to be in, where they could go, and gain the knowledge
and skills they need to succeed in their next steps. After
completing the course, students can continue on to further
vocational and academic study at level 2 and level 3, as well
as apprenticeships and traineeships. What’s more, the
transferable skills students master during their studies such
as self-reflection, communication, teamwork and problem
solving will also support their progress.
The core textbook for (BTEC
Music)
What would I learn in (BTEC Music)?
Students of BTEC Music will complete three components, consisting of the following:
Components 1 & 2 Component 3
Explore musical styles and techniques. Explore a brief and produce responses and ideas.
Gain an understanding of roles in the industry. Respond as a composer, performer or producer.
Explore different styles and genres of music. Develop response choice for performance.
Take part in practical workshops. Practise musical skills.
Learn about the roles in the music industry. Put skills into practice.
Develop a range of skills. Review and reflect approach to a brief.
Reflect on progress, and areas for improvement. Present your final response (solo or in a group).
Apply skills and techniques in a music Choose an area of the industry that excites them
performance, creation or production. (composer, performer, or producer).
• Components 1 & 2 are internally assessed and contribute 30% each (total 60%) to your final mark.
• Component 3 is externally assessed and contributes 40% towards your final mark.
How would I learn in (BTEC Music)?
With the new BTEC Tech Award in
Music, you will learn about the various
music products, develop valuable skills
and techniques in music creation,
performance and production, and
explore potential careers in the
industry.
Page 21 of 26My Skills: BTEC (Jamie Oliver) Home Cooking Skills L1/2.
Why study BTEC Home cooking skills?
A course in food allows students to become more self-
sufficient when they are adults. It allows them to be
creative and inventive with their own tastes and develop
healthy eating habits, as well as developing their
knowledge and skills in food preparation, to keep them
safe and healthy with future domestic cooking.
It also gives them a good base of skills and
understanding, for them to build on in the future if they
wish to take food preparation to a professional level,
thus aiding their future employability within the food BTEC Course website:
industry.
www.jamieshomecookingskills.com.
What would I learn in BTEC (Jamie Oliver) Home Cooking Skills (L1/2)
Level 1: Focuses on giving young people the skills to prepare delicious and nutritious home-
cooked food - using fresh ingredients - as well as an understanding of the value of passing on
cooking knowledge
Level 2 (Equivalent of ½ GCSE) Develops the student's ability to plan and prepare a series of
nutritious home-cooked meals for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner, and helps them
understand how to cook economically
Portfolio of practical and theoretical skills Final assessment- Year 10/11
Ongoing evidence throughout year 9/10/11
-Regular skills based practical’s throughout Level 1: Plan and prepare x2 course meal.
yr9/10/11
-Evaluations of practical’s Level 2:Plan and prepare x3 course meal.
-Theoretical studies of nutrition, food Evaluation of practical task.
provenance, safe food preparation and planning
meals for the home.
How would I learn in BTEC Home Cooking skills?
• Weekly/fortnightly skills practical’s in year 9.
• Mock and actual assessment tasks
• Taught theoretical sessions covering the main
units of the course- with a range of learning
activities
**Please note all ingredients for practical sessions
need to provided throughout the course- this
financial cost needs to be considered when choosing
this course.
Page 22 of 26My Skills: BTEC Physical Education (PE)
Course Description:
Through this BTEC course you will learn
independently through completing projects,
tasks and assignments that are realistic to the
work place within the sports industry. You will
develop skills such as ICT skills, problem solving,
working with others, independent learning,
organisational skills and meeting deadlines, all of
which are essential qualities for successful
performance in working life. Students have the
opportunity to develop a practical set of key
skills, including dealing with pressure, split
second decision-making, interpreting and
analysing data, and more.
Subject Content:
Unit 1- Fitness for Sport and Exercise 25% externally assessed – 1hr online test – 50 marks
Learners will start to gain an appreciation and understanding of the different fitness components,
training principles, training methods and fitness tests to improve performance. Physical and skill-related
components, including aerobic endurance, body composition and power, are related to positive health
and wellbeing
.
Unit 2-Practical Sports Performance 3 Assignments
This unit focuses on developing and improving your own practical sports performance. This is achieved
through your active participation in practical activities and reflection on your own performance and that
of other sports performers.
This unit introduces you to a variety of different sports and, through participating in different sports, it
is expected that you will develop knowledge of the associated rules, regulations, scoring systems, skills,
techniques and tactics.
Unit 3 – The Mind and Sports Performance 3 Assignments
Why do some sports people produce their best performances under the greatest pressure whilst others
fall apart? Performance in sport is the outcome of a combination of various physiological, sociological
and psychological factors. Physiological and sociological factors will affect the potential that the
individual has to reach the top level in sport. However, of equal importance is having the right
psychological approach to achieve success and remain at the top.
This unit looks at the concepts that influence the mind in sporting situations and, most importantly,
explores the effects that they can have on sports performance.
Unit 6 – Leading Sports Activities 3 Assignments
This unit introduces you to sports leadership, enabling you to start on the ladder of leadership and
coaching, through delivering components of sports sessions and whole activity sessions. You will be
ntroduced to the basics of sports leadership and then will be required to plan, deliver and evaluate your
ability to lead a sports activity session or component of a session.
Page 23 of 26ICT
CiDA
CiDA
– Certificate
– Certificate
inin
Digital
Digital
Applications
Applications
Why study ICT CiDA?
The Certificate in Digital Applications (CiDA) Level 2 can
act as a stepping stone for a student’s future college
study of Level 3 ICT/Computing Qualifications. This
exciting yet professional course is aimed at creative
learners with a passion for digital content. Although an
established well recognised course, being taught in
schools for over 10 years, the progressive new elements
to this ICT/Computing qualification contains a higher
level of computing knowledge.
What would I learn in ICT CiDA?
There are two parts to the assessment. The assessment for Unit 1 represents 25% of the total
mark for the qualification. It is assessed through an external practical examination marked by
Edexcel. The assessment for the Optional Unit represents 75% of the total assessment. It is an
internally assessed project under controlled conditions. Your teacher will decide on the optional
Unit.
Unit 1: Developing Web Products (25%) Optional Units - students study either:
Unit 2 Creative Multimedia
Unit 3: Artwork and Imaging
Set by the examining board - Set by the examining board -
Summer of year 10 / 11 Autumn Year 10 / Summer Year 11.
-1 hour Practical Exam -Internally Assessed Controlled Conditions
25% 75%
How would I learn in ICT CiDA?
CiDA includes a website build requiring the student to
learn a HTML language. Students will explore
independently through the CiDA web resource the
online project, using peer and teacher feedback to
review and develop their products. There are a
number of websites that students can access at home
to help improve their knowledge and understanding
of ICT. These include: the CiDA website, SAM Learning,
Bitesize, Teach-ICT and watching online shows like
BBC Click. Students should be encouraged to learn the
"The whole limit in the system is that
software used on the course, and become familiar
there aren't enough people who are
with the tools and skills needed. Initial programs used
trained and have these skills today“.
Mark Zuckerberg talking about the will be Adobe Dreamweaver, Fireworks, as well as
shortage of web based Computing Microsoft Office.
Students worldwide.
** Computing teachers will advise on suitable
students for all Computer Science / ICT / CIDA courses.
Page 24 of 26BTEC Heath and Social Care
Page 25 of 26Options return form – Submit to Form Tutor by 13/03/18
Personal Details
My name: __________________________________ My form: __________________________________
Choice one: Humanities option:
1) You must select EITHER History OR Geography – your choice here will be guaranteed.
2) Place a tick in the box next to your choice.
• GCSE History
• GCSE Geography
Choice two: GCSE optiona:
3) You must select FOUR other subjects.
4) Place a number between 1-4 in the box next to your choice, to indicate your preference
5) You will be allocated subjects based on your preferences: once allocated, your subjects are not
transferable. You will not be able to swap subjects once placed – so choose something you want to
study for three years!
6) Some subjects, as indicated, offer a BTEC alternative: should teachers feel it to be the best option for
success, then students may be placed in BTEC choices to match preferences, rather than GCSE.
Preference
Subject Alternative Option
1-4
• GCSE Art and Design
• GCSE Design Technology (Resistant
Material, Product Design)
• GCSE Design Technology (Textiles,
Product Design)
• GCSE Photography
• BTEC Home Cooking
• GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition
Skills
• GCSE Religious Studies
• BTEC Health and
• GCSE Sociology
Social Care
• BTEC CIDA
• GSCE Computer Science
• BTEC Physical
• GCSE Physical Education (PE)
Education
• BTEC Music
Page 26 of 26You can also read
