Learning without Limits Options Booklet 2018-2021
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Welcome
Making the right choice of GCSE subjects is very important for our students. If good decisions are made, Years 9, 10 and 11 will be rewarding and enjoyable. At the end of three years of hard work, students should have fulfilled their potential, achieving the qualifications they need as the basis for future success. The process at KLA has four stages: • Parents and students read the booklet to find out as much as possible about the courses on offer • There is an opportunity to learn more about the courses when subject teachers talk to students and parents at the Year 8 Options Evening • Students may have a short interview with a senior member of staff to discuss their option thoughts and to receive guidance on possible paths to follow • Students choose their preferences by Friday 9th March 2018, by returning the form to Miss Tea or Reception It is important to remember that the student’s personal development is a key factor in success. Students who are persistent, well-organised and take responsibility for their own work consistently achieve their target grades. We want every single student to achieve their full potential and it is important to remember that it is the quality rather than the quantity of GCSE grades which is significant. Our courses offer a broad, balanced experience, but not all subjects are suitable for every student and some demand particular strengths. There are also vocational courses which are more practical and provide education in specific areas. The foundation for your child’s future success will be laid in the decisions they make over the next few weeks. We are looking forward to working with you to help achieve this. Alan Fletcher Principal
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Choosing the right subjects at Key Stage 4 is an important process. We hope that the contents of this booklet will help with this. When deciding which options to take, students should also be guided by their interest in particular subjects. The options process is a time for making decisions about your child’s future. This is not always easy as it involves a lot of information about types of courses, subject, how it is assessed, tied in with what they enjoy and what they are good at. Our advice at this stage is do not worry, as there are many experienced professionals available to help you. These include tutors, subject teachers and leadership team. Please take your time and look at everything that is available to you before you make your final decisions. Sometimes the subjects you have not studied before provide the fresh challenge you are looking for. I wish your child well with choosing their options and their future studies. Laura Tea Assistant Principal – Key Stage 3 Standards
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The ‘English Baccalaureate’ The English Baccalaureate (E-Bacc) is the name for a core set of academic subjects: • GCSE English Language • GCSE Mathematics • GCSE Science (Double or Triple Award) • GCSE in a Humanities subject (either Geography, History • GCSE in a Modern or Ancient language (French and Spanish are offered at KLA, and there may be the chance to study Latin through shared options with KES Academy) Success in these subjects makes it very clear to providers of Higher and Further Education, as well as employers, whether a student has been successful in key areas and across a strong range. At KLA the core curriculum covers all E-Bacc subjects. We are committed to ensuring that all students have an appropriate pathway to attaining the E-Bacc. For this reason, a humanities subject and a language will be part of your compulsory studies during Key Stage 4. Completion of the E-Bacc is becoming increasingly important when applying to university. We have designed the core curriculum and the option blocks to allow all students to achieve at least eight good qualifications; eight courses is seen as the minimum number of qualifications a 16 year old should be leaving school with, barring exceptional circumstances.
GCSE Grading - 2018 and Beyond
From Summer 2018, GCSE grades will no longer be classed as A* - G. Your child will leave school with a set of number grades rather than letter grades. The system works from 1 (approximately the equivalent of a current grade G), to 9 (higher than a current A*).
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The Core Curriculum at KLA Every student will study for the following qualifications from Year 9 as part of the core curriculum. • GCSE English Language • GCSE English Literature • GCSE Mathematics • GCSE Science (either Double or Triple Award to be determined as a result of Year 9 assessments) In addition, students must select a GCSE in either Geography or History through the options process. A GCSE in an Ancient or Modern Foreign Language is also a compulsory part of your studies. Again, this can be selected to a certain extent through the options process.
Core Sport The Department for Education mandates that 2 hours of sport and physical exercise per week is a compulsory part of any curriculum offer. At KLA your child will have a double lesson of PE as part of the core curriculum. They may also choose PE as one of their options. During Core Sport lessons there may be the opportunity to complete PE and Sport qualifications, as appropriate.
The Options Timeline Autumn 2017 28th February 2018 5th - 15th March 2018 Friday 16th February 2018
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PSHE Careers education for Year 8 students Options Evening – Year 8 students receive their options booklet and speak to staff regarding possible choices. Opportunities for interviews with staff around the options processes and choices Final submission date for options forms – please hand to Miss Tea, or Reception
19th - 30th March 2018
Further Interviews with staff, as appropriate
April 2018
College interviews
June 2018
Letter sent home with your child’s curriculum offer from September 2018
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Making the right choice When making your choices consider the following:
1. Those subjects which interest you. All options require great commitment. If the subject is new to you, read the description in this booklet thoroughly and, if necessary, consult the appropriate teacher 2. Those subjects in which you have an obvious ability. You are much more likely to achieve success in your examinations if you are good at a subject 3. Those subjects which you are likely to need for a particular career or place in Further or Higher Education The worst possible reason for selecting a particular subject is because your friend wants to do it. It is your future, not theirs that should concern you! Similarly, although your relationship with teaching staff will have a bearing on how much you enjoy any particular subject, please remember that you do not know (nor do the teaching staff) who will be teaching the courses until the timetable is complete, and therefore it is not a good idea to choose a subject entirely because you like learning with a particular teacher. The options form is divided into four sections: 1. Your Humanities choice 2. Your Languages choice 3. Your other options Please complete all sections of the form. In section 4, please put the numbers 1-3 against your preferred subjects from each option block. Number 1 is your first choice (favourite), number 2 your second choice, etc. You will be allocated 1 of these subjects from each block. Please think carefully about the choices you make. Whilst you may be able to change your mind until the final curriculum offer is made in June, it is much harder to switch courses once they have started.
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English Language and English Literature (AQA) At KLA we follow the AQA specification fror GCSE 9-1 English Language and English Literature. They will be awarded 2 qualifications, both assessed by 100% terminal examination. Success in English requires good skills in reading and writing and, over the next three years, your child will explore a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, in order to develop these skills. Speaking and Listening is also included in the GCSE curriculum, although it no longer contributes to the final grade awarded.
English Language (100% Examination)
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Writing and Reading (50%) Section A: Reading •• comprehension and analysis of one literature fiction text (19th century) Section B: Writing •• descriptive or narrative writing Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives (50%) Section A: Reading •• one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text Section B: Writing •• writing to present a viewpoint
English Literature (100% Examination)
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-Century Novel (40%) Much Ado About Nothing Romeo and Juliet Macbeth
Frankenstein The Sign of Four A Christmas Carol
Paper 2: Modern Texts and Poetry (60%) Blood Brothers DNA An Inspector Calls
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Animal Farm Anita and Me Lord of the Flies
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Mathematics
The three-year mathematics GCSE course is split into Number, Algebra, Ratio, Geometry and Probability/Statistics. The amount of each topic which is covered will be dependent on the tier of the qualification:
Tier
Mathematics is split into a Foundation and a Higher tier. • all students will develop confidence and competence with the content identified as “basic foundation content” • all students will be assessed on the content identified as “basic foundation content” and “additional foundation content”; Higher tier students will develop confidence and competence with all of this content • only the more Higher tier students will be assessed on the content identified as “higher content”. The highest attaining students will develop confidence and competence with this content
Students can be said to have confidence and competence with mathematical content when they can apply it flexibly to solve problems.
Skills
By the end of the course, students will be able to: • develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts • acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems • reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions • comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context
Assessment
The mathematics GCSE is assessed at the end of the three-year course, using three exam papers:
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Science
Science is a core subject which all students have to undertake. The majority of students at KLA will be following the combined science GCSE course (AQA specification). The 9-1 GCSE has a high level of mathematical demand, and has none of the coursework elements of previous years. There is a required set of core practicals which students need to experience in order to answer questions in the terminal examination specific to these investigations. All students must sit the minimum of double award in Science, gaining them 2 GCSEs at the end of Year 11. All exams must be sat at the end of Year 11, early entry is no longer an option. Students following Double entry route will have 6 Science Exams at the end of Year 11, 2 in each Science. Triple Science is an option open to students that have an aptitude for Science. The students are chosen by Science staff to complete Triple Science route if they show in Year 9 that they understand key concepts clearly and are able to apply them to the world around them. This is no longer an option for students and extra time is not given for this, however there is time to teach this to the selected students in the timetabled lessons. Triple Science entry will have 9 Science exams at the end of Year 11, 3 for each Science. Currently, if a student wishes to take a Science at A-level the requirement for entry is usually a Grade 6 at Double award in the Science wishing to be taken in Triple Science.
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Geography
“The study of Geography is about more than just memorising places in a map. It’s about understanding the complexity of the world, appreciating the diversity of cultures that exists across continents. And in the end, it’s about using all that knowledge to help bridge divides and bring people together.” Barack Obama What is the course like? Students follow the AQA specification for GCSE Geography. Topics include a range of physical and human modules, with compulsory skills, fieldwork and a current affairs decision-making element. The physical module includes; Natural hazards of tectonics and tropical storms, coasts and rivers, the living world of rainforest and deserts. The human module includes; the challenge of resources (food, water and energy), contrasting cities (Manchester and Mumbai), our changing economic world. The skills module includes; two pieces of fieldwork (based on coasts and cities), mapping, critical interpretation and graphical skills, making a decision about a topical world issue. How is it assessed? The Geography course is linear and has 3 compulsory exams at the end of Year 11. Exam
How long is it?
How much is it worth?
When is it tested?
Physical world and skills
1 hour 30mins
35%
End of Year 11
Human world and skills
1 hour 30 mins
35%
End of Year 11
Graphical Skills, fieldwork and 1 hour 15 mins decision-making exercise
30%
End of Year 11
Would I be any good at it? Who makes a good GCSE Geography student? What do we ask of you?
Why is it important?
Enjoy and understand the Year 7 and Year 8 Geography The topics and style of teaching is very similar to the work lessons at the moment you have already done to prepare you for the GCSE. It is not going to be suddenly a different subject after you pick it. Good level of math skill
10% of all of the GCSE Geography marks come from mathematics and graphical skills. You will be expected to calculate answers/analyse statistics in all of the Geography exams.
An interest in science and processes
The subject that Geography is most like, and has the most number of connections to is science. Elements of biology, physics and chemistry all underpin key Geographical processes. It is no wonder that Geography is often part of the Earth Sciences department at university.
Succinct writer
You will have a limited space to write answers in the exam. You must write in a succinct and professional fashion to get the desired amount of marks. Writing with accuracy and clarity in a short space is essential.
Regular attender
There is over 500 key words to learn and grasp in Geography, many of these are discussed in single lessons. If you miss lessons you will miss important content.
Prepared to give it a go
All Geographers have their favourite bits, maybe its volcanoes, maybe it’s economics. It’ doesn’t matter – but you have to learn all the topics as they are equally important in the GCSE. You can’t just like volcanoes!!
Please don’t…
Pick it because your friend is doing it, pick it based on a teacher – pick it because you like it and get it.
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History
At KLA, students will follow the AQA specification for GCSE History. This qualification is linear which means that students will sit all their exams at the end of the course. We chose the AQA course as it offers the most interesting range of different topics and skills that our students will need; and the topics covered connect with what they have been studying at Year 7 and 8 which will support them. The GCSE covers one period study, one thematic study, one wider world depth study and one British depth study including the historic environment. The course is split into two sections: Understanding the Modern World, and Shaping the Nation. Topics covered in Modern World include: Opportunity and Inequality in America 1920 – 1973 (including Stock market boom, entertainment, position of women, the KKK, the McCarthy witch-hunts, Civil Rights, and the Feminist Movement; Conflict and Tension between East and West, 1945-1972. It focuses on the causes and events of the Cold War and seeks to show how and why conflict occurred and why it proved difficult to resolve the tensions that arose during the Cold War. Topics covered in Shaping the Nation: Power and the People - 1170 to the present day. Here we will be looking at the relationship between citizens and the State. We will look the cause and consequence of protest and the rights and responsibilities of the citizen. How does war, religion, chance or the economy affect the citizen? The unit covers a large amount of time from Uprisings in the Medieval period to The English Civil War, up to the 20th century and Workers Strikes and race riots in Brixton. Finally, there will be an in-depth assessment on Elizabeth’s England 1568-1603. This option allows students to study in depth the specified period of the last 35 years of her reign. The study will focus on major events of Elizabeth I’s reign considered from economic, religious, political, social and cultural standpoints, and arising contemporary and historical controversies.
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Latin
(Studied at KES Academy)
The GCSE Latin course combines Latin language with the culture it describes and reflects. Students will gain an understanding of how the Romans lived their lives through the study of sources including literature. The Cambridge Latin Course is taught as a foundation to GCSE. This course follows the lives of Roman characters at Pompeii, Fishbourne and Alexandria during the years AD79-83. These are not fictional characters – there is historical evidence to show that they existed. Further units describe the adventures of these characters after AD 83 in Bath, Chester and Rome. Knowledge on aspects of Roman civilisation is acquired as the course unfolds. The Cambridge Latin Course is supplemented by excellent online resources allowing for independent and extended study. Specification Link http://www.cambridgescp.com/Upage.php?p=clc%5Eoa_intro%5Eoa_book1 The GCSE itself follows the OCR 9-1 specification. Students will be assessed on three separate units: Unit 1 – Language – terminal exam 1hr 30mins – 50% Students will be required to translate an unseen passage of Latin into English. They will also need to be able to respond to these passages, and show that they can recognise English words which have been derived from Latin, as well as understanding grammatical form. Unit 2 – Literature – terminal exam 1hr – 25% Students will be required to respond to aspects of the content and context of the set text(s), translate a short extract into English, and write a longer response analysing aspects of the text(s) studied. The texts chosen for 2019 are Virgil’s Aeneid, ‘vita rustica et vita urbana’ and ‘de cultu deorum et vita hominum’. Unit 3 – Literature and Culture – terminal exam 1hr – 25% Students will be required to recall knowledge from a prescribed book of sources, and analyse these commenting on ideas and practices from the Ancient World. They will be required to contrast these ideas with the modern world, and produce an extended written response. Topic areas set for 2020 are: • Myths and Beliefs - focusing on Roman Gods and their roles; state religion; beliefs in the after-life and Aeneas, Romulus and Remus • The Romans in Britian - focusing on the Roman army; Roman roads; Roman villas and Roman baths Latin is an E-Bacc subject, and a qualification in Latin is looked upon favourably by colleges and universities. The study of the Latin language will increase your vocabulary, and support your study in other subjects, particularly English, MFL and History. Core skills developed through Latin – communication, flexible thinking, analysis, reasoning and teamwork – are highly valued by employers, and classicists figure prominently in civil service, law, marketing and financial services employment. Famous Classicists include Frank Lampard, Ian Hislop, J K Rowling, Joanna Lumley, Chris Martin, Susanna Reed and Boris Johnson, amongst others.
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Modern Foreign Languages Learning another language opens many doors to you for your future. Changes to the world we live in, and the way the world may be when you have finished your education, means that it is very beneficial to you to be able to speak other languages, to understand different cultures and to relate to other people. Studying languages at GCSE allows you to broaden your horizons and experiences. As well as being a qualification which is highly regarded by employers, GCSE language courses at KLA teach you the skills you will need for practical communication in a range of everyday situations, whether you are on holiday and want to order a meal or you need to book a hotel room for a business trip. You will continue to develop the skills that you have used so far on your journey to mastering another language. Developing the receptive skills of listening and reading allow you to understand what someone else is telling you, while the productive areas of speaking and writing in the foreign language allow you to put your point across, explain your opinion as well as discussing past events or explaining your future dreams. Language lessons are designed to encourage you to increase your confidence in using it, as well as the fundamental structure of the language itself. There is a renewed focus on the grammar of the language at GCSE level, as well as key vocabulary which will allow you to discuss and relate to a variety of topics.
What will this course prepare me for? Having a second (or third!) language is highly regarded by employers locally, nationally and internationally. There are obvious opportunities to work in translation, interpreting and teaching, but Languages can be used in almost any career you care to mention - business, media, law, IT, tourism, manufacturing, engineering - the possibilities are endless. It is now the case that many universities encourage applications from students who have studied the European Baccalaureate, and having a qualification in a language is a key part of this. In addition, some universities will not accept applications from students who did not study a foreign language at GCSE, so it is important to engage with a language to keep as wide a choice as possible for your future education. Having a GCSE language qualification is valuable in itself, but the course also enables you to go on to study the language at A-level and every year a good number of KLA students choose languages for Sixth Form and beyond. Many students have gone on to study languages at university, combining them with another subject or even taking up a new language from scratch to broaden their job opportunities.
How will it be examined? At the end of the course, you will sit exams in all four skills: listening, reading, speaking and writing, and each of these skills will count for 25% of your final overall grade. You are able to sit either foundation or higher tier papers so that you complete the exams which are appropriate for you. Speaking exams will be conducted by your class teacher so you do not have to worry about talking to someone you don’t know as well. We will use the Edexcel course, and more details can be found on qualifications.pearson.com and by looking at GCSE in your chosen Language (ensure you choose the specification from 2016).
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Art & Design Why should you choose Art and Design? Transferable skills include: • • • • • •
You can visit museums, galleries and art exhibitions Apply a creative approach to problem solving Consider and develop original ideas from start to finish Critically analyse your own work and the work of others Express individual thoughts and choices confidently Take risks, experiment and learn from mistakes
What’s involved? GCSE Fine Art allows you to work independently and to put forward your own ideas and opinions about artworks. It also teaches you how to use a variety of techniques for example; painting, sculpture, printing, and drawing. You will use an art sketchbook to show that you can experiment with materials, look at the work of other artists, times and cultures, and plan for final pieces of work.
What is the structure of the course and how will I be assessed? A01
Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical understanding of sources
A02
Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with appropriate media, materials, techniques and processes
A03
Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses
A04
Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and demonstrates understanding of visual language
Component 1 (Year 9, 10 and first term of Year 11) involves a personal portfolio worth 60% of your overall grade. This is your sketchbook that illustrates your own personal journey working in response to a theme such as ‘Identity’, ‘Force’ or ‘Apart and Together’. Component 2 (term two in Year 11) involves an externally set assignment in the form of an exam paper; this unit is worth 40% of your overall grade. You will have 20 hours of lesson time to prepare for a final piece and a 10 hour exam to create your final piece.
What are the benefits of studying GCSE Art and Design? The GCSE Fine Art course aims to enhance your self-confidence, resilience, perseverance, self-discipline and commitment. If you wish to continue your studies in art and design beyond GCSE there are Alevel courses in art and photography, these A-levels could lead you to a creative future through a degree course involving one of the following: fine art, illustration, animation, textiles, set design, architecture, graphic design and much more.
Art and design is one of the largest commercial industries in the UK.
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Business Studies Whilst you may not have specifically studied Business in Years 7 and 8, you ought to consider opting for a GCSE in Business Studies if: • You are good at communicating and explaining your ideas • You can think creatively and make decisions • You enjoy working with numbers to solve business problems • You are interested in finding out more about the world of business through practical tasks and investigations You will follow the Pearson Edexcel 9-1 GCSE in Business Studies. Specification Link https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/business-2017.htm During this course you will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone a successful business person. You will find out how to develop an idea and spot an opportunity, and turn that into a successful business. You will understand how to make a business effective and manage both their finances and their employees. You will also see how the world around us affects small businesses and all the people involved. Finally, you will explore how businesses promote themselves and keep high levels of customer satisfaction. The assessment of this course is through terminal examination where students will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge, and interpret data. There will be a mixture of multiple choice, short answer, data-response, extended writing and scenario based questions. As an example, you might be given details of a business and have to answer questions about the context and likely performance of that business. A business qualification can help you to prepare for further and higher education courses such as A-levels or vocational courses such as BTEC. You will become skilled in making decisions, being creative, solving problems, understanding finance, dealing with data, communicating and working as part of a team. A GCSE Business Studies course could lead to work in a business-related profession such as accountancy, law, marketing or the leisure and tourism industry.
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Drama The new EdExcel GCSE Drama course still keeps a good element of practical work, with students taking part in a series of workshops designed to give them a wide experience of Drama and Theatre forms. There are three main areas of study: Component 1: Devising Component 2: Performance from Text Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice Content Overview • Component 1: Coursework 40% of the qualification • Create and develop a devised piece from stimulus • Performance of this devised piece or design realisation for this performance • Analyse and evaluate the devising process and performance • Performer or designer routes available Assessment overview • Internally assessed and externally moderated • There are two parts to the assessment a) A portfolio covering the creating and developing process and analysis and evaluation of the process (45 marks) b) A devised performance/design illustration (15 marks) Component 2: Performance from text Coursework 20% of the qualification (48 marks) Content overview • Students will either perform in/or design for two Key extracts from a performance text • Externally assessed by a visiting examiner Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice Written examination 1 hour 30 minutes 40% of qualification (60 marks) Content overview • Practical exploration and study of one complete performance text • Choice of 8 performance text • Live theatre evaluation – free choice of production Assessment overview Section A: Bringing Texts to Life (45 marks) • This section consists of one question broken down into five parts (short and extended responses) based on an unseen extract from the chosen performance text • Performance texts are not allowed in the examination as the extracts will be provided • This section consists of two questions requiring students to analyse and evaluate a live theatre performance they have seen • Students are allowed to bring in theatre evaluation notes of up to a maximum of 500 words The pre-requisites of following the Drama course successfully are: good attendance, the ability to work cooperatively in a variety of groups, enthusiasm and unlimited levels of energy.
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Food Preparation & Nutrition Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. At its heart, this qualification focuses on nurturing students' practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition. This subject sets out the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. The majority of the subject will be delivered through preparation and making activities. Students must be able to make the connections between theory and practice to apply their understanding of food and nutrition to practical preparation. This will help to imbed the knowledge, which will make it easier to remember. Our department will always try to make lessons as fun as possible as we believe the more you enjoy the lesson the more you will learn. In Years 10 and 11, students will show their understanding of the working characteristics, functional and chemical properties of ingredients through practical tasks and a written paper. Students will also prepare, cook and present a final menu of three dishes within a single period of no more than three hours, planning in advance how this will be achieved. The two tasks put together will be worth 50% of a GCSE. At the end of Y11 there will be an exam where students will get to show what they have learnt over the three years (which will be worth the other 50% of a GCSE).
What will this course prepare me for? Upon completion of this course, students will be qualified to go on to further study, or embark on an apprenticeship or full time career in the catering or food industries. This subject will also teach you problem-solving skills and how to live a healthy life.
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Music Our Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Music qualification enables you to access engaging content and set works. Music consists of one externally examined paper and two nonexamined assessments.
Performing
Students are required to perform at least two pieces, lasting 4 minutes in total. At least one of these pieces must be an ensemble performance. The pieces are recorded and assessed by your teacher (30%).
Composing
Students must submit two compositions. One is in response to a brief set by the exam board, the other is a free composition. The pieces should last around 3 minutes in total. They are assessed by your teacher (30%).
Appraising
This is assessed by a 1hr 45min exam testing knowledge and understanding of music through 4 areas of study. Students will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of musical elements, musical contexts and musical language. (40%). The areas of study are: Instrumental Music 1700 - 1820, Vocal Music, Music for Stage and Screen, and Fusions. You will succeed if you enjoy performing or composing music, and want to know more about different musical styles. The good thing about this course is that you have the freedom to compose and perform in styles you are really interested in, so whether you are an organist, singer, sitar player or a rapper, there are opportunities for you to do well. Obviously, as with any other qualification you need to be prepared to work hard, both in a group and on your own. A qualification in Music can be useful. As well as the obvious musical skills you will gain, employers like musicians because they are versatile and work well either alone or as part of a team. Musicians are creative people who prove their dedication in practising and have the confidence to stand up in front of others and perform. After GCSE, you could study for an A-level in Music, or Music Technology. There are also many vocational level 3 courses, focusing on Music as a whole, or aspects of it (e.g. composing). Most importantly, GCSE Music will equip you with skills you can use to enjoy the subject either at work or as a hobby. There are some careers for which GCSE Music is directly useful, e.g. composer, performer, conductor, and it provides a useful background for careers in the performing arts, arts administration and the wider music industry.
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Physical Education
Is this the right subject for me at King’s Lynn Academy?
The GCSE Physical Education course will appeal to you if: • Have a keen interest in sport and recreation and always look forward to your PE lessons • Take part in sport/recreation outside of class time • Want to follow a course that develops knowledge and understanding through practical involvement • Want to know more about the benefits of sport and exercise • Want to improve your own performance in a range of sport roles • Want to study a course that is active and that you will enjoy • Are considering a sports-related career or an A-level/Higher Education Course
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in Key Stage 3 Physical Education. It will give you exciting opportunities to be involved in a number of different physical activities promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. You need to be able to perform in three sports (1 must be an individual activity, 1 must be a team activity). It is important that you have an interest in PE and Sport, enjoy being active and appreciate the benefits of being fit and healthy.
What will I learn?
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to: • develop theoretical knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport and use this knowledge and understanding to improve performance • understand how the physiological and psychological state affects performance in physical activity and sport • perform effectively in different physical activities by developing skills and techniques and selecting and using tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas • develop their ability to analyse and evaluate to improve performance in physical activity and sport • understand the contribution that physical activity and sport make to health, fitness and well-being • understand the key socio-cultural influences that can affect people’s involvement in physical activity and sport.
How will I be assessed?
The GCSE course is assessed over 3 units: Theory Exams = 60% Practical = 40% Unit 1 is externally assessed through two written examination papers of 1 hour (60 Marks). This will contribute a maximum of 30% to the total marks. (Exam overview: Applied anatomy and physiology/ Movement analysis/ Physical training/ Use of data) Unit 2 is externally assessed through a written examination paper of 1 hour (60 Marks). This will contribute a maximum of 30% to the total marks. (Exam overview: Health, fitness and well-being/ Sport psychology/ Sociocultural influences/ Use of data) Unit 3 consists of performance in 3 activities (1 must be an individual activity and 1 must be a team activity). You can achieve 30% of the marks from your three best performances. 10% of the course will consist of students doing an AEP (Analysing and Evaluating Performance) project where they analyse their own performance in a chosen sport and suggest strength and weaknesses and develop an action plan to improve.
What can I do after I’ve completed the course?
As well as being the ideal preparation for the A level Physical Education Course, GCSE PE allows for progression to related vocational qualifications, such as BTEC Firsts and Nationals in Sport or Sport and Exercise Sciences. The course develops the transferable skills and key skills that employers are looking for and can lead to a wide variety of employment opportunities. This can include further training in such areas as Recreational Management, Leisure Activities, Coaching, Officiating, the Fitness Industry, the Armed Forces and the Civil Service
Further Information
If you want to find out more about GCSE PE, you can visit the Edexcel Website (www.edexcel.com) or talk to a member of the PE Department.
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Design & Technology Why choose GCSE Design and Technology?
GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise. The GCSE allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They will also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth. Design and technology is part of everyday life and is constantly evolving. The qualifications focus on developing practical skills within a particular material area, allowing students to manufacture high quality outcomes. They’ll learn about commercial processes and careers in related industries, as well as developing core transferable skills, such as collaboration and communication. The new GCSE places greater emphasis on understanding and applying iterative design processes. Students will use their creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all their exams and submit all their non-exam assessment at the end of the course.
What’s assessed? What’s assessed? • Core technical principles Practical application of: • Specialist technical principles • Core technical principles • Designing and making principles • Specialist technical principles • Designing and making principles How it’s assessed How it’s assessed Written exam: 2 hours Non-exam assessment (NEA): 30– • 100 marks 35 hours approx. • 50% of GCSE • 100 marks • 50% of GCSE
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Sociology
GCSE Sociology will give students knowledge and understanding about society, relationships and systems, as well as an appreciation of issues within society and how these are addressed. Sociology is exciting. Interesting and relevant to students’ lives. This GCSE encourages students to take a questioning approach to evidence and issues, thus developing their critical and evaluative skills. We follow the AQA GCSE 9-1 specification for Sociology. A summary of this follows: Paper 1: The Sociology of Families and Education The content for this paper is taken from three main areas:
• The sociology of families
• The sociology of education
• Relevant areas of social theory and methodology
Paper 1 is a written examination of 1hr 45 minutes. It is worth 50% of the total GCSE. The paper is in two sections, both involving multiple choice, short-answer and long-answer questions. Paper 2: The Sociology of Crime and Deviance and Social Stratification The content for this paper is also taken from three main areas:
• The sociology of crime and deviance
• The sociology of social stratification
• Relevant areas of social theory and methodology
Paper 2 is a written examination of 1hr 45 minutes. It is worth 50% of the total GCSE. The paper is in two sections, both involving multiple choice, short-answer and long-answer questions. This GCSE prepares students well for further study in Sociology at A-level and beyond, but is also considered a useful background for anyone considering a career in Health, Education or Community related employment. Many jobs in the public sector (e.g. police, social work) would see a qualification in Sociology as a benefit.
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The College of West Anglia Students in Year 8 have the opportunity to study at the College of West Anglia (CWA) for one morning per week from Year 9 onwards. This provides the chance to study in an environment which is different to a school environment, and study subjects which are unable to be offered within the Academy. Subjects on offer are: • Hair and Beauty • Childhood Studies • Construction and the Built Environment • Engineering Further details of these courses can be found on the following pages. All CWA courses are level 2 courses, therefore students should be working at ARE or ARE+ in English and Maths if they wish to apply. Application to CWA is through a separate form in addition to the options form. If you are interested in applying to the college, please collect a form from the CWA stands at the options evening, or from Reception afterwards. The form should be handed in to Miss Tea or Reception with your options form by Friday 16th March 2018. Places for college courses are limited, therefore there will be an interview process to determine who will study there from September. Please bear in mind that for some CWA courses, there may be costs involved in uniform/safety equipment.
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Hair & Beauty at CWA Duration: 3 years
When does the course start? September 2018 Who is the course for? For those who wish to begin a career in the Hair & Beauty Industry Entry Requirements Essential Criteria • An interview with the Course Director – may include a practical assessment • Written task carried out at interview • Be selected by their school based on motivation, and likelihood to succeed on this programme • Good attendance and behaviour record in Year 7 and 8 • A keen interest in and basic knowledge of the Hairdressing and beauty industry. As this is a level 2 course, all potential students need to be working at ARE or ARE+ in maths and English What qualification will I achieve? VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy Course Content • Hair and beauty research project • Creating an image based on a theme • Marketing hair and beauty products and services • Understanding the Hair and Beauty Sector • Responding to a hair and beauty design brief Note: these units may be subject to change before September 2018 How is my work assessed? Task-based controlled assessments Written examination Research projects Assignments What opportunities can follow this course? Full time hair or beauty college course. What will it cost? Fees are paid by the academy. All equipment will be supplied; however, you may wish to purchase your own kit later on. You will need to purchase a t-shirt at approx. £14 to wear along with your smart black school trousers and sensible black covered toe shoes.
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Childhood Studies at CWA Duration: 3 years
When does the course start? September 2018 Who is the course for? For those who are considering a career in the Early Years Sector or a related vocational area such as Health and Social Care. Entry Requirements Essential Criteria • An interview with the Course Director – may include a practical assessment • Be selected by their school based on motivation, and likelihood to succeed on this programme • Good attendance and behaviour record in Year 7 and 8 As this is a level 2 course, all potential students need to be working at ARE or ARE+ in maths and English What qualification will I achieve? BTEC Level 2 First Award in Children’s Play, Learning and Development Course Content Students will be given the opportunity to develop skills, and develop an understanding of the knowledge required to work with young children in the Early Years sector. The course contains three units that all focus on the 0-8 year age group: Unit 1 Patterns of Child Development Unit 2 Promoting Children’s Development through Play Unit 3 The Principles of Early Years Practice How is my work assessed? The course is assessed through an externally set and marked exam for Unit 1 Patterns of Child Development, contributing to 25% of the final grade. The remaining 75% of the course is assessed through internally set and marked assessments. Internally set and marked assessments are moderated, both internally and externally. Each assessment will be set at the end of a period of learning and a set deadline for completion of each assessment will need to be met. The end qualification is graded as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* overall. The qualification is intended for level 2 learners, with level 1 achievement being possible for some students, where appropriate. What opportunities can follow this course? Students who successfully complete the course at Level 2 can apply to progress onto a more specialised Level 3 vocational or academic course such as in Early Years, Health and Social Care, Psychology or an apprenticeship, subject to entry requirements. In due course, it will give students the potential opportunity to enter employment. Students completing at a Level 1 may apply to progress onto a related Level 2 vocational course. Entry to further Level 3 and Level 2 courses are also subject to a satisfactory report from tutors and a successful interview. A Disclosing and Barring Service check is also required by anyone who works with children or vulnerable adults post 16. What will it cost? Fees are paid by the academy. You will need to purchase a t-shirt at approx. £14 to wear along with your smart black school trousers and sensible black covered toe shoes.
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Construction at CWA Duration: 3 years
When does the course start? September 2018 Who is the course for? For those who wish to begin a career in the Construction Industry with focus on Construction technology and design. There will be a practical taster day in various trades at the end of each term. Entry Requirements Essential Criteria • An interview with the Course Director – may include a practical assessment • Written task carried out at interview • Be selected by their school based on motivation, and likelihood to succeed on this programme • Good attendance and behaviour record in Year 7 and 8 • A keen interest in and basic knowledge of the Construction industry As this is a level 2 course, all potential students need to be working at ARE or ARE+ in maths and English What qualification will I achieve? BTEC Level 2 First Award in Construction and the Built Environment 600/6817/6 Course Content Unit 1: ‘Construction Technology’ – In this unit students will interpret and analyse the information given before starting a task, and identify the infrastructure that needs to put in place to run a job efficiently and safely. Students will understand the methods that are used in constructing several different types of foundation and the safety aspects. They will develop a detailed understanding of how walls, floors and roofs are constructed. Unit 2: ‘Construction and Design’ – in this unit students will develop a broad understanding of the built environment, including the different types of construction projects, and the industry’s contribution to society. Students will examine how client needs can shape building design, and will develop their own design ideas to a given brief. Unit 3: ‘Scientific and Mathematical Applications for Construction’ – in this unit students will develop their scientific and mathematical knowledge and apply it in practical construction contexts. They will use scientific principles to understand the performance of construction materials. The optional units build on the mandatory units to provide students with an opportunity to develop a wider understanding and appreciation of a specific aspect of the construction. This could consist of: Unit 5: ‘Construction Drawing Techniques’ – where students will develop the techniques to interpret and produce clear construction drawings through a variety of methods. Note: these units may be subject to change before September 2018
How is my work assessed? Practical controlled assessments Written examination Research projects Assignments What opportunities can follow this course? • Level 2 qualifications in specific Construction areas • Level 3 Technical qualifications • HNC/HND – Degree level • Apprenticeships What will it cost? Fees are paid by the academy. All equipment will be supplied; however, you will need to purchase a construction sweatshirt at approx. £20
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Engineering at CWA Duration: 3 years
When does the course start? September 2017 Who is the course for? For those who wish to begin a career in the Construction Industry with focus on Construction technology and design. There will be a practical taster day in various trades at the end of each term. Entry Requirements Essential Criteria • An interview with the Course Director - which may include a practical assessment • Be selected by their school based on motivation, and likelihood to succeed on this programme • Good attendance and behaviour record in Year 7 and 8 • A keen interest in and basic knowledge of the Engineering industry. • It is important that students can measure distances and angles, are aware of shapes and movement and be able to recognise different materials. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Students will also have to complete written work for their portfolio and an external examination. As this is a level 2 course, all potential students need to be working at ARE or ARE+ in maths and English What qualification will I achieve? EAL Level 2 First Certificate in Engineering 600/6867/X Course Content Students will work on units that are appropriate to the local engineering industries which may include: • Assembly • Fabrication • Welding • Electro mechanical maintenance • Machining • Health and safety • Engineering information • Investigating an engineered product How is my work assessed? Assessment is a mixture of portfolio and practical assessment with 2 written examinations. What opportunities can follow this course? Progression can be to a Level 3 full time college course or an apprenticeship as long as GCSE’s in English, science and maths are achieved. What will it cost? Fees are paid by the academy. All equipment will be supplied; however, you will need to purchase personal protective work wear, including a boiler suit at approx. £34, health and safety boots at approx. £16 and safety glasses at approx. £2.
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Queen Mary Road King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 4QG Telephone: 01553 774671 Email: office@ kla.eastern-mat.co.uk kingslynnacademy.co.uk Options 2018.indd 28
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