Contents Introduction by Mike Moss - Deputy Headteacher New GCSE Grades Information Sheet Revision Guide Revision Timetable Important Dates
Core Subjects GCSE English Language and English Literature GCSE Mathematics GCSE Science GCSE PRE Full Course
Optional subjects GCSE Art and Design GCSE Business Studies GCSE Computer Science Cambridge National Certificate (Level 1/2) in Creative iMedia Design and Technology – Catering, Textiles, Product Design, Engineering Manufacture GCSE Drama GCSE Geography GCSE History GCSE Modern Foreign Languages GCSE Music GCSE Sports Studies OCR Cambridge National Sports Studies
INTRODUCTION Welcome to your GCSE years. In this booklet you will find information on all the subjects you will be doing for the next five terms, as well as information about how to make the most of the many opportunities to extend your learning outside the classroom which are offered at this school, whether in the form of homework, clubs, revision and catch up sessions, visits or field trips. This year is the start of the role out of the new GCSE grading system from 1 to 9. The current role out includes maths, English Language and English Literature. A comparison table is included in the booklet to help your understanding. This booklet will also outline exactly what is expected of you as a proactive, responsible learner, but also what you can expect from us in your lessons. It always pays well to plan your time in advance and one of the aims of this booklet is to show you exactly when the pressure points are and when the workload is increased. Help and Support At Simon Balle, your teachers are always ready to help you manage your time and cope with the increased workload of GCSE. Please maintain a dialogue with them throughout your course. Deadlines are clearly laid out in this booklet and must be adhered to if you are to be entered for your examinations in Year 11. As part of the assessment of GCSE in many subjects students are required to complete Controlled Assessments. This is a process through which we will guide you, but they demand a great deal from Year 10 students. Leaving things until the last minute or working without the guidance and support of your teachers can cause anxiety and stress. For most Controlled Assessments you will be required to prepare some work, some of which you will be allowed to take in. Organising your time well and managing your workload in consultation with us can solve this. This year the exam format has become linear, therefore no modules will be sat in Year 10 (except for certain students taking core science). It is therefore extremely important to keep past exercise books in a safe place. All these books will be required for revision purposes and so need to be clearly structured, titles underlined and extra care taken over presentation. To practise exam skills Year 10 will be having an exams week (4th – 9th May 2016). Please put this into your diary and ensure enough time is allocated to revise. If any parents have concerns about their sons or daughters falling behind with their work, we urge them to contact form tutors or the subject teacher directly. Leave a message and they will get back to you. When exam times and deadlines approach, teachers often offer extra classes and offer support. Keep an eye out for such opportunities, many of which are outlined in this booklet. Monitoring Progress Teachers will input homework & assessment marks which will make up the current grade. This is a ‘live’ grade based upon information in mark books and reflects where your child is currently. This will be available to students and parents on Go4Schools. Stay Healthy A healthy, balanced diet, including a good breakfast is very important before school in order to maintain energy levels and increase concentration. Having a good amount of rest each night is also essential. Good luck in your GCSE courses and enjoy taking your learning to new heights. Mike Moss – Deputy Headteacher September 2015
NC Levels, Legacy GCSE and New GCSE Grades Legacy GCSE
New GCSE
NC Levels
A*+ A* A*-‐ A+ A
9 9-‐ 8+ 8 8-‐ 7+ 7 7-‐ 6+ 6 6-‐ 5+ 5 5-‐ 4+ 4 4-‐ 3+ 3
10a 10b 10c 9a 9b
A-‐ B+ B B-‐ C+ C C-‐ D+ D D-‐ E+ E E-‐ F+ F F-‐ G+ G G-‐ U
3-‐ 2+ 2 2-‐ 1+ 1 1-‐ U
9c 8a 8b 8c 7a 7b 7c 6a 6b 6c 5a 5b 5c 4a 4b 4c 3a 3b 3c 2a 2b
Revision
What is revision? It literally means ‘re-looking at information already learnt previously’. Knowing something depends on understanding it. Main types of revision Active revision ● Active revision involves using your eyes, ears and hands in a variety of ways. Revising actively helps makes sense of the material you’re revising and also helps you remember it. Possible ideas: 1. Writing revision notes 2. Reading notes aloud 3. Recording key notes on an iPOD, MP3 or phone 4. Discussing topics with friends 5. Testing by yourself and with friends 6. Trying exam papers 7. Looking at revision guides Passive revision Reading through notes and books is an unproductive way of revising. It does not help you to understand the material. Parents 1. Make sure you are aware of the key dates in the academic year. Constantly refer to the calendar to check for module exams and controlled assessments. 2. Help with the simple tasks – weeks are often lost while students are ‘going to get pens and folders’. 3. Provide a desk / table and a quiet area to study. 4. Help your child plan their revision timetable. It will take several hours but it is the single thing that will make the biggest difference to the effectiveness of the revision, and therefore the outcome. Remember not to be too ambitious, be drawn into too much detail and cover too many weeks in advance. 5. Support your child in sticking to the revision plan and keeping to the start and finishing time they have agreed. Praise them when they do it and possibly introduce a reward structure. Show an interest in how the revision is going, talk through any difficulties and be prepared to reschedule their planning as necessary. 6. Ensure there are examination papers to practise and do under examination conditions 7. Be available to provide snacks and refreshment and to test your child on subject material. Ensure you clearly display the examination timetable and your child reaches school at least 15 minutes before the exam.
WEEKLY REVISION TIMETABLE
MON 8.00 am 9.00 am 10.00 am 11.00 am 12.00 pm 1.00 pm 2.00 pm 3.00 pm 4.00 pm 5.00 pm 6.00 pm 7.00 pm 8.00 pm
TUE
WED
THUR
FRI
SAT
SUN
Some key dates for your diary
Y10 dates
Date
Tuesday
Event
3rd
November 2015
Y10 Parents Evening
4th – 9th May 2016
Year 10 Exams week
June 2016
Y10 reports published
Please note HOY performance clinics will also occur in November and March. This will be by invite only.
Please note that as these are not all the dates (and may be subject to change) we would advise you to check the school calendar on a regular basis.
Subject Name: GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE Contact Person: MRS NICOLA GIBBERD Assessment: Examination Only
Specification Code: 8700
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.co.uk
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing Section A: Reading (one literature fiction text) Section B: Writing (descriptive or narrative writing) 1 hour 45 minutes • 80 marks • 50% of GCSE Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives Section A: Reading (one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text) Section B: Writing (writing to present a viewpoint) 1 hour 45 minutes • 80 marks • 50% of GCSE Non-examination Assessment: Spoken Language (presenting; responding to questions and feedback; use of Standard English)
AIMS
Read a wide range of texts, fluently and with good understanding. Read critically, and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing. Write effectively and coherently using Standard English appropriately. Use grammar correctly, punctuate and spell accurately. Acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology, and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language. Listen to and understand spoken language, and use spoken Standard English effectively.
ANY COSTS INVOLVED Voluntary purchase of literary texts and support texts e.g. York Notes.
Subject Name: GCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE Contact Person: MRS NICOLA GIBBERD Assessment: Examination
Specification Code: 8702 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.co.uk
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th-century novel Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes 40% of GCSE Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry (including unseen poetry) written exam: 2 hour 15 minutes 60% of GCSE
AIMS
read a wide range of classic literature fluently and with good understanding, and make connections across their reading read in depth, critically and evaluatively, so that they are able to discuss and explain their understanding and ideas develop the habit of reading widely and often appreciate the depth and power of the English literary heritage write accurately, effectively and analytically about their reading, using Standard English acquire and use a wide vocabulary, including the grammatical terminology and other literary and linguistic terms they need to criticise and analyse what they read.
ANY COSTS INVOLVED The three set texts can be borrowed from the department, although we recommend purchasing them so students can annotate. You may purchase the texts from us for a discounted price of £13 (to be confirmed). There will be one or two trips or workshops to support learning - cost tbc Voluntary purchase of literary and support texts e.g. York Notes.
Subject Name: Specification Code: GCSE MATHEMATICS 1MA1 Contact Person: Exam Board: MRS SARAH POPE EDEXCEL FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT www.edexcel.co.uk Foundation or Higher Students follow a linear GCSE (syllabus 1MA1) in which all aspects of Mathematics are examined at the end of Year 11. COURSEWORK None AIMS
To solve mathematical problems in context To solve a range of problems involving number To solve a range of problems involving algebra To solve a range of problems involving shape and space To solve a range of problems involving handling data
COURSE CONTENT activities that ensure students become familiar with and confident using standard procedures for the range of calculations appropriate to this level of study solving familiar and unfamiliar problems in a range of numerical, algebraic and graphical contexts and in open-ended and closed form using standard notations for decimals, fractions, percentages, ratio and indices activities that show how algebra, as an extension of number using symbols, gives precise form to mathematical relationships and calculations activities in which students progress from using definitions and short chains of reasoning to understanding and formulating proofs in algebra and geometry a sequence of practical activities that address increasingly demanding statistical problems in which they draw inferences from data and consider the uses of statistics in society choosing appropriate ICT tools and using these to solve numerical and graphical problems, to represent and manipulate geometrical configurations and to present and analyse data activities which ensure that students are confident in using functional elements of mathematics to solve problems in real-life situations. activities which involve students breaking down problems into many steps and when required using algebra to provide a general solution. ANY COSTS INVOLVED Set of revision guide/workbook/answers for maximum of £7
Subject Name: Specification Code: GCSE SCIENCE – ADDITIONAL SCIENCE – TRIPLE SCIENCE J261 TO J265 Contact Person: Exam Board: MRS CAROLYN KELLEWAY OCR Year 10 CORE www.ocr.org.uk Unit 1 Modules B1, C1, P1 1h 15min exam 35% B711 Unit 2 Modules B2, C2, P2 1h 30min exam 40% B712 Unit 3 Science Controlled Assessment out of 48 25% B713 Year 11 ADDITIONAL Unit 1 Modules B3, C3, P3 Unit 2 Modules B4, C4, P4 Unit 3 Science Controlled Assessment
1h 15min exam 35% 1h 30min exam 40% out of 48 25%
B721 B722 B723
Year 10 and 11 TRIPLE SCIENCE Unit 1 Biology Modules B1,2,3 + Chemistry C1,2,3 + Physics P1,2,3 Unit 2 Biology Modules B4,5,6 + Chemistry C4,5,6 + Physics P4,5,6 Unit 3 One controlled assessment for each science subject AIMS To develop students’ interest and enthusiasm for science To develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods To acquire skills, knowledge and understanding of the essential role of science in society To acquire skills, knowledge and understanding to progress to further learning in Sciences COURSE CONTENT All students study Science as a core subject. The following modules: B1 Understanding Ourselves C1 Carbon Chemistry B2 Understanding our Environment C2 Chemical Resources complete the CORE component of Science.
P1 Energy for the Home P2 Living for the Future
B3 Living and Growing C3 Chemical Economics B4 It’s a Green world C4 The Periodic Table complete the ADDITIONAL component of Science and….
P3 Forces for Transport P4 Radiation for Life
B5 The Living Body C5 How Much (quantitative) P5 Space for Reflection B6 Beyond the Microscope C6 Chemistry Out There P6 Electricity for Gadgets complete the requirements for biology, chemistry and physics – TRIPLE Science All exams are linear and at the end of Year 11 Students who have achieved a minimum of a Level 6 at KS3 will be able to study the three separate sciences as an option. We would like to stress that all exams may be taken at both Higher or Foundation levels. ANY COSTS INVOLVED Revision Guide – essential. Supplied to students. Currently £4
Subject Name: Specification Code: GCSE PRE Full Course PHILOSOPHY & ULTIMATE QUESTIONS/RELIGION & MORALITY B 4057 Contact Person: Exam Board: MS KATIE HILL AQA FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT www.aqa.org.uk 100% exam with two exam papers. One paper will be on Philosophy & Ultimate Questions, and the other will be on Religion & Morality. Each exam paper lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is a compulsory course. COURSEWORK There is no coursework
AIMS This course provides a thematic studies of religion and religious responses to fundamental questions of life, with reference to at least two of the six major world religions, with the aims to: develop students’ interest in, and enthusiasm for, a study of religion and its relation to the wider world; develop students’ knowledge, skills and understanding of religion by exploring the significance, impact of beliefs, teachings, sources, practices, ways of life and forms of expressing meaning facilitate students to express their personal responses and informed insights on fundamental questions about identity, belonging, meaning, purpose, truth, values and commitments All students will have completed half of this GCSE course by the end of year 9 COURSE CONTENT YEAR 9 Philosophy & Ultimate Questions: Existence of God Miracles Suffering & Evil Religion & Science YEAR 10 Religion & Morality: Religious Attitudes to Drug Abuse Religious Attitudes to Crime and Punishment YEAR 11 Religion & Morality: Religious Attitudes to Matters of Life Religious Attitudes to the Elderly and Death (all answered with reference to at least two of the six main religions) Each topic will be assessed following the same format on the exam paper which will require the students to answer 5 questions - (a) 2 marks (b) 3 marks (c) 3 marks (d) 4 marks and (e) 6 marks. Questions (a) to (d) are all knowledge and understanding skills. The (e) question is demonstrating evaluation skills. Each topic has a maximum of 18 marks and there are 4 additional marks for spelling, grammar and punctuation, making a total of 76 for the paper. ANY COSTS INVOLVED Possible trips and speakers to support learning tbc
Subject Name: GCSE ART & DESIGN Contact Person: MRS JANE MACKERVOY ART AND DESIGN
Specification Code: 3201-3206 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
The Art and Design course at Simon Balle School aims to provide a wide range of opportunities for students to achieve their creative potential. Following the AQA unendorsed syllabus allows for exploration of multimedia through both two and three dimensional studies. COURSEWORK The course comprises of two units of work: Unit 1: Portfolio of work, which is selected from work undertaken during the course of study based on two projects. This is marked out of 80 and makes up 60% of the total marks. Unit 2: External assessment set by the exam board leading up to a 10 hour period of sustained focused study. This is marked out of 80 and makes up the remaining 40% of the total marks. COURSE CONTENT The course aims to develop creativity and technical competence across a broad range of media, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, print-making and photography. The discipline common to all areas is drawing. Students taking Art at GCSE will need to be competent in this skill. Each project will have a theme title set by the teacher. Students will be guided through a thorough exploration by means of demonstration, discussion, research and gallery visits. Sketchbooks will form an essential part of the development of ideas. They will include ongoing research, experimentation and documentation of progress and will need to reflect connections made to the work of other artists and cultures. Homework will be set each week to support the current theme. At least two hours per week is expected. ANY COSTS INVOLVED Students following the course will need to have a range of materials to use at home and for more ambitious projects. They will also need to have a portfolio in which to keep artwork, plus new work journals will need to be obtained at regular intervals. The Art Department will provide paint and paper in school. All visits to galleries, museums and/or places of interest will be financed by course members.
Subject Name: GCSE BUSINESS STUDIES Contact Person: MR DAVID AYRES FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
Specification Code: 2BS01 Exam Board: EDEXCEL www.edexcel.com
During Year 10 Unit 2 Assessment Controlled assessment with six hours research time and three hours write-up time in class. A title will be issued by the exam board which will require students to investigate an aspect or issue in a real business and present their finding in a written report (worth 25% of total)
During Year 11 Unit 1 Exam 45 minutes multiple choice and objective test questions exam on the content of Unit 1: Introduction to small business (worth 25% of total)
Unit 3 Exam 90 Minutes exam on the content of Unit 2: Building a business. There are short and extended answer questions (50% of the total mark) AIMS The course seeks to develop:
Knowledge of important business ideas and language with the presentation skills to articulate them.
The ability to generate ideas and develop them, taking into account all important factors, the needs of different stakeholders and ethical considerations.
The ability to analysis and evaluate different business ideas and case studies.
Decision making, critical thinking and independent learning skills
Enterprise capability and skills
An understanding of the global nature of much business activity and a critical approach to the costs and benefits of it.
The mathematical skills for business.
Students wishing to study the GCSE Business Studies course need to have high levels in English and Mathematics. They need to be able to research and gather information, present their ideas in a logical and coherent manner, listen carefully to other people and be interested in what is happening in the world around them.
COURSE CONTENT The course is divided into 3 units – two content units and the controlled assessment
UNIT 1 – INTRODUCTION TO A SMALL BUSINESS
UNIT 2 – INVESTIGATING SMALL BUSINESS
UNIT 3 – BUILDING A BUSINESS
UNIT 1 – INTRODUCTION TO SMALL BUSINESS COVERS TOPICS
Spotting a business opportunity Showing enterprise Putting a business idea into practice Making a business start-up effective Understanding the economic context of business
UNIT 2 – INVESTIGATING SMALL BUSINESS Is an investigation based on a title set by the exam board. UNIT 3 – BUILDING A BUSINESS COVERS TOPICS
Marketing Meeting customer needs Effective financial management Effective people management The wider world affecting business
ANY COSTS INVOLVED Visits, Revision guide
Subject Name: GCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE Contact Person: MRS VICTORIA DAVIS FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
Specification Code: 4512 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
During Year 10 Component 2 – Computing Fundamentals - written paper: This is an examination, either hand-written or on-screen, that tests the content of the specification with a series of short and extended answer questions. The exam is 90 minutes in duration and is worth 40% of the total mark. This will be sat at the end of Year 11. Component 1 – Practical Programming - controlled assessment (Part 1): This a practical task chosen from four offered by the exam board. Students have 25 hours to produce the solution to a problem. This task is worth 30% of the total mark and although the task is completed in Year 10, the mark is submitted at the end of Year 11 During Year 11 Component 1 – Practical Programming - controlled assessment (Part 2): This is a second practical task chosen from the four offered by the exam board. Students have 25 hours to produce the solution to a problem. This task is worth 30% of the total mark. The four controlled assessment tasks set by the exam board will cover the following areas; mobile phone applications scenario, computer gaming applications scenario, traditional computer programming scenario, and a web-based scenario. Students will complete TWO from this list over the duration of the course by coding a solution to the problem set. AIMS The course seeks to develop:
Knowledge of current and emerging computer/digital technologies and how they work in a variety of different contexts
Knowledge and some technical skills in the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming
Knowledge and understanding of computer technologies and how to be discerning and independent users of such technologies
Skills to create computer programs to solve specific problems
Ability to evaluate the performance of computer programs and digital solutions to problems
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively to design, develop, produce, test and evaluate programming solutions to specific problems.
Students wishing to study the GCSE Computer Science course need to have high levels in Mathematics and Science. They need to be able to work independently, as well as within class; to develop the level of competence required using a programming language.
COURSE CONTENT COMPONENT 1 – PRACTICAL PROGRAMMING For the two tasks chosen by the student from the four set each year by the examination board, the students will complete a task in 25 hours which will include four areas: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Designing a solution Solution development Use of programming techniques to create the solution Testing and evaluation of the solution
The students will learn about the processes required to complete the above, as well as proficiency in the chosen programming language. COMPONENT 2 – COMPUTING FUNDAMENTALS The topics covered are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Constants, variables and data types Data structures Program flow control Procedures and functions Scope of variables, constants, functions and procedures Error handling Handling external data Computer structure Systems, Hardware, CPU, Memory, Secondary storage 9. Algorithms 10. Data representation 11. Software development life cycle Prototyping 12. Application testing 13. Networking Client server Web application concepts 14. Use of external code sources 15. Database concepts Query methods (SQL) Connecting to databases from applications and web based apps 16. The use of computer technology in society ANY COSTS INVOLVED Visits, revision guides. Students will need access to appropriate computer and other digital devices.
Subject Name: Cambridge National Certificate in Creative iMedia (Level 1/2) Contact Person: MRS VICTORIA DAVIS FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
Specification Code: J817 Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk
During Year 10 R081 – Pre-production skills. This unit looks at the pre-production skills used in the creative and digital media sector. This involves planning, producing and reviewing pre-production documents. Assessment is through examination based on the unit content, externally marked. The exam is 75 minutes in duration and is worth 25% of the total mark. R082 – Creating digital graphics; a coursework unit looking at the purpose and properties of digital graphics and giving learners the opportunity to plan, create and review digital graphics. The assignment is set by OCR and completed under controlled assessment conditions. It is then internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated. Contributes 25% of the total mark. During Year 11 Two further coursework units, each worth 25% of the total mark. The assignments are set by OCR and completed under controlled assessment conditions. They are then internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated. AIMS The Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia will equip learners with a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively. The course seeks to develop: A ‘hands on’ approach to the creation of iMedia products Efficient and effective research, analysis and collaborative working skills Ability to plan and develop solutions to problems to meet the needs of users Creativity with which ICT tools can be used Ability to test solutions and review their performance COURSE CONTENT This course is the equivalent of one GCSE pass. The course is divided into 4 units: Pre-production skills Creating digital graphics Optional unit 1 Optional unit 2 ANY COSTS INVOLVED None
Subject Name: GCSE CATERING Contact Person: MRS LINDA JONES FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT - (theory) – 40% One written paper 1 hour 15 minutes
Specification Code: WJEC 12401 / 12402 Exam Board: WJEC www.wjec.org.uk
Controlled assessment – 60% Candidates will be expected to complete two practical tasks, one in Year 10 (20%) and the second in Year 11 (40%). These are timed assessments and will take place over 2 hours. They will be internally assessed and externally moderated.
Aims An awareness of the structure of the Catering industry and an introduction to career opportunities and further study. Work with food in relation to the needs of clients in a multicultural society. Create an awareness of necessary health and safety requirements. Students will be prepared for a nationally recognised certificate in Health, Safety & Hygiene – Levels 1 & 2. (Useful for future employment in the Catering industry) A basic knowledge of nutrition and an understanding of the relationship between diet and health. An appreciation of the consumer situation and an understanding of the importance of cost effectiveness within the catering industry. Provide opportunities to work both individually and as members of a team. A basic understanding of the food and beverage industry. To foster an interest in and enjoyment of food preparation, presentation and service. Our main aim throughout the course is to extend and develop practical cooking skills when working with food. COURSE CONTENT o The Catering Industry o Nutrition and Menu Planning o Food Preparation, Cooking and Presentation o Health, Safety and Hygiene COSTS INVOLVED. - Ingredients to prepare and cook food once a week. - A4 ring binder with 10 part set of dividers. Flexibility within the course allows students to work within their own budget when buying ingredients for the manufacture of their designs. Students will be provided with a set of Chef’s whites for use during some lessons as they prepare and serve in the Food room or at organised events.
Subject Name: GCSE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (TEXTILES) Contact Person: MS J MATHER FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT - 40% One written paper Untiered 2 hours CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT - 60%
Specification Code: 3547 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
The internal assessment will consist of ONE project where candidates will be expected to design and make a quality textile product. This project requires a “Design and Make” activity related to industrial/commercial practices. The product can be linked to a candidate’s own interests, industrial practice or the community. The whole project should not exceed 45 hours of work.
AIMS
Analyse and evaluate products and processes. Engage in focussed tasks to develop and demonstrate techniques. Engage in strategies for developing ideas, planning and producing products. Consider how past and present design and technology, relevant to a designing and making context, affects society. Recognise the moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in design and technology. COURSE CONTENT You will study How to develop a specification for a product How to analyse existing products How to generate a range of design proposals How to use the Internet to research ideas. Product development and planning How to select materials and work with tools and equipment. How to evaluate products.
Your will learn how to Improve your ICT skills and learn about CAD and CAM Develop your awareness of consumer requirements of a product. Analyse products and the processes used to manufacture them. Work practically with textiles, materials and components. Work on your own and as part of a team. ANY COSTS INVOLVED Textile items/materials suitable for manufacture of controlled assessment. Flexibility within the course allows students to work within their own budget. Students are encouraged to purchase an A4 folder to organise and store notes, hand-outs etc.
Subject Name: GCSE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (PRODUCT DESIGN) Contact Person: MRS VICTORIA DAVIS FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT 1 written paper 40% of the GCSE Grade (Untiered - 2 hours)
Specification Code: 4555 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
Students considering this course should note the written paper has a number of extended writing questions that assess student’s quality of written communication. Controlled assessment 60% of the GCSE Grade There is one controlled assessment: a ‘Design and Make’ project which will consist of a detailed design folder (approximately 20 pages of A3) and a well-made product. This project will be based on the starting point provided by the teacher. Students will spend approximately 45 hours on this project and the majority of the marks are awarded for the student’s written analysis and evaluation of their project work. GCSE Product Design aims to encourage students to;
Be inspired, moved and challenged while gaining an insight into related sectors, such
as manufacturing and engineering. Make decisions, consider wider issues, combine skills with knowledge and understanding in order to design and make quality products. Consider how past and present design and technologies are relevant to a designing and making today. Understand that designing and making reflect and influence cultures and societies, and those products have an impact on lifestyle. Acquire and apply knowledge, skills and understanding through analysing and evaluating products. Develop skills of creativity and critical analysis through making links between the principles of good design, existing solutions and technological knowledge.
COURSE CONTENT Product Design is a practical subject which requires the application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas, planning, producing products and evaluating them. As part of the taught theory students will gain a knowledge and understanding of the following: Materials and components. Design and market influences. Processes and manufacture. Designing and making practice ANY COSTS INVOLVED During the course it will be possible for students to purchase revision textbooks at a discounted price which can be used at home. These usually cost between £5-10
Subject Name: Specification Code: Cambridge National Award/Certificate in Engineering Manufacture J823/J842 (Level 1/2) Contact Person: Exam Board: MRS VICTORIA DAVIS/MR ROB WOODCOCK OCR www.ocr.org.uk FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT : 1 hour written examination (theory) - 25% R109 – Engineering materials, processes and production: Students study the processes involved in manufacturing engineered products. This knowledge is then assessed in a 1 hour examination. Counts for 25% of the Certificate and 50% of the Award. Controlled Assessment : 75% During Year 10 R110 – Preparing and planning for manufacture: This planning and making assignment is set by OCR and completed under controlled assessment conditions. It is then internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated. Counts for 25% of the Certificate and 50% of the Award. During Year 11 R111 – Computer aided manufacture: This CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacture) assignment is set by the exam board and completed under controlled assessment conditions. It is then internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated. Counts for 25% of the Certificate. R112 – Quality control of engineered products: This assignment is set by the exam board and is completed under controlled assessment conditions. It is then internally assessed by teachers and externally moderated. Counts for 25% of the Certificate. AIMS The Cambridge Nationals in Engineering Manufacture is aimed at learners who wish to study the processes involved in manufacturing new engineered products. It provides learners with the knowledge and skills required to operate manufacturing tools and equipment used to make products from the requirements of a design specification. The course will develop students understanding of the processes and systems required to transfer a design concept into production. COURSE CONTENT
Properties and uses of engineering materials, processes and their applications. Developments in engineering processes and modern technologies in engineering production. Planning for the making of a pre-production product and understanding different scales of production. Processes, tools and equipment used to make pre-production products. Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment used to manufacture components. Quality control & principles of lean manufacturing. ANY COSTS INVOLVED – None
Subject Name: GCSE DRAMA Contact Person: MRS SARAH CORNELL
Specification Code: 5DR01 & 5DR02 Exam Board: EDEXCEL www.edexcel.co.uk
FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT – 40% Students will be required to perform in a play or contribute a form of design to a production such as costume, lighting or sound. They will perform (or present) the play with a visiting examiner in the audience. COURSEWORK – 60% Almost all assessment is practical. There are no written examinations although students will be required to keep a written record of their practical work. These records can be prepared in a variety of creative ways, so can suit students who enjoy presenting their work using pictures, photographs and diagrams. They will explore themes, ideas and plays in a wholly practical way and their teacher will assess how well they have done. AIMS Students will learn: • How drama is created, including the acting and staging skills that are needed to put a piece of drama on to the stage • How to create a character and play this character in a performance • Skills that are highly valued in any walk of life including teamwork and confidently being able present themselves in public. COURSE CONTENT In Year 10 we focus upon:
The development of drama skills Interpersonal group skills Creative skills Improvisation skills Writing critical reviews Script showcase performances The Schools Shakespeare Festival
In Year 11 we focus upon:
Drama exploration 1 (devised) – 8 workshop sessions Drama exploration 2 (scripted) – 8 workshop sessions A written theatre review Development of Written coursework and controlled writing session Preparation and rehearsal for final examination (usually early May)
Is this the right subject for my child? If they enjoy: • expressing themselves in an active and exciting way • working in a group
• contributing their ideas and taking on board those of others • exploring ideas by putting themselves in other people’s shoes • playing many parts in different imaginary situations • creating their own drama work • looking at plays written by other people then GCSE Drama is the ideal subject for them. ANY COSTS INVOLVED We try to run several trips to the theatre. Some of these will be local and relatively inexpensive. There will be at least one theatre trip to London’s West End. Other costs will be dependant on the students’ choice of piece for their final exam (costume, props etc).
Subject Name: GCSE GEOGRAPHY Contact Person: MR DAVID AYRES FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
Specification Code: 2GB01 Exam Board: EDEXCEL www.edexcel.co.uk
There are four equally weighted units. For units 1 and 2, exam papers are resource based. The students will be questioned about the maps, photographs and diagrams provided as well as needing to recall information about places and issues that we have studied in lessons. Unit 3 is a decision making exercise based on a set of unseen resources. All three of these examinations take place at the end of Year 11. Higher and Foundation papers are available. Qualification page and Specification: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/geography-b-2009.html CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT Unit 4 is the controlled assessment unit. Students will complete fieldwork and data collection for this unit in the summer term of Year 10, and then analyse and write up their results in class. AIMS ● ● ● ● ● ●
Develop effective and independent learners with the ability to think critically Develop knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts and appreciate the relevance of these concepts to our changing world Develop spatial awareness Understand the significance of values and attitudes to the development and resolution of attitudes Develop their responsibilities as global citizens and recognise how they can contribute to a future that is sustainable and inclusive Develop and apply their learning to the real world through fieldwork and other out of classroom activities
Course Content Year 10 Population Dynamics, Restless Earth, Climate and Change, Consuming Resources, Changing Settlements in the UK, Challenges of an Urban World Year 11 Battle for the Biosphere, Globalisation, Water World, Development Dilemmas, Coastal Change, Extreme Environments ANY COSTS INVOLVED ● There will be a two night residential trip in Year 10 to collect data for the controlled assessment. ● A local alternative will be arranged for those not wishing to stay away from home ● Costs vary each year, but we aim to keep compulsory elements as low as possible. The cost of the 2014 trip was £105.
Subject Name: GCSE HISTORY Contact Person: MISS VICKY CLEEVELY
Specification Code: 2HA01 Exam Board: EDEXCEL
FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/GCSE%20New%20GCSE/978144690766 5_GCSE_Lin_History_A_for_WEB.pdf 75%: 3 Examinations each 1 hour and 15 minutes. Depth Study on Russia 1914-1939 Source enquiry: War and the transformation of British society c1931–51 Outline Study on the Cold War 1943-1991 25%: 1 Piece of Controlled Assessment Vietnam 1950-75 AIMS
To debate and understand why there are sometimes different, but equally valid, points of view on the same subject. To find out about how people’s lives have changed and how people in the past might have thought differently from us. To learn a number of skills that will both enhance your ability to reason and argue your point of view and help you be more critical of what you see and hear in the news. COURSE CONTENT
Year 10: Depth Study: Russia 1914-39 This unit requires students to gain an in-depth knowledge of the following areas: □ The collapse of the Tsarist regime 1917 □ The Bolshevik takeover and consolidation of their power 1917-1924 □ The nature of Stalin’s dictatorship 1924-39 □ Economic and social changes 1928-39 Source enquiry: War and the transformation of British society c1931–51 This unit gives students the opportunity to conduct a source based on the following units: □ The impact of depression 1931-39 □ Britain at War 1939-45 □ The home front 1939-45 □ Labour in Power 1945-51 Year 11: Outline Study: Cold War 1943-1991 This unit gives students an opportunity to study the changes in international relations through the era of the Cold War 1943–1991 and the factors bringing about these changes. □ How did the Cold War in Europe develop? 1943-56 □ Three Cold War Crisis: Berlin, Cuba and Czechoslovakia 1957-69 □ Why did the Cold War end? Controlled Assessment: Vietnam 1950-75 This assessment is studied over a period of 6 weeks and is then taken under examination conditions in the classroom. The assessment focuses on changes in US policy towards Vietnam, the nature of conflict in Vietnam and the strength of US public support for America’s involvement in Vietnam. ANY COSTS INVOLVED:
Revision booklets can be bought from department
Subject Name: GCSE MFL (French, German, Spanish) Contact Person: MR JAMES KAY/DR ELISE NWAHBA FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS
Specification Code: F:J730 G:J731 S:J732 Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk
Terminal examinations in Listening and Reading at either Foundation or Higher Tier Weightings: Listening 20%, Reading 20%, Speaking 30%, Writing 30%
Controlled Assessments
1Writing and 1Speaking Controlled Assessments are sat under exam conditions in May of Year 10. The marks obtained from these assessments could be considered towards the GCSE examinations, if a student under-performs in the Year 11 Controlled Assessments. 2 Writing and 2 Speaking Controlled Assessments are sat under exam conditions between November and April of Year 11.
AIMS A language at GCSE is a great advantage for both travel and employment opportunities. Foreign language skills are valued by employers and universities and a GCSE in MFL is also one of the subjects required for the E-Bacc Derive enjoyment and benefit from language learning by following a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. Develop understanding of the language in a variety of contexts. Develop knowledge of the language and language learning skills. Develop the ability to communicate effectively in the language. Develop awareness and understanding of countries and communities where the language is spoken. Recognise that their linguistic knowledge, understanding and skills help them to take their place in a multilingual global society and also provide them with a suitable basis for further study and practical use of the language. COURSE CONTENT Topic Area 1 Home and local area: Life in the home; friends and relationships. Local area, facilities and getting around. Topic Area 2 Health and sport: Sport, outdoor pursuits and healthy lifestyle. Food and drink as aspects of culture and health. Topic Area 3 Leisure and entertainment: Socialising, special occasions and festivals. TV, films and music. Topic Area 4 Travel and the wider world: Holidays and exchanges. Environmental, cultural and social issues. Topic Area 5 Education and work: School life in the UK and in the target language country or community. Work experience, future study and jobs, working abroad. ANY COSTS INVOLVED E-Projects with partner schools – no cost Extracurricular language days £ variable Young MFL leaders qualification - no cost Recommended dictionaries £9.00. Revision Guides £6.00 v 2015
Subject Name: GCSE MUSIC Contact Person: MR MARK TAYLOR FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT – 20%
Specification Code: 4270 Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
1 hour written paper – Listening to and Appraising Music COURSEWORK – 80%
2 Compositions Solo Performance, either on an instrument or voice, or using technology One group performance
AIMS
To involve musicians in practical music making and composing To develop the musicianship of our students Social and personal development via music-making with others
COURSE CONTENT Unit 1 – Listening to and Appraising Music Written Paper – 1 Hour – 80 marks – 20% Unit 2 – Composing and Appraising Music Externally assessed – 40 marks – 20% Unit 3 – Performing Music Controlled Assessment – 60 marks – 40% Unit 4 – Composing Music Controlled Assessment – 30 marks – 20%
ANY COSTS INVOLVED Continuation of instrumental lessons OTHER INFORMATION Depending on demand, this may be offered with a high Music Technology content. In this specialist subject it is essential that students get involved in the activities in the Music Department. Interested students should speak to the Music Department.
Subject Name: Specification Code: GCSE SPORTS STUDIES 2PE01 Contact Person: Exam Board: MR DAIRE BRENNAN EDEXCEL FINAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT www.edexcel.co.uk Practical Assessment = 60% Final Written Examination = 40%, 1½ hour exam at the end of Year 11 COURSEWORK (60%) Practical coursework marked throughout the course by controlled assessment. Practical (Candidates are expected to be involved in a sports club outside of school) – 48% Analysis of Performance – 12% AIMS GCSE Physical Education must enable candidates to: be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study and to develop an awareness and appreciation of their own and others’ cultures in relation to physical education be creative and plan effectively for performances and to respond to changing situations prepare students to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices become increasingly physically competent through being actively engaged in a range of physical activities, and to become increasingly effective in their performance in different types of physical activity and roles such as player/participant, leader and official develop and maintain their involvement in physical activity as part of a healthy, active lifestyle. COURSE CONTENT Students have 5 lessons per 2 week cycle, 2 practically based & 3 theory based. Students are expected to be actively engaged in extra curricular sport/fitness as the majority of time is allocated to theory lessons. Practical Students must be assessed in 4 different practical activities Students can also be assessed as a coach or an official. Therefore, as an example, a student could be assessed as player in football, and then as a coach or official in football as well. The practical work is assessed under controlled conditions throughout the course and at the end of Year 11. Within the practical units, you will focus on the performance of an individual, identifying their strengths and weaknesses. Theory: Students will look at the following theory components: Healthy Active Lifestyles; benefits, influences & health and wellbeing. Physical activity and your healthy mind and body Your Healthy Active Body Anatomy and physiology; bones, muscles, heart and lungs Health, fitness and performance; types of training and fitness Safety aspects in sport; prevention and dealing with injuries ANY COSTS INVOLVED A specially designed OCR SPORTS STUDIES polo shirt is available for purchase at the start of the course (optional); these are approximately £15-18. Athletics Officiating Award (£20-30), however this is not compulsory.
Subject Name: OCR CAMBRIDGE NATIONAL, SPORTS STUDIES Contact Person: MISS NICKY TRAYNOR OCR CAMBRIDGE NATIONAL IN SPORTS STUDIES
Specification Code: 120GLH Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk
The OCR Cambridge National in Sports Studies course at Simon Balle School aims to provide students with the opportunity to learn about a variety of subjects relating to sport and to also develop their skills in leadership through a number of practical tasks. The course is designed in such a way that it provides students with the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to prepare them for employment in the sports sector. COURSEWORK/EXAMINATION The course is split between 4 modules as listed below, one of which is an examination at the end of Year 11. The assessment approach of the OCR National Sports Studies course allows for learners to receive feedback on their progress throughout the course as they provide evidence towards the grading criteria. COURSE CONTENT This course is the equivalent of 1 GCSE. The OCR NATIONAL SPORTS STUDIES course consists of the following units:
CONTEMPORARY ISSUES (1 hour written paper) – Exploration of a range of topical and contemporary issues in sport relating to participation levels and barriers , the promotion of values and ethical behaviour through sport and the role of high profile sporting events and national governing bodies in advancing sports attempts to positively impact upon society and showcase their worth beyond providing entertainment. DEVELOPING SPORTS SKILLS (Practical and theory assignment) – Students will develop their skills, techniques and use of tactics/strategies/compositional ideas in both an individual and a team sporting activity, as well as their understanding of the rules to allow them to act in a number of officiating roles within an activity. SPORTS LEADERSHIP (Practical and theory assignment) – Students will develop knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to be an effective sport leader and plan, deliver and review safe and effective sporting activity sessions, leading in groups and pairs. DEVELOPING KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS IN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES – Students will learn about the range of outdoor activities that are available in the UK and be able to identify organisations that provide access to these activities. They will also be able to appreciate the reasons why people become involved in these activities and the risks they face when participating. Students will consider how to plan an outdoor activity and be able to participate in one.
The course is delivered through a number of methods and assessment can take the form of any of the following: Theory Assignments, Teaching peers, Teaching younger members of the school/primary schools, PowerPoints, Talks, Discussion, analysis of others’ performance, Practical performance ANY COSTS INVOLVED Students will be required to have the regular stationery equipment (pens, planners, pencils, etc). A specially designed OCR SPORTS STUDIES polo shirt is available for purchase at the start of the course (optional); these are approximately £15-18. Small cost may be required for off-site practical activities and expeditions.