41 minute read
Details of A Level Subjects
Subject details UVI
Art & Design - Fine Art 24 Art & Design Graphic Communication 25 Classical Civilisation 26 Classical Greek 26 Ancient History 27 Biology 27 Chemistry 28 Computer Science 28 Drama and Theatre 29 Economics 30 English Literature 30 French 31 Geography 32 German 33 History 34 History of Art 34 Italian 34 Latin 36 Mathematics 37 Further Mathematics 38 Music 39 Philosophy 39 Physics 40 Product Design 40 Psychology 40 Religious Studies 41 Sociology 42 Spanish 42
Subject Details UVI
Art & Design • Fine Art Art & Design - Fine Art
Subject detail Specification: AQA
Requirements: A grade at GCSE level and interest in the area of Art and Design.
Girls will be introduced to a variety of experiences that explore a range of fine art media, processes and techniques. They will be made aware of both traditional and new media. Girls have to explore the use of drawing for different purposes, using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales. Girls may use sketchbooks/workbooks/journals to underpin their work where appropriate. Girls have to explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-European examples. This should be integral to the investigating and making processes. Girls’ responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities that demonstrate their understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. Girls should be aware of the four assessment objectives to be demonstrated in the context of the content and skills presented. They should be aware of the importance of process as well as product.
Areas of study
Girls are required to work in one or more area(s) of fine art, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas: • drawing and painting • mixed-media, including collage and assemblage • sculpture • ceramics • installation • printmaking (relief, intaglio, screen processes and lithography) • moving image and photography.
Skills and techniques
Girls will be expected to demonstrate skills, as defined in Overarching knowledge, understanding and skills, in the context of their chosen area(s) of fine art. In addition, girls will be required to demonstrate skills in all of the following: • appreciation of different approaches to recording images, such as observation, analysis, expression and imagination • awareness of intended audience or purpose for their chosen area(s) of fine art • understanding of the conventions of figurative/representational and abstract/ non-representational imagery or genres • appreciation of different ways of working, such as, using underpainting, glazing, wash and impasto; modelling, carving, casting, constructing, assembling and welding; etching, engraving, drypoint,mono printing, lino printing, screen printing, photo silkscreen and lithography • understanding of pictorial space, composition, rhythm, scale and structure • appreciation of colour, line, tone, texture, shape and form.
Girls are expected to produce 4-5 final outcomes with extended sketchbook research and experimentaion.
Art & Design Graphic Communication
Subject detail Specification: AQA
The Graphic Communication course enables girls to develop skills in conveying information and messages to specific audiences. Girls will gain an overview of historical and contemporary influences on graphic design. They will undertake projects including advertising, illustration and branding. Outcomes from projects are generally design for print, packaging design and digital media.
The course builds on the foundation of Art or Product Design GCSE as these practical skills and knowledge are used to help generate the most effective methods communication. A range of further digital and practical skills will be taught during the course to give girls more advanced industry-standard techniques to employ in their work. These include, but are not limited to: • Adobe Photoshop • Adobe Illustrator • GIF production • Photo-emulsion screen printing • Photography • Screen printing • Typography
All projects enable the girls to direct their own research and experimentation and develop their own individual responses to a given brief.
Course outline
This two-year course consists of two components: Component 1 is a personal investigation which counts for 60% of the marks and begins at the start of the course. In year one girls are given a series of project briefs that allow them to expand their skill set and explore different areas of the subject. In the second year girls decide independently on their own design briefs and produce 4 final outcomes. Component 2 is an externally set assignment for which girls respond individually to one of eight starting points which are announced in February of the second year.
Career opportunities and further study Girls often go on to study Art foundation or Graphic Design courses although this A level is excellent preparation for a number of other degree options including: • Animation • Architecture • Graphic Communication • Media Design • Illustration • Printmaking • Product Design
Possible career options • Advertising • Animation • Graphic design • Interior design • Illustration • Marketing • Production design • Typography • Web design
Classical Civilisation
Classical Civilisation is a wide ranging subject which focuses on the civilisations of Greece and Rome. It involves the study of literature in translation and visual source material, exploring ancient thought and ideas and the ancient historical context. Classical Civilisation explores topics directly relevant to today’s world such as the position of women, the politics of power, the nature of war and religious beliefs and practices.
Prior knowledge is not a requirement for study; girls need nothing other than genuine interest in the classical world.
Assessment: extended response and commentary questions.
Areas of study: • The world of the hero: an in depth study of
Homer’s ‘Iliad’ and Virgil’s ‘Aeneid’. • Culture and the arts: Imperial image. • Beliefs and ideas: Greek religion.
Classical Greek
Subject detail Specification: OCR
Examination format: Four papers Coursework: NO
Component 1 - Language
Vocabulary, accidence and syntax are prescribed. Translation and comprehension of unseen passages. Identification of accidence and syntax.
Written exam: 1.5 hours two sections 50% of total
Component 2 – Literature
Study of prose and verse set texts totalling between 110 and 120 lines in length. Comprehension, translation and literary analysis.
Written exam: 2 hours 50% of total
Literature options include:
• Herodotus Book 7 • Plato Phaedo • Homer Iliad 18 and 9 • Euripides Medea • Aristophanes Peace
Ancient History
Coursework: NO
In the first year, the girls pursue one Greek and one Roman topic. The Greek topic focuses on relations between Greek city states in the fifth century, the Roman topic on the Julian and Claudian Emperors 31BC - 68AD. This year of study concentrates on reading and evaluating ancient sources, and the examination assesses girls ability to evaluate the ancient sources critically.
In the second year, the girls again study Greek and Roman history simultaneously. The focus here is on using the knowledge and understanding gained through study to make independent evaluations. Topics studied include the politics and culture of Athens, the breakdown of the late Republic and the Flavians.
Biology
Biology is a diverse, interesting and broad based subject. The course encompasses many areas of study including, cellular activity, human biology, health and disease as well as the impact of human activity on the environment, transport systems and homeostasis.
The main aims of the new AS/A2 courses are to encourage you to: • Develop your interest in and enthusiasm for Biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in Biology. • Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society. • Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other. • Developyour practical and investigation skills.
Assessment: Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics
This paper will examine the following topics: Topic 1: Biological Molecules Topic 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity Topic 4: Exchange and Transport Topic 5: Energy for Biological Processes Topic 6: Microbiology and Pathogens Topic 7: Modern Genetics. The assessment is 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% of the total qualification
Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology
This paper will examine the following topics: Topic 1: Biological Molecules Topic 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity Topic 4: Exchange and Transport Topic 8: Origins of Genetic Variation Topic 9: Control Systems Topic 10: Ecosystems The assessment is 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% of the total qualification
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology
Questions draw on content from across all topics. The assessment is 2 hours 30 minutes. 40% of the total qualification.
Science Practical Endorsement: Internally assessed and externally moderated by Pearson. Throughout the two years of study, there will be 12 core practicals to cover all of the techniques required for the practical competency measure. Practical competency is a simple Pass or Fail. Ancient History • Biology
Chemistry • Computer Science Chemistry
Subject detail Specification: Edexcel 9CHO/01, 02 & 03 Examination format and Course outline:
The second year of A Level will include the topics: Equilibrium, Acid-base Equilibria, Energetics, Redox, Transition Metals, Kinetics, Organic Chemistry and Modern Analytical techniques.
The final examination will consist of three papers: Paper 1:
Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry
Paper 2:
Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry
each with 30% of the weighting, out of 90 marks and 1 hour 45 minutes in length.
Paper 3:
General and practical Principles of Chemistry
with a 40% weighting, out of 120 and 2.5 hours long. All papers include assessment of maths.
Throughout the two years of study, there will be 16 core practicals to cover all of the 12 techniques required for the practical competency, which is a simple Pass or Fail.
Study Aids will include two text books for Chemistry in both Years 1 and 2 of the course by George Facer and Curtis, Hill and Hunt.
Computer Science
The first year of the A Level course will cover the characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices, software and software development, exchanging data, data types, data structures and algorithms as well as legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues. The practical component of the course includes elements of computational thinking, problem solving and programming as well as algorithms.
The second year of the A Level course expands on many of those topics and covers some aspects in greater depth, such as types of programming languages, software development, Compression, Encryption and Hashing, Web Technologies as well as Concurrence. It also requires students to complete a programming project. Students will choose a computing problem to work through according to the guidance in the specification. This will include analysing the problem, designing and developing the solution as well as evaluating the success of the project.
At A Level, there are two equally weighted papers with a duration of 2.5 hours and out of 140 marks. Each paper is weighted at 40%, with the remaining 20% of the final A Level Grade being allocated to a programming project, which is assessed internally and moderated by the examination board. Calculators are not allowed in any of the paper.
Drama and Theatre
AS: ONE YEAR COURSE (which can be combined with A Level) Students will see live theatre and study set texts from a performance perspective. They will explore extracts from scripts and perform them in front of an audience. They will apply a theatre practitioner’s theory and methodology to one of the extracts. Students will support their practical work with a portfolio outlining their aims, methods, and analysis.
Component 1: Interpreting Drama
• Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre • Study of one set play from choice of seven • Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers
Assessment: Written examination 2 hours OPEN BOOK. 40% of AS
Section A: One two part question (from a choice) on a given extract from the set play chosen . Section B: One two part question (from a choice) on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatre production. Marked by AQA.
Component 2: Process and Performance (Practical)
• Practical exploration and theatrical interpretation of two extracts each taken from a different play. • Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 2 which is to be performed as a final assessed piece. • Students may contribute as performer, designer or director. • Portfolio evidencing interpretive process and analysis and evaluation of performance.
Assessment: Performance of Extract 2 and Portfolio. 60% of AS
Marked by teachers and moderated by AQA.
A Level : TWO YEAR COURSE of three components:
Component 1: Drama and Theatre
• Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre • Study of two set plays – one from List A (significant drama through the ages) and one from List B (20th and 21st c plays) • Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers
Assessment: Written examination 3 Hours OPEN BOOK. 40% of A Level
Marked by AQA.
Component 2: Creating Original Drama (practical)
• Process of creating devised drama. • Performance of devised drama (students may contribute as performer, designer or director). • Devised work must be influenced by the work and methodologies of one prescribed practitioner.
Assessment: Working Notebook and Devised Performance. 30% of A Level Marked by teachers and moderated by AQA.
Component 3: Making Theatre (practical)
• Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts, each from a different play. • Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 3. • Extract 3 must be performed as a final piece and students may contribute as performer, designer or director.
Assessment: Performance of Extract 3 and Reflective Report which analyses and evaluates the theatrical interpretation of all three extracts. 30% of A Level
Marked by AQA. Drama & Theatre
Economics • English Literature Economics
Coursework: NO A Level (2 year course)
There are four themes which must be taken across the two year course. In LVI girls complete Theme 1 and Theme 2. In UVI, girls complete Theme 3 and Theme 4.
Theme 1 - Introduction to markets and market failure. Theme 2 - The UK Economy, performance and policies. Theme 3 - Business behaviour and the labour market. Theme 4 - A global perspective.
The Examination.
PAPER 1 Markets and business behaviour. Questions from Themes 1 and 3. 100 marks, 2 hours, 35% of qualification.
PAPER 2 The national and global economy. Questions from Themes 2 and 4. 100 marks, 2 hours, 35% of qualification.
PAPER 3 Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. Questions from all four themes. 100 marks, 2 hours, 30% of qualification.
English Literature
Subject detail Specification: Edexcel Examination format and course outline: A Level (two year course)
Unit 1: Drama (60 marks)
Having studied ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ in LVI, girls will develop their understanding of tragedy through Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’, which we study using a live filmed production at the National Theatre, building on having seen a production at the globe in LVI. Context and critical readings are assessed here.
Unit 2: Prose (40 marks)
Girls will revise their novels for comparison, building on their study in LVI, and developing essay technique.
Unit 3: Poetry (60 marks)
The new unit in UVI will be the pre-1900 poetry collection of the teacher’s choice, either of a period or an individual poet, studied in context. This demanding unit will receive plenty of attention and the girls will undoubtedly be pleased to note the progress they have made since beginning with that in LVI.
Unit 4: Coursework (60 marks)
This really is the high point of studying English Literature A Level, and will build on the girls’ personal interest, using a core taught text. The essay is 2500-3000 words and must compare two texts through genre, period or theme. The girls began looking at excerpts from a range of novels in LVI and will use these as the starting point for their personal research into potential companion novels.
French
The new linear A Level course in French stimulates and enables students to develop their linguistic skills alongside their understanding of the culture and society of countries where French is spoken.
Subject content
• Social issues and trends • Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends • Aspects of French-speaking society: current issues • Political and artistic culture • Artistic culture in the French-speaking world • Aspects of political life in the French- speaking world • Grammar • Literary texts and films • Individual research project
Scheme of assessment Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing
Duration 2.5 hours; total scaled mark 200
Listening and responding: Students will listen to spoken languages. The content of the passages will be based on the themes and subthemes in this specification. This examination will now include a passage students will need to summarise in French.
Reading and responding: Students will read a range of stimulus texts adapted from authentic sources. This examination will now include a passage students will need to summarise in French.
Translation: Students will translate a passage of at least 100 words from French to English. They will now also translate a passage of at least 100 words from English into French.
Paper 2: Writing
Duration: 2 hours; total scaled mark 80
Studentswill answeranessayquestioninFrench for each of the two works they have studied. This will be a book and a film. All questions will require a critical and analytical response as well as an excellent knowledge of the book and the film.
Paper 3: Speaking
Duration 21-23 minutes (including 5 minutes supervised preparation time); total scaled mark 120
Part one: It starts with the stimulus card. The content of the card will be based on one of the sub-themes in the specification The cards will contain three questions. Then the student must ask the teacher-examiner two questions arising from the material on the card.
Part two: The student will present the finding of her research for up to two minutes. This will be followed by a discussion of the findings of the student’s research Students will provide in advance on the Individual research project form, a list of headings to indicate the scope of their research and the sources used.
Geography
Coursework: NO
The new linear A Level course in Geography is an exciting, thought provoking and challenging new approach to Geography. The four units focus on the geographical issues that are currently of such concern; Global warming, increasing risk from hazards, globalization and international migration.
Unit 1 – Dynamic Landscapes
Area of study 1, Topic 1: Tectonic Processes and Hazards Area of study 1, Topic 2: Landscape Systems, Processes and Change, Coastal Landscapes and Change Area of study 3, Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity Area of study 3, Topic 6: The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security
Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes. 30% of the qualification.
The examination may include short open, open response and resource-linked questions. The examination includes 12-mark and 20-mark extended writing questions.
Unit 2 – Dynamic Places
Area of study 2, Topic 3: Globalisation Area of study 2, Topic 4: Shaping Places, including optional sub-topics from which students choose one from two: 4A Regenerating Places or 4B Diverse Places
Area of study 4, Topic 7: Superpowers Area of study 4, Topic 8: Global Development and Connections, including optional sub-topics from which students choose one from two: 8A Health, Human Rights and Intervention or 8B Migration, Identity and Sovereignty
Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes. 30% of the qualification.
The examination may include short open, open response and resource-linked questions. The examination includes 12-mark and 20-mark extended writing questions.
Unit 3 – Synoptic Investigation
An externally-assessed written examination comprising three sections. A resource booklet will contain information about the geographical issue.
Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes. 20% of the qualification.
The examination may include short open, open response and resource-linked questions. The examination includes 8-mark, 18-mark and 24mark extended writing questions.
Unit 4 – Independent Investigation
The student defines a question or issue for investigation, relating to the compulsory or optional content. The topic may relate to any aspect of geography contained within the specification. The student’s investigation will incorporate fieldwork data (collected individually or as part of a group) and own research and/or secondary data. The fieldwork, which forms the focus and context of the individual investigation, may be either human, physical or integrated physical-human. The investigation report will evidence independent analysis and evaluation of data, presentation of data findings and extended writing. Students will be expected to show evidence that they have used both quantitative and qualitative data to support their independent investigation as appropriate to the particular environment and/ or location.
Non-examined assessment 20% of the qualification
German
The new linear A Level course in German (Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in German) consists of two externallyexamined papers assessing listening, reading and writing and a non externally examined speaking assessment. Students complete their speaking assessment in April/May and all other assessments in May/June in any singular year.
The course is structured around four themes which address a range of social issues and trends, as well as aspects of the political and artistic culture of Germany and German-speaking countries. Themes 1, 3, and 4 focus on aspects of society or history of Germany only. Theme 2 requires students to broaden their knowledge across any German-speaking country/countries and/or community/communities. Each theme is broken into three sub-themes. These four themes are studied alongside two works chosen from a prescribed list (either two literary texts or one literary text and one film) assessed through two externally-examined papers and one nonexam assessment (speaking). The course will enable the students to develop an advanced knowledge and understanding of the German language, the culture of Germany and other German-speaking countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study skills.
Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation Written examination: 2 hours 40% of the qualification (80 marks)
The examination is made up of: • Section A: Listening (30 marks) • Section B: Reading (30 marks) • Section C: TranslationintoEnglish(20 marks)
Paper 2: Written response to works and translation Written examination: 2 hours 40 minutes 30% of the qualification (120 marks)
• SectionA:TranslationintoGerman(20 marks) • Section B: Written response to works (prescribed literary texts) (50 marks).
Students must write an extended response to either one or two of the literary texts • Section C: Written response to works (films) (50 marks). Students who answer only one question from the literary text in Section B must write an extended response on one of the films listed.
Paper 3: Speaking Total assessment time: between 21 and 23 minutes (including 5 mins preparation time) 30% of the qualification (72 marks)
• Task 1 (30 marks): discussion on a Theme from the specification based on a stimulus containing two different statements. • Task 2 (42 marks): Task 2, Part 1 is an independent research presentation.
Students present a summary of at least two of the written sources they have used for their research and give a personal response to what they have read. Task 2, Part 2 is a discussion on independent research.
Students answer questions on their presentation and then have a wider discussion on their research.
History • History of Art • Italian History
4 Units will comprise the A Level and must be taken at the end of the two year course.
Units 1 and 2 can be taken as an AS Level. The AS examination papers are designed to be slightly easier than the A Level
Unit 1 Germany 1918-89 (30%)
• The Weimar Republic • The Third Reich • West Germany after the war • The Causes of the Second World War
Unit 2 Italy 1911-46 (20%)
• Giolitti and the Liberal State • The Rise of Fascism • Mussolini’s Domestic Policy • Mussolini’s Foreign Policy
Unit 3 Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors 1485-1603 (30%)
• Henry VII • Henry VIII • Edward VI • Elizabeth I
Unit 4 Coursework ( 20%)
Pupils must submit an independently researched and written essay of 3,000-4,000 words. The question must focus on an issue that has generated disagreement among historians.
History of Art
Coursework: No
The A Level consists of 5 units examined in two papers
Paper 1: Visual Analysis and Themes
Visual Analysis: unseen photographic paper for painting, sculpture and architecture 500BC to the present.
Themes: Two in depth thematic studies over time and across cultures.
Identity in art and architecture Nature in art and architecture.
50% of examination.
Paper 2: Periods Two in depth period studies.
Power and Persuasion: the Baroque in
Catholic Europe 1597-1685
Brave New World: Modernism in Europe 1900-1939
50 % of examination.
Italian
Italian A Level is now fully linear, with girls sitting their exams at the end of the two year course. AS students can go on to take the A level in Year 2, but the AS qualification will not count towards the A level.
Specification content is now based around social, political and cultural themes, relating to the Italian language, culture and communities. This will enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the culture related to their language of study, and ensure smooth progression to further study. The themes and assessment model are also designed to promote the development of transferable skills.
As well as the grammar you will study the following themes and topics:
Theme 1 - Social Issues and trends: Changes in Italian society/Family – changes in attitudes towards marriage and couples; family life. Education – the school system and issues facing students. The world of work – equality; unemployment; family businesses; new working patterns. Theme 2 - Political and/or intellectual and/or artistic culture: Political and artistic culture in the Italian-speaking world Music – changes and developments; impact on popular culture. Media – freedom of expression; printed and online press; impact on society and politics. Cultural heritage – festivals; customs; traditions. Theme 3 - Social Issues and trends: Evolving Italian society The positive impact of immigration – contributions of immigrants to the economy and culture. Facing the challenges of migration – marginalisation and alienation; integration; the impact of emigration. North/ South Divide – travel between the North and South; the role of Italian industry; sociocultural differences; crime. Theme 4 - Political and/or intellectual and/or artistic culture: Fascism and beyond The rise of Mussolini – the birth of the Fascist Party. Fascism in World War Two – the government of Mussolini and dictatorship; life under Mussolini.
Novel and film
You will also study a book of contemporary literature: “Io Non Ho Paura”; and a film: “I Cento Passi”. On this you you will carry out two essays; see Paper 2: Written response to works and translation.
Examination Format: At the end of the two year course you will take the following three examinations: Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation: 2 hours - 40% of the qualification. Section A is a Listening assessment based on a recording, featuring male and female Italian speakers, coveringThemes1, 2, 3 and 4. Students will respond to comprehension questions in the target language, based on a variety of contexts and sources. Question formats require multiple-choice and open responses. Responses in the target language are required, but students will not be marked on their quality of language. They will also be required to produce a short summary in Italian. Questions do not require students to respond in full sentences. They can respond using single words of phrases. This section is worth 30 marks. Students will have control of the listening player. Section B is a reading assessment based on a variety of text-types and genres, including historical and literary texts. Question formats require both multiple-choice and open response. Questions are set in Italian and responses in Italian are required, though students will not be marked on their quality of language. Section B is worth 30 marks. Section C is a translation into English. This will be an unseen passage and is worth 20 marks. Studentsarenotpermitted accesstoadictionary during the examination.
Paper 2: Written response to works and translation : 2 hours and 40 minutes 30% of the qualification. Section A is a translation into Italian and is worth 20 marks. The content of the passage is related to any of the four themes. Sections B and C comprise a written response to works. The works may comprise one book and one film, or two books. There are two questions for each work and students choose one for each of their chosen works.
Paper 3: Speaking The speaking assessment is conducted internally and it is worth 30% of the qualification. Total assessment time: between 21 and 23 minutes, which includes 5 minutes’ formal preparation time. Task 1 requires students to choose one theme from a choice of two (these can be any of the four themes). They will then discuss one of the two statements on their chosen stimulus. Task 1 is worth 30 marks. Task 2 is the Independent Research Presentation and requires students to give a short summary of their chosen topic, followed by a discussion with the examiner on their research.
Latin
AS Level
Language - Learners build their knowledge of vocabulary and linguistic structures to become familiar with the words contained within the Defined Vocabulary List (DVL) and the prescribed accidence and syntax.
Literature - Learners study in detail one prose set text and one verse set text. Learners are required to have read a small amount of literature in translation so that they understand the context from where the set texts have been taken.
Language - Externally assessed written paper 80 marks 1 hour 30 minutes 50% The Language question paper has two sections. In Section A, candidates will translate a passage of unseen prose into English. This is worth 55 marks. In Section B, candidates will either translate five English sentences into Latin or answer comprehension questions based on a passage of unseen prose. This is worth 25 marks.
Literature - Externally assessed written paper 80 marks 2 hours 50% The Literature question paper has two sections. Candidates answer one question from Section A and one question from Section B. In Section A, candidates will answer questions based on the prose set text they have studied. In Section B, candidates will answer questions based on the verse set text they have studied. In both sections, there will be comprehension questions, set text translation, two analysis questions and an extended response question.
Set texts
Cicero Phillippic II, 44-50, 78-92. Tacitus Histories I, 4-7, 12-14, 17-23, 26. Cicero Phillippic II, 100-119. Tacitus Histories I, 27-36, 39-44, 49. Apuleius Metamorphoses V, 11-24.
A Level
Unseen Translation - Learners build on their knowledge of vocabulary and linguistic structures. There is no Defined Vocabulary List for these components. Learners are expected to become familiar with the vocabulary and linguistic structures used by the authors they study in preparation for these two components. Prose Composition or Comprehension
Prose Literature - Learners study two prose set texts. Learners also study additional literature in translation so that they understand the context from which the set texts have been taken.
Verse Literature - Learners study two verse set texts. Learners also study additional literature in translation so that they understand the context from which the set texts have been taken.
Unseen Translation - Externally assessed written paper 100 marks 1 hour 45 minutes 33% The Unseen Translation question paper has two sections. Candidates answer both sections. In Section A, candidates will translate a passage of unseen prose into English. This is worth 50 marks. In Section B, candidates will translate a passage of unseen verse into English. This is worth 45 marks. They will also have to scan two lines of verse, worth 5 marks.
Prose Composition or Comprehension - Externally assessed written paper 50 marks 1 hour 15 minutes 17%
The Prose Composition or Comprehension question paper has two sections. Candidates answer either Section A or Section B. In Section A, candidates will complete a short translation, answer comprehension questions and grammar questions. InSectionB, candidateswill translate a passage of English, of at least 100 words, into the ancient language.
Prose Literature - Externally assessed written paper 75 marks 2 hours 25% The Prose Literature question paper has three sections. Candidates answer one question from each section. In Section A, candidates will answer questions on the set text they have studied from Group 1. In Section B, candidates will answer questions on the set text they have studied from Group 2. In both sections, there will be comprehension questions, set text translation and an analysis question. In Section C, candidates will answer an essay on the set text they have studied from Group 2 and drawing upon the additional reading they have done in English.
Verse Literature - Externally assessed written paper 75 marks 2 hours 25% The Verse Literature question paper has three sections. Candidates answer one question from each section. In Section A, candidates will answer questions on the set text they have studied from Group 3. In Section B, candidates will answer questions on the set text they have studied from Group 4. In both sections, there will be comprehension questions, set text translation and an analysis question. In Section C, candidates will answer an essay on the set text they have studied from Group 4 and drawing upon the additional reading they have done in English.
Set texts
Cicero Phillippic II, 44-50, 78-92. Tacitus Histories I, 4-7, 12-14, 17-23, 26. Cicero Phillippic II, 100-119. Tacitus Histories I, 27-36, 39-44, 49. Apuleius Metamorphoses V, 11-24.
Mathematics
Subject detail
Specification: Edexcel Examination format and course outline:
Coursework: NO
Pure Mathematics:
• Topic 1 – Algebraic Methods • Topic 2 – Functions and Graphs • Topic 3 – Sequences and Series • Topic 4 – Binomial Expansion • Topic 5 – Radians • Topic 6 – Trigonometric Functions • Topic 7 – Trigonometry and Modelling • Topic 8 – Parametric Equations • Topic 9 – Differentiation • Topic 10 – Numerical Methods • Topic 11 – Integration • Topic 12 – Vectors
Statistics and Mechanics:
Section A: Statistics
• Topic 1 – Regression, Correlation and Hypothesis Testing • Topic 2 – Conditional Probability • Topic 3 – The Normal Distribution
Section B: Mechanics
• Topic 4 – Moments • Topic 5 – Forces and Friction • Topic 6 – Projectiles • Topic 7 – Applications of Forces • Topic 8 – Further Kinematics
Assessment overview: Paper 1 and Paper 2 may contain questions on any topics from the Pure Mathematics content. Paper 3 will contain questions on topics from the Statistics content in Section A and from the Mechanics content in Section B. Each paper is a 2-hour written examination, worth one third of the final mark. Note that questions in each paper will be based on content covered in both year one and year two of the course: Thus the examination is a culmination of two years’ work. Mathematics
Further Mathematics
Coursework: NO
Further Mathematics requires the student to take 4 modules, in addition to the modules required for A Level Mathematics.
A Level Further Mathematics
You must study both Core Pure 1 and Core Pure 2 as part of your Further Mathematics A Level. The remaining two modules are chosen from the following: Further Pure, Further Statistics, Further Mechanics and Decision Mathematics. You may choose two from the list or you have the option to specialise in a particular topic and have both of your elective modules on the same topic. For example, a student could choose Core Pure 1, Core Pure 2, Further Pure 1 and Further Statistics 1. A student who wants to specialise in Mechanics can choose Core Pure 1, Core Pure 2, Further Mechanics 1 and Further Mechanics 2.
The A Level is examined with four papers, each paper taking 90 minutes and each equally weighted in terms of contributing to the final grade. Two papers will relate to Core Pure 1 and Core Pure 2, with questions being drawn from any of the content in either book. The other two papers will examine the elective choices made and all four papers must be taken in the summer of the UVI year.
Please note that it is only possible to study Further Mathematics if you take A Level Mathematics.
Music
Subject detail
Specification: Edexcel Examination format and course outline:
Unit 1 Performing 30%
A public performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital. Performance can be playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology. The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 8 minutes. Performances must be recorded after 1 March in the year of certification and all materials for assessment submitted to arrive by 15 May in the year of certification.
Unit 2 Composing 30%
Total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Pearson and one either free composition or also to a brief. One composition must be from either a list of briefs related to the areas of study, or a free composition, carrying 40 marks for this component. This composition must be at least 4 minutes in duration. One composition must be from a list of briefs assessing compositional technique, carrying 20 marks for this component. This composition must be at least 1 minute in duration, unless the brief specifies a longer minimum duration. Total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 6 minutes.
Unit 3 Appraising 40%
Knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language. Application of knowledge through the context of six areas of study, each with three set works. Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, New Directions. Application of knowledge to unfamiliar works. Theareasofstudyare:VocalMusic,Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, New Directions. One written paper of 2 hours, with a total of 100 marks. One audio CD with the extracts to accompany questions on the paper will be provided per student.
This paper comprises two sections: A and B. Section A: Areas of study and dictation (50 marks). Three questions related to the set works (audio and skeleton score provided). One short melody/rhythm completion exercise. Section B: Extended response. Two essay questions - essay one (20 marks) and essay two (30 marks). Essay one asks students to draw links from their study of the set works to the music heard as an unfamiliar extract. Essay two gives a choice of three questions that ask students to evaluate the musical elements, context and language of one set work. Each option will be from a different area of study.
Philosophy
Coursework: NO
AS
Unit 01
This unit consists of two themes – Epistemology andPhilosophyof Religion.Withinthesethemes we explore and analyse a variety of foundational philosophical issues, such as: Definitions of knowledge; theories of perception; whether or not we possess any innate ideas; different arguments for the existence of God; the problem of evil and suffering; the nature and study of religious language; the nature of God.
A2
Unit 02
This unit consists of two themes – Ethics and Philosophy of Mind. Within these themes we explore, analyse and evaluate a variety of complex philosophical issues, such as: how does one decide upon the right action; what is the meaning of ‘good’ or ‘right’; in practical situations, such as lying, treatment of animals or simulated killing, how ought a person act; is the mind a distinct substance from the body; can the mind and body be reduced to the same thing; should we eliminate the language concerning mental states from our vocabulary.
Physics
This is a two year linear course with the examinations taking place at the end of the second year. The first year of the course will focus on the material examined in Paper 1. The second year of the course will focus on the material examined in Paper 2.
Paper 1: Advanced Physics 1 30% of total qualification
• Working as a Physicist • Mechanics • Electric Circuits • Further Mechanics • Electric and Magnetic Fields
Paper 2: Advanced Physics 2 30% of total qualification
• Working as a Physicist • Materials • Waves and Particles • Nature of Light • Thermodynamics • Space • Nuclear Radiation • Gravitational Fields • Oscillations
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Physics - 40% of total qualification
Questions may draw on any of the topics studied during the 2 year course. The paper will include questions that assess conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods (indirect practical skills) that will draw on girls’ experiences of the core practicals.
Science Practical Endorsement
The assessment of practical skills is a compulsory requirement of the course of study for A Level Physics. It will appear on all students’ certificates as a separately reported result, alongside the overall grade of the qualification. Philosophy • Physics
Product Design • Psychology •
Girls will carry out a minimum of 12 core practicals prescribed in the specification. These activities will provide opportunities for demonstrating competence in particular skills. Girls’ practical work will be assessed by the teachers using common practical assessment criteria (CPAC) that are consistent across examination boards. Girls who demonstrate the required standard across all the requirements will receive a ‘pass’ grade.
Product Design
Subject detail Specification: OCR
Course outline:
The Product Design course will be taught over two years. In the second year of the course girls will focus on the Iterative Design Project developing their own design solutions and directing their own research. Theory lessons will cover the wider design considerations and manufacturing processes.
Examination format:
Principles of Product Design (26.7%)
This component of the course explores • the wider social, moral and environment issues that impact on the design industry • manufacturing processes • material properties • the analysis of existing products Written examination – 1 hour 30 minutes
Problem solving in Product Design (c.23.3%)
This component of the course explores • knowledge of how to design and manufacture prototypes and products • problem solving and evaluation skills in order to analyse design solutions Written examination – 1 hour 45 minutes
Iterative Design Project (50%)
Girls identify a design opportunity and write their own design brief. They will work closely with stakeholders including clients and target markets to develop their design solution. Girls create an electronic design journal documenting their design process. They investigate their brief and develop their design through the processes of explore, create and evaluate. Non-examined assessment
Psychology
Subject detail
Specification: AQA Examination format and course outline:
Coursework: NO
Psychology examines an individual’s experiences, behaviour and motivation. As such, it can lead to a deeper understanding of the self and others. Research findings are at the heart of the topic-based learning specification and students will learn to analyse, evaluate and comment on the conclusions that have been drawn. From data-handling to clear and thoughtful essay writing, the course is broad in skills as well as content and it is hoped students will develop interests, enthusiasms and skills that will endure beyond the course and contribute to lifelong learning.
A Level Psychology will be taught across two years.
There will be three components for the A Level which are each assessed via an equally weighted 2 hour examination. There are optional topics available for component 3.
Component 1
Social influence Memory Attachment Psychopathology
Component 2
Approaches in Psychology Biological Psychology Research methods
Component 3
Issues and debates in Psychology and one option chosen from each of the following 3 option block. Option 1 - Relationships, Gender, Cognition and development Option 2 - Schizophrenia, Eating behaviour, Stress Option 3 - Aggression, Forensic psychology, Addiction
Religious Studies
Subject detail
Coursework: NO
Religious Studies is a thought provoking subject and involves engaging with many contemporary themes that are highly relevant in today’s multicultural, global society. Through studying a religious faith and different philosophical and ethical arguments in detail, students will develop a thorough understanding of a number of issues from a diverse range of viewpoints. Students will gain critical, analytical and evaluative skills sought by higher education and employers. It is a linear course and will be assessed by examinations at the end of the two years.
Component 1: Philosophy of religion and ethics
Section A: Philosophy of religion • Arguments for the existence of God. • Evil and suffering. • Religious experience. • Religious language. • Miracles. • Self and life after death.
Section B: Ethics and religion • Ethical theories. • Issues of human life and death. • Issues of animal life and death. • Introduction to meta ethics. • Free will and moral responsibility. • Conscience. • Bentham and Kant. Written examination: 3 hours 100 marks 50% of A Level
Component 2: Study of religion and dialogues
Section A: Study of religion – For Christianity the following topics are covered: • Sources of wisdom and authority. • God/gods/ultimate reality. • Self, death and the afterlife. • Good conduct and key moral principles. • Expression of religious identity. • Religion, gender and sexuality. • Religion and science. • Religion and secularisation. • Religion and religious pluralism.
Section B: The dialogue between philosophy of religion and religion. • How religion is influenced by, and has an influence on philosophy of religion in relation to the issues studied.
Section C: The dialogue between ethical studies and religion. • How religion is influenced by, and has an influence on ethical studies in relation to the issues studied.
Written examination: 3 hours 100 marks 50% of A Level
Religious Studies
Sociology • Spanish Sociology
Coursework: NO
For the A Level course, girls will study a range of sociological theories and methods, assessing their relevance in contemporary society. Component One focuses on the study of education; considering both sociological theory in this field and the different research methods used by sociologists. In Component Two, girls consider the changing nature of religion and religious belief in society, and the development of the family and the changing nature of family life. Component Three involves an in depth study of crime and deviance; again with a focus on sociological theory and research methods. Girls will sit three, two hour examinations on all components at the end of the two year course.
Spanish
The new linear A Level course in Spanish (Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Spanish) consists of two externally-examined papers assessing listening, reading and writing and a non-examined speaking assessment. Students complete their speaking assessment in April/May and all other assessments in May/ June in any single year.
The course is structured around four engaging Themes – La evolución de la sociedad española; La cultura política y artística en el mundo hispanohablante; La inmigración y la sociedad multicultural española and La dictadura franquista y la transición a la democracia. These four Themes are studied alongside two works chosen from a prescribed list (either two literary texts or one literary text and one film) assessed through two externally-examined papers and one Non-exam assessment (speaking).
The course will enable the students to develop an advanced level knowledge and understanding of the Spanish language, the culture of Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study skills.
Paper 1: Listening, reading and translation
Written examination: 2 hours 40% of the qualification (80 marks) The examination is made up of: • Section A: Listening (30 marks) • Section B: Reading (30 marks) • Section C: Translation into English (20 marks)
Paper 2: Written response to works and translation
Written examination: 2 hours and 40 minutes 30% of the qualification (120 marks) • Section A: Translation (20 marks) • Section B: Written response to works (literary texts) (50 marks) Students must write an extended response on either one or two of the literary texts • Section C: Written response to works (films) (50 marks) Students who answer only one question from a literary text in Section B must write an extended response on one of the films listed.
Paper 3: Speaking
Total assessment time: between 21 and 23 minutes (including 5 min preparation time) 30% of the qualification (72 marks) Students need to complete two tasks: • Task 1 (30 marks): discussion on a Theme from the specification based on a stimulus containing two different statements. • Task 2 (42 marks). Task 2, Part 1: is an independent research presentation.
Students present a summary of at least two of the written sources they have used for their research and give a personal response to what they have read. Task 2, Part 2: is a discussion on independent research. Students answer questions on their presentation and then have a wider discussion on their research.
Notes
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