STAMFORD
GCSE OPTIONS HANDBOOK
002
Contents SECTION A:
Information About the Scheme 004 The GCSE/IGCSE Options Scheme 005 Compulsory Subjects 005 Free Choices 005 Setting 005 Tiers of Entry 005 A Balanced Curriculum 006 The Timetable for Choices 006 Key Dates 006
SECTION B:
Subject Information Core Subjects English Language English Literature Mathematics Science Modern Foreign Languages French German Russian Spanish Option Subjects Art and Design Classical Civilisation Creative iMedia Design Technology Drama Food & Nutrition Geography History Latin Music Physical Education Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics)
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Section A Information About The Scheme
004
The GCSE/IGCSE Options Scheme The central academic concern of students in Year 10 and Year 11 must be the two-year courses which lead to their GCSE/IGCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. Success at this stage will provide the basis for work in the Sixth Form and beyond, and it is therefore very important for us to ensure that students embark upon the right courses as they move into Year 10. The process which we are starting now involves students reducing further the number of subjects that they are studying in order to focus on those that match their particular abilities, interests and career intentions. We do, however, wish to maintain a balance in the subjects studied and therefore offer the following guidelines: COMPULSORY SUBJECTS All students will study:
FREE CHOICES All students will choose three subjects from the following list: • Art & Design (only if studied • Geography in Y9) • German (only if studied in Y9) • Classical Civilisation • History • Creative iMedia • Latin (only if studied in Y9) • Design Technology • Music (only if studied in Y9) • RS (Philosophy & Ethics) • Drama • Physical Education • Food & Nutrition • Russian (only if studied in Y9) (only if studied in Y9) • Spanish (only if studied in Y9) • French (only if studied in Year 9)
(The modern foreign languages are repeated in this list in order to accommodate second language choices.)
English: For most, this leads to GCSEs in both English language and English literature. Where appropriate, some students may prepare for the Language GCSE only. A few will prepare for the English as a Second Language IGCSE only.
SETTING Students are allocated to the optional subjects of the curriculum in a way that is governed by their individual subject choices; this means that there is no ability setting in these subjects.
Mathematics: All students will take IGCSE Mathematics
Our timetable arrangements do, however, support ability setting in the compulsory subjects and to some degree in modern foreign languages. In the main, this allows students to be split into groups that reflect ability, so that teaching can be directed more effectively to what pupils need.
Science: Courses involve separate contributions from the Biology, Chemistry and Physics departments. They lead to the award of either: • three separate IGCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics or • two IGCSEs through the Double Award route The route taken above will be determined by the Heads of Science taking account of prior performance including, but not limited to, Year 9 summer exams. Modern Foreign Language: We expect the vast majority to study at least at least one modern foreign language to GCSE/IGCSE. Most will study French or Spanish (as this has been their core language) but some may opt for German or Russian, provided this has been studied in Year 9. More able linguists may choose to study more than one language to GCSE/IGCSE level. For a small number, it may be more appropriate to select four optional subjects without a MFL. This must be discussed with the Deputy Head Academic in advance. Students currently following a Learning Support curriculum instead of their core language will have the opportunity to continue to do so. Games: This is a non-examined course
As most sets are aiming for the ‘Higher’ tier of entry, all sets must in the end cover the same work. This setting therefore influences the pace of delivery and in some case the depth of treatment; it does not of itself limit grades. Arrangements in the science subjects will mean that some students sit exams for the separate science subjects (leading to three IGCSE qualifications) and others will sit exams that lead to the Double Award qualification (equivalent to two IGCSE qualifications). TIERS OF ENTRY Although GCSE/IGCSE provides a single system of assessment that works across the national spectrum of ability for 16-yearolds, this does not imply that all candidates take exactly the same examination papers. The examination boards provide papers of different difficulty for different ‘tiers of entry’, which lead to different final grades. For some of the subjects offered here both Higher and Foundation levels of entry exist and teachers will ensure that students are examined at the correct tier in order to maximise their final grade. A decision to enter a student for Foundation entry in a subject would not be made without prior consultation with parents.
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A BALANCED CURRICULUM Whilst we allow a free choice of these subjects, we do believe that it is sensible at this stage, for most students, to continue with a broad and balanced curriculum. We therefore suggest that choices include: • at least one of the ‘humanity’ subjects (classical civilisation, geography, history and RS (philosophy & ethics)) • an ‘arts or technologies’ subject (art & design, creative imedia, design technology, drama, food & nutrition, music and physical education). • Those who have made good progress in Latin, French, German, Russian or Spanish should also consider carefully the advantages of maintaining additional languages at GCSE/ IGCSE. MAKING CHOICES During Year 9, students have been studying five optional subjects that they chose a year ago. All of these now appear as options for GCSE/IGCSE (the Level 2 Certificate in Creative iMedia is the Year 10 / 11 option that progresses on from the Year 9 Computing course). In addition, Physical Education GCSE is available as an examination subject during Year 10 and Year 11. It is clear that, for many, this group of subjects will be the starting point for decisions about GCSE/IGCSE choices. Students and / or their parents should seek advice from subject teachers, tutors and heads of department. If a student is thinking that they wish to opt for a subject that they have not studied in Year 9 then they should speak to Mr Hewlett (for SS) or Mr McCormick (for SHS) in the first instance. In this handbook the heads of the academic departments have provided detailed information about their subjects, including the forms of assessment and the subject codes. If you wish to research the content or method of assessment more carefully, please consult the examination boards’ websites: www.aqa.org.uk www.edexcel.org.uk www.eduqas.co.uk www.ocr.org.uk www.cie.org.uk These are important choices and we wish to ensure that students, parents and subject teachers engage fully in an informed discussion of the possibilities, so that correct decisions are reached and that a positive start can be made on the new courses in September. Consultation with staff should include subject teachers and tutors, and any issues for further information about courses and the scheme should be fed through tutors to heads of department and to the Deputy Heads Academic.
THE TIMETABLE FOR CHOICES The options handbook is issued to and discussed with students during assembly and tutor periods at the start of the spring term. Following this, there will be time for discussion with parents at the parents’ evenings (Tuesday 18th January 2022 at SHS and Thursday 20th January 2022 at SS). A video detailing the options process will be issued to parents and it will be explained to the students during an assembly. It is our intention that, armed with this information, each student and their parents will have considered the possibilities, bearing in mind their particular abilities, interests and any early ideas about careers. Option choice forms will be issued to students (via MS Forms) in the week commencing Monday 17th January 2022 and completed forms will be required from students by Friday 28th January 2022, so discussions about choices will need to take place over the coming weeks. A student’s tutor should certainly be consulted and other advice will be available from subject teachers, heads of department and careers staff. The structure of the Year 10 timetable for September will be established on the basis of the information provided on the completed forms. Although we always try to meet each student’s subject combination, this cannot be guaranteed; in the few cases where difficulties arise, students and parents will be contacted and some further negotiation will be initiated. Although it is important to us that the choices made at this stage are an accurate reflection of what students want to do, we do recognise that thinking may change during the course of the summer term, and, in particular, when the examination results are published in June. If students want to change options during the term, requests should be made in writing to Mr Hewlett for SS or Mr McCormick for SHS, but requests will need to fit the timetable that will have been designed by that stage. Mr H P Hewlett Deputy Head Academic, Stamford School Email: hphewlett@ses.lincs. sch.uk
KEY DATES W/C 17th January 2022 Tuesday 18th January 2022 Thursday 20th January 2022 Friday 28th January 2022
006
Mr S J McCormick Deputy Head Academic, Stamford High School Email: sjmccormick@ses.lincs. sch.uk
Options choices form issued to students (via MS Forms) Year 9 Parents’ Evening at SHS Year 9 Parents’ Evening at SS Deadline for completed options choices forms to be handed in
Section B Subject Information
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English Language Exam board: AQA (8700) YOU WILL DRAW UPON A RANGE OF TEXTS AS READING STIMULUS AND ENGAGE WITH CREATIVE AS WELL AS REAL AND RELEVANT CONTEXTS. YOU WILL HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP HIGHER-ORDER READING AND CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS THAT ENCOURAGE GENUINE ENQUIRY INTO DIFFERENT TOPICS AND THEMES. THIS SUBJECT WILL HELP YOU TO READ MORE FLUENTLY AND WRITE MORE EFFECTIVELY. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE A CONFIDENT CONTROL OF STANDARD ENGLISH AND WRITE GRAMMATICALLY CORRECT SENTENCES, DEPLOYING FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE AND ANALYSING TEXTS. WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
Your studies will focus on three key areas:
Your studies at GCSE will ensure you are confident in your written and spoken communication, and this will enable you to access a wide range of subjects and develop skills beyond the classroom. The English Language A Level allows you more insight into the history and development of language and the ways in which it is used across social groups and across the country. You will also build your analytical and creative writing skills during the coursework assignments. As a result of further studies of English Language, you will build skills which are transferrable and pivotal to success in the world of work.
1. Reading: You will read a range of fiction and non-fiction material, exploring the ways in which the writers have created writer has created their texts, considering inference and showing your in-depth understanding of the stimulus extracts. You will develop the skills needed to effectively gather and summarise information, collecting and comparing your ideas in response to the set questions across two exam papers. 2. Writing: You will write effectively for different purposes and audiences: to describe, narrate, explain, instruct, give and respond to information, and argue. You will learn to consider choices of vocabulary, grammar, form, and structural and organisational features for the given audience, purpose and context. Your writing will be engaging and imaginative throughout your studies a through your studies of aofrange range of source material. of source material. 3. Speaking & Listening: You will plan, write and present a speech, demonstrating your use of Standard English, your ability to adapt your spoken language to your audience and your ability to listen carefully.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
50
1 hr 45 mins written exam paper
Paper 2
50
1 hr 45 mins written exam paper
NEA Speaking & Listening
008
-
OPPORTUNITIES Alongside your studies of English Literature, there will be the opportunity to go on regular theatre and cinema trips where you will explore how directors present themes and ideas for effect. You will be shown a number of sources which develop your knowledge of how the English language is used around the world today.
A separate endorsement awarding a Pass, Merit or Distinction to a presentation performed in class.
English Literature Exam board: AQA (8702) YOU WILL STUDY A WIDE RANGE OF FICTION TEXTS, EXPLORING KEY THEMES AND IDEAS AND DELVING INTO A CLOSER ANALYSIS OF THE WRITER’S CRAFT. IN ADDITION, YOU WILL CAREFULLY CONSIDER CONTEXTUAL FEATURES, LOOKING AT THE WAYS IN WHICH BACKGROUND FACTORS SUCH AS POLITICAL, SOCIAL AND HISTORICAL EVENTS HAVE INFLUENCED THE WRITER AND HOW THIS IS PRESENTED IN THE TEXT ITSELF.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
Your studies will focus on four key areas:
Through your studies of English Literature at GCSE, you will develop a number of transferrable skills which will stand you in good stead across a wide range of subjects. In particular, you will have worked on the skills needed for effective and powerful written communication, discussion and debate. You will develop knowledge of inference and the ways in which we can decode texts presented to us. Through choosing this challenging yet rewarding subject at A Level, you will prepare yourself for life with a key facilitating subject which can open doors to a plethora of university courses and careers.
1. Shakespeare 2. A Modern Text 3. A Pre-19th Century Novel 4. Poetry (an anthology of works and unseens) For each text, you will carefully explore the wider themes and ideas presented by the writer, considering the ways in which characters, settings, attitudes, symbols and ideas have been presented and their effect upon the reader, both at the time of writing and in the period since the text was published. Alongside detailed analysis of language, techniques and structure, you will consider the impact of contextual factors on the production and reception of the text.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
40
1 hr 45 mins written exam paper
Paper 2
60
2 hr 15 mins written exam paper
OPPORTUNITIES Alongside your studies of English Language, there will be the opportunity to go on regular theatre and cinema trips where you will explore how directors adapt texts and portray key themes and ideas for effect.
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Mathematics Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4MA1 H/F) THE IGCSE MATHEMATICS COURSE COVERS THE STRANDS OF: NUMBER; ALGEBRA (INCLUDING SEQUENCES); GRAPHS; SHAPE AND SPACE; SETS; AND HANDLING DATA.THE HIGHER TIER IGCSE SPECIFICATION INCORPORATES TOPICS (INCLUDING DIFFERENTIATION, FUNCTIONS, TRANSFORMATIONS OF GRAPHS, ALGEBRAIC PROOF AND VECTORS) THAT PROVIDE A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR THOSE STUDENTS DECIDING TO PROGRESS ONTO A LEVEL MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? You will study: • Number (including solving problems involving fractions, decimals and percentages; working with upper and lower bounds; advanced calculator problems; proportion; and surds); • Algebra (including indices; sequences; solving linear and quadratic equations using a variety of methods; solving simultaneous equations; using formulae; problems involving algebraic fractions; algebraic proof; and functions); • Graphs (including travel graphs; linear, quadratic, cubic and reciprocal graphs; and transformations of graphs); • Shape and space (including area and volume; angle rules and problems; vectors; Pythagoras’ Theorem; trigonometry; and circle geometry); • Sets (including set notation and Venn diagrams); and • Handling data (including presenting data; measures of central tendency and dispersion and probability).
• surds • algebraic proof • functions • transformations of graphs • trigonometry • circle geometry It also introduces parametric equations, numerical methods and integration. The Applied Mathematics (50% of the A Level qualification) element of the A Level course includes advanced study of the following IGCSE topics: • sets and Venn diagrams • handling data (including presenting data; measures of central tendency and dispersion and probability). It also introduces students to topics including regression analysis and hypothesis testing (the Statistics element) and to forces, moments and projectiles (Mechanics). OPPORTUNITIES
BEYOND GCSE A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics provide opportunities to study many of the mathematical concepts studied at IGCSE in more depth. The Pure Mathematics (50% of the A Level qualification) element of the A Level course includes advanced study of the following IGCSE topics:
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1 (4MA1 1H/ 4MA1 1F)
50
2 hr written exam (calculator) paper
Paper 2 (4MA1 2H/ 4MA1 2F)
50
2 hr written exam (calculator) paper
010
Every year many Year 10 and Year 11 students are entered for the UKMT Intermediate Maths Challenge in February, with several students qualifying for the follow-on rounds. Enthusiastic mathematicians also support younger students with their mathematics through helping at Maths Club, getting involved in inter-house problem-solving competitions, etc. We hold weekly support sessions for students seeking help with homework or structuring revision programmes.
Science: Double Award Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4SD0) YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT UNIFYING PATTERNS AND THEMES IN SCIENCE AND USE THEM IN NEW AND CHANGING SITUATIONS. YOU WILL ALSO ACQUIRE KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENTIFIC FACTS, TERMINOLOGY, CONCEPTS, PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
You will study biology, chemistry and physics separately with individual specialist teachers. There is no coursework, but the practicals and experiments carried out routinely during lessons are assessed during tests and in the written papers at the end of the course. The final examination consists of three separate 2 hour papers, each covering the content from the biology, chemistry and physics courses. Your combined performance in these three papers goes toward awarding two separate Science IGCSE grades.
Studying the Double Award course allows you to progress onto the biology, chemistry or physics courses in the 6th Form on the condition that at least a Grade 7 is achieved in the subject component you wish to study at A Level.
EXAM
%
OPPORTUNITIES There are various competitions and extension activities which include the Biology Challenge, Top of the Bench Chemistry Competition, the Junior (Year 10) and Intermediate (Year 11) Physics Challenges and Robotics Club.
Details
Paper 1B (Biology)
33.3
2 hr written exam
Paper 1C (Chemistry)
33.3
2 hr written exam
Paper 1P (Physics)
33.3
2 hr written exam stamfordschools.org.uk | 011
Biology Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4BI1) BIOLOGY IS THE ‘SCIENCE OF LIFE’. YOU WILL LEARN ABOUT THE LIVING PROCESSES THAT TAKE PLACE IN CELLS, TISSUES AND ORGANS OF ALL LIVING ORGANISMS, FROM THE SIMPLEST BACTERIUM TO THE WONDERFUL AND FASCINATING COMPLEXITIES OF THE HUMAN BODY.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The course is divided into 5 overarching topic areas:
Studying IGCSE Biology provides a firm foundation for further study at A Level. During the course you study a wide range of topic areas at the different hierarchical levels of biology. This will prepare you for higher education degrees including biological sciences, environmental science, marine biology, zoology, biochemistry, veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences, dentistry and medicine.
1. The nature and variety of living organisms 2. Structures and functions in living organisms 3. Reproduction and inheritance 4. Ecology and the environment 5. Use of biological resources There is no coursework, but you will carry out experiments during lessons and the practical skills developed will be assessed through the written examinations. Living with the consequences of global warming and the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic means that biology has never been more relevant and important to understand than it is now.
OPPORTUNITIES All Year 9 and Year 10 students get the opportunity take part in the Biology Challenge, a competition run by the Royal Society of Biology. At A Level, Year 12 students attend a residential ecology field trip in the summer and can enter the Intermediate Biology Olympiad. In Year 13, students can take part in the Biology Olympiad. Biology Extension sessions are also run for 6th Form biologists. We also offer trips for students studying sciences at A Level to attend the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) convention. This provides an opportunity for students to be aware of current scientific innovations and research challenges, as explained by leading scientists, including Nobel Prize winners.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1B
61
2 hr written exam
Paper 2B
39
1 hr 15 mins written exam
012
Chemistry Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4CH1) “WHAT IS THE UNIVERSE MADE OF? HOW DOES MY ‘PHONE BATTERY WORK? WHY DO SOME REACTIONS GIVE OUT HEAT?” EVERYTHING WE TOUCH, TASTE, SEE, HEAR AND SMELL INVOLVES CHEMISTRY, AND STUDYING CHEMISTRY HELPS US MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD IN WHICH WE LIVE, AND WHAT IT IS MADE UP OF.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Our varied IGCSE Chemistry course covers four main areas, enabling you to achieve a broad knowledge of chemical principles: 1. Principles of chemistry States of matter; Elements, compounds and mixtures; Atomic structure; The periodic table; Formulae, equations and calculations; Ionic bonding; Covalent bonding; Metallic bonding; Electrolysis. 2. Inorganic chemistry Group 1 elements; Group 7 elements; Gases in the atmosphere; Reactivity Series; Extraction and uses of metals; Acids, alkalis and titrations; Acids, bases and salt preparations; Chemical tests. 3. Physical chemistry Energetics, Rates of reaction, Reversible reactions and equilibria. 4. Organic chemistry Introduction to organic chemistry; Crude oil; Alkanes; Alkenes; Alcohols; Carboxylic acids; Esters; Synthetic polymers. You will develop knowledge and understanding of experimental skills as a fundamental part of lessons. There is no coursework, but practical chemistry is essential to understand the subject, and is integrated within the course, and experimental skills will be assessed through the written examinations. BEYOND GCSE Sometimes called ‘the central science’, chemistry helps to link the physical sciences of mathematics and physics to more applied areas such as biology, engineering and medicine.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1C
61
2 hr written exam
Paper 2C
39
1 hr 15 mins written exam
A Level Chemistry allows you to develop your understanding by delving much deeper, for example studying physical principles and organic reactions to a much greater extent, whilst also becoming a skilled experimental scientist. Choosing A Level Chemistry allows a wide range of options for degree study. It is essential for entry to medicine, veterinary medicine and dentistry, and highly desirable for many more. Chemists are highly prized by many employers for their numerical, analytical, researching, and problem-solving skills. Many chemists enjoy successful careers in finance or law. Chemistry often requires teamwork and communication skills, making chemists excellent at project management. OPPORTUNITIES We enter a team of Year 9-11 students in the RSC’s annual ‘Top of the Bench’ competition. We offer trips for students studying sciences at A Level to attend the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) convention. This provides an opportunity for students to be aware of current scientific innovations and research challenges, as explained by leading scientists, including Nobel Prize winners. Year 13 students are given the opportunity to take part in the International Chemistry Olympiad. Year 12 students are given the opportunity to take part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge (C3L6), which provides an excellent preparation for attempting the Olympiad papers in Year 13. We enter a team of Year 12 students in the annual Royal Society of Chemistry ‘Schools’ Analyst’ competition. This combines practical skills with results analysis and interpretation, and enables students to make use of complex and expensive instrumentation not available in schools.
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Physics Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4PH1) IGCSE PHYSICS REPRESENTS NEARLY 500 YEARS OF ACCUMULATED KNOWLEDGE OF THE PRINCIPLES THAT GOVERN OUR PHYSICAL UNIVERSE. EXPERIMENTATION AND THE MODELLING OF THE BEHAVIOUR OF NATURE ALLOWS THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING WE SO READILY EXPLOIT TODAY AND HAVE SINCE THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The core tenets of physics include forces and motion, waves and electricity. A thorough understanding of these will allow any student to have a good appreciation of how the world around them works. We will also look at astrophysics and radioactivity, as well as conducting a number of practical investigations. Solving numerical problems is a big part of the course, and students develop the ability to interpret problems from text and real-life situations. Students also learn how to express their understanding of physics using appropriate technical vocabulary and will be well placed to develop an informed critical appraisal of the challenges faced by society.
GCSE Physics provides students with the tools to access a number of Level 3 courses including, for example, aspects of geography and PE, as well as the rudiments of the mechanics unit of A Level Maths. A Level Physics is a highly regarded award as students must display a high level of numeracy and analytical ability in order to succeed. With the added depth and curriculum time, students are able to develop into accomplished problem solvers who make desirable candidates for higher education. OPPORTUNITIES We promote academic competitions such as the Junior (Year 10) and Intermediate (Year 11) Physics Challenges, and offer opportunities of a practical nature through the Astronomy and Robotics clubs, as well as an investigative project for a Silver CREST Award.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1P
61
2 hr written exam
Paper 2P
39
1 hr 15 mins written exam
014
French Exam board: AQA (8658) THE GCSE FRENCH COURSE WILL ENABLE YOU TO COMMUNICATE IN A FRENCH-SPEAKING COUNTRY IN DAYTO-DAY SITUATIONS SUCH AS MEETING NEW PEOPLE AND TALKING ABOUT YOURSELF AND THOSE AROUND YOU, SHOPPING, ARRANGING ACCOMMODATION, BUYING AND ORDERING FOOD, TRAVEL, RESOLVING PROBLEMS WHEN THINGS GO WRONG, ARRANGING AND ORGANISING OUTINGS/EVENTS AND BEING ABLE TO CONVERSE ABOUT CURRENT ISSUES. WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
French is taught and learnt through the four skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing and of course we also study the grammar of the language with verb formation and tenses being at the heart of this. You will be entered at the appropriate level for you – Higher (Grades 9 – 4) or Foundation (Grades 5 - 1).
Gaining a Grade 6 or above in GCSE French will enable you to continue your study of the language at A Level. Studying French for GCSE and A Level will equip you with the skills necessary to take your place in a multilingual, global society. It will provide you with communication and presentation skills vital for the world of work, as well as analytical skills transferable to a whole range of other contexts. You will also acquire an awareness of and sensitivity to another culture. Linguists enjoy communication and positive relationships with others; they also have a broad outlook on life. Studying French not only brings an important life-skill and an enriching academic discipline, but also new horizons in travel, culture and employment.
You will study vocabulary and grammar within the context of the following modules for both the Foundation and Higher tier: • Friends and family and making arrangements to go out • Free time and leisure • Shopping, food, celebrations • Where I live and my region • The Environment • School life • Careers and the world of work • Healthy living and lifestyle • Social issues • Problems facing the world and ethical issues
OPPORTUNITIES The French Department has just set up a link with a school in Vence through Stamford Twinning which will allow French students there to correspond with Stamford students via email, post or social media. This may lead to private exchanges between Vence and Stamford students or a school exchange in due course. Many students of French also enjoy watching a plethora of French films and series.
EXAM
%
Details
Listening
25
45 mins (Higher), 35 mins (Foundation)
Speaking
25
10 – 12 mins (Higher), 7 – 9 mins (Foundation)
Reading
25
1 hr (Higher), 45 mins (Foundation)
Writing
25
1 hr 15 mins (Higher), 1 hr (Foundation)
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German Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 4GN1) GERMANY IS GEOGRAPHICALLY, POLITICALLY, AND ECONOMICALLY AT THE CENTRE OF EUROPE AND IS SPOKEN BY 1 IN 5 EUROPEANS. THE STRENGTH OF GERMAN FIRMS GLOBALLY MAKES SPEAKING GERMAN AN INVALUABLE SKILL IN THE WORKPLACE. STUDYING GERMAN OPENS THE DOOR TO A GREATER UNDERSTANDING OF EUROPEAN HISTORY, POLITICS, CULTURE, AND BUSINESS.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The IGCSE course is divided into five engaging topic areas, based on contexts that you are likely to encounter: home and abroad, education and employment, personal life and relationships, the world around us, and social activities, fitness, and health. We build on the linguistic skills developed in Years 8 and 9 to tackle diverse content linked to your daily lives, as well as broader social topics, such as environmental issues. You will develop the ability to: read for both gist and detail, write in response to a given situation, listen to a complex argument or discussion and understand the overall message, and participate in extended discussion. Alongside this, you will engage with the logical rules of German grammar to aid your own production of German, be it spoken or written. The course also allows us to broaden your knowledge and appreciation of German, Austrian, and Swiss history and culture.
German is offered at A Level and is taught across SES. The A Level course further develops listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills within cultural, social, and historical contexts. Pupils learn to express themselves on a wide range of topics, from racism and immigration to art and architecture. The course also includes the detailed analytical study of a German-language play and film, and the opportunity to have a weekly individual session with the German assistant to develop oral fluency. OPPORTUNITIES Throughout the IGCSE course, you will have the chance to work with the German assistant – individually or in small groups – to develop your confidence when speaking. There are also individual support sessions available, by appointment with your class teacher. The department regularly participates in national language competitions with ‘Business Language Champions’, and pupils have had the chance to try espionage-style code-cracking in foreign languages with GCHQ in the past. SES is one half of the longest-running German exchange in the country (over 60 years!), along with our partner school in Bonn (Ernst-Kalkuhl-Gymnasium) and this connection continues virtually to this day. A new trip to Germany is currently being planned and would be available to any student of GCSE or A Level German.
EXAM
%
Details
Listening
25
30 mins exam (with 5 minutes reading time)
Speaking
25
8–10-mins exam
Reading & Writing
50
1 hr 45 mins exam
016
Russian Exam board: Pearson (Edexcel 1RU0) RUSSIAN IS SPOKEN BY OVER 300 MILLION PEOPLE WORLDWIDE. IT IS THE KEY TO A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF RUSSIAN POLITICS AND HISTORY AND AN AID TO THE MASTERY OF OTHER SLAVONIC AND EAST EUROPEAN LANGUAGES. IT IS A HUGELY IMPORTANT LANGUAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE. UNDERSTANDING RUSSIAN IS A SKILL THAT PRECIOUS FEW ARE ABLE TO TAKE WITH THEM INTO THE WORKPLACE. IT ALSO BRINGS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES AND IS AS IMPORTANT FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AS IT IS FOR DIPLOMACY AND THE MEDIA. WHAT WILL I STUDY? The GCSE course builds upon the foundations established in Year 8 and Year 9 and follows the same resources, developed by the chief examiners for Russian. GCSE Russian helps you explore a wide range of topics, from celebrations and festivals, through getting by as a tourist in Russia to international campaigns and events. You will learn about Russian culture through a range of interesting topics which will add to your understanding of the language and country: Identity and culture, Local area, Holiday, Travel, School, Future aspirations, Study and work, and International and global dimension. You will rapidly acquire a deeper command of grammatical structure and vocabulary and will be able to communicate in both spoken and written Russian in a range of different registers. Your reading and listening skills will become more confident, enabling you to understand the language in different contexts. People with such language skills stand out as talented and successful people, with broad and exciting horizons. BEYOND GCSE Russian is offered at A Level. The focus of A Level Russian is on further developing students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing through the study of four main topic areas: development of Russian society, politics and culture, a detailed study on either Moscow or St Petersburg and the break-up of the USSR.
The A Level course also includes the study of literature and film. In Years 12 and 13, all pupils have a 35-minute lesson per week with our native speaker in pairs or individually to develop oral fluency. Many of our students go on to study Russian at university, either as a single subject or in combination with other languages/ subjects. Popular places of study in recent years have been the universities of Durham, Bristol, Sheffield, Manchester and St Andrews. OPPORTUNITIES In Years 10 and 11, students will have the opportunity to work, in small groups, with a native speaker to help to develop your speaking skills and to prepare you for the speaking test. There is an annual exchange to our partner school in Khimki, Moscow. Our exchange has been running since 1994 and is very popular. Russian students arrive in Stamford towards the end of June for one week and we return to Moscow in December. There are weekly support sessions for those students who wish to further their knowledge or who need extra help. The department has competed in national language competitions with “Business Language Champions.” We have also attended conferences at Oxford High School, where we have developed translation skills as well as listened to talks given on Russian history and culture by former diplomats and Oxford University lecturers.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1: Listening
25
45 mins
Paper 2: Speaking
25
10 – 12 mins exam (12 mins preparation)
Paper 3: Reading & understanding
25
1 hr 5 mins (Reading comprehension and one translation into English)
Paper 4: Writing
25
1 hr 25 mins (2 essays and one translation into Russian) stamfordschools.org.uk | 017
Spanish Exam board: AQA (8698) SPANISH IS THE SECOND MOST COMMONLY USED LANGUAGE IN THE WORLD, SPOKEN BY APPROXIMATELY 530 MILLION PEOPLE, AND AS SUCH IS A HUGELY IMPORTANT LANGUAGE BOTH IN TERMS OF TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES AND TO THOSE ASPIRING TO AN INTERNATIONAL CAREER IN A RANGE OF PROFESSIONS FROM BUSINESS TO LAW, MEDIA, OR DIPLOMACY.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The GCSE course is divided into 3 main themes: “Identity and culture”, “Local, national, international and global areas of interest” and “Current and future study and employment”. The GCSE course builds on the foundations laid in Years 7, 8 and 9 and is lively and modern in approach, enabling you to understand and use Spanish linked both to everyday situations and occasionally to more ‘meaty’ social issues. As well as developing an understanding of language in a variety of contexts and the ability to communicate in spoken and written form, the course will also develop an awareness of the culture of Spanishspeaking countries. Such skills are highly valued by employers in the multilingual global society of today. A successful student will be keen to develop their knowledge of tenses, vocabulary and key areas of grammar, thus allowing them to understand increasing amounts of written and spoken language as well as stating facts and giving opinions in spoken and written Spanish.
Spanish is offered at A Level. The focus of A Level Spanish is on further developing students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing through the study of topics deeply rooted in the culture of Spain and South America. These topics include social issues and trends and aspects of political life and artistic culture. The A Level course also includes the study of literature and film. In Years 12 and 13, all pupils have a 35-minute lesson per week with the Spanish assistant in pairs or small groups to develop oral fluency. OPPORTUNITIES In Year 11, you will have the opportunity to work in small groups with the language assistant, who will help you develop your speaking skills and prepare you for the oral exam. There is also an annual Spanish exchange that is open to all students in Year 10 and above. The exchange, which lasts a week, goes to La Coruña in north-west Spain and takes place in February, with the Spanish students returning to the UK in March/ April. There are regular support clinics available for those students who may want extra support and/ or examination practice. The department frequently competes in national language competitions with “Business Language Champions”. These competitions give students the opportunity to use their Spanish in practical and creative settings, combining their language skills with their knowledge of other subjects such as drama, coding, business and engineering. Students can also participate in translation and essay writing competitions run by universities and have done so in the past with a high degree of success.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1: Listening
25
45 mins exam
Paper 2: Speaking
25
10–12-mins exam (+ 12 mins preparation time)
Paper 3: Reading
25
1 hr exam. Reading comprehension and one translation into English
Paper 4: Writing
25
1 hr 15 mins written exam. 2 essays and one translation into Spanish
018
Art and Design Exam board: AQA (8201) THIS COURSE ENCOURAGES STUDENTS TO EXPERIENCE, EXPLORE AND ENJOY THE MANY ASPECTS OF ART THROUGH STIMULATING AND EXCITING COURSEWORK. A WIDE RANGE OF TECHNICAL SKILLS WILL BE DEVELOPED THROUGH OBSERVATION AND ANALYSIS OF THE VISUAL WORLD, EXPERIMENTATION WITH MEDIA, TECHNIQUES AND PROCESSES AND THE PRODUCTION OF INDIVIDUAL, CREATIVE OUTCOMES.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
Students will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, both contemporary and from the past. A variety of responses will be produced during the two years, including drawing, painting, printmaking, graphics, photography and clay work. A GCSE in art would be useful for progression in any field that requires creativity, critical thinking and practical abilities. Students choosing to take art would be expected to show enthusiasm, dedication and aptitude for the subject. Creativity, imagination, practical skills and critical perception are essential attributes. Drawing forms the basis of all work in this subject and students should possess considerable skill in this discipline and be prepared to develop and improve over the two years.
Students are required to work in many areas of fine art including drawing, painting, mixed media, ceramics, photography and moving image, sculpture and printmaking. You will also complete a written justification for the development of your ideas, based upon artists studied, as well as analysis of their creative work. Initially, students will produce a portfolio of work focusing on the development of understanding and art skills, using an appropriate range of materials, processes and techniques. The portfolio will contain a collection of work or projects based on an idea, concept, theme or issue. This should demonstrate the ability to sustain work from a starting point to a realisation, and include evidence of research, the development of ideas and meaningful links to critical/contextual studies. OPPORTUNITIES Visits to exhibitions and galleries form an important part of the course and students are encouraged to support their work with the use of photography and information technology (digital imagery, internet research). Weekly clubs at lunchtime, after school and on Saturday mornings give students plenty of opportunity to gain further guidance and studio time to produce work.
EXAM ASSESSMENT
%
Details
Portfolio
60
Sustained project produced during Year 10 and half of Year 11
Set task
40
A shorter project produced over 4 months, culminating in the production of a final piece created over two days in exam conditions.
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Classical Civilisation Exam board: OCR (J199) WE EXPLORE IN DEPTH THE FASCINATING WORLD OF ANCIENT GREECE AND ROME, STUDYING THE CULTURE, HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF THESE TWO FAMOUS CIVILISATIONS. THEY WERE FUNDAMENTAL TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF MODERN SOCIETY AND CULTURE, AND WE TAKE A VARIED APPROACH TO ANALYSING THE SIMILARITIES TO AND DIFFERENCES FROM THE MODERN WORLD. WE FOCUS OUR STUDY ON THE GREAT WORKS OF LITERATURE (E.G. ‘THE ODYSSEY’) AND THE ART AND MATERIAL CULTURE SUCH AS VASES, ARTWORK AND TEMPLES. WHAT WILL I STUDY? The course involves two components, each studied for a year, leading to two examinations (90 minutes each), on topics which cover a broad range of study in a variety of aspects of the classical world. Myth and Religion: the study of ancient myths and religious beliefs and practices, including the Greek and Roman Gods, mythical Heroes such as Hercules & Theseus, Foundation Myths, Greek and Roman festivals, Symbols of Power, Temples and Sacrifice, Death & Burial, and Journeying to the Underworld. Literature and Culture: a choice of either (1) Roman City Life - the study of many areas of Roman life, such as Roman entertainment and leisure, including chariot-racing, the baths, theatre and gladiator fights, Roman houses and the role of citizens and slaves in society, or (2) The Homeric World - the study of Homer’s great epic poem the Odyssey, and its context, the society at the time of the Trojan War, Mycenaean Greece. We examine their culture and lifestyle, including their art, pottery and buildings.
Specifically, the course encourages you to make informed comparisons between Greek and Roman ideas, including the characteristics of their societies, and the impact of the different cultural contexts on the themes studied. This GCSE forms a very useful foundation of knowledge for various subjects at A Level and university, including Latin, classical civilisation, classical studies, English literature, art, drama & theatre studies, philosophy & ethics, history, modern languages, psychology, anthropology, archaeology and ancient history. OPPORTUNITIES We attend lectures at university Classics departments and invite speakers to visit the school to talk on the huge range of subject matter involved in studying the classical world. The residential classics trips to Greece and Italy are one of the highlights for pupils of classical subjects. You will have the opportunity to visit Italy, taking in the important sites of Rome, Naples and Pompeii, and Greece, including Athens, Mycenae and Olympia. This not only broadens the cultural education of pupils but involves encountering many of the buildings set in the specification.
BEYOND GCSE You will develop a range of key transferable skills in studying the subject, especially the evaluation of complex facts, research, analysis and communication. All these skills are very useful for future education and professional life.
EXAM
%
Details
Myth & Religion
50
1 hr 30 mins written exam paper with source booklet
Literature & Culture
50
1 hr 30 mins written exam paper with source booklet
020
Creative iMedia Level 2 Cambridge National
Exam board: OCR (J834) 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. THROUGH THE USE OF THESE SKILLS, LEARNERS WILL ULTIMATELY BE CREATING FIT-FOR-PURPOSE CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTS.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
R093 -- Creative iMedia in the media industry: In this unit you will learn about the media industry, digital media products, how they are planned, and the media codes which are used to convey meaning, create impact, and engage audiences.
OCR Cambridge National in Creative iMedia A Level 2 leads into OCR Cambridge Technical in Digital Media A Level 3. Digital Media A Level 3 both expands on Level 2 learning, and introduces brand new topics of study, including: industry and audience theory, media profile creation & showcase, an advertisement campaign, and a media product marketing pitch. Digital Media A Level 3 promotes learner autonomy through non-prescriptive media outcome submissions from the following mediums: audio (e.g. SFX, podcast, foley), audio-visual (e.g. short film, TV advertisement, interactive video), print based (e.g. magazine or newspaper page/s, poster, logo).
R094 -- Visual identity and digital graphics: In this unit you will learn how to develop visual identities for clients and use the concepts of graphic design to create original digital graphics to engage target audiences. R096 -- Animation with audio: In this unit you will learn how to plan, create, and review animation with an audio soundtrack.
OPPORTUNITIES In Year 10, students will have the opportunity to learn about the history of TV, film, and photography by attending the National Science and Media Museum. In Year 11, students will have the opportunity to experience virtual reality (VR) and future technologies by attending Zero Latency’s VR Free-Roam gaming house in Nottingham.
EXAM
%
Details
R093 Creative iMedia in the media industry
40
1 hr 30 mins written exam paper; externally assessed.
R096 Animation with audio
35
L42 GLH NEA; internally assessed, externally moderated.
R094 Visual identity and digital graphics:
25
30 GLH NEA; internally assessed, externally moderated.
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Design Technology AQA (8552)/Pearson Edexcel (1DT0) DESIGN TECHNOLOGY IS THE INSPIRING, RIGOROUS AND PRACTICAL SUBJECT WHICH PREPARES ALL YOUNG PEOPLE TO LIVE AND WORK IN THE DESIGNED AND MADE WORLD - IT IS PART OF EVERYDAY LIFE AND IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING. IT IS A VALUABLE SUBJECT WHICH LINKS TOGETHER THE CREATIVE, MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
AQA DT – Product Design (focusing on Woods, Metals, Plastics and Paper &
GCSE Design Technology will provide a good preparation for A Level Product Design or A Level Fashion and Textiles.
Boards)
Edexcel DT – Textile Design (focussing on Textiles) GCSE Design Technology builds upon the knowledge learned about the subject in previous years. The main teaching takes place during Year 10 and concentrates on a range of short projects enabling students to develop an understanding of working in a variety of materials such as woods, metals, plastics, papers & boards, and textiles (subject to the course chosen). Students will also develop a wide range of skills such as Design Communication, Computer Aided Design & Manufacture (CAD/CAM) and practical manufacturing skills. The focus for Year 11 switches to solving a real life design problem, set around a contextual challenge, and consists of students producing a design portfolio and final practical outcome. The main skills that the coursework element demands are the ability to manage a project and to solve problems. Each project has to be researched and analysed before a detailed design specification can be written. Once this is complete, design ideas are drawn out and developed, working towards a final solution. After completion of the final prototype it is then tested and evaluated to see it meets the original design specification and consumers’ needs.
EXAM
%
Details
Non-examined Assessment (NEA)
50
Substantial design and make project
Exam
50
022
The A Level courses link together elements of mathematics, physics and business but also teach the problem-solving skills highly sought by employers. Universities highly recommend having studied design technology for careers in engineering, architecture, product design, fashion design and textile engineering. OPPORTUNITIES We offer a trip in Year 10 usually to the Big Bang fair or a local manufacturing company. We enter the Rotary Club Technology Tournament, a competition for aspiring designers.
2 hour written exam paper (AQA) 1 hour 45 written exam paper (Edexcel)
Drama Exam board: AQA (8261) STUDENTS WILL LEARN ABOUT THEATRE: • HOW TO COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY IN CLASS DISCUSSION AND AS A PERFORMER • HOW TO WORK COLLABORATIVELY WITH OTHERS • HOW TO PERFORM WITH CONFIDENCE AND CONVICTION • HOW TO STRUCTURE AND PRESENT DRAMA IMAGINATIVELY • HOW TO GIVE AND RECEIVE CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM • HOW TO ANALYSE MEANING AND EVALUATE THE WORK OF OTHERS
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
You will:
Even if you do not intend to take your studies further, this course has many transferable skills. You will have developed your confidence, learned to negotiate as part of a group, used your initiative and imagination to solve problems and accepted instruction and direction. You will have learnt how to structure analysis and give constructive criticism diplomatically. You will have a greater knowledge and understanding of how social, cultural and historic issues from a range of sources have an impact upon global society.
• Develop your knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre • Study one set play from a choice of six • Analyse and evaluate the work of live theatre makers • Create devised drama • Perform devised drama (you may contribute as a performer or designer) • Analyse and evaluate your own work • Perform two extracts from one play (you may contribute as a performer or designer)
OPPORTUNITIES You will be able to go on two theatre trips during the course. There is also the opportunity to work with industry professionals through theatrical workshops held in-house with visiting practitioners.
EXAM
%
Details
Component 1: Understanding Drama
40
1 hour 45 mins written exam
Component 2: Devising Drama
40
Devised Performance (10%) Devising Log (30%)
Component 3: Texts in Practice
20
Scripted Performance Exam
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Food & Nutrition Exam board: OCR (J309) GCSE FOOD IS A STIMULATING AND VARIED COURSE THAT IS HIGHLY RELEVANT IN TODAY’S SOCIETY. LESSONS INCLUDE A COMBINATION OF THEORY, PRACTICAL TASKS, WORKSHOPS AND SCIENTIFIC EXPERIMENTS. STUDENTS WILL LEARN A WIDE RANGE OF PRACTICAL LIFE SKILLS. IT PROMOTES INDEPENDENT LEARNING THROUGH THE COMPLETION OF THE NEA (COURSEWORK) TASKS.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
Nutrition: You will develop your knowledge and understanding of the nutritional content, functional properties and chemical processes of food. You will learn about the relationship between diet, nutrition and health, as well as the effects of a poor diet and health.
We all need to eat to stay alive so you are learning about something that’s right at the heart of life, and very relevant to it. Even if you do not study the subject to a higher level you will have learnt how to cook a wide range of nutritious meals from scratch which is a valuable life skill. GCSE Food complements the sciences and PE and there are a wide range of food-related degree courses as well as a vast array of career opportunities within the food industry, such as food scientist, food buyer, dietitian, chef, food lawyer, teacher, lecturer, nutritionist, restaurant manager, agricultural inspector and artisan baker.
Food (Food provenance and food choice): You will develop an understanding of the economic, environmental, ethical, and socio-cultural influences on food availability, production processes and diet and health choices. Cooking and food preparation: In this section of the course you will demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of functional and nutritional properties, sensory qualities and food safety considerations when preparing, processing, storing, cooking and serving food. Skills requirements (preparation and cooking techniques): In this section you will demonstrate effective and safe cooking skills when planning, preparing and cooking using a variety of food commodities, cooking techniques and equipment. You will explore a range of ingredients and processes from different culinary traditions, including traditional British cuisine and other international cuisines.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
50
1 hr 30 mins written exam
Paper 2 or 3
15
Food Investigation Task
Paper 4 or 5
35
Food Preparation Task
024
OPPORTUNITIES Each year we host the Rotary Young Chef Competition, which is judged by RAF competition chefs. This is an excellent opportunity to cook along side students from other schools and get valuable feedback from professional competition chefs.
Geography Exam board: OCR B (J384) GEOGRAPHY IS A SPRAWLING, RAGGED, EXQUISITE, DISCIPLINE. IT IS THE STUDY OF EARTH’S LANDSCAPES, PEOPLES, PLACES, AND ENVIRONMENTS. GEOGRAPHY MAKES A SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION IN PROVIDING STUDENTS WITH THE NECESSARY SKILLS TO QUESTION SOME OF THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING SOCIETY: FOR EXAMPLE, SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, GLOBAL WARMING, POPULATION GROWTH, MIGRATION, CONFLICT, NATURAL HAZARDS AND RENEWABLE ENERGY. WHAT WILL I STUDY? The course topics provide an even split between both physical and human geography. The physical geography topics include ‘Global hazards’, ‘Changing climate’, ‘Distinctive landscapes’ and ‘Sustaining ecosystems’. These develop an understanding and appreciation of the natural world that students live in and why it looks the way it does. They involve the study of the rich diversity of landscapes and ecosystems which are changing due to different phenomena and processes. They also cover how landscapes are formed and how these can influence people, and they explore global issues and different countries. The human geography topics include ‘Urban futures’, ‘Dynamic development’, ‘UK in the 21st century’ and ‘Resource reliance’. Students will explore the social, cultural, political and economic forces that make places unique, and how these change over time and space, particularly the growth of urbanisation and the challenges of feeding an ever-growing population. In addition to learning the topics mentioned, students will learn to ‘think synoptically’. They will draw on geographical knowledge, understanding and skills that have been developed during the course to demonstrate their understanding of the connections between the different elements of the subject. BEYOND GCSE Our subject enables students to acquire knowledge and understanding of a plethora of places, cultures, physical and human environments and geographical patterns at a range of scales.
Geographers also develop and apply geographical skills, including those of mapwork, fieldwork, GIS, IT, literacy, numeracy, how to critically evaluate theories and how to interpret figures effectively. This extensive list of skills and the knowledge obtained provides the perfect foundations for a wide range of A Levels - everything from biology and mathematics to psychology, business, economics and politics. Geography is great for any kind of career that involves the environment, planning, or collecting and interpreting data. Popular careers for people with geography qualifications include town or transport planning, GIS surveying, conservation, sustainability, waste and water management, environmental planning, renewable energy development, tourism, and meteorology. The army, police, government, research organisations, law and business world also love the practical research skills that geographers develop. OPPORTUNITIES Fieldwork is integral to our studies and we run two field trip days for all students. One day is aimed at human geography data collection in either Stamford or Birmingham. The second day enables students to collect physical geography data by investigating how a river changes as it flows downstream. We also run an optional international field trip to Iceland, “the land of ice and fire”. In addition to the field trips, many other additional opportunities are provided for Stamford geographers. These include attending Royal Geographical Society and Geographical Association Lectures and being able to participate in our annual ‘Worldwise Geography Quiz’.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1 – Our Natural World
35
1 hr 15 mins written paper asking questions about Physical Geography
Paper 2 – People and Society
35
1 hr 15 mins written paper asking questions about Human Geography
Paper 3 – Geographical Exploration
30
1 hr 30 mins written paper asking students to make and justify an important decision based on a current geographical issue; here students become critical thinkers and develop arguments stamfordschools.org.uk | 025
History Exam board: AQA (8145) HISTORY REMAINS ONE OF THE FAVOURITE SUBJECTS OF BOTH PUPILS AND FUTURE EMPLOYERS. IT IS NOT ONLY AN ENJOYABLE COURSE, BUT IT ALSO TEACHES VALUABLE SKILLS OF ANALYSIS, EXPLANATION AND PRESENTATION OF ARGUMENTS AS WELL AS ENCOURAGING INDEPENDENT LEARNING. THIS COURSE WILL HELP YOU TO GAIN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF THE PAST THROUGH POLITICAL, SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
Throughout the course, you will study interesting, diverse and important periods of time, covering political developments, social and cultural shifts and key periods of international relations.
History GCSE opens a variety of doors both at A Level and beyond. In addition to History A Level, many students also study A Levels in politics, English literature, classical civilisation, drama & theatre studies, geography, philosophy & ethics, economics and business studies. The skills learnt during this course are easily transferred to other subjects beyond GCSE.
Course material will: • Help to explain the major developments in international affairs in the 20th century • Enable you to develop an increased understanding of key developments in British society and culture • Enable you to practise the skills of analysis, questioning and independent thought, all of which are essential for further education and employment. Topics: • Germany: 1890-1945 (Period study) • Conflict and Tension between East and West: 1945-72 (Wider World Depth Study) • Britain: Migration, Empires and People: 790 to present day (Thematic Study) • Medieval England: Reign of Edward I: 1272-1307 (British Depth study inc. historic environment)
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
50
2 hr written exam paper
Paper 2
50
2 hr written exam paper
026
OPPORTUNITIES There is planning in place for an inaugural trip to Germany during the course. There are further opportunities provided by a history club, liaising with current Sixth Form subject prefects and guest speakers coming in to lecture.
Latin Exam board: OCR (J282) LATIN REMAINS VERY HIGHLY REGARDED BY PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYERS AND UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS OFFICERS. STUDYING LATIN TO GCSE ENHANCES YOUR ACADEMIC RECORD - A GOOD GRADE IN LATIN REFLECTS A KEEN, ABLE AND PERCEPTIVE MIND. LATIN HELPS TO DEVELOP CLARITY OF THOUGHT AND AN ORGANISED AND LOGICAL APPROACH TO LEARNING; IT THEREFORE HELPS DEVELOP KEY TRANSFERABLE SKILLS AND COMPLEMENTS THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES SUBJECTS, AS WELL AS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGICAL SUBJECTS. WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The GCSE course provides the opportunity to develop further your knowledge of the Latin language and to learn more about Roman culture and civilisation to which our own language, literature and culture owes so much.
This GCSE will enhance your academic profile and forms a very useful foundation of knowledge for various subjects at A Level and university, including Latin, English literature, classical civilisation, classical studies, drama & theatre studies, philosophy & ethics, history, modern languages, anthropology, archaeology and ancient history. Latin also complements maths, scientific and technical subjects, as it forms the basis of much scientific vocabulary and increases your analytical skills.
The course builds upon the work covered over Years 7 to 9, as you continue to improve your understanding of the way the language works, in an analytical way. The course is split equally between language and literature. In language, you will work on comprehending and translating mythical and historical stories set from the Roman world. You will be able to understand more of the relationship between Latin and our modern European languages, and you will develop and apply logical and analytical thought processes. In literature, your Latin ability will reach a standard where you can read original Latin literature, which we read in advance of the exam as a “set text”. The set text encompasses ancient history and mythology; is not only great literature itself but influences many of our greatest works of English literature. You will be able to see many connections with other things you have studied, seen and read. This is an excellent opportunity to read works by writers such as Ovid, Virgil and Tacitus, in their original form.
OPPORTUNITIES We attend lectures at university Classics departments and invite speakers to visit the school to talk on the huge range of subject matter involved in studying the classical world. The residential classics trips to Greece and Italy are one of the highlights for pupils of classical subjects. You will have the opportunity to visit Italy, taking in the important sites of Rome, Naples and Pompeii, and Greece, including Athens, Mycenae and Olympia. This not only broadens the cultural education of pupils but involves encountering many of the buildings set in the specification.
EXAM
%
Details
Latin Language
50
1 hr 30 mins written paper of translation and comprehension of mythical & historical Latin stories
Latin Verse Literature
25
1 hr written paper on pre-prepared Literature set text, comprehension, translation and style & content
Latin Prose Literature
25
1 hr written paper on pre-prepared Literature set text, comprehension, translation and style & content
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Music Exam board: Eduqas (C660QS) THE EDUQAS GCSE MUSIC COURSE INVOLVES THE STUDY OF A VARIETY OF MUSICAL GENRES AND STYLES AND ENCOURAGES AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO THE THREE DISTINCT DISCIPLINES OF PERFORMING, COMPOSING, AND APPRAISING.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? The specification has 3 components based on the three skills of performing, composing, and appraising. Component 1: Performing Minimum of two pieces; one must be part of an ensemble lasting at least 1 minute, the other a solo or ensemble, both equivalent to at least a grade 3 level. One piece must be linked to an area of study.
2: Music for Ensembles Texture and sonority Jazz and Blues, musical theatre, and chamber music 3: Film Music Composer, orchestrator, arranger, performer, music editor, producer Dramatic underscore, thematic music, popular song writing 4: Popular Music Composers and performers, singer, songwriter, music producer, arranger, and musical idioms
Component 2: Composing Two compositions must be submitted. Composition one is in response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners select one from a choice of four, each related to a different Area of Study. Composition 2 is a free composition. The brief is set by the learner. Component 3: Appraising
BEYOND GCSE Students have the opportunity to study music further for A Level, continuing to develop their skills as performers and composers, as well as the in-depth analysis of a variety of musical genres and styles. OPPORTUNITIES
Written / listening exam Areas of study include: 1: Musical Forms and Devices Western Classical Tradition – Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras Binary, ternary, minuet and trio, rondo, variation, and strophic forms
The Music Department provides opportunities for students to perform in a variety of instrumental and vocal ensembles and take part in the extensive concert programme throughout the year. The department also undertakes trips abroad. Destinations have included trips to Italy, France, the Czech Republic and the USA.
EXAM
%
Details
Component 1 Performing
30
2 performances totalling 4-6 minutes. Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated.
30
2 compositions totalling 3-6 minutes. Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated.
40
1hr 15 mins written listening examination
Component 2 Composing Component 3 Appraising
028
Physical Education Exam board: OCR J587 PE IS SEEN BY UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES AS EQUAL TO ALL OTHER OPTION SUBJECTS AND IS ENDORSED BY MANY LEADING UNIVERSITIES. THIS COURSE HAS BEEN SIGNIFICANTLY UPDATED TO INCLUDE MORE CHALLENGING THEORY MATERIAL SUCH AS SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY, BIOMECHANICS, MOVEMENT ANALYSIS AND AN EXPLANATION OF THE BODY SYSTEMS. THE COURSE LOOKS AT A VARIETY OF FACTORS WHICH AFFECT THE OUTCOMES OF SPORTS PERFORMERS. WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
The course will appeal to those that enjoy the scientific and sociocultural elements of sport, as well as those that enjoy performing within practical activities. There is opportunity to develop knowledge that will help improve your training processes and competitive performances.
A Level Physical Education (OCR) BTEC Level 3 in Sport (Edexcel) Sports coaching, PE teaching, sports nutrition and sports physiotherapy Sports Leaders Qualification
The coursework is made up of analysis of performance tasks, which gives you the opportunity to critically observe physical activity. You will have to identify strengths and weaknesses in the observed activity and produce an in-depth action plan to improve future performances. The coursework challenges you to draw on information from the whole course when developing your action plan.
OPPORTUNITIES To enhance further learning, we endeavour to work closely with Loughborough University, including a visit to their Sport Science department.
The practical part of the course promotes your advanced skills and techniques. It helps you to learn to select and use tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas. Your regular involvement in physical activity will give you a real opportunity to participate in a range of roles such as umpire and coach. This will increase selfesteem and foster your leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
30
Applied Anatomy & Physical Training - 1 hr written exam
Paper 2
30
Sports Psychology and Socio-Cultural Issues - 1 hr written exam
Practical Assessment
30
Assessed in 3 activities, one from individual list, one from the team list and one other from either list
NEA Project
10
Analysis and Evaluation of Performance. 14 hours written / typed up task, that you would create as an action plan to develop an area of weakness for an individual
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Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics) Exam board: AQA (8062) RS (PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS) IS THE STUDY OF IMPORTANT ETHICAL ISSUES IN SOCIETY, AND THE SEARCH FOR MEANING BEYOND THE SCIENTIFIC WORLD. THIS IS A FASCINATING SUBJECT WHICH COVERS ISSUES WHICH ARE MEANINGFUL AND INTERESTING. CRITICAL ANALYSIS AND DEBATE ARE AT THE CENTRE OF THE SUBJECT, AND STUDENTS ARE GIVEN A FORUM IN WHICH THEY CAN ARGUE FROM AN ATHEIST OR THEISTIC APPROACH.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
BEYOND GCSE
In the Themes paper you will study:
Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) A Level focusses on business, medical, and environment, and sexual ethics. Wittgenstein, Kant, Socrates, Plato and Utilitarianism are applied. Arguments regarding God’s existence and feminism are also examined.
Arguments for the existence of God - whether God can be logically argued for, and whether we can experience something beyond the rational world. Religion and Life – the study of the compatibility of religion and science, the medical ethics of abortion, cloning and euthanasia and environmental ethics, and death and the afterlife. Religion, Peace and Conflict – the ethics of war and pacificism. Philosophical arguments for going to war. Thomas Aquinas’ Just War Theory. International conflict and Jihad.
OPPORTUNITIES Trips to Japan and Poland The Peter Vardy competition for essay writing Philosophons – debating forums.
Religion, crime and punishment – capital punishment, the aims of the UK punishment system, the effectiveness of prisons. How theists from Christianity and Islam tackle these issues. Comparisons with the atheist, secular argument.
EXAM
%
Details
Paper 1
50
The study of religions (Christianity and Islam) - 1 hr 45 mins written exam
Paper 2
50
Thematic Studies - 1 hr 45 mins written exam
030
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STAMFORD
STAMFORDIANS ARE INDEPENDENT. THEY ARE THOUGHTFUL, INTELLIGENT, LIVELY AND CURIOUS. THEY WORK HARD, AND THEY ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS, SAFE IN THE KNOWLEDGE THAT EVERY ONE OF US HERE AT STAMFORD - TEACHERS, PARENTS, OLD STAMFORDIANS AND FELLOW PUPILS – WILL SUPPORT THAT DREAM AND WILL CHEER YOU ON.
stamfordschools.org.uk 01780 750311
Brazenose House, St Paul’s Street, Lincolnshire PE9 2BE
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Registered charity number: 527618