St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook Ardscoil Naomh Pól, An Sruthán
Careers Department
Subject Information Booklet 2014
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Welcome Dear Student, This booklet has been designed to help you choose your options for Key Stage 4. Options time is often a period when students feel worried about the decisions they have to make. This is perfectly normal. Do not panic, make sure you avail of all the help at hand. Many people will offer advice and information about which subjects to choose, from careers advisers, subject teachers and careers teachers to friends and family members. Listen carefully and choose options that interest and motivate you. Remember, there are lots of exciting opportunities ahead! Good luck, Mrs S Kearney Head of Careers
Careers Service NI
Our school Careers Advisors are Cathy O’Neill and Margaret McCabe. To book an appointment with an advisor please contact the Careers Department, or alternatively: Careers Service NI, Newry Jobs and Benefits Office, 40 Bridge Street, Newry, BT35 8AJ. Telephone (028) 3025 3109 Our school Careers Advisers will be available at the Year 10 Parent Teacher Meeting on Thursday 6 March 2014 to offer additional advice and support.
Contents GCSE English Language................................................. 3
GCSE Drama................................................................. 10
GCSE English Literature.................................................. 3
GCSE French................................................................. 11
GCSE Mathematics......................................................... 4
GCSE Geography.......................................................... 12
GCSE Further Mathematics............................................ 4
GCSE Health and Social Care....................................... 13
GCSE Single Award Science........................................... 5
GCSE History................................................................ 13
GCSE Double Award Science......................................... 5
GCSE Home Economics............................................... 14
BTEC First Applied Science............................................ 6
GCSE ICT...................................................................... 14
GCSE Religion................................................................. 6
GCSE Learning for Life and Work................................. 17
GCSE Agriculture............................................................ 7
GCSE Technology and Design...................................... 15
GCSE Art and Design...................................................... 7
GCSE Irish..................................................................... 16
GCSE Applied Business.................................................. 8
GCSE Music.................................................................. 16
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Award in Children’s Play, Learning & Development................................................. 9
GCSE Spanish............................................................... 17
GCSE Construction......................................................... 9 CIDA: Certificate in Digital Applications........................ 10
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GCSE PE - Double Award............................................. 18 BTEC Level 2 First Extended Certificate in Sport......... 19
GCSE English Language Course content This is a two year course to continue the development of Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing Skills. GCSE English Language can be studied alongside GCSE English Literature. Pupils undertake a combination of external examinations (40%) and controlled assessments (60%) over the two years. The course of study focuses on developing: •
Speaking and Listening
•
Reading
•
Writing
Careers Pathway
Essential for success • • •
Enjoyment of language Interest in reading Commitment and enthusiasm
A grade in English is essential for all career choices.
GCSE English Literature Course content This is a two year course developing critical reading skills and a love of literature. Pupils undertake a combination of external examinations (75%) and controlled assessments (25%) over the two years.
Essential for success
The course of study focuses on: Unit 1: Exploring modern texts (40%)
• •
Enjoyment of literature Commitment to work
Unit 2: Poetry across time (35%) Unit 3: The significance of Shakespeare and the Literary Heritage (25%) There are opportunities for drama and visits to the theatre.
Careers Pathway
The study of English Literature opens up the opportunity to pursue a full range of careers.
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GCSE Mathematics This is a two year course which builds on the mathematical skills developed in Key Stage 3. The main focus is on applying mathematics in context, problem solving, reasoning and the functional elements of Mathematics. Assessment consists of two final external examinations completed at the end of year 12. Paper 1 - non-calculator (40%) Paper 2 – calculator (60%) Grades available: Higher Tier: A* - D Foundation Tier: C – G
Careers Pathway A Mathematics qualification is essential for a wide range of careers. Being able to apply the mathematical skills and techniques that you will learn is important for many aspects of everyday life. Statistics, Civil Engineering, Banking, Joinery, Electrical Engineering, Actuary, Pensions Management.
GCSE Further Mathematics The GCSE Further Mathematics Specification replaces the Additional Mathematics Specification and retains much of the same content. It provides a sound basis for further study of mathematics at AS/A2 level and related subjects at a more advanced level. Aims: The Specification aims to encourages students to: • Develop further their mathematics knowledge, skills and understanding; • Select and apply mathematics techniques and methods in mathematical, everyday and real-world situations; • Reason mathematically, interpret and communicate mathematical information, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions; • Extend the base in mathematics from which they can progress to: - higher studies in mathematics and other related studies.
Essential for success •
Enjoyment of all aspects of Mathematics
Course Content Unit 1 Pure Mathematics Written examination in the form of single question and answer booklet that includes a formula sheet. It is a 2 hour paper and has a weighing of 50% Unit 2 Mathematics and Statistics Written examination in the form of a single question-and-answer booklet that includes a formula sheet. It is a 2 hour long paper and has a weighing of 50% Availability January and Summer beginning in Summer 2014
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GCSE Single Award Science Examination Information
Essential for success
Revised Specification 2011 • • • • • • •
• • •
Modular Course 3 module exams — no terminal exam: 1 in year 11 (February) 2 in year 12 (November & May) Each module = 25% Coursework : Practical Skills Controlled Assessment 25%
Success in all modules Organised revision Maximum effort to apply all criteria to Planning & Interpretation skills in Controlled Assessments
Course content This Single Award course covers all three science disciplines: Physics, Chemistry, Biology The content for each discipline is: Biology: Chemistry: Physics:
Staying Alive, Human Activity & Health Chemical Patterns & Our Environment, Materials and their Management Electricity, Waves & Communication, Fossil Fuels, Road Transport & Safety, Radioactivity and Earth in Space
Coursework: Controlled Assessment of Practical Skills An excellent foundation for level 3 BTEC Applied Science course
Careers Pathway Electrician, Technician, Hair & Beauty, Nursing, Pharmacy technician, Paramedic,
Mechanic and many more
GCSE Double Award Science
Examination Information
Essential for success
Revised Specification 2011 • • • • •
3 module exams – year 11 (33%) Coursework: 2 pieces Controlled Assessment (25%) 3 Terminal exams – year 12 42% - 3 papers, 1 for each discipline Foundation and Higher Tier Courses available 2 GCSE grades awarded eg AA, CC Intermediate grades available eg A*A, AB, Grades: Higher Tier: A*A* - DD Foundation Tier: CC-GG
Course content The Double Award course covers the three science disciplines: Physics, Chemistry, Biology The content for each discipline is split into 2 separate modules: Unit 1 for year 11 and Unit 2 for year 12
Careers Pathway
• • • • •
Success in year 11 modules Organised revision Excellent attendance Maximum effort to apply all criteria to Planning & Interpretation skills in Controlled Assessments Continuous revision for terminal Examinations
Year 11
Year 12
Biology 1:– Cells, living processes & biodiversity
Biology 2 :- Body systems, genetics, health and microorganisms
Chemistry 1:– Structure, trends and chemical reactions
Chemistry 2 :- Further chemical reactions, organic chemistry & materials
Physics 1 :- Force & motion, energy, moments & radioactivity
Physics 2:- Waves, sound & light, electricity and the earth & universe
Engineering – 14 possible branches, Medicine & Medical Science, Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical studies, Controlled Assessment 1 Architect, Accountancy, Optician and many more
Controlled Assessment 2 www.stpaulsbessbrook.org
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BTec First Applied Science Level 2 Extended Certificate Examination Information:
Essential for success
This is a vocational qualification. This course is assessed as follows • • • •
• • 100% continuous assessment (portfolio) • Six units to be covered over two years • Three possible awards: Distinction, Merit or Pass Distinction is equivalent to GCSE AA, Merit is equivalent to BB and • • Pass is equivalent to CC • • •
Careers Pathway: Scientific industry Electrician Technician Nursing Dental hygienist Paramedic Hair & Beauty Pharmacy assistant Mechanic & many more
Full attendance Good IT skills Every task must be completed Independent work Creative thinking Team work Good organisational skills Good time management Application of knowledge
Course Content: Year 11
Year 12
Unit 1 – Chemistry & the Earth
Unit 6 – Health Applications of Life
Unit 2 – Energy & Our Universe
Unit 8 - Science and the World of Work
Unit 3 – Biology and Our Environment Unit 9 – Working in a Science-based Industry
GCSE Religion Examination Information There are 2 papers Paper 1 – St. Mark’s Gospel 50% Paper 2 – Ethics in Roman Catholic Church 50% The course is now modular and students will complete Paper 1 at the end of Year 11
Essential for success •
It is essential that you revise each topic carefully. By doing this you will achieve excellent grades.
Course content Paper I – St. Mark’s Gospel 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Jesus’ Ministry– background to Palestine, religious groups, Jesus’ baptism, The Temptations, Caesarea Philippi The Person of Jesus—miracles and titles of Christ Jesus’ relationship with Others—Jewish Sabbath, conflict stories, outcasts and sinners Discipleship and Leadership Role of disciples, nature and costs of discipleship, faith and prayer, parables of the Kingdom Suffering, Death and Resurrection
Paper II – Ethics in the Christian Church. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Christian Values: 10 Commandments, Sermon on the Mount Features of discipleship: Call of disciples, commission, Rich Young Man Prejudice & Discrimination: Capital Punishment, War & Peace, parables Sacraments Moral Issues: Abortion/Euthanasia
Careers Pathway Teaching, Home Carer, Law, Doctor, Nursing, Counsellor, Careers Advisor, Psychologist
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Childminder, Probation Officer, Nurse
GCSE Agriculture Examination Information: There will be two written papers worth 40% of the course. Unit 1: Soils, Crops and Habitats: Weighting: 20%
Time: 1h 15mins
Taken in Year 11
Unit 2: Animals on the Land Weighting: 20%
Time: 1h 15mins
Controlled Assessment
Taken in Year 12
Essential for success • • • • •
A keen interest in farming methods Willingness to learn A good grasp of both science and geography Organsied revision Commitment and enthusiasm
Total of 60% of the course CA 1: Practical Investigation Task • Choice from one of three topics. • 20% weighting and 1000 word limit CA2: Research Project • Choice from one of three topics. • 40% weighting and 1500 word limit
Careers Pathway Agriculture and Land Use is an applied subject and aimed at students who have interests in Agriculture, Horticulture or Veterinary Science as it provides an excellent opportunity to gain an insight into these and other land based careers. In Northern Ireland 75% of land is used for agriculture with the agri-food industry employing 50,000 people.
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GCSE Art and Design Examination Information Art & Design is a two year GCSE course. 60% of the marks are for coursework - 40% of the marks are for an externally set assignment (executed over a 12 week period during February – April in Year 12)
Course content Part 1. Coursework - Compulsory This part requires one unit of work with its associated preparatory work from September in Year 11 to start of January in Year 12.
Essential for success •
Evidence of good analytical skills, good imagination and the ability to keep to deadlines will be essential for success. Pupils should be able to work in a sustained personal, creative and independent way both at home and in school and be able to use their own initiative.
Preparation Time —20 to 30 weeks Working towards a Fine Art or Design final outcome should provide opportunities for work in a range of materials using a variety of processes such as drawing and graphic media, print making, lens-based media, candidate – generated and computer manipulated imaging, textiles, ceramics and materials which are rigid, semi-rigid , soft or moulded and a number of design fields using various media, such as graphics and text, ceramics, jewellery, embroidery, product, fashion, textiles, illustration and interior design. Part 2. Working to a stimulus – Compulsory Preparation time: up to 12 weeks – Completion time: 10 hours formally supervised. Opportunities are provided for final outcomes in either Fine Art or Design. The externally set assignment paper will be issued to candidates in the first week of January in the year of assessment.
Careers Pathway Opportunities exist across a range of careers for art students, including Advertising and Marketing, Computer generated art work in Games Design, Web Design and Graphic Design, Interior Design, Product Design, Photography, Fashion, Textile Design, Sign-writer, Engraver, Make-up Artist, Beauty Therapist, Hairdresser, Architect and Teacher.
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GCSE Applied Business
There is now one level of entry for all students – all students can achieve Grades A* to C
Specification at a Glance Subject Content
Assessment
*Business Start Up * External written exam *Production *Finance 1 hour *Marketing *Managing People Format: Structured questions *Business Growth based on an unseen case study *Business Plan * Controlled Assessment
Weighting 40%
60%
This is a CCEA pre-set task to be completed over the 2 year course. Submitted February of Year 12.
Careers Pathway Accountancy, Marketing, Banking, Finance, Business Administration, Law, Hotel Management, Insurance, Journalism, Teaching
Essential for success Candidates will require an awareness of the business environment through extensive research into current economic conditions. Students will support theory by examination and application of real life business practices. A high level of dedication and commitment is necessary.
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BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Award in Children’s Play, Learning & Development The Level 2 Award in Children’s Play, Learning & Development is equivalent to two GCSEs. It covers the developmental needs for children from birth to 8 years.
Course Content This is a 2 year full time course. The following units are studied: YEAR 11 (4 units) Unit 1: Patterns of Child Development. Unit 2: Promoting children’s development through play. Unit 3: The principles of Early Years Practice Unit 5: Health & Safety in Early Year’s Settings. YEAR 12 (3 Units) Unit 4: Promoting Children’s positive behaviour Unit 7: Making healthy food choices for children. Unit 8: Introduction to working in Early Years sectors
Essential for success • • • • • •
Hard work and determined to do well Well organised/have an interest in working with children Like/enjoy the subject Ability to work individually/ in pairs/ in groups Good literacy/communication skills Ability to keep up to date on child care matters.
Assessment Assessment will take place through a variety of methods including external examinations and internal assessments.
Careers pathways • • • • • • •
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Advanced Level in Health &Social Care AS/A2 in Home Economics Nursing Nursery teacher Primary School Teacher Social worker Employment in a range of Child Care Settings
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GCSE Construction Examination Information
Course content
Examination Information UNIT 1: Practical 25% Folder 5% UNIT 2: Theory Exam 40% UNIT 3: Portfolio of CAD drawings 30%
GCSE Construction has three units of content.
Essential for success Pupils who are interested in a career in building/technology, manual or management would be well advised to undertake this GCSE, perhaps in addition to GCSE Technology.
Unit 1: Employment in the Construction Industry Getting to know more about the many and varied occupations in the Construction Industry from craft right through to professional careers. Exploring in some detail at least two jobs in the industry. Carry out one craft project using hand and tools from the following list: • Manufacture a joinery component • Install a simple electrical circuit to industrial standards. Unit 2: Materials Examining the materials used in the construction of domestic buildings. -Developing the skills of creating and interpreting construction drawings. Unit 3: Computer Aided Drawing Developing their drawing skills using the computer. Focusing on and producing annotated two dimensional drawings which conform to appropriate standards and conventions showing relevant construction details.
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CIDA Certificate in Digital Applications Assessment
Essential for success
CiDA candidates will study two units.
Students should have: • An interest in all aspects of computing. • The initiative and organisational skills necessary to produce a series of tasks in a number of different areas.
Assessment is via: • •
A 25% external assessment on the computer A 75% computer based internal portfolio
Course content Using Digital Tools (Core Unit) Along with one optional unit from the following: • Creative Multimedia • Artwork and Imaging • Game Making
A CiDA in ICT is an ideal qualification for those candidates who want a broad background in Information and Communication Technology which will allow them to progress to further or higher education, training or employment. Assessment is designed to give credit for what candidates can do as well as what they know. It is based on a 25% external assessment and electronic evidence from assignments. This qualification is the equivalent to one GCSE grade A* to C.
Careers Pathway
CiDA ICT prepares students for working in a society where new technologies are playing an increasingly important role in the world of work.
The ICT sector is a fast growing area of employment and CiDA students are particularly suitable for recruitment in a range of employment categories e.g. IT Services, Computer Sales, Publishing, Graphic Design.
Progression to Further Qualifications Candidates who achieve this qualification will be fully prepared to enter a course leading to an Applied A’ Level in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
GCSE Drama
Essential for success
Examination Information Assessment component 1: Written external examination. Assessment component 2: Coursework and practical.
} 40% } 60%
Students will be required to have: • Enjoyment for the subject • Commitment and enthusiasm • Willingness and participation in groups through practical activities
Course content GCSE Drama is an exciting two year course with a practical dimension… • • •
It develops a knowledge and understanding of making and appraising drama. Encourages the self-confidence required to explore and express ideas, emotions, themes and issues through the devising and making of performances. Develops the enjoyment, appreciation and understanding of dramatic texts.
Careers Pathway A GCSE in Drama can provide you with the knowledge and skills to pursue an A Level
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study in Drama, and give you valuable preparation for careers in Film, Media, Theatre, Creative Writing, Journalism, Acting, Social Work, Politics, Broadcasting, Advertising and many more….
GCSE French Examination Information French GCSE is divided into 3 areas • • •
Controlled Assessment– 60% Oral & Written Reading – 20% Listening – 20%
Course content
Essential for success As with the study of any language, a lot of independent work is required from the pupil. Language is always evolving, so therefore no course is ever complete. As dictionaries are no longer allowed in external examinations, pupils will have to spend time increasing their vocabulary bank, therefore students need to be highly motivated and prepared to engage regularly with the Language Assistant. Resources for the course are now easily accessed online.
Unit 1: Listening: Examination - 20% Either Foundation Tier; 30 Minutes (+5minutes reading time) Or Higher Tier; 40 minutes (+5minutes reading time) Unit 2: Reading: Examination - 20% Either Foundation Tier; 30 Minutes Or Higher Tier; 50Minutes Unit 3: Speaking: Controlled Assessment - 30% (internally assessed) Two tasks submitted for moderation Unit 4: Writing: Controlled Assessment - 30% (externally assessed) Two tasks submitted for moderation
Careers Pathway Why choose French?
Work opportunities with a language exist in many fields – Tourism, Travel, Education, Business. Careers include Hotel Receptionist, Tour Guide, Courier, Modern Languages Teacher, Interpreter, Language Secretary, Airline Pilot and Cabin Crew. French is spoken in several other countries, e.g. Canada, Switzerland, Belgium, hence, employment opportunities and career possibilities increase globally.
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GCSE Geography Examination Information Paper 1 – 37.5% Paper 2 – 37.5% Coursework – 25%
Essential for success Have an interest in events & places throughout the world and the vital role you and others play in the world Be willing and open to learn new and exciting life skills that will help you to survive in the 21st Century
Course content Students will follow the CCEA GCSE specification. The course is modular with the opportunity to sit an exam at the end of year 11. The controlled assessment is submitted in year 12 and a second exam taken in the summer term. Unit 1: Understanding Our Natural World This unit covers the following themes: Theme A: The Dynamic Landscape (50%) – rivers, coasts, flooding and management Theme B: Our Changing Weather and Climate (25%) – weather systems, climate change Theme C: The Restless Earth (25%) – rocks, theory of plate tectonics, earthquakes Unit 2: Living in Our World This unit covers the following themes: Theme A: People and Where They Live (50%) – population growth, change and structure; settlement site, function and hierarchy; urbanisation in MEDCs and LEDCs Theme B: Contrasts in World Development (25%) – development gap, causes of unequal development, solutions to unequal development Theme C: Managing Our Resources (25%) – impact on environment of resource use, increased demand for resources in MEDCs and LEDCs, managing waste, sustainable tourism Unit 3: Fieldwork Report Primary data collection to investigate a geographical issue. A written report (max 2000 words) partially completed under direct supervision in school.
Careers Pathway: Statistics show, compared to other subjects, Geography students are among the most
employable. Employers like geography qualifications because they demonstrate a wide range of skills, qualifying you for a great variety of jobs. Some careers where geography is very useful include:
Pilot, Architect, Agricultural Engineer, Building Surveyor, Market researcher, Zoologist, Teacher, Countryside Officer, Town Planner, Tourism Officer, Environmental Engineer, Weather Forecaster
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GCSE Health and Social Care Course content Board: CCEA Single Award Divided into 2 modules 1 Assignment module: Working in Health and Social Care 60% 1 Tested module (90 min exam) Understanding personal development and relationships 40%
Essential for success Students opting for this course should have an interest in working with others. They should have good communication skills and the ability to work individually / in pairs / and in teams.
Modules involve a combination of academic and practical learning. After 2 years you will be awarded A*- G
Careers Pathway Relevant for careers in Childcare, Nursing, Working with Elderly and Social Work etc.
GCSE History Course content Paper 1 Germany 1918 - 1945 Northern Ireland 1932-1949 Paper 2 Depth Study The Cold War 1945-1991
Essential for success •
•
An interest in learning about how governments work, how societies develop and the role of the individual in History. A key awareness of how events in the past can shape the world we live in today.
Examination Information Students will sit a two hour paper at the end of Year 11. This will cover the German and Irish elements of the course and will be worth 50% of the total marks. Paper 2 covers The Cold War and lasts 75 minutes. It is worth 25%. The controlled assessment is worth 25% and is currently based on the Vietnam War.
Careers Pathway History is useful for careers in: Conservation Work, Environmental Work, Tourism, Town Planning, Law, Accountancy and Politics.
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GCSE Home Economics Course content
Essential for success
Unit 1: Diet and Health, Consumer Awareness. 40% Written Examination 1 ½ hrs
•
Unit 2: Diet and Health, Controlled assessment – (Coursework) 40% planning, practical, evaluation. Unit 3: Diet & Health: Eat Well Plate, Nutrients, Labelling, Dietary Disorders, Special Diets, The Life Cycle, Food Safety and Food Creativity. Controlled Assessment: The Effective Consumer, What Influences Shopping, Money Matters and The Wise Buyer.
Examination Information Assessment: Unit 2 ~ 1000 words, 25hrs, Range of dishes in 2 – 2. 30mins, Evaluation : 750 words.
• • • • • •
Hardworking and determined to do well Well organised Like/enjoy the subject Ability to develop practical skills Good literacy, numeracy and ICT skills Ability to work individually or in pairs/groups Ability to keep up-to-date on health matters
Unit 3: CA~ 3000 words, 20hrs Key Skills assessed.
Careers Pathway Further study at AS/A2 Level Home Economics, Teaching, Nursing, Dietician,
Environmental Health Officer, Social Worker, Food Technologist Employment in the Hotel and Catering Field
GCSE ICT Course content The Practical involves the completion of two assignments including: Unit 1: Tools and Applications In this unit, students should be able to make appropriate use of a word processor/desktop publishing /database/ spreadsheet/ presentation packages and communication software when required.
Essential for success Students opting for this course should have: (a)
an interest in all aspects of comput ing
(b)
the initiative and ability to produce a series of pieces of coursework
Unit 2: Visual Communication Technology In this unit, students will have the opportunity to develop practical skills for designing websites and games. They will also develop practical skills that will enable them to use graphics, digital video and sound effectively.
The theory includes the study of: Unit 3: Understanding ICT Systems in Everyday Life and its Implications for Individuals, Organisations, Society and the Wider World. Knowledge of ICT Components, Data and Information, Digital Communication Methods, Applications of ICT
Examination Information The course is a mixture of : Practical (60%) Theory (40%)
Careers Pathway Most occupations require I.C.T. skills.
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GCSE I.C.T. leads directly into ‘A’ level ICT and then on to careers in the IT industry such as Programmers, I.T. Engineers, Systems Analysts etc.
GCSE Learning for Life & Work Course Content This course provides students with the skills they require to think independently, make informed decisions, and take appropriate action when faced with personal, social, economic and employment issues. Pupils will study… Local and Global Citizenship
Essential for success •
Well organised
•
Excellent attendance
•
Independent work
• Good organisational skills This area of study gives students opportunities to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to participate positively and effectively • Creative thinking in their communities and wider society; influence democratic processes; and make informed and responsible decisions as local and global citizens throughout their lives. • Diversity and inclusion in Northern Ireland and the wider world • Rights and responsibilities regarding local, national and global issues • The role of society and government in safeguarding human rights • Non-governmental organisations • Key democratic institutions and their role in promoting inclusion, justice and democracy Personal Development This area of study gives students the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of their own personal development; and assess and learn how to manage the challenges that they may face throughout life. • Maximising and sustaining health and well-being • Concept of self • Building and maintaining healthy relationships • Recognising, assessing and managing risk • Understanding the roles and responsibilities of parenting • Developing competence as discerning consumers Employability This area of study gives students opportunities to develop the personal qualities, skills, knowledge, understanding and attitudes that will give them a strong foundation for lifelong learning and work in a rapidly changing economic environment. • The impact of globalization on employment • Recruitment and selection practices for employment • Rights and responsibilities of employers and employees • Issues of self – employment and sources of support
Examination Information/ Assessment Examining Board: CCEA There are five units of assessment. Two controlled assessment units each worth 30% and three written papers each worth 13.3%. Two reports from PSHE, Local and Global Citizenship or Employability. Controlled assessment is work carried out by the students in a classroom under the supervision of the teacher. Tasks are set by CCEA and students are only allowed a set number of hours to complete the work. Only research can be completed at home. Unit 1: Report 1 Task based on one of the three areas of study. Unit 2: Report 2 Task based on a different area of study from that selected for Unit 1. Unit 3: Local and Global Citizenship Examination – an externally assessed written paper lasting 45 minutes. Unit 4: Employability Examination - an externally assessed written paper lasting 45 minutes. Unit 5: Personal Development Examination - an externally assessed written paper lasting 45 minutes.
Future Prospects The wide range of skills learned in this course will help young people develop as individuals and contributors to society, the economy and the environment. This course will help young people to think independently, make informed decisions and take appropriate courses of action in personal, social, economic and employment situations. www.stpaulsbessbrook.org
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Technology and Design Resistant Materials AQA G.C.S.E. Written Paper (Design/Theory) 2hrs 40% Section A – pre-release material for this Section is sent to schools in February. You will be given the theme and information for the design questions. You will then have approx. 6 weeks to carry out research and prepare your answers. Controlled Assessment (Coursework) 60% Design Folder max. 20 x A3 pages. Project: Exam Board provides an outline of various tasks to choose from. Sample projects and folders can be viewed in our Department. One tier covering grades A* to G. Candidates answer all questions in two sections.
Careers Pathway All Design and Engineering Courses. Architecture, Product Design, Teaching, Craft/Skill based jobs and many, many more.
Girls and Boys Technology and Design is no longer a male dominated area of study. Many girls now enjoy studying the subject and consistently achieve high grades at GCSE and A level.
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Essential for success •
•
The ability to meet coursework deadlines. The ability to work independently in a mature and safe way in our Department Successful students will be good at I.T., sketching and be interested in technology. They will have enjoyed their first 3 years, taken pride in their work and had good results and reports.
GCSE Irish Course content Link with Key Stage 3 Irish The study of Irish at GCSE level builds upon what you have learned during years 8, 9 and 10 (Key Stage 3).
Examination Information • • • • • •
Controlled Assessment Spoken Language (30%) Writing skills (30%) Examination Listening skills (20%) Reading skills (20%)
Essential for success • • • • • • • •
Speak the language at every opportunity. Complete all homework and study on a regular basis. Learn and revise vocabulary. Watch TG4 as often as possible Listen to Raidio na Gaeltacht (RnaG) Read as much Irish as you can Try to visit the Gaeltacht Participation on Oscail 24/7
Careers Pathway Tourism, Primary Teacher, Newspaper, Secretarial, Journalism, Television, Radio, The Individual
Relationships, Local environment, Activities, Health and lifestyle
Citizenship Employability
Secondary Teacher, Civil Service, TV Acting, Garda Siochana, Software design, Print and Design, Nursery Teacher
Social issues, Travel and tourism, Environmental issues, Media and communications, Celebrations, Gaeltacht
School life, Part-time jobs, Future plans
GCSE Music
Essential for success
There is one compulsory core area of study and three optional areas of study. Students study only two optional areas of study. Core Area of Study Repeated patterns in music Optional Areas of Study Musical traditions in Ireland Incidental music
Pupils must study an instrument or singing through private tuition and must reach a standard equivalent to grade 3 of the examinations boards, by the end of year 12. There are also opportunities for Irish Traditional musicians to take on the subject, as long as they are able to play a selection of tunes in various time signatures.
Through the three assessment objectives of listening, performing and composing, pupils will be assessed in skills and abilities, together with knowledge and understanding, as specified in the subject content.
Pupils need to be continually committed to improving their instrumental/vocal techniques.
Course content
Pupils will be expected to perform one solo piece and one ensemble (group) piece related to one of the areas of study. Pupils will submit two contrasting compositions lasting 3-6 minutes in total. One of these must be related to the core or an optional area of study.
Examination Information Composing and appraising - 30% Performing and appraising - 35% Listening and appraising - 35%
Careers Pathway Musical Careers, Composing, Secretarial Work, Accountancy, Performing, Civil Service,
Banking, Conducting, Computing, Film Music, Music Teacher, Business Careers, Piano Tuning, Private Tuition, Social Work, Music Journalism, Radio/Television, Instrument Making & Repair Engineering
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GCSE Spanish
Essential for success
Course content
•
The GCSE Spanish course is a natural progression from the units studied at Key Stage 3. The resources used within our department are both motivational and fresh and we employ a wide range of media to enhance language learning for our students. The GCSE course is made up of four components; Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. The speaking and writing elements are examined by means of controlled assessments which can be completed at any stage throughout the course. These components are worth 30% each and the listening and reading elements which are tested at the end of Year 12 are each worth 20% of the overall mark awarded at GCSE.
• •
•
Use all opportunities to speak in Spanish both in class and with friends Complete all set activities and spend time, independently in class building up your vocabulary. Attend extra-curricular events and avail of twilight support clinics within our department to build your confidence and ability in the language. Utilise the bank of online resources, podcasts and DVD’s to compliment work covered in class.
The course provides students with a sound base for further study of the language at A Level. In addition to time-tabled classes students have the opportunity to attend extra lessons after school in the department as part of our Spanish Club, during which the language assistant helps pupils to grow in confidence in their linguistic ability as well as extending their understanding of key aspects of Spanish culture. GCSE students also enjoy opportunities to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities including participation in the on-line forum with our link school in Andalucía. Our current GCSE group have also participated in a Spanish Cultural Studies Project, a Spanish Film Club, as well as having attended relevant workshops in Queen’s University, Belfast. In October forty GCSE Spanish students had the opportunity to visit Mijas in the South of Spain, an experience which proved to be very enjoyable and beneficial for all.
Examination Information Candidates are assessed in 4 skill areas: 1. Listening – 20% 2. Speaking test – 30% 3. Reading test – 20% 4. Writing test – 30%
Careers Pathway Teaching, Law with Spanish, Medicine with Spanish, Interpreting Work, Business with
Spanish, Travel and Tourism, Marketing in Spanish, Media and Film with Spanish, Journalism with Spanish
** Students intending to continue their study of Spanish through to A Level should opt for Spanish as a time-tabled subject rather than the twilight option.**
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GCSE PE - Double Award Course content Fitness testing Lifestyle choices Risk Assessment Energy systems Cultural and Social factors
Training and preparation for performance Diet Injury Emotional health and well being International factors
Examination Information Paper One-Knowledge and Understanding for The Active Participant (20%) Paper Two-Knowledge and Understanding for The Involved Participant (20%) Practical Controlled Assessment - 60% Practical Component - 40% A number of Practical activities from three of following areas: Games; Gymnastics; Dance; Athletics; Health and Fitness; Outdoor/ Adventure activities;
Careers Pathway PE Teacher, Army Officer, Physiotherapist, Sports Therapist, Leisure/Sports Centre
Manager, Outdoor Pursuits Instructor, Sports Representative (Nike, Adidas)
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BTEC Level 2 First Extended Certificate in Sport Examination Information – Vocational Qualification The course is assessed through a combination of assessment methods; 2 units – Externally assessed 10 units – Internally assessed 12 units covered over your two year course
Possible Grades; Range from PPP which is equivalent to CCC at GCSE up to D*D*D* which is equivalent to A*A*A* at GCSE.
Course Content Unit
Core units
1
Fitness for Sport and Exercise (Exam)
2
Practical Sports Performance
Unit
Mandatory unit
7
Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Performance (Exam)
Unit
Optional specialist units
3
The Mind and Sports Performance
4
The Sports Performer in Action
5
Training for Personal Fitness
6
Leading Sports Activities
8
Promotion and Sponsorship in Sport
9
Lifestyle and Well-being
10
Injury and the Sports Performer
11
Running a Sports Event
12
The Sport and Active Leisure Industry
Career Pathways Sports Coaching Sports Psychology Personal Trainer Gym Instructor Sports Development Teaching Sport Studies Sports Science Media
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Essential for success • • • • • • •
Full Attendance. An interest in the world of sport. IT Skills. A good level of organisational skills. Time management. Team work. The ability to work independently.
All text and photographs Š St Paul's High School, Bessbrook. Printed January 2014. All information contained is correct at the time of printing. Designed and Printed by Photography by Gary Crossan - www.garycrossanphotography.com
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St Paul’s High School 108 Camlough Road, Bessbrook, Newry, BT35 7EE Telephone: 028 3083 0309 Fax: 028 3083 9948
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Our Partner for the Future
Specialist College for Science
ICT Centre of Excellence
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Sharing Education Programme II
Northern Ireland Head Teacher of the Year