THE MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM
2023 - 2024
CONTENTS
LearningatPGS
TheLibrary(GBlock)
AcademicEnrichment
Art&Design
Biology
Classics
ComputerScience
Design&Technology
ProductDesign&Graphics
Food&Nutrition
Drama
English
Geography
History
Mathematics
ModernLanguages
Music
PastoralCurriculum
Philosophy&ReligiousStudies
PhysicalEducation
PhysicalScience
PortsmouthCurriculum
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LEARNING AT PGS
PGS aims to create an environment in which pupils are keen to develop a range of skills and talents. We want to help pupils to assimilate the body of knowledge and practical skills necessary both to achieve academic success and to provide a secure foundation for their future as lifelong learners in which they contribute positively to the local and global community.
We encourage pupils to be enquiring and independent in their learning. We want our learners to evaluate their progress critically and learn to optimise their potential by setting themselves challenging goals and adopting effective study techniques. They should be willing to work collaboratively, with proper respect for each other’s different talents and mindful at all times of academic honesty.
Homework is an important aspect of learning at PGS. We want it to be relevant to classwork and age and ability appropriate to enable pupils to be confident in their own progress and proud of their successes. We give regular constructive feedback to identify the strengths of the work and targets for improvement. Teaching is adapted to meet the needs of pupils, including those with Additional Educational Needs (AEN).
Pupils receive advice and practical tips on revision from their tutors and subject teachers. Help is always available in departmental tutoring sessions and the Library team can offer study skills support on an individual basis. The Learning Support department screens all pupils on arrival at PGS and uses the results of baseline tests to identify individuals who would benefit from additional support. They will work with pupils who have a specific learning difficulty, such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, and who need additional support to maximise their learning. If you have any concerns about your child’s study skills or believe they may have an undiagnosed specific learning difficulty, please contact your child’s tutor in the first instance.
Developing good study skills is addressed through the Pastoral Curriculum, Portsmouth Curriculum and annually through our programme of seminars delivered by an external provider.
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THE MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM AT PGS
The curriculum for the Middle School at PGS is a broad and engaging one which builds foundations for success. The subjects studied in Years 7 and 8 are listed below and details of the courses are provided in this booklet.
Art & Design
Biology, Physical Science (Chemistry & Physics)
Computer Science
Design & Technology*
Drama
English
Geography
History
Latin Mathematics
Modern Languages (French, German, Spanish)
Music
Pastoral Curriculum
Philosophy & Religious Studies
Physical Education & Games
Portsmouth Curriculum
(*incorporating Product Design, Graphics and Food & Nutrition)
THE PGS CURRICULUM, YEARS 9 - 11
In the spring of Year 8, pupils are asked to select some options for study in Year 9 and in the spring of Year 9 they select their GCSE options. Details of the current core and options structure for Years 9-11 are given below; these may change from year to year.
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Year 9
Core - compulsory for all pupils
English Language and Literature
Maths
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Geography
History
Philosophy and Religious Studies
One Modern Language (French, German or Spanish)
Pastoral Curriculum
PE Games
Years 10 and 11
Core - compulsory for all pupils
English Language and Literature
Maths
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
One Modern Language (French, German or Spanish)
Pastoral Curriculum
PE Games
Options - pupils pick three
Art and Design
Computer Science
Design and Technology
Drama
Food and Nutrition
Latin (or Latin/Greek)
A second Modern Language (French, German or Spanish)
Money Management
Music
Options - pupils pick three
Art and Design
Business
Classical Civilisation (cannot be combined with Greek)
Computer Science
Design and Technology
Drama
Food and Nutrition
Geography
History
A second Modern Language (French, German or Spanish)
Latin (or Latin/Greek)
Music
Philosophy and Religious Studies
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HOMEWORK AND EFFECTIVE WORK HABITS
Homework is an opportunity to consolidate and build on classroom learning in a variety of ways. The homework diary is used to note details of homework. Google Classroom may also be used to upload instructions and tasks as well as to share resources. You can help your son/daughter with homework by encouraging them to use their diary well (there is a space for you to sign it each week), ensuring they have a routine that enables them to do homework every day of the week and providing an environment at home which is conducive to quiet study. Please encourage academic honesty by ensuring that they reference any sources (including the internet) they use in their work. There are details of how to reference in the homework diary.
Pupils in Years 7 and 8 are set two pieces of homework per night, according to the homework timetable (available on PGS Online). Homework may be due for completion on a different night from the one on which the homework is set – this is to enable an even spread of homework across five nights. Geography, History, Art and PRS have one homework per fortnight. There is no homework set for Drama, Computer Science, Music, Pastoral Curriculum, Physical Education or Portsmouth Curriculum. All other subjects set one piece of homework weekly.
Pupils should spend a maximum of 25 minutes on each piece of homework in Year 7, rising to a maximum of 30 minutes per piece in Year 8. There is a supervised daily homework club based in the school library from 4.00 pm until 6.00 pm where pupils may work independently. If you would like your child to attend the homework club, do give them a snack and drink to have at the end of lessons before going to the Library. No additional homework is set over the holidays although in the summer half-term preceding the end-of-year examinations, revision is advisable. You can help your child with organisation by providing them with a large, strong, named pencil case and the equipment detailed in the subject entries in this booklet.
In order to learn well, young people need around 10 hours’ sleep a night. They should relax before going to sleep – reading quietly in a softly lit room is ideal. Eating healthily helps with concentration so it is important to have three meals a day and healthy snacks too. Keeping hydrated by drinking fluids but limiting sugary drinks and those containing caffeine maximise the ability to study well.
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Pupils may drink water in class and should bring a named bottle to school. This can be filled when needed from the water dispenser in the Middle School Common Room and others located around the school site.
Please raise any concerns about home or school work with your child’s tutor in the first instance –via a note in the homework diary or an email.
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THE LIBRARY (G BLOCK)
The Library is a nice place to go before school, at break, lunchtime and after school to read, study and get homework done. It opens at 8.00 am and closes at 6.00 pm each day.
You can explore interests and expand knowledge using a wide range of books, journals, digital resources and the assistance of an expert library team.
In addition to books, we have magazines, graphic novels, DVDs, audio books and a range of lunchtime book clubs.
Our Chromebooks and laptops can be used to check email, work on assignments or collaborate with fellow pupils on projects. The Library’s photocopier is available for scanning and printing material to assist research and homework.
After-school study session is supervised by both a librarian and teacher. Pupils do not have to book in advance, they simply sign in and out on each visit, then read, study or complete homework. We aim to create a comfortable, relaxed and studious atmosphere for all.
Pupils may book sessions with Dr Webb to support them in finding strategies for revision, organising work, or study skills.
Recent Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils have said:
“It has books of every type and a really nice atmosphere”
Library clubs: “I’ve connected with people, it’s really fun.”
“Book Club is a place I can talk freely about the sometimes deeper meanings of books or even current issues. It’s such a fun and comfortable atmosphere”
“You can do more than just read in the Library, you can get advice and do homework in a relaxed environment.”
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The Library team support pupils throughout their PGS experience as the following comments show:
“My PGS experience would not have been as enriched without your book recommendations and discussions. I don't understand how I always walk away from book club with about 5 more books I need to read!” Year 10
“You gave me more support and confidence in my own ability than I ever could have asked for. I appreciate every meeting, extra research and constructive idea you have given me. The skills you have passed on will guide me through university and thereafter.” Year 13
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
Topicscoveredandskillsacquired
Academic enrichment activities in the Middle School occur throughout the school year and are designed to offer pupils opportunities to explore issues that are either of particular interest to them or not traditionally catered for by the structure of a ‘ grammar school’ curriculum. Pupils are, via independent open-ended projects, given the opportunity to further develop their knowledge of particular topics that inspire them. This also provides an excellent opportunity to support pupils in acquiring skills which foster effective independent research, project-planning and evolution, and creative and engaging presentations. Pupils are also supported in developing their own metacognitive self-regulation and will learn to understand more about the importance of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in academic (and wider) progress and success. Finally, we also look to run moredirectedstudydaysandcreativeprojectworkthatfocusonwiderworldskillsandvaluessuch as entrepreneurship, business leadership and innovation that, again, are not traditionally seen as bedrocksofin-schoollearning.
Equipment
Nospecialequipmentisrequired.
Homework
There is no dedicated enrichment homework but independent time management is a skill that we hopetodevelopviatheseprogrammes.
ParentalSupport
Parentsmaywishtosupporttheirchildrenbydiscussingwiththemareasofacademicstudythatthey wishtoindependentlypursuefurtherbeyondtheexistingMiddleSchoolcurriculum.Childrenwillalso benefit from gaining a greater awareness of how their parents work in the modern workplace and themostappositeskillsandmindsetsthatarebeneficialinthisregard.
MrsSHaslam (DeputyHead,Academic&StaffWelfare) s.haslam@pgs.org.uk
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SUBJECTS
ART AND DESIGN
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 7
The purpose of the Year 7 Art & Design curriculum is to expose pupils to a range of materials, ideas, and experiences. We will develop this knowledge and understanding alongside a traditional study of the formal elements of Art: line, tone, colour, pattern, texture, shape, form, and space, building upon the skills started during Key Stage 2. As sketchbook research is vital to any artist’s learning, we encourage Year 7 to develop sketchbook layout and presentation skills with which to communicate ideas in an individual and more mature way. Accordingly, our topics are changed on an annual basis to keep our learning experiences fresh with pace and excitement. Throughout Middle School and beyond, pupils are introduced to a wide range of traditional and contemporary artists and designers, and they are encouraged to make connections between the work they find and their own studies.
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 8
During Year 8, pupils undertake much more ambitious work that explores a wider range of disciplines across a greater range of scales. This might include clay work, expressive drawing, painting, print-making and mixed media approaches. Pupils are given opportunities to work both independently and collaboratively and are encouraged to take greater risks with ideas, materials, and techniques whilst engaging with the world around them and thinking about higher concepts in Art.
Co-curricular activities
Pupils are often given opportunities to take part in co-curricular activities during the school day, which
relate to their thematic projects during lesson time. In Year 7 and 8, we run art tutoring where pupils can improve upon studio techniques and use our specialist equipment to resolve ideas from homework.
Equipment required
In lessons, we will provide a sketchbook and highquality art materials for every pupil, though they will need to bring their own pencil case and normal stationery equipment each week A 2B pencil is recommended for drawing. At home, a range of coloured pencils, some basic sketching tools and a simple pack of paints would be helpful for independent learning to happen.
Homework
We want homework to be fun, challenging, and useful as preparation for our weekly lessons. In the Middle School, pupils are set Art homework assignments each term and these relate to and complement the topics studied in class. As we move upwards through school, these assignments may include longer, more independently led tasks to encourage deeper thinking about the role and philosophies of Art.
Parental support
We encourage pupils to keep a good time management routine and ask them to complete their assignments using a sound home schedule, and parents can support pupils by offering guidance on this. Pupils often manage their tasks in Art best over a weekend, especially during winter days, as the light is better. Visits to local, national, and international galleries also support pupil understanding.
Further Information
Mr J Peebles, Head of Art j.peebles@pgs.org.uk14
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BIOLOGY
Topics studied and skills acquired
The course focuses on introducing topics covered later at GCSE while honing the practical and analytical skills needed to succeed in this core subject.
The topics covered during Year 7 have been selected to provide a range of themes and practical activities: Microscopy and cell structure, Food and digestion, Respiration and breathing, Photosynthesis and Ecosystems, finishing with a project. Year 8 topics provide further preparation for GCSE, while also allowing exploration of health issues and applications of Biology: microbes, disease and immunity, reproduction in plants and animals, variation and inheritance, detection, drugs, smoking and alcohol, finishing with a pupil-designed research project. This year makes explicit the link between the Health Education aspect of the Pastoral Curriculum at PGS and Biology Pupils work collaboratively for some tasks but are also given opportunities to structure their own investigations and evaluate evidence from individual enquiry.
The two years allow pupils to find out about many different aspects of Biology within the contexts explored in lessons and for homework tasks. They are also encouraged to communicate information to their peers by contributing to presentations and discussions All these activities provide pupils with the opportunity to develop their biological understanding in a stimulating and enjoyable way that is designed to be useful and fun.
Co-curricular activities
Pupils wishing to explore the natural world in more depth may wish to join the Wildlife Club. This popular
activity takes place weekly during the Wednesday lunch break.
Equipment required
All practical equipment is provided. Each pupil must bring normal writing stationery including pencil, ruler and eraser. A calculator is also recommended.
Homework
Pupils are set one piece of homework each week. Examples of tasks include IT-based research tasks, completing a practical write-up, producing posters and leaflets, preparing presentations and revising for spelling tests. There are also end-of-topic tests at appropriate times, in which pupils are required to give short responses to structured questions.
Parental support
Parents may wish to encourage pupils to read relevant newspaper articles or watch documentaries on contemporary biological themes, such as those presented by Sir David Attenborough. Parents can also help pupils with subject-specific spellings and ensuring correct use of biological terminology when assisting them with revision for tests.
Further information
Miss R Poole Head of Biologyr.poole@pgs.org.uk
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CLASSICS
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 7
Pupils study Book I of the Cambridge Latin Course, focusing on such topics as family life, slavery, good housing, trade, gladiatorial entertainments and the destruction of Pompeii.
They will gain a greater awareness of the way language works and some elementary translation skills They will become more adept at making connections between languages and using the roots of words to elicit an understanding of a wider range of vocabulary.
They will look at how archaeological as well as literary evidence has contributed to our understanding of the past. They will gain an awareness of some of the key differences and similarities between Roman social life in the first century AD and our own
Topics studies and skills acquired in Year 8
Pupils will study the first four chapters of De Romanis I. Throughout the course, we will consolidate grammar and vocabulary covered in Year 7 as well introduce new concepts. The course is both accessible to pupils entering Year 8 who have never studied Latin before, whilst still stretching those who excelled in Year 7. Each year there are pupils who continue with Latin in Year 9 who did not study the subject in Year 7.
Each chapter begins with a topic on Classical Civilisation. The pupils start by learning myths about the Olympian gods, followed by stories of heroes, and then the early history of Rome. The Year 8 course therefore provides an excellent introduction to many topics studied in Year 10 Classical Civilisation.
Equipment required
No special equipment is needed. A dictionary will not help at this stage.
Homework
Homework is set once a week. It may consist of translation, learning vocabulary and grammar, or some form of creative writing or project work.
Parental support
It would be great if parents could encourage pupils to be curious about the past and about the roots and origins of words. Some help testing pupils on vocabulary prior to a test often can make a difference.
Further Information
Mr M Murray Head of Classics m.murray@pgs.org.uk17
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Topics covered and skills acquired
Year 7
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
G Suite and school systems
Online safety and desktop publishing
Spreadsheet modelling
Computer programming with Micro:Bit
Technology Pioneers Research and Innovation Project
Computing Theory
Computational Thinking
Blogging
Boolean Logic
Flowol
Year 8
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Online safety and digital footprint - using mind mapping skills to show case learning
Code.org & OUCC Preparations (Blockly Coding)
App Development Project using AppInventor
Data handling and advanced spreadsheet skills
Computing Theory
Co-curricular activities
Computer suites are available for pupil use from 8.20am to 4.00pm including morning break and lunchtime. During the year there are many cocurricular coding competitions and innovation technology trips and the department aims to take part in as many of these as possible. The Computer Science department also offers coding clubs weekly
during lunchtimes for all years and a coding club for girls only to encourage the involvement and increased participation of girls in the field of Computer Science.
Equipment Required
A small set of headphones is sometimes useful for lessons. These headphones should not be expensive and can be kept in a pupil’s blazer so they are always available to them for use in lessons.
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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Incorporating Product Design, Food & Nutrition and Graphics
In Years 7 and 8 pupils study a range of subjects as part of Design & Technology and these subjects are taught as a carousel. During the academic year pupils will have two terms studying Product Design, Graphics and Electronics while the remaining term is spent studying Food & Nutrition. Class sizes are kept low to maximise the use of equipment and there are around 13-16 pupils per group.
Product Design, Graphics and Electronics
Topics covered
Year 7
Picture Frame Project
Understanding health and safety considerations in the workshops
Identifying wood types
Introduction to basic woodworking tools and construction methods
Producing accurate 2D design drawings and create templates for manufacture. Using hand tools and machines accurately
Steady Hand Game
Introduction to electronic circuits
Construction of electronic circuits using soldering
Vacuum forming process
Fidget Spinner Project
Introduction to CAD skills using 2D design; Demonstrate how to accurately draw, contour and colour lines on CAD, Understand how ball bearings work
Explain the basic stages of how the laser cutter works
Identify the implications of CAD/CAM on the design process
Year 8
Copper Project - Key Holder
Introduction to metal as a material in relation to classifications and material properties
Introduction to metal forming processes including annealing and hammer work Metal finishing processes
Box Project
Learn and produce four accurate wood joining methods (finger joint, dowel joint, screw joint, butt joint)
Accurately mark out woods using the correct equipment to a set tolerance.
Create a user centred design for a specific client
Graphics
Demonstrate converting isometric drawings into orthographic drawings
Understand and demonstrate 2 point perspective drawing
Know a variety of ways to colour render a product design drawing
Demonstrate using CAD to create an accurate net for cutting
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Year 7 continued
Pewter Project
Identification of manmade boards such as MDF
Create a gravity die mould for casting
Safely use a blowtorch to melt pewter
Know the melting point of pewter and its basic properties
Safely demonstrate metal casting
Understand how to finish small metal products
Equipment required
Pupils are expected to bring a pencil, rubber, 30cm ruler and pencil sharpener to every lesson. All other equipment will be provided.
Homework
D&T homework will be set for Years 7 and 8 at the start of each new half term. Homework is set to build confidence in the processes they have been taught and to aid preparation for the lesson Pupils should expect to spend half an hour a week on these tasks.
Year 8 continued
Chair Project
Develop 3D modelling techniques
Use of CAD/CAM including the laser cutter to make a scale prototype of a chair
Parental support
It is helpful to encourage pupils to practise their designing and drawing skills whenever they can, especially when visiting new and exciting places. Highlighting articles or television programmes you may see which showcase manufacturing or exciting advances in technology can enthuse and inspire pupils to think about modern advances in design. Visits to exhibitions and museums can also allow pupils to understand developments in technology in a broader context
For some projects, we may ask you to help your child source some basic materials.
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Food & Nutrition
Topics covered and skills acquired
Aims of Year 7 Course
Develop skills in the safe, hygienic, healthy and creative use of food
Increase awareness of a healthy diet, the eat well plate and avoid poor food choices
Learn new practical skills such as vegetable and fruit preparation, developing independent working
Health and Safety in the food room including bacteria and bugs
Foster self-evaluation and encourage collaborative assessment
Basic nutrition and function of ingredients
Software analysis of the nutritional values of food
Equipment Required
Basic writing equipment, along with a rigid container and ingredients for practical sessions will be required.
Homework
Homework tasks vary but may include: learning notes for tests, writing up evaluations, completing worksheets to assess learning, online research, preparing for practical sessions and completing selfassessment sheets.
Parental support
Parents can assist by providing ingredients and encouraging pupils to carry out sensory analysis of the products made.
Aims of Year 8 Course
Develop an interest in and analytical approach to food preparation, independent approach to recipe selection, organisation and time management
Increase awareness of personal diet and wellbeing
Improve research and management of information about health implications of diet choice
Provide new opportunities to acquire a range of practical skills
The chemistry of cooking
Using electrical equipment and using a range of equipment simultaneously
Foster independent learning and self-assessment
Encourage self-evaluation and ensure collaborative assessment
Further Information
Mr T James Head of Design & Technologyt.james@pgs.org.uk
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DRAMA
The units throughout Years 7 and 8 introduce key dramatic skills, techniques, context and concepts, as well as encouraging self-expression, collaborative ability and confidence. They are a foundation for development and progression through Key Stage 3 and into Key Stage 4 and beyond.
Topics studied in Year 7
Storytelling: Pupils practise and employ a range of basic techniques to tell both improvised and traditional stories in a variety of ways, be it through images, narration, movement or sound.
Melodrama: Pupils use stock characters and plot from the genre of Melodrama to develop their physical and vocal skills in broad characterisation, alongside their confidence in front of, and communication with an audience.
Text in Performance 1: Pupils interpret a series of short Shakespearean extracts in a variety of ways, developing an inventive approach to the use of voice, physicality and chorus whilst exploring the creative use of the stage.
Text in Performance 2: Pupils write and perform original devised pieces based on their Shakespearean extracts, using a range of techniques involving voice, physicality and chorus Exploring Script: An extended look at a playscript, encouraging pupils to not only interpret and act dialogue, but to explore the context and themes of a play creatively through textual stimulus.
No homework is set for Year 7 Drama.
Topics studied in Year 8
Characterisation: Inspired by the writing of Roald Dahl and aspects of Commedia Del’Arte, pupils improvise and create a range of exaggerated characters using physical techniques, placing them into a range of scenes and scenarios
Monologue: Using both Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads and portrait photos as a stimulus, pupils learn how to create character biographies based on fact and inference, leading to the writing and performance of a monologue for their own devised character.
Using A Stimulus: Through a series of exercises and collaborative tasks, pupils use a range of influences and stimuli to create theatre, eventually focusing on one. Each group develops characters and plot, and produces a script as they build towards performance. This unit asks for a mature approach to devising drama, and encourages pupils to revisit many of the techniques they have experienced over the previous two years.
Exploring Script 2: An extended look at a playscript, encouraging pupils to not only interpret and act dialogue, but to explore the themes of a play creatively whilst experimenting with a range of drama conventions
No homework is set for Year 8 Drama, although they may receive small, easily achievable tasks such as line-learning or scripting.
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Co-curricular activities
The Middle School Drama Club is extremely popular, and until Christmas runs after school on Wednesdays in the Gatehouse, before becoming rehearsal time, along with Tuesdays (and later on, Sundays), for the Middle School production, performed in the Summer Term. These shows are high quality and demand commitment; however they are also extremely social, rewarding and enjoyable to be involved in. Pupils also have the opportunity to audition for the whole school musical
We are always keen to recruit stage crews for these productions, and pupils who would like to involve themselves on the technical side are always welcome.
Parental support
It is always appreciated when parents assist and support their children in attending rehearsals they are called to, as this makes the rehearsal process far more effective for everyone. Obviously we are also delighted to see parents at our productions, and we
are lucky to benefit from an enthusiastic audience.
Finally, the more theatre performances your son/daughter sees, the better their appreciation of, and critical thinking about Drama in performance will be.
Further Information
Mr J Robinson Directorof Drama
j.robinson@pgs.org.uk
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Matilda, Middle School Musical 2022
ENGLISH
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 7
Year 7 pupils have six periods of English a fortnight, one of which is spent in the Library. These lessons are supported by the Librarians, who offer reading projects, assistance selecting appropriately challenging material and a variety of activities.
In the first term, pupils study texts with a focus on characterisation and the theme of identity. In the second term the focus moves to the theme of beliefs, values and truth, and again, the pupils cover a variety of texts in relation to that theme. We always invite an author to speak to the pupils and they subsequently complete a project relating to the visit. In the third term, as well as preparing for the internal examination, pupils study a unit on creativity and imagination which allows pupils to respond to texts in a variety of ways. Throughout the year, pupils are taught how to respond to texts with critical analysis, written communication and verbal communication.
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 8
Year 8 pupils have seven periods of English a fortnight, one of which is spent in the Library. In the first term, pupils study a range of poems with the central theme of ‘Cultural Identity’. In Spring, pupils complete a unit on the Gothic, exploring a range of short stories. In the third term, as well as preparing for the internal examination, pupils study a novel with a strong historical context. Throughout Years 7 and 8, work on spelling, punctuation, grammar and vocabulary is embedded into the curriculum.
Co-curricular activities
Each year the school enters the Literacy Trust Quiz (previously the Kids’ Lit Quiz).
There is a weekly Book Club available to all Year 7 and 8 pupils - please contact Dr Webb for details. There is also a creative writing club. We occasionally run theatre trips and invite extra speakers in at key points in the academic year. In the summer term, the Leonardo Competition runs and all pupils are encouraged to submit a poem for consideration We run a Year 7 Spelling Bee annually.
Equipment required
Basic stationery, including highlighters and a writing pen.
Homework
Years 7 and 8 have one homework a week, which is between 20 and 30 minutes long. The nature of the task set varies: at times teachers may ask a pupil to learn spellings or read further with the class novel; at times, pupils will be required to work on a piece of extended writing.
Parental support
The most crucial support a parent or other relative can give is to show an interest in a child’s independent reading.
Further Information
Ms L Burden
Head of English l.burden@pgs.org.uk
Mrs R Champion KS3 Co-ordinator r.champion@pgs.org.uk
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GEOGRAPHY
Topics studied in Year 7
Term Topic
Autumn Map Skills - focussing on the UK and Uganda
Content
Using maps and plans at a variety of scales
Map symbols, distance and scale, grid references
Introduction to digital mapping - countries and nations of the British Isles
Physical features and climate of the British Isles and Uganda
Earth Story - It's your planet!
Spring Rivers
Flooding
Summer Glaciation
How was earth formed and about how long ago?
When did humans first appear and where? When did they arrive in the UK?
What do these words mean: evolution, mass extinction, geological time scale, fossils?
What happened in the Carboniferous era?
Water cycle and drainage basin key terminology
Rivers around the world
How do rivers shape the land?
How are river landforms such as waterfalls and meanders formed?
What causes floods?
Why are floods getting worse?
How can we manage river floods?
The River Thames, managing flooding
The Boscastle flood.
What are glaciers and what are they made of?
Where would you see glaciers on Earth today?
Where did glaciers exist in Britain 20,000 years ago?
How do glaciers shape the land?
What landforms do glaciers create and how?
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Term Topic Content
Royal Geographical Society - Young Geographer of the year
Topics studied in Year 8
Term Topic
Autumn Weather and Climate
Coasts
Spring Urbanisation
GIS (Geographical Information Systems)
Summer Climate Change
A chance for pupils to get involved in Geography around them and Geography that affects their world
The 2023 competition ‘Where, how and why?’ gives pupils the chance to create a document which widens their geographical horizons
Content
It’s the weather!
Air pressure
Measuring the weather
A winter of storms
Climates around the world
Waves and tides
Processes and landforms
How are coastal features created?
Coastal resorts and coastal protection
What was the Industrial Revolution?
What is the pattern of urbanisation around the world?
What are the impacts of urbanisation?
What are slums and why do they form?
Using maps to solve problems
Using digimaps
Crime mapping
GIS in everyday life
Developing our own digital mapping using ArcGIS
Historical climate change
The Greenhouse effect and Enhanced Greenhouse effect
Positive and negative effects of climate change
How can climate change be limited? What can we do?
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Term Topic Content
Royal Geographical Society - Young Geographer of the year
Co-curricular activities
A chance for pupils to get involved in Geography around them and Geography that affects their world
The 2023 competition ‘Where, how and why?’ gives pupils the chance to create a document which widens their geographical horizons
There are annual visits for Year 7 to the Isle of Wight and Year 8 to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. On a weekly basis, Mrs Knott runs the Geocaching Club. Pupils can also get involved with the Senior School EcoCouncil, run by Miss Burton and Mrs Lydall.
Equipment required
Pupils will not require any extra equipment during lessons (beyond that in the school uniform list). They will be expected to bring pencils and rulers along with writing equipment to lessons. They will use department electronic devices or the computer suites in the classroom on a regular basis
Homework
Homework is set once a fortnight and should take no more than 30 minutes. It will include short written tasks, some extended writing tasks, graph drawing, research and sometimes more creative tasks like constructing a model of a river landform or modelling coastal erosion using stop motion animation.
Parental support
Please encourage your children to use an atlas or globe for locations, to navigate using a map when walking or travelling and to explore their world at every opportunity to create a respect for those they share it with. Geocaching is an excellent activity for families to get out and about whilst pupils develop and improve their map skills Fieldwork requires comfortable, protective clothing and shoes/boots with a good grip. A full set of waterproofs is essential.
Further Information
Miss L Burton Head of Geography l.burton@pgs.org.uk33
HISTORY
We seek to introduce our pupils to the skills and topics which they will find both useful and enjoyable, as well as preparing them for the study of the subject higher up in the school and fostering an interest in History. The approach taken is unashamedly chronological whilst hopefully avoiding the Thomas Gradgrind approach summarised in Dickens’ Hard Times, ‘What I want is, Facts. Teach these boys and girls nothing but Facts. Facts alone are wanted in life. Plant nothing else, and root out everything else.’ Facts are of course important, but so are enjoyment and the skills imparted by History.
Topics studied
In Year 7 we begin with the Norman Conquest of England and then cover topics including medieval life, the feudal system and Magna Carta and King John. We intersperse a look at life in the Middle Ages with a module on Jack the Ripper which follows on from a study on crime and punishment in the Middle Ages In Year 8 we adopt a slightly more thematic approach, beginning with the Tudors in Power (Henry VIII), then proceeding to Changes in Religion during the 16th century, aspects of the reign of Elizabeth I and concluding with a study of migration, slavery and empire.
A lot of emphasis is necessarily on writing coherent and cogent essays which are accurate, fluent and increasingly analytical, but there are also plenty of opportunities for individual research and creative ways for pupils to present their work There is also a focus on source analysis and encouraging pupils to be reflective and critical thinkers about the past and also hopefully the present. Pupils undertake a number
of common tasks covering both writing and source analysis skills. These tasks are undertaken to ensure a degree of uniformity in teaching content and practice, as well as enabling us to help monitor progress.
Co-curricular
History trips for the whole year group are run for the Middle School Early in Year 8, pupils visit Hampton Court Palace as an introduction to the Tudors We occasionally run an optional visit for Year 7 on a Saturday to Battle Abbey in October to see a reenactment of the Battle of Hastings. There is also a popular, weekly History Escape Room Club run by Mrs Neil which combines problem solving with historical scenarios.
Homework and how to help your son/daughter withHistory
Homework is normally set every other week in Years 7 and 8. The nature and duration of homework varies but should take no more than 20-30 minutes. We encourage parents to take an active interest in their child’s work. Checking through pupil essays for spelling and a clear structure is beneficial. We are happy to accept word processed homework, which shouldbestuckintoexercisebooks.
FurtherInformation
MrSLemieux
HeadofHistory,Government&Politics
Emails.lemieux@pgs.org.uk
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MATHEMATICS
We aim to provide a balanced and comprehensive Mathematics programme with full coverage of the skills and content required during Key Stage 3. The concepts and ideas are linked to resources from Dr Frost and Corbett Maths alongside our own resources, activities and worksheets. These allow us to provide a clear and coherent set of accessible materials which encourage pupils to engage in the curriculum and develop the mathematical skills required at this level
Topics studied and skills acquired
The content taught in both Years 7 and 8 is divided into eight broad topic areas: Using and Applying Mathematics to Solve Problems, Numbers and the Number System, Calculations, Shape, Space and Measure, Algebra, Ratio & Proportion, Statistics and Probability. Concepts introduced under each of the areas are extended and expanded throughout Years 7 and 8 in preparation for the Year 9 curriculum Pupils are encouraged to take an active part in the development of their own skills through being given a list of base, core and extend skills for that topic that they are encouraged to reflect upon having completed the topic and a progress check, which is an open book task to assess their understanding. The aim is to build confidence and motivate individuals to develop their own mathematical thinking and reasoning capabilities alongside a thorough and rigorous approach to problem-solving. Learning and practising fundamental mathematical concepts, strategies and processes should lead to the ability to reason, model, prove and evaluate in the world of Mathematics.
Equipment required
Each pupil must have a ruler, protractor and pair of compasses with them for every lesson, along with the recommended calculator. Equipment sets containing everything except a calculator are available for purchase from Room 3004 for £1.20. In the first term of Year 7, pupils are required to purchase a Casio FX83GTX Scientific Calculator, available to purchase at Amazon or any supermarket. We do recommend that every pupil has the Casio model of scientific calculator so that all pupils can follow instructions easily in lessons.
Homework
A homework task is set once a week for both Years 7 and 8. It may involve the completion of a set of questions, or a worksheet, about the topic studied that week in class or an online Sparx maths task. All pupils in each year sit a common test each term with a synoptic assessment at the end of the year Mathematics Academic Tutoring sessions operate during lunch times, where a member of teaching staff and Sixth Form Maths Ambassadors are available to answer questions about work set and to help pupils with any areas that might be causing them difficulty.
Parental support
Parents may wish to support their child’s learning in this subject by initiating discussion about homework that has been set or the feedback sheet from the topic being studied so they become practised at vocalising their ideas and recording a clear and organised method through to a final solution. There is also a Dr Frost course that is structured to support the
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learning of the pupils from home which can be used for extra support.
Further Information
Mr T Fairman, Head of Mathematics t.fairman@pgs.org.uk
Mr J Addyman, KS3 Co-ordinatior j.addyman@pgs.org.uk
MODERN LANGUAGES: French, German, Spanish
Pupils are asked to choose a preferred modern language for study during Year 7 and 8 before joining the school. They can choose from French, German or Spanish.
In Year 9, pupils have the opportunity to take up a second modern language, in addition to their first modern language. In Year 10 and 11, all pupils continue studying their first modern language to GCSE as part of their core curriculum, and many of those opting for a second modern language in Year 9 will choose to continue to GCSE.
Topics covered and skills acquired
The four skill areas of learning a language are developed throughout Year 7 and 8: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Pupils are encouraged to listen to and speak in the language from the very start They learn about aspects of the targetlanguage culture such as the food, the school system and sport. As well as learning vocabulary and grammar, the emphasis is on making the language relevant and fun, and to this end there is plenty of role-play, drama and songs.
During Year 7, pupils cover a range of topics including personal descriptions, school life, daily routine, free time and hobbies, house and local area counting and telling the time. The appropriate grammatical concepts are covered so that your child should be able to converse and write about the topics at a basic level by the end of Year 7.
Pupils are set work that is appropriate to their ability, including where they have previous knowledge of the language. However, if your child has native or near-
native ability in a language, it may not be appropriate for them to study it as part of the core curriculum and advice should be sought.
In Year 8, pupils cover topics such as holidays, shopping, eating out, health and fitness and new technologies, plus the relevant tenses and language structures to enable pupils to express themselves confidently.
Co-curricular activities
We aim to provide all pupils with the opportunity for further contact with the language and we deliver trips in Year 8 and 9 for further immersion. Further up the school, once pupils have developed enough conversational language, a comprehensive programme of study trips and exchanges is provided in all three languages. Pupils also have the opportunity to participate in the International Day of Languages.
Homework
Pupils receive one piece of homework per week in Year 7 and 8. This may be a written task or a learning task, in preparation for assessment
Equipment
While digital alternatives are great, we still believe that conventional dictionary skills have value. Collins’ Pocket Dictionary is an appropriate choice for use at home
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Parental Support
Parental support in helping pupils to develop independent learning technique, with regard to learning vocabulary or verb conjugations can be beneficial in the initial phase. Traditional methods outside of Quizlet, the learning platform we use, are often the best solution.
Further Information
Mr O Stone
Head of Modern Languages
Email o.stone@pgs.org.uk
MUSIC
Topics studied and skills acquired
Pupils study a wide range of practical topics, with an emphasis placed on developing proficiency in performance and composition. There is a focus on developing listening skills and encouraging pupils to analyse new pieces of music using descriptive, musical vocabulary. This is achieved through a range of activities which include group projects and individual work. Pupils learn how ICT can aid the composition process by using Noteflight and Soundtrap.
Topics
Year 7 The Music of Africa
Voice Works
Folk Music and Shanty Songs
Variation Form and Ground Bass
Instruments of the Orchestra
Year 8
Music and Media
The Blues
Rock ‘ n ’ Roll and Beyond
Samba/Latin American Music
Indian Music
Gamelan Music
Computer and Video Game Music
Skills acquired
Play and perform confidently in a range of solo and ensemble contexts using their voice, playing instruments musically, fluently and with accuracy and expression
Improvise and compose and extend and develop musical ideas by drawing on a range of musical structures, styles, genres, and traditions
Use staff and other relevant notations appropriately and accurately in a range of musical styles, genres, and traditions
Identify and use the interrelated dimensions of music expressively and with increasing sophistication, including use of tonalities, different types of scales and other musical devices
Listen with increasing discrimination to a wide range of music from great composers and musicians
Develop a deepening understanding of the music that they perform and to which they listen, and its history
Co-curricular
Throughout the year there are over 60 concerts, including concert performance opportunities for Middle School performers every term. There is an exciting programme of visiting musicians and ensembles, with several opportunities for pupils to work alongside internationally-renowned performers and composers. With over 40 ensembles meeting every week, there is something for everyone -
including two full orchestras, four choirs, two brass bands, Concert Band, Big Band, percussion ensembles and numerous smaller ensembles. A full list is available from our website: https://music.pgs.org.uk/
Many pupils also learn an instrument or singing individually with one of the 30 visiting music teachers, often preparing for ABRSM, Trinity and LCM exams. There are plenty of theory and aural classes for those who would like extra help with these important skills.
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The Director of Music is always keen to hear from those who are interested in developing their skills as performers, want to find out more about a musical group or who would like to try a new instrument. Further information on requesting instrumental lessons can be found on our website: https://music.pgs.org.uk/
Homework
No homework is set in Years 7 and 8 Pupils are assessed in advance of the half term grades through a mixture of compositions, performances, listening tests and appraisal tasks.
Equipment
For health and safety reasons pupils are required to bring their own pair of headphones for use in keyboard and computer activities. The headphones should have a mini jack connection and will be kept securely in the music classroom between lessons. A suggested model is Panasonic RP-HV094E-K In-Ear Headphones (at around £4 from Amazon) but pupils are free to choose their own. Pupils without headphones will struggle to access a significant part of the curriculum.
Pupils are encouraged to bring their own instruments to use in lessons as appropriate.
Parental Support
Parents are always welcome to bring their children to school concerts, details of which can be found in the Music Department Calendar. All material used in lessons is posted Google Classroom, accessible from home by parents and pupils. Our Music Department website https://music.pgs.org.uk/ has further information about the department as well as ideas for projects and activities which can be followed at home.
Further Information
Mr G Hemmings
Director of Music
g.hemmings@pgs.org.uk
Miss S Heath
Head of Academic Music s.heath@pgs.org.uk
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PASTORAL CURRICULUM
All pupils in Years 7 and 8 will receive a fortnightly timetabled lesson on the Pastoral Curriculum, delivered by specialist teachers. The objective of the course is to provide pupils with the skills and knowledge necessary to become happy, successful, and rounded human beings
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 7
Topics Studied
Health and Wellbeing
Growing up and puberty
Self-esteem and confidence
Resilience
Legal restrictions
Smoking, alcohol and illegal drugs
Being in the World
Character, identity and principles
Bystander and upstander
Personal safety
Relationships
Friendships
Peer pressure
Healthy relationships
Topics studied and skills acquired in Year 8
Topics Studied
Health and Wellbeing
Physical and mental health
Emotional regulation, including stress and anxiety
Kindness and gratitude
Being in the World
Relationships
Prejudice, discrimination and equality
Activism
Online safety
Sexting
Pornography
Boundaries and bullying
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Equipment required
Pupils are provided with folders which they will work from but are expected to bring their own stationery.
Homework
The Pastoral Curriculum is not formally assessed and no homework is set.
Parental Support
The Pastoral Curriculum has been carefully designed to match the needs of the pupils at PGS. This should complement the pupils’ home life and help to address issues which may affect them. Parents can aid this process by discussing the topics with their children at home and encouraging them to reflect on the lessons learnt.
Further Information
Mr D Frampton
Head of Pastoral Curriculum
Email d.frampton@pgs.org.uk
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Topics studied in Year 7 and 8
Year 7
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Year 8
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Religion with Science - Arguments for God: Religion, Evolution and the Big Bang
Judaism and Influential Figures: People of Faith
Big Questions about God and Life
Personal Identity through Religion and Culture
Personal Identity through Philosophy and Ethics
Personal Identity through Role Models
Skills Acquired in the topics above
Year 7
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Religion with Science – skills of argumentation and analysis
Judaism and Influential Figures - comparison of different personalities and qualities
Big Questions about God and Life – offering different answers and solutions to big questions
Year 8
Autumn Term
Spring Term
Summer Term
Personal Identity through Religion and Culture – examination of the relationship between Religion and Culture
Personal Identity through Philosophy and Ethics – examination of philosophical and ethical questions
Personal Identity through Role Models – what constitutes a role model and the skill of comparing role models and their qualities
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Co-curricular activities
Staff from the Jewish Museum in London visit PGS in Year 7.
Equipment required
All textbooks are provided and pupils have access to a Bible which is used in many lessons.
Homework
Homework is set fortnightly and can either be in the form of giving short paragraph answers to specific questions, an internet research task, or a piece of creative writing such as within projects.
Parental support
PRS lends itself to being discussed at home, and parents and pupils often comment on this to teachers. We encourage parents to talk through the topics at home to facilitate their child's learning.
Further information
Dr R Richmond
Head of PRS r.richmond@pgs.org.uk
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Topics studied
Year 7 Fundamental athletic movementsrunning, jumping, throwing, catching, squatting, lunging applied to various activities
Athletic development – strength, speed, acceleration, power, stamina, agility
Outdoor & Adventurous Activities –climbing
Creative and Aesthetic Activitiesgymnastics and dance Teamwork, Leadership, Hand Eye Coordination and Tactical Skillsvarious team & individual games
Swimming
Year 8 Athletic development – focusing on improving physical fitness through different training methods
Outdoor & Adventurous Activities –climbing
Creative and Aesthetic Activitiesgymnastics and dance Teamwork, Leadership, Hand Eye
Coordination and Tactical Skills -various team and individual games
Swimming and personal survival
The Physical Education programme in Years 7 and 8 aims to promote positive attitudes towards an active and healthy lifestyle and develops our pupils’ skills in the following areas:
Physical – Developing movement skills across a wide range of athletic activities and physical and coordination skills through a variety of games and sports
Mental – Improving pupils’ understanding of the benefits of an active lifestyle and their understanding of training methods and sport specific tactics
Social / Cultural – Developing leadership skills, improving teamwork skills such as communication and cooperation, gaining confidence when working with others and acquiring the ability to give and receive feedback
It also aims to help pupils discover their aptitudes and preferences in physical activity, encouraging them to make good choices about how to become involved in lifelong physical activity.
NB: Children and young people aged 5-18 years should be, ‘physically active for an average of at least 60 minutes per day across the week’. (UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines, last updated 19/09/2019)
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Co-curricular activities
The Physical Education and Games department offers a wide range of co-curricular activities that are open to all pupils. We run after school clubs for athletics, cricket, hockey, judo, netball, rugby, squash and tennis. We also run a number of before school, break time and lunchtime clubs including athletic development and skills sessions. A full list of clubs is printed in The Yellow Book.
Homework
There is no homework set for PE, although we would love pupils to be participating in physical activity as often as possible in their leisure time with their family and friends.
Equipment Required
School kit is required for Physical Education and Games lessons This is listed in the PGS Parents' Guide to Sport in the sports section of the Senior School area of our website.
Parental Support
Pupils are more likely to participate and engage in a healthy and active lifestyle if their parents are involved too. The PE Department is more than happy to advise you on the best ways to support your child’s physical activity. We would love to hear from you.
Further Information
Mr A Seddon Head of Physical Education
Email: a.seddon@pgs.org.uk
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PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Pupils study the Oxford KS3 ‘Activate’ course.This provides a comprehensive coverage of the skills and content required by the KS3 curriculum. The materials provided by the course complement our own resources and allow us to ignite the interest of the pupils in Science as well as allowing them to develop the basic scientific skills required.
Topics studied and skills acquired
In Year 7 the pupils are introduced to key laboratory apparatus and learn how to carry out practical tasks safely, with practical skills being developed throughout the course. The topics they study include Forces, Solids, Liquids and Gases, Space, Waves, Elements, Mixtures and Compounds and Acids & Alkalis They are encouraged to question the world around them and to start to make links between topics.
In Year 8 the pupils continue to develop their practical skills and study topics including Energy, Chemical Reactions, the Periodic Table, Electrical Circuits, Magnetism, Pressure and Motion. They build on content studied in Year 7 and use new ideas to explain observations using scientific terminology.
Co-curricular activities
There are numerous co-curricular opportunities in Science for the Middle School which range from weekly clubs to one-off trips to hands-on workshops. There are also opportunities to join with other departments when pupils undertake joint projects. We have a wonderful working relationship with The National Museum which has enabled pupils to work on specific projects e.g. the desalination and reclamation of the Mary Rose.
Equipment required
All practical equipment and chemicals are provided. Each pupil must bring normal writing stationery including a pencil, ruler and eraser. A calculator is also recommended.
Homework
A 20-30 minute homework task is set once a week for both Years 7 and 8. It may involve the completion of a set of questions, or a worksheet, about the topic studied that week in class or a more creative task. They also have a test at the end of each topic, about once a half term, which requires revision.
Parental support
Parents may wish to support their child’s learning in this subject by initiating discussion about the topic being studied so they become practised at vocalising their ideas, helping them to learn the spelling of subject-specific words and with their revision for the end of topic tests. A key website is BBC Bitesize KS3. All pupils will have access to an on-line textbook and Seneca
Further Information
Dr M Smith
Second-in-charge Chemistry martin.smith@pgs.org.uk
Mr S McLean
Second-in-charge Physics s.mclean@pgs.org.uk
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PORTSMOUTH CURRICULUM
Topics covered and skills required
Portsmouth Curriculum is studied for one period a fortnight in Year 7. It is a bespoke course developed at PGS and inspired by the city in which we are based, looking at the History, Geography and culture of Portsmouth.
It consists of six half termly units and looks to develop key skills as well as considering Portsmouth’s place in a global society. These include essential study skills, communication skills and research skills, as well as public speaking skills and leadership skills
Equipment
The pupils are issued with a folder and dividers for the course. No special equipment is required.
Homework
There is no homework for Portsmouth Curriculum.
Parental Support
Some of the topics in Portsmouth Curriculum relate to the city and so opportunities to discuss or visit places of interest would be an appropriate way to explore Portsmouth Curriculum with your child.
Further Information
Mrs K Leighton-Smith
Head of Year 7
Email k.leighton-smithpgs.org.uk
Middle School Curriculum 2023-24