7 March 2008 STP is delighted that ex

Transcription

Islwyn High School
Key Stage 4 Option Booklet
2016
5 IMPORTANT DATES





Thursday 28th January 2016
Thursday 4th February 2016
Thursday 11th February 2016
Tuesday 23rd February 2016
Thursday 3rd March 2016
-
Option Booklet out to Staff
Option Booklet out to Parents
Initial Choices to Form Tutor
Parents’ Evening
Final options deadline
Islwyn High School
Year 9 Options Booklet 2016
Mission Statement
“Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest
abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream
which, fulfilled, can be translated into benefit for everyone and
greater strength of the nation.”
John F Kennedy
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Islwyn High School
CONTENTS
PAGE NUMBER
Preparing for Year 10
Introduction
Compulsory Subjects
Four Option Subjects
Choosing Option C & D at the Other Campus
At what level will I be studying?
When do I make my choices?
Can I withdraw from any course?
Is it too early to think about the Sixth Form?
What kind of careers advice will I receive?
Pontllanfraith and Oakdale Site Options
A Guide to Compulsory Subjects
English Language
Welsh
Mathematics
Science
New Welsh Baccalaureate
Physical Education
Personal Development Programme
A Guide to Option Subjects
Art
Asdan Cope
Catering
Child Development
Computer Science
Drama
English Literature
Food and Nutrition
Geography
History
Information, Communication & Technology - ICT
Media
Modern Foreign Languages
Music
Product Design
Religious Studies as an option
Resistant Materials
Sociology
Step Up
Notes
Parent / Pupil / Guardian Checklist and Questions
Change your Option Choices – The Last Resort
What to do next
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5
6
7
8
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10
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11
12
13
14
16
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19
20
22
23
24
27
28
29
30
31
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
41
42
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45
46
47
48
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PREPARING FOR YEAR 10
You have come to a very important point in your school career!
Up until now you have studied a wide range of subjects but the time spent on each has been limited.
From now on, you will be preparing for external examinations and to allow you to achieve the
necessary standard, you will have to spend more time on each subject. Consequently, you will be
taking fewer courses.
You will continue to study a broad based programme in accordance with the requirements of the
National Curriculum but you will now have a measure of choice. This is explained fully in this booklet.
Making choices is part of a wider process in preparing to leave school and taking up further training
or employment.
You must remember that you will ultimately be judged, not only on your academic achievements but
also on your punctuality, your regularity of attendance, your appearance and attitude and your
contribution to the life of the school and community.
Society is rightly becoming increasingly selective in its choice of candidates for higher and further
education and for worthwhile employment. It is therefore important that you maintain excellent
standards in everything you do in school. It is up to you to ensure that, when you leave school, your
record is a good one.
THIS HANDBOOK IS ESSENTIAL READING. YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO NEGLECT IT FOR THE SAKE OF
THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE WORLD – YOURSELF!
Mr T Williams
Headteacher
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Islwyn High School
INTRODUCTION
The aim of this booklet is to provide relevant information about the subject choices
available to Year 9 pupils.
The Welsh National Curriculum requirements, combined with the way we structure the
timetable means that all pupils will take a range of subjects, so ensuring a broad-balanced
curriculum.
When making your subject choices it is important to ensure that any choices made will not
preclude options in terms of later decisions related to Careers and Educational Opportunities.
With this in mind it is vital that your son/daughter has time to think through and discuss the
implications of their choices.
Parents need to be actively involved during this process to ensure that appropriate choices
are made.
It is important that all pupils are matched to the examination courses that meet their
individual needs.
Education is constantly changing and as a result there is a need to continually update the
curriculum.
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Compulsory Subjects
Every pupil will be required to study the following subjects:  English Language
 Welsh Language
Everyone will follow a full course in Welsh. This will form part of the compulsory
programme of studies.
 Mathematics
 Mathematics - Numeracy
Everyone will follow a double course in Mathematics, one entitled Mathematics and
the other Numeracy.
 Double Award Science
Everyone will follow a course in Science, but you may opt for Triple Science which
provides further depth of study in the separate sciences of Chemistry, Physics and
Biology. This course is suitable for pupils who show a real aptitude and interest in
Science and it is advisable to speak to your Science teachers before you select this
option.
 New Welsh Baccalaureate
Everyone will follow the New Welsh Baccalaureate. This compulsory qualification from
the Welsh Government is being delivered in every secondary school in Wales and
forms a significant part of the way schools are measured.
 Physical Education
Everyone will have access to compulsory physical education to ensure health and
wellbeing.
 PDP & Religious Education
Everyone will follow a course on PSE Personal Social and Health Education, as well as
Religious Eduction delivered through the school year.
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Four Option Subjects
There are a wide range of subjects on offer, allowing you to learn in a variety of styles which
suit you best and to help you begin to think about the type of career pathway you might want
to follow. All single option subjects are taught for 5 lessons per fortnight. You will be asked
to select one subject from each of the four columns, A to D, as shown below. You will need
to indicate your choices on the options sheet that will be given to you at a later date.
5 IMPORTANT DATES
 Thursday 28th January 2016
-
th
-
 Thursday 4 February 2016
 Thursday 11th February 2016 -
 Tuesday 23rd February 2016
-
Parents’ Evening
 Thursday 3rd March 2016
-
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CHOOSING OPTION C & D AT THE OTHER CAMPUS
The options may also be available on the other campus in: option C & D. You would need to
choose 2 options from the same campus. Please tick if you would like to choose them. This
would mean making your own way to and from the other campus and staying there all day.
Check with your Head of Year which level course best suits you.
Things to remember if you choose courses at the other campus:1. You will need to choose TWO subjects at the campus you go to (one in each option block
C & D) because you will not be allowed to travel back to your own campus during the day.
2. Places on courses at the other campus may be very limited. If you express an interest in a
course at the other campus, this does not mean there will definitely be a place for you.
3. If you are offered a place on a course on the other campus, you and your parents will be
expected to sign an agreement committing you to the two year programme (it may not be
possible to revert back to courses in your own campus after the term has started).
4. You will be expected to make your own way to the other campus that is not your base
campus. If this involves public transport you will be reimbursed for the costs incurred.
Compulsory
English, Welsh, Mathematics, Mathematics – Numeracy, Double Award Science, Welsh
Baccalaureate, Physical Education, PDP and Religious Education.
THE SCHOOL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE OPTIONS THAT ARE UNSUITABLE FOR SOME
STUDENTS.
www.careerswales.com
Use this site to find out more and start to plan your individual learning pathway.
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AT WHAT LEVEL WILL I BE STUDYING?
This will be decided by your own performance in each individual subject. It is important that you
select subjects at a level that is realistic for you but also provides you with a challenge.
The school retains the right to refuse certain choices and levels if these are considered to be
inappropriate. In such cases, we will always consult with you and your parents.
WHEN DO I MAKE MY CHOICES?
5 IMPORTANT DATES
 Thursday 28th January 2016
-
 Thursday 4th February 2016
-
 Thursday 11 February 2016
-
rd
 Tuesday 23 February 2016
-
Parents’ Evening
 Thursday 3rd March 2016
-
th
Before you make your choices, please remember the following:
Never select a subject simply because you like your teacher and likewise never reject a course
because you dislike a teacher. There is always the possibility that you will be taken by a different
teacher in year 10.

Don’t choose a course simply to be with your friends. This can create problems later on.

Think of what you may want to do after you leave school and get the right advice to make sure
that your choices fit your needs. Most people have yet to decide fully at your age, so don’t worry
if you haven’t a clue about what you want to do. Remember to choose subjects you are good at
or need for your future career.
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CAN I WITHDRAW FROM ANY COURSE?
No. All the courses are designed to last for two years and pupils cannot be allowed to withdraw prematurely.
However, if there are difficulties, you should talk to your Head of Year.
IS IT TOO EARLY TO THINK OF SIXTH FORM?
No, because your choices now will determine to a large extent the courses available to you after your first
major examinations at the end of Year 11. Cross Keys College offers a wide range of courses suitable for all
levels of ability. More details of the options available to you when you leave Islwyn High School will be given
to you during Year 11, including a visit to the College to sample courses.
WHAT KIND OF CAREERS ADVICE WILL I RECEIVE?
During Years 10 and 11 you will have regular lessons of Careers Education Guidance (CEG) where a variety of
careers information and visits from local and national employers will be provided. Islwyn High School has a
dedicated Careers Wales Advisor who is available to give advice and you can contact her via reception, your
Head of Year or by visiting her office.
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*PLEASE FILL THIS IN TO KEEP AS A RECORD OF YOUR CHOICES
Pupil’s Name: ...................................................................................... Home Campus *Oakdale / *Pontllanfraith
Form: ............................................ Parent/Guardian Signature: .............................................................................
Oakdale Campus
Options Group A
5 Lessons
Options Group B
5 Lessons
Options Group C
5 Lessons
Options Group D
5 Lessons
Geography
History
History
Religious Education
Art & Design
Child Development
Music
PE Girls
PE Boys
Product Design
PE Boys
Resistant Materials
ICT
Art & Design
Catering
Media
English Literature
Triple Science
Product Design
Sociology
English Literature
Triple Science
Media
French
Product Design
Triple Science
ICT
Computer Science
Choose your 1st and 2nd choice in each Option Block below.
1.
1.
1.
1.
2.
2.
2.
2.
Pontllanfraith Campus
Options Group A
5 Lessons
Options Group B
5 Lessons
Options Group C
5 Lessons
Options Group D
5 Lessons
Geography
History
History
Religious Education
Art & Design
Child Development
Music
PE Girls
PE Boys
Product Design
PE Boys
Computer Science
ICT
PE Girls
Food & Nutrition
Drama
English Literature
Triple Science
Product Design
Spanish
Product Design
Triple Science
Level 1
Level 1
Choose your 1st and 2nd choice in each Option Block below.
1.
1.
1.
1.
2.
2.
2.
2.
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Islwyn High School
A Guide to Compulsory
Subjects Studied
by Pupils in
Key Stage 4
(Years 10 & 11)
Individual Course Information

English Language

Welsh Language

Mathematics

Mathematics - Numeracy

Science


Physical Education

PDP & Religious Education
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Islwyn High School
English Language
During your study of English in Years 10 and 11, you will
prepare for your English Language GCSE. The outline
of the qualification is below.
Unit 1: Non-External Assessment
Oracy: 20%
Task 1 (10%) - Individual Presentation
You will have to make a speech independently based on one of the set themes from the exam board.
Task 2 (10%) - Responding and Interacting
You will be part of a group discussion based on written/visual stimuli from the exam board.
Unit 2 – External Assessment
Reading and Writing: Description, Narration and Exposition 40% (2 hours)
Section A (20%) – Reading
You will need to show understanding of a range of texts. Your understanding will be assessed through a range
of questions testing your ability to locate information, use inference and deduction, and to analyse and
evaluate.
This section will also involve you completing an editing task, demonstrating your understanding of words,
sentences and whole texts.
Section B (20%) – Writing
You will choose one writing task out of a choice of two: description, narration or exposition. Marks for this
writing task are awarded for content and organisation, and for accuracy (spelling, sentence structure and
punctuation).
This section will also involve a proofreading task, focusing on writing accurately.
Unit 3: External Assessment
Reading and Writing: Argumentative, Persuasive and Instructional 40% (2 hours)
Section A (20%) – Reading
You will need to show understanding of a range of argumentative, persuasive and instructional texts. Your
understanding will be assessed through a range of questions testing your ability to locate information, use
inference and deduction, and to analyse and evaluation.
Section B (20%) – Writing
You will have to complete two written tasks in this section – one argumentative and one persuasive. Marks for
this writing task are awarded for content and organisation.
Again, marks for this writing task are awarded for content, organisation and accuracy.
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Welsh
The specifications provide experiences which give all candidates the
opportunity to reach their full potential in Welsh in line with their needs
and abilities.
The aim is to ensure that candidates are aware of the use made of
Welsh in modern Wales by nurturing a positive attitude towards the
Welsh language and culture. Candidates’ skills are developed to make
use of the language for effective and appropriate communication in
their everyday lives and/or in occupational situations.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Studying the Welsh Second Language Course encourages candidates to:
 develop their interest in Welsh and enthusiasm for the language. They should be inspired,
stimulated and challenged through the study of a broad, coherent, satisfying and rewarding
course.
 develop their confidence when communicating effectively in Welsh.
 develop essential skills while undertaking practical tasks which fulfil the needs of candidates,
employers and further education.
 develop their skills to make practical use of the language in order to communicate effectively,
usefully and appropriately in the bilingual society of the 21st century.
CONTENT
Candidates are required to study Context A for Units 1&2 and Context B for Units 3&4.
CONTEXT A
Holidays
Sports
Fashion/shopping
Welsh Celebrities
The Cinema/Film
Pop music
Charity
Part-time work
An area
Welsh Culture
Wales
Myself
Special events
CONTEXT B
Leisure time
Alcohol, drugs and smoking
The environment
Keeping fit and healthy
Family and friends
The home
The weekend
The media
Technology
Celebrations
School experiences
A candidate may enter for one tier only in any series of examinations:
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Tier Grades Available
Higher A*, A, B, C, D
Foundation C, D, E, F, G
Short Course candidates are required to attain Unit 1 only
Full Course candidates are required to attain Units 1, 3 & 4
UNIT 1
Reading and writing examination (25%)(1 hour)
Reading 15%
Writing 10%
2 questions
2 questions
UNIT 2
Controlled Assessment (25%)
Oracy and Writing
Oracy (20%)
Writing (5%)
Oracy 20%
Task 1 – individual presentation (10%)
Task 2 – situation conversation (10%)
Pair/group task
Writing 5%
Candidates must complete the controlled
writing task in the classroom within 1 hour.
UNIT 3
Oral examination
Oracy (20%) Reading (5%)
Foundation Tier
1 pair/group task
Reading 5%
Pair Work, 4 – 5 minutes
Group Work, 6 – 7 minutes
Pair Work, 6 – 7 minutes
Group Work, 8 – 10 minutes
(oral task stimulus)
UNIT 4
Reading and writing exam (25%)
Reading 10%
Writing 15%
(1 hour)
2 questions
2 questions
Higher Tier
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Mathematics
General Information
All learners will be entered for both GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Numeracy. The course will build on
and progress from the levels of Numeracy expected at the end of Key Stage 3 through the Numeracy
Framework. The Numeracy GCSE will assess the mathematics that learners will need in their
everyday lives, the world of work and in other general curriculum areas. GCSE Mathematics will
extend to aspects of Mathematics needed for progression to scientific, technical or further
mathematical study.
There will be three overlapping tiers of entry.
U
Tier of Entry
Grades Available
Higher
A*, A, B, C,
Intermediate
B, C, D, E
Foundation
D, E, F, G
Summary of Assessment
Both GCSEs are assessed through two units.
Tier
GCSE Numeracy & GCSE Mathematics
Unit 1
Non calculator
Unit 2
Calculator allowed
Higher
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
Intermediate
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
Foundation
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
1 hour 45 minutes
(50% weighting)
Selected learners will have the opportunity to take their GCSE early. If they achieve their target
grade they will proceed to study either Statistics or Additional Mathematics.
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Science
In Science, there is now a greater emphasis than before on the knowledge, skills and understanding
of How Science works in the world at large, as well as in the laboratory. All our pupils will start
their Science GCSEs in Year 9. Depending on their progress, their interest and aspirations for the
future and the advice of their teachers, pupils will continue with their study of Science in one of the
following ways.
1. Triple Award (3 GCSEs)
Pupils who study for Triple Award take three core units in Science - Biology 1, Physics 1, Chemistry
1 and sit examination in the Summer at Year 10, Biology 2, Chemistry 2, and Physics 2, and sit
examinations in the Summer at Year 11. This option will prepare pupils for further study of pure
Science and Science related courses post – 16; for example Biology, Chemistry and Physics A
levels with an aim to study Science at university.
Assessment
The six units (B1, B2, C1, C2, P1, and P2) are assessed by written external examinations taken at
Higher (A* - C) or Foundation (C – G) level. Internal assessment consists of practical tasks,
followed by written examinations which cover all grades (A*-G) - one for each GCSE.
2. Double Award (2 GCSEs)
Pupils who study for Double Award take three core units in Science Biology 1, Physics 1, Chemistry 1 - towards their Science GCSE, and
three additional units – Biology 2, Chemistry 2, Physics 2 - towards
their Additional Science GCSE. This option will prepare pupils for
further study of Science and Science related courses post – 16; for
example automotive engineering, PE, food technology.
Assessment
The three units of Core Science are assessed written external
examinations taken at Higher (A* - C) or Foundation (C – G) level. The
three further units for Additional Science are examined by written
examinations taken at Higher (A* - C) or Foundation (C – G) level.
Internal assessment consists of one practical task, followed by a
written examination for each GCSE.
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Career Opportunities
A qualification in Physics will open up the possibility of exciting work in aerospace, engineering,
technological innovations, scientific journalism, telecommunications, administration or electronics.
You might choose to work in a hospital, research laboratory, an agricultural establishment, a
classroom, the open air, oil industry or Civil Service.
You can use Chemistry as a passport to many different types of jobs, which can include careers such
as medical secretary, science reporter and laboratory technician. Chemistry goes hand in hand with
Biology and Physics. Knowledge of Mathematics and Physics will give you an insight into how
Chemistry “works”. It is necessary if you want to follow a career in other related areas, e.g: dating
and preserving archaeological finds, restoring and conserving paintings, investigating crimes as a
forensic scientist, discovering new drugs to improve health.
Knowledge of Biology can be used to understand and help solve many of the problems, which affect
us all – illness, food production and control of pollution. A large percentage of biologists who work in
these fields are either in industry or at research establishments. Medical biologists in general are
concerned with the health and wellbeing of mankind. Animals and plants are other areas of interest
for professional biologists. By taking Biology alongside other sciences you can apply for jobs in
hospitals, the food and drug industries, conservation, working with animals and have access to many
other careers. Many Biology related jobs required you to study other sciences alongside Biology.
Some Biology-based careers include medical professions like doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and
veterinary medicine.
Even if you choose a career which in the end, has no connection with Science, the ideas, principles
and skills which you learned will always help you to make better sense of the everyday world and the
scientific information which comes our way and affects everyday life.
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Islwyn High School
As of September 2015, Welsh Assembly Government launched a more rigorous Welsh Baccalaureate. The primary aim is
to promote essential skills for employment and to provide opportunities through three Challenges and an Individual
Project.
Essential and employability skills
The new WBQ aims to enable learners to develop and demonstrate an understanding of and proficiency in essential and
employability skills. These are described as the skills that employers and next-stage educators value and which learners
need for learning, work and life. As such, the new WBQ focuses on the following seven essential and employability skills:
 Literacy
 Numeracy
 Digital Literacy
 Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
 Planning and Organisation
 Creativity and Innovation
 Personal Effectiveness.
The emphasis in the Welsh Baccalaureate is on applied
learning i.e. acquiring and applying a range of transferable skills. Learners will develop skills in the context of purposeful
tasks and appropriate knowledge and understanding. Learners will be encouraged to value skills development as a key
aspect of education and life-long learning.
Pupils will:
 engage in active, creative, open-ended and learner-led opportunities
 enquire and think for themselves, plan, make choices and decisions, solve problems and reflect on and evaluate
these
 broaden their experience through engagement with external organisations
 develop as effective, responsible and active citizens ready to take their place in a global society and in the
workplace
 develop initiative, independence and resilience
 increase their confidence and their motivation for learning and skills development
 work independently, take on responsibilities and work effectively with others.
The Welsh Baccalaureate is based on a Skills Challenge Certificate alongside Supporting Qualifications. In order to
achieve the overarching Welsh Baccalaureate, pupils must pass GCSE English Language, GCSE Maths Numeracy and 3
further GCSEs (two of these might be equivalent qualifications) in addition to the Skills Challenge Certificate.
The Skills Challenge Certificate consists of four components which are followed by all learners:




Individual Project
Enterprise and Employability Challenge
Global Citizenship Challenge
Community Challenge.
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Islwyn High School
Physical Education
General Information
The WJEC Eduqas GCSE Physical Education specification is broad, coherent and practical, designed to
encourage learners to be inspired, motivated and challenged by the subject and enable them to make
informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career pathways.
Through studying GCSE Physical Education learners will acquire the knowledge, understanding, skills
and values to develop and maintain their performance in physical activities and understand the
benefits to health, fitness and well-being. Learners will develop theoretical knowledge and
understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport and use this knowledge to
improve performance.
The syllabus is designed for all pupils who are capable of reaching the standards required for the
WJEC GCSE examination and engage regularly in practical sessions at Key Stage 3.
Component 1
Written examination: 2 hours
60% of qualification: 120 marks
Learners will be assessed through a range of short and extended answers.
SUBJECT CONTENT
Summary of the theory content
The subject content focuses on five key areas:
1. Health, training and exercise
2. Exercise physiology
3. Movement analysis
4. Psychology of sport and physical activity
5. Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport
The above are interesting topics aimed at stimulating and increasing knowledge and understanding of
aspects of the theory and concepts of physical education. All of the subject content can be assessed
in Component 1 as part of the written examination and in Component 2 as part of the analysis and
evaluation of personal performance.
Component 2
The active participant in physical education
Non-exam assessment (PRACTICAL)
40% of qualification: 80 marks
Learners will be assessed in three different activities in the role of player/performer in at least one
individual and one team sport (30%) from a list of activities. Learners will also be assessed through
an analysis and evaluation of their performance in one of their chosen activities (10%).
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Performance analysis and evaluation
Learners must design a personal training programme with the aim of providing recommendations to
improve performance in one of the practical activities in which they were assessed.
C Examination Requirements
SUMMARY OF PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
PRACTICAL - 40% =3 x ACTIVITIES:
Practical performance in one individual activity
Practical performance in one team activity
Practical performance in one other activity, either team or individual
Performance analysis and evaluation
20
20
20
20
10%
10%
10%
10%
AO4
AO4
AO4
AO4
You will take 3 activities for your assessment and there are some limits on how many you can take
from each section. The list of practical activities is very wide so you may have the opportunity of
being assessed in an activity that is not usually offered as part of the Physical Education course but is
followed, for example, in a club such as Golf, Horse-Riding, Latin Dance or Karate.
Anyone following and completing this course will certainly feel a great deal of personal achievement
and development. The course is an excellent foundation for anyone interested in developing an indepth knowledge of sport and offers the opportunity to improve personal performance levels.
If you follow the GCSE Physical Education course you will have the opportunity to train to become a
Dragon Sports Leader; a creditable award designed to develop your leadership skills which can be
used to coach our primary feeder school pupils.
PESS Development Centre Progression
At GCSE level you are given the added opportunity of gaining accreditation in a number of sports
through Welsh Governing Bodies to include netball, hockey, rugby, football coaching awards, and the
new dance leaders’ award which is becoming increasingly popular.
SPORTS CAREER PATHWAYS
You can take your love of nearly any sport into overtime by landing a job in a sports-related
profession. Here are some of the many career pathways you can follow if you enjoy sport and want
to pursue it further:
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER/COACH/ SPORTS STATISTICIAN/ TEAM ANALYST/ MANAGEMENT/
ADMINISTRATION / J SPORTS JOURNALIST/SPORTS PHYSIOLOGIST/ SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST/ SPORTS
MEDICINE/ SPORTS PROFESSIONAL/ SPORTS LECTURER OR TEACHER/ LEISURE CENTRE
MANAGEMENT
Some of the key hiring qualifications requested by employers in today’s market include leadership,
perseverance, dedication to continuous improvement and strategic thinking, all of which you learn
in physical education and even more so in the sports-related courses on offer at Key Stage 4 in the PE
Department at Islwyn High School
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Personal Development Programme
The PD programme is made up of 6 different areas of learning:






PSE or Personal and Social Education
Religious Education
Citizenship
Careers and the World of Work
Managing Personal Progress
Critical Skills
This programme covers the compulsory Careers and the World of Work and Personal and Social
Education frameworks. It is not an examination course.
Many of the topics covered are delivered by outside agencies such as the Police, personnel from the
bank, environmental, voluntary and charitable organisations.
The aims of the personal development programme are to:

develop pupils’ self-esteem and sense of personal responsibility

promote self-respect, respect for others and celebrate diversity

equip pupils to live safe, healthy lives

empower pupils to participate in their schools and communities
as active responsible citizens locally, nationally and globally

foster positive attitudes and behaviour towards sustainable
development and global citizenship

prepare pupils for the challenges, choices and responsibilities of work and adult life

explore the attitudes and values required for employability and lifelong learning including
entrepreneurial skills

plan and manage their pathway through the range of opportunities in learning and work, to
help make effective career choices.
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Islwyn High School
A Guide to
Option Subjects
Studied
by Pupils in
Key Stage 4
(Years 10 & 11)
Individual Course Information
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Islwyn High School
Art
Why choose Art and Design?
This is a question that many pupils and parents might ask. The following information should help to
answer this question.
Career Opportunities
One of the primary reasons for choosing Art and Design could be that the pupil is interested in a
career in this area. Art and Design courses offered by Educational Centres provide direct and
valuable access to the World of Industry and Commerce. There are many opportunities and courses
these days (over 70 different types of Art & Design related courses) and only a few examples are
mentioned below: 
Animation, Industrial Design

Fashion / Textiles, Design, Advertising

Architecture, Jewellery, Ceramics

Theatre Design, Commercial Photography, Television

Video / Computer Graphics

Conservation/Restoration Work, Film, Cinema, Interior Design etc.
The list is endless, in fact any work you can think of that needs visual literacy values a broad based Art
& Design education.
The WJEC Art and Design course allows pupils to develop skills in many ways. Learners are prepared
for this by providing them with the opportunity to experience a wide range of approaches to Art and
Design using techniques such as:
a. Drawing and Painting
b. Graphics (including Print Making and Commercial Design)
c. Textiles / Design (Construction, Surface Embellishment, Fashion)
d. Three Dimensional Studies (Ceramics, Sculpture, Jewellery etc)
Learners will work in these areas throughout the coursework time and
produce work based on teacher specifications.
Learners are encouraged to be experimental as they develop their
creativity and learn to express their ideas visually.
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Course Requirements
Learners will need to fulfil the following requirements:
Personal Portfolio - 60%.
Externally Set Focused Task - 40%.
Personal Portfolio (60% of the total marks awarded)
During the course, pupils are encouraged to respond to projects and
activities in a personal way. Initially, all pupils will undertake a
foundation skills project which will focus on the key areas and
developing the necessary technical and thinking skills required.
Pupils will be expected to undertake:
 Research and analysis tasks looking at a variety of artists and designers
 Sketching and recording through hand drawn images and photography
 Development of ideas through the use of a range of elements including line, colour, texture,
pattern and shape
 Self evaluation using annotation to explain ideas, techniques and materials.
For the portfolio pupils are encouraged to use their creativity to meet the demands of the theme /
brief. From a choice of starting points pupils will be expected to respond in a personal and
imaginative way to the theme, using and building on the skills developed in the foundation skills
project.
Externally Set Focused Task (40% of the total marks awarded)
Before the Focused Task, pupils will produce preparatory studies to research, develop, experiment
and plan their ideas for the sustained focused work. This will occur during normal lesson time but the
completion of the final outcome will take place over 10 hours under exam conditions. All pupils will
receive their external set task paper in January at the start of the spring term of Year 11. The paper
will contain a variety of possible tasks / assignments from which the pupils will choose one to
research and develop ideas for their final outcome.
In Year 10 learners will develop strong drawing skills and later
specialise in the areas they find most interesting and best
suited to their strengths, skills and aspirations.
The Art & Design Department visits local and national galleries
and involves the learners in workshops to help and develop
critical and personal responses to local and major artists. In this
way they are more able to evaluate their own work to make
accomplished outcomes.
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Homework
Homework is set regularly for both year 10 and 11 learners. They
can expect to put a lot of time and effort into their work in order
to achieve an excellent grade. Homework is targeted to develop
and extend class work themes and is closely linked to the
assessment objectives of the WJEC examination board.
For the course, each pupil will be asked to purchase an A2 folder
(to help them store and protect their coursework throughout the
2 years) and an A3 sketchbook. We will provide all other
materials free of charge. However, access to a camera, even
quite a simple one, is an asset. Pupils benefit from being able to
collect information for paintings and designs.
How can parents help?
To help support your child you may find that buying a few art materials - a set of water based paints,
two brushes and a set of drawing pencils and some chalk / oil pastels would be helpful in assisting
your son / daughter to produce high quality work. Please contact the Art department if you require
further information.
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Islwyn High School
Asdan Cope
A
General Information
This is a very practical accredited course
which offers you an active curriculum.
Assessment allows you to demonstrate your
personal and social skills in different
situations.
On joining the scheme you will develop a portfolio to record all your achievements. This portfolio contains all
you need for success rather than showing these skills during an exam.
ASDAN allows you to display your personal qualities, rather than just academic achievements, to a potential
employer and is highly valued by colleges as well as employers as it develops life skills as well as independent
learning.
B
Syllabus
During year 10 you will work towards the Bronze Certificate which provides a fantastic step up towards the
COPE qualification studied during Year 11. There is the opportunity to gain additional Wider Key Skills
qualifications in Working With Others, Problem Solving and Improving Own Learning.
We offer COPE at both Level 1 and 2 depending on pupil performance.
COPE Level 1 is equivalent to a D grade and Level 2 is equivalent to a B grade.
This makes the course ideal for pupils who do not perform well in examinations.
Each award has a selection of challenges helping you to be more skilled in a variety of areas
by organising projects both at school and out and about in the community. These include;

Working with Others

Problem Solving

Improving your Learning.
There are lots of opportunities for you to be involved in activities and visits which will increase your
confidence.
C
Assessment
There is no exam for this subject.
You will be assessed by completing challenges to gain credits and so producing a portfolio (folder of evidence).
The folder can contain written work, photographs, tickets, certificates or filmed/taped evidence and shows
that you have met the challenges for each unit.
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Islwyn High School
Catering
The hospitality industry offers variety and opportunity. Worldwide, it is a fast – growing sector and in
the UK it employs some 1.8 million people. So there is enormous scope for those who want to pursue
a career in the industry, plus a huge range of employment opportunities across the varied sub
sectors.
This Hospitality qualification encourages achievement and open doors to enable learners to move
directly into employment or progress to college or university.
This course allows pupils to develop their knowledge and extend their skills in a vocational context. It
is a suitable qualification for those who want a broad background in this area and for those who wish
to progress to further education.
The specification encourages the investigation and study of hospitality and catering in a variety of
contexts. Candidates from all cultures and both genders can develop their interest in, enjoyment of
and critical reflection about this vocational area.
The specification uses a range of assessment techniques to enable the candidate to respond through
practical and investigative work.
Topics covered will include:














The hospitality industry and catering Industry
Types of service and client groups
Health, safety and hygiene
Food preparation, cooking and presentation
Job roles, employment and training
Customer care
Standards of service
Communication
Menu planning, preparation and presentation
Planning for functions and events
Costing menus and events
Portion control and costing
Teamwork
Environmental considerations.
Assessment
Hospitality Assessment: Single Award
ONE event based task selected from a list set by the WJEC [CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT]
ONE written paper of 1¼ hours externally set and marked [EXAMINATION]
Be aware that students will have to purchase a catering uniform at a cost of £20.
Pupils are also expected to provide their own cooking ingredients.
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Child Development
WJEC Child Development is designed to give candidates an opportunity to study the development
and care of children from conception to the age of five years. It promotes an understanding of the
social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of the child. It is an ideal course for those
looking to work with children in a variety of disciplines.
Areas of Study
 Family and Child
 Food and Health
 Pregnancy
 Physical Development
 Intellectual Development
 Social and Emotional Development.
During Year 10 pupils are expected to complete Unit 2, a 15 hour child study chosen from a bank of
three briefs set by the examination board. Examples of recent briefs set are:


Every child experiences a wide range of physical development during early childhood.
Undertake a study of a young child to research this area of development.
The emotional and social development of a child is closely linked to both the nature and
nurture of the child. Undertake a study of a young child to research these areas of development.
Please note: it is the pupil’s responsibility to find a child aged 0-5 years that can be observed for this
study.
Another study, Unit 3, is completed in Year 11; this is a child focused study and again briefs are set by
the examination board. Examples of Unit 3 briefs recently set are:


Socialisation is an important aspect of children growing up within the family. Identify and
investigate a range of social skills which can be acquired within the home. Plan and make an item
that will help a child achieve a social skill.
Introducing young children to a variety of foods is important to ensure a healthy and varied diet
later in life. Identify and investigate foods from other cultures that may be introduced into a
child’s diet. Plan and make a selection of foods that will add variety to the diet of a young child.
Pupils will need to bring ingredients into school for some of these studies
Assessment
Unit 1: Principles of Child Development (40%), Written Paper: 1½ hours
Unit 2: Child Study (30%)Controlled Assessment
Unit 3: Child Focused Task (30%)Controlled Assessment
Please Note: This course involves placements working with children and, as such, is not open to any
student with a criminal conviction.
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Computer Science
This course develops a pupil’ s knowledge of how computers work and how they can be used. It is
aimed at pupils who want to pursue a career designing and implementing computer systems and
software.
The course is best suited for pupils who are interested in how a computer works and how to
programme a computer to successfully complete a task.
Pupils should enjoy problem solving and they should be logical thinkers.
The course is designed to:



inspire pupils to become more “technology aware” – producers of
software not just users of software
help pupils to gain a broad based understanding and a basic
knowledge of computing, with an emphasis on programming and
problem solving
encourage personal development, motivation and confidence. It
also helps pupils to take responsibility for their own projects and
learning.
Computer Science
Computer Science is a linear course where pupils sit both exams at the end of year 11.
Unit 1
External Exam (written) – Understanding Computer Science.
This examination will assess understanding of the theory content of the
specification with a mixture of short, medium and longer answer questions.
1 ½ hours
Unit 2
External Exam (on screen) - Solving Problems Using Computers.
This assessment consists of a series of tasks set and marked by WJEC and
completed on screen by candidates. These tasks will assess the practical
application of knowledge and understanding.
2 hours.
Unit 3
Practical Assessment - Developing Computing Solutions.
This controlled assessment will give candidates the opportunity to develop a
piece of work using programming software following a task brief from a choice
of two issued by WJEC.
15 hours.
30
Marks
45%
90
30%
30
25%
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Islwyn High School
Drama
Is this the right subject for me?
If you enjoy. . . .

expressing yourself in an active and exciting way

working in a group

contributing your ideas and taking on-board those of others

exploring ideas by putting yourself in other people’s shoes

playing many parts in different imaginary situations

creating your own drama work

looking at plays written by other people
. . . . . .then Drama is the ideal subject for you.
What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?
You will probably have had experience of drama during Key Stage 3 in
English lessons. You may also be a member of a drama club. Any of these
experiences can help if you choose drama as a subject. You will develop
your improvisation and acting skills to a higher level. You will also look at
plays in more detail and at different ways of bringing a script to life on
stage. If you are more interested in the technical aspects of drama (for
example set design or lighting) you could focus on these for part of the
course.
What will I learn?
You will learn:

how drama is created, including all the acting and staging skills that are needed to put a piece of
drama on to the stage

how to create a character and play this character in a performance

many skills that are highly valued in any walk of life including teamwork and confidently
presenting yourself in public.
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Drama Question:
What is the longest running play in the world?
(a) Cats
(b) The Mousetrap
(c) Dogs of War
(d) Julius Caesar
How will I be assessed?
Almost all assessment is practical. There are no written examinations although you will be required to
keep a written record of your practical work. You will explore themes, ideas and plays in a wholly
practical way and your teacher will assess how well you have done.
You will also be required to perform in a play or contribute a form of design to a production such as
costume, lighting or sound. You will perform the play with a visiting examiner in the audience.
What can I do after I’ve completed the course?
After you have completed Drama you can go on to higher levels of study.
These include:
• Drama and Theatre Studies at AS and A2 Level.
Next steps!
If you want to find out more about this Drama course then you can:
 visit the Edexcel website at www.edexcel.com/2009
 talk to the Head of Drama who will be able to describe the course in detail and advise you of what
you need to do next when it comes to your options.
Drama Question:
What is the longest running play in the world?
Drama Answer:
(b) The Mousetrap
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English Literature
The course is divided between Controlled Assessments and study in class leading to External
Examinations. We follow the WJEC specification.
English Literature Controlled Assessments
What does controlled assessment for English
Literature look like?
UNIT 3: poetry and drama (literary heritage)
Task one - Shakespeare
You will have 2 hours to write an essay which analyses how this is
explored throughout a Shakespeare play.
Task two – Welsh Poetry
You will Have 2 hours to compare how a theme is explored in a range
of Welsh poetry stipulated by the exam board.
What is in the exams?
You will have to take two exams in order to complete English Literature. You will not be permitted to
take copies of your set texts with you. The two exams are
as follows:
Unit 2a: Literary heritage drama and
Unit 1: Prose (different cultures) and
contemporary prose OR Unit 2b:
poetry (contemporary)
Contemporary drama and literary
heritage prose
How long is the exam?
What is in the exam?
What is the exam worth?
2 hours
2 hours
Section A requires you to answer two
This paper requires you to answer two
questions about your chosen texts.
questions on each of your chosen texts
Section B requires you to answer a
(a drama text and a prose text).
question comparing two unseen
contemporary poems.
The exam is worth 35% of the English The exam is worth 40% of the English
Literature qualification.
Literature qualification
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Islwyn High School
Food and Nutrition
This course is a must for anyone who wishes to develop their practical skills and develop a further
understanding of nutrition, food commodities, food preparation, food safety and food storage. It is an
essential option for students who wish to work within the food industry.
Pupils develop food preparation and food handling skills by regular participation in practical sessions
which will involve meal production, experimental work, food testing and modifying recipes.
Please note: It is a pupil’s responsibility to bring ingredients to school for most practical lessons. The
GCSE qualification cannot be obtained without participation in these practical lessons
Areas of Study:
1. Food commodities
2. Principles of nutrition
3. Diet and good health
4. The science of food
5. Where food comes from
6. Cooking and food preparation
Assessment
There are two main units in this qualification:

Unit 1: Principles of Food and Nutrition
Written examination: 40% of qualification.
The examination paper is 1 hour 30 minutes and contains two sections both containing
compulsory questions.

Unit 2: Food and Nutrition in Action
Controlled assessment: 60% of qualification.
As part of Unit 2, assessment 1 and assessment 2 will be
moderated by WJEC in May 2018 when candidates are in year 11.
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Geography
This is a two year course in which pupils have the opportunity to
develop their geographical skills, knowledge and understanding
through investigating and learning about places, environments and
issues at a range of scales. This GCSE linear qualification will be
awarded in the summer of 2018.
Two units are studied – Unit 1 in Year 10 and Unit 2 in Year 11. Unit 3 is a Fieldwork Enquiry.
Unit 1 - (40% of Qualification)
Section A:
Core Theme 1 - Landscapes and Physical Processes.
Core Theme 2 - Rural-Urban Links.
Section B:
Options Themes – A choice of the study of Tectonic Landscapes and Hazards or Coastal Hazards and
their Management.
Unit 2 – (40% of Qualification)
Section A:
Core Theme 5 - Weather, Climate and Ecosystems.
Core Theme 6 -Development and Resource Issues.
Section B:
Options Themes – A choice of Social Development Issues or Environmental Challenges.
Unit 3 – (20% of Qualification)
A Fieldwork Enquiry in the form of a written independent
report in response to a specific set question. This is a nonexamination assessment to be completed in class and marked
by the teacher.
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History
History is an exciting and diverse option choice at GCSE and you will be choosing a subject that has
real relevance to the world in which we live and is highly regarded by employers. With a historical
perspective you will be better equipped to appreciate and understand the present day and make
informed decisions as to the future.
The course is assessed by 3 examinations, each of 75 minutes (accounting for 75% of the total mark).
In addition, there is one piece of internally marked controlled assessment (accounting for 25% of the
total mark).
Depth Study
Germany 1929-1947
Pupils will study the rise of the Nazis and what life was like in Nazi Germany as the
Nazis aimed to control every aspect of German life including the use of terror such as
the Gestapo and the persecution of the Jews. The events of World War Two will also
be studied including the effect of the war on life in Germany as well as the Holocaust
and the Nuremberg Trials following the end of the war.
UK 1951-1979
Pupils will study the problems facing Britain in the years after WW2 and how
popular entertainment changed by looking at the different music styles such as
Beatlemania, mods, rockers, hippies and punk. Pupils will also look at the impact of
immigration on Britain and how we became a mulit-cultural society as well as the
problems in the 1970s such as Northern Ireland and the IRA bombing campaign.
Outline Study
USA 1930-2000
This unit is an overview of change in America during the period 1930-2000. Pupils
will study about the treatment of black Americans and the campaign for civil rights
such as Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and the black power movement.
Pupils will also study changing life in the USA which will include learning about
Roosevelt’s New Deal, pop musicians such as Elvis Presley, Kennedy’s presidency
and the Watergate Scandal.
Coursework/Controlled Assessment
There will be two essay questions worth 25%. The topic of the controlled
assessment will be on life during the Blitz in the Second World War. Both questions
will be completed in school as a controlled assessment.
“He who ignores the mistakes of the past is doomed to repeat them”
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Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
A qualification in Information & Communication Technology can open up an increasing number of
career opportunities for pupils. Technology advances quite rapidly and industry is making full use of
the available technology in today’s global workplace.
Career paths include:- telecommunication infrastructure, telecommunication design,
telecommunication repair and development, software/games design and development,
software/games programming and testing, computer hardware design and development, system
analysis and design, system integration and of course teaching ICT.
ICT is an enjoyable and important addition to your GCSE results. It will be a useful addition in any
choice you make when you leave school.
GCSE Information & Communication Technology
GCSE ICT is a linear course where pupils sit both exams at the end
of Year 11.
GCSE ICT Single Award
Pupils are required to complete Unit 1, Unit 2, Unit 3 and Unit 4.
GCSE ICT Short Course
Pupils are required to complete Unit 1 and Unit 2.
Unit 1
External Exam – Understanding ICT. Assesses KS4 and also
functional elements of ICT in a home and a school context. 1½
Hours
Unit 2
Practical, Controlled Assessment – Solving Problems Using ICT.
A portfolio of the pupils work which shows how they research,
obtain, interpret, use, develop and present information.
Assesses the functional aspects of ICT. 22½ Hours
Unit 3
External Exam – ICT in Organisations. Assesses how ICT is used
in a business and industry context. 1 ½ Hours
Unit 4
Practical, Controlled Assessment – Developing Multimedia ICT
Solutions. Pupils develop a piece of work using multimedia
software following a task which will be given to them by the
WJEC. 22½ Hours
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Single
Award
Short
Course
Marks
20%
40%
80
30%
60%
80
20%
N/A
80
30%
N/A
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Islwyn High School
Media
Media is offered as an option at Key Stage Four. As a vocational
course, it is designed to give the pupils the opportunity to
explore the world of ‘The Media’.
The course consists of two units:
Unit 1 – an external exam (2 hrs 15 mins) that is 40% of the final
mark.
Section A: Thinking about the media – pupils must respond to
stimulus material chosen from a topic set by WJEC.
Section B: Thinking about the media – Pupils must plan a series
tasks to demonstrate planning and creative skills through a series
creative tasks.
of
of
Unit 2 – three controlled assessments that are worth 60% of the final mark - Creating for the media,
Investigating and Producing.
Two textual investigations on two different media areas [one must be print-based] (20%) and one
media production consisting of research, planning, the production itself and an evaluation of the
production (40%).
Pupils have full access to the Apple Mac computers, both the
desktop and laptop machines. Here they can increase their ICT skills
by becoming familiar with the Apple Mac operating system. We
have Microsoft Office for word processing and presentations as well
as iMovie, iTunes and iPhoto to name a few. Additionally, the desk
top Apple Macs have the semi-professional editing software, ‘Final
Cut Express’.
The Media Department is an exciting and innovative area where
staff are determined to give pupils a wide and carried experience of
media in its range of forms.
.
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Modern Foreign Languages
A General Information
Want a good GCSE result? Interested in having caring teachers?
The aims of the MFL department are to provide pupils with the
opportunities to achieve the best results possible. We support
and encourage every individual.
These courses in Modern Languages offer an exciting challenge,
allowing you to use your language skills to communicate in the country where the language is
spoken. You will concentrate on 'real' situations you might come across in future employment or
whilst on holiday.
The courses will help you to:
 develop the ability to use the language effectively

form a sound base of skills, language and attitudes which you might need for further study, work
and leisure

look into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken

find enjoyment and intellectual stimulation

have positive attitudes to foreign language learning and to speakers of foreign languages also to
develop a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations.
The content of the course will cover the following broad contexts:

PERSONAL and SOCIAL LIFE

THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

THE WORLD OF WORK

THE WIDER WORLD
These contexts will cover things like talking and writing about yourself, your family, home and area.
Also free time, fashion, holidays, school, future plans, the environment, weather and the life of young
people today.
B Examination Requirements
The examination consists of tests in the four skill areas of READING, WRITING, SPEAKING and
LISTENING. Each has two levels: Foundation and Higher. Your teacher will decide which tests are
most suitable for you.
Foundation Tier assesses Grades C - G; Higher Tier assesses Grades A* - D.
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Islwyn High School
You may take a combination of tiers. For example you may take foundation reading if that is a
weaker skill for you, but higher in writing, speaking and listening.
The 4 skill areas are each worth 25% or 60 marks.
LISTENING
You will have an exam in the summer of year 11 in which you will listen to a CD and answer questions
in written and non-verbal ways such as box ticking,
multiple choice etc. The length of exam is 35 mins (foundation tier), 45 mins (higher tier).
READING
This is similar to the listening exam, except this time, obviously, you will be reading the material in
French/Spanish! There will also be a translation task from French into English. Length of exam – 1hr
(foundation tier), 1 hr 15 mins (hier tier).
SPEAKING
The speaking exam will include 3 tasks:

One role play

One photo card discussion

One conversation
Length of test is 7-9 mins (foundation tier), 10-12 mins (higher tier).
WRITING
The written exam includes a translation task from English. The length of the Exam is 1hr 15mins
(foundation tier) and 1hr 30 mins (higher tier).
C WHY STUDY A FOREIGN LANGUAGE?
Modern foreign language is a great way to start getting to
know and understand other people better. Travel abroad is
a lot more fun and interesting when you can speak the
language. Even something as simple as having a meal will be
easier when you understand the menu and make informed
choices. You may even get better service!
Having a language is also highly valued by employers. Of course you may want to take up the
exciting challenge of working and living abroad. But even staying in Wales, languages are important.
As a nation we lose millions of pounds worth of business every year through our inability to
communicate with foreign competitors. If you can offer a language it may give you an ‘edge’ when
applying for jobs and many employers reward people with language skills with extra salary because
they know they are useful in today’s international business world.
Bonne chance! ¡Mucha suerte!
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Islwyn High School
Music
This option is a two year GCSE course, which prepares learners for careers in the Performing Arts,
Music or Entertainment Industry whilst developing skills required for any profession such as
confidence, organisation, time keeping and ICT.
Pupils work towards a WJEC GCSE in Music. This course provides good progression to Nationals or
AS/A2 levels.
Compulsory units studied:
- 1 ½ hour exam on unprepared listening
- 2 Compositions
- 2 Performances
Will this course suit you?
You must be:
 Organised
 Able to work to deadlines (like in the music industry!)
 Able to work as a team or independently
The following skills are required:
 Ability to play an instrument/sing
 Competent keyboard skills for composing
 Good general ICT skills
Assessment
The course is predominantly practical with each unit having 1-2 large assignments for completion.
EVERY PIECE OF YOUR WORK COUNTS TOWARDS YOUR FINAL GRADE.
Pupils who opt for Music are expected to contribute to performing arts, whether it be the school
production, lighting or PR of events. This can contribute to your portfolio.
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Product Design
General Information
Technology covers a wide range of activities and has
natural links with science and art teaching. In
Technology, understanding and applying scientific
principles is just as important as the development of
‘making skills’. Our aim is to reflect the complex
abilities required to gain control over the man-made
world. The common activities in all Technology
courses are 'designing and communicating', 'making',
'testing', and 'evaluating'.
Technology has a vital part to play in your education if you are to be prepared for living and working
in an industrial society. In activities such as ‘designing or adapting’, then ‘making’, you will respond
to problems which are often unfamiliar. In producing a solution, you will have to make decisions
bearing in mind the restraints of time, available resources and your own skills.
All areas of Technology are taught through a 'problem solving' approach. This approach encourages
pupils to think about and experience scientific, aesthetic, social, ethical and mathematical issues and
concepts.
Project work developed through 'problem solving' can be of two types:
CONSTRUCTIONAL: The construction of an artefact, device or system as the solution to the
problem.

INVESTIGATIONAL: These projects require pupils to conduct a series of investigations and
propose likely solutions.
The end product of the 'problem solving' approach is suitable only if it is well made or investigated
and functional.
Our Technology courses involve the use of the best materials and
equipment available including plastics, constructional kits, the more
traditional materials and food. Computers are also used in the design
and investigational stages of work, as a tool for controlling
mechanical and pneumatic devices and to develop pupil skills in
CAD/CAM.
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Islwyn High School
Syllabus
A study of a common core to support each area will give you an overview of technological processes
which must be applied within problem solving activities.
The core involves the following:

designing and communication skills

knowledge of materials and making skills

evaluation

products and application

systems and control

awareness of the environmental, moral and social implications of technological activities.
GCSE Product Design
Product Design is an exciting, creative subject leading to a range of potential careers including
Architecture, Fashion, Engineering and Design. Pupils will follow a 2 year GCSE course where the
emphasis is on working in a variety of different areas including graphics, systems and control and
resistant materials. Pupils will analyse existing products and design and make a range of 3dimensional products using a wide variety of materials. Assessment is through Written Examination
(40%) which is sat in year 10 and Controlled Assessment (60%), which must include a Design Folder,
and 3-dimensional products and is completed in year 11.
Controlled Assessment requires strong evidence of the use of ICT, and in-depth knowledge and use of
industrial practices.
NOTE: A positive approach and commitment to all Design Technology subjects is essential throughout
the course. Pupils will be expected to put in 'extra time' if necessary to keep up with coursework
deadlines.
Year 11 GCSE controlled assessment practical work
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Islwyn High School
Religious Studies as an option
RS at GCSE is continuing to change as the demands of society change, which means that four units of
study will be from an ethical and philosophical approach. This means that we will look at a topic,
consider both our approach and societies approach before considering different religious
perspectives. The remainder of the course is based on a study of two different religions including
Christianity and another religion.
The topics we will study from a topical approach include:
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Relationships
Issues of Life and Death
Medical Ethics
Good and Evil.
Crime and Punishment
Suffering, Human Rights
Social Justice
Religious Studies is one of the fastest growing subjects. It is compatible with and has a similar skills
base as English, History, Politics, Sociology and Law as well as many other subjects.
Where will success take me?
In the 21st Century, RS is one of the most relevant subjects for a job where you
are expected to work with members of the public.
The Professions:- Teaching, information services, journalism, publishing, the
caring services, social services, medical services, law
Working with people:- Personnel work, youth and community work, nursing and related services.
Other careers:- Purchasing, marketing, selling, production, transport, distribution, any managerial
role, insurance, banking and computing.
The skills acquired through the Religious Studies course offer many employers a good foundation for
training, they show that the pupil can: 
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think clearly
express himself / herself
use different methods of enquiry and investigation
grasp and interpret different ideas and concepts
understand the beliefs of others and co-operate with them.
Religious Studies assists us to make sense of the world and culture in which we live in. It has been
found that students of GCSE Religious Studies vouch for the fact that the course is interesting,
demanding but enjoyable and a meaningful academic qualification.
The course is 100% examination with an exam sat at the end of Year 10 and Year 11. There is one tier
of entry where students can attain grades from A*-G meaning that the course is suitable for all
abilities. It is a literacy based subject.
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Islwyn High School
Resistant Materials
Over the course of two years you will develop a range of creative designing and making skills,
technical knowledge and understanding relating to RMT, and invaluable transferable skills such as
problem solving and time management. This is not just a course for the ‘boys’ - girls always achieve
very high examination results in Resistant Materials.
Content
Assessment is through Written Examination (40%) which can be sat in year 10 or year 11 and
Controlled Assessment (60%), which must include a Design Folder, and 3-dimensional products and is
completed in year 11.
In year 10 we aim to give you the skills and knowledge that you will need to complete your GCSE
successfully. We do this through focused practical tasks using wood, metal and plastics and mini
design projects. GCSE Controlled Assessment begins approximately half way through the year 10
course.
In year 11 you will continue with your coursework, which is in two parts:
• Designing - which tests your ability to design and communicate your ideas
• Making - which tests your ability to choose the correct tools and equipment to make a good quality,
fully working product.
The Future
There are a wide range of careers open to students who study resistant materials. Students who have
studied DT at A level have gone on to study a range of subjects at university. These include Product
Design, Architecture, Automotive Design, Engineering, Environmental Design, Theatre Design and
Jewellery Design. Others possibilities are Design Management, Brand Design, Ergonomics, Furniture
Design, Industrial Design, Packaging, Transport Design, Lighting Design, Teaching and Copywriting.
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Islwyn High School
Sociology
Sociology is a Social Science. This means that people try to look at what happens in the world in a
scientific and unemotional way. Sociology is about learning to understand how we organise our lives
and why we behave as we do.
Topics Studied
Sociology is about how people are made by their society and community especially studying:
Families, Marriage and Divorce
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Social Differences
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Social Class
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Inequalities in Society
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Crime and Deviance
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Education
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Work and Leisure
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Politics
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The Media
Examination – 100% of the total mark
There is one examination at the end of Year 10 (worth 50%) and one at the end of Year 11 (worth
50%).
Career Options
Sociology is a good general subject which can be easily combined with Sciences or Arts subjects. It is
particularly useful for those considering a career in The Police Force, Business, Teaching, Social Work,
Nursing, The Health Profession, Local Government and Social Planning.
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Islwyn High School
Step Up
Course information
The STEP UP Scheme provides you with a fun and interactive opportunity to raise your awareness of
community issues, and is an exciting and practical part of the curriculum. As part of a group you are
able to choose a topic that you will research.
Through continual, steady assessment you will demonstrate both your personal and social skills. By
the end of the course you will gain an Open College Network Qualification, which will demonstrate to
future employers your personal and social skills, in addition to your academic qualifications.
Syllabus
Each module will enable you to demonstrate the following skills,
which are invaluable in school, the community and the work place:
• Teamwork - Develop the ability to work as a member of a team
• Problem solving
• Communication skills – develop speaking and listening skills
• Social skills
• Research and information gathering skills.
There will be an opportunity to take part in visits relating to the topic that you have chosen, and at
the end of year 10 you will be invited to attend a fantastic residential weekend.
Assessment
There is no examination for this subject.
Each module that you complete is assessed and you gain credits to demonstrate that you have met
the challenges set out to you. Assessment is based upon samples of your written work, DVDs that you
may have made, and photographs of any places that you have visited.
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Islwyn High School
Notes
Use the space available to jot down additional information or questions you have.
Subject: ________________________________________
Subject: ________________________________________
Subject: ________________________________________
Subject: ________________________________________
Subject: ________________________________________
Subject: ________________________________________
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Islwyn High School
Pupils/Parent/Guardian – Checklist & Questions
1. What are the subjects that you must do?
…………………………………………………………………………………..………………………....................................................…......
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
2. Have you read the information about the subjects on offer?
………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………............................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
3. What are your favourite subjects?
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
4. What subjects are you good at?
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………..........................................................
5. Are there any subjects that you would like to know more about? YES / NO
6. If Yes, what are they?
…………………………………………………………………………………..………………………….........................................................
…………………………………………………………………………………..………………………….........................................................
7. Do you know who to ask for help? YES / NO
8. Have you discussed this booklet with your parents/guardians? YES / NO (if you have answered No, then
you MUST do so.
9. Now go back to the beginning and read through the subject descriptions for a second time. When you
have done that, you might be ready to make your choices.
10. Have you got any problems? YES / NO
11. FILL IN YOUR CHOICES ON THE FORM PROVIDED. You must return your form to your Form Tutor.
12. KEEP this booklet in a safe place. It contains important information on how your work will be assessed at
Key Stage 4. You may also want to refer to it if you should want to change your choices.
13. What happens next?
(a) You will give your choices to your Form Tutor.
(b) You may be asked to discuss your choices with your Head of Year.
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Islwyn High School
Changing your Option Choices – The Last Resort
Very few students actually change subject option during Year 10. The longer you study a subject then
the more difficult it is to change.
If you are unhappy with your subject choice then you need to consider the following carefully: 
Have you given yourself enough time to adjust to the new course?
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What are your reasons for wanting to change subjects?
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Are you being honest with yourself?
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It will mean extra hard work to catch up on the work you have missed.
What do you do next?
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Discuss any issues with your subject tutor.
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Your parents/guardians will need to make a request in writing to your Head of Year.
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Finally the issue will be discussed by the Senior Management Team.
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Every effort will be made to accommodate your request. However it is not always possible to
change courses. Therefore it is important that you consider your Option Choices carefully at this
stage.
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Islwyn High School
Make the right choices and remember that
success is directly linked to effort.
These important two years will have a strong impact on how well the rest of your life
will go.
Good luck to you all. . . . . !
www.islwynhigh.org
51

7 March 2008 STP is delighted that ex

Transcription

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