ACADEMY TRUST GCSE OPTIONS BOOKLET

NEWPORT GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL
ACADEMY TRUST
GCSE OPTIONS
BOOKLET
2014 - 2016
KEY DATES FOR OPTION PLANNING
Date
Activity
11th/13th February
PSHE meeting - a detailed look at the GCSE
Options booklet and choices at NGHS.
Explanation of procedures for choosing options.
25th/27th February
PSHE meeting - an opportunity to ask questions
about GCSE courses to a panel of Year 11/12
students. Complete a detailed subject review
sheet in preparation for your final subject
preferences.
7th March
Subject preferences to be handed in.
Early June
Final Options Choices issued. Because of the
idiosyncrasies of the timetable in a small
school, it is impossible to give out the final
options choices until this date.
20th June
Final Option Choice sheet to be handed in.
GCSE
NATIONAL CURRICULUM
KEY STAGE 4
This booklet gives details of the curriculum on offer at NGHS at Key Stage 4.
The options process means that it is possible to study up to 11 GCSE and AS
subjects at Key Stage 4. This is a broad and extensive Curriculum, which we are
very pleased to be able to offer. The information published is correct at the
time of going to print but may be subject to change for September in line with
ongoing curriculum development.
1
KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM
It is important for your personal development and your ultimate career
prospects that you have a sound all-round education, which shows your ability in
many aspects of the curriculum. To ensure this a number of subjects are
compulsory.
The table below indicates these compulsory subjects and how we meet our legal
obligations at Key Stage 4.
In Years 10 and 11 you must
study:
These compulsory components
examined as follows:
English
English and English Literature (two GCSEs)
are
Mathematics (GCSE) or
Mathematics
AS Level Mathematics or an additional
Mathematics qualification (details to follow)
Science
Physics, Chemistry and Biology (three GCSEs)
A Modern Foreign Language
French or German (one or two GCSEs)
Religious Education
Religious Education (GCSE)
Physical Education
Physical Education (non-examinable)
Sex Education and Careers Guidance
Included as part of the Personal Social and
Health Education programme and the week’s
work experience in Year 10
Citizenship
Citizenship (non-examinable)
WHAT CHOICES DO I NEED TO MAKE?
English, Maths, Science, RE, PE, PSHE, and a Modern Foreign Language are
compulsory subjects for all students. You must choose three subjects, at least
one of which must be French or German, from the following: Art, D&T,
French, German, Geography, History, ICT (AS) and Music.
However, we ask you to put all 8 subjects in order of preference. This will give
us the information we need in drawing up the option scheme and to personalise
the curriculum for every student.
2
WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT?
We will look in detail at your choices, and the reasons for your choices. Every effort
will be made to draw up a scheme of options which will satisfy your wishes, but it is
impossible for any school to offer a completely free choice; subjects offered have to
fit into a timetable pattern and are also limited by group size.
We cannot release our preferred scheme of options until we are sure that we can
indeed timetable it. Remember we must first ensure that Years 11 and 13 can continue
with their current course. In addition, many subjects are taught by only one member of
staff and this severely restricts our timetabling capacity.
You and your parents will be informed of the option choices as soon as we
possibly can do so, but this will not be until early June.
ADVICE ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR CHOICES
1.
Do not choose a subject only because your friend is opting for it, or because of
your liking for a particular member of staff.
2.
Do not avoid choosing a subject because it has meant more homework in the past.
All GCSE subjects involve more homework than in Year 9.
3.
Discuss your choice with your form teacher and subject teachers who can give
you valuable help.
4.
Think about:
Where do my strengths and weaknesses lie?
Which subjects do my teachers recommend me to take?
What subject skills may I need for some subjects?
Which subjects particularly interest me?
5.
Ask yourself - what ideas about my future career do I have at the moment?
6.
Discuss your choice carefully with your parents.
7.
Remember that some subjects can be taken at A level, which have not been
studied at GCSE, for example, Art/DT. Discuss this with your subject teachers.
For languages it is necessary to follow the appropriate GCSE course if you intend
to take the language at A level.
8.
After you have made your initial choice you will have an opportunity to arrange an
interview with a senior member of staff if you wish.
9.
Every effort will be made to allocate you to the subjects you have chosen.
However, it may be necessary to modify the choice and you must be prepared for
this to happen.
3
COURSEWORK AND EXAMINATION WEIGHTINGS
GCSE differs considerably from the Key Stage 3 courses, in its emphasis on controlled
assessments. A proportion of class work and homework from an early stage in Year 10
will now be assessed by your teacher and will form an important part of your final
grade. You will need to organise your homework time carefully in order to meet
controlled assessments deadlines. A list of the relative weightings for examination and
controlled assessments is given below.
Subject
Examination
Controlled Assessment
English Language
60%
40%
English Literature
75%
25%
Mathematics
100%
0%
Sciences
75%
25%
Art
40%
60% (portfolio of work)
French
40%
60%
Geography
75%
25%
German
40%
60%
History
75%
25%
ICT – AS Level
60%
40% (coursework)
Music
40%
60%
Religious Studies
100%
0%
Technology
40%
60%
4
ART - OCR OPTION FINE ART
What will I study?
You will work from direct observation and imagination, develop ideas and explore
different ways of responding to a topic. You will be encouraged to work with a
variety of techniques to experiment in an imaginative way and to build upon and
strengthen your current skills. You must use a range of media but often you can
choose those you prefer for a final piece. Coursework can include any of the
following:
painting
drawing
textiles
photography
mixed media
monoprinting
lino printing
digital artwork
sculpture
collage
manipulation of images
You will be expected to look at the work of well-known artists as this can
suggest ways that materials can be used and how ideas might be put together,
helping and informing you in your own work. You will also be expected to make
connections with your work and the visual world around you eg. through first
hand observation, images from books, internet magazines and other imagery or
photographs. Visits to art galleries are an essential component of the course,
locally, in this country and possibly elsewhere. All students may be given an
extra option of going on an Art trip abroad in October or February half term.
Places we have visited are Italy, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, New York and
Amsterdam as well as London, Birmingham and Liverpool.
How is Art GCSE assessed?
Art is assessed on:
 the way you respond to a stimulus and how you can investigate to develop
your ideas;

your ability to experiment with and use a range of media;

your ability to work from direct observation;

your ability to change and develop work as it progresses to a final outcome
or outcomes;

the way you respond to the work of other artists.
Examination and Coursework
Component
Coursework
Examination
Description
You will submit a portfolio (folder) of
work for assessment (Easter Year 11)
Exam paper is given out at least eight
weeks in advance (after Christmas).
You then develop ideas, experiment,
etc. to prepare the final piece which
will be completed in the exam. (over 2
school days ie. 10 hours)
5
Duration
Weighting
ongoing
60%
10 hours
(2 days)
40%
Marking
The work is marked by your Art teacher and will be moderated by a visiting
moderator.
Display of coursework and exam pieces concludes the course.
What skills will I have developed?




Working in a range of media successfully to a high level of skill
Expressing ideas imaginatively in a visual and personal way
Appreciation of work of other artists at first hand
An understanding of the wide range of forms Art can take
If you are considering Art at A level, then this course is essential, as it gives a
good foundation for further work (though if you are keen and well-motivated it
is not always essential if you really want to study Art).
Homework
Specific tasks will be set, eg. drawing from direct observation, researching
techniques, also further development of ideas, completion of work in progress
and research on the work of other artists will be expected.
Your understanding of Art will be greatly enhanced by visits to galleries, locally
or further afield.
6
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (Graphic Products) – AQA 3543 (Optional)
What is GCSE Graphic Products?
The GCSE Graphic Products course covers both visual imagery and the
production of 3 dimensional outcomes, such as packaging, advertising, product
displays, board games, pop-up books etc. You will use a wide range of graphic
techniques to create, develop and communicate solutions to problems. The
solutions will be modelled in a variety of graphic materials to convey 3
dimensional concepts to others.
You will learn:







Drawing techniques (sketching, 3D work, application of colour and formal
drawings);
Modelling methods (using card, plastic, foam);
Develop ideas, plan and produce products;
Analyse and evaluate commercially produced products;
Develop an awareness of industrial processes (e.g. printing techniques);
Consider how past and present design and technology affects society;
Recognise the moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in design and
technology.
How is GCSE Graphic Products assessed?
The Assessment comprises two components, 60% Controlled Assessment project
and 40% exam. The project consists of a completed design folder and a 3dimensional outcome.
The exam considers various designs, materials and processes in the context of a
central theme sent by the board in advance.
How much homework will be set?
There will be one 30 - 35 minutes homework session per week which will be used
to reinforce themes and where possible will be of a practical nature. It is
therefore advisable for students to have access to an A3 portfolio to carry
work.
How does GCSE Graphic Products lead on to A Level?
GCSE Graphic Products provides a sound basis for A Level study since it
develops the key skills of communication, application of number, ICT, working
with others, improving own learning and performance and problem solving. Design
and Technology Graphic Products is uniquely placed to provide opportunities for
all six Key Skills required at A Level and it is advisable, although not compulsory,
to study this first as an option at GCSE.
7
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE AQA HIGH TIER
(Compulsory)
Students will prepare for the two subjects combined at GCSE. In the first year
students will prepare for and sit their controlled assessment pieces to ensure
these and their speaking and listening assessments will be completed by the end
of Year 10. In Year 11 students will move on to prepare for and sit their two
GCSE English Literature examinations and their one GCSE English Language
examination.
About the subjects
English teaches skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening.
English Literature explores the effects writers can achieve through structure,
imagery, diction and narrative style.
Why are they important?
Learning to analyse text and media is an important skill for everyone, as is the
ability to recognise the line of an argument and to be able to produce a clear one
yourself. You will often be expected in life to present information orally, and
this too is something you will practise in English lessons.
Assessment
GCSE English Language (60% examination, 40% controlled assessment)
GCSE English Literature (75% examination, 25% controlled assessment)
The GCSE English Language course is as follows: there is one 2 hour 15 minute
examination which tests reading of non-fiction and media texts, and writing for
a specific purpose. In addition there are controlled assessment assignments in
the form of at least three speaking and listening assessments, and written
assignments focusing on extended reading (one 1200 word essay); creative
writing (two tasks totalling 1200 words); and a spoken language study (one 1000
word essay).
The GCSE English Literature course is as follows: there are two examinations,
one of 1 hour 30 minutes which tests modern prose or drama in addition to an
exploration of different cultures, and one examination of 1 hour 15 minutes
which tests poetry from the AQA Anthology and unseen poetry. One additional
unit of controlled assessment is also covered in the form of one 2000 word
essay linking Shakespeare and heritage texts.
Homework
There are two homeworks of 30 - 35 minutes each week. However, preparation
for controlled assessments or practice exams may spread over a week or more,
and may not fit neatly into the homework layout. A fair amount of time for
completion of the task will always be negotiated with the students.
How do GCSE English Language and English Literature lead on to A level?
At the High School, the AS and A2 courses lead to the OCR English Literature
qualifications. Students who have enjoyed the literary elements of the GCSE
course, who enjoy reading and are fascinated by language use, will want to hone
their critical skills at this level.
8
GEOGRAPHY – AQA Specification A (Optional)
Why choose Geography?
Geography is a bridge between the arts and sciences and is therefore a relevant
and flexible subject. It gives an awareness of issues at all scales from local to
global.
These include:




Environmental relationships between people and their surroundings;
Sustainable development;
Our global interdependence;
An understanding of cultural differences.
It offers transferable skills such as data collection, analysis and evaluation
which are used in other subjects as well as Geography. As students of
Geography you will become equipped in a wide range of skills sought by Higher
Education Institutions and employers. Geography is a well respected and sought
after academic qualification.
What will I study at GCSE?
There are 3 units all of which emphasise inter-relationships between people's
activities and the environment.
These units are:



Unit 1: Physical Geography - the Restless Earth, the Challenge of Weather
and Climate, the Coastal Zone, and water on the land (rivers).
Unit 2: Human Geography- Population Change, the Development Gap, Tourism
and managing urban environments.
Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation.
How GCSE Geography is assessed
You will be entered for the Higher Tier (grades A* to D). There are three
components:


Unit 1 and 2 are assessed by 2 written exams, each lasting 1 hour 30
minutes. Both are worth 37.5% of the final grade.
Unit 3 is a controlled assessment. Pupils will have to write up their fieldwork
investigation under the supervision of their teacher in lesson times.
Homework
There is one homework of 30 – 35 minutes each week. These will usually be
related to topics studied in class or to reinforce skills and previous knowledge.
What will Geography GCSE lead to?
Geographers work in almost every field of employment, and the qualification
would support applications to for science based degrees like psychology and
environmental sciences as well as humanities degrees like law and business.
9
HISTORY (Optional)
What is GCSE History all about?
History at GCSE links to some of the 20th century topics you have studied in Year 9.
Your course will involve a study of World and European History starting in the early
twentieth century. The course will help you to understand some of the most important
problems of international affairs, which face us today. Through depth studies you will
gain insight into particular problems of the past. You will have the opportunity to
develop the skills to look beyond the headlines, to ask questions properly and to express
your own opinions.
Will I enjoy this course?
You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that involves learning about and
discussing the events that have shaped today's world. You will study world issues such
as why America was plunged into depression in the 1930s and why peace was not
achieved after 1939. If you are interested in learning about the modern world and like
to put forward a well-developed point of view, then you will enjoy History.
The pursuit of historical knowledge of people and events is profoundly interesting and
fun – a form of time travel that illuminates characters, chains of events and how they
come to be!
How is GCSE History assessed?
Examination and Coursework
Component
Paper 1
Paper 2
Controlled
Assessment
Content
International relations - the Post War Years
1945 – 75.
Depth study: The USA between 1919 – 1941.
A source-based investigation of an historical
issue taken from the British Depth Study,
1906-18.
One assignment will be set focusing on a study
of Germany 1918 - 45.
Duration
Weighting
2 hours
45%
1½ hours
30%
Internally
assessed
25%
Homework
There is one homework session of 30 - 35 minutes per week. The homework set will
generally be related to topics studied in class and will help to develop historical skills,
homework may also be used for revision purposes and to review and consolidate skills
and knowledge.
What skills will I develop?
As well as learning about History, the course will enable you to improve your skills in
communication, IT, working with others, improving own learning and performance and
problem solving. Studying History encourages you to produce well-reasoned conclusions
based on the evaluation of evidence, which is a highly transferable skill.
How does GCSE History lead on to A level?
GCSE History will provide you with the necessary skills to study this subject at an
advanced level. It can also be used to support many other advanced courses including
English Literature, Art and MFL, for example.
10
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
The ICT accelerated learning program will allow you to complete an AS Level in ICT by
the end of Year 11. The advantages of this option are it will give you extra UCAS points
for your university applications. Also, most universities require you to take an ICT
course in the first year, but in most cases if you have an AS in ICT you would not need
to attend. Completing an AS a year early will also help in your university applications,
especially when applying for over subscribed courses as it will make you stand out from
other applicants as many schools offer accelerated AS courses.
You could be able to complete the A-level in Year 12 by studying the A2 units which will
give you a complete A-level by the end of Year 12 instead of Year 13. This gives you the
opportunity to gain four A-levels instead of three.
AS ICT
This course aims to develop problem-solving skills through the practical application of
ICT. In order to do this effectively you will need to:

Know the difference between data information and knowledge.

Appreciate the features and functions of computer software and hardware and
communications technology and what can and cannot be achieved using ICT systems
in a variety of applications, eg industry, commerce, education etc.

Acquire skills in collecting facts, analysing them and being able to select the
appropriate software package to develop the solution to the problem.
What can I do with an AS in ICT?
It will give you a deeper understanding of ICT and how it is used and managed. This will
be useful in whatever you choose to do in the future as ICT permeates all aspects of
our lives.

It will support your future studies or career no matter what area you choose to
follow.

It will provide a sound foundation for higher-level studies in ICT or ICT related
subjects at university or college

In many universities students are required to take an ICT course in the first year
of their course. However, in many of these universities students with an AS ICT
are not required to do so.
The AS course is made up of 2 modules of work:
1.
Examination Unit 1 - An introductory AS module covering : Knowledge, information
and data; the value and importance of information in our society; control of
information; the capabilities and limitations of information technology; the social
impact of information technology; the role of communication systems; information
and the professional; information systems malpractice and crime; the legal
framework of IT; Health & Safety; Data capture; verification and validation;
11
organisation of data for effective retrieval; software – nature, capabilities and
limitations; manipulation and processing of data; dissemination/distribution of
information; hardware – nature, capabilities and limitations; security of data;
network environments; the human/computer interface.
2.
Coursework Unit 2 - Coursework unit covers:

Publisher to create booklet

Web design using Dreamweaver

Access to create a simple database

Word to create mail merge letters

Animation software

Video editing software for filmmaking

Audacity for sound recording and editing
How will my work be assessed?
Unit 1 is assessed by means of written examinations (2¼ hours).
Unit 2 is assessed through the practical task and is internally assessed and externally
moderated by WJEC.
Homework
There are two homework sessions of 30 – 35 minutes each per week. These will be
related to topics studied in class to reinforce knowledge and understanding.
12
MATHEMATICS (Edexcel 1MA0)
Why do I have to take GCSE Mathematics?
GCSE Mathematics covers a lot of basic skills that you will need to use in a variety
of ways all through your life and because of this it is a compulsory subject for all
students in Years 10 and 11. You will use a lot of what you learn in the course in
other GCSEs that you study. For example, in Science you may be asked to use
formulae and solve equations, in Geography you will need to read charts and
diagrams and use statistics and in D&T you will need to use measures and make scale
drawings. Many jobs and careers also require GCSE Mathematics as an entry
requirement.
How is GCSE Mathematics assessed?
Assessment in Mathematics is by two 1 hour 45 minute papers each worth 50% of
the total marks. As in the SATs both exam papers cover the whole syllabus and the
first is a non-calculator paper, in the second calculators are allowed. All students
will be entered for the Higher Tier where grades A* to C are available.
Homework
There are two homework sessions of 30 to 35 minutes each per week. The
homework set will generally be related to the topics studied in class but students
will also be asked to complete past papers for essential practice of the skills that
they have learnt in lessons.
How does GCSE Mathematics lead on to A levels?
GCSE Mathematics is an important foundation for many subjects you may wish to
study at A level. If you enjoy Maths and achieve a good grade you may wish to
continue with it in Year 12 and take it at AS or A Level. Here you will learn many
more applications of Maths in Statistics and Mechanics as well as continuing with
the basic algebra and trigonometry in Core Maths.
13
MODERN LANGUAGES (AQA) - FRENCH AND GERMAN
One Modern Language is compulsory and you may opt to take both languages.
What is involved in GCSE Modern Languages?
In the modern world, languages are an increasingly valuable skill as communications
expand. Knowledge of one or more languages will enable you to speak and write to
people of different nationalities, as well as to develop an appreciation of other cultures.
What will I study at GCSE?
You will study the four language skills of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing to a
higher level than in Key Stage 3, and you will have ample opportunities to speak and
write about topics of personal interest.
How are Modern Languages assessed?
You will work towards the Higher Tier examinations: the Reading and Listening papers in
the final assessment, being worth 20% each. The Speaking and Written Assessments
are worth 30% each of the total. In both French and German you will take two
examinations, in Listening, and Reading plus controlled assessments for Speaking and
Writing. Examination lengths are as follows: Higher Listening
40 minutes
Higher Reading
50 minutes
Speaking
Controlled Assessment (two tasks submitted for moderation)
Writing
Controlled Assessment (two tasks submitted for marking)
Speaking Assessment
Students complete two controlled assessment tasks which will be in the form of a
dialogue. The tasks will be marked by the teacher and moderated by AQA and each
task should last between 4 and 6 minutes.
Written Assessment
Students complete two controlled assessment tasks independently, and final
assignments will be written under supervision with access to a dictionary. They should
produce 400-600 words across the two tasks.
Homework
One session of 30 - 35 minutes each week.
How do GCSE Modern Languages lead on to A level?
The fact that the GCSE courses are much concerned with practical communication is a
good basis for further development of these skills to a higher level: anyone coping well
with a GCSE course should cope well at A level.
14
MUSIC – Edexcel (Optional)
We have chosen the Edexcel syllabus because of its traditional approach to the study
of musical styles and in particular its suitability as preparation for A’ Level.
Why should I study Music?
Music GCSE is an opportunity to explore creatively the most pervasive of all human art
forms. If you wish to take the performing arts further, perhaps at A’ level or beyond,
then Music is an obvious choice; if you are thinking of pursuing science or the
humanities Music GCSE is still a subject that Universities like to see on an application
form. To get a good grade at GCSE music you must assimilate a large amount of
unfamiliar technical knowledge and understanding, develop good presentation and
performing skills and be a very good listener. Music is NOT a soft option.
Should I study Music?
You should study music if you are interested in learning more about the many different
styles and genres of music both past and present. You should be a reasonably confident
performer on an instrument or voice and be prepared to continue with your vocal or
instrumental studies as part of your coursework. You should be interested in learning
how to develop your composition skills; perhaps you will have made up your own pieces of
music already.
What must I do to pass GCSE Music?
You must submit two performances at the end of the course, one must be a solo and one
must be an ensemble with at least one other player or singer (who is not an
accompanist). You may record these performances at any time during the course and
you may re-record them if you wish. Performance counts for 30% of your marks.
You must submit two compositions at the end of the course. The compositions must be
based on two different styles of music. They might be a song with guitar chords or a
tune for flute and piano or any combination of voices and instruments you might wish.
This is the most truly creative part of doing GCSE music. Composition counts for 30%
of your marks.
During the course you will study a set of pieces of music which are taken from a variety
of styles and genres. Classical music does feature prominently, however there also
pieces from the popular and world traditions. At the end of the course you must sit a
listening exam which will test your knowledge of the music you have studied. The exam
counts for 40% of your marks.
Will I have much homework?
Students will be expected to complete short theoretical exercises, listening questions
and composition exercises at home. In addition it is expected that they will devote
between one to two hours per week to practicing as part of their continuing
instrumental and vocal studies.
15
PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND HEALTH EDUCATION (PSHE)
This programme covers both Citizenship and PSHE aspects over the two years and is
delivered via weekly timetabled lessons.
What is the PSHE course about?
The PSHE part of the course will build on the issues discussed in Years 7-9. The
programme continues to focus on a range of skills that will enable you to become well
prepared for life beyond school and for adulthood as participating members of society.
It will also help you to cope with change and to be responsive to challenges and
opportunities, and therefore help you develop in a flexible way which is integral to
society's changing character.
The course is designed to provoke personal insights and reflections on your personal
developments and learning as well as help you plan how you can use this in the future.
The main areas you will be studying in Years 10 and 11 are:
Personal Wellbeing - Sex and Relationships, Careers Research and Work Related
Learning, Sleep, Good Mental Health, Body Image and Economic Well-being, Health and
Safety.
Understanding Self and Others - Working in Groups, Coping with Difficult Situations,
Developing Resilience.
What is the Citizenship course about?
The course is divided into 4 themes:
Community Action and Active Citizenship
To include looking at how individuals bring about change in communities and the impact
campaigns can have on political decision making. There will be an opportunity to carry
out and evaluate your own Active Citizenship project.
Being a Citizen in the UK: Democracy and Identity
To include looking at how citizens can participate in the democratic process, particularly
elections and voting.
Fairness and Justice
To include looking at the rights and responsibilities of a British citizen, how these
rights are affected by the law and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
Global Issues and Making a Difference
To include looking at key international bodies such as the United Nations, in particular
their dealings with global issues.
The usual order of delivery will be:
Year 10
Economic – wellbeing and careers
Active Citizenship Project Launch
School and the local Community
Relationships & Sex Education
Citizenship Project Exhibition
Healthy Eating
Study Skills
National Government
Rights and Work
Year 11
Target setting for the year
Post exam planning – experience
A level options
The Nationals and Global Economy
The Legal System
Finalising post 16 planning
Global Citizenship
Emotional Wellbeing and Intelligence
Preparing for Sixth Form
16
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (COMPULSORY)
Why Do I Have To Take PE?
As part of the National Curriculum, Physical Education is a compulsory subject.
Throughout year 10 and 11 it is a non-examination subject, however you will
complete a range of practical assessments across all areas of the curriculum.
The importance of Physical Education within the school curriculum?
Physical Education is important within the curriculum as you will develop an
understanding of the benefits of exercise and physical activity and how this can
contribute towards leading a healthy lifestyle. Within the KS4 PE curriculum we
strive to offer a diverse range of activities in the hope that all students will
find an activity they would like to participate within outside of school life. It is
important that all students regularly participate in physical activity and this is
an expectation of all students throughout the two years.
What activities will be offered to me?
During your time in year 10 and 11 you will have a wider breadth of activity
options available for you to participate in. Some of the activities you can expect
to take part in are: netball, football, basketball, aerobics, fitness, volleyball,
lacrosse, handball, tag rugby, archery, athletics, rounders, cricket, dance and
problem solving.
Additional opportunities available within PE
As part of the PE curriculum you will be given the opportunity to spend a half
term doing Fitness at Newport Fitness Centre and we are also developing links
with other agencies to further improve the range of activities that are available
to you. Furthermore, we also support the development of sports leadership
within all lessons in the KS4 curriculum focusing specific lessons on the
improvement of this. You will learn about fair play, health and fitness and
communication as a leader and official and will plan and lead activities for other
students both within our school and the local community.
17
RELIGIOUS STUDIES: PHILOSOPHY & APPLIED ETHICS
OCR GCSE Specification J121
This OCR Short Course option will give students the opportunity to explore and
reflect on questions about existence and morality. Students will develop their
thinking and analytical skills and evaluate their own and others’ ideas on
philosophical and moral issues.
Specification Aims
This specification gives students opportunities to:

Adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion.

Explore religions and beliefs, reflect on fundamental questions, engage with
them intellectually and respond personally.

Enhance their personal, social and cultural development, their understanding
of different cultures locally, nationally and in the wider world and to
contribute to social and community cohesion.

Reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in light of
their learning.

Consider religious and other responses to moral issues.

Identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life raised by
religion and human experience, including questions about the meaning and
purpose of life.

Develop transferable skills and those relevant to the study of religion.
Content
The following topics will be covered:
Philosophy 2
Good and Evil:

The Problem of Evil.

Coping with suffering.

Sources and reasons for moral behaviour.
Religion and Science:

Origins of the world and life.

People and animals.

Environmental issues.
18
Ethics 1
Religion and Medical Ethics:

Abortion

Euthanasia

Fertility Treatment

The use of animals in medical research.
Religion, Poverty and Wealth:

Religious views of wealth and the causes of hunger, poverty and disease.

Concern for others.

Uses of money.

Moral and immoral occupations.
Assessment
The above content is examined through four 1 hour examinations.
There is no coursework.
Homework
Homework is set once a week to ensure full coverage of the syllabus.
19
SCIENCE (AQA)
Key Stage 4 Science
We will be offering students GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences
Why is Science important?
Science is about understanding the world around us from the smallest particles up to
the entire Universe and everything in between.
Science is behind many exciting developments which enrich our lives in so many ways and
we want to prepare our students to both gain an understanding and to be part of making
the world a better place for tomorrow by using the Science they have learned here.
How will Science be assessed?
At the end of Year 11 all written components will be set:
Component
Description & Duration
Weighting
Biology B1
Written paper 45mins
25%
Chemistry C1
Written paper 45mins
25%
Physics P1
Written paper 45mins
25%
Biology B2
Written paper 45mins
25%
Chemistry C2
Written paper 45mins
25%
Physics P2
Written paper 45mins
25%
Biology B3
Written paper 45mins
25%
Chemistry C3
Written paper 45mins
25%
Physics P3
Written paper 45mins
25%
To gain a GCSE in Biology students will have completed the following components:
Biology B1, Biology B2, Biology B3, 1 Centre Assessed Unit in Biology.
The same pattern applies to Chemistry and Physics.
The centre assessed unit is as close to coursework as is allowed and focuses more on
the How Science Works elements of the syllabus as well as assessing their practical
skills. This component counts as 25% of each Science’s GCSE and will be conducted
within lessons at some stage during the course. The context of these ISAs change
each year and these may be conducted when the topic that the ISA is set around is
being taught.
How much homework will be set?
There are three homework sessions of 30 – 35 minutes each per week.
How does Separate Sciences lead on to A level?
The three separate sciences provide through preparation to commence A-levels.
Separate Sciences allow more time to study topics in depth and ideal to those students
aspiring to a science related course at university.
Pupils who have taken separate sciences statistically are more likely to secure the top
grades at A level.
20
HIGHER EDUCATION
A LEVELS CURRENTLY ON OFFER
The school offers the following A levels - although this situation may be subject
to change on a year-to-year basis. Please note that this comprehensive list will
support any choices at degree level.
AS/A2 in:
English Literature, History, Geography, Business Studies & Economics, French,
German, Art, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology,
Music, Psychology, Design and Technology, Government & Politics, ICT, Physical
Education, RE (Ethics & Philosophy).
UNIVERSITY
Most girls who attend this school stay on into the Sixth Form to study their
chosen subjects at Advanced or Advanced Supplementary level and of these the
majority go on to university so that they can gain a degree. They do this for
several reasons:
1.
The choice of careers is far wider if you have a degree; the chance of getting
a job is greater.
2. The experience of being at university brings maturity and independence. The
opportunities available for intellectual and personal development are manifold
and the range of sporting, musical and leisure activities available are wide and
readily accessible.
Some careers demand specific degree qualifications but this is not so for the
majority. Employers look for people who are adaptable, flexible, capable of
working both independently and as part of a team and who have the intellectual
capacity to study for a degree. The actual subject matter studied is often not as
important as the skills acquired in its study.
22