Year 9 Options Booklet 2016

Transcription

Swavesey
Village College
Year 9 Guided Choices
KS4 Course Information
Booklet 2016
Key Stage 4 Course Information Booklet
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GUIDED CHOICES FORM
DEADLINE TO TUTOR MONDAY 7th MARCH 2016
Name:
Form:
Courses in order of preference:
1) FIRST CHOICE (tick one box):
French
German
Spanish
NVQ French
English & Maths Functional Skills
2)
3)
4)
Other Courses I might consider:
1)
2)
Please confirm your choices by reading the following statement and then signing below:
I understand that the college will endeavour to provide the courses advertised but
recognise that I may have to consider alternatives if subjects are oversubscribed, chosen
by too few students or deemed inappropriate for me.
Student signature:
Parent/Carer signature:
Form tutor signature:
Senior tutor signature:
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Year 9 Guided Choices
KS4 Course Information Booklet 2015
INTRODUCTION
This booklet contains all the information you need to make your choices for Year 10. We
hope you will find it useful. It is divided into eight sections which will lead you through the
main decisions ahead.

Key Dates

Personalising Learning at SVC

The Core Curriculum

Exams and Assessment in Key Stage 4

What does the School Offer?

Course Outlines

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance

Frequently Asked Questions
In order to help you make the right choices and for the right reasons, read the information
in this information booklet carefully. Once option courses have been allocated it is very
difficult to make changes and your preferred subject may no longer be available due to
timetable and group size restrictions.
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Key Dates
YEAR 9 CHOICES CALENDAR 2016
Week Beginning 25th January, 2016
Key Stage 4 Course Information Booklet Published
Look through the information booklet with your parents/guardians. What stands out?
Friday 29th January, 2016
Year 9 Report Sent Home
Look at your report with your parents/guardians and decide which
subjects you are good at and which you enjoy.
Tuesday 2rd February, 2016
Tutor Review Meeting
Use this opportunity to discuss your strengths and weaknesses with your tutor and
parents/guardians. Look at your predicted grades and 5R scores, attendance, revision and
exam preparation – everything that determines your level of success - as well as extracurricular achievements and goals.
Monday 8th February, 2016
Key Stage 4 Choices Evening
You will have the opportunity to find out more about the courses available and speak to
subject leaders.
Thursday 3rd March, 2016
Parents’ Consultation Evening
An opportunity to talk to your individual teachers about your progress and potential
within a given subject.
Monday 7th March, 2016
Hand in Key Stage 4 Choices Form
Complete the Choices Form at the front of the Information Booklet and hand back to your
Form Tutor. Parents must have signed the form.
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Personalising Learning at Swavesey Village College
Swavesey Village College is committed to achievement for all and will support every student
to achieve the qualifications and grades that reflect their individual ability, needs and future
aspirations.
Our students’ outstanding achievements in recent years reflect this commitment to
personalised learning. As an inclusive school with a comprehensive intake we offer a wide
range of courses that cover the full academic and vocational spectrum. We ensure that
students are supported in making appropriate decisions about which paths to follow into
further education.
The success of our students is based on:
 Students being guided onto the most appropriate courses and qualifications in year
9;
 High expectations of achievement established through our target setting and
monitoring in Key Stage 4;
 High quality teaching and learning, underpinned by the same high expectations.
 Effective support and intervention between parents, subject teachers and tutors.
Making the right Guided Choices
This is an exciting time for Year 9 students and, although relatively straightforward for
many, it can be both confusing and overwhelming for some.
There is a vast range of guidance and support available about potential choices. This booklet
is a starting point, but please also approach your form tutor as a first point of contact.
The key questions to discuss at home and with your tutor when choosing options for Year 10
and 11 will be:



In which subjects am I most likely to succeed?
Which subjects do I enjoy?
Which subjects will enable me to progress to my preferred further education
course(s)?
We would strongly encourage every student to consider carefully a range of courses that
will enable them to succeed and progress appropriately. For most, it is important to
maintain a well-balanced curriculum that gives opportunities for different styles of learning
and study and broad progression routes post 16.
It is not always possible to accommodate all selections. We have to maintain reasonable
class sizes and also try to work around “clashes”. As a result we ask you to indicate other
courses you might consider. This will only inform our thinking about what we may be able to
offer. We will not allocate one of these selections without consulting with an individual
student and their parents/guardians.
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The Core Curriculum
The Key Stage 4 Curriculum is made up of a ‘core’ of: English, Maths, Science, Religious
Studies and Physical Education. These account for approximately 15 periods a week. The
remaining 10 periods form part of our Guided Choices programme that personalises
provision for students through access to up to 4 additional GCSE/vocational courses.
This booklet outlines the breadth of qualifications that Swavesey offers at Key Stage 4 and
we know that collectively these courses provide every student with the appropriate
qualifications and courses to achieve their individual potential, whether that be through an
exclusively academic programme or a mix of GCSE and vocational courses.
Language Choice
As a Specialist Languages College we have already established a very strong Modern
Languages team and encourage every student, who can achieve a higher pass on a
language GCSE course, follows at least one of the courses on offer. This reflects the
growing expectation from Sixth Forms, Universities and Employers over recent years.
All students have undergone a rigorous assessment process to assess their potential. This
has included:
1. A GCSE style Language test (a broad assessment of at least 3 topics).
2. National data provided by Cognitive Ability Tests and Fischer Family Trust Data based on KS2
test performance.
3. A Teacher assessment of their ability and 5Rs throughout KS3.
The Language department have already been in contact with all pupils/parents who will be
following a Language in Year 10 and 11. The language department also offers the French
NVQ course.
If you are not taking a Language subject, you will have to choose English and Maths
Functional Skills. This is a course which looks at numeracy and literacy a ‘real life’ emphasis.
The Functional Skills course also supports students in achieving well in GCSE English and
Maths.
Science
The Science department has chosen 3 pathways for pupils based on their ability and
aptitude for the subject. This information will be communicated home directly for each
pupil as part of the Year 9 Reports on 29th January:
1. Pathway 1 – These pupils have been selected to take Triple Science, where they will
study Biology, Chemistry and Physics as 3 separate GCSE subjects. This will be taught
via an accelerated route in the allotted 5 hours a week for Science in Year 10 and 11
and have shown the aptitude to achieve A/A* in the sciences.
2. Pathway 2 – These pupils will follow the Combined (Dual) Science course which
counts as 2 GCSEs. This covers much of the material in the Triple course, but not in
quite as much depth or detail.
3. Pathway 3 – A group of pupils have been assigned to Pathway 2, but do have the
option to take the Triple Sciences. In order to support the pupils through this more
challenging route, they will have to choose Triple Science as one of their 4 options
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choices. They have the ability to achieve well on the course but would benefit from
the extra time allowance that using an option block gives. If these pupils do not
choose Science as one of their options, they will follow Pathway 2.
Both the Triple Science and Combined Science GCSE qualifications will offer progression to
A-Level Science courses, provided pupils achieve at the appropriate level.
New GCSE Specifications
Most GCSEs will now be graded on a 1-9 scale (9 being the highest) when pupils sit the
exams in 2018. The grid below shows the equivalency of the new grades with the traditional
scale of A*-G
The following GCSEs will be on the new specifications and the 1-9 grading system; Maths,
English Language, English Literature, Science, History, Geography, French, German, Spanish,
Art, Photography, Music, Drama, Computer Science and Food.
The following GCSE are still on the legacy specifications and will be graded A*-G; Child
Development, ICT and Product Design.
English Baccalaureate*
Identified students have been made aware of the expectation that they will follow at least
one language in KS4. If a student is continuing with a Language then we would suggest that
they consider selecting either History or Geography, or both to ensure they follow a subject
from each of the areas recognised as part of the English Baccalaureate, which the
Government suggests is beneficial for keeping as wide a range of possible options for the
future, in terms of further and higher education.
Vocational Courses
Swavesey Village College is committed to providing every student with the opportunity to achieve
high quality vocational and applied qualifications alongside their traditional GCSE subjects. We
recognise the benefits these courses offer students in terms of the range and breadth of skills
developed beyond those fostered on traditional GCSE courses. For some students they bring
greater relevance and context to their learning in school and support their progression and
achievement in the future.
The college has received significant investment for applied and vocational learning over the
past five years and as a result has developed a range of industry standard facilities for Hair
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and Beauty, Construction and Engineering. This allows students who opt for these subjects
to work in a dedicated and professional environment, alongside industry partners such as:
Toni and Guy, Escentuals, Kier and Marshalls Aerospace.
*English Baccalaureate – This measures if a student is achieving A*-C passes in English, Maths,
History or Geography, a Modern Foreign Language and two Science GCSEs (which can include
Computer Science).
Key Terms
Coursework: work which can be produced in school or at home and makes up a proportion
of the final grade.
Controlled Assessment: a piece of work that has to be produced in school in controlled
conditions (under the supervision of a member of staff) and makes up a proportion of the
overall final grade.
External Assessment: work that will be assessed by the exam board, usually in the form of
an exam.
The majority of courses in Year 10 and 11 will have some element of Controlled Assessment
or Coursework and a final exam or set of exams, each of which contributes a certain
proportion to the final overall grade.
Your son or daughter will receive a wide range of support on how to prepare effectively for
exams, throughout Year 10 and 11, from their class teachers, form tutor and through
extended curriculum days. An information evening held in Y10 will also help you to
understand the exam procedures and provide practical ideas for how best to support their
revision at home.
If now or in the future you have any questions about individual exams or entries please
contact:
Helen Frampton (Personalising Learning Manager): hframpton@swaveseyvc.co.uk
Margaret Giglio (Exams Assistant): mgiglio@swaveseyvc.co.uk
Jim Stavrou (Vice Principal – KS4 Achievement): jstavrou@swaveseyvc.co.uk
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KS4 Options Subjects
The GCSE curriculum is made up of chosen subjects and compulsory (core) subjects that
will enable you to follow courses appropriate to your interests and abilities. You can only
make a total of four choices in all, one of which must be a Language or functional skills
English and Maths.
Subject
Choice
Page
Number
GCSE Art
GCSE Photography
GCSE Drama
GCSE Music
GCSE Computer Science
GCSE Child Development
BTEC Engineering
GCSE Food
GCSE ICT
GCSE Product Design
GCSE Geography
GCSE History
GCSE French
GCSE German
GCSE Spanish
NVQ French
GCSE Physical Education
BTEC Sport
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
27
WJEC Construction and the Built
Environment
One
28
Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
BTEC Health and Social Care
One
One
29
30
Curriculum Area
The Arts
Design and Enterprise
Humanities
Languages
Physical Education
Vocational
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Compulsory Subjects
English Language
1 GCSE
English Literature
1 GCSE
Language
1 GCSE
Triple/Dual Science
3/2 GCSEs
Mathematics
1 GCSE
Religious Studies
1 GCSE
(You have already started this course in year 9 and sit exam in Year 10)
In addition to the above range of GCSE compulsory (core) and chosen subjects,
which will take up most of the taught week, all pupils will have at least one
lesson of Physical Education.
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ART AND DESIGN
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: WJEC
Number of Option Choices: 1
Why study GCSE Art & Design?
This fast paced course is an exciting and rewarding option which encourages a self-motivated and adventurous approach to Art
& Design. It is important to have a commitment to, and love of the subject.
What will I study? Course Content
1.
2.
3.
4.
The first project is a skills based unit looking at either Landscapes, Portraits or Still Life. Using this subject matter
you will the opportunity to experiment with different mediums such as painting, drawing and printmaking. This
will allow you to explore your strengths, develop your skills and grow in confidence.
The second project builds on previous project knowledge allowing you to develop technical skills in more depth
whilst exploring your own ideas, so you can produce creative outcomes to be proud of. This is also used to
prepare you for the ten hour mock exam and July.
The final project is an externally set brief where you are able to develop ideas and explore materials prior to
producing the final piece in the ten hour exam.
The course culminates in learning how to hang your own exhibition so all staff, parents and students can attend.
How will I be assessed?
Coursework (60%): Internally set and marked (produced during Years 10/11). All work produced in the two year 10
coursework projects goes towards this grade.
Exam (40%): Externally set and internally marked brief, where all sketchbook preparation is produced in lesson
time. Final piece is produced in the ten hour exam just after Easter. Both the sketchbook preparation and final
piece count towards this 40%.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader:
For art students that are enthusiastic, creative and imaginative. This course Is excellent if you wish to go on to study
creative courses such as animation, architecture, fashion, graphics, illustration, photography, textiles or set and
costume design. Not to be taken with Photography GCSE. Need a minimum of a level 5.
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PHOTOGRAPHY
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: WJEC
Why study GCSE Photography?
This in depth look into the digital Photography specialism is suitable for those students who relish
capturing the world in a different way, have a keen eye for detail and are keen to explore this in a creative
and dynamic way.
What will I study? Course Content
1. The first coursework project is a skills based unit looking at how to use a DSLR on manual mode,
exploring key components of the functions of the camera and how to get the perfect shot. This will
allow you to explore your strengths, develop your skills and grow in confidence.
2. The Manipulate Me project builds on previous knowledge, allowing you to explore your creative
and Photoshop skills to develop and manipulate your photographs.
3. The third project is a more independent exploration of ideas, artists and techniques, which will
lead to the mock exam in July.
4. The final project is an externally set brief where you explore a theme before producing a series of
final pieces in the ten hour exam.
5. The course culminates in learning how to hang your own exhibition so all staff, parents and
students can attend.
How will I be assessed?
Coursework (60%): Internally set and marked (produced during Years 10/11). Work from all projects goes
towards this grade.
Exam (40%): Externally set and internally marked brief, where all sketchbook preparation is produced in
lesson time. Final piece is produced in the ten hour exam just after Easter. Both the sketchbook
preparation and final piece count towards this 40%.
For students that are independent, creative and perceptive. This course Is excellent if you wish to go on to
study Photography post 16. Not to be taken with Art and Design GCSE.
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DRAMA
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: Eduqas (part of WJEC)
Why Study Drama?
Develop your self-confidence and communication/presentation skills. Opportunity to work practically with others.
If you have a genuine interest in and enjoyment of performance/theatre/performance art. Learn about a range of
theatre genres and understand how different practitioners’ approaches influence theatrical performances today.
What Will I Study? Course Content
Component 1: Devising Theatre 40% Teacher Assessed/Externally Moderated
Learners are assessed on ACTING and participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of
devised theatre using either the techniques of an influential theatre practitioner or a genre, in response to a stimulus
set by WJEC. Learners will produce:
1. A realisation of their piece of devised theatre (initial ideas/concepts in response to the stimulus)
2. Supporting evidence (to demonstrate the progression of ideas within their devised piece)
3. An evaluation of the final performance (following performance which is marked/assessed)
n.b the above can be extended writing or a combination of writing accompanied with diagrams, recordings and/or a
filmed presentation.
Component 2: Performing from a Text
20%
Assessed by a visiting examiner
Learners will be assessed on ACTING and will study two extracts from the same performance text chosen by the
teacher. Learners will participate in one performance using sections of text from both extracts.
Component 3: Interpreting Theatre
40%
Written exam, externally marked
Section A: Set Text
A series of questions on one set text studied during the course from a choice of five:
The Tempest by William Shakespeare
The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht
Hard to Swallow by Mark Wheeller
War Horse by Michael Morpugo, adapted by Nick Stafford
DNA by Dennis Kelly
Learners will be assessed on their ability to explore the set text as an
1. Actor
2. Designer
3. Director
Section B: Live Theatre Review
One question from a choice of two requiring analysis and evaluation of a given aspect of a live theatre production
seen during the course
How Will I be Assessed?
By your teacher, through an external moderator, and by a visiting examiner.
Enjoy performing both devised and scripted (text) pieces. Be open to learning about a range of different theatre
styles and be willing to learn about different theatre practitioners, and apply this knowledge in your practical work.
Participate in at least two organised trips to see live theatre during year 10 and year 11. Get ahead and read/get
familiar with the texts on the list above in advance of starting the course in Year 10. This could be achieved through
obtaining a synopsis of the play text as a starting point.
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MUSIC
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: OCR
Why Study Music?
The course aims to develop your performing and composing abilities alongside your general listening skills.
You will get the opportunity to explore and be creative in a variety of ways. There will also be the
opportunity to develop a wide range of creative, personal and social skills.
What Will I Study? Course Content (draft form, awaiting confirmation)
Areas of Study:
1. My Music: exploring the capabilities of your instrument (or voice).
2. The Concerto Through Time: Baroque to Late Romantic
3. Rhythms of the World: music from India and the Punjab; Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle
East; Africa; Central and S. America
4. Film Music
5. Conventions of Pop
Integrated Tasks: a performance, composition and commentary (30%)
Practical Portfolio: a group performance, composition and commentary (30%)
Listening Test: a written paper, with CD, assessing knowledge and understanding of Areas of Study 2, 3, 4
& 5 (40%)
Although there is no requirement for you to have had instrumental or vocal lessons prior to beginning the
course, it is advisable to have some additional instrumental support for the performances. All GCSE music
students are required to join at least one college music club.
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COMPUTER SCIENCE
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: TBC
Why Study Computer Science?
The study of computer science will teach you how to develop and build software applications, as opposed
to using them. This qualification is intended for those who wish to pursue a career as a software
developer. You will study computer theory and learn how computers ‘think’ and how they are used and
developed within society. You will also study the practical side of computer science, where you will learn
how to code a solution to a given problem.
You will learn to understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science,
including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. You will analyse
problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs. You will have an opportunity to think
creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. Understand the components that make up
digital systems and how they communication with one another and with other systems. Understand the
impacts of digital technology to the individual and wider society. Apply mathematical skills relevant to
computer science.
Computer Systems – assessed by written Examination (40%).
Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming – assessed by written Examination (40%).
Programming Project – assessed by Controlled Assessment (20%).
This course is aimed at pupils who enjoy learning about how computers work, and who enjoy problem
solving. It is a requirement that you will be confident with, and enjoy using numeracy and literacy, as well
as creativity to solve problems. You should be able to work both independently and collaboratively, be
comfortable with and enjoy working your way through new, exciting and often challenging problems. You
should enjoying coding and this is something you should already be familiar with, and possibly something
you have experience of.
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CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: A*- G
Exam Board: OCR
Why Study Child Development?
As well as being ideal for anyone who is considering a career working with children and young people, this
course could suit a student who wants to design products or services with young children or new and
expectant parents in mind. Typical careers may be within a care setting as a nurse, nursery nurse, midwife
or in education as a playgroup worker, teacher or teaching assistant.
There are 6 units that explore: Family and Parenting; Preparing for Pregnancy and Birth; Physical,
Intellectual, Emotional and Social Development; Nutrition and Health; and Community Support for
Families. You will undertake some practical and investigative short tasks. You will get the opportunity to
study a child between 0-5 and produce a report.
You will be assessed in the following modules:
Principles of Child Development Written Paper Exam (Year 11) – 1hr 30mins – counts for 40%
3 Short Tasks of 7 hours (Year 10) will be assessed by Controlled Assessment - counts for 30%
Child Study Task (Year 11) over 22 weeks as Controlled Assessment - counts for 30%
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher:
If you are still unsure about your career path this qualification will help you develop valuable skills of
planning, organisation, research and presentation whilst gaining knowledge about how children grow and
develop.
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ENGINEERING
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Grading System: Pass - Distinction*
Exam Board: Edexcel
Why Study Engineering?
If you are enthused by making practical projects and experimenting with materials. If you enjoy problem
solving and fixing products. If you are inspired to design solutions to make our lives easier and better, then
this is the course for you. Engineering covers a wide range of disciplines – anything from rockets to mobile
phones and even hip replacements! It is a really exciting and interesting subject where you will learn all
about modern materials and manufacturing while also working in teams to build and test practical
projects.
You will study manufacturing processes, used to make many modern products, including robotics,
machining, welding and lathe turning. You will learn about modern high performance and smart materials
such as aluminium, carbon fibre, smart glass and titanium. There will be a series of lessons on lean
manufacture such as Kaizen, Just-In-Time, poke yoke that will allow you to understand how modern
factories can make so many products so quickly and easily.
You will be able to take an engineered product apart and learn about how it was designed, what materials
and manufacturing processes were used to make it.
You will learn about electronics by making your own circuits such as temperature sensors, alarm clocks
and amplifiers.
All of the theory that is covered in lessons will be reinforced through practical projects, that you can take
home, and class visits to large scale local engineering factories such as Volvo Construction Equipment and
Marshall Aerospace.
1. The Engineered World - assessed by Online Examination in Year 11 (25%).
2. Investigating an Engineered Product - assessed by Controlled Assessment (25%).
3. Electronic Circuit Design and Construction - assessed by Controlled Assessment (50%).
If you are enthused by making practical projects and experimenting with materials. If you enjoy problem solving and
fixing products. If you are inspired to design solutions to make our lives easier and better, then this is the course for
you. However, this course is not all practical. You will have to learn a lot of new information, study theory and write
assignments. Engineers are required now, more than ever and this is a great introduction to the exciting and diverse
world of engineering.
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Food
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: TBC
Why Study Food Preparation and Nutrition?
Food Preparation and Nutrition equips students with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and
apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. It encourages students to cook, enables them to
make informed decisions about food and nutrition and allows them to acquire knowledge in order to be able to feed
themselves and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life.
By studying food preparation and nutrition students will:
 be able to demonstrate effective and safe cooking skills by planning, preparing and cooking a variety of foods
whilst using different cooking techniques and equipment
 develop knowledge and understanding of the functional properties and chemical characteristics of food as well as
knowledge of the nutritional content of food and drinks
 understand the relationship between diet, nutrition and health, including the effects of poor diet and health
 understand the economic, environmental, ethical and socio-cultural influences on food availability, production
processes, diet and health choices
 demonstrate knowledge and understanding of functional and nutritional properties, sensory qualities and
microbiological food safety considerations when preparing, processing, storing, cooking and serving food
 understand and explore a range of ingredients and processes from different culinary traditions (traditional British
and international) to inspire new ideas or modify existing recipes.
Written Exam (50%): study for an exam at the end of Year 11.
Coursework portfolio (50%): likely to be 2 assessments set by the exam board
Recommendation from the Lead Teacher: You are advised not to take food simply because you like cooking; you
need to be aware that there is a lot of writing involved and commitment to regular homework. We cook most weeks,
so personal organisation is vitally important.
Exam board links for the qualification are as follows:
WJEC: http://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/home-economics/home-economics-food-and-nutrition.html
OCR: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-food-preparation-and-nutrition-j309-from-2016/
AQA: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/food-preparation-and-nutrition/gcse/food-preparation-and-nutrition-8585
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ICT
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: Edexcel
Why Study ICT?
Studying ICT will provide you with an opportunity to become a confident and independent user of ICT. You
will acquire and apply both creative and technical skills and create ICT-based solutions to solve problems.
You will learn about emerging technologies and develop your knowledge and understanding of how ICT is
used within society. As well as developing your ability to work collaboratively, you will evaluate your ICTbased solutions.
Unit 1: Living in a Digital World
How digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society. You will learn about
current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts
(learning and earning, leisure, shopping and money management, health and well-being, on the move).
They develop awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and
responsible practice.
Unit 2: Using Digital Tools
This is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability. You will learn to
reflect critically on your own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.
Unit 1: Living in a Digital World - assessed by examination (40%)
Unit 2: Using Digital Tools - assessed by Controlled Assessment (60%).
This course is aimed at pupils who enjoy using ICT and is broken down into two parts; theory and practical.
Within the theory unit you will learn about how ICT is used within society, as well as new and emerging
technologies such as the cloud. The practical unit will give you an opportunity to learn new and develop
existing technical skills in order to solve problems. It’s a creative course and you will be expected to work
both independently and collaboratively. Written work is a feature of this course and you must be prepared
to use and develop your numeracy and literacy skills.
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PRODUCT DESIGN
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: AQA
Why Study Product Design?
Product Design is an enjoyable practical subject that will help you build an understanding on what makes a
good design and what makes products marketable and ultimately profitable. You will have the
opportunity to design and create your own product after studying both 20th Century and Contemporary
Design.
Unit 1: To help you develop knowledge and understanding of the processes and techniques for
manufacturing a product. Investigating the commercial and industrial applications of a range of materials
involved in the manufacturing process.
Unit 2: To investigate, plan and construct a solid way to a good 3D outcome. You will learn to be creative
and innovative when designing products to meet the needs of clients taking into consideration social and
environmental issues.
Product Design Unit 1: Written Paper which will be assessed by a two hour examination (50%).
Product Design Unit 2: Controlled Assessment (50%). Consists of a single design and make activity selected
from a wide range of tasks set by the AQA Examination Board.
You will be encouraged to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a range of
materials and techniques. Packaging, labelling and instructions will be part of the complete design
proposal to evaluate the commercial viability of your final product, which means that commitment, selfdiscipline and good organization skills are needed to help you create a good portfolio and be ready for a
final examination at the end of the course.
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GEOGRAPHY
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board:
Why Study Geography?
The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before.
Geography explains why, and helps to prepare you for those changes. The transferable skills which
geography fosters are an asset in the complex world of employment today. Geography is about the future
and encourages flexible thinking.
Paper 1: Our Natural Word This will give you a sound understanding of important natural processes that
affect the Planet. The topics include: Natural Hazards, Changing Climate and Sustaining Ecosystems
Paper 2: People and Society In a similar way to Paper 1, this unit links together to build an overall
understanding of human geography. The topics include: Urban Futures, Dynamic Development and
Resource Resilience.
To complete the Geography GCSE you will be required to complete two days of exciting fieldwork, which
has in the past taken place in London and a coastal location. Furthermore, the optional GCSE field trip to
Iceland will happen in the Easter of Year 10. This will only be available to GCSE Geographers in Year 10 and
11. It is also anticipated the popular trip to California will happen the following year. This is all designed to
further enhance your understanding of the natural world.
Paper 1 and 2 are revision based exams (worth 65% of your final grade). The exam will take place in the
summer term of Year 11 and each paper will be 1 hour 15 minutes.
Paper 3 is a making Geographical decisions exam (worth 35% of your final grade). This is an open book
skills based exam assessing students’ ability to make decisions about geographical issues which involves no
revision! It will be 1 hour and 30 minute exam.
Top Geographers take an interest in the world around them and can use what they have seen/heard to
discuss issues that have affected the Planet. GCSE Geography will help your to develop and extend your
knowledge of places, environments and processes on Planet Earth.
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HISTORY
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: AQA
Why study History?
History is a subject that will allow you to gain a thorough understanding of how Britain and the wider
world came to be as they are today. It is a subject that encourages you to think critically about information
and not just accept it at face value. History also develops skills of analysis, debate and extended writing
and because of this, it is considered to be a reputable and demanding subject that is well respected by
colleges and employers. History is fun, interesting and rewarding!
 Migration, empires and the people: c790 to the present day. This unit will enable students to see
how Britain has been shaped by the wider world and will include work on Viking and Saxon
invaders, relationships with France (including the Hundred Years’ War), the slave trade, American
independence, India, Ireland, Jewish migration and immigration to Britain after 1945 (including
‘Windrush’ and migration from the EU).
 Norman England: 1066-1100. This unit will enable students to understand how the Normans set
up the nation of England. It will include work on the Norman Conquest and control (in far more
detail than the taste students get in Year 7), life under the Normans (including the feudal system
and Domesday Book) and the power of the Norman Church.
 America, 1920-73: opportunity and inequality. This unit will enable students to see the contrast
between Americans who lived the ‘American Dream’ and those who suffered through poverty and
discrimination. It will also allow students to develop their understanding of a country that
continues to culturally, economically and militarily dominate the world today. It will include work
on the ‘Roaring Twenties’, flappers, jazz music, Prohibition and gangsters such as Al Capone. We
will then study the Wall Street Crash and Great Depression before covering the Civil Rights
campaign in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, including work on Martin Luther King Jr and Malcolm X.
 Conflict and tension in Asia: 1950-1975. This unit will look at the origins of the Cold War and key
differences between capitalism and communism. It will look at how the Cold War spread to Asia
with the communist takeover of China, before looking at the Korean War and Vietnam War in
detail. The nature of the fighting, media coverage of the war and how America eventually
withdrew will all be looked at.
The department anticipates offering an optional residential trip to Washington D.C and New York City in a combined
tour. This is subject to quotes from travel companies expected in early 2016.
Paper 1: Understanding the modern world (America and Asia) – 1 hour 45 minute exam worth 50% of the final grade.
Paper 2: Shaping the nation (migration and Normans) – 1 hour 45 minute exam worth 50% of the final grade.
Recommendation from the Subject Leader (Mr Nightingale):
If you are someone who wants to be able to make sense of the key events in the world today and you are
fascinated by the thoughts and actions of people in the past, then this exciting new course is for you. You
will be challenged in your lessons, but if you are capable of justifying your views with evidence and
explaining it to others, then you have the tools to be an effective historian.
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FRENCH
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: AQA
Why Study French?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to communicate
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers.
Theme 1:
Theme 2:
Theme 3:
Identity and culture :
Local, national, international and Current and future study and
Me, my family and friends,
global areas of interest:
employment:
Technology in everyday life, Free- Home, town, neighbourhood and My studies, Life at school/college,
time activities, Customs and
region, Social issues, Global issues, Education post-16, Career choices
festivals in French-speaking
Travel and tourism
and ambitions
countries/communities
25% Speaking:
Non-exam assessment
7–9 minutes (Foundation Tier) + preparation time
10–12 minutes (Higher Tier) + preparation time
60 marks (for each of Foundation Tier and Higher Tier)
25% Writing:
Written exam: 1 hour (Foundation Tier), 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher Tier)
50 marks at Foundation Tier and 60 marks at Higher Tier
25% Listening Exam:
Written exam: 35 minutes (Foundation Tier), 45 minutes (Higher Tier) 40 marks (Foundation Tier), 50
marks (Higher Tier)
(Each exam includes 5 minutes’ reading time of the question paper before the listening stimulus is played.)
25% Reading Exam (x1)
Written exam: 45 minutes (Foundation Tier), 1 hour (Higher Tier)
You are enthusiastic and motivated about languages.
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GERMAN
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: AQA
Why Study German?
Theme 1:
Technology in everyday life, Freetime activities, Customs and
Theme 2:
Local, national, international and
Home, town, neighbourhood and
region, Social issues, Global issues,
Travel and tourism
Theme 3:
Current and future study and
employment:
My studies, Life at school/college,
Education post-16, Career choices
and ambitions
25% Speaking:
Non-exam assessment
25% Writing:
25% Listening Exam:
Written exam: 35 minutes (Foundation Tier), 45 minutes (Higher Tier) 40 marks (Foundation Tier), 50 marks
(Higher Tier)
25% Reading Exam (x1)
24 | P a g e
SPANISH
Course Type: GCSE
Grading System: 9-1
Exam Board: AQA
Why Study Spanish?
Theme 1:
Technology in everyday life, Freetime activities, Customs and
Theme 2:
Local, national, international and
Home, town, neighbourhood and
region, Social issues, Global issues,
Travel and tourism
Theme 3:
Current and future study and
employment:
My studies, Life at school/college,
Education post-16, Career choices
and ambitions
25% Speaking:
Non-exam assessment
25% Writing:
25% Listening Exam:
Written exam: 35 minutes (Foundation Tier), 45 minutes (Higher Tier) 40 marks (Foundation Tier), 50
marks (Higher Tier)
25% Reading Exam
25 | P a g e
NVQ FRENCH
Course Type: NVQ
Grading System: Pass – Distinction*
Exam Board: OCR
Why Study NVQ French?
both verbally and in the written format with native speakers in a business context.
The NVQ can be applied to any industry. The materials focus on:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
business introductions
dealing with business visitors
making appointments and reservations
travel arrangements
socialising with business colleagues
communications
work experience abroad
NVQ students are assessed in all four skills after each module of work (Listening, Reading, Writing and
Speaking). There is no final exam so students build up a portfolio of assessments over the duration of
their course. A ‘pass’ is equivalent to a GCSE pass.at grade C (or equilivant).
26 | P a g e
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course Type: GCSE
Exam Board: To be confirmed on the release of the new specifications (January/February 2016)
Grading System: 9-1
Why Study Physical Education?
The course aims to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills so that you are able to be an active
participant in sport in a variety of roles.
 How, and why, people take part in physical activity.
 How a healthy, active lifestyle contributes to the growth and development of body systems, and
structures (including the cardiovascular, muscular, respiratory and skeletal systems), as well as
general wellbeing.
 Exercise and Fitness
 Sports Psychology
Students will also develop their knowledge in relation to performance in physical activity.
Theory Exams (60%): study for two exam papers (30% each) at the end of Year 11.
Practical Performance (40%): practical grade is based upon your 3 best performances in the role of a
player/participant. To be able to analyse and evaluate performance.
You are actively involved in a minimum of one or two Sports Club inside/outside of school.
BTEC SPORT
Course Type: BTEC Level 1/2 Frist Award in Sport
Exam Board: Edexcel
Grading System: Level 1/Level 2 Pass-Distinction*
Why Study BTEC Sport?
This course designed for students who are inspired and motivated by the sports industry and who want an
academic and practical introductory programme to sport.
Students have to undertake a minimum of 4 units for which they present evidence, based on real-life work
and studies. The following two units are mandatory:
 Fitness For Sport and Exercise
 Practical Sports Performance
The remaining optional units will be determined by the size and makeup of the groups.
The mandatory unit of “Health and Fitness Sport and Exercise” is assessed externally by an online exam. All
other units are assessed internally via coursework.
There are many options available to school-leavers: further education, higher education, vocational
degrees, and apprenticeships and jobs that offer workplace learning. If you're not sure about the path
you'll wish to take, the flexibility of BTEC Sport makes it a good choice, as it offers useful practical
experience as well as a recognised qualification.
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CONSTRUCTION AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Course Type: WJEC Level ½ Award in Constructing the Built Environment
Exam Board: WJEC
Grading System: Pass - Distinction*
Why Study Construction?
Over 2 million people work in the UK’s construction industry. A qualification in Construction is an ideal way
to acquire sought-after skills. You will develop the craft skills and knowledge to enter the many vocations
within the construction industry or as a stepping-stone into higher education.
The combination of core, mandatory and specialist units ensures that all learners develop areas of
essential construction knowledge, while giving you the chance to tailor the BTEC towards the specific
needs and interests of the students.
1 Safety and security in construction - Externally assessed
2 Practical construction skills - Internality assessed
3 Planning construction projects - Internally assessed
You will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and understanding to enter any of the following
occupations: bricklayer, carpenter and joiner, painter and decorator, plasterer, roof slater and tiler, dry
liner, wall and floor tiler and construction operative.
28 | P a g e
HAIR AND BEAUTY THERAPY
Course Type: VRQ Level 2
Exam Board: VTCT
Why Study Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy?
The course aims to give learners a broad and comprehensive understanding of the hair and beauty sector
and also develop academic and study skills that will support progression not only within hair and beauty
but also a wider range of qualifications.
This qualification includes two mandatory units that can be applied to any sector or vocational area. In this
qualification, learners will use hairdressing and beauty therapy and related industries (i.e. retail, leisure,
fashion, marketing, media and business) to develop themselves and, in particular, the skills and attributes
prized by employers, further education colleges and higher education institutions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Understanding the hair and beauty sector (mandatory)
Hair and Beauty research project (mandatory)
Marketing hair and beauty products and services
Hair and beauty science
3. 4. 5.
5.
Students will also have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills of the practical
elements of hairdressing and beauty therapy.
Externally set and marked exam: 25% (1 unit)
Externally set, internally assessed and externally moderated: 75% (3 units)
Learners who successfully complete this qualification will be prepared to continue their studies at Level 3.
This could include vocationally-related qualifications and Sheet A Levels. Learners could also progress to an
Apprenticeship.
29 | P a g e
HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Course Type: BTEC Level 2
Exam Board: Edexcel
Why Study Health and Social Care?
To learn about the diverse career opportunities in the Health and Social Care industry such as Nursing,
working in Childcare, working with the Elderly and vulnerable and other NHS careers.
You can also develop skills, knowledge and understanding that will enable you to
1. communicate and interact well with other professionals as well as people you may come into
contact with in the Health and Social Care Sector
2. understand about the needs of your clients; young children, the elderly, people with additional
needs and the general public
Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development (changes throughout our lives).
Unit 2: Health and Social Care Values (how to recognise good practice in your work).
Unit 3: Effective Communication in Health and Social Care (learn to communicate with all types of people)
Unit 6: The Impact of Nutrition on Health and Wellbeing (learn how what we eat can impact our lives).
Unit 1: External 1 hour Exam (25%)
Units 2, 3 and 6: A portfolio of work which is marked by your teacher and graded at a Level 1, Level 2
(Pass, Merit and Distinction). Each unit is worth 25%.
Learners who successfully complete this qualification will be prepared to continue their studies at Level 3.
This could include vocationally-related qualifications and GCE A Levels. Learners could also progress to an
Apprenticeship.
30 | P a g e
CAREER ADVICE AND GUIDANCE
On the Year 9 Extended Curriculum Day (October 14th, 2015), you will have followed a planned
programme of Careers Education and Guidance:




Making choices and decisions
Self-awareness
Subject options
Qualifications awareness
The Resource Centre has a range of careers information (Mrs Davies can help you if you need
to find something).
The following software programmes are also available: These are all available on the school
network at any PC station.
www.ucasprogress.com
National site for post 16 Progression (follow links for Cambridgeshire). If a student enters his/her
post code - not the distance - then post 16 - not courses/providers, and then clicks search - every
course offered in Cambridgeshire will come up.
If a student wishes to search for multiple courses. E.g. Maths, French, Biology they must use
commas to separate the words, otherwise they will get a blank.
Every 6th Form & Further Education College in Cambridgeshire has their own websites which can
be accessed for information about any transition course at the end of Year 11.
Cambridge Regional College
www.camre.ac.uk
College of Animal Welfare Godmanchester
www.caw.ac.uk
College of West Anglia
www.col-westanglia.ac.uk
Comberton Sixth form
www.combertonsixthform.org
Cottenham Sixth Form
www.cottenhamsixthform.org
Ely Sixth Form Centre
www.elycollege.com/sf
Hills Road Sixth Form College Cambridge
www.hillsroad.ac.uk
Huntingdon Regional College
www.huntingdon.ac.uk
Impington Village College Sixth Form
www.impington.cambs.sch.uk
Long Road Sixth Form College Cambridge
www.longroad.ac.uk
Netherhall Sixth Form Cambridge
www.netherhall.cambs.sch.uk
Parkside Sixth Form
www.parksidesixth.org.uk
Peterborough Regional College
www.peterborough.ac.uk
The St Ivo School St Ives
www.stivoschool.org
National website for apprenticeships
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
Local website for Cambridgeshire Youth Guidance (formally Connexions) www.youthoria.org
Useful Website: www.careersbox.co.uk/skillsexplorer
31 | P a g e
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I do the same subjects as my friends?
Answer: This is not a good basis for making your decision. Your friends will have different ideas to
you and may enjoy different types of subjects. Choose subjects for yourself and try not to be
influenced by your friends.
I like my teacher. Can I be in his/her group next year?
Answer: The teacher that you will be given will depend upon the choices you have made. It is not
possible to choose a teacher. Choose a subject because you like the subject and think you can do
well in it.
Will I get the subjects that I have chosen?
Answer: We try our very best to give students the subject choices that they have requested.
Unfortunately, in a small minority of cases, it is not possible to give all choices due to the
combination of subjects that you are wishing to do. Please bear this in mind when choosing your
reserve options.
What is a BTEC?
Answer: BTECs are work related qualifications suitable for a wide range of students, built to
accommodate the needs of employers and allow progression to university. They provide a more
practical, real-world approach to learning alongside a key theoretical background.
Should I know where I want to go after SVC already?
Answer: No, not necessarily. It is always good to have this in mind if you can but for now make
decisions based on areas you like and achieve well at. Make decisions around what leaves you with
the best opportunities to make the next steps later on (eg cover the English Baccalaureate if you
think you might want to do A Levels).
Where can I go for help?
Answer: You have a big support network around you. This includes your parents, tutor, siblings,
friends and fellow tutees. Remember that lots of people have done this before so make use of their
experience. You could even go online and start looking at colleges and sixth forms that you may be
interested in. if you are at all worried, speak to your tutor or House Office.
Can I choose which GCSE language I study?
Answer: You will have studied for a specific subject within KS3 so it is easier to then progress to
GCSE with the same language. The languages department have looked carefully at the appropriate
course for all students and will discuss any changes with you. If you are unsure, speak to your
languages teacher.
32 | P a g e

Year 9 Options Booklet 2016

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