St Ninian s High School Sixth Form Course Guide

Transcription

1 St Ninian s High School Sixth Form Course Guide St Ninian s High School, Douglas Isle Of Man, IM2 5RA Tel: (01624) Fax: (01624) enquiries@snhs.sch.im Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this guide is accurate at the time of publication (March 2015). The school will aim to run all the courses described in this booklet but final decisions will depend on student numbers and our ability to staff each course. 1

2 Contents Message from the Sixth Form Team... 3 The different types of course we offer... 5 Courses... 6 Developing the Skills You Need for Employment and Higher Education... 7 Which route to success?... 8 How do I choose which course to follow?... 9 Course Entry Requirements Guidance from Universities A-Level Options for Specific Higher Education Courses Subject Combinations Subject Combinations (continued) How to Apply: A Summary A Level Art Fine Art (Linear) A Level Applied Business - Single Award (Modular) A Level Applied Business - Double Award (Modular) A Level Biology A Level Chemistry A Level Computing (Linear) A Level Drama and Theatre Studies A Level Economics (Linear) A Level English Language (Linear) A Level English Literature (Linear) A Level Design & Technology: Food Technology A Level French / Spanish A Level Geography AS/A2 Level Government & Politics A Level History A Level Applied ICT A-Level Mathematics AS Level Further Mathematics Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) A Level Music A Level Physical Education A Level Physics A Level Product Design A Level Psychology A Level Religious Studies A Level Sociology BTEC Sports Studies A Level Texiles A Level Applied Science

3 Message from the Sixth Form Team Dear Student, Our Sixth Form is a place to broaden knowledge and experience and to develop leadership skills through a variety of extra-curricular activities. Entering the world of post-16 education is a very exciting time for a young person as you begin to specialise in subjects that might lead to higher education and a professional career. Our Sixth Form is a great place to study for your A Level qualifications and through our broad curriculum students are able to select a wide variety of subjects. The step up from GCSE to A Level is widely acknowledged as the greatest a young person is likely to make in education. Therefore it is crucial that you select the qualifications that are right for you and that you make a well informed choice, having gathered all the information available about each course, the entry requirements and possible future pathways. Studying for A Levels and other Level 3 qualifications is very different from GCSE. Students need to complete a significant amount of independent study outside the classroom and the ability to manage your time effectively is pivotal. It is important to remember that your admission into Year 12 is dependent upon your academic performance in Year 11 and your willingness to respond positively to what St Ninian s offers. We look forward to welcoming the vast majority of you back after successful GCSE's. In the meantime, continue to make sure you work hard to achieve the grades you are capable of. I trust you will find this booklet useful in helping you to make your choices for the Sixth Form. With best wishes, Mr Andrew Runciman Assistant Headteacher (Sixth Form) Mr Kevin Schofield Sixth Form Coordinator 3

4 Courses for September 2015 The courses you can study from September 2015 fall into two different categories. This is because some courses will now be following linear specifications, whilst other courses will still be offering the existing AS/A2 specification. New Linear Courses These courses will not have external exams (AS) at the end of Year 12 that count towards your overall grade. All exams that count to your overall grade will be at the end of Year 13. There will be internal exams in Year 12 to check your progress. Please be aware that if you choose any of these subjects, you are committing to a two-year course. Modular AS/A2 Courses These courses will have exams at the end of Year 12 that will result in an AS qualification and count towards your final A2 qualification. There will be A2 exams at the end of Year 13. New Linear Specifications 2 year courses/exams only at the end of Year 13 Art Biology Chemistry Computing Economics English Language English Literature History Physics Psychology Sociology Modular AS/A2 Can be AS level only/exams at end of Year 12 & 13 Applied Business Applied Science BTEC Sport Core Mathematics Dance Drama Food Technology French Further Mathematics Geography Applied ICT Mathematics Music PE Product Design Government and Politics RE Spanish Textiles 4

5 The different types of course we offer Remember that for a number of subjects you do not necessarily need to have studied them at GCSE to take A-Level. More detail about each type of course is given later in the booklet. A Level (Advanced GCE Courses) You can select from a choice of over twenty subjects. The content and style is similar to that which you will be used to with GCSE subjects but the depth and volume of the work will be much greater. Some subjects follow on directly from GCSE courses e.g. Mathematics, Geography, etc. but others you will not have been able to study before e.g. Economics. If you have studied the subject at GCSE you will need a B or C grade to follow it depending on the course. (See the course requirements section) A B grade is a good indicator of success in advanced courses. A Level Applied Courses Advanced GCE Applied courses offer you opportunities to study at Advanced Level standard but there is a different emphasis on the way learning is assessed. Although there are exams, much of the course is assessed by the production of a portfolio of work (coursework). BTEC Level 3 Certificate/Subsidiary Diploma This course is at the same level and carries the same value as traditional A Levels. The Certificate is equivalent to an AS Level and the Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one full A Level. It is assessed through practical and written assignments (there is no examination), with students receiving one of three grades at the end of the course. Possible grades are Distinction, Merit and Pass. The course seeks to strike a balance between an academic approach and practical skills relevant to careers in your chosen area. As with A Levels you may receive a grade at the end of Year 12 and can opt to continue to Year 13. Through success in these courses you will achieve UCAS points for a University application. Retake English and Mathematics GCSEs (or alternative qualifications) Should you need to gain a qualification in English or Mathematics. If you do not achieve a C grade at GCSE, this will be timetabled in addition to your Level 3 courses. 5

6 Courses These are the A Level, Applied A Level, Level 3 and BTEC courses we intend to run in It should be noted however that changes may be necessary and that courses will only go ahead if a viable number of students are enrolled. If there are insufficient numbers a course may not run. In some cases the course may only be offered to AS Level. Students will be informed of this before they start a course. In some cases, it may be necessary that some AS lessons will be timetabled between pm. Information about all of our courses can be found at the end of this guide. Applied Business - Double Applied Business - Single Art and design Biology Chemistry Computing Drama Economics English Language English Literature Food Technology French Geography History Mathematics Further Mathematics Level 3 Core Mathematics Applied ICT Music PE Physics Government and Politics Psychology RE Applied Science Sociology Spanish Sport (BTEC) Product Design Textiles 6

7 Developing the Skills You Need for Employment and Higher Education Enrichment studies Employers and universities want applicants with good organisational skills, good presentation skills and with the ability to work on their own or as part of a team. For one timetabled lesson a week, students should select a course which will help them to develop these skills and which will prepare them to make applications for employment and Higher Education. Most courses are for one year. The options are likely to include: Enrichment Charity Challenge Enterprise Live at Home Extended Project Duke of Edinburgh Award Team & Recreational Sport Work Experience Music & Drama Creative Writing Volunteering and Mentoring All students will take part in a volunteering or mentoring programme. We firmly believe that being in the Sixth Form is not just about academic qualifications; being a Sixth Form student is also about making a contribution to the school and the local community whilst broadening experience and skills. Therefore we expect students to offer some of their time (generally 1 lesson) to help others. This may involve mentoring younger students within Learning Mentor Groups or subjects; it could involve going to a primary school to listen to children read. The choice is yours come along with an idea and we will help you to organise it. You ll get a great deal out of it, you ll be helping others and it looks great on job and university application forms! Study Support Sixth Form students have their own study space with staff who are available to support students with any aspect of their work. Students on Route B will have timetabled supported study lessons to help them with the move to Advanced level work. 7

8 Which route to success? There are three routes from which you can choose. Remember the actual route you follow will depend on your GCSE grades. Your mock exam results will have given you a good idea of what grades you are likely to achieve and this should be used as a guide. The table below gives a summary of the curriculum in each route for Year 12. More detail is given later in this booklet. The routes below are designed to guide you to choose the right number and combination of courses. Which subjects you choose within each route is dependent upon you and your results. Route A Route B Route C (Honours) At least 7 subjects at grades A* - C (Including English and Mathematics) At least 5 subjects at grade A* - C (Including English and/or Mathematics) (Most Level 3 courses require C or above in English Language) At least 7 subjects at grades A* or A grade (Including English and Mathematics) 4 A Level Courses or equivalent. 3 A Level Courses or equivalent. 4 A Level Courses or equivalent. At least 1 enrichment option 1 enrichment option Extended Project Qualification Retake English or Mathematics if required (These are likely to be delivered after school) Participate in volunteering or mentoring within school or the local community Independent study Supported Study and Independent study Independent study Work Experience / Internship We do not recommend you pick up more than two subjects which you have not studied before as students who do so put themselves at a higher risk of failing due to the demand of acquiring new skills and knowledge. 8

9 How do I choose which course to follow? Choosing which courses to follow is the most important and difficult part of your application so it is important to make sure you ask for advice if you are unsure. Here are some points to consider when making your choices: Get advice: talk to your mentor, subject teachers, parents and other students about which courses are most appropriate to you. Consider the way different courses are assessed and your workload. Do you have a career or university course in mind? If so, are there any entry requirements? What are you good at and what do you most enjoy? Which subjects go well together (see course guidance later in booklet) What combination of subjects allows you to keep your options open if you have no career plans? 9

10 Course Entry Requirements Subject C or above in English Language? C or above required in Maths? Entry Requirement Skills/Other/Desirable Art and design* Yes C or above in Art if taken at GCSE Perseverance and drive. Inquisitive and explorative. Applied Business - Double Applied Business - Single Yes Yes Biology* Yes Yes Chemistry* Yes Yes C or above in Business Studies if taken at GCSE C or above in Business Studies if taken at GCSE B or above in GCSE Separate Biology or B in both Core and Additional Science B or above in GCSE Separate Chemistry or B in both Core and Additional Science Drive, determination, good analytical and evaluative skills. Computing* Yes B or above in GCSE Mathematics at Higher Tier. Excellent problem solving skills - must be resilient. Drama & Theatre Studies Yes Economics* Yes Yes English Language* Yes B or above in Drama is recommended B or above in GCSE Mathematics. A C or above in GCSE Business if taken. C or above in GCSE English Language at Higher Tier Previous theatrical experience is useful but not essential. Excellent team skills, problem solving and imagination. Excellent problem solving skills / interest in current affairs A B or above in English Language is preferable English Literature* Yes B or above in GCSE English Literature Genuine interest in reading Food Technology C or above in GCSE Food & Nutrition or Food Technology is advisable C or above in GCSE Science French Yes B or above in French GCSE Geography Yes C or above in Geography if taken at GCSE Government & Politics Yes B or above in Humanities subject History Yes C or above in History if taken at GCSE Applied ICT Yes Pass in Digital Applications (at higher tier) or equivalent Mathematics Yes B or above in GCSE Mathematics A grade desirable. A genuine interest in Mathematics is essential Further Mathematics Yes A* in GCSE Mathematics L3 Core Mathematics (AS Only) Yes C in GCSE Mathematics (higher or foundation tier) Music Yes C or above in GCSE Music OR Grade 5 Music Theory and Practical in one instrument Genuine interest in music, Grade 5 or equivalent on chosen instrument. PE Yes Yes B or above in PE is required if taken at GCSE. Physics* Yes Yes B or above in GCSE Separate Physics or B in both Core and Additional Science Product Design Yes Yes Psychology* Yes Yes C or above in a GCSE Science Religious Studies Yes B or above in Humanities subject. An interest in current affairs and a willingness to engage in philosophical debate. Applied Science Yes Sociology* Yes B or above in a Humanities subject Spanish Yes B or above in Spanish GCSE Sport (BTEC) Textiles Yes C or above in Design and Technology if taken at GCSE 10

11 Guidance from Universities Some universities have compiled lists of the subjects which are more helpful in getting onto a range of university courses and into employment. These are generally called facilitating A-Levels. The courses which appear most often on these lists are:! Chemistry! English Literature! History! Geography! Languages (Classic and Modern)! Mathematics! Physics! Further Mathematics! Biology If you think you may want to follow an Arts or Social Science path the subjects which appear most often are: English Literature, History, Languages, Economics, Religious Studies, English Language, Music, Psychology and Sociology If you think you may want to follow a Science path you should study at least two, possibly three of: Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics More detail can be found in the Informed Choices booklet published by the Russell Group of universities at However, it is important to remember that the Russell Group are the most selective universities and unless you are thinking of applying to these universities the booklet should only be seen as a general guide. If you have a particular career in mind it is also important that you investigate the course and possible entry requirements. Entry requirements will be subject to change every year. The best place to check this is on the UCAS website 11

12 A-Level Options for Specific Higher Education Courses Some popular degrees are often open to the student with a wide range of A-levels: accountancy, anthropology, archaeology, business studies, history of art, law, management studies, media studies, philosophy, Government and Politics, psychology, religious studies, sociology, surveying and teacher training. The information below is a general guideline. You should always check university prospectuses to be completely sure. Accountancy (also banking/finance/insurance) Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: possibly Mathematics, Business Studies and Economics. Note: High grades are normally more important than subject for a student who wants to gain an accountancy training contract. Actuarial science studies Essential A-levels: Mathematics. Useful A-levels: Further Mathematics, Business Studies, Economics. Aeronautical engineering Essential A-levels: Mathematics and Physics. Useful A-levels: D&T, Further Mathematics. American studies Essential A-levels: Requirements vary but English and/or History are often asked for. Anthropology Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: A small number of courses like a science AS-Level such as Biology and sometimes Sociology. Archaeology Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: History, Chemistry. Architecture Essential A-levels: For a small number of degree courses: Mathematics and/or physics and art (some state an arts/science mix). Useful A-levels: Art, D&T, Mathematics, Physics Note: A portfolio of drawings and ideas can be asked for. Art and design Essential A-levels: Art or D&T including AGCE/National (to give a student the portfolio to get on to an art foundation course, though sometimes AGCE/National art and design applicants go straight on to a degree). Note: most entrants on to art and design degrees will have done a one-year art foundation course after their A-levels. Biochemistry Essential A-levels: Always Chemistry, and some degrees say the student must have Biology as well, while some say Chemistry plus one from Mathematics/Physics/Biology. Doing Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics or Physics will keep all biochemistry courses open to the student. Biology Essential A-levels: Human Biology/Biology and Chemistry. Useful A-levels: Mathematics or Physics. Building (building services engineering, building surveying, construction management) Essential A-levels: For quite a few courses in this field Mathematics and/or physics. Business studies Essential A-levels: None. 12

13 Useful A-levels: Possibly Mathematics, Economics, and Business Studies. Note: Many business studies courses can be very pedantic about applicants having GCSE Mathematics and English language at a required grade. Chemical engineering Essential A-levels: Chemistry and Mathematics and sometimes Physics as well. Chemistry Essential A-levels: Chemistry and usually Mathematics or Physics. Some courses like Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics, while some like Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology. Childhood studies and education (not teacher training) Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Sociology, Psychology. Classical studies Essential A-levels: For Classics courses Latin or Ancient Greek, while Classical Studies and Classical Civilisations consider most subjects. Useful A-levels: Modern foreign language, English literature, History. Computing Essential A-levels: For some courses Mathematics and for a very small number of courses Further Mathematics is preferred. Useful A-levels: Mathematics, Physics, Philosophy, ICT. Dentistry Essential A-levels: Chemistry and Biology would be acceptable for most courses, but a few still like Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics or Physics. Dietetics Essential A-levels: Chemistry and Biology. Drama Essential A-levels: Some courses require English Literature and for a few courses English and/or Theatre Studies. Useful A-levels: English Literature, English Literature and Language, Theatre Studies. Economics Essential A-levels: Some courses require Mathematics. Useful A-levels: Mathematics, Economics. Education (see teacher training) Electrical/electronic engineering Essential A-levels: Mathematics and Physics. Useful A-levels: D&T, Further Mathematics, ICT. Engineering (general) Essential A-levels: Mathematics and Physics. Useful A-levels: Further Mathematics. English Essential A-levels: English Literature or English Literature and Language. Useful A-levels: History, Religious studies, a foreign language. Note: Some very selective courses can sometimes have an issue with English literature and language A-level. Environmental science/studies Essential A-levels: Many courses will ask for two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Geography. European studies Essential A-levels: A modern foreign language. Useful A-levels: a second modern foreign language, English Literature, History, Government and Politics 13

14 French Essential A-levels: French. Useful A-levels: Another modern foreign language, English Literature, History, Government and Politics. Geography Essential A-levels: Most degrees require Geography. Useful A-levels: Some BSc degrees prefer one from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. Geology/earth sciences Essential A-levels: Usually two from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Useful A-levels: Geography, Geology. German Essential A-levels: German. Useful A-levels: Another modern foreign language, English Literature, History, Government and Politics. History Essential A-levels: Most degrees require History. Useful A-levels: Economics, English Literature, Government and Politics, Sociology, Religious Studies. History of Art Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Art, English Literature, History, Religious Studies, French, Modern Foreign Language Italian Essential A-levels: Italian or another language such as French, German or Spanish. Useful A-levels: another modern foreign language, English Literature, History, Government and Politics. Law Essential A-levels: None. Note: There really are no essential A-levels for law. Maybe one choice should involve essay or report writing. History gives the students good relevant skills for Law. Really do try to encourage students to choose subjects that offer them the best chance of getting high grades. Management studies Essential A-levels: None but very occasionally Mathematics (LSE want Mathematics). Useful A-levels: Possibly Mathematics, Economics, Business Studies. Materials science (including biomedical materials science) Essential A-levels: Normally two from Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics and Biology. Mathematics Essential A-levels: Mathematics and sometimes Further Mathematics. Useful A-levels: Physics. Mechanical engineering Essential A-levels: Mathematics and Physics. Useful A-levels: D&T, Further Mathematics. Media studies (including communication studies) Essential A-levels: A few courses ask for English or Media Studies. Useful A-levels: English, Media Studies, Sociology, Psychology. Note: A large proportion of people who work in the media industries have degrees in a wide range of other subjects. Medicine Essential A-levels: If students choose Chemistry, Biology and one from Mathematics or Physics they will keep all the medical schools open to them. If they do Chemistry and Biology they will keep open the vast majority. If they choose 14

15 Chemistry and one from Biology, Mathematics and Physics they will limit their range of choices much more. Music Essential A-levels: For most traditional courses, Music and grade VII/VIII. Nursing and midwifery Essential A-levels: Some courses ask for Biology or another science. Useful A-levels: Biology, Sociology, Psychology, Chemistry. Occupational therapy Essential A-levels: Some courses ask for Biology, some will also consider Psychology, Physical Education, Sociology or another science. Optometry (ophthalmic optics) Essential A-levels: Two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics (some courses prefer Biology as one of the choices). Pharmacy Essential A-levels: Chemistry and two from Biology, Mathematics and Physics keep the vast majority of courses open to students. Some courses prefer Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics. Doing Chemistry and Biology keeps most courses open. Philosophy Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Mathematics, Classical Civilisations, Philosophy, Religious Education. Physics Essential A-levels: Mathematics and Physics. Useful A-levels: Further Mathematics, Chemistry. Physiotherapy Essential A-levels: Most courses will consider a student with just Biology, however some ask for a second science from Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. Government and Politics Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Government and Politics, History Psychology Essential A-levels: A few courses ask for one from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics while some require Biology. Universities do not require any previous study of psychology however. Useful A-levels: Biology, Mathematics, Psychology, Sociology. Religious studies/theology Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Religious studies/theology, Philosophy, English Literature, History. Sociology Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: Sociology, Psychology, Geography and Media Studies. Spanish Essential A-levels: Spanish (some degrees will also consider French, German or Italian.) Useful A-levels: Another modern foreign language, English, History, Government and Politics. Speech therapy Essential A-levels: Some degrees want a science such as Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Some specify Biology, but some degrees will consider candidates with none of these. 15

16 Useful A-levels: A modern foreign language (i.e. French, German, Spanish, Italian), English Language (and Literature), Psychology. Sports science/physical education Essential A-levels: Quite a few courses want to see one from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. Some courses will treat PE as a science equivalent: check. Useful A-levels: Business studies, Physical Education, Psychology. Surveying Essential A-levels: None. Useful A-levels: For some types of surveying, such as building surveying, Mathematics and Physics could be helpful. For estate management (general practice surveying) most A-level combinations will be considered. Teacher training (primary and/or secondary) Essential A-levels: At least one from Art, Biology, Chemistry, Design and Technology, Drama (Theatre Studies), English, French, Geography, German, History, ICT, Italian, Mathematics, Music, Physics, Physical Education, Religious Studies (Theology), Spanish. Note: Do not forget to check if some primary teaching courses have GCSE requirements. (Subjects best for primary teaching are in bold) Veterinary science Essential A-levels: Students should do Chemistry and Biology and one from Mathematics/Physics so that they can apply to all seven courses. 16

17 Subject Combinations If you have a specific career aim it is vital you check if there are any subject requirements. However, many careers and courses have no specific requirements, and many students don t yet know what they want to do in the future. In these cases you should be guided by what interests you and what you are good at. Even if you don t know what you want to do it may be useful to think about subjects that go well together (subject clusters). Science Cluster Humanities Cluster Performing Arts Cluster Creative Arts Cluster Social Science Cluster Design & Technology Cluster Select at least two from Select at least two from Select at least two from Select Select at least two from Select at least two from Biology Geography Music Art & Design Economics Food Technology Chemistry History Drama Psychology Product Design Physics RE Sociology Computing Mathematics Further Mathematics Government & Politics Textiles ICT Consider also Consider also Consider also Consider also Consider also Consider also Computing Economics English Language Mathematics and Physics for architecture History Mathematics Psychology Psychology English Literature Textiles Geography Further Mathematics Sociology RE Physics A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster 17

18 Subject Combinations (continued) On these two pages are some suggestions, however, remember that this list cannot include all sensible combinations and its important you discuss choices with your subject teachers, learning mentors or the Sixth Form team if you are unsure. It s also OK to keep your options open! Applied Cluster Language and Communication Cluster Finance and Business Cluster Physical Educatio n Engineering Cluster Select at least two from Select at least two from Select at least two from Select at least two from Select two from Applied Science French/Spanish Applied Business PE Mathematics BTEC Sport English Language Economics BTEC Sport Physics Applied Business English Literature Mathematics Psychology Applied ICT Biology Sociology Consider also Consider also Consider also Consider also Consider also Business Studies French/Spanish Computing History Geography ICT A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster A subject from another cluster 18

19 How to Apply: A Summary 1. Attend the Futures Day Open Evening 4th March Decide which course to apply for 3. Complete the course choice form and get it signed by a parent or guardian (if you are joining us from another school please make sure you complete a new student application form) 4. Hand in your completed course choice form by the 19 th March Your application will be considered by departments and the sixth form team 6. We will contact your current teachers or current school to confirm suitability for courses. 7. You may be called for interview 8. Provisional application packs will be sent out in May 9. Acceptances confirmed on the basis of exam results. You must be available (in person, telephone or via appointed person) to confirm your place on either the 20 th or 21st August

20 A Level Art Fine Art (Linear) Exam Board: AQA Student Profile Course Contact: MR S A MASON Students shall be introduced to a variety of experiences that employ a range of traditional and new media, processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen areas of study. Knowledge of art, craft and design will be developed through research, the development of ideas and making, working from first-hand experience and, where appropriate, secondary source materials. Students are required to participate actively in their course of study, recognising and developing their own strengths in the subject and identifying and sustaining their own lines of enquiry. Students will be enquiring and self motivated. Students will also be good at time management and be willing to continue studies and investigations outside of lesson time. An Art student understands that there is a large amount of home study, which is required to complete the large amount of practical work required. Topics Covered Students should produce practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example, drawing, painting, mixed-media, sculpture, ceramics, installation, printmaking, moving image (video, film, animation) and photography. A-level There is synoptic assessment in both components of the A-level that provide stretch and challenge opportunities for students as follows: In Component 1, students develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words which supports the practical work. Assessment Skills Required Entry Requirements Find out more In Component 2, students respond to a stimulus, provided by AQA, to produce work which provides evidence of their ability to work independently within specified time constraints, developing a personal and meaningful response which addresses all the assessment objectives and leads to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. Unit 1 : portfolio of work developing skills, techniques and understanding. Exploring ideas and concepts Unit 2: Developing a personal theme : Unit 3 : Exam paper 15 hours exam The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically. The willingness to take a risk and explore ideas and concepts creatively. To have an open mind to new experiences. To be driven and willing to work beyond the lesson is a necessity. The fine art course is aimed at students who have an interest in art in its various forms. It is designed for students who wish to develop skills, explore ideas and concepts and develop personal responses to themes. C grade at GCSE is a minimum requirement although students who have not taken GCSE may wish to talk to art staff about the possibilities available to them. There are many opportunities open to students studying Art and Design and no one list can be really complete. Students can continue onto the Isle of Man College Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, or may wish to explore arts based courses at University directly. Previous students have gone on to study Fashion, illustration, design based courses, fine art, photography, art history, sculpture and ceramics, 3d sculpture and jewellery design. It is looked favourably on when applying for architecture 20

21 A Level Applied Business - Single Award (Modular) Exam Board: WJEC Course Contacts: Mr A J Roberts, Mr S T Edwards & Miss A G Watts During the course, students will consider the fundamental principles and concepts of Business including: ABUS1 - Investigating Business and Finance (20% of A-Level) ABUS2 - Investigating Business Influences and Activities (30% of A-Level) ABUS5 - Business Decision-Making (20% of A-Level) ABUS6 - Business Planning (30% of A-Level) The course involves students carrying out both individual and group tasks on a variety of Business issues and problems. Student Profile A successful Applied Business (Single Award) student will: 1 Enjoy working independently 2 Favour coursework over examinations 3 Think creatively to solve business problems 4 Enjoy working with numbers (basic number manipulation only). Topics Covered ABUS1 - Business Structures; Aims, Objectives & Planning; Enterprise and Innovation; Functional Areas of Business; Business Finance; Business Software. ABUS2 Business Customers; Competition; Marketing; Recruitment & Selection; People at Work; Motivation; Business Environment. ABUS5 Sales Forecasting; Market Research; Product Life Cycle; Marketing Tools; Production Methods; Production, Scale & Cost; Stock Control & Pricing; Research & Development. ABUS6 Establishing a Business Idea; Researching the Market; Marketing Plans; Resource Management; Financial Planning & Analysis. Assessment ABUS1 2 hour online examination - assessed in Year 12 ABUS2 Coursework (Choice of two tasks word limit) - assessed in Year 12 ABUS5 2 hour online examination - assessed in Year 13 ABUS6 Coursework (Development of a business idea) - assessed in Year 13 Skills Required 1 Independent Learning skills 2 Literacy, Numeracy and ICT skills 3 Problem Solving and Decision-Making skills 4 Evaluative and Analytical skills 5 Willingness to act on feedback Entry Requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English Language is recommended. If taken, a grade C or above in GCSE Business Studies is also recommended. GCE A-Level Applied Business (Single Award) is a very useful qualification. It provides an excellent springboard for university courses concerning (amongst others) Finance, Accountancy, Business Management and Social Science. In terms of career opportunities a qualification in Business is seen in many areas, including Banking, Insurance, Finance and Marketing as an essential part of career progression. Find out more

22 A Level Applied Business - Double Award (Modular) Exam Board: WJEC Course Contacts: Mr A J Roberts, Mr S T Edwards & Miss A G Watts During the course, students will study all units from the A Level Applied Business (Single Award) - which is worth 50% of the Double A Level - as well as: ABUS3 - How Customers Needs are Met (10% of A-Level Double Award) ABUS4 - Business' ICT provision (15% of A-Level Double Award) ABUS7 - Managing Businesses in an International Context (10% of A-Level Double Award) ABUS8 - Management and Change (15% of A-Level Double Award) The course involves students carrying out both individual and group tasks on a variety of Business issues, problems and projects. Student Profile Topics Covered A successful Applied Business (Double Award) student will: 1 Enjoy working independently 2 Favour coursework over examinations 3 Think creatively to solve business problems. ABUS3 Customer Types; Business & Customer Relationships; Customer Needs; Managing Customer Needs; Researching Customers (including Research Methods and Analysis); Product Development. ABUS4 Business Communication & Information (including Social Media such as Facebook and Twitter); Application & use of ICT (including , word processing, web sites and presentation packages such as PowerPoint). ABUS7 The European Union; International Trade. Assessment Skills Required Entry Requirements Find out more ABUS8 Changes in Business; Internal & External Causes of Change; Managing Change (including Controlling and Implementing change). ABUS3 - Controlled Assessment assessed in Year 12 ABUS4 Coursework (Four virtual Work Experience tasks) assessed in Year 12 ABUS7 Controlled Assessment assessed in Year 13 ABUS8 Coursework (Four virtual Work Experience tasks) assessed in Year 13 Independent Learning skills Literacy, Numeracy and ICT skills Problem Solving and Decision-Making skills Evaluative and Analytical skills Willingness to act on feedback A grade C or above in GCSE English Language is recommended. If taken, a grade C or above in GCSE Business Studies is also recommended. GCE A-Level Applied Business (Double Award) is a very useful qualification. It provides an excellent springboard for university courses concerning (amongst others) Finance, Accountancy, Marketing and Business Management. In terms of career opportunities a qualification in Business is seen in many areas, including Banking, Insurance, Finance, Advertising and Customer Service as an essential part of career progression

23 A Level Biology Exam Board: OCR Course Contact: Miss E Bridgewater Student Profile The Biology A specification has a content-led flexible approach, which is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of biology. As students progress through the course they will build up an in-depth knowledge of the workings of Biology, applying their skills and understanding to new situations. For A level only, the Practical Endorsement will also support the development of practical skills. Many students choose to combine Biology with one of the other sciences or Physical Education. But there is no need to follow the crowd. Biology compliments many other courses including Psychology and Geography. A successful Biology student will have well developed independent study skills to motivate themselves into staying on track with their own studies. Students should have an interest in how the body works on a molecular level and be able to apply a critical thought process to apply knowledge to exam style questions. Memory techniques are paramount to help remember the large amounts of content. Topics Covered Modules 1 to 4 constitute the stand-alone AS Level qualification; Modules 1 to 6, combined with the Practical Endorsement, constitutes the full A Level. The modules can be summarised as: Module 1 Development of practical skills in biology Module 2 Foundations in biology Module 3 Exchange and transport Module 4 Biodiversity, evolution and disease Module 5 Communication, homeostasis and energy Module 6 Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Assessment At AS Level: Paper 1 and 2, each 1.5 hours, can assess any content from Modules 1 to 4. At A Level: Paper 1 (2hrs 15min) assesses content from Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5 Paper 2 (2hrs 15min) assesses content from Modules 1, 2, 4 and 6 plus any material appropriately flagged within the specification from Modules 3 and 5 Skills Required Entry Requirements Paper 3 (1.5 hours) assesses content from Modules 1 to 6. Biology is a discipline and, as such, it's a matter of training your mind to be prepared for the challenges it will present. The following are good skills to have regardless of what field you're going into though. Problem-Solving & Scientific Reasoning Technical Knowledge Good Study Habits Mathematics B or above in GCSE Separate Biology or B in both Core and Additional Science A level Biology can open up a range of careers and higher education courses in Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biomedical Science, Biostatistics, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Cancer/Oncology, Cardiology, Forensic Science, Genetics, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Zoology, Veterinary Sciences. Ecology and Environmental Protection, Botany/Plant ScienceA level Biology can also help gain direct entry into employment, especially into the scientific and related sectors. Find out more or contact Miss E Bridgewater at e.bridgewater@snhs.sch.im 23

24 A Level Chemistry Exam Board: OCR Course Contact: Mrs M E Corlett Student Profile The Chemistry B (Salters) specification has a content-led approach, where chemistry is studied in a range of different contexts divided into topics, conveying the excitement of contemporary chemistry. Ideas are introduced in a spiral way with topics introduced in an early part of the course reinforced later. A particular emphasis is placed on an investigational and problemsolving approach to practical work. For A level only, the Practical Endorsement will also support the development of practical skills. There s no doubt that A-level chemistry can be a bit mathematical at times, and so students sometimes choose to take maths as well (at least to AS-level). Students choose to combine Chemistry with Biology or Chemistry with Physics as it tends to complement both sciences and depends on which direction students decide to take eg. biochemistry or possibly Chemical engineering.chemistry can be studied alone or can be combined with lots of other subjects. Topics Covered Modules 1 to 5 constitute the stand-alone AS Level qualification. Modules 1 to 10 combined with the practical endorsement constitute the full A Level. The modules can be summarised as: Module 1: Elements of life. Module 2: Developing fuels. Module 3: Elements from the sea. Module 4: The ozone story. Module 5: What s in a medicine Assessment At AS Level: Module 6: The chemical industry Module 7: Polymers and life Module 8: Oceans Module 9: Developing metals Module 10: Colour by design Papers 1 and 2, each 1.5 hours, can assess any content from Modules 1 to 5 as well as practical skills. At A Level: Paper 1 (2 hours15 mins) assesses Fundamentals of chemistry Paper 2 (2 hours15 mins) assesses Scientific literacy in chemistry and includes an Advance Notice article. Skills Required Entry Requirements Find out more Paper 3 (1 hour 30 mins) assesses practical skills in chemistry. The following are good skills to have regardless of what field you're going into. Mathematics Investigational and Problem-Solving techniques Technical Knowledge Good Study Habits B or above in GCSE Separate Chemistry or B in both Core and Additional Science. A level Chemistry can open up a range of careers and higher education courses in medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, physiotherapy, pharmaceutical science, and forensic science as well as careers in the environmental health and food sector. A level Chemistry can also help gain direct entry into employment, especially into the scientific and related sectors. or contact Mrs M E Corlett at m.e.corlett@snhs.sch.im 24

25 A Level Computing (Linear) Exam Board: OCR Course Contact: Mr A Runciman / Mr M Long In this course, students will gain an understanding of and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including: abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation. Students will develop the ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems including writing programs to do so. Student Profile Topics Covered A successful computing student enjoys problem solving and thinking logically they will keep working until they find a solution. They will enjoy working with numbers and applying mathematical theory to solve complex problems. A computing student has an interest in how computers work rather than how to use software. A computing student understands that there is a large amount of home study, which is required to complete the large amount of practical work required. Computer Software, Database Theory, Networking, Programming, Data structures Boolean Algebra and Systems Life Cycle. Assessment Unit 1: Computer Systems; (40% of A level, 2.5hr exam). Unit 2: Algorithms and Programming; (40% of A level, 2.5hr written exam). Unit 3: Programming Project; (20% total A level, non exam assessment marks internally assessed) Skills Required The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically Entry Requirements The computing course is for students who have an interest in the fundamentals of computer systems or wish to study for a computing based degree. The course is very mathematical and students should have good problem solving skills. By the end of the course students will have learned how to program using an object orientated programming language. B or above in GCSE Mathematics is required. The Computing GCE A-Level is a highly marketable qualification and welcomed by employers and universities alike. It provides an excellent springboard for university courses such as Games Design, Engineering, Management and Information technology or Software Engineering. Find out more 25

26 A Level Drama and Theatre Studies Exam Board: AQA Course Contact: John Dowty Student Profile Topics Covered Assessment Skills Required Entry Requirements Find out more The AS course is essentially about taking a play from the page and turning it into performance. You will begin by exploring two contrasting plays and learning about one recognised theatre practitioner. The approach is mostly practical with a high level of analysis. Through written and practical coursework assessment, you will demonstrate your understanding, practical skills and ideas. We will also visit the theatre to review plays and here you will learn to critique all aspects of a production with skill. A successful Drama student is really enthusiastic about all aspects of acting and theatre: watching it, doing it, talking about it and writing about it. You will need to be a good team player who enjoys a challenge and who can solve problems with determination and imagination. You will need to appreciate the importance of planning and organization and be prepared to spend time researching and rehearsing outside of lesson time. Set text: Antigone by Sophocles and the theatre of Ancient Greece. Live Productions. Set text: Pre-C20 th comedy: The Recruiting Officer by George Farquhar. Set-text: C20 th : Our Country s Good by Timberlake Wertenbaker Choice and use of staging form, actor/audience relationship, casting, physical and vocal performance skills, character motivation and interaction, development of pace, pitch and climax, costume, make-up, masks, use of props., stage design, lighting and sound design, creation of mood and atmosphere. Unit 1 (30% of A Level) 1.5 hour examination Section A: Your response to live theatre seen during the course. Section B: study of a set play Unit 2 (20% of A Level) Performance by a group of an extract from a published play. Unit 3 (30% of A Level) 2 hour examination Section A: Study of a pre C20 th comedy Section B: Study of a C20 th play Unit 4 (20% of A level) Performance by a group of devised drama. Team skills, decision making, problem solving, communication and imagination. Students have in the past been successful at A level Drama and Theatre Studies without having taken the GCSE. B or above for Drama GCSE is recommended. Previous theatrical experience is useful but not essential. As 60% of the course is in the form of written examination, a good pass at English GCSE is required. Drama and Theatre Studies is a highly marketable qualification and welcomed by employers and universities alike. It provides an excellent springboard for university courses in such areas as performing arts, media, journalism, business and teaching. Drama can lead to a wide variety of careers such as: actor, director, lighting designer, sound engineer, make-up artist, set designer, script writer, producer, arts administrator, animator, television/radio presenter, newsreader, journalist, camera operator, salesperson, marketer, event planner, lawyer, teacher, therapist. 26