Reddam House Berkshire GCSE Options

Transcription

1 Reddam House Berkshire GCSE Subjects 2015

2 ENGLISH LANGUAGE Reddam House Berkshire Head of Department: Mrs P PHILLIPS AQA (new specification) GCSE English Language is a compulsory subject taken by the entire Fourth and Fifth Form. It is also the subject first looked at by many potential employers and therefore has significance, both in terms of a pupil's academic development and career development. The focus at GCSE is appreciating the choices various writers have made, both in fiction and non-fiction texts, whilst learning to craft their own writing. The curriculum covers creative reading and writing, understanding writers viewpoints and perspectives and spoken language. It provides pupils with the tools to make a success of their talents and a solid background in the subject can lead to greater success across many A-Levels. Three units form the structure of the course, but these are not delivered as discrete courses, but amalgamated together, as work in each supports a pupil's learning in the others. Assessment is by examination. All texts in the examination will be unseen. Spelling, punctuation and grammar will be assessed and contribute 20% of the GCSE. Paper 1 Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing Section A: Reading One unseen literature fiction text. Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes 50% Paper 2 Section B: Writing Descriptive or narrative writing. Writers Viewpoints and Perspectives Section A: Reading One non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text. Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes 50% Nonexamination Assessment Section B: Writing Writing to present a viewpoint. Spoken Language Presenting Responding to questions and feedback Use of Standard English Teacher assessed throughout the course and moderated by OCR. 0% For more information please visit

3 ENGLISH LITERATURE Reddam House Berkshire Head of Department: Mrs P PHILLIPS AQA (New Specification) Taught alongside English Language, GCSE English Literature is also a compulsory subject at Reddam House Berkshire. As well as having its own intrinsic value, the study of Literature supports the study of Language. At GCSE, Literature focuses on developing a pupil's analytical and evaluative skills and their ability to express their thoughts and ideas. It also, significantly, provides an insight into our literary heritage and encourages an understanding of social, cultural and historical contexts. The subject is assessed through two examinations, taught alongside the Language course. All examinations are closed book: any stimulus materials required will be provided as part of the assessment. Spelling, punctuation and grammar will be assessed and contribute 5% of the GCSE. Paper 1 Written examination: 1hour 45 minutes Shakespeare and the 19 th Century Novel Section A: Shakespeare Write in detail about an extract; Write about the chosen play as a whole. Section B: 19 th Century Novel Write in detail about an extract; Write about the chosen novel as a whole. 40% Paper 2 Written examination: 2hours 15 minutes Modern Texts and Poetry Section A: Modern Texts One essay question on their studied text (either modern prose or modern drama) Section B: Poetry One comparative essay on a named poem and a chosen poem from the poetry cluster Section C: Unseen Poetry One question on an unseen poem; One question comparing the first poem with a second unseen poem. 60% For more information please visit All core texts for study at GCSE English Literature will be provided by the Department, but pupils are strongly encouraged to read around the subject and extend the range and scope of their reading over the course's two year span.

4 MATHEMATICS Head of Faculty: Mrs S NICHOL Edexcel Why take Mathematics at GCSE? Mathematics is one of the core subjects at GCSE. Mathematics equips you with a uniquely powerful set of tools to understand and change the world. These tools include logical reasoning, problem-solving skills and the ability to think in abstract ways. Mathematics is important in everyday life. Many forms of employment, in science, technology, medicine, the economy, the environment and public decision-making rely on using and applying Mathematics successfully. Today, Mathematics is a universally recognised, creative discipline. It can stimulate enjoyment in numerous ways, through success and achievement. Skills Mathematics provides the opportunities to develop skills in: communication, through learning to express ideas clearly and concisely application of number, through using and applying your knowledge and understanding ICT, through developing logical thinking and using current technology to solve problems or display and analyse data working with others, through group activities and discussion improving your own learning performance, through logical thinking, concentration, analytical skills problem-solving, through selecting and using methods and techniques, developing strategic thinking and reflecting on the success of the method used How is GCSE Mathematics assessed? Pupils will sit three 90 minute examinations at the end of the course. Topics covered are: 1 Number 2 Algebra 3 Ratio, proportion and rates of change 4 Geometry and measures 5 Probability 6 Statistics How does Mathematics at GCSE lead to AS/A-Level and Further Study? Once you have mastered the basics of Mathematics at GCSE, you could progress to the really exciting topics at A-Level. Mathematics is also used, of course, in all science-based subjects and is very useful if you go on to study Business Studies and Economics.

5 SCIENCE Head of Department: Mrs S NICHOL Edexcel Over the last few years the Sciences at GCSE level have undergone major national reorganisation. As well as making the subjects more relevant and engaging, it has provided us with the opportunity to develop a broader curriculum allowing more suitable and flexible routes for pupils of all abilities. The curriculum means that we are able to offer the slightly more challenging Separate Science subjects generating three separate grades for each of the science disciplines as well as Core and Additional Science generating two average grades of all the Science subjects. Students will actually start to study for their Science GCSEs after Easter this year. This is so that we can accommodate the teaching of the Separate Science course. To start with, all students will study the same course at the same pace to the end of the Third Form. At this point we will then do a test that will determine whether they follow the Core and Additional or the Separate Science. At the end of this academic year, we will inform you of our recommendations. Why study Science at GCSE? It uses and develops the skills learnt in many other areas of the curriculum as well as teaching its own particular skills, knowledge and understanding. Most employers will expect their employees to have good Science grades and look upon Science as a key area in education. In a world where the media so frequently bombards us with scientific developments and discoveries, it is necessary for us to make up our own minds on controversial issues, a science education therefore has to be a must for every informed citizen. Personal Development and Skills For individual pupils, experience of science at this level should: broaden their understanding of themselves, human culture and societies, as well as the natural and man-made worlds that we live in encourage natural curiosity, develop an enquiring mind and promote an interest in continuing to learn throughout life help to bring about a critical way of thinking develop the potential to contribute in an informed, thoughtful and sensitive way to the enrichment of people's lives and of the environment. Understanding Themes and Processes The course entitlement provides well-designed studies of experimental and practical science and gives a worthwhile educational experience for all pupils. How is GCSE Science assessed? There are terminal examinations held at the end of the Fifth form. Controlled Assessments based on certain experiments are also examined and account for 25% of the final grade. These are only carried out in the Fifth Form. How does GCSE Science lead to further study? If a pupil is considering taking one or more of the sciences at A level, then a strong grade (B or above) at GCSE is necessary in Core and Additional Science or the three Separate Science subjects.

6 ART and DESIGN Head of Faculty: Teacher: Mr S R ABERY Mrs N Balfour AQA Why study Fine Art at GCSE? Just look around you! Art is everywhere, in the patterns, colours, shapes, textures of the natural and man-made worlds. Now, wouldn't you like to understand more about all of this? Wouldn't you like to create your own contributions to the world? Wouldn't you like the opportunity to add your own personal expression through the use of imaginative, dexterous and inspired innovation? Skills developed through the Components Your coursework involves producing 3 pieces of work over an eighteen-month period of time, which should demonstrate evidence of a variety of ideas and use of media. You will be extending your knowledge of drawing, painting, sculpture, print making and photography. You will be marked not only on the finished presentation, but also on the research and original concept. You will be expected to explore supporting studies within your preparatory work. You must be sufficiently self-motivated to work independently at all times. Your controlled test will consist of producing a drawing, painting or print (with two months allowed for preliminary/supporting studies) completed within the ten-hour limit. This work should demonstrate your ability in the development of ideas and skilful handling of materials. How is GCSE Art and Design assessed? Examination Two months preliminary study 40% 10 hours controlled test Coursework A portfolio of work that will include at least one major project and two smaller units 60% How does GCSE Art and Design lead to further study? It is essential that if you want to take Art Design A Level that you have studied Art at GCSE Level. Equipment You will be provided with sketchbooks and general art materials though you may need to purchase certain items depending on your ideas/work.

7 COMPUTER SCIENCE Reddam House Bearwood Head of Faculty: Subject Leader: Mrs S Nichol Mr G S Harrison Edexcel Why take Computer Science at GCSE? Today virtually all workers need to be confident operators of digital devices. However, there is a growing need for people to know more than simply how to use a device in a business/commercial context. There is a need for power users, people who know how to customise these devices, and for developers. Developers are people who can invent, create and develop the software that drives many of the Apps that have become a part of our culture and world view. In fact, the business world is driving the need for more creative programmers and computational thinkers as they see that the growing trend in commercial prowess sits largely with how digitally diverse a company can be. Taking GCSE Computer Science will give you valuable digital know-how beyond just being a user of software. It is vital to study this subject at GCSE if you plan to go on to study Computing at AS or A2 Level, and if you are considering a future career in gaming, software development and design or if you know the demanding levels of technical know-how your future career path demands of you. Let s face it! There are not many fields left now that are free of digital reach. The course goes beyond programming, to:- developing knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science developing and applying computational thinking skills to analyse problems and design solutions across a range of contexts gaining practical experience of designing, writing, and testing computer programs that accomplish specific goals developing the ability to reason, explain and evaluate computing solutions developing an awareness of current and emerging trends in computing technologies developing an awareness of the impact of computing on individuals, society and the environment, including ethical, legal and ownership issues communicating computer science concepts and explaining computational solutions clearly and concisely using appropriate terminology What do I need to do well in this course? a desire to learn to program, or at least control, a computer creativity programming is exceptionally creative and those with a good ability to visualise and imagine solutions are often best suited a logical approach to challenges and a desire to see a solution How is GCSE Computer Science assessed? Unit 1: Examination One Written Paper of 120 minutes 75% Unit 2: Controlled Assessment EDEXCEL-set Assignment 25%

8 DRAMA Head of Department: Mrs P PHILLIPS AQA Why take GCSE Drama? AQA GCSE Drama is an exciting and creative hands-on course in which pupils are given the opportunity to explore themes and issues using the medium of drama. They will gain experience of a range of dramatic texts, studying the works of both well-known and new playwrights; developing an awareness of social, cultural and historical contexts and influences. They will learn to use dramatic techniques and strategies to explore and devise their own work for performance. There are also options within the course to study some technical skills to enhance their performance skills. One of the main features of the AQA Drama GCSE is that 60% of the qualification is based on practical assessments; whilst 40% is based on a final written examination, focusing on their own work, both improvisation and scripted, and the option of a response to a live production. Theatre visits, providing an opportunity to experience the atmosphere and professionalism of live theatre, are a vital part of the course. It is worth noting that whilst Drama is an academic subject, performance is integral to it. Pupils must feel confident that they can cope with performing their work to different audiences. Working with others is also essential. Throughout the course, pupils will learn to respond, perform and evaluate, both their own and others work, providing the opportunity for them to develop their skills in creativity, self confidence, concentration, self discipline and communication. How is GCSE Drama assessed? Controlled Assessment Units (Coursework) 60% Two of a range of options including devised thematic work for performance to an audience, acting, Theatre in Education, and improvisation. Each option is assessed through practical work; both the work in progress and the final performance. Internally assessed and externally moderated. Written Paper 40%. 1 hour 30 minutes A choice of two questions based on the following sections: A: An evaluative response to their own practical work. (Compulsory) B: An evaluative response to their performance of a scripted play or C: A response to a live performance. Externally assessed.

9 GEOGRAPHY Teacher: Mr J R TALBOT AQA Why take Geography at GCSE? The changing world, both at the global scale and the immediate local environment must surely be of interest. In the Classroom Aspects of the physical landscapes, rocks, rivers and coastlines are studied in the Fourth Form. In the Fifth Form the human topics are covered: population; changing rural environments; development. Increasingly important is the interaction between the two landscapes man in his environment and his positive and negative impact, such as coastal management and global warming. Fieldwork All topics are supported by practical fieldwork wherever possible, with trips to the New Forest, the Dorset coastline and local settlements as well as work within the College estate. One of these pieces of work could be the basis for the compulsory coursework investigation, where data is collected to test certain hypotheses, or to solve local problems. How is GCSE Geography assessed? Examination 1 Physical topics. 37.5% Examination 2 Human topics. 37.5% Coursework Fieldwork Investigation of 1500 words. 25% How does GCSE Geography lead to further study? Geography has been very successful as a subject in recent GCSE examinations. Many of these pupils have gone on to study the subject at A Level, achieving a high pass rate, and a number of Berkshire pupils continue to study Geography at University.

10 HISTORY Head of Department: Mrs K LANGFORD-HOLT ODENWÄLDER OCR History B: Modern World Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it G Santayana Why take GCSE History? Firstly, you do not choose History simply because you want to work in a library or museum or even be a History teacher! History will give you a greater appreciation of the world you live in and the people and events that have shaped our world. It will help you to develop views about how the future world can and should be shaped. The study of History will strengthen your oral and written skills and your ability to become an excellent independent learner. It will also help you to acquire invaluable skills that both universities and employers seek. The study of History provides opportunities to: develop skills of investigation, study and research make independent decisions using evidence produce concise, relevant and supported arguments communicate clear and coherent judgements. History is therefore not just an option for those who are interested in the subject or wish to pursue a career in that area. However, GCSE History is an academic subject and will require dedication and commitment. How is GCSE History assessed? Paper 1 International Relations: The Cold War, (45%) Who was to blame for the Cold War? 2 hrs Who won the Cuban Missile Crisis? Why did the USA fail in Vietnam? Russia, Why did Tsarist rule collapse in Russia in 1917? How did the Bolsheviks gain power, and how did they consolidate their rule? How did Stalin gain and hold on to power? What was the impact of Stalin s economic policies? Paper 2 British Depth Study, : (30%) Poverty in Britain and the Liberal Reforms 1hr 30min Votes for women Historical Enquiry (25%) 2000 words Britain in the First World War Controlled Assessment: The USA, Land of freedom? A combination of structured questions which test your knowledge and source analysis and evaluation skills. Questions which require source analysis and evaluation and your own knowledge. One piece of extended writing using evidence and your own knowledge.

11 MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES Reddam House Bearwood AQA Why take a foreign language at GCSE? With globalisation ever on the increase it is increasingly important to be able to communicate with people from other countries and cultures. There are a wide variety of careers where even being able to speak a little of a foreign language will put you ahead of the other applicants. It will open opportunities for travel and always looks impressive on a CV, particularly now that it is not compulsory. Skills You will develop your comprehension skills, problem solving ability, understanding of language in general, English as well as the foreign language studied. You will learn to understand the spoken and written language and be able to use it to communicate with others. You will also develop an understanding and thereby an appreciation of the culture and customs of other countries both in Europe and around the world. You will be prepared for two controlled assessments in speaking and two in writing. Listening and reading skills will be tested in a final exam at the end of Fifth form. How are GCSE languages assessed? Unit 1 Listening 20% Unit 2 Reading 20% Unit 3 Speaking 30% Unit 4 Writing 30% Pupils may be entered for the final listening and reading exams at either Foundation or Higher tier in each skill. Speaking and writing are untiered and candidates will be judged on outcome, not by task. How useful is a foreign language at GCSE? It will encourage positive attitudes to other cultures and speakers of foreign languages, and will provide intellectual stimulation. It will also form a sound base of the skills and language required for further study, work and leisure.

12 MUSIC Head of Faculty: Teacher: Mr S R Abery Mr R Frost AQA The course has four components: Composing Music, Performing Music, Composing and Appraising Music and Listening to and Appraising Music Why take music at GCSE? At Berkshire College you have many opportunities to be involved in Music. Taking GCSE Music will help you to develop your musical ability indeed, pupils studying for this exam are expected to join in at least one ensemble or choir. The brass ensemble, Chapel choir, wind band and string group all perform in concerts at the Berkshire Theatre or in Chapel. How is GCSE Music assessed? 1. Composing Music Candidates compose music exploring 2 or more of the Areas of Study (see below). Completed under Controlled Assessment. 20% of total mark 2. Performing Music One Solo and one Ensemble. Solo performance choices include Rapping, Turntablism and Music Technology. Ensemble performances may include playing in bands, orchestra and groups of any size. 3. Composing and appraising Music 4. Listening to and Appraising Music. The Areas of Study: Rhythm/Metre Harmony/Tonality Texture/Melody Timbre/Dynamics Structure/Form Candidates compose music exploring 2 or more of the Areas of Study (see below) and with links to one of 3 Strands of Learning (see below). They will appraise the process and outcome under Controlled Time. The composition will be completed under Supervised Time. A written paper of 1 hour with Short musical excerpts and more focussed questions. Students will not be expected to identify periods of music or names of composers. A mixture of question types, multiple choice, structured and extended responses. 40% of total mark 20% of total mark 20% of total mark The course is approached through three Strands of Learning: 1. The Western Classical Tradition 2. Popular Music of the 20 th and 21 st centuries 3. World Music

13 PHOTOGRAPHY Head of Department: Teacher: Mr S R Abery Mr S R ABERY AQA Why study Photography at GCSE? Once you have studied Photography you have a skill for life. Understanding the nature of composition when taking a photograph and having a greater understanding of how light affects your end photographic result will bring about an increased appreciation of the nature of photography. You will learn to develop films and make enlargements; learn about apertures, shutter speeds; you will research into other photographers' work and learn many different photographic techniques both on the camera and the enlargers in the darkroom. We will also explore the capabilities of digital photography. You will learn how to take and download images. Use Photoshop to enhance and to create images. Skills developed through the components Your coursework involves producing three or more pieces of work over an eighteenmonth period of time. This work should demonstrate an ability to research the work of others, to take photographs, to experiment and develop ideas resulting in a final piece/s. You must be sufficiently self-motivated to work independently at times, especially when taking your photographs. Your control test will consist of a small unit of work created in response to one theme. The exam board will give you 8 themes to select from. You will have at least two months to take the necessary photographs and carry out the preliminary, supporting studies and the development of your ideas. You will then have ten hours in which to create your final piece and put together your presentation in a workbook. How is GCSE Photography assessed? Controlled 2 months preliminary study. Test Controlled test 10 hours. 40% Coursework Portfolio A portfolio of work that will focus on 3 or 4 themes 60% If you wish to study Photography at A Level, we recommend that you have studied the subject at GCSE. Cameras It is essential to have a camera for the course. Mr Abery will be happy to offer advice on the type of camera required. The department has a small range of camera equipment that is available for pupils to borrow (pupils are responsible for any damage or loss of this equipment).

14 PHYSICAL EDUCATION Reddam House Bearwood Head of Department: Mr J DANCE Edexcel The GCSE course is concerned with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Why study Physical Education at GCSE? You should choose GCSE PE if you love being active and want to find out more about how to improve your performance. There are two main components to the course practical and theory. It's really important that you are committed to improving your practical scores in your own time (i.e join clubs, play for school and enjoy working on your fitness). If you already play a lot of sport then it is an ideal opportunity to gain some academic credit for the time you put into your activity. Theoretical Component To start with, you will look at the reasons for adopting a healthy, active lifestyle and the influences that affect your choice of activity. You will also research the agencies that help people achieve this. You will also investigate factors affecting participation in physical activity, such as health, fitness, training principles, methods of training and target setting. This fitness based theory work is taught through a training programme that you will undertake. Finally, you will study basic anatomy and physiology, including knowledge of the purpose of bones, joints, muscles and the circulatory and respiratory systems. Physical Skills Development You will select up to four sports from at least two different areas of activity. Assessment as a leader and an official is now possible. You will be assessed on these selected sports during the course and viewed at moderation. You will also develop skills in analysing performance in your chosen activities. How is GCSE Physical Education assessed? Unit 1. The Theory of Exam 1hr 30mins Physical Education 40% Unit 2.1 Practical Four activities assessed as a Performance performer, leader or official. 48% Unit 2.2 Analysis of Oral interview on one activity Performance 12% GCSE Physical Education is an excellent foundation to studying Physical Education at AS/A2 Level and for going on to study Sports Science and Leisure Management at University and College.

15 PRODUCT DESIGN Head of Faculty: Teacher Mr S R Abery Mr K J Lovell AQA Why take Design and Technology (Product Design) at GCSE? These days, consumers, designers and industry managers all have to make decisions when it comes to future design development, efficiency, cost awareness and moral issues. The global markets of today are having serious effects on the way we live, our futures and our well being. Decisions have to be made by everybody when design is undertaken. These decisions refer to quality, value for money and environmental issues. All these areas are studied at GCSE Design and Technology. You will then apply this knowledge and understanding when designing and making 2D and 3D products. How is GCSE Product Design assessed? Unit 1 Topics Covered Design and Market Influences The Examination Processes and Manufacture 40% 2 hours Externally Set Materials and Components Unit 2 Pupils will have a choice of a number of Exam board set project titles. The Project Parents should note that:- Research work, and drafting of work can be undertaken at home but pupils are the only ones to work on this. The majority of the project and all practical work must be completed in class. Tasks Covered within the project Investigating the Design Context Developing Design Proposals Making Testing and Evaluation Communication (throughout project) 60% ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES: AO1 Recall, select and communicate knowledge and understanding in design and technology including its wider effects. AO2 Apply knowledge, understanding and skills in a variety of contexts and in designing and making products. AO3 Analyse and evaluate products, including their design and production.