Leaving Certificate Options

Transcription

1 Leaving Certificate Options

2 Contents National Framework of Qualifications 4 Leaving Certificate Options - Athy College The Leaving Certificate Framework 7 Leaving Certificate Established 7 Leaving Cert Vocational Programme 8 Leaving Cert Applied / Established Leaving Certificate Comparison 11 Leaving Cert Applied 11 Established Leaving Cert 11 Leaving Cert Applied Subjects 11 Leaving Cert Established Subjects 11 Irish 12 English 12 Maths 12 Art 13 French 14 Geography 14 History 15 Biology 16 Chemistry 16 Home Economics, Social and Scientific 17 Design and Communications Graphics 17 Business Studies 18 Engineering 19 Construction Studies 19 Leaving Cert Established Leaving Cert Subject Choice; Hints and information 21 2

3 National Framework of Qualifications The National Framework of Qualifications is designed to compare all qualifications both nationally and internationally. The framework illustrates how students can progress through third level courses LEAVING CERTIFICATE Leaving Certificate Applied - Level 4 on the N.F.Q. Established Leaving Certificate - LevelS on the N.F.Q. POST_LEAVNG CERTIFICATE COURSES (PLC) Post Leaving Cert Courses - LevelS Usually of 1 year duration at a College of Further Education e.g. our own Business and Secretarial course and at Colleges of Further Education in Kildare, Newbridqe, Naas, Carlow and Portlaoise These courses enable the student to go straight into employment or go on to follow on courses at Level 6 4

4 HIGHER CERTIFICATE COURSES Higher Certificate - Level 6 Available at Institutes of Technology Entry based on L.e. points and apply through CAO (or progress from a PLCcourse) Usually of 2 years duration Can exit into employment or Can progress to further study at degree level in both an I. T, the National University of Ireland network i.e. NUl Maynooth, UCD, UCG, and UCC also Trinity College. DEGREE COURSES Ordinary Degree - Level 7 Honours Degree - Level 8 Available at the I.T. and the NUl network and Trinity College Direct entry from Leaving Certificate based on points obtained in Leaving Certificate or Progress from a Higher Certificate Award Apply through the CAO system. POST GRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS Level 9 - Post Graduate Diploma or Master's Degree LevellO - Doctorate (Ph. D. ) These courses are usually taken by those who have already graduated. They can be full-time or part-time study for on-going professional development. 5

5 LEAVING CERT APPLIED PROGRESSION PLC(LevelS) or Apprenticeship or Employment» Level 6 (Higher Certificate) or Employment or Study» Level 7 or 8 (Ordinary or Honours Degree Courses) ESTABLISHED LEAVING CERTIFICATE PROGRESSION Direct entry into Level 6, 7 and 8 Courses based on points obtained in Leaving Certificate ( higher points are required for direct entry to Level 8 courses) or Option to do a PLC and progress as already outlined. SUBJECT CHOICES A booklet has been compiled to give as much information as possible to both parent and student in choosing the right course for you. Each college course has entry requirements which you need to check out using Qualifax or Careersportal Some preparation work has already been done with your son/daughter in class If you need further assistance please make an appointment with the Guidance Counsellor USEFUL WEBSITES Parents and Students can access any information you want on all college courses by logging on to www. Qualifax.ie Both websites are designed for parents and students and are very easy to use. 6

6 Leaving Certificate Options - Athy College There are three major decisions students need to make in their school careers. These are:.:. choosing subjects for the Junior Certificate.:. choosing subjects for the Leaving Certificate.:. selecting courses/careers upon finishing post-primary education It is very important that parents are involved in each of those decisions. The Leaving Certificate Framework The Leaving Certificate is a two-year programme. It has two separate orientations-.:. The Established Leaving Certificate. :. The Leaving Certificate Applied. Leaving Certificate Established Every student must take Irish, E.nglish, Mathematics, Religion and Physical Education, Guidance and Information Technology This leaves four subjects to choose. Given the importance of modern languages, both for work and for some college applications, many students may want to take one foreign language, thus reducing the decision making to three subjects. Criteria for choosing subjects In choosing a subject, consideration must be given to the following.:. Liking the subject.:. Ability.:. Career needs Students interested in technical, medical or scientific careers would choose one or two science subjects, but they would choose the subjects because they like them, not just for the sake of the career opportunities. For example, if a student dislikes science, it is unlikely they would like a science-based career. The subjects and the career path chosen, should suit the student, not the other way around. For students who have no strong likes or dislikes and would like to keep their options open, 7

7 it would make sense to choose at least one science subject. science subject - for further advice on this see page 20 of this booklet. However, it is not necessary to choose a Leaving Certificate Established programme includes the following: A wide range of examination subjects which include: Core subjects: Irish, English, Maths, Religion, Physical Education, Guidance and Information Technology. Option subjects: French, Geography, Engineering, Construction Studies, Business Studies, Art, Biology, Chemistry, Design & Communication Graphics, Social and Scientific Home Economics and Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme Link Modules.:. All exam subjects are offered at both Higher and Ordinary levels (except LCVP which is common level).:. A comprehensive programme of participation in the NUl Maynooth and Access Programme. :. Career Guidance is provided on an individual basis and through weekly timetabled classes. Students will also be offered D.A.T.5. testing and career inventories to assist in career choices. Guest speakers and visits to 3 rd level colleges are also part of the curriculum. :. Extra-curricular activities include: sports, educational outings, choir, public speaking, the Shackelton Endeavour Project, volunteer work for charities. :. Supervised evening study. LEAVING CERTIFICATE VOCATIONAL PROGRAMME (LCVP).:. This consists of three Modules of Work (i) Enterprise Education (ii) Preparation for Work (iii) Work Experience Examination of Modules of Work consists of: (i) Portfolio of Coursework - 60% of marks (ii) Written Exam - 40% of marks 8

8 .:. LCVPis accepted as a subject for third level points as follows: Universities & Institutes of Technology Distinction 70 points Merit 50 points Pass 30 points.:. Students also have classes in Religious Education & Physical Education Higher level Al 100 :-'....., "7" ; A , 75.n':'" Cl 70 C2 65 C i Ordinary Level ", Points awarded for allocation of places through the CAD for Higher Education Courses Higher level maths above grade 03 =25 bonus points Foundation level maths can be awarded the following points for a limited number of courses as follows: Al =20 points A2 =15 points Bl =10 points B2 = 5 points LE_A_V_IN_G_C_E_R_Tl_FA_C_A_T_E_A_P_P_L_IE_D_P_R_O_G_R_A_M_M_E~(L_C_A-=-} J.:. Students are prepared for adult and working life through relevant learning topics and experiences e.g. work experience and community involvement. These build on the strengths and talents of the individual. :. Through a very successful method of continuous assessment the pressure of final examination is limited:.:. 34 % for written final examination.:. 35% of marks are given for task/ project work over two years.:. 31% is certified by the school on key assignments and attendance How many tasks/projects are the student expected to complete? A Student does 7 tasks over the 2 years Vocational Preparation Task EXAMPLES OF WHAT YOUR TASK COULD BE The development of a product or the making of an item The investigation of an issue The performance of an action The provision of a service

9 CREDITS ARE AWARDED Credits Credits Credits AS FOLLOWS: =85-100% =Distinction =70-84% =Merit =60-69% =Pass The Leaving Certificate Applied is a suitable qualification for: Employment Gardaf (with Merit) Banking (with Distinction) Post Leaving Cert. Courses (Level 5 FETAC Awards) Health Boards Apprenticeships The subjects include: IRISH ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATIONS MATHEMATICAL APPLICATIONS SOCIAL EDUCATION MODERN EUROPEAN LANGUAGE - FRENCH VOCATIONAL PREPARATION AND GUIDANCE RELIGION VISUAL ART LEISURE AND RECREATION GRAPHICS AND CONSTRUCTION or HOTEL, CATERING AND TOURISM 10

10 Leaving Cert Applied / Established Leaving Certificate Comparison Leaving Cert Applied Established Leaving Cert 1.Two year course. Marks added from (cannot be repeated) both years 1. Two year course - can be repeated 2. 7 written exams at the end of Year Two and marks added to results of continuous assessment from 1 above 3.Work and assignments mainly completed in class with a small amount of homework 4.lf a pupil misses more than 10% of school days then NO MARKS are awarded for key assignments 2. 7/8 written exams at the end of Year Two - in higher} ordinary or foundation level 3. A lot of homework and study in Year 1. Much more homework in Year 2 plus projects and lots of study. 4. Normal attendance 5. Continuous assessment exams in January and April each year with a final exam in June. 5. No exams in 5 th year (outside of class tests} Christmas and Summer tests) 6.Average length of written exam is 2 hours per paper 6. Average length of written exam is 2.5 hours per paper 7. Cannot go directly to third level e.g. IT Carlow or NUl Maynooth. Must do a LevelS FETAC Post Leaving Cert to progress 7. Can go directly into 3 rd level colleges e.g. Carlow IT or NUl Maynooth 8.AII employment routes open 9.60 credits needed to pass Leaving Cert Applied 8. All employment routes open 9. 40% requires in 5 subjects to pass Established Leaving Cert 11

11 or RITTENEXAM ORAL AN t 2 Yz HOUR WRITTENEXAM Leaving Cert Applied Subjects TWO HOUR WRITTEN EXAM ORAL AND I HOUR WRITTEN EXAM TWO HOUR WRITTEN EXAM ORAL AND 1 HOUR WRITTEN EXAM INCLUDING WORK EXPERIENCE

12 Leaving Cert Established Subjects Irish Irish is the study of oral and written language, composition, comprehension and literature. There is written homework at both higher and ordinary level. Higher level involves learning of poetry, short stories and a play. Assessment will take place at the end of year two with two written papers at both higher and ordinary levels. This includes an aural test. An Oral Irish examination will take place in the school some weeks prior to the Leaving Cert exam. Good communication skills are necessary for his subject. Irish is useful for careers in - Civil Service, translating, journalism, teaching, media and politics. Irish is a requirement for primary teaching (Higher Level) the Gardaf and for entry into the NUl university network. English The Leaving Certificate syllabus aims to develop students' competence in language and appreciation of literature. Throughout the two year course students do essay writing, and comprehension. They study drama poetry, film and a novel. Assessment is by means of a terminal exam with two written papers at both higher and ordinary level. Homework involves written work as well as learning e.g. quotes and poetry. ~...: _ ~u "'..." J " ~ he ;: tor" (-ka't;er). n_ ed-u-ca-tion (ej English is essential for a career in - Civil Service, advertising, law, educating. :c;ne( t:r:-ll -n"":". ~.J--!.. ", journalism, drama or theatre studies, marketing, teaching, media and the library service. Maths Maths is needed for most jobs and college courses as employers need numeracy skills in all areas including apprenticeships. Institutes of Technology and universities require a pass in ordinary maths, at least a grade C for science or business courses and higher level maths for courses such as 12

13 engineering. Maths involves numeracy skills and application of these skills to mathematical problems. There is some project work involved. There is a lot of homework in this subject at both higher and ordinary level and students need to be able to work on their own and work ahead with great attention to detail. Maths needed for - entry into most courses and practically every career. It is a subject requirementfor all science careers including the health sector, engineering, accountancy and business. Art Leaving Cert Art consists of 4 elements with an exam in each. Imaginative Composition or Still Life Design or Craft Art History and Appreciation Life Sketching Imaginative Composition, Design and Still life are practical exams taken in May. Art History and Appreciation are written exams. Art History and Appreciation are written exams consisting of three essays; one on Irish Art, One on European Art and one in Art Appreciation. Homework consists of practical homework weekly and essays. Useful skills for this subject include drawing, imagination and awareness. Careers; Art Teacher, lecturer, artist, sculpture, Crafts person (potter, jewellery designer), fashion designer, graphic design, industrial design, architecture, television, theatre, make up artist, cartoonist, photography, art therapy. 13

14 French There are many reasons for studying a foreign language to Leaving Certificate level, both for your personal development and for your future options. You do not need a foreign language for all third level studies. You do need one for the majority of courses offered in the N.U.I. universities. You also need a foreign language to become a cadet in the Army or Air Corps. There are two levels - higher and ordinary. Industry and employers rate language skills highly. Careers - Tourism, Teachinq.Translator, Transport Politics, Fashion, Army and Air Corps, Catering, Stock Exchange, Au Pair, Journalist Librarian, Export Careers, Chef Geography Geography is based on a mixture of practical and theory work. Areas of study covered in this course include Physical Environment, Regional Geography, Ireland, Europe, Sub Continental Region, Economic and World Trade. Written or learning homework will be given every night. Geography is assessed by means of a terminal exam (2hrs 50 mins) at the end of s" year and project work worth 20% of the total mark. Geography includes skills such as map reading, photograph interpretation, analysing diagrams, an interest information of landscapes and good writing ability..useful for a career in - Environmental science, archaeology, geology, surveying, army, engineering, tourism/travel industry, meteorology, architecture, horticulture, agriculture, urban and rural planning, teaching. 14

15 History Topics Four topics, two European and two Irish have to be studied for the examination. The nature of the subject. The Research Study is an important part of the new syllabus and involves an in-depth study of an event or y:;- period of historical importance chosen by the student. The report is completed before the exam and amounts to 20% of the final marks. Any period of history up to 1992 can be selected by the student. Is there much homework? There is regular homework and there is a lot of reading in this subject. How is it assessed? There is a final written exam at the end of s" year. 20% of marks are already accumulated for the completed Research Study. What skills are useful for this subject? Basic English skills are required for this subject. For higher level students, higher level English would be an asset. However, many students have managed to achieve good results without higher level English. A lot of reading is required in this subject and a love of reading would be useful. The ability to do independent research is also required. The critical and comparative abilities of the student are developed by this subject also. What careers / courses does history lead into? History is a wonderful subject as it could be an asset in many career choices. Teaching or lecturing is an obvious choice, archaeology, working in museums and heritage sites but the emphasis on independent research could be an asset in many areas. 15

16 Biology Biology is the study of plants and animals. In the biology course human biology, plant biology, ecology, and biochemistry (including genetics) are covered. The subject is split into 3 units. There are 30 mandatory practical activities to be done. It is assessed by doing the leaving cert exam at the end of the 2 years. There is homework given and students should be aware that there is a lot of content in the biology course. It is helpful if the students have an affinity for language and new words and if they enjoy science. Biology is considered a science subject and as such can be used to get into any college that only requires 1 science subject to do the course. Careers that biology can lead into are - medicine, dentistry, veterinary, teaching, sports science, sports and leisure management, zoology, nursing, physiotherapy, ambulance driver and all paramedic fields, microbiology (study of diseases), biochemistry, beauty therapy, genetics and botany. Chemistry The chemistry course covers organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry. There is a practical aspect to the course in the form of mandatory experiments. There is homework involved too. Chemistry is assessed by doing the leaving cert exam at the end of the 2 years. Students must have junior cert science, preferably to higher level and a logical mind. Chemistry can lead to a career in - medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, teaching, research scientist, forensic science, chemical engineering, laboratory technician, health inspection, cosmetic science, optics, bio-technology, pharmacy, radiography, food science and nutrition. 16

17 Home Economics, Social and Scientific Home Economics is an applied subject combining theory with practice in order to develop understanding and solve problems. It is concerned with the way individuals and families manage their resources to meet physical, emotional, intellectual, social and economic needs. The course is a continuation and progression from the Junior Certificate Home Economics programme but has less practical work. Social and Scientific Home Economics includes the skills of interpretation of data, application of knowledge and good writing ability. The syllabus consists of a core area and three electives. Students take one elective from the following.:. Home Design and Management.:. Textiles, Fashion and Design.:. Social Studies Homework over the two years will involve both written and learning of theory each night. Assessment includes-.:. Written paper 80% {Higher and Ordinary}.:. Coursework Journal 20% {report on cookery assignments carried out in practical classes at both Higher and Ordinary Leve}}. Useful for careers in - Catering, hospitality, hotel management social services, fashion and services industry, fashion design, teaching, child-care, dietetics, interior design, food science, food technology, nutrition, chef, health inspection, consumer advice, nursing, occupational therapy. Design and Communications Graphics This subject aims to develop the students' ability to reason out answers and apply these abilities to problems of a practical nature. It promotes neatness, accuracy and problem solving. It follows on from Technical Graphics at Junior Cert level. It consists of usually 5 classes per week with computer drawing using Solid works software. 17

18 Examination A project begins in October of Year 2. It consists of an A3 portfolio of 14 pages of work on a graphics topic. This portfolio has to be created and completed by February of Year 2. Microsoft Works and Solidworks are used extensively in this project. Students sit a drawing exam in June. Use for careers in engineering, architecture, apprenticeships, aircraft technician, draughtsmanship, construction, tool-making,, building services, sign writing, graphic design, structural and industrial design. Business Studies Business studies incorporates business organisation, economics and accountancy and continues on from Junior Cert business studies. It is concerned with the understanding the environment in which business operates in Ireland and globally. It also involves equipping the students with a positive view of enterprise and its application in the business environment. Business studies in leaving certificate is mostly theory work and involves homework each week. Topics included in this course are: People in Business and Enterprise Business Management Business Start Up Marketing Domestic and International Business Environment Taxation Insurance Communications Careers this subject is useful for - Business administration, management, banking, accountancy, teaching, public service, stock braking, insurance, hospitality, tourism, event management and taxation. 18

19 Engineering This subject replaces Junior Cert Metalwork. It involves the study of a wide range of mechanical engineering processes, materials and technological applications along with the development of resourcefulness and creativity. This subject has both a practical and theoretical dimension - usually 5 classes per week - 3 practical classes and 2 theory classes. Homework is given in both years with more in Year 2. Examinations Both levels (Higher and Ordinary) receive notification of a project in November of Year 2 which has to be completed by April of Year 2. Higher level - the project is a design brief (a problem). Ordinary level - the task is to make an object from a drawing provided. Both levels do a practical 6 hour day exam in May of Year 2 and a written theory exam in June. It is important to have done this subject at Junior Cert level especially if you wish to do this subject at higher level Useful for careers in apprenticeships for ESB, Bard na Mona, car mechanics, mechanical engineering, Army/Air Corps, fitter, structural/civil engineer, industrial designer, engraver, teacher and technical sales. Construction Studies Construction Studies is a direct follow on to Materials Technology Wood. Construction Studies introduces students to the knowledge and skills associated with construction technology and construction materials and practices. This is achieved through theoretical study and integrated practical projects which provide a basis for the thorough exploration of materials and processes 19

20 Part I - Construction Theory and Drawing General principles Substructure Superstructure Internal construction Services and external works Heat and thermal effects in buildings Illumination in buildings Sound in buildings Part 11- Practical Skills Tools Processes Part III - Course Work and Projects Workshop/laboratory experiments Student projects Assessment Construction Studies is assessed at both Ordinary level and Higher level by means of a terminal examination paper, a practical test and a student project. The written examination represents 50% of the allocated marks while the practical test and a student project represent 25% each. Useful Skills Having studied Materials Technology Wood, Metalwork, Technical Graphics is an advantage. Careers All construction trades, Architecture, Engineering, Teaching 20

21 Established Leaving Cert Subject Choice- Tips and Information Read Carefully - Do Not Skip!!! Choose what you are good at. Points for entry into third level colleges are calculated from your top 6 subject grades in the Leaving Cert Choose what you are interested in. Students' choice of subjects are a mixture of what they have to do i.e. Irish, English, Maths, LCVPand what they would like to do i.e. option subjects. Choose what may be either essential or useful for entry into a course leading to the career of your choice e.g. third level colleges all have subject requirements for entry onto each course. Details about subject requirements are available on-line at or in the college prospectus available from the Guidance library Choose a way that leaves your career options open. Do not close any door e.g. a european language is required for all NUl colleges (except for some science and engineering courses) and for some courses related to tourism or event management. A science subject is needed for entry into any health science areas e.g. medicine, veterinary, nursing, paramedics, sports or leisure management. However a student who has no interest or aptitude in science should not select a science subject based purely on the above premise. 21

22 In terms of third level subjects, almost all subjects count equally for points. When deciding your subject options, never pick a subject under the fallacy that it is easy or a doss. Never pick a subject because your friends are doing that subject, be true to your interests and aptitudes for particular subjects. It is important to know when choosing your subject options if you are locked into specific careers or eliminated from others. You do not have to study construction to become a builder or engineering to become an engineer (research on Qualifax or Careersportal will clarify subject requirements for every course in Ireland). Do not hesitate to ask for advice from class teachers or the guidance counsellor if you want further clarification on subjects. Qualifax and Careersportal are websites designed to be an aid to parents as well as students and can be a very accessible and comprehensive tool in career and course research. They also outline career progressions with every course description. Parental involvement with the student in this options process will be useful to both. Please do not hesitate to make an appointment with the Guidance Counsellor if you have any queries. 22