Year 8 Curriculum Information Evening. Key GCSE Stage 4 Finding the right path. Thursday 17 March :00 7:00 pm

Transcription

1 Year 8 Curriculum Information Evening Key GCSE Stage 4 Finding the right path Thursday 17 March :00 7:00 pm

2 Thank you for considering your son/daughter s GCSE options for Year 9, 10 and 11. You are vital in shaping your child s future hopes and career aspirations. At The High Weald our motto is Aspiration Achievement Ambition. We work together with you to ensure our students choose subjects which maximise their talents and, with your support, our teachers will ensure our pupils ambition is to aspire to achieve their very best. After all, life beyond school post 2021 will be very competitive. This year group enters a new educational world. Up until now pupils have been measured by their achievement in 5 GCSE subjects including maths and English. This system finished in August By 2019, the national attainment and progress standards for 16 year olds will be measured across 8 subjects as expectations are ratcheted higher. To this end we are supporting this year group to complete their GCSE studies over 3 years to ensure that the rigorous new content is covered in the depth that is needed both for core subjects and options. Every student in Britain is expected to do well in the core subjects English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and the Sciences. Beyond this, students will be encouraged to take at least one academic subject from Geography, History, French or Computer Science. This will allow them to compete at the highest academic levels in Britain. However, no student will be compelled into this route but they will be strongly advised to choose at least one of these academic subjects. We will also support students with the relevant interest to study BTEC courses. Choices made now will also give students the best chance to secure a place in the school Sixth Form where we expect our students to continue their studies with us as there is an expectation for students to remain in education or training up to 18 years of age. With an estimated 14.8 million highly skilled jobs available in our economy in 2022 against just 3.5 million unskilled roles, a well-qualified young person with a hard working attitude will have statistically the best chance of securing the career path they choose. I wish every High Weald Academy student enjoyment and success at GCSE level. Mr Shaw Vice Principal

3 Core Subjects

4 English Language and Literature English Language English Literature AQA Two separate GCSEs English Language During the course you will read both fiction and non-fiction texts, exploring how writers use language to create effects. You will develop your descriptive and narrative writing skills and learn how to present a viewpoint. The exam consists of 2 papers 1. Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing 2. Writers Viewpoints and Perspectives English Literature During the course you will study one Shakespeare play, one 19 th century novel, a modern drama or prose text and poetry. The exam consists of 2 papers 1. Shakespeare and the 19 th century novel 2. Modern texts and poetry. Assessment 100% exam English Language and Literature are essential GCSEs for progression into further and higher education and employment. Miss Jacobs jacobst@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

5 Maths GCSE Mathematics [9-1] Edexcel 1 GCSE Mathematics studied in Key Stage 4 is a core subject and not optional. The topics studied are grouped under the following headings: Number; Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change; Algebra, Statistics and Probability; Geometry and Measures, Elements of functional Mathematics have been embedded in assessments. This will ensure students have the skills they need to use Mathematics in real life contexts. Assessment 100% Examination Students will be assessed by a final examination at the end of the two year course. They will sit three papers which allow the use of a calculator as well as a paper where no calculator is allowed. Students who sit the Higher Tier Examination will be awarded a grade ranging from 9 to 4 and the Foundation Tier Examination will allow access to the grades 5 to 1. A high grade at GCSE will enable you to study Mathematics at A Level. This will enable you to continue studying Mathematics at University before considering a career in areas such as Accountancy, other Financial Services and the Civil Service. An A level in Mathematics will also support degree courses in subjects such as Architecture, Engineering and the Sciences. Achieving at least a grade 4 at GCSE will enable you to study Mathematics in Context, a level 3 qualification. This will support students studying subjects that use mathematics including Biology, Business and Geography. Students may also progress without obtaining a degree first but by following some other training scheme directly related to their chosen career. Exact requirements should be researched before embarking on future studies. enq@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

6 Science GCSE Combined Science (awaiting accreditation by Ofqual) Edexcel GCSE Combined Science leads to two GCSE qualifications graded from 9-9 to 1-1. Combined Science gives students opportunities to Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for science Develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods Acquire and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of how Science works and its essential role in society Assessment Course details Other things to note Edexcel [9-1] Combined Science Assessment consists of six externally examined papers. Students also carry out 17 mandatory practicals during their course. Knowledge and understanding of practical techniques are assessed within exams. Biology, Chemistry and Physics are all about; Discovery Creativity Problem-solving Communication Science is everywhere and Scientists work for many different companies. From Film Production to Banking, Publishing to Sportswear and the Environment, you could be working at the heart of action. Science gives us the chance to understand and make sense of the world around us. So whichever career path you decide is best for you, keep your options open by studying Science. Scientists have well paid and respected jobs, not just in laboratory work but also in Sports Science, Computer Game Development, Music Technology, Animal Health, Forensics, Photography, Art Restoration, Media and Astronomy. Mrs Rodgers rodgersl@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

7 PE Core Core PE Non Examined No Physical education is a compulsory subject in the curriculum and is designed to acknowledge the efforts and progress students can make in a physical and practical environment. The aim of physical education is to ensure students remain physically active and are encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle that can continue beyond year 11. Throughout year 10 students will complete a number of practical activities on a rotation each term. The emphasis will be about students improving their own personal performance in the activities they are studying. Year 11 will build on this and students will be encouraged to focus on one team activity and one individual activity as well as the introduction of Sports Leader Level 1 course for budding sports leaders. Lessons will be practical in nature and students will be expected to commit to the extra-curricular programme. Full and correct PE kit will be required for all lessons; please support your child in ensuring that this request is met. Assessment No Assessment Miss Hymers hymersv@highweladacademy.kent.sch.uk

8 Optional Subjects

9 Art Art and Design AQA 1 GCSE This is a broad course that explores practical work through a range of 2D and/or 3D processes. Students will study: Drawing, Photography, Designing, Painting, Printing and Textiles. Students will also have the opportunity to create work 3-D Art, such as ceramic pieces with our new kiln provision. This gives students the opportunity to work in areas of their preference and strength, as well as exploring areas of art that they are not familiar with. Assessment Coursework 60% External Assessment 40% As a GCSE AQA candidate in Art and Design students are required to produce a portfolio of work that must include two projects. In Year 11 they will be given an externally set assignment that requires preparation and then culminates in the production of final piece/s in a 10 hour exam spread over two days. GCSE Art and Design would suit you if you have particular ability / interest or are considering a future that requires an artist s sensibility such as: an Arts / Design Degree, Furniture / Product/Car Design, Ceramics / Pottery, Advertising / Graphics, Fashion / Textile / Costume Design, Merchandising, Theatre / Prop Design / Creation, Architecture, Lighting, Animation, Computer / Gaming Graphics, Photography, Teaching, Art Therapy etc. Miss Tremain TremainG@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

10 Business Studies BTEC First Level 2 First Award In Business Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award = 1 GCSE equivalent A* - C Grade During the course you will investigate actual businesses and gain an understanding of Business Finance. The course is applied because you use what you learn to understand the businesses you investigate. Unit 1 Enterprise in the Business World Unit 2 Finance for Business [Exam] Optional Units: The 2 units currently studied are: Unit 3 Promoting a Brand Unit 4 Principles of Customer Service You will: Learn about and understand the world of business Develop skills in the financial aspects of business Carry out research, both within and away from the classroom Learn how to work in a team with other members of the class Learn through investigation in addition to listening and reading Assessment 75% Coursework 25% Exam After completing the BTEC Level 2 in Business course you can progress on to many different areas of study and work, for example: BTEC Level 3s in Business, Travel and ICT GCE A-Level Applied Business Other courses in Travel and Tourism, Information and Communication Technology Traineeships or apprenticeships in Finance, Administration and Clerical Occupations Mrs Gabell GabellL@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

11 Computer Science OCR GCSE Computer Science OCR GCSE Unit A451: Computer systems and programming This unit covers the body of knowledge about computer systems on which the examination will be based. 1 hour 30 minutes Written paper. Unit A452: Practical investigation An investigative computing task, chosen from a list provided by OCR, Controlled assessment which assesses the following: research, technical understanding, analysis of problem, historical perspective, use of technical writing skills, recommendations/evaluation. Unit A453: Programming Project Students will need to: Understand standard programming techniques Be able to design a coded solution to a problem including the ability to: - Develop suitable algorithms - Design suitable input and output formats - Identify suitable variables and structures - Identify test procedures. Create a coded solution fully annotating the developed code to explain its function Test their solution: - To show functionality - To show how it matches the design criteria - Identifying successes and any limitations. Assessment Computer systems and programming 40% Practical investigation 30% Programming Project 30% GCSE Computing should encourage candidates to be inspired, moved and challenged by following a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. They should help candidates to gain an insight into related sectors of Computing. They prepare candidates to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices including careers in Computing and further study at A Level. Mr Newport newportg@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

12 French GCSE French Edexcel 1 GCSE Aims of the Course to encourage Foreign Language learning through enjoyment and success to promote a sympathetic attitude to the people and culture of a foreign country to give an insight into another system of communication and improve pupils understanding of their own language Students learn to communicate across a range of contexts, accommodating their interests, developing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills which can be taken at foundation or higher level according to the strengths of each student in each individual skill. Assessment Unit 1: Listening: Examination 25% of overall grade Unit 2: Reading: Examination 25% of overall grade Unit 3: Speaking: Examination, conducted by class teacher, 25% of overall grade Unit 4: Writing: Examination 25% of overall grade Post 16 progression A Level The simple fact that you have chosen to study a Foreign Language will tell any future employer or Higher Education Establishment a great deal about you. Being able to speak another language is an asset in today s competitive workplace. Mr Taylor taylorr@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

13 Geography GCSE Geography Specification A WJEC [Provisional] 1 GCSE Changing Physical and Human Landscapes Landscapes and Physical Processes Rural-Urban Links Tectonic Landscapes and Hazards Coastal Hazards and their Management Environmental and Development Issues Weather, Climate and Ecosystems Development and Resource Issues Social Development Issues Environmental Challenges Applied Fieldwork Enquiry Involving out of school data collection and write up There will be the opportunity for out of school learning as coursework data needs to be collected in the local area. Assessment 100% Exam Geographers are, compared with other subjects, among the most employable. Post 16 progression A Level Geography. There are many directly linked jobs that you can do with Geography: working with development or aid agencies, environmental work, using Geographical Information Systems, working for the census office and in tourism and recreation. There are three main avenues of employment that Geographers enter: administration and management, marketing or financial work because geographers possess the abilities and skills that employers look for. Mr Welch WelchG@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

14 History GCSE History Edexcel 1 GCSE Students complete three examination papers, all taken at the end of Year 11. Precise units to study are still to be confirmed finally at this stage, however the options below will be those studied. The three papers are as follows: 30% Thematic study and historic environment, involving the study of people, events and developments from three wide eras 40% Period study of at least 50 years and a British depth study from one of three eras 30% Modern depth study, from an era different to the British study The course focuses on developing knowledge and understanding of key events, periods and societies in local, British and the wider world. Students will develop as independent and critical thinkers, and use sources to make historical claims. Final decisions as to course content will be taken later this year, however at present the most likely options are: Thematic study: Either Medicine in Britain 1250 present and the British sector of the Western Front OR Warfare and British Society c1250 present and London and the Second World War British Depth study: Either Henry VIII and his ministers OR Early Elizabethan England Period Study This will be: Superpower relations and the Cold War Modern Depth Study This will be either: Weimar and Nazi Germany OR Russia and the Soviet Union opportunities for students who study History include the chance to study History at A Level and Degree Level. Successful Historians at GCSE gain the skills to analyse, evaluate and express opinions that they can support with well selected evidence. These abilities give them the skills to be successful across a range of higher level courses. Mr Swash Swashj@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

15 PE BTEC Sport Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport Edexcel The final qualification is entitled Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Sport and it is equivalent to 1 GCSE A* - C grade Students will be studying 4 units. The grades from each unit will be combined to calculate the final overall grade the student will receive. The 4 units: 2 Core and 2 Optional 1 unit is an external exam. The 4 units are: Fitness for Sport and Exercise Practical Sports Performance The Sports Performer in Action Training and Personal Fitness Lessons will be a mixture of theory and practical and students will be expected to commit to the extra-curricular programme Assessment 75% Coursework Further study at Level 3 BTEC Sport link into many vocational skills needed to work in the Fitness Industry, Sports Coaching and Leisure Centre Industry. Miss Hymers hymersv@highweladacademy.kent.sch.uk

16 Product Design GCSE Product Design AQA 1 GCSE This is a multi-material specification. You will learn about design, properties and manufacture processes with some of the following materials: Paper and card (compulsory) Timber based Ferrous and non-ferrous metals Plastics Textiles You will also learn about the development of new smart materials as well as CAD/CAM. Course work will consist of a 3D outcome that has genuine market potential supported by a concise design development folder. Assessment Examination Unit 1 [40%] 2 hours 120 marks Section A is based on a design theme. Section B relates to topics covered by the specification The examination is set by the Board and will be undertaken in the Summer Term of Year 11. Controlled Assessment - Unit 2 [60%] Approximately 45 hours of work. Project context and brief will be issued by AQA. If you obtain a grade C and above, you can continue to enjoy this subject at AS and A2, or a wide range of level 3 courses in the design field. Whatever your grade A* - G, this can count towards a vast amount of vocational and diploma courses at a college or 6 th form. Designers work on products ranging from cars to clothes, magazines to mobiles. You could work in: fashion, illustration, architecture, graphic design, jewellery design and product design. Miss Humphrey humphreyj@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk

17 Year 8 into 9 Options Block A Block B Block C Block D History French Geography Product Design BTEC Sport BTEC Business Art Computer Studies Science