Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4, we operate a pathways curriculum model. As part of the Year 9 options process, a wide range of data is used to determine the appropriate pathway for each student. This data includes Key Stage 2 fine grade data, Year 9 levels and cognitive ability test scores.
There are three main pathways:
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EBacc: Students will take at least one modern foreign language and either Geography or History, along with the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science, the statutory elements through Lifeskills, Physical Education and Religious Studies and two free options;
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Progress: Students will receive lessons in English, Mathematics and Science, along with the statutory elements through Lifeskills, Physical Education and Religious Studies and three free options, with students having the opportunity to take EBacc-qualifying subjects;
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Foundation: Students will receive extra lessons in English and Mathematics and follow a workskills course, along with the statutory elements through Lifeskills, Physical Education and Religious Studies and up to three free options, with extra support and a personalisation available where appropriate.
Design and Technology
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Head of Faculty : Mr S Fowler
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Design and Technology -- GCSE (Current Year 10)
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GCSE Design and Technology will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise.
This GCSE allows students to study core technical and designing and making principles, including a broad range of design processes, materials techniques and equipment. They also have the opportunity to study specialist technical principles in greater depth.
Design and Technology is purposeful, as well as being fun and exciting! Studying GCSE Design & Technology will build on what you have learnt about design and making at KS3. You will use your skills to design and make new better solutions to real problems on your own and with others.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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The course is broken down into 3 main areas of assessment. These are;
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Core Technical Principles
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Specialist Technical Principles
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Design and Making Principles
These areas are assessed in both the written examination and the controlled assessment.
The course will spend the first year looking at multiple mini projects that cover all of the areas of assessment to help build knowledge and skills. This will prepare the students for the controlled assessment in the second year that will be accompanied by theoretical knowledge to support the work being done.
The second year will mainly be spent completing the controlled assessment section of the course, along with additional theory knowledge to help prepare students for the final examination.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
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The assessment of the course is divided into two parts
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Controlled Assessment: 50% - This will be split into multiple sections where deadlines will be set on a regular basis.
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Final Examination: 50% - This will be a 2 hour written paper at the end of the course
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8552
For further details, please click on the link below:
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Product Design (Current Year 11)
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If you enjoy designing and making products, then this course would suit you.
The focus of the course is to move away from the traditional boundaries set within Design and Technology and give students more opportunities to explore more materials and components whilst designing and making products.
The aim of the specification is to encourage students to consider how materials can be shaped, combined and formed to create more useful or more desirable products. They will also consider how products will fit into industrial and commercial situations.
CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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The main focus of this course is developing skills, knowledge and understanding of Product Design. This enables you to undertake high-level designing and making of products using the most up-to-date ICT and CAM equipment.
It is an extremely practical subject and if you have enjoyed the making element of the subject at Key Stage 3, this GCSE course is a natural progression.
The core subject content will be based around key design issues related to Product Design, for example, product evolution, product lifecycles, packaging, labelling and consumer protection.
During Year 10, you will continue to develop your skills and understanding in Product Design by completing a programme of structured design and making assignments. These mini ‘design and make’ tasks will focus on broadening understanding of materials through first hand practical projects. The emphasis within these projects will be developing ‘hands-on’ practical skills.
In Year 11, you will complete your controlled assessment assignment. Students are required to submit a style design and make a project which will be selected from a list of tasks provided by the examination board.
Successful completion of this course will allow you the opportunity to continue your studies in Product Design at AS and A2 Level. Following your studies at school, you may wish to continue at one of the many universities that offer design-based courses at degree level. Degree courses ranging from architecture through to engineering.
This course can also provide an excellent foundation for students wishing to pursue apprenticeships or further skills-based training.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
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The assessment of the course is divided into two parts
Controlled Assessment 60% - This will be split into 5 sections where deadlines will be set.
Final Examination 40% - This will be a 2-hour written paper with pre-release material
being issued beforehand.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 4555
For further details, please click on the link below:
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Food preparation and nutrition -- GCSE
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GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. At its heart, this qualification focuses on nurturing students’ practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Students will build on existing knowledge and practical skills from Key Stage 3 in preparation for the demands of the Non examination Assessment tasks. The theory that will be studied is integrated into five core topics:
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Food, nutrition and health
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Food science
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Food safety
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Food choice
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Food provenance
ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Examination Assessment – 50% of GCSE
This will consist of a written paper: 1 hour 45 minutes
Non Examination Assessment – 50% of GCSE
This will consist of 2 tasks:
Task 1: Food Investigation
Students will undertake a practical investigation and write a report (1,500 – 2,000 words) to explain their understanding of the working characteristics, functional and chemical properties of ingredients.
Task 2: Food Preparation Assessment
Students will prepare, cook and present a final menu of three dishes within an allocated time of three hours, planning in advance how this will be achieved. Students will submit a written portfolio to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking, presentation of food and application of nutrition related to the chosen task.
Food professionals work in many occupations including manufacturing, retailing, marketing, food service, universities and schools, government, research and development, quality assurance and food law enforcement.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8585
For further details, please click on the link below:
AQA GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition
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English
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Head of Faculty: Mrs J Bradley
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GCSE English language and GCSE English Literature
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English Language
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The course is assessed by two external examinations:
Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing (50%)
Reading questions on a literary fiction text
Descriptive or narrative writing
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives (50%)
Reading questions on a non-fiction text and a literary non-fiction text
Writing to present a viewpoint
Plus: Speaking and Listening (0%)
Students will give presentations through the course and respond to questions, demonstrating their ability to use Standard English. A separate mark will be awarded for this unit – it does not contribute towards the GCSE grade.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8700
For further details, please click on the link below:
English Literature
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The course is assessed by two external examinations:
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the Nineteenth-Century Novel (40%)
Questions on two set texts, focusing on an extract from each text and the text as a whole.
Paper 2: Modern Texts and Poetry (60%)
Three questions: an essay on a modern prose or drama text studied in class, a comparison of two poems from an anthology studied in class, and a comparison of two unseen poems.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8702
For further details, please click on the link below:
Geography
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Head of Dept: Mrs S Keyworth
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GCSE Geography
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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Geography is a highly topical subject, ever changing as world events unfold. The GCSE Geography course will help students make sense of what is going on in the world around them. The OCR B GCSE is contemporary, dynamic and exciting. It will encourage students to become a global citizen by exploring peoples’ place in the world, their values and responsibilities to others and the environment.
GCSE Geography provides a clear progression from Key Stage 3 Geography. It will help students to be more aware of everyday situations and issues faced by people in the UK and in the world around them. They will make links between the topics and approach the subject in an enquiring way.
Geography has strong links with other subjects including Science, Mathematics, RS, Lifeskills, and ICT and is ideal for a balanced curriculum.
The Geography GCSE will enable students to use and develop a wide range of essential skills and techniques such as communication, problem solving, enquiring and decision making which are transferrable across subjects and of course into the world of work. It will also develop more subject specific skills including fieldwork, cartographic (map), graphical, numerical and statistical skills.
The study of Geography can lead to a wide range of careers and is valued as an academic qualification by employers.
The course provides an excellent foundation for A level Geography.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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The specification consists of three units (01, 02, 03)
Our Natural World (01)
• Global Hazards
• Changing Climate
• Distinctive Landscapes
• Sustaining Ecosystems
• Fieldwork
• Geographical Skills
People and Society (02)
• Urban Futures
• Dynamic Development
• UK in the 21st Century
• Resource Reliance
• Fieldwork
• Geographical Skills
Geographical Exploration (03)
• Geographical Skills
• Decision Making Exercise
Fieldwork
Fieldwork is an essential element of the GCSE Geography course. It must take place on at least two occasions, in contrasting locations and in both physical and human geographical contexts. It will be assessed within the Our Natural World (01) and People and Society (02) Units. Year 10 students currently undertake a residential fieldwork course in Surrey.
Assessment Methods:-
Our Natural World (01)
35% of total GCSE
70 Marks
1 hour 15 minutes written paper
People and Society (02)
35% of total GCSE
70 Marks
1 hour 15 minutes written paper
Geographical Exploration (03)
30% of total GCSE
60 Marks
1 hour 30 minutes written paper
EXAM BOARD: OCR
SPECIFICATION: Geography B (Geography for Enquiring Minds) (9-1) - J384 (from 2016)
For further details, please click on the link below:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse-geography-b-geography-for-enquiring-minds-j384-from-2016/
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CONTACT: Mrs S Keyworth, Head of Geography
Miss Carter KS4 coordinator
History
Head of Dept: Mrs N Ball
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History -- GCSE
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
This is a brand new GCSE that combines the elements of the old courses and builds upon the students experiences from Key Stage 3. The course comprises four topics covered in three Examination papers.
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Unit 1 British Thematic Study with Historic Environment - Medicine in Britain 1250 – present with a study of The British sector of the Western Front: injuries treatment and the trenches.
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This covers the developments in medicine from Medieval England to the present covering the developments through the Medical Renaissance and Eighteenth and Nineteenth centuries to consider the impact of technology today. This is combined with a case study of medical care in World War One on the Western Front
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Unit 2 Period Study - The American West c1835 – c1895
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This explores the development of the American West from the culture of the Plains Indians to their defeat and placement on reservations. This will also look at the homesteaders; cowboys and cattlemen; the issue of law and order and how the so called ‘Wild West was settled.
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Unit 3 British Depth Study - Early Elizabethan England 1588 – 1588
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This will look at the accession of Elizabeth and her establishment of her government and the settling of religion. Then, focus will switch to the series of plots and the worsening relations with Spain leading to the Spanish Armada. Finally, focus will switch to exploration and colonisation; the nature of culture and education and then reflect on the problems with poverty
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Unit 4 Modern Depth Study - Weimar and Nazi Germany 1918 – 1939
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This unit looks at the problems of Germany after World War One and how the Weimar Republic developed up until the depression. Then focus switches to look at the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party and how he gained power. The final focus is on the way in which life in Germany changed under Nazi rule.
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Paper 1 (1 Hour 15 minutes)
Medicine in Britain c1250 to present + Medicine on the Western Front in WWI 30%
Paper 2 (1 Hour 45 minutes)
The American West c1835 – c1895 + Early Elizabethan England 1558 – 1588 40%
Paper 3 (1 Hour 20 minutes)
Weimar and Nazi Germany 1918 – 1939 30%
EXAM BOARD: Edexcel 1H10
SPECIFICATION: J417
For further details, please click on the link below:
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Religious Studies
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Head of Department -- Mrs C Davis
GCSE Religious Studies
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We believe that Religious Studies is an important subject because every area of life is touched by issues to do with belief. Following a Religious Studies GCSE course will enable students to study and explore what people believe about a range of philosophical and ethical issues. Students will have opportunities to engage with questions about why people believe in God and how beliefs can influence many aspects of their lives. Respect and consideration are also shown towards non-religious approaches to life.
In lessons, students will be expected to think, talk, discuss, question and challenge, reflect on and assess a wide range of questions. As young people growing up in a diverse society, studying religion will help them to understand and relate to people whose beliefs, values and viewpoints differ from their own, and help them to deal with issues arising, not only in school, but in the community and workplace.
The study of religion will also help students to make connections with a whole range of other important areas, such as music, literature, art, politics, economics and social issues.
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
All Year 9 students have been studying the Religious Studies GCSE course since September.
Year 9
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Religion, Human Rights and Social Justice
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Christian Beliefs, Teachings and Practices
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Religion, Peace and Conflict
Year 10
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Religion and Life
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The Existence of God
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Buddhism Part 1
Year 11
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Buddhism Part 2
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Relationships and Families
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
Assessment is by exam papers which contribute 100% of the total marks. Every student in Year 11 takes the full Religious Studies GCSE exam.
EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8062
For further details, please click on the link below:
Computer Science
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Head of Faculty: Mr T Fox
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GCSE Computer Science
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The new specification OCR GCSE Computer Science (9-1) is a single GCSE award and is examined in 3 components.
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Component 1 - Computer systems (written examination) 40% 1.5 hours
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Component 2 - Computational thinking, systems and programming (written examination) 40%
1.5 hours.
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Component 3 – Programming project (non-Examination assessment) 20% 20 hrs
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The study of Computer Science can lead to a wide range of careers and access to study at undergraduate level.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Component 1 - Computer Systems: Systems Architecture
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Memory
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Storage
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Wired and Wireless Networks
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Network topologies, protocols and layers
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Network Security
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System software
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Moral, Social, Legal, Cultural and Environmental concerns
Component 2 - Computational thinking, Systems and Programming
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Translators and facilities of languages
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Algorithms
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High and Low level programming
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Computational logic
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Data representation
Component 3 – Programming project: An extended programming project covering the skills of:
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Programming techniques
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Design
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Development
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Effectiveness and efficiency
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Technical understanding
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Testing, evaluation and conclusions
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Assessment is divided into three units:
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Component 1 - Computer systems (written examination) 40% 1.5 hours
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Component 2 - Computational thinking, systems and programming (written examination) 40% 1.5 hours.
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Component 3 – Programming project (non-Examination assessment) 20% 20 hrs
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EXAM BOARD: OCR
SPECIFICATION: J276
For further details, please click on the link below:
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Cambridge Nationals Certificate in ICT
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The OCR Cambridge National Certificate in ICT builds on practical skills learned during Key Stage 3. The aim is to provide students with access to a wide breadth of ICT skills and content.
During the course, you will learn a variety of essential practical and theory skills in existing ICT software and technology, including the understanding of computer systems, the use of spreadsheets, web design and how to use multiple software packages to support the running of a small business.
The study of ICT can lead to opportunities in a wide range of careers as well as providing very important cross-curricular opportunities in digital literacy.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Unit 1 – Understanding Computer Systems (1 hour written examination)
Unit 2 – Using ICT to create business solutions (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
Unit 3 – Handling data using spreadsheets (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
Unit 4 – Creating an interactive product using multimedia (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Assessment is divided into four units:
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Unit 1 – Understanding Computer Systems (1 hour written examination)
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Unit 2 – Using ICT to create business solutions (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
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Unit 3 – Handling data using spreadsheets (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
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Unit 4 – Creating an interactive product using multimedia (coursework unit internally assessed, externally verified)
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EXAM BOARD: OCR
SPECIFICATION:
For further details, please click on the link below:
Mathematics
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Head of Faculty: Mr A Eastwick and Mr T Forshaw
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GCSE Mathematics
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The GCSE Mathematics course has now changed and from June 2017 students will be sitting a new type of GCSE examination. The examination board used will be Edexcel. You are taught to develop your mathematical skills in a manner that encourages confidence to read, write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways. You learn to apply mathematics to everyday situations, to recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically and to select appropriate mathematical methods to solve it.
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In most examinations, the use of a calculator is expected. A basic scientific type is recommended; suitable calculators at competitive prices are available from the Finance Office.
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The Mathematics Faculty does not provide calculators for students; so, you must provide one yourself.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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The new course is broken down into the following categories:
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Number
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Algebra
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Ratio, proportion and rates of change
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Geometry and measures
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Probability
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Statistics
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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The GCSE is examined in June of Year 11. The examination consists of three written papers, a non-calculator and two calculator papers.
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Students who take the higher paper can obtain grades 9 to 4.
Students who take the foundation paper can obtain grades 5 to 1.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: 1MA0
For further details, please click on the link below:
Modern Foreign Languages
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Head of Faculty -- Mrs C Ford
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French / Spanish GCSE
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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The new GCSE course enables students to develop their linguistic skills so that later they are better prepared to join the global job market, connect with other cultures and keep their options open. In particular, students will develop their ability to communicate with French/Spanish native speakers in both speech and writing. They will develop a greater awareness of culture of French-speaking/Spanish-speaking communities and countries. The course will enable students to manipulate and use the target language effectively, independently and creatively, so that they have a solid basis from which to progress to A Level or employment.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Questions across all four language skills are set in common contexts, addressing a range of relevant contemporary and cultural themes. They are organised into five themes, each broken down into topics and sub-topics.
The five themes are:
Identity and culture
Local area, holiday, travel
School
Future aspirations, study and work
International and global dimension
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in French and Spanish consists of four externally examined papers (at Higher or Foundation Tier) all examined in Year 11. Students must complete their speaking assessment in April/May in Year 11. The four skills, Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing are equally weighted.
The Listening paper will present a range of question formats such as multiple-choice, open response and target language questions.
The Speaking examination consists of three tasks. Task 1 is a role play. The role play is an interaction requiring the student to initiate conversation, to ask and answer questions, to exchange information and to use different registers. They are based on any of the topics mentioned in the content section above. Task 2 is a picture-based task, whereby students describe and narrate events, respond to points of view and exchange opinions. Students are required to use a range of tenses across the task. Task 3 is a conversation, which is in two parts. For the first part of the conversation, the student selects one topic from one theme in advance of the assessment. This must then move on to other topics within the same theme. The second part of the conversation must be on a different theme, which is allocated by Pearson. Students are required to use a range of tenses in both parts of this assessment.
The Reading paper will present a range of question formats some requiring short or one word responses. Students are assessed on their understanding of written French/Spanish across a range of different types of authentic texts, including advertisements, emails and letters. Literary texts are also included and these may be short extracts from texts that may have been adapted and abridged from short stories, novels or plays to contemporary and historical sources.
Students will also be expected to translate a short passage of written French/Spanish into English to demonstrate an ability to transfer meaning accurately into English.
The Writing paper assesses a students’ ability to communicate effectively for a variety of purposes across a range of specified contexts. It also contains a translation requirement where students translate sentences and short texts from English into the French/Spanish and apply grammatical knowledge of language and structures.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: 1FR0
For further details, please click on the link below:
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: 1SP0
For further details, please click on the link below:
Art and Design
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Head of Department -- Mrs C Friday
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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Throughout this course, students will learn how to research ideas, develop their art skills, study art, craft and design from other artists/cultures, work in the style of other artists, write about their ideas, experiment with 2D/3D materials and create large scale final pieces of art. Students have the opportunity to explore new techniques and learn how to imaginatively interpret images using a range of materials.
You should choose this GCSE course, if:
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You enjoy working with a range of different art materials.
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You like creating art in a range of sizes within a sketchbook or on large paper.
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You like studying work by other artists/designers/cultures/photographers.
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You are willing to experiment and try out new ideas in new materials.
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You will become involved in your art and want to develop you own ideas.
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You want to create imaginative pieces of art.
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Responding to the work of other artists/designers/cultures is an important part of GCSE Art and Design and in Year 10, we arrange an enrichment visit to a gallery/museum in London, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to see works of art first hand. Students are encouraged to use galleries as an additional resource within both of their units in GCSE Art and Design.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Personal Portfolio: 60%
Students submit one controlled assessment unit counting towards 60% of their final grade. This work will be contained in sketchbooks and include a portfolio of larger scale art in 2D or 3D form. Students are expected to spend 1½ years on this work which culminates in a 10-hour timed test where the final piece is completed.
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Externally set exam: 40%
Students have 9 weeks to prepare for the final exam which is set by Edexcel and culminates in a 10-hour exam.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8201
For further details, please click on the link below:
GCSE Drama
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Head of Department -- Miss E Platt
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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GCSE Drama encourages students to:
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develop a personal interest in why drama matters and be inspired, moved and changed by studying a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study
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work imaginatively and creatively in collaborative contexts, generating, developing and communicating ideas
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consider and explore the impact of social, historical and cultural influences on drama texts and activities
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reflect on and evaluate their own work and the work of others
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develop and demonstrate competence in a range of practical, creative and performance skills
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develop a basis for their future role as active citizens in employment and society in general, as well as for the possible further study of drama
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actively engage in the process of dramatic study in order to develop as effective and independent learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Component 1 – Devised Practical 30%
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You will learn imaginative ways of making a play. Your teacher will give you a theme and you will work in a group to devise your own original play. You will perform the play to an invited audience and you will be marked on either your performance or a design concept.
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You will also compile a portfolio that explains the creating and developing process and evaluates the final performance. This can be all written, all recorded verbal evidence or a combination of written and recorded evidence.
Internally assessed and externally moderated.
Component 2 – Scripted Performance 30%
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This is a completely practical unit where you can be assessed on either a performance or a design element such as lighting or costume.
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You will be involved in 2 performances of contrasting sections of a play.
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You can also perform a monologue or duologue.
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The performance will be after school and will require extra rehearsals in free time.
Externally examined by a visiting examiner.
Component 3 Scripted Text Section and Live Production 40%
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You will practically study a set text.
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You will learn about how to bring the play to life as a performer, director and designer.
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You will answer questions in an examination of how you might stage a specific extract from the set text. The extract will be given by the examination board.
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You will also visit the theatre to see a play and answer 2 questions on what you saw.
Externally marked by the examination board.
Past students have gone on to study A Level Drama or jobs in the acting industry. A GCSE in Drama is also a useful foundation for students who would like to study law, media and industries that require interaction, teamwork and presentation.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: DR0
For further details, please click on the link below:
CONTACT: Ms E Platt, Head of Drama
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Music -- GCSE
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Head of Department -- Mr J Tuck
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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This course sets out to develop an appreciation and enjoyment of music through three musical elements: appraising, performing and composing. It includes learning about all styles of music from 1700 to the present day, so you should have an open mind to all styles of music. You should be able to play an instrument or sing well, before you start the course. You will be expected to perform by yourself and develop these skills to a higher standard during the course. This should ideally be through individual music lessons or this can be self-taught.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Component 1: Performing – 30% of qualification, non-examined assessment
For this part of the course, you will learn how musicians bring pieces of music to life through performance techniques. For your assessment, you will need to perform as a soloist and also as part of a group for at least 4 minutes. Your teacher will record your performances in Year 11. The performances can be instrument or vocal based, including beat boxing and rapping.
Component 2: Composing – 30% of qualification, non-examined assessment
For this part of the course, you will learn how to express creative musical ideas through two compositions. One of the compositions will be based on a brief given by Edexcel whilst the other is a free composition brief that you design. Your compositions must last a combined length of at least 3 minutes. You will be able to finalise your compositions using music technology or through live performances. You will also need to produce a score or a written account of how to perform your work.
Component 3: Appraising – 40% of qualification, written examination lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes
You will need to answer questions based on the four areas of study.
Instrumental Music 1700-1820
JS Bach: 3rd Movement from Brandenburg Concerto no.5 in D major
L van Beethoven: 1st Movement from Piano Sonata no.8 in C Minor ‘Pathètique’
Vocal Music
H Purcell: Music for a While
Queen: Killer Queen (from the album ‘Sheer Heart Attack’)
Music for Stage and Screen
S Schwartz: Defying Gravity (from the album of the cast recording of Wicked)
J Williams: Main title/rebel blockade runner (from the soundtrack to Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope)
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Fusions
Afro Celt Sound System: Release (from the album ‘Volume 2: Release’)
Esperanza Spalding: Samba Em Preludio (from the album ‘Esperanza’)
You will also need to develop essay writing and how to critically analyse ‘unfamiliar’ music to prepare for the final section of the Examination.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: 1MU0
For further details, please click on the link below:
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BTEC Music
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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This course sets out to develop an appreciation and enjoyment of music through three musical elements: listening, performing and composing. It includes learning about all styles of music from 1600 to the present day, so you should have an open mind to all styles of music. You should be able to play an instrument or sing well, before you start the course, because you will be expected to perform by yourself and develop these skills to a higher standard during the course. This should ideally be through individual music lessons or this can be self-taught.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Unit 1: The Music Industry – examination
In this unit you will learn about the different organisations that are involved within the music industry. Typical examples include record labels, performance venues, music publishers, promoters, broadcasting, music media, marketing, copyrighting, management and unions. Your knowledge of this unit will be assessed in a formal one-hour test.
Unit 2: Managing a Music Product – coursework
In this unit you will combine all of the skills that you have learned on the course. You will be required to plan, develop and deliver a CD music product consisting of musical material of your choice. You will be responsible for the quality of the product you create. You will also need to promote your CD through marketing strategies, so people hear the CD you have created. Once this is complete, you will review your work, both personally and through the analysis of customer responses.
Unit 6: Introducing Music Recording – coursework
In this unit you will learn how to capture sounds using a variety of techniques. You will learn how microphones work and how to select the appropriate microphone, depending on what the task is. You will learn how to record the sounds into software recording system and then how to mix and add appropriate effects. Finalising your work to CD or as an MP3 file will then complete the process.
Unit 7: Introducing Music Sequencing – coursework
In this unit you will learn how to use music software to create pieces of music. You will learn how to use the editing features of this software and how they can be used to compose and manipulate musical ideas and sounds. You will demonstrate your competence by creating a piece of music using the software.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: PMG45
For further details, please click on the link below:
CONTACT: Mr J Tuck, Head of Music
Science
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Head of Faculty Mr T Griffiths
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At Key Stage 4, students will study the AQA Science A course. Depending upon ability and whether they participate in a college course, students undertake one of two pathways:
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Separate Sciences - 3 distinct GCSEs (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) are awarded.
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Combined Trilogy Science – 2 GCSEs are awarded.
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Students will study the three disciplines, Biology, Chemistry and Physics throughout their KS4 course in varying levels of depth and detail according to the course they are following.
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Separate Sciences -- GCSE
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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The Science Faculty offers the opportunity to attain three distinct GCSE grades in Science: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Students will achieve distinct GCSE grades for Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
There will be a greater demand upon mathematical skills – this will make up 10% of Biology, 20% of Chemistry and 30% of Physics marks.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Biology
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Cell biology
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Organisation
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Infection and response
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Bioenergetics
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Homeostasis & response
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Inheritance, variation & evolution
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Ecology
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Chemistry
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Atomic structure and the periodic table
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Bonding, structure and the properties of matter
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Quantitative chemistry
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Chemical changes
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Energy changes
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The rate and extent of chemical change
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Organic chemistry
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Chemical analysis
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Chemistry of the atmosphere
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Using resources
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Physics
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Energy
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Electricity
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Particle model of matter
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Atomic structure
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Energy
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Waves
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Magnetism & Electromagnetism
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Space Physics
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Students will undertake 2 examination papers each 105 minutes in length per subject. Questions are expected to be a mixture of multiple choice, structured, closed short answers and open response. In addition to subject content, students will be examined on compulsory required practical investigations and practical skills.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
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SPECIFICATIONS:
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Biology: 8461
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Chemistry: 8462
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Physics: 8463
For further details, please click on the relevant link below:
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CONTACT: Mr T Griffiths, Head of Science
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Combined Science -- Trilogy
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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GCSE Combined Science Trilogy – Students will achieve 2 GCSE grades for this qualification.
There will be a greater demand upon mathematical skills – this will make up 20% of the overall marks.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Biology
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Cell biology
-
Organisation
-
Infection and response
-
Bioenergetics
-
Homeostasis & response
-
Inheritance, variation & evolution
-
Ecology
​
Chemistry
​
-
Atomic structure and the periodic table
-
Bonding, structure and the properties of matter
-
Quantitative chemistry
-
Chemical changes
-
Energy changes
-
The rate and extent of chemical change
-
Organic chemistry
-
Chemical analysis
-
Chemistry of the atmosphere
-
Using resources
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Physics
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Energy
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Electricity
-
Particle model of matter
-
Atomic structure
-
Energy
-
Waves
-
Magnetism & Electromagnetism
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Students will undertake 6 examination papers each 75 minutes in length. Questions are expected to be a mixture of multiple choice, structured, closed short answers and open response. In addition to subject content, students will be examined on compulsory required practical investigations and practical skills.
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
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SPECIFICATIONS:
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Combined Science -- Trilogy AQA 8464
For further details, please click on the relevant link below:
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CONTACT: Mr T Griffiths, Head of Science
Physical Education
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Head of Department -- Mr M Sergeant
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All students in Years 10 and 11 will continue to take part in Physical Education for 4 hours in each two-week cycle. During the course, the department will assess your performance, aptitude and attitude. At Mayflower, students are given an opportunity to take part in new sports that differ from Key Stage 3 curriculum.
These include team building games, wide games and extreme sports.
You will study a range of activities, one of which must be a game. You will develop your skills and technique, helping you to implement appropriate strategies and tactics, have an understanding of the rules and regulations and have the opportunity to officiate and coach in these sports. You will also be required to evaluate your own and others’ performance and to plan a safe and effective personal fitness programme relative to your sport. Examples of the activities you may take part in are:
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Athletics
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Badminton
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Basketball
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Dance
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Football
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Hockey
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Fitness
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Netball
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Rounders
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Rugby
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Softball
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Swimming
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Table Tennis
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Tennis
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Trampolining
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Volleyball
In addition to this compulsory provision, students also have the opportunity to study GCSE Physical Education,
GCSE Physical Education
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DESCRIPTION OF COURSE
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This course is designed for all students who have an interest in sport. It presents an opportunity for you to develop your physical ability and your understanding of the theoretical concepts in Physical Education. The course is divided into three sections: Theory, Practical and Personal Exercise Programme.
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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Component 1 Fitness and Body Systems
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Anatomy and Physiology
Movement Analysis
Physical Training
Use of data
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Component 2 Health and Performance
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Health
Fitness
Well-being
Sports psychology
Socio cultural issues
Interpret data.
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Component 3 Practical Performance
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1 team activity
1 individual activity
1 team or individual activity
(students will have the opportunity to participate in many sports and select their top scores)
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Component 4 Personal Exercise Programme
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Aim and planning analysis
Carrying out and monitoring the PEP
Evaluation of PEP
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ASSESSMENT METHODS
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Component 1:
36% written Examination 1 hour 45 minutes
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Component 2
24% written Examination 1 hour and 15 minutes
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Component 3
30% 3 sporting activities
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Component 4
10% Non-Examination assessment undertaken in school and externally moderated.
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EXAM BOARD: Edexcel
SPECIFICATION: 1PE0
For further details, please click on the link below:
Edexcel GCSE Physical Education
CONTACT: Mr M Sergeant, Head of Physical Education
Business
Head of Department -- Mrs J Dulake-
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Business GCSE
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DESCRIPTION OF THE COURSE
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Whilst studying GCSE Business (AQA 8132) you will be introduced to the real world of business and how businesses work.
“Many young people will seek work in industry and commerce. If they are to add value effectively, they need to understand the origins of wealth -creation and be familiar with the concepts and application of business and economics. Business literacy and numeracy are growing in importance and young people are increasingly becoming involved in the management of enterprise.”
The Nuffield Foundation
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CONTENT OF THE COURSE
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These are the units that will be covered:
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Business and the real world - The purpose of business activity, the role of business enterprise and entrepreneurship, and the dynamic nature of business.
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Influences on business - The importance of external influences on business and how businesses change in response to these influences
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Business operations – Production methods, customer services, procurement and quality control
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Human resources – Organisation structures, recruitment, motivation and training methods
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Marketing – Customer needs, segmentation, market research and the marketing mix (product, price, promotion, place)
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Finance – Sources of finance, cash flow, financial terms and calculations, analysing financial performance
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Assessment Methods
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Paper 1 (50%) 1 hour and 45 minutes
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Business and the real world
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Influences on business
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Business operations
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Human resources
Paper 2 (50%) 1 hour and 45 minutes
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Business and the real world
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Influences on business
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Marketing
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Finance
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EXAM BOARD: AQA
SPECIFICATION: 8132 GCSE Business
For further details, please click on the link below:
CONTACT: Mrs J Dulake, Head of Business Studies