KEY STAGE 4
CURRICULUM GUIDE
FOR YEAR 9
2014 - 2017
INTRODUCTION
Dear Students and Parents/Carers
A wide range of exciting curriculum choices is available for all students from
Year 9. These opportunities are continually developed in order to appeal to
students’ strengths and interests and to enable progression across Years 9 to
11 and beyond.
Many academic and vocational courses are available. When considering
their many options, students should gather as much information as possible
and carefully consider the views of their teachers and parents/carers. It is
important at all stages, where students have formed clear aspirations for
their future studies and careers, that the choices they make should support
these goals. In the Sixth Form, AS, A level and many further courses and
opportunities become available.
Many changes are currently being introduced to the qualifications and
examination systems in England - these affect all students and have
implications for study at Key Stage 4. Changes relate to subject content
and to the timing and content of public examinations. There are specific
implications for English and Mathematics. Details of all changes and how
they may affect your child will be provided at the Year 9 Choices Evening.
The English Baccalaureate is available to all students currently choosing their
options (please see page 3). All young people are expected to achieve
highly in English, Mathematics and the Sciences. In addition to these
subjects, it is our advice that any student who is capable of being successful
in Geography or History and a Foreign Language should seriously consider
taking these subjects.
To help you with your choices you are invited to the Year 9 Choices
Information Evening on Wednesday 12 March 2014. The evening will
provide an opportunity for you to carefully consider all of the courses
available to you from Year 9 and to discuss your options with subject
teachers.
I wish you every success during the remainder of Year 8 and in making your
choices of subjects to study next year.
Yours sincerely
Mr G Lobbett
Headteacher
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONTENT OF THIS BOOKLET PLEASE
CONTACT MISS JOHNSON AT THE COLLEGE
(Telephone Number : 01579 383292)
1
THE YEAR 9 – 11 CURRICULUM A THREE YEAR PROGRAMME
It is important to view Key Stage 4 as a three year programme
The curriculum is in two parts:
●
Part 1 The Core Curriculum - all students must take these subjects
THE CORE CURRICULUM FOR YEARS 9 to 11
15 periods
↓
English GCSEs
Mathematics GCSE
Science (Double or Triple) GCSE s
Core Physical Education
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Programme
Y9 3 / Y10 & 11 4
Y9 4 / Y10 & 11 3
5
2
1
●
Part 2 The Open Choice Curriculum
The remaining 10 periods a week will be for students to study up to five
courses of their choice (options):

Two of these will be taught in Years 9 and 10 and will be examined at the
end of Year 10.

Two will be taught over 3 years, in Years 9 to 11 and will be examined at
the end of Year 11.

One will be studied intensively in Year 11 and examined at the end of
Year 11.
Year 9
Opt A
3ppw
Opt B
2ppw
Opt C
3ppw
Opt D
2ppw
Year 10
Opt A
3ppw
Opt B
2ppw
Opt C
3ppw
Opt D
2ppw
Year 11
Opt B
2.5ppw
Opt D
2.5ppw
2
Opt E
5ppw
THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE
The government introduced The English Baccalaureate in order to recognise
the achievements of students who obtain GCSE grades A* to C across a core
of academic subjects.
The subjects that will count towards the English Baccalaureate are:





English GCSEs
Mathematics GCSE
Science and Additional (Double) Science GCSEs or all three single
sciences; Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Computer Science can count
towards this component)
Humanities GCSE (Geography or History)
Languages GCSE (French, Spanish or Chinese)
Students are already studying English, Mathematics and Double or Triple
Science as part of the Core Curriculum. By also studying a Language and a
Humanities subject (Geography or History) as Key Stage 4 options, students
are able to complete the full English Baccalaureate.
Callington students are in the enviable position of having a total of five
options to study across Key Stage 4. We recommend that students study a
broad range of subjects in order to develop essential skills. Taking a Language
and a Humanities subject will achieve this and still allows three further options
to be taken from the wide range of courses on offer.
As technology, globilisation and ease of international travel are bringing more
of the world within our reach, here are just a few reasons why you should
consider studying a foreign language:

Languages are a life skill - like driving a car or being able to touch-type. It
is a skill highly valued by employers

Languages give you a sense of achievement - it combines the intellectual
with the practical. You need to be able to think on your feet but when
you find exactly the right foreign word or phrase, you get a real sense of
achievement

Languages are a social skill - if you enjoy being with people and talking to
them, the chances are you will enjoy being able to do this in a foreign
language too.

Languages teach you communication skills and adaptability. They give
you the edge in the global job market. A valued skill for employers is your
ability to meet and greet people from other countries and cultures.
In a short while you will be seeking employment or applying to University or
College. Many of the students who are slightly younger than you, and who
may be competing with you for these opportunities, will have achieved the
English Baccalaureate.
Whilst we do not yet know how the English
Baccalaureate will be perceived by all Universities and employers, we advise
that you give the English Baccalaureate serious consideration.
3
THE YEAR 9 – 11 CURRICULUM – A THREE YEAR PROGRAMME
ACHIEVEMENT
By the end of Year 10 students could have achieved up to two GCSEs - in
two option subjects.
By the end of Year 11 students could have achieved a further 8 to 10 GCSEs .
These would be :
 English GCSEs (TWO)
 Mathematics GCSE (and Further Mathematics or Statistics GCSE for some
students)
 Science and Additional (Double) Science or Triple Science GCSEs
 Option Subject 3 GCSE
 Option Subject 4 GCSE
 Option Subject 5 GCSE
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON COURSES OFFERED

GCSE stands for the General Certificate of Secondary Education. Many
of the courses followed in Key Stage 4 lead to a GCSE qualification.

There are currently eight GCSE Grades ranging from A* (highest grade)
to G.

Many subjects have to decide what Tier (Higher or Foundation) to enter
a student for. This is when examination papers are set at different levels of
difficulty. Decisions on which tier to enter a student for are normally
made towards the end of a course.

Controlled Assessment is work set and marked by the college which is
carried out during the course as opposed to a final examination.

There are a number of vocational courses:

NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification. These are
qualifications which show that you can do a job to national
standards and you have skills that employers are looking for.


BTEC Course, this stands for Business and Technology Education
Council Course. This is a practical, work related course. There are
external assessments - examinations (25% of total marks). Students
also build a portfoilio of work which is assessed by teachers and the
examination board. The grades awarded are Level 1, Level 2 pass,
Level 2 merit, Level 2 distinction and Level 2 distinction*.
In order to show the degree of difficulty of a course Levels are used:

Level 1 courses are equivalent to GCSE grades D to G

Level 2 courses are equivalent to GCSE grades A* to C
4
THE OPEN CHOICE CURRICULUM FOR YEARS 9 TO 11
Choices to be made in Year 8
Art and Design GCSE
History GCSE
Business Studies BTEC First Award
ICT CiDA GCSE
Catering GCSE
Media Studies GCSE
Chinese GCSE
Music GCSE
Computer Science GCSE
Music BTEC First Award
Dance GCSE
Philosophy and Ethics GCSE
Drama GCSE
Physical Education GCSE
Engineering BTEC First Award
Resistant Materials Technology GCSE
French GCSE
Spanish GCSE
Geography GCSE
Sport BTEC First Award
Health & Social Care BTEC First Award Textile Design GCSE
Students need to choose four of these courses (and two reserves)
YEAR 11 OPTION
Choice to be made in Year 10
Information about the courses offered for the fifth option will be available
early in the Spring term of Year 10 , when students will be asked to make ONE
more choice (and two reserve choices). The opportunities that we expect to
be on offer are:
Languages GCSEs (French and/or Spanish)
History GCSE
Geography GCSE
Construction BTEC First Award
Beauty Therapy NVQ Level 1
Psychology GCSE
Photography GCSE
There will be some other opportunities and we will consult with students about
these in Year 10.
5
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN MAKING CHOICES

The information contained in this booklet. Full details of all Level 3 courses
currently offered at the College are available in the Sixth Form Prospectus
which can be viewed on our website and on Frog.

Your current strengths and areas for development in school work - what
you are interested in and what you are good at.

Your Year 8 report (SPR1) and any comments made by staff.

Any ideas you have about a possible career or post-16 course. Not
many careers require particular subjects which are not already
compulsory. A balanced programme is more important at this stage.

Do not be heavily influenced by the choices of friends - their strengths
and needs will be different to yours.

Talk to a variety of people before making your mind up - parents/carers,
older students, your tutor, subject staff.

Come well prepared to the Choices Information Evening on Wednesday
12 March and ask questions to help you make informed choices.
ADVICE FROM CAREERS
PROGRESSION TO POST-16 COURSES AND PARTICULAR CAREERS
There is a wide range of Post-16 courses available. Many of them do build
on skills developed lower down the school. You will find full details of the
subjects currently on offer and the Key Stage 4 subjects and grades
needed to study them in the Sixth Form Prospectus. This can be viewed on
the College website (www.callington.cc) or on Frog. Copies are available
from the Sixth Form Office on request.
Students are encouraged to start thinking about possible careers.
Information and advice are available from Mrs Oakes and Mr Plunkett.
Keeping a broad, balanced curriculum is recommended since this will
help to develop the wide range of skills looked for by Universities and
employers.
6
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Select four courses from the open choice curriculum and number in priority
order (1 = first choice, 2 = second choice etc). Remember that by studying a
Humanities subject (History or Geography) and a Language you will be
working towards the English Baccalaureate.
Make two reserve choices (RA = first reserve, RB = second reserve)
KEY DATES
Wednesday 12 March Year 9 Choices Information Evening:
 A presentation in the Main Hall starting at 7.00p.m.
 The chance to speak to subject teachers about the courses you are
interested in opting for now and studying in Years 9, 10 and 11 and to ask
them questions
Thursday 13 March to Thursday 20 March
 You will have a 15 minute meeting with your tutor to discuss your choices.
 During the interview you will be given your application form on which
your choices need to be made. (A specimen copy for your own records
can be found on the back page of this booklet. )
Wednesday 26 March
The final deadline for completed Choice Forms to be returned to Miss
Wilbraham in the Student Support Centre - signed by both the student and a
parent/carer. The tutor will also sign the form.
Choice Forms will then be processed by Miss Johnson for timetabling
purposes. Unfortunately, any subjects which are under-subscribed may have
to be withdrawn from the timetable. Also, the best fit blocking of subjects
may lead to clashes which require reserve choices to be used. However,
students and parents/carers will be fully consulted should any such problem
arise.
July 2014
A confirmation letter will be sent home as a record of the choices made. This
letter will also contain information on what to do if you change your mind
about any of your choices.
Groups for Year 9 will be decided by subject staff in the Summer term and
provisional timetables should be issued to students during the final week of
the Summer term.
7
KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM FOR YEAR 9 to 11 IN DETAIL
PART 1 - CORE CURRICULUM - A SUMMARY
All students must follow these courses - there are no choices to be made. Details are
therefore brief. More information is available from the departments
ENGLISH
Students will follow a general English course in Year 9 which will prepare them for English
Language and English Literature GCSEs. New specifications for these qualifications will be
available in the Summer term 2014.
MATHEMATICS
GCSE
OCR 100% Exam
Sets - According to ability
Higher Tier (A*-D) Foundation Tier (C-G)
Some students may have the opportunity to take their GCSE at the end of Year 10 and then
extended their study of Mathematics and work towards a Further Mathematics or Statistics GCSE
qualification.
SCIENCE
Sets – Top, Mixed ability
Higher Tier (A*A* - DD)
GCSE (Double and Triple)
OCR Gateway Suite
Foundation Tier (BB - GG)
Core Science
25% Controlled Assessment
75% Exam
Additional Science
25% Controlled Assessment
75% Exam
Triple Science
25% Controlled Assessment
75% Exam
All students will study Science culminating in the minimum of a Double award (two Science GCSEs)
by the end of Year 11. Higher ability students will have the opportunity to achieve a Triple award
(three Science GCSEs).
P.E. CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION
There are a wide range of individual and team activities and opportunities to explore new and
specialist activities. Within the lessons students have an opportunity to participate and analyse
their own and others’ work and develop strategies for improvement. Students will be given the
opportunity to take the role of a coach, official or performer. There will also be a number of
additional opportunities to engage in sport education courses. Student voice is considered during
each academic year to personalise sporting experiences and to tailor sporting opportunities.
SPIRITUAL, MORAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL (SMSC) PROGRAMME
This course of study focuses on students’ education from the personal, social, health and ethical
perspective and incorporates belief and ethics.
Students will learn to evaluate their own and others’ moral outlook on contemporary and
controversial issues that may impact upon their daily lives. These issues will be explored from a
variety of standpoints, such as the moral, the cultural, and the religious.
The exploration of Citizenship will empower students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to
participate in society, developing their work related learning skills and financial capability.
Opportunities for Citizenship will extend beyond the classroom through volunteering.
Throughout the course students will improve their social skills and confidence. This programme of
study will encourage students to become healthy and morally aware individuals, who understand
and can contribute effectively to the communities to which they belong.
8
PART 2 - THE OPEN CHOICE CURRICULUM
You will need to study FOUR courses from this section.
You will be asked to show your order of preference for your open choices.
You will need to make 2 reserve choices in case your main choices
cannot be timetabled.
The course summaries will help you to make your choices. More detailed
handouts will be available from departments at the Choices Information
Evening.
ART AND DESIGN
Mixed Ability groups
No tiers
GCSE
60% Personal Portfolio
EDEXCEL 2AD01
40% Exam
This creative course is planned around a variety of starting points and involves a number of
practical skills across a wide range of 2D and 3D media. These include drawing and painting,
photography, printing, 3D design, textile design, animation and mixed media work.
The first unit of work helps to develop students’ skills and looks at the work of other artists,
designers and creative people. A portfolio of work is created to show the new skills that have
been learnt.
The second unit allows for more self-expression and freedom with creative choices.
During the course students will work from different locations as well as in the classroom and
they will go to galleries to look at the work of others and also work along side artists/
practitioners when developing their ideas. Using and creating digital and computer based work
is encouraged to enhance creativity and make links to the world of work.
Further information available from Miss Ramwell
BUSINESS STUDIES
Mixed Ability groups
No Tiers
BTEC First Award
75% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL
25% Exam
Students will complete the following units:

Enterprise in the Business World

Finance for Business (externally assessed)

Introducing Retail Business

Principles of Customer Service or Recruitment Selection and Employment
Each unit of work is assessed. The unit on Finance for Business is assessed by means of a
one hour onscreen examination. In the other units students complete assignments which are
internally assessed and externally verified.
Students can achieve a Level 1 qualification or a Level 2 pass, merit, distinction or distinction*
based on their performance across all four units. A BTEC First Award at Level 2 is equivalent
to one GCSE grade A* - C.
Further information available from Mr Evans or Mr Eynon
9
CATERING
Mixed Ability groups
No Tiers
GCSE
60% Practical Exam
WJEC
40% Exam
This course aims to develop the practical ability of the individual. It provides students with the
opportunity to create and cost recipes, build on their knowledge of nutrition and the
relationship between diet and health as well as focusing on lots of other interesting food
topics.
This course is designed for people who are passionate about food and love cooking. Students
should be enthusiastic about developing their skills, even if they have few to start with. Hard
work and dedication will ensure success.
There are two practical assessments, so that a progression of skills can be taught,
demonstrated and assessed over the course.
Further information available from Mr Biddle, Ms Layton or Miss Webster
CHINESE
GCSE
EDEXCEL 2CN01
Sets by Ability
60% Controlled Assessment (Speaking and Writing)
Higher Tier (A* - D) Foundation Tier (C – G) 40% Exam (Listening and Reading)
The course covers a range of topics, based around the following four themes:
1.
2.
Media and Culture
Sport and Leisure
3.
4.
Travel and Tourism
Business, Work and Employment
Students will be assessed in four skills. In Speaking and Writing, students will complete a
range of assessments during the course with the best pieces being used for their final
assessment. For Speaking the teacher will assess the student. For Writing students will be
assessed by the exam board. Listening and Reading are both assessed by exam papers
which will be taken at the end of the course. Students can take either a Foundation Tier or
Higher Tier paper in each skill. These exams are based on the following topic areas; Out and
About, Customer Service and Transactions, Personal Information and Future Plans, Education
and Work. In addition to lessons with our Chinese teacher, students will work with Chinese
teachers from our partner schools in Beijing and Yunnan Province. There may be an
opportunity to visit China.
Further information available from Mrs Sully or Mr Gan
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Mixed Ability groups
No tiers
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
AQA 4512
40% Exam
Computing is of enormous importance to the economy, and the role of Computer Science as a
discipline itself and as an underpinning subject across science and engineering is growing
rapidly. The course helps students get to grips with real world, practical programming
techniques that give them a good understanding of what makes technology work. Students
will complete two practical programming tasks from gaming, web or mobile phone contexts. In
addition they will sit a written examination on the various theoretical aspects of computing.
Please note a home computer is NOT essential.
Further information available from Ms Barker or any ICT teacher
10
DANCE
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
AQA 4232
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL 2DR01
40% Practical
Mixed Ability groups
20% Practical Exam
No tiers
20% Written Exam
This GCSE course builds on the skills of performance, choreography and appreciation as well
as an introduction to safe working practices. It is a practical and theoretical course which
gives students the opportunity to perform on a regular basis.
All students must take part in a group performance, choreograph their own work and perform a
Set Dance, which is decided by the examination board. They must also write brief programme
notes linked to their own choreography and take a written exam focusing on two professional
works and the students own performance and choreography.
The course is varied, demanding and fun. Students will be expected to work in a range of
groups, make at least one visit to the theatre during the course and participate in workshops
lead by professional dance artists.
Further information available from Mrs Groom or Mrs Day
DRAMA
Mixed Ability groups
Exam
No tiers
The course further develops the Drama skills of improvisation, role play, discussion work,
creative writing, script study and research as experienced in Years 7 and 8.
Drama is a group based activity and students must be prepared to work in a co-operative and
sensitive manner with all members of the group - hence the subject also develops social skills.
There are opportunities for students to watch theatrical performances during the course, some
of which involve a small cost.
All of the final examination is practical work. This involves a performance in front of a visiting
examiner and is worth 40% of the final mark. The other 60% of the marks are decided by
practical work and a portfolio of written work.
Further information available from Miss Wilson, Mr Plunkett and Ms Kemp
ENGINEERING
BTEC First Award
EDEXCEL
Mixed Ability groups
No Tiers
75% Controlled Assessment
25% Exam
Engineers are problem solvers. When you fly a plane, make a telephone call, drive across a
bridge, ride a mountain bike, wear perfume, you experience first hand the work of engineers.
It underpins economic activity and quality of life. Engineers solve scientific and practical
problems which affect all aspects of our lives. You will enjoy this course if you wish to develop
an understanding of a range of activities within the engineering sector and have an interest or
strength in Maths, Physics or Technology.
The course has two compulsory units:
 The Engineering World (one hour on screen examination)
 Investigating an Engineering Product
 One specialist optional unit will also be studied - Electronic Circuit Design and Construction
In two of the units students complete assignments which are internally assessed and
externally verified. One unit is assessed by means of an examination. Students can achieve
a Level 1 qualification or a Level 2 pass, merit, distinction or distinction* based on their
performance across all of the units. A BTEC First Award at Level 2 is equivalent to one GCSE
grade A* - C.
Further information available from Mr Savage
Please Note: This course is not about motor vehicle studies / automotive engineering.
Students will be interviewed to make sure that they have made a suitable, informed choice.
11
FRENCH
Sets by Ability
Higher Tier (A* - D) Foundation Tier (C - G)
GCSE
EDEXCEL 2FR01
60% Controlled Assessment (Speaking and Writing)
40% Exam (Listening and Reading)
The course covers a range of topics, based around the following four themes:
1.
2.
Media and Culture
Sport and Leisure
3.
4.
Travel and Tourism
Business, Work and Employment
Students will be assessed in four skills. In Speaking and Writing, students will complete a
range of assessments during the course with the best pieces being used for their final
assessment. Speaking will be assessed by the teacher whereas Writing will be assessed by
the exam board. Listening and Reading are both assessed by exam papers which will be
taken at the end of the course. Students can take either a Foundation Tier or Higher Tier
paper in each skill. These exams are based on the following topic areas; Out and About,
Customer Service and Transactions, Personal Information and Future Plans, Education and
Work.
In addition to lessons with a French teacher, students will also have the opportunity to speak
with the French Assistant and use ICT to enhance their language skills. Students will also
be able to participate in the annual French exchange.
Further information available from Mrs Sully or any French teacher
GEOGRAPHY
Mixed Ability groups
Higher Tier (A*-D) Foundation Tier (C-G)
GCSE
25% Controlled Assessment
AQA B 9035
75% Exam
Geography is changing! The course seeks to energise and interest students by giving them
an insight into future global challenges and their management. Students will be studying the
current issues of Coasts, Living with Natural Hazards, Global Tourism, Urban Environments
and the Challenges of Managing Energy and Water Resources in the 21 st century. We will
look at real life case studies including Hurricane Katrina and bush fires in Hollywood; tourism
in Ibiza and Africa; the changes happening in Plymouth’s city centre and the slums of India.
The course will raise students’ awareness of their responsibilities to other people, to the
environment and to the sustainability of the planet, while also developing their independent
learning, research and presentation skills. A fieldwork trip is a key part of the course.
Further information available from Mr Pring, Miss Moran, Miss Jenkins or Miss Jackson
HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Mixed Ability groups
No Tiers
BTEC First Award
75% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL
25% Exam
This course develops an understanding of the key aspects within Health and Social Care.
Students will study four units, they are:

Human Lifespan Development
 Effective Communication in Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care Values
 Individual Rights in Health and Social Care
One unit is assessed externally by means of an exam. For the other units students complete
projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations. These are
internally assessed and externally verified. Students can achieve a Level 1 qualification or a
Level 2 pass, merit, distinction or distinction* based on their performance across all of the
units. A BTEC First Award at Level 2 is equivalent to one GCSE grade A* - C.
Further information available from Ms K Taylor
12
HISTORY
Schools History Project
Mixed Ability groups
GCSE
25% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL B
75% Exam
This qualification requires students to do the following: Use a range of historical sources (such as written and visual sources, artefacts, films,
ICT, paintings and photographs)
 Recall, select and organise information
 Understand the importance of past events and the actions of individuals
 The course also considers the pace of change over time
The History GCSE is made up of 4 separate units (each one is worth 25%). There are 3
written exams which are taken at the end of the course, these are externally set and marked.
The other unit is completed in college under controlled conditions, marked by a teacher and
then moderated by the exam board. The 4 areas we will be covering are:1. Medicine and public health in Britain c50AD to the present day (Exam)
2. The American West c1845 - 1890 (Exam)
3. The transformation of surgery c1845 - c1918 (Exam)
4. The Vietnam War 1950 - 75 (Controlled Assessment)
Lessons involve group, pair and individual work with discussions. The course does involve a
lot of reading and writing. There is now a greater emphasis on spelling and grammar in the
course.
Further information available from Mr Smith , Mr Rumson, Mr Cripps or Miss Woodman
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Mixed Ability groups
Level 2 (A* - C)
GCSE
75% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL CiDA
25% Exam
The course is designed to stimulate imagination and creativity whilst developing real world
practical skills, enabling students to exploit creative and commercial employment
opportunities.
In Unit 1 students will learn how to use web authoring tools to plan, design and build a webbased project. This unit is externally assessed.
In Unit 2 students will learn how to use game development software, such as Flash, Scratch
or Game Maker to create an individual game. This unit is internally assessed.
Please note that a home computer is NOT essential.
Further information available from Ms Barker or any ICT teacher
MEDIA STUDIES
Mixed Ability groups
No tiers
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
OCR J526
40% Exam
This dynamic course develops an understanding of key media concepts, through integrating
theoretical and practical approaches to the subject through two Controlled Assessment units
and one exam unit. It aims to develop an enjoyment of a variety of media texts across print,
broadcast and e-media, which are critically analysed in terms of meaning and then reproduced
using media technology and software. Some of the topics studied have included the
representation of parents in animation, the representation of gender in superhero films and TV
comedies. The practical products created have included a double page spread magazine
article and CD cover, film posters and a website.
This rigorous course suits students who can work independently and as part of a team; who
are creative and practical as well as those who enjoy engaging with media texts.
Further information available from Miss Jan Mahomed
13
MUSIC GCSE
Mixed Ability groups
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
OCR
40% Exam
Studying GCSE music provides students with the opportunity to develop their own musical
interests as well as learning about a wide range of musical styles. The course is very
practical, with students developing their ability to play an instrument or sing and also writing
their own music. Whether students can read music or learn ‘by ear’ the GCSE music course is
designed to bring out the best in students as a music maker. The breakdown of the course is
as follows:
● Integrated tasks: A performance and a composition based on your chosen instrument or
voice
● Practical portfolio: A second performance or ‘realisation’ and a second composition
● Creative task: A practical exam (15%) for which students have to develop a short piece of
music from a starting idea
● Listening exam (25%): 1.5 hour paper covering all styles studied through the course
Further information available from Mr Balletto, Mr Lane or Miss Padlyevs’ka
MUSIC BTEC
Mixed Ability groups
BTEC First Award
75% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL
25% External
Assessment
This course allows students to explore their musical interests whether as a solo performer,
technician or member of a band. In the two core units students will gain an overview of the
music industry and develop personal business and entrepreneurship skills. Learners then help
create either; a live concert / gig, a CD or online product, providing opportunities for both
music performers and technologists. Students then choose two of the following units:
 Live Sound

Music Recording (Working in the studio)
 Music Performance

Music Sequencing (Making music on computers)
One unit is externally assessed whereas the other units are internally assessed and externally
verified. Students can achieve a Level 1 qualification or a Level 2 pass, merit, distinction or
distinction* based on their performance across all of the units. A BTEC First Award at Level 2
is equivalent to one GCSE grade A* - C.
Further information available from Mr Balletto, Mr Lane or Miss Padlyevs’ka.
PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS
GCSE
Mixed Ability groups
AQA B4057
100% Exam
No tiers
This course is for students who are interested in discussing and finding out about what others
think as well as considering their own opinions regarding issues that people face in life and in
religion. It gives students the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and understanding when
exploring areas that challenge people in everyday life, both for religious believers an nonbelievers.
In Ethics the areas of study include Animal Rights, Planet Earth, Prejudice and Discrimination,
Early Life and War and Peace. The topics examine different views and beliefs in influencing
decision making, our values and moral behaviour.
In Philosophy areas of study include Science and Religion, Immortality, the Problems of Evil
and Suffering as well as questions about the existence of God. These give students the
opportunity to explore philosophical questions that have continued to challenge humanity over
time and to this day are still debated at great length.
For further information please see Mrs P Jones, Mrs Strong and Mrs Whitham
14
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Mixed Ability groups
No tiers
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
OCR J586
40% Exam
Students will be inspired and challenged by following a broad, coherent course of study that
assists in developing students’ awareness and appreciation of their own and others’ cultures in
relation to Physical Education.
60% of the assessment marks are based on the practical element of the course which is
moderated by an external examiner. Practical sessions involve options from four sporting
activities in one or two different roles; participant, leader, coach or official. 20% of this section
is assigned to two controlled assessment tasks, an analysing lifestyle task and an analysing
performance task.
40% of the marks are allocated to the theory element of the course which is tested in written
examinations. The theoretical aspect of the course, although classroom based, has a practical
bias. The theory content covers the following aspects of Physical Education:
 The Active, Healthy Body
 Exercise and Training for the Body
 Acquiring Movement Skills and Motivation to Enable Effective Performance
 Opportunities and Pathways for Involvement in Physical Activity in a Range of Sporting
Roles
Further information available from any member of the P.E department
RESISTANT MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY
GCSE
AQA 4562
60% Design & Making practise 40% Exam
In the first term students will concentrate on the acquisition of skills. This will involve using a
range of practical making skills including cutting, shaping, forming, bending, casting, moulding,
joining and finishing to name a few. Students will work with wood, metal and plastic and use a
combination of traditional and modern techniques and equipment to make products to a high
standard.
The second term will provide an opportunity for students to use the skills they have learned in a
major design and make project which they will work on and produce a portfolio of work to
support the practical tasks they are doing. Throughout both these learning sequences, tasks
will be reinforced with theoretical elements to prepare students for the final exam.
The aim of the course is to develop a broad base of Design Technology skills so that when
students create products they will be of high quality and they will create something they can
take real pride in.
For further information please see Mr Savage, Mr Wood, Mr Watkins or Mr Biddle
15
SPANISH
GCSE
EDEXCEL 2SP01
Sets by Ability
60% Controlled Assessment (Speaking and Writing)
Higher Tier (A* - D) Foundation Tier (C - G) 40% Exam (Listening and Reading)
The course covers a range of topics, based around the following four themes:
1.
2.
Media and Culture
Sport and Leisure
3.
4.
Travel and Tourism
Business, Work and Employment
Students will be assessed in four skills. In Speaking and Writing, students will complete a
range of assessments during the course with the best pieces being used for their final
assessment. Speaking will be assessed by the teacher whereas Writing will be assessed by
the exam board. Listening and Reading are both assessed by exam papers which will be
taken at the end of the course. Students can take either a Foundation Tier or Higher Tier
paper in each skill. These exams are based on the following topic areas; Out and About,
Customer Service and Transactions, Personal Information and Future Plans, Education and
Work.
In addition to lessons with a Spanish teacher, students will also have the opportunity to speak
with the Spanish Assistant and use ICT to enhance their language skills. Students will also
be able to participate in the annual Spanish exchange.
Further information available from Mrs Sully or any Spanish teacher
SPORT
Mixed Ability groups
BTEC First Award
75% Controlled Assessment
EDEXCEL
25% Exam
This is a practical, work-related course. Students learn by completing projects and
assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations. It prepares young people for
careers in the sports sector such as fitness instructor, sports attendant, coach, lifeguard etc.
Students will complete four units:

Fitness for Sport and Exercise

The Sports Performer in Action


Practical Sports Performance
Leading Sports Activities
The first unit will be assessed by means of a 1 hour computer-based examination. The other
units are assessed by the teacher and verified by the Awarding Body. Students can achieve a
Level 1 qualification or a Level 2 pass, merit, distinction or distinction* based on performance
across all four units. A BTEC First Award is equivalent to one GCSE grade A* - C.
Further information available from Mr Murray
TEXTILE DESIGN
Mixed Ability groups
No tiers
GCSE
60% Controlled Assessment
(Portfolio)
OCR J164
40% Exam
This is a creative course which looks at many areas of Textile Design, including creative
textile techniques, costume, textile sculpture, adornment and accessories. Drawing will be an
integral part of this course and will help students to plan their ideas. Location drawing on a
local visit helps to support the portfolio work.
Students will complete two modules which form the basis of their portfolio. The first will enable
students to develop skills taught at Key Stage 3 and to work in a more experimental way. The
second module will enable students to apply these skills in order to produce an outcome
within a set theme.
Following the release of the exam paper, students research, explore, prepare and plan their
final outcome over a six week period. This is constructed under exam conditions.
Looking at the work and style of other artists and designers will be very important, as will
sketchbook work and final outcomes. Students may want to consider the styles of other
cultures, the leisure industry, for example linked to sport or music, as well as themes such as
the impact of environmental issues.
Further information available from Miss Ramwell
16
2014 YEAR 9 CURRICULUM OPEN CHOICE FORM
STUDENT NAME………SPECIMEN...……….
Tutor Group 8……….
Please put a 1 in the box of your first choice, a 2 in the box of your second
choice, a 3 in the box of your third choice, and a 4 in the box of your fourth
choice. Please put RA in the box of your first reserve choice and RB in the box
of your second reserve choice.
Subject
Type of
Qualification
Subject
Order
of
Choice
Type of
Qualification
Order
of
Choice
Art and Design
GCSE
History
GCSE
Business Studies
BTEC
ICT CiDA
GCSE
Catering
GCSE
Media Studies
GCSE
Chinese
GCSE
Music
GCSE

Computer Science
GCSE
Music
BTEC

Dance
GCSE
Philosophy and Ethics
GCSE
Drama
GCSE
Physical Education
GCSE
Engineering
BTEC
Resistant Materials
Technology
GCSE
French
GCSE
Spanish
GCSE
Geography
GCSE
Sport
BTEC
Health & Social Care
BTEC
Textile Design
GCSE


►
►
Please do not choose two courses marked with the same symbol □ or ►or 
SIGNATURES:
Student ……………………………………………………… Date …………………..
Parent / Carer …………………………………………….... Date …………………..
Tutor ………………………………………………………… . Date …………………..
PLEASE HAND THIS FORM TO MISS WILBRAHAM IN THE
STUDENT SUPPORT CENTRE BY WEDNESDAY 26 MARCH 2014