2014
GCSE Options
0
Contents
Core Subjects:
MATHEMATICS ........................................................................................................................................ 2
ENGLISH, ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE ................................................................... 3
RELIGIOUS STUDIES................................................................................................................................. 5
SCIENCE ................................................................................................................................................... 6
ICT ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Option Block A
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY ........................................................................................................................... 11
FOOD TECHNOLOGY ............................................................................................................................. 13
HISTORY ................................................................................................................................................ 15
MUSIC.................................................................................................................................................... 17
Option Block B
GEOGRAPHY .......................................................................................................................................... 19
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES........................................................................................................... 21
PSYCHOLOGY......................................................................................................................................... 23
EAL......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Option Block C
ART AND DESIGN................................................................................................................................... 26
BUSINESS STUDIES ................................................................................................................................ 28
DRAMA .................................................................................................................................................. 29
PHYSICAL EDUCATION........................................................................................................................... 31
1
M A T H E M A T I C S
Examination Board: Edexcel (Compulsory Core)
Outline of the Specification
The Specification is consistent with the National Curriculum and the GCSE criteria for Mathematics
and aims to encourage you to develop the following abilities:
AO1
Recall and use your knowledge of mathematics.
AO2
Select and apply mathematical methods in a range of contexts.
AO3
Interpret and analyse problems and generate strategies to solve them.
You will extend your knowledge of:
Number
Algebra
Geometry
Measures
Probability
Statistics
In addition, you will be introduced to a range of real-life uses of Mathematics,
including its role in the modern workplace.
How will you be assessed?
Foundation Tier (Grades C to G)
Examination Paper 1F (Non-calculator)
50%
Examination Paper 2F (Calculator)
50%
Higher Tier (Grades A* to D)
Examination Paper 1H (Non-calculator)
50%
Examination Paper 2H (Calculator)
50%
Quiz: Which fills up a higher proportion of space:
A square peg in a round hole or a round peg in a square hole?
For further information contact Mr Fitzpatrick
2
E N G L I S H ,
E N G L I S H
L A N G U A G E
A N D
E N G L I S H
L I T E R A T U R E
Examination Board: AQA (Compulsory Core)
What kind of work will you do over the two years?
The answer is a wide variety. You will, for example, write creative
pieces , analyse magazine articles, examine famous speeches , discuss
current news items, present ideas, read a variety of novels, poems,
plays, study soap opera scripts....the list is endless! Some of these will
lead directly to assessed written or oral work and some will be useful
preparation for your formal exams.
How will you be assessed?
English as a whole is a core subject and many pupils will gain two GCSEs in this subject. For English
Language and English 60% of your marks will be gained sitting exams in a formal ‘exam hall’
situation .Written coursework contributes 40% of marks towards your final grade. Speaking and
Listening skills will be assessed throughout your course and graded separately. For English Literature,
coursework makes up to 25% of your final mark. Coursework is part of the syllabus which is not
examined in the traditional ‘end of the year, exam hall’ way but is carried out regularly during term
time.
Some pupils will study for a qualification in English only.
This qualification is accepted by employers and
universities as of equivalent value to GCSE English
Language. This GCSE course is recommended for those
pupils who are not certain of gaining a C grade in this
subject by the end of Year 11. It allows for more focus on
the essential skills needed to get that desirable C grade.
Coursework is carried out under controlled conditions.
This means that coursework must be done in class under
exam-type conditions and is time-limited. The preparation
for the writing of coursework will be carried out in class
and as homework as normal. You will know the exact topic
or question on which you are to write the coursework
weeks in advance. A few very carefully-controlled notes may be used when you write the
coursework. You will be informed well in advance when the
writing of the coursework is to take place and it is imperative that
you attend school on these days when these sessions occur.
These planned exam-style coursework dates will also be published
a few weeks in advance on the school website.
Should you miss school on these important dates you will write
your coursework after school at a coursework club. The
coursework club sessions can also be used should you
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underperform in a controlled assessment and need to attempt another, similar task. In addition,
once a term you will be able to come into school on a Saturday morning to complete unfinished
coursework or carry out new coursework.
For further information contact Mrs Potts
4
R E L I G I O U S
S T U D I E S
Examination Board: Edexcel (Compulsory Core)
Outline of Syllabus
Religious Studies is a compulsory subject for all pupils under the provision of the 1988 Education Act.
At Trinity, we offer the Edexcel GCSE full course.
What do we study?
The course is one of the most interesting and relevant GCSE
courses, which deals with some of the biggest and most
challenging issues facing our world today. During the course,
you will look at a wide range of spiritual and moral issues on
which you are encouraged to form your own opinions based on
the knowledge gained during classes and also from your own
experience. You will look at a range of beliefs, although the two
on which we concentrate primarily are Christianity and Islam.
We explore a range of moral issues and problems facing today’s
world. Topics include matters of life and death, marriage and
the family, crime and punishment and peace and conflict.
How is it taught?
During the course we draw on a range of media examples to discuss how beliefs affect everyday life.
You can expect lively debates, video analysis and challenging lessons where you will learn about your
beliefs and views of the world.
How useful will the qualification be to me?
From journalists to lawyers, doctors to police officers, all
these careers value the knowledge and skills gained in
Religious Studies. Below are a few quotes from
employers:
“It is vital that a person has an understanding of the
beliefs and values of others” (Armed forces recruitment
officer)
“RS is a way of broadening your understanding of the world and of people. In this job, you have to
meet people from all walks of life and a huge range of cultural backgrounds” (Journalist)
“When you work in a hospital, you come across people from varying backgrounds. RS prepared me
for this” (Doctor)
How will you be assessed?
Two examinations of 1 hour 30 minutes duration each at the end of Year 11.
For further information contact Mrs Entwistle.
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S C I E N C E
Examination Board: OCR (Compulsory Core)
Introduction
As part of your Science studies you will be engaged in a variety of different classroom activities
taught by different specialist teachers for each of your Biology, Chemistry and Physics lessons. You
will also have the opportunity to attend Science enrichment trips and activities. Recent GCSE
students have benefited from a variety of trips and visits including visits to: the Met Office to find
out more about how we use satellites, Riverford Farm to explore the range of organic techniques
they use, as well as a visit from a Forensic Scientist to run a Forensic Workshop. There are a range of
Science clubs which run for GCSE students so whether you want help with coursework or fancy
studying GCSE Astronomy the choice is yours.
Science and
Engineering Week
2012
Celebration!
Our GCSE students have produced some consistently excellent GCSE results with many individuals
achieving grades beyond those predicted. We have been recognized in the Good Schools Guide
awards in 2010 for achieving the Best Boys Core Science GCSE results for any Independent School in
England with 100% A-C grades, which is a great achievement and reflects the commitment and effort
shown by our students as well as the high quality of teaching and support offered by the
department.
Why Study GCSE Science?
Science can:
 provide an excellent foundation for a range of other subjects;
 enable you to study Science or other subjects further;
 increase your chances of future employment.
Science can also help you:
 gain a highly respected and well paid job;
 become whoever you want to be in your future;
 maximize career options in Science but also far beyond.
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Science is vital to make sense of the world around us:
From mobile
phones,
computers and
MP3 players
Making choices
about the food we
buy and eat
To papers,
magazines, and
adverts on TV
Driving cars and
travelling on
trains, buses,
boats and planes
Asking advice
from experts –
doctors, dentists,
vets, teachers
Helping contribute
to a sustainable
future
Science Options
In Years 10 and 11 you will follow the GCSE OCR Gateway Science suite. This suite focuses on
explanations, theories and modelling in Science along with the implications of Science for society.
Strong emphasis is placed on the active involvement of students in the learning process and the
specification encourages a wide range of teaching and learning activities. You may have a choice of
two routes through the Science options.
Those who obtain a level 7 or high level 6 in their SATs
examination may have the opportunity of studying the three
separate Sciences and hence 3 GCSEs in Science. You need to be
aware that should you wish to choose this route you must be very
committed to Science and preferably want to go on and study
Science at A-level.
The second option is for you to
study for a double award in Science,
studying elements of Physics, Chemistry and Biology resulting in the
award of 2 GCSEs. Essentially you will cover two thirds of the content
studied by students taking the separate Sciences.
For some students a single award in Science may be more
appropriate. Again all three elements of Physics, Chemistry and
Biology are studied resulting in a single Science GCSE.
The decision on which option is appropriate will be made in the
summer term and in discussion with Science teachers.
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Assessment for all options is more or less the same. There are externally set examinations and
internally marked controlled assessments. Obviously the quantity of examinations taken will be
dependent on the option chosen. It is important to realise that there are major GCSE examinations
in Year 10 for double award students as the Core Science is examined and certified in June of Year
10. They will then go on to study Additional Science in Year 11 which is examined and certified at the
end of Year 11. Triple award students will sit all their examinations at the end of Year 11 under the
new Linear scheme.
For further information contact Mr Jones
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I C T
Examination Board: OCR
ICT skills are essential for
success in employment and
in higher education and are
one of the fundamental
transferrable skills required
by employers. Students will
learn transferable skills that
are practical and relevant
and, furthermore, are
needed in future study and
the workplace.
The ICT qualification previously offered to KS4 students has recently been revised by OCR to
incorporate the recommended changes for vocational subjects. The OCR Cambridge National is a
vocationally-related qualification that takes an engaging, practical and inspiring approach to
learning. The full course qualification is accredited for inclusion in league tables by the by the
Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).
How will you be assessed?
To achieve the ICT Certificate (full course) students must complete 4 units (2 mandatory and 2
optional). To achieve the ICT Award (short course) students must complete the two mandatory
units.
Mandatory Units
Unit 1 - Understanding Computer Systems (Examination)
On completion of this unit, students will have gained additional knowledge and understanding,
enabling them to use computers more effectively in a variety of different contexts. Their regard for
their own personal data security and for the security of the data of others will be increased and they
will be more informed users of computers, making them more effective participators in business and
social life.
Unit 2 - Using ICT skills to create business solutions (Practical task set and moderated
externally)
Students will use a wide range of applications that are commonly used in the workplace and in
further and higher education. They will develop an understanding of how to select the most
appropriate software and to use tools to meet specific business requirements while developing skills
to enhance documents of a variety of file types.
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Optional Units
To achieve the certificate students must complete two
optional units that fall within one of four strands; business
information systems, creative, technical and individual
project. All optional units are assessed via coursework
projects that are set and marked by the school and
moderated externally by the exam board.
Currently the units being optional offered include:
Unit 5 - Creating an interactive product using multimedia components (Practical task set
and moderated externally)
Interactive products are used widely in everyday life; from visiting a website, ordering online
products, using mobile phone applications, viewing a presentation, e-learning products or playing
computer games.
This unit will enable students to demonstrate their creative flair by combining multimedia
components to create a vibrant, energetic or stimulating website or interactive product. On
completion of this unit students will be able to show how the interactive product meets both the
user needs and extends their capability within the use of applications software such as website
development.
Unit 7 - Creating dynamic products using sound and vision (Practical task set and
moderated externally)
Movies, animations and sounds bring messages and communications to life. The ability to create,
edit and enhance these types of media is an essential business and personal skill that can be used for
many purposes. This unit will enable students to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills
that would be expected in creative media industries such as advertising, music and online marketing.
On completion of this unit students will be able to prepare, create, export and evaluate a timelinebased dynamic product.
What can you do after the course?
If you enjoy ICT then why not consider taking A-level ICT? This can lead on to University courses in
Business ICT or Computing. Whatever your plans are for your future, skills and knowledge in ICT will
be essential!
Further Information
To find out more please speak to your ICT teacher or visit:
http://www.cambridgenationals.org.uk/
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D E S I G N
T E C H N O L O G Y
Examination Board: AQA (DT - Resistant Materials and Short Course)
Design Technology is about
Sustainability and the
environment
Materials,
components and
application
Creativity and Innovation
Participating in
tomorrow’s rapidly
changing technologies
Hand and commercial
processing
People: their needs,
wants and aspirations
Design and market
influences
Bridging the Arts and
Sciences
Where can you go with Design and Technology?
University Degree
Courses;
A/S and A Level
Product Design
Product Design,
Industrial Design and
Engineering, Civil
Engineering, Graphic
Designer, Interior
Designer.
BTEC and NVQ
GCSE Design
Technology
Art and Design,
building and
construction,
manufacturing,
transport …..
Modern
Apprenticeship;
Construction,
engineering,
manufacturing, media
and printing,
transport
HNC/HND
Dip HE
Foundation Degree
Higher level NVQ
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Outline of the Specification
Year 10 DT is a positively challenging year with pupils completing the Short Course DT specification.
The Short Course is an extra to the Full Course specification and provides valuable experience with
both coursework material and the written examination. Pupils select one project task from a list of
14 different tasks; focusing on a target market, making a quality product and recording their design
work on e-portfolio. The Short Course is normally finished by June half-term in Year 10, after which
pupils concentrate on the Full Course material for Year 11.
Year 11 involves pupils selecting one project task from a list of 12 different tasks. Again, focusing on
a target market, making a quality product and recording their design work on e-portfolio. The
internal deadline for DT coursework material is Easter of Year 11.
How will you be assessed?
Both the Short Course and Full Course are assessed in exactly the same way albeit the Short Course
is worth 0.5 GCSE’s and the Full Course - 1 GCSE. Depending on ability most students will achieve 1.5
GCSE’s in Design and Technology by the end of Year 11.
SHORT COURSE
Coursework 60% (Single Tier of entry)
One integrated designing and making assignment selected from a range set by the examination
board. This is assessed in the centre and externally moderated.
Approximately 20 hours
Written Paper 40% (Single tier of entry)
1 Hour Examination Paper
FULL COURSE – Resistant Materials
Coursework 60% (Single Tier of entry)
One integrated designing and making assignment selected from a range set by the examination
board. This is assessed in the centre and externally moderated.
Approximately 45 hours
Written Paper 40% (Single tier of entry)
2 Hour Examination Paper
For further information please contact Mr Donaldson
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F O O D
T E C H N O L O G Y
Examination Board: OCR (Optional)
As the Government push for the introduction of “A Licence to Cook” you could beat the crowd and
undertake this two-year course that leads to:GCSE Home Economics – Food & Nutrition
The syllabus is a preparation for living in a changing and
multicultural society. Topics covered include:
Nutrition & Health, Food Commodities
Food Choice
Meal Planning
Food Preparation & Cooking
Safety and Preservation of Food
Marketing, Advertising and Consumer Education
It provides the opportunity for you to be inspired and excited about food and enables you to
discover more about health, nutrition and your diet. We develop intellectual and practical skills, self
reliance, the art of co-operation, the ability to make rational decisions about the use of time, energy
and money and organisational and other life skills.
This subject covers a broad field of knowledge, much of which may be discovered through
investigation, observation, constructive thought, selection, appraisal and the use of materials and
equipment. It aims to encourage a student’s creative and aesthetic growth.
As the course demands participation in weekly practical activities (cooking), students taking it need
to be well motivated and enjoy working with food.
How will you be assessed?
Assessment will be:
Written paper (1 hour 30 minutes)
40%
Coursework
60%
The coursework will be made up of:
3 Short Tasks each worth 10% = 30% and 1 Food Study
Task worth 30%
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What does the course lead onto?
This course will point you in the right direction for any of the following careers:
Dietician, Food Journalism, Research, Public Relations, Environmental Health, Product Development,
Hotel and Catering, Food Stylist, Consumer Affairs, Food Photography, Food Retailing. It will also
prepare you for any A Level course because you
learn to plan your own schedules, think for
yourself and evaluate your work.
The expansion of the service industries gives this
subject an additional relevance, in that many of
the issues provide a useful background for
students who may eventually proceed to careers
involving the care of children, the elderly and the
handicapped, or to catering in its various forms.
For further information please see Mrs Coen.
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H I S T O R Y
Examination Board: Edexcel (Optional)
Why Study History?





you enjoy it;
Colleges and universities regard a good grade in History highly;
because it will help you understand the world you live in;
because of the very valuable skills you will develop;
Think about this; in every other European Country History is
compulsory up to the age of 16. There must be a reason for
this!
What will you learn?





about International Relations- what leads to conflicts between
the countries, and how these conflicts are settled;
about one nation in depth;
about how Historians use sources to find out what happened;
to be able to debate and argue a point of view;
to be able to research and investigate a topic.
How will you be assessed?
This is a linear course. There are three external examinations; each is 1 hour 15 minutes long. One is
on International Relations 1943-90. This assesses factual knowledge and involves some essay
writing. This covers the period of History known as the Cold War and particularly looks at the hostile
relationship between Russia and America and what impact this had on other European countries.
This is worth 25% of the final marks. One is on your Nation in Depth: Germany 1919-1939. This again
is a factual paper in which you are expected to show your knowledge and understanding but also to
argue a point of view; and looking at the causes and consequences of an event. You look at what it
was like to live in Germany through those years. The final external examination is a source paper on
Britain 1931-1951. This starts from the Jarrow March, covers British military involvement in the
Second World War and the Home Front such as the Blitz and ends with the foundations of the
Welfare State. For this paper you work as a historian analysing sources and judging their reliability.
This is also worth 25% of your final marks. The other assessed piece of work is a controlled
assessment (like the old coursework). You are expected to research a topic on Civil Rights and
Protest in the USA, (chosen by the exam board) and produce an extended piece of writing on this.
You will look at the elements of American Society that were not treated fairly such as the Blacks and
how they tried to change this through the Civil Rights Movement. You can use films, documentaries,
and books, the internet or even the latest blockbusters such as “The Butler”.
Topics you will cover:
 International Relations: The Cold War 1943-1991;
 Nation in Depth Study: Germany 1919-39;
 Modern World Source Enquiry: Britain 1931-51
 Controlled Assessment: Civil Rights and Protest in the USA
1945-70.
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What History is useful for?
History is classed highly by all universities so it is useful for any academic career or degree but
particularly those that require the skills of:




arguing a point of view and backing it up with evidence – such as legal careers;
researching and investigating topics and writing up your findings – so careers such as
journalism but also research and even scientific careers;
presenting your ideas – so careers in the media;
the list is endless and it is not just History teachers or working in a museum!
For further information contact Mrs Jennings
16
M U S I C
ExaminationBoard: AQA (Optional)
Outline of the specification:
The Music GCSE Course develops your musical
skills through listening, performing and
composing. Any pupils who take the course
should already be learning a musical instrument.
The main AREAS OF STUDY are:





Rhythm & Metre;
Harmony & Tonality;
Texture & Melody;
Timbre & Dynamics;
Structure & Form.
How will you be assessed?
The areas of study are organised for assessment as follows:
Unit 1: Listening and Appraising 20% of total marks
You will explore the five areas of study through three STRANDS OF LEARNING:



The Western Classical Tradition;
Popular Music of the 20th and 21st centuries;
World Music.
This is assessed by a listening and written paper lasting 1 hour externally marked by AQA at end of
the course.
Unit 2: Composing and Appraising 20% of total marks
You will compose a piece incorporating musical elements from two or more of the areas of study.
The piece must also be linked to one of the three
strands of learning.
You will have 20 hours of supervised time (throughout
the course) in which to complete this module.
You will be given 2 hours controlled time in which to
complete a written appraisal of your composition.
This module is externally assessed by AQA.
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Unit 3: Performance
40% of total marks
You are to perform two different pieces – one solo piece, and one
as part of an ensemble. Technology based or traditional
instruments may be used. This module is centre marked and
moderated externally.
Unit 4: Composing
20% of total marks
You will compose one piece exploring two or more of the areas of study.
It may be in any style or genre of the candidate’s choosing.
You will have up to 25 hours of controlled time (throughout the course) to complete this module.
This module is centre marked and moderated externally.
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G E O G R A P H Y
Examination Board: AQA (Optional)
The Geography department wants you…
IF YOU WANT TO LEARN
ABOUT
IF YOU WANT TO
UNDERSTAND
IF YOU WANT TO GET
THE WORLD THE WORLD WE LIVE IN........
WEATHER, VOLCANOES AND THE COAST........
OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM
(SOMETIMES!)......
What do you need to succeed in Geography?
You will have studied Geography during Key Stage 3 and in Junior School and this will have given you
a taster of what will be covered during the GCSE Course. Throughout the course you will develop
your knowledge of both Human and Physical topics. You will also study outside of the classroom and
undertake a detailed piece of field work in the local area. If you have any special interests in
Geography, such as weather, there is also the chance to set up experiments outside of the classroom
and develop a Trinity School Geography Club.
Why choose Geography?
The subject is alive and fun
Geography is accessible to all of you
Geography is popular at A-level and University
Geography can open up the doors to many and varied careers
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How will you be assessed?
There will be 2 exam papers: 1 based on all the Physical Geography studied throughout Year 10 and
1 based on the Human topics studied in Year 11. Both papers are worth 37.5% of the overall exam
grade. The other 25% is made up of a personal study completed at the end of Year 10 and start of
Year 11.
Unit 1: Physical Geography (37.5%)
Section A
The Restless Earth
Rocks, Resources and Scenery
Challenge of Weather and Climate
Living World
Section B
Water on the Land
Ice on the Land
The Coastal Zone
(1 ½ hour examination paper)
Unit 2: Human Geography (37.5%)
Section A
Population Change
Changing Urban Environments
Changing Rural Environments
Section B
The Development Gap
Globalisation
Tourism
(1 ½ hour examination paper)
Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation (25%)
Controlled Assessment – maximum 2,000 words – 6 hour write-up under direct supervision.
Task selected by the Centre from a choice of 11 provided by AQA.
Candidates work under direct supervision of a teacher at all times, with the exception of research
involving primary and/or secondary data collection.
Completed work marked by the Centre and moderated by AQA.
For further information contact Mrs Jennings
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M O D E R N
F O R E I G N
L A N G U A G E S
Examination Board: AQA/Specification A (non-modular) (Optional)
GCSE French and German
Resources
Text books
Internet
Interactive software
Student conferences
Trips abroad
Why study a language?
Give yourself the edge – you need to in the global job market of the 21st century
 it’s fun;
 you find out about other people and cultures;
 knowing a language makes you more employable;
 you learn about yourself and your own country;
 it’s gives you more confidence;
 great for holidays;
 gives you communication skills;
 you make new friends all around the world;
 you will learn how to deal with people from another country, not just raise your voice and
shout at them in English.
What can you do with a language qualification?
Keep your options open:
Business – Public Relations; Communications – Customer Service; Education – Missionary Work;
Government Services – Aid Agencies; Humanities and Arts – Actor; Singer; Sciences – Medicine;
Technology – Software Designer or Tester; Travel Services – Car Rental Agency.
Aims of the Course
Our remit is to enable students of varying abilities to achieve a sound GCSE
grade which will open doors both to A Level and beyond as well as giving them a
real advantage in the employment stakes. Not only will you be equipped with a
good foreign language base, you will also acquire a better understanding of
other cultures and traditions.
Topics
My World: Friends & family, environment, school and future plans and careers.
Travel: Tourism and holidays, transport & communication.
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Work &Lifestyle: Home life, healthy living, work experience, shopping, leisure.
Society: Social issues & choices, the environment, relationships, responsibilities.
How will you be assessed?
In the 4 skill areas of Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening
Listening 20%;
Reading 20%;
Speaking - controlled assessment during Year 11
(internally assessed) 30%;
Writing – controlled assessment during Year 11
(externally assessed) 30%
Mix and match exam entry; choice of Foundation/Higher Level in each skill area according to your
ability.
For further information please see Mme Haytread
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P S Y C H O L O G Y
Examination Board: AQA
Why Study Psychology?
GCSE Psychology provides a sound understanding of psychological theories used to explain human
behaviour and the research methods used to explore the. It can be studied at GCSE only, or in
preparation for A-level Psychology.
Psychology involves evaluative skills which can be applied to a range of subjects at both GCSE and Alevel (e.g. History, English, Science, Religious Studies and Business). These evaluative skills are highly
valued by universities and employers alike. Studying Psychology could lead to a career in Medicine,
Business, Law or Journalism in addition to Psychology.
The Study of Human Mind and Behaviour
How do we read body language?
Where does our personality
come from? Are we born with it
or do we learn it?
What factors affect the accuracy
of eye witness testimony?
Is it acceptable to harm
participants if it helps us
understand atrocities such as the
holocaust?
Would the average person kill
someone else just because they
were told to?
Why do we forget things in
examinations and what can we do
to prevent this?
How can we explain barbaric
human acts?
How do we learn?
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Outline of the specification:
Unit 1:
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Making sense of other people
Memory
Non-verbal communication
Development of Personality
Research Methods
Stereotyping, Prejudice and Discrimination
Unit 2: Understanding Other People
 Learning
 Social Influence
 Sex and Gender
 Aggression
 Research Methods
Both units are assessed through two 90 minute examination papers at the end of the two year
course. There is no coursework
Student Comments
“Psychology: it’s s fun lesson to study; can help you a lot in life; helps you with others subjects;
and teaches you lots of new words” [Kharis Hill]
“Psychology is great fun; we do lots of games and lots of other activities. It has a really great
atmosphere.” [Thom Knock]
“Psychology is really interesting and fun and I learn something new every week” [Rob Mcleod]
“Psychology is very different to other subjects because it is all about learning studies. Some of the
studies are very interesting and we get to try them out on sixth formers” [Indi Davey]
How do we learn to be male or
female?
For further information contact Mrs Bryant
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E A L
Examination Board: UCLES (COMPULSORY CORE FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS)
Outline of Specification
The specification aims to encourage you to develop the ability to use English effectively for the
purpose of practical communication in a variety of second language situations. It helps you to form a
sound base for the skills required for further study or employment using English as the medium. It
also enables you to develop an awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills
along with skills of a more general application, for example analysing and synthesising material.
The course has the following assessment objectives in the four skills of Reading, Writing, Listening
and Speaking:
understand and convey information;
understand, order and present facts, ideas and opinions;
evaluate information and select what is relevant to specific purposes;
articulate experience and express what is felt;
communicate effectively and appropriately.
You should also demonstrate the ability to:
exercise control of appropriate grammatical structures;
understand and employ a range of vocabulary;
demonstrate an awareness of the conventions of paragraphing, sentence
structure, punctuation and spelling;
show an awareness of register in both formal and informal situations.
How will you be assessed?
Reading, Writing and Listening
Candidates who have followed the Core curriculum and take the relevant papers are eligible for the
award of grades C to G only. Candidates who have followed the Extended curriculum are eligible for
the award of grades A* to E only.
Speaking
This element is certified additionally by grades 1 (high) – 5 (low).
For further information contact Mrs Crook.
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A R T
A N D
D E S I G N
Examination Board: AQA (Fine Art Endorsement) (Optional)
Why Study Art and Design?
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It’s fun!
It’s enjoyable!
It has many transferable skills!
What can you do with an Art qualification?
There are a huge range of opportunities available, far too many to list. The following are a range of
possible pathways you could pursue with an Art qualification:
Interior Design
Advertising
Painter
Furniture Design
Marketing
Sculptor
Textile Design
Animation
Film
Theatre Production
Graphics
Lighting
Film Model Maker
Set Design
Illustration
Architecture
Photography
Outline of Specification
The course will enable you to build on skills and techniques acquired in Key
Stage 3, whilst learning new concepts and skills across a wide range of materials
and media. The opportunity for developing more personal work will exist.
History of Art is an integral part of the course and you must show evidence of
critical studies in your work.
Aims of the Course
The aims of the course are to encourage you to develop:

creative and imaginative powers and the practical
skills for communicating and expressing ideas,
feelings and meanings in art, craft and design;
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investigative, analytical, experimental and interpretative capabilities,
aesthetic understanding and critical skills;
understanding of codes and conventions of art, craft and design and
awareness of contexts in which they operate;
knowledge and understanding of art, craft and design in
contemporary societies and in other times and cultures.
Assessment
Assessment comprises a minimum of
3 major coursework units that
account for 60% of the total grade.
Coursework units must cover all the
requirements of the assessment
objectives.
In addition to this there is an
externally set assignment that
accounts for 40% of the total grade
which must respond to all the assessment objectives. You will choose from a selection of questions
set by the examining board and complete the assessment over a supervised period of 10 hours.
For further information contact Mr Cairns
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B U S I N E S S
S T U D I E S
GCSE Business Studies (OCR)
You will learn about:
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How small businesses are
developed;
How businesses promote themselves;
How businesses keep their customers happy;
How businesses manage their finances and their personnel;
How does the recession affect businesses and their decisions
How will you be assessed?
You will study three units as part of the two year course:
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Marketing and Enterprise – controlled assessment (sat at the beginning
of Y11)
Business and People – written examination (summer 2016)
Production, Finance & the External Business environment – written
examination (summer 2016)
How will you learn?
You will have the chance to learn about the world of business through:
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research and investigation;
practical tasks applied to real businesses;
activities and games;
visits to businesses
Where can Business Studies take me?
Business Studies GCSE can be useful for absolutely every job. Business Studies is
particularly relevant if you want to work in the Human Resources, Marketing and
Finance department of either a small or large business. It is also relevant if you want
to work as an accountant, stock broker, recruitment consultant or be an
entrepreneur and set up your own business.
Contact:
Mr Michael Milne (Head of Business and Economics) – milnem@trinityschool.co.uk
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D R A M A
Examination Board: Edexcel (Optional)
Is this the right subject for me?
If you enjoy...
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expressing yourself in an active and
exciting way;
working in a group;
contributing your ideas and taking
onboard those of others;
exploring ideas by putting yourself in
other people’s shoes;
playing many parts in different
imaginary situations;
creating your own drama work;
looking at plays written by other people.
...then our GCSE Drama is the ideal subject for you!
What do you need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?
You will probably have had experience of Drama during Key Stage 3 in Drama lessons or, perhaps, in
English lessons. You may also be a member of a Drama club. Any of these experiences can help if you
choose Drama as a GCSE subject. You will develop your improvisation and acting skills to a higher
level. You will also look at plays in more detail and at different ways of bringing a script to life on
stage. If you are more interested in the technical aspects of Drama (for example set design or
lighting) you could focus on these for part of the course.
What will you learn?
You will learn:
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

how drama is created, including all the acting and staging skills that
are needed to put a piece of drama on to the stage;
how to create a character and play this character in a performance;
many skills that are highly valued in any walk of life including teamwork
and confidently presenting yourself in public.
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Drama Question
What is the longest running play in the world?
(a) Cats
(b) The Mousetrap
(c) Dogs of War
(d) Julius Caesar
How will you be assessed?
Almost all assessment is practical. There are no written examinations although you will be required
to keep a written record of your practical work.
You will explore themes, ideas and plays in a wholly practical way and your teacher will assess how
well you have done.
Unit 1: Drama Exploration 30%
Six hour practical exploration
Documentary response (2000 words)
Unit 2: Exploring Play Texts 30%
Six hour practical exploration of a play script
Documentary response to practical exploration (1000 words)
Documentary response to live theatre (2000 words)
Unit 3: Drama Performance 40%
Students will present their work as either performers or performance support students in a single
performance to an examiner appointed by Edexcel.
What can you do after you have completed the
course?
After you have completed GCSE Drama you can go on to higher
levels of study.
These include:
• GCE Drama and Theatre Studies or Performing Arts at AS and
A2 Level;
• BTEC National Performing Arts (Acting).
For further information contact Mrs Cooke
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P H Y S I C A L
E D U C A T I O N
Examination Board: OCR
Introduction
Sport and the leisure industry is a very popular choice for many
people when they go to University or look for jobs when they leave
school. With the legacy of the London 2012 Olympics, it is a
fantastic time to be getting involved with sport. The PE GCSE
course allows you to develop an understanding of the bigger
picture of this world and gives you a good foundation which you
can use as a springboard for A Level PE and other sports related
qualifications.
What you have to do
You have to choose FOUR sports from at least two different activity profiles, to be assessed in
during the 2 years. You cannot choose the same sport twice, although you could officiate one year
and perform in the other.
Activity Profiles
Invasion Games
Football
Basketball
Hockey
Netball
Rugby Union
Water Polo
Striking Games
Rounders
Cricket
Softball
Net/Wall & Target Games
Tennis
Volleyball
Table Tennis
Badminton
Squash
Golf
Volleyball
Gymnastic Activities
Gymnastics
Dance Activities
Contemporary Dance
Combat
Boxing
Judo
Karate
Tae Kwon Do
Athletic Activities
Cross Country
Track and Field (Athletics)
Cycling
Rowing
Swimming Activities
Swimming (Strokes)
Life Saving
Personal Survival
Outdoor & Adventurous
Canoeing
Hill Walking
Horse Riding
Mountain Biking
Orienteering
Skiing/Snowboarding
Surfing/Windsurfing
Rock Climbing
Sailing
Coaching/Officiating Activities
Pupils can offer coaching or officiating in most of the activities above as one of their choices.
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Year 10 Theory
An introduction to PE –
The healthy and active body.
Exercise and training of the body for an active, healthy lifestyle.
Acquiring movement skills and motivation to enable effective involvement in physical activity and to
follow and active, healthy lifestyle.
Opportunities and pathways for involvement in physical
activities in a range of roles.
Year 11 Theory
Developing knowledge in PE –
 This year’s work looks to develop the knowledge
and understanding gained in Year 10, with the
focus still on a healthy and active body.
 At the end of Year 11 there are two examinations,
each is one hour in length which test all of the
theory covered throughout the two year course.
Practical
Ongoing assessment for the FOUR sports during
two years and
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
the
An analysing lifestyle task – 7 hour research project in Year 11.
An analysing performance task – 7 hour research project in Year 11.
Summary
60% PRACTICAL
40% THEORY
Assessment in four sports over the
two years.
Pupils sit 2 exam papers, each one
hour in length at the end of Year 11.
The papers are both a mixture of
multiple choice and structured
questions.
Analysing of lifestyle task in Year 11
Analysing of performance task in Year
11
For further information please contact Mrs Couch
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