ST IVO SCHOOL KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM BOOKLET Dear Student, Welcome to our Key Stage 4 Curriculum Booklet. Inside you will find key information about how Kay Stage 4 works and what courses are on offer. The decisions you will make over the coming weeks are amongst the most significant in your education so far. To make them well you need to study the information available, listen to advice and ask questions. Advice is available from staff here at school as well as from family and friends. If you have a specific career in mind remember to check any subjects that you need to have at GCSE. Remember this is your choice. It is not your friend’s choice, nor is it a choice based on who teaches you this year. It is time to decide what areas you wish to follow for success in 2018. I wish you every success in selecting courses for your Key Stage 4 years. Sam Griffin Headteacher CONTENTS Page: What subjects will I have to study and how much choice do I have? 1 What should I consider when making my choices? 2 Curriculum summary Years 10 and 11 3 Choosing subjects: How does the process work? 4 Foundation Learning Pathway 5 Government changes to how final grades are awarded 5 How will my progress be recorded? 6 Is it all exam work? 7 The Computing Programme 7 Work Related Learning 8 Will I do work experience? 8 What will I do on work experience? 9 How do I find out about the career options open to me at the end of Year 11? 9 Schedule for Year 10 and Year 11 10 Foundation Learning Pathway courses follow on the green coloured pages. GCSE courses offered follow on the yellow coloured pages. The subject choices form can be found at the back of the booklet. CORE CURRICULUM AND CHOICES What subjects will I study and how much choice do I have? You will study English, mathematics, science and computer science. In addition, you will also have timetabled PE and assembly/tutor time. RE and citizenship will be taught as part of the Learning4Life scheme of work. Together, these subjects are known as the ‘core’. In addition to the core, you are guided to choose 4 ‘options’. PE Lesson 1 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School The Computing course will lead to the OCR Cambridge National Award qualification which is worth ½ GCSE. For the majority of students English will lead to two GCSEs (language and literature). Science will be studied as triple science, double science or single science. You will receive guidance from your science teachers about the most appropriate course of study for you. The details of the curriculum, including the choices available to you, are summarised later and on the choices forms at the back of this booklet. What should I consider when making my choices? When choosing your subjects, you should bear in mind the following: Choose French, German, Latin, Geography or History as one of your options. Together with English, Maths and Science, these will form a good balance of EBacc subjects. You can then choose any three further options. Your form tutor will advise you on the best combination of subjects for you. If you have a “home” language you should talk to the Foreign Languages department as you may be able to get an extra GCSE qualification if this subject is available as a GCSE. You should choose subjects you enjoy and are good at - you are most likely to succeed in these subjects. There are some new subjects available which you will not have studied before. Make sure you find out all about these subjects before you finalise your choices. Do not choose a subject just because you like the teacher or because your friends want to do it - you might have a different teacher next year, and your friends might be in a different group. If you have any idea of a possible career, include choices which will help you achieve your aim. However, because you might want to change your mind about your career later, you are advised not to specialise too much at this stage, but to take a good range of different subjects. Think carefully about the demands of homework, portfolio work and any controlled assessments across the subjects you are thinking of choosing, to make sure that you will be able to manage your work. Year 10 Iceland Trip 2 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School CURRICULUM SUMMARY YEARS 10 & 11 (KEY STAGE 4) ENGLISH This will lead to 2 GCSEs: English language and English literature. MATHEMATICS 1 GCSE SCIENCE This leads to Triple award science (3 GCSEs) Double award science (2 GCSEs) COMPUTING CORE For most students this will lead to ½ GCSE. OPTION 1 Choose one subject from French, German, Geography, History, Latin or a “home” language. 1 GCSE. 3 FURTHER OPTIONS Choose 3 subjects from the options list, or 4 if you are doing a “home” language. 3 or 4 GCSEs or equivalent. Learning4Life Non-examination course, providing modules on health education, careers education, RE, citizenship and personal development. This will include Learning4Life Focus Days. CORE PE Core PE for all. No examination. ASSEMBLY/ TUTOR PERIOD Two sessions per day. 3 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School CHOOSING SUBJECTS Choosing Subjects: How does the process work? This year, you are being asked to make some important decisions and this booklet gives you most of the information you need to make your choices. It is important that you read it carefully. You must do some of the subjects (the core), but you have the chance to choose what you do for about half the week. The course outlines (on the coloured pages) will tell you a lot about the different subjects: for example, the sort of things that are taught and what is expected of you in terms of internal assessments and public exams. You should ask your subject teachers for information about their subject at Key Stage 4. You will also have the opportunity to sample Taster Lessons for new subjects. Your form tutor will also help you, by discussing the choices you are thinking of making, to make sure that these subjects are right for you. You can also talk to them about possible careers and which subjects are the best preparation for them. Your head of year and assistant head of year will also be pleased to discuss your ideas with you. Your parents/carers will be able to help you make the best possible decisions and you should talk to them about your plans. In January there will be a parents/carers consultation evening to discuss your progress as recorded on Go4schools. In February there is a curriculum evening for parents/carers to give them the opportunity to find out about the courses from heads of departments. You will then be asked to submit your Guided Choices Request Form by the end of February. The curriculum team will then discuss your request with you. We will contact your parents/carers if we feel that you should reflect on them. This is to ensure that you will study the most appropriate curriculum which is likely to bring the greatest enjoyment and success throughout Key Stage 4. World of Work Event 4 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School FOUNDATION LEARNING PATHWAY Some students may take longer than two years to reach the benchmark 5+ GCSEs at grade A*-C. They also find a curriculum assessed predominantly by examination a challenge at this stage. For these students, we have developed our “Foundation Learning Pathway” (FLP). This programme of Level 1 GCSE and Vocational qualifications is designed for students who prefer a more practical approach to learning. If you study some of these courses, you would then progress to Level 2 courses at our Sixth Form or at College with the aim of achieving GCSE grade C or above in your studies. Your Head of Year or tutor will advise you if these courses are suitable for you. If they are, with guidance from the Learning Support Department and the vocational co-ordinator, you can choose all your options from the FLP, or you could pursue a combination of both GCSE and FLP options. The Level 1 subjects are clearly marked on the coloured subject pages of this booklet. Year 10 Cookery Students ASSESSMENTS AND PROGRESS Government changes to how final grades are awarded As you may know, the way that subjects are examined and the final grades given at the end of Year 11 are going through a series of changes. This will happen over three or four years; your year group is the second to be affected at Key Stage Four. For most of your examinations, the grade will no longer be a letter; instead it will be a number from 9 - 1, with 9 being the highest. For English, the 40% coursework will go, making the final examinations worth 100%. You will get a separate certificate for speaking and listening assessment. Mathematics has been 100% examination for some time now, and this will continue. 5 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School Vocational Courses also have some ongoing changes. The Foundation Pathway Level 1 courses will continue to be assessed by portfolio only, but all others will have a final examination similar to the GCSEs. The percentage of marks for this exam will vary according to the subject, so do read the subject pages which follow in this booklet. For all other subjects grades will be awarded on a combination of controlled assessments and final written/practical examinations. For more information, see the individual subject pages, and go to the school website and click onto Parents’ FAQs. How will my progress be recorded? At the beginning of Year 10, your teachers will give you information about your course for each subject including assessment objectives. As you work through the course, the feedback which your teachers give you will show you how you are making progress towards these assessment objectives. You will be assessed in many different ways; on your written work, orally, on practical work, on tests, on project work and by teachers talking to you and observing you. Teachers will also assess and record your homework, including how you manage your work and meet deadlines. It is therefore important to plan ahead and use your time wisely. If you find that you are unable to complete a homework or are falling behind with your deadlines, you must tell your subject teachers and form tutor. They may be able to help. You can find more information about homework on the school website under Parents’ FAQs. In the autumn term of Year 10, your subject teachers will also set target grades which will be based on your previous performance at KS3, CATs (Cognitive Ability Tests), Fischer Family Trust estimates, and their professional judgement of the work you have completed so far. Your progress in each subject will be tracked against the targets set. The Head of Year and your tutor will analyse your performance and identify any weakness so that you can improve your performance in a particular subject. This is called ‘academic tracking’. In addition to academic tracking, all teachers will also note your ability to work with others and how you improve your own learning and performance. For subjects with controlled assessments, your teachers will be able to advise you about what you need to do to gain the best possible marks. After you have completed the assessment, then it is marked to nationally agreed standards, and the marks are moderated and inspected by other teachers. For those subjects, the course outlines on the main school website will show you what percentage of the final mark is based on controlled assessments. Your teachers will give you a timetable for completing assessments and the dates of the deadlines which you must meet. The final write-up of controlled assessments has to be completed with teacher supervision. Mock examinations will take place in January of Year 11 and give you an opportunity of a full ‘dress rehearsal’ for GCSE. There will also be final written examinations in Year 11. Your progress against your targets and your assessments will be recorded on Go4Schools at regular intervals. Students and parents have access to this, so you can reflect on your progress regularly. 6 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School Is it all exam work? No. Your timetable will also include physical education (PE), assembly, tutor period and Learning4Life. The core PE programme will allow you to experience a range of sports, team games and health-related activities on a weekly basis. There are many opportunities to do even more by taking part in clubs, activities and teams at lunchtimes and after school. In addition, you may choose to take GCSE PE. The Learning4Life programme, which includes timetabled lessons for Year 11, as well as assemblies, tutor periods and Learning4Life days, is designed to help you to develop as an individual, and remain healthy and safe throughout your adult life. The course focuses on SRE (Sex and Relationships Education) and covers challenging issues such as responsibility and respect, contraception and STI’s, consent, sexual exploitation, the effects of exposure to pornography, parenting and healthy relationships. In addition, students will learn how to deal with examination stress, how to manage their workload and maintain a work/life balance. They will also receive information and advice about study skills, dealing with a medical emergency as well as having the opportunity to reflect on current affairs, such as radicalisation and terrorism, gender and identity, and tolerance. Our Learning4Life programme is committed to supporting and reinforcing British Values (such as tolerance, respect, empathy and responsibility to others). The Careers Education and Guidance programme includes: the use of KUDOS, an online careers information and guidance program which is also accessible from home; Work Experience in Year 10 and in Year 11 students attend the World of Work and subject fairs. In addition, students in Year 11 have Career Booklets which have a variety of exercises to facilitate choices. These are used in form time with form tutors. The Computing Programme Computing at Key Stage 4 is designed to ensure that all students have the opportunity to develop their ICT skills, and their understanding of computer systems, throughout Years 10 and 11. In core computing lessons, you will develop your ability to effectively use a variety of software applications in an accurate and precise way to present documents in business scenarios. You will also develop your understanding of computer systems in the business environment. To this end you will follow the OCR Cambridge Nationals Award in ICT. You will complete two Units: Understanding computer systems Using ICT to create business solutions Those students who successfully complete the two Units will achieve an OCR Cambridge National Award which is the equivalent of ½ GCSE. 7 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School In addition to core computing, you may also choose to study further Units to gain an OCR Cambridge National Diploma in ICT(worth 2 GCSEs), or you may choose to study GCSE Computer Science. See the subject pages for more details. Computing lessons at Key Stage 4 also have a key role in supporting you by developing skills and processes in the use of ICT that will enable you to improve upon much of the work that you do in other subject areas. CAREERS AND WORK EXPERIENCE Work Related Learning During Years 10 and 11, you will probably begin to think about possible occupations and the skills you might need for them. In order to help with this process of preparing for the world of work, the school provides a number of experiences for all students which give your studies a vocational dimension. These include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Work Related Learning activities in Year 10 and 11, typically on collapsed school days. Work experience (in Year 10). Access to Careers Information and Guidance via an online computer program. The development of skills (e.g. letter-writing, interview techniques, preparing a CV). Project work in some subjects which is based in a vocational context, e.g. problemsolving drawn from real needs of business and industry. The development of key skills - ICT, numeracy, communication, teamwork and problemsolving. STEM opportunities via the Science Department. Will I do work experience? Year 10 students have a compulsory two-week experience of the world of work. At the placement you will gain an insight into the requirements of the work place, its disciplines and develop upon your current practical and social skills. As the school has to administer the whole work experience process, we require students to find their own placements (called: Student’s Own Placement). The school then checks that companies conform to health and safety and insurance requirements. If the company of choice meets the requirements, you will be able to attend work experience there. This process begins at the start of Year 10. All students are monitored by their tutors / Heads of Year whilst on work experience. To prepare for this experience you will complete a variety of activities in form time with your form tutor. You will use the CVs you compiled in Year 9 and learn how to communicate with the employer, about health and safety issues and placement preparation. You will also have an opportunity to visit your placement and have an interview prior to work experience. This visit enables you to ask questions and find out what is expected of you from the employer. Your work experience is a valuable and essential part of the curriculum and will take place towards the end of the summer term. Many students consider this as two of their most enjoyable weeks of education. The placements can result in part-time opportunities and targeted work experience. 8 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School Students on Work Experience What will I do on work experience? This will depend on the type of placement. In general, you are treated as a member of staff and are expected to carry out a wide range of tasks appropriate to your age and experience. In addition, you have to complete a logbook. Some subject areas may set you an assignment based on your work experience placement. How do I find out about the career options open to me at the end of Year 11? On the school website there is a careers webpage where you can access careers diagnostic programs. There are also a variety of links which you can follow to find more information. We would encourage you to attend information sessions with outside speakers. You will also have the option of attending the ‘World of Work’ day in the spring term, to talk about specific areas of interest, with a variety of companies who have agreed to give their time for this event. You will be given additional materials from the careers department to help you to clarify your options and information about the labour market. The school will also make available to you information from a variety of sources to help you with your decision making. This information is available to you via your careers booklet exercises in form time; year noticeboards, careers department noticeboards and in the Resource Centre. A vacancy board in the Careers area is also kept up to date with occupation opportunities in the local area. You can obtain information from the Careers section in the Resource Centre. The careers department staff, based in The Street, are available to guide you to find out the information you need. In Year 11 there is a Post-16 Options Evening for your parents/carers to give them the opportunity to find out more about possible employment, training and study options after Year 11. 9 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School KEY STAGE 4 - YEARS 10/11 YEAR 10 SEPTEMBER 2016 Begin courses. OCTOBER/NOVEMBER Target setting for students in all subjects. APRIL Year 10 internal exams. JUNE Reports issued. JULY Work Experience. YEAR 11 SEPTEMBER 2017 OCTOBER St Ivo Sixth Form prospectus published. Open Evening. NOVEMBER Reports issued. Applications for apprenticeships to begin. DECEMBER/JANUARY Year 11 internal mock examinations. FEBRUARY Deadline for Sixth Form applications. MAY GCSE written exams begin. AUGUST GCSE RESULTS. 10 KEY STAGE 4 - Years 10 and 11 at St Ivo School GCSE Art and Design Course Outline This subject can be taken in one or more of the following endorsed titles: Fine Art - Drawing & Painting Textiles/Fashion Three Dimensional Design/Sculpture Fine Art - Drawing & Painting This course caters for the whole range of artistic ability and students do not need to be potential 'artists'. It is important that you show a willingness to experiment and work hard at all types of painting, drawing and other related artwork including photographic processes. You will be expected to build up a portfolio of work using sketchbooks and final outcomes. The course forms a firm base for students wishing to continue their studies at Advanced Level or in further education. Textiles/Fashion This course provides you with an opportunity to work towards an art qualification through the medium of textiles and fashion. Work is based on areas such as garment construction and illustration, print, use of dyes, knitting, weave and stitch. The 'design process' is implemented through research, experimentation and documentation. Textiles also provides suitable progression for students wanting to study any post-16 Art and Design course. The course is equally suited for boys and girls. Three Dimensional Design/Sculpture This course encompasses many facets of clay work from conventional pot making, through to the more imaginative field of 'art pottery', where both representational and abstract ceramic sculptures can be created. Conventional construction methods are taught, but you are encouraged to contribute your own original ideas. You may also experience other media such as plaster, cement and wire. It is hoped that you will have previous basic knowledge of 3D work from the introductory courses in the lower school, and have some artistic ability. It is important to note that you will be expected to draw on this course and do research in a sketchbook. Sculpture/ceramics is also suitable for those students wanting to study for post-16 courses in Art and Design. Work Journal/Sketchbook It is mandatory that students keep a work journal for all components of the courses above. The work journal is a sketchbook that contains sketches, experimentation with media and techniques, reference to the work of other artists and the development of ideas. Continued overleaf GCSE Art and Design continued Externally Set Assignment (ESA) The ESA is set by the exam board and all the art endorsements share the same exam paper. It is always a thematically based project (for example ‘past, present and/or future’ was the 2016 title). You will have to submit a work journal and a final piece of artwork. An 8 week preparation period is given to all students to do research, documentation and experimentation in their work journal. The exam will last 10 hours (2 days) and you will work under exam conditions. Assessment (for all titles) Component 1. A portfolio of selected outcomes and preparatory work in work journals 60% Component 2. Externally set assignment: preparatory work in a work journal and a 10 hour timed test 40% N.B. Both components must show evidence of all the assessment objectives. The four Assessment Objectives are: develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical understanding of sources refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with appropriate media, materials, techniques and processes record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and demonstrates understanding of visual language. N.B. All students who may aspire to pursue a career in art, any aspect of design or architecture should seriously consider studying one art option. The Awarding Body is Edexcel. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Goold. AGoold@stivoschool.org GCSE Business Studies Course Outline 1. This course is designed to provide you with a foundation in business skills. Areas of study include marketing, production, human resource management, the structure and organisation of business and its place in the community, the role of government and trade unions, business law and finance. 2. Emphasis is on obtaining a sound knowledge of the business environment and being able to apply terms, concepts, theories and methods effectively to address business problems and issues. Assessment This course is assessed by two exams, taken at the end of Year 11. These will contain the following elements: 1. Business and people 1hr 25% 2. Production, finance and the external business environment 1hr 30mins 50% There will also be one Controlled Assessment worth 25% of the total grade. It is likely that this will be set in Year 10. The Awarding Body is OCR. Progression This course provides an excellent foundation for AS studies in business or economics in Year 12, or for further education and employment. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Burniston. JBurniston@stivoschool.org Cambridge National in Business and Enterprise Level 2 Course Outline This course is designed to introduce sound business knowledge and skills, in a more applied context, and should be considered as an alternative route to GCSE business studies. It is particularly suited to you if you are good at time management and meeting deadlines, and enjoy producing well-structured pieces of coursework. Whilst there is an exam element (see below) the majority of lessons are devoted to working on coursework, working in small groups or with others, and researching/producing reports/tasks for marking. Assessment It is a vocational course, but one that is equivalent to GCSE. There are three modules: 2 require students to complete coursework, and one is an external exam: Unit 1: Introduction to Business (exam - 25% of final grade) This unit will help you to understand the basics of business organisation, finance, marketing and production, together with how the external environment (the state of the economy, etc) affects business decisions. The exam is one hour long and is based on a pre-released case study, so classroom time can be used to prepare for the exam. The department will give you a revision guide and a past paper pack to help. Unit 2: Planning for work (coursework - 25% of final grade) In this unit you have the task of researching a job you might like to do in the future, and completing research into the skills and qualities that employers look for. You are able to complete mock job application forms and can produce a CV and letter of application. This can help you with your work experience, or provide a good basis for applying for jobs later on. Unit 3: Setting up and running a business (coursework - 50% of final grade) In this unit you need to work in a small team to produce a business plan, and then set up and run a small business for a charity event. You have to decide what to sell, purchase stock, manufacture goods/provide services and hopefully make a profit. Each team is given £50 to set their business up with. At each stage the teams must have meetings and keep a project diary of their decisions. The Awarding Body is OCR. Progression This course provides an appropriate foundation for Applied Business, vocational courses and apprenticeships. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Burniston. JBurniston@stivoschool.org GCSE Child Development Course Outline This is a course which encourages you to develop a sensitivity towards, and respect for, the needs and the development of young children. The course investigates the social background and types of family structure in the UK today, together with facilities available in the community to help the family and families with young children. You will study the roles and responsibilities of parenthood as well as the biological background to pregnancy and child birth. A major part of the syllabus studies the physical, intellectual, social and emotional development of children from 0 - 5 years. The course also provides the students with the opportunity to work with the ‘real care’ babies. The course is equally suitable to girls and boys. Assessment Controlled Assessment and Deadlines The subject is assessed in two ways: Theory: This is a 1 1/2 hour examination at the end of the course 40% Controlled Assessment 60% The first part of the controlled assessment is made up of three short tasks which are chosen from a list provided by the examination board. This will be started in Year 10. Two of the tasks will assess the following skills: planning, practical work and evaluation. The third will assess investigation skills. This represents 30% of the total GCSE marks. The remaining 30% of the total GCSE assessment will involve the students producing a child study. This task is based on the study of a child aged between 0-5 years old. The students will be assessed on the following skills: research, selecting, justifying choices, planning, practical work and evaluation. This will be undertaken in Year 11 and completed by the end of the spring term. This is marked by the teacher and sent to the examination board towards the end of the course for moderation. The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mrs Watton. MWatton@stivoschool.org GCSE Computer Science Course Outline At the time of writing the examination board specifications have not yet been approved and may be subject to change. The aim of this course is to develop your understanding of current and emerging technologies, and acquire and apply knowledge, technical skills and an understanding of the use of algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming. You will acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT in a range of contexts, such as developing computer programs to solve problems and developing skills to work collaboratively. The course is likely to be made up of three components 1. Computer systems Systems architecture Memory Storage Wired and wireless networks Network topologies, protocols and layers Network security System software Moral, social, egal, cultural and environmental concerns 2. Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming Translators and facilities of languages Algorithms High and low level programming Computational logic Data representation 3. Programming project You will need to create suitable algorithms which will provide a solution to a problem, then code your solutions in a suitable programming language. The solutions must be tested at each stage to ensure they solve the stated problem using a suitable test plan with appropriate test data. You will then to provide an evaluation of your solution based on the test evidence. A Computer Science qualification is relevant to the modern and changing world of technology. Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world problems. It is an intensely creative subject that involves invention and excitement. Computer Science qualifications show a high level of computational thinking and skills to solve problems and design systems that do so. Students with a good grasp of mathematics will find much of the subject content of a similar nature (logical reasoning for example) Continued overleaf GCSE Computer Science continued Assessment 2 Examination papers (worth 40% each) 1 Controlled Assessments (worth 20%) The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Ms Wainwright. JWainwright@stivoschool.org BTEC Level 2 First Award Performing Arts: Dance Course Outline This course provides opportunities for you to focus on a variety of dance styles enabling you to develop your skills and ensuring you become a versatile dancer. The course aims to equip students with the appropriate skills for a career in dance and the performing arts sector. This will be delivered through many practical dance workshops based on different styles of dance, choreography, performance, and audition / interview skills. It is mainly a practical course (though there will be classroom work involved) in which you are encouraged to experience many different styles of dance and develop your choreographic and performance skills. Dance is very demanding, with each lesson providing an opportunity for assessment. You will be required to choreograph and perform a range of styles, produce and perform your own company performance and prepare for an audition scenario. Unit 1: Individual Showcase In this module you will: Understand the skills required for dance Present a self-promotional response to the dance performance Perform a dance solo of approximately 1 - 2 minutes Unit 2: Preparation, Performance and Production In this module you will: Take part in the preparations for a live performance Develop a performance piece through choreographic instruction using a range of stimuli. Develop, practise and rehearse skills and techniques appropriate to your performance role. Unit 4: Dance Skills In this module you will: Explore and develop your dance skills and review your own practice. Study at least two dance styles, e.g. contemporary, jazz, musical theatre, street dance, ballet, tap, hip hop, breaking, etc. You are required to attend workshops/lessons to learn technical and physical skills. Use your dance skills within rehearsal and performance. You will be expected to demonstrate personal management and rehearsal skills in the preparation for the performance of dance work to an audience. BTEC assessments will be carried out each half term throughout Years 10 and 11. The Awarding Body is Edexcel. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Miss McAdam LMcadam@stivoschool.org GCSE Design and Technology (Electronics) Course Outline Coursework This course is split into two components: i) Practical Designing and Making: Controlled Assessment ii) Theory of Materials and Processes: Examination This area of focus is concerned with the study of electronic products. In Year 10 you will learn about a range of electronic components and systems through the construction of circuits which become increasingly more sophisticated and complex. Once some of the fundamental principles of circuit construction have been acquired, you will then design and make products based around the development and modification of existing electronic systems. At this point, you have to develop your skills in product design by using materials such as wood, metal and plastic to make well designed products into which their appropriate circuits must operate. The making skills will emphasise the need to identify and select components, the use of computer software through virtual modelling to develop and test circuits, and the making of printed circuit boards. You will effectively use real world modelling including breadboarding and variboard in the development of new circuit ideas and concepts. The course will include the use of tools including cutters, strippers and soldering irons to assemble electronic circuits which function reliably and are robust. You will use equipment such as meters, signal generators and probes to test systems you have built, identifying faults and amending your work accordingly. You will learn how to program and re-program micro-controllers to perform specific functions within a circuit. In the latter half of Year 10 you will embark on your own major project which gives you the opportunity to design electronic products to meet a wide range of needs. You will work cooperatively and show respect for others, their privacy and property. You will also be expected to follow workshop environment health and safety rules and procedures. The Theory of Electronics This element of the course is taught alongside project work as well as via a series of structured homeworks using the electronics logbook. Students with a good grasp of mathematics and physics will find much of the subject content of a similar nature. Examples of some of the areas to be covered include: 1. Conductors and insulators, Ohm’s law, switches, capacitors, fixed and variable resistors, including light dependent resistors, motors, relays and solenoids. 2. How transistors are used as switches and amplifiers to operate output devices such as lamps, motors and relays. 3. How integrated circuits provide dedicated functions. 4. Digital logic including the use of NAND, NOR, AND, OR and FLIPFLOP - and much more. 5. Picaxe technology. Continued overleaf GCSE Design and Technology (Electronics) continued Past experience suggests that students who secure at least a high Level 5 or more in their Maths Teacher Assessment at the end of Year 9 are more likely to achieve in this subject. Assessment Year 11 Controlled Assessment Design and Make Task Year 11 Examination (Theory of Electronics) 60% 40% The Awarding Body is AQA. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Gower. AGower@stivoschool.org GCSE Design and Technology (Graphic Products) Course Outline Coursework This course is split into two components: i) Controlled Assessment. ii) Examination. During Year 10 you will develop your knowledge and understanding of graphic products, through a combination of exercises, short assignments and longer projects. You will cover a broad range of skills and topics including the development of sketching techniques, to enable you to design and ‘think’ on paper and the use of colour, texture and rendering to enhance drawings. Pictorial drawing in perspective and isometric projection will be explored along with the production of working drawings using orthographic projection. Through packaging and presentation projects, aspects of lettering, layout, developments, the production of 2D and 3D product models and displays in a variety of materials will be taught. Other suitable projects and tasks ranging through advertising techniques and product modelling, you will gain experience of the many uses of graphics to communicate, including symbols, signs and logos, graphs and information or instruction sheets, models and mock-ups. An understanding of the available media for graphic production will be developed through classroom work and studies of the work of practising graphic designers. An understanding of the industrial and commercial applications and production of graphics products from ‘one-off’ to bulk production will be developed. Where appropriate, computer word processing, DTP and CAD packages will be used to extend the range of media available. Towards the end of Year 10, you will be in a position to select your major controlled assessment task which carries 60% of the final examination grade. There will be a wide range of possible choices that will be set by the exam board. You will work cooperatively and show respect for others, their privacy and property. You will also be expected to follow workshop environment health and safety rules and procedures. Assessment The final examination which accounts for 40% of the final grade will test your ability to use the graphic skills and techniques you have learned, along with your understanding of the equipment, materials and techniques used for designing graphic products. Year 11 Controlled Design and Make task Year 11 Examination 60% 40% Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Gower. AGower@stivoschool.org GCSE Design and Technology (Resistant Materials) Course Outline Coursework This course is split into two components: i) Practical Designing and Making: Controlled Assessment ii) Theory of Materials and Processes: Examination This area of focus is concerned with the designing and making of products chosen from a variety of contexts using primarily resistant materials such as wood, metal and plastics. During Year 10 you will be given the opportunity to develop a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of resistant materials and in particular storage concepts. This course is designed to build on both theory and practical areas so that you are better equipped for your controlled task in Year 11. You will gain an understanding of theoretical based subject areas including: Principles of storage. The design process. Material properties, characteristics and environmental impact. Cutting lists, scales of production, manufacturing and industrial processes. Accurate joint construction, assembling and finishing techniques. Health and safety. ICT including CAD/CAM. With this extensive knowledge you will develop a storage unit using a variety of joining techniques. You will be shown how to use appropriate hand tools and industrial machinery in a safe and competent manner. You will be shown how to mark out, cut and assemble materials accurately and how to apply various finishing techniques to improve the quality of your storage unit. You will then explore the cutting edge of technology by using CAD/CAM to produce a design that can be successfully incorporated onto your storage unit. Throughout the course you will also be taught sketching and presentation techniques, colour rendering and the production of more formal scale drawings. This is integrated into the design projects as part of the need to extend the quality of your design folders. Towards the end of Year 10 you will select your major controlled task which carries 60% of the final examination grade. This offers a wide range of design based tasks that will be set by the awarding body. You will work cooperatively and show respect for others, their privacy and property. You will also be expected to follow workshop environment health and safety rules and procedures. The Theory of Materials and Processes This element of the course is explored throughout the practical design and make tasks, structured class activities and homework. The knowledge gained will be applied in coursework and tested in the final examination. The final examination, which is worth 40% of the final grade will test your knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, CAD/CAM, links to the real world, new technology, the environment and social responsibility. Continued overleaf GCSE Design and Technology (Resistant Materials) continued Assessment Year 11 Coursework Design and Make task Year 11 Examination 60% 40% The Awarding Body is AQA. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Gower. AGower@stivoschool.org GCSE Drama Course Outline Drama has much to offer you in developing fluency, self-confidence and self expression. It offers an excellent opportunity to you to develop interpersonal skills and is invaluable in generating effective interview techniques. Drama work is devised and performed in teams; constructive criticism forms an integral part of the course. You can choose to be assessed as either a performer or as a designer in the non-exam components. This means that you have the choice to complete the course as a performer, as a designer or through a combination of both roles. The designer option (lighting; sound; set; costume) has its own marking criteria and specification requirements, ensuring you are well supported in taking these options and are credited for the individual skills needed for each discipline. The qualification is made up of three components. There are two non-exam assessments (60% of the overall qualification) and one exam assessment (40% of the overall qualification). Theory and practical work will be integrated throughout the course and all texts studied should be explored practically. Assessment What to expect in the non-exam assessments (60% of qualification) Component 1: Devising Drama 60 marks You will create a devised performance in groups. You will be able to select a starting point from a range of stimuli provided by the exam board. You can choose to work as a performer or designer in this component. Performances will be between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the group. All performances will be supported by a portfolio which is evidence of your devising process and can be made up of a combination of writing, images, observation notes and artefacts. 40 marks: For the evidence in the portfolio. 20 marks: For the final performance. Component 2: Text Performance 60 marks You will study a text chosen by the centre. You will take a part in two performances of two extracts from the text. You can work as a performer or designer in this component. Performance lengths will vary according to the size of the group. In this unit you can work individually, or in a group of up to 6. The time range is between 2 and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the group. You must present at least one performance as part of a group. You will be required to produce an accompanying concept document which outlines your intentions for the performance. 20 marks: Interpretation of the text and creating an intention for performance. 40 marks: For the demonstration of the chosen theatrical skill in the final performance. Continued overleaf GCSE Drama continued Assessment continued What to expect in the exam assessment (40% of qualification) The exam component will be assessed at the end of the qualification and will be 1 hour and 30 minutes in length. You will have to complete two compulsory sections. Section A 50 marks You will be asked about preparing and performing a text. You will draw on the experience of studying a whole text during the course from a list set by the exam board. The questions will focus on the process of creating and developing a performance, working as a director, performer and designer, as well as the performance of a character from the text. Section B 30 marks This section asks you to review a performance you have seen on your course. You will be primarily assessed on your ability to analyse and evaluate, but will also be marked on your accurate use of subject specific terminology. How is the qualification marked? There are four key assessment objectives for the qualification that assess candidates at different points of the creative process: When creating and rehearsing; When reflecting on how meaning has been communicated on stage; When demonstrating their theatrical skill in performance; When evaluating their own work or the work of others. AO1: Create and develop ideas to communicate meaning for theatrical performance (20%) AO3: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how drama and theatre is developed and performed (30%) AO2: Apply theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live performance (30%) AO4: Analyse and evaluate their own work and the work of others (20%) All assessments are taken in Year 11. The Awarding body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please contact Mr N Perry (Head of Drama) or Miss Crellin. NPerry@stivoschool.org or ACrellin@stivoschool.org GCSE Economics Course Outline The GCSE course in economics has been developed in order to provide you with those economic skills which will enable you to understand better the world in which you live. Many aspects of everyday life are related to economic decisions, and media news/information increasingly assumes some understanding of economic terms and concepts. The course will provide you with a stimulating introduction to economic ideas. Topics covered will include population and living standards, types of business organisation, inflation and unemployment, the balance of payments and the EC and the role of the government in the UK economy. Emphasis will be particularly on the development of economic literacy, communication skills and a grasp of ‘current affairs’ economics in order to prepare you to participate more fully in decision-making processes as consumers, producers and citizens. Assessment There are three units of study:Unit 1: How the market works : Assessed with a written exam of 1 hour and worth 25% of the total grade. Unit 2: How the economy works : Assessed with a written exam of 1 hour and worth 25% of the total grade. Unit 3: The UK economy and globalisation : An exam based on a prereleased case study and worth 50% of the final grade. The Awarding Body is OCR. Progression This course provides an excellent foundation for AS studies in business or economics in Year 12, or for further education and employment. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Burniston. JBurniston@stivoschool.org GCSE English Language Course Outline All students will normally take English Language GCSE. Occasionally students are entered for non-GCSE courses when for various reasons they are unlikely to achieve a GCSE grade, but normally close to 100% of the year group are entered for GCSE. Assessment The assessment is based on 100% examination. There is assessment of speaking and listening but this is coursework based and does not contribute to the overall GCSE. The examinations are un-tiered - all students entering sit the same paper. All exam boards follow a similar pattern of assessment with two two-hour examinations at the end of the two year course assessing reading and writing. The course is assessed as follows: Component 1: 20th Century Literature Reading and Creative Prose Writing Written examination 1 hour 45 minutes - 40% of qualification Section A (20%) Reading Understanding of one prose extract (about 60-100 lines) of literature from the 20th century assessed through a range of structured questions. Section B (20%) Prose Writing One creative writing task selected from a choice of four titles. Component 2: 19th and 21st Century Non-Fiction Reading and Transactional /Persuasive Writing Written Examination 2 hours - 60% of qualification Section A (30%) Reading Understanding of two extracts (about 90-1200 words in total) of high quality non-fiction writing, one from the 19th century, the other from the 21st century, assessed through a range of structured questions. Section B (30%) Writing Two compulsory transactional/persuasive writing tasks. Component 3: Spoken Language Non-exam assessment - unweighted One presentation/speech, including responses to questions and feedback. Achievement in Spoken Language will be reported as part of the qualification, but it will not form part of the final mark and grade. English in Years 10 and 11 is taught in broad bands of ability. All students, as far as possible, will take both literature and language GCSE. The Awarding Body is WJEC, Welsh Board. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Andrews. JAndrews@stivoschool.org GCSE English Literature Assessments The majority of students will take both English language and English literature. Assessment is 100% examination with un-tiered end of course examinations. The course introduces students to a wide range of writing in various genres and complements the English language course by focusing on the same skills such as analysis and comprehension. Examinations The course is assessed as follows: Component 1: Shakespeare and poetry Written examination 2 hours - 40% of qualification Section A (20%) Shakespeare One extract question and one essay question based on the reading of a Shakespeare text from the prescribed list. Section B (20%) Poetry from 1789 to the present day Two questions based on poems from the WJEC Eduqas poetry Anthology, one of which involves comparison. Component 2: Post-1914 prose/Drama, 19th Century Prose and unseen poetry Written examination 2 hours and 30 minutes - 60% of qualification Section A (20%) Post-1914 Prose/Drama One source-based question on a post 1914 prose/drama text from the prescribed list. Section B (20%) 19th Century Prose One source-based question on a 19th century prose text from the prescribed list. Section C (20%) Unseen Poetry from the 20th/21st Century Two questions on unseen poems, one of which involves comparison. The Awarding body is WJEC, Welsh Board. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Andrews. JAndrews@stivoschool.org GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition Course Outline This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to cook and apply the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. It encourages you to cook, to make informed decisions about food and nutrition and enables you to be able to feed yourself and others affordably and nutritiously later on in life. This GCSE can also lead on to a level 3/A level in food and nutrition and employment within the vital food industry. The syllabus is divided into the following areas of content: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Food commodities Principles of nutrition Diet and good health The science of food Where food comes from Cooking and food preparation Practical cookery skills are a vital and integral part of this course and makes up most of the coursework element: 50% of the final grade. The costs will vary according to the topic but could average between £3-5 weekly. Assessment This is divided into 2 components: 1. Principles of nutrition. One written exam paper for June 2018. Worth 50% of the final grade. 2. Food preparation and Nutrition in Action; the coursework/practical skills element: Task one: A food science investigation worth 15% of the final grade. Task two: Create dishes as part of a menu worth 35% of the final grade. The coursework element will be marked in school and sent to the examination board for moderation at the end of the course. The Awarding Body is WJEC. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mrs Watton. MWatton@stivoschool.org GCSE French Learning a language opens up a whole world of opportunities. We live in a world of multi-national employers where languages are valued in the workplace. As well as being useful for work, travel and tourism, a language can also help to improve communication skills, literacy and to provide an insight into other cultures. The GCSE courses are not suitable for beginners, but are suited to students who have studied the language as their first foreign language (started in year 7) or their second foreign language (started in Year 8). Course Outline You will learn to use languages in a range of practical situations and will build on the vocabulary and skills learnt in Years 7-9. A variety of relevant and interesting topics are studied. These include: Theme 1: Identity and culture Me, my family and friends Relationships with family and friends Marriage/partnerships Technology in everyday life Social Media Mobile technology Free time activities Music Cinema and TV Food and eating out Sport Customs and festivals in French-speaking countries/communities Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest Home, town, neighbourhood and regional social issues Charity/voluntary work Healthy/unhealthy living Global issues The environment Poverty/homelessness Travel and tourism Theme 3: Current and future study and employment My studies Life at school/college education post-16 Continued overleaf GCSE French continued Assessment Assessment is Linear — all exams are taken at the end of the course. There are four examinations. The four papers each cover one skill: Listening; Speaking; Reading; and Writing. The examinations have (25%) equal weighting for each skill. They can be sat at higher or foundation tier. Students will be graded using the new grading system—1-9 (with 9 being the highest grade available). The Awarding Body is AQA. Progression The introduction of the English Baccalaureate is testament to the fact that colleges, universities and employers recognise the importance of having language at GCSE and the pupils who are thinking of continuing to Further and Higher Education should be learning a language at GCSE. Success at GCSE will give you the skills and confidence which allow progression onto the AS course. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Murphy. JMurphy@stivoschool.org GCSE Geography "Geography is the subject that holds the key to our future" Michael Palin Course Outline The department will be following the new AQA Geography GCSE course (subject to accreditation) in September 2016. The AQA geography GCSE has been chosen for its exciting and interesting content, mixing the more traditional elements of geography combined with new ideas and approaches whilst balancing physical and human themes and enabling students to understand the ever changing relationships between people and the environment in which they live and the increasing challenges that we face. The specification also encourages students to understand their role in society, considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes and tackling global issues such as climate change, deforestation, weather hazards and sustainability. The course is divided into four units: Unit 1 - Living with the Physical Environment - The challenge of natural hazards - The living world - Physical landscapes in the UK Unit 2 - Challenges in the Human Environment - Urban issues and challenges - The changing economic world - The challenge of resource management Unit 3 - Geographical Applications - Issue Evaluation (Pre-released Material) - Fieldwork / Geographical Enquiry Fieldwork Fieldwork is seen as an essential aspect of the course, providing you with an opportunity to consolidate and extend your geographical understanding by relating learning to real life experiences. During the course you will carry out two fieldwork investigations (one physical and one human geography based) outside of the classroom. Your understanding of the geographical enquiry process will be tested as part of the Paper 3 written exam "Geographical Applications". Students are also given the opportunity to take part in the annual trip to Iceland which is open to all GCSE geography students as well as the department's bi-annual international fieldtrip (which in the past has been to South Africa and is currently a trip to the National Parks of Western USA). Continued overleaf GCSE Geography continued Assessment The qualification is linear, which means that you will sit all your exams at the end of the course. The course is assessed by three written exams and includes a mixture of question types, multiple -choice, short answer, levels of response and extended prose. Paper 1 - Living with the Physical Environment - 35% (1 hour 30 minutes) Paper 2 - Challenges in the Human Environment - 35% (1 hour 30 minutes) Paper 3 - Geographical Applications - 30% (1 hour 15 minutes) About the Department The Geography Department enjoys outstanding academic and teaching success and our uptake at GCSE reflects this. In 2015 our Year 11 GCSE Geography cohort achieved over 90% A*-C. Many students who follow the GCSE course have also chosen to pursue it further at A Level. The department is very well resourced, having a wide range of textbooks, ICT facilities and nationally acclaimed online resources, including the departmental website www.geobytes.org.uk dedicated GCSE blog, twitter feed (@StIvoGeography) and facebook page which support student's learning in a variety of different ways. Finding out more Further information about the course and the benefits of taking Geography at GCSE can be found at http://www.geobytes.org.uk/newgcse-sept2016.html Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Chambers RChambers@stivoschool.org GCSE German Learning a language opens up a whole world of opportunities. We live in a world of multi-national employers where languages are valued in the workplace. As well as being useful for work, travel and tourism, a language can also help to improve communication skills, literacy and to provide an insight into other cultures. The GCSE courses are not suitable for beginners, but are suited to students who have studied the language as their first foreign language (started in year 7) or their second foreign language (started in Year 8). Course Outline You will learn to use languages in a range of practical situations and will build on the vocabulary and skills learnt in Years 7-9. A variety of relevant and interesting topics are studied. These include: Theme 1: Identity and culture Me, my family and friends Relationships with family and friends Marriage/partnerships Technology in everyday life Social Media Mobile technology Free time activities Music Cinema and TV Food and eating out Sport Customs and festivals in German-speaking countries/communities Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest Home, town, neighbourhood and regional social issues Charity/voluntary work Healthy/unhealthy living Global issues The environment Poverty/homelessness Travel and tourism Theme 3: Current and future study and employment My studies Life at school/college education post-16 Continued overleaf GCSE German continued Assessment Assessment is Linear — all exams are taken at the end of the course. There are four examinations. The four papers each cover one skill: Listening; Speaking; Reading; and Writing. The examinations have (25%) equal weighting for each skill. They can be sat at higher or foundation tier. Students will be graded using the new grading system—1-9 (with 9 being the highest grade available). The Awarding Body is AQA. Progression The introduction of the English Baccalaureate is testament to the fact that colleges, universities and employers recognise the importance of having language at GCSE and the pupils who are thinking of continuing to Further and Higher Education should be learning a language at GCSE. Success at GCSE will give you the skills and confidence which allow progression onto the AS course. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Murphy. JMurphy@stivoschool.org GCSE History Course Outline The aim of the course is to provide you with a broad understanding of Britain and the world across the centuries. Only through having some knowledge of history can we understand the issues which face us today. The skills developed in the study of history are seen as highly valuable in a whole variety of different areas, including sixth form colleges, universities and work places. The course is most likely to include the following: Paper 1: Thematic study and historic environment Thematic study: Crime and Punishment in Britain, c1000-present. Historic environment: Whitechapel, c1870-c1900: crime, policing and the inner city. Paper 2: Period study and British depth study Period study: Superpower relations and the Cold War, 1941-1991 British depth study: Early Elizabethan England, 1558-1588 Paper 3: Modern depth study The USA 1954-1975: conflict at home and abroad (including the Vietnam War). Content includes the Vietnam War, e.g. The end of French rule; Ho Chi Minh and communism; growing USA involvement; Vietnam War; support and protests. St. Ivo History Department is a great place to study history – WHY? Assessment TRIP: An international trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. The course is lively, fascinating and relevant. High numbers of students choose to study GCSE history each year (150-180). High exam results have been achieved for many years. Many students also go on to study ‘A level’ history because GCSE was so interesting and useful. Department information on www.stivoschool.org Use of YouTube, DVDs, podcasts, department revision books for each paper, extra revision booster sessions. Paper 1: 1hour 15 minute exam worth 30% (Thematic study 20%; Historic environment 10%). Paper 2: 1 hour 45 minutes worth 40% (British depth study 20%; Period study 20%) Paper 3: 1 hour 20 minutes worth 30% The Awarding body is Edexcel (1H10) Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please contact Mr Bamber SBamber@stivoschool.org Cambridge National Award in ICT — Core Course Outline All students will follow the core OCR Cambridge National Award in ICT course by completing the Units: R001 - Understanding computer systems R002 - Using ICT to create business solutions All elements will be covered in school time using the ICT resources available. You will not be disadvantaged if you do not have a computer at home. Course Details During Key Stage 4 you will improve your understanding and effective use of a variety of software packages to develop ICT skills. In addition you will develop your understanding of computer systems used by business organisations. In Unit R001, you will gain knowledge and understanding to use computers more effectively, regardless of the rapidly changing technology. The underlying principles of computers storing and manipulating data, whether from a smartphone or a home PC, will be explored so that you can understand how to use them effectively and safely. You will understand: How ICT can be used to meet business needs How to work with data to meet specific business needs How ICT can support business working practices How legal, ethical, safety and security issues affect how computers should be used In Unit R002, you will develop ICT skills to equip you to operate effectively in a business environment, using a wide range of software packages. You will: Assessment Develop techniques to search for, store and share information Select and use spreadsheets and databases to handle data Select and use word processing, desktop publishing, presentation, web and graphics packages to communicate information for a business purpose The first unit is assessed in a 1 hour written examination. The second unit is teacher-assessed through scenario-based assessments which are completed during lessons. These assessments are externally moderated. The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Ms Wainwright. JWainwright@stivoschool.org Cambridge National Diploma in ICT (Level 2) Course Outline The OCR Cambridge National Diploma in ICT is part of a suite of ICT vocational qualifications designed to: Develop students’ ability to select and use digital applications appropriately and produce high quality outcomes Promote the use of digital applications for achieving a goal, rather than for their own sake Enhance creativity and communication Equip students with some of the skills they will need in the workplace or in further education or training Develop project management skills Encourage students to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of digital applications. You will already be undertaking the OCR Cambridge National Award Level 2 in your core ICT lessons. By taking this option you will study a further 6 units. Students who successfully complete all 8 units will achieve the OCR Cambridge National Diploma in ICT which is the equivalent of 2 GCSEs. The additional units you will study are: R003 - handling data using spreadsheets R004 - handling data using databases R005 - creating an interactive product using multimedia components R006 - creating digital images R007 - creating dynamic products in sound and vision R010 - developing control systems In R003 you will: Create and populate spreadsheets to meet user needs Select and use spreadsheet functions to meet user requirements Use a spreadsheet model to support decision making In R004 you will: Modify databases to meet user requirements Produce outputs from databases to meet user requirements Create interfaces for databases to meet user requirements Analyse a database suitability for a business purpose In R005 you will: Design interactive products such as web pages Create interactive products containing multimedia components Carry out suitable testing In R006 you will: Specify a digital image solution for a client’s needs Create digital images Store, retrieve and present digital images Continued overleaf Cambridge National Diploma in ICT Level 2 continued In R007 you will: Prepare for the production of an animation Create animations Test the functionality of your animation In R010 you will: Assessment Define and design a control system Implement your design using a suitable software application Create a test plan for a control system to ensure it meets user requirements The units listed are teacher-assessed through scenario-based assessments which are completed during lessons. Assessments are externally moderated. To gain the Diploma, all units, including those conducted in core ICT lessons, must be successfully completed. The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Ms Wainwright. JWainwright@stivoschool.org GCSE Latin If you have a passion for languages and/or the ancient world and are eager to study Latin in a wide ranging and varied course, this is the GCSE for you. The course is not intended for beginners and the pre-requisite of the course is a mastery of books 1 and 2 of the Cambridge Latin course. If, however, you have attended entry level Latin (3 declensions, 3 cases, 3 tenses and about 100 items of vocabulary) and wish to take GCSE in Latin you should see Mrs Zähner as soon as possible to arrange to take the abridged book 2 course in the summer term of year 9. Several pupils have done this in previous years and managed to catch-up. Course Outline The new GCSE Latin course is a challenging one and includes the study of Latin language, Latin Literature and Roman Civilisation. The specification is very clearly set out and all aspects of it are explained in the form of a specification and of support booklets. Previous candidates have greatly appreciated the support material and even considered Latin in KS4 to be ‘easier’ than other subjects. Whilst the excellent results for Latin Language would very much support that idea it must be added that the students themselves were very focussed in the course. The material for study is very well defined and can be accessed in printed as well as online form. In Year 10, we will : revise thoroughly but quickly the language structures covered in books 1 and 2 of the Cambridge Latin course. study books 3 and 4 of the Cambridge Latin course, explore Roman Britain and the Roman Army and then look at Imperial Rome and key features of the city of Rome, social structures, architecture, engineering, religious beliefs and entertainment. cover the Roman Civilisation topic which is “Religion in the Roman world”. In Year 11, we will : revise the material in book 4 of the Cambridge Latin course. cover the language structures outlined in book 5 of the Cambridge Latin course. examine aspects of Roman life, such as the Roman country villa, the senatorial career and the Roman legal system. study of literature set for examination in 2018, namely a range of texts on the topic of “a day at the races”. revise the Roman Civilisation topic which is “Religion in the Roman world”. Continued overleaf GCSE Latin continued Assessment All aspects of the course will be examined at the end of Year 11. There are three components and, therefore, 3 papers: 1. 2. 3. Latin Language – a written examination of 1 hour 30 minutes. Questions will be in the form of translation into English and reading comprehension. This paper counts for 50% of the final qualification. Latin Literature (Themes) – a written examination of the open book kind of 1 hour and 15 minutes. Answers are in English on the topic of “a day at the races”. This paper counts for 30% of the final qualification. Roman Civilisation – a written examination of 1 hour on the Roman Civilisation topic of “Religion in the Roman World”. This paper counts for 20% of the final qualification. The Awarding Body is the WJEC in its new form for examination centres in England : Eduqas. Progression Colleges, universities and employers regard highly a GCSE in languages and especially in Latin. We are currently working to introduce “A” level Classical Civilisation so that pupils wanting to continue their study of Roman literature, history and politics at a higher level can do so. GCSE in Latin will be particularly relevant to students intending to read Medicine, Law, Classical Civilisation, Modern and/or Ancient Languages or Ancient History at university and will find a basic knowledge of Latin helpful for, and in some cases a requirement of, their course. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course or have any query concerning Latin please contact Mrs Zähner, Teacher of Classics, or Mr Murphy, Head of Languages PZahner@stivoschool.org or JMurphy@stivoschool.org GCSE Mathematics Course Outline You will follow the national curriculum in mathematics, working towards a GCSE at the end of Year 11. There will be two tiers of entry with the final decision for entry being made after the mock examinations in Year 11. We will enter you for the tier in which you will be more confident about answering most of the questions. Throughout the course you will be expected to work hard to understand each new concept, to complete tasks by set dates and to approach the work in a positive way. You will have the opportunity to use appropriate technology and practical equipment and you should find the work challenging and rewarding. The content of the course should broaden your understanding of the basics, consolidating the skills gained in Years 7 and 8. It will build on the GCSE work you have done in Year 9 and further your achievement in mathematics. There will be opportunities to study more advanced areas of mathematics as well as resolve misconceptions and areas of difficulties. You will be tackling work from areas of mathematics such as algebra, statistics, trigonometry, graphs, numeracy and probability. Assessment Assessment will be by three written examinations at the end of Year 11, one of which allows use of a calculator. There are no controlled assessments in mathematics. The Awarding Body is Edexcel. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Seekings. DSeekings@stivoschool.org GCSE Media and Film Studies Course Information This option will enable you to have the fantastic opportunity to complete your Year 11 studies gaining two GCSEs for the price of one. There is a large crossover between GCSE Media Studies and GCSE Film Studies in terms of subject related language and coursework content. This allows teachers and students the time to be able to work towards two GCSEs instead of just one as both courses complement each other all along the way. Over the last two years, the vast majority of our students successfully completed both GCSE Media Studies and GCSE Film Studies examinations by the end of Year 11, and so the department will continue to work in this way. However, in a minority of cases, the school may decide during Year 11 that it would be in a student's better interests to only sit one award, thereby securing a high grade, rather than obtaining lower grades across both subjects. A student in this position would go forth to sit the one GCSE for which they have the stronger chance of achieving a high grade based upon coursework marks. The course is offered as “Media and Film Studies” on the request form. Media Studies Course Outline The mass Media plays an increasingly more important role in contemporary society, providing us with information from a variety of angles as well as entertainment. In addition, the media plays an important part in shaping attitudes and social values. Media Studies seeks to encourage the students to foster a critical understanding of a range of Media texts and the ways in which they are read and understood by different audiences. You will be expected to develop a critical awareness of how Media represents individuals and issues, and engage with the debates surrounding the role of the Media in contemporary society. You can also expect various opportunities to explore and represent your own ideas by developing practical production skills. The course covers a wide variety of Media categories including: Film, Photography and the Still Image, Newspapers, Magazines, CD covers, Film Posters, Comics, Digital Stories, the World Wide Web, Television Drama and Comedy, TV and Internet News, Animated Film and Advertising. Media Studies Assessment Externally Assessed Examination: (at the end of Year 11) 40% A 2¼ hour exam paper (not tiered) in two parts: Section A) Thinking about the Media (Investigation): Candidates’ knowledge and understanding of a set topic is assessed here. Section B) Thinking about the Media (Planning): This part of the assessment focuses on the convergent nature of the Media. Internal Controlled Assessment: (at intervals throughout Year 10) 60% (a) (b) 2 pieces of textual investigation of 350 to 750 words, one based on genre and the other based on narrative or representation. Only one piece can be based on the exam topic. A print based Media production and an evaluative report. The Awarding Body is WJEC. Continued overleaf GCSE Media and Film Studies continued Film Studies Course Outline GCSE Film Studies is an exciting new subject organised by WJEC that well compliments the existing GCSE Media Studies course. The two courses have several links in terms of the skill set required and the specific language terms required to be able to understand and fully access the programme of study. Film Studies gives you the chance to develop your Media understanding in the direction of one of the biggest and most interesting media industries, studying mainstream cinema as well as films from outside Hollywood. You can also choose from a range of film production tasks and develop your ability to research. The subject can be followed onto GCE AS/A Level also using the WJEC syllabus. Film Studies Assessment Externally Assessed Examination: 50% There are four compulsory questions focusing on the Superheroes film genre assessing knowledge and understanding of film language and key industry and audience issues. There are three more compulsory questions on one film from outside Hollywood. Questions are based on characters, narratives, themes and issues in the chosen film; the way people, places, events and issues are represented in the film and a creative question involving individual responses to the film (eg. a review, a blog or a website). Internal Controlled Assessment: (from the summer term in Year 10 to the end of the Autumn term in Year 11) 50% 1. 2. Exploring a film of your choice (Two Tasks) - an industry research and a micro analysis of an extract from the film. Production (Four Tasks) - You will create a pitch for an imaginary film; a pre-production and a final production of one of the pitched film ideas. Then, a brief evaluative analysis of the final production. The Awarding Body is WJEC. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Alexander. SAlexander@stivoschool.org GCSE Music Course Outline The GCSE music course comprises three main elements: (1) Performing music, (2) Composing music, and (3) Listening and appraising music. Students study these main elements through both practical and theoretical tasks to help them build up their understanding of how different styles of music work. They will then be able to apply this knowledge when performing and composing music of their own. The performance and compositions sections are worth 60%. In order to take GCSE music you do not need to consider yourself an advanced musician or have lessons on an instrument already. However, since there is a performance element we strongly recommend that students taking the course begin lessons on an instrument if they do not already play or sing. Lessons are available through the school; parents should contact the Headteacher directly if financial assistance is required. The essential ingredients for the course are an enjoyment of the subject and a genuine interest in how music works. Music studied on the course includes a wide range of styles, from classical through jazz and musicals to modern pop music. Any instrument is therefore accepted for performance. There are four detailed areas of music studied on the course: ‘Concerto Through Time’, ‘Rhythms of the World’, ‘Film Music’, and ‘Pop Conventions’. These areas of study have an over-reaching influence on all sections of the examination and assessments. Assessment Performing (30%) – coursework assessment You will perform as a soloist on your chosen instrument (which includes singing) and in an ensemble (part of a group of two or more people). These will be recorded and marked in school by your teacher over the course. You can perform as many pieces as you want, but they must add up to at least 4 minutes, with at least 1 minute of ensemble playing. Playing an active role in the extra-curricular music of the school very much helps with the ensemble performance! Composing (30%) – coursework assessment You will compose, with help from your teacher, two pieces. One piece can be anything that you like – a song, a piece for piano, a samba piece – and the other will be a composition to a brief set by the exam board. The two compositions should be at least three minutes long when added together. You will have time at home and in lessons to research, plan and compose the pieces, but you have to write them up in controlled conditions at school. This will happen in Year 11. Listening and Appraising (40%) – examination, summer term Year 11 You will study four areas of music, listening and learning about a range of pieces in each topic. You will learn to understand and analyse different types of music, some familiar and some very new to you! In the exam you will hear music that you have not heard before, but that will be related to the four areas of study. Continued overleaf GCSE Music continued Assessment Deadlines Assessments will be written up and recorded under controlled conditions (i.e. in school in lesson time) but much time and effort should have gone into it at home and in school first, as it should be thoroughly planned before being written up. The final assessment deadline will be in March or April of Year 11. However, internal deadlines will be set regularly to check that all is going well with your work, and so that teachers can give feedback and guidance on where to go next. Teachers will use 1:1 tutorials to help with preparation for assessments. The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mrs Bell. ABell@stivoschool.org GCSE Philosophy, Religion and Ethics Do you ......... Want to work with people? Want to travel? Plan to study at university? Plan to find a job in the community? Course Outline Love debating issues and forming arguments? Enjoy learning about the lives of people from different cultures? Listen to others? Enjoy learning about yourself and developing your own ideas? Love learning about the world and what makes it tick? Find other people and their beliefs and way of life fascinating? Enjoy watching events as they unfold in the news? Topics we study: War and Peace Animal testing Racism Sexism Abortion Euthanasia Fertility treatment Poverty Suffering Religion Politics Psychology Science Human Rights Crime and punishment Death sentence Identity and belonging Life and death Sex and marriage We study the way that religion has become an important force in individual lives, society, world politics and history. We will follow the news as it unfolds around the beliefs and issues we are studying, as well as watching popular films, which tackle the issues we study and having discussion and debates around topical events both in St Ives and the world at large. If you are planning to work with people, travel or work abroad, or plan to study a degree which requires critical thinking, including law or medicine, then this is the course for you. We have various visitors and visits which have recently included India, New York, Walsingham, Ely, Rome, Auschwitz and Poland to complement the study of our ethics courses. Assessment There are two written examination papers (100%) at the end of the two years. The Awarding body is WJEC. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mrs KentonHowells. EKenton-Howells@stivoschool.org GCSE Science Subject Outline At St Ivo Science Department we offer different pathways for students to follow at Key Stage 4. The rationale behind this is to ensure that we can meet the diverse aims and ambitions of today’s students. Furthermore, we aim to ensure that all students will gain experience of practical laboratory science, and develop their team working and communication skills. Our aim is to deliver an engaging and interesting science experience to every student. Pathway 1: Combined Science Edexcel GCSE Science This is the new Science GCSE that will replace the current double science qualification. It is still worth 2 GCSEs. All exams are taken at the end of year 11 and there is no course work. You will do required practicals throughout the course that are essential to passing it. Combined Science is composed of Biology, Chemistry and Physics and all students will get a broad, balanced education in all three of the sciences. This qualification is studied by most Key Stage 4 students and allows progression to all A-Level sciences. At the end of the course you will take 6 exams, 2 in Biology, 2 in Chemistry and 2 in Physics. The scores will be amalgamated and 2 GCSEs awarded according to their total. Pathway 2: Separate Science Edexcel GCSE Biology Chemistry Physics For some students separate sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics is the best route to take. These students will achieve 3 GCSE qualifications, one in each science. This pathway has more content and is more suitable for students who have demonstrated excellent progress and attainment in KS3 and have a natural aptitude and relish for science. All exams are taken at the end of year 11 and there is no course work. This qualification also allows progression to all A-Level sciences. At the end of the course you will take 6 exams, 2 in Biology, 2 in Chemistry and 2 in Physics. You will be awarded individual GCSE grades in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Towards the end of year 9, the school will review the progress of students and advise parents on the most suitable route for you through Key Stage 4. Further Study Both pathways can lead on to Advanced Level science qualifications at Sixth Form level if you achieve well and wish to continue your studies. The Awarding Body is Edexcel. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Slingsby. ESlingsby@stivoschool.org GCSE Sport & PE Course Outline The specification provides you with an opportunity to study both the practical and theoretical aspects of physical education. It is also designed to foster enjoyment in physical activity. The knowledge gained should enable you to develop an understanding of effective and safe physical performance. GCSE PE/OCR Cambridge Nationals in Sports Level 2 will cover one option block. At the start of Year 10, the department will recommend which pathway is more suitable for you. You will then prepare for your final exams in OCR GCSE PE or OCR Cambridge Nationals in Sports Level 2. At the end of this course you will gain one GCSE in PE or the equivalent of one GCSE for the National Level 2 Award. Both of these courses will enable you to access either the A’ level PE course or the Cambridge Technical Level 3 Course in the sixth form. GCSE PE Specification — this is subject to accreditation by Ofqual Assessment This is an interesting and challenging learning experience. In it we introduce key sporting ideas and show how these interact with practical performance, you will gain insights into the relationships they have with each other throughout the course. The development of transferable skills including: decision making, psychological understanding of people, independent thinking, problem solving and analytical skills as well as thinking, acting and reacting under pressure. Content Overview Applied anatomy and physiology Physical training Socio-cultural influences Sports psychology Health, fitness and wellbeing Practical activity assessment Evaluating and Analysing Performance (EAP) Assessment Overview Physical factors affecting performance 60 marks 1 hour Written paper 30% of total GCSE Socio-cultural issues and sports psychology 60 marks 1 hour Written paper Performance in physical education 80 marks Non-exam assessment 30% of total GCSE 40% of total GCSE Continued overleaf GCSE Sport & PE continued Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. The Awarding Body is OCR. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Havard. CHavard@stivoschool.org Cambridge National Sports Level 2 Course Outline This course offers an introductory vocational qualification that provides students with the solid foundation required for further progression into the Sports industry. You will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of highly desirable and transferable skills through practical means. You will be able to spend more time on both the practical and theoretical aspects of sport, complete your portfolios and prepare thoroughly for the written examination. The course will include the following mandatory units: 1. 2. Contemporary issues in sport Developing sports skills and two other optional units from: Assessment Sport and the media Developing knowledge and skills in outdoor activities Sports leadership Unit 1 is externally assessed by a written examination. All other units are internally assessed. These assessments are criterion referenced, based on the achievement of specified outcomes. Each unit has specified criteria to be used for grading. The Awarding Body is OCR. Please note that some courses for 2016 are yet to be accredited and therefore may be subject to change. Updated information will be added on the school website as it becomes available. If you are interested in finding out more about the course, please see Mr Havard. CHavard@stivoschool.org St Ivo School Year 9 into 10 Guided Choices Form, September 2016 Name: ____________________________________________________________ Form: 9 _______________ All students will follow a core curriculum which includes English, Maths, Science, Computing, PE and PSHE. Section 1 You must choose one subject from the list below. Put a tick by that subject. French German Geography History Latin Or other Home Language (Polish, Bengali etc…) Please say which one has been agreed with your Head of Year Section 2 Now choose a further 3 subjects, from the table below. Don’t tick again the one you have already selected in Section 1. Students being entered for Home Language above should choose 4 subjects. Business Studies Cambridge National Business & Enterprise Cambridge National ICT Cambridge National Sports Child Development Computer Science Dance Drama Economics Electronics Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German Graphic Products History Latin Media and Film Studies Music Painting & Drawing Philosophy, Religion & Ethics Resistant Materials Sculpture Sport & PE Textiles Entry Level 3 Car Mechanics BTEC Level 1 Construction BTEC Level 1 Home Cooking ASDAN Level 1 Pathway Award BTEC Level 1 Travel & Tourism Section 3 Please choose 2 reserves from either Section 1 or Section 2 above, in case you cannot do all of the subjects you have chosen. Reserve 1 ____________________________________ Reserve 2 ____________________________________ Student’s Signature: ____________________________________ Parent’s/Carer’s Signature: ____________________________________ Checked by Tutor: ____________________________________ There are 2 copies of this form. You should complete both. Return one to school by Monday 29 February 2016. Keep the other for your reference. IMPORTANT The courses outlined will only take place if there are sufficient numbers of students. If a course does not run, your son/daughter will be interviewed. The alternatives will be explained and we will write to parents/carers. Parents/carers are welcome to come into school to discuss any changes. St Ivo School Year 9 into 10 Guided Choices Form, September 2016 Name: ____________________________________________________________ Form: 9 _______________ All students will follow a core curriculum which includes English, Maths, Science, Computing, PE and PSHE. Section 1 You must choose one subject from the list below. Put a tick by that subject. French German Geography History Latin Or other Home Language (Polish, Bengali etc…) Please say which one has been agreed with your Head of Year Section 2 Now choose a further 3 subjects, from the table below. Don’t tick again the one you have already selected in Section 1. Students being entered for Home Language above should choose 4 subjects. Business Studies Cambridge National Business & Enterprise Cambridge National ICT Cambridge National Sports Child Development Computer Science Dance Drama Economics Electronics Food Preparation & Nutrition French Geography German Graphic Products History Latin Media and Film Studies Music Painting & Drawing Philosophy, Religion & Ethics Resistant Materials Sculpture Sport & PE Textiles Entry Level 3 Car Mechanics BTEC Level 1 Construction BTEC Level 1 Home Cooking ASDAN Level 1 Pathway Award BTEC Level 1 Travel & Tourism Section 3 Please choose 2 reserves from either Section 1 or Section 2 above, in case you cannot do all of the subjects you have chosen. Reserve 1 ____________________________________ Reserve 2 ____________________________________ Student’s Signature: ____________________________________ Parent’s/Carer’s Signature: ____________________________________ Checked by Tutor: ____________________________________ There are 2 copies of this form. You should complete both. Return one to school by Monday 29 February 2016. Keep the other for your reference. IMPORTANT The courses outlined will only take place if there are sufficient numbers of students. If a course does not run, your son/daughter will be interviewed. The alternatives will be explained and we will write to parents/carers. Parents/carers are welcome to come into school to discuss any changes.