The Grammar School
Guernsey
GCSE Options
2009-2011
GCSE Courses 2009-11 Year 10 Options
As you approach the end of Year 9 and the first phase of secondary education (Key Stage 3), it is
necessary to make some important choices about the courses you wish to follow at GCSE level. The
implementation of a National Curriculum means that all students study the same core subjects and
choose from a limited number of options.
This booklet gives information about the choices available and some advice about making those
choices.
You will receive further information in PSHCE lessons and from teachers and tutors.
We will try, as far as possible, to enable you to study the options you choose, but you must be aware
that certain constraints including:



staff availability;
the arrangement of subjects in timetable blocks;
viable teaching set numbers;
mean your choices cannot be guaranteed.
Making choices
We are concerned that these decisions are made with the involvement of all concerned. We will be
explaining the options and providing guidance to you during the next few weeks.
Your parents will receive a letter explaining the process and will have an opportunity to discuss
matters at the Parents’ Evening on Thursday 19 March, at which careers advice will also be available.
You are required to return your option choice form by Thursday 26 March. Forms should be returned
to the school office. All forms returned by this date will be treated equally and there is no advantage
in handing them in early. There is much to be gained by considering your options carefully and
making the right choices.
If you require any further help or information, please speak to your Tutor, your Head of Year, The
Head of Careers or Mr Sebire (Deputy Head).
In making option choices, think carefully about the following points:
1.
choose subjects which take account of your abilities, interests, enjoyment and commitment.
2.
choose subjects which keep your options open at later stages, ie. when choosing Sixth Form
courses or a career. Careers guidance is available to you from The Head of Careers, and
information about A Levels from the Sixth Form Management team.
3.
talk with people before you make a decision. Good sources of information are your subject
teachers, tutors, and the students in Years 10 and 11 currently taking the courses. Make sure
you discuss your choices with your parents.
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Programmes of Study at Key Stage 4
(Years 10 & 11)
The programme of study followed by all students in Years 10 and 11 consists of GCSE courses, each
of two years duration. In addition, lessons are provided in Physical Education, Games, Careers
Guidance and Personal, Social, Citizenship and Health Education, which do not lead to a
qualification.
The programme of study consists of two types of course:
A Compulsory core;
B Optional subjects.
A. The compulsory core:
English
English Literature
Mathematics (Statistics)
Information and Communication Technology*
Religious Studies*
Science - either a double or triple GCSE
certification
Modern Foreign Language
French or German or Spanish
* a GCSE short course. Equivalent to a half GCSE and counted as such in GCSE scoring
systems.
This core is studied by all students.
B. The optional subjects available:
The optional part of your programme of study is made up of two subjects you choose from those
listed below. You may choose freely from this list but should bear in mind the advice given on the
previous page.
Art
French
Business Studies
Geography
Design Technology (Graphic Products)*
History
Design Technology (Resistant Materials)*
Home Economics (Food & Nutrition)
Drama
Music
* You may study only one of the Design & Technology courses.
In addition to the two subjects you choose from the list above you may also choose to study a GCSE
short course in Physical Education. This subject will be taught, to students who select it, during
normal Physical Education and some Games lessons.
By choosing in this way you will follow a programme of study consisting of between 9 - 11½
GCSE’s.
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A GCSE CORE SUBJECTS
All students study the following subjects to GCSE.
English and English Literature
Head of Department: Mrs L Jeffery
The work in this double GCSE is interesting, varied and includes
coursework. Speaking and Listening is assessed throughout the course
and counts for 20% of the English course. Writing and Reading count for
another 10% each. English Literature is similar with 30% coursework.
Assessment: English
Coursework
40%
Examination
60%
Assessment: English Lit.
In English, Shakespeare is compulsory as coursework and may be
Coursework
30%
examined in Literature. To date, students have enjoyed the modern film
Examination
70%
version of ‘Romeo and Juliet’, as well as close textual study. Topical
media texts form an interesting section of the course. A wide range of
poetry is studied and enjoyed, including poetry from other cultures. In Year 10 debating skills are
taught through participation in the Youth Speaks competition.
Students are encouraged to become responsible for organising their own work and for making
relevant contributions. They become adept at articulating informed opinion. Naturally, wide reading
is an essential component for success. Well-organised, imaginative and accurate written responses
are encouraged.
Mathematics
Head of Department: Mr K James
Mathematics is a core subject with two tiers of assessment. All
students follow a modular scheme (AQA Specification B) at the
Higher Tier, allowing access to grades A*-D.
The subject content is presented under the following assessment
objectives:
Ma1
Ma2
Using and applying mathematics
Number and Algebra
Ma3
Ma4
Assessment: Mathematics
Three modular examinations
Module 1
18%
Module 3
27%
Module 5
55%
Shape, space and measures
Handling Data
The scheme allows students to take the first two modules early in the course. Module 1 covers
‘Handling Data’ and Probability, while Module 3 is based mainly upon the numeracy component of
‘Number and Algebra’. Module 5 - which comprises Algebra, Shape and spatial reasoning - is taken
at the end of Year 11. ‘Using and applying mathematics’ is assessed through all the modules. The
division of the subject into discrete topic areas gives candidates the opportunity to recognize and
develop their strengths and to overcome weaknesses, with the chance to re-sit modules prior to final
certification.
N.B. Set 1 follows an accelerated scheme, completing the GCSE course in Year 10 and studying
Additional Mathematics in Year 11.
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Science
Head of Department: Dr P Gabriel
The provisions of the National Curriculum
(Guernsey) require all students aged between 14
and 16 to study a balanced course in science
which includes elements of biology, chemistry
and physics.
Assessment: Science
Year 10
Year 11
Course
Science
Practical skills –
teacher assessed
Edexcel activities Teacher assessed
Multiple choice tests
(Nov, Mar, June)
Structured Questions
10%
Additional
Science
10%
30%
30%
At the Grammar School, the majority of students
60%
30%
pursue courses which lead to two GCSE
qualifications in science – Edexcel 360 Science
30%
and Edexcel 360 Additional Science. Success at
grade B and above in these qualifications provides students with the entry requirements for science
courses in the sixth form. The two qualifications along with appropriate grades at GCE Advanced
Level also provide access to courses in science, engineering and medicine at all UK universities.
In addition, the school also provides the opportunity for up to 26 students in year 10 to follow courses
which lead to separate GCSE certification in biology, chemistry and physics. These three courses are
completed in the same time as the two described above, and as a result involve a much faster pace of
work including extended homework and more examinations. Selection of students to follow this
route to GCSE is made following the end of year examination in June, and places are offered strictly
on the basis of scores achieved in that examination. It should be stressed that failure to secure a
place on this more demanding course will not affect the prospects of students wishing to study
science at Advanced Level or beyond.
Information and Communication Technology
Head of Department: Mrs P Higgs
All students follow a short course GCSE which gives them an
Assessment: ICT
understanding of the use of ICT in society today and an
Coursework
60%
awareness of the effect it has on our lives, as well as the
Examination
40%
opportunity to increase their skills in the use of ICT
applications. It gives a firm grounding for them in their career and for life long learning.
The course consists of two modules.
Module 1
Computer systems, communications technology and information management.
Module 2
Practical skills and understanding relating to the use of ICT applications
The course is assessed on two pieces of coursework and one end of course written examination.
One piece of coursework is presenting information and involves mostly communication and key
skills. The second piece is related to Handling Data with production and investigation of a data base.
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Religious Studies
Head of Department: Mr P Montague
All students in Years 10 and 11 take a short GCSE course in
Religious Studies. The purpose of the course is to give you the
opportunity to think deeply and carefully about some of the most
important philosophical and moral questions humans ask.
Assessment: Religious Studies
Coursework
0%
Examination
100%
The course we have chosen is divided into four sections:
Believing in God, Matters of Life and Death, Marriage and the Family, Religion and Community
Cohesion..
Whatever your beliefs or attitudes, this course will engage you and make you question your
assumptions and those of your society.
The course is assessed by one exam lasting 1½ hours.
“This is no small matter. We are discussing how we ought to live.” Socrates.
Modern Foreign Languages
Head of Department: Mrs J Romanillos
Students will have the opportunity to take up one of the following language courses at GCSE in core
MFL lessons:
Either French or Spanish or German
If students choose to study Spanish or German they may also study
French by choosing it as one of their option subjects.
Assessment: All languages
Examination
100%
Listening 20%
Speaking 30%
Reading
20%
Writing
30%
The specification for languages at GCSE follows logically on from the
work covered in Key Stage 3. A thematic approach to developing the four language skills of
listening, speaking, reading and writing continues throughout Years 10 and 11 in each language.
Grammatical concepts are incorporated with particular emphasis on the present, perfect, imperfect
and future tenses. Some of the main GCSE examination topics include home life, self, family and
friends, Guernsey, meeting people, school routines at home and abroad, finding the way, transport,
eating and drinking, holidays and leisure activities.
The Modern Languages Department is a successful and thriving section of the school in which all
students working soundly can expect to gain at least one GCSE grade in the A*-C range.
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B GCSE OPTION SUBJECTS
All students select two subjects from this category.
Art
Head of Department: Miss S Nicolle
We aim to study a variety of themes, skills and media. Drawing is
Assessment: Art
an important basis of the course. Coursework units need to show a
Coursework
50%
range of materials, preparatory work, recorded observations,
Examination
50%
processes, historical references and studies of the work of other
artists. The examination is based on starting points from a question paper. The final piece is limited
to 10 hours and the same criteria apply as in coursework.
In order to achieve success students need to be motivated as well as talented. At least two hours of
homework per week is required. This can be completed in the art rooms at lunchtime, after school or
at home.
Business Studies
Head of Department: Mr M Smith
GCSE Business Studies is a unit-based course which
examines the functions supporting every type of business.
Units studied include:
 Getting started in a business
 Expanding your business
 Keeping financial records
 Working with employees, government and society
Assessment: Business Studies
Coursework
25% (approx 3000
words)
Examination
75% (2 hrs)
The specification is designed to promote a practical approach to learning business studies. It is
student-centred, with strong teacher support and guidance. The use of ICT applications is
encouraged.
This course requires no previous knowledge of Business Studies.
Design and Technology: Graphic Products
Head of Department: Mr S Nicholson
Assessment: Graphic Products
Design and Technology: Graphic Products is all about looking at,
Coursework
60%
understanding and improving products and environments so that
Examination
40%
people’s lives can be made simpler, easier and more comfortable.
We hope our students will become adaptable in producing designs that will be suitable for the ever
changing world.
Students will be expected to complete a number of ‘design and make’ tasks, these are structured to
help them to improve the way they:
 approach problem solving,
 identify the strengths and weaknesses of other designs,
 produce creative and imaginative ideas,
 present their ideas in ways that allow other people to understand them easily,
 use modern technology, such as Computer Aided Design and Manufacture, to develop and
produce their work.
The Graphic Products course addresses all the above concepts but concentrates on the use of graphic
media and aims to develop skills involved in Graphic Design such as layout and designing for print,
advertising and packaging. Larger designs are also worked on but the final outcome is modelled from
suitable materials, in this way architectural and interior design projects are possible. Many of these
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skills will not only be useful in Design and Technology but will also be useful in and transferable to
other areas of the school curriculum.
During the Graphic Products course students divide their time between developing relevant
knowledge and techniques, and working on design tasks, these will allow the students to develop
their own ideas individually and in small groups. The GCSE will be assessed through a final end of
course exam which concentrates on the students knowledge and understanding of the subject. In
addition students are assessed on a design project which involves designing a solution to a realistic
problem.
This course provides an excellent route into A Level Product Design (Graphic Products or Resistant
Materials) and hence towards Design based University courses and careers such as Product Design,
Graphic Design and Architecture. Despite being a demanding course many students find it a
rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Nb Design & Technology is a single GCSE and only one Design & Technology
option may be studied i.e. either Graphic Products or Resistant Materials
Design and Technology: Resistant Materials
Head of Department: Mr N Smith
This subject involves students in the process of looking at mass
produced products to highlight how they can be responsibly
designed and made in order to enhance people’s lives. Our goal
is to equip the students so that they can respond to a rapidly
changing future.
Assessment: Resistant Materials
Coursework
60%
Examination
40%
Students learn through a number of ‘design and make tasks’ to: Identify real-life problems and produce effective solutions.
 design in such a way that they account for the environment and associated moral concerns.
 be innovative and imaginative
 communicate their ideas in many different ways such as; freehand sketching, modelling and
photo-real media.
 use modern design and manufacture methods such as 3D Computer Aided Design and the
Laser Cutting Machine.
This learning supports important skills within many other subject areas of the curriculum.
The GCSE grade that students achieve is based upon a final exam (40%) and one piece of coursework
(60%); both of these Units are taught with a combination of class-work theory, practical experience
and experimentation. These experiences involve both individual and group work.
This course provides an excellent route into A-Level Product Design (both Graphic Products and
Resistant Materials) and hence towards Design based University courses and careers such as Product
Design, Industrial Design and Engineering.
In the past Design & Technology: Resistant Materials has been a particularly demanding course due
to the practical element, in recognition of this fact the Examination Board is now asking for smaller
and more innovative coursework projects that can be completed in 40 hours over a 12 month period.
Consequently, students find this a rewarding and enjoyable experience with a great sense of personal
achievement.
This course follows the core designing skills in Design and Technology but concentrates more on the
use of resistant materials; individual designs are realised in the most appropriate material (usually
wood, metal or plastics or any combination of these).
Nb Design & Technology is a single GCSE and only one Design & Technology option
may be studied i.e. either Graphic Products or Resistant Materials
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Drama
Head of Department: Mrs K Edwards
The controlled assessment is continually assessed throughout the
Assessment: Drama
two-year course. Candidates present practical work of scripted,
Controlled Assessment 60%
devised or Theatre in Education. Past scripted performances
Examination (90 min)
40%
have included ‘Accidental Death of an Anarchist’ by Dario Fo,
‘Shakers’ by John Godber and ‘Blue Remembered Hills’ by Dennis Potter. All candidates must
perform. There is also a written element which consists of analysis of students’ own practical work
with comparisons to other theatrical work they have studied.
Students opting for Drama must be willing to attend theatre productions
and rehearse out of school time.
French
Head of Department: Mrs J Romanillos
This option is available for those students who have chosen to study
German or Spanish in their core MFL lessons and who wish to
continue with two languages at GCSE.
This option will enable them to obtain a qualification in Spanish and
French or German and French at GCSE.
Assessment: French
Examination
100%
Listening 20%
Speaking 30%
Reading
20%
Writing
30%
Students follow the same course and are examined in the same way as those taking French in the
main MFL block.
Geography
Head of Department: Mrs J Falla
25% 1 hour Decision Making
This course offers first hand experience of real issues in
the local environment and also investigates global concerns. Examination paper based on pre-release
There is an opportunity to undertake coursework
(controlled assessment) through enquiry, based on field
work.
material.
25% controlled assessment of fieldwork.
50% 1.5 hour exam based on the four
main themes.
There are four main themes:
Theme 1: Rivers and Coasts
Theme 2: Population and Settlement
Theme 3: Natural Hazards
Theme 4: Economic Development
Studying Geography widens students’ horizons and helps them become better world citizens.
Geography contributes to employability. Employers like qualifications in Geography because they
demonstrate a wide range of skills, including data collection and analysis, computer literacy, selfmotivation and team work skills.
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History
Head of Department: Mr D Fletcher
Modern European and World History
Assessment: Food & Nutrition
Controlled assessment
25%
The specification runs from the early 20th Century to the
Examination
75%
present day and aims to give candidates a clear understanding
of the key issues that have shaped the modern world. It also
aims to develop students’ awareness of how the past has been represented, interpreted and accorded
significance for different reasons and purposes.
Content:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Peace and War: International Relations 1943-1991
Modern World Depth Study: Russia 1917-39
Modern World Source Enquiry: A divided Union? The USA 1945-1970
Controlled assessment
Home Economics (Food and Nutrition)
Head of Department: Miss A Perrio
Main areas of study:
 Nutrition and Health
 Food commodities
 Meal Planning
 Food Preparation and Cooking
 Food Safety and Preservation
 Consumer Education
Assessment: Food & Nutrition
Coursework
60%
Examination
40%
Assessment:
 Written examination
 Several pieces of coursework of varying lengths – involving individual research and practical
work.
Students will cook on a regular basis (usually once a week) and will be expected to provide their own
ingredients. Initially students will be given a selection of recipes to work with but as the course
progresses they will select appropriate dishes to meet the requirements of particular assignments.
Music
Head of Department: Mrs M Pugh
This course is a continuation of work done in Years 7-9.
The work is progressively more advanced but will still
consist of Listening, Composing and Performing.
Assessment: Music
Performing
30%
Composing
30%
Listening
40%
Two compositions will be submitted for assessment. For the performance paper candidates will
record one solo and one ensemble piece, which can be instrumental or vocal. It is recommended that
candidates should be a minimum of grade 3 on one instrument at the start of the course. Additionally
candidates have a 1 hour 30 minute listening examination in Year 11, based on four areas of study,
which include: Western classical and 20th century music; popular music styles and world music.
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Physical Education – Short Course
Head of Department: Mr D Legg
GCSE Physical Education is taught as a short course during normal
Pe lessons. Students choose to follow the GCSE course instead of
their normal Pe lessons. The course comprises of one practical
session and one theory session per week, and focuses on aspects
of sport that help to improve performance.
Assessment: Physical Education
Course Work
60%
Examination (1hr) 40%
Written exam: Factors affecting performance and participation in physical activity
Training
Aspects of fitness
Physical activity
Coursework:
The effective performance and analysis of physical activities
Health related exercise programme
Assessed practical performances
The aims this specification are to enable candidates to acquire knowledge and understanding of the
different factors which affect performance and participation in physical activities and also the fitness
and health benefits and risks associated with taking part in physical activity. The different parts of the
assessment of practical activities have been designed to provide opportunities for candidates to
acquire and apply different skills and techniques.
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