Queen’s College London
GCSE Information Booklet
Queen’s College London
2015
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GCSE Information Booklet
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Queen’s College London
Contents
Your GCSE choices made simple
5
Subject information: core subjects
11
Subject information: modern foreign languages
15
Subject information: your options
21
Subject information: non-examined subjects
33
Summary of subject specifications
37
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GCSE Information Booklet
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Queen’s College London
Your GCSE
choices
made
simple
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GCSE Information Booklet
YOUR CORE SUBJECTS
 You must take:
o the core subjects of English, English Literature, Mathematics and
Science.
o at least one Modern Foreign Language. This could be French or it
could be the other language you are studying this year (German, Italian,
Mandarin or Spanish). You could choose to continue both languages by
choosing a language as one of your subject options.
 All Science lessons will be taught as separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics
lessons with subject specialist teachers but you will either do:
o ‘Triple Science’ which leads to GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry
and GCSE Physics (i.e. three separate GCSE qualifications in each of
the three sciences). Please note: you may only study ‘Triple Science’
with the agreement of the Head of Science.
o or ‘Double Award Science’ which leads to GCSE Science and
GCSE Additional Science (i.e. two separate GCSE qualifications in
Science which both include Biology, Chemistry and Physics content).
 You will also have non-examined lessons in:
o Core PE
o PSHEE
o Private Study
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Queen’s College London
YOUR CORE SUBJECTS
Subject
Lessons
per
week
GCSE qualification
English
6
IGCSE English and
IGCSE English Literature
Mathematics
5
IGCSE Mathematics
EITHER ‘Triple Science’
GCSE Biology and
GCSE Chemistry and
GCSE Physics
10
Science
OR ‘Double Award Science*’
9*
GCSE Science and
GCSE Additional Science
Modern Foreign
Language
4
IGCSE French or
GCSE German or
GCSE Italian or
GCSE Spanish or
GCSE Mandarin
Core PE
4
Not examined
PSHEE
1
Not examined
Private Study
4 or 5*
Not examined
* if you do ‘Double Award Science’ you will have an additional single Private Study
lesson.
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GCSE Information Booklet
YOUR OPTIONS
 In addition to the core subjects you will normally choose a further three
optional subjects from the list below.
o Art and Design
o Classical Civilisation
o Classical Greek
o Dance SEE NOTE
o Drama
o French
o Geography
o German
o History
o Italian
o Latin
o Mandarin
o Music
o Physical Education SEE NOTE
o RS: Philosophy and Ethics
o Spanish
 We can’t offer both GCSE Dance and GCSE Physical Education. Only one of
these two subjects will run and this will be determined by the subject which is
the more popular choice.
 If you are thinking about choosing four optional subjects from this list
then you MUST discuss this with Mr Wardrop first.
 You will have four lessons per week for each of your optional subjects.
 Full details of what study of each subject involves are included in this booklet.
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CHOOSING YOUR SUBJECTS
 Choosing GCSE subjects can involve difficult decisions. Talk to your parents,
your subject teachers and your form tutors. If you are thinking ahead to
university or a career, this may have some influence on your choice but do
remember that universities are often very flexible. In general universities will
be more interested in your GCSE grades than in the number of different GCSE
subjects you take. In short: do not sacrifice quality for quantity.
 The important thing is to choose subjects you enjoy, because you
are likely to do well in them.
 Some GCSE subjects are not offered at A Level (e.g. Dance,
German, Mandarin and Physical Education).
 You will make your GCSE choices in the second half of the Lent term.
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GCSE Information Booklet
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Queen’s College London
Subject
information
CORE
SUBJECTS
Everybody takes English Language,
English Literature, Mathematics and
Science (‘Triple’ or ‘Double Award’)
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GCSE Information Booklet
English and
English Literature
Since September 2007, we have been teaching the Cambridge International GCSE specification
for English and English Literature. So far, both staff and girls have found this a very stimulating
and flexible course.
English and English Literature are two separate GCSEs and may be awarded different grades.
English
Studying for English GCSE involves reading a wide variety of texts and practising writing in many
different styles. It develops an understanding of the nuances of language and the ways writers
use words to give information, describe, persuade, argue and — in some circumstances —
manipulate. It requires grammatical accuracy, an appreciation of English as a global language and
an awareness of the many different contexts in which English is written and spoken. You will
show your ability to summarise material as well as argue points vigorously. Most importantly, it
offers the chance to write creatively and to develop your own imaginative view of the world.
Apart from a written examination, you also have to submit a folder of coursework
demonstrating your own ability to write with flair, imagination and precision.
English Literature
This involves the study of a wide range of literary texts: Shakespeare of course, but also
modern poets, dramatists and novelists. You will have the chance to explore writers in depth in
your coursework folder and there is plenty of opportunity to write about poems and stories
that you yourself particularly admire. The set books include works from a very wide range of
cultures and styles. While most lessons will involve looking at a written text, you will find that
there is much lively discussion in class. The critical views of everyone are appreciated.
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Queen’s College London
Mathematics
Objectives
Mathematics as a core subject has a continuing syllabus in the
first five years of secondary education. The objectives of the
department are to enable all pupils to achieve their full
potential in the Junior College. All girls will be taking the
IGCSE exam at the Higher level with the Edexcel examination
board. There will be three mathematics sets in the Junior
College. The top set will cover the entire IGCSE syllabus but
some of the more difficult topics may be omitted for the
other two sets.
Topics covered
The IGCSE mathematics syllabus has four main sections:

Number

Algebra

Shape, Space and Measure

Handling Data
Homework
All students in the Junior College are given three homeworks per week.
Exams
There are two examination papers which are taken at the end of the II Junior year. Students are
allowed calculators in both papers. Each paper accounts for 50% of the final mark.
Other GCSE subjects that this subject goes well with
Anything that has any use of numbers.
Areas of study in future years for which this subject is essential
Many career choices require GCSE mathematics at C grade or above as a qualification and it is
also a requirement for most University courses, even those not directly related to Mathematics
or Science. For instance, there is a significant amount of statistics required for courses such as
Economics and Business Studies. A good grade in Higher Mathematics at GCSE or IGCSE is
certainly required for successful study at A Level in Mathematics or a Science subject.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Science
The main objective of the department is to enable all pupils to achieve their full potential in
Science in the Junior College. Science as a core subject has a continuing syllabus that builds
upon the knowledge learnt in previous years. Girls study either double or triple award science,
with four I Junior science groups set by ability. Double award science leads to two science
GCSEs, known as Core Science and Additional Science. These two science GCSEs are studied
at the Higher tier level, and two separate grades are awarded. Each grade is an average of the
Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics studied in each GCSE course. There is a possibility, in
agreement with the Head of Science, for girls who have consistently achieved very high marks
in Class 1 to study triple science in the Junior College. Pupils studying triple science will obtain
three separate GCSE grades; one each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Homework
All science sets will be given three homework activities to complete each week; one each for
biology, chemistry and physics. Each homework task should last 45 minutes.
Coursework
There is no longer any coursework in science. However, in lessons all girls will complete a
number of practical activities, followed by a written examination, which is known as Controlled
Assessment. We select the best Controlled Assessment mark for each pupil, and this
contributes 25% towards each GCSE grade.
Lesson allocation
Girls taking two GCSEs in science (Science and Additional Science) will have nine science
lessons per week. Girls studying triple science will have ten.
Syllabus
We study courses provided by the AQA examination board.
Girls taking two science GCSEs will follow the Science A and Additional Science specifications.
Girls studying triple science will follow the separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics GCSE
specifications.
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Queen’s College London
Subject
information
MODERN
FOREIGN
LANGUAGES
Everybody takes at least one Modern Language
(French, German, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish)
and a second language can be chosen as one of
your options
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GCSE Information Booklet
French
Why continue with French?
Most of you will have been studying French for at least three years so it
is a subject that you are already familiar with and so you can take advantage of
your existing knowledge of this language for IGCSE.
What will I be studying?
The topics areas studied include: everyday activities, personal and social life,
the world around us, the world of work and the international world. In
addition to your lessons in IIJ (Y11) you will also have a weekly lesson with
our ‘assistant’ to support your oral progress. You will also have the
opportunity to broaden your cultural horizons through outings (cinema,
galleries, theatre) and study days, as well as through resources used in class.
Of course there is a good deal of grammar and vocabulary to learn, but there are lots of other
things besides. Language lab. lessons at this level are exciting and will also help you develop
independent listening and learning skills, particularly by making use of the extensive list of
internet resources made available to language students. Queen’s also has a fun languages
society called “Lingo Flamingo” which runs activities for language-learners.
How is it assessed?
We do the IGCSE French course which means that there is no coursework or
controlled assessment. You will do an oral examination late April/early May in IIJ
and there will be three further examinations at the end of your IIJ year which
will assess your listening, reading and writing skills.
Is it for me?
Languages are a great asset in so many different university courses and careers and you already
have a head start in French. Bonne chance!
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Queen’s College London
German
Think of Germany and you think of Christmas markets,
mountains, beer and Beethoven, the Berlin Wall and a fascinating
history, Schwarzwälderkirschtorte and many other interesting
things.
Everyone enjoys travelling and discovering other cultures, and
there is nothing like being able to speak to people in their own
language to feel part of the place.
Results in German at GCSE are excellent and there is now greater flexibility in the speaking and
writing examination dates. Instead of a final examination we are in charge of these “controlled
assessments”: you will discuss the content and timing of these assessments with your teacher
and this makes life less stressful for you!
The GCSE specification for all languages is similar for all examination
boards and involves making use of four practical skills: listening,
speaking, reading and writing. In German you will be prepared for
the Edexcel syllabus.
You will become familiar with the following topic areas:




Being out and about (visitor information; weather; accommodation;
transport…)
Customer services and transactions (cafés and restaurants; shops; dealing with consumer
problems…)
Personal information (leisure interests; family and friends; lifestyle and health…)
Future plans (education; work; internet; CVs and job adverts…)
Of course there is a good deal of grammar
and vocabulary to learn, but there are lots of
other things besides. As long as you just keep
doing your regular homework the work load
is manageable. And languages are a great asset
in so many different university courses and
careers.
At Queen’s all classes
have a weekly lesson in a language laboratory and you can use multimedia ICT and the internet to make learning more fun or even find an
email pen-friend; you will be given German magazines, offered outings
and trips to Germany and shown films in German. Queen’s has a fun
languages society called “Lingo Flamingo” which also runs activities for
language-learners.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Italian
Think of Italy and you think of….. pizza, pasta, ice cream… but also
fabulous art, music, literature and architecture, football, romantic and
beautiful seashores and landscapes. Everyone enjoys travelling and
discovering other cultures, and there is nothing like being able to speak
to people in their own language to feel part of the place.
Results in Italian at GCSE are excellent and there is now greater flexibility in the speaking and
writing examination dates for we are in charge of these “controlled assessments”: you will
discuss the content and timing of these assessments with your teacher and this makes life less
stressful for you!
The GCSE specification for all languages is
similar for all examination boards and
involves making use of four practical skills:
listening, speaking, reading and writing. In
Italian you will be prepared for the Edexcel
syllabus.
You will become familiar with the following topic areas:




Being out and about (visitor information; weather; accommodation; transport…)
Customer services and transactions (cafés and restaurants; shops; dealing with consumer
problems…)
Personal information (leisure interests; family and friends; lifestyle and health…)
Future plans (education; work; internet; CVs and job adverts…)
Of course there is a good deal of grammar and vocabulary to learn, but
there are lots of other things besides. As long as you just keep doing
your regular homework the work load is manageable. And languages are
a great asset in so many different university courses and
careers.
At Queen’s all classes have a weekly lesson in a language laboratory and you can
use multi-media ICT and the internet to make learning more fun or even find an
email pen-friend; you will be given Italian magazines and occasionally shown films
in Italian. We regularly go to Italy on trips! Queen’s has a fun languages society
called “Lingo Flamingo” which also runs activities for language-learners.
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Queen’s College London
Mandarin
Why continue with Chinese?
Chinese is the most spoken language in the world with
over 900 million native speakers; with English and Chinese
you will be able to communicate with around a fifth of the
world’s population! If you have started Chinese this year
then you will have a basic understanding of the language
already, and the great news is that Chinese gets easier as
you learn it!
China also has a fascinating culture which is there for you to discover. Imagine being able to
travel along the Great wall of China, though Xi’an to see the terracotta warriors, down to the
rice terraces and the karst mountains in the south talking to people on the way!
What will I be studying?
The GCSE specification for all languages is similar for all examination boards and involves
making use of four practical skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In Chinese you will be
studying topics such as likes/dislikes, food & drink, instructions/commands plus important
cultural awareness points which are linked to the language.
Although there is a lot of vocabulary to learn, Chinese grammar is very simple – no verb tenses
or agreements so we can spend more time working on writing the characters and fluency in
speaking. Language lab lessons at this lesson are also exciting and the girls can work
independently or in groups to develop listening and learning skills using the resources available
on the internet and by the school. Queen’s College also has a fun modern languages and global
culture society called “Lingo Flamingo” which runs activities for language learners, including
Chinese.
How is it assessed?
Assessment is in accordance with the current Mandarin Chinese GCSE Edexcel curriculum; the
exam, which is tested across four modules (reading, writing, speaking and listening), will be
assessed by controlled assessments and written papers under normal exam conditions.
Is it for me?
Chinese is different as opposed to difficult and all girls have shown high levels of dedication,
good humour and patience over the course of this first term of the new academic year. There
is no reason why you can’t all continue to GCSE and achieve some fantastic results both for
yourselves and the school. Studying Chinese will open many doors for you – don’t waste this
exciting opportunity.
Jia you! (go for it!)
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GCSE Information Booklet
Spanish
You speak English already and if you learn Spanish you will be able to
comprehend and communicate in two of the most widely spoken languages in
the world and be able to chat to another 350 million people – lucky you!
Imagine being able to travel from Mexico, via the Caribbean, through Amazon
rain forests, across the Andes, up to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas,
down to Antarctica, talking to everyone along the way. How wonderful and
useful – and Queen’s girls have done just that!
Results in Spanish at GCSE are excellent and there is now
greater flexibility in the speaking and writing examination
dates. We are in charge of these ‘controlled assessments’ and
you will discuss the content and timing of these with your
teacher which makes life less stressful for you.
The GCSE specification for all languages is similar for all
examination boards and involves making use of four practical skills: listening,
speaking, reading and writing. In Spanish you will be prepared for the Edexcel syllabus. You will
become familiar with the following topic areas:




Being out and about (visitor information; weather; accommodation;
transport…)
Customer services and transactions (cafés and restaurants; shops; dealing
with consumer problems…)
Personal information (leisure interests; family and friends, lifestyle and
health…)
Future plans (education; work; internet; CVs and job advertisements)
Of course there is a good deal of grammar and vocabulary to learn, but there are lots of other
things besides. As long as you just keep doing your regular homework the work load is
perfectly manageable.
All classes have a weekly lesson in a language laboratory; you will be given Spanish magazines,
CDs to listen to and occasionally shown films in Spanish. Nowadays you can use multi-media
ICT and the internet to make learning more fun or even find an email pen-friend. Queen’s has a
fun languages society called “Lingo Flamingo” which also runs activities for language-learners.
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Queen’s College London
Subject
information
YOUR
OPTIONS
Everybody normally takes a further three
optional subjects, one of which could be a second
modern foreign language
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GCSE Information Booklet
Art and Design
‘Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.’ Georgia O’Keeffe
Why study GCSE Art and Design?
o You want to be creative and imaginative and have
a particular love of Art
o You would like to continue to develop your skills
o You like problem solving in a practical way
o You enjoy learning about artists, designers,
illustrators and sculptors
o You have an interest in an Art based career
What will you study?
GCSE Art and Design lets you explore your creative
side! The course is completely practical including the
examination at the end of the course.
During the course you will:
o Explore a variety of different starting points.
o Be introduced to new skills, techniques and materials.
o Create a portfolio of art work that includes painting, drawing, sculpture, mark-making, photography,
ICT, printmaking and textiles.
o Develop your style as an artist.
o Learn how to develop your ideas, evaluate and review your work
o Get to explore art history, old and new.
o Go on trips to galleries.
How is it assessed?
We follow the Edexcel GCSE syllabus in Art and Design. It is divided into two parts, coursework and
examination. The coursework is worth 60% of your overall grade and the examination is worth 40%.
The coursework is one large portfolio of your best work created over the two years and the
examination is a two day practical examination with a preparation period of approximately 8 weeks.
Both the coursework and the examination are marked against the four following objectives:
DEVELOPING IDEAS
REFINING IDEAS
RECORDING IDEAS
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PRESENTING A PERSONAL RESPONSE
Queen’s College London
Classical Civilisation
You can start this from scratch if you have not done it before.
You do not need to be good at languages as everything you read will have been
translated into English.
We study the literature and culture of an ancient civilisation, examine the evidence and analyse
ancient values.
It is NOT a ‘soft option’. It is classified as one of the best qualifications by Cambridge University
because, in your essay writing, you develop the skills of analysis, clear expression, observation,
and weighing up arguments. This can lead to a huge variety of university courses and careers,
from the arts and media to politics and business.
Literature
 Greek Epic: extracts from the Odyssey of Homer.
 You write an extended essay on, for example, Sophocles’ tragic play Antigone.
Civilisation
 City life in Athens: religion, theatre, houses, women, education, sport, slaves etc.
 The city of Pompeii: houses and public buildings, leisure, government etc.
As a result…
You will have an EXCELLENT background to Western Culture
You will develop USEFUL writing skills
THE EXTRAS
You can go on the trip to Italy or Greece, and on outings
to museums & theatres; you can take part in the Queen’s
College Classics Society events & publications etc.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Classical Greek
Why Greek?
Greek leads to the study of some of the world’s greatest philosophers
and political thinkers, the first historians, writers of tragic and comic
plays, epic poetry about gods and heroes, statues, paintings,
architecture…
For learning about the language, we follow the course book by John
Taylor, which also introduces key figures like Socrates and Alexander
the Great. As with Latin, we prepare set texts. We translate passages
together in lessons, study the authors’ style, and discuss the issues that
arise from the literature.

Poetry: e.g. Homer’s stories about Odysseus, or extracts from a Greek tragedy, reading
the original Greek text so that you can feel the poetry.

History or philosophy: e.g. a few of the bizarre stories by Herodotus (the father of history)
or moral questions raised by Plato.
Is it too much to do both Latin and Greek?
No. Greek goes especially well with Latin, because after doing language work in one language
you will recognise it in the other. The Romans were influenced by the Greeks, so it helps
understand their culture too.
What is the work like?
It is intellectually demanding, which is why it is an impressive qualification of course, but if you
have coped with Latin or Greek in Class 1, you should have no difficulties if you organise your
time well.
The extras
There are excursions to museums and Greek plays, you can be in the Queen’s Greek
performances, go on the trip abroad and join in the Queen’s College Classics Society
events.
Very few people these days can offer Latin and Greek when they apply to universities, so they
are excellent qualifications, not only for continuing with the classics, but for, e.g., medicine, as
well as related subjects like theology, for which Greek can be a huge advantage because the
original version of the New Testament was written in Greek.
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Dance
Course outline
This course focuses on the aesthetic and artistic qualities of dance and the use of dance
movement as a medium of expression and communication in the performance, creation and
appreciation of dance.
In the performance component you will study:
Good studio practice; the technical nature of dance skills; the expressive nature of dance skills;
factors which influence the achievement of high quality dance performance.
In the choreography component you will study:
The process of creating choreography; choreographic structure; constituent features of dance.
In the appreciation component you will study:
Analysis and interpretation of dances; the historical and social context of dances; the set work.
You will need to be able to perform at least 2 different styles of dance to pass the practical
exam. Any style of dance is permitted that shows off your best ability and fits the requirements
of the exam board – ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, any style of cultural dance. You will have
the opportunity to attend a theatre trip and participate in professional workshops This course
is a lot of hard work and commitment outside of lesson time. It is a great topic to study but it is
not a two year course learning street dance and pop routines.
Assessment
Written paper 20% (1 hours)
Short and extended answer questions covering theory and the set work
Set Dance 20%
A contemporary set dance from the exam board.
Performance in Duo/Group Dance
20% (3-3.30min)
Choreography
solo 15%(1-1:30min) solo/duo/group 25%
What do you need for the course?
Appropriate dance clothing for example leggings and form fitting top; you will be working in
bare feet at all times with jewellery removed and hair tied back.
If you enjoy dance in any form, like to be creative, are energetic and want to learn about all
aspects of dance then this is the course for you.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Drama
Could GCSE Drama suit you?
Are you…
Creative – Artistic –
Practical…?
Do you enjoy…
Working with others, literature, performing?
Do you have an eye for design?
Do you like going to the theatre?
Then, you’ll love GCSE Drama!
What does the course cover?
60% practical work. This consists of a range of options from devised thematic work, scripted,
improvisation, set design, stage management and many more.
How are you marked?
On Process: With each option you are assessed on your contribution during rehearsals, the
skills you used to develop your work and your commitment to the group.
On Performance: Your final performance all aspects of acting -voice, movement, staging etc.
This unit is internally marked and assessed.
40% written paper. This consists of an examination of 90 minutes
The paper comprises of three sections:
A – Questions relating to the practical work completed during the course
Then a choice between B & C:
B – Questions relating to a script we will have worked on in class
C – Questions relating to a study of a live theatre production seen during the
course
This unit is externally set and marked.
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Geography
Geography is the only subject which bridges both the arts and sciences so it is good if you are
not sure which to pursue. It’s great for general knowledge because the course is so broad. It
involves investigating human geography topics such as population and tourism, the natural
environment and plate tectonics and economic development. We will also study global
questions such as resource conservation. In addition, there is a Geographical skills paper which
seeks to develop and extend your ability to use maps and data from around the world. We aim
not only to equip our pupils to continue their geographical studies successfully at a higher level
but also to enjoy Geography!
We follow the IGCSE (0460) which is divided into two written
papers. There is a separate coursework assignment but with an
option to do a written coursework examination.
The fieldwork investigations are very important and attendance on field trips is vital so that
candidates can prepare fully for the demands of the examination. The course builds on previous
fieldwork experience. This year we have visited the Amersham Field Studies Centre to study
micro-climates and rivers. One piece of fieldwork is submitted as part of the examination,
some of which is completed in class with teacher help and other sections are completed by the
pupil with preparatory assistance.
At the IGCSE stage an interest in the topics we have covered over the past three years plus
curiosity about the world and a desire to understand and seek solutions to some of its
problems are the indicators that Geography is for you.
In the longer term, Geography provides a great basis for a number of careers including
employment in banking, accountancy, management consultancy, travel and tourism,
Environmental sciences, hydrology, planning, publishing,
journalism and law.
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GCSE Information Booklet
History
Why choose History?
History is an exciting intellectual discipline that teaches you how to think,
not what to think. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the past,
learn the skills of analysis and evaluation and construct rational and
supported arguments about human affairs.
Aims and Objectives
 To meet the requirements of the CIE Modern World syllabus 0470.
 To acquire and communicate knowledge and understanding of the
1.
human past.
 To investigate and analyse historical changes, events and issues.
 To use historical sources critically and effectively in their context.
Topics covered
 Core Content: Aspects of International Relations: The Inter-War
Years, 1919-1939 and Post-War Years 1945-2000
 Depth Study and Coursework: The USA 1919-41
 Source questions on one core topic: Why Did Events in the Gulf
Matter, c.1970-2000? (2016).
 The course explores key 20th century events.
It combines
international relations with the study of individual countries and their
politics, society, economy and culture. Highlights include: Hitler’s
foreign policy, the USA in the 1920s and 1930s, the origins of the Cold
War and events in the Gulf 1970-2000.
Homework
There is an average of 1-2 hours homework per week.
Coursework
One assignment of 2000 words is required. The coursework is word
processed and is completed in class and at home. The coursework is
usually completed in the Lent Term of the II Juniors and is worth 27% of the total marks.
Subject Combinations
History combines well with other Humanity subjects like Geography, Religious Studies and
Classical Civilisation. We also study literature, art and architecture as historical sources. The
Modern World specification is useful for subjects like English, History of Art and Modern
Languages where knowledge of the recent past provides valuable contextual understanding.
Future Potential
Every subject has an historical dimension, which enriches your area of study. The importance of
research, argument and debate in History make it a useful subject for Politics, the Media, Law,
Philosophy and Journalism.
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Latin
In lessons we continue to use the Cambridge Latin Course, along with ‘Essential Latin’ by John
Taylor and Queen’s College booklets. You have already learned a great deal of the grammar
and vocabulary.
We also study set texts. These are the works of Roman authors, in the original Latin. We
write the translations together in class and note how the authors make their work amusing,
moving, persuasive etc. They include:

Poetry: e.g. romantic verse, satire, or an extract from the epic Aeneid.

Prose: e.g. extracts from letters, law court speeches or history e.g. about an alleged
political murder, or a corrupt Roman governor, or Druids.
We discuss the characters, and the moral, social, political and religious questions that
arise from these texts. As an option, you can prepare a poetry recitation for the Greek and
Latin Reading Competition and focus on the effects of sound, pace and metre.
But is Latin useful,
I hear you ask?
Answer:
ita vero!
Latin is an obviously academic qualification. It is useful for university and job applications
because it is known to develop an eye for detail, linguistic skills, the ability to analyse and an
understanding of how to argue a point of view.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Music
In this wide-ranging course, you have the
opportunity to “enjoy and appreciate the
benefits of being involved in playing music,
making music and understanding music”.
The course is structured around three
units; Unit 1: Performing Music, Unit 2:
Composing Music and Unit 3: Listening
and Appraising. GCSE Music students also
enjoy concert trips and visits as part of
the course.
An excerpt from ‘Artikulation’ by György Ligeti
Unit 1: Performing music
You will record one solo performance
and one ensemble performance
Unit 2: Composing music
You will write two compositions
Unit 3: Music – listening
and appraising
A 1 ½ hour written paper on set works
we studying during the course
30% of the total GCSE mark
(completed as coursework)
30% of the total GCSE mark
(completed as coursework)
40% of the total GCSE mark
We analyse music in groups called ‘Areas of Study’. These Areas of Study also underpin
questions in the 1 ½ -hour Listening and Appraising examination (40%). This means you will
study a wide range of music from different genres learning about how the music is written and
its influences. You will study the scores and learn about their texture, harmony, melody,
tonality and structure. The areas of study are: Western Classical music, music in the twentieth
century, popular music and world music. The scores you will study range from Mozart, Chopin
and Bernstein to Schoenberg and Jeff Buckley!
60% of Music GCSE is coursework which we complete during
our lessons. This gives you control over the work and helps
you manage your coursework at a pace that best suits you.
We record your solo and ensemble performances during
lesson times so they are informal and designed to support
you. The compositions are also completed in our lesson time
using Sibelius and Logic software to produce a written score.
You should have attained a performing standard of at least
Grade III (or equivalent) at the start of the course and should
be able to read music fluently from traditional Western notation. It is recommended that you
aim to complete your ABRSM Grade 5 theory examination by the Michaelmas Term of I
Juniors. Music GCSE students are expected to participate in the extra-curricular life of the
department by belonging to one of our ensembles or choirs. All GCSE music students must be
having instrumental or singing lessons as a requirement of the course.
An excerpt from ‘Makrokosmos’
by George Crumb
Further information from: Miss Forsey, Director of Music.
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Queen’s College London
Physical Education
(GCSE)
GCSE PE is a practical (60%) and theoretical (40%) course
The Theory of Physical Education (40%) – Unit 1
A written examination (40% of total grade) is completed at the end of the two year course
which will cover various aspects of physical education:
 Healthy, active lifestyles and how they could benefit you
 Influences on your healthy active lifestyle
 Exercise and fitness as part of a healthy active lifestyle
 Your personal health and well-being
 Physical activity and your healthy mind and body
 The cardiovascular system
 The respiratory system
 The muscular system
 The skeletal system
Performance in Physical Education (60%) – Unit 2
Pupils choose four sports to be assessed in:
 Pupils may choose to be assessed as a player/participant of their chosen sport
 Pupils may choose to be assessed as a leader of their chosen sport
 Pupils may choose to be assessed as an official of their chosen sport
Students will undertake a range of practical activities, and will be required to choose four for
assessment. Practical activities offered for assessment could include the following; Netball,
Football, Gymnastics, Horse-riding, Dance, Tennis, Swimming, Rounders, Fitness, Skiing,
Fencing and many more.
Key Subject Aims
■ encourage students to be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad, coherent, satisfying and
worthwhile course.
■ encourage creativity and decision-making skills to enable students to plan effectively for performances
and to respond to changing situations.
■ prepare students to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career choices.
■ enable students to become increasingly physically competent through being actively engaged in a
range of physical activities.
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GCSE Information Booklet
RS: Philosophy and Ethics
Does a person have
the right to choose
when to die?
Can there be a loving
God in a world with
so much suffering?
Do we have to
experience something
for it to be true?
Does the media do
more harm than
good?
Is it for me?
If these are the sort of questions that interest
you and you would like to be at the cutting
edge of contemporary thought, then this is a
course that you will enjoy. The course is
accessible to candidates of any religious
persuasion and none.
Every other year a trip to Amsterdam is run
for RS students in the Junior College.
What is it all about?
o The existence of God
o Body and Soul, Life after Death
o Religion and Science
o Good and Evil
o
o
o
o
Religion and Medical Ethics
Religion, Poverty and Wealth
Religion and Equality
Religion and the Media
Where does it all lead?
In general, you will improve your debating, reading and writing skills as well as your ability to
analyze ideas. You will learn how to develop a rational argument and how to use information
and evidence to draw conclusions. Students with a literary turn of mind enjoy the course, but
so do scientists. If you are considering law, journalism, politics, medicine or psychology in the
long-term you will profit a great deal from this course.
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Queen’s College London
Subject
information
NON-EXAMINED
SUBJECTS
Everybody continues with core Physical Education
in the Junior College as well as PSHEE. You can
also take the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award.
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GCSE Information Booklet
Core Physical Education
Pupils will participate in the normal Physical Education curriculum of two double periods per
week. Each pupil will be able to choose two options every term from Netball, Spinning,
Bootcamp, HRE, Zumba, Gym Induction, Circuit Training, Football, Tennis, Rugby and
Rounders.
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Queen’s College London
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Current Class 1 students can opt to take the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award, which
is an extra-curricular activity. There will be after school training sessions run during the
Summer term and at the beginning of the Michaelmas term.
The Bronze Award consists of four sections:
1.
2.
3.
Volunteering
Physical
Skills
Students can choose what they do for each of the above sections, although this must be
approved by Mrs Hammond. They then undertake each activity for a minimum of one hour a
week. Two sections must be done for three months and the third for six months. Girls can
choose which they do for the longer period.
Only one section can be done at school e.g. running club or singing lessons, the others should
be undertaken out of school. All attendance and progress is recorded on the Duke of
Edinburgh Award website.
Girls can do all the sections at the same time or choose to spread them out – there is no time
limit on completion.
The fourth section is:
4.
Expedition (on foot)
Preparation is undertaken at school with Mrs Hammond, and also by attending a one-day
training course run by Mountainwise (a company who organise and assess DofE expeditions).
The course for the current Class 1 students will be on Wednesday 10th June 2015 in Harlow,
Essex. We will travel by coach together leaving school at 8am and returning by 5.30pm.
The Bronze expedition covers two days with one night camping. In order to pass this section,
students must complete a practice expedition weekend and an assessment weekend. These are
organised by the school and have already been booked for 19th-20th September and 3rd-4th
October 2015.
For further information visit the Duke of Edinburgh Award website at www.dofe.org or contact
Mrs Hammond on dhammond@qcl.org.uk or 020 7291 7014 (Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays only).
There will be an information evening early in the Summer term for the parents of those Class 1
students who register to take the award.
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GCSE Information Booklet
PSHEE
Pupils will receive a single period of personal, social, health and economic education each week.
These sessions will focus on a wide variety of different topics and will be delivered by the form
tutor or external speakers who are trained in the relevant area. The topics may include, but are
not limited to, the list below:











Target setting
Study skills, stress and time management
Relationships and SRE
Adolescent health/ Mental health
Nutrition
Relaxation skills
Addictions (Drugs, Alcohol)
Money management
Careers
Global and environmental issues
Safety on the internet
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Queen’s College London
Summary of subject specifications
Subject
English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Science
Additional Science
French
German
Italian
Mandarin
Spanish
Art and Design
Classical Civilisation
Classical Greek
Dance
Drama
Geography
History
Latin
Music
Physical Education
RS: Philosophy and Ethics
GCSE
IGCSE
Examination board
Specification



CIE
CIE
Edexcel
AQA
AQA
AQA
AQA
AQA
Edexcel
Edexcel
Edexcel
Edexcel
Edexcel
Edexcel
OCR
OCR
AQA
AQA
CIE
CIE
OCR
Edexcel
Edexcel
OCR
0500
0486
4MA0
4401
4402
4403
4405
4408
4FR0
2GN01
2IN01
2CN01
2SN01
2AD01
J280
J291
4232
4240
0460
0470
J281
2MU01
2PE01
J621





















37
GCSE Information Booklet
NOTES
38
Queen’s College London
NOTES
39