SIMON LANGTON
GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS
OPTIONS
Years 10 and 11
September 2014
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
PAGE
OPTIONS . .....................................................................................................................................................2
INTRODUCTION. ........................................................................................................................................3
ENGLISH AND ENGLISH LITERATURE.............................................................................................6
MATHEMATICS ..........................................................................................................................................7
SCIENCE ........................................................................................................................................................8
HISTORY OF IDEAS...................................................................................................................................9
CITIZENSHIP and PSHE…………………………………………………………….. 10
ART.............................................................................................................................................................. .11
BUSINESS STUDIES ............................................................................................................................... 12
COMPUTING ............................................................................................................................................. 13
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY .............................................................................................................. 14
DRAMA ....................................................................................................................................................... 15
GEOGRAPHY ............................................................................................................................................. 16
HISTORY .................................................................................................................................................... 18
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES..................................................................................................... 19
MUSIC……………………………………………………………………………………22
YEAR 10 OPTIONS FORM (2014)………………………………………………… .23
1
OPTIONS
YEARS 10 AND 11
The purpose of this booklet is to explain the options that you have regarding subjects you may
study over the next two years, leading to GCSE examinations.
In the introduction, the overall scheme of your timetable shows the number and range of
courses. After this, there is a brief description of each GCSE subject to give you an idea of the
type of course you will be taking. By necessity, this information is very brief and any questions
concerning the courses should be directed towards your present teacher, or the Subject Leader
named under each subject. More general enquiries should be made to your Form Tutor or your
Head of Year. For information, the examination syllabus is also noted.
There is an option form at the back of this booklet which must be returned to your Form Tutor
by Monday 17th March 2014. Any forms handed in after this date will be given a lower priority.
Please note that the Year 9 Option Evening is on Monday 3rd March and the Year 9 Parents’
Consultation is on Thursday 13th March 2014.
Every effort will be made to ensure that you are able to pursue your choice of subjects but
staffing and timetable constraints may mean a small number of pupils are not able to gain their
preferred combination of subjects.
N.B.
2
GCSE courses start in Term 6 of Year 9 and continue throughout Years 10 & 11.
Students are expected to take all of their subjects through to the GCSE exams in the
summer of Year 11.
INTRODUCTION
At present you are taking 18 different courses. In most of these it is possible to take an
examination at the end of Year 11, but in practice, it is not possible to take all of them. So a
choice has to be made as to which subjects you wish to continue studying for the next two
years. This choice is important because you will not be able to change your options after
this stage. It is wise to consider what subjects you may wish to follow at A Level and even at
university, as some future courses require a GCSE basis. You may find the website
www.russellgroup.org/InformedChoices useful.
All students are required to continue the study of English, Mathematics, Science and a Modern
Foreign Language. All these courses will continue to examination at the end of Year 11.
Physical Education and Citizenship continue until the end of Year 11. In addition, you will
follow a History of Ideas course in Key Stage 4.
In order to create a curriculum more suited to the needs of each individual pupil, there are
different possibilities available in these ‘core’ subjects.
All students study English Language and English Literature. These are taught together.
Almost all students will enter for the higher tier qualification in both subjects, which allows a
top grade of A*. However, some students may only be entered for GCSE English, which has
both Language and Literature.
Mathematics has been taught in sets since Year 8 with students able to move between sets at
the end of each year. Almost all students will take the Higher level GCSE course which allows
a maximum grade A*. In addition, the top sets cover some sixth form Mathematics. This is to
broaden their mathematical experience and knowledge, and leads to a Further Additional
Mathematics qualification. For many careers and university courses, A Level Mathematics is a
pre-requisite. The majority of Langton students continue the subject beyond GCSE.
The Science course consists of Biology, Chemistry and Physics taught separately. This leads
to the award of 3 GCSEs for the majority of students. All students follow this in Year 10.
After Year 10, some students may be entered for Core Science and Additional Science instead
of three separate sciences.
The sets in each of these subjects will be determined by the Year 9 examinations results
together with your Year 9 teacher’s knowledge of your ability.
A summary of the ‘core’ courses is given below:-
Ability in the
subject
+
English Literature
GCSE
Medium
3
GCSE English
Language and
Literature
combined
Triple Science
(Biology, Chemistry
and Physics)
Higher Maths
Higher Maths
Double Science
(Core Science and
Additional Science)
PE & Games
Maths GCSE Higher
Mathematics + AS level work
Citizenship and PSHE
English Language
GCSE
History of Ideas
High
The remainder of your timetable is made up of option subjects. All students should
take a language and a humanities subject. This is required to achieve the English
Baccalaureate Qualification (EBacc), which might become one of the selection criteria for
going to elite universities.
a) Most students choose the Modern Foreign Language they have studied since Year 7.
However, after consultation with your language teacher, you may decide to take the
language you started in Year 8. Many students take both foreign languages to GCSE
and beyond.
b) Geography, History and Business Studies are humanities subjects. They complement
each other, though it would be unusual for a student to study more than two of these.
Each can form a basis for studying A level. Only History and Geography count towards
the EBacc.
c) Art, Design, Drama and Music all offer a creative arts education and lessons are
characterised by a split between practical and theoretical study. Each GCSE is a
foundation for the arts courses offered in the Sixth Form. As creativity is such an
important skill for future careers we encourage all students to consider taking one of these
creative subjects.
d) All students will complete their computing course in Year 9. This will give them a solid
foundation for using computers in other subjects and in future workplaces. We offer a
GCSE course in Computing for a small number of students who wish to specialise in
this area. Those who do not wish to take this GCSE course may choose to join the
Langton Computing group which meets after school.
e) The timetable allows students to choose four option subjects. Some students, on the
recommendation of the Faculty of Support and Guidance will take three options subjects
and have additional study support in place of their fourth option block.
All option courses lead to GCSE at the end of Year 11. Many subjects have Controlled
Assessment (coursework) in Year 10, which goes towards the GCSE qualification. The
examinations will all be at the end of Year 11.
K Davis
Director of Studies
4
Consequently your timetable will look like this:
Term 6 of Yr 9
Year 10
Year 11
Lessons per fortnight
P.E. & Games
4
4
4
English
7
7
7
Mathematics
6
6
6
Science
9
9
9
History of Ideas
2
(Philosophy and
Belief)
2
(History of Ideas)
2
(History of Ideas)
Citizenship and
PSHE
2
2
2
Option 1
(Language)
5
5
5
Option 2
(Humanity)
5
5
5
Option 3
5
5
5
Option 4
5
5
5
Options
Art
Business Studies
Computing
Design & Technology (Product Design)
Drama
Foreign Language (French/German/Spanish)
Geography
History
Music
Second Foreign Language (French/German/Spanish)
5
English Language and English Literature or English
We follow the OCR GCSE Specifications for these subjects and we aim to ensure that by
following this course, students will become skilled users of spoken and written English and
engaged and perceptive readers.
Most students will follow a joint course aiming to enable them to achieve two separate GCSEs,
one in English Literature and one in English Language at C grade or above. Most students in
the year group will begin by preparing for the higher tier qualification in both subject areas,
though during the course of Year 11 some students may transfer to the foundation tier for either
or both qualifications. Parents or guardians would be kept fully informed of any such decision.
A small group of students will follow a different course which combines Language and
Literature in a single GCSE called English. Some of these students will also be entered for
Functional Skills English, at a level to be decided during Key Stage 4.
All students in KS4 will study a variety of interesting texts, which we have chosen in the belief
that they will appeal to boys at this school, enabling them to engage with some of the best
writing in English. Most students will study some poetry, two novels, a modern play and a play
by Shakespeare, together with a performed or filmed version of it. Students will also be
learning to write in a variety of forms and they will be tested on their ability to create
convincing arguments, respond to non-fiction writing and explore how writers’ choices of
language, structure and form shape meanings. In their own writing, they will be expected to
write accurately and interestingly, paying attention to the way that their ideas are expressed, as
well as to the ideas themselves. The GCSE course offer considerable stretch and challenge for
all students and there is a good deal of variety; we hope that students will enjoy English, as well
as learning.
In addition to formal exams, which will be taken at the end of Year 11, students will also be
assessed through their performance in a number of controlled conditions assessments which
will be completed at various points in the two years. In these they will be allowed to prepare for
a question in advance and they may take notes, but not a draft essay, into the assessment with
them. Once the assessment period starts, they will write their response under exam conditions,
without help, over a number of lessons. Students will also gain recognition for their speaking
and listening ability, as a separate grade is given for this aspect of English.
Studying for GCSE qualifications in English Language and English Literature or English will
require your son to work hard and we ask you to encourage him to prepare for assessments as
fully as he can, to complete his homework to the best of his ability and to ensure that he
continues to read widely and independently. All these things will help him to succeed in this
vital subject area.
Mrs C Moss
6
OCR
English J350
English Language J355
English Literature J360
MATHEMATICS
Mathematics classes are divided into sets. Students' positions in appropriate sets will be
reviewed at the end of Year 10.
All sets take the GCSE at the end of Year 11 which consists of two written papers, one to be
taken without a calculator and one with it. There will be no controlled assessments for GCSE
Mathematics.
There are two levels of entry:
Higher Level where the possible grades are A*, A, B, C, or D
Foundation Level where the possible grades are C, D, E, F or G
Set 1P and 1Q will enter GCSE at the Higher Level. They cover the work at a fast pace and to
a great depth. A large emphasis is based on algebraic topics. Set 1 students are expected to
show a particular flair for the subject and produce work of a consistently high quality. Grade
A* is the aim. They will also be entered for a GCSE in Further Mathematics (this mostly
consists of extensions of the harder GCSE topics. It will deepen their understanding of these
topics and strengthen the possibility of obtaining an A* grade).
Sets 2P and 2Q will also enter GCSE at the Higher Level. The pace is not as fast as Set 1, but
grade A is the target grade for most students in these sets.
Sets 3P and 3Q will be smaller sets of students who find the subject difficult. From the
beginning of Year 10, they will be following a different scheme of work from the other sets.
All students in this set are capable of achieving at least a grade C. The target grade is usually a
B, though some will have an A. They will also be aimed at the Higher Level of GCSE. A few
of them may be entered at Foundation Level but this decision will not be taken until after the
Mock exam in Year 11.
Homeworks are set regularly three times a fortnight and students are expected to complete them
to a satisfactory standard. Emphasis is put on good presentation of work as well as a good
understanding of concepts, methods and applications.
'A' Levels
(a)
Students who wish to study 'A' level Mathematics in Years 12 and 13 will normally
have been in Sets 1 or 2 in Year 11 and have obtained at least an A grade.
(b)
Students who wish to study Double Maths in Years 12 and 13 (i.e. Mathematics and
Further Mathematics 'A' levels) will usually have been in Set 1 in Year 11 and have
obtained an A* grade.
Mr J McCrae
Edexcel 2381
SCIENCE
7
You started your GCSE Science course at the beginning of Year 9.
In Year 10 you will find yourself in a group of about 22 students. These groups will be setted
by performance in the Year 9 assessments and the end of Year 9 exam.
At the end of Year 10 these groups will be reviewed; most students will follow the Triple
Science course which results in three GCSEs, one each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. A
small number will pursue a Double Science course which results in two GCSEs, Core Science
and Additional Science.
Lessons will be taught separately by subject specialists as Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
All exams will take place at the end of Year 11.
The practical part of the course will be assessed within lessons.
Dr G Poole
Director of Science
`
8
AQA Science A 4461
AQA Additional Science 4463
AQA Biology 4411
AQA Chemistry 4421
AQA Physics 4451
The History of Ideas
A) The History of Ideas grew out of our frustration with the poor knowledge content of the
National Curriculum. It grew out of a desire to set the history of the past six hundred
years in Europe into an understandable narrative and to show the consequences of key
events as well as introducing students to axis ages and paradigm shifts that still have
repercussions for us today.
B) Year 10 study vital and relevant philosophical debates in half hour lectures and “breakout” study groups. Questions debated and discussed are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The major arguments for the existence of God
Aesthetics – what makes art?
Ethical theories – Deontology and Utilitarianism
Various applied ethical debates, including war, abortion and meat eating
Life After Death and whether humans have souls.
C) The Year 11 programme is delivered in five units, each comprising three one hour
lectures, under the following broad topics:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The Renaissance
The Enlightenment
The History of Science
Marxism
Psychology
Students are provided with a book in which they are expected to take notes and all the course
materials are available on Moodle, the school’s VLE.
Mr G Moore
9
CITIZENSHIP and PSHE
This course will develop and expand upon the topics studied during Key Stage 3. It will focus
on the issues relevant to teenage Langton students in the modern world. We expect students to
play a significant role in the shaping of their own learning in this subject.
The course will be structured around the ‘Langton Attributes’ as well as meeting the
knowledge, understanding and skills defined in the programme of study for both Citizenship
and PSHE Key Stage 4 in the National Curriculum.
Example Topics
Citizenship - Rights and Responsibilities –Looking at what it means to be a citizen, debating
whether the smacking of children is acceptable, investigating the justification for age rights
PSHE – Careers and work related learning – Investigating career paths, learning how to apply
for jobs both now and in the future, understanding workers’ rights and responsibilities.
There will be a range of formal and informal assessment methods used throughout the duration
of the course and students will be expected to perform to an appropriate level.
The successful completion of this course is one requirement for entry into the school sixth
form.
During the course students will be expected to ensure that learning also takes place outside of
the classroom and we expect that they will involve themselves in extra-curricular activities both
within school and throughout their wider communities.
Above all else, this subject will continue to support students’ personal, social and academic
development as they progress through the school.
Mr D Butler
10
OCR 4910
ART
GCSE Art is intended to meet the needs of the following groups of candidates:


those who enjoy Art and have shown a commitment to the subject in KS3.
those who may wish to study subjects or take up careers for which an Art and Design
background is relevant or helpful.
You will study a wide range of media and techniques in two and three dimensions from clay to
pastels. You will explore ideas, gaining knowledge and experience in order to develop your
understanding of the creative process. This course allows maximum opportunity for individual
exploration of a theme, encouraging personal creative directions and outcomes. Everyone will
keep a sketchbook, which will include artwork, written pieces, annotations, scrapbook material
and experiments with media and ideas.
You will also look at many different approaches and styles in Art, making critical judgements
and relating connections with your own work.
Two units of:


Coursework and Sketchbook
Examination and Sketchbook
- 60 marks (60%)
- 40 marks (40%)
Examination papers are given to candidates eight school weeks before the examination and
students have this time to prepare their response prior to a 10 hour period in which to produce
the piece.
All work is marked internally and moderated externally.
Mr A Howe
Mrs G Kendall
Edexcel 2FA01
BUSINESS STUDIES
11
The purpose of GCSE Business Studies is to produce students who have a sound understanding
of business and those who have the ability to use knowledge, skills and understanding
appropriately in the context of the UK and European market. It also aims to increase awareness
and consideration of the spiritual, moral, ethical and cultural issues within a business
environment.
Exam board: OCR
Course code: J253
A291
Marketing and Enterprise
This unit is interested in the application of the marketing mix and in those who
set up and make business decisions. This unit is assessed by controlled
assessment.
A292
Business and People
This unit examines in how businesses conduct their relationship with their most
valuable asset, people. It covers recruitment and motivation, employment law
and different types of business ownership. Students will also gain an insight into
the organisational structures and different functions inherent in large businesses.
A293
Production, Finance and the External Business Environment
This unit is concerned with business decision making in relation to assets other
than people, including cost analysis and production decisions. The finance
section includes a considerable application of arithmetical method in business
such as cash flow forecasting, revenue and profit calculations. Finally, this unit
examines the role of business within the economy and analyses how businesses
can respond to political, economic, environmental and social issues.
Assessment
Unit
Title
Session
A291
A292
A293
Summer Year 11
Summer Year 11
Summer Year 11
Marketing and Enterprise
Business and People
Production, Finance and the External Business
Environment
Mr D Wells
OCR J253
GCSE COMPUTING
12
% of
Final
award
25%
25%
50%
The course will give students a real in-depth understanding of how computer technology works.
Students will no doubt be familiar with the use of computers and other related technology from
their other subjects and elsewhere. However, the course will give them an insight into what
goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming, which many students find
absorbing.
The course provides excellent preparation for higher study and employment in the field of
Computer Science. The increasing importance of information technologies means there will be
a growing demand for professionals who are qualified in this area. Students who have taken a
GCSE in Computing and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or university will
have an advantage over their colleagues who are picking up the subject at these levels.
The course will develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills through the study
of computer programming. For many students, it will be a fun and interesting way to develop
these skills, which can be transferred to other subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In
this respect, the course will make an excellent preparation for students who want to study or
work in areas that rely on these skills, especially where they are applied to technical problems.
These areas include engineering, financial and resource management, science and medicine.
If students wish to be involved in Computer Science and programming but do not want to take
the GCSE Computing qualification they can join the Langton Computing Group. This group
has been organised by a number of Year 10 and Year 11 students who want to develop their
programming skills, talk about different projects and learn more about Computer Science in
general.
Method of Assessment
Assessment and duration
Weighting
Written paper
(1 hour 30 minutes)
80 marks
40%
Controlled assessment
Investigative task. OCR-set scenario with
a choice of research tasks.
45 marks
30%
Controlled assessment
Open choice project involving
programming. Design, develop and test a
solution to a problem within the OCR-set
scenario.
45 marks
30%
Mr G George
OCR J275
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY: OCR PRODUCT DESIGN
Students are given the opportunity to develop their 3-D problem solving skills to a high level
through a range of challenges and tasks coupled with a variety of materials and technologies,
13
including the specialist CAD-CAM equipment. The applied nature of the GCSE course
provides students with ample opportunity for creativity and academic rigor.
Within the confines of a linear GCSE the course is split between Years 10 and 11, with a
controlled assessment in each year. This is a challenging but rewarding course allowing for
innovative and creative production of both conceptual and manufactured products.
The course involves a broad range of content from theory underpinning, design/designing
skills, tuition and acquisition covering sketching and design drawing through to CAD
(Computer Aided Design). Evidence for assessment is compiled as an e-portfolio but produced
in a wide range of software packages:



Full Adobe Suite
CAD – Pro/Engineer, SolidWorks, Keyshot, AutoDesk Suite, 2D Design.
CAM - 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Cam machines, Z-Printer.
Unit A551: Developing and Applying - Design Skills (Concept Product 30% Yr 10)
• Developing and writing a design brief.
• Drawing up a specification.
• Generating design proposals
Unit A552: Designing and Making Innovation Challenge (20% Yr 11)
• ‘Design and Making’– a practical examination that encourages flair, innovation and working
with a range of modelling materials
Unit A553: Making, Testing and Marketing products (Prototype 30% Yrs 10 – 11)
• Prototype manufacture.
• Testing, evaluating and marketing
Unit A554:Designing Influences (20% Yr 11)
• Examination testing knowledge and understanding of the factors that influence designing,
iconic products, trendsetters, design eras and design movements.
The course leads comfortably into the AQA A-level Product Design course and in itself has
preparation for access into degree courses in product/industrial design, product engineering,
architecture, engineering and graphic design.
For further information please contact Mr Pledger or check the examination board website
www.ocr.org.uk
Mr D Pledger
OCR J305
DRAMA
Drama GCSE is an exciting and varied course which gives students a practical and theoretical
grounding in the dramatic arts. Lessons and performances take place in the well-equipped
Drama Studio. Students work creatively through both practical and academic tasks exploring
devising processes, play texts and theatre history. Teaching methods include a combination of
14
individual and group based activities which involves collaboration with other classmates.
Performance is a significant part of the course and students may choose to develop their skills
as actors or opt for a technical option such as lighting design. The course is highly enjoyable,
develops self-confidence and encourages strong communication skills.
Drama GCSE is divided into two units. Both combine practical and written elements.
Unit One is examined through an end of course written paper worth 40%.
Unit Two is examined through two performance projects worth 30% each.
Outline of GCSE DRAMA COURSE
Summer term introduction to Drama.
Year 9
Exploration techniques, devised performance and history of the theatre
Devised performance project 1 + evaluation Pantomime project
Year 10
Live Theatre visit one - review
Live Theatre visit two - review
Study / performance of contemporary play
Study and performance of a published play
Practitioner study –K.Stanislavski / Realism Practitioner study –K. Stanislavski
+ working notebook
+ evaluation
Monologue and duologue project
Mask and mime project - devised
Shakespeare and Elizabethan Theatre
Intro to Year 11 + Physical Theatre
Devised performance project 2 + evaluation
Year 11
Devised performance project 3
Mock preparation
Live Theatre visit two - review
Mock exams
Scripted performance group project – exam
Scripted performance group project
Process and evaluation written study
Process and evaluation written study
Scripted performance group project – exam Preparation for written paper
Process and evaluation written study
Introduction to AS Drama
The GCSE Drama course requires students to have an active interest in both performing their
own drama and seeing work of other amateur or professional companies. Students are expected
to attend at least two theatre visits a year as studying and writing on these visits is an integral
part of the course.
Homework includes research, written evaluation, reading and line-learning tasks, as well as
lunchtime and after school rehearsals in preparation for assessed performances. Excellent
attendance to class and commitment to group work is essential as frequent absence disrupts
practical work.
The GCSE course attracts a wide range of students and can lead directly into AS and A2 Drama
and Theatre Studies.
Miss A Taylor
AQA 4240
GEOGRAPHY
Geography is exciting and unique because it will challenge you to think about your own place
in the world, your values, your rights and responsibilities to other people, the environment, and
the planet. In doing so, it inspires you to become a global citizen and therefore, prepares you for
adult life and employment.
Why will I enjoy this course?
15

It is topical and focuses on local, national and global issues/challenges that affect you now
and in the future.

You will discover some new spectacular, impossible and adventurous places.

It gives you the opportunity to explore and suggest possible solutions to a range of issues
being tackled by the global community, such as extreme weather events, carbon footprints,
re-imaging of cities, fertility decline and ageing populations, GM foods etc

It involves practical field work in the summer of Year 10.

Plenty of opportunity to use and develop your ICT skills through activities such as:
research, presentations, use of GIS (e.g. Google Earth).

You will acquire a range of transferable skills that will support your learning in other
subjects, such as economics and science, and that are also valued at university and in
employment.

What will I study?
Unit 1 – Dynamic Planet
Unit 2 – People and the Planet
Section A: Introduction to the Dynamic planet
Section A: Introduction to People and the planet
Section B: Small-scale Dynamic Planet
Coasts and Conflict
Section B: Small-scale People and the Planet
The Changing Economy of the UK
Section C- Large-scale Dynamic Planet
Extreme Environments
Section C- Large-scale People and the Planet
The Challenges of the Urban World
Unit 3: Making Geographical Decisions
A decision making Task based on a
resource booklet supplied by Edexcel.
Unit 4: Controlled Assessment
A fieldwork enquiry on either an urban or a
coastal task supplied by Edexcel completed
in school
How is it taught?
The course builds on the skills, knowledge and understanding that you have gained at KS3. It
emphasises the links and interconnections between places in the world. These are explored
through varied case studies at the local, national and international scale. You will understand
geographical ideas not just learn a body of factual knowledge and we use a wide range of
teaching approaches to achieve this.
16
We encourage you to play an active role in your learning by contributing to lessons, giving
presentations, participating in decision making activities, solving geographical mysteries,
analysing and evaluating data and information and so on.
Your ICT skills are regularly used as a learning tool and you will be able to use databases,
spreadsheets, graphic packages, desk-top publishing, GIS and subject specific software.
How is the course assessed?
Unit 1: Dynamic
Planet: (25%)
Unit 2: People and
the Planet: (25%)
1¼ hour exam
1¼ hour exam
Unit 3: Making
Geographical
Decisions: (25%)
1½ hour exam
Unit 4: Controlled
Assessment: (25%)
Local Fieldwork
Investigation (choice of
titles from 2 topics)
Choice of presentation
format e.g. PowerPoint,
written report, video,
diary, webpage, etc.
Most students will sit the Higher Tier papers which cover grades A* to D
What could I do with Geography?
You could carry on with your studies at AS or A Level.
Students who have studied geography are really valued in the work place and geography
graduates are highly employable. This is because the skills learnt are highly transferable to a
wide range of professional occupations. Below is just a sample of the employment
opportunities available:
Law
Business Management
Banking and Commerce
Event management
Accountancy
Estate Agency
Sustainable Development Projects
Environment Agency Planners
Local/ Central Government Planning
Transport Planning and Management
Civil Service
Surveying
Mrs S Taylor
Edexcel Specification B
The Evolving Planet
HISTORY
History is widely recognised as the most prestigious of academic options for GCSE, A-Level
and degree. Employers make clear that they will employ History graduates over and above any
others. With that in mind it is not really a choice to study History but a necessity.
Of course History is much more than an effective stepping stone for a successful career; it is an
enthralling, engaging and edifying subject. Our understanding of the past genuinely shapes our
17
future. An understanding of History can help us (as a species) improve the world we live in. It
may be clichéd but we can learn from our mistakes.
GCSE
On the course you will cover the following topics:
Year 10
International Relations (post World War II) – the Cold War.
We explore one of the seminal events of the 20th century, the conflict between the two
superpowers, America and the Soviet Union. We focus on events in Europe, like the Berlin
blockade, and we travel across the ocean to explore the Cuban Missile Crisis finishing with a
journey into the jungles of Cochin China – the Vietnam War.
US History 1919-41
The course races through the Jazz Age and prohibition to depression and finally exploring
Roosevelt’s New Deal programme.
Year 11
Germany 1919-45
Our coursework changes this year and we will be delving into Germany. Our focus is on the
inter war periods where we explore the reasons behind the growth of National Socialism.
British Depth Study 1939-1975
In our final unit we cover the impact of WWII on the UK, immigration, the development of
youth culture and the position of women within society.
Mr T Mattingly
OCR J417
MODERN LANGUAGES
French, German and Spanish
What are modern foreign language GCSEs all about?

18
Thanks to new technology and improved travel and communications, the world has become
a much smaller place. It is crucial, therefore, that we learn to speak and understand each
other. This can only be done effectively by learning other languages and appreciating the
associated cultures.

A GCSE in another language rewards practical communication skills and adds a European
and/or international dimension to your studies .

Learning another language can enhance your employment and mobility prospects whether
you want a career in science, business, engineering, journalism or world class football!

This is a multi-skill GCSE (speaking 30%, listening 20%, reading 20% and writing 30%) –
it is not just writing.

It encourages you to express yourself, your likes, dislikes, ideas and opinions and develops
self-confidence.
Will I enjoy this course?
You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that offers:

A range of skills and a variety of activities with topics that include media, entertainment
and youth culture, education, training & employment and social activities, fitness and
health.

The possibility to be able to travel abroad – there are trips to France, Germany and Spain
available for KS4 students.

The potential for linking work to ICT – ‘surfing the net’, sending e-mails, using multimedia facilities and other practical ICT applications will be actively encouraged.
It will appeal to all types of students including those interested in travel, culture and people
from different countries, as well as those who always have something to say.
How does it follow on from what I have learned before?
You have developed important language skills and knowledge at Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9). The
GCSE course will build on this and introduce you to a wider range of language structures and
vocabulary. You will learn to recognise these and to apply your new knowledge to different
contexts.
What about exams?
You will take an exam in listening and reading. Speaking and writing will be assessed by
‘controlled assessment’ which is carried out in class with the support of your teacher and your
notes. Marks will be awarded positively and are mostly allocated for ‘communication’ in the
foreign language. You will only need to provide answers in English in the Listening and
Reading papers.
What about my results?
We enter students for the most appropriate level to enable them to achieve the highest grade
possible. The majority are entered for Higher Tier.
Results in Modern Languages have consistently been amongst the highest achieved in the
school with several students each year ranking among the top in the country.
What other skills might I develop?
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Learning a language will help you to develop skills that will be extremely useful to you. It can
help you to develop key skills in communication, information and communication technology,
working with others and improving your own learning and performance. It will also develop
your confidence and ability to communicate with people from other countries and cultures.
What could I do next with a GCSE in a modern foreign language?
You can study a foreign language at AS or A level, always in demand by university admissions
tutors. An MFL is an essential component of the proposed EBacc qualification. Employers too
are forever asking for candidates with language skills and a GCSE in a modern foreign
language will place you in a strong position for interesting employment with plenty of career
opportunities. Examples of employment where language skills are particularly valued include
journalism and media, law, engineering, business and marketing, ICT, sport and leisure, travel
and tourism, customer service, civil service (Immigration, Customs and Excise, Diplomatic
Service) and teaching (UK and abroad).
What about exchanges/visits?
In Year 10 students taking German have the possibility of participating in the exchange to
Flensburg and Spanish students may take part in a trip to Barcelona. Year 10 French students
may take part in a joint exchange programme with a school in Toulouse, alongside students
from the Girls’ school.
NOTES
All students study a modern language through to GCSE at the end of Year 11. Hence there are
three possible options:

to continue with both German/Spanish and French;

to continue with French, German or Spanish only;
The Languages Department preferred option is for students to continue with both languages
although it is recognised that some students will wish to continue with only one.
As the first language has been studied for three years as opposed to only two years for the
second language, knowledge of the first language by most pupils is greater. It is likely that the
majority of pupils will produce their best result at GCSE by continuing to study their first
language if they choose to take only one. However, students may prefer the fresh start they
have been offered in their second language or they might find it more enjoyable. Students
should discuss their choice with their language teacher before completing their options form.
German Options
Edexcel Certificate / AQA GCSE
As of this academic year it has been possible for KS4 students of German at the Langton to be
entered either for the AQA GCSE as outlined above, or the Edexcel Certificate (a version of
the International GCSE made available for teaching in state schools). This has been taught in
most leading independent schools for a number of years and the German department feels that
it provides a better preparation for A-level German. One of the major differences is that all four
skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing) are examined at the end of the course. There is
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no controlled assessment.
It is expected that about half the cohort will be entered for the AQA GCSE and half for the
Edexcel Certificate. The decisions about which qualification boys should be prepared for will
be made during term 6 following the commencement of the ‘9+’ course. This gives us time to
assess boys’ suitability for the different qualifications.
Further details will follow in due course, but Mr Johnson is happy to answer any questions you
might have by email. hjohnson@thelangton.kent.sch.uk
Mrs L Santana
Mr H Johnson
Mr J Waters
[Spanish]
[German]
[French]
AQA 4695
AQA 4668
AQA 4655
MUSIC
What is GCSE Music all about?
GCSE Music is about making and listening to music. It covers performing, composing,
listening to, analysing and appraising a wide variety of music – classical music, popular music
and world music.
Will I enjoy this course?
You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that:
•
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involves performing solo – 15%
•
•
•
•
gives you the opportunity to play music with others in various group situations – 15%
builds on your existing strengths and interests in music, e.g. playing an instrument
involves composing or arranging music on your own, following certain conventions –
30%
involves listening to all kinds of music and studying and analysing 12 set works – 40%
How does it follow on from what I have learned before?
You will improve your own skills in performing through regular solo and group performances
to the class. You will compose different types of music using conventions found in a variety of
music, along with improving your theory. You will listen to, and closely analyse 12 set works,
following the music and learn more about how and why they were written and/or performed
and also listen around the topic of which they are an example.
Requirements for the course:
It involves a far greater element of independent study than in KS3. You will prepare solo and
group performances of notated music and improve both solo improvising and extemporising in
groups and appreciate different performing situations. Performing needs to be to grade III
standard. You will compose and notate your own music, on your own, on Sibelius. It requires a
complete understanding of the notation of music on paper or using ICT. You must be learning
an instrument or be able to sing for your performances. You may also be entered for a theory
examination.
What about exams?
There is one 90 minute exam in the final summer term. You will listen to a CD and answer
questions on the set works which cover popular music, classical music (past and present) and
music from around the world.
Is there any coursework?
Yes. You will submit two performances. One of the pieces will be a solo in any style and on
any instrument. The other performance may be one of your own compositions but must be a
piece which will include other players. These performances may take place in the classroom, in
a school concert, in school music groups or outside school.
You will also submit two compositions according to briefs written by the teacher or yourself, in
a form or style that you have chosen from a list which includes Jazz, Folk, Atonal, Songs from
the shows and Dance Music (for which there will be an opportunity to use Logic. You may
alternatively arrange an existing piece of music for other instruments.
Mrs E Temel
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Edexcel 1426
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
YEAR 10 OPTIONS 2014
Name
Form
 We expect all students to study one Modern Foreign Language (choice 1)
 You are strongly advised to take a Humanity subject – for the EBacc this
means Geography or History (choice 2)
 Students should consider taking a creative subject (Art, Design, Drama,
Music)
 You also need a reserve choice in case we cannot timetable your 4th option.
1.
(French/German/Spanish)
2.
(Humanity)
3.
4.
(This choice might have to be replaced by your reserve)
5.
(Reserve Choice)
Student Name ………………………………………………………..
Parent’s signature……………………………………………..
Date:………………2014
Please return this form to your Form Tutor by 17th March 2014
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