KEY STAGE 4
OPTIONS BOOKLET 2014
The Next Step
Your Key Stage 4 Options Booklet
Option time in Year 8 is extremely important. The decisions you make now will be a significant step
for your future life choices.
The following information is designed to help you and your parents make informed choices about
the courses you intend to take in Years 9, 10 and for some of Year 11.
It is essential therefore that you and your parents take time to read this booklet carefully. You also
need to seek advice from certain people on which subjects are best for you. These people could be
your parents, tutor, subject teachers, careers officer or your Head of Learning.
Once you have read all the information in this booklet, discussed possible choices at Options
Evening, and spoken to the relevant people, you should be ready to make your choice. You can
then fill in the options form (at the back of the booklet) and return this to your tutor. This should be
no later than Thursday 6th March.
The curriculum at Merchants’ Academy is designed to allow you to study a broad range of subjects
in Years 7 and 8 and then specialise in to the subjects that you are good at in Years 9 and 10. You
will follow a three year KS4 which for the majority of subjects will be based on a foundation year
followed by a two year examination part of the course. This will allow you to build knowledge and
expertise to place you in the best position for your examination years. Where students excel, and
in some BTEC courses, your programme of study will finish at the end of Year 10 leaving the
opportunity for advanced courses in Year 11. This structure allows all students to achieve their
very best whilst having the opportunity to gain additional qualifications in the area of their interest.
Your access to further education (at Merchants’ Academy or elsewhere), training and employment,
depend upon your results. It is therefore important to make the right decisions now, and for the
right reasons, as you will be committed to them for the next two to three years.
Once on the course there will be very little flexibility to alter your selection so please think carefully
about this. I know that myself and the Academy staff are committed to ensuring that you achieve
more than you ever thought possible and therefore we want to help you to select the most
appropriate course.
Nick Short
Vice Principal
Head of Secondary
KEY STAGE 4 OPTIONS PROGRAMME
OPTIONS EVENING
For Parents and Students
Thursday 27th February
5.00pm – 7.00pm
The Options Evening offers you an opportunity to
speak to subject staff about the courses on offer,
before making any final decisions
OPTIONS BOOKLET
Key Stage 4 Options Booklet
Make sure you read up on all the subjects you
intend/would like to study for the next two years
OPTIONS GUIDANCE
Careers Advisor/Tutors/
Subject teachers/Assemblies/review of your data
Decision Making – Take time to discuss options
with your tutor and subject staff
OPTIONS FORM
To be completed and
returned to your tutor by
Thursday 6th March
Making the right choices
If you let other people choose your options for you, you may end up following a programme that suits
them better than it suits you. Use these tips to make sure that this doesn't happen to you.

Look at all of your options before you make a decision.

Don't fall into the trap of thinking that some subjects are only for boys and some only for
girls, this isn’t true.

If you have a firm career idea, choose subjects that you'll need for the next stage of your
career journey - the ones you need to go into further or higher education or into an
apprenticeship or job with training.

If you don't have a firm career idea, choose subjects that will allow you to keep your options
open.

Don't be afraid to ask for help and advice from your teachers, careers coordinator, tutor and
others.
Good reasons for choosing a course








You are good at the subject.
You think you will enjoy the course.
It fits your career ideas and plans.
It goes well with your other choices.
You are interested in the knowledge and skills it develops.
It will give you plenty of choice in the future.
You think that you might want to continue studying it after Year 11.
Your research shows that it will interest you and motivate you to learn.
Bad reasons for choosing a course






Your friends are doing it.
People say it is easy.
You think it is a good course for a boy or for a girl.
Someone else thinks that it is a good idea but you disagree.
You like the teacher you have now.
You didn't have time to research your options properly.
It is in your interest to have a balanced and broad curriculum choice. You must also consider the
choices you will want to make at 16+ (after GCSE’s). The omission of some courses from GCSE
choices will mean that you may not be able to study them at 16+. Speak to subject teachers if you
are at all unsure.
What will I study in Year 9/10/11
In Key Stage 4 you are able to choose some of your subjects; however, there are other subjects
that you have to study.
The compulsory subjects for Year 9, 10 & 11 in 2014 will be:



English
Mathematics
Science
Examination subjects
English, mathematics and science offer a range of courses and your teachers will decide which the
most suitable courses are for you.

Core Physical Education
Non-Examination subject
You will have the opportunity to try out different activities and games over your time in Years 9, 10
and 11.
Your option choices will be grouped in three choices. These are;



Modern Foreign Languages
Humanities
Main options pool
You will need to study one subject from Modern Foreign Languages, a humanities subject and then
two subjects from the main option pool.
Modern Foreign Languages
 French
 Spanish
Humanities
 Geography
 History
 Religious Education
Main Option Pool – (you will study two subjects from this group)
GCSE OPTIONS
Art & Design
Business
Computing
Geography
History
Music
Performing Arts (Drama)












PE
Product Design (Fashion/Textiles)
Product Design (Food Technology)
Product Design (Resistant Materials)
Triple Science
BTEC OPTIONS
 Construction
 Health & Social Care
 IT
Try to choose a combination of subjects which will suit your ambitions and abilities.
COMPULSORY EXAMINATION
SUBJECTS
GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE
Who has to take GCSE English?
All students follow English at Key Stage 4. Most students will study both English Language and English
Literature, leading to a dual GCSE award.
What will we study?
Whether you like reading fiction or non-fiction, performing plays or watching films, reading magazines or writing
articles for them – this course has something to suit everyone! You’ll study a range of texts, which may include
Of Mice and Men, Animal Farm, An Inspector Calls, Blood Brothers, Macbeth and poetry from the classics to the
modern day. You’ll also write for a variety of audiences and situations, from persuasive speeches to creative
stories.
How am I assessed?
GCSE English Language and Literature are assessed through:


Six Controlled Assessments which are completed in the classroom
Three examinations
What do I get out of it?
Not only will you earn two GCSEs for English Language and Literature, but you will be fully prepared for A-levels
and beyond.
What support can I have?
Merchants’ Academy can provide you with an after-school tutor to target your individual needs. Your English
teachers at Merchants’ Academy are dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential during lessons and after
school, too.
I have questions; who can I talk to?
You can ask any English teacher about the course. Better yet, ask Year 10 what they’ve been up to in lessons.
iGCSE English
Some students may also take iGCSE English – an international GCSE! This course consists of:




One extended speaking and listening discussion
A coursework portfolio made up of three assignments
One examination
This course must be taken alongside a literature GCSE
GCSE MATHS & STATISTICS
The mathematics curriculum follows a five year programme running from Year 7 to Year 11 resulting in a GCSE
qualification.
In KS4 students follow the linear AQA Mathematics GCSE course.
The course can be studied at higher or foundation level, with higher level giving students the opportunity to achieve
grades A* - E, and foundation grades C – G. Both levels consist of two examinations at the end of year 11, one of
which you can use a calculator in and the other you cannot.
The mathematics GCSE examinations are currently undergoing Government changes, which will be implemented
for the GCSE mathematics examinations you will take. There will be an enhanced focus on the students’ ability to
reason and solve problems with the students developing a ‘fluency’ in mathematics.
The start of year 10 mathematics introduces the students to their GCSE with an increased focus on examination
style questions and independent revision. All of the students are provided with a revision guide, which is used to
support their consolidation of learning in the classroom and promote independent learning. Year 10 students will
extend their learning on the 4 main areas of mathematics: number, algebra, shape & space, and data handling
working in a cyclic pattern throughout the year to build on their prior learning.
Year 11 students continue to extend their learning with students studying the higher level course covering topics
such as cumulative frequency distributions, histograms and solving and graphing inequalities. Students covering
the foundation course will study topics such as the equations of straight line graphs, Pythagoras’ theorem and areas
of circles giving them the best possible chance of achieving a grade C in mathematics.
Students also have the possibility of being entered for a Statistics GCSE through the AQA examination board,
giving students the potential to gain another GCSE qualification. The content of the Statistics course is strongly
complimented by the statistics covered in the Maths GCSE course. Students will have to learn about comparative
pie charts and correlation coefficients on top of the statistical concepts covered in the maths GCSE course. Pupils
are assessed as part of the Statistics GCSE course through one single examination worth 75% of their final mark
and a controlled assessment activity, which is worth 25%.
Students are supported in their learning through regular use of mathematical interactive learning and revision
sites such as www.mymaths.co.uk and www.conquermaths.com, and will have regular access to
mathswatch.co.uk to allow independent learning and revision.
GCSE/BTEC SCIENCE
GCSE Science (Edexcel)
Starting in year 9 you will study GCSE Science which includes units for biology, chemistry and physics.
You will learn about topics such as:









How our genes affect us
Evolution
Diseases including diabetes and infectious diseases
The atmosphere and rocks
Acids, metals and fuels
Acid rain and climate change
The Solar System
Waves including electromagnetic waves and seismic waves
Electricity
Most students will sit exams for these units at the end of the year 10 and you will also complete controlled
assessments throughout the course which will test your understanding of scientific investigations. Some students
may continue studying Science GCSE in year 11 if it is felt that they need the extra time.
GCSE Additional Science
Most GCSE students will move on to studying for a second science GCSE at the start of year 11 called Additional
Science. This second GCSE includes units for biology, chemistry and physics which build on the knowledge already
gained.
Students will sit exams for these units at the end of year 11 and you will also complete more controlled assessments
throughout the course which will test your understanding of scientific investigations.
BTEC Certificate principles of applied science
A pass in this course is equivalent to one GCSE pass (grade C). Students will be taught the skills needed to work
in the science industry to a high level. Scientific technique is the focus of the course and students will spend time
learning the core knowledge, skills and understanding of a scientific vocational sector, which can prepare students
for employment. There is an external examination contributing to 25% of the final grade.
HUMANITIES
OPTION CHOICES
GCSE GEOGRAPHY
The OCR A GCSE specification addresses contemporary themes that gives students a current and up
to date understanding of the subject, while also capturing their imagination and interest.
Contemporary Themes in Written paper 50% 1 hour 45 minutes
Theme 1: Extreme Environments
Why are some places considered to be extreme? Ever wondered how and why deserts and
mountains form? Why are they extreme environments? Who lives there and why? How do they
survive? What are the threats? What will happen to the environments in the future? What causes
earthquakes? What happens in an earthquake? How can we manage earthquakes?
Theme 2: The Global Citizen
What products and services are there? How can consumers help make a sustainable future? What is
the impact of the production and consumption of mobile phones and tourism globally? How might
demand change in the future for products and services? Will climate change have an impact? What
problems does our current energy use pose? How will we generate energy in the future?
Theme 3: Similarities and Differences in Settlements and Population
So you think you know where you live? What issues are occurring in Bristol at present? You know
what YOU think about Bristol but what do others think and why? How does Bristol link to the rest of
the UK? Seen Slumdog Millionaire...? But what is Mumbai really like? How does Bristol compare to
Mumbai? Are there any similarities and differences? What are the links between the UK and
Mumbai? What is happening to world population? How are countries like China trying to control the
population?
Geographical Skills Written paper 25% 1 hour 15 minutes
Students will be taught and use a variety of geographical skills during the course which they will be
assessed on during the exam. This can be anything from being able to read an OS map to presenting
data in a variety of different ways from climate graphs to population pyramids.
Local Geographical Investigation Controlled assessment 25%
A compulsory local Geographical Investigation that involves a fieldtrip and the collection of primary
data. This is assessed in a 2,000 word (max) assessment under controlled conditions. Learners
complete one from a choice of four tasks.
What will I gain from studying GCSE Geography? Geography is a topical, challenging and exciting
subject where you will learn about the world around us. Geography is a highly valued subject by both
employers and colleges to study AS/A level and by universities. You don’t have to go on and study
geography beyond GCSE but having studied geography you will be able to offer:
Decision making skills
Ability to show empathy
Resolving conflicts
Spatial Awareness
Investigation skills
ICT skills
Environmental Awareness Team Work
Where do all the Geographers go?
Geography and the skills you will learn are valuable in a wide variety of careers such as:
Journalist
Lawyer
Social Work
Architect
National Trust
Teacher
TV Presenter
Marketing
Tourist Industry
Police Service
Estate Agent
Public Relations
Banker
Cartographer
Travel Agent
GCSE HISTORY
This course is designed to encourage you to think about aspects of History that are relevant to you by
using lots of different teaching methods. By studying Humankind’s past failures and achievements we
will be asking and investigating questions designed to help us gain an understanding of why society is
like it is today and how as individuals we can apply these lessons to the future.
How will I be assessed and what will I study?
Unit 1: Medicine and treatment through time. You will study medicine all the way from the Ancient
Greeks right up until the 20th century, looking at some of the most important events in world history.
You will look at the shiny baths and hygiene of the Greeks, and the grime and filth of the Black Death.
Assessment: exam 1hr 15mins worth 25% of your final grade.
Unit 2: The American West 1840-1895. You will study the development of The United States of
America in the 19th Century. You will learn about the Plains Indians and how their culture came under
threat and was ultimately destroyed. How the United States of America grew to become a global
superpower and along the way learn about many interesting aspects of military, social, economic and
political history.
Assessment: exam 1hr 15mins worth 25% of your final grade.
Unit 3: Source paper focussing on The Transformation of Surgery 1845 – 1918. You will perform
an enquiry using sources and artefacts from the time and from now to learn about how the safe
surgery we rely on today has developed.
Assessment: exam 1hr 15mins worth 25% of your final grade.
Unit 4: The impact of war on Britain 1914-1950. During this unit you will consider the changes
which took place during the First and Second World War and how they affected life for British people.
Some of the topics include: recruitment, propaganda, weaponry, the Blitz, the Home Front, role of
women...
Assessment: Controlled Assessment done in the Academy worth 25% of your final grade.
What will I gain from studying GCSE History?
History is a topical, challenging and exciting subject where you will learn about the world around us.
History is a highly valued subject by both employers and higher education establishments. It is also
an excellent preparation for studying history at A Level in 6th form. Having studied history you will be
able to offer:
ICT Skills
Research
Investigation Skills
Decision Making Skills
How to develop an argument
Good Time Management
Team Work
Where do all the Historians go?
History and the skills you will learn are valuable in a wide variety of careers such as:
Doctor
Marketing
Lawyer
Police Service
Architect
TV Presenter
Public Relations Social Work
Estate Agent
Banker
Journalist
Teacher
GCSE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
A comparative course looking in depth at Christianity, Islam and how Christians and Muslims
practise these religions in the modern world.
RE is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the world around you and understand others. If you
are a tolerant person who enjoys a debate, it is the subject for you! RE is all about learning about the
lives of others, considering your own views on things, and respecting people and the world around us.
Full course RE has 4 units:
Christianity
You will study core beliefs, special days and festivals and major divisions and interpretations. This will
involve learning about key Christian beliefs such as the Ten Commandments and the Apostle’s
Creed. You will also look at special times of year to Christians including Lent, Easter and Christmas
and sites of pilgrimage such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Finally in this first module you will look at
Roman Catholics, Orthodox Christians and Protestants.
Assessment: Exam. 25% of final mark.
In the second unit you will look at key issues and Christian perspectives on them. These include
responsibility for the planet, war and peace, human rights and prejudice and equality.
Assessment: Exam. 25% of final mark.
Islam
In the first Islam unit you will learn all about core beliefs- what do Muslims believe and why? You will
learn about key practises such as the five pillars, special days and festivals such as Eid. You will also
look at major divisions and interpretations- who are Sunni, Shi’a and Sufi Muslims? This is an exciting
opportunity to learn about a much misunderstood religion.
Assessment: Exam. 25% of final mark.
In the second unit you will look at key issues and Muslim perspectives on them. These include
medical ethics (e.g. is abortion ever OK?), poverty and wealth (e.g. is it right that some people are
rich and some are poor?) and relationships (e.g. is sex before marriage acceptable?)
Assessment: Exam. 25% of final mark.
The future:
GCSE RE can lead onto studying A Level Religious Studies, Philosophy and Critical Thinking. The
writing and thinking skills you develop such as considering different points of view and supporting
them with evidence could help you in other subjects including English and History.
RE will help in any job that involves working with people- we live in a multicultural society where
having respect for and understanding of others is crucial. It will also help if you ever wish to travel as it
will help you understand other societies you may visit.
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
OPTION CHOICES
GCSE SPANISH OR FRENCH
Why study languages?
Did you know that…..
- 94% of the world’s population do not speak English as their first language
- 60% of UK trade is with non-English speaking countries
- Over 300 languages are spoken in London alone
- EU enlargement means greater need for new languages and contact with new markets
- Customers addressed in their mother tongue are three times more likely to buy.
A little language can go a long way because….
UK Businesses need people with language skills
-
from basic to native speaker
from the switchboard to the boardroom
Having a language skill can prove the difference between you and another similar person going for the
same job. It can also help you to achieve an increase in your salary or an opportunity for promotion.
Studying a language also helps you to improve your communication skills, and can make a trip abroad
so much more rewarding.
Remember that many careers need languages as an extra skill. You don’t have to be a translator or a
teacher to use your languages. Here are examples of some of the job sectors where languages can be
useful: Business, Creative and Media, Construction, Engineering, Hair and Beauty, Health and
Social Care, Hospitality and Catering, ICT, Land based & Environmental, Language specific
careers, Manufacturing, Public Services, Retail, Sport and Leisure, Travel and Tourism and Law.
Your GCSE in Spanish or French…
Languages GCSEs consist of 4 components: speaking and writing, which are both worth 30% of the
final mark, and listening and reading, which are each worth 20%. There will also be the possibility of
attending a Year 10 GCSE trip to Europe.
Spanish or French?
For most students, continuing with Spanish is the most logical and sensible choice with the best chance
of GCSE success. After all, you have 2 years’ experience in the subject, and what you have learnt in
Years 7 and 8 will also come up in the GCSE course. If you feel strongly that French is the route you
wish to take, you must discuss this with your MFL teacher as soon as possible. Switching languages
will only be possible if you have shown in Year 8 that you are extremely hard-working, eager to
participate in all skills, and have managed to achieve a good level in French so far in your assessments.
MAIN OPTION POOL CHOICES
GCSE ART AND DESIGN
Interested in Art? Good at Art? Like Art?
This Key Stage 4 Art and Design course could be for you.










This is a 3 year course of study with the first year (Year 9) being a preparatory course
providing a sound foundation in the technical and conceptual skills required to properly
respond to the demands of the next two years (Years 10 and 11) which will be the formally
examined part of the course.
Graded at GCSE grades A*-G. (60% coursework/40% controlled test.)
This is a practical art course with no written examination; all exam assessment is based on
the practical art work completed in class and at home over the duration of the course. Most
projects are set by your teacher, but the exam board provides a question paper for your final
controlled test piece
Coursework: Your teacher will be your examiner for most of your work (60%) and will guide
and advise you to ensure that you get the best grade your ability will allow. (Although you do
have to make a commitment to work hard.) This work is presented as a portfolio; showcasing
your best work across arrange of different art processes and media.
Controlled Test: The exam board provide a question paper; you produce work in response to
one of these questions which is marked by your teacher, moderated by the Exam board and
which counts for the remaining 40% of your final mark. This is the final project of the course;
carried out over 10 hours under controlled, exam conditions after you have completed
suitable preparation time.
You will produce work in response to a wide variety of projects and design situations, some of
which have a vocational background.
The projects will lead to work in two and three dimensions and include opportunities to draw,
paint, photograph, use ICT and make artefacts.
You will use and develop skills you have learned and practised in KS3, Years 7 and 8 along
with the foundation work from Year 9 but will have more time to try new skills.
The option choice would obviously suit those students interested in further study or a career
in art and design, but it would also suit students who simply have a genuine interest in
drawing, painting, graphics, photography or 3D work and who want to use this interest as a
means of gaining a qualification.
Achieving this qualification is good preparation for continued study on an A-level course at
Sixth Form level.
INTERESTED? NEED MORE INFORMATION?
Talk to your Art teacher. THEN CHOOSE ART.
GCSE BUSINESS
Why choose business?
Business is a straightforward, fascinating GCSE that offers the chance to look inside different types of
businesses with a central focus on how small businesses are started up and run. It is fun, useful,
rewarding and very worthwhile, providing a good basis for further study in Sixth Form and beyond.
There will be an opportunity to take part in enterprise and investment projects.
Course Content
Year 9 - An Introduction to Small Business:
This section covers the key issues and skills involved in enterprise. It provides the framework for
looking at the marketing, financial, human and operational issues in starting and running a small
business.
Topics include:




Showing enterprise
Putting business ideas into practice
Making the start-up effective
Understanding the economic context (impact of changes in interest rates, exchange rates, the
business cycle)
Year 10- Building a business:
This section examines how a firm develops beyond the set up phase.
Topics include:




Marketing
Meeting customer needs
Effective management of people and finance
The wider world affecting business
Exams and Coursework:



25% Coursework in Year 9
25% 1 Multiple Choice Paper in Year 10
50% 1 Written Paper in Year 10
GCSE COMPUTING (OCR)
What will you study:
GCSE Computing should encourage students to be inspired, moved and challenged by following a
coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It should help students to gain an insight into
related career sectors. They should prepare students to make informed decisions about further
learning opportunities and career choices.
GCSE Computing will enable students to:






Develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies, understanding of how
they work and apply this knowledge and understanding in a range of contexts
Acquire and apply a knowledge, some technical skills and an understanding of the use of
algorithms in computer programs to solve problems using programming
Use their knowledge and understanding of computer technology to become independent and
discerning users of IT, able to make informed decisions about the use and be aware of the
implications of different technologies
Acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of IT in a range
of contexts.
Develop computer programs to solve problems
Evaluate the effectiveness of computer programs/solutions and the impact of, and issues
related to, the use of computer technology in society.
Students will learn to program using the following languages/technology:



HTML
JavaScript
Python (used by Google)
The GCSE has 3 units:
Unit A451: Computer Systems and programming written paper (1.5 hours, 80 marks, 40% of the
qualification) Students answer a question paper that includes a mixture of short and long answer
questions, some of which will require students to write code.
Unit A452: Practical Investigation (Controlled Assessment) An investigative task (approximately 20
hours, 45 marks, 30% of the qualification) Students carry out a practical investigation of a topic
chosen from a set of options supplied by OCR.
Unit A453: Programming Project (Controlled Assessment) Project (approximately 20 hours, 45
marks, 30% of the qualification) Students create solutions to computing tasks chosen from a set of
options chosen by OCR.
Progression pathways to further and higher
education:
• AS/A Level
• University
• Employment
Career opportunities:
Animators, Computer Software Engineer,
Database Administrators, Commercial and
Industrial Designers e.g. digital video designers
and mobile phone designers
BTEC CONSTRUCTION
BTEC Level1 / Level 2 First Award in Construction and the Built Environment.
This is a Level 2 course graded from Level 2 Pass to Level 2 *Distinction, which has a Level 1 fallback position for any student who cannot achieve a Level 2 Pass.
The BTEC Level 1/ Level 2 First Award in Construction and The Built Environment is supported by local
company MITIE for students who are thinking about work in the construction industry (e.g. building
trades like carpentry, plastering, bricklaying, painting and electrical work as well as, surveying and
planning). The relationship we have with the MITIE Group will mean that suitable candidates will be
able to transfer to a full trade apprenticeship at the end of the course.
This is a four unit qualification with two core units, one mandatory unit and one optional unit chosen
from a selection of specialist units. This course has been designed to provide a broad educational basis
for further training, further education or for moving into appropriate employment within the construction
sector.
Core Units:


Construction Technology
Construction and Design
Mandatory Units:

Scientific and Mathematical Applications for Construction
Optional Unit:

From a list which includes units in Carpentry and Joinery; Brickwork and Blockwork; Painting
and Decorating
Assessment:
Unit 1 is assessed externally through a paper based exam set and marked by the exam board.
Units 2 and 3 plus the optional unit are assessed internally to projects set and delivered by your
teacher.
BTEC HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Health and Social Care.
This is a Level 2 course graded from Level 2 Pass to Level 2 *Distinction, which has a Level 1 fallback position for any student who cannot achieve a Level 2 Pass.
Are you interested in people? Do you like to find out about people’s experiences and life stories? Do
you want to help people who are finding it difficult to help themselves? Do you enjoy being with
people who might need help; including babies, children, disabled people and old people? If you have
answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then Health and Social Care is the course for you!
Over the two year course you will learn about a range of topics from how people grow and develop to
supporting individuals through creative and therapeutic activities. You will learn how to look after
individuals who have a range of needs and make action plans to support those who are struggling.
This course is assessed internally through 3 coursework units, set and delivered by your teacher; a
fourth unit is externally set and assessed by the exam board.
Students taking this course can go on to the Level 3 Health and Social Care course offered here at
Merchants’ Academy Sixth Form, join young apprenticeship schemes or go on to further courses at
AQA GCSE MUSIC
We are delighted at Merchants’ Academy to be working to develop a new ‘Music Pathway’ at KS4: a
three-year program that runs from Year 9 until Year 11, culminating in completion of AQA GCSE
Music. Year 9s undertake an intensive year in instrumental study based loosely around both the El
Sistema music education model and Edexcel BTEC Music. Students are given the choice of an
orchestral instrument and then given free peripatetic instruction for the whole of year 9 on this
instrument. Whilst working on their performance skills individually they also join the school Orchestra
to develop the ability to perform in a large ensemble. Finally, curriculum time is given over on a
weekly basis to further develop technique on the chosen instrument.
In Years 10 and 11 students work to complete AQA GCSE Music. This is composed of 3 elements.
Performing, Composing and Listening. Students undertake 2 performances (solo and ensemble), two
compositions including a written appraisal, and a final listening exam. Students in Years 10 and 11
are further encouraged to continue with instrumental tuition and all are expected to undertake
performances in the various concerts in the academic year.
The GCSE course is split into three components:



Performing 30%(Ensemble and Solo)
Composing and Appraising 40%
Listening Exam 30%
Students are required to perform one solo piece on an instrument of their choice (including voice) and
one ensemble piece (group). They must compose 2 pieces of music by themselves; one for their
instrument/voice and one in a specific genre, linked to an area of study from the course. The listening
exam is 75 minutes in duration, where they will be expected to appraise music from a variety of
genres and periods of history; Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Dance Music, Jazz, Choral, African.
It is essential that students practise independently outside of lessons, both as a soloist and as a group
performer. In addition, it is highly preferential that (in Years 10 and 11) all learners undertake
peripatetic lessons and attend several co-curricular activities. Merchants’ Academy are committed to
financially supporting this.
You will learn to:






Perform as a soloist, with confidence and panache
Rehearse & direct independently
Develop leadership by organising performances additional to formal concerts
Rehearse regularly and effectively in an ensemble
Compose in multiple styles with an understanding of other instruments
Actively listen to and engage with a wide range of genres
What kind of student do I need to be?





Dedicated to understanding all styles of music
Able to rehearse independently outside of lessons
Open and enthusiastic to perform with anybody
Willing to listen to the ideas and opinions of others
Be able to work successfully in groups
GCSE PERFORMING ARTS (DRAMA)
If you are interested in creating original drama work, using scripts to play
characters and working as a team then GCSE Performing Arts may be the
course for you. The course is presented in 2 units; Unit 1: Skills
Development and Unit 2: Showcase Performance.
Unit 1: Skills Development (60%)
In this portfolio unit, students will provide evidence of their learning and development of appropriate
skills used in presentations and performances. The work undertaken in this unit will provide students
with the fundamental skills, knowledge and understanding, which they will use in unit 2. The students’
portfolio should reflect the work they have done, their personal skills and their understanding of
planning and presenting a performance. Students will need to choose and use suitable methods to
present their evidence in support of the skills they have learned.
Students must provide evidence of the following:





Skills development
Planning and research
Practical activities
Contextual understanding of work-related aspects
Evaluation of own and others’ work.
Unit 2: Showcase Performance (40%)
Students are given the chance to completely create a Showcase Event based on an externally set
brief. The work in this unit will allow students to demonstrate, in a Showcase performance, what they
have learned about working as a member of a team and also how to present their personal skills to
the highest possible standard. It will reinforce the processes involved in researching the work of
others, planning, preparing for, and performing in an event or production.
This is an exciting course that provides students the opportunity to work as part of a functioning
theatrical company providing everything needed for a really professional event.
You will learn to:
 Perform on your own and in groups
 Be creative! Develop your ideas into fully finished performances
 Rehearse & direct independently
 Organise performances
 Understand different aspects of the Performance Industry
 Prepare for auditions
 Write an application form
What kind of student do I need to be?
 Enthusiastic, Open-minded and ready to have a go
 Dedicated and self-motivated
 Willing to listen to the ideas and opinions of others
 Be able to work independently and in groups
 Go the extra mile to create a finished product and work outside of lessons
 Be committed to self-improvement
GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION
What is a GCSE in Physical Education?




Studying a GCSE in Physical Education will help you to improve
your creativity and decision-making skills
It will help you to make the best choices in terms of studying
physical education and sport in the future and select appropriate career pathways.
The course will help you become increasingly physically competent and effective in your
performances through being actively engaged in a range of physical activities. As well as
practical performance you will be given the opportunity to develop your skills as a leader or
official.
The course will also help you to be able to work effectively and independently in a variety of
sports as part of a continuing healthy lifestyle.
It is important that you realise that although the course is predominantly practical based, there
will be theory lessons.

What will I study and how will I be assessed?
-
40% of the course is assessed in a final 1hr 30 minute exam where you will answer
questions based on your knowledge in the following areas; Healthy active lifestyles, exercise
and fitness, personal health and well-being, your healthy active body including the
cardiovascular system, muscular system, respiratory system and skeletal system.
-
60% of the course is assessed practically in two sections (practical performance and
analysis of performance).

Practical performance: your performance will be assessed in 4 different activities as
either a leader, official or player/participant (at least 2 performances must be as a
player). The types of sports covered will vary between team and individual sports
and will often be dependent on the students in the group. Sports that are not covered
in curriculum time can still be offered for assessment.

Analysis of performance: You will be assessed in one of your chosen practical
sports to undertake an analysis of performance where you will be assessed on your
knowledge of rules, regulations and terminology, your ability to observe and analyse
performance, your ability to evaluate performance, plan strategies, tactics and
practices and plan a Personal Exercise Programme (PEP).
Progression Routes
A GCSE in Physical Education provides a good foundation for students in post-16 education, or to
entry level jobs within the sports sector. Post-16 progressions could include BTEC Level 3 Sport and
A/S or A levels in Physical Education.
GCSE FASHION AND TEXTILES
Do you like working with fabrics, buttons, beads and sequins? Do you have a passion for fashion and
design? Would you like the opportunity to make a variety of clothes and accessories? Do you often
think that you could improve a product and make it better? Then this is the course for you!
In year 9 textiles will give you the opportunity to make six different products using a variety of
materials and techniques each term. You will consider your customer’s needs, trends and other
designer influences to produce highly original outcomes. During these projects you will produce an A4
folder filled with all your research, designs, development and evaluations of what you have learnt.
In year 10 you will make two much bigger and more complex products, utilising your existing skills
and learning many more new ones. You will again have supporting folder work to share your
research, designs, making and evaluating.
After Easter in year 10 you will start your major controlled assessment folder. This is an A3 folder that
includes detailed research, designs, development of your making and evaluations. Alongside this
folder you will make a life-sized product. This could be a dress for prom, trousers, shirts, skirts, hats,
bags or accessories. This is your chance to showcase all your skills using the materials you like
working with the best. You will make a product that is of such a high quality that it could be sold in a
shop.
How will you be assessed?
Written Paper – one paper with two sections:
 Section A: Design question. The design question is given to students 6 weeks prior to the
exam to help fully prepare them. If students work hard with this they could get up to 35 marks.
 Section B: This section covers a range of theory based questions that students will have
learnt over the three year course. This section is worth 85 marks.
 The written paper is worth 40% of the total marks with a duration of two hours.
Controlled Assessment
The controlled assessment is an A3 folder worth 60% of the total marks.
A total of 90 marks is awarded for this section.
Students get to choose from a wide variety of set tasks and produce an A3 folder consisting of around
20 pages. Students will produce research, original design ideas, development of their design proposal
and fully evaluate and test their end product.
Career opportunities from Fashion and Textiles;







Fashion designer
Fashion buyer
Visual merchandiser
Garment technologist
Trend forecaster
Retail manager
And much more…
GCSE FOOD TECHNOLOGY
Do you like cooking and baking? Do you have a passion for preparing tasty meals and snacks?
Would you like the opportunity to design your own recipes? Do you often think that you could improve
a recipe and make it better? Then this is the course for you!
In year 9 food will give you the opportunity to follow a wide range of recipes using a variety of
methods and techniques each term. You will consider your customer’s needs, trends and other
designer influences to produce highly original outcomes. During these projects you will produce an A4
folder filled with all your research, designs, development and evaluations of what you have learnt.
In year 10 you will design your own, more complex recipes, utilising your existing skills and learning
many more new ones. You will again have supporting folder work to share your research, designs,
making and evaluating.
After Easter in year 10 you will start your major controlled assessment folder. This is an A3 folder that
includes detailed research, designs, development of your making and evaluations. Alongside this
folder you will have designed and made your own recipe for a food product of your choice. This
product will be developed and improved and tested throughout the year. This could be a celebration
cake, bread, biscuits, vegetarian dishes, ‘free from’ foods. This is your chance to showcase all your
skills using the ingredients and methods you like working with the best. You will make a product that
is of such a high quality that it will be served to your friends and family.
How will you be assessed?
Written Paper – one paper with two sections:
 Section A: Design question. The design question is given to students 6 weeks prior to the
exam to help fully prepare them. If students work hard with this they could get up to 35 marks.
 Section B: This section covers a range of theory based questions that students will have
learnt over the three year course. This section is worth 85 marks.
 The written paper is worth 40% of the total marks with a duration of two hours.
Controlled Assessment
The controlled assessment is an A3 folder worth 60% of the total marks.
A total of 90 marks is awarded for this section.
Students get to choose from a wide variety of set tasks and produce an A3 folder consisting of around
20 pages. Students will produce research, original design ideas, development of their design proposal
and fully evaluate and test their end product.
Career opportunities from Food technology;







Food technologist
Recipe designer
Food analyst
Taste tester
‘Free from’ foods specialist
Celebration cake designer/baker
And much more…
GCSE RESISTANT MATERIALS
Do you like working with tools and machinery in the resistant
materials workshop? Would you like the opportunity to make a
variety of products using wood, metal and plastic? Do you often
think that you could improve a product and make it better? Then
this is the course for you!
In year 9 resistant materials will give you the opportunity to
make six different products using a variety of materials and techniques each term. You will consider
your customer’s needs, trends and other designer influences to produce highly original outcomes.
During these projects you will produce an A4 folder filled with all your research, designs, development
and evaluations of what you have learnt.
In year 10 you will make two much bigger and more complex products, utilising your existing skills
and learning many more new ones. You will again have supporting folder work to share your
research, designs, making and evaluating.
After Easter in year 10 you will start your major controlled assessment folder. This is an A3 folder that
includes detailed research, designs, development of your making and evaluations. Alongside this
folder you will make a life-sized product. This could be a chair, table, storage unit, a range of jewellery
or anything else you are interested in. This is your chance to showcase all your skills using the
materials you like working with the best. You will make a product that is of such a high quality that it
could be sold in a shop.
How will you be assessed?
Written Paper – one paper with two sections:
 Section A: Design question. The design question is given to students 6 weeks prior to the
exam to help fully prepare them. If students work hard with this they could get up to 35 marks.
 Section B: This section covers a range of theory based questions that students will have
learnt over the three year course. This section is worth 85 marks.
 The written paper is worth 40% of the total marks with a duration of two hours.
Controlled Assessment
The controlled assessment is an A3 folder worth 60% of the total marks.
A total of 90 marks is awarded for this section.
Students get to choose from a wide variety of set tasks and produce an A3 folder consisting of around
20 pages. Students will produce research, original design ideas, development of their design proposal
and fully evaluate and test their end product.
Career opportunities from Resistant Materials;







Jewellery designer
Carpenter
Product designer
Computer aided designer
Engineer
Architect
And so much more…
GCSE TRIPLE SCIENCE
In science at Merchants Academy we are excited to offer the opportunity for pupils to study
triple science.
If you choose triple science (Edexcel) as one of your options you could achieve three
GCSEs in Science.
You will study all three Science subjects – Biology, Chemistry and Physics. You cannot drop
one of the subjects.
You will still complete core and additional science GCSE in your “normal “ compulsory
science lessons but in addition to this you will have extra lessons to complete the extension
units that are more challenging and indepth.
B3
Using Biology
C3
Chemistry in Action
P3
Application of Physics
Extension units
To make this choice, you should enjoy finding out how things work and have a natural
curiosity and flair for science. The course encourages students to be inspired, motivated and
challenged by following a broad, coherent, practical and worthwhile course. Students will
develop their curiosity about living material and physical worlds and will be provided with
experience into how science works.
To ensure you make the right choice you should also feel that you will be able to cope with
the increased challenge that studying individual sciences will bring.
Future opportunities
This course will prepare you very well for any further science study post 16, whether it be
Biology, Chemistry or Physics A levels or the International Baccalaureate here at Merchants’
Academy. It could be advantageous to study all three sciences if you are interested in
careers in Medicine, Dentistry and other health care professions, Veterinary Medicine,
Engineering, the Environment as well as further study in pure Sciences. It may just be that at
this stage you have an interest and enjoy a challenge!
DECISION MAKING
PLEASE COMPLETE THE
ATTACHED OPTIONS FORM AND
RETURN TO YOUR TUTOR BY
THURSDAY 6TH MARCH
Options Choices 2014
Student Name.......................................................... Tutor Group...................
Modern Foreign Languages
(The majority of the decision in these subjects will be by your language teacher, but we
would still like your thoughts on your preferred choice)
French
Spanish
Humanities
(You will study one subject from this group, but must rank order 1 – 3)
Geography
History
Religious Education
Main Options Pool
(You will study two subjects from this group, but must rank order 1-14)
Art & Design – GCSE
Business – GCSE
Computing – GCSE
Geography – GCSE
History - GCSE
Music - GCSE
Performing Arts (Drama) – GCSE
PE – GCSE
Product Design, Fashion/Textiles – GCSE
Product Design, Food Technology – GCSE
Product Design, Resistant Materials - GCSE
Triple Science – GCSE
Construction – BTEC
Health & Social Care – BTEC
Please return this form to your tutor by Thursday 6th March