Key Stage 4

Curriculum
2015 - 2017

Key Stage 4 Curriculum

2015 - 2017

Trinity School

Introduction
This term students in Year 9 have to make some decisions about the subjects they will study in Years 10
and 11. This booklet will not only help to make the correct choices, but it will also be a useful guide during
Years 10 and 11, providing information about the syllabus, coursework, levels of entry and method of
assessment for every subject.
All students will be required to study the core curriculum, which occupies around 16 hours of the 25-hour
week.

The Compulsory Core Subjects

English Language
English Literature
Maths
Statistics
Double Science or Triple Science
Physical Education
Religious Studies
In addition, students need to choose other option subjects occupying the remaining hours in their timetabled week.
Understanding English Baccalaureate (EBacc)
Currently the government expects that more able students should follow a suite of courses leading to the English
Baccalaureate. To gain this students have to achieve at least a GCSE grade C in five areas:
English Language
Mathematics
Double Science or any two Sciences including Computer Science
A Modern Foreign Language
History or Geography
By gaining this students will be able to compete with other similar students nationally for places in universities or
employment. The EBacc is not a qualification in itself. However, a broad core curriculum is recommended by the
Government and Russell Group Universities as a good way of keeping options open for those students who are likely
to continue their education to A level and beyond. Research shows that there are many personal, cognitive, academic,
and societal benefits of studying a language that will help students indirectly.
http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/qualifications/englishbac/a0075975/the-englishbaccalaureate
Every student will have the opportunity to study the EBacc. However, this suite is not appropriate for all students as
it lessens choice and contains some subjects which some students may not wish to pursue. Therefore other choices
are available in the option system which still gives access to university, employment and apprenticeship but has more
choice. Students with additional support needs will follow a similar curriculum offer, which has successfully enabled
many students to progress to employment, further education and apprenticeships for a number of years.

Understanding GCSE
GCSEs are the traditional qualification achieved at the end of year 11. In English Language, English Literature
and Maths students will be sitting the new specification in GCSE courses which will be graded 1-9. Details will
follow later. In all other subjects there are 8 pass grades from G to A*. Pass grades G to D are counted as level
1 qualification and will allow students to access level 2 qualifications when they leave school. Pass grades C to
A* are level 2 qualifications and will allow students to access level 3 courses at the end of year 11. At a time of
great educational change, some subject areas are still discussing specific course and specifications. If changes
are made these will be communicated to your as appropriate.
What will happen next?
What will happen next?
Parents' Evenings
The Year 9 Parents Evening will be held on Thursday 12 February in the Armstrong building between 4.00 and
6.30pm. This is an opportunity to meet the teachers who take your child for the various subjects. Staff will also
be available to discuss new subjects, which you may be considering. In addition there will be a presentation
from senior staff about the Key Stage 4 curriculum. Details have already been sent to you about this evening.
Completion of the Choices Application Form
Please begin by reading the course notes for all subjects very carefully and then begin choosing your subjects.
If you are in any doubt talk to your teachers before you make your decision. Finally complete the separate form.
Choose one subject from each of the three option columns A, B and C and give a reserve choice for each.
Return to your childs form tutor preferably before but certainly by the deadline Friday 6 March 2015.
Choices after this point may be limited.
Thank you for your help in this important process.

Derek R Kay
Co-Headteacher

Contents

Page

Frequently Asked Questions

Core Subjects
Careers Information, Advice & Guidance
English
Mathematics & Statistics
Science
Modern Languages: French/Spanish
Physical Education
Religious Studies

6
7
10
11
14
15
16

Course Details for the Choices Form

Art and Design
Business Studies
Computer Science
Design & Technology: Food Technology
Design & Technology: Product Design
Design & Technology: Textiles Technology
Drama
Geography
Health & Social Care
History
Media Studies
Music
Photography
Physical Education GCSE
CACHE Child Care

19
21
23
24
26
27
28
29
30
32
33
36
37
39
41

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I get my first choice of options?

Hopefully, yes. We make every effort to make everyones choices fit. However, this is sometimes not possible,
either because the combinations of subjects will not fit into the timetable or because not enough people have
chosen a subject for it to run. That is why we ask you to make reserve choices which we will use if we have to.
Mrs Rothon will contact you if there are problems with your choices. If you dont hear from her you are to
assume that everything is fine!

Can I study History and Geography together?

I dont know what I want to do in the future how do I keep my

options open?

Yes that is fine it will take up two of your options choices

The best way is to choose a variety of subjects that match your skills
and interests.

All of my friends are picking subject X, should I pick it too?

Definitely not! You should pick subjects that you feel best suit
your skills, strengths and interests. Even if you pick the same
subjects as your friends it doesnt necessarily mean that you
will be in the same class as them. There are two or three
classes for most popular subjects.

I really like my current teacher; will I get them again if I pick

their subject?
That depends on a number of things. Sometimes students do
end up with the same teacher from KS3 to KS4. There are
several teachers in almost all departments so it is unlikely
that you will get many of the same teachers again.

Its good to choose a course because:

It fits your interests and abilities

You are good at it and think you will enjoy it
It goes well with your other choices
It links to a career idea
You think you might want to continue studying it post 16
It helps to give you plenty of choice post 16

Its not good to choose a course because:

Your friends have chosen it

You think it will be easy
You like the teacher you have now
You didnt have time to research your options or speak to
teachers about it

CAREERS INFORMATION, ADVICE & GUIDANCE

Here at Trinity we are committed to delivering high quality careers, information,

advice and guidance (CIAG) for all of our students. Our aim is to equip our
students with the knowledge and skills to enable them to make effective choices,
understand their career and progression routes, and enable them to manage
smooth transitions on to the next stage of learning or work. At key milestones
throughout the students education we will provide support, advice and guidance
to ensure realistic and informed decisions are made to help them to progress to
Higher Education, Apprenticeships, and the world of work.

Every year group follows a careers education program which aims to raise
aspirations and provide students with a better understanding of the pathways
needed to take in order to achieve their goals. Throughout the year speakers and
local employers from different Organisations will come in to provide the students
with inspiration, advice and inform them of professions and careers that they
might never have considered.

Students in Key Stage 4 take part in a wide range of careers

activities such as Career Days, Enterprise Events, and
Industry Days, STEM activities and University Visits for firsthand experience of further and higher education.
Trinity Moodle (Careers Education Information, Advice and
Guidance offers you impartial information on a range of
issues including: Discover a career that suits you; on- line
careers advice and guidance; information for students
considering higher education; thinking about an
apprenticeship or training; video library of real people in real
jobs.

You may also find the following websites useful:

UCAS - http://www.ucas.com/
National Apprenticeship Information - www.gov.uk/further-education-skills/apprenticeships
National Careers Service https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx
Its Your Choice Booklet for Year 11s - http://trinity.cumbria.sch.uk/careers-information-adviceguidance/
Parents and Carers Guidance http://trinity.cumbria.sch.uk/careers-information-adviceguidance/

For further information contact Mrs Rothon (Information, Advice and Guidance Officer)

ENGLISH
From September 2015 there are changes to GCSE English Language and Literature. These changes
are summarised here.
From September there will be no more coursework in English Language or Literature at all.

English Language GCSE

English Language will be assessed by exam only. There will be two exam papers. The details are in
the table below:
GCSE English
Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading
and writing

Section A: Reading one literature

extract.

Section B: Writing descriptive /

narrative writing.

Paper 2: Writers viewpoints

and perspectives

Section A: Reading two extracts

literary non-fiction and non-fiction.

Section B: Writing students write

from their own viewpoint.

How is it assessed?

How is it assessed?

An exam lasting 1 hour 45 minutes; it is

worth 50% of the GCSE.

An exam lasting 1 hour 45 minutes; it is

worth 50% of the GCSE.

Section A (40 marks) one single text.

Section A (40 marks) two linked texts.

one short form question

one short form question

two longer form questions

two longer form questions

one extended response question

one extended response question

Section B (40 marks)

Section B (40 marks)

One extended writing response to a visual

stimulus or writing scenario.

One extended writing response to a

statement or topic based on the theme of
the reading texts.

Students will also get a grade for what will be called their Spoken
Language this used to be called their Speaking and Listening grade. It
does not count towards their GCSE.
GCSE English Literature
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the

Paper 2: Modern Prose/Drama, Poetry Selection

Nineteenth Century Novel

and Unseen Poetry

Section A: Shakespeare
The options are: Macbeth, Much Ado About
Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest,
The Merchant of Venice, Julius Caesar.
Section B: The Nineteenth Century Novel
The options are: A Christmas Carol, Great
Expectations, Jane Eyre, Frankenstein, Pride
and Prejudice, The Sign of Four, Dr Jekyll and
Mr Hyde.

Section A: Modern Prose/Drama

The options are: An Inspector Calls, Blood
Brothers, The History Boys, DNA, The
Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time
(play script), A Taste of Honey, Lord of the
Flies, Animal Farm, Never Let Me Go, Anita
and Me, Pigeon English.
Section B: Poetry Selection
Section C: Unseen Poetry

How is it assessed?

How is it assessed?

A closed book exam lasting 1 hour 45

minutes; it is worth 40% of the GCSE.

A closed book exam lasting 1 hour 45

minutes; it is worth 60% of the GCSE.

Questions

Questions

Section A: One question on a play:

students write in detail about an extract
then write about the play as a whole.

Section A: One essay question on a

modern prose or drama text (from a choice
of two).

Section B: One question on a novel:

students write in detail about an extract
then write about the novel as a whole.

Section B: Comparative question on a

named poem and a poem of choice from an
anthology.
Section C: One question on one unseen
poem and one question comparing this
poem with a second unseen poem.

Exam Board and Specification:

AQA English Language GCSE
AQA English Literature GCSE

For further information contact Mr A Hopkins.

MATHEMATICS and STATISTICS

All students study mathematics up to the age of 16 because it is a core subject

of the National Curriculum. It is one of the most highly valued GCSEs and a
good pass is essential for many jobs, training and further study. In addition
some students will also study GCSE Statistics.

It is our aim that all students will leave school with a qualification in maths with as many as possible
at Grade 5 or above. All of our students have access to this level of attainment irrespective of their
teaching group, though they are set so that they work with students of a similar ability and at a pace
that suits them best.
All students started their Maths GCSE course at the start of Year 9 and and
follow a scheme of work that allows them to progress through foundation
and/ or Higher tier to reach their full potential by the end of Year 11.
Results of the Year 10 internal exam and the Year 11 mock exam will
then determine the tier of entry the students take as they improve their
techniques throughout Year 11.
Exam Board
Edexcel: Mathematics (1MA01)
Edexcel: Statistics (2ST01)
Method of Assessment
GCSE Mathematics:

June 2017

Exams - three papers

(33.3% each)

GCSE Statistics:

Feb - Apr 2017

Controlled Assignment
(25%)

June 2016

Exam - one paper (75%)

Higher:

Grades A* - D

Foundation:

Grades C G

Higher:

Grades 4 - 9

Foundation:

Grades 1-5

Levels of Entry

Students will be entered at either:

Statistics

Mathematics

For further information contact Mr R Dixon.

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SCIENCE (OCR Gateway Science Suite)

By the end of year 11 students will have studied either GCSE Science, GCSE
Science and GCSE Additional Science or GCSE Triple Science.

Year 10/11 GCSE Science B

(OCR Gateway Science Suite)
The students study three units
of work as shown below:
Unit 1 consists of modules in
Biology, Chemistry and
Physics, studying the topics:
Understanding Organisms;
Carbon Chemistry; Energy for
the Home.
This unit is assessed by a 1
hour 15 minutes examination
in June and makes up 35% of
the total GCSE.
Unit 2 consists of three further modules: Understanding Our Environment; Chemical Resources;
Living for the Future.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 30 minutes examination in June and makes up 40% of the total
GCSE.
Unit 3 is controlled assessment. It is based on a practical task and is split into 3 parts:

Part 1 Research and collecting secondary data.

Part 2 Planning and collecting primary data.
Part 3 Analysis and evaluation.

It makes up 25% of the total GCSE.

Levels of Entry
There are two levels of entry:
Foundation tier:

Grades C to G.

Higher tier:

Grades A* to D.

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Year 10/11 GCSE Additional Science B (OCR Gateway Science Suite)

The students study three units of work as shown below:
Unit 1 consists of modules in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, studying the topics: Living and
Growing; Chemical Economics; Forces for Transport.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 15 minutes examination in June and makes up 35% of the total
GCSE.
Unit 2 consists of three further modules: Its a Green World; The Periodic Table; Radiation for Life.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 30 minutes examination in June and makes up 40% of the total
GCSE.
Unit 3 is controlled assessment. It is based on a practical task and is split into 3 parts:

Part 1- Research and collecting secondary data.

Part 2 Planning and collecting primary data.
Part 3 Analysis and evaluation.

It makes up 25% of the total GCSE.

Levels of Entry
There are two levels of entry as before.

Year 10/11

Triple Science B (OCR Gateway Science Suite)

The students study three units in Biology, Chemistry and Physics as shown below:

Biology
Unit 1 consists of 3 modules: Understanding Organisms; Understanding Our Environment; Living and
Growing.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 15 minutes examination and makes up 35% of the total GCSE.
Unit 2 consists of 3 modules: Its a Green World; The Living Body; Beyond the Microscope.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 30 minutes examination and makes up 40% of the total GCSE.

12

Chemistry
Unit 1 consists of 3 modules: Carbon Chemistry; Chemical Resources; Chemical Economics.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 15 minutes examination and makes up 35% of the total GCSE.
Unit 2 consists of 3 modules: The Periodic Table; How Much?; Chemistry Out There.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 30 minutes examination and makes up 40% of the total GCSE.

Physics
Unit 1 consists of 3 modules: Energy for the
Home; Living for the Future (Energy Resources);
Forces for Transport.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 15 minutes
examination and makes up 35% of the total
GCSE.
Unit 2 consists of 3 modules: Radiation for Life;
Space for Reflection; Electricity for Gadgets.
This unit is assessed by a 1 hour 30 minutes
examination and makes up 40% of the total
GCSE.
All exams will be taken in the June of Year 11.
Unit 3 for each Science subject is controlled
assessment. It is based on a practical task and is
split into 3 parts:

Part 1 - Research and collecting secondary data.

Part 2 Planning and collecting primary data.
Part 3 Analysis and evaluation. It makes up 25% of the total GCSE.

Students studying triple science will sit the higher paper and receive a GCSE in Biology, a GCSE in
Chemistry and a GCSE in Physics.

For further information contact Miss S McLeod.

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MODERN LANGUAGES
FRENCH/SPANISH

As our students have started work on their GCSE course in their first Modern Foreign Language and
have already completed some of the units covered at GCSE, they should be looking forward to KS4
with some confidence
We are well equipped to provide support for our languages programme in a variety of ways; including
the use of ICT and multi-media materials, E-mail, the Internet, video-conferencing, Interactive
whiteboards, as well as the more traditional videos, DVDs and audio-cassettes. There will also be the
opportunity for regular contact with our full-time language assistants. As at KS3, the emphasis will
be on the four skills of Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing in a variety of realistic situations.
Linguistically able students are encouraged to communicate with accuracy and imagination, and
given a sound grounding in the rules of grammar and language structure.

Examination Board and Syllabi

Method of Assessment
Assessment will take the form of:

a listening comprehension
a reading comprehension
an oral exam and
a writing exam

(20%)
(20%)
(30%)
(30%)

Levels of Entry
Higher Tier:

Grades A* - D

Foundation Tier:

Grades C G

WJEC: French, Spanish

The importance of studying a foreign language is increasing in the context of a European job market.
There is a growing acceptance that the further students go in their education the more they will be
expected to have ability in at least one and preferably in two languages other than their own. Many
job adverts in the national press already specify one or more foreign languages as essential, or as a
definite advantage. Employers also regard success in a language at GCSE as a positive and reliable
indication of ability, memory and sound communication skills.

For further information contact Mrs S McArdle.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION

During Year 10 and 11 students are allocated one period of PE per week.
The programme follows National Curriculum guidelines, with students building on experiences from
Key Stage 3, demonstrating increasingly refined techniques and gradually achieving a more
consistent and effective level of performance. Students are given opportunities to undertake
different roles such as performer, coach, choreographer and official. It is hoped that students will
regularly participate in health-promoting physical activity and show an understanding of how to
prepare and monitor an exercise programme for a healthy lifestyle.

A variety of activities are

on offer during curriculum time and
there are also extra-curricular activities,
as well as some inter-form/house
competitions for students who would like
to be involved outside lesson time.
The aim is to develop physical, intellectual,
emotional and social skills leading to students
becoming educated performers, spectators,
officials and coaches, ready to lead an active
lifestyle on completion of
Year 11.

Kit
This remains exactly the same as in Years 7, 8 and 9.
Jewellery must not be worn when participating in physical activity.
Non Participation
Students who are unable to participate need to bring a signed note from a parent/carer explaining
the reasons for non-participation. Students are also required to bring full kit to enable them to be
involved in other roles e.g. refereeing, scoring, coaching or observing wearing appropriate kit.

For further information contact Mr N Foster (Head of PE), Mrs A Brown (Girls PE),
Miss E Hunter (Girls PE) or Mr M Hargreaves (Boys PE).

15

RELIGIOUS STUDIES - SPECIFICATION B (WJEC)

No other subject in school deals so directly with vital moral and spiritual
dimensions of human experience. It contributes much to the
understanding of our own society and of the culture of other races
and nations. Consequently, a GCSE in RS is an excellent and
widely respected preparation for many careers, such as medicine,
law, police, teaching, social work, child care and any job where
you have dealings with the public. Students do not need to be
'religious' to do well in the subject; but an open, questioning mind
helps a lot.

Students will study the following GCSE Course described below.

Aims of the course

To gain knowledge of beliefs, values and traditions of more than one religion.

Consider the influences of beliefs, values and traditions linked to more than one religion.

Consider religious and other responses to moral issues.

Identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions of life, its meaning and
purpose, raised by religions and human experiences.

Develop other skills relevant to the study of RS.

This course will commence in Year 9.

UNIT 1 RELIGION AND LIFE ISSUES
The unit is divided into 4 topics:
1. Relationships - Issues relating to love,
marriage and divorce
2. Is it Fair? - Issues of justice, injustice,
inequality, discrimination, racism,
prejudice, sexism and poverty.
3. Looking for Meaning - Issues relating
to nature and existence of God, death
and the afterlife.
4. Our World - Issues relating to the
creation of our world, purpose of
humankind, environmental issues and
animal rights.

16

UNIT 2 RELIGION AND HUMAN

EXPERIENCE
The unit is divided into 4 topics:
1. Religion and Conflict issues of
war, suffering and peace.
2. Religion and Medicine issues
of medical ethics and the
sanctity of life.
3. Religious Expression issues of
expressing faith.
4. Authority Religion and State
issues of law and order in
both religion and society.

Both units are required for the full

course qualification.
Some students may follow an
alternative course, for example
General Studies, subject to specific
learning requirements.

Assessment
Students will be assessed at the end of the course with one examination of
1 hour 45 minutes duration for each unit at the end of Year 11. There is no
coursework.

For further information contact Mrs A Shore.

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Course Details for the

Choices Application Form
18

ART AND DESIGN

What will I learn?

GCSE Art and Design covers a range of activities and in-depth assignments. You will have the
opportunity to experiment with a variety of different media in order to explore your strengths and
preferences. Media will include drawing, painting, photography and printmaking. Sketchbook
development and the design process will play an important part of your learning and you will be
encouraged to develop your own ideas.

Whatever you choose, the main aim of the course is to develop your visual language skills and for
you to build a comprehensive portfolio of work in order to progress to further courses or
employment.
How will I be assessed?

Unit 1
Personal Portfolio in Art and Design

Internally set and marked; assessed through

controlled assessment.

This will consist of approx 45 hrs supervised

activity.

This Portfolio work carries 60% of your final

GCSE grade.

The Portfolio consists of a minimum of 2

units of work.

Unit 2
Externally Set Assignment in
Art and Design

This assignment consists of one

externally set broad based thematic
starting point; which will be set in
January 2017.

This work is internally marked and will

consist of preparation time and a ten
hour timed set task.

This Externally Set Assignment carries

40% of your final GCSE grade.

Each unit is assessed separately out of 80 marks. You will be assessed using 4 assessment objectives of
develop, review/experiment, record, present personal response.

19

AQA GCSE
Next steps!
You can find out more about the GCSE in Art and Design by:
visiting the AQA website - AQA | Art and Design | GCSE | Art and Design
talking to the Head of Art and Design or any Art Teacher in school who will be able to
describe the course in detail and advise you of what you need to do next when it comes to
your options.

Is this the right subject for me?

If you enjoy:
developing your visual skills
being creative, enthusiastic and imaginative
visits to galleries, museums, workshops and studios
experimenting and taking risks with your work.
Then this GCSE Art and Design is the ideal subject for you!

For further information contact Mrs M Reay, Mrs Giles or Mr Quigley.

20

BUSINESS STUDIES

Want to be the next Jamie Oliver, Deborah Meaden, Sir Alan Sugar, Simon Cowell,
Anita Roddick, or Richard Branson? Do you find Dragons Den and
The Apprentice fascinating? Then a GCSE in Business could help you on the way!

Key Features
This GCSE in Business is a new and innovative course that focuses on students active engagement in
the study of business and economics. As you will be aware the Government is currently finalising
assessment arrangements. It is likely that there will be an exam at the end of Year 11 only.
What Will I Learn?
You will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone a
successful business person. You will find out how to develop an idea and spot an opportunity,
discover how businesses promote themselves and keep their customers happy. You will learn how
businesses manage their finances and the people who work for them. You will also see how the world
around us affects small businesses and how they are affected by the recession that we are all
experiencing.
Is this the right subject for me?
This course is both active and enjoyable. You need to be good at communicating and explaining your
ideas, and not afraid of learning new things and working with numbers to solve business problems.
You will learn how to be a creative thinker and how to make decisions.

21

The course is broken down as follows:

Unit Title
Unit 1:
Introduction to
Small Business

Content Summary

Unit 2:
Investigating a
Small Business

Unit 3:
Building a
Business

Assessment

Spotting a business opportunity

Being enterprising
Putting a business idea into
practice
Making a start-up effective
Understanding the economy

External exam at end of Year

11. Multiple choice exam 45
minutes. 40 marks.

This unit builds on the content of

Unit 1. Students use the content
to research, analyse and evaluate
a task. They select 1 task from 5.

A controlled assessment
completed in school.

6 hours available for research, 3

hours for writing up information
under exam conditions. 40
marks.

Marketing
Meeting Customer Needs
Effective Financial Management
Effective People Management
The wider world affecting
business

Written paper completed at end

of Year 11. 1 hour 30 minutes.
90 marks.

Exam Board & Syllabus: Edexcel GCSE in Business Studies (2BS01)

For more information contact Mr A Winter.

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GCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE

Have you ever played Angry Birds? - Could you do better and create the next big Smartphone
App? Want to know how computers work rather than just using them as a tool?
Key Features
The GCSE in Computer Science is a new and innovative course
where you get to learn the fundamentals of computing and high
level language programming. You complete one exam and two
pieces of Controlled Assessment that are designed to test your
understanding of computing theory and practical programming
skills.
What will I learn?
You will learn how to program using Microsoft C#, Scratch and WebMatrix. You will learn the skills
that you would need to create your own software and to distribute it onto different platforms. You
will also learn about the theory behind computing such as how databases work to give you a solid
foundation in all areas of Computing Science.
Is this course for me?
You dont need to have any experience of programming but you do need to enjoy solving problems
and be good at Maths. The course is very practical and you have regular lab sessions where you will
be writing code and creating simple control systems (using our new Lego Robotics Kit!) You will learn
about how computers work and the theory behind storing data in complex databases.
The course is broken down as follows:
Unit Title

Content

Computer Hardware
Representation of Data

Written paper - 1 hour

30 minutes

Databases

Networking

40% of the
qualification

Programming

Students will need to research

a given problem and produce a
written report and
programmed solution

Controlled Assessment
- 20 hours

30% of the
qualification

Students will create a

computer program to solve a
given task. They will need to
test and evaluate their project.

Controlled Assessment
- 20 hours

30% of the
qualification

Unit A451
Computer systems and
programming

Unit A452
Practical investigation

Unit A453
Programming Project

Assessment

Exam Board: OCR Computing (J275)

For more information contact Mr A Winter.

23

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY: FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Do you have creativity and flair? Do you enjoy preparing interesting dishes and
experimenting with new ingredients? This course will give you the opportunity to investigate
design opportunities and really develop your practical skills. You will use a wide range of
food preparation, cooking methods and will also find out about the stages in the
development of a food and the commercial and large-scale production of food.

We often read in newspapers and magazines that for many of us our diet is likely to cause us to become
overweight, to develop high blood pressure, dental decay or even heart disease and cancer of course
it neednt be like this. In this course you will learn about the nutritional needs of individuals, the
nutrient content of food and how to plan healthy dishes.
The course is very useful if you are considering a career in food manufacture, food science, catering or
hotel management, dietetics, nursing or other jobs that involve the consideration of peoples physical
health and welfare. Of course, everyone has to eat and the skills and understanding you will develop
in this course will always be useful to you throughout your life.

24

Examination Board and Syllabus

AQA. Food Technology Full course 4545.
Method of Assessment
Assessment is through controlled assessment and written
examination. The controlled assessment carries 60% of the marks
and the examination carries 40% of the marks.

The controlled assessment will be carried out during the

Summer Term of Year 10 and all of Year 11. You will be
given a choice of design tasks set by AQA which will focus
on developing a food product. You will produce a design
folder and an original food item developed after lots of
practical sessions. This work will be assessed during the
Spring Term of Year 11.
There is one tier of assessment covering A* to G.
Unit Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 1 (45451)

Written paper
Pre-release material issued

40% of total marks - 2 hours

120 marks

Unit 2 Using and Making

Practice (45452)

Controlled assessment
Consists of a single design and
make activity from a range of
board set tasks

60% of total marks

90 marks Approximately 45
hours

Levels of Entry
Food Technology does not have tiered levels of entry. This means that all grades are open to all
candidates.

For further information contact Miss J Williams, Mrs J Walton or Mrs Stobart.

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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY: PRODUCT DESIGN

If you love products and gadgets or have an interest in engineering and how things are made and
work, then this is the course for you.
The course will encourage students to design and make products through a variety of practical
activities using a wide range of materials and techniques. Students will be encouraged to develop
skills and knowledge in a range of areas including the use of computer aided design and manufacture
as well as extending their knowledge of using wood, plastic and metal learnt in Keystage 3. Products
could be brought to life with the use of electronic kits and finished off with the development of user
instructions and packaging.
Possible projects could be as diverse as developing new forms for lighting or radios to promotional
and protective packaging for novelty gifts to a new design for a can crusher made from metal.
Students will be expected to develop their ideas through design sketches, formal drawings and
modelling. An experimental approach and a willingness to reflect and learn from testing ideas will
underpin the process of design.
This course provides ideal preparation for AS Product Design in Year 12.

Examination Board and Syllabus

AQA Product Design Full course 4555.
Method of Assessment
Controlled Assignment project:

60% (Designing 20% Making40%)

Final Exam:

2 hour paper - 40%

Levels of Entry
Product Design does not have tiered levels of entry. This means that all grades are accessible.

For further information contact Mr D Birch, Mr A Palmer or Mr M Bowman.

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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY: TEXTILES TECHNOLOGY

This is an exciting and rewarding subject for students who wish to develop their creative and
practical skills, while at the same time following an intellectually satisfying course at GCSE level.
You will have the opportunity to design and make both a fashion accessory or soft furnishing, and a
fashion garment of your choice.

Students
Your skills will be developed in Year 10 by completing two units of work.
The first unit will introduce you to a wide range of fabric decorating
techniques such as silk, batik, tie-dye, painting, quilting, appliqu,
machine embroidery and sublimation printing. You can then use these
techniques to design and make any decorative item of your choice.
Then in the second unit there is the opportunity to make a fashion
garment, accessory or household product of your own choice, and learn
about fashion, textile and product designers past and present.
For each unit you will complete a design folder and make your own product.
This is accompanied by the study of fabrics, Computer Aided Design,
Computer Aided Manufacture (CAD/CAM) and Production Processes as
well as learning about modern developments in Textiles and the impact of
Textiles on the world around us. This includes history of fashion and
analysing
current and future trends. Learn about different printing processes.
All this work will lead to one major controlled assessment, which will be
started in Year 10 and finished in Year 11.

Exam Boards Specification (syllabus)

AQA Textiles Technology Full Course 4570
Controlled Assessment
A single design and make activity selected from a choice of set tasks consisting of the development
of a made outcome and a concise design folder and/or appropriate ICT evidence.
Method of Assessment
Controlled assessment
project:

45 hours

60% of final marks

Final exam paper:

Single Tier Assessment

2 hours

40% of final marks

Levels of Entry
Textiles Technology does not have tiered levels of entry. This means that all grades are open to all
candidates.
For further information contact Mrs J Perry.

27

DRAMA
The aim of GCSE Drama is to promote an enthusiastic enjoyment of theatre from the point
of view of the participant and observer, whilst at the same time enhancing creativity, selfconfidence, concentration, self-discipline and communication. Two thirds of lessons will be
mainly practical, focusing upon performance and design skills. We will also work on written
skills and the ability to analyse texts and plays from a theatrical perspective. (All students
must come on at least one theatre trip.)
We also encourage students to participate in public performances.
Examination Board and Specification
AQA. Drama Full Course 4240.

Method of Assessment
Unit 1:

Drama Written Paper

1 hours - 40%

Externally set and marked.

The written paper comprises three sections:

A Practical work completed during the course

B Study and performance of a scripted play
C Study of a live theatre production seen

Candidates answer Question 1 from section A and choose one further question from either Section
B or Section C.
Method of Assessment
Unit 2:

Practical Work - Controlled Assessment

60%

Internally assessed and externally moderated.

Candidates present practical work for two assessment options, each with an equal weighting of
30%.
Controlled Assessment options:
devised thematic work

acting

puppets

improvisation

theatre in education

masks

lighting

properties

physical theatre

set design

sound

make-up

costume

stage management

Assessment of each option is divided into two parts:

Process and understanding of skills development 7.5%
Final presentation: either performance or demonstration/artefact(s) 22.5%
For further information contact Ms J Southwell.

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GEOGRAPHY

Our experience has shown us that students learn geographical ideas most effectively when we have
been able to take them on fieldwork. Most recently this has been to the Lake District, Liverpool,
Glasgow and the Solway Firth as well as studying their home city of Carlisle. It is an aim of ours to
offer visits to allow our GCSE students to see for themselves many of the ideas that are covered in
modern Geography courses.
Typical themes for GCSE Geography include Changing Cities, Living Spaces, River Processes and
Pressures and Climate and Change. To be most successful with these units a typical Geographical
GCSE student will want to find out answers to ideas and questions posed about the places that we
live in and the way that we are affecting our environment. As a department we continue to be
delighted by the success achieved by our students.

Exam Board & Syllabus

Edexcel GCSE Geography specification B (Edexcel 2GB01)
Method of assessment
In the new GCSE Geography course students will complete examinations to test their knowledge
and understanding, but will also undertake a Controlled Assessment where they will have to write
up a fieldwork report under test conditions. The course is made up of four units, each of which is
worth 25% of the final grade. The units are:
1

Dynamic Planet
This one hour exam covers topics such as Extreme Environments, Oceans,
Climate Change and Earthquakes.

People and the Planet

This one hour exam deals with Challenges of the Urban World,
Population Dynamics and Development Dilemmas.

Making Geographical Decisions

This is a one hour and fifteen minute exam based on a geographical
issue such as building a new airport runway or planning a new
Leisure Centre.

Researching Geography
This is where our students will undertake fieldwork such as in a major
city or along a river and have written a report under assessed conditions.

Levels of Entry
Higher Tier:
Foundation Tier:

Grades A* - D
Grades C - G
For further information contact Mr G Stables.

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HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE GCSE (SINGLE AWARD)

Examination Board and Syllabus

OCR Health and Social Care (Single Award) J406
A GCSE Health & Social Care could:

Enable a student to gain employment as: Nursery Nurse, Care Assistant, Childminder,
Pre-school/Nursery School Assistant.
Be the basis for further study in this subject at A Level or for related courses,
which could include Diplomas, NVQs or Modern Apprenticeships.
Contribute towards meeting the entry requirements for
training for nursing and professions such as occupational
therapy, physiotherapy, pharmacy, teaching, working
with people with disabilities, etc.

To complete this course, students will study the following two

Units:
Unit 1: Health, Social Care and Early Years Provision
This includes:

The range of care needs of major client groups

The ways people can obtain services and the possible barriers that could
prevent people from gaining access to services
The types of services that exist to meet client group needs and how
they are developed and organised
The principles of care that underpin all care work with clients
The main work roles and skills of people who provide health, social care
and early years services

This includes:

The stages and patterns of human growth and development

The different factors that can affect human growth and development
The development of self-concept and different types of relationships
Major life changes and sources of support
Personal development and relationships

Where appropriate, your studies will be supported by relevant videos, visits to observe care
practitioners and visiting speakers e.g. Occupational Therapist/Midwife.

30

Scheme of Assessment
Unit: Health, Social Care and Early Years Provision

60% of the total GCSE

marks

Students complete a controlled assessment task

that will be set by the exam board

Controlled Assessment (up

to 18 hours of research and
up to 26 hours writing up)

The unit is assessed by the teacher and

moderated by the exam board

60 marks
Unit: Understanding Personal Development and Relationships

40% of the total GCSE

marks

1 hour written paper

60 marks

This question paper is based on understanding

personal development and relationships and
consists of FOUR questions involving
identification, description, explanation, analysis
and evaluation

Students answer ALL questions

The unit is externally assessed by the exam board

For further information please contact Miss J Williams, Mrs Stobart or Mrs J Walton

31

HISTORY

Florence Nightingale
saves the soldiers

General Custer and his troops massacred

by Sioux at the Battle of Little Big Horn

If you have ever wondered why events such as these happen, what causes change or what you would
have done if you had been there, then you will find the History course interesting and challenging. In
this course you will look at clues and try to work out what may have happened. You will weigh up
evidence and form conclusions.
The emphasis is not just on learning facts but on learning how to find out, to make judgements, to
solve problems, to see things from someone else's point of view, to write clearly and to spot when
people are being one-sided and unfair. These are skills which will be useful in any job and indeed in
life in general.

There are three parts to this course, these are:

A study in development

Medicine through time

A study in depth

The American West

History around us

This involves fieldwork and site visits as well as the

examination of written evidence. Our site is Carlisle Castle.

Examination Board and Syllabus

AQA. History Specification A Full Course 4042
Method of assessment
Paper 1
Questions on the Study in Development:

Allocation of marks 35%

Paper 2

Allocation of marks 40%

Questions on the Study in Depth.

Controlled assessment:

Allocation of marks 25%

Levels of Entry
History does not have tiered levels of entry. This means that all grades are open to all candidates.
For further information contact Ms L Hodgson, Miss L Campbell, Mr T Snaith,
Mrs L Watson, or Miss G Riddell.

32

MEDIA STUDIES

GCSE Media Studies gives students an excellent opportunity to study a wide range of media products
and develop a critical understanding of the role of the media in daily life. This AQA Media course is a
good precursor to studying Media in our Sixth Form Centre. It encourages students to read media
products using four key media concepts: Media Language, Media Institutions, Media Representations
and Media Audiences. There are also several opportunities for hands-on practical work, where
students use their understanding of media products to develop their own creations. It is a great
choice for people considering a career in the media, advertising and marketing.

Course content (Single Award): Media Studies 4810

Method of assessment:
Unit 1: Investigating the Media
Externally assessed:

Written Examination

1 hour 30 mins

60 marks

40% of overall grade

Structure of the examination:

Four tasks are set.

First three tasks are based around a preset focus decided by the exam board for that year.
2015 examination topic is: Television News
2016 examination topic is: Science-Fiction Films
The fourth task is a design question where the student will be expected to respond to a
design brief in the exam and produce planning for a final product.

33

Unit 2: Understanding the Media

Internally assessed:

Three controlled assessments that

include design aspects to each one.

90 marks in total

60% of overall grade

Structure of the controlled assessments:

Examples are from this years Year 10 assignment choices:
Assignment 1:
Introductory Assignment Analyse the DVD covers for two films or television programmes. How
does each cover engage the interest of the audience?

Evidence required:
Written evidence - A 500-700 word analytical explanation comparing how the two covers attempt
to engage the interest of its target audience.
Design Evidence - Design a DVD sleeve for a film targeted at a specific audience.

34

Assignment 2
Cross-Media Assignment Analyse how game companies advertise their
products over two platforms-audio/visual and print based. Then create the poster
and trailer for a game of your choice.
Evidence required:

Written evidence - An 800 word comparative explanation looking at the impact of two
promotional methods used to promote one game across two media platforms.

Design Evidence - Design a TV advertisement for a game using a ten-frame storyboard.

Then create the advertising poster for the same game, that would appear in a games
magazine

Assignment 3
Practical Production and Evaluation: Moving Image Film Trailers.
Analyse a variety of film trailers from a given genre, then plan and create a trailer or opening
sequence of approximately two minutes duration.

Evidence required:

Written evidence - Evidence of research into trailers and the target audience for your
product.

Design Evidence - Planning, filming and editing of final product with a short evaluation.

Study booklet that may assist with this course:

Morris, R et al. (2009) AQA GCSE Media Studies, Nelson Thornes, Cheltenham.
ISBN: 978 1 4085 0411 6

For More information contact Miss N. Seggie

35

MUSIC
The GCSE course is designed to add maximum interest and variety to learning
about music.

Examination Board and Syllabus

Edexcel Full Music Course (2MU01)

Method of Assessment

Content

Assessment

Unit 1

Performing Music - one solo and

one ensemble performance

30%

Unit 2

Composing Music - two

compositions

30%

Unit 3

Listening and Appraising

1 hour written paper (40%)

Why Take GCSE Music?

Here are some the advantages:

You will be among keen, motivated students

Your teachers will be helpful and supportive

If you already sing or play an instrument you will find it easy to gain a high grade

If you have instrument lessons in school, your teacher will help you to choose suitable music
and prepare for your performances.

You have the opportunity to develop your creative skills.

For further information contact Mrs A Richardson, Mrs D Bishop or Mr C Vernon.

36

PHOTOGRAPHY LENS AND LIGHT-BASED MEDIA

What will I learn?

GCSE Photography provides opportunities for you to work in film, video, digital imaging and lightsensitive materials. You will be encouraged to pursue creative approaches which go beyond
observation and recording and have opportunities to experiment with one or more areas of lensbased and light-based media such as those listed below.

Portraiture

Landscape photography (working from the built or natural environment).

Still Life photography, (working from natural or manufactured objects).

Documentary photography, photo journalism, narrative photography, reportage

Fine Art photography, photographic installation

Photography involving a moving image, (television, film and animation).

New media practice such as computer manipulated photography and photographic

projections.

Whatever you choose, the main aim of the course is to develop your visual language skills and for you
to build a comprehensive portfolio of photography work to progress to further courses or
employment.

How will I be assessed?

Unit 1
Personal Portfolio in Art and Design:
Photography

Internally set and marked;

assessed through controlled
assessment.
This will consist of approx 45 hrs
supervised activity.
This Portfolio work carries 60%
of your final GCSE grade.

Unit 2
Externally Set Assignment in
Art and Design: Photography

This assignment consists of one externally

set broad based thematic starting point;
which will be set in January 2017.
This work is internally marked and will
consist of preparation time and a 10 hour
timed set task.
This Externally Set Assignment carries
40% of your final GCSE grade.

Each unit is assessed separately out of 80 marks. You will be assessed using 4 assessment
objectives of develop, review/experiment, record, present a personal response.

37

You can find out more about the GCSE in Art and Design: Photography Lens and Light based media
by:

visiting the AQA web site- AQA | Art and Design | Subject content |
Photography: lens-based and light-based media (4206).
talking to the Head of Art and Design or any Art/Photography
Teacher in school who will be able to describe the course in detail
and advise you of what you need to do next when it comes to your
options.

Is this the right subject for

me?
If you enjoy:

developing your visual

skills
being creative,
enthusiastic and
imaginative
visits to galleries, museums,
workshops and studios
experimenting and taking risks with your photography work.

Then this GCSE Photography course is

the ideal subject for you!

For further information contact Mrs M Reay.

38

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
GCSE Physical Education following the AQA syllabus has been a very popular and successful course
taught to Year 10 and Year 11 for the past few years. The course is rooted in physical activity and
practical performance and will appeal to any boy or girl with a genuine interest and a degree of
ability in a variety of sports.
The leisure industry is one of the fastest growing sections of the UK economy and many
opportunities exist in this expanding market both nationally and locally.
Many of our students use this qualification to go on to study Physical Education at AS/A2 level in our
Sixth Form and even at degree level at University. Others seek employment within the rapidly
expanding leisure, fitness, exercise and tourism industry.

The course is based on one/two lessons of

theory and one lesson of practical per week.

Method of Assessment
Practical performance 60% of Full
Course the role of the active
participant.
Written paper (1 hour 30 minutes) 40% of Full Course

Practical role of active participant 60%

Students will be involved in a
variety of roles in a wide variety of
activities, these currently include

Athletics
Badminton
Basketball
Cricket
Football
Gymnastics
Hockey

Netball
Rounders
Rugby Union
Tennis
Trampoline
Swimming

Students will be assessed as a player/performer and in other roles as active participants.

Written Paper 40%

Students sit a written paper at the end of the two year course which
lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.
The written paper includes

multiple choice questions

short answer questions
extended answers based on a scenario issued prior to the examination.

39

The following is a brief list of some of the theoretical components of the syllabus and shows the
extent and depth of study required:

Individual differences
Injury
Health/fitness and a healthy lifestyle
School influences
Emotional health and well being
The difference between aerobic and
anaerobic exercise
Opportunities and pathways available
for becoming or remaining involved in
physical activities

Fatigue/Stress
Training
Diet
Cultural and social factors
International and other factors
Characteristics and benefits of leisure
and recreation

Levels of entry
Physical Education does not have tiered levels of entry. This
means that all grades A* - G are open to all candidates.
Additional information
1. It is possible for students to take Physical Education
at AS/A2 without having studied it at GCSE level, but
they would be severely disadvantaged.
2. Please note that this course is run in addition to
mainstream Physical Education
lessons.

For further information contact Mr N Foster, Mrs A Brown or Mr M Hargreaves.

40

CACHE Level 2 Award in Child Development & Care

The Cache Level 2 Award in Child Development & Care will give you a good understanding of
Childcare and Development in the Early Years Sector. It will be beneficial to anyone considering a
career in Early Years or Primary Teaching and supports progression to a Level 3 vocational or
academic Childcare, Psychology, Health & Social Care subjects or an apprenticeship. You will have
opportunities to achieve an A*- D and it is equivalent to one GCSE.

UNIT

CORE UNITS

ASSESSMENT METHOD

An introduction to working with children aged

0-5 years

Assignment graded A*-D

Development and well-being 0-5 years

Assignment graded A*-D

Child Care & Development 05 years

Examination must achieve

a Pass

Unit 1: An introduction to working with

children aged 0-5 years
During this unit you will learn about the variety
of settings that are available for children and
the differences between different types of
settings. In preparation for your Work
Experience in Year 10, you will learn what will
be expected of you in the work place and how
to make a good impression with different
employers. You will also learn how to treat
children with fairness and equality, as well as
the importance of confidentiality when working
with children. Alongside this, you will be able to
identify your preferred Learning Style and how
best to study and learn.

To achieve this unit you will complete an assignment set and marked by your teachers, which will be
graded A*-D.

41

Unit 2: Development and well-being 0-5 years

Every child is special and unique, but each of us learns to do things according to the same pattern.
Whats your earliest memory? Can you remember how old you were when you learnt to swim? Were
there some things you found easy to achieve and some that took a bit longer to learn, for example,
riding a bicycle or writing your name?
Understanding child development may help you to answer these questions and it will also explain
why, as individuals, we develop skills and knowledge at different rates.
As part of your course, you will learn about the expected patterns of development, and if you
choose to work with children this will help you plan activities and understand why children are doing
certain things. You will look at how early years settings use play to promote childrens learning and
development at different ages and stages, including babies, and the types of play opportunities that
early years settings usually provide.

To achieve this unit you will complete an assignment set and marked by your teachers, which will be
graded A*-D
Unit 3: The Principles of Early Years Practice
Based on Unit 1 and Unit 2, a Multiple Choice Examination for this you must achieve a Pass.

For further information contact Mrs A Hemingway or Mrs J Lynas.

42