Options Choices 2015

Rodborough Options Booklet 2015-2017

OPTIONS 2015 - 17

A GUIDE TO THE OPTION CHOICES

FOR STUDY IN YEARS 10 AND 11


Contents: Important Dates for Option Choices ................................................................... 3

Introduction ............................................................................................... 3

What are my plans after Year 11? ................................................................. 4

What am I good at? .................................................................................. 4

What do I like? ....................................................................................... 4

What are my choices? ................................................................................... 4

What is new for this year? .............................................................................. 5

Changes to Science .................................................................................. 5

Languages ............................................................................................ 5

English Literature and Language .................................................................. 5

Maths .................................................................................................. 5

The New Numerical GCSE Grades ................................................................. 6

Controlled Assessments ................................................................................. 7

Tiers of Entry for GCSE Exams .......................................................................... 7

The Core ................................................................................................... 7

Examined Core Subjects: ........................................................................... 7

Non-Examined Core Subjects: ..................................................................... 7

Options Blocks ............................................................................................ 8

Block 1 – Technology / Humanities ............................................................... 8

Block 2 – Languages ................................................................................. 8

Block 3 – Other Options ............................................................................. 8

Double Linguist Variation ........................................................................... 9

Vocational Variation ................................................................................ 9

THE OPTIONS PROCESS ................................................................................. 10

CORE COURSES ........................................................................................... 10

English Language ................................................................................... 10

English Literature .................................................................................. 11

Mathematics ......................................................................................... 12

Science ............................................................................................... 13

Re: Philosophy and Ethics (Short Course) ....................................................... 15

CORE NON-EXAMINATION SUBJECTS .................................................................. 16

Lifelong Learning (L2) ............................................................................. 16

Physical Education ................................................................................. 17

BLOCK 1 Technology/ Humanities .................................................................... 18

Food Technology .................................................................................... 18

Graphic Products ................................................................................... 19

Resistant Materials ................................................................................. 20

Textiles Technology ................................................................................ 21


History ............................................................................................... 23

R.E.: PHILOSOPHY and ETHICS (Full Course) ................................................... 25

BLOCK 2: Languages .................................................................................... 26

French ................................................................................................ 26

German .............................................................................................. 27

BLOCK 3: Other Options Subjects ..................................................................... 28

Art .................................................................................................... 28

Business Studies: International GCSE (IGCSE) ................................................. 29

Computer Science .................................................................................. 31

Drama ................................................................................................ 32

Music ................................................................................................. 33

Physical Education ................................................................................. 35

Who will help you? ...................................................................................... 36

Important Dates for Option Choices

26 Feb 15 12 Mar 15 19 Mar 15 19 Mar 15 26 Mar 15 May/Jun 15 June 15 Sep 15

Options Evening – Booklets issued Grade Reports sent home Year 9 Consultation Evening Options forms issued Deadline to return options forms Students contacted to resolve possible issues Final choices confirmed KS4 Courses begin

Introduction

The decisions you make about your subject choices for Years 10 and 11 will have an important influence on the opportunities you have later on in life. Getting the choice right now will enable you to take the college course that interests you, begin an apprenticeship in your chosen career, or pursue further study at a Higher Education establishment. Good decisions now can also foster enjoyment of a subject that will stay with you into your adult life. These factors demonstrate that options influence more than just your career choice.

This options booklet forms part of the options choice process at Rodborough. We have already held a presentation evening to provide you and your parents with an overview of this process. You will also consider the options process within your Lifelong Learning (L2) lessons and participate in activities designed to make you think about your future and how your option choices will help you meet your goals.

This options booklet outlines information about the subjects available to you. You should study this information in detail so that you are able to make properly informed choices about the subjects you will study in Years 10 and 11.

You should consider these three factors when choosing your optional subjects:


What are my plans after Year 11? Qualifications you gain from these GCSE courses will form the basis of your application to college or employment with training. College tutors and employers want to see a breadth of subjects. Many of you don’t know yet exactly what you want to study at college. In two years’ time there may be subjects available at college you haven’t yet heard of. You need to select a balanced range of subjects now to give yourself the best possible opportunity of qualifying for your college course.

What am I good at? You need to match your choice of subjects to your ability and aptitude. Please look beyond the name of the subject you are choosing and consider the balance between coursework and final examinations. Check the time available for study; is it a single or double option? Does the subject matter and method of working suit you?

What do I like? Most people do well if they are studying subjects they enjoy. We want you to enjoy your learning. Think hard about whether your enjoyment of a subject is because of the content of the course or whether it is influenced by your classmates or current teacher. Only subject content can be guaranteed for Years 10 & 11.

What are my choices?

EVERYONE will study a ‘core’ curriculum of English, Maths, Science, RE, PE, and L2. Most students will add 3 or 4 options to this core. Some students, who have been identified as particularly able in Modern Foreign Languages, will be offered the opportunity to study both French AND German in reduced time. Weak linguists may choose not to study a language. Students interested in adding vocational courses may, subject to suitablity, opt for courses comissioned by Waverley Federation.

In order to maintain the breadth of curriculum at Key Stage 4, options subjects are grouped into blocks. Most students will select one language, one subject from the Technology/ Humanities block and two further subjects. Students choosing vocational courses have a slightly different arrangement. These minor differences are clearly outlined in the sections that follow.

The options blocks are designed to allow students the best possible free choice to build their own bespoke curriculum. Within the constraints outlined above we will do our very best to ensure that you study as many of your first choices as possible although you must understand that timetabling constraints occasionally make certain combinations untenable. For this reason we ask you to name reserve option choices.


What is new for this year?

Changes to Science From 2015 Science lessons benefit from 6 lessons each week (previously 5). Students will be notified in July 2015 as to whether their group will be studying the Double Science Award or the Triple Science Award. Please note that this is NOT a choice.

Languages Studying a language is optional for those who have attained below a level 5 at the end of Key Stage 3. Studying a language is compulsory for those who have attained a level 5 or above at the end of Key Stage 3. It is possible for students possessing real flair for languages to study BOTH French AND German as a single option by relinquishing one of their core PE lessons AND committing to one after-school lesson in languages each week.

English Literature and Language The government has announced fundamental changes to both English Literature and English Language for courses started in 2015. These changes are to both content and to grading of the courses and are designed to make the exams more rigorous (tougher). Spelling, punctuation and grammar will now make up 20% of your English marks. The grading of your English GCSEs will be the new numerical system ranging from 9 (above the current A*) to 1. This new grading is explained in greater detail later in this booklet. English GCSEs will have a single tier of entry.

Maths The government has announced fundamental changes to Maths courses started in 2015. These changes are to both content and to grading of the courses and are designed to make the exams more rigorous. There will be increased content for the maths GCSE and there will be a focus on problem solving. The grading of your Maths GCSE will be the new numerical system ranging from 9 (above the current A*) to 1. This new grading is explained in greater detail later in this booklet. There will be 2 tiers of entry for Maths GCSEs:

Foundation Tier: Grades 1-5

Higher Tier: Grades 4-9


The New Numerical GCSE Grades Ofqual has released details of the new Numerical Grades for Maths, English Language and English Literature GCSEs and how they will be applied. The new Numerical GCSE grading structure will have three fixed, ‘hard wired’ links to the more familiar letters system:

The bottom of the NEW grade 4 will be closely aligned to the bottom of the ‘old’ C grade

The bottom of the NEW grade 1 will be closely aligned to the bottom of the ‘old’ G grade.

The bottom of the NEW grade 7 will be closely aligned to the bottom of the ‘old’ A grade.

Additionally we may expect that:

Broadly, the same proportion of students will achieve a grade 4 and above as previously achieved a grade C and above.

Broadly, grade 5 will be positioned in the top third of the marks for an ‘old’ C grade and the bottom third of marks for an ‘old’ B grade, making it in greater demand than the ‘old’ C grade.

Broadly, the same proportion of students will achieve a grade 7 and above as previously achieved a grade A and above.

For each exam subject, the top 20% of those achieving grade 7 or above will be awarded grade 9.


Controlled Assessments

Most GCSE Courses require students to complete coursework controlled assessments. These take place in school under the supervision of the class teacher. Please see each subject for details of these controlled assessments. Different learning styles mean that some students will find it easier / harder to study a subject with a higher proportion of controlled assessment to final examination. Please bear this in mind when choosing your options.

Tiers of Entry for GCSE Exams

Whilst most GCSEs (including the new English and English Literature papers) set the same paper for ALL candidates, a few subjects have different papers for different (foundation and higher) tiers of entry. Final decisions on tiers of entry are not usually made until February of the year the exams will be taken. With the exception of Maths, the syllabus content is identical for both tiers and the difference in the papers will be in the depth that a topic is tackled. Students will be entered for the tier which best suits their demonstrated abilities at the time of entry.

Tiered subjects (except Maths):

Foundation papers cover grades G - C

Higher papers cover grades D – A*

There will be 2 tiers of entry for Maths GCSEs:

Foundation Tier: Grades 1-5

Higher Tier: Grades 4-9

The Core ALL students study the following core subjects:

Examined Core Subjects: Maths

English Language

English Literature

R.E. Philosophy & Ethics (1/2 GCSE course)

Double1 Science (resulting in 2 GCSEs) or Triple1 Science (resulting in 3 GCSEs)

Non-Examined Core Subjects: Lifelong Learning (L2) – this includes Personal Social & Health Education (PSHE),

Citizenship and Careers education & guidance.

Physical Education Variations exist for students wishing to study both French AND German without losing an option and for students wishing to study one or two vocational subjects offered by Waverley Federation. These variations are laid out after the options blocks. Students will create their own curriculum by adding subjects from options blocks.

1 Students will be advised by the end of the summer term whether their group will be studying Double or Triple Science.


Options Blocks

The following three options blocks apply to all students except those who choose vocational courses, whose options are laid out in the vocational section later in this booklet.

Block 1 – Technology / Humanities

ALL non-vocational students must choose ONE subject from this block:

Food Technology

Geography

Graphic Products

History

R.E. Philosophy & Ethics FULL COURSE

Resistant Materials

Textiles

Block 2 – Languages

ALL non-vocational students who have achieved a level 5+ in French or German must choose ONE subject from this block. Students that have achieved less than level 5 in French or German are free to decide whether to study a language at Key Stage 4. Students who wish to study French AND German as a single option in a reduced timetable must choose German from this option block.

French

German

Block 3 – Other Options

Most students will choose TWO subjects from the options below. Those students exempt from studying a language will choose THREE subjects. Vocational students should refer to the list in the Vocational section later in this booklet.

Art

Business and Communications Systems

Computer Science

Drama

Food Technology

French

Geography

German

Graphic Products

History

Music

Physical Education


Resistant Materials

Textiles


Double Linguist Variation

This variation is for students who have demonstrated great aptitude for the study of foreign languages and who wish to study both French AND German AS WELL AS being able to choose TWO other subjects from Block 3. Both languages will be studied as ONE option. Students will lose one core PE lesson and commit to one additional after-school language lesson each week. It goes without saying that this is a challenging course that will only be suitable for students with a flair for languages and very mature attitude to personal study. Your language teacher will help you to decide whether this course if for you. Please choose German from Block 2. French will be studied during the after school lesson and the PE lesson (just 2 lessons each week).

Please note that it is also possible to take both French and German by choosing French from Option Block 2 and German from Option Block 3. Doing this means that you will have greater lesson time to study the languages and will not be required to give up a PE lesson or stay after school each week. This method of studying both languages does, however limit your other subject choices.

French is offered at GCSE level to ALL pupils who have studied it in lower school. Students who have reached a level 5 at the end of Year 9 in languages should study a language and will be advised by their teachers which language is most suitable for them. Some students may take the opportunity to study both languages (see Variations).

Vocational Variation

A limited number of places are provided by Waverley Federation for Rodborough students wishing to study one or two vocational courses (outlined in the separate booklet). Most of these courses take place off site for one day each week e.g. at Godalming College. Please be aware that Waverley Federation only offers these courses to students who are able to demonstrate good attendance, behaviour and commitment to the course. You must see Miss Spencer for the appropriate application form and additional information.

Vocational Option Block 1 These are the subjects that you will study in school. Please choose TWO subjects from this block:

Art

Business & Communication Systems

Computer Science

Drama

Food Technology

Geography

Graphic Products

History

Music

Physical Education


Resistant Materials

Textiles

Vocational Option Block 2 This is a one-day placement at College following vocational training course(s) provided by Waverley Federation. You may choose ONE course from this list:

Animal Care

Beauty Therapy & Hairdressing

Caring for Children

Construction

Engineering

Hospitality

Motor Mechanics

Sport

Wildlife & Conservation OR TWO courses from this list:

Business

Media

Computer Science

Spanish OR Italian

You are advised not to choose the same courses to study in school and in college. Places on vocational courses are strictly limited and the application process is competitive. Please consider at least two reserve subjects in case your application for vocational course(s) is unsuccessful.


THE OPTIONS PROCESS

Once the option forms have been received we create four option blocks in order to allow us to build the new timetable. We organise these option blocks to allow as many people as possible to take their first choice of subjects and we speak to students for whom this is not possible as soon as we can. When all choices have been finalised the option blocks become fixed and it is no longer possible to move people between subjects. In short, this means that taking your time to get your choices right before you submit your form is really important because there is a limited amount we can do to accommodate late changes to subject choices. It is important that you place your choices in rank order on the Options form.

CORE COURSES

English Language Exam Board to Be Confirmed

From September 2015, we will be teaching brand new GCSEs in English Language and English Literature. The English Department is very excited about these changes and think that the new courses will provide you with a challenging, enriching and enjoyable learning experience.

The new GCSE in English Language will require you to read a greater range of high quality and challenging extracts from literature, literary non-fiction, essays, and journalism from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. There will be a greater emphasis upon accurate and effective writing using Standard English, and we will be focusing on spelling, punctuation and grammar as well as the use of adventurous vocabulary and different sentence structures.

The course aims to develop your ability to:

communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively.

respond creatively and analytically to a range of challenging texts.

access unseen texts.

Assessment

There have also been a number of changes to the way GCSE English Language is assessed.

100% of the final GCSE grade comes from examinations taken at the end of Year 11.

There will be NO controlled assessments.

There is only one tier of entry.

There will be a new numerical grading system (9 to 1 with 9 being the highest) to replace A*-G.

You will complete tasks for Speaking and Listening (now called Spoken Language) although the results will NOT contribute towards your final grade.

Resources

The English Section of the school website will contain a wide range of resources to help you to support your learning during both the English Language and English Literature GCSEs.


English Literature Exam Board to Be Confirmed

From September 2015, we will be teaching brand new GCSEs in English Language and English Literature.

The new GCSE in English Literature will involve reading a range of literature, including a whole Shakespeare play, a whole 19th century novel and a selection of poetry including Romantic poetry.

The course aims to develop your ability to:

read a range of substantial whole texts.

think critically and analytically.

access unseen texts.

Assessment

There have also been a number of changes to the way GCSE English Literature is assessed:

100% of the final GCSE grade comes from examinations taken at the end of Year 11.

There will be NO controlled assessments.

There is only one tier of entry.

There will be a new numerical grading system (9 to 1 with 9 being the highest) to replace A*-G.

Resources

The English Section of the school website will contain a wide range of resources to help you to support your learning during both the English Language and English Literature GCSEs.

Careers related to English Language and English Literature

GCSE English Language and Literature help to develop your ability to communicate the spoken and written word. Communication skills are important in all careers, especially those that involve working with a team, managing others or dealing with the general public.

Careers in journalism, public relations, law, teaching and advertising rely particularly on effective communication skills.

Most college courses and job vacancies will require you to have a good result at GCSE English Language (exact numerical grade to be confirmed by colleges).


Mathematics AQA

The NEW Mathematics course provides opportunities for you to continue to develop skills in:

Number

Algebra

Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change

Geometry and Measures

Probability

Statistics

Using and applying Mathematics, with a particular emphasis on problem solving.

The lessons continue from the work you did at Key Stage 3.

Assessment

All pupils will follow the NEW course with exams at the end of Year 11. The examination is tiered, as explained earlier in this booklet, and each level includes calculator and non-calculator exams. Decisions about setting will be taken at the start of the course, using data from the Year 9 main exams.

Some basic equipment is essential. You will need a calculator (ideally a scientific one), a protractor and a pair of compasses. There will be opportunities for you to develop your IT skills further using the facilities in the Learning Resources Centre. A revision guide can be useful throughout the course and not only immediately before the GCSE examination. These guides and all the equipment necessary are sold at school.

Many of the mathematical skills which you learn on the GCSE Mathematics course are useful in other subjects, particularly Science, Geography and Technology. A good standard of Maths is required for entry to many college and university courses and job vacancies.

Careers related to Mathematics

The study of Maths helps you to learn how to think logically, calculate accurately, work methodically, solve problems and handle data. These skills are useful for numerous careers including finance, engineering, motor vehicle industry, construction, surveying, retail, market research, IT, and catering. You also need to be able to work with numbers in everyday life – paying bills, working out mortgage repayments, checking bank statements etc.


Science AQA

In July 2015 you will be advised whether your group will be studying Double or Triple Science GCSE.

All students begin by studying the CORE SCIENCE GCSE curriculum in Year 10. Double Science students then take the ADDITIONAL SCIENCE GCSE curriculum in Year 11, which gives them two Science GCSEs. Triple Science students also take separate GCSEs in Physics, Chemistry and Biology in Year 11 giving them three Science GCSEs.

Year 10 CORE SCIENCE

Students will follow the AQA Science A specification, which involves an equal content of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Assessment

The Centre Assessed Units (Controlled Assessments) are carried out in the form of ISAs (Investigative Skills Assignments). The majority of this work is undertaken in lesson time but pupils have the opportunity to carry out research and complete a planning sheet which they can use in the two written exam papers which are taken as part of each ISA. The format of each ISA is as follows:

Students are given a hypothesis to investigate. They are then able to carry out research to help them to plan a suitable experiment to investigate the hypothesis.

Students sit the first written ISA exam in which they are asked to plan an experiment to investigate the hypothesis.

Students carry out an experiment and collect results.

Students sit the second written exam in which they are asked to analyse their own results and other data on similar experiments.

These ISAs make up 25% of the Core GCSE mark.

The remaining 75% of the marks for the Core Science GCSE are allocated for the three written papers; one each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Each written paper provides 25% of the marks for the GCSE. These papers are taken in the Summer of Year 11.

Year 11 ADDITIONAL SCIENCE

ALL students will follow the AQA Additional Science specification, which involves an equal content of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Assessment

The Centre Assessed Units (Controlled Assessments) are carried out in the form of ISAs (Investigative Skills Assignments). The majority of this work is undertaken in lesson time but pupils have the opportunity to carry out research and complete a planning sheet which they can use in the two written exam papers which are taken as part of each ISA. The format of each ISA is the same as for Core Science. These ISAs make up 25% of the Additional Science GCSE mark. The remaining 75% of the marks for the Additional Science GCSE are allocated for the three written papers; one each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Each written paper provides 25% of the marks for the GCSE. These papers are taken in the Summer of Year 11.


Year 11 TRIPLE SCIENCE

Students taking this course will gain a GCSE in each Science discipline by the end of Year 11. They will cover all of the content from Core and Additional Science courses as well as the extra triple Science content.

Assessment

Triple Science groups complete ISAs in Year 10 and Year 11 which account for 25% of the final grades for each GCSE. Details of these ISAs are the same as those shown for Additional Science.

Triple Science groups will sit all of their exams in the summer of Year 11. It is expected that this will involve sitting 3 papers for each Science.

Careers related to Science

You will learn how to use equipment safely, collect and use data, work in a team, solve problems and make judgements based on facts. These skills are useful for careers such as engineering, construction, medicine and health care, environmental health, conservation, laboratory work, agriculture, IT, food and drugs production. Chemistry is particularly important for medicine and pharmacy. Physics is important for technical careers. Biology is often needed for health care careers.


Re: Philosophy and Ethics (Short Course) OCR

All students are required to follow this course. You will study four of these six topics:

Belief about Deity

Religion and Human Relationships

Religious and Spiritual Experience

Religion and Medical Ethics

The End of Life

Religion, Poverty and Wealth.

This course is designed to encourage you to think constructively about life issues, to develop your own point of view and to appreciate the opinions of others. You will learn about beliefs, values and traditions of Christianity, considering the influence of religious beliefs, values and traditions on people’s lives.

The course caters well for pupils whose religious background is not Christian, as the course can be approached from a variety of viewpoints. You will be taught in mixed ability groups for one period each week.

Assessment

At the end of the course students will sit two written examinations each of one hour leading to a GCSE short course award from A* to G, equivalent to a half GCSE.

The emphasis will be on using your research skills to increase your knowledge and understanding, discussion and debate on a range of relevant and topical issues, as well as opportunities for role play.


CORE NON-EXAMINATION SUBJECTS

Lifelong Learning (L2)

A non-examination Course

The purpose of L2 in Years 10 and 11 is to equip you with the skills needed to succeed in today's society in terms of GCSE success, progression on to further education and having the skills to be a successful lifelong learner. We build upon the skills learnt in key stage 3 and encourage you to seek new ways of thinking and learning and develop new skills in creative thinking, teamwork and leadership.

In Year 10 you will be involved in discussion-based learning to develop a better understanding of personal, social, health, economic and citizenship issues which affect young people and adults.

We also examine different career paths and help you discover information about areas that interest you. During activities week you will complete work experience in a job sector of your choice. We prepare you for this by giving you a better understanding of the skills needed and consider important aspects of health and safety.

In Year 11 we help you to prepare for life after GCSEs. Building on your work in Year 10, we look more closely at different job sectors and careers you might be interested in, to get a better understanding of the skills and qualifications needed. You are then taught how to write a curriculum vitae and personal statement to highlight your particular skills. We also support you in your applications to further educational institutions, looking at different types of qualifications and starting the application process. We encourage you to share these ideas with your family.

By Year 11 you should have developed a greater understanding of how you learn best. We help you use these skills to best effect in your revision programme and explore the most suitable revision strategies for you to use. The aim of L2 is to suitably prepare you to develop these life skills to use across your GCSE subject areas to help you to achieve to your full potential.


Physical Education A non-examination Course

During the two years in the upper school, most students spend a double period each week engaged in Physical Education. The programme builds on many of the sports and activities learned in the lower school and introduces some new ones. A feature of the Year 11 programme is arranging some activities to take place off-site. These have to be paid for and a contribution made to transport where appropriate. The on-site programme is, of course, provided as part of the curriculum and there is no charge.

Year 10 New activities for Year 10 include trampolining and weight-training. Activities are divided into blocks lasting for half a term. Students also have the option to take the popular Sports Leader qualification.

Year 11 The department operates an ‘option’ programme in Year 11. In line with National Curriculum requirements, students select one activity, which they have previously covered at some time in school, to study in depth. Other choices may then be made from a selection of on or off-site2 activities.

Recent off-site activities have included ice-skating and bowling at the Spectrum and using the climbing wall at the Surrey Sports Park. All these activities are supported by the appropriate centre staff and include an element of skills tuition.

Students taking the triple Science option will have reduced time in their Year 10 & 11 PE programme and will not have full access to all the PE Options in the Year 11 package.

Whether on-site or off, pupils are expected to wear the Rodborough PE kit for all activities, with some allowance made for specialist requirements.

2 Please note that off-site activities require a payment.


BLOCK 1 Technology/ Humanities

Food Technology OCR

Food Technology uses the design and technology process to design and make with food. If you enjoy finding out about food and working with it as a material then this is the course for you.

You will study:

Nutritional needs and food choices for different groups of people

Food ingredients: their properties and uses

Hygiene and safety

Food production

Recipe modification and nutritional analysis

Industrial case studies

Product development and evaluation

Sustainable design

You will:

develop and use practical food preparation skills.

learn to analyse products that are already on sale.

carry out market research.

develop your ICT skills by using CAD and CAM.

learn how to develop, make, market and package a new product.

work on your own and as part of a team.

Assessment

Your controlled assessments require you to develop prototypes for new food products. To do this effectively you will work through stages of the design process from analysing your task to developing a brief, research, writing a specification, trialling design ideas, testing and evaluating, modifying designs and making the final product. An example of a task might be: ‘Design and make a new cake, pastry or biscuit product which is particularly suitable for young children’.

There are two controlled assessments, each contributing 30% towards the GCSE leaving 40% for the final examination.

The examination is based on the Technical Aspects of Food Technology and Sustainability.

Careers related to Food Technology You will develop useful skills for everyday life. Food Technology links with specific careers including: food nutritionist, catering & hospitality, chef and food scientist.


Graphic Products OCR

Graphic Products is concerned with the design and making of products using card, paper and other “soft” (compliant) materials.

This subject will help you to understand and appreciate the design and manufacture of graphic products. It will help you to be creative in your approach to problem solving and product development.

Through a range of projects you will study how to:

draw accurately in different styles and projections.

develop specifications for products.

analyse existing products.

generate a range of design proposals.

research ideas.

develop products and plan production.

select materials and work with tools and equipment.

test and evaluate products.

You will:


analyse products and the processes used in their manufacture.

work practically with graphic media such as card, paper, foamboard etc.

learn about the use of graphics in promoting, packaging and protecting a product, in advertising and in information systems.

learn about the application and use of graphics in enriching, learning and developing communication products.

develop your understanding of sustainability.

Assessment


The Year 10 controlled assessment focuses on researching, designing and making. You will design and produce an item of packaging. For the Year 11 controlled assessment, you will concentrate on making a quality product and will have the opportunity to produce 2D or 3D graphic products. Examples include a promotional stand, pop-up book or a point of sale.

The exam will be on Sustainable Design and Technical Aspects of Designing and Making.

Careers related to Graphic Products You will develop useful skills for everyday life. Graphics subjects links with specific careers including sign designer, printing, interior designer, product designer and graphic designer.


Resistant Materials OCR

Resistant Materials is concerned with problem solving by designing and making three-dimensional products using ‘hard’ (resistant) materials, i.e. wood, metal and plastic. You are encouraged to work independently and take personal responsibility for progress and production of a quality product.

Studying Resistant Materials will help you to understand and appreciate the design and manufacture of products. It will help you to be creative in your approach to problem solving and product construction.

You will study:

Properties of materials (woods, metals and plastics)

Joining, forming and finishing materials


The development of wood products

Tools and equipment

Sustainability.

You will:


be able to analyse products and understand. manufacturing processes.


develop designs to meet a particular brief or specification.

develop practical skills in the workshop with wood, metal and plastic materials.

make products e.g. storage box, educational toy, garden products.

Assessment


Your Year 10 controlled assessment focuses on researching, designing and making. You will design and produce an educational toy. For your Year 11 controlled assessment you will concentrate on making a quality product and have the opportunity to produce a garden product.


Careers related to Resistant Materials

You will develop useful skills for everyday life. Technology subjects links with specific careers including engineering, motor vehicle mechanic, construction trades, interior designer, and product designer. This option is probably best suited to students who enjoy a ‘hands-on’ workshop situation.


Textiles Technology OCR

Textiles Technology uses the design and technology process to design and make with fabrics. If you enjoy designing and making products through the medium of Textiles then this is the course for you.

You will study:

How fabrics are made

The properties and uses of different fabrics

The sewing machine

Methods of transferring designs onto fabric

Methods for joining fabrics


The development of textile products and sustainable design

You will:

develop practical needlework and sewing machine skills.

learn to analyse existing textile products.


make products e.g. bags, cushions, toys.


learn how to develop and make a new textile product.

work on your own and as part of a team.

Assessment


Your Year 10 controlled assessment focuses on researching, designing and making. You will design and produce a bag using traditional techniques.

For your Year 11 controlled assessment you will concentrate on making a quality product and have the opportunity to make an educational toy.


This course will suit you if:

You have enjoyed the Year 9 course and wish to develop some of the areas that you have studied.

You wish to extend your sewing machine skills.

You are creative and enjoy making functional items.

Careers related to Textiles Technology You will develop useful skills for everyday life. Technology subjects links with specific careers including fashion designer, textile designer, interior designer and product designer.


Geography (Syllabus A)

AQA

“Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future.”

Michael Palin

Statistics show that, compared to other subjects, Geography graduates are among the most employable. This is probably because they possess the skills that employers look for. In part, this is because the subject is a combination of the facts of science and the understanding of the arts.

Geographers are:

Good communicators

Spatially aware

Socially and environmentally aware

Problem solvers

Good team players

Computer literate

Well rounded, flexible thinkers

Geographers can:

Make a concise report

Handle data

Ask questions and find the answers

Make decisions about an issue

Analyse material

Solve problems

Think independently

Assessment

Unit 1: Physical Geography (37.5%) 1 hr 30 minute examination You will gain an understanding of physical processes and factors that produce the diverse landscapes across our planet. There is an emphasis on the interaction between people and the environment, and an awareness of the need for sustainable management of environments. Section A: The Restless Earth, Rocks, Resources and Scenery, Challenge of Weather and Climate, the Living World Section B: Water Management, Ice on the land, the Coastal Zone Unit 2: Human Geography (37.5%) 1 hr 30 minute examination This unit focuses on the causes of, and processes involved in changes to human environments, both rural and urban. It covers some of the rapid economic developments affecting people across the globe, as well as issues related to population change, migration and tourism.

Section A: Population Change, Changing Urban Environments, Changing Rural Environments. Section B: The Development Gap, Globalisation, Tourism

Both exams are taken at the end of Year 11. For each exam students must answer one question from each section, plus one other question of their choice.


Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation (25%) The Controlled Assessment component is a single planned enquiry. This is a small scale, fieldwork based investigation that begins in Year 10. The investigation write-up takes place under strict classroom supervision and is completed in the Autumn Term of Year 11.

Students may find the optional Year 10 Field Trip to Wales helpful for honing their fieldwork and evaluation skills.

Careers related to Geography

The study of Geography is particularly useful in careers such as land management and surveying, geology, ecology, town and country planning, meteorology, landscape architecture, cartography and leisure and tourism. It is also useful for careers in the media, public services and business.

History OCR option A

Students will begin Year 10 with our study in development of British history: Crime and Punishment through time. This unit focuses on how the causes of crime and the nature of detection and punishment have developed and been influenced by the attitudes, beliefs and structures of historical societies. The industrial era will be a key focus as this will be externally assessed as an historical source investigation. Key areas of study are:

Roman law: were Romans treated equally by the law?

The Middle Ages: How did the Norman invasion affect Anglo-Saxon law and society? Did the Church, the king or the nobility control the law? What can we learn from the legend of Robin Hood about medieval attitudes towards society and the law?

Early modern: Why were people burnt for their religion? Why was there a witchcraft craze? What was the ‘Bloody Code’? Why were smugglers and highwaymen viewed as heroes?

Industrial Britain: What was the impact of industrialization on crime and punishment? Protest and reaction 1800-1914: how did the authorities react to political crimes like the Rebecca Riots and the Peterloo protest? How did attitudes to policing and punishment change? Why was Jack the Ripper never caught?

Modern Britain: Protest and reaction between 1800-1914: why were women willing to die for the vote? How did the authorities treat the Suffragettes? How did war, recession and prosperity impact on crime and punishment? Why was the death penalty abolished? What impact has the development of communication had on crime and policing?

Y10 Geography Field Trip to Wales


The study in depth will give students an opportunity to study in detail a key aspect of modern world history: Germany 1919-1945. This unit will focus on the reasons for the development of the Nazi dictatorship in Germany and the impact that this style of government had on the German people. Key areas of study are:

The Weimar Republic : 1919-33

Hitler & the growth of the Nazi party : 1919-33

The Nazi regime: How effectively did they control Germany, 1933-45?

The Nazi regime: What was it like to live in Nazi Germany, 1933-45? The controlled assessment unit is a task based unit which focuses on an historical enquiry into a modern day situation. Students will gain an understanding of how the world around them today can only be understood by a study of the past. Students will examine the position of African Americans within modern day U.S society and will investigate the extent to which their position is a product of the past. Key areas of study are:

The legacy of slavery and segregation

Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement

Malcolm X and Black Power

Jesse Jackson and the Rainbow Coalition

The election of Barrack Obama

Assessment

This course has 2 exams and one controlled assessment. The first exam (45% of course total) is 2 hours. It will focus on your knowledge of both the study in development (Crime & Punishment) and the study in depth (Germany 1919-1933). The second exam (30% of course total) is 1h 30m. It will be an historical source investigation focusing on an element of protest and reaction between 1800-1914. This will be taught as part of the study in development.

The controlled assessment will be internally assessed and forms 25% of the final GCSE grade.

Careers relating to History

The study of History is particularly valuable for careers in law, journalism, museum and archive work, architecture and theatre wardrobe work. You will learn how to find things out for yourself and to tell the difference between facts and opinions. In addition, writing essays and giving presentations based on your own research will develop your reasoning and communication skills.

History / R.E. trip to Berlin


R.E.: PHILOSOPHY and ETHICS (Full Course) OCR

This course follows the arrangements for Religious Studies from 2009 and is entitled ‘Philosophy and Ethics’. (Religious Studies)

You study at least ten of these twelve topics:

Belief about Deity

Religion and Human Relationships

Religious and Spiritual Experience

Religion and Medical Ethics

The End of Life

Religion and Equality

Good and Evil

Religion, Poverty and Wealth

Religion, Reason and Revelation

Religion, Peace and Justice

Religion and Science

Religion and Media

The aim of the course is to encourage you to think constructively about life issues, to develop your own point of view and to appreciate the opinions of others. You will learn about beliefs, values and traditions of one or more religions, considering the influence of religious beliefs, values and traditions have on individuals, communities and societies. You will consider these issues at a local, national and global level and recognise that these aspects vary in significance between different religious communities.

The course caters well for pupils whose religious background is not Christian, as the course can be approached from a variety of viewpoints.

Assessment

There will be FOUR, 1 hour exams at the end of the course in Year 11. This leads to one FULL GCSE A* to G.

Careers relating to Philosophy

and Ethics.

This course deals with the fundamental issues in life and, though a valuable subject in careers such as journalism, law, teaching, social work and politics, it offers everyone the ability to discuss, challenging one’s own and others’ viewpoints, providing a sound philosophical and ethical approach to life in general.

History / R.E. trip to Berlin


BLOCK 2: Languages French Edexcel

The GCSE French course will build on knowledge gained in lower school, covering the four skill areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.

The topics studied at GCSE are:

Media and Culture

Sport and Leisure

Travel and Tourism

Business, Work and Employment

The key subject aim is to enable students to develop:

an understanding of French in a variety of contexts.

a knowledge of French vocabulary and structures.

transferable language learning skills.

the ability to communicate effectively in French.

awareness and understanding of countries and communities where French is spoken.

Assessment

The course will be assessed through a series of controlled assessments for speaking and writing and summative assessments for reading and listening. Students will learn through the medium of the target language including the use of:

DVD and CD

Role play

ICT

Group and pair work with the foreign language assistant

Key Stage 4 language students are encouraged to participate in exchanges. There will be the opportunity to participate in a residential trip to Montpellier during Year 10 Activities Week. This provides pupils with the opportunity to experience the culture and practise their language skills in an authentic setting. In Year 11 pupils may choose to do their work experience abroad.

Careers relating to French and German

Languages are not just for translation, teaching and tourism. In an increasingly international market, languages are necessary for many career choices including marketing, sciences and engineering. Students offering a language qualification may be favoured by Higher Education providers and may also have the opportunity to study abroad at University level as this is often offered as part of degree programmes.

Year 10 French Language Trip


German Edexcel

German is offered to GCSE level to ALL pupils who have studied it in lower school. Students who have reached a level 5 at the end of Year 9 in languages should study a language and will be advised by their teachers which language is most suitable for them. Some students may take the opportunity to study both languages (see Variations).

The GCSE German course will build on knowledge gained in lower school, covering the four skill areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing.

The topics studied at GCSE are:

Media and Culture

Sport and Leisure

Travel and Tourism

Business, Work and Employment

The key subject aim is to enable students to develop:

an understanding of German in a variety of contexts.

a knowledge of German vocabulary and structures.

transferable language learning skills.

the ability to communicate effectively in German.

awareness and understanding of countries and communities where German is spoken.

Assessment

The course will be assessed through a series of controlled assessments for speaking and writing and summative assessments for reading and listening. Students will learn through the medium of the target language including the use of:

DVD and CD

Role play

ICT

Group and pair work with the foreign language assistant

Key Stage 4 language students are encouraged to participate in exchanges. We organise a week long exchange with a school in our twin town of Mayen (Germany). This provides pupils with the opportunity to experience German culture and practise their language skills in an authentic setting. In Year 11 pupils may choose to do their work experience abroad.


BLOCK 3: Other Options Subjects Art AQA

You will undertake a variety of experiences employing a range of art and design media and techniques. Examples of art, craft and design are introduced and you will be asked to respond to these in the context of your own work by making notes, developing ideas and final pieces.

Major pieces of practical work will be produced using some of the following: Drawing and Painting

Sculpture

Mixed media

Graphics

Printmaking

Photography & Digital Manipulation

Assessment

Coursework 60% Controlled test 40% (10 hours over 2 days in February Year 11)

You must present three extended collections of coursework for assessment, each of which includes preliminary studies, development work, the final piece(s) and historical and critical work. Producing a piece of sculpture is a requirement of the course.

The three units submitted will be:

work developed from a day’s visit to a place of interest.

a mock unit that will provide practical exam experience.

work developed from a study of natural forms.

Homework is set for a minimum of 1 hour per week, although it must be noted that candidates will be expected to spend additional time working on their portfolios.

Coursework must be completed by half term of the Year 11 Summer Term.

The controlled test contains seven questions. You answer one question. Test papers are issued in January with a period of 7 weeks allowed for preparation work. The controlled test itself lasts for ten hours over 2 days in February and the final piece will be produced unaided, under supervision. You must discuss your chosen topic with your teacher.

The use of Art studios at lunchtime and after school by all Art students is actively encouraged. A one-day visit will be arranged in Year 10 to the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Information for the environment unit will be collected on this visit. A trip to a London gallery is also organised at the start of the Summer term after school hours. This visit is used to develop an aspect of work for a small mind mapping project.

You will need access to a camera and preferably have your own drawing pencils (Grades 4B, 2B & B,) and Acrylic Paints. A £30 donation is also requested to cover the cost of brushes, paints and portfolios.

Careers relating to Art

This course will help you to develop your creative, practical and communication skills. Careers involving art & design include graphic design, product styling, illustration, art editing, architecture, make-up artistry, photography, sign writing, theatre design, stage and set design and floristry.


Business Studies: International GCSE (IGCSE) Cambridge International Exam Board Syllabus No 0450

The aims of the course are to apply knowledge and critical understanding to current issues and problems in a wide range of business contexts. This includes:

developing knowledge and understanding of a wide range of business issues.

appreciating different views and perspectives in business, for example stakeholders.

considering opinions and evaluating data to build arguments and make informed judgements.

considering how business is organised, financed and operated.

developing skills of numeracy, literacy, ICT, enquiry and selection.

The International GCSE in Business Studies is an exciting option that uses real life case studies and activities in conjunction with business theories to solve problems. The subject involves looking at a range of problems a business has to solve and the decisions it has to make. These decisions relate to six key areas:

The Economy and External Influences o How does the government and the wider economy influence business

behaviour? o What are the external responsibilities of a business?

Business Organisation o What is the most effective way to organise a business? o How do you set up a business? o What different types of economy exist?


Human Resources o How do you recruit, train, manage and motivate the best staff? o How are businesses organised internally?

Finance o How do you finance a business and make it profitable? o How do you interpret company financial accounts? What is a cash flow model? o How do you develop a break-even analysis?

Marketing o How does a company decide on a target market? o How does a company persuade people to buy a product? o How is the price of a product decided?

Production o What factors influence the location of business? o How can a company produce goods efficiently?

Assessment

There will be 2 exams each worth 50% and each of 1h30m duration: Paper 1 – 4 questions (mixture of short answers and structured data responses). Paper 2 – 4 questions based on a case study provided as insert.

Additional Information / Special requirements: This is an international GCSE (IGCSE) endorsed by Cambridge University. It is an academic study and requires a good attitude to learning to make the gains in learning necessary for students to achieve their target grades. The course also develops ICT skills that complement each unit – for example, using spreadsheets to understand cash flow, the use of presentation software in the marketing module.

Careers relating to Business Studies

Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificates are general qualifications that enable candidates to progress directly to employment or proceed to further study.

ICT skills are used in many units. Both ICT and Business have direct links to employability and many careers are available.

International GCSE Business Studies provides a solid platform for students wishing to continue the subject at A Level or who opt for Economics. Both subjects are also useful starting point for a wide range of university courses and a number of students at Rodborough go on to study Economics or Business at higher education.


Computer Science AQA

This is a new and exciting qualification that provides the necessary skills and knowledge to become developers of computer applications and understand how computers work. This course will challenge and enhance your problem solving ability and provide you with a wide range of strategies and tools to create imaginative solutions to technical challenges such as mobile app creation, games programming and dynamic web design.

Assessment

Two pieces of extended controlled assessment each worth 30% (60% in total). Examination: 40% - one 1h30m exam You will be required to design, develop and test a complex system. Whilst skills required will be taught in class, you are encouraged to explore programming concepts in your own time too. You choose two tasks from four categories: mobile applications, gaming, dynamic web development and a more traditional computer science problem.

The 90 question exam will test both the theoretical parts of the course and include practical programming-based questions.

To do well in this course you will need to be enquiring, logical and resourceful and enjoy technical challenges.

On completion of this course you will:

have a firm grounding in core problem solving and programming skills.

understand the low level working of a computer and the way in which devices communicate.

be able to analyse, create and test your own applications.

have a thorough understanding of programming concepts that will enable you to learn new languages independently.

The main programming language you will study is Python.

Careers relating to Computer Science

Successful completion of this course will provide a firm foundation for studying Computing at level 3 and at university. It is also worthy of study in its own right as it emphasises independent learning and problem solving. Programming and computational thinking is a desired skill in sciences, engineering, mathematics and many creative and artistic subjects. The Computing and Information and Communication Technology sector is a big employment growth sector and there are many careers available. Specialist skills are at a premium. Specific related careers are commercial programming, web page creation and development and games design.


Drama AQA

Drama is an exciting and creative GCSE course, providing you with the opportunity to study play texts together with a variety of other practical forms of Drama including improvisation and devised theatre. This may lead to performances to outside audiences which can include local primary schools as well as parents, fellow pupils and staff. For those of you less focused on acting, there are opportunities for work in stage lighting, sound, costume, make-up design, set design, properties, masks and stage management. Evaluation of performance is an important aspect of the course. You will learn the skill of the theatre critic, assessing both your own work and that of others. You are encouraged to visit professional and local amateur productions. The school arranges a number of visits during each academic year.

Assessment

The course is assessed using:

Practical work controlled assessments 60% (2 pieces each worth 30%)

Written paper 40%

Controlled assessment marks are awarded for:

Preparation and exploration of skills

Final presentation either performance or demonstration of design skill.

The written paper consists of three sections:

Section A – Practical work completed during the course

Section B – Study and performance of a scripted play

Section C – Study of a live theatre production seen

The essential requirements for this course are the desire to work effectively within a team, become involved in performance work and the ability to approach each drama activity with commitment, energy and enthusiasm. You will be expected to see a number of live productions during the course.

Careers relating to Drama

Drama enhances your team-working, creativity, communication and co-operation. Through performing you can gain self-confidence and this will help you to succeed in your future career. Related careers include performing, stage management, technical theatre, TV production, teaching, training, sales and public relations.


Music AQA

It is essential that pupils wishing to take GCSE Music can already play an instrument and will continue to take lessons throughout their upper school course until the time of the practical examination in the Autumn term of Y11.

It is a requirement that pupils taking GCSE Music must participate in at least one extra-curricular music activity run by the department in order for them to complete their ensemble performing exam.

There are five areas of study:

Rhythm/Metre

Harmony/Tonality

Texture/Melody

Timbre/Dynamics

Structure/Form

This course is taught through three Strands of Learning:

The Western Classical Tradition

Popular Music of the 20th and 21st Centuries

World Music

There are four components to the course: Unit 1: Listening to and Appraising Music Unit 2: Composing and Appraising Music Unit 3: Performing Music Unit 4: Composing Music

Assessment

Unit 1: Listening to and Appraising Music 20% (80 Marks) You will sit a 1 hour paper listening to musical extracts based on the five areas of study and answering a mixture of question types – multiple choice, structured responses and extended responses. Questions will use musical extracts from all three strands of learning.

Unit 2: Composing and Appraising Music 20% (40 Marks 2 x 20) You will complete a composition starting in the September of Year 11 on two of the areas of study chosen by you linked to a Strand of Learning set by the examination board. This composition will be completed under controlled assessment conditions (Max.20hrs). It must be recorded and accompanied by a score and written annotation (10%). This is followed by a written appraisal of the process of composition and the final outcome – a two hour controlled assessment. (10%)

Unit 3: Performing Music 40% (60 Marks) You will perform two different pieces; one individual and one ensemble performance lasting no more than five minutes at a Grade 4+ standard. This will be completed by the end of the Autumn Term in Year 11.


Unit 4: Composing Music 20% (30 Marks) You will complete a composition starting in the Spring Term of Year 10 on two of the areas of study chosen by you. You have up to 25 hrs Controlled Assessment Time. The composition will be submitted for examination on CD with a written commentary and printed score.

Careers relating to Music

Studying music will develop your performing and composition skills and develop your self-confidence. The music business offers a wide range of careers including performing, composing and arranging, artist and tour management, sound recording, music therapy, music publishing and promotion, music education and music media.


Physical Education AQA

The Physical Education course aims to develop practical skills and associated theoretical knowledge across a range of sports activities.

Assessment

Written examination 40%

Practical 60% The written examination is a single 1½ hour paper covering topics such as the importance of health, fitness and training in relation to enhancing physical performance.

The paper itself consists of multiple choice, short answer questions and extended answers based on a scenario issued prior to the examination.

The practical assessment covers 4 activities chosen from at least 2 of the following groups

Games e.g. football, netball, rugby, basketball, volleyball, rounders, badminton, tennis

Gymnastic activities e.g. artistic or compositional gym, trampolining

Dance

Athletics and competitive swimming

Outdoor and adventurous activities e.g. skiing, horse riding

Fitness training

At least one performance must be as a player /performer but there is also the opportunity to adopt different roles; e.g. official or coach – all practical work is assessed throughout the course during Years 10 and 11.

There may also be an opportunity for some pupils to be entered for a double award in this subject.

Careers relating to Physical Education

GCSE PE helps you to build leadership and team-working skills, sports skills, communication and awareness of health & safety.

There are many careers in sport, ranging from being a sports professional to coaching, teaching, sports development, team management, marketing administration.

You don’t have to take GCSE PE in order to go on to advanced level study as long as you have good GCSE grades in Science and English as well as proven sports ability.


Who will help you? It is important to make the best possible options choices. You should read this booklet very carefully and discuss the options with your parent/ guardian. Your form tutors will be happy to discuss your choices with you. Your teachers will be happy to discuss their subject with you. It is worth researching current College and University guidelines for particular career choices, although these can change over time. Miss Spencer works closely with Godalming Federation, who supply the Vocational Options. She will be happy to discuss your suitability for these courses. Mr Williams oversees the Options process here at Rodborough and will answer any questions relating to our process.

Front and back cover photographs show Students opening GCSE Results in August

Options Choices 2015

Documents

Transcript of Options Choices 2015