Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

description

The course guide for students entering the Sixth Form 2016-2018

Transcript of Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

Page 1: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

Sixth Form Course Guide

2016 – 2018

Page 2: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

‘Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover’

- Mark Twain

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1St Albans High School for Girls

ContentS • Welcome 2 • community 3 • curriculum 4 • co-curriculum 4 • university PreParation 5 • timelines 6

art & Design: Fine art a level 7 • History oF art 7 • astronomy gcse 8 • Biology a level 9 • Biology as level 10

comPuter aiDeD Design anD manuFacturing 11 • cHemistry a level 12 • classical civilisation a level 13

Drama & tHeatre stuDies a level 14 • economics a level 15 • economics as level 15 • englisH literature a level 16

englisH literature as level 16 • extenDeD Project QualiFication (ePQ) 17 • FooD tecHnology a level 18 • FrencH a level 19

FrencH as level 20 • geograPHy a level 21 • german a level 22 • german as level 23 • government anD Politics a level 24

History a level 25 • ict ecDl – euroPean comPuter Driving licence 26 • italian igcse 27 • latin a level 28

matHematics & FurtHer matHematics a level 29 • music a level 30 • PHysical eDucation a level 31 • PHysics a level 32

ProDuct Design – textiles a level 33 • religious stuDies (PHilosoPHy anD etHics) a level 34 • sPanisH a level 35 • sPanisH as level 36

acaDemic scHolarsHiPs 37 • university Destinations 38 • cluBs anD societies 38 • contacts 39

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2 St Albans High School for Girls

WelcomeFrom the Headmistress

We are delighted to welcome you to the sixth Form

here, which plays a defining role in the school. your

sixth Form years are the peak of your school career and

are full of all sorts of exciting opportunities.

you probably know that the government has reformed

the a level system and has introduced changes across

all subjects that will take effect at different times over

the next few years. at the High school this means

that you will sit all your exams at the end of year 13, rather than some in year 12 as

previously. We firmly believe in the educational benefits of a year free from public

exams and welcome the space it will create to allow you to develop and mature into

your subjects. you will acquire real intellectual maturity and confidence before taking

your three or four final exams.

you will need to choose three or four a level subjects which you will continue for two

years with real care. our minimum entry requirements are five as at gcse and you will

be required to get at least an a, and usually an a*, in the subjects you have selected for

a level. it is important that you take time over your decision and ask for advice.

our fully linear course means that you will have plenty of time to enjoy the freedoms

and widening horizons that attend sixth Form life. most important of these are your

intellectual horizons. We support you to discover your own scholarly interests; be

adventurous in your exploration of them and have fun while you’re doing so.

excellent results and intellectual development are important, but employers also seek

evidence of life skills: mental agility, adaptability, maturity and resilience. the sixth Form

programme here develops these. our linear course allows you the space to explore

careers and sharpen your workplace skills and experience, free from the shackles of

yearly public exams. one example of this is the sixth Form lecture, which takes place

every two weeks and which will bring you into contact with some of the country’s

most eminent and exciting leaders or thinkers. the range and quality of extra-curricular

provision at the High school is excellent. We want our sixth Formers to run any one

of the clubs already on offer, or set up a new one, if you think there is a gap within the

eclectic mix of High school societies.

We see these years as a halfway house between school and university; you will enjoy

more adult relationships with members of staff and help them in the smooth running of

the school. you will have far more freedom, including being free to leave the school at

lunchtime for example and you will enjoy the benefits of a tailored common room and

library, moments from the school’s own starbucks café.

Whatever a levels you choose and whatever other activities you select, you

will find the sixth Form at the High school is a relaxed and happy place, strongly

reflecting the school’s aims of scholarship; adventure and integrity.

Jenny Brown Headmistress

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3St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Welcome CommunityFrom the Head of Sixth Form

the sixth Form at st albans High school is a friendly,

caring and vibrant environment. as you mature, both

socially and academically, your experience over the

two years will be exciting and full of challenges and

opportunities. these years act as a transition between

school and higher education and whilst academic

success remains a key goal, our aim is to ensure that

each student achieves her potential in all areas. you

will be encouraged to take full advantage of the many

opportunities available to study independently, to explore your interests and to make

significant contributions to the whole school.

Whether you are already a student here or you are considering joining us from another

school, you will find the High school a friendly, welcoming environment. We do all we

can to make the transition as easy as possible for you. an experienced team of tutors

will support you and help you to shape your future and achieve your goals.

as senior members of the school, sixth Formers are expected to be role models for

the younger girls. We encourage you to take on additional responsibilities and play your

part in the wider life of the school. the sixth Form will give you the opportunity to

learn how to lead, organise, motivate and communicate. Whatever your co-curricular

interest, there is scope for you to develop it and introduce it to others.

choose your courses wisely, but, above all, get involved and enjoy the High school

sixth Form experience.

as the senior girls in the school, we have high expectations of you in the sixth

Form and it’s absolutely right that we should do so. We expect sixth Formers

to be role models for the younger girls. We expect you to run clubs and take on

leadership roles. We expect you to carry out duties. We want you also to explore

avenues of interest to you. We expect you to set high standards and that starts

with punctuality and being on site ready for registration at 8.35 am. We expect you

to take on greater responsibility for your own learning and progress. after all, you

have actively chosen to continue your education with us and you all have goals that

you want to achieve.

along with the responsibilities associated with being in the sixth Form, however,

come certain privileges and freedoms. you have your own common room and

kitchen. you have a dedicated sixth Form library and exclusive access to other

study facilities. you are allowed to sign out and go into town during free lessons or

at lunchtime. you are allowed to wear your own clothes, following the dress code

agreed by the sixth Form committee.

there are plenty of opportunities to take on leadership roles within the school.

as well as being able to stand for election to be a school or House officer, there

are other key roles, such as Form Prefects, drama reps, sports captains, leaders of

clubs or societies. We expect you will want to develop leadership skills and take on

responsibility during your time in years 12 and 13.

We hope you will use the teamwork, communication and leadership skills

developed in the sixth Form for the benefit of others, either for younger members

of the school community or within the school’s community service programme.

the sixth Form has a fine and colourful tradition of raising funds for local, national

and international charities.

in short, the sixth Form is an exciting time with opportunities galore and we hope that

you will grasp those and enjoy all that this unique stage in your education has to offer.Mr Ian thomson Head of Sixth Form

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our school’s aims – scholarship, adventure and integrity – are well served by our

broad and ambitious curriculum.

the national educational landscape at a level is undergoing significant change.

linear a levels – whereby examinations will be taken at the end of the two year

a level course – are being reintroduced in a phased programme of educational

reform. in these interim years, some schools have elected to offer a mixed

economy of as and a level examinations with some examinations still being taken

in the summer of year 12. We have taken a decisive stance by adopting linearity

across all of our a level and as level subjects from september 2015.

By removing the pressure of as level examinations from year 12, we have created

time for students to enjoy learning and be inspired to want to learn more. We have

devised a timetable rich in study time in which they can think, explore and reflect in

order to deepen or consolidate and improve their learning.

We have listened to the views of our departing year 13s and have created

more opportunities for students to manage their own time, to study and learn

independently and in the way and a place that suits them best. this we hope they

will do with persistence, resilience and enthusiasm. although we are respecting

sixth Formers’ growing need for independence, student progress will be carefully

monitored by their tutor and clearly communicated to parents.

over the coming months, students will be expertly guided in choosing their

programme of study. students joining us from elsewhere, are warmly invited to

spend time here and ‘taste’ a level subjects to inform choices. the students who

excel at a level are inquisitive and instinctively seek to extend their intellectual

reach beyond the confines of the classroom or syllabus because they derive

immense pleasure from doing so. With an eye on their future, students should

therefore choose subjects that they love.

• An independent study programme: designed to encourage depth,

breadth and pleasure, every student will follow a programme that has been

authored by subject teachers to enrich learning and prepare students for

university applications and university-level study.

• the Perspectives programme: occupying a tuesday afternoon in the

timetable but with a scope far beyond this physical space, the series will require

students to engage with contemporary debates, to forge partnerships with

people within and beyond the local community, to think big and to grow –

personally, socially and intellectually. a structured timetable of He and careers

support is also woven into the Perspectives programme.

• the Sixth Form Lecture: a fortnightly opportunity to hear from and

question some of the foremost thinkers in industry and business, the arts and the

charity sector, and beyond.

• University Stretch: whatever their university aspirations, students will be

afforded time with a teacher in each of their a level subjects to go beyond

curriculum study.

Curriculum Co-curriculum

Perspectives Sixth Form Lectures

Independent study programme University Stretch

3 or 4 A Levels+

optional complementary coursee.g. AS Level or a GCSE

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Co-curriculum

With 100% of students making higher education applications to uK and overseas

institutions and over 90% securing a place at their first choice of university,

preparation for university is a fundamental part of life in the sixth Form.

the application process is outlined at a Parents’ evening in september of year 12.

at this stage students are encouraged to develop their intellectual curiosity and

focus on the skills required to fulfil their academic aspirations. the Higher education

evening takes place in the lent term. speakers from a selection of highly selective

universities inform students and their parents about the ucas process. the aim

at this stage is to equip them with the tools they need to research and navigate the

many higher education courses available to them.

as students explore their options, they are supported with university stretch

sessions as well as the other elements of the co-curricular programme. these

sessions challenge them to think beyond the curriculum and provide an excellent

foundation for their applications and interviews.

all students in year 12 are allocated a subject mentor in the trinity term, who is

available to discuss the personal statement in their ucas application as well as their

wider reading. this university preparation support is in addition to that given by

their form tutor, subject teachers, the Head and Deputy Head of sixth Form.

For those submitting an oxbridge application, additional support is available from

the oxbridge co-ordinator who facilitates specialist workshop sessions and practice

interviews. these interviews are conducted by teachers as well as professionals

from the parent body and businesses that support careers and higher education

preparation at the High school. opportunities to apply for master classes and taster

days at both universities are also highlighted. a key event in the school’s oxbridge

calendar is the oxbridge conference in the lent term. this is hosted by the High

school and welcomes students and teachers from a number of other schools.

throughout their time in the sixth Form, students are encouraged to make the

most of opportunities to engage with successful and informative outside speakers.

these opportunities take the form of the sixth Form lecture programme,

careers breakfasts, specialist subject conferences and other events in our inspiring

choices series. careers education and guidance are an integral part of university

preparation and ensure that girls are able to make informed choices about their

academic pathways.

University Preparation

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Timelines

Michaelmas Lent trinity

Welcome to sixth Form

evening for Parentsshort report Parents’ evening Higher education evening year 12 exams (internal)

initial report + confirm

al choicesoxbridge conference extended report

ucas predictions and

discussions

Michaelmas Lent trinity

He & ucas information

evening for Parentsshort report mock examinations Final examinations

ucas deadline for

oxbridge, medicine,

veterinary and Dentistry

applications

Parents’ evening extended report

internal deadline for

all other university

applications

Year 13

Year 12

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Art & Design: Fine Art A Level

this course will appeal to students who have an enquiring adventurous

approach to art and enjoy developing and exploring new ideas, techniques and

media. it provides the opportunity to become fully engaged in contemporary

issues and is ideal for students who relish the opportunity to combine project and

self-directed work.

Course Content:

• component 1. Personal investigation

incorporates three major elements: supporting studies, practical studio work

and a personal study.

• component 2. externally set assignment

incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies and the 15 hour

period of sustained focus.

Post A Level:

through following this course, students will achieve in-depth knowledge,

understanding and skills in art that will aid progression to foundation and degree

study in this area.

art is widely acceptable as an entry for most university courses. careers in the

creative and cultural industries, where the uK is recognised as a world leader,

are competitive, challenging and above all rewarding.

‘Applying imagination is how we take control of the future’

- lord Bragg

History of Art (Art of the Western World)

this course will appeal to students who wish to cultivate their appreciation

and understanding of Western art and architecture. the History of art course

provides an introduction to painting, sculpture and architecture in its varied forms.

at the end of the course you will be able to understand the contexts in which

artists and architects worked, and their responses to contemporary ideas. art

History combines well with other subjects such as english, History and Humanities.

Course Content:

• unit 1 visual analysis and interpretation

• unit 2 appreciation of art historical themes

this course is particularly suitable for students who want to study History of art

or related subjects at a higher level, or who wish to pursue a career in the arts

or architecture. skills acquired from the course have broad applicability in a wide

range of professional settings. art history graduates have visual and verbal skills

used in areas such as publishing, advertising, marketing and web based media

careers. cultural industries are the biggest employers in the world, and along

with museums and galleries, there are many agencies that conserve, research and

promote cultural heritage.

‘The great artist takes what he needs’- Kenneth clark

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Astronomy GCSE

this course will appeal to those who wish to discover how much has

been uncovered about the universe and how much is still left to discover.

Course Content:

• unit 1: understanding the universe

the earth, moon and sun, planetary systems, stars and the night sky,

galaxies and cosmology.

• unit 2: exploring the universe

two pieces of observation based coursework. one set performed with the naked

eye and the other aided by equipment.

in this course, we will follow in the footsteps of those who made some of the most

important discoveries about our place in the universe. We will journey with the

ancient greek scientists who discovered that the earth was a sphere; we will trace

the paths taken by copernicus, galileo and newton who showed that it was the

earth going around the sun and we will see how Hubble and his telescope found

that the universe had a beginning and may also have an end.

this gcse links to many different fields – most notably physics – but within

the course you will also find history, philosophy, chemistry, biology and some

mathematics. the coursework component will give you the opportunity to hone

your observational skills when viewing the night sky and to investigate some of the

familiar features of the night sky.

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Biology A Level

this course will appeal to students who wish to develop essential

knowledge and understanding of biological concepts and how they relate to each

other; an understanding of scientific methods and advances in technology relevant to

Biology, including how society makes decisions about biological issues; and competence

and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills.

Course Content:

1. core concepts

a. Biochemistry

b. cell structure and organisation

c. cell membranes and transport

d. enzyme structure and function

e. nucleic acids and their function

2. component 1: energy for life

a. the importance of atP

b. Photosynthesis

c. respiration

d. microbiology

e. Population size and ecosystems

f. Human impact on the environment

3. component 2: continuity of life

a. organisms are related through their evolutionary history

b. genetic information is copied and passed on to daughter cells

c. sexual reproduction in humans

d. sexual reproduction in plants

e. inheritance

f. variation and evolution

g. application of reproduction and genetics

4. component 3: requirements for life

a. adaptations for gas exchange

b. adaptations for transport

c. adaptations for nutrition

d. Homeostasis and the kidney

e. the nervous system

f. choice of one from three options:

i. immunology and disease

ii. Human musculoskeletal anatomy

iii. neurobiology and behaviour

5. Practical endorsement (non-exam assessment)

Post A Level:

students who take a level Biology can go on to study veterinary science, medicine,

optometry, psychology, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, sports science,

microbiology, forensic science, biophysics, genetics, neuroscience, botany, zoology,

ecology and environmental science and of course, biology.

to study one of the biological sciences at degree level, a level chemistry is essential.

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Biology AS Level

this course will appeal to students who wish to develop essential

knowledge and understanding of biological concepts and how they relate to each

other; an understanding of scientific methods and advances in technology relevant

to Biology, including how society makes decisions about biological issues and

competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem

solving skills.

Course Content:

1. component 1: Basic Biochemistry and cell organisation

a. Biochemistry

b. cell structure and organisation

c. cell membranes and transport

d. enzyme structure and function

e. nucleic acids and their function

f. genetic information is copied and passed on to daughter cells

2. component 2: Biodiversity and Physiology of Body systems

a. all organisms are related through their evolutionary history

b. adaptation for gas exchange

c. adaptation for transport

d. adaptation for nutrition

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing (non-examined)

this course will appeal to students who are interested in pursuing a

career in engineering and/or design, or to anyone who would like to learn how to

use caD software.

computer aided design (caD) and computer aided manufacturing (cam) are

an integral part of many industries including aerospace, architecture, medicine,

manufacturing and the automotive industries.

the course will introduce students to the fundamental concepts and processes that

will enable aspiring engineers, designers and other technology enthusiasts to bring

their designs to life using caD software and technology such as 3D printing.

Course Content:

We will be using the 3D software soliDWorKs throughout the course. nearly

3 million product designers and engineers worldwide use soliDWorKs to bring

their designs to life.

the course will cover:

• caD terminology

• soliDWorKs Basics and the user interface

• introduction to 3D sketching principles

• creating 3D parts and assemblies

• revolved features, shelling and ribs

• editing models

• generation of presentation drawings from parametric models

• generation of exploded views and animated sequences from parametric models

• Design challenges

• computer aided manufacturing

evidence accrued on the course could form part of a design portfolio for university

application to design/engineering and architecture degree courses.

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Chemistry A Level

this course will appeal to students who thrive on academic challenge,

have an inquisitive mind and are self-motivated towards their studies. During

the course they will develop transferable skills including investigating, problem

solving, research, decision making, mathematical and analytical skills. chemistry

requires one to work both independently and within a team to think critically and

apply conceptual understanding to novel problems. the subject will challenge and

engage students who consistently set themselves high standards and work hard to

achieve them.

Course Content:

Year 12

• skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.

• atomic and electronic structure, bonding and reactions.

• Periodic table, enthalpy, reaction rates.

• organic chemistry, reactions, synthesis and some analytical techniques.

• teacher endorsed practical skills.

Year 13

• the subject material will build on fundamental concepts from year 12 and

extended content will apply to the applications of;

• the Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry.

• organic reactions, synthesis and analytical techniques.

• unified chemistry (synoptic approach).

• teacher endorsed practical skills.

Post A Level:

chemistry is an excellent pathway to a wide range of university courses and

careers, including: medicine, (potential medical students must study chemistry as

one of their a levels) veterinary science, dentistry, engineering, sports science,

life sciences, pharmacy, biochemistry, food science, nursing, chemical engineering

and forensic science.

chemistry may be used as preparation for many non-scientific careers as

employers are increasingly appreciative of the general skills, such as problem

solving, logical thought, analysis, numeracy and practical skills which the course

develops. it can also be used to gain direct entry into employment in science-

related sectors.

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Classical Civilisation A Level

this course will appeal to those who enjoy studying the classical world

and mythology, reading and discussing literature, analysing text and writing essays.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• unit cc2 (F382): Homer’s odyssey and society

you will study Homer’s odyssey in translation and look at the society and values

of the time in which it was written, as well as some historical and archaeological

background.

• unit cc4 (F384): greek tragedy in its context

you will study four greek tragedies in translation and look at the society and values

of the time in which they were written. the texts will be aeschylus’ agamemnon,

sophocles’ antigone and euripides’ medea and electra.

• unit cc8 (F388): art and architecture in the greek World

you will study a selection of free-standing and architectural sculpture, vase-painting

and temple architecture. examples include the Delphic charioteer, frieze of the

Parthenon, the François vase and temple of apollo at Bassae.

• unit cc10 (F390): virgil and the world of the hero

you will study a selection of books from both virgil’s aeneid and Homer’s iliad in

translation, and examine themes common to both epics, such as the role of the

hero and the power of fate.

Post A Level:

• a degree in classical civilisation/studies or ancient history

• this subject can lead to a wide variety of jobs, including working in museums, art

galleries, teaching, publishing and broadcasting

• taking a degree in this subject could also lead to a career completely

unconnected with it, such as law or accountancy

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this course will appeal to students who are keen to explore the significance

of the social and historical influences on theatre practice, both past and present.

they will learn about a range of performance styles and important theatre

practitioners, putting their ideas into practice. students should have a love of

creating drama and performing. through rehearsal and the study of important

texts students will develop their knowledge and understanding of different roles in

theatre including directing and technical elements. as part of the course students

will attend the theatre and participate in workshops for inspiration and skill

development.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

• unit 1 the study of live theatre and the study of a set prescribed play

• unit 2 study of theatre practitioners and presentation of an extract from a play

assessed by a visiting examiner

• unit 3 the study of two set plays from directorial and acting perspectives

• unit 4 Presentation of devised drama: assessed by a visiting examiner

Post A Level:

Drama & theatre studies is both academic and creative, and is a well-respected

course with an excellent track record of students progressing to study at elite

universities including oxford and cambridge.

the course is recognised by employers as a qualification which shapes confidence,

excellent interpersonal and presentational skills, resilience and critical analysis skills,

and the realisation of ideas in practice. it opens the doors to the study of most

subjects and to many areas of employment including, law, business, Pr, film, tv,

radio, journalism, teaching and the performing arts.

‘Theatres help people celebrate their strengths and build their self confidence… Above all it can be the way people find their voice, their solidarity and their collective determination’

- mcgrath 1981

Drama & Theatre Studies A Level

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Economics A Level

this course will appeal to students who enjoy current affairs and are interested

in the contribution economics can make to the wider socio-political landscape. it

should appeal to those who want to develop analytical and quantitative skills and

acquire qualities that will help equip them for the challenges of working life. it should

be attractive to those who are independent and reflective and who adopt a critical

and thoughtful approach to real life problem solving. ultimately, students should want

to be making a significant step towards more informed decision making on a wide

range of financial and economic orientated issues.

the course contains four broad themes:

• an introduction to markets and market failure

• the uK economy – performance and policies

• Business behaviour and the labour market

• a global perspective

Post A Level:

economics a level is useful for a variety of higher education courses including

politics, international relations, accountancy, business administration, management

and obviously economics. a degree in an economics-related discipline will open

doors to a wide range of career opportunities and give you the skills necessary to

succeed in many professions including actuarial science, accountancy, banking and

insurance. through promoting the development of transferable skills an a level

and subsequent degree in economics is very flexible leading to a wide range of

career paths.

Economics AS Level

this course will appeal to students who would like an introduction into

the fundamentals of micro and macro-economics. students who have an interest

in why prices differ, what factors determine the level of unemployment, causes

and constraints on growth and the role the government and the banks can play in

achieving basic macro-economic objectives. overall students should enjoy current

affairs and be interested in the contribution economics can make to the wider

socio-political landscape. it should appeal to those who want to develop analytical

and quantitative skills and acquire qualities that will help equip them for the

challenges of working life.

the course contains two broad themes:

• an introduction to markets and market failure

• the uK economy – performance and policies

Post AS Level:

economics as level is useful for a variety of higher education courses. it may widen

your skills set and facilitate your learning for a degree in any economics-related

discipline. Politics, international relations, accountancy, business administration,

management and obviously economics all require some element of economics

knowledge. a basic understanding of economics will help to open doors to a wide

range of career opportunities and give you the skills necessary to succeed in a

multitude of professions. through promoting the development of transferable skills

an as level in economics may help you in pursuing a variety of career paths.

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English Literature A Level

this course will appeal to students who relish independent and creative

thinking. students will need to demonstrate detailed critical understanding and the

ability to construct evidence-based arguments. they should enjoy exploring how

literature engages with historical, political, socio-economic and cultural contexts.

Course Content:

• study of three texts:

- one poetry and one prose text, of which one must be written pre-1900, and one shakespeare play. the 3 hour examination will include two “unseen”

poems (40%)

• texts in shared contexts

- a study of literature from 1945 to the Present Day. study of three texts: one prose, one poetry, and one drama (one written post-2000).

the 2 hour 30 minute examination will include an unseen extract (40%)

• non-exam assessment: independent critical study: texts across time

- a 2500 words comparative critical study of two texts, at least one of which

must have been written pre-1900 (coursework) (20%)

Post A Level:

• a level develops a set of transferable skills highly valued by universities

and employers, including the ability to think rigorously, and to communicate

persuasively

• english literature is a facilitating subject taking students into career choices

which include: law, advertising, marketing and public relations, management

consultancy, accountancy, journalism, the media and teaching

English Literature AS Level

this course will appeal to students who relish independent and creative

thinking. students will need to demonstrate detailed critical understanding and the

ability to construct evidence-based arguments. they should enjoy exploring how

literature engages with historical, political, socio-economic and cultural contexts.

Course Content:

• study of two texts: one shakespeare play and one aQa anthology of love

poetry through the ages (pre-1900 or post 1900). there will be a 1 hour 30

minute examination (50%)

• study of two prose texts. the examination of 1 hour 30 minutes will include an

unseen prose extract (50%)

Post AS Level:

• as level develops a set of transferable skills highly valued by universities and

employers, including the ability to think rigorously, and to communicate persuasively

• english literature is a facilitating subject taking students into career choices

which include: law, advertising, marketing and public relations, management

consultancy, accountancy, journalism, the media and teaching

‘Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it’

- c.s.lewis

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

this course will appeal to students who are self-motivated, independent

and especially those who like making decisions and project managing. the ePQ

will equip students with transferable and practical skills such as planning research,

analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills.

taking responsibility for the choice and design of an individual project where the

learning and research process is of great importance, students will:

• Become more critical, reflective and independent learners.

• Develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills.

• increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills.

• learn to apply new technologies confidently.

• Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.

across a total of 120 guided learning hours (september year 12 - october

year 13), students are required, with appropriate supervision to:

• choose an area of interest, draft a title, and aims of the project for formal

approval by the centre.

• Plan, research and carry out the project, before delivering a presentation.

• Provide evidence of all stages of project development and production for

assessment.

the ePQ provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond the a

level syllabus and prepare for university. it can be used to earn extra ucas points.

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18 St Albans High School for Girls

Food Technology A Level

this course will appeal to students who wish to gain a deeper

understanding of the relationship between design, food, the manufacturing process

and marketing; and want to learn more about nutrition and dietary needs and are

excited by the challenge to design, make and launch their own food product.

Course Content:

Year 12

• unit 1 materials, components and application

• unit 2 learning through Designing and making (coursework)

in year 12 students develop an understanding of the physical properties of a

range of ingredients and components and how these can be manipulated to make

products. coursework projects provide an opportunity for students to develop

knowledge and understanding of the broader issues for the designer including:

sustainability of products; health and social factors; the influences of culture and

consumer safety.

Year 13

• unit 3 Design and manufacture

• unit 4 Design and making Practice (coursework)

students have the opportunity to develop further the knowledge and practical skills,

working with increasing independence to develop their own food products aimed

at specific target groups.

Post A Level:

• an a level qualification in this subject will prepare you for higher education and

a rewarding career as a food technologist/scientist, food designer or nutritionist

• other possible career paths include events management, media, business

studies, retail, education and medicine

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19St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

French A Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into the

depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of French-speaking

countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and texts and

express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of grammatical

and linguistic structures, expressing ideas logically and clearly in target language.

students will enjoy debating issues and understanding France’s position in the

global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit 1: Speaking: role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit 2: Listening, Reading and Writing

• Unit 3: Speaking: Discussion of an article and topic Discussion

• Unit 4: Listening, Reading & Writing

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication and media and education and training, society,

the environment, science and technology and culture. although literature is not

specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of films and written

material of great French-speaking writers, poets and film directors.

Post A Level:

an as or a2 level in French will open doors to a vast number of career

opportunities. at the end of the course, some students choose to do degree

courses in languages; others pursue a higher education course in another subject,

but study a language option alongside it. Having a language qualification will

improve employability, whatever a student’s chosen path and can lead to a career

in business, travel and tourism, journalism, media as well as complementing

humanities, science and music related degrees.

‘The limits of my language are the limits of my world’

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20 St Albans High School for Girls

French AS Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into the

depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of French-speaking

countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and texts and

express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of grammatical

and linguistic structures, expressing ideas logically and clearly in target language.

students will enjoy debating issues and understanding France’s position in the

global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit 1: Speaking: role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit 2: Listening, Reading and Writing

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication, media, education and training. although literature

is not specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of films and

written material of great French writers, poets and film directors.

Post AS Level:

an as level in French will open doors to a vast number of career opportunities.

at the end of the course, some students choose to study French to complement

humanities, science and music related degrees. Having a language qualification will

improve your employability, whatever your chosen path and can lead to a career in

business, travel and tourism, journalism, media.

‘To have another language is to possess a second soul’

- charlemagne

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21St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Geography A Level

We live in a world of amazing beauty, infinite complexity and rigorous challenge.

geography is the subject which opens the door to this dynamic world and

prepares us for the role of global citizen in the 21st century. geography is

a science of synthesis. the holistic nature of the subject matter means that

geography integrates brilliantly with a wide range of subjects.

this course will appeal to students who want to develop their

understanding of how the world works, why it is the way it is, and potential

scenarios for the future. through studying geography a level you will develop

your appreciation of how places and landscapes are formed, how people and

environments interact, what consequences arise from our everyday decisions,

and what a diverse range of cultures and societies exist and interconnect. it

will appeal to those who are interested in the bigger picture of space and place.

there is also plenty of opportunities for those who enjoy the practical side of the

subject with fieldwork in this country (Devon) and abroad (iceland).

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit 1 Global Challenges: the meaning, causes, impacts and management

of global challenges. two compulsory topics form this unit: World at risk and

going global.

• Unit 2 Geographical Investigations: a closer look at how physical and

human issues influence lives and can be managed. two compulsory topics form

this unit: extreme Weather and rebranding Places.

• Unit 3 Contested Planet

- topic 1 energy security

- topic 2 Water conflicts

- topic 3 Biodiversity under threat

- topic 4 superpower geographies

- topic 5 Bridging the Development gap

- topic 6 the technological Fix

• Unit 4 Geographical Research (one from)

- topic 1 tectonic activity and Hazards

- topic 2 cold environments

- topic 3 life on the margins

- topic 4 the World of cultural Diversity

- topic 5 Pollution and Human Health at risk

- topic 6 consuming the rural landscape

Post A Level:

Both the content and methodology of geography bridge the arts and sciences,

giving flexibility for higher education courses. geography supports applications

for almost any science-based university course such as engineering, medicine,

psychology, environmental sciences, oceanography and geology; taken with

humanities, geography supports an equally wide range of humanities-based

university courses such as law, business, media, politics and philosophy.

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22 St Albans High School for Girls

German A Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into

the depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of german-

speaking countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and

texts and express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of

grammatical and linguistic structures, expressing ideas logically and clearly in

target language. students will enjoy debating issues and understanding germany’s

position in the global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit 1: Speaking: role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit 2: Listening, Reading and Writing

• Unit 3: Speaking: Discussion of an article and topic Discussion

• Unit 4: Listening, Reading & Writing

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication and media and education and training, society,

the environment, science and technology and culture. although literature is not

specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of film and written

material of great german writers, poets and film directors.

Post A Level:

an as or a2 level in german will open doors to a vast number of career

opportunities. at the end of the course, some students choose to do degree

courses in languages; others pursue a higher education course in another subject,

but study a language option alongside it. Having a language qualification will

improve employability, whatever a student’s chosen path and can lead to a career

in business, travel and tourism, journalism, media as well as complementing

humanities, science and music related degrees.

‘The limits of my language are the limits of my world’

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23St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

German AS Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into

the depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of german-

speaking countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and

texts and express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of

grammatical and linguistic structures, expressing ideas logically and clearly in

target language. students will enjoy debating issues and understanding germany’s

position in the global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit 1: Speaking: role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit 2: Listening, Reading and Writing

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication, media, education and training. although literature

is not specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of film and

written material of great german writers, poets and film directors.

Post AS Level:

an as level in german will open doors to a vast number of career opportunities.

at the end of the course, some students choose to do ab initio courses in

german at university level; many others pursue a higher education course in

another subject, but study german alongside it. Having a language qualification

will improve employability, whatever a student’s chosen path and can lead to a

career in business, travel and tourism, journalism, media as well as complementing

humanities, science and music related degrees.

‘Without language, one cannot talk to people and understand them; one cannot share their hopes and aspirations, grasp their history, appreciate their poetry, or savour their songs’

- nelson mandela

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24 St Albans High School for Girls

Government and Politics A Level

this course will appeal to students who enjoy keeping up to date with

British and american politics, have the capacity for independent study and

research and can construct evidence-based arguments.

Course Content:

• British Politics: political parties, elections, pressure groups and democracy

• us government: us constitution; the President, congress and the supreme

court

• British government: the constitution, the prime minister, parliament and the

judiciary

• us Politics: political parties, elections, pressure groups and race

Post A Level:

• it is common to study a politics degree with work experience in the us

congress or Westminster.

• a common career path after government and Politics or a related degree is law,

but the skills learnt can lead to careers in Pr, publishing, the media, management

consultancy and research.

• some students go on to work in political organisations like the european union,

united nations, pressure groups like amnesty international or one of the

political parties.

‘Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you!’

- Pericles

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25St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

History A Level

this course will appeal to students who want to consolidate and extend

the source evaluation skills developed through History igcse and wish to employ

more sophisticated skills in their thinking and approaches to new information.

the course will enable students to gain additional practice in the construction of

essays and arguments, oral presentations and seminar style discussion.

Course Content:

• germany 1900-1991: a ‘breadth’ study, looking at themes of political control,

social, economic and ideological change over 100 years

• the Wars of the roses, 1450-1499: a ‘depth’ study of the dynastic conflict

between the rival houses of york and lancaster

• russia, 1856-1964: coursework, completed by independent research

Post A Level:

• the independently completed History coursework essay is perhaps the closest

an a level student can come to university-style work; this is great preparation

for university

• History teaches students useful skills including summarising and analysing

information, drawing conclusions and using contextual information to critically

examine actions, statements and situations

• the skills learnt through the study of History can lead to careers in law, Pr,

publishing, the media, politics, consultancy and research

‘History will be kind to me for I intend to write it’

- Winston churchill

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26 St Albans High School for Girls

ICT ECDL – European Computer Driving Licence Examination Board: BCS (British Computer Society)

this course is designed to raise competency in it and computing skills;

provide a qualification recognised worldwide; equip students with excellent

it skills which are demanded by employers and provide a flexible approach

to learning which allows students to work at their own pace, developing

independent working skills.

Course Content:

the course comprises seven modules:

1. security for it users

2. it user Fundamentals

3. Word Processing

4. spreadsheets

5. Databases

6. Presentation

7. using the internet and email

major employers have adopted ecDl as a benchmark ict qualification and it

is widely recognised and increasingly promoted by universities. the certificate

is also beneficial in that it allows girls to access a wider range of higher salaried

holiday or gap-year employment.

ECDL is ‘the world’s number one IT user qualification – recognised and valued in workplaces around the globe as proof of competence in IT. It’s tried, tested and trusted. ECDL programmes have been delivered to over 13 million people, in 41 languages across 148 countries. Over 2.5 million people have taken ECDL in the UK alone’

- Bcs

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Italian IGCSE

this course will appeal to students who love learning languages,

relish a challenge and are interested in italian culture and the italian way of life.

Course Content:

• unit 1: listening

• unit 2: reading

• unit 3: speaking

• unit 4: Writing

there are five broad topics:

• everyday activities

• Personal and social life

• the world around us

• the world of work

• the international world

Additional Information:

this is an exciting opportunity which enables a student to start italian from scratch

and take the igcse examination at the end of year 13. apart from learning to

communicate effectively within the above topic areas, an insight into the history and

culture of italy and the italian way of life will be gained.

an a/a* at gcse in another language would be of benefit.

‘A different language is a different vision of life’

- Fellini

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28 St Albans High School for Girls

Latin A Level

this course will appeal to students who enjoy: reading and translating

latin, studying latin literature and exploring insights into the classical world and

roman culture.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• UnitL1:LatinLanguage

this paper consists of an unseen translation in section 1 and a shorter unseen

translation taken from the works of cicero (oratory) in section 2. there is a

defined vocabulary list for this paper.

• UnitL2:LatinVerseandProseLiterature

students will study two texts for this paper: ovid, metamorphoses iii and cicero,

De imperio. Knowledge and understanding of the texts is tested through translation

and comprehension questions, as well as a short essay in the final question.

• UnitL3:LatinVerse

students will study one text for this paper: either virgil, aeneid vi or a selection

of the poems of catullus. the second section of the paper will consist of an

unprepared translation and comprehension taken from the elegiac works of ovid.

• UnitL4:LatinProse

students will study one text for this paper: either tacitus, annals 4 or a selection of

the letters of Pliny. the second section of the paper will consist of an unprepared

translation and comprehension taken from the works of livy.

Post A Level:

• a degree in classics or latin on its own, or latin with another subject.

• this subject can lead to a wide variety of jobs, including working in museums,

art galleries, teaching, publishing, broadcasting, business and law.

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29St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Mathematics & Further Mathematics A Level

this course will appeal to students who enjoy mathematics in its own

right, are intrigued by the beauty of the subject and are scientists as well as arts,

humanities and language students who want a subject to complement their other

a level choices. mathematics will be of benefit to those wishing to expand their

skills in logical thought, problem solving and statistical analysis.

Course Content:

a level mathematics consists of six modules all examined at the end of year 13:

Year 12

• two pure modules and one statistics module

Year 13

• two pure modules and one mechanics module

a level Further mathematics consists of nine modules up to the spring term of year 13

which leads to an a level in mathematics and an as level in Further mathematics.

students may then opt to do a further three modules for the remainder of year 13

which will lead to a second a level qualification in Further mathematics.

Post A Level:

• mathematics a level is highly regarded by university admissions tutors and is

considered to be desirable for any degree course.

• a degree in mathematics prepares students for a limitless range of careers

in industry and commerce including; engineering, accountancy, it, quantity

surveying, research, civil service, retail management, teaching, banking and other

careers in the city.

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30 St Albans High School for Girls

Music A Level

this course will appeal to students with a love of music and who want

to know more about it. the as and a level course is normally open only to

girls who have taken gcse music though, very occasionally, this requirement is

waived. most importantly, candidates are expected to be practising musicians.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• module 1 (6mu01/01) – Performing

candidates perform two or three solo pieces, lasting approximately six minutes in

total, that are internally marked and externally moderated.

• module 2 (6mu02/01) – composition

candidates produce one composition of not less than three minutes duration

following a brief published by eDexcel in september. the choice of brief and

style of approach is wide. there is also plenty of scope for students who wish to

make full use of music technology in the production of their pieces. there will be a

maximum 14 hours of supervised time to complete the final draft of the assignment

plus 1 hour to complete a sleeve note.

• module 3 (6mu03/01) - listening and understanding:

two groups of short works from the renaissance to the present day (including

popular music and world music styles) in two particular genres: instrumental music

and vocal music, are studied to build up the picture of the development of musical

style. candidates also practice their listening skills through guided listening exercises.

in addition, four-part harmony is taught through a series of short exercises in

preparation for the examination. a keyboard is available in the examination in order

to complete the harmony exercise.

• module 4 (6mu04/01) – extended performance: candidates will perform a

twelve-to-fifteen minute recital on one or more instrument (which can consist of

solo or ensemble pieces, or a mix of the two) with a free choice of repertoire.

the recital is recorded, internally assessed and externally moderated.

• module 5 (6mu05/01) – composition and technical study: candidates will

continue to study harmony in preparation for a 3-hour supervised exercise (with

access to a keyboard) to complete the harmonisation of a Bach chorale and

a modern pop ballad. instead of the harmony exercises, candidates who are

confident composers may choose to compose one or more instrumental pieces,

which will be to one of four briefs supplied by eDexcel.

• module 6 (6mu06/01) – Further musical understanding: the examination falls into

three parts: a) aural analysis b) music in context and c) continuity and change

Post A Level:

While it is possible to follow a career path in music, either as a performer,

composer, musicologist, teacher/lecturer, arts administration, broadcasting and

publishing, the transferable skills acquired in music a level can benefit a wide range

of courses at university level. many girls who have taken music a level have gone

on to read other subjects such as medicine (at cambridge) and a music degree

is also a suitable entry for a number of other professions including accountancy,

actuarial work, broadcast journalism, retail management, fashion consultancy,

teaching english as a foreign language, it consultants and software development.

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Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Physical Education A Level

this course will appeal to students who already have a keen interest in

playing, officiating, coaching and watching a variety of sports but who also want

to develop their academic knowledge and understanding of the factors that

underpin all areas of sports performance. students who have an interest in

the history of sport and provision around the world will thrive throughout this

course.

Course Content:

Physical education

unit 1: opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle

• section a: theoretical concepts covered under three main topics - i) exercise

physiology ii) skills acquisition iii) opportunities for participation

• section B: application of theoretical knowledge to a practical situation

unit 2: analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or in an

adopted role/s

• students perform, analyse and evaluate the execution of core skills/techniques

in isolation and in structured practice as either a player/performer and/or in an

adopted role or two adopted roles

unit 3: optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport

• section a: how exercise physiology can optimise performance

• section B: how application of psychological knowledge can optimise performance

• section c: contemporary influences in sport and their impact on the performer

unit 4: optimising practical performance in a competitive situation

• students perform, analyse their own performance, identify areas of performance

they could improve and suggest causes and appropriate corrective measures.

Post A Level:

students will develop knowledge, understanding and skills which will equip them

for undergraduate study or long term development in a wide range of areas.

these include: sports science, medicine, physiotherapy, osteopathy, podiatry,

chiropractics, nutrition, psychology, sports coaching, sports management,

biomechanics, or as a sports professional. the course is multi-disciplinary and

will prepare students for a wide range of other professions and pathways in the

working world.

‘Sport has the power to change the world…it has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does’

- nelson mandela

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32 St Albans High School for Girls

Physics A Level

this course will appeal to students who want to develop the kind of

skills considered vital in the job market and for a university education. these

include the ability to communicate ideas succinctly and clearly; critical analysis of

information and the application of knowledge to unfamiliar situations; creative

thought processes; practical skills using a variety of equipment and, of course,

applying the application of mathematical skills to “real life” problems.

students at staHs have taken Physics alongside a huge variety of subjects

including Dance, art, History, music and geography. it has complemented

them in ways that they would not have expected, providing a ‘break’ from their

traditional essay-based subjects and exercising a different part of their brain.

clearly those taking any of the other sciences including maths find that different

topics are reinforced and often lead to a better understanding of their work in

the other subjects.

Course Content:

Year 12

• Forces and motion

• Waves

• electricity and introduction to quantum physics

Year 13

• electric, gravitational and magnetic fields

• radioactivity and nuclear particles

• thermal and medical physics

• oscillations and circular motion

• astronomy

Post A Level:

People are using physics in their jobs in many unique and exciting ways today –

ways you might not even imagine! an investment banker? a video game designer?

a fashion technologist? a fighter pilot? a Physiotherapist? all with an education in

physics! students studying Physics at staHs have gone on to study architecture,

engineering, medicine, philosophy and physics, law and natural sciences, music

technology to name but a few. Physics is a well-respected qualification by both

employers and universities. if you want something to give you the edge in a

competitive field then a physics qualification would certainly help.

‘Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand’

- einstein

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33St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Product Design – Textiles A Level

this course will appeal to students who are fascinated by the world of

fashion and interior design and wish to gain an understanding of how products are

developed and made commercially. it will be of interest to students who want to

develop their own design ideas and improve their practical skills to a professional

level and who are interested in the science and technology of textiles materials.

Course Content:

Year 12

• unit 1 materials, components and application (examined at the end of year 13)

• unit 2 learning through Designing and making (coursework)

a variety of fabrics and components used in the design and making of textile

products are studied in two and three dimensional forms. students will develop

an understanding of industrial and commercial practices within the area of

design and manufacture.

Year 13

• unit 3 Design and manufacture

• unit 4 Design and making Practice (coursework)

the design and manufacture of textile products continues, in addition to gaining an

understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial textile manufacture.

Post A Level:

• an a level qualification in this subject will benefit those wishing to pursue a

career in product design, textile or fashion industries.

• additional career paths include: art, design, interior design, set and theatre

design, graphic design, media, advertising, marketing or retail buying.

• High school Product Design students have gone on to study subjects as diverse

as history, geography, medicine and engineering at university.

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34 St Albans High School for Girls

Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) A Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in “big” ideas about

the meaning and purpose of existence and who want to learn to form reasonable

opinions on philosophical/ethical issues, whilst improving their powers of reasoning

and analysis.

Course Content:

Year 12

Philosophy

• the influence of Plato and aristotle on Western thinking

• the four traditional theistic proofs

• religion and science

• attributes of the god of classical theism

ethics

• Deontological and teleological theories

• natural law

• Kantian ethics

• utilitarianism

these theories are applied to the following issues:

• abortion

• euthanasia

• genetic engineering

• War and peace

Year 13

Philosophy

• linguistic philosophy

• religious experience

• concept of the theistic god

• concept of life after death

ethics

• meta-ethics

• Freewill and determinism

• conscience

• Business, environmental and sexual ethics

Post A Level:

• an a level in Philosophy and ethics will develop your thinking and reasoning skills,

providing a solid basis for studying any subject at university. this subject is excellent

preparation for any university course, but is particularly suited to degrees in

english, history, law, politics, medicine, sociology, psychology and PPe.

‘Why is there something rather than nothing?’

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35St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Spanish A Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into the

depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of spanish-speaking

countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and texts and

express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of grammatical

and linguistic structures and express ideas logically and clearly in target language.

students will enjoy debating issues and understanding the Hispanic world in the

global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit1:Speaking:role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit2:Listening,ReadingandWriting

• Unit3:Speaking: Discussion of an article and topic Discussion

• Unit4:Listening,Reading&Writing

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication and media and education and training, society,

the environment, science and technology and culture. although literature is not

specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of films and written

material of great Hispanic writers, poets and film directors.

Post A Level:

an as or a2 level in spanish will open doors to a vast number of career

opportunities. at the end of the course, some students choose to do degree

courses in languages; others pursue a Higher education course in another

subject, but study a language option alongside it. Having a language qualification

will improve employability, whatever a student’s chosen path and can lead to a

career in business, travel and tourism, journalism, media as well as complementing

humanities, science and music related degrees.

‘The limits of my language are the limits of my world’

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36 St Albans High School for Girls

Spanish AS Level

this course will appeal to students who are interested in delving into the

depths of the history, language, literature and popular culture of spanish-speaking

countries. they will enjoy discussion and analysis of both topics and texts and

express sophisticated opinions. they will extend their knowledge of grammatical

and linguistic structures, expressing ideas logically and clearly in target language.

students will enjoy debating issues and understanding the Hispanic world in the

global context.

Details of the new A Level specification are yet to be confirmed. Content below is indicative.

Course Content:

• Unit1:Speaking:role Play and topic Discussion

• Unit2:Listening,ReadingandWriting

a wide variety of topics in the broad headings of: aspects of daily life, leisure and

entertainment, communication, media, education and training. although literature

is not specifically examined, students will be introduced to a selection of films and

written material of great spanish-speaking writers, poets and film directors.

Post AS Level:

an as level in spanish will open doors to a vast number of career opportunities.

at the end of the course, some students choose to study spanish to complement

humanities, science and music related degrees. Having a language qualification will

improve employability, whatever a student’s chosen path and can lead to a career in

business, travel and tourism, journalism, media.

‘Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things’

- Flora lewis

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37St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Academic Scholarships

academic scholarships worth a portion of the fees are available in year 12, subject

to academic merit shown in the relevant scholarship examination held in the

michaelmas term of year 11.

Art/D&t

this scholarship will be awarded for commitment and achievement in art and/or a

D&t subject (Product Design/textiles/Food technology). candidates must have

the ability to make a significant contribution to the creative life of the High school,

and provide evidence of previous strong commitment.

assessment will be based on the following criteria:

• Portfolio including a maximum of five a1 sheets or sketch book or equivalent to

include evidence of preparation and practical work

• ability to demonstrate competence and originality/flair

• interview with Head of art and D&t and Headmistress

Drama & theatre Studies

this scholarship will be awarded for commitment and achievement/outstanding

potential in Drama. candidates must have the ability to make a significant contribution

to extra-curricular Drama, and provide evidence of previous strong commitment.

assessment will be based on the following criteria:

• acting: the candidate must perform two monologues, one shakespeare and one

20th/21st century piece

• Design: provide a portfolio of design work (set design, costume design/mask design

or lighting design), to include evidence of a specific performance design skill

• theory: both acting and design candidates must prepare a short discussion on a

recent live performance they have seen

• interview with Head of Drama and Headmistress

Sports

this scholarship will be awarded for commitment and achievement in sport/

outstanding sporting potential. candidates must have the ability to make a

significant contribution to school sports’ teams and provide evidence of previous

strong commitment. strength in the High school’s main sports – netball, lacrosse,

athletics, tennis, gymnastics and swimming would be advantageous. Potential

recipients would be currently competing at county level and/or equivalent.

assessment will be based on the following criteria:

• Practical trial: ability to demonstrate skills in both team and individual activities/

sports aptitude test

• a sports cv/portfolio of sporting achievements

• interview with Head of Pe and Headmistress

For further information visit www.stahs.org.uk

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38 St Albans High School for Girls

CLUBS AnD SoCIetIeS • a caPPella singing grouP • aDvanceD gymnastics sQuaD • aDvanceD sWimming sQuaD

aeroBics/Fitness cluB • amnesty grouP • ancient greeK cluB • art cluB • atHletics cluB • BaDminton cluB • Biology society

Brass ensemBle • carnegie sHaDoWing BooK grouP • cHamBer orcHestra • cHristian union • classics cluB • concert BanD

creative FooD cluB • cross country cluB • DeBating anD PuBlic sPeaKing society • DoFe DroP-in session • Drama exam

classes • early morning netBall cluB • early music ensemBle • ecDl • engineering cluB • englisH clinic • englisH+ • etincelle

Feminist society • FrencH – university PreParation • FrencH cluB • Fun Fitness cluB • geograPHy cluB • german cluB

gosPel cHoir • guitar ensemBle • gymnastics DeveloPment sQuaD • Herein magaZine committee • History cluB • House Drama

House PreFect cluB • intermeDiate Flute cHoir • intermeDiate orcHestra • junior cHamBer cHoir • junior netBall Practice

lacrosse cluB • lacrosse goalKeePing Practice • lacrosse sQuaD • lacrosse sticKWorK • loWer strings ensemBle

manDarin course • matHs clinic • matHs extension cluB • meDvetsoc • miDDle scHool cHoir • music tHeory class • netBall cluB

netBall sQuaD • PanKHurst society • Percussion ensemBle • Politics cluB • ProDuct Design cluB • Programming cluB

ringWooD BanD • rocK grouP • rounDers sQuaD • saxoPHone ensemBle • scHool Play • science clinic • senior cHamBer cHoir

senior cHoir • senior Flute cHoir • senior inDoor lacrosse • senior lacrosse sQuaD • senior orcHestra • sPanisH clinic

sPeecH anD Drama • string Quartets • sWimming cluB • sWimming DeveloPment sQuaD • tecH no logic • tennis sQuaD

tHursDay music • toWnsenD BanD • tramPolining cluB • ultimate FrisBee cluB • WacKy FooD science exPeriments • young enterPrise

UniVeRSityDeStinationS • BatH • BirmingHam • Bristol • Brunel • camBriDge • carDiFF • DurHam • eDinBurgH • exeter

imPerial college lonDon • Kent • King’s college • leeDs • liverPool • lougHBorougH • mancHester • neWcastle

nottingHam • oxForD • reaDing • royal veterinary college • sHeFFielD • soutHamPton • st anDreWs • stirling • sussex

sWansea • ucl • university oF nortH carolina • WarWicK • yorK

Page 41: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

39St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Contacts

Mr Ian thomson

Head of sixth Form

[email protected]

01727 853800 x 222

Mrs Sarah Brown

assistant Head of sixth Form

[email protected]

01727 853800 x 222

Mrs Rachel McDermott

Director of Higher education & careers

[email protected]

01727 853800 x 220

Mr Richard Hillebrand

oxbridge co-ordinator

[email protected]

01727 853800

Mrs Rosemary Mason

registrar

[email protected]

01727 853800 x 284

Page 42: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

40 St Albans High School for Girls

Notes

Page 43: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

41St Albans High School for Girls

Sixth Form Course Guide 2016 – 2018

Page 44: Sixth Form Course Guide 2016-2018

St Albans High School for Girls

Townsend Avenue St Albans Hertfordshire AL1 3SJ

[email protected] www.stahs.org.uk

Artwork by Hannah Qureshi, Year 11