entering the sixth form version 2 - updated january 2013...
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ENTERING THE SIXTH FORM 2013 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL Welcome to the Monkton Senior School A Level prospectus. Entering the Sixth Form is an important and exciting opportunity to study a small number of courses that you have specifically chosen. We hope that you will find this booklet helpful in guiding you on the choices that you will make. Choices of A Level subjects are very important, so you will need to take your time and think through the various options carefully; talk to your Tutor, parents and current sixth formers to ensure that you are as well informed as possible. There is greater choice in the Sixth Form, ranging from what you wear at school, opportunities for extra-‐curricular activities, to options for games, and there are also now opportunities to study new subjects, and even new qualifications (such as EPQ, or Pre-‐U English Literature). You will find that you spend much more time working with your new tutor in monitoring your progress, setting targets and applying to Higher Education. You will have had a significant input in the selection of your tutor and will need to build up a good working relationship with him or her. If you are joining Monkton at 16 from another school or college, there will be a great deal to assimilate in a short time, but over a quarter of Year 12 students join the school after GCSEs and settle in very quickly, so don't worry! The Sixth Form is a new start with new challenges and new responsibilities. The quality of life in the Sixth Form depends very much on the enthusiasm, self-‐motivation and self-‐discipline of the students. We hope that those who enter the Sixth Form respond positively to both the new freedoms and demands which it entails, not least in preparation for life after school. Many pupils find that the Sixth Form is the best part of school – we hope you do, too! R P Backhouse
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CONTENTS
Page Number A message from the Principal 1 Contents 2 A Level Options – Timetable of Discussion 3 Sixth Form Curriculum 4 Frequently Asked Questions 5 University Entrance 7
A Level Subjects Art 10 Biology 11 Business Studies 12 Chemistry 13 Classics and Latin 14 Design and Technology 15 Drama and Theatre Studies 16 Economics 17 English Language 18 English Literature 19 Pre-‐U Certificate: Literature in English 20 French 21 Geography 22 History 23 Mathematics 24 Further Mathematics 25 Music 26 Photography 27 Physical Education 28 Physics 29 Psychology 30 Religious Studies 31 Spanish 32
Other Courses
Critical Thinking 33 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) 34 IELTS 35 CV Writing and Interview Techniques 37 The Choices Form – Guidance Notes 38 AS Subject Choices Form (Perforated) Last page
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A LEVEL OPTIONS TIMETABLE OF DISCUSSION Michaelmas Term 2012 November Entering the Sixth Form booklet available to parents and students Fri 16 Nov Introduction to Year 12 (12.15pm Assembly Hall) Academic departments outline nature of A Level courses Thurs 1 Dec Deadline for return of Choices Form to Deputy Head (Academic) Lent Term 2013 January Option blocks published January Year 11 Tutors hold individual discussions with tutees Mon 18 Feb Deadline for return of Option Forms via Tutors Summer 2013 August Change of subjects can be made, numbers permitting, following
publication of GCSE results by emailing Deputy Head (Academic) on morleyjb@monkton.org.uk . Deadline is Monday 26 August 2013.
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THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM Most students study 5 subjects (including Critical Thinking) at AS Level in Year 12, reducing to 3 subjects at A2 Level in Year 13. Whilst a complete A level consists of the AS and A2 courses in a particular subject, a free standing AS course is a useful qualification in its own right. It is sometimes possible for students to take a new AS course in Year 13, timetable permitting. AS and A2 courses in all subjects are modular; the courses are broken down into sections which are separately examined with the so-‐called “uniform mark” from each component added to give the total score for the end of the course. An A Level or AS grade is then awarded on the basis of this summation according to the table below. Students may opt to re-‐take modules to boost their scores on a particular component; the highest recorded mark is included in the final summation. Head of Department can advise students on the wisdom and timing of re-‐taking modules and some information on this rather involved subject is included in each subject synopsis. The results from each module examination are always expressed as the number of uniform marks gained, rather than as a grade for that paper.
Two Modules Four Modules AS Qualification A Level Qualification
Minimum Number of Uniform Marks
AS Grade Minimum Number of Uniform Marks
A Level Grade
320 A* (min 180 at A2) 160 A 320 A 140 B 280 B 120 C 240 C 100 D 200 D 80 E 160 E Entry to Year 12 is not automatic and is normally dependent upon your having achieved a minimum of at least five GCSE grades A*-‐C, together with normally an average score of 6.0 in all the GCSE subjects that you have sat. At GCSE, an A* grade in a subject scores 8, an A grade 7, a B 6, a C 5, a D 4 and an E 3. If your average score is just below 6.0 but it is agreed that you should proceed into the Sixth Form, we shall in the first instance offer you a one-‐year course to AS level to judge how well you cope with more advanced work. In order to progress to Year 13, at least two AS subjects must be passed at D grade or better. A minimum of a D grade at AS level is normally expected in any subject which a student wishes to study to A2. Before entering Year 12 you should choose the subjects which you would like to study to AS Level. You may wish to revise your choice of subjects later, but we need to know your intentions in order to construct next year’s time-‐table, and provide adequate staffing.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1. "How do I decide what subjects to take?"
There are two things to ask yourself when thinking about this:
(a) "Have I a real interest in the subjects I am considering?" Remember that A-‐level work
is as much concerned with learning as it is with being taught; active enthusiasm is essential.
(b) "Do the subjects I am thinking of go well together?" Unless you are already clear about your choice of University or career, keep as many options open as possible. Before choosing your subjects you must consult your parents and your Tutor. Extra help can be given by Heads of Department or the Careers Staff.
2. "What shall I do in the Sixth Form besides my AS and A2 level studies?"
Monkton Lectures: These are provided by some stimulating and inspiring speakers on a range of subjects approximately once a fortnight. All Sixth Form students are required to attend and parents and friends of Monkton are warmly invited.
3. "Will GCSE grades be a good guide in choosing AS level subjects?"
In general, yes; provided that you also have a genuine interest in your chosen subjects. Consult your Year 11 subject teacher and your Tutor.
4. "If I find I have failed to get a grade C or better in GCSE, can I reasonably take the
subject at AS level?"
No!
5. “English is not my first language. Will I study an extra course?”
ESL students will generally need to take an IELTS course. (Please see section on page 33.)
6. "Need I have studied a subject at GCSE to choose it at AS level?"
In many cases it is unwise to do an AS level without having taken the subject at GCSE. Consult the Heads of Department if you want to find out if this applies to particular subjects. In some subjects, such as Economics, Business Studies and Psychology, no previous knowledge is expected.
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7. “What subjects are necessary for careers?”
(a) A combination of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry keeps most doors open
in Science and Engineering. Entry to Engineering at any level beyond the Sixth Form usually demands Mathematics and Physics studied to A-‐level. These subjects can often be combined to good effect with an Arts subject.
(b) For Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science, A Level Chemistry is essential.
A minimum of AS Biology is essential for some medical schools and an A level is required by several others. Many medical schools like the third A level to be an Arts/Humanities subject such as English, History or a Modern Language. Mathematics or Physics will also be accepted as a third A level.
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UNIVERSITY ENTRANCE This brief guide sets out the timetable for university application and explains some of the procedures and terms used in the admissions system. This material forms the basis of the Higher Education Conference at the end of Year 12. Further information on this complex subject is available on request from the Deputy Head (Academic) and the Director of Higher Education. All university applications are made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) with students choosing five courses, usually at different universities. UCAS produces lists of typical academic requirements for each course; teaching quality, cost of living, geographical location and the type of university are other important factors to be considered. For Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry students may apply only for four courses. Students also write a personal statement of around 500 words, designed to encourage a university to offer a place; the statement includes an explanation of the student’s motivation to read the subject together with academic skills, helpful character traits and a description of extra-‐curricular interests and any relevant work experience. Tutors and the Director of Higher Education assist students in making their subject and institution choices and with editing their personal statement. This individual attention increases a student’s chances of obtaining a place at their first choice of university. The course choices, personal statement, other personal information and GCSE results are dispatched to UCAS, together with a school reference and A level forecast grades, in the Michaelmas term of Year 13. Students applying to Oxford and Cambridge or those hoping to read Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Dentistry must apply by the beginning of October; other students should apply before half-‐term. All students apply electronically using the ‘Apply’ system on the UCAS website, removing any postal delays. Students are assigned a password that allows them to track the progress of their application. UCAS passes the information to the relevant faculties in the chosen universities and maintains records of an applicant’s progress. Universities may then invite applicants for interview before making an offer of a place or declining the application. These offers may be couched in terms of A Level grades; an example would be an offer of AAB to include an A grade in Chemistry. Alternatively, the offer may be expressed in terms of a point score; the table below shows how grades at AS Level and at A Level convert to points. A typical offer of this type would be, say, 280 points. This could be reached, for example, by gaining grades of BCD at A Level and a C at AS Level in a fourth subject. AS Grade UCAS Points Score A Level Grade UCAS Points Score
A* 140 A 60 A 120 B 50 B 100 C 40 C 80 D 30 D 60 E 20 E 40 Other achievements, such as Music Examinations, now have an associated points score for some courses and can be included with academic qualifications. In the Lent term of Year 13, after receiving offers from each university, students choose to accept a Firm offer and an Insurance offer and to reject the rest. Normally the Firm offer has a higher grade requirement than the Insurance offer. When the A Level results are known in the summer of Year 13, students obtaining the grades for their Firm offer will be automatically
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accepted. Students failing to reach the necessary grades may still be accepted: if not they will automatically be considered for their Insurance offer. Students still unplaced after this stage may find a course through the Clearing system; the Deputy Head (Academic) and Director of Higher Education will be available to offer advice and assistance. Students interested in any area of Art and Design can apply through UCAS but many choose to take a one year Foundation Art Course to hone their skills and broaden their artistic experience before progressing to university. Students interested in Music or Theatre can apply for some courses through UCAS although many other courses are also available at institutions that are not members of UCAS. The latter will have their own application and audition procedures. Students intending to take a Gap Year between school and university can either apply for a deferred place initially or may contact the university after offers have been made and request a deferment. Such requests are usually looked upon positively. Applicants for Oxford or Cambridge Universities follow the same procedure and may have to take an additional test. These students will also receive extra support from subject tutors through preparation for a series of demanding interviews. Applicants for some courses must take additional tests and most of these are listed below together with some supplementary information. 1. The UKCAT test must be taken at a national test centre in June, July or August and students must enter themselves through the website.
UKCAT is a test of reasoning ability and must be taken by students hoping to apply to read Medicine at the following universities: University of Aberdeen, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Cardiff University, University of Dundee, University of Durham, University of East Anglia, University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, Hull York Medical School, Keele University, King’s College London, University of Leeds, University of Leicester, University of Manchester, University of Newcastle, University of Nottingham, Peninsula Medical School, Queen Mary, University of London, University of Sheffield, University of Southampton, University of St Andrews, St. George’s, University of London. UKCAT must also be taken by students hoping to apply to read Dentistry at the following universities: Cardiff University, University of Dundee, University of Glasgow, King’s College London, University of Manchester, University of Newcastle, Queen Mary, University of London, University of Sheffield. More details about the test may be found at www.ukcat.ac.uk
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2. BMAT is a test of scientific and reasoning abilities but also requires students to write a short essay on an ethical topic. The test must be taken by students hoping to apply to read Medicine at the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, the University of Oxford Medical School or University College London. It must also be taken by students hoping to read Veterinary Medicine at the University of Bristol Veterinary School, the University of Cambridge or the Royal Veterinary College. More details about the test may be found at www.bmat.org.uk 3. LNAT is a test of reasoning ability and must be taken by students intending to apply to read Law at the following universities: University of Birmingham, University of Bristol, University of Cambridge, Durham University, University of East Anglia, University of Glasgow, King’s College London, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Nottingham, University of Oxford, University College London. More details about the test may be found at www.lnat.ac.uk The main UCAS website at www.ucas.com is the best objective source of information about university courses. The website offers the facility to search for courses by subject, university or geographical region. Each course has an entry profile that details the likely A Level grades or point scores and personal attributes required for a successful application. The course entry will also give details of the cost of the course together with any bursaries or scholarships that may be available as well as providing links to the website maintained by the relevant university department. The web site also contains many pages of useful information about all aspects of the application process and the financial considerations. From 2012, most English universities will charge tuition fees of up to £9000 per year for UK students; money will also be needed for maintenance. Local Education Authorities offer means-‐tested grants to help with the latter. Welsh and Scottish universities have slightly different arrangements for their own nationals. The website www.tqi.ac.uk contains information about the quality of teaching at each university and the calibre of student whilst www.universityadvice.co.uk gives an overview of university study and some useful help for parents and students.
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Subject: ART Exam Board: AQA Art and Design – http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gceasa/art.php for the latest PDF file specification Head of Department: Mr T F Hardisty What do I need before starting this course? Art is offered to candidates who demonstrate ability in the subject, a C grade or above at GCSE, or a portfolio of work. What will I learn? Students all work on individual projects, ‘creating visual meaning through Art by an expressive response to a personal context or social issue’. Drawing -‐ is the fundamental skill. Sketchbooks form an integral part of the development of the work and life-‐drawing classes are compulsory. Painting -‐ acrylic, oil, watercolour, tempera, household: gives the students the opportunity to express their personal concerns and emotions, while recognising the use of tone, composition, the context and genre of their work. Printmaking – planographic, relief, intaglio, monoprinting: gives the students the chance to exploit the innate characteristics of the discipline – layering, working in multiples or a series of related images. They are expected to demonstrate high levels of technical competence as well as being experimental in their approach. Sculpture – carving, modelling, casting, construction, installation: deals with the issues of mass, space, form and volume. Also, a high level of technical ability must be shown. Mixed Media and Photography -‐ deals with a multi-‐faceted approach, often involving a number of the previous disciplines. It also deals with digital printmaking, collage, montage and light sensitive emulsions. How is the course structured? To complete the course at AS level, one unit of work is required, plus an externally set assignment with 5 hours un-‐aided work. For the A2, one more further unit is required, with another externally set assignment with 15 hours of un-‐aided work. The total marks of these and the AS are combined for the final grade. To take the course at A2 level, the minimum of a D grade is required at AS, although it is recommend that the student has at least a grade C.
What degree courses and careers will this be useful for? Many former students have gone on to Art Foundation courses and then on to related courses at
university. Take a look at: http://www.artschools.com/careers-‐jobs/ to get some ideas.
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Subject: BIOLOGY Exam Board: AQA http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/science/biology_overview.php Head of Department: Mr M B Abington Almost daily we read of scientific advances, many of which are rooted in the biological sciences. Biology and its related disciplines are making an increasingly big impact. By studying Biology at A-‐level, not only will you be equipped to pursue a multitude of careers, but you will also have the potential to make a difference to the lives of many people and other living things. What do I need before starting this course? The minimum entry requirements are:
• Grade A in Biology GCSE if taking the Separate Sciences or Grade A in the Biology components of Science and Additional Science GCSE.
It is also very important that you are confident in Chemistry and Maths. You are required to gain at least a Grade B in Mathematics and also Grade B in the Chemistry components of Science and Additional Science or in Chemistry GCSE. What will I learn? The A level Biology course includes a strong practical element. Pupils are required to have a good understanding of practical techniques as well as of How Science Works. These components underpin the theory of each topic and will be examined both via the written papers and the coursework. The AS course covers two theory units: • Biology and Disease in which pupils learn about the digestive and gas exchange systems
and also how these systems may be affected by disease. • The Variety of Living Organisms in which pupils learn about genetics, variation within a
species, adaptations and how variation at the biochemical and cellular level show similarities and differences across the different kingdoms.
The A2 course covers two theory units: • Populations and Environment which explores ecology, energy transfer and nutrient cycling
and how human activity affects the ecological balance. The teaching of this Unit includes a fieldtrip which all students taking A2 Biology are expected to attend. The field trip takes place over five days at the very start of the October half term break. The cost of the field trip is subsidised by the school with parents paying the remainder.
• Control in Cells and in Organisms in which pupils learn about the biology of the nervous and endocrine systems as well as homeostasis. Genes and genetic expression within cells are also studied.
How is the course structured? The AS year will include school based assessment between March and May, (the EMPA – Externally Marked Practical Assignment), and two exams in the Summer Term. The pattern in A2 is similar but will include exam(s) in January as well as June. What degree courses and careers use Biology? Courses that usually require A-‐level Biology: Agriculture, Biochemistry, Dentistry, Life Sciences, Medicine, Physiotherapy, Veterinary Science Courses that strongly recommend A-‐level Biology (or at least 2 Sciences): Environmental Science, Geology, Pharmacology, Physiology
There are many other careers that will be open to you if you have completed a degree in the life or medical sciences at university. Universities often have different entrance requirements so it is essential that you check with them first for full details before applying.
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Subject: BUSINESS STUDIES Exam Board: OCR AS/A levels (H030 and H430) www.ocr.org.uk Head of Department: Mr R C F Campbell What do I need before starting this course? No prior knowledge of this subject is required before studying it at this level. A GCSE in this subject is helpful but not essential. We do, however, hope that students have an interest in current affairs. What will I learn? It is hoped that students will: • Investigate different types of organisations in various business sectors and environments
recognising that they face varying degrees of competition; • Identify business problems; • Plan appropriate investigations into such problems; • Promote a holistic understanding of business and enterprise; • Make justifiable decisions using both qualitative and quantitative methods, taking into
account opportunity cost. How is this course structured? AS level consists of two units: F291 An Introduction to Business and F292 Business Functions. F291 considers the way in which businesses operate and the effect of the external business environment. It considers the strategic importance of clear objectives and how the business environment provides opportunities and imposes constraints on the pursuit of short and long term objectives. F292 builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in the study of Unit F291. A2 level includes F294 Accounting and F297 Strategic Management. F294 assesses in a context that refers to specific business situations. Students have to show critical awareness of performance measures, criteria, concepts, theories and decision making tools and to use them to solve problems and make decisions. F297 involves choosing and justifying strategy and as such students are expected to demonstrate analytical and evaluative skills. They also will learn to devise and evaluate strategies which aim to anticipate, respond to, and manage change. Students are also required to demonstrate their integrative understanding of the subject and to be able to approach situations from the perspective of different stakeholders. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Business related subjects: Management, Finance, Law, Marketing, Human Resources, Operations Management etc.
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Subject: CHEMISTRY Exam Board: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/chemistry/Pages/default.aspx Head of Department: Mr D M Merricks What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? The qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and process skills inherent in GCSE. It is expected that you will have achieved a minimum of Grade A in GCSE/IGCSE Chemistry or AA in Science Double Award (Co-‐ordinated) with an acceptable performance in the Chemistry paper, although B grades do not necessarily preclude entry. The qualification integrates theory and relevant practical work, which are developed at different levels throughout the course. You will need to be able to communicate effectively, research and think critically about chemical problems. This qualification is suitable for students who have an interest in, and enjoyment of chemistry, enjoy carrying out investigation by the application of imaginative, logical and critical thinking and want to use chemistry to support other qualifications or progress onto further studies. What will I learn? Chemistry touches almost every aspect of human life, from such basics as food, fuel and clothing, through building materials, metallurgy and colour, to medicines, forensic science and the sequencing of the human genome. In the broadest sense it is the study of the composition of substances and the changes that they undergo, and is rooted in our inquisitiveness about the environment in which we live. It is both intellectual, but at the same time thoroughly practical, and experimental investigation is at the heart of the subject. You can expect to complete at least one practical every week. How is the course structured? AS -‐ The units in Year 12 are:
• Structure, Bonding and Main Group Chemistry; • Introductory Organic Chemistry, Energetics, Kinetics, and Equilibria. Applied Chemistry; • Laboratory Chemistry 1
A2 – the units in Year 13 are: • Energetics, Periodicity, Quantitative Equilibria and Further Organic Chemistry; • Transition Metals, Quantitative Kinetics and Applied Organic Chemistry; • Laboratory Chemistry 2.
What is the nature and timing of coursework? • AS – Students’ laboratory skills will be tested through a number of separate activities
which are spread throughout the course. The following skills are assessed: General Practical Competence; qualitative observation; quantitative measurement and preparative Chemistry.
• A2 – A similar pattern to AS is followed except that a multi-‐stage experiment (approximately 4 hours lab time) can be substituted for the latter two skills.
What degree course and careers will this course be useful for? Whether sights are set on degree level study in Chemistry, a career in Medicine, or entry to one of many other courses, for example Biological Sciences, which require or prefer A Level Chemistry, the qualification is widely appreciated by university admissions tutors and employers alike. Successful completion shows not only an ability to master factual material, recognize patterns, and understand and explain complex principles, but also indicates an ability to analyse and present factual data, and communicate clearly. A good measure of practical dexterity can also be inferred from success!
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Subject: CLASSICS Exam Board: OCR HO38 – 042 Head of Department: Mr T J Dewes It should be noted that it is possible to take a variety of options within the general Classics framework. However the preference of the Head of Department is that at least some of the modules selected should involve the study of Latin. What do I need before starting this course? For Ancient History and Classical Civilisation modules, there are no special requirements. If you want to take Latin, at least an A grade at GCSE is essential. What will I learn? Latin If you study Latin you will improve your ability to understand how the language works. This will then enable you to study literature and to appreciate the way the authors write. It is as you do this that you can really engage with the subject in greater depth than ever before. Ancient History (F391) We study the period of Greek History during which Athens became great, and from which much of the famous literature, art and architecture derives. It is fascinating to see how the Athenians achieved this. Classical Civilisation (F383) We get to know the Romans via four of their most famous authors: Pliny, Petronius, Juvenal and Horace. We discover how their society worked and we try to make comparisons with modern day culture. How is the course structured? There are two modules for AS and another two for A2. Is there coursework? No. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? It will lead naturally to a variety of courses in Classics and Archaeology at university. It will also provide excellent back-‐up to a variety of other A level options: a good grade in a Classics A level is still seen by many universities as an excellent discriminator. A Classics degree is a good platform for a career in Law, Accounting, Civil and Diplomatic Service, and many other areas.
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Subject: DESIGN and TECHNOLOGY Exam Board: AQA 2550 Head of Department: Mr S Gent What do I need before starting this course? It is helpful but not necessary for pupils to have studied GCSE Design & Technology before commencing the course. What will I learn? This course will inspire pupils to develop their innovative and creative capacities through designing and making high quality products. It will give pupils an appreciation of the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing. Students will learn about and engage with a wide range of manufacturing techniques and will be expected to communicate their ideas effectively through written graphical, ICT and 3D media. Uniquely, the course offers pupils the opportunity to project manage the design development and manufacture of their own products. AS specification outline At AS level candidates develop an understanding of a broad range of materials, with emphasis on the life cycle of products, manufacture and final disposal. A2 specification outline At A2, the specification offers candidates the opportunity to further develop the knowledge and practical skills from AS. Candidates will continue to develop a body of coursework alongside an understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial production and manufacture. How is the course structured? AS A2 Unit 1: Portfolio of Creative Skills 60% of AS, 30% of A Level Coursework – Externally moderated 90 marks
Unit 3: Further Study of Product Design 40% of A2, 20% of A Level 2 hour written exam – Externally marked 70 marks
Unit 2:Design and Technology in Practice 40% of AS, 20% of A Level 1½ hour written exam – Externally marked 70 marks
Unit 4: Commercial Design 60% of A2, 30% of A Level Coursework – Externally moderated 90 marks
What is the nature and timing of the coursework? AS: The coursework element begins at the beginning of the year and takes place during the double lessons. This unit is divided into three discrete areas of study: product investigation, product design and product manufacture. Each of these areas is unique and not linked to or dependant on the other two, so students can give their full attention to a set task without considering limitations outside that activity. A2: Students must adopt a commercial design approach to their work, reflecting how a professional designer might deal with a design problem and its resolution. The choice of design problem should have a real commercial use, in that it should be useful to a wider range of users beyond an individual unless commissioned as a ‘one-‐off’. A client or user-‐group should have input into decision making at various stages of the design and make process What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? The experience gained in this A level will be useful for most higher education course, however it is directly relevant to: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Chemical and Manufacturing Engineering, Architecture and all design based degrees such as Product Design, Industrial Design and Textiles.
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Subject: DRAMA and THEATRE STUDIES Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Head of Department: Mr S R Harris What do I need before starting this course? If students have taken Drama at GCSE this is often a useful lead in to the work in this subject at AS/A2 level. However, it is not a necessity and many students tackle to subject for the first time at this level. A genuine interest in the subject and a real enthusiasm for plays, performance and the world of the theatre is the main requirement. What will I learn? Candidates will gain a knowledge and understanding of theatre practice through detailed study and a wide range of practical exploration. You will develop performance skills as well as production and technical skills related to the hands-‐on production of live theatre. You will improve in your abilities to think independently, to make judgments and refine work in the light of research undertaken. You will also gain the ability to analyse the ways in which different production and performance elements are brought together to create theatre. How is the course structured and assessed? The work in this subject is very varied. Much practical exploration is engaged upon as well as a detailed study of plays and practitioners. The history and philosophy of theatre will be covered and range of theatre practice will be explored and this will be done alongside regular visits to both local theatres and ones further afield. Students may be assessed on acting if they wish but they may also chose from a wide range of skills including directing, set and costume design and technical areas such as lighting and sound. There are two units of work at AS and A2: At AS: Unit 1. (One and a half hours) requires two essays to be written. Firstly a response to live theatre seen during the course and secondly, an essay from a set text studied. Unit 2. is a practical exam where the group will rehearse and perform an extract from a published play. Students will also be required to produce supporting work including preparatory and development work. At A2 Unit 3. comprises two essays based upon the study of two further set texts. Unit 4. is the practical element where the group will be required to devise and perform an original theatre piece backed up by written development work and supporting notes. What is the nature and timing of coursework? The practical work at AS will be undertaken in an eight week period during the Lent term. The A2 practical work will also take place during the Lent term and but will be given a 10 week preparation period. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Drama and Theatre Studies is accepted by all universities and has been one of the fastest growing ‘A’ levels in the country for a number of years. It is ideal for all those intending to go forward to degrees in Drama, English, the arts, Media, Journalism and the humanities.
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Subject: ECONOMICS Exam Board: OCR AS/A levels (H061 and H461) www.ocr.org.uk Head of Department: Mr R C F Campbell What do I need before starting this course? No prior knowledge of this subject is required before studying it. We do, however expect that students will have an interest in current affairs. What will I learn? It is hoped that students will: • Develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical
consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life; • Select, interpret and use appropriate data from a range of sources; • Analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the market economy and the
role of government within it; • Develop a critical approach to economic models and methods of enquiry; • Study economic choices and markets; • Study the national and international economy. How is this course structured? AS Economics consists of two units: F581 Markets in Action and F582 The National and International Economy. F581 provides an introduction to why economic choices have to be made, the market model, how markets can be efficient and also how they can fail. F582 provides an introduction to how the level of macroeconomic activity is determined and to key macroeconomic indicators, problems and policies. A2 Economics consists of two units: F584 Transport Economics and F585 The Global Economy. F584 focuses on the economic principles and context underlying a range of transport problems and issues. It considers transport provision in terms of the models of market structure, especially in the context of contestability in such markets. F585 provides the conceptual framework for the understanding, analysis and evaluation of macroeconomic performance in national, regional and global contexts. It considers the causes and consequences of economic growth in: developed economies, such as the UK; regional blocs such as the EU; developing economies; and the wider global economy. It emphasises the ways in which individual economies and regional blocs are interdependent through trade, the process of economic integration and the increasing globalisation that characterises current economic activity. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Economics (and related courses), Management, Finance, Politics and careers such as journalism.
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Subject: ENGLISH LANGUAGE Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Head of Department: Mrs H K Wilkinson What do I need before starting this course? We would recommend a minimum of a B grade at GCSE for English Language. What will I learn? You will analyse language in detail. We will ask questions about the power of language. How do politicians manipulate language to suit their purposes? How do adverts work? What power struggles are happening every time you hold a conversation? By looking at language in context, we will explore whether language is sexist or biased. How do we tailor our use of language in different contexts and for different audiences? How has technology influenced the English Language? Is language change a bad thing? Is our language ‘in decline’? You will also develop your own personal writing expertise through individual coursework by writing to entertain, persuade, inform or instruct. How is the course structured and assessed? There are two units of work at AS and A2:
At AS Unit 1: ‘Categorizing Texts’ (1½ hours exam – 2 questions) 60% of total AS / 30% of total A Level marks This unit covers the introductory aspects of the study of language, using a variety of texts for the basis of this study. In addition it focuses on three specific social contexts: Language and Power, Language and Gender and Language and Technology. Unit 2: (Coursework) 40% of total AS / 20% of total A Level marks In this unit candidates are encouraged to develop their own writing skills, producing writing in different genres for different audiences and purposes.
At A2 Unit 3: Language Development (2 hour exam – 2 questions) 30% of total A Level marks Exploring Language Change and Language Acquisition Unit 4: Investigating Language 20% of total A Level marks Exploring and analysing language data; data collection methodology; analysis and interpretation of data using appropriate linguistic methods and techniques; evaluation and investigative conclusions. What is the nature and timing of coursework? The coursework at AS & A2 will usually be undertaken during the Lent term. Both coursework topics dovetail with our study of the other units. For what degree courses and careers will this course be useful? English Language A Level is accepted by all universities and has become recognized as a prestigious qualification in recent years. It is ideal for all those intending to go forward to degrees in English, the arts, Media, Journalism, Drama and the humanities but would also serve as a valuable additional ‘fourth’ AS subject alongside Science and/or Social Science (Geography/Economics etc.) subjects.
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Subject: ENGLISH LITERATURE Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk Head of Department: Mrs H K Wilkinson What do I need before starting this course? The requirements for this highly popular course are a minimum of a B grade at English Language and English Literature at GCSE and a willingness to read. What will I learn? Through the texts you study, you will be encouraged to ask some fundamental questions about what you read, how you read, why you read and – quite a challenging one – who you are. There will be questions like: What is literature? How is it different from other forms of writing? Is there such a thing as good and bad writing? If there is, how do you tell one from the other? Why do some writers last whilst others fade? Where did the novel come from? Who wrote the first plays? Why do people bother to write sonnets? Does laying out the notes this way make them poetry? How is the course structured and assessed? At AS F661: ‘Poetry and Prose 1800 to 1945’ (Closed Text) (1 ½ hour exam – 2 questions) 60% of total AS / 30% of total A Level marks Two questions – one on a poem and the other on a set text F662: Literature Post 1900 (Coursework) 40% of total AS / 20% of total A Level marks Task one: based on one text, produce a close reading of a passage Task two: an essay on two linked texts At A2 F663: Drama and Poetry pre-‐1800 (closed text) 30% of total A Level marks. Section A: Shakespeare, Section B: Drama and poetry pre-‐1800 Section A: Shakespeare; Section B: Drama and poetry pre-‐1800 F664: Texts in Time (Coursework) 20% of total A Level marks An extended essay of 3,000 words maximum in which you are required to make a comparative analysis of three texts. Texts can be selected from any period and across periods.
What is the nature and timing of coursework? The coursework at AS & A2 will usually be undertaken during the Lent term. Both coursework topics dovetail with our study of the other units. For what degree courses and careers will this course be useful? It is possible to study English Language as well as English Literature to A Level for those students intending to apply to read English at university. The skills that you will refine -‐ oral and written communication, presentation and justification of an argument, critical analysis and synthesis of data – are highly regarded for entry into a wide range of top universities. It is ideal for all those intending to go forward to degrees in English, the arts, Media, Journalism, Drama Law, Business, Management and Finance, Medicine and the human sciences.
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Subject: Pre-‐U Certificate: Literature in English Exam Board: CIE Head of Department: Mrs H K Wilkinson What do I need before starting this course? The requirement for this is an A* grade in English Literature (and preferably English Language) at GCSE and a willingness to read – a lot! Only the top students for English Literature will be considered for this course and so it is possible that, in some years, the subject might not be viable to run. What will I learn? The Pre-‐U equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to make a success of their undergraduate studies: • a solid and coherent grounding in English Literature at an appropriate level • the ability to undertake independent and self-‐directed learning • the ability to think laterally, critically and creatively and communicate effectively How is the course structured and assessed? Students take all four components in the same session: Duration Weighting Type of assessment Paper 1: Poetry and prose -‐ 2 hours (25%) Written paper, externally set and marked. Paper 2 Drama -‐ 2 hours (25%) Written paper, externally set and marked. Paper 3 Comment and analysis (unseen) 2 hours 15 mins (25%) Written paper, externally set and marked. Paper 4 Personal investigation (25%) Externally marked project. Examinations take place at the end of the two-‐year course. A single grade is awarded. Individual components cannot be retaken. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework although paper 4 is internally set and externally marked. For what degree courses and careers will this course be useful? The top grades at Pre-‐U are considered to be ‘beyond A Level’. Success on a Pre-‐U course should give you a distinct advantage when applying to university since it is a well recognised and challenging course to complete. The emphasis is on independent learning and the linear nature of the course is increasingly popular with many universities. The Cambridge Pre-‐U Literature in English certificate is a stand-‐alone qualification attracting a rewarding UCAS tariff. It is compatible with A Levels and may be taken in combination with them.
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Subject: FRENCH Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Head of Department: Mrs L M Vaughan What do I need before starting this course? Before starting the course it is essential that you have at least a B in French at GCSE, an A would be even better! We hope that you will have visited France, and have some ideas about the culture. If you have been on an exchange you will be at an advantage. We recommend that you spend at least part of one holiday with a French family. You also need to have an opinion about everything! What will I learn? In the first year you will study a variety of topics. Grammar is an important part of the course, but we try and make it as pain free as possible. Pupils will learn to express themselves fluently and accurately in French. They will be encouraged to speak French at all times in class. How is the course structured and assessed? The course is divided into two units at AS and two at A2. At AS pupils will study the Media, Popular Culture, Healthy Living and Family and Relationships. Unit 1 exam is a 2 hour written paper. Candidates will answer a range of questions based on approximately 5 minutes of heard material and on a selection of written stimulus texts. They will also respond to a question based on one of the AS topics. Unit 2 is a Speaking test, lasting approximately 20 minutes. This will take the form of a conversation about all the topics covered on the course.
At A2 the course will cover the Environment, the Multi-‐Cultural Society, Contemporary Issues, and a Cultural Topic. Unit 3 exam is a 2 hours 30 minute exam and is a more complex version of the Unit 1 paper. Unit 4 is a Speaking Test.
The classes are conducted in the Target Language, but the more complex structures will generally be explained in English. There are 7 lessons a week, and usually a class will have 2 teachers, each teaching 3 or 4 lessons. There is a great emphasis on class participation, research and presentations. Every other year there is a cultural and educational 4 day visit to Paris. We visit the theatre and cinema, as well as the usual tourist attractions. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework in French. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? There are language courses at all universities. We have had many pupils who have gone on to study French and other languages, as diverse as Thai, Mandarin and Italian, at university. Language graduates are sought after and highly employable.
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Subject: GEOGRAPHY Exam Board: AQA (2030) www.aqa.org.uk Head of Department: Mr A W R Glasgow What do I need before starting this course? Grade C or above at GCSE in both Geography, English Language and Mathematics as well as fulfilling the requirements for entering Year 12. What will I learn? A full study of issues affecting people and their environment with the opportunity to carry out some fieldwork tasks. How is the course structured and assessed? Unit 1 -‐ Physical and Human Geography: Assessed by structured data response questions with opportunities for extended writing. The Physical Environment: Topics to be covered are Rivers, Floods and Management, Arid and Semi-‐arid Landscapes, Cold Environments and Coasts. The Human Environment: Topics to be covered are Population Change, Food Supply, Energy and Health Issues in both developed and less developed countries. Unit 2 -‐ Geographical Skills: Assessed by structured data response questions. Topics to be covered include: analysing photographs and maps, the use of sketches, overlays and G.I.S. A key element in this unit is the ability to understand your own fieldwork. Both the units will be supported with field days to areas like Weston-‐Super-‐Mare, Lyme Regis, Bath, Bristol and rural Somerset. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework in Geography. What will I study at A2? Conflict, World Cities, Tectonic and Climatic Hazards. These are assessed by two end of year exams. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Geography is an environmental science and, as such, gives support to a full range of degree subjects as well as Geography itself. Most Geography graduates will re-‐train in some form or other but they are well placed in the current job market: http://www.getsmaart.com/student-‐guides/index.php/career-‐news/geography-‐as-‐a-‐career...-‐a-‐landscape-‐of-‐opportunity.
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AS ENGLISH TOPIC; F 961;Post War Britain 1951-‐94. This is assessed in one paper where pupils have two essays to answer out of a choice of three. 1½ hour paper.
AS EUROPEAN TOPIC; F 964; Luther and the German Reformation. This is assessed in one paper where pupils have compulsory source questions to answer based on five documents. 1½ hour paper.
Subject: HISTORY Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk Head of Department: Mr D R Bowden What do I need before starting the course? History is about research and enquiry, forming arguments and reaching balanced judgements based on evidence – it is a great way to improve a number of skills that universities and future employers place great value in. It is preferable to have at least a B grade at History GCSE for entry into the AS Course but every year candidates achieve top grades even if they have not followed the GCSE course. A good indicator regarding aptitude would be a B grade in English. What will I learn? We study topics from the Early Modern and Modern Period of English, European and American History. This allows for a rich and varied study of history at this level – something that university admissions tutors have become increasingly aware of. The 15th and 16th century topics offer pupils a fascinating insight into a crucial period in European history. Similarly the two modern units of study – American civil rights and post war Britain – help students to appreciate links to the contemporary world. As well as widening the historical experience the course is designed so that pupils may fully benefit from investigating colourful, formative and decisive periods of change that have had vital implications for the world they find themselves in today. Ultimately, history at Monkton is a challenging but an immensely rewarding subject to study. How is this course structured and assessed? The modular approach has given flexibility and the usual structure will be that at AS Level the English topics will be taught in half of the lessons by one teacher and the European topics the other lessons by the other teacher. The same pattern is repeated at A2. The examinations and resits are taken in the summer.
What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? History is still very popular at University and it is therefore competitive -‐ AAA or AAB at top places. Joint honour courses with Politics, French or Philosophy for example are often slightly easier but can be very rewarding. History still commands respect because of the emphasis on clear expression, precise judgment and persuasive argument. Historians often use their skills to pursue successful careers in law, the diplomatic corps and journalism.
A2 AMERICAN TOPIC; F966; Civil Rights in the USA 1865-‐1992.This is the synoptic paper that has to cover 100 years of History. It is assessed in one paper where pupils have to answer two out of a choice of three essays. 2 hour paper.
A2 EUROPEAN TOPIC; F 965; Philip II of Spain. Pupils will complete two 2,000 word essays as coursework, moderated by the examination board. There is scope within this module for doing one essay on a topic of your choice. There is no further examination paper.
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Subject: MATHEMATICS Exam Board: MEI OCR http://www.mei.org.uk/syllabuses/syllabus04.shtml Head of Department: Miss Victoria Armand Smith What do I need before starting this course? A grade at GCSE or equivalent. What will I learn? The course comprises of 6 modules. 4 modules deal with Pure Mathematics, including Calculus, Trigonometry, Graphs, Algebra, Vectors, Lines and Planes, and Co-‐ordinate Geometry, 1 module deals with Statistics, including Discrete Random Variables and the Normal Distribution, and 1 module deals with Mechanics, which cover the use of Newton’s Laws. How is this course structured and assessed? The course is structured such that students take 3 modules in Year 12 and 3 in Year 13. Typically students take Core 1, Core 2 and Mechanics in Year 12, Core 3, Core 4 and Statistics 1 in Year 13. The course is assessed by examination, taken in sessions in January and in June. Each examination is one and a half hours long and is out of 100 UMS marks. 80 or above is an A grade. What is the nature and timing of coursework? Coursework is undertaken at the end of Year 12. It is a detailed investigation of Numerical Methods for solving problems not easily solvable using more common methods What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Maths, Accounting and any related financial subjects, Engineering and any related Science subjects, Medicine, Law etc.
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Subject: FURTHER MATHEMATICS Exam Board: MEI OCR http://www.mei.org.uk/syllabuses/syllabus04.shtml Head of Department: Miss Victoria Armand Smith What do I need before starting this course? A solid A* grade (90% or above) at IGCSE or equivalent. What will I learn? The course comprises of 12 modules. Students will take the same six modules as single mathematicians and in addition to this a further six. This six will comprise of 2 modules studying Pure Mathematics, including Complex Numbers, Matrices, Hyberbolic Functions and Power Series, and four modules chosen at the discretion of the class teacher liaising with the Head of Department. Typically students study four modules from Mechanics 2, Mechanics 3, Mechanics 4, Statistics 2, Statistics 3 or Decision 2. How is this course structured and assessed? The course is structured such that students take 6 modules in Year 12 and 6 in Year 13. Typically students take Core 1, Core 2, Core 3, Core 4, Mechanics 1 and Mechanics 2 in Year 12, thus gaining a full A level in one year. In Year 13 students take a further 6 modules. The course is assessed by examination, taken in sessions in January and in June. Each examination is one and a half hours long and is out of 100 UMS marks. 80 or above is an A grade. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework in Further Mathematics however, students will complete the Numerical Methods Coursework in the Single Mathematics syllabus What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Further Mathematics is required by most top universities as a prerequisite to read Mathematics. Also useful for accounting and any related financial subjects, law, engineering and any related science subjects.
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Subject: MUSIC Exam Board: Edexcel 8MU01 (AS); 9MU01 (A2) www.edexcel.org.uk Head of Department: Mr G Bevan Head of Academic Music: Mrs A Bryson What do I need before starting this course? It is desirable but not essential to have taken Music at GCSE, as much of the background material needed for AS/A2 would have been studied at this stage. A reasonable proficiency on an instrument is needed, with a standard equivalent to Grade 6, and it will also be advantageous to have passed the Associated Board Grade 5 theory exam. What will I learn? Candidates will gain a knowledge and understanding of music as a performer and a composer, and will gain an insight into putting music into its historical and social context through specific set works. How is the course structured and assessed? There are three units of work at AS and A2. AS: Unit 1: Performing music. This unit gives students opportunity to perform as soloists or as part of an ensemble in a five-‐six minute assessed performance. Unit 2: Composing. This unit encourages students to develop their composition skills leading to the creation of a three-‐minute piece in response to a chosen brief. They also need to write a CD sleeve note to describe aspects of their composition and show how other pieces of music have influenced it. Unit 3: Developing Musical Understanding. Set works from an anthology provide the focus for the first two sections of this unit; in the third section, candidates use a score to identify harmonic and tonal features, and then apply this knowledge in the completion of a short and simple musical passage. A2: Unit 4: Extended Performance. As the name implies, this is an extension of Unit 1, where a 12-‐15 minute recital is now prepared and assessed. Unit 5: Composition and Technical Study. Students have a choice to produce two compositions following on from Unit 2, or two technical studies based on a continuing awareness of harmony, or one of each. Unit 6: Further Musical Understanding. This unit focuses on listening to music, familiar and unfamiliar, and understanding how it works. This is again based on the Anthology used in Unit 3, where there will be two compulsory Areas of Study. Assessment in the performance units is done by the centre and moderated by Edexcel; other units are marked by Edexcel. What is the nature and timing of coursework? Coursework performing can be undertaken at any time during the course, and could form part of one of the school’s informal concerts. The stimulus for composition coursework is available in September of each year. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? As an established subject, Music is accepted by all universities, and is ideal for those going on to study music as part of a university course or at a conservatoire in music.
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Subject: PHOTOGRAPHY Exam Board: AQA Art and Design (Photography) Look at this link: http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/gceasa/art.php to download the PDF links for the specification. Head of Department: Mr T F Hardisty What do I need before starting this course? Photography is offered to students who show an aptitude in the subject. An Art GCSE is recommended, (but it is not a pre-‐requisite) . PUPILS WILL NEED A DIGITAL CAMERA AND A FILM SLR CAMERA. What will I learn? The emphasis of the AS course is the learning and practice of investigative skills -‐ the process. In the A2 course while the process is still important, the quality of the product has greater emphasis. To take the course at A2 level, a minimum of a D grade at AS is essential but a C is recommended. The Year 13 pupils all work on individual projects, ‘creating visual meaning through lens based media by an expressive response to a personal context or social issue’. Students will be expected to demonstrate their skills in the following:
o Explore elements of visual language, line, form, colour, pattern and texture in the context of Photography;
o Respond to an issue, theme, concept or idea or working to a brief; o An appreciation of viewpoint, composition, depth of field and movement; time based,
through such techniques as sequence or ‘frozen movement’; o The appropriate use of the camera, film, lenses, filters and lighting for work in their
chosen area of Photography; o An understanding of techniques related to the developing and printing of photographic
images, presentation, layout and mounting Students will also be expected to show a knowledge and understanding of:
o How ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in image in the context of their chosen area(s) of Photography;
o The historical and contemporary developments and different styles and genres in their chosen area(s) of Photography;
o How images and artefacts relate to social, environmental, cultural and/or ethical contexts, and to the time and place in which they were created;
o Continuity and change in different styles, genres and traditions relevant to Photography; o The working vocabulary and specialist terminology that is relevant to their chosen
area(s) of Photography. How is the course structured? To complete the course at AS level, one unit of work is required, plus an externally set assignment. For the A2, a further unit is required plus another externally set assignment. The total marks of these and the AS are combined for the final grade.
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Subject: PHYSICAL EDUCATION Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk Head of Department: Mr P R Wickens What do I need before starting this course? Students normally should obtain at least a grade ‘B’ in PE at GCSE. Students joining Monkton from schools that do not offer GCSE PE are exempt from this requirement. In exceptional circumstances, Monkton students who get a grade ‘C’ will be accepted if they can demonstrate excellent practical abilities. All students should be accomplished sports performers to at least school team level in a minimum of two sports. An interest in reading about sport, watching sport and discussing sport are mandatory. What will I learn? The course focus is on ‘participation and performance in physical activity as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle’. The specifications are designed to allow candidates to develop an understanding and appreciation of the factors that enable both them and others to be physically active as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle. The factors studied will include physiological, psychological and socio-‐cultural aspects that have an impact on participation and performance in physical activities. How is the course structured and assessed? There are two units at AS and two at A2. AS units: An introduction to Physical Education – 60% of AS marks. The practical component is internally assessed [externally moderated]. Students have to choose 2 sports [from different activity profiles] 40% of total AS marks. The assessment can be either performing two chosen sports and evaluating and planning of performance or performing one sport and coaching/leading another plus evaluating and planning performance or performing one chosen sport and officiating another plus evaluating and planning performance. A2 units: Principles and Concepts across different areas of PE including Socio-‐cultural options and Scientific Options. 50% of the final mark [50% from AS] is available from one 2½ hour exam which involves elements of synoptic assessment. This paper is externally set and marked. This is worth 70% of A2 marks. Acquiring, developing and evaluating practical skills in PE [Practical performance]. The practical component is internally assessed [externally moderated]. Students have to choose one sport. The assessment is otherwise the same as at AS level. This is worth 30% of A2 marks. What is the nature and timing of coursework? Units G452 and G454 are continuously assessed during Year 12 and Year 13 respectively. Students perform, coach, officiate and evaluate performance in a number of sports not just in A2 lessons, but also in games sessions and out of school clubs. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? One of the fastest growing A level courses, universities recognize the academic rigour of this course and its versatility in examining a number of academic disciplines within its subject boundaries. It is therefore comparable with ‘traditional’ academic subjects when students apply through UCAS. Recent Monkton students have chosen the following sports-‐related courses at Higher Education institutes in the UK: Sports Science, Sports Studies, Sports Management, Sports Coaching, Physiotherapy, PE Teaching, Sports Journalism and Sports Psychology.
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Subject: PHYSICS Exam Board: Edexcel
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/physics/Pages/default.aspx Head of Department: Mr S L Chillcott What do I need before starting this course? The most important requirement is a passion for understanding how the world works, and a drive to master the key concepts governing the physical world. On a more pragmatic level, in order to keep pace with the increased demands of A Level, students should have at least a A grade in Science and Additional Science or Physics GCSE if taking the separate sciences. In addition, students need an A grade or above in Mathematics GCSE and are strongly advised to continue with Mathematics to at least AS Level. What will I learn? Physics is fundamental in explaining how the world around us works, from the structure of the proton to the movement of the galaxies. It illuminates our understanding of why the sun turns red in the evening, how we can speak across continents and why some bridges fall down. A key emphasis at A Level is to base learning on personal investigations of the physical world using practical work as much as possible. Increasingly, Information Technology is playing a crucial role in revolutionising Physics research. Hence, ICT is used extensively in the course, from data-‐logging to simulations through to analytical packages. Finally, it is also of paramount importance that students get the chance to experience cutting edge research and to meet leading scientists. Therefore, the department runs regular trips to institutions such as CERN in Geneva, the largest particle accelerator in the world, and JET in Oxfordshire, currently the largest nuclear fusion reactor in Europe. How is this course structured? There are 3 modules in Physics in both the AS and A2 years, with one of the three modules devoted to practical skills. In the AS year students analyse how and why things move, wave behaviour, the principles of electricity and quantum theory. In the A2 year, students analyse the four fundamental forces of nature, the nature of fields, cosmology and particle physics. What is the nature and timing of coursework? Students take coursework in the Lent Term of both sixth form years. Students write a report on an experiment which will be based on a Physics related visit or a case study on an application of Physics. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Taking Physics at A Level provides the student with a wealth of opportunities to develop the career of his or her choosing, and will prove to be in demand from many different fields, be it Scientific research, Engineering (of the civil, mechanical, aeronautical, electronic or chemical varieties), Astronomy, Information Technology or Medicine. In addition, employers in the financial and commercial world value the analytical and logical mind of the Physicist.
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Subject: PSYCHOLOGY Exam Board: AQA, Specification A www.aqa.org.uk Head of Department: Mr P Carter What do I need before starting this course? As Psychology is not available below AS level the main entry requirements are good grades in English and Maths at GCSE level; a good level in Science is also a benefit; however the main requirement is a genuine desire to increase your understanding of how humans (in particular) think, act and are motivated. Psychology will be enjoyed by thoughtful students who are interested in why people behave as they do. If you’re someone who already watches television programmes about such topics as how the brain works, parenting, hypnosis, sleep, criminal behaviour, stress and how it affects people, you will find much to interest you in this subject. If, in addition, your eye is drawn to such topics in the newspaper, so much the better. What will I learn? Psychology is the science of behaviour and experience. Studying behaviour involves focusing on what people (and other animals) actually do. Behaviour includes thinking, remembering and forgetting, growing up, being kind or aggressive, obeying or disobeying orders, being a parent etc. In studying experience, psychologists are interested in what it is like to be the person exhibiting the behaviour: how it feels to be them and why they behave as they do. In one way you are already a Psychologist as you have opinions about why some people behave as they do. But Psychologists go beyond the common sense approach in that they are concerned to examine closely the evidence on which such opinions are based. They consider alternative explanations and conduct research to test theories. To this end they employ a range of research methods, ranging from tightly controlled laboratory experiments to observation studies, to the construction of detailed case studies. A range of methods is needed because Psychologists are interested in a great many issues and some are more amenable to one method of study than to another. You will learn about the most common methods and simple analytical procedures. How is the course structured and assessed? The two year course is examined by four modular examinations; two of which come at the end of AS studies and a further two in the A2 year. AS modules consist of several short answers with one or two longer essay type questions; A2 is assessed primarily through longer essays. You should expect to sit both AS papers at the end of year 12, one A2 paper in January of year 13 and the final paper in the summer of year 13. There is no coursework but there is a great deal of emphasis on the way research is carried out with the opportunity to complete small research projects. What is the nature and timing of coursework? There is no coursework in Psychology. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Psychology is one of the fastest growing subjects at degree level. If you choose to study Psychology at university you will find a large number of courses to choose from, some of them covering the traditional areas of the subject and some with a narrower focus. Aspects of Psychology are also incorporated in a range of other degree programmes, for example, Education, Sports Science, Management, Business, and Medicine. After graduation many avenues are open, both in specialist areas of Psychology and in the wider market place. Clinical, Educational, Counselling, Occupational and Health Psychology are just some of the specialist fields into which Psychology graduates may go. Others go into Advertising, Marketing, Sales, Market Research, Personnel, General Management, the Media – Psychology graduates turn up everywhere!
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Subject: RELIGIOUS STUDIES Exam Board: OCR Head of Department: Mrs R Chillcott What do I need before starting this course? A mind which wonders why we call certain things ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ and is interested in discussing possible answers; a mind interested in many of the issues facing society today: genetic engineering and other aspects of medical ethics, euthanasia, abortion; a mind ready to ask some of life’s ultimate questions: can you prove the existence of God? Has science rendered obsolete the need for God? Does atheism make more sense and, if not, how do we respond to its challenge? A mind such as this is the basic requirement to enjoy and make a success of AS and A Level Religious Studies. There is no need to have GCSE Religious Studies, or to have any particular ‘faith’ in order to study this subject at AS/A2 level. What will I learn? You will study Ethics and Philosophy; that is the Ethics of Religion and the Philosophy of Religion. At AS Level in the Ethics module you will study four major normative ethical theories: Utilitarianism, Natural Law, Kantian Ethics and Situation Ethics. You will then apply these to a variety of moral issues, including abortion, the right to a child, euthanasia, genetic engineering and warfare. In the Philosophy module you will study some of the major philosophical questions asked of religion, and will consider the answers given by some of the leading thinkers in history. You will also look at ancient Greek and Judaeo-‐Christian influences on the philosophy of religion, including the contributions of Plato and Aristotle. At A2 Level in the Ethics module you will explore ethical issues surrounding free Will and determinism as well as conscience, and you will study a further two ethical theories: Virtue Ethics and Meta Ethics. You will then apply these theories, in addition to the theories studied at AS Level, to the issues of sexual, business and environmental ethics. In the A2 Philosophy module you will explore issues surrounding religious language, religious experience, the nature of God, life and death and the soul. You will ultimately learn about yourself as well, as you uncover the reasons behind your own thinking and decision making processes: what causes you to think and behave in the way you do? How is the course structured and assessed? The course has 2 units at AS and 2 units at A2. There is an Ethics and a Philosophy module at both AS and A2 Level. The two units studied at AS are a foundation for the units studied at A2. There is no course work component. At AS Level, there is a written exam of 1 hour 30 minutes on each unit (total 3 hours). In each of the two units, you will answer two essay questions from a choice of four. Each unit accounts for 50% of the total AS marks and 25% of the total A Level marks. At A2 level there are two exams of 1 hour 30 minutes (total 3 hours). In each of the two units, you will answer two essay questions from a choice of four. Each unit accounts for 25% of the total A Level marks. What degree courses and careers will this course be useful for? Religious Studies is accepted by all universities and is an increasingly popular A-‐Level, as it can lead into so many different courses and careers. Theology or Philosophy would be obvious choices; however, RS lends itself to any humanities degree as the skills you acquire are easily transferable. Religious Studies students in recent years have entered all sorts of careers, such as: the Media, Journalism, Teaching, the Legal profession and even the Church!
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Subject: SPANISH Exam Board: AQA http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/languages/spanish_noticeboard.phpp Head of Department: Mrs S Vercher What do I need before starting this course? You need to have achieved GCSE standard in the language before embarking on the AS course. It is advisable to have at least a grade B at GCSE. What will I learn? You will gain an insight into Spanish language and the culture of the Spanish speaking countries. You will also acquire skills and understanding for practical use, for further study or for employment. How is the course structured and assessed? The course is divided into four units, two of which are studied at AS level and two at A2. At AS topics such as the media, popular culture, healthy living and family relationships are studied. At A2 the environment, the multicultural society, contemporary issues and cultural topics form the basis of study. The four units are assessed in the following way: Unit 1 at AS (2 hours): This paper tests the listening, reading and writing skills through a range of questions. Unit 2 at AS (35 minutes, including 20 minutes preparation time) assesses the speaking skill. Here you have to discuss the issues raised in a stimulus card and then hold a conversation with the examiner about three further topics studied on the course. Unit 3 at A2 (2 and a half hours) assesses the listening, reading and writing skills. In the writing section candidates have to refer to the cultural topic studied on the course (it could be a novel, films, a region, a famous architect etc.). Unit 4 at A2 (35 minutes including 20 minutes preparation time) tests the speaking skill and it consists of a discussion of a stimulus card and a conversation on the two cultural topics studied on the course. You have to be ready to participate actively in lessons, as there is a strong emphasis on the use of the language orally. Debates, presentations and research on the different topics are common elements of the course. There is no coursework. What can I do afterwards? With a language at A level you can continue to study it at university or you can combine it with any other degree. A language will always open doors, no matter what you study. It will provide you with skills that you will be able to apply in many walks of life and it will show you a different way of understanding and organising the world. Spanish is the world’s third most spoken language after English and Chinese, therefore being able to speak it will always be an asset for you.
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OTHER COURSES
Subject CRITICAL THINKING Exam Board OCR Head of Dept Mrs Mucheru
What do I need before starting this course? All Year 12 students at Monkton take an AS in Critical Thinking unless receiving extra tuition for linguistic reasons or already attempting 5 AS subjects. There are no GCSE requirements for this course. How is this course structured and assessed? Two exam papers: Level Unit Title of Exam Paper Duration Exam sat
in % AS
AS 1 F501 Introduction to Critical Thinking 1 hour 30 January 50% AS 2 F502 Assessing and Developing
Argument 1 hour 30 June 50%
There is no coursework. What do students get out of Critical Thinking? Learning to think critically enables students to create and justify their own opinions and to judge the opinions of others. These are valuable skills that can be applied to your other A level subjects, university studies, and life beyond higher education. Critical Thinking carries the same UCAS points as any other A level subject. Students can choose whether to certify their final grade and many find it useful in university applications alongside their other subjects. For students who do not wish to certify their final grade, the course still holds much value in equipping them to deal with the real world and engage with current political and social issues. For more information about the course visit www.ocr.org.uk
What will I learn in the course?
• How to create and recognise effective argument • An understanding of current affairs and issues of
citizenship and ethics We use a workbook to cover the various skills required for the course and then apply this knowledge to current affairs and ethical topics from a range of media sources.
Is this subject of use when applying for degree courses and careers? Critical Thinking hones skills in debate, analysis and evaluation of argument. These are highly transferable across any subject and are therefore of interest to universities whatever course you consider taking consider taking.
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OTHER COURSES Subject: EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ) Exam Board: EDEXCEL Head of Department: Miss Victoria Armand Smith The Extended Project is a qualification that gives a pupil the chance to explore a subject that truly interests and inspires them. It is equivalent to an AS level in terms of UCAS points and is highly valued by universities as it prepares pupils extremely well for both the type and depth of study expected at undergraduate level. At Monkton Year 12 pupils are given the opportunity to write the 5,000 word EPQ Level 3 dissertation from January through to the end of the Michaelmas Term in Year 13. The dissertation is characterised by the use of critical, analytical thinking skills as well as a high level of independent research, writing, analysis and presentation skills. Pupils will develop and explore the central idea of their project, discussing the different aspects with supporting reasons for the choices they have made during project development. The project will show evidence of the development of lines of argument and/or consistent, sustained, reflective discussion on the direction the project is taking. There should also be a critical awareness when handling source material or data and they should be able to relate their project to a wider social or ethical context. At Monkton all pupils considering applying for Oxbridge are required to take the EPQ -‐ although this course is open to other pupils as well. Pupils will be assigned a tutor, who will meet with them fortnightly throughout the year. In addition to this pupils will have the highly valuable opportunity to conduct research at the University of Bath’s central library during Year 12 Activities Week. Example EPQ titles are: The Optimisation of Equipment used in Space Laboratories; The Analysis of the Character of Satan in Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost’; Is it Ethical to Engineer Babies for Designer Purposes?
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OTHER COURSES Subject: IELTS Course (English as a Second Language) Exam Board: IELTS www.ielts.org Head of Department: Mrs C S Morley Students entering the Sixth Form with English as a second language will take a two-‐year English Language programme leading to an IELTS test. If students have already attained a high level in all English skills, they will be invited to take the IELTS test at the end of Year 12. What is IELTS? IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System, which is a test of English language proficiency. It is jointly managed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations,the British Council and IDP Education Australia. IELTS offers two different exams; the Academic Module and the General Training Module. The course at Monkton leads to the Academic Module which is intended for those who wish to enrol in universities and other institutions of higher education. Why should I take an IELTS course? If a student’s first language is not English, the enhancement of all language skills on this course will equip them to perform at a higher level in their AS and A2 courses. If ESL students wish to enter higher education, they will need to prove they have a competent level of English appropriate for this level of study. The IELTS will provide them with a certificate of their level of English recognised by all British Universities and many overseas institutions. What is assessed in the IELTS Test and how is it graded? The IELTS tests the ability to communicate in English in each of the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening, and gives a result for each of these as well as a composite level. Each level corresponds to a descriptive statement giving a summary of English competence. There are nine levels, the top six of which are described as follows;
Level Label Descriptive statement Level 9 Expert User Has fully operational command of the language:
appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
Level 8 Very Good User Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.
Level 7 Good User Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.
Level 6 Competent User Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.
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Level 5 Modest User Has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.
Level 4 Limited User Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.
Is there an entry requirement for the IELTS course? There is no entry requirement. If a student has sufficient language to commence an AS programme at Monkton, he or she can take the IELTS course. Even when students have attained the highest grades in GCSE English or IGCSE ESL, the IELTS course will still help them to develop and strengthen their English skills. This would be particularly important for language-‐based courses like Law and Journalism. At the beginning of year 12, students start the course at a variety of different levels, but most commonly at around levels 5 to 6. How many lessons are taught on the IELTS course? Students preparing for the IELTS have five lessons a week in Year 12 and four lessons a week in Year 13. One of these lessons will be devoted to developing and strengthening reading skills. Intensive and extensive reading skills are strengthened, alongside specific skills required to perform well in the reading section of the IELTS test which is notorious for being the most challenging aspect. Where and when can I take the IELTS test? The IELTS test is most commonly taken in the May of Year 13, at Bath University. Very able students may be ready to take the IELTS test at the end of Year 12. All applications and transportation is organised by the School. What IELTS level will I need? As universities vary in their requirements it is best for students to decide which course they want to take and at which university. They will then be able to discover from that university which IELTS level is necessary for entry. Generally speaking a Level 7 is required for most courses, though some mathematical courses may only require a 6.5.
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OTHER COURSES Subject: CV WRITING AND INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES i/c: Mr D J Coulson CV writing and interview techniques are vital skills that you will need as you move on from Monkton. To help you to prepare for future university or job interviews, we run an intensive CV and interview course for members of Year 12 in the Lent Term. Our plan is for each of you to attend seminars on interview techniques and planning and writing a CV, leading to you compiling your own CV. This would then be passed to one of a panel of external interviewers. Based on the information contained in the CV, you would undergo a mock interview. The interviewer would provide some immediate verbal feedback, to be supported by a written report that would be sent through to Tutors. Individual Tutors would then go through these reports with their tutees in more detail. We believe that the opportunity to practise these key skills will benefit you hugely and give you the extra confidence and self-‐awareness you need when you apply for higher education or direct employment in the next few years.
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ENTERING THE SIXTH FORM
AS SUBJECT CHOICES FOR 2013
In the light of preferences expressed in December 2012 by current pupils in Year 11 and potential entrants to the Sixth Form, the Blocks have now been established as follows:
Block A
Block B
Block C
Block D
Block E
Further Maths English Literature Biology Geography English
Maths Economics French Physics DT
History Photography Classics RS Spanish
Drama Chemistry Art Business Studies Maths
Psychology Music ESL
PE
ESL
Please enter on the enclosed form your choice of 1 subject from a maximum of 4 of the option blocks.
Please note:
• Further Mathematics includes Mathematics; • AS Critical Thinking is a compulsory part of the Sixth Form curriculum for most pupils; • ESL pupils will study ESL as an additional subject.
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ENTERING THE SIXTH FORM
AS SUBJECT CHOICES FOR 2013
Candidate Name: …………………………………………………………………………….. Candidate’s signature: ………………………………………………..…………………….. Parent’s signature: .……………………………………………………….………………….. Tutor’s signature (internal candidates only): …….…………………………………..…. I have chosen 1 subject from a maximum of 4 of the option blocks and my choices are:
Block A
Block B
Block C
Block D
Block E
Please make every effort to ensure that these are your final choices.
For internal candidates, please return this form to: Mr J B Morley, Deputy Head Academic, Monkton Combe School, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HG For external candidates, please return this form to: Mrs I Hartnell, Registrar, Monkton Combe School, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HG
Please return this form as soon as possible – by Monday 18th February latest
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