CAISTOR

YARBOROUGH

ACADEMY

YEAR 9 Choices Booklet

2014 – 16

Your pathway to success!

NAME: ………………………………………………………

2

CONTENTS

Pages

Letter from Mr Newnham and Mrs Watson 3

Key Dates 4

Advice for students 4

The English Baccalaureate 5

The National Curriculum and Choices 5

What Next? 6

The Core Compulsory Subjects

Mathematics 7-8

English Language & English Literature 9

GCSE Science & Additional Science 10-11

Physical Education 12

Everyone Matters (EOM) 13-14

Option Subjects

GCSE Geography 16-18

GCSE History 19-21

GCSE French 22-23

GCSE Spanish 24-25

Other GCSE & BTEC Qualifications

GCSE Art & Design 26-27

BTEC Level 2 First Award in Performing Arts (Acting) 28-29

BTEC Level 2 First Award in Music 30-31

GCSE Resistant Materials 32-33

BTEC Level 1/2 First Award in Hospitality & Catering 34-35

GCSE Biology, Chemistry & Physics 36

BTEC Sport 37

GCSE Information & Communication Technology (ICT) 38

Riseholme College – Land Based Studies 39

Pages for your notes 40

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Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

Welcome to your 2014 Choices Booklet – the start of you and your child making one of

the most important decisions since starting at Caistor Yarborough Academy.

The purpose of this booklet is to provide an outline of the entire Key Stage 4 Curriculum

along with information to help with the making of choices.

This is also a great opportunity for students to select and design part of their timetable

for the next two years at CYA.

That means studying subjects that they enjoy. They do not have complete freedom to

choose subjects. Some are compulsory, and some have an element of choice, but there

is sufficient choice available to personalise the curriculum to suit their strengths,

aspirations and interests.

We are very proud of the range of choices and have designed the curriculum to provide a

broad and balanced education, so giving the best life chances.

All students will receive advice and support to make the right choices. All students

should work closely with their tutor. Remember the vertical system gives them the

opportunity to discuss courses with Year 10 and 11 students.

Students should make careful decisions and listen closely to the advice of teachers and

parents.

We look forward to seeing you at our Choices and Parent Consultation Evening on

Monday 10th February 2014 from 5.00-8.30 pm at CYA.

Please make sure that you have all of the information you need. If you have not, then

please email us on enquiries@cyac.org.uk or telephone us on 01472 851383.

Yours sincerely

Jeremy Newnham Pam Watson

Headteacher Assistant Headteacher

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Key Dates

Friday 31th January Choices Booklet issued

3rd – 7th February Subject talks in lessons

Monday 10th February Choices/Parents’ Consultation Evening

Wednesday 26th February Final date for return of Choices Forms

3rd March – 4th April Individual student interviews with Mrs Watson

W/B 3th May Choices finalised and letter sent home

Mid/late June Start Year 10 curriculum

Monday 21st July Final date for any Choices changes

Advice to Students Make your choices for the right reasons. Before making your final choices, you should

make sure that:

you read all the information in the booklet;

you enjoy studying the subject (being careful to distinguish between your opinion

of the subject and the teacher);

you have listened to advice from your tutor, subject teachers, parents and older

students;

you are capable of studying the subject to examination level. (Consult your current

subject teachers);

if you have a particular career area in mind make sure you check if specific

subjects are required;

wherever possible leave your choices as wide as possible so you keep your

options open at the end of Year 11;

make sure you do not choose subjects to be with your friends - these are choices

about your future. The Academy will decide on the structure of teaching groups,

and friendships will not be a factor.

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THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE

The government has introduced the English Baccalaureate to recognise achievement in a

range of subjects. This shows that students are able meet the demands of an

increasingly competitive world either in education or in work and training. This is not a

qualification as such. However, it is recognition that a student has a well-rounded

academic education and a Grade C or above in all of the following subjects:

GCSE English Language and English Literature

GCSE Mathematics

Two GCSE Sciences

GCSE History / Geography

GCSE French / Spanish

Universities are likely to look favourably on students who have achieved the English

Baccalaureate. We strongly recommend this for students who wish to continue on to A

Levels and university.

THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM AND CHOICES

All students must study certain subjects at Key Stage 4 (KS4). These are listed below.

English

Mathematics

Science

Physical Education

Personal, Social Health, Citizenship and Cultural Studies Education

Students will have FOUR choices. One of these must be History,

Geography, French or Spanish

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WHAT NEXT?

Please read this Choices Booklet carefully with your child and encourage them to ask

questions of the staff who teach them now, and who may teach them in the subjects that

are new at KS4.

We will be discussing the booklet with them over a series of activities culminating in the

Choices Evening / Parents’ Consultation Evening from 5pm until 8.30pm, on Monday

10th February 2014.

Students should not complete their choices until after the Choices Evening. The

application booklet that they need to fill in will be available on that evening.

Students will be supported in the Academy to enable them to complete the Choices form.

The Choices form must be returned by Wednesday 26nd February and handed to Mrs

Watson. It must also be signed by a Parent/Carer.

We offer an open option system so that students are given the widest possible choice,

and do our very best to give students the choices they selected. Please understand that

it may not always be possible or feasible to do so. If this is the case we will speak to

students individually about this.

It is important to recognise that there must be a final day to change choices, as once a

course of study has begun it becomes increasingly difficult to change. This year, the final

date for changing subject choices will be Monday 21st July 2014. After this time it will

not be possible to alter choices or groups.

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THE CORE COMPULSORY SUBJECTS

Mathematics (CORE)

You will follow the Edexcel linear GCSE course

and will study number, algebra, geometry,

statistics and handling data. The exam can be

taken either at higher (A*-D) or foundation level

(C-G). There will be marks awarded for quality

of communication and questions about problem

solving, interpreting and applying mathematics.

There are 2 written papers each contributing 50% of the final grade – these will be sat at

the end of Year 11.

Each paper will be 1 hour 45 minutes and 100 marks on each paper.

• Paper 1: Non-calculator

• Paper 2: Calculator

The functional elements of mathematics are assessed on each paper:

30-40% of the Foundation Tier papers

20-30% of the Higher Tier papers.

If there is any additional information you require, please feel free to ask any member of

the Mathematics team.

GCSE Statistics (Edexcel) will be taken alongside GCSE Mathematics by most

students.

Is this the right subject for me?

The age of statistics is upon us.

Statistics are being used at an increasing rate in business, politics and science. In the

real world we are constantly bombarded through the media with graphs, economic data

such as Retail Price Index (RPI) and various other statistical statements.

If you want to learn about the role statistics plays in all aspects of everyday life and how

to interpret and use statistical statements then our GCSE in Statistics is the right subject

for you.

What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?

You will need very little previous statistical knowledge to be able to take this course. In

Key Stage 3 you will have done some data-handling work which will be repeated at the

beginning of this course.

Foundation students need to have a basic understanding of accuracy, fractions, decimals

and percentages. Higher-level students need, in addition, to be familiar with the

equation of a straight line and have a basic understanding of the shapes of exponential

curves.

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What will I learn?

In this course, you will learn:

• how to collect, summarise and represent unbiased data

• the skills necessary to read, analyse and interpret data and various diagrams and

statistical statements accurately

• to develop your ability to reason and discuss results

• how to predict what will happen in the future by making forecasts based on statistical

results and considering the probability of something happening.

How will I be assessed?

Task (teacher assessed)

Approximately 8 to 10 hours

Written paper:

Foundation Tier 1 hour 30 mins

Higher Tier 2 hours

This will involve you choosing, with the help

of your teacher, a task to investigate. You

will make a plan, collect data, analyse it

and then write up a report on your work.

Some of this will be done during lesson

time.

Each paper will have some short and some

long questions. Many of them will involve the

use of real-world data. You could be asked, for

example, to design questionnaires, draw box

plots and scatter diagrams, interpret

diagrams, carry out calculations and interpret

statements.

What can I do after I have completed the course?

You can use the skills you have acquired when studying further subjects at all levels.

Biology, psychology, economics, geography, engineering and archaeology are among the

many subjects that rely at times on an understanding of statistical data. You might also

use these skills to make decisions about things in your own life such as investing

savings, choosing electrical equipment and buying cars. Studying statistics at AS Level

and university can lead on to a variety of jobs including areas such as manufacturing,

insurance and civil service. Statisticians are needed in most walks of life.

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English Language and English

Literature (CORE)

You will receive two separate GCSE grades. Literature will be taken at the end of Year

10, followed by English Language in Year 11.

Both courses will be assessed by a blend of final examination and controlled assessment

at the end of the course.

English Literature

You will either follow the course for AQA or EDEXCEL iGCSE in English Literature. Both

courses will include a study of novels, plays and poetry.

AQA – 25% controlled assessment, 75% terminal exam.

EDEXCEL – 100% terminal exam.

English Language

Producing creative texts 15%: Two controlled assessment tasks to develop and

assess your writing skills.

Reading Response 15%: A controlled assessment responding to a literary text.

Spoken Language Study 10%: A controlled assessment analysing language use

in spoken forms.

Exam (2 hours 15 minutes) 60%

Response to non-fiction texts followed by two writing tasks.

As we continually strive to produce the best results possible and meet individual needs,

we may enter you for alternative boards for this exam.

Although Speaking and Listening does not contribute to your final mark for some

examination boards, it is still an integral part of your development in English, so we will

give you plenty of opportunities to use these skills.

Controlled Assessment

These are completed in controlled conditions and cannot be taken home. There is also a

limit on the amount of time you can spend on it and deadlines must be met.

It is not an exam, because you are aware of what you are being asked to do and will have

prepared beforehand. You are permitted to have one page of notes. However, you will

need to work independently and silently.

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GCSE Science and Additional

Science (CORE)

SCIENCE to be completed in Year 10 and

ADDITIONAL SCIENCE to be completed in

Year 11.

Examination Board — Edexcel

AIMS

Development of students’ understanding of the science around them that affects

their everyday life.

Developing students’ questioning, analytical and evaluative approach to scientific

problems and issues.

To further develop their practical skills in science and an understanding of how

science works.

To encourage enthusiasm about science; this could lead to continued study.

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE

The course builds on all the work done in Science so far and in the same way it includes

some Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The Year 10 course is split up into 3 units; one

each of Biology B1, Chemistry C1 and Physics P1. Each unit contains topics on the

specialist subject.

This pattern is repeated in Year 11 for the GCSE Additional Science (B2, C2, P2 + CAT).

As the groups are usually smaller than those in Year 9, we are able to do a great deal of

practical work in many of the topics.

The topic areas are:

Biology Chemistry Physics

B1

Classifications, variation

and inheritance

Responses to a changing

environment

Problems of, and solutions

to, a changing environment

C1

The Earth’s sea and

atmosphere

Materials for the Earth

Acids

Obtaining and using metals

Fuels

P1

Visible light and the Solar

System

The electromagnetic

spectrum

Waves and the Universe

Waves and the Earth

Generation and

transmission of electricity

Energy and the future

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Students are placed into ability groups based on their Year 9 Teacher Assessment.

Some regrouping may take place at appropriate times throughout the course.

SKILLS REQUIRED

The course builds on many of the skills already acquired during Key Stage 3. In order to

achieve the highest marks, independent research using books, CD ROMs and the

internet are encouraged. An essential skill for success is to have an inquiring mind and

we would expect students to question ideas rather than simply accepting them as fact.

How the marks make up the final Science GCSE grade

The final GCSE Science grade comes from these different areas:

Each Year 10 Unit has an examination accounting for 25% of the GCSE marks, 75%

in total.

Controlled Assessment Tasks (CATs) are also taken which make up the remaining

25% of GCSE marks.

An identical pattern of assessment exists in Year 11 for the award of GCSE

Additional Science.

HOMEWORK

Homework will be set regularly and part of this will be to learn the classwork thoroughly

before tests. All homework is expected to be completed by the deadlines given and

recorded in the student’s planner. A coursebook is provided which will greatly assist the

completion of homework and preparation for Unit tests.

CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES

The two GCSEs in Science and Additional Science will be useful in almost all careers but

particularly those involving technology of any kind. This includes Engineering, Computing

and any careers associated with Medicine, Health & Beauty or working with animals.

It is expected that all students will achieve a pass grade in both GCSEs with many

achieving grades A* to C, which will provide a sound basis for continued study at A level,

GNVQ and other qualifications.

It is hard to imagine a career which does not make use of science!

Biology Chemistry Physics

And additionally:

B2

The building blocks of cells

Organisms and energy

Common systems

And additionally:

C2

Atomic structure and the

periodic table

Ionic compounds and

analysis

Covalent compounds and

separation techniques

Groups in the periodic table

Chemical reactions

Quantitative chemistry

And additionally:

P2 Static and current

electricity

Controlling and using

electric current

Motion and forces

Momentum, energy, work

and power

Nuclear fission and nuclear

fusion

Advantages and

disadvantages of using

radioactive materials

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Physical Education (CORE)

AIMS

Physical education is a compulsory (foundation)

subject for all students in Key Stage 4. It aims to

provide an enjoyable and satisfying programme,

with opportunities for every student to develop

as performers, observers, coaches and officials.

Key Stage 4 PE particularly aims to:

Promote the development of skills and tactics appropriate to each activity studied

alongside knowledge of safety relevant to these activities.

Promote the ability to monitor and develop personal training.

Promote awareness and understanding of physical fitness and its contribution to

the “quality of life” through participation in physical activity.

Develop appreciation of the concept of fair play.

Develop personal skills such as co-operation, responsibility, initiative and

organisation.

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE

At Key Stage 4 all students will follow courses in games and athletics. The programme is

structured to fulfil the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum and to allow

some flexibility through the introduction of a variety of complementary activities.

Major games/activities studied are basketball, badminton and trampolining.

Complementary activities include football, rugby, netball, hockey, table tennis, tennis,

volleyball, rounders, circuit training and aerobics.

Sports Leaders UK Level 1 Award

There will also be an opportunity for interested students to follow a Sports Leadership

Award, which is a recognised qualification and will run alongside core P.E.

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Everyone Matters (EOM) (CORE)

EOM 1: Be Healthy

EOM 2: Stay Safe

EOM 3: Enjoy and Achieve

EOM 4: Make a Positive Contribution

EOM 5: Achieve Economic Well-Being/

Financial Capability

AIMS

To develop the confidence and responsibility to make the most of their abilities

To develop a healthier life style

To develop good relationships, respecting and understanding the differences

between people and their beliefs

The Careers strand of EOM is designed to:

identify the range of post-16 options

help students to use careers advice and support networks to plan and negotiate

their career

set realistic goals

The Cultural Studies strand of EOM is designed to:

continue the study of Cultures and Faiths begun in Y9 in compliance with the

statutory requirement to study different religious beliefs

complement the Full Course study of RE for those opting for that subject

WHAT YOU WILL DO DURING THE COURSE

Students will study or be involved in:

personal finance and the tools available e.g. bank machines and different

accounts

personal health decisions, including the possible risks of alcohol, tobacco and

illegal drugs and the consequences of certain actions

accessing professional health advice and having confidence to seek it

the diversity and differences of ethnic and cultural groups

the identifying of offensive behaviour and how to challenge it

the developing of positive relationships, managing feelings and emotions

supporting the local community

understanding the wider community

understanding their rights as a citizen

Enterprise Education and Work Related Learning

one week of work experience, including appropriate Health & Safety training,

consideration of work related Key Skills and working as a member of a team

the choices open to them when they leave the Academy, e.g. Further Education,

Modern Apprenticeships, 6th Form

self-assessment and decision making exercises

using computer assisted learning programmes for careers

visiting places of Further Education

writing a personal CV, an application form and a letter of application

taking part in a role-play interview

taking part in a Mini-Careers Convention

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SKILLS REQUIRED

To be able to assess their own personal qualities, skills and achievements

To be able to research information

To learn and practise interview skills

To present themselves confidently

To be able to use praise and criticism effectively

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OPTION SUBJECTS

YOU SHOULD CHOOSE FOUR

REMEMBER YOU MUST CHOOSE AT

LEAST ONE FROM HISTORY,

GEOGRAPHY, FRENCH OR SPANISH

- THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE

SUBJECTS

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GCSE Geography (Edexcel Geography A)

Aims

The course will help you develop a sense of

place, both local and worldwide, as well as to

see the challenges and constraints that face

people in other countries including sustainable

development.

You will develop an appreciation of the

planetary environment, including climate change and how people can care for it.

The course will help you to form your own opinions about world issues.

You will acquire and apply skills in map work, fieldwork and related ICT including

Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

What will you study during the course?

The study of Geography is a valuable part of general knowledge and this knowledge will

help you with your studies. Students will be expected to build upon knowledge gained in

KS3 and use their inquisitive minds to explore relevant issues and current affairs.

The overall course comprises of 4 units each worth 25%

Unit 1 - Geographical skills and challenges

This unit will develop skills including map work, drawing and interpreting graphs, field

sketches, using photographs, satellite and aerial images to make conclusions about

the geography of an area and include the use of GIS.

It also includes a section on ‘Challenges to the Planet’ which includes causes, effects

and responses to climate change as well as sustainable development.

Unit 2 - The Natural Environment is split into two sections:

1. ‘The Physical World’ = Coasts, Rivers & Plate Tectonics

This covers Physical Geography, so that students gain an understanding of what

creates many of the features that can be taken for granted, but also understand

the damaging effect that the natural world can have on lives and investigate some

of the possible solutions. Topical events such as the recent storms causing

coastal flooding in nearby areas will be used as case studies and students will be

encouraged to discuss and use their own personal experiences. There will also be

a fieldwork visit to the Holderness coast, to study coastal erosion which will incur

a cost of approximately £15. Students will get to benefit from seeing the places

being studied first hand.

2. ‘Environmental Issues: A Wasteful World’ – an investigation into how waste is

managed locally.

This will involve discovering what happens to your household waste as well as

looking at the National and International aspects of waste. Half the topic involves

studying energy alternatives: renewable energy such as wind turbines, solar

energy and ground sources, as well as non-renewable energy like gas, nuclear

and wood. Students will use their creativity to design an eco-friendly house based

on what they have learnt during the topic. We hope to include a visit to Hemswell

Recycling Centre so students can find out in greater detail what really happens to

their waste once it leaves the wheelie bin.

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Unit 3 – The Human Environment

1. ‘The Human World’ will study

a. Economic change: primary, secondary and tertiary industry; globalisation;

development of new technologies; deindustrialisation of rural areas.

b. Settlement change: site, situation, growth and shape of settlements; the

movement of populations from and to rural areas; land use in towns; the

need for more housing and the impact on the countryside; redevelopment

of ‘Brownfield’ sites; rapid growth of urban areas in Low Income Countries

(LICs).

c. Population change: The reasons for the growth of the world population;

factors which enable people to move through technology, transport

developments and relaxation of national boundaries; retirement migration

2. ‘People Issues’ will be studied through tourism, with particular reference to

Cleethorpes, Blackpool, the Peak District, Cyprus, Zanzibar and ecotourism in

Gambia. This enables students to find out about the range of holidays which are

now available and investigate a variety of tourist destinations in detail.

Unit 4 - Investigating Geography

This is an internally assessed piece of work taken under controlled conditions and

externally moderated. It will involve fieldwork as well as the production of a report.

The titles change each year. This year students are studying changes in Caistor over

recent decades whereas last year they looked at reasons why Lincoln is attractive to

tourists.

Fieldwork will take place in the summer term of Year 10, with final deadline of the

summer holidays. The cost will vary depending where this takes place.

So Why Choose Geography?

GEOGRAPHERS CAN:

Make a concise report

Handle data

Ask questions and find the answers

Make decisions about an issue

Analyse material

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Manage themselves

Solve problems

Be independent thinkers

This makes young people more employable, which is vital in such a competitive job

market. If you are enjoying studying Geography and are good at it – carry on studying it.

You are more likely to obtain your best results in a subject you enjoy and are good at!

The transferable skills which Geography fosters are an asset in the complex world of

employment today. You must remember that the nature of peoples’ working lives is

changing. It is less likely that you will spend all your life with one company or organisation

(the ‘job for life’). Most Geographers will use their skills in general careers such as

management, administration, finance, retail and in the media. But some specific careers

where you can use your subject knowledge include:

Teachers

Environmental advisors such as

for the Environment agency

Geologists

Tourist related jobs

Armed services

Flood prevention

Town planning

Engineering

And in some less common careers

such as:

Civil aviation e.g. pilot, air traffic

control

Astronauts

Volcanologists

Seismologists

Meteorologists

Hydrologists

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GCSE History (OCR)

Paper 1: 45%

Aspects of International Relations - A New World? 1945 - 2005.

German Depth Study, 1918 - 1945

Paper 2: 30%

How was British society changed, 1890 - 1918?

Controlled Assessment: 25%

A land of Freedom? America 1945-75

GCSE history is all about your opinion on key questions.

A New World? 1945 – 2005 Paper 1.

Germany 1918 - 1945

How effective has terrorism been since 1969?

Aims, motives and methods of the PLO, PIRA & AL-Qaeda.

Can terrorism ever be justified?

Leadership of terrorist groups.

Government reactions.

Effectiveness of terrorist groups

How secure was the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe?

Opposition in Hungary 1956 & Prague 1968

Building of the Berlin Wall 1961

Importance of Solidarity

Gorbachev and the decline of the USSR

What is the significance of the Iraq War?

Reasons for the invasion by the multinational force in 2003.

Legality of the war in Iraq.

Timescale of the invasion.

Consequences of the invasion inside Iraq and internationally.

Was the invasion of Iraq success?

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How was British society changed, 1890 – 1918? Paper 2.

Protesting is not a modern invention - what caused these demonstrations?

What was the real impact of the First World War?

Controlled Assessment

America - A land of freedom? 1945-75

Communism and the Red Scare, Civil Rights movement

Who voted me into power?

How could I kill 13 million people?

AND start a world war?

Is it true I only wanted to be an artist?

German Depth Study

Students will study four key questions connected to

Germany in the period 1918 – 1945.

Was the Weimar Republic doomed from the start?

Why was Hitler able to dominate Germany by 1933?

How effectively did the Nazis control Germany?

What was it like to live in Nazi Germany?

Living and working conditions for the

poor.

Social reforms

Suffragettes and suffragists

Women and the war effort.

The right to vote.

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Why History matters?

GCSE history teaches you to:

form your own opinions

articulate them effectively

engage with the world around you

GCSE history shows employers:

You are literate

You are hard working

You have excellent communication skills

Employers look for history as it develops a wide variety of transferable skills.

Career options...

Game designer – Assassins Creed, COD based on historical accuracy.

Researcher.

Politician – (we spend a lot of time arguing - it’s good practice)

Journalism.

The Law.

You must be prepared to read and write a lot. Your opinions will be challenged!

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GCSE French

Why choose to study a GCSE in a Modern Foreign

Language?

Speaking a second language enhances

understanding of our own culture and opens doors to

others. It offers advanced job prospects and the

opportunity to travel. Interested? Read on!

What does the course entail?

If you choose to continue with your French studies you will follow the WJEC French GCSE

course. This particular course allows you to undertake written and spoken controlled

assessment, counting for a full 60% of your final mark.

The controlled assessment is spread evenly throughout the 2 year course with all pieces

being completed under controlled conditions in the Academy. You will complete 4 pieces

of controlled assessments for the written element and two speaking exams. Your best

two pieces of written work will be chosen for your portfolio.

At the end of the course, there will be examinations in the 2 remaining skill areas (Units)

– Listening and Reading. You will be entered for either Higher or Foundation tier.

Foundation - Targets Grades C to G

Higher - Targets Grades A* to C

Topics to be covered include:

Personal and social life

Self, family, friends, home life, shopping, meals, healthy living, illness and accident, free

time, fashion, relationships, future plans.

Local community

Home town, school, education, local environment, pollution, recycling, local facilities,

comparisons with other towns and regions, weather and seasons.

The world of work

Work experience, part-time jobs, future careers, technology (sending messages,

accessing information).

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The wider world

Travel and holidays, media, social issues (e.g. life

of young people today, homelessness, crime,

drugs, healthy living, religion, politics), life in the

countries and communities where the language is

spoken.

Details about the Units

Listening (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)

You will listen to a CD and you will hear everything twice. You answer in a question

booklet with a variety of responses e.g. tick-boxes, responses in English, multi-choice etc.

Reading (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)

You will have a variety of reading tasks, including signs, messages and brochure extracts.

Speaking (30%) Exam length: 15 minutes (approximately- per exam)

The speaking exam takes place with your language teacher and is recorded. You will

deliver a prepared presentation and take part in a discussion and a conversation.

Writing (30%) Exam length: 1 hour (each piece of work)

The written assessments take place throughout the two year course and will be

completed in exam conditions in the hall. You will write between 200-300 words per

piece of work per topic area.

Reference Materials

We use the textbook, Metro 4. In addition, students will also use authentic reading and

listening materials, such as articles from French magazines and newspapers and texts

from the Internet. They will also have access to French DVDs, offering relevant and

interesting insights into French culture. Ideally, you will need your own bilingual

dictionary and CGP revision guide. (We can order these through the Academy for you).

Careers in Languages

Foreign languages are increasingly essential for careers in many different fields.

The demands of working in an international dimension make knowledge of one or

more languages a useful tool in many areas of work. Languages are also very

important for personal and social development and enjoyment!

Employers say they value the key skills developed by language learners – these

include: communication skills, team working skills, interpersonal skills,

presentation skills, problem solving skills, organisational skills and positive learning

strategies…

Overseas inward investment into this country means that multilingual employees

are needed in the UK - communication barriers lead to missed business

opportunities.

Some Universities are thinking of making a language qualification a requirement for

entry.

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GCSE Spanish

Why choose to study a GCSE in a Modern Foreign

Language?

Speaking a second language enhances understanding

of our own culture and opens doors to others. It offers

advanced job prospects and the opportunity to travel.

Interested? Read on!

What does the course entail?

If you choose to continue with your Spanish studies you will follow the WJEC Spanish

GCSE course. This particular course allows you to undertake written and spoken

controlled assessments, counting for a full 60% of your final mark.

The controlled assessment is spread evenly throughout the 2 year course with all pieces

being completed under controlled conditions in the Academy. You will complete 4 pieces

of controlled assessments for the written element and two speaking exams. Your best

two pieces of written work will be chosen for your portfolio.

At the end of the course, there will be examinations in the 2 remaining skill areas (Units) -

Listening, Reading and Speaking. You will be entered for either Higher or Foundation

tier.

Foundation - Targets Grades C to G

Higher - Targets Grades A* to C

Topics to be covered include:

Personal and social life

Self, family, friends, home life, shopping, meals, healthy living, illness and accident, free

time, fashion, relationships, future plans.

Local community

Home town, school, education, local environment, pollution, recycling, local facilities,

comparisons with other towns and regions, weather and seasons.

The world of work

Work experience, part-time jobs, future careers, technology (sending messages,

accessing information).

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The wider world

Travel and holidays, media, social issues

(e.g. life of young people today,

homelessness, crime, drugs, healthy living,

religion, politics), life in the countries and

communities where the language is

spoken.

Details about the other Units:

Listening (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)

You will listen to a CD and you will hear everything twice. You answer in a question

booklet with a variety of responses e.g. tick-boxes, responses in English, multi-choice etc.

Reading (20%) Exam length: 35 minutes (Foundation), 45 minutes (Higher)

You will have a variety of reading tasks, including signs, messages and brochure extracts.

Speaking (30%) Exam length: 15 minutes (approximately- per exam)

The speaking exam takes place with your language teacher and is recorded. You will

deliver a prepared presentation and take part in a discussion and a conversation.

Writing (30%) Exam length: 1 hour (each piece of work)

The written assessments take place throughout the two year course and will be

completed in exam conditions in the hall. You will write between 200-300 words per

piece of work per topic area.

Reference Materials

We use the textbook, Listos 3. In addition, students will also use authentic reading and

listening materials, such as articles from Spanish magazines and newspapers and texts

from the Internet. They will also have access to Spanish DVDs, offering relevant and

interesting insights into Spanish culture. Ideally, you will need your own bilingual

dictionary and CGP revision guide. (We can order these through the Academy for you).

Careers in Languages

Foreign languages are increasingly essential for careers in many different fields.

The demands of working in an international dimension make knowledge of one or

more languages a useful tool in many areas of work. Languages are also very

important for personal and social development and enjoyment!

Employers say they value the key skills developed by language learners – these

include: communication skills, team working skills, interpersonal skills,

presentation skills, problem solving skills, organisational skills and positive

learning strategies…

Overseas inward investment into this country means that multilingual employees

are needed in the UK - Communication barriers lead to missed business

opportunities.

Some Universities are thinking of making a language qualification a requirement

for entry.

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OTHER GCSE AND BTEC QUALIFICTIONS

GCSE Art & Design

Art and Design is both a form of communication and

a means of expressing ideas and feelings. The

course aims to encourage students to develop their

imagination, the way they look at objects and how

they record what they see. The syllabus has been

devised to combine both breadth and depth of

study with the freedom of choice to accommodate a

wide range of abilities and material resources.

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY DURING THE COURSE

The course requires you to produce at least four coursework projects, consisting of two

set projects, a Year 10 Examination and a Mock Examination at the beginning of Y11.

Students also have to complete a Timed Examination project at the end of the course. All

five projects will be submitted, at the end of the course, in the form of a portfolio. From a

common starting point students will have the opportunity to develop and refine their

skills in a variety of media in order to achieve a final outcome. Personal research is

important. The techniques and media available to each student will include drawing,

painting, collage, printmaking, graphic design and clay. Each project must link to the

work of an artist or designer. The topics and themes covered may include portraiture, a

still life project, studying the work of William Morris and two more topics of your own

choice.

SKILLS REQUIRED

The most important requirements for this course are to be independent, creative,

dedicated, determined, organised and to be able to meet deadlines. To do the latter you

must be self-disciplined and driven. Good observational drawing skills are an advantage

but not essential.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES

Your 4 coursework projects and Y11 Examination will be marked on the following criteria:

Observational Drawing

Show a range of drawing styles through the completion of drawings from first hand

observation. These drawings must be of high quality and variety.

Artist Link

Research and investigate 2 or 3 artists’ work. Copy the work of the artists and develop

your own drawings, using the style of each artist.

Development

Using your original drawings to create and modify your ideas using a range of media.

Select and research the work of one or more artist as stimulus to further develop your

drawings and ideas.

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Personal Response

For each project a final piece must be created. It must be creative and original. This final

piece must reflect everything you have done in Assessment Objectives 1, 2 and 3. It is

the ending to the project.

ART AND DESIGN PORTFOLIO

A certificate is awarded on the successful completion of:

2 coursework projects

Year 10 Examination (which will be included in the coursework portfolio)

Year 11 Mock Examination (which will be included in the coursework portfolio)

Year 11 Examination (4 weeks preparation time, 10 hour Examination)

HOMEWORK

To complete the course, Art students are expected to use their own initiative and

demonstrate that they are prepared to study in their own time. It is imperative that all Art

students complete all coursework if they are to achieve the highest grade possible.

GCSE students have access to the Art Room (T7) every lunch time. They are expected to

come to the GCSE catch up session on Tuesday lunchtime and the after-school session,

on a Monday night 3.45pm – 5.00pm.

CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Careers and occupational opportunities following this course could include:

fine art, photography, printmaking, printing industry, fashion, hairdressing and related

beautician skills, television, film, animation, theatre design and production work,

restoration, carving, bookbinding, fabric design, landscape garden design, interior design

and associated decorating skills, graphic design, book illustration and ceramic work.

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BTEC Level 2 First Award in

Performing Arts (Acting)

AIMS

Students will learn techniques in acting using a range of styles and genres

Students will interpret published play texts for performance

Students will learn how to structure a range of materials into pieces of devised

drama for performance

Students will learn how to prepare for and perform a solo audition piece

WHAT YOU WILL BE STUDYING DURING THE COURSE

Through drama workshops you will learn how to develop your vocal and movement skills

to enable you to show a range of acting techniques, characterisations and emotions. You

will read a range of play texts from which you will take information to help you to create

characters which are original, creative and believable. You will also be exploring a range

of issues, themes and ideas through drama.

The final externally assessed unit requires you to apply for an imaginary acting job and

prepare a solo audition piece to perform in front of an External Examiner. Your work will

be videoed on a regular basis and you are expected to keep a Working Log of all the work

and research that you do.

SKILLS REQUIRED

You are expected to have strong acting skills and a willingness to work co-operatively and

creatively in small groups. You should enjoy reading and acting out extracts from play

texts as well as trying out different ideas. It is expected that students who opt for this

course are committed to improving their acting and creative skills. Many skills acquired

during the course can be transferred to those needed in the workplace in any area or

further study.

You will be directed as if part of a theatre company with the emphasis of ensemble work

(working together) and acquiring those skills and attitudes that a performer must have in

order to progress.

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COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS

All units, except the Solo Project will be assessed by your teacher. Students must pass all

three units and can be awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction. The evidence needed for

each unit is made up of a student’s Working Log of ideas, research, personal evaluations

and targets for improvement. There will also be video evidence of workshops, rehearsals

and performances. Finally your teacher will keep a file of statements and reports relating

to your progress, effort and achievement on the course.

CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES

This course will enable you to move directly on to study for the BTEC National Diploma in

Performing Arts, which is available at many of our local Further Education Colleges, or AS

and A Level Theatre or Media Studies. It is designed to develop confidence as well as

skills which can assist in many professions.

Career opportunities include:

performing in the entertainment industry,

teaching,

directing or technical design in specialist areas such as lighting, sets, make-up

and costume.

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BTEC Level 2 First Award in

Music 2014

The BTEC First Certificate in Music has been developed to focus on:

Education and training for musicians

Providing opportunities for musicians to achieve a nationally recognised Level 2

vocationally specific qualification (equivalent to 1 GCSE)

Providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of specific musical skills/

techniques, personal qualities and attitude essential for successful performance

in working life

What you will study on the course:

Unit 1: Working in the music industry (externally assessed - EXAM)

In this unit you will study and research the various organisations and jobs within the

music industry. This unit is designed to open your mind to the wide variety of careers

available to you as musicians.

Students will complete a 60 minute externally assessed unit on Unit 1: The Music

Industry.

Students will answer a variety of questions about organisations and career roles within

the music industry. Questions can be in the form of multiple choice, single answer or

extended writing.

Unit 2: Managing a music product (internally assessed by your tutor)

In this unit you will plan, develop and deliver a music product. You will be responsible for

promoting and managing the product/ event. You will then review the success of the

product/ event. This unit is designed to introduce you to the work skills required when

working in the music industry.

Unit 4: Introducing music composition (internally assessed by your tutor)

In this unit you will create a composition portfolio of musical starting points or ideas. You

will develop and extend some of these ideas before choosing to develop one into a full

scale four minute composition. This unit is taught through the medium of music

technology (Cubase 6) which will help you develop your skills in this area further.

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Unit 5: Introducing music performance (internally assessed by your tutor)

In this unit you will perform either as a soloist or as part of a group. With guidance from

your tutor and instrumental teachers you will chart your progress as a performer

reviewing your skills and areas to develop. Your performances in concerts will be used

as part of this unit.

Skills required:

A keen interest in music

You will need to be able to play an instrument or be prepared to sing

A willingness to explore lots of different musical styles and genres

A willingness to perform in front of others

The ability to work co-operatively with others

The ability to meet and keep to deadlines

A willingness to attend rehearsals / concerts outside of normal lesson/ school

times

Careers and opportunities:

This course will enable you to move directly on to study the BTEC National Diploma in

Music or A level Music / Music Technology.

Careers include:

teaching,

performing or working in the live / recorded sound industry.

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GCSE Resistant Materials

Resistant Materials is a course that focuses on the way in which products are made and

the materials that they are made from.

Everything around us has been designed and manufactured at some point and the

Resistant Materials course will give those participating on it a broad understanding of a

wide range of materials and manufacturing processes.

Who should study this course?

This course will suit those who have:

an interest in making things

an interest and ability in drawing

the ability to work very neatly and accurately

the ability to plan, manage and organise your time and work

patience, and a willingness to repeat things to improve them

self-discipline

a desire to learn about this subject

Students will spend Year 10 completing a range of skill building practical activities as

well as learning crucial theory knowledge.

Midway though Year 10 students begin their major project which can be selected from a

range of tasks set by the exam board. Students produce an A3 portfolio along with a final

functional product that they design and manufacture from scratch, using a range of

materials.

Resistant Materials would suit any student that has an inquisitive mind and would like to

progress towards a Product Design, Engineering or Architectural career.

Exam Board & Final

Qualification

EDEXCEL - GCSE Design and Technology: Resistant

Materials

Time allocation: 5 hours per fortnight

Coursework

1. The coursework requires the completion of a design and make task which is supported

by a number of focused practical activities, culminating in the production of a design

folder and product made from resistant materials (wood, metal or plastic). The project

should clearly demonstrate a wide range of graphical, planning and practical skills.

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2. Theory: this will be closely linked to the coursework requirements in the form of

associated knowledge and understanding of materials and components,

manufacturing, control and aesthetics.

Assessment

1. Coursework 60% - A design and make task which includes a 20 page A3 folder and a

practical outcome.

2. Terminal Examination 40% - This tests the understanding of designing and making.

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BTEC Level 1 / 2 First Award in

Hospitality and Catering

Why study the BTEC in Hospitality and

Catering?

AIMS

There any many reasons for choosing the course:

to learn about the hospitality industry

to learn about products and services

to learn the importance of customer service

to learn how to plan a hospitality event

to learn about healthy food and special diets

to learn craft skills in preparation, cooking and serving food

to learn about how to apply work based skills

to learn about the different foods around the world

to learn about different types of ingredients used in cooking

to learn how to present and serve food to people

to develop life skills

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING DURING THE COURSE

UNIT 1: Investigating the Hospitality Industry: Students will research all aspects of

hospitality which will include visits to organisations and listening to guest speakers.

UNIT 2: Products and Services: Students will learn about products and services

provided and used by the hospitality industry.

UNIT 3: Exploring buffet food: Students will design and make a range of buffet foods for

an event.

UNIT 4: Preparing and cooking foods: Students will have the opportunity to plan, prepare

and cook a wide range of foods.

UNIT 5: Planning and running hospitality events: Students will plan and organise

hospitality events for the school and wider community.

UNIT 6: Preparing for and sitting an exam: Students will use the research and

experience in the classroom to prepare for the exam

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COURSEWORK REQUIREMENTS

Although the course has a large practical element where students will plan, develop and

make recipes, it also requires you to research and evaluate food related topics. The

written work is an important aspect of the course requirements and takes up at least

50% of lessons. The practical element and written coursework is worth 80% of the

course marks for a pass.

In addition to the practical work and written work there is an exam which is worth 20% of

the course marks.

CAREERS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Students may be interested in a food-related career that requires you to have an

understanding of food nutrition, cooking and development.

Students may wish to learn to cook so that they can take care of themselves when they

eventually become independent. An example of this could be living away from home

when studying at university.

The Academy has a close relationship with the Grimsby College of Further and Higher

Education. Students have the opportunity to visit the college and discuss the

opportunities in hospitality and catering as a career choice. There are a number of

career paths students can take once they have gained the qualification.

If you are interested in the BTEC Hospitality and Catering course but would like to know

more, please come to the Choices Evening. The evening will include a detailed

presentation of the course where you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions

about the course content and expectations.

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GCSE Biology, Chemistry &

Physics (This only counts as one choice as it

replaces Core Science)

Students may choose to study separate GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE

Physics instead of the core GCSE Science & Additional Science. These courses help

students to develop their questioning, analytical and evaluative skills alongside core

practical skills.

It is strongly recommended that students aspiring to achieve the EBacc award should

choose these three GCSE separate science subjects to enhance their chances of

success.

This option choice is particularly suitable for students who are likely to choose science

subjects at A level. This will include those interested in pursuing careers in Science and

Engineering.

Any student choosing this option would be expected to achieve Level 6 or 7 in the Year 9

Assessments.

Studying separate GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics counts as ONE option choice, as

this replaces Core Science & Additional Science.

Course structure:

Each award comprises the relevant content from GCSE Science and GCSE Additional

Science, plus specialist extension units for that subject.

The extension units for Biology, Chemistry and Physics contain:

Extension Unit B3 (Biology) Control systems, behaviour, biotechnology

Extension Unit C3 (Chemistry) Qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, electrolytic

processes, gases, equilibria and ammonia, organic chemistry

Extension Unit P3 (Physics) Radiation in treatment and medicine, X-rays and ECGs,

production, uses and risks of ionising radiation from radioactive sources, motion of

particles, kinetic theory and gases

External assessment (75%) For Biology, three examinations B1, B2 and B3 are taken at

various times in Year 10 & Year 11. Each examination accounts for 25% of the final

GCSE Biology grade.

Internal assessment (25%) The remaining 25% is from CATs in Biology.

An identical pattern of assessment is used for GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics.

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BTEC Sport

Qualification

BTEC First Award in Sport: Level 2 vocational qualification graded at Pass, Merit,

Distinction, Distinction*. 120 learning hours: broadly equivalent to one GCSE.

COURSE OUTLINE

Core Units:

Unit 1: Health & Fitness for Sport & Exercise (externally assessed)

Unit 2: Practical Sports Performance

Optional Specialist Units:

Unit 3: The Mind & Sports Performance

Unit 4: The Sports Performer in Action

Unit 5: Training for Personal Fitness

Unit 6: Leading Sports Activities

Optional Generic Units:

Unit G1: Volunteering in the Community

Unit G2: Work Experience

Unit G3: Carrying out a Vocationally Related Project

Why Study BTEC Sport?

The BTEC Sport course will be appropriate for you if you:

Have a keen interest in sport and always look forward to your PE lessons.

Take part in physical activity outside of college.

Are considering a sports related career or further studies in sport beyond CYA.

Assessment

Learners must complete both Core Units plus two further Units.

Unit 1 will be assessed externally by EDEXCEL.

All other Units will be assessed and marked internally.

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GCSE Information & Communication

Technology (ICT)

The GCSE in ICT qualifications enable students to: • become independent and discerning users of ICT, able to make informed decisions

about its use and aware of its implications for individuals, organisations and society

• acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of ICT

in a range of contexts

• develop ICT-based solutions to solve problems

• develop their understanding of current and emerging technologies and their social

and commercial impact

• develop their understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental

issues raised by ICT

• recognise potential risks when using ICT, and develop safe, secure and responsible

practice

• develop the skills to work collaboratively

• evaluate ICT-based solutions.

Unit 1: Living in a Digital World

In this unit, students explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals,

organisations and society. They learn about current and emerging digital technologies

and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts (learning and earning, leisure,

shopping and money management, health and wellbeing and on the move). They develop

an awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure

and responsible practice.

Overview of assessment

• This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute examination paper set and marked

by Edexcel.

• The total number of marks available for the examination paper is 80.

Unit 2: Using Digital Tools

Overview of content

This is a practical unit. Students broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability.

They work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions

in a range of contexts.

They learn to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and to adopt safe,

secure and responsible practice.

Overview of assessment

The unit is internally assessed under controlled conditions.

Students must complete a controlled assessment task provided by Edexcel.

Students must complete the task within 40 hours.

Marking of the task is carried out by teachers and moderated by Edexcel against set

assessment criteria.

The total number of marks available for the controlled assessment task is 80.

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Riseholme College – Land

Based Studies

Courses leading to City and Guilds Certificates in Land Based Studies are offered at

Riseholme College near Lincoln.

We currently have access to the following courses:

• Animal Care

• Agriculture and Countryside Skills

Engineering

• Horse care

• Agriculture

Choosing from this suite of subjects will take up one option and will require travelling to

Riseholme College, near Lincoln, for one day a week. We are currently reviewing the

funding mechanism for this travel.

If you are interested in this choice, Mrs Kirkby from Riseholme College will be available to

discuss it with you on Choices Evening.

In the meantime if you require further information please contact Mrs Peach, who will be

available to talk to you about the courses.

This course is strictly limited in number and we may need to apply a further testing and

interview procedure to those who wish to apply. This will aim to ensure students are

completely trustworthy and capable of completing the course.

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Notes: