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Contents Introduction 2 Examination Guide 3 GCSE Examinations 3 Outline of Key Stage 4 courses 4

Core Studies English 5 Maths 6 Religious Education 7-8 Science 9-10

Humanities Geography 11-12 History 13-14

Modern Foreign Language Studies French 15-16 German 16-17

Option Studies Art & Design 18 Business 19 Computer Science 20 Design and Technology 21 Drama 22 Music 23

Non examination Studies Physical Education 24 PSHE 24

Employability Skills and Work Related Learning 25

Points to think about 26

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INTRODUCTION

As you enter Key Stage 4, there are some significant differences in the types of courses which you will be following. Briefly, these are as follows: * You will complete a total of eleven GCSE qualifications. Although you will

follow National Curriculum subjects you have a number of options and are asked to select a Modern Foreign Language, a Humanities subject plus two additional subjects

* All the courses you will follow, except for PSHE and PE, lead to GCSE

qualifications * Most of the GCSE courses involve an examination at the end of the Key

Stage, but in addition, some of the work you undertake during the course will count towards your final grade

* GCSE is a preparation for future study. The GCSE programme is arranged

so that you will have a wide choice in the Sixth Form and beyond. During Key Stage 4 your PSHE programme will support you in making future choices and you will have access to individual guidance through teachers at school and Careers South West, the Devon and Cornwall Careers Service.

The courses offered at Colyton Grammar School during Key Stage 4 are aimed at ensuring that all students follow a balanced curriculum, which will provide maximum flexibility for students in future education and career choices. Some choices of subjects have to be made, and such decisions require careful thought. To help you make a sensible individual choice, PSHE time will be used to introduce the courses. Individual guidance is available from Mr Smith, Head of Sixth Form; Mr Banks, Head of Careers, Education & Guidance and Mr Stidwell, Deputy Head; for those students who have difficulty in making their choice.

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EXAMINATION GUIDE

Grades awarded at GCSE will be in the range of 1-9, with 9 indicating an exceptionally high level of attainment. Why are Grades Important? (a) They indicate further potential to employers and selectors, e.g. colleges and

universities (b) Success provides a sound foundation for A Level studies (c) GCSE grades are important independent evidence available to Higher

Education selectors (d) Good grades can lead to lower A Level offers from Higher Education

institutions (e) Mediocre grades can increase the likelihood of total rejection for some

courses and institutions of Higher Education

GCSE EXAMINATION COURSES

The majority of GCSE courses are assessed entirely by final examination. A few GCSE courses contain a mixture of assessment by examination at the end of the Key Stage and coursework which is completed at any time during the course. The following chart shows what methods of assessment have previously been involved in the courses available to you at Colyton.

Subject Coursework/Controlled Assessment (%) Examination (%)

Art 60 40

Biology 0 100

Business 0 100

Chemistry 0 100

Computer Science 20 80

Design and Technology 50 tbc 50 tbc

English Language 0 100

English Literature 0 100

French 0 100

Geography 0 100

German 0 100

History 0 100

Mathematics 0 100

Music 60 40

Physics 0 100

Religious Studies 0 100

Subject Practical Exam & Devising Log Written Exam

Drama 40 60

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OUTLINE OF KEY STAGE 4 COURSES (CORE and OPTION Studies)

Some courses are CORE studies, ie these are subjects that everyone has to take. The following subjects are part of the CORE: English (both Language and Literature) Mathematics PE/Games PSHE RE Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) In addition students will study: One Modern Foreign Language either French or German. One Humanities subject either Geography or History Other subjects are OPTIONAL. Everyone is expected to choose TWO of the following OPTION studies: Art and Design Business Computer Science Design and Technology Drama French Geography German History Music Students can choose to study both languages and/or both humanities by selecting the additional subject as an option. Students will choose subjects they wish to study in order of preference. The School will do its best to fit these choices, but in some cases this may not be possible. COURSE DETAILS The following pages give details of each of the courses available at Colyton Grammar School. If you want further information, you should talk to your subject teachers.

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CORE Studies

English Throughout the course, students will read a variety of literary and non-literary

texts, including travel writing, advertising, magazine articles and others. They will

have the opportunity to write in a number of forms and for a variety of purposes.

They will also speak and discuss in a range of circumstances and for a range of

purposes. Students will also study poetry, prose, and drama.

Students will be encouraged to enjoy the practice of writing, to develop an

independent response to reading and to communicate orally in a considerate and

sensitive manner.

All students will be entered for both English Language and English Literature

examinations. In English Language, 100 % of the final grade will be assessed

through examinations taken at the end of Year 11. Two papers will assess

reading and writing. One will focus on the reading comprehension of modern

literary prose and the skills of narrative writing; the other will assess reading

modern and 19th Century non-fiction prose, as well as requiring students to write

2 non-fiction, transactional pieces. One task, a formal speech, will be assessed

for Speaking and Listening, but this will be reported separately and will not

contribute to the overall GCSE Language grade.

In English Literature, assessment is also 100 % terminal exam. In one paper,

students will be examined on their knowledge of a Shakespeare play and poetry

from English Literary Heritage. A second paper examines a post-1914 literary

text, a 19th century novel and responses to unseen poetry. All exams are closed

book.

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Mathematics Outline of course The course aims to enable students to use and apply mathematics for solving problems and as a means of understanding and communication. It challenges and encourages them to reason logically, to be creative, to hypothesise and test different lines of mathematical argument, both individually and as part of a group. Particular key skills are developed to meet the needs of the National Curriculum. Students are given opportunities to develop:

1. Analytical skills 2. Their ability to represent mathematics in appropriate ways 3. Their ability to interpret and evaluate in a range of situations 4. Communication skills, both written and verbal

The above key skills are used to develop students understanding of number, algebra, geometry and shape, data handling and probability. During the course, students are guided towards appropriate use of mathematical equipment and it is essential that students become familiar with their own calculator. The mental skills introduced in earlier years are further developed during the GCSE course. Assessment All candidates are entered for the higher tier papers of the Edexcel syllabus, which enable students to have access to the highest grades. The course contains no coursework and is assessed by three written papers at the end of the course. The ability to work with and without a calculator will be built into these exams. Departmental Practice From Year 8 onwards students are taught in sets according to their mathematical ability. The setting is continually reviewed throughout KS3 and KS4, with transfers being made when appropriate. IT is becoming a major part of maths learning. Students will become familiar with many software packages and be taught when it is appropriate to use them. Autograph (for graphing, transformations and statistics) and Excel (for investigational tasks and statistics) are the main packages used. All pupils have access to Mymaths. This is an online resource that allows pupils to follow online lessons and is ideal for revision and when lessons have been missed. On occasions homework is also set from this site.

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Religious Education All students follow the Eduqas (Welsh board) GCSE Full course in Religious Education. It includes the following components: Component 1: Religious, Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World (50% of qualification). Assessed in a two hour exam. Component 2: Study of Christianity (25% of qualification). Assessed in a one hour exam. Component 3: Study of a World Faith-Buddhism (25% of qualification). Assessed in a one hour exam. Component 1 includes studying the following topics from different Christian perspectives. Some topics will also be studied from a Buddhist perspective: Issues of relationships: Family relationships, sexual relationships, marriage, changes in relationships and issues of equality. Issues of Life and Death: Scientific and religious beliefs of the origin and nature of the world, the value of life (including animals), beliefs about death and the afterlife, issues of sanctity and quality of life and medical ethics. Issues of Good and Evil: Nature of good, nature of evil, suffering, crime and punishment and forgiveness. Issues of Human Rights: Human Rights, racial prejudice and discrimination, issues of wealth and poverty, issues of social justice, religion in 21st century Britain. Component 2 includes the following: Christian beliefs and teachings: The nature of God, creation, Jesus Christ, Salvation and the afterlife. Christian Practices: Forms of worship, Sacraments, Pilgrimage, the Church in the local community, The worldwide Church. Component 3 includes the following: Buddhist beliefs and teachings: The Buddha, the Dhamma, the four noble truths, human personality, human destiny and ethical teaching. Buddhist Practices: Buddhist places of worship, meditation, devotional practices, death and mourning, festivals and retreats

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Students will be assessed on their ability to:

1. Select and present relevant factual information in an organised way 2. Understand language, concepts, beliefs and practices of religion 3. Relate religious teachings to modern day issues 4. Evaluate religious issues 5. Know and understand social attitudes to contemporary moral issues

Students will be expected to use a wide range of source materials and methods of study (including discussion, debate, interviews, use of library and internet). They will develop skills in essay writing, analysis and evaluation of contemporary moral issues. Work will build upon the studies undertaken at Key Stage 3 and a major aim of the course is to relate material to the modern world and to develop an awareness of religion as a contemporary reality. Assessment is by three exams. The insights and learning skills gained from this course provide a very useful background for A Level study, not only in the Arts but also in the Social Sciences: skills such as investigation, evaluation and organisation have a very wide application. The course is designed so that followers of any religion or of none at all, are equally able to participate.

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Science

All students continue their studies in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The courses are designed to match the ability and needs of individual students, while fulfilling National Curriculum requirements. GCSE Courses Give candidates opportunities to:

Develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, science Develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods Acquire and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of how science

works and its essential role in society Acquire scientific skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for

progressing to further learning

Work in practical design, investigation techniques and analysis of conclusions is assessed as part of the exams and pupils will reflect on practicals in their exercise books. BIOLOGY: Biology is the study of all forms of life - plants, animals and viruses. Topics covered in the course include classification, nutrition, transport, respiration, excretion, growth and development, behaviour, reproduction, disease and genetics. Evaluation of theories teaches us how to solve problems and to test solutions in a logical way. Experimental work gives valuable experience of working individually and in a team. Students present results and findings concisely as they evaluate procedures. Biology offers a fascinating insight into the amazingly complex and delicate environment in which we live, and into the ways our own bodies and minds work. Knowing more about ourselves and other organisms helps us to really judge and act in the best way possible to preserve our own health and sustain the environment. CHEMISTRY: Chemistry plays an ever-increasing role in our modern world. The course provides an introduction to the basic principles and techniques used by the chemist, and uses them to link laboratory work to the chemistry of everyday life. This is the first year for the new GCSE, which will be examined first in 2018. The new GCSE Chemistry syllabus is more challenging than the previous syllabus, but also gives a much better grounding in the fundamentals of the subject. The aim of the course is to provide an appropriate body of knowledge and skills for students who will not study the subject beyond this stage as well as for those who will continue their study of Chemistry to Advanced Level and beyond. The new GCSE syllabus is expected to ease the transition to Advanced Level studies for those who wish to follow Chemistry to a higher level.

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Students will be encouraged to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar situations and helped to develop the ability to interpret, organise and evaluate data in order to solve problems. The importance of the social, economic, environmental and technological aspects of Chemistry will be stressed. Development of practical skills is an integral part of the course, as is the ability to design experiments to solve particular problems and to draw conclusions and make generalisations from results when appropriate. PHYSICS: Physics is the study of the world around us. The length scale studied is vast, ranging from the smallest particles to the whole universe. This course aims to convey the sense of wonder and excitement that physicists experience when they start to understand how the world around us behaves. The GCSE course develops and builds on topics that students will have met at Key Stage 3 as well as preparing students with a firm basis for progression to Advanced Level courses. Students will develop numerical, problem solving and practical skills during the course. In addition they will learn about how Physics concepts are applied in the real world and the impact and implications that Physics has on society. Students will cover the following topic areas during the course: Energy; Electricity; Models of Matter; Atomic Structure; Forces; Waves; Magnetism and Electromagnetism and Space Physics.

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Geography Is Geography a good choice? Students enjoy the range of human and physical topics covered in geography, the insights it can provide into understanding the world around us and the sheer contemporary nature of the issues it tackles. Geography GCSE is very relevant choice in our rapidly changing world. Why is Geography relevant in our rapidly changing world? The subject tackles some of the fundamental challenges faced by people across the globe today. Students will travel the world from the classroom, exploring case studies in the United Kingdom, newly emerging economies and lower income countries. Topics of study include climate change, poverty, deprivation, global shifts in economic power and the challenge of sustainable resource use. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society, by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes. Subject content Unit 1 Living with the physical environment The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the processes and forms associated with tectonic, geomorphological, biological and meteorological processes in different environments, and the need for effective management strategies. Unit 1 is divided into 3 sections: Section A: The challenge of natural hazards Section B: Physical landscapes in the UK Section C: The living world Unit 2 Challenges in the human environment The aims of this unit are to develop an understanding of the factors that produce a diverse variety of human environments; the dynamic nature of these environments that change over time and place; the need for sustainable management; and the areas of current and future challenge and opportunity. Unit 2 is divided into 3 sections: Section A: Urban issues and challenges Section B: The changing economic world Section C: The challenge of resource management Unit 3 Geographical applications This unit is designed to have elements of synopticity. It is an opportunity for students to show their breadth of understanding and appreciation of the inter-relationships between different aspects of geographical study. The GCSE course requires students to undertake two days of fieldwork. Section A: Issue evaluation Section B: Fieldwork

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What sort of skills do Geography courses develop? The course not only develops understanding of our world but also develops a number of very important skills:

Communication skills Teamwork and leadership skills Analytical skills, geographical investigations test hypotheses and involve

analysis Numeracy and literacy Preparing reports which encourages conciseness and clarity in the use of

language Problem solving, geographers can pose problems and then investigate the

answers Decision making Environmental and social awareness The use of Geographical information systems

Assessment consists of three exams: Paper 1: Living with the physical environment – The challenge of natural hazards, Physical landscapes in the UK, The living world, and Geographical skills • Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes • 35% of GCSE Paper 2: Challenges in the human environment - Urban issues and challenges, The changing economic world, The challenge of resource management and Geographical skills. • Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes • 35% of GCSE Paper 3: Geographical applications - Issue evaluation, Fieldwork and Geographical skills • Written exam: 1 hour • 30% of GCSE • This exam will be based on re-release materials. In all exams question types will include multiple-choice, short answer and extended prose.

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History History GCSE – Edexcel The History course comprises of four key elements that are assessed in three separate papers at the end of the course: Paper 1: Thematic study and historic environment (30% of the qualification) The thematic study requires students to understand change and continuity across a long sweep of history, including the most significant characteristics of different ages from the medieval to modern periods. They include people, events and developments and reveal wider changes in aspects of society over the centuries and allow comparisons to be made between different periods of history. We have selected Medicine in Britain, c1250 – present. The historic environment linked to this topic is the British sector of the Western Front, 1914-18: injuries, treatment and the trenches. Within this topic students investigate the ideas about the cause of disease and illness, approaches to prevention and treatment and case studies from the time. This includes the Black Death, William Harvey and the circulation of blood and the implementation and impact of the NHS. The historic environment enables the students to investigate the First World War and create their own source enquiries based on medical records and personal accounts. This paper consists of questions that test all the assessment objectives; recall of knowledge, analysis and evaluation of sources. Paper 2: Period study and British depth study (40% of the qualification) Period study: We have selected the American West, c1835-c1895. The period studies focuses on a substantial and coherent medium time span of at least 50 years and requires students to understand the unfolding narrative of substantial developments and issues associated with the period. This topic enables students to investigate the early settlement of America, the subsequent development of the Plains and the conflicts that ensued. Depth study: We have selected Early Elizabethan England, 1558-88. The depth study focuses on a substantial and coherent short time span and requires students to understand the complexity of a society or historical situation and the interplay of different aspects within it. This topic enables students to investigate Elizabethan society in the Age of Exploration, her role as Queen, the government and religion during the period as well as the challenges she faced at home and abroad. This paper consists of questions that test the first two assessment objectives; recall of knowledge and analysis of information.

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Paper 3: Modern depth study (30% of the qualification) The depth study focuses on a substantial and coherent short time span and requires students to understand the complexity of a society or historical situation and the interplay of different aspects within it. We have selected Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917-41. This topic begins with the revolutions of 1917 and then investigates the Bolsheviks in power until 1924. Following this Stalin’s rise to power and dictatorship is explored whilst considering the economic and social changes that occurred. This paper consists of questions that test all the assessment objectives; recall of knowledge, analysis and evaluation of sources.

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Modern Foreign Language Studies

French

The GCSE French course will develop your desire and ability to communicate with and understand speakers of French in a variety of contexts and for a variety of purposes. It will enable you to cope confidently with the sort of situations you are likely to encounter on a holiday or short professional trip to a French-speaking country, whether it be on a skiing trip, camping holiday, exchange or business excursion. You’ll be able to enter into a discussion about films and other entertainment, you should be able to understand the gist of a news report and you’ll be able to tell someone what your future hopes are. Indeed, you should have the linguistic power to engage in a range of communicative situations which are likely when you visit the French-speaking world. The ability to express yourself in another language also enhances your ability to use your own. You will develop your understanding and knowledge of French and countries and communities where French is spoken, broadening your horizons, developing your cultural knowledge and understanding and fostering transferable skills such as confidence, communication, problem solving and creativity. Themes The Department for Education prescribes three broad themes:

Identity and culture

Local, national, international and global areas of interest

Current and future study and employment Within these themes you will study:

Youth Culture • Self and relationships • Technology and social media Lifestyle • Health and fitness • Entertainment and leisure Customs and Traditions • Food and drink • Festivals and celebrations

Home and Locality • Local areas of interest • Transport France and French-speaking countries • Local and regional features and characteristics • Holidays and tourism Global Sustainability • Environment • Social issues

Current Study • School/college life • School/college studies World of Work • Work experience and part-time jobs • Skills and personal qualities Jobs and Future Plans • Applying for work/study • Career plans

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Assessment GCSE French is a linear qualification with 100% of assessment taking place at the end of the course. There are four components:

Speaking (10-12 minutes) (25%) Listening (45 minutes) (25%)

Reading (1 hour 15 minutes) (25%) Writing (1 hour 30 minutes) (25%) We emphasise practical communication and help you to develop your confidence to manipulate language spontaneously so that you can enjoy and be successful in real-life social situations abroad or dealing with French-speaking visitors. We use realistic and authentic resources and offer you the chance to apply your language skills (and gain a memorable experience) on the Mongré Exchange in the Beaujolais region of France. As with German, you will find qualifications in Foreign Languages essential assets in your career and leisure time.

German

The GCSE German course will develop your desire and ability to communicate with and understand speakers of German in a variety of contexts and for a variety of purposes. It will enable you to travel and thrive in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, broadening your horizons, developing your cultural knowledge and understanding and fostering transferable skills such as confidence, communication, problem solving and creativity.

German is a sister language of English and you will learn it swiftly. Once you get to the end of the course, your level will be parallel with French. The fact that you might have started the language after French does not limit your grades: previous results prove that.

Learning German enhances your employment and mobility prospects, whether you want a career in business, engineering, the media, fashion or world-class football. Young people in other European countries frequently learn several languages to an advanced level. English speakers of German are sought after in the world of work.

Your GCSE in German is proof of a practical skill which can be put to effect in the largest single language grouping in Europe. (More people in Europe have German as their mother tongue than any other language.) You will find that you use this linguistic skill later in life.

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Themes The Department for Education prescribes three broad themes:

Identity and culture

Local, national, international and global areas of interest

Current and future study and employment Within these themes you will study:

Youth Culture • Self and relationships • Technology and social media Lifestyle • Health and fitness • Entertainment and leisure Customs and Traditions • Food and drink • Festivals and celebrations

Home and Locality • Local areas of interest • Transport Germany and German-speaking countries • Local and regional features and characteristics • Holidays and tourism Global Sustainability • Environment • Social issues

Current Study • School/college life • School/college studies World of Work • Work experience and part-time jobs • Skills and personal qualities Jobs and Future Plans • Applying for work/study • Career plans

Assessment GCSE German is a linear qualification with 100% of assessment taking place at the end of the course. There are four components:

Speaking (10-12 minutes) (25%) Listening (45 minutes) (25%)

Reading (1 hour 15 minutes) (25%) Writing (1 hour 30 minutes) (25%) We emphasise practical communication and help you to develop your confidence to manipulate language spontaneously so that you can enjoy and be successful in real-life social situations abroad or dealing with German-speaking visitors. We use realistic and authentic resources and offer you the chance to apply your language skills (and gain a memorable experience) on the Eckental Exchange in Bavaria. Needless to say, as with French, you will find qualifications in Foreign Languages essential assets in your career and leisure time.

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OPTION STUDIES

Art and Design

The GCSE course follows the Edexcel Fine art syllabus, which enables the students to initially work in a range of media and begin to specialise towards the end of the second year. The aim of the course is to develop an understanding of visual and critical thinking in art and provide practical opportunities for students to explore creative ideas in an autonomous way. The syllabus has four assessment objectives around which all the projects are based: AO1 Develop ideas through investigations, demonstrating critical understanding of sources AO2 Refine work by exploring ideas, selecting and experimenting with appropriate media, materials, techniques and processes AO3 Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions as work progresses AO4 Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and demonstrates understanding of visual language

The projects are theme based allowing students to work within their own areas of interest, building from a teacher-led skills base in Year 9 through to more independent and autonomous work in Year 10. The work is compiled in journals /sketchbooks which develop into a creative, visual and written journey exploring the themes covered. These studies lead the students to a final outcome or realisation in two or three dimensions. Students will be introduced to skills in media such as painting, illustration, photography, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, print and mixed media. They must work in at least two of these disciplines during the course. There is a London or St Ives gallery visit and various workshops are offered in addition to the timetabled lessons and twice weekly art club. Coursework consists of three components of study relating to specific themes and represents 60% of the final grade. The remaining 40% is awarded to the externally-set final practical exam. Students complete their GCSE course in Art and Design with an exhibition of their coursework and examination work which is externally assessed at this time.

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Business GCSE Business provides an interesting insight into the role of businesses within society. This new specification focuses on investigating the role of small business and how to develop business ideas. The relationship between business enterprise and other factors such as finance, marketing and human resources are investigated. As the course evolves you will become increasingly aware how relevant the theory is to real life activity. All of us are affected by the activities of business organisations and this course provides an opportunity to prepare for the wider world beyond school. It will encourage you to consider how to succeed in a competitive world and how to look after your interests as customers, employees and citizens affected by business activities. Through greater understanding of the way our economy operates and how businesses behave within this economy, you will be better informed and more able to manage your private and business activities in a successful way. The course will also provide an opportunity to consider what makes businesses successful. In particular, we will look at how to spot a business opportunity, how to put a business idea into practice and how economic conditions impact on small businesses. Areas of study often include:

Marketing – students must consider how topics such as pricing are determined

Motivation – the importance of employee motivation to a business

Understanding exchange rates

Ethics

How to collect research data

The disadvantages of poor customer service

How to improve profit figures

How businesses affect the environment

How to finance a business

Strengths and weaknesses of competitors

Qualities of entrepreneurs

Meeting customer needs

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Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science is a qualification that gives students a real, in depth understanding of how computer technology works. The course is taught through practical activities that involve the students writing programs, disassembling computers, building computer systems and creating networks.

Programming

Students spend a significant proportion of the course learning how to program using the Python programming language and how to develop programs to solve real problems. The work builds on the knowledge and understanding that they have developed at KS3 as they take on increasingly complex problems. Students gain an understanding of how algorithms are planned, converted into code and then debugged.

Computer systems

The students study the fundamentals of computer systems, looking at what goes on inside a computer and developing their understanding of how information and commands are stored on a computer and how these are accessed and used. They also look at how computers interact with each other and get to have practical experience of building networks of computers.

Assessment

Paper 1 40%

Paper 2 40%

Non Exam Assessment 20%

Paper 1: Computational thinking and problem solving Examines programming, computational thinking, problem solving, code tracing and applied computing as well as theoretical knowledge of computer science. Paper 2: Written assessment Examines theoretical knowledge of computer systems, networks, security and software development. Non Exam Assessment Assesses ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical programming problem. Conducted over 20 hours

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Design and Technology

This course allows students to specialise in the focus area of Resistant Materials. They will learn about a range of materials, manufacturing processes, techniques and technologies, and be able to use them appropriately to design and make products. This course aims to encourage students to:

- Investigate, identify and define opportunities for design and technology activity; - Apply design and technology knowledge and principles to create prototypes that

are fit for purpose; - Analyse and evaluate design decisions and outcomes, for prototypes and products

made by themselves and by others; - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of designing, making and technical

principles. This may be achieved through the following:

- Thinking creatively, solving problems, designing products, making models and testing ideas;

- Analysing and evaluating products and processes; - Demonstrating capability by combining design and making skills with knowledge in

order to make quality products; - Developing critical and aesthetic abilities, by evaluating products against the needs

they fulfil; - Developing practical abilities in a range of materials and the confidence to design,

make and modify products, selecting and using resources efficiently; - Considering how past and present technology affects society; - Considering the effects and implications of technological activity, recognising the

moral, cultural and environmental issues inherent in designing and making products.

Design and Technology will be assessed at the end of Key Stage 4 by: Non-exam assessment (50% of the overall course - tbc) Examination paper (50% of the overall course - tbc)

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Drama Students will learn a range of practical skills enabling them to be confident and creative in their use of improvisation and performance. There will be theatre trips, workshops and research opportunities to widen their understanding and enjoyment of drama. They will also learn about the technical aspects of theatre such as lighting, sound, set design, make-up and costume. Drama fosters a wide range of personal and social skills which are highly valued by employers, such as communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving and creativity. Students learn to collaborate with others, think analytically and evaluate effectively. They gain the confidence to pursue their own ideas, reflect and refine their efforts. The syllabus Students will follow the AQA syllabus which allows maximum flexibility and choice. This is still a draft specification, and further changes may be made before it is fully approved. Over the GCSE course, there are three assessed units: COMPONENT 1 – Understanding Drama (40%)

For this unit, students study one set play from a choice of six. They also write about a

live theatre production they have seen.

COMPONENT 2 – Devising Drama (40%) Practical, Internally Assessed

Students create, perform and evaluate a devised piece. They can contribute as a performer or designer. They keep a devising log, which is worth 60 marks. The practical performance is worth 20 marks. COMPONENT 3 – Texts in Practice (40%) Practical, Externally Assessed Students perform 2 extracts from one play. (Students may contribute as performer or designer.)

Personal qualities required for this course

Students do not need to be experienced actors/actresses, but they must be:

Willing to work as a team

Willing to initiate ideas and take part in evaluative discussions

Prepared to perform in front of others

Prepared to work with energy, enthusiasm and with a variety of people

Prepared to show 100% commitment

Prepared to give up their own time after school for rehearsals and theatre trips

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Music

The GCSE course for Music follows on from KS3 by integrating the activities of Performing, Composing and Listening. Lessons focus on practical projects where you will work individually and in groups to explore how music works. This practical exploration is reinforced by theoretical study: the ABRSM Grade V Theory syllabus is covered as a complement to GCSE work. The examination board used is EDUQAS. There are four Areas of Study:

Musical forms and devices based on music from 1650 - 1910

Music for ensemble how voices and instruments work together

Film music how music enhances the visual image

Popular music a range of Rock and Pop styles

Within these areas many styles of music are studied (classical, folk, jazz, pop and world). As an indication of the breadth involved it is expected that during the course students will encounter – Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Musical Theatre, Jazz and Blues, Film music, Chamber music, Rock and Pop of many decades, Bhangra, Choral music, Programme Music and specific examples by Mozart and Rainbow.

The specific requirements of the examination are outlined below:

Element Requirement Percentage

Performing 2 recordings – usually one solo and one ensemble. Guide to expected standard = Grade 3+.

Total time of 4 minutes.

30%

Composing 2 pieces produced 30%

Listening Examination Recording with question paper - 40%

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NON EXAMINATION SUBJECTS

Physical Education

At Key Stage 4, students have three lessons of PE per fortnight. Although not an examination subject, it is important to allow for physical, social and personal skills to be developed. It is hoped the lessons are a positive experience, providing everyone with the opportunity to engage in vigorous, worthwhile and above all, enjoyable physical activity. Students are offered the following activities: Autumn and Spring ~ Football, Rugby, Hockey, Netball, Volleyball, Basketball, Gymnastics, Fitness, Badminton and Golf. Summer ~ Athletics, Tennis, Rounders, Softball and Cricket

Five or six activities are covered in the year, based on group interest.

PSHE Programme (Personal, Social, Health and Education)

Key Stage 4 students follow a programme of PSHE work on a weekly basis with their tutor. To begin with, students explore personal targets and motivation, reflecting on their individual strengths and characteristics. They also consider the adjustment to GCSE work, personal organisation and presentation skills. Students follow modules which contribute to citizenship work, including making videos of new laws as part of a Parliament run competition, and exploring anti-racism, anti-homophobia. PSHE continues work studied at Key Stage 3 and expands on information regarding financial literacy, coping with stress, online safety and sex and relationships. Careers work continues with students considering Employability Skills, Higher Education courses and post-GCSE options. All students have an individual interview with a member of Senior Management and with the Careers South West adviser. Time management and preparation for exams are considered, including sessions on stress management.

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Employability Skills and Work-Related Learning Your performance at GCSE provides the basis for the choices you wish to make at A Level and will have a bearing on what you want to do after school (at Higher Education level and beyond when it comes to employment). However, these choices are also informed by your knowledge of:

the opportunities available to you in the work market

the employability skills that you possess At KS4, therefore, you will learn about the skills necessary to maximise your potential in the work-place. These will be taught inside the curriculum of those subjects that you have chosen, as well as through PSHE. In PSHE you will be given opportunities to develop your understanding through:

Enterprise events

Citizenship Day

Looking at working roles

Learning how to apply for jobs

Work experience preparation

Careers activities

Self-evaluation and report-writing

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POINTS TO THINK ABOUT 1. Make Your Choices For The Right Reasons!

Make your choices based on what you enjoy and what you are good at. Do not make choices based on what your friends are choosing.

2. Don’t Limit Your Possibilities Most careers, education and training opportunities are open equally, regardless of

gender and disability. Courses should be selected on the basis of personal interest and needs, not because they are considered as boys' courses or girls' courses.

3. The Future It is important to think about what you might be doing after GCSE. Subject choices

could affect your future prospects. Use the school’s online facilities/software or the Careers Library as you have been shown in Careers lessons to do the research. Bear in mind though, that the courses at Colyton have been designed to maximise balance and breadth, and to leave as many avenues open as possible.

4. Qualities Other Than Exam Passes Courses leading to examinations are important and we want these to be as

successful as possible, but personal qualities and attitudes are as important in getting and keeping a job, training or going on to Further or Higher Education. Your extra-curricular activities and achievements will all be important in demonstrating what you can do.

Final Point Your choices will be checked to ensure that you achieve a suitable balance. Each student will have a progress meeting with a senior member of staff which will also give an opportunity to discuss option choices if required.