GCSE Information Book

2015 - 2017

Introduction In the next few weeks you will be asked to choose which subjects you would like to study for GCSE. The purpose of this booklet is to help you make that choice wisely. Some subjects are compulsory for everyone. These are the core subjects:

• English Language OR IGCSE English • English Literature (not chosen if IGCSE is chosen) • Mathematics • Science • Additional Science

To these you may add four optional subjects selected from the following list: The list below shows all the subjects which are offered as options at GCSE level. The subjects are in groups to help you choose a fairly balanced programme of study.

Group 1 Group 2 Group 3

French History Art

Spanish Geography Information Technology

German Religious Studies Home Economics

Latin Music

Business Studies Drama

PE GCSE

You should choose at least 1 subject from each group to make 4 subjects in total including at least one modern foreign language. Your curriculum in Years 10 and 11 will also include general courses in Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE), Citizenship and Games. How to choose your optional subjects When you are thinking about your choice of courses for next year, it would be sensible to aim for a balanced set of subjects to give you the widest possible choice of careers later. If you are not sure which subjects would be best for you, the Careers Adviser - Mrs Blakemore, is there to help you, as are the subject staff and your form tutors. Please ask any of them for their advice.

Controlled Assessment Your GCSE grades will not just be the result of written examinations that you take at the end of the course. Many subjects have a considerable element of Controlled Assessment (formally known as coursework). Look for details in the separate subject entries. Controlled Assessment allows you to show your independence of thought, research skills and ability to work on an extended task. You will receive guidance from your subject staff but Controlled Assessment requires self-motivation and good time management. When you make your GCSE choices one factor might be the proportion of Controlled Assessment involved in different subjects. For example if you choose Information Technology, Drama and Art there will be considerably more Controlled Assessment than if you choose Spanish, Latin and Geography. You will receive a timetable showing deadlines for completion of Controlled Assessment throughout Year 10 and then Year 11. The deadlines are very important and failure to complete Controlled Assessment on time may lead to your withdrawal from the course. It is important to see the deadline date as the very latest time for submission of work rather than the ideal date for which to aim. It is also essential to keep backup copies throughout the production of work. It is surprising how often memory sticks get lost on the deadline day! The rest of this booklet contains some basic information about each subject but if you want to know more talk to your form tutor or a subject specialist. It should be noted that the information is correct at the present time but syllabuses, and in particular Controlled Assessment requirements, are under review and details may change.

Art and Design Do you have an adventurous and enquiring approach to art and design and wish to develop the skills to express your own ideas? GCSE Art and Design will give you an understanding of Art - past and present - and the ability to produce work that shows a personal response to themes, issues, cultures and artists. Students will learn how to develop personal expression, imagination, sensitivity, observation skills, practical and analytical ability. Opportunities are given to explore a wide range of different media, both 2D, such as acrylics, pastels, watercolour, batik, silk painting, and 3D, for example clay, mod roc and card construction. There are also opportunities for printing, photography, textiles and new technologies such as Photoshop. Art and Design is enjoyable and rewarding especially when undertaken in our excellent purpose-built facilities, the Casson Art Centre. The GCSE Art and Design course aims to give pupils a wide awareness of the subject with a multi-media approach. Students will sit the OCR Fine Art paper producing two units of work based on given themes. The coursework element is run as controlled assessment and will be developed in lessons over the course of a term. Coursework accounts for 60% of the final mark and the externally set examination project is worth 40%. Students choose a title from a given paper for the second unit and have time to prepare and develop their work before producing a final piece in a 10 hour timed test (run over two days). Throughout the two year course students develop their ability to make a personal response to a topic, record from direct observation and use and compose visual elements. They also learn how to select and control materials and processes, research and communicate relevant information and make and evaluate their own work. Students are expected to work independently and sustain a piece of work from conception to a satisfying conclusion. Further Studies and Careers There are many opportunities for careers in Art and Design including vocational courses as well as degree courses at Art colleges and universities. Specialist careers include fashion and textile design, fashion journalism, product design, industrial design, furniture design, interior design, architecture, graphic design, illustration, advertising, theatre design, ceramics and jewellery. The usual way to a degree course is Advanced level followed by an Art Foundation course, then application to a specific subject course at a university.

Business Studies The aim of this course is to provide knowledge and understanding of the main aspects of business activity. You will study different types of business organisations, from business start-ups to larger national and international businesses. You will look at how they are internally structured, financed and operated. Marketing and advertising, production, finance, communication within business, recruitment, training and motivation of employees are just some of the areas you will study. Business Studies is about the real world of work. Lessons focus on real life examples of entrepreneurs and enterprise. Case studies encourage you to think and act like business women, to make reasoned judgements and to communicate them in an accurate and logical manner. You are encouraged to relate topics to the world of business and commerce by making use of newspapers and magazines and by talking to friends and relations about their experiences of business. We hope to convey some of the variety, challenge and opportunity that business life holds and to show the key role that people play in the success of any organisation. Four lessons a week are allocated to this subject. The subject content includes the following areas. Starting a Business

• This introduces students to issues concerning the setting up and operation of a business.

Growing as a Business

• This builds upon the content of starting a business. Students study businesses as they grow and the issues that expansion raises.

Unit 3 – Investigating a Business – Controlled Assessment

• This unit allows students to prepare for a controlled assessment on the subject content by investigating a business situation.

Further Studies and Careers The course should increase your awareness and consideration of the social, ethical and cultural issues within a business environment and provide you with a sound basis for progression to AS and Advanced Level in Business Studies and Economics and/or to university degrees in related subjects. Many careers are open to you in business or management.

Drama GCSE Drama is an excellent choice for girls who are creative and imaginative. Drama gives unique opportunities not only for potential performers, directors and designers, but also is a great ‘toolkit’ for life, fostering communication skills and self-confidence, which is needed in any walk of life. Taught in our superb Performing Arts Studio, students can extend their interest in drama fostered during Key Stage 3. Skills in improvisation and the groundwork already obtained in physical and vocal ability are extended and developed. At GCSE, study of plays and dramatic literature forms a core element of the course and pupils are taken on several visits to contemporary live theatre in London as part of their studies. Developing critical and evaluative writing skills as well as the developmental specialisms of acting, directing, design and technical expertise are all linked together in project-based work. Exam Board: WJEC Unit 1 Devised Performance 60% Controlled Assessment Task One - 40% Devised Performance Candidates devise a practical performance based on a theme, linked to a Practitioner or genre

• Candidates may choose either acting or a theatre design skill

• Teachers record the work on DVD

• Internally assessed and externally moderated with task two Task Two – 20% Devised Performance Report Candidates will complete a written report on the practical work they have completed in Task One, under formal supervision. The report will include details of live performances they have seen, that have influenced their practical work, details on decision making; the inclusion of technical elements and the content of the piece and an evaluation of their own work in the group; Internally assessed and externally moderated with task one. Unit Two: Performance from a Text (20%) External Assessment Candidates will be assessed on either their acting or a theatre design skill, in a scene from a published play

• Candidates to work in groups of between 2 and 5 members;

• No more than two additional design candidates per group, each working on a different skill;

• Externally moderated by a visiting examiner in April/May Unit Three: Written Examination (20%) Written Paper: 1½ hours Candidates will be assessed on their ability to analyse one set text as an actor, designer and director and to evaluate practical work completed in Unit 2.

English Language and English Literature English Language and English Literature, core subjects at St Margaret’s, will develop your reading, writing and oral skills through the study of a wide range of fiction and non-fiction material, and enable you to respond critically to literature texts. By close textual study and discussion of content and method, you will learn how to identify and interpret explicit and implicit information and ideas; communicate clearly, effectively and imaginatively, as well as analyse the ways in which writers use language, form and structure to achieve effects and influence readers. The course also seeks to develop your awareness of historical, social and cultural contexts. Although English Language and English Literature are two separate qualifications, the skills developed in each subject overlap and complement the other. You will therefore be taught both subjects together, being allocated six lessons a week in total. English Language: Edexcel This is a linear course. It consists of two externally examined components and one endorsement for Spoken Language: Component 1: Fiction and Imaginative Writing - You will study a range of prose fiction, including 19th Century fiction extracts. You will explore and develop imaginative writing skills. Assessment duration: 1 hour 45 minutes - 40% of the total GCSE Component 2: Non-fiction and Transactional Writing - You will study and analyse selections from a range of non-fiction texts (including literary non-fiction). You will explore and develop transactional writing skills, for example letters, articles, reports. Assessment duration: 2 hours - 60 % of the total GCSE. The preparation and assessment of spoken language is a compulsory requirement of the course of study, although it will appear as a separately reported grade. English Literature: Edexcel International GCSE This course consists of one externally examined component and one internally assessed coursework component. Component 1: Drama and Prose - You will study two texts selected from a prescribed list, one Drama text and one Prose text. Assessment of this component is through a 1 hr 45 minute examination. This is worth 60% of the total International GCSE Component 2: Poetry Coursework -You will study a range of poems from the Edexcel Anthology, alongside other poems selected by your teacher. You will be expected to respond critically and sensitively to a range of poems, and to show an understanding of how meanings and ideas are conveyed through the writers’ choice of language, structure and form. Your assignment will be internally set and assessed and externally moderated by Edexcel. This is worth 40% of the total International GCSE.

IGCSE English (Cambridge CIE) The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) as a Second Language is offered to international students whose first language is not English as an alternative to GCSE English/English Literature; it is timetabled in parallel to GCSE English classes. iGCSE English as a second language is a course that enables students whose first language is not English to focus on improving all four English language skills (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking); these are tested at the end of the course by examination rather than coursework. This iGCSE English course provides a solid foundation for GCSE subjects and for higher level courses such as AS and A2 Level and it is widely accepted by Universities. At St Margaret’s, students who take this course are encouraged to continue to support their studies by taking further EAL classes in the sixth form. This leads to the next step, the Cambridge IELTS examination, which students take by the end of Year 12, prior to making UCAS applications. IELTS is regarded very favourably by universities and is the gold standard for many top courses including Medicine and courses at Oxford and Cambridge. Assessment All IGCSE students follow the “Extended” rather than “Core” curriculum in order to be eligible for grades A* to E. All four skills are assessed by examination at the end of the course, with the following weighting: Reading and Writing (70%), Listening and a “count-in”oral (together 30%) or, alternatively, Listening (30%) plus a separately endorsed Speaking grade. English as an Additional Language (EAL-for International Pupils) International pupils in Years 10 and 11 continue to be offered English language support in the form of extra EAL lessons and conversation sessions that are timetabled during free periods or after school. In addition, students are strongly encouraged to practise their English by taking part in the variety of extracurricular activities offered at St Margaret’s; these range from Speech and Drama, Cookery and Book clubs to Sports, Choir and Orchestra. Boarders are also offered varied activities in the evenings and at weekends that help to improve their knowledge of English culture and customs, while practising their English informally.

Geography What will you Study? If you are interested in knowing how our world is changing and the challenges and solutions that we face then you should consider Geography GCSE. The Edexcel syllabus B course allows pupils to explore current geographical issues from climate change to the battle for resources such as oil and water. During the lessons we use a wide range of resources including video clips, articles, websites e.g. Greenpeace and news headlines. Geography GCSE gives you the opportunity to gain knowledge about the world we live in as well as a huge range of skills that will be useful to your other subjects and future study. Unit 1 - Dynamic Planet – Studying the topics of: The Restless Earth; Climate and Change, Battle for the Biosphere, Water World, Coastal Change and Conflict, Oceans on the Edge. Unit 2 – People and the Planet – Studying the topics of: Population Dynamics, Consuming Resources, Globalisation, Making a Living, Development Dilemmas, Changing UK Economy, Challenges of a Rural World. Residential Field Visit Fieldwork is an essential part of Geography and will be an important component in this course. There will be a field visit to collect data for the controlled assessment. How will you be assessed? There will be three exams all sat at the end of Year 11. Unit 1 – Dynamic Planet – 1 Hour 15 minutes – 25% Each topic will have a 12 mark section in the exam. These questions will vary from 1-2 mark short answer questions to 6 mark longer answers. Unit 2 – People and the Planet – 1 Hour 15 minutes – 25% Each topic will have a 12 mark section in the exam. These questions will vary from 1-2 mark short answer questions to 6 mark longer answers. Unit 3 - A Decision Making exercise – 1 Hour 30 minutes – 25% Students will be presented with a planning problem or Geographical Issue and have to use all of their knowledge and skills to choose a solution. The issue will be linked to the topics studied in Units 1 and 2 as well as using key theories e.g. Sustainability. Research Assignment - 25% This will involve undertaking research, carrying out fieldwork and writing it up under controlled conditions. The unit is based on the Coastal Change and Conflict topic Future study and opportunities The course provides a basis of relevant knowledge, understanding & skills for studying Geography in the sixth form. Due to its dynamic range of content and skills it also appeals to a huge range of employment sectors. Geographers can go on to work in education, NGO’s, law, finance and accountancy, management, research companies, the travel industry, environmental sector, urban planning and many more.

History • Do you want to become a rounded individual who develops an understanding of both

past and present? • Do you want to appreciate that people in the past were not just 'good' or 'bad', but

motivated in complex and inconsistent ways? • Do you have an enquiring mind and an interest in the past and its relevance to current

affairs? • Are you able to communicate your ideas effectively? • Do you like debating controversial issues? • Do you enjoy investigation, research and discovery? • Would you like to study a subject that encourages you to analyse the available evidence

and to make up your own mind about it? • If the answers are yes, then you should consider studying history at GCSE.

Content The Edexcel History B Schools History Project specification is a wide-ranging one. There are 4 units that we cover at St Margaret’s and they are the following: Unit 1 - Medicine and public health in Britain c50AD to the present day – this overarching unit deals with the history of medicine, treatment and surgery from prehistoric times to the present day. Whilst studying this unit you will learn about the changing beliefs about the cause and cure of disease, public health and the impact of technology and war. You will investigate key figures from Hippocrates and Galen, via Vesalius and Harvey, to Louis Pasteur and Alexander Fleming. Unit 2 - The second part of this investigation is a source analysis paper entitled The Transformation of Surgery 1845-1918. It is a study of how new innovations in anaesthetics, antiseptics and dealing with blood loss transformed surgery. You will use primary sources and historians interpretations and develop a sophisticated understanding of source analysis. Unit 3 – is an in depth study of important social and economic issues in Britain 1815-1851. The impact of industrialisation on Britain is studied through topics such as the working conditions of men, women and children, the treatment of the poor, the coming of the railways and the rise of Chartism. Unit 4 - The final section of the course is a study of events in Germany 1918-39. Just some of the exciting questions that we will discuss in class include: What was the impact of WWI on Germany? What problems faced the new Weimar Republic between 1918 and 1923? Was Stresemann the saviour of Germany? Why did Adolf Hitler become Chancellor of Germany in 1933? How did the Nazis build a dictatorship? What was the impact of the Third Reich? - You will have to carry out independent research and learn to evaluate historical representations. Assessment The section of the specification on events in Germany 1918-39 is a controlled assessment task where students are given a maximum of 2 hours and 30 minutes to write up their work under classroom supervision. This task will be marked internally and moderated externally. It is worth 25% of the final examination mark. The rest of the course will be examined externally in 3 separate papers of 1 hour and 15 minutes each. Each of these 3 papers is worth 25% of the final examination mark. Further study and careers The course provides a very good foundation in the skills necessary to study history in the sixth form. It encourages an evidence based approach to learning and the organisation and construction of appropriately supported arguments. As such history is a useful subject to have for a variety of careers including those in journalism, the law and teaching.

Home Economics - Food and Nutrition Would you like a practical challenge? Do you enjoy working with food? Would you like to be kept up to date with food and nutrition issues? Are you ready for life away from school? If you have answered “yes‟ to these questions, this course will develop your knowledge and skills through studying a range of different topics. The course builds on knowledge gained in Food Technology lessons but brings in the theory of understanding nutrition and food choice in addition to developing practical skills within the kitchen. Content The course will cover: Nutrition, Diet and Health throughout life Factors affecting Consumer Choice Nutritional, Physical, Chemical and Sensory Properties of Foods in Storage, Preparation and Cooking. Food Hygiene and Safety The course will be covered by a combination of practical skills lessons, food experimentation, group discussions and investigations. Assessment The assessment of the course is over two units consisting of 40% written exam paper and 60% of practical controlled assessment tasks. Unit 1 is a written paper that consists of short answer, structured and free response questions drawn from the entire course and accounts for 40% of the total GCSE grade. Unit 2 is made up of two controlled assessment practical tasks set by the exam board. Task 1 is taken in the first half of the course and accounts for 20% of the final GCSE grade, and task 2 is taken in the second half of the course and accounts for 40% of the final GCSE grade.

The practical controlled assessments will mainly focus on the acquired skills in the kitchen, along with being able to plan, cost and analyse the food that you make for target audiences. A typical task could be to ‘Explore and make four dishes that include the use of eggs’ and ‘Develop a range of interesting dishes that could form part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for teenagers.’

Further Studies and Careers This qualification is particularly suitable if you wish to proceed to further study at Advanced Level in Home Economics. It will also provide opportunities for further progression to employment or further and higher education. There are many career opportunities linked to this course and not just cooking. Here are some ideas: Quality Assurance Advisor, Chef, Home Economist, Nutritional Analyst, Food Scientist, Nutritional Advisor, Dietician, Product Developer, Consumer Advisor, Marketing, Sensory Analyst, Retail Management, Buyer

Information and Communication Technology In today’s world where ICT is constantly changing, learners increasingly need technological and information literacy skills. These skills are now as vital as the traditional skills of numeracy and literacy. As well as the rapid development of new technologies, familiar technologies like television, telephone and computers are evolving and being expanded by digitised information. As a result of this, there is a growing need for individuals who can master and manipulate these new technologies. ICT at GCSE level gives students fantastic opportunities to work with a variety of technologies and offers them choices, making it engaging and enjoyable to study. The qualification has been designed to nurture digital literacy, and provide the students with up-to-date skills, knowledge and understanding of the rapidly developing digital world around them. The study of ICT will help provide the girls with analytical, communication and technical skills that will be needed if they are to become active participants in this exciting and dynamic world. Content of Qualification Unit 1 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. Assessment Criteria

This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute examination paper set and marked by the exam board. The examination is worth 40% of the total GCSE Unit 2 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. Assessment Criteria

The unit is internally assessed under controlled conditions. Students must complete a controlled assessment task provided by the exam board. The controlled assessment is worth 60% of the total GCSE Further Studies and Careers The course provides a very good foundation in the skills necessary to study ICT or Computing in the sixth form. Future careers in IT can range from website designer to Computer scientist. There isn't an area of life that isn't affected by information technology systems; you will use the skills and knowledge you gain in this GCSE in almost any career path you choose to take. Information Technology is a global industry and career opportunities are considerable and varied.

Latin Why Study Latin? By the time you finish Year 9 you will already be halfway towards a GCSE in Latin and will know roughly half of the necessary grammar and vocabulary. Learning Latin makes it easier to pick up other ‘Romance’ languages, such as Italian or Spanish and to understand our own language, as English is heavily based on Latin. Because Latin is a very structured language it helps you to think precisely and logically. For many employers a qualification in Latin is therefore a sign of intelligence! You will also be able to impress your friends by translating ancient inscriptions and the Latin phrases in everyday use. Content In Year 10 you will continue with the Cambridge Latin Course and improve your vocabulary and language skills. This will help to prepare you for reading the works of some of the world’s greatest writers in the original Latin in Year 11 and learning how these writers could express their emotions and ideas using language. This literature comes in the form of verse and prose chosen from the OCR Latin Anthology. The poems often feature famous myths such as the story of Jason and Medea, or offer advice on family life and relationships. The stories in prose range from historical events, such as Hannibal crossing the Alps, or the death of Julius Caesar to horror stories, such as ‘The passions of a ghostly fury’. Assessment GCSE Latin is examined by four papers. The two language papers test Latin translation and comprehension and each paper lasts one hour. The vocabulary used in these tests will be taken from a list supplied by the exam board, much of which you will already know. The other two papers examine the literature which you have studied in class with your teacher and are also an hour each. Language and literature are worth 50% of the final mark each. Further Studies and Careers A GCSE in Latin is highly regarded by employers as it shows that you can think, reason and analyse, and that you have a good vocabulary and understanding of language. It can lead to further studies in Latin or Classical Civilisation at Advanced Level and can lead to a variety of careers in, for example, Accountancy, Archaeology, Law, Medicine and Science.

Mathematics GCSE Mathematics is a compulsory subject. It covers a wide range of concepts, grouped as follows: • number • algebra • geometry and measures • data handling. GCSE Mathematics aims to develop a range of skills: • knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques • a foundation in mathematical skills for further study in the subject or in related areas • application of mathematics to solve problems • an appreciation of the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study • the ability to present ideas clearly and logically You will need to develop further your mental arithmetic and non-calculator skills. You will also learn how to use a calculator quickly and effectively. There will be opportunities to use ICT to solve mathematical problems. The GCSE course is a continuation of the topics that you have encountered in Years 7, 8 and 9 and you will recognise many of the ideas that you encounter, but in more depth and across as broader range of problems. You will become more adept at presenting your solutions clearly and logically. You will study for the AQA Mathematics qualification (8300). This involves taking three examination papers, at the end of Year 11. Each paper is of 1h 30m in duration and carries equal marks. You are not allowed to use a calculator on the first paper. Further Studies and Careers Most colleges and Sixth Form courses require GCSE Mathematics. A minimum grade “C” pass is a requirement for entry to all British universities. Many jobs and careers also enable you to make use of your mathematical skills; just some examples: economics, medicine, engineering, accountancy, teaching, computing, banking, insurance, marketing, pharmacy, science, business and management.

Modern Foreign Languages French, German, Spanish Thanks to new technology and improved travel and communications, the world has become a much smaller place. It is crucial, therefore, that we learn to speak and understand each other. You can only do this effectively by learning other languages and appreciating associated cultures. A GCSE in another language rewards practical communication skills and adds a European dimension to your studies. Learning another language can enhance your employment and mobility prospects as well as your earning potential in any chosen career. You will enjoy the courses in French, German or Spanish if you want to study a subject that offers a range of skills and a variety of activities with topics that include media, free time and holidays, school and future plans, fitness and health and the environment. Language courses also include many opportunities to use ICT. You will be actively encouraged to ‘surf the net’ and use multi-media facilities. The study of languages will appeal to all types of students including those interested in travel, culture and people from different countries, as well as those who always have something to say! If you enjoy language learning, consider taking more than one language GCSE, possibly French and German or French and Spanish. You have developed important language skills and knowledge in Years 7-9. The GCSE course will build on this and introduce you to a wider range of language structures and vocabulary. At St Margaret’s the GCSE courses in French, German and Spanish are taught in four lessons a week. The department is very well resourced and in addition to the course book, there are useful materials on CD, DVD and ICT software packages to be used individually as well as on the interactive whiteboard. The multi-media facilities permit individual speaking and listening practice. The department also provides opportunities for visits to France, Germany and Spain. For the final examination you will take papers in all four skills: Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking which all account for 25% of the total marks. There is no coursework. Further Studies and Careers A GCSE in French, German or Spanish offers a progression route to further study of a foreign language at AS and Advanced Level. Employers are always asking for candidates with language skills and a GCSE in a modern foreign language will place you in a strong position for interesting employment with plenty of career opportunities. Examples of employment where language skills are particularly valued include journalism and media, law, engineering, business and marketing, ICT, sport and leisure, travel and tourism, customer service, civil service (immigration, customs and excise, diplomatic service) and teaching (UK and abroad).

Music Are you interested in developing your understanding and appreciation of different kinds of music? Do you enjoy making music, both individually and in groups? Do you enjoy creating your own music? If your answer to these questions is yes, then you should consider the GCSE Music course. There are three sections to the Edexcel GCSE Music examination: Performing (30%), Composing (30%) and Listening and Appraising (40%). Both performing and composing are coursework activities, with the composition section assessed during class time. There is one written examination (Listening and Appraising) lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. For Performing you will need to submit one solo piece and one ensemble piece which can be either sung or played. The standard level for performing at GCSE level is about Grade 4, so if you have already taken a music examination at Grade 3 or a higher level by Year 11 then you are virtually guaranteed an excellent mark in this section of the examination. For Composing two compositions or two arrangements will be needed, or one composition and one arrangement. You will have access to state of the art sequencing software (Logic & Garage Band) on the Apple Mac computers in the Music Department and notation software (Sibelius 6) on the Laptons to help you with the composing tasks. For the Listening and Appraising written examination you will study twelve set works, ranging from Handel’s “And the glory of the Lord” to Moby’s “Why does my heart feel so bad?”. Two periods a week will be allocated to listening activities and two periods will be used for composing. Performing will take place outside of lesson times – performances can be recorded at any time during the course. Further Studies and Careers The GCSE Music course is a good basis for the further study of Music at AS or Advanced Level. Careers with music can be found in the performing arts or the music industry. Whether you want to use music for work, for further study or for leisure, this course will help to provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

PE GCSE Why Study GCSE P.E?

• You enjoy being active and want to find out more about how to improve your performance.

• You always look forward to your P.E lessons.

• If you want to know more about the benefits of exercise.

• If you take part in extracurricular physical activity inside or outside of school.

• If you are considering a sports related carer of an A level/higher education course.

Course Components - Edexcel Theoretical Element – 40% Assessment – 1 hour 30 minutes written examination. Externally assessed This includes multiple-choice, short answer and longer–answer questions Healthy active lifestyles This includes topics such as:

• Healthy active life styles and their benefits to you

• Influences on a healthy active lifestyle e.g. people, image, culture, resources, health problems, reasons for participation or not in sport, agencies that provide opportunities for being involved in sport.

• Exercise and fitness as part of your healthy active lifestyle e.g. components of HRE, components of skill related fitness.

• Physical activity as part of your healthy, active lifestyle e.g. assess fitness levels, principles of training, SMART targets, types of training, links between exercise, diet, work and rest.

Your Healthy active body This includes topics such as:

• Body types and advantages of these for different sports, things that harm a healthy active body; drugs, smoking, alcohol, eating disorders, risks associated with exercise.

• Cardiovascular system and the effects of exercise

• Respiratory system and the effects of exercise

• Muscular system and the effects of exercise

• Skeletal system and the effects of exercise. Performance in Physical Education – 60% Assessment - practical performance in different contexts, within selected sports, in the role of either player/participant, official or leader. Internally assessed under controlled conditions and externally moderated.

• Practical performance 4 performances in at least 2 different activity groups; Player/participant. official, leader,

• Analysis of performance This includes 5 separate areas; rules, regulations and terminology, observe and analyse performance, evaluate performance, plan strategies, tactics and practices, plan a personal exercise programme (PEP)

Religious Studies GCSE Religious Studies B: Philosophy and Applied Ethics Introduction This course encourages you to explore and debate some of the big questions in life. The skills you will develop in Religious Studies will be useful to employers and could lead to careers in education, business, law, medicine, marketing and advertising. Researching, arguing, writing and reflecting are all skills which will be honed during the course and you will regularly be called upon to understand and assess the beliefs of others. You may also learn more about yourself and your own thoughts and beliefs as a result of exploring issues which bring us to the heart of what life is all about. Content ‘Philosophy and Applied Ethics’ offers you the opportunity to study topics in relation to religious beliefs and teachings. There are four main parts to the course. The philosophical areas of study ask questions regarding the nature of God and spiritual experience. This also includes a focus on big questions such as ‘what happens when we die?’, ‘why does God allow evil and suffering?’ or ‘is there any conflict between religion and science? ’ The topics studied in ethics include issues relating to human relationships, controversial issues in medical ethics (e.g. abortion and euthanasia). Issues of poverty, wealth and equality, peace and justice and a consideration of religion and the media are also studied. Assessment There is no controlled assessment. Each of the four units is assessed by a 1 hour examination worth 25% of the final mark. Practice and guidance on answering examination questions is given throughout the course. There are two assessment objectives: AO1 • Describe, explain and analyse, using knowledge and understanding. AO2 • Use evidence and reasoned argument to express and evaluate personal responses, informed insights and differing viewpoints.

Science If you think of modern scientific issues in the news such as genetic engineering, stem cell research, the nuclear power debate, environmental pollution, alternative energy sources, IVF, DNA fingerprinting, animal conservation, advances in Smart technology and the rapid development of communication devices, it is clear that an understanding of the science behind these issues is essential if you are to be an informed adult. Some of you will go on to pursue high level scientifically based careers but all should have a certain amount of scientific knowledge. The technological development of the country is driven by science and scientists. Study of science at GCSE level will also give you transferable skills such as confidence in practical work, analysis of complex data and information, use of ICT and the application of mathematical skills. The Edexcel course chosen by the science department at St. Margaret’s is divided into separate biology, chemistry and physics sections, each taught by a highly skilled and specialist scientist in that field. Links between the different branches of science will be emphasized where appropriate. A total of nine periods per week is devoted to science. Our study of the sciences is always driven by practical work and the combination of small class size and expert teachers allows us to carry out practical work of a very high standard. Pupils are also encouraged to use the Active Learn online programme to study independently. We make full use of electronic resources such as ICT, smartphones, iPads and Google sites to complete prep, research projects and self-study. The first year of the course leads to a GCSE in Science. Controlled assessments based on practical work are taken at various times during Year 10 and a final set of examination papers taken in June of Year 10 contribute to this first GCSE. In Year 11 pupils follow the Additional Science GCSE course and the specification builds on knowledge gained in Year 10. Examinations and assessments follow the same pattern as in Year 10. The final mark for each year is made up as follows:

Biology exam Chemistry exam Physics exam Controlled assessment

25% 25% 25% 25% After two years, pupils will therefore gain two GCSE science qualifications. The completion of this GCSE provides a sound foundation for the study of any of the three sciences in the sixth form. A Level sciences, (biology chemistry and physics) have been popular and successful courses over many years at St Margaret’s and girls who take a science subject at A2 level normally go on to excellent universities. You should be aiming for at least an A grade for GCSE science and additional science if you wish to take a science subject at A level.

Personal and Social and Health Education PSHE lessons continue weekly in the Senior School. PSHE aims to help you to lead confident and responsible lives as individuals and members of society. You gain practical knowledge and skills to help you live healthily and deal with the spiritual, moral, social and cultural issues you face as you approach adulthood. PSHE also aims to develop your well-being and self-esteem, encouraging belief in your ability to succeed and enabling you to take responsibility for your learning and future choice of courses and career. We hope that it will help you to become responsible and caring members of your community. Careers Careers education and guidance is an integral part of St Margaret's preparation of pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life. It is delivered through PSHE lessons and should help you to know yourselves better, be aware of education, training and career opportunities and make choices about your own continuing education and career paths. All Year 11 girls have a careers interview at least once. All are encouraged to take the Morrisby Psychometric tests and membership of ISCO (Independent Schools Careers Organisation) is offered. Those girls who do not take the tests (approximately 20% each year) use in-house computer programmes prior to their careers interview. The Careers Library is open approximately half the week and most lunch hours. Most university degrees are oversubscribed, with many having a ratio of applicants: places of anywhere from 5:1 to 28:1, depending on the popularity of that particular course. Universities are naturally most interested in Advanced Level grades but all are very interested in GCSE results. It is therefore of paramount importance that you aim high and achieve the best grades you can in all your GCSE subjects. In addition, universities will be looking on the UCAS application form for work experience that shows commitment and other personal qualities and skills. For many degrees the admissions tutor will expect to see relevant placements which show that you have knowledge and understanding of that career. Work Experience At the end of Year 11 a minimum of one week's work experience is required. You will be encouraged to complete a longer placement if you are able. Placements are closely monitored to ensure maximum benefit. Some of the aims of work experience are to give you an insight into the world of work, to develop your confidence in relating to adults, to increase your motivation and to enable you to make more informed choices in career planning. Many students obtain more than one placement so that they have an opportunity to "taste" several careers.

Physical Education Physical Education is a compulsory, non-examination subject in Year 10 and 11 at St Margaret’s. The aim of the course is to broaden students sporting experience and to develop greater health and fitness independence. With this in mind pupils are offered an option programme which incorporates new activities and develops knowledge and skills in more familiar sports. Pupils choose from 3 or 4 activities each half term but are required to complete one half term block of swimming. They have to complete at least one team game during the course of the year. Alongside this programme pupils take part in a health related exercise course which looks at the elements of fitness and its relationship to exercise. They will take part in various fitness tests and learn how to simply monitor their individual progress. Pupils will be taught how to use the fitness suite effectively. The course involves both theory and practical sessions and encourages discussion of issues related to establishing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This increased awareness leads into year 11 were the students will be given the opportunity to plan and complete an individual exercise programme. In this way we hope that students become increasingly fitness independent, whilst fully enjoying sporting activity. There continue to be many extra curricular opportunities for Year 10 pupils both as recreational clubs and as members of team squads. They are also given the opportunity to help in activities run for younger pupils by the P.E Department.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme Why get involved in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme? It is fun, challenging and will give you a great sense of achievement. The Scheme is very popular at St. Margaret’s School. Large numbers of girls join the Bronze Award each year. You then have the opportunity to progress onto Silver and ultimately Gold during your time at the school. Each year about 10 pupils are invited with a guest to St James’s Palace to receive their Gold Award in the presence of the Duke of Edinburgh. Many more achieve Bronze or Silver. Achieving Gold is a great accolade, but even the Bronze Award counts for a lot when it comes to applying for university places. What does it involve? The Award is a challenging programme of activities which will help you to learn new skills, help others, experience adventure and make new friends. All girls at St. Margaret’s School start the Award at Bronze level unless this was completed at a previous school. You should aim to complete Bronze within one academic year. Silver and Gold take longer. You do it in your spare time and there are five sections which are: Service: the aim is to give voluntary, unpaid help to the community or to an individual on a regular basis over a period of months. You would gain some knowledge and understanding of the needs of those whom you are assisting. This could mean helping with Riding for the Disabled, working in a charity shop, assisting at your place of worship or visiting elderly residents in a care home. Skill: your skill may be something entirely new or an existing interest. You need to show progress and a sustained interest over several months, leading to a deeper knowledge of the subject and the attainment of an increased degree of skill. Examples are learning a musical instrument, having drama lessons or joining the cookery club or choir. Physical Recreation: you need to participate on a regular basis over several months in a physical activity of your choice and show that you have improved your personal performance. You could, for example, join the school badminton or judo clubs, attend after school games practices, or do dance or swimming lessons. Expedition: the aim is to encourage a spirit of adventure and discovery by preparing for and carrying out two adventurous journeys as part of a team of between four and seven girls. You will need training to enable you to do this and you carry everything that you need on your back in your rucksack. Bronze expeditions last for two days and you camp overnight. They take place in south east England and are closely supervised by experienced staff. Silver expeditions last three days and often take place in the Peak District. Gold expeditions last four days and are held in a more challenging environment such as Snowdonia.