2015 - 2017 YOUR OPTION CHOICES

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YOUR OPTION CHOICES

2015 - 2017

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WelcomeHere you’ll find out more about the many subjects and options on offer.

Contents5 Executive Head Teacher’s Letter

6 Subject Leaders & Co-ordinators

7 What you will study

8 What are the main qualifications at KS4? | GCSE | Applied Courses

9 The English Baccalaureate | The Options | Who can help you choose

11 Course details

12 Art, Photography

14 Business Studies, Computing & ICT

17 Design and Technology

19 English Language and English Literature, Geography

20 Health & Social Care, History, ICT

21 Mathematics, Media Studies, Modern Foreign Languages

22 Music, Physical Education, Social & Cultural Studies

23 Science, Leisure and Tourism

24 Curriculum Diagrams

26 Careers Education Information Advice and Guidance Programme | Help

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Dear Parents and Student,

Decisions made by year 9 students about which subjects to study in years 10 and 11 can be crucial, affecting future 6th Form opportunities and career choices. Accurate information is essential. In this booklet we aim to provide some of that information. Students should also feel free to approach any teacher for more details.

To reflect national changes, our Key Stage 4 curriculum has been the subject of much review and will continue to give all students access to a broad and balanced education. From September 2015 students currently in year 9 will start learning new GCSEs, graded 9 to 1, in English language, English literature and maths. Examinations for all other GCSEs will be graded A * to G.

We have increased opportunities for those students who wish, to access the English Baccalaureate (requiring a grade C or above in GCSE mathematics, English, science x 2, history or geography and a modern foreign language). Some students benefit from out-of-school opportunities for Applied Learning at South Tyneside College and other local training providers, and can also spend extra time on Work Experience. This very successful scheme has again been reviewed and refined for September 2015.

We are confident that the curriculum we offer will enable the present Year 9 students also to excel. We look forward to discussing Key Stage 4 options with you during the next few weeks.

Yours faithfully

Sir Ken Gibson

Executive Head Teacher

March 2015Executive Head TeacherSir Ken Gibson B.A.(Hons), M.Ed

Executive Head Teacher’s Letter

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Senior Leadership TeamHead of School: Ms C. M. BraybrookDeputy Head teachers: Mrs J. Maw, Mr C. Chesborough Assistant Head: Mr P. Owens

Subject leaders & co-ordinators

Subject Leaders and co-ordinatorsArt Miss A. Brunniche

Mathematics and Statistics Ms S. R. Grainger

Business Studies Miss C. Forsyth

Modern Foreign Languages Mrs L. G. White

English & Literature Mrs M. Bates

Music Mr D. Dunston

Equal Opportunities Mr V. Stonehouse

Physical Education Mrs C. Fairclough

Food Technology Mrs L. A. Ashby

PSHEE / RE / Citizenship Mrs K. Gillespie

Geography Mr A. J. Doneghan

Science Miss K. Walker

History Mrs C. M. Neal

Technology Mr A. Bates

ICT Miss R. Mason

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What you will study

The Core Curriculum English All students will study GCSE English and GCSE English literature.

Mathematics All students will study GCSE mathematics.

Science All students will study biology, chemistry and physics leading to either a separate award in each area, dual award science or a single science award.

Information and Communication Technology and Computing All students will study either a GCSE or a vocational qualification.

Religious Studies – PSHE – Citizenship These areas will be delivered in a course called social and cultural studies, leading to either GCSE RE or a short course in GCSE RE.

Physical Education All students study core PE. (GCSE PE is available as an option.) There are many after-school opportunities.

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What are the main qualifications at KS4?

. GCSE (Full Course) is the familiar standard qualification . GCSE (Short Course) is equivalent to a half GCSE . BTEC qualifications

Students may also work on NVQ courses or NVQ units.

The General Certificate of Secondary Education

GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. They are highly valued by schools, colleges and employers. The qualification mainly involves studying the theory of a subject, combined with some investigative work, while some subjects also involve practical work.

New GCSEs in English language, English literature and maths will be taught in schools in England from September 2015, with the first results issued in August 2017. Further

subjects will see new GCSEs introduced over the following two years.

The main features of the new GCSEs are:

1. A new grading scale of 9 to 1 will be used, with 9 being the top grade. This will allow greater differentiation between students and will help distinguish the new GCSEs from previous versions.

2. Assessment will be mainly by exam, with other types of assessment used only where they are needed to test essential skills.

3. There will be new, more demanding content, which has been developed by government and the exam boards.

4. Courses will be designed for two years of study – they will no longer be divided into different modules and students will take all their exams in one period at the end of their course.

5. Exams can only be split into ‘foundation tier’ and ‘higher tier’ if one exam paper does not give all students the opportunity to show their knowledge and abilities.

6. Resit opportunities will only be available each November in English language and maths.

Applied Courses BTEC qualifications and Cambridge Nationals qualifications are work-related qualifications that are available in a wide range of subjects. Many have been designed in collaboration with industry, so they can equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for. The qualifications offer a mix of theory and practice and can also include an element of work experience.

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Each of the Applied courses offered at Harton Technology College leads to the equivalent of one GCSE grade.

Students embarking on these qualifications must be prepared to:

• be consistently motivated, and committed to the chosen subject

• demonstrate a proficiency in literacy and numeracy

• be able to work independently

Applied qualifications are offered at Harton in the following subject areas:

• Business Studies

• Engineering

• Health and Social Care

• ICT

• Science

• Leisure and Tourism

The English Baccalaureate

In December 2010 the Coalition Government introduced the English Baccalaureate, a new performance measure gained by achieving GCSE passes at Grade C and above in English, mathematics, two sciences, a modern foreign language and either history or geography.

Modern Foreign LanguagesAll students may study at least one modern foreign language; they are able to opt for Spanish as an additional choice if they have selected French.

HumanitiesStudents will have the option of studying history or geography; they are able to opt for a second humanity if they wish.

The OptionsStudents are able to opt for additional subjects from a range of GCSE and BTEC subjects, further details of which can be found later in this brochure.

Who can help you choose?Help is available in a variety of ways. We hope that the work you have already done in school, and the information in this booklet, will be useful. In addition, several people are able and willing to advise:

• Parents, carers and other relatives

• Subject teachers, who know your strengths and weaknesses in their subjects

• Your Form Tutor and Head of Year, who have an overall picture of your progress

• Mr Joyce; Student Progression Manager / Mr Williams; Director of Applied and Community Learning can provide specialist information

• Any teacher who may know you well, and will be able to discuss your choices

It is not easy to make decisions about your future. This is why help is available, and important. Nobody should feel that they have to “get on with it” by themselves.

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Course details

The next pages contain some details about each of the courses we offer. You will find they are ordered alphabetically as follows.

GCSE or equivalent qualifications:

. Art . Business Studies . Computer Science . Design & Technology: Food Technology, Graphic Products, Product Design, Systems and Control, Textiles . Engineering . English Language and English Literature . Geography . Health and Social Care . History . Information & Communication Technology . Mathematics . Media Studies . Modern Foreign Languages: French, Spanish . Music . Physical Education . Religious Studies . Science

In addition, all students have lessons in PSHE, RE, Citizenship (as a package called “Social and Cultural Studies”) and PE.

All students spend some time on work experience.

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Art (GCSE Fine Art)GCSE Fine Art is an exciting, practical, 2 year course made up of two units.

Students will create their own Art Portfolio, Unit 1, showing personal responses to a starting point, brief, scenario, or stimulus.

• Students will develop skills they have been building throughout their Art lessons in years 7 - 9.

• They will be given opportunities to use the materials and techniques they are familiar with (acrylics, tempera, watercolours, pencils, charcoal, oil and chalk pastels, charcoal, drawing inks, etc.), plus discover new ones! They will also look at the work of artists, visit galleries and put on their own exhibition.

• The portfolio is worth 60% of the qualification.

The second unit is a set task and starts in the January of their second year.

• This is the final exam and is 40% of the qualification.

• Students select one question from the paper and independently produce their own personal response. This will consist of a portfolio of art work and a 10 hour exam.

Students will be expected to independently participate in 1-2 hours of homework every week, to improve their skills and build up their portfolio. They will also be expected to produce written work occasionally and use ICT.

Compulsory aspects of the course:

Painting: Students will explore the use of tone, colour, composition, materials and context. They will show this through the use of various processes and media, such as inks, paints, etc., see list above.

Drawing: Students will work from direct observation, exploring drawing using line and tone. They will be encouraged to use a wide variety of drawing materials and surfaces. In addition, they will be able to work from secondary images.

Art Appreciation: Students will develop their own ideas through investigating traditional and contemporary art works/art styles. They will also have the opportunity to look at work from different cultures.

Additional aspects: Printmaking, Sculpture, Lens-based imagery, other forms of two-dimensional or three-dimensional imagery (For example, collage, assemblage, mixed media, recycled materials, new technologies.)

Art (GCSE Photography)In this 2 year GCSE, students will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of lens-based and light-based media, techniques and processes. This will include both traditional and new technologies.

Students will be expected to enjoy participating in creative practical work, based upon a project brief. Possible areas of study may include:

• Portraiture

• Landscape

• Still life

• Documentary

• Experimental imagery

They will have to be able to follow guidelines in a project brief, while coming up with their own creative interpretations and ideas.

Students will learn about the orthodox use of the camera, darkroom techniques, video, use of photocopier, digital reproduction and replication, use of printers, digital software and animation.

A portfolio of work could take the form of a sketchbook or presentation boards. Each project will include research into different artists /photographers and their own art work, with a variety of developed ideas.

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Students will be expected to participate in written work and use ICT.

Students will explore art through the eye of the camera and other light based media, understanding concepts such as form, light, tone, mass, dynamics, atmosphere, mono-tone, colour, texture, viewpoints and composition. They may use drawing and painting skills to help present their portfolio. They should already be familiar with these key points through their art lessons in Years 7-9!

Each project will result in a final response, demonstrating an understanding of and ability to explore and present a given theme.

They will be expected to independently participate in 1-2 hours of homework every week, to build up their portfolio. This portfolio is worth 60% of their qualification.

Students will sit an exam, in the spring of Year 11. This is worth 40% of the qualification.

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Business Studies (BTEC First Level 2 Award in Business)This course offers students a unique opportunity to discover the key principles behind starting up and running a business. In additional students will explore the ever changing external environments businesses are operating in.

Students will develop the skills, knowledge and understanding relevant to the world of business; they will also have the opportunity to apply their learning in a practical and realistic way. Each unit is designed to develop independent learning, decision making and enterprising skills which are highly valued by employers and further education providers.

Candidates will study four units, three of which are internally assessed and the fourth will be assessed through a formal examination. Each unit is equally weighted and combined to create the final grade.

• Unit 1: Enterprise in the Business World

• Unit 2: Finance for Business

• Unit 3: Promoting a Brand

• Unit 4: Principles of Customer Service Business

Successful completion of the course will allow students to progress to a wide range of employment industries or to continue vocational study in further education. Business Studies is an excellent choice for anyone who would like to start up their own business or develop a successful career in management, accounting or marketing.

Business Studies (Edexcel GCSE Business Studies)Business Studies encourages students to be inspired and challenged by a wide range of successful businesses and entrepreneurs. This course offers students a unique opportunity to discover the key principles behind starting up and running a business. In additional students will explore the ever changing external environments businesses are operating in.

GCSE Business Studies will enable students to:

• actively engage in the study of business and economics to develop as effective and independent students and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds

• develop and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary issues in a range of local, national and global contexts

• appreciate the range of perspectives of different stakeholders in relation to business and economic activities

• consider the extent to which business and economic activity can be ethical and sustainable

Students will study three units, two of which will be externally examined and the third will be internally assessed through controlled assessment.

• Unit 1: Introduction to small business

• Unit 2: Investigating small business

• Unit 5: Introduction to economic understanding

Students who successfully complete this course can progress to study A Level business studies and then higher education. Alternatively this course will provide students with a range of essential work based transferable skills highly valued by employers.

Computing and ICTOCR GCSE Computing This course gives students a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works. It offers an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’, including computer programming. It is a great way to develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills, which can be transferred to further learning and to everyday life. The course looks at the use of algorithms in computer programs and developing computer programs to solve problems. Students who want to go on to higher study and employment in the field of computer science will find it provides a superb stepping stone.

Course Content Students will follow a course that includes three units of work.

Unit A451: Computer systems and programming This unit covers the body of knowledge about computer systems on which the examination will be based.

Assessment – Written 1 hour 30 minute exam

Unit A452: Practical investigation An investigative computing task which assesses research, technical understanding, analysis of problem, historical perspective, use of technical writing skills and recommendations/evaluation.

Assessment – Coursework Investigative task for an OCR-set scenario

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Unit A453: Programming Project Students will need to understand standard programming techniques and design a coded solution to a problem including the ability to:

- Develop suitable algorithms

- Design suitable input and output formats

- Identify suitable variables and structures

- Identify test procedures.

They will create a coded solution fully annotating the developed code to explain its function and test their solution

Assessment - Controlled assessment programming task. Design, develop and test a solution to a problem within the OCR-set scenario.

Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia The Cambridge Nationals in creative iMedia is a qualification which features web development, gaming and animation, but has IT at its core. It provides knowledge in a number of key areas in this field from pre-production skills to digital animation and has a motivating, hands-on approach to teaching and learning.

Course Content Students will follow a course that includes four units of work.

R081 Pre-production skills

• The importance of identifying a target audience of a product and how they can be categorised

• The hardware, techniques and software used for digitising paper-based documents and creating electronic pre-production documents

• How to create a mood board, mind map/spider diagram, visualisation diagram and storyboard

Assessment - Written exam based on pre-release case study

R082 Creating digital graphics

• Why and how digital graphics are used

• The different types and file formats used for digital graphics

• Creating a digital graphic using a range of tools and techniques in various pieces of software

Assessment - OCR set coursework assignment

R085 Creating a multipage website

• The purpose and component features of multipage websites, devices that are used to access these and the methods of internet connections

• Creating a suitable master page as a template for a multipage website

• Using a range of tools and techniques in web authoring software to create a multipage website

• Insert assets into web pages to create planned layouts (e.g. text, lists, tables, graphics, moving images, embedded content)


R092 Developing digital games

• The range of hardware and peripherals required to create and test digital games

• Identify & use software features needed for the creation of a game

• Export and publish a digital game in a format that is playable on a different computer system.


Pearson BTEC Level 1 Certificate for IT Users (ITQ)Anyone who wants to operate effectively in today’s digital world needs to have good IT skills and know how to apply them. The ITQ was created by e-skills UK in consultation with employers, to address skills shortages within the UK. BTEC ITQ is very ‘hands-on’ for learners and is designed to develop the IT skills and competencies they need in the 21st century.

Assessment - The course include all evidence-based assessment: There are no tests or formal examinations. The units are highly practical and assess learners’ ability to ‘use IT’ rather than ‘write about it’.

Units include:

• Improving Productivity Using IT

• Set up an IT System

• Using the Internet

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OCR GCSE ICT GCSE ICT has been designed so that learners will be digitally literate, with an up-to-date understanding of the digital world around them. This qualification will provide learners with fantastic opportunities to work with a variety of technologies, making it even more enjoyable for them to study

Course Content Students will follow a course that includes four units of work.

B061 ICT in today’s word This unit allows students to study a range of ICT systems, as used in the home, at school, and in society. It makes them aware of current and emerging technologies and the impact that advances in technology may have on themselves and others.

Assessment - 1 hour written exam

B062 Practical Applications in ICT Candidates study a range of everyday software applications which will enable them to manipulate and process data and other information effectively and efficiently. They are also required to present information in a format suitable for a given purpose and audience.

Assessment - 20 hour controlled assessment, based on scenario set by the exam board.

B063 ICT in context In this unit students study a range of ICT systems in a business or organisational context. Candidates should be aware of current and emerging technologies and their impact on themselves and on others. The question paper is based upon pre-release material, relating to specified businesses or organisation(s) and its/their use of ICT. This unit will incorporate and build on the knowledge an understanding gained in units B061 and B062.

Assessment –1 hour written exam

B064 Creative use of ICT Candidates study a range of creative software applications in order to create a multimedia solution to a given problem. They should be aware of how to analyse the problem as well as the steps needed to design, develop, test and evaluate the solution to the problem.

Assessment - 20 hour controlled assessment, based on scenario set by the exam board.

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Design and TechnologyStudents may choose from the following range of GCSE courses.

• AQA - Design and Technology: Food Technology

• AQA - Design and Technology: Graphic Products

• AQA - Design and Technology: Product Design

• AQA - Design and Technology: Systems and Control

• AQA - Design and Technology: Textiles

The schemes of assessment consist of:

• Examination - one 2 hour paper with prior preparation time (40%)

• Controlled assessment- one extended Design and Technology project to involve 40 hours of supervised time (currently 60%)

The GCSE course will be certificated on the A*-G scale.

In each of the design and technology subjects students will be expected to organise and plan effectively aspects of a design and technology activity, and to combine their designing and making skills to produce quality products.

General InformationAs a technology college we make full use of the most advanced computer technology and equipment. CAD/CAM (computer aided design and computer aided manufacture) features strongly in all the design technology subjects. Students can access extra help and support in all design technology areas during lunchtimes or at 3:15 pm. The school VLE site can also be accessed at any time and is an extremely useful support tool. Support classes will run at 3:15 pm to ensure work is up to date and produced to the highest possible standards.

Food TechnologyThe course will focus on food as a material on large and small scale industrial production as well as the provision of food in the home and in the community. The course is designed to provide opportunities for investigation, designing, planning, making and evaluation using food as a material.

Students will be made aware of the wide range of careers in the food industry as well as the opportunities for further and continuing education in that industry. Students will be developing and making a range of food products in a safe and hygienic way to a high quality standard.

Graphic ProductsWhat is a Design Graphic Product? Typography (writing) and or imagery (pictures) placed on any material, product or item.

Why choose it at KS4? Graphic products is suitable for students with an interest in design, computers, art, illustration and modelling. Other areas of interest might be presentation, media, advertising, architecture and design communication. The further study of graphic products can lead to careers in graphic design, product or interior design, desk top publishing, advertising and promotion.

What is it all about? Design briefs will be set that encourage students to explore imaginative and creative solutions to problems set in the world of advertising, illustration, printing, interior design and product design. Communication techniques will include sketching, 3-dimensional model making, presentation drawing, technical illustration, computer graphics and web design.

Students practise the skills of designing and making using paper, card and plastic. They will combine the use of traditional craft tools and the most up to date CAD/CAM technology and software to explore, develop, create models and visualise their design ideas. This course will allow students the opportunity to develop their graphic and modelling skills. These skills and activities will be used to present a single integrated project which will result in a series of artefacts supported by a concise design folio.

Computer aided design and computer aided manufacture will be a strong feature of this course.

Product DesignWhy choose it at KS4? Product design is suitable for students with an interest in the design and manufacture of commercial products using a wide range of materials and processes (including CAD/CAM). Students with academic ability who

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are considering studying design at A Level and beyond would find this course ideal. Further studies could lead to careers designing everything from cars and aeroplanes to mobile phones and MP3 devices as well as ceramics, furniture, interiors and jewellery.

What is it all about? Students will develop and manufacture high quality products using a range of materials, tools and equipment, with a strong emphasis on CAD/CAM technology, for specific clients and consumers. The course focuses on skills such as product analysis, marketing, industrial understanding and communicating ideas through a range of CAD programs all of which are highly relevant to a wide range of careers.

These skills and activities will be used to present a single integrated project which will result in a series of artefacts supported by a concise design folio.

Computer aided design and computer aided manufacture will be a strong feature of this course.

Systems and ControlWhat is it all about? Quality products will be made by students working in pneumatics, PIC.s(programming), mechanisms and basic electronics. This is a key subject area, preparing students well for the cutting edge of modern technology. Systems and control focuses heavily on how products work. By considering a product as a system, it breaks the system down into input, process and output. Initially students study individual types of systems, such as an electric light sensor or pneumatic ‘sorting’ system. They will then learn to integrate several systems together to produce more complex products.

Why choose it at KS4? This option would be suited to students with an interest in product engineering, civil, mechanical and electrical engineering as well as an interest in microprocessor control and computer programming. It has strong links with mathematics and physics applying the skills of these subjects to a practical situation. It can assist students who expect to pursue mathematics and physics at A level.

TextilesWhat is it all about? This area of study is concerned with the development of skills, knowledge and understanding required when handling and studying textile materials. Students are able to specialise in either interior design or fashion design and make products which can be functional, creative, worn as items of clothing or used to decorate living spaces. This course will focus on the modern-day textile industry and the use of CAD/CAM.

Why choose it at KS4? Textiles is suitable for students with an interest in fashion and/or interior design who enjoy working with textiles. Further studies can lead to careers in fashion or costume design, retail management or fashion promotion.

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Engineering (BTEC) The course will offer students opportunities to experience and understand the processes employed in engineering.

• Design and graphical communication

• Application of new technology in Engineering

• Making engineered products

The aims of this course are:

• To enable students understanding and use of engineering language

• To develop their skills in using materials, techniques and technology

• To understand past and present developments in engineering

• To examine other aspects of engineering

Students will be required to research and collect source material.

English Language and English LiteratureEnglish is a National Curriculum core subject and the higher grades (A*-C) are required for university entrance, further training and most jobs or professions. All levels involve a wide range of language skills in reading (including major works of literature), writing, speaking and listening.

English literature involves the study of novels, plays and poetry. All students must study pre-twentieth-century writing, including Shakespeare.

All students will follow a syllabus which leads to either a GCSE or an IGCSE qualification. Coursework and controlled assessments are involved, so candidates must work at their best throughout the course if they are to achieve the highest levels possible. There will be a final examination in each subject.

GeographyThe GCSE geography course involves two areas: Examination and controlled assessment task.

The examination work involves in-depth studies of:

• People and the Natural Environment (tectonic activity, coastal landscapes and processes, river landscapes and processes, eco-systems)

• People and the human environment (population, urbanisation, industry, sustainable Development, Tourism)

The course is wide-ranging and gives ample opportunity for the development of knowledge and understanding, skills (e.g. map work and I.C.T.), values, attitudes and fieldwork. Students will spend some of their time completing a controlled assessment task. This will involve the collection of primary data during a fieldwork exercise and the writing up of the task in a class work setting: this currently accounts for 25% of the final mark. GCSE geography is taught by a very experienced team of teachers who deliver high quality lessons and achieve consistently high examination grades. Geography at this level is a dynamic and innovative subject. Students who have an enthusiastic approach and work hard will find that they can achieve success. Geography is offered at A Level where the students have achieved very high grades. Geography is highly regarded by colleges, universities and employers and is a path into a variety of careers such as law, accountancy and business management.

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Health and Social Care BTEC Level 2 First AwardThis is a work-related course. Students learn by completing assignments based on realistic workplace situations and activities. It prepares students for further education or training and employment in health, social care or early years sectors.

Candidates will study the following 4 units.

Here are some examples of the units students may study:

• Effective communication in health and social care

• Health and social care values• Equality and diversity in health and social

care• Human lifespan development

Scheme of Assessment Human lifespan development is externally assessed. All other units are internally assessed through coursework.

HistoryStudents who opt for a course of study in history to GCSE will develop a wide range of skills. The syllabus explores modern world history from a variety of perspectives including political, social, economic and cultural. The course also develops pupils’ skills in handling information, various methods of communication (e.g. written, numerical, spoken, display), and their ability to make informed judgements based on evidence. Such skills will stand them in good stead when they leave school for work or further education.

Students will generally have the opportunity to visit a site of historical importance related to either the Holocaust or the Battlefields of the First World War. In 2014 the History department took a group of students to Belgium and France to visit historical sites connected to the First World War and took part in the memorial at the Menin Gate, Ypres near to the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of war. In 2015 we are taking a group of GCSE students to visit Munich, Nuremburg and Dachau concentration camp to remember the Holocaust.

The GCSE course provides students with a useful level of historical understanding in addition to a range of transferable skills. GCSE History is highly regarded by colleges and employers and is useful to support applications for a variety of career routes.

The course comprises of two units and a controlled assessment.

Unit One: This will consist of 20th century history, examining conflict in the modern world.

Unit Two: This will consist of depth studies, including USA in the 1920s, Nazi Germany and the civil rights movement.

The controlled assessment will be a comparison of the two world wars, examining and analysing a wide variety of different historical sources.

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Mathematics All students in the school study mathematics. The course in Years10 and 11 leads to the GCSE examination. The syllabus content is prescribed by the National Curriculum document and students will receive a grade between A* and G at the end of Year 11. The course is linear and involves two written examinations.

A good pass in mathematics is a vital qualification, so students will concentrate their efforts on achieving a Grade C or better in mathematics if at all possible.

Students sit the examinations at the end of year 11. The examinations take place in June.

Students are encouraged to develop:

• a positive attitude to mathematics, including confidence, enjoyment and perseverance

• an ability to think mathematically - precisely, logically and creatively

• a willingness and ability to work independently and co-operatively

• an ability to apply the mathematics which they learn to real life situations

Students will need their own scientific calculator and geometrical equipment. Parents should be aware that this equipment will not be provided by the school in examinations.

Media StudiesWhy choose media studies? Media studies will give you an excellent opportunity to understand how the media works. You will study a broad range of media including film and television trailers, adverts, magazines, news and music videos. You will learn how they are constructed and how to analyse and explore these texts using specific media vocabulary. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is interested in a career in the media or any related subject such as English, geography, history, information technology, art, drama or design.

Where will it lead? The subject could lead to a career in media, journalism, photography, film, radio, television or public relations.

What will you do? In addition to learning about how the media works, you will also gain practical skills which include: digital filming and editing using iMovie and Final Cut Pro on the iMac computers; still photography and design and layout using programs like Photoshop. You will use these skills to plan, produce and present your own media texts, for example magazine pages, short films, animated films and advertisements.

How will you be assessed? The course is 60% coursework and 40% examination. You will produce a file which will be made up of three pieces of work – one practical element and two written assignments. In the exam, you will be asked to respond to an audio-visual or print-based resource from a set topic and to complete the planning and design of a creative text.

Modern Foreign Languages Students who opt for a course of study in a modern foreign language to GCSE will develop their ability to communicate in a wide range of authentic situations. Emphasis is placed on practical skills and students develop and display their competence in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Skills acquired will be tested at foundation or higher level, and students are able to choose the level of entry in each skill area, depending upon their strengths. (The higher level course covers all the grammar necessary to enable students to go on to pursue the language at Advanced Level.)

The format of the course is very “student friendly”, with 2 of the 4 papers completed before the general examination season begins in Year 11.

A language qualification has benefits in both employment and leisure, and is considered highly desirable for those intending to continue their education to university level, and for those intending to teach in primary schools.

Students will generally have the opportunity to visit the target language country in order to gain a deeper appreciation of the language as spoken.

Students will need a bilingual dictionary in the relevant language.

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Music GCSE Music is for anybody who is interested in the subject. You do not have to be a practicing musician in order to enjoy and succeed on the course, though if you can play an instrument at the start of the course, then you are likely to do better at the end. Candidates will be examined in:

• Listening: 20%

• Performing: 40%

• Composing: 40%

Hard work and commitment are required throughout the course (especially if you cannot play an instrument at the end of Year 9).

The course is a sound basis for those wishing to study music beyond GCSE, as well as for those who wish to work in the music business. In addition, students who wish to enjoy music as a hobby will find the course (especially playing and composing) stimulating. Equally important is the fact that a qualification in music is useful to anybody applying for a job or a place in further education, where evidence of a broad-based education is desirable.

Physical Education At Key Stage 4 all students will enjoy a minimum of two lessons per fortnight of Physical Education.

Core PE will include team games as well as individual activities, which are designed not only to fulfil the National Curriculum requirements but to present students with opportunities that are both satisfying and enjoyable. They will be able to develop and enhance their skills over a wider spectrum, as coach and official as well as player, and to appreciate the role of exercise in order to be able to enjoy a fit and healthy lifestyle.

This broad curriculum is also designed to introduce the students to leisure pursuits that can become lifetime interests. The activities are taught in both single sex and mixed sex groups as appropriate. Participation and having the necessary kit are fundamental requirements if progress is to be made.

Students may opt to study the GCSE course. Those who are interested should include PE among their preferences on the GCSE section of the Option Form. This will involve theoretical study, leading

to a written examination as well as assessment of practical activities. 60% of the marks are for practical achievement across 4 sporting areas, therefore participation during lessons and bringing kit on a regular basis are essential. Participation in extra-curricular activities would be beneficial.

Social & Cultural Studies (including PSHE Programme) together with Religious Studies and Citizenship This programme is intended to develop personal, moral, social and health-related understanding, and to prepare students for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.

The PSHE programme covers health education, (including sex education, substance use and misuse), economic awareness and study skills. The 3-hours-per-fortnight time slot also delivers the statutory religious education requirement for all students.

All students will follow either a full or short course GCSE.

The short course includes challenging and relevant topics including abortion, euthanasia, marriage and the family, capital punishment, and the environment.

Some students will complete the full course GCSE. This course involves studying the content for the short course and then a second examination looking at issues including: Social responsibility, the environment, medical issues, crime and punishment.

All courses are examined with one final examination. The course contributes to the citizenship element of the curriculum.

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ScienceAll the Science courses offered seek to stimulate interest by integrating the social, economic and environmental contributions of the subjects with an emphasis on problem-solving activities.

Most students at Harton will study Edexcel GCSE Science and Additional Science courses in Years 10 and 11. This route is a double award qualification (two GCSE passes) compatible with the English Baccalaureate. The scheme of assessment for these GCSE qualifications includes a centre assessed unit (25%) and one examination in each of the three science disciplines, biology, chemistry and physics (75%).

Some students will study the Edexcel BTEC First in Principles of Science along with the BTEC First in Application of Science. These are both applied qualifications based on practical and everyday aspects of science. The course is highly relevant and accessible, and should also deliver excellent results. These courses are aimed at pupils who require a scientific qualification which deals with the applications of Science in a practical context and not at those who might wish to pursue post 16 Science studies in a purely academic capacity. 75% of each course is internally assessed by the completion of a coursework portfolio. The remaining 25% of each is assessed by an externally assessed examination.

Some students may work towards achieving a combination of a single BTEC Science qualification alongside a single GCSE qualification.

A small selected group of students will be offered the opportunity to opt to study physics, chemistry and biology as a triple award course, i.e. three separate GCSE passes. The scheme of assessment for these GCSEs includes a centre assessed unit (25%) and three examinations in each Science discipline (75%). All of these examinations must take pace in year 11 (9 in total) so students pursuing this pathway must be prepared to be fully committed to their studies.

Leisure and Tourism (BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate)The travel, tourism and leisure sectors have been amongst the fastest growing areas of employment in recent decades and the trend is set to continue as the 21st century develops.

Successful completion of this course will help to prepare students to enter directly into employment or further and higher training in a related field. The potential employment opportunities in this sector are vast (travel agency work, tour operator and/or tourist information services work, accommodation, catering or transport services).

Increasing dependence upon technology (computer reservation systems, the internet, call centres) is also creating many employment opportunities.

There are 6 areas of study:

• UK travel and tourism sector• Understanding customer service• World travel• UK tourist destinations• European holiday destinations• Worldwide holiday destinations

A portfolio of work will be produced for each area.

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Main PathwaySubject hours per fortnight

English Language

English Literature Maths Dual award

Science

Social and Cultural Studies

Physical Education ICT Baccalaureate

option

+2 further option choices

Hours per fortnight 4 4 7 9 4 2 5 5 10

Baccalaureate PathwaySubject hours per fortnight

English Language

English Literature Maths Dual award

Science


Physical Education

ICT option

Baccalaureate option

+2 further option choices


Science PathwaySubject hours per fortnight

English Language

English Literature Maths


Physical Education

Separate Sciences

+ Statistics

ICT option+2 further

option choices

Hours per fortnight 4 4 7 4 2 14 5 10

College PathwaySubject hours per fortnight

English Language

English Literature Maths Science


Physical Education ICT College option

1 further option choice


25

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Careers Education Information Advice and Guidance Programme

This comprehensive programme is aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them to recognise and achieve their educational, personal and vocational potential and to manage their transition from KS3 to KS4 & 5 and then beyond, whether it is into higher education or employment. All students are involved in:

• A planned careers education programme throughout the Key Stages.

• Individual support from our own Student Progression Manager.

• Access to information about the ‘world of work’ and all the various pathways open to the students at the end of Year 11, including sixth form, college and apprenticeships.

• Participation in the schools work related learning curriculum, including work experience with a local employer.

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HelpSo there is a lot to think about…

• Ask for help.

• Stick with your decisions.

• Work hard in ALL your subjects!

OPTIONS CHOICES Parents contacting the school about OPTIONS CHOICES should in the first instance email Mr Owens ([email protected]) or telephone the school (0191 427 4050) and ask for Mr Owens – leaving a contact telephone number if he is unavailable.

SUBJECT SELECTION For advice regarding SUBJECT SELECTION and other careers information, please contact Mr Joyce, the Student Progression Manager. He is available on 0191 427 4050 ext. 336.

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YOUR OPTION CHOICES

SCHOOL ADDRESSLISLE ROADSOUTH SHIELDS NE34 6DL

TEL: 0191 427 4050FAX: 0191 427 1478

WEB: www.harton-tc.co.ukE-MAIL: [email protected]

2015 - 2017

Documents

2015 - 2017 YOUR OPTION CHOICES