CURRICULUM CHOICES KEY STAGE FOUR: 2017 – 2019

Year 9 Options Information

CURRICULUM CHOICES - THE PROCESS

The Year 9 Options process is a very important stage in the life of every teenager. For the first time they will make key decisions as to which subjects they no longer wish to study, and which ones they wish to pursue to GCSE and possibly beyond. This booklet will outline the subjects available as well as explain the qualification and assessment details for each type of course. 

There has been a great deal of change in the educational landscape over recent years as new courses and qualifications have been introduced. As you may well be aware, the Government have introduced major reforms to GCSEs. This has included a move back to linear courses, where subjects are only examined at the end of the 2 year course, so there will be no modular exams during Y10 and Y11 and courses are made up of a larger percentage of examination assessment rather than coursework content.

All GCSE courses will be graded on the newly introduced system of number rather than letter grades, when exams are taken in the Summer of 2019. These will be on a scale from 1 to 9, with 9 being the best.

If you have any questions regarding specific details of our Key Stage 4 courses, please speak directly to the relevant Faculty Leader who will always have the most up-to-date subject information.

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The HGS CurriculumOur priority is to provide courses which will enable students to maximise their potential and enhance their opportunities beyond the age of sixteen of finding the best progression route for them.

There is a common core of subjects which includes:-

English Language Mathematics Science English Literature Core Physical Education Religious Studies (Full course GCSE)

For particular subjects, individual recommendations are made to every student, which are based on all the information we have built up over the past two and a half years, including KS2 data, progress in the relevant subjects in Y7-9, attitude to learning and attainment in the subjects being recommended. These recommendations are identified on the individualised options form which is provided to every student.Recommendations will be made for;

Science: Students will be directed towards the most appropriate Science course. This will be either the Triple Science option, where they will study GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics separately or the combined science option, which equates to 2 GCSEs. Both routes allow students to continue on to study science at A Level, dependent upon them also meeting the entry requirements of those individual subjects.

Modern Languages: For the majority of students, the study of at least one modern language will be compulsory. For some students, the study of a language will be optional. If their recommendation is ‘optional’, they may still of course opt for a language, if they wish to do so. Some students may also wish to continue with both of their languages.

Geography & History: For the majority of students, the study of either geography or history will also be compulsory. For some students, this will also be optional, but again, they may still opt for geography or history, if they wish to do so. Some students may wish to continue with both geography and history.

What are GCSEs?GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. These are two year courses graded at 1 to 9, 9 being the highest grade and 5 being considered the benchmark for what will now be considered as a ‘good’ GCSE grade. Students are assessed at the end of the course in a final examination. Some courses continue to have a coursework element, although in most cases, this makes up a smaller percentage of the total, final marks.

What is a Cambridge National Award?This is a practical course designed for students aged 14-16. HGS offers the OCR course in Creative iMedia. This course has a larger coursework element, which makes up 75% of the final assessment. There is one exam worth 25% of the total marks. The course is worth the equivalent of a GCSE grade and is graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction or Distinction*

Harrogate Grammar School has an outstanding record in enabling students to make progress significantly beyond the national average. You will be supported throughout the two years to achieve the best results you can.

Make sure you choose the courses which will lead to the greatest chance of success for you.

The English BaccalaureateThe English Baccalaureate (EBacc) is a school performance measure. It allows people to see how many students get a grade 5 (a ‘good’ pass) or above in the core academic subjects at key stage 4 in any government-funded school.Core Academic Subjects;

•! English •! Mathematics •! History or Geography •! The Sciences (at least 2 - One of which could be Computer Science if chosen, if this grade was higher than those achieved in Triple/Combined sciences)•! A language

The Government introduced the EBacc measure in 2010, although it was not a statutory requirement and so schools did not have to ensure all students did all of these subjects. In June 2015, the Government announced their intention that the vast majority of students who start year 7 in September 2015 take the EBacc subjects when they reach their GCSEs in 2020. Initially, it was unclear whether or not this measure would be important in terms of progression routes for young people post 16 and indeed if it would remain as a measure. It has remained and the Government believe that this policy will enhance the prospects of students, particularly disadvantaged students, by ensuring they receive a ‘core academic curriculum’ that allows them to retain options as they progress into subsequent education and in the employment market. With this in mind and taking the context of our students at Harrogate Grammar School into account, we feel that we should reflect this decision in our current curriculum offer. There are already around 80% of our students who choose to take the full suite of ‘EBacc’ subjects at GCSE level and many more who do all but 1 of them. From September 2017 therefore the majority of students will be asked to choose these subjects as part of their option choices. They will continue to have 2 further option choices, which can be taken from a wide range on offer. In some exceptional cases, such as to meet their special educational needs, some students may need a bespoke curriculum, which does not include all of these subjects. This will be decided in discussion with learning support and the parents/carers of those children.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum 2017-19: The majority of students will study;

•! English Language •! English Literature •! Maths•! Either Triple Science (3 GCSEs) or Combined Science (2 GCSEs)•! History or Geography •! At least one language from: French, German, Italian or Spanish •! GCSE Religious Studies

Students will then be able to make 2 further choices from a variety of other subject areas;•! Geography or History in addition to the choice from above•! A 2nd language•! An Art or design based subject – Art, Food Science, Product Design, Textiles•! Computer science or I-Media •! Music, Drama•! Physical Education•! Business Studies

For further information you can find official, Government documentation here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/english-baccalaureate-ebacc

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Recommendation for science Triple or Combined

Add 1/2/3/4 next to

the subjects you are choosing - in order of

preference + a reserve (RES)

Deadline to hand in to form

tutor - 15/02/17

Name & Form

Recommendation for languages and Geog/History - Compulsory or

Optional

Signed by Parent & student

before returning to form tutor

THE RECOMMENDATION FORM

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CURRICULUM CHOICES 2017-19

The Subjects on offer.....

ART & DESIGN(GCSE)QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Art & Design. The Examining Board is AQA.

THE COURSE

This is an exciting practical course which encourages students to develop personalised creative projects from the following areas of study: painting and drawing, digital photography, 3D and sculpture, mixed media, graphics design, printmaking, textiles and fashion.

Students in year 10 & 11 will have the opportunity to produce a wide range of projects developing their visual, aesthetic and technical skills as well as their knowledge and understanding of Art & Design. Students will be able to opt to specialise in a single area of study in such areas as photography, painting and drawing, graphics, 3 dimensional design. students can also opt for a broad course where they can produce work in more than one area. Studies will also be made of relevant artists and designers to support their individual projects. This course provides a strong foundation for any student wishing to go on to Sixth Form and study Art and Design, Graphics, Photography or Product Design at A level.

ASSESSMENTUnit 1: Portfolio of Work (Controlled Assessment) 60%Unit 2: Externally set practical task 40%. (8 weeks prep and 10hr exam)

FUTURE CAREERSArtist/sculptor/ceramists/graphic designer/illustrator/fashion & textile designers/ surface pattern design/film & Photography/web design/app design/animation/product design/theatre & set design/costume design/gallery and museum curator/ art historian/ teaching/architect etc.

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ART & DESIGN TEXTILES (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Art & Design. The Examining Board is AQA.

THE COURSEThis course offer an opportunity for a single subject art and design course focussing purely on textile design in a dedicated textile room. Students will be introduced to a variety of creative experiences exploring a range of textile media, techniques and processes.

Students will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to art and textile design which will be integral to the investigating and making process. This practical course will enable students to experience an exciting range of techniques and approaches to making creative textiles. They will have opportunities to explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas of textile design including; fashion and/or costume; printed and/or dyed materials; domestic textiles; constructed and/or applied textiles; constructed and/or stitched and/or embellished textiles.

ASSESSMENTUnit 1: Portfolio of Work (Controlled Assessment) 60%Unit 2: Externally set practical task 40%. (8 weeks prep and 10hr exam)

FUTURE CAREERSThis course provides a route to A levels in the Sixth Form such as art and design, photography and graphics design. Careers within the creative industries are expanding and provide a significant pathway for students. This course would be ideal for any student interested in further education courses or employment within the creative industries such as fashion design, textiles design, interior design, fashion marketing, costume design, product design and surface pattern design to name a few.

QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Business Studies. The Examining Board is Edexcel

THE COURSE

You will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone a successful business person. You will find out how to develop an idea, spot a business opportunity and create a successful business.

The course is made up of 2 separate units.

•    Theme 1: Investigating small business

Spotting a business opportunity, enterprise and entrepreneurship, putting a business idea into practice, making business effective, external influences on business.

•    Theme 2 : Building a business

Growing the business, making marketing decisions,making operational decisions, making financial decisions and making human resource decisions.

Is this the right subject for me?

If you enjoy: communicating and explaining your ideas, thinking creatively and making decisions, working with numbers to solve business problem and learning about the world of business through research and investigation.

ASSESSMENT

Theme 1 is assessed via an external examination of 1.5 hours of compulsory multiple choice and short/long answer questions. This is worth 50% of the total GCSE.

Theme 2 is assessed via an external written examination of 1.5 hour. This is worth 50% of the total GCSE marks.

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BUSINESS STUDIES (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

This course leads to an equivalent of a GCSE. The examining board is OCR.

THE COURSE

There are two core units and two specialist units:

* Pre-production skills * Creating digital graphics * Creating a digital animation

* Creating a multipage website OR Designing a game concept.

Digital Media plays an important part in many areas of our everyday lives and is also an important part of the UK economy. There is a demand from employers for an increasingly skilled and technically literate workforce as more and more media products are produced digitally. Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia provide you with specific and transferable skills and a solid foundation in understanding and applying this subject, whether it is in employment or higher education.

Planning is an essential part of working in the creative and digital media sector. This unit will enable you to understand pre-production skills and techniques, as well as gain the knowledge and skills to create digital media products and explore their application.

Digital graphics feature in many areas of our lives, and play a very important part in today’s world. The digital media sector relies heavily on these visual stimulants within products to communicate messages effectively.

Digital animation is used in a wide range of applications in the creative and digital media sector. It can enhance applications, and be used to entertain and inform the viewer.

Websites are the basis of internet content and are therefore used extensively in the creative digital media sector. Designing a game will enable you to understand the capabilities and limitations of a range of platforms. You will be able to identify core features of digital games and gain the knowledge to create a games design concept proposal that can be presented to a client for critical review.

ASSESSMENT

There is one exam worth 25% of the overall grade. This is supported by the balance of 75% coursework which is teacher assessed.

Points are awarded for each and then added together to produce the final grade which will be – Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.

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CREATIVE iMEDIA (CAMBRIDGE NATIONAL AWARD)

COMPUTING (GCSE)QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE in Computer Science. The examining board is OCR.

THE COURSE

This is a course that has real relevance in our modern world. While students will no doubt already have some knowledge of computers, this course will give them an in-depth understanding of how computer technology works and a look at what goes on "behind the scenes". The course will also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the study of computer programming.

Learners who have taken a Computing GCSE and who then progress to study the subject at A Level or University will have an advantage over their colleagues who are picking up the subject at these levels.

Studying Computing will make an excellent preparation for learners who want to study or work in areas that rely on analytical thinking skills, especially where they are applied to technical problems, for example in Engineering, Financial and Resource Management, Science and Medicine.

ASSESSMENT

• There are three assessments over the two years of the course:

• 1½ hour written exam on Computer Systems.

• 1½ hour written exam on Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming.

• 20 hour Programming Project (Non-Exam Assessment)

• Computer Science GCSE is now included as a science option in the English Baccalaureate performance measure. It cannot replace a science in our curriculum model but the grade could replace a lower science grade in order to ensure a student achieves the Ebacc measure. 

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DRAMA (GCSE)QUALIFICATIONThis course leads to a GCSE qualification in Drama. The Examining Board is Edexcel.

THE COURSE

A creative course, which allows students to develop a personal interest as to why drama matters. Working imaginatively, collaboratively and creatively, students will learn how to take a text from page to stage as well as devising work in a range of theatrical performance styles. The course will be personalised dependent on each student’s interest covering aspects such as lighting, sound, set, costume, make up, mask, stage management, directing and acting. As with all Performing Arts courses, this programme of study enables students to develop confidence, resilience and the ability to communicate highly effectively.There are three units of study consisting of two coursework components and one externally examined paper.

ASSESSMENTComponent 1: Devising (Coursework) 40%

● Create, develop, perform and analyse a devised piece from a stimulus ● Analyse and evaluate the devising process and performance● Performer or designer routes available

Component 2: Performance from Text (Coursework) 20%

● Students will either perform in and/or design for two key extracts from a text● Performer or designer routes available

Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice (Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes) 40%

● Practical exploration and study of one complete performance text● Live theatre evaluation

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QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Food Preparation and Nutrition.The Examining Board is AQA

THE COURSE

The Food course is designed for all students who enjoy making a wide variety of food products. Students must be committed to cooking every week, where possible, to fully develop their practical skills and confidence.

The course focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working properties of food materials. The students will learn an array of culinary techniques, as well as knowledge of nutrition, food traditions and kitchen safety. The course focuses on learning about up-to-date issues regarding diet and healthy lifestyles, food safety and hygiene.

The school has developed strong links with food businesses who aim to support learning in various ways, e.g. Betty’s Cookery School. The food course equips students with valuable life skills, enabling them to choose food wisely and competently prepare a wide range of products for different groups of people and occasions. Students can later choose to study Food to a higher level if they are interested in potential careers in the exciting and ever developing food industry and health care professions.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment is 50% Written Exam (1 hour 45 mins) 50% Coursework – 2 tasks set by the exam board.

The coursework comprises a Food Investigation Task (15%) and a Food Preparation Task (35%) which will both be completed in year 11.

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FOOD PREPARATION AND NUTRITION (GCSE)

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (GCSE)Qualification:This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Design Technology. The examining board is AQA.

The Course:Design technology is now a single subject combining a wide range of materials and skills previously only offered as specific disciplines. This exciting new course will prepare students to participate confidently and successfully in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain awareness and learn from wider influences on Design and Technology including historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic factors. Students will get the opportunity to work creatively applying technical and practical expertise using a wide range of materials and emerging technologies as part of a contextual challenge. Students will learn a wide range of core technical knowledge which will allow them to have a greater awareness of how design technology influences products and our environment, along with developing a specific technical knowledge in a selected material.The school has had great success with design students excelling in major competitions, year 10 students twice been shortlisted to show their design work in major design competitions promoted by the Design Museum in London. There is also an opportunity for students who intend to study engineering to apply for the Arkwright scholarship which offers financial support and a sustained partnership with an industry sponsor while students are continuing their studies at A level and beyond. The department has good links with the local community and businesses with the students being able to gain valuable experience.

This course provides a strong foundation for any student wishing to progress to sixth form and study Product Design at A level or diversify into the range of other creative subjects available. It is also valuable for students wishing to progress via apprenticeships.

Assessment:Assessment is 50% written exam (2 hours) investigating core and specific technical knowledge and 50% Practical coursework (Non-Exam Assessment) a contextual challenge set by the exam board in year 11.

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GEOGRAPHY (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Geography. Examining Board: AQA.

THE COURSE

The GCSE course is split into 3 sections. One section involves fieldwork and geographical skills. In order to complete this, students will be involved in a field trip to the East Coast.

Topics studied for the other two sections include;

Physical Geography: ! Human Geography:

- The Challenge of Natural Hazards - Urban Issues and Challenges

- Physical Landscapes in the UK! - The Changing Economic World

- The Living World! - The Challenge of Resource Management

PROGRESSION

The course is a great basis for moving on to A Level Geography. Universities and employers prize the knowledge and skills that studying geography can provide. Geographers work in a wide range of jobs from the City to planning, working in the environment to travel and tourism, or in international charities and retail.

ASSESSMENT

There are three written examination papers at the end of the course:

•Paper 1 – Living with the Physical Environment: 1hr 30 mins, 35% of GCSE

•Paper 2 – Challenges in the Human Environment: 1hr 30 mins, 35% of GCSE

•Paper 3 – Geographical Applications (Field work and geographical skills): 1hr 15, 30% of GCSE

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HISTORY (GCSE)

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QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in History. The Examining Board is AQA (this draft specification has not yet received full accreditation and therefore may be subject to some minor change).

THE COURSE

Paper One: Understanding the modern world

Section A, period study: Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship

This study focuses on the development of Germany during a period of democracy and dictatorship – the development and collapse of democracy and the rise and fall of Nazism.

Section B, wider world depth study: Conflict and tension, 1918–1939

This study enables students to understand the complex and diverse interests of different individuals and countries. It focuses on the causes of the Second World War and seeks to show how and why conflict occurred and why it proved difficult to resolve the issues which caused it.

Paper Two: Shaping the nation

Section A, thematic study: Britain: Health and the people: c1000 to the present day

This study will enable students to gain an understanding of how medicine and public health developed

in Britain over a long period of time.

Section B, British depth studies including the historic environment: Study of a Medieval Period

Students will study and develop contextual knowledge of a specific Medieval period in Britain.

ASSESSMENT

Paper One: 1h45m written paper to be taken at the end of Year 11 (50% of total marks)

Paper Two: 1h45m written paper to be taken at the end of Year 11 (50% of total marks)

MFL: FRENCH, GERMAN, ITALIAN & SPANISH (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

Studying French, German, Italian or Spanish will lead to a full GCSE and will contribute towards meeting the EBacc measure. The examination board is AQA.

THE COURSE

Students develop their communication and comprehension skills logically from KS3, becoming more confident and proficient users of the language. These skills are taught in conjunction with the following themes on which the assessments are based:

Theme 1: Identity and culture

Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest

Theme 3: Current and future study and employment

ASSESSMENT

Students are entered at either Foundation or Higher Tier for all papers, depending on their ability profile in Y11. All prior data will be considered at this point. There are four equally-weighted exams to be taken at the end of Y11.

Paper 1 – Listening: 25% - Understanding and responding to different types of spoken language: 35 minutes at Foundation Tier, 45 minutes at Higher Tier

Paper 2 – Speaking: 25% - Communicating and interacting effectively in speech: 7-9 minutes at Foundation Tier, 10-12 minutes at Higher Tier

Paper 3 – Reading: 25% - Understanding and responding to different types of written language: 45 minutes at Foundation Tier, 1 hour at Higher Tier

Paper 4 – Writing: 25% - Communicating effectively in writing for a variety of purposes: 1 hour at Foundation Tier, 1 hour 15 minutes at Higher Tier

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German Exchange 2016

MUSIC (GCSE) QUALIFICATION This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Music. The Examining Board is Edexcel.

THE COURSE

This course is a great choice for anyone with a passion for music. Many varied styles of music will beexplored throughout the course ranging from Bach to rock Gods, Queen via the film music for Star Wars Episode IV! This course, with its large practical element, helps enable students to develop confidence, resilience and the ability to communicate highly effectively. There are three components to the course:

Performance (combined duration of 4 minutes)

1)!Students play one solo piece on their instrument/voice

2)!Students perform one piece as part of an ensemble eg: a band, duet

Composition (combined duration no more than 3 minutes)

1)!Students are required to compose one composition of their choice

2)!Students will be required to compose a piece in response to a brief set by the exam board

Listening

Students will listen to a wide variety of styles and musical traditions. There are four Areas of Studyeach containing 2 set works – Instrumental Music 1700 - 1820, Vocal Music, Music for Stage andScreen and Fusions.

The course provides a good foundation for studying both A level Music and BTEC

ASSESSMENT

1! Performance 30%. Internally marked and externally moderated by Edexcel

2! Composition 30%. Internally marked and externally moderated by Edexcel

3. Listening 40%. One listening paper exam, externally assessed

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION (GCSE)

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QUALIFICATIONThis course leads to a GCSE qualification in Physical Education. The Examining Board is AQA. The course will involve a combination of practical (2/6 lessons) and theory (4/6 lessons).

THE COURSE

The Human Body and Movement – Paper 1 Exam (30% of total) Applied Anatomy & Physiology! ! Muscular, Skeletal and Respiratory SystemsLever Systems! ! ! ! Planes & Axis Movement Analysis!! ! Fitness & Training and Use of Data

Socio-Cultural Influences ! ! ! – Paper 2 Exam (30% of total) Sports Psychology!! ! ! Skill & AbilityInformation Processing! ! ! Learning TheoriesSponsorship ! ! ! ! Influence of MediaHealth, Fitness & Well-Being!! Use of Data!

Practical activities:Students will be assessed as a PERFORMER in 3 sports (30% of total)Students will complete internal assessments but MUST have the ability to film themselves out of school in their chosen sports. Students need to be playing competitive sports outside of school. One sport must be an individual sport, whilst one must be a team sport, with the third a choice. Coursework (10% of total)Students will be required to complete a written piece of coursework which evaluates their own performance.

ASSESSMENT

30% internally assessed practical performances.10% written coursework.60% from 2 exams at the end of the course.

THE CORE SUBJECTS

ALL STUDENTS STUDY THESE SUBJECTS.

THEY DO NOT TAKE UP AN OPTION CHOICE.

FOR SCIENCE, STUDENTS STUDY EITHER TRIPLE OR COMBINED

ENGLISH (GCSE)QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in English Language.

The Examining Board is AQA

THE COURSE

The course develops and assesses skills in Spoken Language, Reading and Writing. A wide variety of texts are studied for exam preparation, including novels, plays, poems, newspapers, magazines, advertisements, films and television programmes.

ASSESSMENT

Examination in the Summer of Year 11:-

There will be 2 exams:

Paper 1 - Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing

1 hour 45 minute exam which includes several comprehension questions about one unseen literature fiction text AND one extended descriptive writing question. This is worth 50% of the GCSE.

Paper 2 - Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives

1 hour 45 minute exam which includes several comprehension questions about two linked non-fiction texts AND one extended writing question presenting a viewpoint.

This is worth 50% of the GCSE.

Spoken Language Element - This appears as a separate endorsement on the GCSE certificate (0% weighting of GCSE). Tasks are set by the teacher throughout the course, and marked by the teacher. Tasks include presenting, responding to questions and feedback, and use of standard English.

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ENGLISH LITERATURE (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in English Literature.

The Examining Board is AQA

THE COURSE

The course develops and assesses skills in the close reading and analysis of novels, poems and plays. It also challenges students to be able to communicate their understanding effectively through essay writing.

ASSESSMENT

Examinations in the Summer of Year 11:-

There will be two exams:

Paper 1 – Shakespeare and the 19th Century Novel

1 hour 45 minute exam which includes a question on a Shakespeare play AND a question on a 19th Century novel. This is worth 40% of the GCSE

Paper 2 – Modern Texts and Poetry

2 hour 15 minute exam which includes a question on either the modern prose text or drama text studied AND a comparative question on two poems you will have studied within a cluster of poems AND a question on a poem you will not have seen before. This is worth 60% of the GCSE.

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MATHS (GCSE)QUALIFICATION

This course leads to a GCSE qualification in Mathematics. The examination board is AQA

THE COURSE

The course is divided into the following subjects;

1. Number2. Algebra3. Ratio, proportion and rates of change4. Geometry and measures 5. Probability6. Statistics

Mathematics is an exciting and challenging subject. It enables us to solve every day problems and has many applications across other subject areas. All students must have a scientific calculator for the course (Casio preferred) and iPads are used for other tasks such as graph drawing and spreadsheet processing. There is an increased mathematical difficulty in both foundation and higher tier syllabuses. At foundation tier there is substantially more content which has been trickled down from the higher tier. In both tiers there is greater rigour as the three terminal exams now last a total of 4.5 hours. 

ASSESSMENT

Students are entered at either foundation or higher tier, depending on their ability profile in Y11. All prior data will be considered at this point. There are 3, equally-weighted exams; one non-calculator and two calculator papers.

The exams are designed to assess the following;

1. Ability to use and apply standard mathematical techniques

2. Ability to reason, interpret and communicate mathematically

3. Ability to solve problems within mathematics and other contexts

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SCIENCE - TRIPLE AQA (GCSE)QUALIFICATION

Triple GCSE (1 GCSE qualification each in Chemistry + Biology + Physics)

THE COURSE

Covers scientific ideas, how they develop and how they apply to a range of domestic, industrial and environmental contexts. Students will cover a range of topics and experience a range of practical work, problem solving and ICT to help them learn new ideas.

Topics Covered Include:

Working Scientifically ! ! Cell Biology

The Eye and Brain! ! Infection and Response

Bioenergetics! ! Inheritance

Atomic Structure & The Periodic Table Forces

Mole Calculations ! ! Electricity

Structure and Bonding! ! Energy Changes

Energy! ! Waves

Space Physics! ! Chemical Analysis

Recommendations will be made for students to take the separate science GCSEs. Attainment in Year 9 and attitude to learning will be taken into account when assessing the suitability of students to follow the separate science pathway.

ASSESSMENT

Each GCSE is assessed by 2 written examinations at the end of Y11. Each exam will be 1 hour and 45 minutes long and be worth 50% of the GCSE. There is a Higher and a Foundation tier for each examination. Throughout the course students will complete 8-10 required practicals per GCSE and students will be assessed on their understanding of these in all their written examinations.

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SCIENCE COMBINED - AQA (GCSE)

QUALIFICATION

Combined Science (2 GCSEs)

THE COURSE

Covers scientific ideas, how they develop and how they apply to a range of domestic, industrial and environmental contexts. Students will cover a range of topics and experience a range of practical work, problem solving and ICT to help them learn new ideas.

Working Scientifically! ! ! Energy Changes

Cell Biology! ! ! Chemical Analysis

Infection and Response! ! ! Forces

Bioenergetics! ! ! Energy

Inheritance! ! ! Waves

Atomic Structure and The Periodic Table

Structure and Bonding! ! ! Electricity

ASSESSMENT

Combined Science is assessed at the end of Year 11. There are six examinations in total with two examinations per science discipline. Each examination is 1 hour and 15 minutes long and is worth 16.7% of the final grade. There is a higher and a foundation tier for each examination. Throughout the course students will complete 21 required practicals and students will be assessed on their understanding of these in all their examinations.

Following the Combined Science pathway will allow entry onto A-level Biology, Physics and Chemistry courses in the Sixth form. This is subject to meeting the entry requirements for these subjects.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES (GCSE)QUALIFICATION

All students at Harrogate Grammar School sit the full course GCSE in Religious Studies. Students have already started the course at the beginning of Year 9. This does not take up one of their option choices.

THE COURSE

The Course is divided into two separate halves, each separately examined.

The Study of Religions

This section of the course requires students to gain a deep understanding of two different major word religions: Christianity and Islam. These religions have been selected as the largest and fastest growing religions in the UK. The course covers the beliefs and practices of these major religions, as well as a critical evaluation of these ideas. Unlike many other GCSEs, 50% of the marks available are for the explanation of a student’s own beliefs.

Religious Philosophy and Ethical Questions

This section of the course requires students to answer challenging questions on a variety of topics by comparing their own viewpoints and ideas with those from a religious perspective. Students will study four areas:

• The existence of God (arguments for and against)

• Religion, peace and conflict

• Religion, crime and punishment

• Religion, human rights and social justice

These topics are considered from both a secular humanist and a religious perspective. The course does not seek to challenge or assert any given faith tradition, but encourages students to explore their own.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment is by written examination. Two papers of two hours each. Exams will consist of a combination of short answer questions and longer essay based questions. There is no coursework.

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Q

QUALIFICATION

This course is not examined

THE COURSE

Students will complete two compulsory lessons each week within Physical Education where a programme is followed in accordance with the National Curriculum Key Stage 4 framework. Throughout KS4 students have the opportunity to experience a wide range of activities, both at an introductory and in-depth level. Students are often given the opportunity to choose activities that reflect individual interests within PE, however, this will always be dependent on group dynamics and facilities available. This is to encourage and promote healthy lifestyles, enjoyment and lifelong participation.

Activities can include:

Aerobics, badminton, basketball, cricket, dance, football, frisbee, gymnastics, health-related fitness, hockey, lacrosse, netball, rugby, rounders, softball, tennis, rugby, table tennis and volleyball.

Extra-Curricular

In extra-curricular activities students are encouraged to follow their interests by taking part in the many after school and lunchtime clubs on offer. There is also the opportunity to participate in the various fixtures and tournaments arranged.

Assessment

There is no formal assessment within core PE. The only form of feedback will be in the form of a half-termly attitude to learning (OGCU) grade.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION (CORE)

THE BIG PICTURE PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMEQUALIFICATION This course is not examinedTHE COURSE

At Harrogate Grammar School students in Years 10 and 11 follow a Personal Development programme called ‘The Big Picture’ which incorporates elements of Personal, Social, Health Education, Citizenship, Careers Educations and Guidance. This is delivered by Form Tutors through Guidance lessons supported by assemblies and Super Learning Days.

Through a range of exciting activities in lessons, visiting speakers, workshops, themed days and the opportunity to complete two weeks work experience in Year 11 they are encouraged to develop the skills and understanding that are required to lead a confident, healthy and independent life. Students are empowered to develop mutual respect and the confidence to take control of their present and future. This is nurtured through a proactive, specialised and caring environment which promotes consistency, stability and respect for all.

Overarching Concepts Discussed In ‘The Big Picture’ Programme

Identity (their personal qualities, attitudes, skills, attributes and achievements and what influences these)

Relationships (including different types and in different settings)

A healthy (including physically, emotionally and socially) balanced lifestyle (including within relationships, work-life, exercise and rest, spending and saving and diet)

Risk (identification, assessment and how to manage risk rather than simply the avoidance of risk for self and others) and safety (including behaviour and strategies to employ in different settings)

Diversity and equality (in all its forms)

Rights (including the notion of universal human rights), responsibilities (including fairness and justice) and consent (in different contexts)

Change (as something to be managed) and resilience (the skills, strategies and ‘inner resources’ we can draw on when faced with challenging change or circumstance)

Power (how it is used and encountered in a variety of contexts including persuasion, bullying, negotiation and ‘win-win’ outcomes)

Career (including enterprise, employability and economic understanding)

ASSESSMENT

There is no formal assessment within the Big Picture programme. The only form of feedback will be in the form of a half-termly attitude to learning (OGCU) grade.

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What next?

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Thefinalop+onsformwillbegiventostudentsthedaya9erParentconsulta+onevening.ThisneedstobereturnedtotheFormTutorby:Wednesday 15th February

Y9 CURRICULUM CHOICES - TIMELINE DATE

iBook to students Wednesday 18th January

Y9 Curriculum Choices Assembly Wednesday 18th January

Recommendation letters issued in Guidance (This is a practice option form)

Wednesday 18th January

Y9 Curriculum Choices evening for Parents/Carers Wednesday 25th January

Y9 Parent Consultation Evening Tuesday 7th February

Final options form given out Wednesday 8th February

Final Deadline for handing Option forms back in Wednesday 15th February