Fine Art - marchesschool.co.uk€¦Fine Art AS/A2 (level 3) Course overview This course is designed to enable you to: Develop fine art (paint and print) related skills using a variety

Fine Art AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

This course is designed to enable you to:

Develop fine art (paint and print) related skills using a variety of media, processes and techniques.

Gain knowledge of historical and contemporary painters, styles and genres.

Use a specialist fine art vocabulary and terminology.

Gain knowledge of fine art through research, development and production of your own ideas.

Recognise and develop your own practical and critical strengths in fine art.

Provide you with the tools to develop your own artistic practice.

Will this course suit me? You will enjoy this course if you have an interest and natural aptitude for art. An awareness of art and art history is essential; you should have a genuine interest in visual culture. Encouraging your own creativity can lead you to great ideas in your other subjects too. Of course, A Level Art is the ideal stepping-stone for undertaking further studies in fine art, at art college or degree level. Prior study at GCSE level is recommended unless you have a strong personal portfolio. Assessment is all coursework based with practical examinations.

What topics / modules does the course cover?

Induction You will investigate and learn various skills and techniques that will enable you to work in a variety of materials with confidence and creativity. This will include using charcoal, ink, paint (acrylic, water colour and oil) and printmaking. You will also develop a range of techniques, such as creating composition, colour theory, perspective and working from life that will help you in your development as an artist. The structure The first year your coursework accounts for 50% of the AS mark and the externally set assignment accounts for the other 50%. The second year is exactly the same but there is a 3,000 word essay in which you are expected to develop a personal investigation based on an idea, artist, theme or movement leading to a final fine art response. Portfolio The emphasis in this course is learning by doing. Over the two years you will build a portfolio on themes such as Organic Form, the Natural Environment, or Man and Machine. These themes will be the vehicle to help you develop your skills in a wide range of media including paint, print and pencil. It is the work that you produce which counts; these hands on experiences will be inspired by your own creativity.

Opportunities for progression

Many students go on to higher education in Art and Design including Foundation courses at college and Bachelor of Arts degrees at university. Students then aim to embark on careers in the World of Advertising, Graphic Design, the Fashion Industry, Set

Design, Illustration, Special Effects and Gallery Curation to name just a few. Some set themselves up as practising

Artists.

Biology AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Develop your interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology.

Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works.

Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.

Will this course suit me? It suits those with an interest in the study of living organisms, who enjoy carrying out investigations in the laboratory or as fieldwork. You will explore issues affecting the world today, for example, developments in genetic engineering. There is a lot of practical work and coursework under controlled conditions but assessment is predominantly through examinations.


The AS content is divided into modules: F211: Cells, Exchange and transport. (Assessed by written examination) This unit is divided into two modules which follow on from KS4 concepts. Cells are basis units of all living things. Organisms function because of communication and co-operation between specialised cells. Cell division is a fundamental process, necessary for reproduction, growth and repair. The first module covers cell structure, cell membranes, cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation. The second module covers exchange surfaces and breathing, transport in animals and transport in plants. F212: Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Health (Assessed by written communication) This unit is divided into three modules which follow on from KS4 concepts. In order to survive, living things need a supply of oxygen and nutrients. In single celled and small organisms these materials can enter by passive processes. However, once an organism reaches a critical size, it requires specialised exchange surfaces and transport systems. The first module covers biological molecules, nucleic acids and enzymes. The second module covers diet and food production, health and disease. The third module covers biodiversity, classification, evolution and maintaining biodiversity. F213: Practical Skills in Biology 1 The coursework is made up three tasks; Quantitative, Qualitative and Evaluative. Some of the work will be carried out under controlled conditions. This is internally assessed and externally moderated. The A2 content is divided into modules: F214: Communication, Homeostasis and Energy. (Assessed through written examination). This unit is divided into four modules which follow on from KS4 concepts and the AS modules. The first module covers: Communication, Nerves and Hormones. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment using responses that are controlled and coordinated electrically and/or chemically. The second module covers: Excretion. Metabolic processes produce waste products, many of which are toxic. Excretion is an essential process for all living things. The third module covers: Photosynthesis. Photosynthesis may be the most important biological process on earth. Plants, animals and many microorganisms depend upon the carbohydrate and oxygen produced by photosynthesis.

The fourth module covers: Respiration. Respiration is one of the fundamental biological processes and takes place in all living things. Most definitions of “life” have respiration as a necessary criterion. F215: Control, Genomes and Environment. (Assessed through written examination). This unit is divided into four modules which follow on from KS4 concepts and the AS modules. The first module covers: Cellular control and Variation. Genes control the way in which cells function. Changes within genes lead to variation and variation provides the raw material for evolution. The second unit covers Biotechnology and Gene technologies. Natural processes have been harnessed and manipulated by humans for our benefit. This manipulation can take place at level of the gene, the cell or the whole organism. The third unit covers: Ecosystems and sustainability. Understanding how ecosystems work and how to manage them for sustainability and conservation requires knowledge of energy flows and population dynamics. The fourth unit covers: Responding to the environment. Plants and animals respond to environmental stimuli. The co-ordination of responses to stimuli can vary in complexity. These responses enhance the survival of the organism. F216: Practical Skills in Biology 2 The coursework is made up three tasks; Quantitative, Qualitative and Evaluative. Some of the work will be carried out under controlled conditions. This is internally assessed and externally moderated.


Biology students have gone on to degree courses in a range of Biological subjects, including Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biological Engineering, Environmental studies, Forensic Science, Plant Pathology, Nursing, Genetics, Biochemistry.

Chemistry AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

The opportunities for students of Science, and especially Chemistry, are enormous. Careers within the scientific world are extremely rewarding and qualifications in Science subjects are acceptable as an entry into many other careers. Every time we light a match, boil an egg or simply breathe in and out, we perform a chemical reaction. Our bodies grow, develop and function entirely as a result of the chemical processes that go on within them. Most of the food we eat is grown with the help of chemical fertilisers and kept from rotting with chemical preservatives. If we are to protect the planet from the harmful effects of human activity, we need to understand, as clearly as possible, the complex chemical systems which make up our environment of land, sea and air. The Chemistry course is designed to enable you to:

• Apply your knowledge and understanding to new situations. • Develop key practical and analytical skills in the laboratory. • Appreciate the link between theory and experiment. • Realise the contribution of chemistry to society. • Solve problems often applying mathematical skills.

Will this course suit me? Want to know more about the underlying nature of our world? Do you want to further develop your logic and thinking skills? Then you will be solving problems and explaining how the world works.


F321 Atoms, Bonds and Groups Written Examination This unit is intended to build upon the concepts learned during Key Stage 4. It provides a knowledge and understanding of quantitative chemistry, atomic structure, and bonding whilst exploring the chemical reactions of the Periodic table. These basic concepts are a prerequisite for all further chemistry modules studied in this course. F322 Chains, Energy and Resources Written Examination

This module provides a foundation for the study of organic chemistry. You will find out about the chemical reactions of hydrocarbons, alcohols and halogenoalkanes. Whilst studying energy changes and controlling rates of chemical reactions, students will learn laboratory analytical skills currently used in Industry. The world changing effects of the ozone layer and Green House Effect add more context to the course. F323 Practical Skills in Chemistry 1 Coursework

The coursework is made up three tasks; Quantitative, Qualitative and Evaluative. Some of the work will be carried out under controlled conditions. This is internally assessed and externally moderated. F324 Rings, Polymers and Analysis Written Examination

This module provides students with a deeper knowledge and understanding of how organic chemistry shapes the natural world and how organic chemicals provide many important materials. The study of functional groups to include arenes, esters, carbonyls, carboxylic acids and nitrogen compounds includes understanding instrumental techniques used in organic and forensic analysis. F325 Equilibria, Energetics and Elements Written Examination

The study of lattice enthalpy, periodic trends and the transition elements allows a deeper understanding of inorganic chemistry. This unit also extends knowledge of physical chemistry by studying aspects of rates, equilibria and acids. F326 Practical Skills in Chemistry 2 Coursework

The coursework is made up three tasks; Quantitative, Qualitative and Evaluative. Some of the work will be carried out under controlled conditions. This is internally assessed and externally moderated. Opportunities for progression

Chemistry students have gone onto degree courses in a range of Chemical and Biological subjects, including

Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Forensic Science, Aeronautics,

Mechanical and Electronic Engineering.

English Literature AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

This course is designed to enable you to develop your interest in and enjoyment of literature and literary studies as you:

Read widely and independently, both set texts and others that you will select for yourself.

Engage creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them.

Develop and effectively apply your knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation through discussion creative writing and extended responses.

Explore the contexts of the texts you are reading and others’ interpretations of them.

Become an independent and reflective reader and writer.

Will this course suit me? The course suits those who enjoy reading widely, including both modern and classic texts. You should enjoy responding in detail to texts in a critical way, relishing the chance to discuss writers’ techniques in the form of written essays. There is also the opportunity for some creative writing, based on a text you will study.


AS Poetry and Prose 1800 – 1945 This will be examined in a 2 hour paper, which involves a critical analysis of a specific poet as well as an analytical essay on a set prose text. Literature post – 1900 This will lead to a 3,000 word coursework folder, consisting of two pieces:

1. EITHER A close critical analysis of a section of a chosen text OR A re-creative piece based on a text, with a commentary AND 2. An essay exploring connections between texts informed by other readers’ interpretations.

A2 Drama and Poetry pre - 1800 This will be examined in an additional 2 hour paper, which involves detailed analysis of a Shakespeare text, as well as a comparative study of an additional drama text and an extended poem. Texts in Time This involves the study of two different types of texts (e.g. poetry, prose), leading to a 3,000 word coursework essay exploring connections and comparisons between three related texts.


English Literature will give you a wide range of options when you progress to university including English degrees,

teaching, journalism and this course complements many other subjects.

French AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

The course is designed to enable you to:

Develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, language learning.

Develop understanding of the language in a variety of contexts and genres.

Communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in the language.

Develop awareness and understanding of the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of the countries where the language is spoken.

Take your place in a multilingual global society.

Will this course suit me? You will enjoy the course if you:

Are actively interested in and committed to learning a language.

Have enjoyed your language studies in the past and already have a solid basic knowledge of the language and have ideally attained a B or above at GCSE level.

Enjoy communicating with people, are curious, open-minded and interested in foreign travel.

Are keen to further your knowledge of social and cultural issues in the target language country.


Leisure and Lifestyles (AS) This will include tourism and travel, sport, hobbies, entertainment, customs, traditions, healthy living – health and nutrition, diet and exercise, unhealthy living – drugs, aids, smoking and alcohol. The Individual and Society (AS) This unit considers relationships and responsibilities, gender issues, youth culture (values, peer groups, fashions and trends), education, vocational training and future careers. Environmental Issues (A2) Within this unit you will study technology, pollution, global warming, transport, energy, nuclear energy, renewable energies, conservation, recycling and sustainability. Social and Political Issues (A2)

This unit focuses on the role of the media, racism, immigration, social exclusion and integration, terrorism, the world of work, employment, commerce and globalization. The Guided Studies Option (A2)

Choose one or two of the following options: the World of Cinema the World of Literature the regions of France Assessment

Exam based at AS/A2 in the skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing.


Many students go on to take French at degree level. These can be single, joint or combined honours degrees at university.

Languages combine particularly well with other subjects, such as, Law, Economics, Engineering, Science and Business Studies.

Languages qualifications can lead to jobs in Translating, Interpreting, Business, Finance, International Organisations (such as the UN and the EU), Sales and Marketing, Teaching and many more!

Language students who follow careers in these fields find that their skills are highly marketable and in great demand.

Geography AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Understand some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today.

Investigate the choices that exist in managing our world for the future.

Become informed, responsible global citizens by raising your awareness of contemporary issues, from climate change to the threat of international conflict.

Understand physical processes that produce diverse and dynamic landscapes

Be aware of the similarities and differences between people, places and cultures leading to an improved understanding of societies and economies.

Develop a wide range of transferable skills including communication skills, technological skills, cartographical skills, problem-solving, numeracy and literacy skills.

Undertake fieldwork and individual research in a range of locations, at home and abroad.

Within your lifetime, your world will change faster than ever before, affecting individuals, communities, and the planet as a whole. A Level Geography is central to understanding the causes of these changes and their impacts on people and the environment.

Will this course suit me?

Do you have an interest in and concern for the environment?

Are you interested in current affairs?

Do you enjoy studying a subject that is relevant to your own life?

Would you like the opportunity to carry out practical work outdoors as well as class work?

Do you want to keep your options open and cover both ‘sciences’ and ‘humanities’?

Do you enjoy travel and finding out about new people, places, landscapes and events? If you answered YES to most of these questions, then Geography is right for you!!


Unit 1: Physical and Human Geography • Physical Geography (Compulsory Topic): Rivers, Floods and Management

• Optional Topics (students study 1): Cold environments, Coasts, Hot Desert environments • Human Geography (Compulsory Topic): Global Population Change • Optional Topics (students study 1): Health Issues, Energy Issues, Food Supply issues Unit 2: Applied Geography

Develop the use and application of a wide range of investigative, fieldwork, research, ICT, graphical, cartographical and statistical skills, to be taught through delivery of Unit 1. Unit 3: Contemporary Geographical Issues Students study at least 3 of the topics listed below: • Plate tectonics

• Weather and climate hazards • Challenges facing ecosystems • World cities – evolution or revolution? • Development and globalisation • Contemporary conflicts and challenges Unit 4: Geographical Investigation

Students complete an exam paper based on either a geographical fieldwork investigation which they have undertaken or a geographical issue which they have been given relevant information about and studied prior to the exam.


Geography is highly valued by universities. In fact, it was recently reported to be one of the 8 subjects most likely to be required or preferred by universities for entry to degree courses (Russell Group Report, 2011). Geography provides the opportunity to study a wide range of university courses related to Humanities, the environment, outdoor education and Sciences. Statistics show that Geography graduates are very employable due to their diverse range of transferrable skills. Career paths may include: Environmental Consultant, Teacher, Researcher, Surveyor, Geologist, Development/NGO worker, Cartographer, Architect, Town & Country planner.... the list goes on!

History AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key periods in British, European and International history.

Develop an in-depth understanding of attitudes, beliefs and structures of society.

Assess the historical significance of events, individuals, ideas, attitudes and beliefs and the ways in which they influenced behaviour and action.

Explore the short-term significance of individuals, movements and events, as well as the factors affecting change throughout the whole period.

Develop a range of subject skills including the analysis and evaluation of historical sources in their context.

Will this course suit me? This course suits those who have an interest in significant events, movements and personalities of the past. There is a wide and stimulating range of content. Units are assessed by a range of essay and source papers and a Controlled Assessment.


AS Level Unit 1 – Historical Themes in Breadth – A World Divided: Communism and Democracy in the 20

th Century.

This option concentrates on the theme of contrasting ideologies, with particular emphasis on how Communism developed and, in some societies, succeeded in overthrowing existing authority in the first half of the 20

th century.

This option enables students to understand the importance of ideas and beliefs in the policies developed by states, how and why ideology is frequently a cause of both challenge and conflict, within and between states, and also gives rise to debates about the rights of citizens. Students will study these issues in one of the following three countries:

- China - Russia - USA

Unit 2 – British History Depth Studies. This option concentrates on key developments in early modern British history with particular emphasis on an understanding in some depth of the exercise of power and influence in English society, including the authority of English monarchs, the roles of Parliament and the Church, and attitudes to key developments through the period. It also gives students the opportunity to understand the diplomatic, religious and financial factors which affected both the growth, and the practical limits of, royal power in early modern English society. A2 Level

Unit 3 – Depth Studies and Associated Historical Controversies. This depth study will allow students to explore issues of challenge and conflict within societies and systems, and the impact those challenges and conflicts had in the period studied. This unit also enables students to work with secondary sources selected to provide evidence of differing views about associated historical controversies. Students will study challenge and conflict in one of the following countries:

- USA - Britain - Germany

Unit 4 – Historical Enquiry – Modern British History. In this unit, students will address key aspects of a chosen theme over a period of at least 100 years in order to develop their understanding of the process of change over a long period of time. Students will complete a programme in two parts:

- An in-depth enquiry into the short-term significance of a key event, individual, development or movement within the period of study.

- A study of the chosen event or individual in a broader context, exploring the process of change within the wider timeframe.

The programme will focus on modern British history, and examine the lives of different classes in society and the part played by the state in the development of this society.

Opportunities for progression This course acts as a natural progression from History GCSE, and supports progression to further study. It can be followed up by a Higher education course in History, Modern History, Ancient History, War Studies, Law and Politics.

ICT AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

The course is designed to encourage learners to become discerning users of ICT. It allows you to develop a broad range of ICT skills, knowledge and understanding and provides an ideal foundation for those who wish to pursue ICT at degree level or as a career.

• It enables you to develop the essential skills needed to apply ICT to the real world, for example presentation and project management skills.

• You explore the latest technologies, for example Bluetooth, broadband and global positioning systems. • There’s now a greater emphasis on encouraging practical skills, and coursework has been retained as the

best method for assessing them.

Will this course suit me? In today’s world, where ICT is constantly changing, individuals will increasingly need technological and information literacy skills. These skills are now as essential 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. This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to develop their knowledge and understanding of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This is a practically based course that involves students in learning how to use software packages and their application to solve problems. This is suitable for those students wishing to seek a first qualification in basic ICT. The focus is now on the practical applications of ICT, which gives learners the skills they’ll need to enter today’s business world.


G061: Information, Systems and Applications (External) Topics covered in this unit: data, information, knowledge and processing; software and hardware components of an information system; characteristics of standard applications software and application areas; spreadsheet concepts; relational database concepts; applications software used for presentation and communication of data; the role and impact of ICT - legal, moral and social issues. G063: ICT Systems, Applications and Implications (External) In this unit candidates gain an understanding of the systems cycle; designing computer-based information systems; networks and communication; applications of ICT; implementing computer-based information systems and implications of ICT. G064: ICT Project (Coursework) Candidates explore definition, investigation and analysis; design; software development, testing and implementation; documentation and evaluation through a client-driven project. G062: Structured ICT Tasks (Coursework) Candidates have the opportunity to explore design, software development, testing and documentation. Assessment is now more streamlined and manageable: the coursework element is still 40%, but there are now only two examinations at just two hours each.


ICT is regarded as a useful qualification to support your entrance onto any degree programme or higher education course. Courses that relate specifically to the skills acquired on the ICT A Level would include Network Engineering, Web Technology, Artificial Intelligence and Business Information Systems.

You could also opt to study a Foundation Degree in Networking Technologies or Software Development.

You could take your practical skills into almost any industry sector as a technical consultant, systems administrator, operations support or ICT manager to name just a few. As a certain level of computer use is expected in modern society your advanced skills would be highly desirable in many other areas of employment.

Law AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Have an understanding of the structure, personnel and functions of the English Legal System.

Analyse and solve problems by applying legal rules.

Develop the ability to communicate legal arguments and conclusions clearly and succinctly.

Have an understanding of the Criminal Law through an in-depth study of the substantive law.

Draw together and make connections between the Criminal Law and legal processes, legal issues and the development of law.

Will this course suit me? Assessment is by written examination. You should have a genuine interest in the Law, enjoy reading and be able to express yourself both in the written form and in discussion groups. The course particularly suits those who like debating.


Sources of Law This unit introduces you to the doctrine of precedent, Acts of Parliament, delegated legislation, statutory interpretation and European Union law. You will develop an understanding of legal method and reasoning and learn the techniques of logical thinking, as well as the skills necessary to analyse and solve problems by applying legal rules. English Legal System This will help you to understand the courts, alternative methods of dispute resolution, police powers, principles of sentencing, the judiciary, the legal profession, provision and funding of legal services, lay magistrates and juries. You will develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of law in society. Criminal Law This unit introduces you to the principles of criminal liability, homicide, attempted crimes, property offences, non-fatal offences against the person and general defences. You will solve problems by applying legal rules relating to these areas of law. You will develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of these laws in society. Criminal Law Special Study This will help you to understand one of the topics from the criminal law module. You will extend your knowledge and skills through an in-depth study of this area of the law.


This course fits well with other A Level subjects to lead to higher education. Students who have previously studied Law have gone on to degrees such as Law, Sociology, Business Studies and Criminology and to careers in related fields.

Mathematics AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

This course is designed to enable you to develop your understanding of mathematics and mathematical processes in a way that promotes confidence. It will develop your abilities to reason logically and to recognise incorrect reasoning and to generalise and construct mathematical proofs. It will extend your range of mathematical skills and techniques and you will use them in more difficult unstructured problems.

Will this course suit me? You will need to have a grade A* or A at GCSE Mathematics. In all probability, you will have a love of Maths: you will relish its logic and predictability. You will enjoy solving problems. You may need it in order to support further study in any of the sciences, including social sciences, or simply to provide breadth if you are on a predominantly arts based programme.


AS Year 12

Core Mathematics 1

Consolidation and extension of GCSE work on pure mathematics including work on Coordinate Geometry and Quadratic Functions. You will meet the foundations of Calculus, exploring such techniques as Differentiation and Integration.

Core Mathematics 2

This unit introduces Sequences and Series and develops the concepts of Limits. You will meet Exponentials and Logarithms and further your understanding of Calculus and Trigonometry.

with Mechanics 1 or Statistics 1 or Decision 1

A2 Year 13

Core Mathematics 3

You will look at Functions and their notation and how they can be represented graphically. Trigonometry will be explored in more detail, in particular, Inverse Graphs and solving Trigonometric Equations. Calculus will be taken to a further level as will work on Exponentials and Logarithms.

Core Mathematics 4

Further study of Algebra and Functions, Coordinate Geometry, Sequences and Series. Work on Calculus will be extended. Exponentials and Logarithms will be explored in greater detail. Trigonometry will be developed. There will be an introduction to the theory of Vectors.

with Mechanics 1 or Mechanics 21 or Statistics 1 or Statistics 22 or Decision 1

1This can only be taken if Mechanics 1 has already been passed.

2This can only be taken if Statistics 1 has already been passed.


Mathematics A2 can lead to many Mathematics, Science and Engineering related courses or areas of employment.

An A2 Mathematics qualification is valued very highly in most careers, even if it is not directly used, due to the logical

problem-solving basis of the subject.

Mechanics 1 consists of: Mathematical

Modelling, Kinematics in One and Two

Dimensions, Statics and Forces,

Momentum, Newton’s Laws of Motion,

Connected Particles, Projectiles.

Statistics 1 consists of: Numerical

Measures, Probability, Binomial

Distribution, Normal Distribution,

Estimation, Correlation and

Regression.

Decision 1 consists of: Simple

Ideas of Algorithms, Graphs and

Networks, Spanning Tree

Problems, Matchings, Shortest

Paths in Networks, Route

Inspection Problem, Travelling

Salesperson Problem, Linear

Programming, Mathematical

Modelling.

Media Studies AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

Investigate the Media, how it shapes society, and how society shapes it. You will also complete practical tasks, which can include filming, recording, designing, advertising, or producing print material. You will learn to investigate audiences and their preferences, and how these preferences change the Media products we see every day. You will also learn the theory behind Media products.

Will this course suit me? You don’t have to have taken Media Studies GCSE (although it may help!) but if you are actively interested in investigating, discussing, evaluating and creating Media products, then this is for you. You will need to be dedicated to the course as theories and terminology are covered swiftly, and coursework is a large part of the assessment. This is not the A-Level for you if you don’t watch TV or films, listen to the radio or music, use the internet, or read magazines or newspapers – but it is also not the A-Level for you if you think that’s all we’ll do!


For the AS-Level, you will take one exam, worth 50% of your final mark, and complete a three-part coursework, also worth 50% of your final mark. For the A-Level, you will also complete a three-part coursework on a different area of the Media, and a second exam.


Degrees in Media Studies, which can be taken in combination with a number of other subjects at most Universities,

teaching, advertising, design, TV, film, journalism, and so on.

Music AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

Studying this course will enable you to:

Continue developing your love of performing music.

Explore your ideas and create new music.

Broaden your pleasure of listening to a variety of musical styles.

Discover how and why music has developed the way it has.

Continue exploring music through ICT and recording equipment. Where else can you play music and get coursework credit for it, create and record your own music, listen to music in class, and learn about different styles of music. Music A-level will focus on your creative development as an individual with the care and expertise of teachers who understand your strengths and weaknesses.

Will this course suit me? The A-level Music course is a balance of coursework and examinations. Coursework is worth 60% of the course: Performing (30%) and Composing (30%). Students are expected to supplement class lessons with individual instrument tuition, instrument practice, and independent study time on composition tasks. The remaining 40% of the course is assessed in a 2-hour examination at the end of each year of study. Regular homework tasks are set to support your learning. All musicians are welcome and students are free to choose any instrument(s) and/or voice(s) and perform music in any style. Students can perform from a score, or improvise, as appropriate. The composition component of the course allows students to explore areas that inspire and interest them. The composition briefs are broad enough to allow a personal approach. Students benefit from the two computer suites featuring Sibelius notation software on IMac computers. Students are expected to have a good level of music theory knowledge and skills, for instance to understand scales and chords. An ability to read music is an integral tool in understanding how music works. Music reading skills play an important role in all three units of the course, especially in Developing Musical Understanding. It is therefore recommended that students have GCSE Music before embarking on the A- level Music course.


Performing Students are encouraged to develop their performance skills by playing a range of styles of music as a soloist or as a member of an ensemble. At AS-level, students present a performance of 5-6 minutes. The requirement extends to 12-15 minutes at A2, allowing for a wider and more balanced programme of music. At A level it is very important that students have an instrumental teacher and follow a course of guided study on their instruments. We have a range of instrumental teachers who visit the school and can organise lessons on request. The level of performance is expected to correspond with Grade 5 (AS) and Grade 7/8 (A2) based on graded examinations of bodies such as the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Trinity Guildhall, Rockschool, and the London College of Music. If students perform at a level that exceeds Grade 5, additional credit will be awarded. If students perform at a lower level, marks are scaled accordingly. Composing Students learn how to write for instrument(s) and/or voices, and how to develop their musical ideas. At AS-level, students create a three-minute composition based on a task of their choice, plus CD sleeve notes to accompany the composition. At A2, students compose a second three-minute composition, in addition to learning to compose using styles and techniques of other composers. Developing Musical Understanding This unit focuses on listening to music and understanding how it works. At AS-level, students study pieces of music from the two topics: Instrumental Music and Vocal Music. At A2, students continue to study Instrumental Music, and also study Applied Music. Pieces range from Mozart and Debussy to Reich and Van Morrison, as well as film music. At AS-level students also learn how to use a musical score to identify musical features, and then apply these principles for themselves in the completion of a four-part vocal score.


A-level Music provides an excellent basis for lifelong learning and for higher education courses in Music. Many students who take A-level Music continue with their studies at university. The three units of the course can lead to studies in performance, composition, musicology, ethnomusicology, sound engineering, conducting, popular music, jazz and music education. The multi-tasking required in music as a subject is beneficial to many different career paths with university music students often recruited to management positions in business.

Physical Education AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


• Develop your knowledge and understanding of factors that affect human performance and factors that influence participation in physical activity.

• Participate in sporting activity on a regular basis. • Improve your performance in physical activity.

Will this course suit me? The course is open to pupils who are enthusiastic about the subject and are willing to work hard. A certain degree of ability in Sport is necessary, but a great deal of interest and personal motivation is essential. Practically, pupils must be of a relatively high standard in at least two sports, (one individual and one team). A wide range of activities will be covered throughout the course and pupils will be expected to take these to a higher performance level through in-depth analysis, working upon specific technique and extensive practice. The written components should not be underestimated. The course is a testing one which requires a dedicated approach.


In Anatomy and Physiology you will cover topics such as muscles and fibre types and how they affect performance. In Acquisition of Movement skills, you will develop your understanding of how we learn new skills and how coaches/teachers can help develop skills effectively. Socio-cultural Studies looks at how society affects sport and sport affects society. In History of sport you will learn about the development of sports in this country and how they spread around the world and reflected the society of the time. Lessons will be a mix of theoretical aspects and practical activity.


Many students from this subject area continue into higher education in very similar areas such as Sports Science,

Sports and Exercise Science, Sports Studies, PE Teaching, Sports Coaching and Sports Development. A wide

range of careers in the sports and leisure field are available. Other possible routes may include; chiropractic, dance

studies, exercise and health, human life science, nursing, occupational health and safety, occupational therapy,

osteopathy, outdoor pursuits, physiotherapy, leisure management and sportswear design.

Philosophy AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Develop a range of transferable skills which can be applied far beyond the study of Philosophy.

Provide you with a broad introduction to philosophy.

Gain a thorough grounding in key philosophical concepts, themes, texts and techniques.

Develop the ability to reason, form their own judgements, express yourselves coherently and contribute to the process of debate consider philosophical problems through the study of a key text.

Will this course suit me? If you have enjoyed Humanities in the past and have demonstrated skills in English Literature this course may be of interest to you. The way in which we study requires you to approach abstract problems with a clear, reasoning and open mind. The course required excellent reading and literacy skills. The exam is a full written paper which requires you to produce well-reasoned analytical essays.


AS

At AS, you will study units which provide a broad introduction to the study of philosophy: Unit 1: Topic 1. Reason and experience, studying how we acquire knowledge. We encounter the world through our senses; but does what we sense delineate what we think? Topic 2. Why should I be moral? This unit examines the nature of moral motivation and introduces you to three contrasting approaches which try to make sense of the relation between self-interest, practical reason and morality. Unit 2: Topic 3 God and the World, For some, that the world is as it is suffices to justify their belief in God. For others, the existence of God is incompatible with the world as they find it. Do facts about this world make God’s existence more or less plausible? What kinds of arguments support our conclusions and what are their limitations? How do we decide on the right way to describe the world and from what perspective? Topic 4. Knowledge of the external world, This unit explores in greater detail the epistemological account of knowledge that is empiricism. It raises both epistemological and metaphysical questions concerning the nature and extent of human experience. A2 At A2, the specification enables you to further develop their understanding of key philosophical concepts, themes, texts and techniques. You are given the opportunity to specialise further, selecting two themes to study in depth and focusing on philosophical problems through the study of a key text. Problem areas relate directly to other areas of the specification and candidates will be able to draw on, develop and apply material from both the AS and A2 modules: Unit 3: Key Themes in Philosophy, Topic 1: Epistemology and metaphysics, the refutation of scepticism and an exploration of what is knowledge. Topic 2: Moral philosophy

Are there moral truths and if so what is their nature? Unit 4: Plato, The Republic, Book I 336b to 367e, Book V, 474c to Book VII, 521b


Philosophy Law Teaching Politics Other Humanities Courses

Physics AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview

This course has been developed for students who wish to continue with a study of physics after GCSE. Some students may wish to follow a physics course for only one year as an AS GCE, in order to broaden their curriculum. Others will continue their course for a further year extending their course to Advanced GCE. Such a course will prepare students to progress into further education, to follow courses in physics, engineering, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where a knowledge of physics would be useful.

Will this course suit me? There are many opportunities for students of Physics on completion of full-time education. Physics is the study of the truly enormous, from the far reaches of the universe, right down to the minuscule internal structures of the atom. Scientific and engineering skills are in great demand at present and A level qualifications are well regarded in many fields of employment.


AS Mechanics - Examined unit Externally assessed You will extend your KS4 understanding of velocity, acceleration, forces and energy. You will also study car safety and the behaviour of springs and materials. Electrons, Waves and Photons - Examined unit Externally assessed You will extend your KS4 understanding of electrical circuits and waves. You will also study simple quantum physics and the wave nature of particle physics. Practical Skills in Physics 1 Teacher assessed Internally assessed You will be assessed on one task from each of the following categories: Qualitative, quantitative and evaluative tasks. These will test your understanding and application of a wide range of practical and analytical techniques. A2 The Newtonian World - Examined unit Externally assessed You will learn about Newton’s laws of motion, gravitational fields and oscillations. You will also study thermal physics and ideal gases. Fields, Particles & Frontiers of Physics - Examined unit Externally assessed You will learn about electric and magnetic fields and nuclear physics. You will also study medical imaging and the structure of the universe. Practical Skills in Physics 2 Teacher assessed Externally moderated You will be assessed on one task from each of the following categories: qualitative, quantitative and evaluative tasks. These will test your understanding and application of a wide range of practical and analytical techniques.

Opportunities for progression There are many possible careers and qualifications in Science subjects are acceptable as an entry into many other careers. Some of these include: Courses in physics, mechanical engineering, electronic/electrical engineering, computer science, medicine, astrophysics. Physicists work in many fields including, medical, design, engineering, computer science and game design, astrophysics, the

financial sector and many other areas where knowledge of how the physical world works or a firm understanding of mathematics

is required.

Psychology AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Use different perspectives to interpret the world around you.

Develop your planning and conducting of scientific investigations.

Develop analytical and evaluative skills in relation to your investigations.

Study key issues and theories in psychology.

Apply your understanding to real life examples.

Will this course suit me?

Do you have an enquiring mind?

Are you curious to develop an understanding of what influences human behaviour?

Do you enjoy research, analysing and interpreting your findings?

Would you like the opportunity to engage in lively discussion?

Studying psychology brings all these aspects and others together and leads to a greater understanding of the world around you.


AS level Unit 1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Research Methods Unit 2: Biological Psychology, Social Psychology and Individual Differences A2 Unit 3: Topics in Psychology (e.g. intelligence and learning, perception) Unit 4: Psychopathology ( disorders), Psychology in Action and Research Methods


Degree in Psychology, but an integral part of many other courses in caring services, marketing or business. Careers

include clinical or educational psychology, sports psychology, forensic psychology and teaching.

Sociology AS/A2 (level 3)

Course overview


Acquire knowledge and a critical understanding of contemporary social practices and social changes.

Appreciate the significance of theoretical and conceptual issues in sociological debate.

Understand and evaluate sociological methodology and a range of research methods through active involvement in the research process.

Develop skills which enable individuals to focus on their personal identity roles and responsibilities within society.

Develop a lifelong interest in social issues.

Encourages candidates to develop the skill of critical thinking with respect to sociological theory and methodology and in terms of local, national and global issues and topics, including the nature of social change.

Provides opportunities for candidates to consider ethical problems in the context of sociological research.

Encourages candidates to examine the relationship between the personal and the social, particularly in terms of the development of an individual's identity with respect to gender, ethnicity, class, age, locality and nation. This serves to promote self-understanding as well as the intellectual and social development of individuals.

Will this course suit me? This course is suitable for people who enjoy reading extensively and analysing what they read. Students will be studying how society and it’s institutions work and considering issues such as power and equality. Students will be expected to engage in informed discussion and debate.


AS Unit 1 - Acquiring Culture - one on each of the options - Families and Culture; Youth Culture; Community and Culture. Unit 2 - Understanding Culture - One compulsory two part structured question based on research methods - one question on each of the options - Education; Religion and Mass Media A2 Unit 3 – Understanding Power and Control - One compulsory knowledge based question. One essay to be answered. A choice of two questions will be provided on each option – Understanding Crime, Understanding Politics and Understanding Health and Disability. Unit 4 – Understanding Social Divisions One compulsory two part structured question based on research methods. One two part structured question, from a choice of two - on each option – World Sociology and Social Inequality


This course provides a suitable foundation for the study of Sociology or a related area through a range of higher education courses (e.g. criminology, administration or law); progression to the next level of vocational qualifications (e.g. social work or nursing); or direct entry into employment. In addition, the specification provides a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for candidates who do not progress to further study in this subject.

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Fine Art - marchesschool.co.uk€¦Fine Art AS/A2 (level 3) Course overview This course is designed to enable you to: Develop fine art (paint and print) related skills using a variety