GCSE Subject Choice Booklet 2013

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St Paul’s High School, BessbrookArdscoil Naomh Pól, An Sruthán

Careers DepartmentSubject Information Booklet

2013

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WelcomeDear Student,This booklet has been designed to help you choose your options for Key Stage 4. Options time is often a period when students feel worried about the decisions they have to make. This is perfectly normal. Do not panic, make sure you avail of all the help at hand. Many people will offer advice and information about which subjects to choose, from careers advisers, subject teachers and careers teachers to friends and family members. Listen carefully and choose options that interest and motivate you. Remember, there are lots of exciting opportunities ahead!

Good luck,

Mrs S Kearney Head of Careers

Careers Service NIOur school Careers Advisors are Cathy O’Neill and Margaret McCabe.

To book an appointment with an advisor please contact the Careers Department, or alternatively: Careers Service NI, Newry Jobs and Benefits Office, 40 Bridge Street, Newry, BT35 8AJ. Telephone (028) 3025 3109

Our school Careers Advisers will be available at the Year 10 Parent Teacher Meeting on Thursday 14 March 2013 to offer additional advice and support.

ContentsGCSE English Language ................................................ 3

GCSE English Literature ................................................. 3

GCSE Mathmatics .......................................................... 4

Single Award Science ..................................................... 5

Double Award Science ................................................... 5

BTEC First Applied Science ........................................... 6

GCSE Religion ................................................................ 6

GCSE Art and Design ..................................................... 7

GCSE Business Studies ................................................. 8

GCSE Child Development .............................................. 9

GCSE Construction ........................................................ 9

Certificate in Digital Applications ................................. 10

GCSE French ................................................................ 11

GCSE Geography ......................................................... 12

GCSE Health and Social Care ...................................... 13

GCSE History ............................................................... 13

GCSE Home Economics .............................................. 14

GCSE ICT ..................................................................... 14

Technology and Design ................................................ 15

GCSE Irish .................................................................... 16

GCSE Music ................................................................. 16

GCSE Spanish .............................................................. 17

GCSE PE - Double Award ............................................ 18

BTEC Level 2 First Extended Certificate in Sport ........ 19


GCSE English Language Course content This is a two year course to continue the development of Speaking and Listening, Reading and Writing Skills. GCSE English Language can be studied alongside GCSE English Literature.

Pupils undertake a combination of external examinations (40%) and controlled assessments (60%) over the two years.

The course of study focuses on:

Unit 1: 1 hour 30 min examination [20%]

Unit 2: 1 hour 30 min examination [20%]

Unit 3: Speaking and Listening [20%]

Unit 4: Studying Spoken and Written Language and Writing Creatively [40%]

Careers Pathway A grade in English is essential for all career choices.

Essential for success• Enjoyment of language• Interest in reading• Commitment and enthusiasm

GCSE English LiteratureCourse content This is a two year course developing critical reading skills and a love of literature.Pupils undertake a combination of external examinations (75%) and controlled assessments (25%) over the two years.

The course of study focuses on:

Unit 1: Exploring modern texts (40%)

Unit 2: Poetry across time (35%)

Unit 3: The significance of Shakespeare and the Literary Heritage (25%)

There are opportunities for drama and visits to the theatre.

Careers Pathway The study of English Literature opens up the opportunity to pursue a full range of careers.

Essential for success• Enjoyment of literature• Commitment to work


GCSE MathematicsExamination Information

The vast majority of occupations and further education courses make GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English an essential requirement of entry.

Course content

There are two tiers of entry to enable all candidates to demonstrate achievement.

Grades available:

• Higher tier A* - D • Foundation C – G

The course will be linear.

It will be assessed through two papers, one calculator and one non-calculator, taken in May/June 2014.

Careers Pathway A grade in Mathematics is essential and opens up the opportunity for a full range of career choices.

Essential for success

• This course provides a sound basis for further study of Mathematics and related study at a more advanced level.


Single Award Science Examination Information Revised Specification 2011

• Modular Course• 3 module exams — no terminal exam:• 1 in year 11 (February)• 2 in year 12 (November & May) • Each module = 25% • Coursework : Practical Skills • Controlled Assessment 25%

Course content This Single Award course covers all three science disciplines: Physics, Chemistry, Biology

The content for each discipline is:

Biology: Staying Alive, Human Activity & Health Chemistry: Chemical Patterns & Our Environment, Materials and their Management Physics: Electricity, Waves & Communication, Fossil Fuels, Road Transport & Safety, Radioactivity and Earth in Space Coursework: Controlled Assessment of Practical Skills

An excellent foundation for level 3 BTEC Applied Science course

Careers Pathway Electrician, Technician, Hair & Beauty, Nursing, Pharmacy technician, Paramedic, Mechanic and many more

Essential for success• Success in all modules • Organised revision • Maximum effort to apply all criteria to Planning & Interpretation skills in Controlled Assessments

Double Award Science

Examination InformationRevised Specification 2011

• 3 module exams – year 11 (33%)• Coursework: 2 pieces Controlled Assessment (25%)• 3 Terminal exams – year 12 42% - 3 papers, 1 for each discipline• Foundation and Higher Tier Courses available• 2 GCSE grades awarded eg AA, CC Intermediate grades available eg A*A, AB, Grades: Higher Tier: A*A* - DD Foundation Tier: CC-GG

Course contentThe Double Award course covers the three science disciplines: Physics, Chemistry, Biology The content for each discipline is split into 2 separate modules: Unit 1 for year 11 and Unit 2 for year 12

Careers Pathway Engineering – 14 possible branches, Medicine & Medical Science, Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical studies, Architect, Accountancy, Optician and many more

Essential for success• Success in year 11 modules• Organised revision• Excellent attendance• Maximum effort to apply all criteria to Planning & Interpretation skills in Controlled Assessments• Continuous revision for terminal Examinations

Year 11 Year 12

Biology 1:– Cells, living processes & biodiversity

Biology 2 :- Body systems, genetics, health and micro-organisms

Chemistry 1:– Structure, trends and chemical reactions

Chemistry 2 :- Further chemical reactions, organic chemistry & materials

Physics 1 :- Force & motion, energy, moments & radioactivity

Physics 2:- Waves, sound & light, electricity and the earth & universe

Controlled Assessment 1 Controlled Assessment 2


GCSE ReligionExamination Information There are 2 papers

Paper 1 – St. Mark’s Gospel 50%Paper 2 – Ethics in Roman Catholic Church 50%

The course is now modular and students will complete Paper 1 at the end of Year 11

Course contentPaper I – St. Mark’s Gospel

1. Jesus’ Ministry– background to Palestine, religious groups, Jesus’ baptism, The Temptations, Caesarea Philippi2. The Person of Jesus—miracles and titles of Christ3. Jesus’ relationship with Others—Jewish Sabbath, conflict stories, outcasts and sinners4. Discipleship and Leadership Role of disciples, nature and costs of discipleship, faith and prayer, parables of the Kingdom5. Suffering, Death and Resurrection

Paper II – Ethics in the Christian Church.

1. Christian Values: 10 Commandments, Sermon on the Mount2. Features of discipleship: Call of disciples, commission, Rich Young Man3. Prejudice & Discrimination: Capital Punishment, War & Peace, parables4. Sacraments5. Moral Issues: Abortion/Euthanasia

Careers Pathway Teaching, Home Carer, Law, Doctor, Nursing, Counsellor, Careers Advisor, Psychologist Childminder, Probation Officer, Nurse

Essential for success• It is essential that you revise each topic carefully. By doing this you will achieve excellent grades.

BTEC First Applied Science Level 2 Extended Certificate

Examination Information:This is a vocational qualification. This course is assessed as follows

• 100% continuous assessment (portfolio)• Six units to be covered over two years• Three possible awards: Distinction, Merit or Pass• Distinction is equivalent to GCSE AA, Merit is equivalent to BB and Pass is equivalent to CC

Careers Pathway:Scientific industry ElectricianTechnicianNursingDental hygienistParamedicHair & BeautyPharmacy assistantMechanic & many more

Essential for success• Full attendance• Good IT skills• Every task must be completed• Independent work• Creative thinking• Team work• Good organisational skills • Good time management • Application of knowledge

Year 11 Year 12

Unit 1 – Chemistry & the Earth Unit 6 – Health Applications of Life

Unit 2 – Energy & Our Universe Unit 8 - Science and the World of Work

Unit 3 – Biology and Our Environment Unit 9 – Working in a Science-based Industry

Course Content:


Year 11 Year 12

Unit 1 – Chemistry & the Earth Unit 6 – Health Applications of Life

Unit 2 – Energy & Our Universe Unit 8 - Science and the World of Work

Unit 3 – Biology and Our Environment Unit 9 – Working in a Science-based Industry

GCSE Art and DesignExamination Information

Art & Design is a two year GCSE course. 60% of the marks are for course-work - 40% of the marks are for an externally set assignment (executed over a 12 week period during February – April in Yr.12)

Course contentPart 1. Coursework - Compulsory

This part requires one unit of work with its associated preparatory work from September in Year 11 to end of January in Year 12

Preparation Time —20 to 30 weeks

Working towards a Fine Art or Design final outcome should provide opportunities for work in a range of materials using a variety of processes such as drawing and graphic media, print making, lens-based media, candidate – generated and computer manipulated imaging, textiles, ceramics and materials which are rigid, semi-rigid , soft or moulded and a number of design fields using various media, such as graphics and text, ceramics, jewellery, embroidery, product, fashion, textiles, illustration and interior design.

Part 2. Externally Set Assignment – Compulsory

Preparation time: up to 12 weeks - Realisation time: 10 hours formally supervised. Opportunities are provided for final outcomes in either Fine Art or Design. The externally set assignment paper will be issued to candidates in the third week of January in the Year of assessment.

Careers PathwayOpportunities exist across a range of careers for art students, including Advertising and Marketing, Computer generated art work in games design, web design and graphic design. Interior Design, Product Design, Photography, Fashion, Textile Design, Sign-writer, Engraver, Make-up Artist, Beauty Therapist, Hairdresser, Architect and Teacher are more of many Art-related career choices.


• Evidence of good analytical skills, good imagination and the ability to keep to deadlines will be essential for success. Pupils should be able to work in a sustained personal, creative and independent way both at home and in school and be able to use their own initiative.


GCSE Business Studies

There is now one level of entry for all students—all students can achieve Grades A* to C

Specification at a Glance

Contents Assessment Weighting Availability

Unit 1 External written exam 35% Every SummerBusiness Start Up 1 hour 20 mins

*Business Start Up*Production Format: Structured questions*Marketing

Unit 2 External written exam 40% SummerBusiness Development 1 hour 20 mins Terminal *Finance assessment*Managing People Format: Three structured *Business Growth questions with an incline of *Business Plan difficulty Synoptic

Controlled Assessment 25% Summer Format: Candidates complete Terminal one task from a range of tasks assessment released in September each year

Careers Pathway Accountancy, Marketing, Banking, Finance, Business Administration, Law, Hotel Management, Insurance, Journalism, Teaching

Essential for success • Candidates will require an awareness of the Business Environment through the media. A high level of dedication and commitment is necessary


GCSE Child DevelopmentExamination InformationAssessment:Unit 1: Parenthood, pregnancy and childbirth External Compulsory: 20% 1 hourUnit 2: Child Development External Compulsory: 20% 1 hourUnit 3: Controlled Investigation: Internal: 40%Unit 4: Controlled short task: 20%

Course contentThe course is divided into units: Parenthood, Pregnancy and Childbirth and Child Development (0—5yrs)

There are 4 units:

Unit 1: Parenthood, Pregnancy and Childbirth to include healthy diet and lifestyle, birth, parenthood responsibilities and pregnancy. A written exam worth 20% will be taken in Year 11 in June.

Unit 2: Child Development to include the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of the 0—5year old, childcare provision, safety and first aid, choosing food and clothing and the dietary needs of the child. A written exam worth 20% will be taken in Year 12 in June.

Unit 3 and 4: Controlled assessments which will be completed during Years 11 and 12.

Careers Pathway CACHE level 3 Diploma, Advanced Level in Health and Social Care,

AS/A2 Level Home Economics, employment in a range of childcare settings, Nursing, Nursery Teacher, Primary School Teacher


• Hardworking and determined to do well• Well organised• Like/enjoy the subject• Have an interest in children• Ability to work individually/in pairs/in groups• Good literacy, communication skills• Ability to keep up-to-date on pre-natal and childcare matters

GCSE ConstructionExamination InformationExamination Information UNIT 1:Practical 25%One folder 5%UNIT 2:Theory Exam 40%UNIT 3:Portfolio of CAD drawings 30%

Course contentGCSE Construction has three units of content.

Unit 1: Employment in the Construction Industry Getting to know more about the many and varied occupations in the Construction Industry from craft right through to professional careers. Exploring in some detail at least two jobs in the industry.

Carry out one craft project using hand and tools from the following list:• Manufacture a joinery component• Install a simple electrical circuit to industrial standards. Unit 2: MaterialsExamining the materials used in the construction of domestic ‘buildings. -Developing the skills of creating and interpreting construction drawings.Unit 3: Computer Aided DrawingDeveloping their drawing skills using the computer. Focusing on and producing annotated two dimensional drawings which conform to appropriate standards and conventions showing relevant construction details.


Pupils who are interested in a career in building/technology, manual or management would be well advised to undertake this GCSE, perhaps in addition to GCSE Technology.


CIDA Certificate in Digital ApplicationsAssessmentCiDA candidates will study two units.

Assessment is via

• A 25% external assessment on the computer • A 75% computer based internal Unit

Course contentUsing Digital Tools (Core Unit)

• along with one optional unit from the following:• Creative Multimedia• Artwork and Imaging• Game Making

A CiDA in ICT is an ideal qualification for those candidates who want a broad background in Information and Communication Technology which will allow them to progress to further or higher education, training or employment.

Assessment is designed to give credit for what candidates can do as well as what they know. It is based on a 25% external assessment and electronic evidence from assignments.

This qualification is the equivalent to one GCSE grade A* to C.

Careers Pathway CiDA ICT prepares students for working in a society where new technologies are playing an increasingly important role in the world of work.

The ICT sector is a fast growing area of employment and CiDA students are particularly suitable for recruitment in a range of employment categories e.g. IT Services, Computer Sales, Publishing, Graphic Design.

Progression to Further Qualifications

Candidates who achieve this qualification will be fully prepared to enter a course leading to an Applied A’ Level in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Essential for successStudents should have:• An interest in all aspects of computing.• The initiative and organisational skills necessary to produce a series of tasks in a number of different areas.

GCSE Drama Examination Information Assessment component 1: Written external examination. } 40% Assessment component 2: Coursework and practical. } 60%

Course contentGCSE Drama is an exciting two year course with a practical dimension…

• It develops a knowledge and understanding of making and appraising drama. • Encourages the self-confidence required to explore and express ideas, emotions, themes and issues through the devising and making of performances.• Develops the enjoyment, appreciation and understanding of dramatic texts.

Careers Pathway A GCSE in Drama can provide you with the knowledge and skills to pursue an A Level study in Drama, and give you valuable preparation for careers in Film, Media, Theatre, Creative Writing, Journalism, Acting, Social Work, Politics, Broadcasting, Advertising and many more….

Essential for successStudents will be required to have:• Enjoyment for the subject• Commitment and enthusiasm • Willingness and participation in groups through practical activities


GCSE FrenchExamination InformationFrench GCSE is divided into 3 areas

• Controlled Assessment– 60% Oral & Written• Reading – 20%• Listening – 20%

Course contentUnit 1: Listening:Examination - 20%Either Foundation Tier; 30 Minutes (+5minutes reading time)Or Higher Tier; 40 minutes (+5minutes reading time)

Unit 2: Reading:Examination - 20%Either Foundation Tier; 30 MinutesOr Higher Tier; 50Minutes

Unit 3: Speaking:Controlled Assessment - 30% (internally assessed)Two tasks submitted for moderation

Unit 4: Writing:Controlled Assessment - 30% (externally assessed)Two tasks submitted for moderation

Careers Pathway Why choose French? Work opportunities with a language exist in many fields – Tourism, Travel, Education, Business. Careers include Hotel Receptionist, Tour Guide, Courier, Modern Languages Teacher, Interpreter, Language Secretary, Airline Pilot and Cabin Crew. French is spoken in several other countries, e.g. Canada, Switzerland, Belgium, hence, employment opportunities and career possibilities increase globally.

Essential for successAs with the study of any language, a lot of independent work is required from the pupil. Language is always evolving, so therefore no course is ever complete. As dictionaries are no longer allowed in external examinations, pupils will have to spend time increasing their vocabulary bank, therefore students need to be highly motivated and prepared to engage regularly with the Language Assistant. Resources for the course are now easily accessed online.


GCSE Geography

Examination InformationPaper 1 – 37.5%Paper 2 – 37.5%Coursework – 25%

Course content Students will follow the AQA GCSE specification

The new GCSE is linear style and students will sit both exams at the end of Year 12. The controlled assessment will also be submitted in this year. The three units of the course are as follows:

Unit 1: Physical Geography

Students are required to answer three questions – one from each of the following topics:

• The restless Earth: studying causes and effects of earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis• Challenge of Weather and Climate which includes extreme weather, hurricanes, global warming• Water on the Land which examines changing features along rivers and the impact and responses to flooding in

different countries.

Unit 2: Human Geography

Students are required to answer three questions – one from each of the following topics:

• Population Change and problems of managing rapid growth and ageing population• The Development gap which includes global inequalities, fair trade, aid• Tourism – the positive and negative effects of the tourist industry; tourism in extreme environments and eco-tourism.

Unit 3: Local Fieldwork Investigation

This involves a day out of school to collect data to investigate a geographical issue. A report is written up under direct supervision in school.

Careers Pathway: Statistics show, compared to other subjects, Geography students are among the most employable. Employers like geography qualifications because they demonstrate a wide range of skills, qualifying you for a great variety of jobs. Some careers where geography is very useful include:

Pilot, Architect, Agricultural Engineer, Building Surveyor, Market researcher, Zoologist, Teacher, Countryside Officer, Town Planner, Tourism Officer, Environmental Engineer, Weather Forecaster

Essential for successHave an interest in events & places throughout the world and the vital role you and others play in the world

Be willing and open to learn new and exciting life skills that will help you to survive in the 21st Century


GCSE Health and Social CareCourse contentBoard: CCEA Single AwardDivided into 2 units/modules

1 Assignments module:Working in Health and Social Care 60%1 Tested module (90 min exam) Understanding personal development and relationships 40%

Module involves a combination of learning and practical learning

After 2 years you will be awarded A*- G

Careers Pathway Relevant for careers in Childcare, Nursing, Working with elderly and Social Work etc.

GCSE HistoryCourse contentPaper 1 Germany 1918 - 1945Northern Ireland 1932-1949

Paper 2 Depth StudyThe Cold War 1945-1991

Examination InformationStudents will sit a two hour paper at the end of Year 11. This will cover the German and Irish elements of the course and will be worth 50% of the total marks. Paper 2 covers The Cold War and lasts 75 minutes. It is worth 25%.

The controlled assessment is worth 25% and is currently based on the Vietnam War.

Careers PathwayHistory is useful for careers in: Conservation Work, Environmental Work, Tourism, Town Planning, Law, Accountancy and Politics.


Students opting for this course should have an interest in working with others. They should have good communication skills and the ability to work individually / in pairs / and in teams.


• An interest in learning about how governments work, how societies develop and the role of the individual in History.

• A key awareness of how events in the past can shape the world we live in today.


GCSE Home EconomicsCourse contentUnit 1: Diet and Health, Consumer Awareness. 40% Written Examination 1 ½ hrs

Unit 2: Diet and Health, Controlled assessment – (Coursework) 40% planning, practical, evaluation.

Unit 3: Diet & Health: Eat Well Plate, Nutrients, Labelling, Dietary Disorders, Special Diets, The Life Cycle, Food Safety and Food Creativity.Controlled Assessment: The Effective Consumer, What Influences Shopping, Money Matters and The Wise Buyer.

Examination InformationAssessment: Unit 2 ~ 1000 words, 25hrs, Unit 3: CA~ 3000 words, 20hrsRange of dishes in 2 – 2. 30mins, Key Skills assessed.evaluation : 750 words.

Careers Pathway Further study at AS/A2 Level Home Economics, Teaching, Nursing, Dietician, Environmental Health Officer, Social Worker, Food Technologist Employment in the Hotel and Catering Field

GCSE ICTCourse contentThe Practical involves the completion of two assignments including:Unit 1: Tools and ApplicationsIn this unit, students should be able to make appropriate use of a word processor/desktop publishing /database/ spreadsheet/ presentation packages and communication software when required.

Unit 2: Visual Communication TechnologyIn this unit, students will have the opportunity to develop practical skills for designing websites and games. They will also develop practical skills that will enable them to use graphics, digital video and sound effectively.

The theory includes the study of:Unit 3: Understanding ICT Systems in Everyday Life and its Implications for Individuals, Organisations, Society and the Wider World.Knowledge of ICT Components, Data and Information, Digital Communication Methods, Applications of ICT

Examination InformationThe course is a mixture of :Practical (60%) Theory (40%)

Careers Pathway Most occupations require I.C.T. skills. GCSE I.C.T. leads directly into ‘A’ level ICT and then onto careers in the IT industry such as Programmers, I.T. Engineers, System Analyst etc.


• Hardworking and determined to do well

• Well organised• Like/enjoy the subject• Ability to develop practical skills• Good literacy, numeracy and ICT

skills• Ability to work individually or in

pairs/groups• Ability to keep up-to-date on

health matters


Students opting for this course should have:

(a) an interest in all aspects of comput ing

(b) the initiative and ability to produce a series of pieces of coursework


Technology and DesignResistant Materials

AQA G.C.S.E.Written Paper (Design/Theory) 2hrs 40%Section A – pre-release material for this Section is sent to schools in February.You will be given the theme and information for the design questions. You will then have approx. 6 weeks to carry out research and prepare your answers.

Controlled Assessment (Coursework) 60%Design Folder max. 20 x A3 pages.Project: Exam Board provides an outline of various tasks to choose from.Sample projects and folders can be viewed in our Department.One tier covering grades A* to G. Candidates answer all questions in two sections.

Careers PathwayAll Design and Engineering Courses.Architecture, Product Design, Teaching, Craft/Skill based jobs and many, many more.

GirlsDon’t let anyone tell you it’s mainly a boy’s subject. This is most untrue. Girls are very talented and thorough in designing and making.We always have a good number of girls for G.C.S.E. and they are always up in the top grades.


• The ability to meet coursework deadlines. The ability to work independently in a mature and safe way in our Department

• Successful students will be good at I.T., sketching and be interested in technology. They will have enjoyed their first 3 years, taken pride in their work and had good results and reports.


GCSE IrishCourse content Link with Key Stage 3 Irish The study of Irish at GCSE level builds upon what you have learned during years 8, 9 and 10 (Key Stage 3).

Examination Information• Controlled Assessment• Spoken Language (30%)• Writing skills (30%)• Examination• Listening skills (20%)• Reading skills (20%)

Careers Pathway Tourism, Primary Teacher, Newspaper, Secretarial, Journalism, Television, Radio, Secondary Teacher, Civil Service, TV Acting, Garda Siochana, Software design, Print and Design, Nursery Teacher

The Individual Relationships, Local environment, Activities, Health and lifestyle

Citizenship Social issues, Travel and tourism, Environmental issues, Media and communications, Celebrations, Gaeltacht

Employability School life, Part-time jobs, Future plans

GCSE MusicCourse contentThere is one compulsory core area of study and three optional areas of study. Students study only two optional areas of study.Core Area of StudyRepeated patterns in musicOptional Areas of StudyMusical traditions in IrelandIncidental music

Through the three assessment objectives of listening, performing and composing, pupils will be assessed in skills and abilities, together with knowledge and understanding, as specified in the subject content.

Pupils will be expected to perform one solo piece and one ensemble (group) piece related to one of the areas of study.

Pupils will submit two contrasting compositions lasting 3-6 minutes in total. One of these must be related to the core or an optional area of study.

Examination InformationComposing and appraising - 30%Performing and appraising - 35%Listening and appraising - 35%

Careers Pathway Musical Careers, Composing, Secretarial Work, Accountancy, Performing, Civil Service, Banking, Conducting, Computing, Film Music, Music Teacher, Business Careers, Piano Tuning, Private Tuition, Social Work, Music Journalism, Radio/Television, Instrument Making & Repair Engineering


• Speak the language at every opportunity.

• Complete all homework and study on a regular basis.

• Learn and revise vocabulary.• Watch TG4 as often as possible• Listen to Raidio na Gaeltacht

(RnaG)• Read as much Irish as you can• Try to visit the Gaeltacht• Participation on Oscail 24/7


Pupils must study an instrument or singing through private tuition and must reach a standard equivalent to grade 3 of the examinations boards, by the end of year 12. There are also opportunities for Irish Traditional musicians to take on the subject, as long as they are able to play a selection of tunes in various time signatures.

Pupils need to be continually committed to improving their instrumental/vocal techniques.


GCSE SpanishCourse contentThe 4 assessment components are applicable to both the foundation and higher tiers.The listening component requires pupils to understand and respond to spoken language.The reading component requires pupils to understand and respond to written language.The writing component requires pupils to communicate in writing, showing knowledge of and applying accurately the grammar and structures prescribed in the specification.

A new Spanish GCSE specification has been introduced for the AQA examination board which facilitates:Greater flexibility with a single unitised specification. Assessments can either be staggered or taken at the end of the course. More relevant, engaging and condensed content arranged in four separate contexts with assessment weighted towards speaking and writingStudents are also able to propose their own contexts and purposes for these two units. Less stressful speaking assessments with new subject criteria. More choice of contexts in speaking and writing tests plus January assessment opportunities for listening and reading to help you tailor assessments to individual student needs. Opportunity to re-sit each skill area once before certification.

Examination InformationCandidates are assessed in 4 skill areas:1. Listening – 20%2. Speaking test – 30%3. Reading test – 20%4. Writing test – 30%

Careers Pathway Holiday Rep, Tourism Officer, Interpreter, Law with Spanish, International Estate Agent Business with Spanish, Spanish Teacher


Good communication skills are essential in the study of any language. The presentation element of the speaking exam means that students must be confident and well prepared. They must engage themselves in conversation within the class and use any opportunity outside of the classroom to practice using the target language. In order to improve your vocabulary it is essential to devote a considerable amount of time to learning words and phrases – this involves a lot of independent study using the online resources.


GCSE PE - Double AwardCourse contentFitness testing Training and preparation for performanceLifestyle choices DietRisk Assessment InjuryEnergy systems Emotional health and well beingCultural and Social factors International factors

Examination InformationPaper One-Knowledge and Understanding for The Active Participant (20%)Paper Two-Knowledge and Understanding for The Involved Participant (20%)Practical Controlled Assessment - 60%Practical Component - 40%A number of Practical activities from three of following areas:Games; Gymnastics; Dance;Athletics; Health and Fitness;Outdoor/ Adventure activities;

Careers Pathway PE Teacher, Army Officer, Physiotherapist, Sports Therapist, Leisure/Sports Centre Manager, Outdoor Pursuits Instructor, Sports Representative (Nike, Adidas)


BTEC Level 2 First Extended Certificate in SportExamination Information – Vocational Qualification

The course is assessed through a combination of assessment methods;2 units – Externally assessed10 units – Internally assessed

12 units covered over your two year course

Possible Grades;

Range from PPP which is equivalent to CCC at GCSE up to D*D*D* which is equivalent to A*A*A* at GCSE.

Course ContentUnit Core units

1 Fitness for Sport and Exercise (Exam)

2 Practical Sports Performance

Unit Mandatory unit

7 Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Performance (Exam)

Unit Optional specialist units

3 The Mind and Sports Performance

4 The Sports Performer in Action

5 Training for Personal Fitness

6 Leading Sports Activities

8 Promotion and Sponsorship in Sport

9 Lifestyle and Well-being

10 Injury and the Sports Performer

11 Running a Sports Event

12 The Sport and Active Leisure Industry

Career Pathways

Sports CoachingSports PsychologyPersonal TrainerGym InstructorSports DevelopmentTeachingSport Studies Sports ScienceMedia


• Full Attendance.• An interest in the world of sport.• IT Skills.• A good level of organisational skills.• Time management.• Team work.• The ability to work independently.


St Paul’s High School108 Camlough Road, Bessbrook, Newry, BT35 7EETelephone: 028 3083 0309Fax: 028 3083 9948

www.stpaulsbessbrook.org

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Documents

GCSE Subject Choice Booklet 2013