Welcome []KS4 Choices 2007 Time allocation In apportioning time to the curriculum, Brooke Weston is conscious of the fact that its day and year are significantly

KS4 Choices 2007 �

Welcome

Dear studentsAs you approach your final two years of compulsory education, you will be able to make choices about which courses you wish to pursue to GCSE. This presents you with a genuine opportunity to compile a personalised curriculum appropriate to you. In creating the range of optional subjects, we have attempted to consider every interest and enthusiasm. Students of different aptitudes and abilities should be able to create a selection of courses that fulfil their ambitions and interests.We have ensured that the optional element of the curriculum along with the compulsory core subjects, such as English, maths and science, will enable you to follow any future career pathways. You will have already secured the equivalent of four GCSE grades in ICT before embarking on your Year 10 studies. This is an excellent achievement and one that should provide you with much confidence as you start your new courses.The optional element of your curriculum will provide you with a wide range of subjects. Genuine interest and enthusiasm in a subject is always a sound basis from which to start the selection process. The choices are for you and your parents to make. We will always be happy to provide you with advice and guidance; but we are insistent that the choice is yours.I do hope you find the information in the booklet helpful. If you need to seek clarification from me, staff in subject departments or from any of my senior colleagues, please do not hesitate in approaching any of us. Mr Primmett, the careers advisor at the College, is also available to help you.I am intensely proud of your achievements in your first three years at Brooke Weston. Your excellent results in the SATs examinations at the end of Year 8, along with the GCSEs you have already secured, will, I am sure, see you achieve high levels of success in this very important phase of your studies.Good luck

Trish StringerPrincipal

KS4 Choices 2007�

Introduction

This Key Stage 4 course booklet sets out the subjects available to all students. It introduces a range of additional academic and vocational choices for them to select in readiness for the final phase of their compulsory secondary education. The subjects Brooke Weston students are required to study up to 16 years of age ensure that the doors of opportunity for most careers and vocations will remain open to them.Nevertheless, some choices must be made.How much science must I study? How many subjects can I realistically pursue to examination level? What subjects must I definitely prioritise for my career ambitions? Should I select some courses which are more for pleasure than academic purposes? All of these questions will need answering and much counselling, advice seeking and consultation will be necessary before students can make the most relevant decision for them.The opportunities we offer our students during Key Stage 4 will include:

General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in a range of subjects;Industrial and commercial work experience (at the start of Year 11);A progression of courses into the Sixth Form and then on to Higher Education through academic or vocational routes;Additional recreational activities, residential experiences, competitive and individual sports, music tuition, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, etc.

The College curriculum aims to provide opportunities beyond the minimum National Curriculum requirements with the core of English, mathematics and science well provided for in time and resources at Key Stage 4. Everyone is already competent in information and communication technology and will have already gained a formal qualification in this subject at the end of Year 9.

•••

•


Time allocationIn apportioning time to the curriculum, Brooke Weston is conscious of the fact that its day and year are significantly longer than other schools. Consequently, the students are able to spend more time on particular subjects or to take more subjects. Both possibilities are available. An average school curriculum is based on 24 and 25 hours per week. This does not, of course, include tutor time and assemblies. The Brooke Weston curriculum is 31.25 hours per week and for seven or eight days more per year than local schools (this depends on Bank Holiday dates). The net effect of this is that our students study more than 325 extra hours each year.Much of this extra time is absorbed in improving the quality of what is learned, but some is devoted to the quantity. The extra time in Years 7, 8 and 9 was allocated to broadening Key Stage 3 experiences in some subjects, with enhancement and bridging activities to GCSE level study in other subjects.A comparison between our curriculum and an average school is useful, particularly in the distribution of the bonus time. The time spent (excluding extra options) at an average school compared to Brooke Weston College is presented in Table 1:

Table1

Subject English Mathematics Double Science

Average School 110 Hrs 110 Hrs 170 Hrs

Brooke Weston 200 Hrs 150 Hrs 200 Hrs

Bonus Time +90 Hrs +40 Hrs +30 Hrs

The bonus in time is, of course, doubled over two years and is distributed throughout all of the subjects but particularly in the core of English, mathematics and science. It represents a significant and important bonus in these three subjects. For example, during English students can pursue three GCSEs. The total GCSEs available are therefore greater than most other schools. The opportunity for Brooke Weston students to study additional subjects of their choice from the curriculum should enable them to pursue their own particular biases, aptitudes or specialisms.The College wishes to emphasise that it is not its intention to compel every student to pursue as many GCSEs as possible, particularly if this influences the quality of their work.The investment of time into the core subjects identifies our priorities; it is in the subjects of maths, English and science that we encourage GCSE entry for everyone. All students will have already secured a Level 2 Intermediate GNVQ ICT qualification during Key Stage 3.

KS4 Choices 2007�

What the majority will studyCore SubjectsEnglishEnglish Language (GCSE), English Literature (GCSE) and either Drama (GCSE) or Media (GCSE).Students will pursue these three courses consecutively; leading to three GCSEs. A great deal of the work is of double value i.e. some coursework can count for English and English Literature.

Mathematics All students will pursue courses leading to a minimum of grade C at GCSE. Fast track students may take early entry and proceed to study new aspects of mathematics, such as a course which will aid the transition to A-level mathematics.

ScienceScience (one GCSE) Additional Science - (two GCSEs) Applied Science - (two GCSEs) Separate Science (biology, chemistry, physics - three GCSEs)All students will study either the three separate sciences, or a course leading to two GCSE grades.

Fast track students who have already achieved their science GCSE will study the three separate sciences, biology, chemistry and physics at GCSE followed by an AS in science.These students must choose the Fast Track Science in option B.

Design TechnologyStudents will be able to opt for a course which best reflects their strengths in this area of the curriculum.

Optional SubjectsThere is a wide and varied choice of optional subjects available to students covering the arts, languages, humanities based subjects, business related subjects, sports studies and music. These courses are all offered at GCSE level, with some being taught in three lessons per week and others in two lessons per week. Students who have secured either a merit or distinction in their GNVQ ICT course, will also have the option to study a level 3 qualification (equivalent to one A-level) in eBusiness.

Personal Health and Fitness (PH&F)All students are expected to follow an individualised programme of physical education. This will be negotiated between the teachers and the students.

Period 1All students start the week with their tutors. The Period 1 programme is delivered primarily by tutors, but, in some instances, is supported by external specialists. The programme integrates the delivery of:

citizenship sex and relationship education drugs careers education and guidance personal health and social education religious education

••••••


Your questions

How will the teaching groups be organised?Students are likely to be in groups related to their ability or options selected. When entering GCSE exams, decisions have to be made about the degree of difficulty of the exam you will take, for example whether the highest grade achievable in a course is an A* or maybe a C. Different students will need to deal with different skills, concepts and knowledge and sets are the most suitable way to cope with these challenges. Differentiation within sets will continue to operate, which means that students who work well in a set can move up and not be ‘out of phase’ with the new group. Conversely, those who do not work well will move down.

How many lessons will I be taught in each subject?English 4 Maths 3 Science 4 PH&F 1 Period 1 1 DT 2Option A subjects 3 (two subject choices)Option B subjects 2 (two subject choices)

Who do I consult?Clearly your parents must be involved. At the College, your Tutor is obviously the first person to talk with. Subject Teachers and Heads of Department are willing to speak with you informally and by appointment. You can also take the opportunity to talk to teachers in lesson time. Mr Primmett, the careers advisor, will be available to discuss any issues concerning the choices and vocational implications. The final decisions are made by you and your parents.

What do I need to achieve if I take five GCSEs and want to go on to higher education?Usually students are expected to achieve five GCSEs at grade B or above to pursue AS-level in Year 12 and onto A2 (the full A-level) in Year 13. It is normal for those with three A-level passes at grade D or above to gain entrance to higher education. Those students who wish to proceed to the highly competitive courses such as medicine, law, business studies, veterinary science, etc. often need to study four A-levels and achieve at least an A grade in each.

••••••••

KS4 Choices 2007�

GCSE subjects

Art SubjectsFour options are offered.

Art (General) Exam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:Three units of coursework will count for 60% of the marks and a controlled terminal examination 40%. Work is exhibited and marked by teachers and an external assessor.

Coursework component:You will need to complete four assignments which demonstrate your ability to develop your skills and understanding by investigating and exploring a range of processes, materials and techniques within art, craft and design.

Course description:This course offers students the chance to work on a range of assignments that must include painting and drawing, 3D work and ceramics, printmaking and mixed-media work. These assignments will build on the skills learned throughout Key Stage 3. Students will develop their own original ideas based on a given theme and will learn about working through the design process.Students will also be encouraged to research independently the work of other artists, designers and crafts-people when producing preparatory studies. They will develop their visual awareness to help in the designing and making of successful conclusions to all assignments.

.


Art (Graphics) Exam board: OCR


Coursework component:You will need to complete four assignments which demonstrate your ability to develop your skills and understanding by investigating and exploring a range of processes, materials and techniques particular to graphics within art and design.

Course description: This course offers the development of art and design techniques, with a strong emphasis on graphic communication. In addition to skills such as drawing, painting and printmaking, the course will include illustration, typography and computer-based image manipulation. By combining these to create coherent compositions, students will learn to develop original advertising images, packaging, logos and symbols. Reference will be made to work by artists and designers from a wide range of cultures and historical periods.

Art (Photography)Exam board: OCR


Coursework component:The photography course offers the development of camera skills, black and white darkroom techniques and computer-aided manipulations, with reference being made to a range of photographic images drawn from different historical and cultural styles. Camera knowledge and skills include effects of light, exposure of film, depth of field, selection of viewpoint, lighting and background. Darkroom techniques include film processing, enlarging, image modifications and special effects. Other skills include the use of computer scanning equipment, graphics software, montage, layout and presentation.

Course description:All art courses prepare students for further study at AS/A-level. Various careers relating to art include advertising, television or film production, the press, publishing, marketing, illustration, interior design, architecture, public relations, museum and gallery curatorship.

Art (3D Art & Design)Exam board: OCR


Course description:This course offers the development of art and design techniques, with a strong emphasis on work in three dimensions. In addition to drawing skills, the course will focus on ceramics, construction and mixed media work. Students will develop their own original ideas based on a given theme and will learn about working through the design process. Research will include the work of relevant artists, designers and craftspeople, and all units will be geared towards a three dimensional final outcome.

Coursework component:You will need to complete four assignments which demonstrate your ability to develop your skills and understanding by investigating and exploring a range of processes, materials and techniques within 3Dimensional art, craft and design.

.

.

.

KS4 Choices 2007�

Applied Leisure & Tourism (two GCSEs)Exam board: Edexcel

This course is a vocational GCSE and therefore represents a new option for students wishing to pursue it. Successful candidates will be awarded two GCSE passes rather than the usual one. The double award GCSE will be graded A*A* through to GG and the result will be based upon performance in three equally weighted modules of work.

Assessment arrangements:Two portfolio pieces – internally assessed and externally moderated

Marketing in Leisure and TourismCustomer Service in Leisure and Tourism

One examination - one hour external test consisting of short answer questionsInvestigating Leisure and Tourism

Course description:The course is designed to give students the opportunity to investigate the facilities and activities which make up the leisure and tourism industry; how the industries are linked and the particular characteristics of each one. The marketing module looks at marketing tools used by organisations and the final module covers aspects of customer service for all aspects of the industry; the different needs of customers and how they are met. The Applied GCSE will follow the online @tain model.

Career opportunities:This course would suit any student who wishes to follow a career in the many varied leisure and tourism fields. Progression through to A-level and Higher Education courses is available.

Business Studies Exam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:75% on the final examination (two papers, the core paper and the marketing and communication paper)25% on coursework.

Project or investigation for coursework:There is one piece of coursework to complete based on the marketing strategy of a product of your choice. You will learn how to structure an investigative report and how to understand and conduct primary research.

Course description:Business studies students investigate different organisations, looking at their functions and their effect on the outside world. The topics studied include: human resources; marketing; production and e-commerce. Students will analyse real-life business case studies, and will be asked to carry out their own investigation into a business of their choice.

Career opportunities:Business studies is useful for almost any career. A GCSE in business is useful but not essential for studying the subject to A-level or for business or management courses at University.

Design & TechnologyDesign and technology prepares students to participate in tomorrow’s rapidly changing technologies. The subject calls for students to become autonomous and creative problem solvers, who must look for needs, wants and opportunities, and making products. Three courses are offered.

.

••

•

.

••


Design & Technology: Product DesignExam board: AQA

The course consists of a piece of coursework that is worth 60% and a final examination that is worth 40%. For the coursework students will be able to choose what project they wish to work on. Suitable project themes include fragrance design and marketing, designing and manufacturing a flat-pack product, creating an innovative hand held electronic device, and using systems electronics to design a working prototype of a PIC based electronics product.This course is suited to students who enjoy the more creative aspect of Design & Technology and who enjoy working with a range of materials.

Design & Technology: TextilesExam board: OCR

The course consists of a piece of coursework that is worth 60% and a final examination that is worth 40%. The coursework will consist of students manufacturing a high quality textiles product that can be marketed. Suitable products they could design include clothing, bag design, hats, uniforms and interior design. This GCSE is suited to students who have sound understanding and skill base when working with textiles.

Design & Technology: Engineering (2 GCSEs)This course consists of three units of work: design and graphical communication; engineered products and application of technology. There are two units of coursework that represent one third of the course each leaving the examination covering a third also. Projects that could be manufactured as part of this course include interactive mechanical toys to be used as teaching aids, a conveyor to transport small assemblies to a packaging area, a warning device for motorists who travel abroad with their cars. This course aims to develop an understanding of the vocational significance of Engineering to provide an overview of the sector and introduce candidates to work-related learning. It covers a wide range of disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, aeronautical, marine and automotive. It will enable students to develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the engineering industry, its organisation, products and processes through investigation, research and practical application. The course would be suited to students who are considering pursuing an engineering based career path.

.

.

KS4 Choices 2007�0

English Subjects

English LanguageExam board: WJEC

English language GCSE requires students to study a range of texts and to participate in speaking and listening activities.

Assessment arrangements:Paper one - 30%

Section A requires the reading of a prose passage from the English literary heritage (15%).Section B comprises of two writing tasks, one to inform/explain/describe and one to explore/imagine/entertain (15%).

Paper two - 30%Section A reading of non-fiction text and media texts (15%).Section B comprises of two writing tasks, one to argue/persuade/advise and one to analyse/review/comment (15%).

Coursework:Candidates will be assessed on four pieces of coursework for reading and writing (20%):

Reading: Play by ShakespeareReading: Poetry from different cultures and traditionsWriting: Either to explore/imagine/entertain, inform/explain/describe or to analyse/review/comment.

They will also be assessed on speaking and listening (20%). The exam board WJEC requires three separate speaking and listening assessments, which focus on individual, peer and group presentations.

Career opportunities:Competence in this subject is essential for nearly all careers and is an entrance requirement to all courses in Higher Education.

.

••

••

•••

KS4 Choices 2007 ��

English LiteratureExam board: WJEC

English literature GCSE requires students to study some texts in detail and to produce coursework providing overlap with texts studied for the English examination. In addition, students are required to submit a response to a modern drama text.

Assessment arrangements:Paper one - examination

Section A requires a close reading of extract (10 marks) (30%).Section B requires a close reading from set text (10 marks) and an extended writing on set text (20 marks) (30%).

Section C requires a guided response to unseen poem (10%).

Coursework:Poetry: pre 1914 work.Poetry: post 1914 work.Prose: texts to be chosen so that pre and post 1914 works in each genre are covered across coursework and written paper.

At least two assignments must show evidence of ability to make comparisons between texts.

Drama Exam board: Edexcel

For this course students are required to complete a range of practical work, which demonstrates their ability to script, produce and evaluate naturalistic theatre and improvised pieces. A strong commitment to performance based work is advisable for students wishing to pursue this course.

Assessment arrangements:Coursework: drama exploration - using drama conventions to explore ideas and issues. This must be supported by a portfolio of documentary evidence (30%).Coursework: exploration of a play text. This unit gives students knowledge and understanding of the way playwrights, performers and directors use drama. This must be supported by a portfolio of documentary evidence (30%).Examination - Devised Performance; students will work in groups devising their performances based around a theme which they will be given (40%). They will examine how voice and action can have an impact upon an audience and learn about the different dramatic techniques that can be employed in scripted performances and improvisation.

Career opportunities:Apart from work in the theatre, this course will help to improve students’ communication skills and their ability to work effectively with others. The skills developed could be useful in many areas of work but particularly in management situations.

.

••

•••

.

KS4 Choices 2007��

MediaExam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:50% on a final examination paper.50% on coursework assignments.

Coursework:There are three pieces of coursework from at least two different media. One piece examines codes and conventions of a genre, one piece looks at media representations and one is a practical production piece with a critical evaluation.

Course description and organisation:This course looks at a wide variety of media: Television, film advertising, newspapers and other forms of publication. Some research work is carried out on audiences. Other concepts such as textual analysis, ideology, media conventions and representations are explored.

Career opportunities:This course serves as a foundation for a variety of careers. These include journalism, advertising, television or film production, the press, publishing, radio, marketing and public relations.

GeographyExam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:Year 10 - three short pieces of coursework are submitted, one on each of the core themes (33%). An examination which is set in tiers (A*-D), (C-G) (67%)Year 11 - Assessment is through coursework only

Course description and organisation:My place - living in the UK An extreme environment People as consumers

Each of the themes consist of ‘core’ taught lessons. You are then able to choose from a number of different topics depending on which you feel you will enjoy most. You then research your topic using computers, CD-ROM, book and video and produce a piece of work, in any format you choose. For example this year students studying ‘the Arctic’ for the extreme environments unit have produced booklets on ‘how to survive in the extreme cold’ a video on ‘the life of the polar bear’ and a video and examples of ‘textiles and clothing used by the Inuit (Eskimo) people’.In the second year students will study two further units some of which are vocational chosen from the following:

Sustainable urban transport Geography through fieldwork Travel and tourism - destinationsThe impact of flooding Planning where you live Coastal management Geographical information systems Geography in the news

Career opportunities:Surveying, planning, social researching, earth scientist, management and administration. Geography is seen as both a science and arts subject, so geographers are qualified for a huge range of jobs.

.

••

.

•

•

•••

••••••••


History Exam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:75% examinations taken at the end of the course; 25% coursework.

Course description and organisation:You will study:

The history of medicine through time;Germany 1919-1945 (The rise and rule of Hitler);An investigation of a historical site through fieldwork;A modern world study, where the history of a present day conflict is studied.

Career opportunities:History may lead to work as an archaeologist, librarian or museum curator and would be useful for someone wanting to study law or the history of fine art.

MathematicsExam board: OCR

The department runs a two year GCSE course following the OCR MEI syllabus.The GCSE course has two tiers of entry. The higher tier enabling grades A* to C to be achieved and the foundation tier grades up to a C. Students starting the course in September 2007 will no longer be required to do coursework.Examinations are sat in June of Year 10, and Year 11 (Papers three and four higher tier and papers one and two foundation tier). There is an opportunity for these tiers to be sat in January. We operate a fast track group of students who will complete their GCSE at the end of Year 10, and then follow an Open University short course in Year 11. Students must have achieved a level eight in the SATs to qualify for fast tracking.

.

••

••••

.


Assessment arrangements:The final GCSE grade for this subject is based on:

Final paper 50%;Module tests 30%;Coursework 20%.

Students may enter for one of four routes for which the following grades are available: Modules 5, 6, 7 - grades C-EModules 6, 7, 8 - grades B-DModules 7, 8, 9 - grades A-CModules 8, 9, 10 - grades A*-B

Course description and organisation:All the usual topics of number, algebra, shape and space and handling data will be covered during the two years. Students sit three modules, two in January and June of Year 10 and one in January of Year 11. Each examination will consist of two sections, one with access to a calculator and one without. Mathematics will be organised and taught in sets. Students from different sets may be entered for the same tier.

Career opportunities:Competence in mathematics is required for most vocations and careers. It is usually an entrance requirement for Higher and Further Education.

Modern Foreign Languages Exam board: AQA

Those students who have studied French only in Year 9 can opt to continue with French to GCSE in Year 10.Similarly, students who have taken French and Spanish, or French and German, may opt for either or, indeed, both of these languages in Year 10.

Assessment Arrangements:25% written coursework 25% reading examination 25% speaking examination25% listening examination

Entry is at higher tier (leading to grades A*- D) or foundation tier (leading to grades C - G). Coursework is started in Year 10 and three pieces of work will be produced over the two years of the course.

Career opportunities:Students who go on to specialise in Modern Languages are sought after by employers in many fields, such as business and manufacturing, (especially in companies that have business interests in Europe), transport and tourism, communications, banking, retail and teaching.

•••

••••

.

••••


Music Exam board: Edexcel

Assessment arrangements: 60% coursework40% written examination

Students can progress to further study of music including the AS/A2 course and BTEC music technology (acoustics) course or to follow a music-related career where appropriate.

Course description and organisation: The GCSE music course is based on developing three skill areas: performing, composing and listening and appraising.

Students should be prepared to sit three papers: Paper one – Performing – a solo and ensemble performance Paper two – Composition - two original compositions written and recorded by the student which must be based on two of the four areas of study covered in lessons. Paper three – Listening and appraising Written exam paper of one hour 30 minutes based on a broad range of music set out in the four areas of study in the syllabus. The areas of study on this course which all students must study are:

Structure in Western European Classical Music from 1600–1899 (through the study of ground bass variations, ternary form and rondo form). Changing Directions in Western Classical Music from 1900 (focusing on serialism, minimalism and experimental music). Popular music in context (through the study of Britpop, dance music, and songs from musicals). Indian raga, African music and fusions

Students are expected to continue with their instrumental lessons when opting for this course as a well developed instrumental skill is essential. Students are therefore expected to practice regularly on their instrument(s) outside of normal lesson time (as is normal practice when having instrumental lessons). This also counts as an ongoing part of homework and coursework as there is some cross-over between instrumental and GCSE music lessons. Students are expected to play their instrument with a good degree of technical and tonal control, expression and musicianship, style and interpretation. Students should be prepared to perform on their instrument in both solo and ensemble situations.

Religious StudiesExam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:100% examination at the end of the course;Paper one – PhilosophyPaper two – Ethics

Course description and organisation:Philosophy includes the nature of god and belief; problems of good and evil; science and religion. Ethics includes peace and justice; equality, medical ethics and human relations.

Career opportunities:Religious studies can lead to a wide range of careers including the police, financial services, social services, personnel work, and going on to further study, especially in the Arts, where philosophy and ethics are fundamental studies.

.

••

•

•

••

.

•••


The Sciences Four courses are offered.

ScienceExam board: OCR

Course description:This is a co-ordinated course which is a mixture of biology, chemistry and physics and is followed by all students in Year 9. It deals with aspects of these three areas of science as found in the world around us. It can lead to a single GCSE award and will occupy four lessons each week. Students undertake practical work throughout the course and some practical skills will be assessed as ‘can-do’ tasks. Other skills are assessed in ‘Science in the News’ tasks where student research some topical science and then write a report. The skills assessment makes up 33% of the course.

Additional ScienceExam board: OCR

This is a co-ordinated course which is a mixture of biology, chemistry and physics and follows on from the Science course, dealing with scientific ideas in more detail. It can lead to a single GCSE award and will occupy four lessons each week. Students undertake practical work throughout the course, some of which will be assessed as part of the skills assessment. Other skills are assessed in Research and Data Analysis tasks. The skills assessment makes up 33% of the course.

Career opportunities:A good qualification in science opens up career opportunities in the science, engineering, medical and technology fields. All A-level science courses assume a minimum of grade B within the GCSE sciences. Science is widely recognised as the third core subject and it is being used as an entrance requirement into even less obvious careers such as primary school teaching.

.

.


Applied Science (2 GCSEs)Exam board: OCR

This GCSE is a nationally recognised work - related qualification designed to provide a choice of routes into further education or employment. It leads to a double GCSE science award and will occupy four lessons a week. It is aimed at students who produce their best work in class rather than in examinations and are interested in developing an understanding of how science influences our daily lives.

The structure of the GCSE in Applied Science:The GCSE is divided into three units:

Unit one – Developing scientific skillsThis is a coursework based unit and will give the opportunity to investigate how accidents are prevented in the work place in addition to other projects based on living organisms, chemical analysis or properties of materials.

Unit two – Science for the needs of societyThis unit is examined either in June of Year 10 or January of Year 11. The students study the work of scientists in obtaining useful chemicals, materials for making things as well as investigating the importance of energy.The exam is set at higher (grades A*-D) or foundation level (grades C-G) and is worth 33% of the final grade in Year 11.

Unit three – Science in the workplaceThis is a coursework-based unit looking at the wide variety of jobs using science in the work place, for example it could involve studying the work of an engineer or a nurse, where science plays a major role in their job. Or it may be a less obvious scientific job, a chef needs to understand aspects of food science and the work of a photographer in processing films is based on the application of scientific knowledge and understanding.

Career opportunities:This qualification gives access to a range of career and further education opportunities. The skills developed during this course are in great demand and are recognised and highly valued by employers and colleges. There are opportunities to continue studying either vocational A-levels such as health and social care or advanced subsidiary or advanced GCSE in science subjects such as biology. There are many careers that build on from the GCSE in applied science such as areas of medicine, environmental studies, engineering and computing.

Separate Sciences Exam board: OCR

Course description: This takes the concepts studied in science and additional science a little further. It leads to three separate GCSE awards in biology, chemistry and physics.The skills assessment can follow the pattern of either ‘science’ or ‘additional science’. It makes up 33% of the course.

Career opportunities:In addition to the opportunities opened up by the additional science GCSE award, these three separate science GCSEs will prepare students even more extensively for careers within science, medicine, engineering and technology.

.

•

•

•

.


Sports StudiesExam board: OCR

Assessment arrangements:60% practical performance (coursework); 40% final examination.

Course description and organisation:Planning, performing and evaluating to account for 50% of marks. Analysing and improving to account for 10% of marks.

Coursework is made up of six categories of practical activity and students are assessed in four sports of their choice, from two of the areas below:

Games, gymnastics, dance, athletic activities, outdoor and adventurous activities and swimming.The final examination paper is made up of three units:

Factors affecting performance;Health, safety and training;Reasons and opportunities for participation in physical activity.

Career opportunities:This course is particularly useful for those who want to take up a career in PE teaching, sports management and training or any outdoor education work.

.

••

••

•

•••


BTEC eBusinessExam board: Edexcel

Edexcel level three qualification (equivalent to one A-level).

Please note: this course is suitable for students who achieved a merit or distinction in their GNVQ and who prefer courses where the assessment method is through the generation of coursework

eBusiness is a multi-disciplined course, blending both business and information communications technology. The course reflects the reality of running a business in today’s fast-moving, computerised society. The course aims are to increase students’ awareness of efficient business and IT practices within a real world practical context. Participants will use skills to perform business and IT tasks for given scenarios.Unit one – Introduction to the internet and eBusiness introduces the range of business organisations that conduct business on the internet, from small service providers to large multi-nationals.Unit two – Internet marketing continues the themes from unit one and considers the marketing principles that are essential for conducting business successfully on the internet.Unit three – Website design and construction focuses on a range of technologies which present web content to user. The unit then develops the practical skills necessary to produce web content within user-centred design frameworks.Unit four – The internet past, present and future looks at the start of the internet and its evolution into a powerful force of mass global communication for a wide range of purposes. This unit will look at the milestones in internet evolution and corresponding developments in eBusiness practice.Unit five – eBusiness project develops and integrate the skills and knowledge learners have acquired during the course to plan and instigate an appropriate eBusiness plan.Unit seven – Database systems investigates databases in business operations and their application to internet operations.The outcome to these units are either pass, merit or distinction, which together are equivalent to an A-level at grade E, C or A respectively.

Construction Skills (6217) (Plumbing, Plastering, Bricklaying & Electrical Installation)

Exam board: City & Guilds

Assessment arrangements:Students complete a range of practical activities which are internally assessed in each of the skill areas.

Course description:This course emphasises practical skills and is an ideal choice for a student considering a career in the construction industry. For example, students will learn how to bend copper pipes, connect fittings to central heating systems, install a lighting circuit, cut bend and thread conduit, construct a brick wall and apply plaster to walls and ceilings.In the first year students will gain a level one qualification (equivalent to three GCSEs D-G). In the second year they will study units towards a level two qualification which would count as prior learning during any apprenticeship.The course will be delivered one day per week off-site at the Corby Training Academy; a centre set up and run by Met UK (http://www.met-uk.com/).This is not a free option choice; if you wish to study this course you will need to complete an application form, attend an interview and complete a practical aptitude assessment.If you would like further information about this option please speak to a Vice Principal.

.

.

KS4 Choices 2007�0

Y10 Curriculum for 2007Name:

Tutor Group:

Core (15 lessons per week)

Maths 3English 4Science 4DT 2PHF 1Period 1 1

Options(10 lessons per week)Students would be required to select 2 courses from each option block.

OPTION A (3 lessons per week) OPTION B (2 lessons per week)

3D Art History

Graphics Geography

Photography Business

Art Engineering

French Music

German BTEC Music

Spanish RE

Applied Leisure & Tourism Sports Studies

BTEC eBusiness Level 3 Sociology

Fast Track Science*

*N.B. Students opting for fast track science can only opt for one other subject in option B.

Tutor signature:

••••••

Documents

Welcome []KS4 Choices 2007 Time allocation In apportioning time to the curriculum, Brooke Weston is conscious of the fact that its day and year are significantly