CHOOSING YOUR SUBJECTS
You are about to make some of the most exciting choices of your education so far, as you
start to think about which subjects you want to take in the 4th and 5th Form. The choices
you make now may well influence the rest of your academic education, and lead to
opportunities later in your life. It is important that you appreciate from the start which options
are available to you, and what is involved, so you can make thoughtful and informed choices.
The notes in this booklet are intended to be a general guide to help you to select the subjects
you wish to study. You should also talk to your teachers about their subjects, and even the
older students about the subjects they chose. The school careers advisor, your Tutor,
Housemaster and Head of Year will also be a source of valuable information and advice
over the next few weeks.
The lessons you have next year will be a mixture of core compulsory and options subjects;
most students will take 10 GCSEs in total. The curriculum has been developed to take
account of national changes, whilst retaining flexibility and choice in our options.
From September 2015, teaching in Mathematics will reflect the new subject content for
GCSE. At the end of the course, candidates’ results will be on a numerical scale from 9 (the
highest) to 1 (the lowest). There will be no change in the subject content of any other
subject, where candidates’ results will be on the previous scale, A* to G.
All students will take the following core (compulsory) subjects:
English Language & Literature (2 GCSEs)*
Mathematics (“Fat Maths” counts double)
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Physical Education
Games
PSHE – a subject tackling religious, moral, political, economic and social themes, as well as
research and study skills
Optional subjects:
There are four provisional option blocks. Students study one subject from each block. All blocks are
taught for five periods per two weeks. If a student cannot do the combination of subjects of their
choice they should speak to Mr Buckland or Mr Cooper.
All students must choose to study at least one Modern foreign Language (French or Spanish) except
those students on the Dyslexia course or those having English as an Additional Language (EAL)
lessons.
When choosing
Procedure for choosing subjects We are anxious to ensure that the decision to study a subject is taken after consultation and
careful thought. The most important event in the process is the Third Form Parents' Meeting on
Sunday 8th February. This will begin at 7:00 pm with a talk by the Headmaster in the Chapel.
This evening will provide you with the opportunity to consult your teachers. You should then read
through this booklet, and talk through the matter with your parents or guardians, and of course your
Tutors.
Student choices must be submitted via Firefly by 6pm on Monday 23rd
February 2015.
Block 1
French
Spanish
EAL
Dyslexia course
Block 2
Business studies
Design technology
Drama
Food Technology
PE
Block 3
Art
French
Geography
History
Latin
PE
Block 4
Art
Design technology
Geography
History
Music
Textiles
Theology
Some words of wisdom…
► Don’t focus too much on what career you think you want when you are older – you will probably
change your mind many times before you get a job!
► Try to achieve a good balance of subjects – this will keep your future options open.
► Think about the skills that each subject will teach you – a good balance between the arts,
humanities and sciences will lead to a more rounded student. We would strongly recommend you
consider continuing the study of at least one practical subject to GCSE level.
► Discuss your choices with lots of people - this will help you come to the right decision
Some questions you may have… Should I choose my subjects to fit in with one particular career? It is unlikely at this stage that you will have made up your mind about what you would like
to do in the future. Most Third Year studentss only have vague ideas, which are sure to
change over time. It is perhaps most sensible to select a good balance of subjects in order
to keep open as many future paths as possible.
Should I choose the subjects I am best at?
It is true that to gain entry into Further Education and many careers you will need good
grades in examinations. However, you should make sure you are genuinely interested in
the subjects you choose, and that it’s not just that you find some easier than others.
How do I work out if a subject is useful?
All the subjects we offer are meaningful and useful. The core curriculum (English,
Mathematics, Science and a Modern Foreign Language) covers the requirements of most
universities and careers. Your options subjects all offer you knowledge, skills and
understanding that can be applied to a range of situations and future contexts. Try to avoid
asking yourself, what job will this lead to. Instead consider that the skills you will learn will
be extremely valuable in your future career.
core subjects – examined
Board: Edexcel IGCSE Coursework (English Language 30%, English Literature 40%)
All students at Bloxham in their Fifth Form year are entered for the Key Stage 4 IGCSE examination
in ENGLISH LANGUAGE and the majority also take IGCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE.
For ENGLISH LANGUAGE, assessment will be based on a terminal examination (70%) and
Coursework (30%). There will be one exam paper, covering the reading and production of non-fiction
writing, and directed creative writing. One coursework task covers the reading of prose passages
and poetry from the Edexcel IGCSE Anthology. The second task assesses the candidates’ ability to
write creatively. ORAL skills are also assessed as an element of the coursework for English.
For ENGLISH LITERATURE, assessment will be based on a terminal examination (60%) and
Coursework (40%). The examination will cover a novel and a drama text. The coursework task
requires students to write on three poems from the Edexcel IGCSE Anthology in connection with
three further poems studied with their teacher.
Candidates will be required to explore and practise the use of language in a variety of contexts and
for a range of purposes, to interpret different kinds of writing – both literary and non-fiction, and to
study works of prose, poetry and drama both from their own time and from earlier centuries. Students
are encouraged to read beyond the specifications’ set texts in order to broaden their understanding
of the subject and to enable them to extend their vocabulary.
Students are placed into one of four sets, according to their ability. Both ENGLISH LANGUAGE and
ENGLISH LITERATURE are single-tier courses.
English
core subjects – examined
Board: Edexcel No Coursework
Mathematics is one of the core subjects at GCSE, and is designed to develop investigational and
practical skills, as well as the traditional computational and manipulative processes, logical thought
and abstract reasoning.
GCSE Mathematics covers the topic areas of Number, Algebra, Ratio, Proportion, Rates of change,
Geometry, Measures, Statistics and Probability. The assessment of GCSE Mathematics is by
terminal examination.
We follow the Edexcel GCSE linear syllabus. The three terminal examinations (one non-calculator),
each of which count for a third of the final GCSE, seek to give the candidates plenty of opportunity
to show what they understand.
Those entering the Fourth Form in 2015 will be placed into one of four sets according to their ability.
In 2017, candidates will be entered for the tier which enables them to achieve the highest grade of
which they are capable.
Students in sets 1, 2 and 3 will be entered at the highest tier which allows the most able to aim for
grades 7 to 9. Students in set 4 will be considered for entry at the Foundation tier where a grade 5
is the maximum.
Mathematics
core subjects – examined
Board: AQA level 2 certificate (iGCSE)
Science is one of the core subjects in the National Curriculum.
Students at Bloxham School will follow separate science courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics
(some students may take double award science if that is deemed to be a more appropriate course
and the decision for this will be taken at the end of the 4th form). The year group is streamed by ability
and is taught by subject specialists. The first part of the course has been covered in the Third Form.
All assessment is by way of structured exam papers taken at the end of the 5th form. There is no
internal assessment or coursework.
Assessment:
Biology 2 x 90 minute written exams
Chemistry 2 x 90 minute written exams
Physics 2 x 90 minute written exams
The separate science papers are not tiered and are aimed at grades A* to C (although grades A* to
G can be awarded). The double award papers are tiered as Higher (A* to D) and Foundation (C to
G).
After the trial exams in the Fifth Form a decision will be made as to whether the double award
candidates should sit the Higher or Foundation papers.
The Sciences
blocked subjects
Board: AQA Coursework (100%)
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
You will be encouraged to follow the Fine Art endorsed option which allows for study
in Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking and Photography
Willingness to develop basic drawing skills and artistic appreciation and awareness
through coursework and studio learning
To develop the confidence to experiment with materials and ideas
Perseverance, enthusiasm, independence
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
Developing creative, imaginative and problem-solving skills
Visually communicating and expressing ideas, feelings and meanings
Investigative, analytical, experimental and interpretative skills
Understanding conventions and the context of art in different cultures
Improving practical skills, using a variety of artistic materials and
media
How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 Portfolio of Work (Controlled Assessment) - 60% of total marks
A Portfolio of coursework with one main project and supporting pieces from 4th form.
Responding to all assessment objectives of Developing, Experimenting, Recording and Resolving.
Centre-assessed and moderated by AQA.
Unit 2 Externally Set Task (Examination) - 10 hours - 40% of total marks
Candidates respond to one starting point from a choice of seven set by AQA.
Eight weeks preparatory period and 10 hours of supervised time.
Set by AQA, centre-assessed and moderated by AQA.
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
For the intellectually curious, creative and practically inclined students. Suitable for a wide range of
abilities and for those who are interested in exploring their imagination and ideas through visual
means.
Art
blocked subjects
Board: Edexcel Timed Assessment (25%)
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
Business Studies will be new to all students and so no prior knowledge of the subject is assumed or
required. What is important is that you have a lively and enquiring mind, an interest in finding out
about business and finance and an ability to communicate your ideas effectively.
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
Business Studies is a subject that can help students to acquire the understanding, knowledge and
skills relevant to the changing world of work. The course aims to develop a critical understanding of
all aspects of business and how it operates, addressing questions such as:
how are businesses owned, organised and controlled?
what are, or should be, the aims and objectives of business?
how can people in business best be managed, developed and motivated?
how can products be made most efficiently and sold most effectively?
what are the essential components of successful financial management?
how can products be successfully marketed and sold to consumers?
How will I be assessed?
The course is assessed both through written examinations (75%) and timed assessment (25%).
There are two written exams: one has multiple choice questions and the second paper has short and
long answer questions. The assessment project is a major research investigation offering you the
opportunity to pursue your own research and to develop skills of information handling, selection,
interpretation and presentation.
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
This course will appeal to you if you:
like doing a subject which is real, relevant and often practical
enjoy keeping up with what's going on in the world of business and finance
appreciate the importance of being a responsible consumer, citizen and employee
wish to develop your skills of communication, numeracy, ICT and self-organisation
want to broaden your options, choosing a subject which can lead on to Sixth Form
study or stand alone as a useful qualification for the future
Business Studies
blocked subjects
Board: Edexcel Controlled Assessment (Creative Design and Make task) (60%) What do I need to know and be able to do before taking this course? Most students will have completed the Bloxham Third Form technology circus and many will have studied technology in the First and Second Form too. All the skills and knowledge that have been acquired will be extremely useful for the study of design and technology to GCSE. This background is not essential, but it will be assumed that all students wishing to take this course have a basic knowledge of designing and making products, and they enjoy these activities. What will I learn on this GCSE course? To present your design ideas in a clear way through various free-hand drawing techniques. To make decisions, consider sustainability and combine skills with knowledge and understanding. To present your final design ideas using computer aided design packages. To plan practical projects. To create your ideas in a variety of materials including plastic, wood and metal. To test and evaluate the things you have made and other products. To use all the equipment in the school workshop when appropriate. To identify potential projects. Research techniques. About industrial processes and applications. About mechanisms and mechanical systems and other appropriate components. To use strategies to develop ideas. To recognise the needs of potential users of the products you design and make. How will I be assessed? Students will be assessed on their ability to acquire and apply knowledge, skill and understanding:
Of materials, components, processes, techniques and industrial practices When designing and making quality products When evaluating processes and products
Scheme of assessment Final one and a half hour exam
40% Internally assessed design and make controlled assessment project
60%
For what kind of student is this course suitable? This course is appropriate for a wide range of students with a variety of interests and abilities. Those with artistic or creative talents will do well but this is certainly not essential. The students who are keen to learn and work hard are always the most successful in this subject. If you have enjoyed design and technology in the past it is likely that you will continue to do so up to GCSE. If you are thinking you might suit a technical, creative or business career then this subject will give you good grounding.
resistant materials Design & Technology
blocked subjects
Board: Edexcel
What do I need to know and be able to do before taking this course?
In Drama you will learn how to: create theatre from scratch; become truthful actors; work collaboratively as
an ensemble; and explore both contemporary and ground-breaking theatrical texts from throughout history.
There will be several trips to see the best contemporary theatre at the Warwick Arts Centre, RSC in
Stratford, Oxford Playhouse and London. The course is driven by an ethos of creativity, energy, collaboration
and fun. Two-thirds of the assessment is through practical work, with written coursework accounting for the
other third, where students express their opinions about theatre and reflect on and evaluate their work and
live theatre, for which they are given close guidance and support.
How will I be assessed?
Unit 1 Drama Exploration 30% of GCSE (60 marks available)
Practical Exploration of a Theme (6 hours) – marked out of 40
Written Response to Practical Exploration (maximum 2,000 words) – marked out of 20
Unit 2 Exploring Play Texts 30% of GCSE (60 marks available)
Practical Exploration of a text (6 hours) – marked out of 30
Written Response to Practical Exploration (maximum 1, 000 words) – marked out of 10
Live Theatre Evaluation of a Production Seen (maximum 2, 000 words) – marked out of 20
Unit 3 Drama Performance 40% of GCSE (80 marks available)
Devised or scripted performance marked out of 80
Groups of between 3-9
7 Reasons to study GCSE Drama
Collaborating in a supportive environment to build confidence and skill
Working with energy and a sense of fun with student excitement and ownership of their work
Watching inspiring professional theatre & working with professional theatre companies
Developing a personal interest in why drama matters and being inspired, moved and changed by
studying a broad and exciting course with students considering their world view
Boosting confidence and the ability to convince others to believe in you (just as an actor does with an
audience); a crucial lifelong skill in any career path
Progression – Drama is recognised as a strong subject choice for students thinking of studying an
essay-based (and vocational) subject at competitive universities with an array of transferable skills
Participating in an exciting extra-curricular performance programme
Drama
blocked subjects
Board: AQA Controlled Assessment 60%
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
It will be assumed that all students wishing to take this course have an interest in diet and health,
and enjoy practical cooking activities.
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
GCSE Food Technology is an interesting and stimulating course for students of all ability ranges to
gain relevant transferable skills and knowledge. It will help you develop your creativity by making
food products and develop an understanding of our food within a diverse society and to work within
a variety of contexts.
Nutrition, diet and health throughout life
Nutritional, physical, chemical and sensory properties of food in storage
Preparation and cooking as scientific processes
Identify and use stages in the development of a food product prototype
To understand the functional and nutritional properties of food
Food hygiene and food safety
The course enables you to make discriminating consumer choices about food and it is also
developed to enable candidates to demonstrate their creativity, with making food products a vital
feature. You will have the option to design and make a range of delicious food products for the
farmers shop or market, the school canteen, ready-made meals and for festivals and other special
occasions to demonstrate your imagination and skill when creating food products.
How will I be assessed?
The single tier assessment covers grades A* to G. There is one exam of 2 hours (40%) plus one
internally marked controlled assessment involving a single design and make activity for a food
product from a range of broad set tasks (60%).
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
This course is appropriate for a wide range of students with a variety of interests and abilities. Food
Technology is a creative course focusing on design and making a food product. It will suit students
who like to plan and work independently and it encourages self-evaluation. The course introduces
sound life skills and is highly recommended if you are interested in a future career in Food, Nutrition
and Food Technology.
Food Technology
blocked subjects
Board: Edexcel
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
You will need to need to have studied some French before – probably for at least two years. You will
need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn.
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
You will develop the ability to use language effectively for purposes of practical communication, and
to use language imaginatively and creatively. You will also develop an awareness of the nature of
language and language learning whilst acquiring the skills and attitudes which will form a sound
basis for further study, work and leisure. You will learn to speak, listen and understand, read and
write in French.
How will I be assessed?
You will have four unitised examinations, requiring you to demonstrate an ability to:
understand and respond to the spoken language
communicate using the spoken language
understand and respond to written language
communicate in writing
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
You will need to be hard-working and interested in languages and other cultures.
French
blocked subjects
Board: AQA iGCSE No coursework What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? Geography GCSE is a two-year course building on foundations laid down in the Third Form. Students new to the school can still take the course without serious disadvantage. What will I learn on this GCSE course? Candidates will learn about the world in which they live whilst gaining various analytical skills. These include the interpretation of Ordnance Survey maps, aerial photographs, satellite images or graphs. The Physical Geography element investigates:
Rivers – e.g. oxbow lakes on the Mississippi and flooding in Bangladesh
Volcanoes and Earthquakes – e.g. the Haiti earthquake and Japanese tsunami The Human Geography element investigates:
Towns and Cities – e.g. regeneration of Birmingham and shanty towns in Brazil
Tourism – e.g. extreme tourism in Antarctica and conflict in Phuket, Thailand
Other topics such as Population, Globalisation and Coasts will be studied as required by Paper 3. Examples are taken from around the globe, though local fieldwork is also a major feature. Students are encouraged to supplement these examples with observations from home and holidays. They are also encouraged to keep track of places in the newspapers and on television; the specification allows topical events to be covered in class as and when they occur. How will I be assessed? The course followed is AQA's iGCSE. This involves 3 formal exams and no coursework: Paper 1: Physical Geography, 1hr, 30% Paper 2: Human Geography, 1hr, 30% Paper 3: Geographical Skills and Decision Making, 1hr 30 minutes, 40% The decision making aspect of this paper is based on a pre-release Information Booklet that will be studied in class. Although there is no lengthy controlled assessment, local and regional field work will be carried out in order to prepare students for the skills required in Paper 3. For what kind of student is this course suitable? The course demands a mixture of factual knowledge, the understanding of processes and evaluation of contemporary issues related to geographical phenomena. Few students fail to master these requirements and interest is regarded as the key when selecting the subject. In return for hard work, geography candidates will gain a life-long interest and a variety of essential skills for deployment in all walks of life.
Geography
blocked subjects
Board: AQA Controlled Assessment (25%) What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? The GCSE course builds on some of the foundations covered in the Third Form, although much of the content taught at GCSE will be new to you. What will I learn on this GCSE course? You will learn about the history of the 20th Century and so gain a knowledge and understanding of the events and ideas which have shaped the world in which we live. The International Relations component investigates:
The Treaty of Versailles, the failure of the League of Nations and the outbreak of the Second World War
The development of the Cold War in both Europe and Asia, the Nuclear Arms Race and the Space Race
The Depth Study investigates:
America in the 1920s, including prohibition, the escalation of organised crime and the growth of the Ku Klux Klan
The development of Stalin’s dictatorship within the USSR and his attempts to turn the USSR into a World Power
The Vietnam War, including reasons for US involvement in, and withdrawal from Vietnam, methods of warfare and media reporting
Through the course, you will learn to analyse original sources, distinguish fact from opinion, and construct logical arguments; skills which have a wide-ranging application beyond the subject. How will I be assessed? There are 3 examination papers. Questions will involve factual recall, the evaluation of cause and effect and the assessment of sources/documents. Paper 1: International Relations (1 hr 45 mins, 37.5%)
Paper 2: The USA, The USSR, The War in Vietnam (1 hr 45 mins, 37.5%)
Paper 3: Controlled Assessment Britain at War (25%)
For what kind of student is this course suitable? You need to be interested in the past and willing to improve your ability to argue logically. You will need a reasonably efficient memory for facts, but no more than for most other subjects.
History
blocked subjects
Board: OCR (J281) No Coursework What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? Students will have studied Latin for approximately three years and reached a good level of proficiency. They should also have an interest in finding out about the ancient world. What will I learn on this GCSE course? The study of Latin at GCSE level will provide candidates with an opportunity to study the language and literature of ancient Rome, and elements of the culture, language and social and political life of the Roman civilisation. Particular areas of study include:
The Latin language Latin texts in their original language. The Roman Army, Social Life, the City of Rome, Women, the Empire, Roman Britain and Roman Religion are studied through the sources and evidence which the Romans left behind them.
How will I be assessed? Assessment is at Higher Tier (with grades A* - E available). Candidates will take Papers 1 and 2, plus two of 3, 4 and 5. Candidates have to take:
Paper 1: Latin Language 1 Paper 2: Latin Language 2
Candidates have to take two of:
Paper 3: Verse literature Paper 4: Prose literature Paper 5: Civilisation through the sources
For what kind of student is this course suitable? The course is suitable for students who are interested in languages and the ancient world. A knowledge of Latin will be particularly useful for those who pursue their study of a romance (French or Spanish) language to a high level.
Latin
blocked subjects
Board: OCR Coursework (60%) What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? GCSE Music is an exciting course that will develop your interest and understanding of how music is created through a very practical approach. Essentially, anyone with a musical interest can study for GCSE Music, although students who have already reached about ABRSM Grade 3 and can read music will be at an advantage. Music Theory classes are available for those students who need help either learning or refreshing the basics! What will I learn on this GCSE course? You will learn in a very active way. We will explore a variety of musical genres through listening, appraising, composing and performing. There will be many opportunities for sharing music with your friends on the course. You learn very effectively if you do something, talk about it and show others how to do it … and that's what we'll do. And, of course, you will also have access to over twenty specialist staff. How will I be assessed? Skills in composing, performing and listening/appraising are assessed in three ways. Unit 1: Coursework - integrated tasks (30%) In this unit you will record one performance and one composition for your instrument. You will also write a commentary which links both of these together. Unit 2: Coursework - practical portfolio (30%) In this unit you will record one performance that shows an understanding of how parts work together in an ensemble. You will also produce a composition (or arrangement) based on one of your Areas of Study. You will also complete a log book and evaluation form. Unit 3: Controlled assessment - creative task (20%) In 45 minutes you will create a short composition, based on a given stimulus which you can then present either as a performance or in written or recorded formats Unit 4: Listening test (20%) The listening test is a written exam in which you will listen to extracts of music and answer questions on them.
Music
blocked subjects
Board: OCR Coursework: 10%
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
Students should have a keen interest in sport and be of a competent playing standard. An awareness
of a balanced, healthy lifestyle will be advantageous.
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
You will learn in a very active way. Much emphasis will be on socio-cultural factors for participation,
such as local and national provision, together with focus on balanced, healthy lifestyles and the
impact of diet, work and rest. Targeting physical activity for maximum effect is also an essential part
of the course. Overall, the content will be a valuable foundation for AS Physical Education.
How will I be assessed?
50% = Practical Performance in 4 sports
10% = 2 written coursework tasks (Controlled Assessment)
40% = 2 written examinations (each lasting one hour)
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
The course is suitable for students who are interested in sport and are practically competent in a
number of areas.
A real desire to develop an understanding of Physical Education through rigorous academic learning
and practical involvement is a must.
Physical Education
blocked subjects
Board: AQA No Coursework From September 2015 Fourth and Fifth form students will be prepared for the AQA full course GCSE
in Religious Studies. They will complete two papers, Religious Studies Specification A, Unit 1:
Christianity, and Unit 5: St Mark’s Gospel, at the end of the 5th form. There is no coursework
element. Religious Studies introduces students to many skills and ways of thinking that underpin
work they will do in other subjects, at A level and beyond. Critical thinking, study of texts, analysis
and evaluation of views and beliefs, and the application of knowledge and ideas to real situations
and people, all help to prepare students for more mature and adult ways of looking at the world they
live in, the sources that influence human thinking, and the people around them. We call the subject
“Theology” in school because we focus on academic aspects of the subject rather than religious or
confessional teaching.
The main areas of study are:
Unit 1: Christianity
1. Beliefs and Sources of Authority
2. Commitment and Membership
3. Places of Worship
4. Worship
5. Holy Communion
6. Festivals
Unit 5: St Mark’s Gospel
1. Background to Mark’s Gospel
2. Jesus’ Ministry
3. Jesus’ Suffering, Death and Resurrection
4. The Person of Jesus
5. Jesus’ Relationships with Others
6. Discipleship
Religious Studies
blocked subjects
Board: Edexel
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
You will not need to know a huge amount, but revising work done in the Third Form will be useful.
You will need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn.
What will I learn on this GCSE course?
You will develop the ability to use language effectively for purposes of practical communication and
to use language imaginatively and creatively. You will also develop an awareness of the nature of
language and language learning, whilst acquiring the skills and attitudes which will form a sound
basis for further study, work and leisure. You will learn to speak, listen and understand, read and
write in Spanish.
How will I be assessed?
You will have four unitised examinations, requiring you to demonstrate ability to:
understand and respond to the spoken language
communicate using the spoken language
understand and respond to written language
communicate in writing
For what kind of student is this course suitable?
You will need to be hard working and interested in languages. If you enjoy travelling, this may be the
course for you.
You will have the opportunity during your GCSE course to travel to Madrid and experience Spanish
culture.
Spanish
blocked subjects
Board: AQA Unit 1 – Written Paper (40%) Unit 2 – Controlled Test (60%) What do I need to know and be able to do before taking this course? Most students will have completed the Bloxham Third Form technology circus and many will have done textiles in the First and Second Forms. All skills and knowledge acquired will be extremely useful for the study of GCSE. Though this background is not essential, it will be assumed that in order to embark on this course, some basic knowledge of designing and making products and an enjoyment of textiles would already have been experienced. What will I learn on this GCSE course?
Application of knowledge and understanding when developing ideas, planning, producing products and evaluating them
A variety of decorative and constructional techniques including: machine embroidery, free machining, appliqué, seams and hems
Use of sewing machines: Bernina 1008, computerised machines and overlockers
Knowledge and use of fibres and fabrics
Understanding of manufacturing processes and production systems
Considering conflicting demands that moral, cultural, economic and social values and needs can make in the planning and designing of products
How will I be assessed? Students will be assessed on their ability to acquire and apply knowledge, skill and understanding:
when designing and making quality products (Unit 2 – controlled test)
when evaluating processes and products and examining the wider effects of design and technology on society (Unit 1 – written exam).
For what kind of student is this course suitable? This course is appropriate for a wide range of students with a variety of interests and abilities. Those with artistic or creative talents will do well but this is certainly not essential. The students who are keen to learn and work hard are always the most successful in this subject. If you have enjoyed textiles in the past it is likely that you will continue to do so up to GCSE. If you are thinking you might suit a technical or creative career then this subject will give you good grounding.
Textiles