A Level Information

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A Level Information

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ContentsContents 3A Level Reform 5THE SUBJECTS

Art & Design 6 Biology 8 Chemistry 10 Classical Civilisation 12 Economics 14 English Literature 16 French 18 Further Mathematics 20 Geography 22 Government & Politics 24

History 28 History of Art 30 Mathematics 32 Music 34 Philosophy & Ethics 36 Physical Education 38 Physics 40 Psychology 42 Spanish 44

Life beyond Radnor House 46Degree Information 48

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This handbook outlines the A Level courses available to those entering the Sixth Form at Radnor House. The range of subjects on offer has been developed to assist you in choosing a combination that suits your talents, tastes and aspirations. Contained here are brief summaries of the A Level courses on offer at Radnor House that will ensure you are well prepared for university entry and future employment.

Typically, you are expected to choose four courses to study throughout the Lower Sixth before continuing with three A Level courses in the Upper Sixth.

In determining your choices, it is important to consider the following.

• If you are aware of the University degree that you wish to apply for, you should consider any requirements or preferences that the course demands. This information is available in University prospectuses or online and a summary is included at the back of this handbook.

• Similarly, if you have a particular career path in mind, consider how your A Level subjects might facilitate your future aspirations. Particular A Levels develop certain skills that may be of use to you in the future.

• It is also important to consider the subjects about which you are passionate and that interest you. A Levels require a lot of independent study and this is made easier if you enjoy your subject. This is particularly important if you are undecided as to your future plans as yet and will help give you a range of options.

Additionally, you will have a meeting with the Director of Sixth Form to go through your selection in the first half of the Easter Term and you are welcome to seek advice from the Director of Sixth Form, the Careers Department or the relevant Head of Faculty at any time.

A Levels are a wonderfully exciting part of your education where you have real freedom to explore your interests and passions.

Welcome to Radnor House Sixth Form

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Art and Design Edexcel

Qualification Summary

AS Level (8AD01)

Unit 1 (non-exam assessment, 50% of AS Level)Personal Investigation; set and marked by the centre and moderated by Edexcel. Assessed by portfolio

Unit 2 (10 hour exam, 50% of AS Level)Externally Set Assignment; supervised assignment set and marked by the centre and moderated by Edexcel

A Level (9AD01)

Unit 1 (non-exam assessment, 60% of A Level)Personal Investigation; personal art study supported by a written element of 1000-3000 words, set and marked by the centre and moderated by Edexcel.

Unit 2 (15 hour exam, 40% of A Level)Externally Set Assignment; supervised assignment, marked by the centre and moderated by Edexcel

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Skills acquired

A Level Art and Design provides students with opportunities to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures in practical, critical and contextual forms. This four-unit specification requires students to develop their ability to show a range of skills.

These include: • Independence of mind in developing

their own ideas • An interest and enthusiasm for art

and design • The experience of working with a range

of media, including traditional and new media and technologies

• An awareness of different roles, functions, audiences and consumers of art and design practice.

Useful for the following degreesFine Art; Design; Architecture; Graphic Design; Video, Visual Effects and Animation; Art History; Education; Illustration; Illustration and Animation; Computer Game Design; Fashion Design; Interior Design; Creative Technologies; Product Design; Industrial Design; Textiles; Graphic Communication; Interactive Design; Photography; Motion Graphics; Art Therapy and Psychology; Design Engineering; Visual Communications.

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Biology AQA


AS Level 7401

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level )Biological molecules, Cells, Organisms ex-change substances with their environment, Genetic information, variation and rela-tionships between organisms and relevant practical skills

Paper 2 (1 hours 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Biological molecules, Cells, Organisms ex-change substances with their environment, Genetic information, variation and rela-tionships between organisms and relevant practical skills

A Level 7402

Paper 1 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Biological molecules, Cells, Organisms exchange substances with their environ-ment, Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms and relevant practical skills

Paper 2 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Energy transfers in and between organ-isms, Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems,The control of gene expression and relevant practical skills

Paper 3 (2 hours, 30% of A Level)Synoptic unit, including relevant practical skills

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Skills acquired

Studying Biology opens students to a range of ways of thinking such as analysis of observations, problem solving, spotting trends and patterns and practical skills. Students learn to analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and processes and assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information. For this reason the subject provides transferable skills for many careers outside science such as accountancy, law and management as well as within science.

With issues such as stem cell research, cloning and genome sequencing becoming ever more relevant in our lives, there has never been a better time to study Biology in order to help us make informed choices and understand the world around us. This course looks closely at the ethical issues associated with these technological advances and helps students to appreciate how society makes decisions about biology-related issues and how biology contributes to the success of the economy and society.

Useful for the following degreesDentistry; Forensic Science; Marine Biology; Medicine; Nursing; Optometry; Pharmacology; Physiotherapy; Veterinary Science; Zoology

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Chemistry AQA


AS Level (7404)

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Physical and inorganic chemistry, including relevant practical skills

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Physical and organic chemistry, including relevant practical skills

A Level (7405)

Paper 1 (2 hours, 35% of A Level) Physical and inorganic chemistry, including relevant practical skills

Paper 2 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Physical and organic chemistry, including relevant practical skills

Paper 3 (2 hours, 30% of A Level)Any content from the syllabus, including relevant practical skills

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Skills acquired

Logical thinking and problem solving skills are developed continuously through both practical and written tasks. In addition, written and verbal communication skills are developed in a variety of ways including the formulation of equations and mathematical problem solving. Practical activities provide an opportunity for team work and the ability to analyse data critically is central to the course.

Topics

Physical Chemistry • Atomic structure, bonding and kineticsInorganic Chemistry• Periodicity • Group 2, 7, 3 and the transition metalsOrganic Chemistry • Alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes,

alcohols • Organic analysis • Optical isomerism • Aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids

and derivatives• Aromatic Chemistry • Organic synthesis • NMRI and Chromatography

Useful for the following degreesChemical Engineering; Dentistry; Material Sciences; Medical Sciences; Medicine; Veterinary Science

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Classical CivilisationOCR


AS Level H008 One year course

Component 11 The World of the Hero (50%); Component 21 or 22 Culture and the Arts (50%)

A Level H408 Two year course

Component 11 The World of the Hero (40%); Component Group 2 Culture and the Arts (30%); Component Group 3 Beliefs and Ideas (30%)

Component 11 The World of the Hero at AS consists of an in-depth study of either Homer’s Iliad or Odyssey. For the full A level, the component requires study of Virgil’s Aeneid in addition to the Homer choice.For the full A level, Component Group 2 has 4 choices, including Component 21 and 22 from the AS qualification. In order to be able to co-teach the two qualifications, we will choose from Greek Theatre (21) OR Imperial Image (22). The paper is the same for both qualifications. It has not yet been decided which will be studied.Component Group 3 is only studied for the full A level, and includes a choice of four units: Greek Religion, Love and Relationships, Politics of the Late Republic and Democracy and the Athenians. Only one needs to be studied, but it has not yet been decided which one.

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Skills acquired

The aims of the Classical Civilisation A-Level are to encourage candidates to develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the classical world. They will learn to study the subject synoptically, as they are required to choose options from different areas of study. It is wide-ranging with engaging material and an emphasis on critical analysis.

The skills acquired provide a strong foundation for progression directly into employment, as well as onto a higher level of education.

Prior attainment of a GCSE qualification in a classical subject is not required. English Language GCSE at C grade is preferred.

Useful for the following degrees Any humanities degree, such as: Ancient History; Anthropology; Archaeology; Classics; English; History; Law; Modern European Languages; Philosophy; Politics.

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Economics AQA


AS Level (7135)

Unit 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Operation of Markets and Market Failure; basic microeconomic models and to application to current problems and issues

Unit 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)The National Economy in a Global Context; analyse and evaluate macroeconomic policy

A Level (7136)

Unit 1 (2 hours, 33.3% of A Level)Markets and Market Failure; competitive markets and production costs, further development of labour markets, market failure and government intervention

Unit 2 (2 hours, 33.3% of A Level)National and International Economymacroeconomic performance and policy and financial markets

Unit 3 (2 hours, 33.3% of A Level)Economic Principles and Issues; his unitsynoptic and requires students to apply their knowledge from both macro and micro economics to real a case studies

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Useful for the following degreesAccounting; Business; Economics; Finance; Geography; History; Human Geography; Law; Management; Maths; Politics; PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics)

Skills acquired

Students will be expected to acquire competence in quantitative skills that are relevant to the subject content and be familiar with the various types of statistical and other data which are commonly used by economists. They should be able to make relevant calculations from economic data and be able to interpret data presented in the form of index numbers.

Examples of other relevant quantitative skills include: the construction and use of graphs and the application of statistical measures such as the mean and median.Students should understand the role of

evidence in economic decision making but should appreciate the importance of value judgements. It is expected that students will acquire a good knowledge of trends and developments in the economy which have taken place over the past fifteen years and also have an awareness of earlier events where this helps to give recent developments a longer term perspective. Finally, the course develops skills, qualities and attitudes which will equip them for the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of adult and working life.

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English Literature AQA


AS Level (7716)

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Literary Genres: Aspects of Tragedy (Drama) Study of one Shakespeare play and one further drama text.

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Literary Genres: Aspects of Tragedy (Prose and Poetry) Study of one prose and one poetry text

A Level (7717)

Paper 1 (2 hour 30 minutes, 40% of A Level) Literary Genres: Aspects of Tragedy (Drama)Study of one Shakespeare play and one further drama text.

Paper 2 (3 hours, 40% of A Level)Texts and Genres: Elements of Political and Social Protest Study of three texts, one post-2000 prose text, pre-1900 poetry and one further text.

Paper 3 (Non-exam assessment, 20% of A Level)Theory and Independence – assessed by two essays of 1250-1500 words each responding to a different text and linking to a different aspect of the Critical anthology. Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text, informed by study of the Critical anthology.

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Skills acquired

The A Level English Literature course approaches the reading and study of literature through the lens of genre and theory, encouraging the independent study of a range of texts within a shared context, giving logic and meaning to the way that texts are grouped for exploration.

Students will develop the ability to make contrasts and comparisons between different texts and understand how texts are categorised and how this links to the way meaning is shaped and constructed. Reading and analysing texts independently encourages students to evaluate the critical reception of texts and appreciate different perspectives and critical views and form one’s own.

Students will learn to structure and write extended analytical essays involving editing and re-drafting, write formally and eloquently to express their views and write creatively in order to demonstrate their understanding of texts.

The variety of assessment styles used, such as passage-based questions, unseen material, single text questions, multiple text questions, open- and closed-book approaches, allows students to develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research which are valuable for both further study and future employment.

Useful for the following degreesAnthropology; Classics; Creative Writing; Drama and Performing Arts; English Literature; Film Studies; History; Journalism; Languages; Law; Librarianship; Linguistics; Media and Communications; Philosophy; Theatre Studies; Theology

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French Edexcel


AS Level (8FRO)

Paper 1 (1 hour 50 minutes, 40% of AS Level)Listening, Reading and Translating

Paper 2 (1 hour 40 minutes, 30% of AS Level)Written Response to Works and Translations

Paper 3 (15 minutes, 30% of AS Level) Speaking

Examined Topics• The changes in French Society• The Political and Artistic Culture in

French speaking countries

A Level (9FRO)

Paper 1 (1 hour 50 minutes,40% of A Level)Listening, Reading and Translating

Paper 2 (2 hours 40 minutes, 30% of A Level)Written Response to Works and Translations

Paper 3 (18 minutes, 30% of A Level)Speaking

Examined Topics• The changes in French Society• The Political and Artistic Culture in

French speaking countries• Immigration and the French

Multicultural Society • The French Occupation and Resistance

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Useful for the following degreesBeginner Language degrees (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese); Business; Economics; English; History; Law; Modern Foreign Language; Politics

Skills acquired

The A Level French course tackles interesting and varied topics, developing a broad range of knowledge alongside language skills that enable them to communicate effectively, accurately and confidently in French. Students should be interested in current affairs and enjoy working with a language. Individuals must have an interest in communicating their

opinions to others as well as justifying and countering arguments across a wide range of themes. Students will develop knowledge and understanding of a variety of grammatical structures and develop their research and presentation skills, as well as their knowledge of French culture.

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Further MathematicsProvisional Exam Board OCR – Due to the upcoming switch to a linear course we are currently undergoing a review of the qualification we offer. Here are the provisional details which may change before September 2017.


AS Level H235

All students must sit:• Pure Core Paper Y531 (1 hour 10

minutes, 33.3% of total AS level)

Students must then sit two of the following:• Statistics Paper Y532 (1 hour 10

minutes, 33.3% of total AS level)• Mechanics Paper Y533 (1 hour 10

minutes, 33.3% of total AS level)• Discrete Mathematics Paper Y534

(1 hour 10 minutes, 33.3% of total AS level)

• Additional Pure Mathematics Y535 (1 hour 10 minutes, 33.3% of total AS level)

A Level H245

All students must sit:• Pure Core 1 Paper Y540 (1 hour 30

minutes, 25% of total A level)• Pure Core 2 Paper Y541 (1 hour 30

minutes, 25% of total A level)

Students must then sit two of the following:• Statistics Paper Y542 (1 hour 30

minutes, 25% of total A level)• Mechanics Paper Y543 (1 hour 30

minutes, 25% of total A level)• Discrete Mathematics Paper Y544

(1 hour 30 minutes, 25% of total A level)

• Additional Pure Mathematics Y545 (1 hour 30 minutes, 25% of total A level)

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Geography AQA


AS Level (7036)

Unit 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Physical geography and people and the environment; Section A: Water and carbon cycles. Section B: Hazards.

Unit 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Human Geography and geographical fieldwork investigation; Section A: Changing places. Section B: Geography fieldwork investigation and geographical skills. Section B will be based on primary data collected during a two day of fieldwork trip in the UK.

A Level (7037)

Unit 1 (2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A Level)Physical Geography; Water and carbon cycles, Hot deserts and their margins and Hazards.

Unit 2 (2 hours 30 minutes, 40% of A Level)Human Geography; Global systems and global governance, Changing places and Population and the environment or Resource security.

Unit 3 (non-exam assessment, 20% of A Level)Geographical InvestigationStudents complete an individual investigation which must include data collected in the field. Pupils will be required to undertake 4 days of fieldwork over the course of the two years. The individual investigation must be based on a question or issue defined and developed by the student relating to any part of the specification content.Assessed in a 3000-4000 word report, marked by class teacher and moderated by the exam board.

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Skills acquired

Students will develop the ability to structure an essay so as that it presents a balanced and geographically sound argument.

Geographers will also have the opportunity to undertake statistical analysis of primary data and use number of statistical tests, including Chi squared and Mann Whitney-U. Students will gain an understanding of a wide range of graphical and cartographic techniques to represent geographical data and experiment with different Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technologies.

Geography is considered to provide students with the broadest and most diverse skill set to candidates and is therefore highly desirable to future employers.

Useful for the following degreesBiology; Ecology; Economics; Environmental Science; Geography; Geology; Marine Biology;

Natural Sciences; Town Planning; Zoology

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Government & PoliticsProvisional Exam Board Edexcel – Due to the upcoming switch to a linear course we are currently undergoing a review of the qualification we offer. Here are the provisional details which may change before September 2017.


AS level 8PL0

Component 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total AS level)

UK Politics Democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, and voting behaviour and the media.

Component 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total AS level)

UK Government The constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, and relationships between the branches.

A level 9PL0

Component 1 (2 hrs, 33.3% of total A level)



Comparative Politics For USA: the US Constitution and federalism, US congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court, democracy and participation, civil rights; orFor Global: theories of Global Politics, sovereignty and globalisation, global governance: political and economic, global governance: human rights and environmental, power and developments, regionalism and the European Union.

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Useful for the following degreesEconomics; English; Geography; History; Law; Management; Politics; PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics); SPS (Social & Political Sciences)

Skills acquired

Students will have the opportunity to develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas, institutions and processes, to acquire knowledge and understanding of the structures of authority and power within the political system of the UK, and how these may differ from other political systems.

In addition, students will acquire knowledge and informed understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the individual and encourage an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics. Furthermore, opportunities for reading and assimilating large volumes of information, displaying evidenced argumentation, essay-writing abound.

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History Edexcel


AS Level (8HI0)

Unit 1 (2 hours 15 minutes, 60% of AS Level)‘Britain, 1625-1701: Conflict, revolution, and settlement’

Unit 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 40% of AS Level)‘Russia in Revolution, 1894-1924’

A Level (9HI0)

Unit 1 (2 hours 15 minutes, 30% of A Level)‘Britain, 1625-1701: Conflict, revolution, and settlement’

Unit 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 20% of A Level)‘Russia in Revolution, 1894-1924’ Unit 3 (2 hours 15 minutes, 30% of A Level)‘Civil Rights and Race Relations in the USA, 1850-2009’

Unit 4 (non-exam assessment, 20% of A Level)‘Historical Enquiry’. 3,000-4,000 word essay that relates to a change over a 100 year period, independently researched and written historical study.

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Useful for the following degreesAncient History; Classics; Economics; English; History; Law; Politics; PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics); SPS (Social and Political Science); Theology

Skills acquired

Students will have the opportunity to develop a body of knowledge related to the History of Britain and other countries and to acquire informed understanding of the lives of people, the structures and actions of government, and significant beliefs and movements of the past.

In addition, students will become competent in reading and assimilating large volumes of information, producing evidenced arguments, comparing and critically evaluating sources, essay-writing and causational analysis and complex explanation.

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History of ArtOCR


AS Level (7256)

Paper A: Visual analysisVisual Analysis and Interpretation – knowledge and understanding of formal aspects and how they contribute to meaningPaper B: Thematic study – choose one from:Nature in Art; Identities in Art; War in ArtPaper C: Period study – choose one from:• Invention and illusion: The Renaissance in

Italy (1420–1520)• Rebellion and revival: The ‘Avant-Garde’

in Britain and France (1848–1899)• Pop Life: ‘Contemporary’ Art and

Architecture in Britain and USA (1960–2015)(AS Written exam: 3 hours, 100% of AS)

A Level (7257)This Course is linear. Paper 1: ThemesSection A: Visual analysis of 3 source-based (unseen images)Section B: Thematic study - two from a choice of four:• Nature in Art• Identities in Art• War in Art• Journeys in Art

(Written exam: 3 hours, 50% of A-level)

Paper 2: Period StudyTwo periods studied from a choice of five:• Invention and Illusion: The Renaissance in

Italy (1420-1520)• Power and Persuasion: The Baroque in

Catholic Europe (1597-1685)• Rebellion and Revival: The ‘Avant-Garde’

in Britain and France (1848-1899)• Brave New World: ‘Modernism’ in

Europe (1900-1939)• Pop Life: ‘Contemporary’ Art and

Architecture in Britain and the USA (1960-2015)(Written exam: 3 hours, 50% of A-level)

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Useful for the following degreesDesign Studies; Fine Art; History of Art; English Studies; Architecture; Cinematics and Photography; Psychology; Media Studies; Education; Gallery and Curatorial Studies; Journalism.

Skills acquired

This specification required students to develop their ability to communicate their knowledge and understanding of art historical movements, practitioners and works, considering the way that these change and evolve within chronological and other frameworks.

It also builds understanding of the relationship between society and art; art historical terms, concepts and issues; methods of researching, investigating and analysing and use of evidence; and how works are interpreted and evaluated.

Students will explore and analyse subjects and genres; materials, techniques and processes; form and style; historical and social contexts; patronage; social and cultural status; gender, nationality and ethnicity.

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MathematicsProvisional Exam Board OCR – Due to the upcoming switch to a linear course we are currently undergoing a review of the qualification we offer. Here are the provisional details which may change before September 2017.


AS Level H230

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total AS level)Pure Mathematics and Statistics (01)

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of total AS level)Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (02)

A Level H240

Paper 1 (2 hours, 33.3% of total A level)Pure Mathematics (01)

Paper 2 (2 hours, 33.3% of total A level)Pure Mathematics and Statistics (02)

Paper 3 (2 hours, 33.3% of total A level)Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (03)

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Useful for the following degreesAccounting and Finance; Actuarial Science; Biochemistry; Chemistry; Computer Science; Dentistry; Economics; Electronics; Engineering; Mathematics; Medicine; Natural Sciences; Operational Research; Optometry; Physics; Statistics; Veterinary Science

Skills acquired

The aim of the A Level is to encourage students to develop abilities to reason logically and extend their range of mathematical skills and techniques.

A Level Mathematics also allows for students to understand the relevance of mathematics to other fields of study, to the world of work and society in general.

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Music AQA


AS Level (7271)

Unit 1 (1 hour 45 minutes, 40% of AS Level)Appraising Music; written exam paper with listening and written questions using excerpts of music

Unit 2 (8 minutes, 30% of AS Level)Performance; Solo or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist or vocalist or music production

Unit 3 (non-exam assessment, 30% of AS Level)Composition; No more than six minutes. Composition 1 - Composition to a brief. Composition 2 - Free composition.

A Level (7272) Unit 1 (2 hours 15 minutes, 40% of AS Level)Appraising Music; written exam paper with listening and written questions using excerpts of music

Unit 2 (12 minutes, 35% of AS Level)Performance; Solo or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist or vocalist or music production

Unit 3 (non-exam assessment, 30% of AS Level)Composition; No more than six minutes. Composition 1 - Composition to a brief. Composition 2 - Free composition.

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Useful for the following degreesHistory; Law; Music; Music Production; Music Technology; Philosophy; Sociology

Skills acquired

Students will be encouraged to engage critically and creatively with a wide range of music and musical contexts. They will also be expected to reflect on how music is used in the expression of personal and collective identities. The A Level provides an appropriate focus for students to appraise, develop and demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of musical elements, musical contexts and musical language.

In Performance, the students will grow in confidence in their chosen instrument/s. They will develop their analytical and interpretation skills as they will continue to learn how to communicate musical ideas with technical and expressive control. Students will be able to demonstrate how to develop musical ideas and compose music that is musically convincing through two compositions. This must be contrasting and the students should be able to reflect on and make critical judgements about their work as it progresses.

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Philosophy & Ethics OCR


AS Level (H173)

Unit 1 (1 hour, 33.3% of AS Level)Philosophy of ReligionAncient Philosophical Influences, arguments for the existence or non-existence of God, religious experience, challenges for religious belief, problem of evil

Unit 2 (1 hour, 33.3% of AS Level)Religion and EthicsNormative ethical theories, application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues, ethical language and thought

Unit 3 (1 hour, 33.3% of AS Level)Developments in religious thoughtReligious beliefs, values and teachings, sources of religious wisdom and authority, practices which shape and express religious identity

A Level (H573) Unit 1 (2 hours, 33.3% of A Level)Philosophy of ReligionAncient Philosophical Influences, arguments for the existence or non-existence of God, religious experience, challenges for religious belief, problem of evil, the nature of soul, mind and body, life after death, ideas about the nature of God, issues in Religious Language

Unit 2 (2 hours, 33.3% of A Level)Religion and EthicsNormative ethical theories, application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues, ethical language and thought, debates surrounding the significant ideas of conscience and free will, influence on ethical though of developments in religious beliefs

Unit 3 (2 hour, 33.3% of A Level)Developments in religious thoughtReligious beliefs, values and teachings, sources of religious wisdom and authority, practices which shape and express religious identity, social and historical developments in theology, the relationship between religion and society

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Useful for the following degreesClassics, English, History, History of Art, Law, Philosophy, Politics, PPE, Psychology, Sociology, Theology

Skills acquired

Students studying Philosophy will gain a wide range of skills from textual analysis to logical reasoning. It is a course which has at its heart a critical approach to ethics and the traditional claims of religion and as such students will learn to both construct and critique argument on many different subjects.

In addition to this they will gain a deep understanding of the Philosophy of classical theism from Plato to the modern day. The course also encourages students to reflect upon major issues, choices and decisions and come to their own conclusions concerning the nature of truth, reality and goodness.

Students will also gain the skills necessary for assimilating significant volumes of academic literature and expressing their thoughts and learning in essay form.

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Physical Education AQA


AS Level (7581)

Paper 1 (2 hours, 70% of AS Level)Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sportSection A: Applied PhysiologySection B: Skill acquisition and sports psychologySection C: Sport and society and technology in sport

Paper 2 (Non-exam assessment, 30% of AS Level)Practical performance in physical activity and sport1 Students assessed as a performer or coach

in the full sided version of one activity.2 Written/verbal analysis of performance.

A Level (7582) Paper 1 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sportSection A: Applied PhysiologySection B: Skill acquisition and sports psychologySection C: Sport and society and technology in sport

Paper 2 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sportSection A: Applied PhysiologySection B: Skill acquisition and sports psychologySection C: Sport and society and technology in sport

Paper 3 (Non-exam assessment, 30% of A Level) Practical performance in physical activity and sport1 Students assessed as a performer or

coach in the full sided version of one activity.

2 Written/verbal analysis of performance.

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Useful for the following degreesBiomedicine; Coach Education; Equine Sports Science; Physiotherapy; Sport Development; Sport & Exercise Nutrition; Sport Management; Sport Psychology; Sport Rehabilitation; Sport Science; Sports Therapy

Skills acquired

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. Apply knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. Analyse and evaluate the factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. Demonstrate and apply relevant skills and techniques in physical activity and sport. Analyse and evaluate performance.

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Physics AQA


AS Level (7407)

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Measurements and their errors, Particles and radiation, Waves, Mechanics and materials, Electricity.

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Measurements and their errors, Particles and radiation, Waves, Mechanics and materials, Electricity.

A Level (7408)

Paper 1 (2 hours, 34% of A Level)Measurements and their errors, Particles and radiation, Waves, Mechanics and materials, Electricity and Periodic motion

Paper 2 (2 hours, 34% of A Level)Thermal Physics, Fields and their consequences, Nuclear Physics and assumed knowledge from sections 1 to 6.1

Paper 3 (2 hours, 32% of A Level)Section A: Compulsory section: Practical skills and data analysis Section B: Students enter for one of topics Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Engineering Physics, Turning points in Physics or Electronics

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Useful for the following degreesArchitecture; Astrophysics; Computer Sciences; Electronics; Engineering; Finance; Material Sciences; Mathematics; Medicine; Physics

Skills acquired

Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science. Discoveries in Physics have been at the heart of most advances in technology. It is an exciting and challenging subject to study, requiring an enquiring mind and clear thinking. The rewards of Physics include a deeper understanding of the universe and the development of skills that are highly sought

after both by universities and employers. Through studying Physics students will be given the opportunity to improve and develop their problem solving skills. They will learn how to analyse and understand scientific data and perhaps most importantly, students will learn to ask the question ‘Why?’

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Psychology Edexcel


AS Level (8PS0)

Paper 1 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Social and cognitive psychology

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of AS Level)Biological psychology and learning theories

A Level (9PS0)

Paper 1 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Foundations in Psychology; Social psychology, Cognitive psychology, Biological psychology, Learning theories, Issues and debates.

Paper 2 (2 hours, 35% of A Level)Applications of Psychology; Clinical psychology, Child psychology Paper 3 (2 hours, 30% of A Level)Psychological Skills; Methods, Synoptic review of studies, issues and debates

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Useful for the following degreesArchaeology; Business Studies; Criminology; English; Forensic Psychology; International Relations; Languages; Law; Management; Medicine; Nursing; Philosophy; Physiotherapy; Psychology; Social Work

Skills acquired

Psychology A Level provides an all-round education. It is a practical, research-based subject founded in the scientific method and develops skills of literacy, numeracy and the analysis and evaluation of data. It also develops abilities in argument construction and presentation and

encourages students to evaluate material from different perspectives. There are opportunities for students to develop mathematical skills throughout the content. They are required to apply the skills to relevant psychological contexts.

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Spanish AQA


AS Level

Paper 1 (1 hour 45 minutes, 45% of AS Level)Listening, Reading and Writing

Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes, 25% of AS Level)Critical response to a Spanish book or film. Translation into Spanish.

Paper 3 (12-14 minutes, 30% of AS Level)Speaking

Examined Topics• Aspects of Hispanic Society • Artistic Culture in the Hispanic world

including study of an Hispanic book or film, grammar, translation

A Level Paper 1 (2 hour 30 minutes, 50% of A Level)Listening, Reading and Translating

Paper 2 (2 hours, 20% of A Level)Written Response to Works and Translations

Paper 3 (21-23 minutes, 30% of A Level)Speaking

Examined Topics• Aspects of Hispanic Society and Artistic

Culture in the Hispanic world • Multiculturalism in Hispanic society

and aspects of political life in Hispanic society, grammar and translation

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Useful for the following degreesBeginner Language degrees (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese); Business; Economics; English; History; Law; Modern Foreign Language; Politics

Skills acquired

This course encourages students to: enhance their linguistic skills and promote and develop their capacity for critical thinking on the basis of their knowledge. Increase their understanding of the language, culture and society of the country or countries where the language is spoken. It also allows students to develop language learning skills and strategies, including communication strategies to sustain communication and build fluency and confidence. They will learn to engage

critically with intellectually stimulating texts, films and other materials in the original language, developing an appreciation of sophisticated and creative uses of the language and understanding them within their cultural and social context. They will equip themselves with transferable skills such as autonomy, resourcefulness, creativity, critical thinking, and linguistic, cultural and cognitive flexibility that will enable them to proceed to further study or to employment.

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The Sixth Form at Radnor House provides you with outstanding opportunities to develop your talents to the full. It gives you the confidence to express independent thought and to be enquiring, creative and distinctive as you move towards further education and beyond.

The main focus of the Radnor House Sixth Form is to prepare you for University and the world of work. There are a number of ways in which this is achieved.

AcademicOur choice of A Level subjects provide a broad, balanced and forward-looking education, combining expert school-based teaching with outstanding facilities. Our small class sizes and highly motivated teaching staff ensure that lessons are dynamic, stretching and inspirational.

Through undertaking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), you are prepared for the rigorous study required for success at leading universities. Developing independent research skills, the ability to summarise and analyse different texts and produce extended pieces of work are highly valued by all leading academic institutions.

Co-curricular Societies Students in the Sixth Form are encouraged to choose from a varied programme of co-curricular pursuits and societies. Young Enterprise, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award and the Debating Society all flourish, whilst more subject specific societies are popular and often student led. Societies for Architecture, Politics, Maths and Engineering are just some examples of students enhancing their interests as they move towards University study.

Preparing for life beyond Radnor House

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Universities GuidanceWe expect you to aim high, achieve outstanding results in your courses and be able to apply for Russell Group Universities, the best Art Colleges or specialist institutions. You are given expert, tailored guidance in choosing a University, selecting a degree course and writing your Personal Statement.

If you wish to study at Oxford or Cambridge, or wish to apply to read Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Sciences, you will receive special support for your application.

Careers AdviceYou are encouraged to give considerable thought to your future career during your Sixth Form years. Whilst many young adults might still be deciding which path to take in life, it is important that you are prepared for entering an increasingly competitive job market. You will receive guidance in CV writing, attend mock interviews, attend our Networking Evening and hear from a range of professionals through our ‘Reflections’ Lecture Programme.

LeadershipOpportunities for to develop leadership skills and take on responsibility are abundant in the Sixth Form; allowing the students to work with their peers, younger students or a combination of both. Being elected as a School or Senior Prefect allows you to take on a leadership and act as an example to the rest of the school community.

Pastoral SupportAll of this is underpinned by outstanding pastoral support in the Sixth Form. Your Tutor, along with the Director of Sixth Form, ensures that you feel valued, secure and able to devote your best efforts to your learning.

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Degree InformationUniversity Course Subjects required or preferred University Course Subjects required or preferred

Accountancy & Finance Mathematics preferred and Geology Two Sciences preferred normally requiredArchaelogy and No specific requirements, History History normally required Anthropology essay-based subjects useful Architecture Mathematics or Physics often required, History of Art History of Art helpful but not essential Art is useful Art & Design Art required with a portfolio of work Law Essay-writing subjects are advantageousBiological, Medical & Biology and Chemistry required Mathematics Mathematics required, Physics preferred Animal Sciences Business Business or Economics preferred Medicine Chemistry and Biology required, Mathematics and Physics preferredChemistry Chemistry and Mathematics required, Modern Languages First Modern Language in main area of study, a additional Sciences useful Second Modern Language is preferredChemical Engineering Chemistry and Mathematics required, Music Music required Physics preferred Classics Latin Philosophy Essay-based subjects usefulComputer Sciences Mathematics Physics Mathematics and Physics requiredDentistry Biology and Chemistry Politics No specific requirements, Government and Politics helpfulEconomics Mathematics required, Economics useful Psychology Biology and Psychology helpfulEngineering Mathematics and Physics Sports Science Physical Education required, Biology helpful but not essentialEnglish English Literature required, Theology Essay-based subjects useful. an additional language may be of use Geography Geography normally required Veterinary Science Chemistry and Biology typically required, Mathematics and Physics often required

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Notes

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Notes

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Contact us

For any questions about our A Leveloptions please contact:

John MacLeanDirector of Sixth [email protected]

Kerry WilsonAdmissions [email protected]

Radnor House, Pope’s Villa, Cross Deep,Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 4QG

00 44 (0)20 8891 6264

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Radnor HousePope’s Villa Cross Deep Twickenham Middlesex TW1 4QG

Telephone: 00 44 (0)20 8891 6264 Email: [email protected] Online: www.radnor-twickenham.org Twitter: @radnorsixth

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A Level Information

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Transcript of A Level Information