KEY STAGE 4

OPTION CHOICES 2017 -2019

Key Stage 4 Courses New qualifications starting in September 2016 have resulted in changes to the option choices available to pupils at key stage 4. To understand what is happening in Welsh education and why, please read the guide produced by the Welsh Government that accompanies this booklet. This booklet is designed to help students (in consultation with their parents/carers and teachers) to choose the courses they wish to follow at Key Stage 4. Important Dates:

Wednesday 1st February 2017 Options evening (5.00 pm – 6.30 pm)

Monday 13th February 2017 Return Option forms

Please Note Students will be guided in their choices in an effort to ensure the courses they follow at Key Stage 4 will allow them to develop their potential. Choices made at this stage do not guarantee a place on specific courses. If only a small number of students choose a subject it may not be possible for that subject to run or if a subject exceeds its allocated number of places a student may have to be placed on another course – this is why students have to make second choice. Pupils in their last 2 years at school can follow a variety of courses at GCSE level 1 & 2. Vocational courses (at level 1 & 2) maybe offered through negotiation with Cross Keys College and partnership schools. Subjects have coursework or controlled assessments. These are set by the Examination Boards – we cannot vary them. If a student misses these they may become ineligible for examination entry. Examination dates are set by the Examination Boards. WE CANNOT VARY THEM. To ensure desired grades are achieved please avoid booking holidays during these periods. Exam dates and further information available from:- www.wjec.co.uk www.aqa.org.uk www.ocr.org.uk

www.asdan.org.uk

KEY STAGE 4 – OPTION CHOICE

INDEX

Page No Course Information

4 Compulsory Core Subjects

5/6 English Language and English Literature

7/8 Mathematics

9 Science

10 Religious Studies

11 Welsh

12/13 Welsh Baccalaureate

14 Physical Education (non examinable)

15 Option Choice Subjects

16 Art & Design

17 Business Studies

18 Computer Science

19 Design Technology

19 Fashion and Textiles

20 Product Design

21/22 Drama

23/24 Food & Nutrition

25/26 French

27 Geography

28 History

29 Home Economics [Child Development]

30 Media Studies

31 Music

32 Physical Education

33 OCR Level 2 Nationals in ICT – First Award

34/35 Global Business & Communication – Vocational

36 Events Operations - Level 1/2 Vocational Award

37 Option Choices

38 Course Planning Form

All qualifications follow the WJEC Examination Board unless otherwise stated.

Compulsory Core Subjects

English language

Numeracy

Mathematics

Science

Religious Education

Welsh

Welsh Baccalaureate

Non-Examinable

Physical Education

English Language Awarding Body: WJEC GCSE English Language is changing; however it remains one of the most important qualifications you can gain. The course will require you to write in many different ways for a variety of people and purposes. There is a greater emphasis on the accuracy of spelling, punctuation and grammar. You will have the opportunity to develop creatively as well as extending functional skills such as letter writing and problem solving. You will also be involved in discussions with different groups of people. You may find yourself debating or giving a talk to your peers. You will also continue to read in a critical way; the critical analysis is developed further in the English Literature elements of the course.

What does the course involve? The course will be delivered through a mixture of traditional classroom teaching, group activities combined with hands-on activities. You will be encouraged to bring your personal response to the texts examined and develop creatively as writers and critics. This course is designed to enable you to:

Use language and communication skills accurately and confidently.

Respond imaginatively and with understanding to what you hear, read

and experience in a variety of written forms and media.

Enjoy and appreciate literature.

Understand yourself, others and the world around you!

How will I be assessed? Assessment is through non-examination assessments

and external examinations. GCSE English Language Unit 1: Non-examination assessment – Oracy 20% One individual presentation. One group discussion. Unit 2: External Examination – Reading and Writing 40% 2hrs Section A – Reading (20%) Understanding of at least one description, one narration and one exposition text. An editing task focusing on understanding short texts at word, sentence and text level (2.5% of qualification total). Section B (20%) – Writing One writing task to be selected from a choice of two that could be either description, narration or exposition. This section will also include one proofreading task focusing on writing accurately.

Unit 3: External Examination – Reading and Writing 40% 2hrs

Section A (20%) – Reading Understanding of at least one argumentation, one persuasion and one instructional text. Section B (20%) – Writing (40 marks)

One compulsory argumentation writing task and one compulsory persuasion writing task.

English Literature Some pupils will also complete an additional qualification in English Literature. However English Language will be prioritised. External Examination 35% 2hrs Unit 1 Prose (different Cultures) and poetry (Contemporary) Of Mice and Men (Steinbeck) or To Kill a Mocking Bird (Lee) Contemporary: Unseen poetry comparison Unit 2a – External Examination 40% 2hrs Literary Heritage drama and contemporary prose An Inspector Calls (Priestley) Heroes (Cormier) Unit 3 - Non-examination Assessment 25% Section A – Shakespeare Section B – Welsh Writing in English.

Mathematics (New GCSE) The faculty follows the WJEC linear syllabus in Mathematics and Numeracy. It will be the first time students have the opportunity to achieve two GCSEs in the area of Mathematics. The Assessment of these specifications is tiered as follows:

Higher Tier: A*- C

Intermediate Tier: B- E

Foundation Tier: C-G ( C grade only awarded in exceptional circumstances)

Mathematics- Numeracy Exam This has been introduced in order for students to have a greater understanding of problem solving and dealing with real life numerical problems. It is a full GCSE and is split:

Paper 1 ( non -calculator)

Paper 2 (calculator)

Mathematics GCSE This is closer to the traditional examination and covers all the subject areas and closely resembles what the GCSEs have previously looked like. It is a full GCSE and is split:

Paper 1 (non- calculator)

Paper 2 (calculator)

In each paper the assessment will take into account the quality of written communication (including mathematical communication) used in the answers to specific questions. Whilst the new numeracy GCSE will require some in depth reading in order to extract the necessary information to solve numerical problems.

FOUNDATION/INTERMEDIATE/HIGHER

Year 10 (approx. 152 hours available)

UNIT TIME Algebra 1 Algebraic manipulation 5 hours

Number 1 Rounding and accuracy 1 2-3 hours

Geometry and Measures 1 Properties of shape 6 hours

Number 2 Properties of number 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 1 3 hours Number 3 Calculation 6–8 hours

Algebra 2 Sequences & Substitution 4 hours

Enrich, Engage, Explore

Geometry and Measures 2 Angles and polygons 5 hours

Statistics 1 Data collection and representation 6 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 2 3 hours Number 4 Equivalence of FDP 2-3 hours

Algebra 3 Equations and inequalities 6 – 8 hours

Geometry and Measures 3 Area, volume and dimensional analysis 8 – 9 hours

Number 5 Quantity 3 – 4 hours

Statistics 2 Probability 1 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 3 3 hours

Number 6 Ratio and proportion 4 – 5 hours

Geometry and Measures 4 Location, scale drawings and bearings 3 hours

Applications 1 Money 8 – 10 hours

Algebra 4 Graphs 1 3 hours

Number 7 Venn diagrams 3 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 4 3 hours

Algebra 5 Graphs 2 5 – 6 hours

Geometry and Measures 5 Transformations 2 – 3 hours

Applications 2 Time and travel 2 – 3 hours

Enrich, Engage, Explore

Geometry and measures 6 Measures 3 - 4 hours

Statistics 3 Averages and spread 3 – 4 hours

LEARNING REVIEW 5 3 hours

Science At key stage 4 leaners will have the opportunity to follow the following routes:-

Double Award Applied Science

Double Award Science

Triple Award Science (Optional – subject to meeting entry criteria)* Course Aims All the courses look to develop: -

1. Encourages learners to develop a critical approach to scientific evidence

2. Explore the implication of science of science for society 3. To develop scientific literacy 4. To develop practical skills 5. To develop mathematical skills within Scientific Contexts

Triple Award Science (option)*

Double Award Science

Double Applied Science

Worth 3 GCSE 2 GCSE 2 GCSE

Grade range A* - G A*-G A*-G

Year 10 Exams Available in May /June Year 10 Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Available in May /June Year 10 Biology 1 hour 15minutes Chemistry 1 hour 15 minutes Physics 1 hour 15minutes

Available in May /June Year 10 Paper 1 - 1 hour 30minutes The paper will have questions from all 3 areas of science.

Year 11 Exams Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Biology 1 hour 45minutes Chemistry 1 hour 45 minutes Physics 1 hour 45minutes

Paper 2 – 1 hour and 30 minutes The paper will have questions from all 3 areas of science

Practical Exams 6 hours This exam will take place during January- February of Year 11

4 hours This exam will take place during January- February of Year 11

4 hours This exam will take place during November / December of Year 11

Religious Studies*

Pupils study WJEC GCSE Religious Studies Spec B, Unit 1 Religion and Life Issues, comprising of the following topics: Relationships, Is It Fair? Looking For Meaning, Our World. Unit 2 Religion and Human experience, comprising of the following topics: Religion and Conflict, Religion and Medicine, Religious expression, Religion, State and Authority. All topics are covered from the perspectives of Christianity and Islam. There is no coursework. It is a 3 year course that is delivered through 3 lessons a fortnight, beginning in year 9.

How will I be Assessed?

Pupils will sit exams in Year 11 on the four units in Religion and Life Issues and the four Units in Religion and Human Experience. The exams make up 100% of the course and each exam lasts 1 hour and 45 minutes. * RS curriculum is subject to change as it is currently being reviewed by WAG.

Cymraeg - Welsh WJEC Welsh Second Language.

The aim of the Welsh Second language short course is to encourage pupils to

become confident users of the language in a variety of familiar situations. Pupils

develop their oral, written, listening and reading skills. Pupils cover topics that are

relevant to their personal experiences.

The topics covered include:

Fi fy hunan: this includes personal details, description, likes and

dislikes etc.

Y FIlltir Sgwar: this includes the family, the home, holidays, school etc.

Cymru: this includes Holidays in Wales, Welsh stars, Cardiff and

S4C etc,

Hamdden: topics covered include going out, sports, shopping, TV

and radio, friends etc.

Delwedd: fashion, shopping, clothes, etc.

Y Cyfryngau: TV programmes, cinema, computer games, magazines,

books etc.

Pwysau cyfoedion: the area, alcohol, smoking, drugs etc.

Gwaith: the world of work, part time and full time jobs, work

experience etc.

Technoleg: technology such as mobile phones, computers etc.

Yr Amgylchedd: the environment, pollution, sustainability, recycling.

Cadw`n iach: keeping fit, healthy eating

Prodiadau`r ysgol: school related experiences.

Dathlu: celebrating.

Examination.

Reading, Writing & Oral examinations in Year11

Grades available:

Higher Tier: A* - E

Foundation Tier: B - G

The Welsh Baccalaureate Overall structure The Welsh Baccalaureate (Welsh Bacc.) has qualifications at three levels:

Foundation Welsh Baccalaureate

National Welsh Baccalaureate

Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate.

At Key Stage 4 pupils will complete either Foundation or National Baccalaureate. Foundation will equate to Level 1 and National to Level 2. These levels are based on the standards of knowledge, skills and competence needed for each qualification as set out in the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). There will be clear progression and increase in level of demand through the levels, and the qualifications at each level will provide a pathway for learners to develop and consolidate their skills. Those learners achieving the requirements of the Challenges and Individual Project at Level 1 or 2 but not attaining the required supporting qualifications, will be awarded a Skills Challenge Certificate at the appropriate level (Foundation: D-G, National: A*-C). The National Welsh Bacc. and Foundation Welsh Bacc. require learners to achieve the following: Supporting qualifications:

GCSE English Language or GCSE Welsh Language

GCSE Mathematics or GCSE Numeracy

A further three GCSEs. At Key Stage 4 up to two of these may be equivalent qualifications (Equivalent qualifications are at the appropriate level and of the appropriate size. Supporting qualifications must of a size equivalent to half, one or two GCSEs, and will be rounded down to the appropriate equivalence if they fall between these sizes.)

Welsh Baccalaureate core – The Skills Challenge Certificate

Individual Project

Enterprise and Employability Challenge

Global Citizenship Challenge

Community Challenge.

For a Foundation Welsh Bacc., the GCSEs which contribute to the qualification must be achieved at grades A* to G. For a National Welsh Bacc., they must be achieved at A* to C. Learners following the Welsh Bac at Key Stage 4 will undertake the same range of Challenges, with attainment at either Foundation or National level being determined through assessment. These are untiered qualifications.

Aims, learning outcomes and content The aim of the Welsh Baccalaureate is to enable learners to develop and demonstrate an understanding of and proficiency in essential and employability skills. These are the skills that employers and next-stage educators value and that learners need for progression and effective performance in learning, work and life. The essential and employability skills are:

Literacy

Numeracy

Digital Literacy

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Planning and Organisation

Creativity and Innovation

Personal Effectiveness. All of these skills areas will be developed in a variety of ways across the Welsh Baccalaureate curriculum.

Challenges There are three Challenges, which between them make up 50 per cent of the Welsh Bac core. Each learner will complete an Enterprise and Employability Challenge, a Global Citizenship Challenge and a Community Challenge. Challenges are completed in a variety of group or individual settings. Pupils will be required to work either as an individual or as part of a group (3-6 members) for both the Community and Global Citizenship Challenges, as part of a group of 3-6 members for the Enterprise and Employability Challenge and as an individual for the Individual Project. Group sizes are defined by the WJEC and are non-negotiable. Generic Challenges have been provided by the WJEC along with specific briefs that can be followed. Generic challenges can be adapted to suit our centre. Pupils will also be required to undertake an Individual Challenge, worth 50 per cent.

Community Challenge Identify, develop and participate in opportunities that will benefit the local community.

15%

Global Citizenship Challenge

Understand and respond appropriately to a global issue.

15%

Enterprise and Employability Challenge

Develop enterprising skills and attributes and enhance employability.

20%

Individual Challenge Planning and Organisation, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Digital Literacy

50%

Physical Education (Non - examinable) Pupils follow the recommendations of the National Curriculum, which is to study in

greater depth, competitive and health, fitness and wellbeing activities, and any other

activities on offer.

Pupils will take part in activities as: Football, Netball, Rounders, Tennis, Cricket and

Swimming. Pupils will also have the opportunity to access the fitness suite and spin

room.

Option Choice Subjects

Art Business Studies Computer Science Design Technology

Fashion & Textiles Product Design

Drama Food and Nutrition French Geography History Home Economics Child Development Media Studies Music Physical Education ICT Global Business & Communication – Vocational Events Operations - Level 1/2 Vocational Award

Art & Design The Art and Design Department currently offer the WJEC GCSE course in Art and Design. Within this course pupils will be able to explore and develop their skills in a wide range of media techniques and process’s including:- -Painting and drawing -felt making -Printmaking -3 dimensional studies -ICT Pupils will investigate visual and other sources of information. Develop ideas through experimentation and record from direct observation and imagination. Pupils select work showing their range of skill and produce a portfolio to be entered for assessment at the end of the course. Portfolios are worth 60% of the final grade. Pupils will be expected to identify different types of Art, craft and design, appreciate work of other artists, make critical judgements and use their findings to inform and inspire their own work. Pupils will need to be confident and independent learners who are able to set themselves targets and high goals. Pupils will have to discuss the progress of their work and consider ways of developing and improving it further. Pupils will sit a 10 hour terminal examination towards the end of the course. This will be worth 40% of the final grade. Pupils will be assessed on:-

Contextual understanding

Creative making

Reflective recording

Personal response and presentation

Business Studies The GCSE in Business will enable learners to:

actively engage in the study of business to develop as effective and independent learners, and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds

use an enquiring, critical approach to distinguish facts and opinions, to build arguments and make informed judgements

develop and apply business knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary issues in a range of local, national and global contexts

appreciate a range of perspectives on the impacts of business on wider society

consider the extent to which business activity can be ethical and support sustainable development

develop and apply quantitative skills relevant to business including using and interpreting data

apply and relate knowledge and understanding to real enterprise and business opportunities, decision making and scenarios.

This GCSE specification introduces learners to the business world, empowering them to develop as commercially minded and enterprising individuals. Learners will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, enabling them to use business information critically, to develop arguments, to make justified decisions and to prepare them for further study and career pathways. The focus of the specification is to introduce and nurture an enthusiasm for studying business in a range of contexts. Learners will appreciate how businesses operate in a dynamic and competitive environment and develop an understanding of the interdependent nature of business functions from a local to a global perspective.

Computer Science

The specification offers students the opportunity to gain an understanding of the way

computers work, and to create and review computer programs for real-life purposes based

on their own interests. It encourages them to create their own applications and other

systems, rather than simply use those designed by others.

Assessment is divided into three units:

1. Understanding Computer Science (45%) - 90 minute examination to assess

understanding of the theory content of the specification.

2. Solving Problems Using Computers (30%) - 2 hour external assessment to

assess the practical application of knowledge and understanding through a series of on-

screen tasks.

3. Developing Computing Solutions (25%) - internally assessed and externally

moderated 15 hour controlled assessment to develop a piece of work using programming

software following a task brief issued by WJEC.

This specification in Computer Science enables learners to:

become discerning computer users, able to make informed decisions regarding

hardware, software, storage, memory, networks and programming

acquire and apply creative and technical skills, knowledge and understanding of

computers and computer programs in a range of contexts

understand how computer systems work

improve their understanding of current technologies and trends towards the future

develop their understanding of the legal, social, economic, ethical and environmental

issues that arise in this digital age

recognise potential risks when computing, and develop safe and secure systems

using professional standards

communicate effectively both orally and in writing

be better prepared for further education, training or employment

think creatively, innovatively, analytically, algorithmically, logically and critically

show that they can follow a brief to meet requirements

use computational thinking to design, create and develop their own programming

solution to a problem

use abstraction to model, decompose and generalise

detect errors in computer programs and correct them

manipulate data, sequence instructions, test designs and explore ideas

adopt safe, secure and responsible practice when using computers

evaluate and improve systems they have created as well as those of others

Please note: This course does involve the use of Maths to solve problems and a lot of logical thinking to try and create solutions to problems. Topics such as coding using a variety of programming languages feature heavily on the specification.

Design and Technology WJEC Design and Technology can be studied though one of two areas

Fashion and Textiles

Product Design

Fashion and Textiles Textiles are used in all aspects of our lives, in our homes, in the clothes we wear and the items we use to help us every day in school, work and in our leisure activities.

Do you like buying and wearing the latest fashions? Do you like changing your bedroom to reflect your style and favourite colours? Are you interested in the new wearable tech ideas that are being developed, e.g. lights, music and ICT displays, in both clothing and personal products?

This course is designed to enable students to develop an understanding of the materials, techniques and decorative aspects that are used in fashion and textile products. It is a design and make course which encourages students to produce their own design ideas to given briefs, following the same design processes as the Textile and Fashion industries.

Summary of Assessment

Unit 1: Written examination paper (2 hours at the end of year 11)

A mix of short answers structured and extended writing questions assessing candidates’ knowledge and understanding of one chosen area, i.e. fashion and textiles or product design.

Unit 2: Design and make task (35 hours timed task completed in during year

11) A design and make task set by the WJEC where candidates will be assessed on how they i) Identify, investigate, analyse and outline design possibilities. ii) Design and make prototypes and evaluate their fitness for purpose.

Product Design Do you ever wonder how products are made or how new technologies work? Do you ever feel like you have the next new idea that could make millions? Product design allows you to research all of these avenues plus a lot more! We live in a world that is driven by emerging technologies and new materials. This is your chance to understand this world of innovative technology and study the areas in detail. The course is designed to give students the ability to understand the importance of design, creativity and innovation. Students will learn this through the media of Computer aided design (CAD) work and Computer aided manufacturing (CAM) work, as well as learning the hand skills needed to draw accurately and to model prototypes from a range of different materials.

Drama

Exam Board: WJEC Drama GCSE offers pupils the opportunity to experience all aspects of theatre, developing performance skills in scripted and devised theatre as well as learning new skills and techniques in theatre production. Emphasis is placed on positive teamwork. Drama seeks to promote individual prowess alongside social skills. GCSE Drama requires organisation and commitment as pupils must be prepared to rehearse in groups to create assessed pieces of drama coursework. Clear commitment to rehearsals, to the creative process and towards other team members is vital. Pupils will be required to rehearse their work during lunchtime and after school session.

Assessment: Assessment is via two units of practical performance course work (60%) and an externally set written examination (40%)

Coursework / Controlled Assessment Unit 1: Devising Theatre Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated 40% of qualification 60 marks Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of devised theatre using either the techniques of an influential theatre practitioner or a genre, in response to a stimulus set by WJEC. Learners must produce:

a realisation of their piece of devised theatre

a portfolio of supporting evidence

an evaluation of the final performance or design. Unit 2: Performing from a Text Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting examiner 20% of qualification 60 marks Learners will be assessed on either acting or design. Learners study two extracts from the same performance text chosen by the centre. Learners participate in one performance using sections of text from both extracts.

Written Paper / External Assessment Unit 3: Interpreting Theatre Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 40% of qualification 60 marks Section A: Set Text A series of questions on one set text from a choice of five: 1. Romeo and Juliet William Shakespeare 2. 1984 George Orwell, adapted by Robert Icke & Duncan Macmillan 3. Cysgod Y Cryman Islwyn Fowc Ellis, adapted by Sion Eirian 4. Dau Wyneb Manon Steffan Ross 5. 100 Imaginary Body (Nick Hern Books). All texts will be available in both English and Welsh. Section B: Live Theatre Review One question from a choice of two requiring analysis and evaluation of a given aspect of a live theatre production seen during the course. A minimum of two theatre trips will be arranged during the course to allow pupils to develop their knowledge and understanding of drama and live theatre. It is essential that pupils attend to enable them to answer Section C of the written examination.

Food & Nutrition

The food industry in the UK is enormous it includes: Restaurants run by famous, and

not so famous, Chefs; Supermarkets with a wide range of food products; Hotel and

Event catering; catering for Schools; Wedding catering etc. GCSE Food &

Nutrition helps to prepare you for a career within this varied industry.

GCSE Food and Nutrition will equip you with the knowledge, understanding and

skills required to cook and prepare food products correctly and safely. You will learn

the principles of food science, nutrition and healthy eating. This will enable you to

make informed decisions about food and nutrition in order to be able to feed yourself

and others affordably and nutritiously, now and later in life.

The following Topics are to be studied over the two-year course:

1. Food commodities

2. Principles of nutrition

3. Diet and good health

4. The science of food

5. Where food comes from

6. Cooking and food preparation

By studying food preparation and nutrition you will:

develop effective and safe cooking skills

plan, prepare and cooking a variety of food products

experience different cooking techniques and equipment.

develop knowledge and understanding of the functions of ingredients.

understand the nutritional content of food and drinks.

understand the relationship between diet, nutrition and health.

understand economic, environmental, ethical and socio-cultural influences.

understand and explore a range of ingredients and processes from different

culinary traditions (traditional Welsh, British and international) to inspire new

ideas or modify existing recipes.

Summary of Assessment Unit 1 : Principles of Food and Nutrition

This is a written examination lasting 1 hour 30 minutes that takes place at the

end of year 11. It will test the theoretical knowledge you have gained

throughout the course:

It is worth 40% of total qualification award. (80 marks)

Unit 2 : Cooking and Nutrition in Action

This a non-examination assessment that is composed of two tasks that are set

by WJEC. You will be able to select from a choice of briefs for each

assessment. It is worth 60% of the total qualification award (120 marks)

Assessment 1: The Food Investigation Assessment

20% of total qualification award (40 marks)

This is a scientific food investigation task where pupils’ research and plan a

food science based experiment in response to a choice of briefs. Pupils will

produce a report which evidences their research, practical experiments and

conclusions in relation to the scientific principles underlying the preparation

and cooking of food.

Assessment 2: The Food Preparation Assessment

40% of total qualification award (80 marks)

This assessment assesses pupils’ knowledge and understanding in relation to

a selection of appropriate dishes, your ability to identify cooking skills

techniques and the execution of practical skills.

Pupils will produce a folio of evidence which includes documentation related to

the selection of dishes, planning and evaluation and photographs and/or visual

recordings to showcase your skills.

FRANÇAIS/FRENCH

The WJEC GCSE French is organised under three broad

themes:

● Identity and culture

● Wales and the World – areas of interest

● Current and future study and employment

Each broad theme is divided into sub-themes.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment for the French GCSE is exam based and divided into four areas: Unit 1: Speaking Oral test: 7-9 minutes (Foundation tier) 10-12 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Three tasks: One role play One photo card discussion One conversation

Unit 2: Listening Written examination: 35 minutes (Foundation tier) 45 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Listening comprehension tasks with written responses. Unit 3: Reading Written examination: 1 hour (Foundation tier) 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Reading tasks with written responses, including one translation task from French into English. Unit 4: Writing Written examination: 1 hour 15 minutes (Foundation tier) 1 hour 30 minutes (Higher tier) 25% of qualification 60 marks Writing tasks including one translation task from English into French.

Geography

History

The History course comprises of 3 topics in the WJEC History Syllabus B. Each will take approximately 1 term to teach.

In Depth Topic 1: German 1929 – 1947

The pupils will study the Rise of the Nazi Party and Hitler and its Consolidation of Power 1929-34, changing life for the German people 1933-39 and War and its impact on life in Germany 1939-47. This will include a study of the Holocaust and the Jewish question. The programme of study will finish with an examination of Germany in the aftermath of the war and the support of the allies in rebuilding the country and the punishment of the Nazi leaders in the Nuremburg Trials.

In Depth Topic 2: Depression, War and Recovery, 1930-51

This topic is an examination of the impact of the World economy, on Wales and England during the 30s. Also looking at the rise in the new industries producing new-fangled consumer goods in the Midlands and Southern England. Pupils will also study the road to war in 1939, with the efforts of Hitler to break the Treaty of Versailles and Prime Minister Chamberlain’s policy of Appeasement culminating in Germany’s occupation of Czechoslovakia and declaration of war on Germany. The Unit studies the impact on women of the Second World War and the establishment of the Welfare State under the Labour party, Nationalisation and the Parties fall from power in 1951.

Outline Topic 3: Changes in Health and Medicine, c.1000 to the present day

Medicine stands still (Medieval), Beginning of change (Renaissance & early modern), Revolution in medicine (industrial), Modern medicine (20th & 21st centuries) 7 factors: war, religion, chance, government, communications, science, individuals. Includes topics on surgery and public health as well as diseases and cures.

The coursework element covers British History concepts which will rotate annually:

Jack the Ripper’s London Explores life and crime on the streets of London during the 1880s This is split into two essays. a) The lives of people in the East End of London were very difficult towards the end of the nineteenth century. Discuss using sources. b) Some historians argue that Jack the Ripper was not caught because of police failures. Discuss using sources. The coursework element is worth 25% of the overall grade.

The History GCSE requires a great deal of written work and independent learning and therefore a real interest in the subject is needed to achieve success.

Home Economics Child Development

Controlled Assessment - Child Study 30%

The duration of the study is 15 hours, which is commenced in the first half of the course in year 10. For the Child Study each student will need access to a child between the ages of birth and 4 years old to be able to access information for their studies. 1 task is selected from a bank of 3 tasks set by WJEC.

Controlled Assessment – Child Focused Task 30%

Duration is 15 hours, which is carried out in the second half of the course, in year 11. One task is selected from a bank of 2 tasks set by WJEC, to include researching, planning, making, and evaluating.

Written paper – Principles of Child Development 40%

1½ hours paper which is untiered and externally set and marked. This examination targets the full range of GCSE grades.

What can the course lead to? This GCSE is a good basis for further study at 16+ including vocational courses such as A/AS Home Economics, GNVQ Intermediate and Advanced Health and Social Care and National Diplomas/Certificates in Health Studies/Care.

What will you study?

1. Family and Child –Types of Family, Functions/Responsibility of Family, Roles and Relationships within families, Disability and Support for Family and Child.

2. Food and Health –Principles of a Healthy Diet, Dietary Aims and Goals, Special Dietary Needs, and Food safety.

3. Pregnancy –Preparation for Pregnancy, Foetal Development, Ante-natal Care, Birth of the Baby, and Post-natal Care.

1. Physical Development –Stages of Physical Development, and Factors affecting Physical Development.

2. Intellectual Development –Stages of Intellectual Development, Learning Aids, Learning through Play, Types of Play and Factors affecting Learning.

3. Social and Emotional Development –Stages of Social Development, Factors affecting Social Development, Stages of Emotional Development and Factors affecting Emotional Development.

Media Studies GCSE Media Studies offers learners the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of these key issues and the ability to debate important questions about the media. The study of a range of rich and stimulating media products is central to this course, working from the product outwards to develop appreciation and understanding of the media. Learners will draw on their existing experience of the media, but will also extend their appreciation and critical understanding through the study of products with which they may be less familiar, including products for different audiences.

Summary of Assessment

Unit 1: Exploring the Media Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 30% of qualification 60 marks

Section A: Music (Music Press, Music Video, Contemporary Radio Programme) This section will assess knowledge and understanding of media language, representation, media industries and audiences. One stepped question and one two-part question. Section B: Representations – advertising, video games and newspapers One question from a choice of two. Each question will be set on a different media form (advertising, video games or newspapers) One stepped question based on unseen print-based resource material related to advertising, video games or newspapers

Unit 2: Understanding Television and Film Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 30% of qualification 60 marks

Section A: Wales on Television One stepped question on media industries and audiences. One stepped question on media language and representation. Section B: Contemporary Hollywood Film One stepped question on media industries and audiences. One extended response question on media language.

Unit 3: Creating Media Non-exam assessment 40% of qualification 80 marks

A media production, including individual research and planning, created in response to a choice of briefs set by WJEC, and applying knowledge and understanding of key concepts. An individual reflective analysis of the production.

Music GCSE MUSIC (Wales) SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENT

Unit 1: Performing Total duration of performances: 4-6 minutes 35% of

qualification 84 marks Section A: Performing (30%) A minimum of two

pieces, one of which must be an ensemble performance of at least one minute

duration. The other piece(s) may be either solo and/or ensemble. One of the

pieces performed must link to an area of study of the learner's choice.

Section B: Programme Note (5%) A programme note for one of the pieces

chosen for performance, linked to an area of study.

Unit 2: Composing Total duration of compositions: 3-6 minutes 35% of

qualification 84 marks

Section A: Composing (30%) Two compositions, one of which must be in

response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners will choose one brief from a choice

of four, each one linked to a different area of study. The briefs will be released

during the first week of September in the academic year in which the

assessment is to be taken. The second composition is a free composition for

which learners set their own brief.

Section B: Evaluating (5%) An evaluation of the piece composed in

response to a brief set by WJEC.

Unit 3: Appraising Written examination: 1 hour 30% of qualification 72

marks This unit is assessed via a listening examination. Eight questions in

total, two on each of the four areas of study. Area of study 1: Musical Forms

and Devices Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble Area of study 3: Film Music

Area of study 4: Popular Music Two of the eight questions are based on

prepared extracts set by WJEC

Physical Education

GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION (September 2016) Theory: Introduction to Physical Education Assessment: Written examination: 2 hours (50% of Final Grade) Pupils will be assessed through a range of short and extended questions. The questions will be based on (audio-visual) stimuli and other sources. Practical: The active participant in Physical Education Non-exam assessment (50% of Final Grade) This component is internally assessed and externally moderated. Pupils will be assessed in three different activities in the role of performer in at least one individual and one team sport. Pupils will be further assessed through a written analysis and evaluation of their personal performance in one of their chosen activities.

OCR Level 2 Cambridge Nationals Certificate

The OCR qualification is designed to create confident users of ICT, who are able to apply their skills purposefully and effectively.

Key Features

Work related learning qualifications

Enable learners to develop range of skills for vocational sector

Can be started in KS4 and continued at college

Vocational qualification that is practical and job related

Benefits

They offer a fresh approach to learning as learners can study at their own pace

Learners receive certificates for individual units

Learners can gain recognition for their achievements as they progress

Gives real workplace knowledge

Industry recognised qualifications

OCR Nationals at Risca

In Year 10 pupils will work towards the Compulsory Unit 1: Understanding Computer Systems. This unit is assessed via an EXTERNAL WRITTEN EXAM.

In Year 10 pupils will also work towards Unit 2: Using ICT Skills to create Business Solutions.

In Year 11 pupils will work towards Unit 5 : Creating an interactive product using multimedia and Unit 7: Creating dynamic products using sound and vision

In order to gain the qualification pupils MUST complete all 4 units; Unit 1, Unit 2, Unit 5 and Unit 7

OCR Cambridge Nationals Certificate is equivalent to 1 GCSE

***Please note, there is an EXTERNAL WRITTEN EXMANIATION worth 25% of total grade****

Global Business and Communication French

What is it?

Global Business and Communication is an exciting new vocational qualification starting in September 2017. It is designed to support students in becoming more independent by developing skills such as; communication skills, literacy, problem solving and, creativity. The whole course is designed to fit around the world of work; in this course students will learn practical skills such as creating a CV or letter of application in French, or organising a trip abroad. They will get the opportunity to be linked with local businesses that desperately require employees with language skills.

Content Summary

The course will be divided in four units as follows:

Unit Title Content

Global Opportunities

To understand the role and benefits of languages on the world of work.

Links to global economy. Learning how to access work opportunities.

Global Travel Be able to plan, organise and undertake global

travel.

Global Customer Relations

Cultural awareness. Dealing with customers effectively. Meeting and greeting. Building customer relationships. Handling orders, enquiries and complaints.

Global Sales & Marketing

Principles of global marketing. Marketing channels and materials. Web pages. Carrying out a sales pitch.

How is it assessed?

The course is divided in 4 units, 3 are internally assessed through coursework: Unit 1 – Global Opportunities Internal Assessment – Coursework

Understand the importance of languages for

an individual and for businesses.

Research job opportunities.

Be able to apply for jobs.

Understand work-related information.

Unit 2 – Global Travel External Assessment – Exam

Understand factors involved in planning global travel for business.

Plan global travel

Make work related travel arrangements

Understand travel information – spoken and written.

Unit 3 – Global Customer Relations Internal Assessment – Coursework

Understand the importance of developing global customer relationships.

Understand customer enquiries and complaints.

Be able to make/respond to customer enquiries and complaints.

Develop and build positive customer relationships.

Unit 4 – Global Sales and Marketing Internal Assessment – Coursework

Understand the benefits of developing a global market.

Understand how companies can promote their products / services globally.

Be able to produce marketing materials.

Present sales and marketing information.

Events Operations Level 1/2 Award STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The events industry brings in more than £40 billion to the UK economy. The UK has been host to many international sporting events such as the 2012 Olympics the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and Rugby World Cup in 2015, as well as the Tour de France. The UK is not only host to sporting events. Each year the World Travel Market and other international exhibitions are held here and, of course, there are well-known festivals like Glastonbury and film premieres like the Harry Potter series that take place in the UK regularly. According to the Britain for Events promotional campaign, there are more than 1 million corporate events every year in over 100,000 venues across the UK. This just shows how vast and diverse the industry is. The WJEC Level 1/2 Award in Event Operations has been designed to support learners in schools and colleges who want to learn about this vocational sector and the potential it can offer them for their careers or further study. It is most suitable as a foundation for further study. This further study would provide learners with the opportunity to develop a range of specialist and general skills that would support their progression to employment. Employment in events can range from administration, crowd control, event sales, event branding, exhibition organisation and communications.

Qualification Structure: Learners must complete all three units.

Unit Number Unit Title Assessment

1 The events industry External Examination

2 Event operations Internal Coursework

3 Event planning Internal Coursework

This structure has been designed to develop in learners the knowledge and understanding related to a range of event organisers and those that support them. They will learn how these organisations operate and what they have to take into account to be successful. There is the opportunity to learn about issues related to health and safety, finance and customer service, all of which are useful for learners who decide the events industry is not for them. This understanding is transferable to lots of other industries. In this qualification, learners will also have the opportunity to develop skills such as administration, communication and planning as well as transferable skills of problem-solving, organisation and time management. Through the three units, learners will gain an overview of the events industry and the type of job roles that may be available to assist them in making choices about progression.