What you need to know for
AS Levels
A Survival Guide
"Learn from others’ mistakes, because life is too short
to make them all yourself!"
TABLE OF CONTENTS
YEARS 12 & 13 STANDARD EQUIPMENT LIST ................................................................................. 3
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................... 4
TOP TIPS FOR SURVIVING SIXTH FORM: ........................................................................................ 5
AICT............................................................................................................................................. 6
ART ............................................................................................................................................. 7
BIOLOGY ...................................................................................................................................... 8
BUSINESS STUDIES ....................................................................................................................... 9
CHEMISTRY ................................................................................................................................ 10
DRAMA ..................................................................................................................................... 11
ECONOMICS............................................................................................................................... 12
ENGLISH LITERATURE ................................................................................................................. 13
FRENCH ..................................................................................................................................... 14
GEOGRAPHY .............................................................................................................................. 15
HISTORY .................................................................................................................................... 16
MARINE SCIENCE ....................................................................................................................... 17
MATHS ...................................................................................................................................... 18
MUSIC ....................................................................................................................................... 19
PHYSICAL EDUCATION ................................................................................................................ 20
PHYSICS ..................................................................................................................................... 21
PSYCHOLOGY ............................................................................................................................. 22
SPANISH .................................................................................................................................... 23
TRAVEL AND TOURISM............................................................................................................... 24
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
YEARS 12 & 13 STANDARD EQUIPMENT LIST
Please ensure students have all of this
equipment ready for next September.
Note: All items with a * next to them
should be kept at home.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
3 - 5 x 3¨ binders (3 ring) -1 per subject*
3 – 4 x 5 tab dividers*
3 hole punch*
Index cards & 2 book rings*
6 tab pocket//concertina file
Clear ruler 12¨/30cm
Pencil crayons
Glue stick
Scissors
Highlighters & Post-it Notes
Blue or black pens
Pencils + an eraser
Pencil sharpener
Geometry set + 360 degree protractor (If needed)
o
o
o
USB Memory Stick
Headphones (earbuds preferred)
Scientific calculator - Texas Instruments (if needed)
This is the standard set of equipment which it is expected Y12 and Y13 students will require. Please
check with your individual subject teachers about specific equipment required for your particular
subjects as they may vary from the list given above.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
INTRODUCTION
When you enter the Sixth Form you will notice big differences from life in years 7 - 11. You
will be doing subjects you particularly enjoy, so you will be expected to work harder and the
pace of learning will be faster. Smaller classes and more time to devote to your subjects will
make this learning manageable.
Being in Sixth Form can be a very stressful time. Suddenly you are at the top
of the school and have the most important exams, the most pressure and the
hardest work. You only have a maximum of two years in which you can still
cling onto the comforts of being in school, and even less in which your life
doesn't revolve around applying and getting into university/colleges. So here
is some advice that we feel is vital to surviving sixth form:
A-Levels are very different to GCSEs and everyone will
tell you so. Although it’s hard to imagine just how this can be possible, it is true
that A-Levels are even harder than anything you have done before. Very few
students are properly prepared for the change, and as a result, many suffer
considerably during the first few months. Add to the extra studying the driving
lessons, the part time work and the increased social life and it’s clear you have
to stay organised in order to stay on top!
Many students go from finding school incredibly easy and walking out with excellent
IGCSEs and GCSEs to suddenly getting D’s and E’s during their first term. The secret to
success, and therefore the difference between those students who come out with A’s at the
end and those that still came out with D’s and E’s , is how prepared they were to adapt to
the new situation.
Teachers' expectations of sixth formers differ from those you are used to. You'll be
expected to work more independently, however, you will find that teachers are more
approachable and ready to advise and help you with your assignments. Free time / study
sessions are allocated in the timetable to help you manage your work load.
With the AS/A2 system, you'll be taking exams at the end of both years. You will have
achieved up to 50 per cent of your final marks before you start the second year.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
TOP TIPS FOR SURVIVING SIXTH FORM:
Get a copy of the syllabus for each exam course you are taking. Mark
off in one colour the things you have covered in class (and if anything
goes uncovered by the time your exam is near, tell your teachers so
they can correct the problem). In another colour mark the things you
feel you understand better, so you can plan your revision time to sort
out the gaps in your knowledge rather than spending time on what you
already understand.
Secondly, organisation is crucial! If you stay on top of your workload you will be
surprised at how easily you seem to be sailing through the course whilst others
appear to be working all of the time! Try to do your work as soon as you get it.
Use free periods so you have less work to do at home. Make lists of all of the
things you need to do so that you don’t miss anything out. In addition to the
lessons you attend, you should spend on average an additional 4 - 5 hours per
subject, per week, preparing your notes and completing extra research.
Thirdly, make revision notes as you go along. I know that everybody seems to say this, but doing it
as you go along really helps in the long run. When exams roll around you will have saved yourself a
lot of time and effort. [Use the 5 Step Approach]
If you don't understand something, ask immediately. Sort the problem out before it escalates. DO
NOT leave it until later because you are likely to forget! Remember, that topic could come up on the
exam.
Finally, don’t worry too much if you started the year off badly, as I can guarantee that if you follow
this advice from now you will improve, even though it may not seem like it at first!
The most important thing of all is to never give up. Many students desperately want to drop out
during the first two months, but it does get easier as the year progresses, as long as you don’t quit
and you put some effort in. You’ll be amazed at how much more organised you will become and
you’ll be able to see yourself change as a person. Keep up a positive attitude and remember that the
sun will still be shining at the end of it all!
Good luck with your A levels!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
AICT
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. You should have ear buds as
our computers do not have speakers and a memory stick so that you can take work easily to and
from school. Please note that this must not contain original and unique documents. Work must be
saved on the school network and then copies taken home on a memory stick.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
It would be convenient if you have the same version of Microsoft Office (Word 2013, Excel 2013 and
Access 2013) at home as we have at school. You should be able to access your Microsoft Online
accounts which will give you access to these software at home. Needless to say you should have
access to a computer and internet at home. You should also have the class text book and should
refer to it frequently.
Most of your class resources such as past papers will be posted on the school website on your class
page. Please make sure you can access these resources on a regular basis.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Sufficient time should be spent each week in documenting the steps needed to carry out the
practical tasks covered in class, to help you to remember the details. You should also take time to
write up class notes on theory topics and develop detailed written notes from which to revise.
The AICT textbook is very good, so you should read and understand every page. This will reinforce
what you learn in class. Additional books are not particularly necessary because you can find more
updated information online.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
If you are ‘curious’ about a process or system, there are a large number of videos and tutorials on
youtube.com which you could view to help you to expand your understanding of the course
material. No one has ever become a computer whizz purely from being shown how to do something
in class. Instead, success can be achieved through practice, online tutorials, self and peer teaching
and resilience when facing challenges. The students who achieve the best grades are those who
apply their work in real life and spend time working out problems for themselves.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Plenty of exam practice will be needed to refine exam technique and you are expected to work
diligently and independently.
Final words: you should be prepared to work hard and to be resourceful when facing challenging
tasks.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
ART
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Students should have a sketchbook and pencils at all times. It would be useful if they could also
carry a camera.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Students do not require a specific book for this subject; they should use the internet and library to
research artists and styles that interest them.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
In addition to class work and homework assignments, students should spend another 2 -3 hours on
practical work drawing and painting each week.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should take advantage of the galleries and exhibitions we have on Island by visiting them
whenever they can. They should also, obviously, take advantage of opportunities when travelling.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED / OTHER ADVICE
Students should have a realisation that, just because they are taking fewer subjects, this does not
mean a reduction in work. A levels require more work than GCSEs, not less.
Students must aim for a proactive rather than reactive approach to the 6th form experience.
This is a two year course. A good performance in A/S is critical; the grade earned in year 12 is a very
accurate predictor of the final grade to be achieved in A2, at the end of year 13.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
BIOLOGY
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards.
Students should also have a scientific calculator and a clear plastic 30cm ruler.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
None beyond class texts
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should be studying at least 6 hours a week, including time spent completing homework and
their own private study.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be aware of any recent scientific break-through or study which impacts their field.
Reading the science and environment sections on the BBC and Daily Telegraph websites, and
discussing the stories with peers and teachers is a good habit to get into.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Practical Skills – the ability to plan and organise your laboratory time logically and efficiently, create
neat and detailed diagrams, present data scientifically in tables and graphs, draw conclusions and to
evaluate the strength of the evidence.
Mathematical confidence.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
BUSINESS STUDIES
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Students should also have a
Scientific Calculator and a Clear plastic 30cm ruler, the text book, access to the internet (particularly
www.tutor2u.net and www.bbc.co.uk/business ) and a revision guide.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Just the set text and the revision guide (both available from school)
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
In order to fully engage with the subject, students should aim to spend 5 hours per week in working
beyond their classwork (students should set targets for the various methods of study in which they
engage e.g. prepare 5 study cards per week). In addition students should spend their time reading
relevant units from the set text, completing homework tasks, reading and highlighting notes,
producing a glossary of key terms, producing revision ‘flash cards’, making daily visits to economics
and business websites and having twice weekly reads of the tutor2u blog.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Regularly reading the student blogs on www.tutor2u.net
Any of the ‘here and now’ sessions related to business, economics will help.
Working part-time / volunteering in any customer service type role will be an advantage.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students need to take ownership of their own learning, fully realising that the A Level requires TWO
years of consistent study, not just working hard during the A2 year.
Many year 12 students underestimate the increase in ownership required. Teachers will facilitate
your learning, but you must be prepared to fully engage with the course, do the background
research and consolidation work needed to enrich your understanding, seek clarification on anything
which you don’t fully understand and set targets for your own learning.
Students need the ability to dissect notes e.g. reading and highlighting key parts of a text.
Students need to understand from day one that A level is akin to a soccer match ie a game of 2
halves (AS+A2), so if they are 3-0 down at half time, a good final result becomes very difficult!!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
CHEMISTRY
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards.
Students should also have a Scientific Calculator, Clear plastic 30cm ruler and Chemistry Data book
(distributed to students)
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
None beyond class texts
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should be studying at least 6 hours a week, including time spent completing homework and
their own private study.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be aware of any recent scientific break-through or study which impacts their field.
Reading the science and environment section on the BBC website and discussing the stories with
peers is a good habit to get into.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Presentation Skills – the ability to present information in a clear, logical and interesting way both in
written and spoken form.
Practical Skills – the ability to present data scientifically in tables and graphs and to evaluate the
strength of the evidence with regard to the uncertainty involved.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
DRAMA
(Not offered 2015/16)
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Class texts and access to any other performance or production experience (live performance, TV,
film, internet). Students will also need an exercise book or journal.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
In addition to homework and tasks from class, students should spend an additional 3-5 hours
reviewing work, reading and preparing for classes
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
It is a requirement to participate in a related extracurricular activity over the course of the year,
such as Drama Club, House Drama activities, school productions, and so on.
In addition, involvement in non-school productions in any capacity is highly recommended (such as
working with the Drama Society/Prospect Playhouse), as well as in workshops and class visits that
may occur beyond the regular school day.
Students must make every effort to see live performances, especially when travelling overseas. In
particular, students must be prepared to attend one overseas Drama trip per year (to a USA city) in
order to fulfil the requirements of the ‘live aspect’ of the course. Every effort is made to minimise
the financial impact of this requirement.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
It is essential that students be prepared to perform in front of audiences of different sizes.
Presentation skills are also important as students must be able to present information clearly,
logically and effectively in both written and spoken form.
Students need to work both independently and effectively as a member of an ensemble (e.g.
attending group rehearsals in their own time and completing work to bring back and share).
It is important that students can effectively organise their time (prioritising, meeting deadlines,
revision timetables, homework timetables). They need to gain personal understanding of what
might prevent them from staying on task and learn to address this in order to achieve the focus
necessary to do well.
Students need to develop effective research skills and learn to take effective notes – highlighting,
bullet pointing, making study cards etc.
Exam board is WJEC
A minimum of a grade B in English Language and Literature is required of students for entry to study
A Level Drama, due to the nature of the written examinations being heavily text and essay based.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
ECONOMICS
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils and a ruler, highlighters, study cards. Students will also
require a calculator, text book and access to the internet. A pencil and a ruler are essential.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Just the set text. A revision guide is also useful.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
5 hours per week per subject to include reading relevant units from the set text, homework tasks,
reading and highlighting notes, producing a glossary of key terms, producing revision ‘flash cards’,
daily visits to economics and business websites and twice weekly reads of the tutor2u blog.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Regularly reading the student blogs on www.tutor2u.net
Any of the ‘here and now’ sessions related to business and economics will help
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students need to take ownership of their own learning, fully realising that the A Level requires TWO
years of consistent study, not just working hard during A2 year.
Many year 12 students underestimate the increase in ownership required. Teachers will facilitate
your learning, but you must be prepared to fully engage with the course, do the background
research and consolidation work needed to enrich your understanding, seek clarification on anything
which you don’t fully understand and set targets for your own learning.
Students need the ability to dissect notes e.g. reading and highlighting key parts of a text.
Students need to understand from day one that A level is akin to a soccer match ie a game of 2
halves (AS+A2), so if they are 3-0 down at half time, a good final result becomes very difficult!!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
ENGLISH LITERATURE
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
All equipment should be brought to every lesson.
2 x 3-inch binders and dividers. These will be checked by your teacher regularly. They should contain
all of your work, including classwork, assessed essays and independent research.
A reading journal (paper or electronic). This will be checked and signed by your teacher regularly.
This should be a record of all of your reading and wider reading, and include any notes, questions,
ideas or difficulties related to your close readings of the texts.
Copies of all the texts relevant to the course and your wider reading.
Stationery, including: lined paper, pens, pencils, highlighters, post it notes and coloured pencils.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
8 core texts studied over the 2 years and a course textbook, plus works by other authors for wider
reading. For AS, the texts are: The Namesake, Selected Poems by Wilfred Owen, A Man for All
Seasons, Absurd Person Singular, and The Dilemma of a Ghost and Anowa.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
The more reading and independent study you complete, the more enjoyable and rewarding you will
find the course. The minimum expectation is 5 hours of independent study per week, which should
not be limited to teacher directed tasks.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be prepared to read widely, beyond the texts on the curriculum. This should
include other literary and critical works. Much of this reading will be completed outside of the
classroom.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Organisation is key. Attend all lessons punctually. If you miss any lessons, it is your responsibility to
catch up on the work missed, PRIOR to your next English lesson. Inform your teacher in advance if
you have any authorised absences planned, so that you can collect the work beforehand. Remember
that deadlines for homework are carefully planned and are not flexible. You must communicate
with your teachers, especially if you are having difficulties, and participate fully in lessons.
It is important that you are already a confident reader who enjoys reading. It is also important that
you actively practise the following skills, during and after lessons, to ensure your success: note
taking; the ability to annotate texts effectively; the confidence and ability to carry out independent
research; knowledge and understanding of technical terminology; the ability to carry out in-class
discussions with confidence; organisation of resources and notes; time management; and the ability
to revise effectively.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
FRENCH
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Textbook, photocopied
booklet /sheets given by your teacher, a French dictionary, two small ring binders (one per teacher)
for the subject WITH LETTER PAPER PLEASE, LINED, separated into:
a) topics
b) grammar notes
Exercise books will not be accepted.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
All students should have a French dictionary.
They will also purchase the Elan 1 textbook and grammar book.
(In Y13 for A2 level, the Elan 2 textbook is required and a book for the literature option, advised by
the teacher.)
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should spend an additional 2 hours, beyond school and teacher-set homework, in
reviewing grammar and making sure they have understood what we have done in class.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Wherever possible students should try to have contact with native speakers as often as they can.
They should also consult French news and be up-to-date on the country's affairs.
Students can email work to teachers and send queries at any time.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students should make sure they are proactive if they get stuck and seek clarification early. They
should also take the opportunity to practise their French by speaking in class as often as possible,
showing off what they know.
Neatness and attention to detail is very important when handing in work. Punctuality is also critical.
Deadlines are fixed and should be adhered to.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
GEOGRAPHY
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Normal stationary – pen, pencil, ruler, sharpener, eraser, coloured pencils, highlighters, glue, scissors
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
‘Cambridge International A and AS Level Geography’ (Hodder Education).
Cambridge International AS and ALevel Revision Guide
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Beyond classwork it is expected that students will do an additional 3-4 hours per week – completing
homework, reviewing notes, carrying out wider reading, completing the unit glossary (given out
blank at the beginning of the unit)
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
All students should be making themselves aware of world events and news stories that relate to the
course. For example: war or famine leading to mass migration from a place. They can do this by
watching the world news / visiting a world news website / Instagram / liking Facebook pages / using
Twitter etc
When it arrives, students should make a point of reading Geography Review (which is an A-level
magazine that will be available in the library).
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students must work out a system to organise their files/paperwork from day one.
Students must learn to make succinct and effective notes.
Time management – especially identifying study time outside the classroom and not allowing freetime activities to eclipse this time.
Students must learn how to use exam board websites effectively to inform their understanding of
the course.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
HISTORY
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Normal stationary – pens, pencils, highlighters. Large binder and dividers.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
International History 1871-1945: Phil Wadsworth (CIE AS Level)
European Diplomacy 1870-1939: Simon Peaple (Heinemann Advanced History)
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Beyond classwork and homework, it is expected that students will do an additional 2-3 hours per
week – reviewing notes and carrying out wider reading & research.
*Such materials can be suggested and/or supplied by the History Department by request.*
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be prepared to read widely, beyond the texts on the curriculum. This should
include other primary & contemporary economic, social or political histories of the period, literary
works, documentaries, films and any other material that might enhance your understanding. Much
of this will be provided by the class teacher but independent research is required.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Open-mindedness in order to explore historical concepts from all angles in order to be able to form a
well-researched and reasoned argument. The ability to present a through and consistent argument
separates A Level History candidates from IGCSE.
Being able to write a cohesive, clear, developed argument that presents both sides of an argument
and relates to significance is needed. This is different to narrative essays that some may be used to.
Students must work out a system to organise their files/paperwork from day one.
Students must learn to make succinct and effective notes.
Students need to take ownership of their own learning, fully realising that the A Level requires TWO
years of consistent study, not just working hard during A2 year.
Many Year 12 students underestimate the increase in ownership required. Teachers will facilitate
your learning, but you must be prepared to fully engage with the course, do the background
research and consolidation work needed to enrich your understanding, seek clarification on anything
which you do not fully understand and set targets for your own learning.
Time management – especially identifying study time outside the classroom and not allowing freetime activities to eclipse this time.
Learning to use exam board websites effectively to inform their understanding of the course.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
MARINE SCIENCE
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards.
Students should also have a Scientific Calculator and a Clear plastic 30cm ruler. May need mask and
snorkel on occasion (we have some spares). Useful to bring a laptop in if you have one too
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
None required, beyond class texts. However reading around the subject is very important; watching
documentaries such as the Blue Planet, and Planet Earth is also very beneficial.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should be studying at least 6 hours a week including time spent completing homework and
their own private study.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be aware of any recent scientific break-through or study which impacts their field.
Reading the science and environment section on the BBC and Daily telegraph websites, and
discussing the stories with peers and teachers is a good habit to get into.
Getting involved in any marine science related work experience/volunteering. The Marine
Conservation and Dive club will be a good start for this.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Presentation Skills – the ability to present information in a clear, logical and interesting way both in
written and spoken form.
It is useful, though not essential, for students to become competent swimmers. Also useful, though
not essential, for students to learn to dive.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
MATHS
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards.
Students should also have a Scientific calculator (for C2 and S1) a clear plastic 30cm ruler and a
geometry set.
The Year 12 students should also bring their past papers to classes.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Photocopies of the relevant WJEC textbook pages that students have been given in class.
Bring to class the C1textbook which will be given out during the first class.
They have been given a log in to the mathsNetalevel and MyiMaths websites which are very useful
for revision.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
In addition to homework and tasks, students should be completing approximately 5 hours of
additional reading, review and organisation for their maths classes.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should make a point of watching YouTube videos from Khan Academy to assist them with
knowledge of the course. The CIMT website is also very useful for additional study.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students must demonstrate a strong work ethic by taking ownership for their studies, arriving
promptly for lessons, fully prepared to work, always following up on assignments/work done in class
if they were absent, seeking clarification for anything they did not understand, handing in work by
deadlines set and showing full working out for all work completed.
They need to demonstrate a high level of personal organisation, gaining a thorough understanding
of how to revise effectively and also learning to cross reference their notes with the textbook. They
need to carry out independent target-setting periodically and work beyond the classroom to
improve metacognitive skills.
They need to fully understand that they cannot scrape by in year 12, irrespective of what they may
have managed in year 11!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
MUSIC
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Some kind of device to enable
them to listen to music e.g .ipod, computer, CD player.
Ring binder for their music notes.
Musical Instrument
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
The class text will be Heinemann Advanced Music- ISBN 0 435 81258 0. This will be supplied by
your class teacher.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
1 Hr a day – instrumental practice
1Hr a week (min) – Study / Listening
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should gain more musical experience by seeking out ensemble playing opportunities both
inside and outside school.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students must have achieved Grade 5 or above in at least one musical instrument and have GCSE
music or equivalent.
All students must become independent learners by setting achievable goals within precise time
frames. They must learn to organise their own time in order to spend sufficient time outside the
classroom to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to do well in their A level studies.
Students must recognise that deadlines are fixed and must be met. It is their responsibility to get the
correct work in on time and to ask if there is any problem with doing so.
Students must commit to spending significant time outside the classroom studying, playing and
listening to music – irrespective of the amount of homework due.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards, a file with dividers and ideally
their own hole punch. Students are expected to come to their week 2 lessons with these materials…
it is part of their first homework to buy these things and start the year organised!
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
They also have 2 text books that they need in every lesson.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Each student must spend at least 6 hours per week of their own time on PE work. This time is for
completing homework assignments but, more importantly than that, going over all the material
covered during the lesson, making notes from hand outs given and doing their own research on the
same topic online just so the topic can be explained in different way and so information can start to
move from short term to long term memory.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
As part of the AS PE course students must be taking part in their sport at least 3 times every
week. Students should also be involved in a coaching/umpiring a team on a weekly basis either in
school or outside of school. These components of the course make up 40% of their overall grade and
so students must be motivated to be doing both these things from the start of the course.
Coursework assignments must be completed to the highest standard and deadlines kept too.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students need to develop the ability to read over chunks of material, highlighting key points and be
able to apply this information to relevant scenarios. Students need to learn not to just copy out all of
the information again, which at the end of the course makes revision quite overwhelming.
One of the main differences between GCSE and AS success is self-motivation. If you don’t apply
yourself both inside and outside the classroom you will struggle to get a C. Alternatively you can
work consistently throughout the course putting in the hours and with the combination of this level
of effort and teacher guidance you can achieve A/B’s etc. The choice is yours!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
PHYSICS
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Students should also have a
Scientific Calculator a Clear plastic 30cm ruler and a protractor.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
None beyond class texts
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should be studying at least 6 hours a week including time spent completing homework and
their own private study.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students should be aware of any recent scientific break-through or study which impacts their field.
Reading the science and environment section on the BBC website and discussing the stories with
peers is a good habit to get into.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Practical Skills – the ability to present data scientifically in tables and graphs and to evaluate the
strength of the evidence with regard to the uncertainty involved.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
PSYCHOLOGY
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Also the students may benefit
from a memory stick so that they can take work easily to and from school. Students will be expected
to take notes in class and should come prepared for this. Some sort of file or folder (electronic or
paper based) for storing notes in an organised fashion is also required. Good notes are vital to
success in exams and the teacher may ask to see these on occasion. The format that they take is
entirely up to individual students. Most resources will be provided electronically via the class
webpage but students preferring paper based resources are welcome to print these in school.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
Access to a computer and the Internet at home will be beneficial, though not essential. They should
also have the class text book. Other books are available for use in school and there is an excellent
revision guide that follows the exam board specification which students may benefit from
purchasing.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
The more reading and research completed, the more engaging students will find the course. The
expectation is that students spend 3-5 hours of independent study per week, which should not be
limited to teacher directed tasks but must also include some further reading and research.
Additionally, sufficient time should be spent each week in writing up notes from class and adding
detail from further reading. The textbook is very good, so students should read and understand
every section, completing the activities where appropriate, especially those at the end of each
section. This will reinforce what they learn in class.
Students will be set weekly assignments to be completed during scheduled classes, study time and
their own time at home or school. The more time and effort spent on these tasks, the higher the
grade will be!
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
At no point will any Psychology A level student have “no work to do”: the class web page will contain
all resources used as well as links to numerous news articles, video clips and websites where further
reading can be carried out to consolidate learning. Mind maps, posters, flash cards etc can be
created. Half termly tasks will also be set to watch a recommended film, read recommended articles
etc. But if in doubt, YouTube contains some fascinating videos relating to all areas of psychology.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
The course combines skills of knowledge and understanding of topics, with an ability to apply this
knowledge to various scenarios and discuss the implications. Good organisational skills and effective
revision techniques are vital. Perhaps most importantly though, the course requires an open and
inquisitive mind.
Final words: students are expected to be positive in their attitude towards learning, independent in
their research and engaged in their work.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
SPANISH
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Textbook, photocopied
booklet /sheets given by your teacher, a Spanish dictionary, two small ring binders (one per teacher)
for the subject WITH LETTER PAPER PLEASE, LINED, separated into:
a) topics
b) grammar notes
Exercise books will not be accepted.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
All students should have a Spanish dictionary.
They will also purchase the Animo 1 AQA textbook and grammar book.
(In Y13 for A2 level, the Animo 2 AQA textbook is required and a book for the literature option,
advised by the teacher.)
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
Students should spend an additional 2 hours, beyond school and teacher-set homework, in
reviewing grammar and making sure they have understood what we have done in class.
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Wherever possible students should try to have contact with native speakers as often as they can.
They should also consult French news and be up-to-date on the country's affairs.
Students can email work to teacher and send queries at any time.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students should make sure they are proactive if they get stuck and seek clarification early. They
should also take the opportunity to practise their Spanish by speaking in class as often as possible,
showing off what they know.
Neatness and attention to detail is very important when handing in work. Punctuality is also critical.
Deadlines are fixed and should be adhered to.
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015
TRAVEL AND TOURISM
SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Standard school equipment – pens, pencils, highlighters, study cards. Core text book, a folder for
coursework, memory stick to save coursework on, the usual classroom items to write with etc and a
calculator for every lesson.
BOOKS/RESOURCES REQUIRED
The core text book and hand-outs their teacher gives them. Also they should be reading the travel
books and travel magazines available in the Travel and Tourism classroom, but must sign them out
so that they can be kept track of.
WEEKLY HOURS OF STUDY REQUIRED
At least 5 hours per week should be spent in independent study. In the first term probably 6, as
students have an event to host which will take up a lot of time. If they want to get A’s and B’s then
they should aim to spend more time than this!
ADDITIONAL COMMITMENTS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Students have to produce coursework which requires a significant amount of independent work.
They also need to take a holistic approach to study - opening their eyes and seeing all the tourism
attractions on offer on island. See what is advertised, look at where tourists are, study George Town
and how busy it is. Students need to keep their eyes open when around the island, outside of school.
SPECIFIC SKILLS NEEDED
Students need to take the amount of work required to complete A levels successfully seriously. This
is not a course in which they can simply coast along, doing the bare minimum and be successful. The
step up from GCSE to A level is significant, in terms of the amount of work required and the level of
ownership needed on the part of individual students. Undertaking self-study and research outside
the classroom is not optional. Just because you are not being told to do it on a daily basis doesn’t
mean you don’t have to – think ahead, read ahead!
To work on the course effectively you will need to fine tune your powers of evaluation and critical
thinking skills.
And finally…work, work work, work!
CPHS Y12 Transition
September 2015