YEAR 9-KEY STAGE 4
COURSES BOOKLET
2017 - 2018
CONTENTS
CONTENTS ...................................................................................................................................2-3
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................4
THE CURRICULUM.............................................................................................................................5
THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE ............................................................................................................6
INTRODUCING BTEC .........................................................................................................................7
PATHWAY A ....................................................................................................................................8
PATHWAY B: VOCATIONAL PROGRAMME ...............................................................................................9
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? .................................................................................................................... 10
PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS .................................................................................................................... 11
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES INFORMATION - .......................................................................................... 12-13
GCSE REFORM ............................................................................................................................ 14
CAREER ADVICE AND WORK EXPERIENCE.............................................................................................. 15
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUBJECTS FOR GCSE ...................................................................................... 16-17
USEFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU IN MAKING YOUR CHOICES ARE – ............................................................... 18
IMPORTANT DATES ......................................................................................................................... 19
INDIVIDUAL COURSE INFORMATION .................................................................................................... 20
ENGLISH LANGUAGE & ENGLISH LITERATURE ......................................................................................... 21
RELIGIOUS STUDIES ......................................................................................................................... 22
MATHEMATICS .............................................................................................................................. 23
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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GCSE SEPARATE SCIENCES ........................................................................................................... 24
GCSE COMBINED SCIENCE (TRILOGY) .................................................................................................. 25
GEOGRAPHY.................................................................................................................................. 26
HISTORY....................................................................................................................................... 27
COMPUTER SCIENCE ........................................................................................................................ 28
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES – FRENCH OR SPANISH ........................................................................... 29
MEDIA STUDIES ............................................................................................................................. 30
ART & DESIGN ............................................................................................................................... 31
DRAMA........................................................................................................................................ 32
MUSIC ......................................................................................................................................... 33
GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION ............................................................................................................. 34
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY – TECHNICAL AWARD ...................................................................................... 35
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY................................................................................................................... 36
FOOD PREPARATION AND NUTRITION.................................................................................................. 37
BUSINESS STUDIES .......................................................................................................................... 38
BTEC HEALTH & SOCIAL LEVEL 2 (FIRST AWARD) ................................................................................... 39
NOTES .................................................................................................................................... 40-43
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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INTRODUCTION
Dear Parents, Carers and Students,
Choosing courses for study in Years 10 and 11 is an exciting time for both students and parents. It
determines the content of what you will study for the next two years and will affect both your
choices at Sixth Form and even university. Therefore, whilst it is undoubtedly exciting, it can also be
a rather worrying time too. We understand this and the information contained in this booklet is
designed to take away some of the worry, so that you are able to make informed decisions about
what you want to do.
Whilst looking at different courses, it is a really good idea to think beyond just the GCSEs themselves.
Think about what you would like to do in the future and find out about what qualifications you need
to pursue that career. This will then allow you to choose the courses that will lead you towards your
chosen goal.
Teaching staff are available to help you at the information evening, or you can reach them by email
and phone, as their contact details are included in this booklet. Please do feel free to get in touch!
Please remember that we are here to support you and I wish you all the very best as you make your
choices over the next few weeks.
Mr J Mc Nulty
Headteacher
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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THE CURRICULUM
The curriculum offered at St Paul's for September 2017 reflects:
The Catholic nature of St Paul’s
A broad, balanced curriculum
Students will be directed to study one of two ‘pathways’ which we feel gives them the greatest
opportunity for success. Pathway A follows a more traditional academic route. Whereas Pathway B
has a vocational element.
The Key Stage 4 curriculum builds upon the skills, knowledge and understanding students gained in
Years 7, 8 and 9. The curriculum is broad in that a wide range of subjects is offered and it is balanced
so that The Arts, aesthetic and practical subjects are all studied. This allows each student the
opportunity to develop his or her potential to the full and to acquire a range of “learning to think”
techniques, as well as extending practical and thinking skills.
The Programme of Study follows the requirements of the National Curriculum and includes the core
subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Religious Studies and Physical Education.
The introduction of vocational courses in Years 10 and 11 has increased the curriculum flexibility.
For some students these are the best courses to follow as they build on particular strengths and
skills. All the vocational courses offered in Years 10 and 11 lead to further study at Sixth Form level.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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THE ENGLISH BACCALAUREATE
What is the English Baccalaureate?

The Government believes that schools should offer students a broad range of academic
subjects up to the age of 16 and the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) promotes this aspiration.

The EBacc is not a new qualification in itself. It recognises students’ achievement across a
core of selected academic subjects. It includes grades 9 - 5 in English, Mathematics, Two
Sciences, a Modern Foreign Language (either French or Spanish at St Paul’s) and a
Humanities subject (Geography or History).

There are indications that many of the best universities are now looking at the E-Bacc
subjects as part of their admissions criteria. They have not said that the ‘E-Bacc’ as a set of
qualifications is a requirement (yet) but this may still come into play. Students need to be
aware of this when they are taking their GCSEs, as it will be too late in Year 13. Please have a
look at the Frequently Asked Questions pages for more detail (page 15).
What subjects and qualifications will count towards The English Baccalaureate?
Science
The GCSE science component will be awarded if students:
Enter all three single Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics and achieve grades 9 - 5 in two
of them.
Achieve grades 9 - 5 in Double Science
Excluded: OCR Science, BTEC Science and Applied Science do not count
Religious Studies
This is not included in the EBacc, but is a compulsory part of the curriculum as we are a
Catholic school.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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INTRODUCING BTEC
Over the last 25 years BTECs have helped millions of people develop the skills they need for further
study and/or employment. Engaging and inspiring, these work-related qualifications are suitable for
a wide range of ages and abilities. For instance, a BTEC National Certificate in Business would cover
all aspects of business including marketing, law, human resources and accounting.
What is a BTEC?






BTECs are work-related qualifications suitable for a wide range of students, designed to
accommodate the needs of employers and allow progression to university.
They provide a practical, real-world approach to learning without sacrificing any of the
essential subject theory.
They can be taken alongside, or in place of, GCSEs and A levels in schools and colleges. They
can also form part of the 14-19 Diploma and Modern Apprenticeships.
BTECs are recognised by schools, colleges, universities, employers and professional bodies
across the United Kingdom and in over 100 countries worldwide.
BTECs have been around for 25 years and their reputation is second to none.
They continue to be developed and updated with and for industry and in response to the
needs of learners.
Why is a BTEC important?




BTECs are understood and recognised by a large number of organisations in a wide range of
sectors.
They offer natural progression along a vocational path, from and to academic qualifications
and university.
BTEC qualifications are developed with key industry representatives and sector skills councils
to ensure that they meet employer and student needs.
Many industry and professional bodies offer successful BTEC students exemptions for their
own accredited qualifications.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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Pathway A
Students studying this pathway will be expected to study:
 English Language and Literature
 Mathematics
 Science
 Religious Studies
 PE
In addition to the core programme of study students must choose at least 1 EBacc subject and
choose two further subjects. The students may choose from Arts, Humanities, Technology or
Language subjects. These subjects allow for a very diverse range of subjects to be incorporated to
enhance the overall quality of the curriculum.
Pathway A
Core Subjects – All students study:
Number of Lessons
English Language & Literature
5
Maths
5
Science (Double or Triple)
6
RS
3
PE Core
2
EBacc Option – Students choose 1 from:
Number of Lessons
Geography
3
History
3
French
3
Spanish
3
Free Option Subjects - Students choose 2 subjects from:
Number of Lessons
Art
*Geography
3 per choice
Drama
*History
Music
*French
Sport Studies
*Spanish
Media
Design Technology: Technical Award
Food Preparation & Nutrition
Computer Science
Business Studies
*We strongly recommend that students choose a 2nd EBacc subject e.g. if choosing a
humanities option in the EBacc option, they should choose a Language in the free
options & vice versa. This would make them eligible for the Ebacc.
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KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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Pathway B: Vocational Programme
Students studying this pathway will be expected to study:





English
Mathematics
Double Science
Religious Studies
PE
In addition to the core programme of study students must choose at least 1 EBacc subject and
choose two further subjects. These options allow for a very diverse range of subjects to be
incorporated to enhance the overall quality of the curriculum.
Pathway B
Core Subjects – All students study:
English Language & Literature
Maths
Science (Double or Triple)
RS
PE Core
EBacc Option – Students choose 1 from:
Geography
History
French
Spanish
Free Option Subjects - Students choose 2 subjects from:
Art
Drama
Music
Sport Studies
Media
Health & Social Care BTEC
Business Studies
Food Preparation & Nutrition
Design Technology: Technical Award
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Number of Lessons
5
5
6
3
2
Number of Lessons
3
3
3
3
Number of Lessons
3 per choice
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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What happens next?
Although the National Curriculum has brought more uniformity to the subjects that all students must
study in Years 10 and 11 there is still a degree of variation possible. The combination of courses to
be followed will depend on a number of different factors. These include the suitability of the course,
career plans and interest in an area of study as well as past performance in a subject.
This means that a period of careful consultation and negotiation will take place to ensure that the
subjects your child studies are right for him or her. Discussions will take place between form tutors,
subject teachers and students to ensure that GCSE subjects studied will be the most appropriate to
meet the needs of each student.
When will the process be completed?
Completed Option Forms need to be handed in by Friday 17th March 2017.
If there are any matters still unresolved by this stage parents should arrange an appointment to
discuss it further with Mr Mc Birney, Head of Year 9 or Mrs Watkins, Deputy Headteacher.
A final list of courses that your child will study in Year 10 will be sent to you during June.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS
The results of the public examinations which your children will take during the next two years will be
vital in ensuring that they have real choices over their next steps, either through further study or
employment. To help students prepare for public exams which are externally assessed, there will be
a number of internal exams at school. These will happen in the Summer of Year 10, in December of
Year 11 and in the Spring Term. The reason we have decided to use a number of exam sessions is to
help students to ‘peak’ at the right time for their summer exams. In addition, it is really important
that students ‘know what they don’t know’ and one of the best ways of diagnosing this is through
formal assessment. The results help teachers to tailor their lessons and help students to be more
precise in their revision.
Our experience shows that there is a clear link between students who prepare thoroughly for
internal assessments and go on to do well in final exams. Practice makes perfect.
The following pages give an overview of the Key Stage 4 Courses, and the percentage weighting for
external examinations and Controlled Assessments. These courses will be publically examined in
May or June of Year 11.
All GCSE courses have recently changed. There have been major changes in the syllabus content and
methods of assessment in the last year. In the majority of subjects coursework has been removed
and Controlled Assessments have taken their place. All Controlled Assessments take place in school
under the direct supervision of the subject teacher.
All the GCSE courses will be examined at the end of Year 11.
Remember: you will not necessarily be following the same course as older siblings or friends.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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Key Stage 4 Courses Information BOARD
CONTROLLED
ASSESSMENT
% of Final
Grade
AQA
60%
Edexcel
0%
Drama
AQA
60%
Computer Science
AQA
20%
Design Technology
Edexcel
50%
Design Technology
Technical Award
AQA
60%
English Language
AQA
0%
English Literature
AQA
0%
Food Preparation &
Nutrition
AQA
50%
Geography
AQA
0%
History
Edexcel
0%
Maths
Edexcel
0%
SUBJECT
Art & Design
Business Studies
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ASSESSMENT OF COURSE
1 Controlled Assessment and 1 external practical exam
Unit 1: Art Portfolio in Art & Design - 60%
Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment ESA paper will be released on 2 January- 40%
2 external examinations
Paper 1: Introduction to small businesses - 50%, Exam
Paper 2: Building a business’s - 50%, Exam
2 Controlled Assessments and 1 practical examination
Unit 1: Devising - 40%, Controlled Assessment
Unit 2: Performing- 20%, Controlled Assessment
Unit 3: Written Exam - 40%
1 Controlled Assessments and 2 external examination
CA – 20hr project /report 20%
Paper 1 40% 1hr 30mins
Paper 2 40% 1hr 30mins
1 Controlled Assessments & 1 external exam
Component 1: External exam - 50%
Component 2: Design & Make project, 50% CA
1 Controlled Assessments & 1 external exam
Component 1: Portfolio of mini projects - 30%
Component 2: Design & Make project, 30% CA
Component 2:External exam, 40%
2 external exams, taken at the end of Year 11.
Paper 1: Shakespeare and the19th-century novel 40%
Paper 2: Writers' Viewpoints and Perspectives 50%
2 external exams, taken at the end of Year 11.
Paper 1: Shakespeare and 19thcentaurt writers 50%
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry 50%
2 Controlled Assessments and 1 external examinations
Each controlled assessment is worth 25%
Written exam worth 50%
3 External Exams
Paper 1 35% 1hr 30mins
Paper 2 35% 1hr 30mins
Paper 3 30% 1hr 15mins
3 External Exams:
Paper 1 30% 1hr 15mins
Paper 2 40% 1hr 45mins
Paper 3 30% 1hr 15min
3 external exams, taken at the end of Year 11.
Each exam is equally weighted
Paper 1 non- calculator 33.3%
Paper 2 calculator 33.3%
Paper 3 calculator 33.3%.
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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SUBJECT
BOARD
Media Studies
CONTROLLED
ASSESSMENT
% of Final
Grade
OCR
30%
1 Controlled Assessments and 2 external examination
Paper 1, Textual Analysis – 35 %
Paper 2, Exploring media – 35%.
Creative media project: 30%
4 external examinations based on the following skills:
-MFL Subjects
Spanish
French
Edexcel
0%
Music
Edexcel
60%
RS
Science
(Double or Triple)
Sport Studies
Edexcel
AQA
0%
0%
OCR
40%
BTEC in:
Health & Social
Care

ASSESSMENT OF COURSE
Edexcel
75%
listening, speaking, reading and writing each worth 25%.
Speaking Internally conducted and externally assessed
2 Controlled Assessments & 1 external exam
Component 1: Performing music, 30% CA
Component 2: Composing music, 30% CA
Component 3: External exam - 40%
2 external examinations, each worth 50%
Double Science consists of 6 External Exams
Each separate science consists of 2 External Exams
1 external examination 60% , Practical Assessment 40%
All BTEC courses consist of:
Portfolio of work - 75%
External examination - 25%
Information subject to change as GCSEs are reformed
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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GCSE REFORM
All GCSEs are being reformed for teaching in September 2017. Reformed GCSEs will be awarded a
GCSE grade of 9 – 1. With 9 being the highest:
Below is a comparison of the new reformed GCSEs grading system and the Current GCSEs
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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Career Advice and Work Experience
The careers programme is ongoing at St Paul's. Our aim is to enable students to develop skills,
attitudes and aptitudes which will help them to be effective and fulfilled in a variety of adult roles
and occupations.
Careers advice can provide vital input in helping your child make the right choice for Key Stage 4.
You should begin to consider planning for the next four years, as GCSEs/BTECs are only the first step
on a journey through A Levels and onto further training or Higher Education. The courses we offer
are carefully selected to form a foundation for our post sixteen provision and allows for natural
progression into the Sixth Form. The Year 10 and 11 programmes will provide an opportunity for
students to identify their strengths and limitations; to gain knowledge and understanding of their
skills and personal qualities and to relate this to the wide variety of opportunities available post 16.
It is important not to overlook subjects that may be needed later on or may be studied post-16. Mr
Jones, Head of Sixth Form, is available for advice.
It is, of course, much too early to expect definite career plans to have been made and ideas are liable
to change between now and when a student leaves school. It is essential, therefore, that the Key
Stage 4 curriculum has a balance of subjects being studied.
When choosing which ‘option’ subject to be studied, your child must think carefully about what they
want to do when they leave school. The opportunity is there for them to discuss their ideas with
their subject teachers and form tutor. They can use the ‘Careers’ section of the LRC to help with
their decision. Also, they need to remember and look back at the research they carried out last term
during their careers day.
What would
you like to be?
We suggest you try asking yourself the following questions, in this order:
What
qualifications do I
need?
Have a look on the
internet
Which courses
should I study in
Years 10 & 11?
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Where can I
get these
qualifications?
What qualifications do
colleagues or universities
want?
Look at college and university
prospectuses
Which GCSEs do I
need in order to
get the A Levels or
Level 3 BTECs?
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
Which A
levels/Level 3
BTECs do I
need?
15
Choosing the right Subjects for GCSE
Some frequently asked questions
What is a Russell Group university?
The Russell Group is the term applied to a group of 24 of the Top Universities with a shared
focus on research and a reputation for academic achievement and excellence. Graduate
recruiters rank ten Russell Group universities in the top 30 universities worldwide, and
Russell Group graduates typically receive a 10% salary ‘top-up’ over others.
Do I need to have passed the English Baccalaureate to get into a
Russell Group university?
The English Baccalaureate includes academic subjects highly valued by the Russell Group.
The English Baccalaureate subjects are English, Mathematics, 2 Sciences, Geography or
History and a Modern foreign language. The English Baccalaureate it is not currently
required for entry to any Russell Group university. With the exception of English and Maths,
and in a few cases a Modern Foreign Language, most universities have no universal entry
requirements in terms of specific GCSE subjects. Subject choice is ultimately much more
important at the post-16 or A-level stage.
Is it true that a Modern Foreign Language at GCSE or equivalent is
required for entry to Russell Group universities?
Our institutions very much value language skills but there is no universal entry requirement
that students must have studied a Modern Foreign Language at GCSE or equivalent.
Currently University College London (UCL) is the only Russell Group institution to require a
Modern Language GCSE at grade C or above for all of its programmes. This may, however,
be subject to change.
What subjects can give me the most options?
Many courses at university level build on knowledge or skills which you will gain while still at
school. Where this is the case, universities need to make sure that all the students they
admit have prepared themselves in the best way to cope with their chosen course. For this
reason, some university courses may require you to have studied a specific subject prior to
entry, others may not. For example, if you have not studied certain science subjects there
will be a number of degree subjects you will be unable to study. However, there are some
subjects that are required more often than others. These subjects are sometimes referred to
as facilitating subjects. Choosing facilitating subjects therefore leaves open a wide range of
courses to you for study at university.
Subjects that can be viewed as facilitating subjects are: Maths and Further Maths; Physics;
Biology; Chemistry; History; Geography; Modern and Classical languages; English Literature.
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KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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I want to study Music or Art at university but Music and Art A levels
are not facilitating subjects. Should I study them at A-level?
If you have talent in music and want to study it at university it is important that you take Music to
advanced level (along with performance grades).
If you have a talent in art you may well be thinking about an art foundation course as a precursor to
a degree programme. You might want to consider an advanced level qualification in either Art or Art
and Design. Either of these will provide you with the basis for your portfolio, which you will need to
gain entry to an art foundation course.
Some common course requirements
Course
GCSE Requirements
Medicine,
Veterinary
Science &
Dentistry
GCSE - Minimum five subjects at grade 7 or above to include Chemistry, Biology and Physics
Engineering
GCSE – Minimum five subjects at grade 5 including English Language and Mathematics.
Computing
A level - Mathematics and Physics is required.
GCSE – Minimum five subjects at grade 5 including English Language and Mathematics.
Physiotherapy
A level - Mathematics, Computing or Physics required.
GCSE – Minimum 8 subjects at grade 6 or above including Science, English and Maths.
Nursing
A level - Two from: Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Physics, Sociology,
Physical Education, Mathematics.
GCSE – minimum Five GCSEs grade 5 including English Language, Maths and Science required.
Psychology
Law
Business
Accounting
Teaching
English
(or double science). Mathematics and English Language required at a minimum of grade 6.
A-level - Chemistry and Biology required at grade A.
A level - 1 A Level science subject.
GCSE – Minimum five subjects at grade C and Mathematics, Science and English at grade B or
above.
GCSE - minimum 5 GCSE grade 5 Inc. English and Maths.
GCSE – Minimum five subjects at grade 5 and Mathematics, at grade 6 or above.
GCSE – minimum seven GCSE passes at grades 7 or 6 including 7 in Mathematics and 6 in
English.
A level - At least an A in A level Maths or Further Maths.
Required to have a minimum of 5 GCSE grade 5 including 5 in English, Maths and Science.
Required to have a minimum of 5 GCSE grade 5 including 5 English and a Modern Foreign
Language.
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Useful websites to help you in making your choices are –
Young pages on http://www.direct.gov.uk
https://nextstep.direct.gov.uk – for job profiles
www.careersbox.co.uk
www.babcock-lifeskills.co.uk
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
www.u-explore.com
www.icould.com
www2.warwick.ac.uk/
nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk
www.university.which.co.uk/
www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk
www.ucas.com
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
www.notgoingtouni.co.uk
Higher education resources can be found on:
http://unistats.direct.gov.uk or www.ucas.com
National parent partnership network:
www.parentpartnership.org.uk
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IMPORTANT DATES
Wednesday 1st March 2017
Parent Subject Teacher meeting 3.30 to 6.00pm
Wednesday 8th March 2017
Options Information evening 6.00pm
Friday 17th March 2017
Deadline for return of completed options forms
Please return all completed forms to Mrs Cooper in the KS3 Administration Office by 3pm
Friday 17th March.
It is really important that you choose a reserve choice for your option choices. If class sizes are too
small then we may not be able to offer that subject.
If the forms are handed in late there is no guarantee that a place will be available for your child on
the course of their choice.
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INDIVIDUAL COURSE INFORMATION
Over the next few pages you will have the opportunity to learn more about individual subjects
including course content, assessment methods and higher education and employment opportunities.
Should you have any further questions you will also find contact details for the relevant Head of
Department.
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ENGLISH LANGUAGE & ENGLISH LITERATURE
Board
Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and perspectives.
. Written exam: Written exam: 1hr 45 minutes
. 80 marks
. 50% of GCSE
AQA
Course
All students will follow courses in both English
Language and English Literature. Successful
candidates will qualify for two GCSE awards,
one in each of these subjects.
The courses are both 100% exam.
English Literature
Paper 1: Shakespeare and 19th century novel
Written exam: 1hr 45 minutes
. 80 marks
. 50% of GCSE
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry
Written exam: 2 hour 15 minutes
. 96 marks
. 60% of GCSE
Course Content
English Language
Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and
writing.
Section A: Reading
1 Literature fiction text
Section B: Writing
Descriptive or narrative writing
Paper 2: Writers’ viewpoints and
perspectives.
Section A: Reading
1 non-fiction text and 1 literary non-fiction text
Section B: Writing
Writing to present a viewpoint
English Literature
Both Language and Literature are 100% exam
(no coursework).
Higher Education & Careers Information
As a core subject, English is at the centre of The
National Curriculum and its importance at GCSE
level cannot be overstated.
Any other Information
English Language & Literature are compulsory at
St Paul’s and all Secondary Schools.
Paper 1: Shakespeare and 19th century novel
Section A: Shakespeare plays (Romeo and
Juliet)
Section B: The 19th-century novel
(Frankenstein)
In order to do A-Levels in English you will need
to achieve a 7 or above in both English Language
and English Literature.
Paper 2: Modern texts and poetry
Section A: Modern prose or drama texts (An
Inspector Calls)
Section B: The poetry anthology
Section C: Unseen poetry
Contact: Miss A Daniel, Head of English
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704103
You will have 5 English lessons per week.
Assessment
English Language
Paper 1: Explorations in creative reading and
writing.
. Written exam: 1hr 45 minutes
. 80 marks
. 50% of GCSE
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
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RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Board
EDEXCEL (New Specification)
Course
Year 10
Catholic Christianity Paper 1 (50%)
Judaism Paper 2 (25%)
Year 11
Philosophy & Ethics Paper 3 (25%)
Course Content
Year 10: Catholic Christianity
Section 1-Beliefs & Teachings
Section 2-Practices
Section 3-Sources of Authority & Wisdom
Section 4-Forms of Expression & Ways of Life
Year 10: Judaism
Section 1-Beliefs & Teachings
Section 2-Practices
Year 11: Philosophy & Ethics
Section 1-Arguments for the Existence of
God
Section 2-Religious Teachings on
Relationships & Family in the 21st Century
Assessment
This is a linear GCSE, which means at the end
of Year 11 there are 3 exams which are
added together to make a full GCSE.
There are 3 exams; Catholic Christianity 1hr
45 mins, Judaism 50 mins and Philosophy &
Ethics 50 mins.
It will also give you skills in making decisions
about moral problems, and help you to
become sure about your own beliefs and
explain them clearly to others. It is not about
making you religious, it is about enabling you
to think for yourself about religious and moral
issues.
Religious Studies is taught in a context in
which students reflect on the place they
occupy in the World with its varied
approaches to a spectrum of concerns and
gives an unrivalled opportunity to get to grips
with the multi-cultural world and the
complexities of values held by the people who
share it.
Possible career choices are in Administration,
Librarian, Minister, Teacher, Advice Worker,
Charity work, Journalist, and Social Worker
where the individual can live out their
vocation fully. It also supports careers such as
Lawyers and Police Officers.
Any other Information
Religious Studies is compulsory at St Paul’s as
we are a Catholic School.
In order to do A levels in Religious Studies you
will need to achieve a B grade in GCSE
Religious Studies.
You will have 3 Religious Studies lessons per
week. All exams take place in Year 11 in May.
Students will be advised of what Revision
Guide they will be expected to buy once there
is one available to support the new
specification.
There is no coursework.
Higher Education & Careers Information
Contact: Miss S Delahunty, Head of RE
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704130
Religious Studies will help develop your key
skills in communication, working with
others, problem solving, clear logical
thinking, negotiating, planning, research and
improving your own learning.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
22
MATHEMATICS
Board
Higher Education & Careers Information
EDEXCEL
Grades 9 to 5 in GCSE Mathematics are an
entry requirement to any post 16 education.
Course
Being successful in GCSE Mathematics can
lead into A Levels in Mathematics and Further
Mathematics, both very strong academic
qualifications.
Mathematics 1MA1
Course Content
The course is comprised of six sections –
1. Number: Proportion, types of numbers,
powers and surds, using a calculator and
non-calculator number work. Standard
Form, accuracy and bounds.
2. Algebra: Equations, inequalities,
formulae, expressions, graphs,
sequences.
3. Geometry: Angles, 2D and 3D shapes,
Pythagoras and trigonometry,
transformations, vectors and
constructions, area, perimeter and
volume.
4. Measure: Scale, conversion of units,
bearings, compound measures.
5. Statistics: handling data cycle, sampling
and data collection, data representation,
averages, comparing data using
averages, representation in a variety of
graphs and charts and interpretation of
information.
6. Probability: Probability Scale, finding
probabilities, tree diagrams and sample
space, theoretical probability and its use
in a practical context.
Every job will use an element of mathematics
in some way. From hairdressing to lawyer you
will need to use numeracy in your role. There
are plenty of jobs that would require
mathematics to a higher qualification
standard than GCSE such as engineering,
environmental analysts, financial services or
even a digital animator.
A maths degree will certainly open doors!
Any other Information
Mathematics is compulsory at St Paul’s and all
Secondary Schools.
You will be taught by 1 teacher and have 5
Mathematics lessons per week. All exams will
take place in Year 11 during May/June.
In order to do A level Mathematics you will
need to achieve an A* or A grade equivalent in
GCSE Mathematics.
Contact: Mr T Smith, Head of Mathematics
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754216
Assessment
The course is 100% exam based split in to
three terminal papers worth 33% each, two
using a calculator and one non-calculator.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
23
GCSE SEPARATE SCIENCES – BIOLOGY CHEMISTRY PHYSICS
Board
Board
AQA
AQA
Course
Course Overview
GCSE
Biology:
AQA
GCSE Separate Sciences: Biology,
Paper
1: Topics
1–4:
Chemistry
and
Physics
Paper
2: Topics
Similar
to the5-7
old ‘triple science’
Value:
GCSE
Chemistry:
Three
GCSE1-5
qualifications
Paper
1: Topics
One in each of the three sciences
Paper 2: Topics 6-10
Course Duration:
Three
years (Years 9, 10 and 11)
GCSE
Physics:
Seven lessons per week
Paper 1: Energy; Electricity; Particle model of
matter
and Atomic
structure
Course
Assessment:
Paper
2:
Forces;
Waves;
Magnetism
Six exams taken in the
summer ofand
Year 11.
electromagnetism and Space physics
Two biology, two chemistry and two physics
examContent
papers will
each Science
assess different
Course
– GCSE
content and each will contribute 50% of the
Biology
grade for that science.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Cell Biology
Organisation
Each
paper will take 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Infection
100
marksand
are response
available on each paper.
Bioenergetics
Students
will be
assessed
Homeostasis
and
responsethrough multiple
choice, closed-answer, short-answer and
Inheritance, variation and evolution
extended-answer questions.
Ecology
Chemistry
Course Content – GCSE Science
1. Atomic structure and the periodic table
2. Bonding,
Biology structure and the properties
of matter
• Cell biology
3. Quantitative
chemistry
• Organisation
4. Chemical
changes
• Infection
and response
5. Energy
changes
• Bioenergetics
6. The
rate and extent
chemical change
• Homeostasis
and of
response
7. Organic
chemistry
• Inheritance,
variation and evolution
8. Chemical
• Ecologyanalysis
9. Chemistry of the atmosphere
10. Chemistry
Using resources
• Atomic structure and the periodic table
• Bonding, structure, and the properties of
Physics
matter
1. Forces
• Quantitative chemistry
2. Energy
• Chemical changes
3. Waves
• Energy changes
4. Electricity
• Rate and extent of chemical change
5. Magnetism
and electromagnetism
• Organic chemistry
•
Chemical
analysis
6. Particle model
of matter
•
Chemistry
of the atmosphere
7. Atomic structure
• Using resources
8. Space
physics
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Physics
• Forces
• Energy
• Waves
• Electricity
• Magnetism and electromagnetism
• Particle model of matter
• Atomic structure
• Space physics
Why do we study science?
Science is a compulsory subject in all secondary
schools.
Charles Darwin famously said, “Science
increases wonder”. Studying GCSE science will
enable you to develop essential practical and
applicable skills needed by today’s employers.
Studying GCSE Science will lead some students
to choose A levels in science. This could lead to
a host of careers such as in medicine, dentistry,
pharmaceuticals, the petrochemical industry,
nursing, engineering, architecture, forensic
science, research and many more.
To be accepted to study A levels in science you
will need a grade 7 at GCSE level.
GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Separate
Science
The most able scientists will be given the
opportunity to study GCSE Separate Sciences.
These students will study additional content
within each of the modules outlined and will
therefore find the transition to A level sciences
easier.
These students will sit the same number of exam
papers as those taking GCSE Combined
Science however each paper is out of 100 marks
as opposed to 70 marks and is 1 hour and 45
minutes in duration rather than 1 hour and 15
minutes in duration. This is to allow for the
additional content to be assessed.
Contact: Mrs K Oakley, Head of Science
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754212
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
24
GCSE COMBINED SCIENCE (TRILOGY ROUTE)
Board
AQA
Course Overview
AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
Similar to the old ‘double science’
Value:
Two GCSE qualifications
(Higher or foundation)
Physics
• Forces
• Energy
• Waves
• Electricity
• Magnetism and electromagnetism
• Particle model of matter
• Atomic structure
Why do we study Science?
Course Duration:
Three years (Years 9, 10 and 11)
Six lessons per week
Science is a compulsory subject in all
secondary schools.
Course Assessment:
Six exams taken in the summer of Year 11
Two biology, two chemistry and two physics
exam papers will each assess different content
and each will contribute 16.7% to the overall
grade.
Each paper will take 1 hour and 15 minutes. 70
marks are available on each paper.
Students will be assessed through multiple
choice, closed-answer, short-answer and
extended-answer questions.
Charles Darwin famously said, “Science
increases wonder”. Studying GCSE Science
will enable you to develop essential practical
and applicable skills needed by today’s
employers.
Studying GCSE Science will lead some
students to choose A levels in science. This
could lead to a host of careers such as in
medicine, dentistry, pharmaceuticals, the
petrochemical industry, nursing, engineering,
architecture, forensic science, research and
many more.
To be accepted to study A levels in science
you will need a grade 7 at GCSE level.
Course Content – GCSE Science
Biology
• Cell biology
• Organisation
• Infection and response
• Bioenergetics
• Homeostasis and response
• Inheritance, variation and evolution
• Ecology
Chemistry
• Atomic structure and the periodic table
• Bonding, structure, and the properties of
matter
• Quantitative chemistry
• Chemical changes
• Energy changes
• Rate and extent of chemical change
• Organic chemistry
• Chemical analysis
• Chemistry of the atmosphere
• Using resources
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
GCSE Combined Science or GCSE Separate
Science
The most able scientists will be given the
opportunity to study GCSE Separate Sciences.
The majority of students (those in sets 2, 3 and
4) will study GCSE Combined Science.
Students will be accepted onto A level science
courses with a grade 7 or above in GCSE
combined sciences.
Contact: Mrs K Oakley, Head of Science
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754212
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
25
GEOGRAPHY
Board
Paper 2: Written exam, one and a half hours.
Covering the content set out in paper 2 course
content. Questions – multiple choice, short
answer and extended case study responses.
AQA
Course
AQA
The course comprises of 3 exam papers;
Paper 1: Living with the physical
environment
Paper 2: Challenges in the human
environment
Paper 3: Geographical applications
Course Content
Paper 1: Living with the physical
environment
This unit will build on the skills you learned
in Years 7, 8 and 9 and give you new
challenges and the opportunity to develop
more advanced skills appropriate for a GCSE
Geographer. This paper is split into three
sections.
Section A: The challenge of natural hazards
Section B: Physical landscapes in the UK
Section C: The living world
Paper 2: Challenges in the human
environment
This paper covers the topics of population,
development and globalisation in more
detail building on the work covered in key
stage 3. The paper is also split into three
sections.
Section A: Urban issues and challenges
Section B: The changing economic
environment world
Section C: The challenge of resource
management
Paper 3: Geographical applications
This paper will involve going out of the
school to carry out fieldwork. The students
will have a question which they will need to
prove or disprove. The students will be
examined on the field work and geographical
skills.
Paper 3: Written exam, one hour and 15
minutes. Synoptic paper released 12 weeks
beforehand – problem solving questions
linked to previous content. Geographical skills
and field work findings.
Paper 1 = 35%
Paper 3 = 30%
Paper 2 = 35%
Higher Education & Careers Information
Geography is well known as a subject that
links to all other subjects in the curriculum, so
a GCSE in Geography is a stepping stone to a
whole range of opportunities. A good grade
will help to move you on to any AS, Applied A
Level or BTEC course. You may want to
continue your study of Geography or take
other courses in Travel and Tourism which
have a more work related approach.
The skills you develop can lead you to
employment opportunities in journalism,
media, engineering, IT, travel and tourism,
environmental management, marketing,
business management and teaching.
Geographers are everywhere!
Any other Information
Geography is not compulsory at St Paul’s but it
is one of the subjects which are part of the
English Baccalaureate.
In order to do A level Geography you will need
to achieve a B grade in GCSE Geography.
Speak to your Geography teachers for further
information.
Contact: Miss S Leaver, Subject Leader
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704160
Assessment
Paper 1
Written exam, one and a half hours.
Content examined as set out in paper one.
Questions in paper - multiple choice, short
answer and extended case study responses.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Contact: Mr T Matheson, Head of Humanities
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704160
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
26
HISTORY
Board
Assessment
Edexcel
Course
Paper 1 - Written examination, 1 hour 15
minutes, worth 30%
GCSE History
Paper 2 - Written examination, 1 hour 45
minutes, worth 40%
Course Content
Paper 3 – Written examination, 1 hour 15
minutes, worth 30%
Paper 1
Crime and punishment in Britain c1000 to
present with Whitechapel, c1870-1900:
crime and policing
 Crime and punishment in medieval
England
 Crime and punishment in early
modern England
 Crime and punishment in
eighteenth- and nineteenth century
Britain
 Crime and punishment in modern
Britain
Paper 2
British Depth Study: Anglo-Saxon and
Norman England, c1060-88
 Anglo-Saxon England and the
Norman Conquest, 1060–66
 William I in power: securing the
kingdom, 1066–87
 Norman England, 1066–88
Period Study: British America 1713-83:
empire and revolution
 British settlement in North America,
1713–41
 A disrupted society, 1742–64
 The loss of an empire, 1765–83
Higher Education & Careers Information
The course develops an excellent range of
skills that transfer to many courses and a
variety of careers including law, journalism
and the media, public relations and marketing
to name just a few.
A GCSE in History will help develop skills
which are useful in many subject areas,
including research, using evidence critically,
forming arguments and structuring extended
writing. These skills are highly valued by
employers and vital in moving onto A level
History.
Any other Information
History is not compulsory at St Paul’s but it is
one of the subjects which are part of the
EBacc.
In order to do A level History you will need to
achieve a B grade in GCSE History.
You will be taught by 1 teacher and have 3
lessons a week. In Y11 all of your exams will
be in May/June.
Contact: Mr T Matheson, Head of Humanities
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704160
Paper 3
Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-39
 The Weimar Republic 1918–29
 Hitler’s rise to power, 1919–33
 Nazi control and dictatorship, 1933–
39
 Life in Nazi Germany, 1933–39
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
27
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Board
How it's assessed
 Written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes
 80 marks
 Mix of multiple choice, short and longer
answer questions
 40% of GCSE
AQA
Course
GCSE in Computer Science
Grades 1 - 9
Course Content
The qualification is comprised of 9 areas:
1. Fundamentals of algorithms
2. Programming
3. Fundamentals of data representation
4. Computer systems
5. Fundamentals of computer networks
6. Fundamentals of cyber security
7. Ethical, legal and environmental impacts
of digital technology on wider society,
including issues of privacy
8. Aspects of software development
9. Non-exam assessment
There are three methods of assessment that
address different areas of the subject
content
Assessment 1 – Computational thinking and
problem solving
What’s assessed
Computational thinking, problem solving,
code tracing and applied computing as well
as theoretical knowledge of computer
science from subject content 1–4 above.
How it's assessed
 Written exam set in practically based
scenarios: 1 hour 30 minutes
 80 marks
 Mix of multiple choice, short and
longer answer questions
 40% of GCSE
Assessment 3 – Non-exam Assessment
What’s assessed
The non-exam assessment (NEA)
assesses a student's ability to use the
knowledge and skills gained through the
course to solve a practical programming
problem. Students will be expected to
follow a systematic approach to problem
solving, consistent with the skills
described in Section 8 of the subject
content above.
How it's assessed
 Report: totalling 20 hours of
work
 80 marks
 20% of GCSE
Higher Education & Careers Information
This course provides excellent progression to
‘A’ level Computer Science and on to degree
level courses in the areas of Computing,
Engineering and Science.
The course provides the knowledge, skills and
understanding that a growing number of
employers are demanding. This course will
help students to achieve industry recognized
qualification to bridge the gap between full
time education and employment.
Any other Information
Contact: Miss S Hind, Head of IT & Computing
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704121
Assessment 2 – Written Paper
What’s assessed
Theoretical knowledge from subject content
3–7 above
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
28
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES – FRENCH OR SPANISH
Board
EDEXCEL
Course
French or Spanish GCSE
(this leads on in the language studied since
Year 7 by the individual student)
Course Content
Higher Education & Careers Information
The course covers topics including, local
area, holiday and travel, school,
international and global dimension as well as
equipping the students to talk about their
identity and culture, future aspirations study
and work.
The aim is to  Enable students to cope effectively on a
visit to/working in a foreign country.
 Offer enjoyment and a sense of
achievement.
 Encourage the understanding and
awareness of other people and other
countries as well as their own.
 Form a good basis in the skills required
for further use or study of the languagebe it for work or pleasure.
 Further the students’ understanding of
the nature and structure of their own
language.
 Encourage students to acquire and
practise learning skills which are not just
used in the learning of a language e.g.
social and personal skills such as working
co-operatively and independently.
The emphasis is on practical communication,
and this is reflected in the way the
examinations are marked, rewarding what
the students get right rather than penalising
what they get wrong.
Assessment
For Spanish and French the examinations
assess the students’ ability to cope in a
variety of situations. For each language, four
components are assessed externally at the
end of Year 11 - Reading, Listening, Speaking
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
and Writing. Each component is worth 25%
and are offered at both Foundation and
Higher levels.
The decision about which level is suitable for
each candidate is taken in the Autumn Term
of Year 11.
There are no controlled assessments and
100% external assessment.
The new grading system will be 9-1 (top grade
= 9)
Language qualifications combine well with
most other subjects at A Level and university
level.
In addition you will enhance employment
prospects in the following ways –
 The UK trades with over 200 countries
worldwide and businesses, large, medium
and small need employees with foreign
language skills.
 Businesses need people who are happy
operating across cultures.
 Language degrees often involve some time
working or studying abroad.
 Having another language gives you the edge
over a rival applicant.
 Being successful at another language shows
good communication skills and shows you
are willing to learn new skills.
Any other Information
We would recommend that all students take a
language at GCSE where possible as it is part
of the EBacc.
In order to do A-Level MFL you will need to
achieve an overall grade 6 in the GCSE of the
language you wish to study.
You will be taught by 1 teacher and have 3
lessons per week. All exams will take place in
Year 11 in May/June.
Contact: Miss S Agius, Head of MFL (acting)
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754202
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
29
MEDIA STUDIES
Board
Higher Education & Careers Information
OCR
We live in a media-saturated world. From
video clips on your phone to blockbuster
movies, we are surrounded by media
messages. How do you make sense of them
all? How do you know what they are trying to
communicate? How do you know how much
you have been influenced — consciously or
subconsciously — by these media messages?
Does the media reflect your reality, or control
the way you view it?
Course
Media Studies GCSE
Media Studies is designed to widen the
intellectual horizons of the learner through the
analysis of a wide range of media forms and
contexts. It will enable students to develop a
wider understanding and appreciation of the
media in both an historical and contemporary
context.
Course Content
Learners will explore:
 how media products follow generic
conventions, use media language, represent
events, issues, places, individuals and social
groups, address audiences and reflect their
industrial context
 media forms to exemplify media
industry issues demonstrating their
knowledge and understanding of the
theoretical framework (media
language, representation, audiences
and media industries) as it applies to
each form. Learners will apply the
theoretical framework and theoretical
perspectives to three in-depth studies
 will create media products
through applying knowledge and
understanding of media language and
representation from the theoretical
framework to express and
communicate meaning to an intended
audience.
Assessment
Two external exam paper and one creative media
project
Paper 1, Textual Analysis – 35 %
Paper 2, Exploring media – 35%.
Media Studies enables you to develop an
important set of skills to help you navigate the
rest of your education and then your working
life. Media Studies will help you increase your
knowledge and understanding of a range of
areas, including communication, design,
creativity, research, technology, politics and
culture.
Students of Media Studies find their skills suit
a variety of career roles. For example,
journalism; television and film production;
design; marketing and advertising.
Any other Information
The media is part of our daily lives – TV, radio,
the Internet, newspapers, magazines and
advertising. This course will take you behind
the headlines to take an in-depth look at
different types of media, and give you the
skills you need to make sense of the
information that you are bombarded with
every day.
What makes news and how does it reach us,
who produces the information we are
bombarded with, should you believe
everything you read or see? If you’re curious
about these questions and want to find out
more, then this is the course for you.
Contact: Mr R Cranham, Subject Leader Media
Studies
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754222
Plus
Creative media project: 30%
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
30
ART & DESIGN
All components will be internally assessed and
externally moderated by AQA to give the
students their final grade. There will be an
Exhibition of a selection of the GCSE work in
the summer term.
Board
AQA
Course
8201/C 8201/X - Art and Design
A two year course leading to a GCSE in Art &
Design Fine Art. This GCSE encourages an
adventurous and enquiring approach to Art
and Design. Successful pupils will be able to
demonstrate an understanding of past and
contemporary art and design practice and be
able to produce a personal response that
embraces a range of ideas.
Course Content
The course will consist of –
 Component one – a portfolio of work
(60%) which includes a three projects
 Component two - An externally set
assignment (40%)
Through these units the pupils will
undertake visual research and will explore,
develop and realise their own ideas. They
will learn how to use a range of media and
materials and will develop their
understanding of the work of other artists
and designers from different times and
cultures. Visits to Art Galleries and Museums
will be arranged and encouraged.
The disciplines offered by the Art
Department include drawing and painting,
printmaking, mixed media, textiles,
photography and clay and three-dimensional
work.
Assessment
The Portfolio of work will be internally
assessed throughout the two year course. In
Year 10 they will take a 5 hour examination.
In Year 11 they will take a mock examination
of 10 hours and will have the final externally
set examination (10 hours) in April.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Higher Education & Careers Information
This course can lead to AS and A Level courses
in Art & Design, Creative media, Photography
and Textiles.
There are many careers leading on from an A
level or Degree in Art and Design such as
architecture, fashion design, graphic design,
illustration, interior design, photography, new
media design, model-making, landscape
architecture, jewellery design, printing,
engraving, restoration, stage and set design.
Any other Information
Why Should I take Art at GCSE?
1. Because learning to think creatively often
requires lateral thinking and an
alternative and individual way of problem
solving, which is of increasing importance
in today's rapidly changing society.
2. Because if you take pleasure in the
creative process and find the work
stimulating and absorbing, this will have
an effect on both your confidence and
your overall attitude to your studies in
general.
3. The creative industries is one of the UK’s
biggest growing areas, and the UK is
acknowledge worldwide as one of the
leading countries for innovation within,
Art, Fashion and new media such as
Photography and film.
4. Art is fully recognised by the Universities
(including Oxford and Cambridge) as a
challenging and academic subject. It
demonstrates a candidate’s ability as
being highly motivated and an
independent thinker. Art is regarded as
highly as more traditional subjects and is
acceptable as an A Level for University
entrance.
Contact: Mrs L Coyle, Head of Art
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704124
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
31
DRAMA
Assessment
Board
AQA
Course
GCSE Drama
Course Content
Component 1- Understanding Drama
Written exam- 1hr 45 min
 Section A: Multiple choice – theatre
terminology and roles (4 marks)
 Section B: four questions on an extract
studied (44 marks) from Blood Brothers
 Section C: choice of 1 two part questions on
live production (32 marks).
Component 2- Devising Drama
 This is a practical component in which
students are assessed on their ability to
create and develop ideas to communicate
meaning.
 Students must choose a genre or
performance style for their devised piece.
 Can opt to perform or design
 Plus 2,500 word log book which documents:
Response to a stimulus, Development and
collaboration, Analysis and evaluation
Component 3- Texts in practise
 Study and present two key extracts
(monologue, duologue or group
performance) from a play chosen by the
student
 Can opt to perform or design
Higher Education & Careers Information
Drama GCSE builds many transferable skills that are of
value in a wide variety of careers. It builds confidence,
project management and the ability to work as part of a
team. Students develop higher order thinking skills and
creativity.
In terms of specialist pathways, students often go on to
have careers in TV, media and journalism, theatre
design/production and theatre administration. The
subject also links well to PR, Marketing and other areas of
business. They can also study the subject further if they
wish to follow a career in stage acting.
It should be noted that this exam is not a Performing
Arts/Acting course. Please discuss this with us.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Component 1- Understanding Drama:
Written exam- 1hr 45 min
Open book- Blood Brothers
80 marks- 40% GCSE
AO3: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding
of how drama and theatre is developed and
performed.
AO4: Analyse and evaluate their own work and
the work of others.
Component 2- Devising Drama
Log and performance
80 marks- 40% GC SE

Devising log (60 marks)

Devised performance (20 marks)
This is a practical component in which students
are assessed on their ability to create and
develop ideas to communicate meaning for
theatrical performance (AO1), apply theatrical
skills to realise artistic intentions in live
performance (AO2) and analyse and evaluate
their own work (AO4).
Component 3- Texts in practise
Performance on two extracts from one play
40 marks- 20% GCSE

Performance of extract 1 (20 marks)

Performance of extract 2 (20 marks)
Students are assessed on their ability to apply
theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live
performance (AO2).
Any other Information
Students will need to have strong written English
skills to take this course. They should have
achieved a Level 5 or above at KS3 English if they
wish to be successful at Drama GCSE.
Students do not have to act; they can opt for a
costume, lighting, set or sound design option for
Components 2 and 3.
Contact: Miss T Ilbury, Head of Drama
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704103
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
32
MUSIC
Assessment
Board
EDEXCEL
Course
Pearson Edexcel GCSE in Music (1MU0)
Component one: Performing (1MU0/01)
Component two: Composing (1MU0/02)
Component three: Appraising (1MU0/03)
Course Content
Component one: Performing
30% non-examined assessment
Comprised of at least one solo and one
ensemble performance which is marked by
the school and moderated by the exam
board. Each piece must last at least 1 minute
and have a combined total of at least four
minutes.
Component two: Composing
30% non-examined assessment
Comprised of 2 compositions of at least
three minutes’ combined duration but at
least one minute for each. One composition
is to a brief set by the board and is to be
completed during year 11 and one is a free
composition which can be completed at any
time. These are marked by the school and
moderated by the exam board.
Component three: Appraising
40% Exam
A one hour and 45 minute listening exam at
the end of the 2 year course which is based
on the 4 areas of study –
 Instrumental music 1700-1820
 Vocal music
 Music for stage and screen
 Fusions
Students will analyse 8 set works ranging
from Bach to Queen. The exam is split into
two sections which involves –
Section A: 6 questions on set works, 1
musical dictation question and 1 on an
unfamiliar work relating to a set work.
Section B: a more in depth question
comparing a set work with an unfamiliar
work.
This is marked by the exam board.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Component one: Performing
30% non-examined assessment marked by
your teacher and moderated by the exam
board.
Component two: Composing
30% non-examined assessment marked by
your teacher and moderated by the exam
board.
Component three: Appraising
40% exam marked by the exam board.
Higher Education & Careers Information
Music is widely accepted at all Higher
Education Institutions, and by all employers,
as giving students analytical and
communication skills as well as developing a
creative mind. It can lead to employment
within the music industry and outside of it, for
example, music promoter, music journalist,
music teacher, manager at a recording studio
or musician.
The study of music enables students to
develop their understanding of musical
techniques as well as placing the music they
listen to in an historical context. Students will
learn musical and rhythmic devices such as
ostinato and sequences which can be used in
composition work as well as analysing
music. They will develop an understanding
behind different styles of music and how they
fit into musical history from Baroque to the
20th Century.
Any other Information
GCSE Music is a successful course with a good
record in results. It benefits from classes that
allow individual attention as well as providing
the high quality resources required to enable
students to focus on their performance and
realise their potential.
There are always plenty of opportunities to
take an active musical role within college life
through concerts, workshops and other whole
school activities including choir, orchestra,
concerts and musical competitions.
Contact: Ms K Harper, Head of Music
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704128
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
33
GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Board
OCR
Course
GCSE Physical Education
Course Content
Students study a variety of topics over the 2
year course.
Year 10 students will study:
 Anatomy and Physiology Looking at how
the body systems work, react to exercise
 How the body is trained for performance
 Diet, injury, principles of training and
training programmes
Year 11 students will study:
 Looking at sponsorship, media,
participation levels and facilities
 The role of sport in society
 The classifications of skill, feedback and
motivation.
Ideally, any student choosing GCSE PE should
be representing the school in at least one
sport (preferably more) and should also be
playing sport outside of school on a regular
basis.
What practical sports will I do?
Football
Swimming
Table Tennis
Rugby
Tennis
Trampolining
Basketball Softball
Cricket
Volleyball Athletics
Netball
Assessment

Practical: 40%
Practical performance in three different
physical activities in the role of
player/performer (one in a team activity,
one in an individual activity and a third in
either a team or in an individual activity).

Analysis and evaluation of performance
(AEP) to bring about improvement in one
activity.
For each of their three activities, students
will be assessed in skills in progressive drills
and in a competitive situation (20 marks for
each sport).

Students will be assessed on their analysis and
evaluation (20 marks) of performance to bring
about improvement in one activity they
choose.
Examination: 60% 2 written papers, 1 hour
each. (30% each) taken in May of Yr 11:
Paper 1: Physical factors affecting
performance: Applied anatomy and
physiology, Movement analysis, Physical
training, Use of data.
Part 2: Socio-cultural issues and Sports
Psychology: Sports psychology, Socio-cultural
influences, Health, fitness and well-being, Use
of data.
How is Home Learning structured?
Students are required to complete a review of
each section of learning through PLC’s
provided at the start of Year 10 and the
production of revision resources. This assists
with exam preparation. End of unit tests are
conducted at the end of every topic and pupils
are expected to effectively revise and prepare
for these.
Higher Education & Careers Information
A qualification in GCSE PE can lead to
employment in the sport and active leisure
sector in areas such as gym instructor, life
guard, and sports leader.
It can also lead to further qualifications such
as BTEC Level 3 or A-Level PE with the
knowledge and understanding you gain
during this GCSE qualification allowing you to
comprehend topics in much greater detail.
Any other Information
What skills will I develop?
 Practical and theory skills in a range of
sports.
 Knowledge and understanding of how
exercise affects us and sports place in
society.
 Leadership, communication and
performance skills.
You should only choose GCSE Sports Studies if
you are a Pathway A student and seriously
committed to sport.
Contact: Miss C Budden, Head of PE, H&S Care
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704123

ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
34
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY – TECHNICAL AWARD
Board
AQA
AQA
Course
Course
TechnicalAward
Award– –Materials
MaterialsTechnology
Technology
Technical
CourseContent
Content
Course
Forstudents
studentswho
whowant
wanttotostudy
studymaterials
materialsinin
For
a
practical
way
and
understand
the
working
a practical way and understand the working
propertiesofofwoods,
woods,metals
metalsand
andpolymers
polymers
properties
willreally
reallyenjoy
enjoythis
thiscourse.
course.ItItwill
willenable
enable
will
learners
to
work
in
a
hands-on
way
learners to work in a hands-on way toto
developthe
thecore
coreskills
skillstotomake
makehigh-quality
high-quality
develop
productsusing
usingwoods,
woods,metals
metalsand
and
products
polymers.
polymers.
Learnerswill
willhave
havethe
theopportunity
opportunitytotouse
use
Learners
traditional
skills
and
also
modern
traditional skills and also modern
technologies.This
ThisTechnical
TechnicalAward
Awardinin
technologies.
MaterialsTechnology
Technologywill
willhelp
helplearners
learners
Materials
develop
the
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and
develop the knowledge, skills and
experienceand
andcould
couldpotentially
potentiallyopen
openthe
the
experience
doortotoa acareer
careerininrelated
relatedindustries.
industries.
door
Assessment
Assessment
Thecourse
courseisissplit
splitasasfollows
follows– –
The
Unit1:1:Skills
Skillsdemonstration
demonstration(internally
(internally
Unit
assessed)
assessed)
Learnerswill
willcarry
carryout
outa anumber
numberofofbitebiteLearners
sized
projects
to
demonstrate
their
sized projects to demonstrate their
competenceininthe
the12
12core
coreskills
skillsoutlined.
outlined.
competence
Thiswill
willinclude
includethe
thetransferable
transferableskill
skillofof
This
teamworkand
andone
oneofofthe
themini
miniprojects
projects
teamwork
shouldallow
allowfor
forthis.
this.Learners
Learnerswill
willproduce
produce
should
seriesofofsmall
smallmade
madeoutcomes
outcomesand
andrecord
record
a aseries
theirwork
workinina aportfolio
portfolioofofno
nomore
morethan
than12
12
their
pages.
pages.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Unit2:
2:Extended
Extendedmaking
makingproject
project
Unit
(internally
(internallyassessed)
assessed)
Learners
Learnerswill
willundertake
undertakean
anextended
extendedmaking
making
project
projectthat
thatshowcases
showcasesthe
theskills
skillsand
and
knowledge
knowledgethey
theyhave
havedeveloped
developedin
inUnit
Unit11and
and
the
theknowledge
knowledgethey
theyhave
havedeveloped
developedthrough
through
Unit
Unit3.
3.The
Theproject
projectwill
willbe
bein
inresponse
responseto
toaa
brief.Learners
Learnerswill
willdevelop
developskills
skillsin
inplanning
planning
brief.
and
anddevelopment,
development,making,
making,testing,
testing,evaluation
evaluation
and
andcommunication.
communication.
Unit
Unit3:
3:Fundamentals
Fundamentalsof
ofMaterials
Materials
Technology
Technology(externally
(externallyassessed)
assessed)
Learners
Learnerswill
willstudy
studymaterials
materialsand
andtheir
their
working
workingproperties
propertiesand
andlearn
learnabout
aboutprocesses
processes
and
andmanufacture.
manufacture.They
Theywill
willgain
gainknowledge
knowledge
of
ofthe
theapplications
applicationsand
andcharacteristics
characteristicsof
ofaa
wide
widerange
rangeof
ofwoods,
woods,metals
metalsand
andpolymers
polymers
and
andalso
alsolearn
learnabout
aboutpossible
possiblecareers
careerswithin
within
industry.
industry
Higher
HigherEducation
Education&&Careers
CareersInformation
Information
Developing
Developingaawide
widerange
rangeof
ofpractical
practicalmaking
making
skills
skillsincluding
includingusing
usinghand
handtools
toolsfor
forcutting
cuttingor
or
shaping,
shaping,casting
castingor
ormoulding,
moulding,and
andusing
using
joining
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andfinishing
finishingtechniques
techniquesin
inaarange
rangeof
of
materials.
materials.Learners
Learnerswill
willalso
alsodevelop
developan
an
understanding
understandingof
ofcommercial
commercialprocesses
processesand
and
anin-depth
in-depthknowledge
knowledgeof
ofmaterials
materialsand
andtheir
their
an
properties.
properties.Additionally
Additionallylearners
learnerswill
willgain
gain
transferable
transferableskills
skillssuch
suchas
ascommunication
communicationand
and
teamwork
teamworkthat
thatwill
willbenefit
benefitthem
themin
inthe
the
workplace.
workplace.This
ThisLevel
Level1/2
1/2Technical
TechnicalAward
Awardin
in
Materials
MaterialsTechnology
Technologycomplements
complementsvocational
vocational
qualifications
qualificationsincluding
includingareas
areassuch
suchas
as
plumbing,carpentry
carpentryand
andjewellery
jewellery
plumbing,
manufacturing.
manufacturing.
Any
Anyother
otherInformation
Information
Contact:
Contact:Mr
MrTTCollett,
Collett,Head
Headof
ofTechnology
Technology
email:
email:[email protected]
[email protected]
Telephone:
Telephone:01932
01932754217
754217
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
35
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
Board
Section A: Core content
40 marks, including 10 marks for calculations
It covers aspects of new and emerging
technologies, ethics and environmental
impact, plus a broad overview of materials
and tools used in design.
EDEXCEL
Course
Design & Technology
Course Content
The GCSE in Design and Technology
enables students to understand and apply
iterative design processes through which
they explore, create and evaluate a range
of outcomes. It enables students to use
creativity and imagination to design and
make prototypes (together with evidence of
modelling to develop and prove product
concept and function) that solve real and
relevant problems, considering their own
and others’ needs, wants and values. It
gives students opportunities to apply
knowledge from other disciplines, including
mathematics, science, art and design,
computing and the humanities.
Section B: Material categories
60 marks, including 5 marks for calculations
This section concentrates on a chosen
material and allows them to show their
specialist knowledge in this subject area.
Component 2 -Design & make project
Non-examined, internally assessed and
externally moderated.
50% of qualification.
20-30 A3 Pages.
Three contextual challenges will be provided
by the board on 1st June each year, from
which students must choose one to respond
to. Students will produce a project which
consists of a portfolio and a prototype. There
are four parts to the assessment:
• Part 1: Investigate
• Part 2: Design
• Part 3: Make
• Part 4: Evaluate
Assessment
Higher Education & Careers Information
The course is split as follows –
Component 1 -Examination
50% of qualification.
100 Marks.
1hr 45 mins.
The paper includes calculations, short-open
and open-response questions as well as
extended-writing questions focused on:
• analysis and evaluation of design
decisions
and outcomes, against a technical
principle, for prototypes made by others
• analysis and evaluation of wider issues in
design technology, including social, moral,
ethical and environmental impacts.
The paper is split into section A “core” and
section B “material” categories.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Completing a GCSE in Design & Technology
can lead to progression onto AS Product
Design.
Careers that benefit from this GCSE include
Product design, Engineering, Manufacturing,
CAD-CAM, Graphic Designer, Construction,
Marketing and Interior Design to name a
few...
Any other Information
Contact: Mr T Collett, Head of Technology
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754217
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
36
FOOD PREPARATION AND NUTRITION
Board
Task 2: Food preparation assessment
AQA
Students' knowledge, skills and understanding
Course
in relation to the planning, preparation,
GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition
cooking, presentation of food and application of
nutrition related to the chosen task.
Course Content
Paper 1 – Food preparation and
nutrition
Written Exam – 1hr 45min
100 Marks
50% of GCSE

Students will prepare, cook and present a final
menu of three dishes within a single period of
no more than three hours, planning in advance
Controlled Assessment
50% of GCSE split over two tasks
explained below.
Assessment
how this will be achieved.


Task 2 assessment format: Written or
electronic portfolio including photographic
Paper 1: Food preparation skills – these
are intended to be integrated into the five
evidence. Photographic evidence of the three
final dishes must be included.
sections:
Higher Education & Careers Information
1. Food, nutrition and health
Completing a GCSE in Food Technology can
benefit careers such as
 Food Technologist – which can also
include developing food labelling
 Food Technology Teacher
 Chef – preparing food in restaurants to a
high specification, developing recipes and
menus
 Careers in hospitality such as restaurant,
hotel and bar management
2. Food science
3. Food safety
4. Food choice
5. Food provenance
Controlled Assessment
Task 1: Food investigation
Any other Information
Students' understanding of the working
characteristics, functional and chemical
properties of ingredients.
Contact: Mr T Collett, Head of Technology
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 754217
Task 1 assessment format: Written or
electronic report (1,500–2,000 words)
including photographic evidence of the
practical investigation.
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
37
BUSINESS STUDIES
Board
Higher Education & Careers Information
EDEXCEL
GCSE Business Studies encourages students to
be inspired and challenged and will prepare
students to make informed decisions about
further learning opportunities (A-level & BTEC
National) and career choices (apprenticeships
& part-time work).
Course
GCSE Business (9-1)
Course Content
You will learn more about how small
businesses are developed and discover how
businesses promote themselves and keep
their customers happy.
You will learn how businesses manage both
their finances and the people who work for
them.
Unit 1: Introduction to Small Business
 Topic 1.1 Enterprise and
entrepreneurship
 Topic 1.2 Spotting a business
opportunity
 Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into
practice
 Topic 1.4 Making the business effective
 Topic 1.5 Understanding external
influences on business
Unit 2: Building a Business
 Topic 2.1 Growing the business
 Topic 2.2 Making marketing decision
 Topic 2.3 Making operational decisions
 Topic 2.4 Making financial decisions
 Topic 2.5 Making human resource
decisions
Assessment
Unit 1: Small Business
Exam in Year 11 which equals 50% of overall
grade.
Unit 3: Building a Business
Exam in Year 11 which equals 50% of the
overall grade.
Business Studies students can work in almost
every employment sector in the UK, generally
most enter employment in commercial,
industrial and public sector roles. Commercial
roles exist in all types of industry, including:
retail, distribution, hospitality and leisure,
financial institutions, sales, marketing and
production management.
Business Studies students that progress and
eventually become graduates can enter
employment in business and finance
professional roles. For example professional
services (chartered accountancy, business
consultancy, law and tax); finance (banking,
city markets, insurance) and major industrial
and manufacturing organisations.
Any other Information
GCSE qualifications in business subjects enable
students to:
 Actively engage in the study of business
and economics to develop as effective and
independent students 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 their knowledge,
understanding and skills to contemporary
issues in a range of local, national and
global contexts.
 Appreciate the range of perspectives of
different stakeholders in relation to
business and economic activities
 Consider the extent to which business and
economic activity can be ethical and
sustainable.
Contact: Miss P Allard, Head of Business
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704121
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
38
BTEC HEALTH & SOCIAL LEVEL 2 (FIRST AWARD)
Board
results, which are graded as a Pass, a Merit,
Distinction or Distinction *.
EDEXCEL
The projects that students undertake along
with the exam form the basis of their unit
results, which are graded as a Pass, a Merit,
Distinction or Distinction *.
Course
BTEC First Health and Social Care Level 2 (First
Award), worth 1 GCSE’s.
The purpose of the course is to inspire and
enthuse learners to consider a career in the
health and social care sector.
To give learners the opportunity to gain a
broad understanding and knowledge of, and
skills in, the health and social care sector.
Support progression to a more specialised
Level 3 vocational or academic health and
social care course or an apprenticeship or
more broadly progression to qualification into
other sectors, such as early years.
Course Content
Over the 2 year course students will study the
following units:
Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development
(Examination Unit)
30 guided learning hours
Unit 2: Health & Social Care Values
30 guided learning hours
Unit 3: Effective Communication in Health &
Social Care
30 guided learning hours
Unit 6: The Impact of Nutrition on Health &
Wellbeing
30 guided learning hours
Assessment
The Health & Social BTEC is a 25% exam-based
and 75% project based qualification.
Throughout the course students will complete
a number of assignments relating to each
unit. One of the units is exam based and the
rest are assignment based. The projects that
students undertake along with the exams
form the basis of their unit
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
Students need to complete Units worth 120
guided learning hours in order to gain the
Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Health & Social
Care.
Higher Education & Careers Information
Throughout this BTEC course you will develop
a range of Key Skills including:
ICT – All work must be completed using ICT
and software including PowerPoint, Word and
Publisher. Communication outside of class
contact time will be with teacher via email.
Language – all units will have own subject
terminology. Keywords will be explained in
students work.
Problem solving – All students will be
required to be independent learners as
coursework can be completed outside of
classroom contact time. Students will have to
overcome challenges when completing their
assignment briefs.
Health & Social Care is widely accepted at
many Further Education and Sixth Form
Colleges. The BTEC award is a great option for
anyone planning a career in the Health &
Social Sector. It also provides a good
grounding of knowledge for level 3 BTEC and
NVQ courses such as Childcare.
Any other Information
The Heath & Social BTEC qualification is a
work related qualification suitable for a wide
range of students. BTECs provide a practical,
real-world approach to learning alongside a
theoretical background.
Contact: Miss C Budden, Head of PE and
Health & Social Care
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01932 704123
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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NOTES
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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NOTES
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
41
NOTES
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
42
NOTES
ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE
KEY STAGE 4 COURSES BOOKLET 2017 - 2018
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