KS4 GCSE Learning Programmes

English

Subject

English Language

Exam Board

WJEC Eduqas

Outline of the course

Year 10

Autumn 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing

Autumn 2

  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Spring 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Spring 2

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Summer 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Summer 2

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Year 11

Autumn 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing

Autumn 2

  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Spring 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Spring 2

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Summer 1

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Summer 2

  • C20 Extract Analysis
  • Creative Writing
  • C19 & C21 Non-Fiction Reading Skills
  • Non- Fiction Writing

Subject

English Literature

Exam Board

WJEC Eduqas

 

Outline of the course

Year 10

Autumn 1

  • Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Anthology Poetry

Autumn 2

  • Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Anthology Poetry

Spring 1

  • Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Anthology Poetry

Spring 2

  • Anthology Poetry

Summer 1

  • The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Summer 2

  • The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Year 11

Autumn 1

  • The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson
  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare Unseen Poetry

Autumn 2

  • Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
  • Unseen Poetry

Spring 1

  • Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Anthology Poetry
  • Unseen Poetry
  • The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Spring 2

  • Anthology Poetry
  • Unseen Poetry

Summer 1 & Summer 2

  • The revision of all texts and skills
Maths

Subject

Mathematics

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course

Year 10                                                                                  Year 11

Autumn 1

  • Indices
  • Compound interest
  • Growth and decay
  • Standard form
  • Standard non-linear sequences

Autumn 2

  • Enlargement
  • Trigonometry in right angled triangles
  • Similar shapes
  • Bearings

Spring 1

  • Algebraic arguments
  • Loci
  • Equations of parallel & perpendicular lines
  • Key angle and shape facts
  • Coordinates (including midpoints, problems)
  • Vectors

Spring 2

  • Properties of 3-D shapes; their plans and elevations
  • Estimation
  • Angle proofs
  • Limits of accuracy
  • Surface area and volume of pyramids, cones and spheres (including exact answers)

Summer 1

  • Populations and samples
  • Probability
  • Listing
  • Set notation
  • Venn diagrams
  • Tree diagrams

Summer 2

  • Expand and factorise binomials
  • Quadratic equations
  • Simultaneous equations
  • Cubic and reciprocal graphs
  • Graphical solutions of equations

Autumn 1

  • Arcs and sectors of circles
  • Using angle and shape facts to derive results
  • Proof in algebra and geometry
  • Variation

Autumn 2

  • Represent and describe distributions
  • Identify misleading graphs
  • Time series
  • Correlation and lines of best fit
  • Solve problems involving compound units

Spring 1

  • Review and Revision
  • Top sets only:
    • Functions and their inverses
    • Composite functions
    • Transformations of functions
    • Gradients of curves and areas under graphs

Spring 2

  • Review and Revision
  • Top sets only:
    • Solve equations by iteration

Summer 1

  • Review and Revision

Summer 2

  • Review and Revision
Science

Year 10 Science Plan

Subject                                                                                                                  Exam Board AQA

GCSE Combined Science: Synergy                                       

 

Life and environmental sciences

Taught in year 10

Physical sciences

Taught in year 11

Autumn 1:

  • 4.1 Building blocks
  • 4.1.1 States of matter
  • 4.1.2 Atomic structure
  • 4.1.3 Cells in animal and plants
  • 4.1.4 Waves

Autumn 2:

  • 4.2 Transport over large distances
  • 4.2.1 Systems in the human body
  • 4.2.2 Plants and photosynthesis

Spring 1:

  • 4.3 Interactions with theenvironment
  • 4.3.1 Lifestyle and health
  • 4.3.2 Radiation and risk
  • 4.3.3 Preventing, treating and curing diseases

Spring 2:

  • 4.4 Explaining change
  • 4.4.1 The earth’s atmosphere
  • 4.4.2 Ecosystems and biodiversity

Summer 1:

  • 4.4.3 Inheritance
  • 4.4.4 Variation and evolution

Autumn 1:

  • 4.5 Building blocks for understanding
  • 4.5.1 The periodic table
  • 4.5.2 Chemical quantities

Autumn 2:

  • 4.6 Interactions over small and large distances
  • 4.6.1 Forces and energy changes
  • 4.6.2 Structure and bonding
  • 4.6.3 Magnetism and electromagnetism

Spring 1:

  • 4.7 Movement and interactions
  • 4.7.1 Forces and motion
  • 4.7.2 Electricity
  • 4.7.3 Acids and alkalis

Spring 2:

  • 4.7.4 The rate and extent of chemical change
  • 4.7.5 Atoms into ions and ions into atoms

Summer 1:

  • 4.8 Guiding spaceship Earth to a sustainable future
  • 4.8.1 Carbon chemistry
  • 4.8.2 Resources of materials and energy

Throughout both years, in addition, practical and mathematical skills will be developed.

Outline of the Assessment  
Controlled Assessment: THERE IS NO CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT 0% of total GCSE  

 

Subject

GCSE Combined Science: Synergy

Exam Board AQA  

Life and environmental sciences

Topics 4.1–4.4: Building blocks; transport over larger distances; interactions with the environment and explaining change.

Physical sciences

Topics 4.5–4.8: Building blocks for understanding; interactions over small and large distances; movement and interactions and guiding spaceship earth towards a sustainable future.

External Test 1 (25%)

Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Questions:

Multiple choice, structured, closed and open short answer questions, with greater emphasis on knowledge and application (AO1 and AO2)

than analysis and evaluation (AO3).

External Test 2 (25%)

Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Questions:

Multiple choice, structured, closed and open short answer questions. This paper assesses most of the analysis and evaluation (AO3)

skills, and most of the work on the required practicals, for the topics.

External Test 3 (25%)

Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Questions:

Multiple choice, structured, closed and open short answer questions, with greater emphasis on knowledge and application (AO1 and AO2)

than analysis and evaluation (AO3).

External Test 4 (25%)

Time 1 hour 45 minutes

Questions:

Multiple choice, structured, closed and open short answer questions. This paper assesses most of the analysis and evaluation (AO3) skills, and most of the work on the required practicals, for the topics.

 

Support for the Content

This is a link to the content on the course, details from the exam board:

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-synergy-8465

 
Support for the exam

Although the exams are new this is a link to some example papers you can look at:

http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/gcse/combined-science-synergy-8465/assessment-resources

 
Other Useful Links BBC bitesize GCSEpod I am Learning (accessible via the schools FROGOS website) There are additional many science related revision clips available on “Youtube”.  

 

Subject

Chemistry GCSE

Exam Board

AQA 

Outline of the course

Modules C1- C6 and C7 (required practical’s)

Year 10

Autumn term

C1

  • The Particle model
  • Atomic structure

C2

  • Purity and separating mixtures
  • Bonding
  • Properties of materials

Spring term

C3

  • Chemical reactions
  • Energetics
  • Types of chemical reactions
  • Electrolysis

Summer term

C4

  • Predicting chemical reactions
  • Identifying products of reactions

Year 11

Autumn Term

C5

  • Monitoring chemical reactions
  • Controlling reactions
  • Equilibria

Spring Term

C6

  • Improving processes and products
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Interpreting and interacting with earth systems

C7 is taught throughout the two year as required practical activities

 

 

 

Subject

Physics GCSE

Exam Board 

AQA

Outline of the Course

Year 10

Autumn Term 1

  • Module A: The Particle model
  • Module B: Changes of state
  • Module C: Pressure

Autumn Term 2

  • Module D: Motion
  • Module E: Newton’s laws

Spring Term 1

  • Module F: Forces in action
  • Module G: Static and charge

Spring Term 2

  • Module G : Simple circuits
  • Module H: Exchange Surfaces

Summer Term 1+2 (Depending on dates for internal examinations)

  • Module J: Magnets and magnetic fields
  • Module K: Uses of magnets

 

Year 11 

Autumn Term 1

  • Module L: Wave behaviour
  • Module M: The electromagnetic spectrum
  • Module N: Wave interaction
  • Module O: Radioactive emission

Autumn Term 2

  • Module P: Uses and hazards
  • Module Q: Workdone
  • Module R: Power and efficiency
  • Module S: Physics on the Move

Spring Term 1

  • Module T: Powering Earth
  • Module U: Beyond Earth

Throughout both years, in addition, practical and mathematical skills will be developed.

Art

Subject

Art and Design (Fine Art)

Exam Board

AQA

Title of work

Unit 1

Brief description of the work to be produced

Unit 1 will form the start of the students Art Controlled assessment.  Controlled assessment is continual and is pursued throughout Year 10 until May Year 11.  Each unit should contain a sketchbook, ideas/design sheets, experimental work/samples and final pieces of work.

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

 

A sketchbook which should include drawing and experiments using a variety of media eg. biro, pencil, oil pastel and paint etc.  References should be made to the work of artists, crafts persons and designers.  Pupils will be expected to make personal comments about their work.  The sketchbook should show sampling and the development of ideas. (Sketchbook should be annotated).

Continuous from September to February half term Year 10

A critical studies sheet and/or pages in sketchbook.  This should include four/five studies which include the details of the works of art, studies and the student’s personal thoughts and opinions.  A visit to a gallery/museum will take place where pupils will have the opportunity to produce first hand responses to a variety of exhibitions/artists work.

A development of ideas sheet or equivalent (approx 4 – 6 pages of sketchbook).  This should include experimentation and sampling with a range of materials.  Pupils should produce at least 3 studies which plan out possible final ideas.  They should be completed in a variety of media suitable to the task.  Personal comments must be included – why they think the idea is successful/or not etc.

For the final pieces of work pupils can use a range of materials and techniques.  These may include mixed media, painting, 3 dimensional sculpture, clay work, print and textiles. 

It must have a direct link with the culture studied.

September to February half term Year 10

The controlled assessment will be complete when…

All work on the student guideline sheet has been completed.  The member of staff responsible for the student has ticked off to indicate completion in their mark books and they have advised the student to move onto the next unit.

May Year 11

Support material and

sources for research

Internet access, camera/digital photography library and department books.  Visit to a gallery/museum supporting unit guideline sheets issued by teacher.

All websites, resources and books used must be clearly recorded at the back of each sketchbook.

 

Subject

Art and Design (Fine Art)

Exam Board

AQA

Title of work

Unit 2

Brief description of the work to be produced

Unit 2 should contain a sketch book, ideas/design sheets experimental work/samples and a final piece of work.

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

 

A sketchbook which should include drawing and experiments using a variety of media eg. biro, pencil, oil pastel and paint etc.  References should be made to the work of artists, crafts persons and designers.  Pupils will be expected to make personal comments about their work.  The sketchbook should show sampling and the development of ideas. (Sketchbook should be annotated).

February half term to October Year 11

A critical studies sheet or the equivalent.  This should include four/five studies which include the details of the works of art, studies and the student’s personal thoughts and opinions.  Descriptive writing linking artist work to pupils.

A development of ideas sheet or equivalent (approx 4 – 6 pages of sketchbook).  This should include at least 3 studies which plan out possible final ideas.  They should be completed in a variety of media suitable to the task.  Personal comments must be included – why they think the idea is successful/or not etc.

For the final pieces of work pupils should produce ideas using a range of materials and techniques.  These may include mixed media, painting, 3 dimensional sculpture,

clay work, print and textiles.  It must have a direct link to the artist work.

September to February half term Year 10

The controlled assessment will be complete when…

All work on the student guideline sheet has been completed.  The member of staff responsible for the student has ticked off to indicate completion in their mark books and they have advised the student to move onto the next unit.

May Year 11

Support material and sources for research

 

 

Internet access, camera/digital photography library and department books. 

All websites, resources and books used must be clearly recorded at the back of each sketchbook.

 

Subject

Art and Design (Fine Art)

Exam Board

AQA

Title of work

Unit 3

(Incorporating the GCSE Mock Art Exam) 

Brief description of the work to be produced

Unit 3 should contain a sketchbook, idea/design sheets, experimental work/samples and a final piece of work.  The mock exam will be incorporated into this unit (7 week preparation time/5 hour mock exam).

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

 

A sketchbook which should include drawing and experiments using a variety of media eg. biro, pencil, oil pastel and paint etc.  References should be made to the work of artists, crafts persons and designers.  Pupils will be expected to make personal comments about their work.  The sketchbook should show sampling and the development of ideas. (Sketchbook should be annotated).

October Year 11

A critical studies sheet or the equivalent.  This should include four/five studies which include the details of the works of art, studies and the student’s personal thoughts and opinions.  Descriptive writing, linking artist work to pupils.

A development of ideas sheet or equivalent (approx 4 – 6 pages of sketchbook).  This should include at least 3 studies which plan out possible final ideas.  They should be completed in a variety of media suitable to the task.  Personal comments must be included – why they think the idea is successful/or not etc.

For the final pieces of work pupils should produce ideas using a range of materials and techniques.  These may include mixed media, painting, 3 dimensional sculpture, clay work, print and textiles.  It must have a direct link to the artist work.

Continuous from October to Christmas (at least 11/2 to 2 hours of homework per week)

Mock exam takes place in November.

The controlled assessment will be complete when…

All components to each project are checked by staff.

May Year 11

Support material and sources for research

Internet access, camera/digital photography, library and department books. 

All websites and resources and books used must be clearly recorded at the back of each sketchbook.  Each unit (project) of work is fully completed and clearly labelled.  It is then checked by staff and placed in each pupil’s folder.

Design and Technology

Subject

Design and Technology:  Food and Cookery

Exam Board

NCfE

Outline of the course

This qualification is designed for learners with an interest in food and cookery. It provides learners with experience of using different cooking techniques and methods to enable them to use these within further education or apprenticeships. It will provide a basic understanding of the skills required for a career in food.

This will require learners to:

  • prepare and cook using basic skills

  • understand food and its functions in the body and in recipes

  • understand balanced diets and modification of recipes for health

  • plan and produce dishes for a purpose

 

Year 10

Unit 1 Preparing to cook

This unit aims to introduce learners to safe preparation of food, the cooking environment and ingredients. Learners will be able to use basic cooking skills, equipment and utensils to produce a variety of dishes.

Guided learning hours: 30

Unit 2 Understanding food

This unit will provide learners with an understanding of factors that can affect food choices. Learners will be able to apply these factors when selecting and cooking dishes.

Guided learning hours: 30

Year 11

Unit 3 Exploring balanced diets

Learners will understand the importance of a balanced diet. They will learn about Reference Intake (RI)/Guideline Daily Amounts (GDAs) and how food labels can inform healthy eating. Learners will be able to change recipes to make them healthier.

Guided learning hours: 30

Unit 4 Plan and produce dishes in response to a brief

This unit will give learners the opportunity to bring together their learning and skills developed throughout the course to produce a menu in response to a brief. Learners will plan, make and review their completed dishes.

Guided learning hours: 30

Outline of the assessment

Units 1, 2 and 4 are internally assessed and are each worth 25%.

Unit 3 is externally assessed in a 50 minute exam based on the content of units 1, 2, and 4 and is worth 25%.

All units are assessed on a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade.

 

Subject

Design and Technology: Resistant Materials

Exam Board

AQA

Brief description of the controlled assessment work to be produced

The controlled assessment for this subject is worth 60% of the overall course grade.  It begins at the end of Year 10 and is continued throughout Year 11.  Pupils are expected to spend at least 1½ hours per week on the controlled assessment as homework, if pupils keep to the deadlines outlined below and listen to the advice of teachers they are guaranteed to fulfil their potential at the end of the course.

There are two parts to the design controlled assessment:

  • Production of design portfolio

  • Manufacture of working models/prototypes and final product.

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

Stage 1

Project outline (1 x A4 handout); list of research sources (1 x A4 list); initial plan of controlled assignment (1 xA4 handout)

Analysis of the problem (1 xA3 sheet); research and analysis of similar products and contextualised detail (2 x A3 sheets); initial ideas and further development (2 x A3 sheets); design and construction of models (1 – 2 x A3 sheets).

Further development of ideas (1 x A3); working drawing (1 x A3); specifications (1 x A4).

February Year 10

 

Easter Year 10

 

End of July Year 10

Stage 2

Analysis and evaluation of the project so far, production of a one term plan (1 x A3)

Research into  components and joints (1 – 3 xA3 sheets); further development of ideas including prototypes (2 – 3 x A3 sheets); plan of making, processes (3 x A3 sheets); start of construction (evidence of practical work).

Beginning of September Year 11

October half term Year 11

Stage 3

Computer presentation drawing; situation and brief; analysis of research; CAD/CAM (5 x A3 sheets) evidence of construction.  All parts of the product constructed and finish applied.

December Year 11

Stage 4

Casting; moral/social, environmental aspects of design; industrial practices; evidence of modifications evaluation.  Presentation of final design (5 x A3 sheets).  Assembled product completed.

February half term

Year  11

 

Subject

Design and Technology: Graphic Products

Exam Board

AQA

Title of work

Design Assessment

Brief description of the controlled assessment work to be produced

The controlled assessment for this subject is worth 60% of the overall course grade.  The controlled assessment begins at the end of year 10 and is continued throughout year 11.  Pupils are expected to spend at least 1½ hours per week on the controlled assessment as homework, if pupils keep to the deadlines outlined below and listen to the advice of teachers they are guaranteed to fulfil their potential at the end of the controlled assessment:

There are two parts to the design assignment:

  • Production of design portfolio

  • Manufacture of working models/prototypes and a range of final products

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

Stage 1

Project outline (1 x A4 handout); situation and brief of problem  (1 x A3 rough draft);

sourcing research (1 x A4 list); initial plan of controlled assessment (1 x A4 booklet)

May Year 10

Research material gathered which includes a range of relevant resource materials (to include examples of similar and existing promotional products; examples of advertising information on materials, finishes, methods of production).

June half term Year 10

Presentation of situation/brief; analysis of brief; environment or context page  (4 x A3)

Initial sketches

End of July Year 10

Stage 2

Initial sketches of 3 dimensional products to be produced (2 x A3)

+ Corporate identity

Beginning of September Year 11

Final version of research analysed and presented with specifications (3 – 4 x A3)

October Year 11

Final version of: development of ideas with models/prototypes (3 – 4 A3 + 3 – 4 models)

October half term

Stage 3

Final version of ideas developed to final solution with completed final model/prototype

(3 – 4 x A3 sheets + final model/prototype)

December Year 11

Stage 4

Final submission of controlled assignment (22 x A3 pages including evaluation; modifications; photos and  final products constructed, as suggested in the guidance materials)

February half term

Year  11

 

Subject

Design and Technology:  Systems & Control

Exam Board

AQA

Title of work

Design Assessment

Brief description of the work to be produced

The controlled assessment for this subject is worth 60% of the overall course grade.  The controlled assignment begins at the end of year 10 and is continued throughout year 11.  Pupils are expected to spend at least 1½ hours per week on the controlled assessment as homework, if pupils keep to the deadlines outlined below and listen to the advice of teachers they are guaranteed to fulfil their potential at the end of the course.

There are two parts to the controlled assessment:

  •             1. Production of design portfolio
  •             2. Manufacture of working models/prototypes and final product

 

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

Stage 1

Project outline (1 x A4 handout); analysis of problem  (2 x A4 rough draft)

sourcing research (1 x A4 sheet); initial plan of controlled assessment (1 x A4 handout)

Research materials gathered which includes a range of relevant resource materials (to include examples of similar products; information on components, mechanisms, letter to request information).

May half term Year 10

Final version of situation/brief; analysis of brief; environment or context page (5xA4).

End of July Year 10

Stage 2

Initial sketches of 3 dimensional products to be produced (5 x A4).

Ideas for electronic circuits x 6 with analysis.

Ideas for flow chart x 6 with analysis.

Beginning of September Year 11

Final version of research analysed and presented with specifications (6 x A4).

 

Final version of development of ideas with models/prototypes (6 A4 + 1-2 models).

October half Term

Stage 3

Final version of ideas, developed to final solution with completed final model/prototype

(6 x A4 sheets + final model/prototype).

December Year 11

Stage 4

Final submission of controlled assessment (30 x A4 including evaluation, modifications; photos; final product, as suggested in the guidance worksheet).

February half term

Year  11

The controlled assignment will be complete when…

Controlled assessment is completed when candidates have produced a relevant portfolio consisting of approximately 30 sheets of A4 work along with a number of models/prototypes developed into a final product manufactured to the highest quality possible.

February Year 11

Support material

Controlled assessment advice sheets – hard copy with pupils and copy on school web site.

Relevant software available for home use.

Support sessions available by staff between 3:10pm and 4:30pm two/three nights per week.

Exemplar materials – on school web site.

Website addresses – hard copy with students and copy on school web site.

 

Drama

Subject

Drama

Exam Board

Edexcel (9-1)

Outline of the course

Year 10 

Component 1 Devising Introduction

  • Exploring themes/topics

Component 2 Performance from text. Exploration

  • Reading and exploring one text in preparation for Mocks

Component 3

  • Theatre Makers. Study of exam text
  • Theatre visit and written evaluation

Year 11

Component 3

  • Theatre Makers. Preparation for exam

Component 2 Performance from text

  • Reading and exploring one text in preparation for Mocks

Component 1 Devising

  • Exploring themes/topics: Assessment

Component 3

  • Theatre Makers. Preparation for exam

 

Geography

Subject

Geography

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course

Year 10

  • Autumn 1
    Urban Issues and Challenges; Pattern of urban change, LIC and UK case study for urban change and challenges, sustainable urban living.
  • Autumn 2
    Salford Quays Fieldstudy – Urban Development Study
  • Spring 1
    The challenge of natural hazards;
    Tectonics: earthquakes and volcanoes. Weather and Climate Change: tropical storms, UK extreme weather (cause, impact and monitoring).
  • Spring 2
    The changing economic world; economic development and quality of life, reducing the global development gap, UK economic future.
  • Summer 1 & 2
    Castleton Fieldstudy – Impacts of tourism on the natural environment.

Year 11 

  • Autumn 1
    The living world;
    Ecosystems, tropical rainforests (features, impacts and management), hot deserts (features, opportunities and desertification issues).
  • Autumn 2
    The challenge of resource management;
    Resource management (food, water and energy). Water resources; demand, insecurities and strategies for sustainable management.
  • Spring 1
    Physical landscapes of the UK;
    UK landscape including; upland, lowland and river systems. Coasts and Rivers; landforms and management.
  • Spring 2 onwards
    Pre-release material for Paper 3 and revision.

 

Computing and ICT

Subject

Computer Science GCSE

Exam Board

EDEXCEL

Outline of the course

Year 10

Problem Solving

This part of the course will look into the nature of algorithms, what they are used for and how to interpret them (flowcharts, pseudo- code, written descriptions, program code). You will learn how to create an algorithm to solve a particular problem, making use of programming constructs (sequence, selection, iteration) and using appropriate conventions (flowchart, pseudo-code, written description, draft program code).

Data

In this section you will learn about how computers use binary, hexadecimal and character sets to represent data (numbers, text, sound, and graphics) and program instructions. You will learn how they are used to represent and manipulate numbers (unsigned integers, signed integers (sign and magnitude, two’s complement)) and how to convert between the different types, i.e. binary and denary whole numbers (0–255).

Computer Architecture 

This section of the course helps you to understand the input-process-output model and the function of different hardware components of a computer system (CPU, main memory, secondary storage, input and output devices) along with how they work together.

Programming

In this section you will learn how to write programs in a high-level programming language and understand the benefit of producing programs that are easy to read; using a variety of techniques (comments, descriptive names (variables, constants, subprograms), indentation) to improve readability and to explain how the code works. You will design, implement, test/debug and evaluate the code you write for given scenarios.

Year 11

Communication and the Internet

In this part of the course you will understand why computers are connected in a network and learn about the different types of networks (LAN, WAN) and usage models (client-server, peer-to-peer).  You will investigate the importance of network security and be able to use appropriate validation and authentication techniques (access control, physical security and firewalls) to keep networks secure.

The Bigger Picture 

This section helps you to understand the environmental impact of technology (health, energy use, resources) on society and gain an appreciation of for the ethical impact of using technology (privacy, inclusion, professionalism) on society. You will also look into the legal impact of using technology (intellectual property, patents, licensing, open source and proprietary software, cyber-security) on society.

Programming

This is a continuation of the year 10 element of programming where you will extend your knowledge for writing code that accepts and responds appropriately to user input. You will understand the need for, and how to implement, validation and write code that reads/writes from/to a text file. You will also learn about the benefits of using subprograms and be able to write code that uses user-written and pre-existing (built- in, library) subprograms.

Languages

Subject

French

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course 

The course covers three distinct themes. These themes apply to all four examination papers (listening, speaking, reading and writing).  Pupils are expected to understand and provide information and opinions about these themes relating to their own experiences and those of other people, including people in countries and communities in which French is spoken. The three themes are: (1) Identity and culture, (2) Local, national, international and global areas of interest, (3) Current and future study and employment.

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 10

  • Relationships with family and friends
  • Home, town, neighbourhood and region
  • My studies
  • Free time activities
  • Social issues
  • Life at school
  • Customs and festivals in French-speaking countries
  • Travel and tourism
  • Education post 16

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 11

  • Global issues – the environment
  • Social issues – charity/voluntary work
  • Career choices and ambitions
  • Technology in everyday life – social media, mobile technology
  • Global issues – poverty, homelessness 

 

Subject

German

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course 

The course covers three distinct themes. These themes apply to all four examination papers (listening, speaking, reading and writing).  Pupils are expected to understand and provide information and opinions about these themes relating to their own experiences and those of other people, including people in countries and communities in which German is spoken. The three themes are:- (1) Identity and culture, (2) Local, national, international and global areas of interest, (3) Current and future study and employment.

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 10 

  • Relationships with family and friends
  • Home, town, neighbourhood and region
  • My studies
  • Free time activities
  • Social issues
  • Life at school
  • Customs and festivals in German-speaking countries
  • Travel and tourism
  • Education post 16

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 11

  • Global issues – the environment
  • Social issues – charity/voluntary work
  • Career choices and ambitions
  • Technology in everyday life – social media, mobile technology
  • Global issues – poverty, homelessness

 

Subject

Spanish

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course 

The course covers three distinct themes. These themes apply to all four examination papers (listening, speaking, reading and writing).  Pupils are expected to understand and provide information and opinions about these themes relating to their own experiences and those of other people, including people in countries and communities in which Spanish is spoken. The three themes are: (1) Identity and culture, (2) Local, national, international and global areas of interest, (3) Current and future study and employment.

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 10

  • Relationships with family and friends
  • Home, town, neighbourhood and region
  • My studies
  • Free time activities
  • Social issues
  • Life at school
  • Customs and festivals in Spanish-speaking countries
  • Travel and tourism
  • Education post 16

Outline of Topics to be covered in Year 11 

  • Global issues – the environment
  • Social issues – charity/voluntary work
  • Career choices and ambitions
  • Technology in everyday life – social media, mobile technology
  • Global issues – poverty, homelessness
Music

Subject

Music

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course

Year 10

Autumn 1

  • Rock Music (1960s and 70s)
  • Music of Broadway (1950s-90s)
  • 1st solo performance
  • Creating chord sequences and melodies (composition)

Autumn 2

  • Film and gaming music
  • Pop Music 1990s-present
  • 2nd solo performance
  • Minimalism/Blues/ Reggae (composition)

Spring 1

  • Coronation Anthems and Oratorios of Handel
  • Orchestral Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven
  • 1st ensemble performance
  • Start composition 1

Spring 2

  • Piano music of Chopin and Schumann
  • The Requiem of the late Romantic period
  • 2nd ensemble performance
  • Continue Composition 1

Summer 1

  • Blues Music from 1920s-1950
  • Fusion Music (African/Caribbean)
  • Continue Composition 1
  • Solo final recordings

Summer 2

  • Contemporary Latin Music
  • Contemporary folk music of the British Isles
  • Complete Composition 1 and write up

Year 11

Autumn 1

  • Orchestral Music of Copeland
  • British music of Arnold, Britten, Maxwell- Davies and Tavener
  • Solo/ensemble performances
  • begin Composition 2 (to a brief)

Autumn 2

  • Orchestral music of Kodaly and Bartok
  • Minimalist Music of John Adams, Steve Reich and Terry Riley
  • Complete rough draft of Composition 2

Spring 1

  • Exam practice
  • Solo/Ensemble final recordings
  • Continue Composition 2

Spring 2

  • Exam practice
  • Complete composition 2 and write up

Summer 1

  • Exam practice
PE

Subject

Physical Education (GCSE)

Exam Board

AQA

Outline of the course

Year 10

The human body and movement in physical activity and sport

Year 11

Socio-cultural influences and well-being in physical activity and sport

Outline of the assessment

This qualification is linear.

Linear means that students will sit all their exams and submit all their non-exam assessment at the end of the course.

Controlled Assessment – Practical Performance in physical activity and sport.

  • 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 to bring about improvement in one activity.

 

40%

 

External Test

Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Outline of content: Applied anatomy and physiology, Movement analysis, Physical training.

 

30%

External Test

Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Outline of content: Sports psychology,  Socio-cultural influences, Health, fitness and well-being

 

30%

Religious Studies

Subject

Religious Studies Full Course GCSE

Exam Board

EDEXCEL

Outline of the course

  • The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
  • Develop their knowledge and understanding of religions and non-religious beliefs, such as atheism and humanism.
  • Develop their knowledge and understanding of religious beliefs, teachings, and sources of wisdom and authority, including through their reading of key religious texts, other texts, and scriptures of the religions they are studying.
  • Develop their ability to construct well-argued, well-informed, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of the subject.
  • Engage with questions of belief, value, meaning, purpose, truth, and their influence on human life.
  • Develop and understanding of other cultures and how integration can prevent conflict within a multicultural society.

Year 10

With a focus on Christianity the pupils will study the following four areas:

  • Beliefs and Ideology
  • Marriage and the Family
  • Living as a member of a faith
  • Matters of Life and Death

Year 11

With a focus on Islam pupils will study the following four areas:

  • Beliefs and Ideology
  • Crime and Punishment
  • Living as a member of a faith
  • War and Peace

 

 

Business

Subject

Business Studies

Exam Board

OCR GCSE Business Studies J253

Outline of the course

Year 10

Autumn 1

  • Induction assignment
  • Unit 2: People and Business – types of ownership, charities and social enterprise.

Autumn 2

  • Unit 2: People and Business
  • aims and objectives of business
  • location factors in a global context
  • stakeholders

Spring 1

  • Unit 2 :People and Business
  • primary, secondary and tertiary sectors
  • Business interdependence and its importance in influencing business activity.
  • Integration and growth

Spring 2

  • Unit 2: People and Business
  • Recruitment and selection methods
  • Training methods
  • Trade unions

Summer 1

  • Unit 2: People and Business
  • Internal organisation and functional areas of a business.
  • Communication methods
  • Impact of ICT developments on business communication and on the workforce.
  • Employment laws

Summer 2

  • Unit 1: Marketing and Enterprise
  • Prep work for task 1 of the controlled assignment.

 

Year 11

Autumn 1

  • Unit 1: Marketing and Enterprise
  • Write up for task 1
  • Prep work for task 2/3 of the controlled assignment.

Autumn 2

  • Unit 1: Marketing and Enterprise
  • Write up for task 1
  • Prep work for task 2/3 of the controlled assignment.
  • Unit 3: introduction the case study for Unit 3

Spring 1

  • Unit 2 :People and Business
  • Motivation methods
  • Unit 3: Production and the external environment
  • Types of production methods
  • Management and control of production

Spring 2

  • Unit 3: Production and the external environment
  • Sources of finance
  • Financial forecasting and analysis
  • The competitive environment

Summer 1

  • Unit 3: Production and the external environment
  • Environmental influences and business ethics
  • Government and the UK economy
  • Globalisation and UK business

Summer 2

  • Revision for unit 2 and 3 
Child Development

Subject

Child Development

Exam Board

OCR

Title of work

Child Development Short Tasks (in Y10)

Child Study Task (in Year 11)

Brief description of the work to be produced

In Year 10 pupils are set 3 tasks which are internally assessed and externally moderated. Together these form 30% of the total GCSE marks.

In Year 11 pupils complete a Child Study which is internally assessed and externally moderated. This forms 30% of the total GCSE marks.

Since the subject is 60% controlled assessment it is vital that the quality and detail of the work is of the highest standard. Homework will be set to research each task and complete work started in class.

Assignments that they will be working on:

What they should have done / what you can expect to see

Approximate date

A Healthy pregnancy

leaflet or booklet explaining why a healthy lifestyle is essential for a pregnant mother and her unborn baby.

Planning and evaluation sections related to the leaflet or booklet.

December of Year 10

 

A planned stay in hospital for a child

game or book to prepare a five year old for a planned stay in hospital.

Planning and evaluation sections related to the game or book

March of Year 10

 

Investigation task

An investigation into ‘Choosing Baby Food’.

It should include primary research.

Planning and evaluation sections related to the investigation.

June of Year 10

 

 

Child study of a child under 5 years of age

Area of the study selected and assignment title written. Relevant research carried out, activities planned for visits.

October of Year 11

Four out of the six visits carried out, observations written up and compared to research.

December of Year 11

 

Final two visits carried out, written up and then compared to task title and earlier research.

Conclusion/Evaluation sections completed.

February of Year 11

 

Support material

Details of each task will be given directly to the students as they require it.

Resources will be given to support all the tasks.

These guidance sheets will all also be on the school website.

Home Cooking Skills

Edexcel BTEC level 2 Award in Home Cooking Skills (QCF) 

Home Cooking Skills is a level 2 BTEC qualification that gives the learners the opportunity to develop their cooking skills by exploring recipes for nutritious meals. Each recipe is underpinned with knowledge about planning and sourcing food, hygiene and food safety. How to cook different elements of a meal to serve them at the same time are considered in this unit. The importance of presenting food well and how this contributes to its enjoyment is reflected on in this unit.

This course consists of over 80 recipes, all divided into manageable sections and covering key topics from eggs and baking to vegetables and quick-cook meats.

Learners will demonstrate their skills by selecting recipes for a nutritious two-course meal and following the recipes to prepare, cook and present the meal.

This course gives learners the opportunity to develop;

  • the knowledge, understanding and confidence to cook meals at home
  • an understanding of how to economise when planning a meal
  • an ability to transfer skills learned to different recipes
  • an ability to inspire others by transferring that knowledge

This course has been developed in partnership with Jamie Oliver Ltd and has been inspired by his food initiatives and campaigns


Year 2

Edexcel Level 2 Higher Project

Title – Can recipes for eating on the go food products be modified to better follow healthy eating guidelines?

This unit gives pupils the opportunity to research existing food products. Plan and develop a range of eating on the go food products.

Pupils will consider;

  • the nutritional analysis of food products
  • the nutritional traffic light system
  • adapting and development of recipes

Practical skills include;

  1. Knife skills
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques for fruits and vegetables and, where appropriate, also those that relate to meat and fish or their alternatives:

    – Meat, fish and alternatives – fillet a chicken breast, portion a chicken, remove fat and rind, fillet fish, slice raw and cooked meat and fish or alternatives (such as tofu and halloumi) evenly and accurately
    – fruits and vegetables – bridge hold, claw grip, peel, slice, dice and cut into even size pieces (i.e. batons, julienne)

  1. Prepare fruits and vegetables
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – mash, shred, scissor snip, scoop, crush, grate, peel, segment, de-skin, de-seed, blanch, shape, pipe, blend, juice and prepare garnishes whilst demonstrating the technical skills of controlling enzymic browning and spoilage and preventing food poisoning (wash and dry, where appropriate)

  1. Prepare combine and shape
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – roll, wrap, skewer, mix, coat, layer meat, fish and alternatives, and shape and bind wet mixtures (such as falafels, fish cakes or meatballs) whilst demonstrating the technical skill of preventing cross contamination and handle high risk foods correctly

  1. Tenderise and marinate
    Be able to demonstrate how acids denature protein and marinades add flavour and moisture when preparing vegetables, meat, fish, and alternatives.
  2. Select and adjust a cooking process
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – select and adjust the cooking process and length of time to suit the ingredient, for example to match the cut of meat, fish and alternatives

  1. Weigh and measure
    Be able to demonstrate accurate measurement of liquids and solids.
  2. Preparation of ingredients and equipment
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – grease/oil, line, flour, evenly and with attention to finished product

  1. Use of equipment
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – use a blender, food processor, mixer, and microwave

  1. Water based methods using the hob
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
  • steaming
  • boiling and simmering
  • blanching
  • poaching
  1. Dry heat and fat based methods using the hob
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
  • dry frying
  • pan (shallow frying)
  • stir frying
  1. Using the grill
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques with a range of foods, such as vegetables, meat, fish or alternatives such as halloumi, seeds and nuts:
  • char
  • grill or toast
  1. Using the oven
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
  • baking
  • roasting
  • casseroles and/or tagines
  • braising
  1. Make sauces
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – make a blended white sauce (starch gelatinisation) such as a roux and all in one blended sauce, infused sauce, veloute, bechamel, to demonstrate understanding of how liquid/starch ratios affect the viscosity and how conduction and convection work to cook the sauce and the need for agitation
    – make a reduction sauce such as pasta sauce, curry sauce, gravy, meat sauce (including meat alternatives such as myco-protein and textured vegetable protein) to demonstrate how evaporation concentrates flavour and changes the viscosity of the sauce
    – make an emulsion sauce such as a salad dressing, mayonnaise, hollandaise to demonstrate the technical skill of how to make a stabilised emulsion

  1. Set a mixture – removal of heat (gelation)
    Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:

    – use starch to set a mixture on chilling for layered desserts such as custard or cheesecake
    – Set a mixture – heating (coagulation)
    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – use protein to set a mixture on heating such as denatured protein in eggs for quiche, choux pastry

  2. Use of raising agents

    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – use egg (colloid foam) as a raising agent – create a gas-in-liquid foam – whisking egg whites, whisked sponge
    – use chemical raising agents – self raising flour, baking powder
    – use steam in a mixture (choux pastry, batter)
  3. Make dough

    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – use the technical skills of shortening, gluten formation, fermentation (proving) for bread, pastry, pasta

  4. Shaping and finishing a dough

    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – roll out pastry, use a pasta machine, line a flan ring, create layers (palmiers), proving/resting,
    – glazing and finishing such as pipe choux pastry, bread rolls, pasta, flat breads, pinwheels, pizza, calzone

  5. Test for readiness

    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – use a temperature probe, knife/skewer, finger or ‘poke’ test, ‘bite’, visual colour check or sound to establish whether an ingredient or recipe is ready

  6. Judge and manipulate sensory properties

    – Be able to demonstrate the following techniques:
    – how to taste and season during the cooking process
    – change the taste and aroma through the use of infusions, herbs and spices, paste, jus, reduction
    – how to change texture and flavour, use browning (dextrinisation) and glazing, add crust, crisp and crumbs
    – presentation and food styling – use garnishes and decorative techniques to improve the aesthetic qualities, demonstrate portioning and presenting

  7. ASSESSMENT
    – All assessment takes the form of internally assessed assignment.
Dance

Subject

First Certificate in Performing Arts (Dance)

Exam Board

EDEXCEL  

Year 10 

Autumn 1-spring 1

  • Unit 1: Dance skills-

Spring 2- Summer 1

  • Unit 2: Movement Skills

Summer 2

  • Unit 3: Jazz Dance Technique

Year 11 

Autumn 1- Spring 1

  • Unit 4: Individual Showcase
  • Unit 5: Preparation, production and performance

Spring 2- Summer 1

  • Unit 6: The Performing Arts Industry
  • Unit 7: Contemporary Dance Techique

Outline of the assessment 

BTEC first Certificate in Performing arts is weighted 25% external assessment and 75% controlled assessment.

The controlled assessment is spilt into 5 separate units, each concluding with a final live performance.

Externally assessed units include the online Performing Arts Industry test and Individual showcase (see outline of course) which take place in Year 11.

Controlled Assessment 

This is the main form of assessment within this course throughout the two years.  Each unit is assessed for the pupil’s effort and participation in lessons, standard of their log books/research and their performance of their final assessment

 

75%

 

External Test 1:Individual Showcase

Time Two 1-2 minute solo performances and a letter of application.

Outline of content:  *See course outline

12.5%

External Test 2: The Performing Arts Industry Online Exam 

Time 1 Hour (50 marks)

Outline of content: *See course outline

12.5%