TRINITY SCHOOL CROYDON GCSE Courses for September 2013

TRINITY SCHOOL CROYDON
GCSE Courses for September 2013
For distribution to Third Formers and their Parents
Although major changes are not anticipated there may be some alterations to the detail described
in this booklet between now and September.
Please note that as well as examined GCSE courses, all boys do games on one afternoon each week and have
one PE lesson per week. They also follow a non‐examined course over the two years in personal
development.

January 2013
General Certificate of Secondary Education
Your son is now approaching the stage when choices for GCSE subjects must be made. This booklet contains
information on the examined courses taught at Trinity. Some subjects will follow International GCSE courses
instead of GCSE courses. The International GCSE courses are in most cases very similar to the GCSE courses
although they often involve less coursework. In each subject we have chosen the course that we feel
provides the best route for our students and all of these courses are valued by universities as suitable
qualifications. In this booklet the term GCSE will be used to refer to both types of course.
All boys are expected to take GCSEs in English Language, English Literature, and Mathematics. In Science all
boys will continue to study Biology, Chemistry and Physics and will take separate examinations for each
science. For about half of our boys the results of these will be combined to produce a Double Award grade
which will count as two GCSEs; this is a very common form of GCSE science certification. For others it will
lead to three separate GCSE grades, one in each science. The decision as to which of these routes is
appropriate for your son will be made in June after reviewing his progress through the year and in the end of
year examinations and further details will follow then. Whichever route is taken, each boy is taught by three
specialists, one for each of the sciences.
In addition to the GCSE qualifications above, four additional subjects need to be chosen from this list:
Art
Chinese
Design Technology
Drama
French
Geography
German
History
Latin
Music
Physical Education
Photography
Religious Studies
Spanish
(i) at least one modern foreign language must be chosen.
(ii) at least one humanity must be chosen (Geography, History, Religious Studies)
(iii) Art and Photography cannot both be chosen.
Students who have been following the extra Greek course in the Third Year and who opt to take Latin as one
of their GCSEs, may choose to continue with Greek as an extra subject taught in additional lessons during one
lunchtime and one after school session.
Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the selected subjects are provided in the timetable in any
combination. However subjects can only run if there is sufficient demand and it may not always be possible
to provide every combination. If any difficulties should arise for particular individuals, we will discuss the
situation with you as soon as possible.
Boys have been given guidelines about how they should be thinking. Ability and interest are strong
motivators, but it is also important to pursue a broad education. There are very few career implications in
choices made at this stage.
You may well wish to discuss aspects of this decision at the Parents' Evening on 28 th February.
We are asking for provisional choices by 12 th February to help us plan ahead, and final decisions will be
needed by 12 th March.
Further ahead will be the decision concerning entry to the Trinity Sixth Form. Admission to the Sixth Form is
not automatic. We would expect Sixth Form students to have achieved A* or A grades in the subjects they
wish to study in the Sixth Form or in closely related subjects. Students who are not likely to achieve this will
need to take further advice about their options. We also expect students to have shown good work habits
during their GCSE courses and to achieve a minimum of 51 points (A* = 8, A = 7, B = 6, C = 5) in their best
nine GCSE results, including a minimum of 4 A grades. Subject specific grade requirements for each AS course
are also included at the end of this document.
N H Denman, Director of Studies

ART and PHOTOGRAPHY
Edexcel GCSE in Art and Design (2AD01)
Edexcel GCSE in Art and Design: Photography ‐ Lens and Light‐based Media (2PY01)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/Art/Pages/default.aspx
The Art Department offers two GCSE courses: these are officially known as Art and Design [usually
referred to as Art] and Art Photography [usually referred to as Photography]. Each course provides
a good preparation for work to both AS and A2 level. The distinction between these courses lies in
their activities.
Introduction
Pupils in both subjects will work within given themes and will develop their art or photography
using a wide range of creative skills and techniques. They will study the work of other artists and
cultures to inform their own practice. Students will receive conceptual and technical guidance and
will be encouraged to develop independent and personal learning styles. They will gain experience
in the following areas:
Art
Painting
Drawing
Printmaking
Sculpture
Lensless and some digital photography
Graphics, computer manipulated images
Critical and contextual studies
Photography
Learning how to use 35 mm and digital cameras
Processing black and white films; darkroom enlarging processes
Image manipulation using Photoshop software and graphic design
Video animation and editing
Collage and photomontage
Multi‐media and photo sculptures
Some painting and drawing
Historical and technical aspects of the subject are studied alongside the practical work. Boys are
encouraged to develop their organisational and management skills during their studio and location
assignments. All boys require their own 35 mm and/or digital single lens reflex camera before they
commence the course: use will be made of this in an assignment set for completion during the
summer holiday at the end of this academic year.
Assessment
In both art and photography courses the examination consists of the following:
a) 10 hour practical examination (Externally Set Assignment.) Plus preparatory work for
above in the form of a work journal. Worth 40% of the GCSE
b) Controlled Assessment. Worth 60% of the GCSE
The candidate (with staff assistance) will mount a final assessment exhibition of work in the Shaw
Gallery for marking and grading by the Art Department and moderation by an external assessor.
Please see Mr A C Smith ‐ Director of Art, should you require further details.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
Edexcel GCSE in Design and Technology: Resistant Materials Technology (2RM01)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/dt/Resistant/Pages/default.aspx
This exciting, open‐ended and varied course can be tailored to each student’s interests, abilities and
specialities. It builds upon the knowledge, skills and experience which boys have built up in previous
years and develops their abilities to solve the increasingly complex design problems that shape the
modern world. The course also develops and refines time‐management skills and encourages and
rewards an independent working methodology. Students will cultivate their designing and making
skills across a range of projects in the 4 th Year before deciding on a focus for their coursework in
discussion with their teacher. All aspects of the course encourage individuals to view the world
through the eyes of a designer and to question and understand how creative and practical decisions
affect the built environment and shape the development of manufactured products.
The course is open to any students who have an interest in problem‐solving and in developing their
design, analytical, evaluative and making skills as they apply them to a practical design solution.
Students will undertake a major coursework project which contributes 60% of the overall GCSE
mark. This coursework will test the students’ abilities in the following ways:
Identify and analyse a design problem.
Employ a variety of research gathering and presentation techniques to clarify their
understanding of the design scenario.
Employ a core of knowledge in the fields of materials, systems and control, manufacturing
processes, mechanisms and structures.
Present realistic design ideas using a range of graphical, ICT techniques and modeling.
Evaluate their ideas in consultation with a client to develop an ideal design solution.
Plan and safely manufacture a product using a range of manufacturing, engineering and
quality control techniques.
Evaluate and test the final product.
Projects may involve boys in a wide range of design and making experiences falling into the
following categories:
Storage Lighting Outdoors Furniture Leisure
Within these general, and deliberately open‐ended topic headings, student groups are encouraged
to develop a wide range of solutions in consultation with staff to complement their own skills,
interests and further educational needs. They will have the opportunity to use our superbly
resourced workshops and studios to develop solutions using the following:
Wood, Metal and Plastic construction.
Engineering processes ‐ traditional and CAD/CAM.
Systems and control – integrating electronic components.
Hot metal processes ‐ soldering, moulding, forming and welding.
Woodturning.
Traditional and computer‐aided model making.
Graphic presentation ‐ traditional and computer generated techniques.
The remaining 40% of the GCSE mark is assessed through an end‐of‐course written and design
examination which tests the students’ understanding of Design and Technology. The knowledge will
have been built up by their own experiences of the coursework and during the programme of
complementary studies.

DRAMA
WJEC GCSE in Drama
http://www.wjec.co.uk/index.php?subject=47&level=7
GCSE Drama is all about understanding what it is like to put yourself in somebody else’s shoes. You
will play many parts in different imaginary situations. You will have the opportunity to create your
own work as well as look at plays written by other people.
Will I enjoy this course?
You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that is both practical and creative. You may
have done some acting before or helped out backstage on a production. You may have always
wanted to have a go at making a play, performing, making costumes, building a set or operating the
lights but never had the chance. You will enjoy this course if you enjoy working as part of a team as
Drama involves a lot of group work.
How does it follow on from what I have learned before?
GCSE Drama follows on from drama work that you will have done lower down the school. You will
also look at plays in more detail and look at different ways of bringing a script alive on stage.
GCSE Examination
The examination for Unit 1 of GCSE Drama is a practical performance and a Devised Performance
Report. These are worth 60% of the marks. You will take part in a play that you have created. You
can either be examined on your acting skills in the performance or on your design and technical
skills (stage design, costume, masks and makeup, lighting or sound). You will perform the play in
front of an audience and it will be filmed. Your teachers will assess you, and then the marks will be
moderated by the examination board.
The examination of Unit 2 of GCSE Drama is very similar to Unit 1 except you choose a piece of
script and direct yourselves with guidance from your teacher. This is worth 20% of your marks and is
assessed by an external examiner.
The final 20% of your marks comes from a 90 minute written exam known as Unit 3, in which you
will be assessed on your ability to analyse one set text as an actor, designer and director and to
evaluate practical work completed in Unit 2.
What other skills might I develop?
As well as acquiring the skills involved in creating and performing Drama, you will also be able to
acquire skills in working with others, problem solving and communication. You will find that Drama
will help you feel more self‐confident and prepare you to deal with a range of different situations
and people.

ENGLISH STUDIES
Within the five weekly periods which are allocated to English, all boys will study for two GCSE
subjects; English Language and English Literature. Work will involve discussion and participation in
a range of speaking and listening activities, response to a variety of written material to develop
understanding of themes and attitudes and the ways writers achieve their effects, and development
of the ability to convey meaning effectively in writing, matching style to audience and purpose.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Edexcel International GCSE in English Language (Specification A) (4EA0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/eng‐langa/Pages/default.aspx
A written examination paper carrying 70% of the total marks is taken at the end of the two‐year
course. In it boys are tested on their understanding of selected passages of written English. Some of
these will be discussed and annotated in class. Also examined are their abilities to use these and
other stimulus materials to write for different audiences in a variety of modes. Boys will learn and
practise the necessary skills during the course.
There is also a written coursework component which offers the opportunity for boys to engage in a
wider range of styles and topics than in the examination. Creative writing, extended project work,
research and retrieval skills, the presentation of facts and opinions, media studies, ‐ all these may
find a place in the coursework programme. Boys will also write in response to an anthology
produced by the examination board. A folder of Coursework is kept and a selection made for final
GCSE assessment (20% of the total mark).
The Speaking and Listening Coursework component (10% of the total mark) will involve the
development and assessment of boys' speaking and listening skills as they engage in activities such
as debating, role play, formal talks, class and group discussion.
ENGLISH LITERATURE
Edexcel International GCSE in English Literature (4ET0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/eng‐lit/Pages/default.aspx
A written examination carries 70% of the marks and is based on study of one drama and one prose
text chosen from a list prescribed by the Examining Board.
The coursework component carries 30% of the marks. It requires the study of poetry drawn from an
anthology produced by the examination board as well as poems chosen by teacher and/or boys.
This will allow some freedom to pursue individual interests and complete a variety of written
responses.
In addition to fulfilling these examination requirements, boys will be given the opportunity to
develop their skills through study of one additional drama text and one additional prose text. Study
of these texts will be tested through internal examinations at the end of Fourth Year. In addition
boys will be encouraged to develop and extend a love of reading for its own sake through
undertaking a programme of individual private reading and completing a personal, critical log of
their reading. This too will be assessed.
The demands of the two subjects offer boys an introduction to at least some of the wealth of
literature available to them, and an opportunity to develop confidence and proficiency in their use
of language, whether spoken or written.

GEOGRAPHY
Edexcel International GCSE in Geography (4GE0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/geography/Pages/default.aspx
Geography has always been a very dynamic subject, providing the flexibility to study a wide range of
topics and contemporary world issues making it relevant to so much of the world around us all.
Having studied elements of the Hazardous Environments (Earthquakes and Volcanoes), Coastal
Environments (Depositional features and Fieldwork) and Globalisation and Migration (Population
and Migration) modules in the Third year, you should have a good feeling for the content and depth
of material which is required at GCSE.
Studying Geography at GCSE builds upon the solid foundations you will have established in the
Junior School and helps you to synthesise and ultimately analyse information at a high
level. Geography also enables you to develop literacy, graphicacy and numeracy, as well as a wide
range of geographical skills. Since September 2009 we have been following the new International
GCSE specification, which we feel gives our students a broad and varied course, which balances an
understanding of physical, human and environmental geography.
The Edexcel International GCSE in Geography:
• Aims to actively engage students in the study of Geography, developing them as critical and
reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.
• Promotes an understanding of our responsibilities as global citizens and of how students
can contribute to a future that is sustainable and inclusive.
• Encourages the use of out‐of‐classroom activities and fieldwork to underpin knowledge and
understanding, yet does not require a coursework write‐up.
• Is assessed through one external examination.
• Is designed to have a clear and manageable case study requirement.
• Provides a solid basis for progression to GCE AS and Advanced qualifications in Geography.
Examination
The single tier examination paper (3 hour) will contain a variety of question types, such as multiple
choice; short and extended answers; graphical and data questions and fieldwork questions. The
content of the specification is both conceptual and issues‐based, and is divided into traditional core
of physical (1&2) and human (3‐4) geography, as well as contemporary global issues (5).
The topics covered are:
1. Coastal environments
2. Hazardous environments
3. Economic activity and energy
4. Urban environments
5. Globalisation and migration
Fieldwork
There is no written coursework requirement; however the specification requires that fieldwork is
undertaken in a variety of different environments to aid understanding of the core themes. There
are a variety of individual field days for the different topic areas including an afternoon in the
London Docklands to assess the nature of the changing employment in the area.
Overall, the course teaches students about many of the processes that shape the world around us,
but more importantly it helps them to make their own informed and balanced decisions about the
world in which we live. The course is an excellent foundation for A‐level and beyond.

HISTORY
Edexcel International GCSE in History (4HI0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/history/Pages/default.aspx
The basic philosophy behind the Edexcel International GCSE is to test not what candidates learn by
heart, but what they know, understand and can do. The great advantage of this course is that it
allows the study of a range of countries, cultures and types of history which will encourage learning
above and beyond the syllabus. By the end of their two years studying History, all students will have
learnt not only about democracy, fascism and communism but also transferrable skills such as
constructing an argument, writing fluently and analysing source material. It is our philosophy in the
History Department to teach boys at a level that will not only ensure examination success, but will
additionally prepare them for the Sixth Form and beyond. The History course will do just this;
teaching students about the background to the world we live in and providing good preparation for
further study of a multitude of subjects at AS and A2 levels.
Assessment: There are two examinations of 90 minutes each. The first exam will encompass
Section A of the course, the second Section B.
Content:
Section A
i) Development of Dictatorship: Weimar and Nazi Germany 1919‐1945
Students explore Germany between the wars and the impact of WW2 on life within the country.
The greatest focus is on the rise of the Nazis and the state they led, with clear development of the
collapse of the Weimar government, the Wall Street Crash and the consolidation of power. The
course also explores Nazi social, economic and racial policy.
ii) A world divided: Superpower Relations 1945‐1962
Students study the causes and events of the Cold War, focusing on relations between the USA and
USSR. The course will begin with an introduction to the political systems of the two countries, a
fundamental starting point in any post‐war study. The main focus of the module is concerned with
the interplay between the superpowers and the boys will investigate the flashpoints that occur in
this period. This will include the division of Berlin, the Communist incursions into Eastern Europe,
the Cuban Missile Crisis and the beginnings of the Vietnam War.
Section B
iii) The Fall of Communism in Eastern Europe: 1979‐91
Leading on from the key issues involved in the Cold War power struggle, this unit will explore the
end of the Cold War. Through studying the events in Poland, Czechoslovakia, and the Soviet Union
which led to the fall of Communism and the reunification of Germany, students will be encouraged
to assess and appreciate the making of modern Europe.
iv) Conflict, Crisis and Change: China c1911‐1990
The module begins with an exploration of the Chinese Revolution and the rise of the Communist
Party/ Boys then study the civil war, the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution before
finishing with the abandonment of Maoism and the Deng Revolution.

LATIN
OCR GCSE in Latin J281
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse‐latin‐j281‐j081‐from‐2009/
Latin GCSE opens a window into Roman life and literature, giving students their first taste of original
Latin texts as they continue to develop their skills with the language. On top of this, the course also
gives the opportunity for students to explore and analyse archaeological and literary evidence left
for us by the Romans through the new Sources paper. Students will have four Latin lessons a week,
as well as the chance to take trips to the British Museum and further afield to complement their
work in the classroom and further their understanding of the Ancient World.
The GCSE Latin Examination consists of four papers:
Papers 1&2 (Language Work) 25%+25%
These consist of a series of comprehension questions in English on Latin passages, including
questions about the derivation of English words from Latin, and the translation of other passages
into English. There is a set vocabulary list. The Cambridge Latin Course continues to be used to
prepare for this paper.
Paper 3 (Verse Literature) 25%
This consists of translation and comprehension questions on passages from either Book 2 of Virgil's
poem the Aeneid, which describes the incident of the Trojan horse and the destruction of the
ancient city of Troy, or an antologu of poems on the topic of prophecies and omens. The questions
test knowledge of content and background, and literary appreciation of the work.
Paper 4 (Roman Life Topics) 25%
This consists of questions on literary and pictorial sources from the Roman Empire on the topics of
work, domestic life and entertainment such as the army, slaves, food and drink, chariot racing and
baths. It will require both factual knowledge of the topic and a analytical and evaluative response to
source material. The study of this topic develops work done lower down in the school on the
background topics.
There is no translation into Latin, and no coursework.
As well as exploring the exotic world of Roman civilisation ‐ by turns mysterious, luxurious,
sophisticated and distasteful ‐ the study of Latin develops logic and analytical skills, immeasurably
improves understanding of both English and other European modern languages, and allows
students to get acquainted with the very roots of the culture they live in.
GREEK
OCR GCSE in Classical Greek J291
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/gcse‐classical‐greek‐j291‐j091‐from‐2012/
Students currently taking the Greek course in the Third Year may apply to carry on with the course
to GCSE. One session will run during a lunchtime from 1.40 – 2.15pm, and one session from 4.00 –
5.00pm on a different day after school. This is the equivalent of just under three timetabled periods
per week and hence this course sets a challenging but manageable pace and is only suitable for
those who have demonstrated strong skills in Classics already and who will be taking Latin at GCSE
as one of their options. It will also, however, provide the opportunity to study a second fascinating
classical language and culture. The four exam papers follow the same format as Latin above.

MATHEMATICS
Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) (4MA0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/igcse09/maths/mathsA/Pages/default.aspx
All boys will study Higher Tier Mathematics and are entered for the examination at the end of the
Fifth Year. Those who are able to progress more quickly in the subject are placed in sets where the
depth and breadth of the course are greater, providing them with appropriate challenges. Boys in
set one will therefore study work in addition to the GCSE course and may be entered for an
additional examination beyond GCSE. Weaker mathematicians will be placed in smaller sets
allowing more individual help from their teacher. Higher tier covers grades from A* to D.
The assessment involves a final examination of two written papers (50% each). Calculators are
permitted in each paper. There is no coursework element to this course.
The course covers the four areas below, and there are underlying concepts which link these.
Number includes the principles of arithmetic, ratio, percentage, standard form and index form,
number patterns and harder topics such as surds. Mental arithmetic and the use of a calculator are
included.
Algebra includes much that is traditional in school mathematics such as the transformation of
formulae, simultaneous equations, quadratic functions and simple calculus. The algebra of sets and
functions is also included.
Shape, Space and Measures incorporates the geometrical topics: this includes symmetry, areas,
volume, trigonometry, circle theorems and geometrical transformations.
Handling Data includes the important ideas of statistical interpretation and probability.
It is our aim to provide a course which is both useful and enjoyable. We are anxious that all pupils
should complete the course feeling confident in their ability to make use of mathematics in their
future lives and we recognise that for some pupils this will be at a more sophisticated level than for
others.
Pupils are encouraged to approach members of the department if they have queries or are
concerned about their learning. Parents may also feel free to contact us if they feel that a discussion
would be helpful.

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
European Languages: French, German and Spanish
Edexcel International GCSE in French (4FR0), German (4GN0), Spanish (4SP0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/Pages/default.aspx
European languages in the Fourth and Fifth Years build the bridge between gaining a basic
understanding of the language in the Lower School and in‐depth study at AS and A level. The aim is
to provide students with language skills that are highly sought after in an ever changing job market,
but at the same time to give them an understanding of different cultures and life‐styles. European
languages, therefore, play an integral part in the personal development of students by helping them
to build self‐confidence in dealing with a wide variety of topics of the modern world.
French, German and Spanish are all taught to GCSE, A‐Level and Oxbridge Entrance.
International GCSE from Edexcel
There is only tier of entry: The grade range, therefore, covers all grades from A* to G.
The language to be met covers a range of topics from a variety of areas of modern life: Home and
abroad; education and employment; house, home and daily routine; the modern world and the
environment (including current affairs, use of ICT, social issues, etc.); social activities, fitness and
health.
The four skill areas are organised in three exam papers:
Listening (35 minutes). Exam exercises request the ability to listen for detail in complex texts. The
materials used convey the spirit of authenticity or have been recorded in the relevant country.
Language items range from short extracts to more complex dialogues and passages.
Reading and Writing (90 minutes). The materials used will allow students to understand signs and
simple messages as well as to comprehend more difficult passages including letters, magazine
extracts, leaflets and brochures. Students will learn how to skim‐read longer texts and how to
extract the necessary information in the shortest possible time.
Students will also be required to produce a short response in writing to one of the reading exercises
and one extended piece of writing, reacting to a short stimulus. They will have to demonstrate their
ability to write creatively and imaginatively. The more complex a language they can use the more
marks they will be awarded.
Speaking (10 minutes). Students will be given the opportunity to describe a picture of their own
choice, followed by an initial discussion. Thus, they are given the opportunity to start the exam
conversation with a topic of their interest and liking. The remaining two thirds of the conversation
will cover two out of the overall five topic areas. In this discussion students will have to
demonstrate that they can take part in a meaningful conversation, in which they will have to
respond spontaneously and creatively.
A period of time spent abroad is of great value. Every year trips suitable for most age groups are
organised by the French, German and Spanish departments. It is recommended that as many as are
able should benefit from them.

CHINESE (MANDARIN)
Edexcel GCSE in Chinese (2CN01)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/mfl/chinese/Pages/default.aspx
Chinese is now well established at Trinity with over one hundred students in the school taking
Chinese. GCSE has been offered at Trinity for the last four years and students achieve outstanding
results. As part of the course students will have regular oral language lessons with a native speaker
of Chinese.
Chinese GCSE assesses skills in speaking, writing, reading and listening. Reading and listening exams
can be taken at foundation and higher levels and are assessed by examination. It is envisaged that
students will take the four skills at the higher level. The published syllabus outlines very clearly the
topic areas to be covered and there is also a comprehensive list of minimum core vocabulary.
The four skills are examined as follows
Writing: Two examinations (1 hour each), taken in January and March of the 5 th year
Controlled assessment (course work style) examinations to be taken in January and March in the
fifth year. Students will be given the task before the exam and they will have time to prepare for the
exam. They can take into the exam a notes sheet and a bilingual dictionary.
Speaking: Two examinations (4‐6 minutes each), taken in November and March of the 5 th year
Controlled assessment (course work style) examinations to be taken in November and March in the
fifth year. Students will be given the task before the exam and they will have time to prepare for the
exam. They can take a notes sheet into the exam.
Reading: One examination (50 minutes), taken in June of the 5 th year
Listening: One examination (45 minutes), taken in June of the 5 th year
It is hoped that we will be able to offer a visit to China for students taking Chinese to GCSE.

MUSIC
Edexcel GCSE in Music (2MU01)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/music/Pages/default.aspx
This course is ideal for anyone who enjoys performing and composing, and especially for those who
listen to a lot of music. It caters for a wide range of abilities, incorporating all styles of music, from
Handel and Mozart to Jeff Buckley and Moby. Although the course may have an immediate appeal
to pupils who are already involved in school music activities, it is designed to include those whose
experience may be less formal. A genuine interest in music is the main criterion for choosing to take
this subject. Ideally, students aiming for an A/A* at GCSE should be at or near to Grade 5 standard
on their instrument or voice by the Spring term of the Fifth year.
PERFORMING (30%) Internally assessed, externally moderated.
Candidates will have to submit:
a) One solo performance
b) One ensemble performance
Candidates may offer a second instrument if they wish.
LISTENING AND APPRAISING (40%) Written examination, externally marked.
The emphasis in this element is on the development of critical listening applied to a wide range of
musical styles relating to the study of set works from four areas of study:
i) Western Classical Music 1600 ‐ 1899
ii) Music in the 20 th Century
iii) Popular Music in Context
iv) World Music
COMPOSING (30%) Internally assessed, externally moderated.
During the two‐year course, the candidates build up a portfolio of compositions written to briefs
relating to the areas of study. At the end of the two years, the two best compositions are selected
and submitted for assessment.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
AQA GCSE in Physical Education (4890)
http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/newgcses/science/new/phy_edu_overview.php?id=03&prev=03
The Physical Education course offers you the chance to put the sporting skills you have already
learned together with some new ones to earn the majority of the marks towards an excellent GCSE
grade. The work you have done in Games and PE lessons has put you in a very good position to do
well in the practical elements of the course. To prosper you need to demonstrate skills and playing
ability in 4 sports/activities from an extensive range. The coursework element is completed by
demonstrating the ability to analyse sporting performance and suggest ways to improve.
Boys who show the skills outlined above will have gained a large chunk of marks towards the final
grade but will need to augment these marks in an examination which will cover such topics as:
Health and Fitness; Diet; Fitness and Training; Anatomy and Physiology; Exercise Physiology; Safety
and Risk Assessment; Sports Injuries and First Aid; Organisation of sport; The Media, Sponsorship
and Sport Psychology.
Examination ‐ 40%
40% of the total marks will be awarded for a theory examination covering the areas of study
mentioned above.
Coursework ‐ 60%
60% of the marks are awarded for coursework and a practical examination of sporting performance.
Boys will need to present their practical accomplishments in 4 sporting activities drawn from a
variety of sporting disciplines. This practical performance represents 50% of the total marks.
The final 10% of marks are awarded for reflection upon and analysis of strengths and weaknesses in
practical performances from one of their chosen activities.
It is envisaged that boys will experience both theory and practical lessons, although there will be
heavy reliance upon the sporting achievements and progress already achieved by most of Trinity’s
sportsmen in order that the less familiar activities can be brought up to good standards.
Participation in school practices and matches will be required for boys undertaking sports played
within school.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Edexcel GCSE in Religious Studies (2RS01)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/rs/Pages/default.aspx
This is an exciting liberal course for any student who wishes to be literate in the ideas, ethics and
philosophies that are shaping the modern world. It inspects the consequences of what is claimed in
Ethics, Personal Values and the public arena of modern living at national and international levels.
The course is ideal for students who want to learn to argue effectively and hold up what is being
said to well‐informed scrutiny. Students can explore freely the way that religious and non‐religious
beliefs affect some of the fundamental issues at the heart of the 21st C. and are encouraged to
know how to develop key intellectual skills with which to form their own, informed views.
It is open to students of whatever outlook who want to develop a creative understanding of how
and why individuals and peoples think and act the way they do. Anyone who enjoys in‐depth
discussion and informed argument about the way modern life is developing will appreciate this
modern GCSE RS Course. It is excellent for cross‐curricular studies: the topics studied in RS ‐ shown
below ‐ enhance enjoyment of the Sciences, Arts and Humanities. Because the course touches so
many aspects of the curriculum and invites intellectual imagination, it brings insights which can
appeal in a wide range of ambitions in higher education and in employment.
Each year RS Overseas visits are held. These are low‐cost optional events. Destinations include
Rome, Istanbul, and Milan. There are also UK visits to cultural events and lectures, including
Theatre, Film and Exhibitions. The Department welcomes suggestions from students and their
families.
Syllabus
The Course studied is Edexcel’s RS GCSE Specification, Units 1 and 8, entitled ‘Religion and Life’ and
‘Religion and Society’: Christianity and Islam. Full details of the Course can be obtained from the RS
Department. There are two Exam Papers, each of 1hr 30mins. These are usually spaced out in the
GCSE Exam Timetables to allow candidates easy preparation. Because there is no Coursework
involved, the course has plenty of room for individuals to explore the topics in depth.
Topics studied:
Religion, Law and Human Rights including: Crime and Punishment; Media Studies; Racial and Gender
equality
Medical ethics: Genetics; Cloning; Abortion; Euthanasia; Fertility and Transplant medicine Religion,
Politics and Ethics: War and Peace; United Nations; Situation Ethics; Utilitarianism; Economics and
Poverty
Religious Beliefs and Science: Does God exist; Origins of the Universe; Evolution; Theories of Good
and Evil; Miracles; Life after Death,
Environment: Global Warming; Pollution; Natural Resources
Personal morality: Family, Marriage and Divorce; Sexual ethics; Drugs and Alcohol
There is a very wide range of books and ICT media resources. The Department also has a policy of
buying in special individual purchases for pupils’ own personal interests. This GCSE course is the
ideal preparation for anyone who may wish to study Religious Studies at A level where the study of
Philosophy, Ethics and Religion are key features.
If you choose the GCSE course you will find that the topics in the Third Form course have given you
a good start in developing the skills needed for success at GCSE.

SCIENCE
Edexcel International GCSE in Science (Double Award) (4SC0)
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/science/Pages/default.aspx
OR
Edexcel International GCSEs in separate science subjects:
Biology (4BI0) http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/biology/Pages/default.aspx
Chemistry (4CH0) http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/chemistry/Pages/default.aspx
Physics (4PH0) http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/int‐gcse11/physics/Pages/default.aspx
All boys follow Edexcel International GCSE courses, which are particularly suitable for our students.
They have a straightforward assessment structure with very clear goals and requirements, spelt out
in detail in the relevant specifications. Academic rigour and sensible breadth of content mean that
both Triple and Double Award formats afford an excellent grounding for the many who will want to
continue with Science subjects in the Sixth Form.
About half the boys at Trinity study the Double Award course, in which the marks for all three
subject papers are added together to produce a single overall score. This then yields pairs of
identical or adjacent GCSE grades such as A*A*, A*A, AA, AB etc. These grades are not attached to
any individual subject within the mix, but give an overall measure of achievement. Others study the
Triple Award course which leads to three separate GCSE grades, one for each of the Sciences. These
can be as different as individual subject performance merits. In either case the work follows on
seamlessly from the material covered in earlier years and in both courses the three sciences
continue to be taught separately by subject specialists.
In order to make sure that each boy studies the most suitable course we make a decision for him
based evidentially on his progress in all the sciences through and up to the end of the Third Year.
We will inform you of this decision. The smaller amount of content in the Double Award, coupled
with its aggregate grading procedure, helps many boys achieve better quality grades in Science. This
is strategically sensible. Reduced work‐load may also assist their progress in other subjects. If good
grades are obtained, successful progression to AS‐level can occur from either the Double Award or
Triple Award course.
Throughout the course all boys are involved in practical and experimental work, but there is no
assessed coursework element for the examination.
At the end of the course Double Award candidates take a two hour paper in each of the three
sciences. Triple Award candidates take these same three ‘core’ science papers as the Double Award
candidates plus a further one hour extension paper in each of the three sciences. The commonality
of the core papers to both schemes locks in comparability, as well as establishing a similar
foundation for continuing study at AS.
Below is a summary of the main topic areas covered in both the Double Award and Triple Award
courses. The Triple Award goes into greater breadth and depth in some of these topics.
BIOLOGY CHEMISTRY PHYSICS
Nature and variety of living organisms Principles of chemistry Electricity
Structures and functions in organisms Chemistry of the elements Magnetism and electromagnetism
Reproduction and inheritance Organic chemistry Forces and motion
Ecology and the environment Physical chemistry Waves
Use of biological resources Chemistry in society Energy resources and transfer
Solids, liquids and gases
Radioactivity and particles

Subject specific grade criteria for AS courses in the Sixth Form at Trinity
As stated in the 6 th form Prospectus, students will normally have achieved an A or A* grade in each subject
chosen, or related subjects. Students who are not likely to achieve this will need to take further advice about
their options. We also expect students to have shown good work habits during their GCSE courses and to
achieve a minimum of 51 points (A* = 8, A = 7, B = 6, C = 5), including a minimum of 4 A grades in their best
nine GCSE results.
The following are the subject specific minimum GCSE requirements for courses starting in September 2013.
AS Subject
Minimum GCSE requirements
Art 1
A in Art
Biology 2
A in Biology or AA in Double Award Science
Business Studies
B in English
Chemistry 2
A in Chemistry or AA in Double Award Science
Classical Civilisation B in English
Design and Technology B in Design and Technology
Drama and Theatre Studies A in Drama
Economics
B in Mathematics and English
Electronics
A in Mathematics
English
B in English Language and Literature
French
A in French
Geography 3
B in Geography and English
German
A in German
Government & Politics B in English and History
History 3
B in History and English
Latin
A in Latin
Mathematics
A in Mathematics
Further Mathematics 4 A* in Mathematics plus extension work
Music
A in Music and grade 5 instrument
Religious Studies 3
B in Religious Studies and English
Photography 1
A in Photography
Physical Education B in English
Physics 2
A in Mathematics and either A in Physics or AA in Double Award Science
Psychology
B in English and either A in Biology or AA in Double Award Science
Spanish
A in Spanish
Notes
‘B in English’ means a grade B in either English Language or Literature.
1 Art and Photography may not both be studied.
2 In Double Award Science the performance on the relevant paper may be taken into account.
3 If students wish to take one of these subjects without having taken it at GCSE they must consult the relevant
Head of Department.
4 Students considering Further Mathematics will need to discuss their options with the Head of Department
and complete some extension work prior to commencing the course.
Progress to A2 will normally require at least a C grade in the subject at AS‐level.
Students and parents are reminded that if they have any questions about AS and A2 courses in subjects they
are studying they should talk to their subject teacher or the Head of Department.

THIRD FORMS 2013
GCSE PROVISIONAL OPTIONS
Name:....................................................................................
Form:........................
This form must be returned to your Form Tutor by Tuesday 12 th February.
These choices are provisional and will assist the school in planning for next academic year: your final
choice must be submitted by 12 th March after the Parents’ Evening. Please complete this form on
the basis of what, at the present time, seems to be your most likely choice of subjects.
All boys must choose four GCSE subjects in addition to the compulsory ones listed in the course
booklet. There are two conditions:
(i) at least one modern foreign language must be chosen.
(ii) at least one humanity must be chosen (Geography, History, Religious Studies)
(iii) Art and Photography cannot both be chosen.
Please tick clearly the four chosen subjects in the table below.
1 Art
2 Design and Technology
3 Drama
4 French
5 Geography
6 German
7 History
8 Latin
9 Chinese (Mandarin)
10 Music
11 Photography
12 Physical Education
13 Religious Studies
14 Spanish
Those choosing Latin as a GCSE option who are already studying Greek may choose to continue with
Greek to GCSE by ticking box 15 below
15 Greek (as an additional subject)
Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the selected subjects are provided in the timetable in
any combination: if any difficulties should arise for particular individuals, we will discuss the
situation with you as soon as possible.
Signed: Student: ...................................................................
Parent: ..................................................................