GCSE Choices Handbook - Rishworth School

Designed and printed by 0161 303 948213 14C GCSE CHOICESRishworth SchoolRishworth, West Yorkshire,United Kingdom HX6 4QA.Tel: +44 (0)1422 822 217 Fax: +44 (0)1422 820 911Website: www.rishworth-school.co.ukE-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.ukRishworth School: a company limited by guaranteeRegistered in England: Company Number 05855479Registered Office: Oldham Road, Rishworth, West Yorks HX6 4QARegistered Charity Number: 1115562‘Outstanding 2011’RishworthSchool13 14C GCSE CHOICES‘Outstanding 2011’

Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES2Introduction by the Director of Studies:Page TitlePage NumberContentsCORE SUBJECTIntroduction 2The Choice System 3GCSE Choices:English 5Mathematics 6Science 7Languages 8-9The time is approaching when pupils who are currently in Year 9 at Rishworth will have totake some decisions about which subjects they should choose to study during the next twoyears. This booklet has been prepared to assist pupils and their parents to make an informedchoice. We hope you find the information and guidance useful. GCSEs involve morespecialism than do subjects followed in Years 7-9. The fewer subjects studied in greaterdepth in Years 10 and 11 make judicious choices at this stage important. The first section inthis booklet is called The Choice System and provides some advice on the criteria forselecting courses. A few points are worth emphasising:(a) All subjects carry the same weighting with the examination boards and count equallytowards qualification for the Sixth Form and A level study. Despite the introduction of the‘English Baccaleureate’ (EBac) as a measure of school performance the school has noplans at present to compel the study of either Geography or History.(b) Some pupils have a very clear career intention which should, of course, be taken intoArt and Design 10account in choices. For example, a future designer may consider DT and Art.Business Studies 11Design and Technology: Graphic Products 12(c) Pupils would be sensible to choose subjects which they enjoy and in which they havedemonstrated some ability. Motivation is likely to be higher in those subjects.OPTIONAL SUBJECTDesign and Technology: Resistant Materials Technology 13Drama 14Geography 15History 16Home Economics 17Information Technology 18Music 19Physical Education 20Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education 21(d) The aim should be to construct a balanced programme so that future flexibility andadaptability-qualities sought by so many employers -can be maintained. The NationalCurriculum emphasises the importance of this kind of balance.(e) It is unwise for pupils to base their choices on what their friends have selected, or onpersonalities and teachers whom they have grown to like in Year 9; friends can changeand subjects in Year 10 may be taught by different teachers.Please read this booklet carefully. It is hoped that pupils and their parents/guardians willtake time to talk through the possibilities. Pupils are to be encouraged to make their ownchoices in the first instance, based on their own interests and abilities. During the Lent Term2013, tutors, subject teachers and careers advisers may be consulted for advice, so thatthere will emerge a curriculum package which is broad, challenging and fulfilling.S OgdenDIRECTOR OF STUDIESThe contents of this Handbook are as accurate as they can be at the time of publication but maybe subject to change as the needs of the School vary. Parents are advised to check with theSchool the accuracy of any detail which is of particular importance to them or to their child.The information given in this handbook is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Such information is subject to change.

3Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES4The Choice System:The curriculum for Years 10 & 11 is sub-divided into:1. CORE SUBJECTS2. OPTIONAL SUBJECTS1. Core subjects are compulsory. All pupils study:• Mathematics• English (Language and Literature)• Science• A Modern Foreign Language, or English as aForeign Language (EFL) or a ParticularLearning Needs (PLN) course2.From the remaining optional subjects pupilschoose three of the following:• Art and Design• Business Studies• D. T. ResistantMaterials• D. T. GraphicProducts• Drama• Geography• History• Home Economics• Information Technology• Music• Physical EducationAll pupils will also have Games and PSHCE lessons.Our Guidance Programme attempts to poseand answer four questions:1. Choosing for what?2. Why do I have to choose?3. How should I choose?4. What should I choose?1.Choosing for what? We live in a rapidly changingworld. Today's school leavers will have to be bothflexible and adaptable because in their lifetimethey must expect (a) several changes of job,(b) many periods of retraining, (c) possible movesaround the country or even around the world,(d) periods of unemployment.The question arises, therefore, whether studentsare choosing subjects for employment, leisure,edification, or specifically as a foundation for highereducation. The answer will vary according to theindividual concerned, but it could include several(even all) of these reasons.2.Why do I have to choose? Up to the age of 13 allpupils sample the full range of perhaps sixteensubjects but it would be impossible to sustainsuch a range to examination level. Choices have tobe made because (a) the last forty years have seenan immense explosion of human knowledge,(b) examinations are increasingly complex anddemanding, and (c) pupils need time to developtheir talents and skills. A limited degree ofspecialisation is essential, so pupils tend to studyabout nine subjects.3.How should I choose? Pupils are encouraged toassess their own strengths and weaknesses, andto discuss possible combinations of subjects withtheir Tutor, parents and subject teachers, takinginto account any career intentions. There is plentyof useful literature available in the Library CareersSection.4. What should I choose? For a balanced curriculum(in addition to core subjects) it is recommendedthat all pupils should consider studying ahumanities subject and a creative subject, plusone other. The overriding consideration,however, must be the aptitude, interest andenjoyment a pupil will have in any subject tobe studied for a further two years.Parents or pupils requiring further advice orassistance are invited to consult the CareersStaff and/or Heads of Department.RishworthSchoolThe GCSE ChoicesThe information given in this handbook is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Such information is subject to change.Parents and pupils wishing to place reliance on the accuracy of particular pieces of information should check this with the School.

5Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES6CORE SUBJECTEnglish:Content:In the English Department we aim to developthe language competence of all pupilsthrough the four basic activities whichcomprise communication: talking, listening,reading and writing. We try to help eachstudent:(i)to write with clarity, accuracy andimagination;(ii) to further his/her understanding of thewritten word and to explore and enjoyworks of literature;(iii) to develop a thoughtful and discriminatingattitude to the language uses oftelevision and other media;(iv) to talk with confidence and to listen withsensitivity;(v) to understand the development and usesof the English Language.Skills such as these are structured in thecontext of the G.C.S.E. syllabuses in EnglishLanguage and English Literature which havebeen devised to fulfil the National CurriculumCriteria.Years 10 and 11 are taught in sets. All setsstudy both English Language and Literatureand these subjects are separately certificatedat examination time. Oral communication is acompulsory part of the Language course.Examination Board: AQAMode of Assessment:Controlled Assessment: English Language• Understanding Written Texts 15%• Producing Creative Texts 15%• Study of Spoken Language 10%• Speaking and Listening 20%Examination: English LanguageUnderstanding and Producing Non-fictionTexts 40%Controlled Assessment: English LiteratureExploring Shakespeare and English LiteraryHeritage Poetry 25%Examination: English Literature• Exploring Modern Texts 40%• Poetry Across Time or Shakespeare andthe English Literary Heritage 35%Unannotated texts may be taken into theexamination.Students will sit terminal examinations at theend of Year 11.Controlled assessment will begin inSeptember of Year 10.Two Tiers: Higher A* - EFoundation C - GMathematics:Content:The aim of the Mathematics Department isto encourage the pupils to develop a positiveattitude to the subject and to enable them tohave confidence in applying theirmathematical skills in a wide range ofsituations. They will be given opportunities towork independently, investigating and testingmathematical ideas, and so create a firmfoundation for further study.The syllabus is consistent with the NationalCurriculum for Levels 4-10 and continues tobuild on the Key Stage 3 work tested at theend of Year 9. The subject content is dividedinto five attainment target areas:1) Using and Applying Mathematics2) Number3) Algebra4) Shape and Space5) Handling DataAssessment is by written examination inmodules examined at intervals during thetwo year course.The examinations are differentiated, thesystem involving two tiers of assessment eachone targeting different levels of attainment.It is important that pupils areentered for thetier appropriate to them. Grades awarded atthe two tiers of entry are as follows:Higher Tier: A* - DFoundation Tier C – GExamination Board: AQA.Mode of Assessment:Modular: Three written papers, worth 27%and 33%, and the final paper, worth 40%, areall taken at the end of Year 11.CORE SUBJECTA combination of higher tier and foundationtier papers may be taken as appropriate.

7Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES8CORE SUBJECTScience:Content:Pupils entering Year 10 will continue to study abalanced Science course which can lead to anumber of different Science GCSE’s by the end ofYear 11. These are Science A, Additional Scienceand GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSEPhysics. We always ensure that the mostappropriate course is matched to the pupil.All pupils have to study all three Sciencedisciplines for GCSE. Rishworth School teachesthe AQA Science course as three separateSciences but emphasis is placed on the linking ofideas between the three Science disciplines.Pupils are taught by specialist Science teachersacross the three subjects, with nine hours ofScience teaching over a two-week period. Thisallows for three hours to be dedicated to eachScience over two weeks.AssessmentEach Science GCSE is assessed by three writtenexamination papers and a controlled assessmentor Investigative Skills Analysis (ISA).Written Examination PapersThese will have open and closed questions,questions needing longer answers, and questionsassessing the quality of written communication(QWC).Investigative Skills Analysis (ISA)This extended practical assessment requirespupils to research, plan, and carry out a practicaltask related to the work they have been studying.Further analysis of their work and analysis ofanother similar experiment is also required. Thisis carried out during lessons in Year 10 and Year11. Some of the work is carried out under highlycontrolled examination conditions.Each mode of assessment is worth 25% of theGCSE being studied. The total number ofexaminations a pupil will sit will vary dependingupon the teaching route they are taking. Mostpupils will be entered for Science A andAdditional Science this requires six writtenexaminations and two ISAs. Those taking thethree separate Sciences will be entered for nineexaminations and three ISAs. Examinations maytake place in January and June of Year 10 andYear 11. The ISAs are carried out during lessonsthroughout Year 10 and Year 11. A very importantnew introduction to this course is that pupils areonly allowed to re-sit an external examinationONCE.Due to recent changes set by Ofqual the numberof examinations pupils sit could be subject tochange.These courses offer flexibility in teaching andassessment, while remaining a challenging andpurposeful course for all students. BothAdditional Science and the three separateSciences form a sound foundation for studyingSciences at A Level.Examination BoardAQA Science AAQA Additional ScienceAQA Biology, AQA Chemistry, AQA PhysicsMode of AssessmentWritten examination papers (75%)Controlled assessment called an InvestigativeSkills Assignment (ISA) (25%)Languages:From the Languages Block, all pupils study aModern Foreign Language, unless, on the basisof demonstrated educational need and afterconsultation, a pupil is directed by the School tofollow the EFL or PLN course. Pupils will pursueto GCSE the language they chose in KS3.Pupils cannot change the language they studyat this stage. Those pupils whose educationalneeds will be best served by studying Englishas a Foreign Language or by having additionalParticular Learning Needs lessons will bedirected accordingly, and will not study Frenchor Spanish. Students whose first language is notEnglish will, whenever possible, also take aGCSE in that language.Modern Languages:French/Spanish:Content:The aim of each course is to develop theability to use a foreign language effectivelyfor purposes of practical communication ineveryday situations, for example when visitingthe country as a tourist or on an extendedvisit, or when meeting, assisting or actingas host to a foreigner visiting this country.Students also learn to write accurately.A degree of previous knowledge isrecommended. Qualities such as enthusiasm,a love of the language and a willingness touse it actively, an interest in the culturalaspect and a sense of humour are just asimportant for success.The philosophy of the course is to enablestudents to show what they know, understandand can do. Students will be able to widentheir knowledge by reading in the chosenlanguage from the selection of readersavailable in the Library. Satellite televisionis available in all teaching rooms and in aseparate suite to offer students furtheropportunities for exposure to the language.At the end of the course, students will be wellprepared to continue with further study of thelanguage to A level or beyond.Examination Board: AQAThe syllabus concentrates on four skills:speaking, reading, listening and writing.( Unit 1: Listening (20%), Unit 2: Reading(20%), Unit 3: Speaking (30%), andUnit 4 (30%).Mode of Assessment:Units 1 and 2 are examinations sat at theend of the course. Units 3 and 4 are controlledassessments which can be taken at any timeduring the two-year course. The course alsooffers the possibility of combining Units 1 and3 or Units 2 and 4 for the Short Course Option.English as a ForeignLanguage (EFL):There are two courses available to EFLstudents. Those not studying GCSE Englishlanguage and Literature follow an IGCSEcourse in EFL and those not studying amodern language follow an IELTS(International English Language TestingSystem) Foundation course. The majority ofstudents follow both courses.IGCSE in EFLThe IGCSE in EFL follows a topic basedcurriculum which concentrates on reading,writing, listening and oral skills; and morespecifically on skills required for note-making,summarising and transferring information.A superb course which complements andsupports all other academic subjects.I.E.L.T.S. Foundation CourseThis course aims at all students reaching alevel 5 or higher by the end of Year 11. TheI.E.L.T.S. Foundation Course is motivating andcomprehensive. It is topic based and trainsstudents in the skills required not only toincrease their I.E.L.T.S. score but also to helpCORE SUBJECTContinued>

9Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES10Languages continued>CORE SUBJECTthem tremendously in their other academicsubjects. I.E.L.T.S. is recognized atuniversities and sixth-form collegesthroughout the world.The two courses complement one anotheras they run side by side throughout the twoyears.Particular LearningNeeds (PLN):If a pupil is directed to follow the PLN coursethey will continue to receive support for theirliteracy skills- reading, spelling, writing,punctuation, comprehension, and for theirorganisational skills. Study skills and supportwith course work will also be provided.The pupils will also follow the ASDAN awardscheme in order to attain a minimum ofBronze Award Certificate in Year 10, and theCertificate of Personal Effectiveness in Year 11.Art and Design:Content:The course aims to encourage students toexpress their ideas with hand and eye and togive full rein to their imagination andcreativity. Students will sharpen their visualawareness, develop their practical artisticskills, and increase their self-confidence.The course in Art and Design is unendorsed:students will be introduced to a variety ofexperiences exploring a range of two and/orthree dimensional media, techniques andprocesses which may include painting anddrawing, textiles, three dimensional designand printmaking. They will explore relevantimages, artefacts and resources relating to arange of art, craft and design, from the pastand from recent times, including Europeanand non-European examples will be integralto the investigating and making process.Throughout the course students will beexpected to demonstrate skills andtechniques such as:• making appropriate use of colour, line,tone, texture, shape and form• using different approaches to recordingimages, such as observation, analysis,expression and imaginationMode of Assessment:Unit 1: Portfolio of WorkControlled Assessment Set by the DepartmentThe portfolio must include more than oneextended collection of work, or project whichdemonstrates an ability to sustain work frominitial starting points to the realisation ofintentions and include evidence of research,the development of ideas and meaningfullinks with critical/contextual sources.A response to all four assessment objectivesis required in the portfolio as a whole.Marked by the Department andmoderated by AQA(60% of total mark.Marked out of 80)Unit 2: External – Set TaskExternal Assessment Set by AQAStudents respond to their chosen startingpoint to produce a personal response.There is unlimited preparation time and a10hour supervised period of sustained focusedstudy when students are expected to developtheir own unaided work informed by theirpreparatory studies. A response to all fourassessment objectives is required.Marked by the Department and moderatedby AQA(40% of total mark. Marked out of 80)OPTIONAL SUBJECT• show an understanding of representationaland abstract/non-representational imageryand genres• investigate different ways of working thatare appropriate to their chosen area ofstudy• provide evidence of an understanding ofspatial qualities, composition, scale andstructure• provide evidence of using selectingappropriate materials and using them safely• undertake independent research relevant totheir chosen area of studyExamination Board: AQA (Art and Design)

11Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES12OPTIONAL SUBJECTBusiness Studies:Content:Each and every day we are affected by theworkings of business. Many pupils willultimately be employed by businesses bothlarge and small; some may even establishtheir own company. It seems appropriate,therefore, that Business Studies should beoffered as a GCSE option.The course aims to relate all aspects of thework to easily identifiable, real-worldsituations with which students will be familiar.Students are encouraged to develop anunderstanding of the environments withinwhich business activity takes place; of themajor groups and organisations within andoutside business; of the roles and purposesof business activity in both the public and theprivate sectors; of competition and monopoly;and of how the main types of business andcommercial institutions are organised,financed and operated.Year 10 will focus on Unit 1: Starting a NewBusiness including Objectives, BusinessPlans, Market Research, Finance, Cash Flowand Motivating workers.Year 11 will focus on Unit 2: Growing as aBusiness including Companies, the MarketingMix, Profit & Loss statements, BalanceSheets, Economies of Scale and LeanProduction.organisation, as well as accessing informationover the internet.The course is suitable for students within thefull ability range but a genuine interest, andthe ability to use technical terms accuratelyand to write in good English are required.It is an excellent grounding for both 'A' levelBusiness Studies and ' A' level Economics aswell as a wide range of vocational furthereducational courses.Examination Board: AQAMode of Assessment:Examination: 2 papers (2 x 1 hours)Unit 1 (40%)Unit 2 (35%)both at the end of Year 11andUnit 3 (25%) the Controlled AssessmentDesign and Technology:Graphic Products(Compliant Materials)Content:This syllabus provides students theopportunity to develop an awareness of thenature and significant importance of Design& Technology in a rapidly changing society.It enables students to develop theirapplication of knowledge, skills, andunderstanding of a Graphic Products(Compliant Materials) focus within anoverall design and make based approach.The assessment of candidates includes bothpractical capability in Design and Technology,applied to designing and making a product,and the knowledge and understanding whichunderpins this capability.Examination Board: EdexcelMode of Assessment:Candidates will be required to sit one writtenPaper (Unit 1) of one and a half hoursduration. The paper is untiered andaccommodates the full grade range: A* to G.Unit 1 will test a candidate's knowledge andunderstanding of Graphic Products throughquestions on designing and making.Candidates are required to answer allquestions. Students apply their knowledgeand understanding of Graphic Products(Compliant Materials) throughmultiple-choice, short-answer andextended-writing and design type questions.Edexcel will provide five tasks and the studenthas to choose one of them. The tasks arebroad themes, which can be adapted, so thereis a high degree of flexibility. The five themesEdexcel has chosen for Graphic Products arepackaging, point-of-sale display, cardmechanisms, concept design and interiordesign. The coursework submission willtake the form of a design folder and amanufactured artefact and will be producedduring the first two terms of the year of Year 11.Coursework:Examination:40 hours60% of the final markOne paper (untiered)40% of the final markOPTIONAL SUBJECTThe Unit 3: Investigating Businesses: TheControlled Assessment will also be covered inYear 11.Students will be expected to be resourceful.There will be practical activities, andassignments will involve individual and groupstudies of local businesses and theirThe internally assessed coursework unit(Unit 2) will be undertaken using controlledassessment. As part of controlledassessment, Edexcel recommends thatstudents should be able to complete theirwork in 40 hours. This 40 hours can bebroken down for each criteria to reflect theamount of time the student should bespending on a particular part of their work.

13Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES14OPTIONAL SUBJECTDesign andTechnology (ResistantMaterials Technology):Content:This syllabus provides students the opportunityto develop an awareness of the nature andsignificant importance of Design & Technologyin a rapidly changing society. It enablesstudents to develop their application ofknowledge, skills, and understanding of aResistant Materials Technology (RMT) focuswithin an overall design and make basedapproach.The assessment of candidates includes bothpractical capability in Design and Technology,applied to designing and making a product,and the knowledge and understanding whichunderpins this capability.Examination Board: EdexcelMode of Assessment:Candidates will be required to sit one writtenPaper (Unit 1) of one and a half hours duration.The paper is untiered and accommodates the fullgrade range: A* to G.Edexcel will provide five tasks and the studenthas to choose one of them. The tasks are broadthemes, which can be adapted, so there is a highdegree of flexibility. The five themes Edexcelhas chosen for RMT are storage, lighting,furniture, toys and games and the garden.The coursework submission will take the formof a design folder and a manufactured artefactand will be produced during the first twoterms of the year of Year 11.Coursework:Examination:40 hours60% of the final markOne paper (untiered)40% of the final markDrama:Content:The aim of the GCSE course is to allowstudents to develop creative and imaginativepowers; to investigate, analyse, experimentwith, and interpret ideas, feelings andmeanings. They will gain an understandingof drama forms and develop knowledge andunderstanding of drama within a social,cultural and historical context. Apart fromtheatre skills such as acting, creative andimprovisational skills, students developinter-personal and group working skills,communication and evaluative skills.Examination Board: EdExcelMode of Assessment:Students are assessed on the following;Unit 1:EXPLORATION 1Students investigate a theme such asdomestic violence, war, runaways, race, oldage and respond to a range of stimuli toproduce improvised performance work whichis assessed by the teacher in a series ofpractical sessions totalling 6 hours.Unit 3:Students produce a scripted or devisedperformance which is performed in frontof a visiting examiner.40% of final examination mark.OPTIONAL SUBJECTUnit 1 will test a candidate's knowledge andunderstanding of RMT through questions ondesigning and making. Candidates are requiredto answer all questions. Students apply theirknowledge and understanding of RMT throughmultiple-choice, short-answer and extendedwritingand design type questions.The internally assessed coursework unit (Unit 2)will be undertaken using controlled assessment.As part of controlled assessment, Edexcelrecommends that students should be able tocomplete their work in 40 hours. This 40 hourscan be broken down for each criteria to reflectthe amount of time the student should bespending on a particular part of their work.Students write about their experiences andlearning during this period (2.000 words).30% of final examination mark.Unit 2:Students explore a play text from the point ofview of an actor, director and designer duringa 6 hour series of sessions.Students write up their experiences(1.000 words).Students visit a live theatre performance andwrite a review (2.000 words).30% of final examination mark.

15Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES16OPTIONAL SUBJECTGeography:Content:Geography is about developing a sense ofplace and an understanding of the world inwhich we live. The geography course allowspupils to:• increase their locational knowledge –where places are and how they areinterconnected• increase their understanding of keyprocesses that are changing physical andhuman environments• gain an understanding of differentcommunities and cultures• see the complexity of places through theviews and feelings of different people• develop an understanding of scale, fromthe local through to the global• appreciate the global dimension and globalinterconnectivity• develop a sense of awe, wonder andenjoyment of placesThe course gives students the opportunity tostudy a dynamic subject where patterns andissues are constantly changing. It is anexcellent subject for helping to develop anunderstanding of issues within today’s world.Examination Board: AQA Specification AExamination: 2 papers:Written Component One: 37.5% of the totalAssessment which will take place at the endof Year 11. This examination is made up oftwo sections: Section A contains structuredquestions on The Restless Earth, Rocks,Resources and Scenery, Challenge of Weatherand Climate and The Living World. Section Balso contains structured questions on topicssuch as Water on the Land, Ice on the Landand The Coastal Zone.Written Component Two - 37.5% of the totalAssessment which will also take place at theend of Year 11. This examination is made up oftwo sections:Section A containsstructured questions on Population Change,Changing Urban Environements and ChangingRural Environments: Section B again hassimilar styled structured questions on TheDevelopment Gap, Globalisation and Tourism.These papers are set at two tiers (Foundationand Higher) and make use of short structuredanswers. The Higher Tier (Grades A* - D)includes opportunities for more extendedanswers. The Foundation Tier enablesstudents to achieve, at most, a C grade.In each, examination questions will be set thattest geographical skills, knowledge of keyvocabulary and concepts, and application ofunderstanding. Located examples (casestudies) will need to be known for each topicHistory:Content:The Modern World History course aims tostimulate pupils' natural curiosity aboutevents in the past whilst at the same timehelping them to understand problems andissues in the world they live in today throughdeveloping an understanding of their historicalbackground. History involves understandinghow and why important events happened.Discovering the answers to these questionswill help to give pupils some understandingof key ideas in related areas such aseconomics and politics.The course involves the study of the mainevents of the early Twentieth century frombefore the First World War to the end of theSecond World War. This includes the PeaceTreaties of 1919-20, the League of Nationsand its failure, The Great Depression of the1930’s and the causes of World War II.Key historical figures studied will includeLloyd George, Mussolini, Hitler, Chamberlain,Churchill, Stalin and Roosevelt.Understanding of topics such: as communism,appeasement, racism and propaganda will bedeveloped. Pupils will also study Germany1918-45 in extra depth, considering issuessuch as why Hitler was able to make himselfruler of Germany and what life was like forpeople who lived under Nazi rule. The BritishHistory element focuses on the issues ofsocial reform, Women’s suffrage and theeffects of World War I on Britain.accurate and trustworthy or not and howhistorians might use it. This will involve pupilsin studying cartoons, photographs, newsreelsand television reports as well as many typesof written sources such as letters, diaries,poems and novels. The History Departmenthas a wide range of textbooks at its disposaltogether with videos and computer softwareand is well supported by an excellent selectionof reference books in the school library.G.C.S.E. History helps to develop vital skillsof analysis, interpretation, research,communication and decision-making. Thismakes it a valuable and relevant qualificationwhatever a pupil' s future career or highereducation plans may be.Examination Board: OCRMode of Assessment:(a) Coursework: Pupils are required to submitone piece of coursework comprisingabout 2000 words in total. 25% of the totalfinal mark is gained from coursework.(b) Examination: There are two examinationpapers. These papers comprise 75% of thetotal marks in the final assessment.Paper 1 focuses on testing knowledge andessay-writing skills. Paper 2 focuses on theskills of source interpretation and evaluation.OPTIONAL SUBJECTMode of Assessment:Linear system comprising of the following:Coursework: this is worth 25% of the totalassessment. The emphasis is on geographicalenquiry and students are required to attend aone day field trip during the course to collectfield data. This information is then used toproduce a structured report, up to 2,000 wordsin length.The coursework topic is the USA 1919-41,focusing on the economic boom of the 1920s,the social changes during the “Jazz age” andthe causes and consequences of the Wall St.Crash and the Great Depression. As anintegral part of their studies pupilswill look at document material available tomodern historians and evaluate its relevanceand importance, deciding whether it is

17Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES18OPTIONAL SUBJECTHome Economics:Content:Home Economics has a long-standing placewithin the school curriculum. Its aim is toenable pupils to cope confidently with the lifeskills they require to make sensible andinformed choices about diet, health andnutrition combined with the ability to manage abudget in keeping with their lifestyles.Practical cookery skills are key to the subjectand a great range of techniques are practiced.Pupils are encouraged to enjoy experimentingwith their own ideas, leading to colourful andinventive outcomes using a wide variety ofingredients.The Department raises the awareness of thepart food plays in our society today, highlightingthe importance of nutrition and a healthylifestyle and demonstrating the importance offood in building social skills, manners andconversation. It enhances the self esteem of thepupil when a well-prepared and well-presentedmeal has been served.Home Economics is taught from Year 7 up toGCSE level. During Years 7, 8 and 9 theDepartment aims to teach basic practicalskills, relating to sensible nutritionalknowledge. Basic food hygiene and manyissues relating to all aspects of foodproduction are covered throughout theseyears.Investigation worth 45% of the total mark, onwhich approximately 18 hours should bespent. A range of tasks will be provided by theboard and it is advised that the Research Taskbe completed at the end of Year 10 whilst theIndividual Investigation is completed inYear 11. Both of these assignments formthe basis of practical work where pupils useappropriate research methods, analyse andevaluate information, make reasonedjudgments and present conclusions puttingtheir knowledge and understanding of thesubject to the test. The remaining 40% isbased on a written exam at the end of thecourse. A single theory paper lasting 1 hour30minutes is set by the Board.InformationCommunicationTechnology:Content:The EDEXCEL GCSE in ICT has been chosenfor its extremely forward-thinking and relevantapproach to the subject. Moving away fromviewing ICT as a stand-alone subject, this newSpecification firmly places ICT as a life-skill,exploring the ways in which it is shaping oursociety and how we as individuals can positionourselves to be safe, responsible and effectiveusers of ICT on a day-to-day basis. This is anexciting GCSE that builds firmly upon thepassion that young people already have for thetechnology in their lives from the Internet tomobile phone and even games consoles.UNIT 1: Living in a Digital WorldIn this unit students explore how digitaltechnology impacts on the lives of individuals,organisations and society. Students learnabout current and emerging digitaltechnologies and the issues raised by theiruse in a range of contexts (learning andearning, leisure, shopping and moneymanagement, health and wellbeing, on themove). They develop awareness of the risksthat are inherent in using ICT and the featuresof safe, secure and responsible practice.UNIT 2: Using Digital ToolsThis is a practical unit. Students broadenand enhance their ICT skills and capability.They work with a range of digital tools andtechniques to produce effective ICT solutionsin a range of contexts. Students learn toreflect critically on their own and others’ useof ICT and to adopt safe, secure andresponsible practice. They put into practicewhat they learn about digital technology inUnit 1 to produce their own ICT solutions.Examination Board:EDEXCELMode of Assessment:Unit 1 is assessed by terminal, externalexamination. The paper has a mix of short andlongs answer questions. Unit 2 is an internallymarked, externally moderated, practicalControlled Assessment Brief.OPTIONAL SUBJECTExamination Board: AQAMode of Assessment:The two-year GCSE course in Food andNutrition involves one tier of assessment witha single paper which covers all the gradesA*-G. There are two coursework assignmentsaccounting for 60% of the final mark.The first assignment is a Research Task whichforms 15% of the total mark, on whichapproximately 6-8 hours should be spent.The second assignment is an Individual

19Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES20OPTIONAL SUBJECTMusic:Content:G.C.S.E. Music is available to pupils of allabilities and the course is sufficiently flexibleto be tailored to the needs of individuals. Thecourse is practically based and is particularlysuited to students who already play a musicalinstrument. There are three areas to bestudied - Performing, Composing and Listening.Examination Board: AQAMode of Assessment:Performing Music: 40% of total marks• One ‘Individual Performance’/TechnologybasedPerformance, lasting no more thanfive minutes.• One ‘Group Performance’, lasting no morethan five minutes• Internally-assessed and moderated by AQAComposing Music: 20% of total marksStudents must compose one piece of musicwhich explores two or more of the five Areasof Study: Rhythm & Metre, Harmony &Tonality, Texture & Melody, Timbre &Dynamics & Structure & Form• Submissions will be either recording,wherever possible, with score, orrecording with detailed annotation.Students have up to 25hours of ControlledAssessment.• Internally-assessed and moderated by AQAListening and Appraising Test: 20% of totalmarks• A listening and written paper of 1 hour• All five Areas of Study will be included inthe test• Externally-assessed as part of theTerminal ExaminationComposing and Appraising Music:20% of total marks – 40 marks (2 x 20)• A - One composition, based on two or moreof the five Areas of Study. There must be alink to one of the three strands of learning:The Western Classical Tradtion,Popular music of the 20th/21st centuriesor World Music ( 20 hours of SupervisedTime) (10%)B – Students must appraise the processand the outcome of the composition inrelation to the Areas of Study and indicatethe link to the chosen Strand. (2 hours ofControlled Time) (10%)• A - The composition must be submittedwith a score and/or annotation and beaccompanied by a recorded realisation.The recording may be made using liveperformers, ICT or a combinationof both.B – A written appraisal of the process ofcomposition and the final outcome. Thiswill be completed in an appraisal booklet,supplied by AQA.• Externally-assessed as part of theTerminal ExaminationPhysical Education:Content:G.C.S.E. Physical Education aims to offerpupils the opportunity to develop skills in awide range of sports and activities and toimprove their own performance.Pupils will learn about exercise, how the bodyworks to help us exercise and howperformance can be improved throughtraining. Pupils will be expected to developtheir knowledge and understanding of thedifferent factors that affect participation andperformance. They will learn about the healthbenefits and risks associated with taking partin physical activity. They will also develop theskills necessary to analyse and improveperformance and be expected to adopt anumber of sporting roles such as coach /official / performer.During the course pupils will be taught to: -• Develop and apply advanced skills andtechniques• Apply them in increasingly demandingsituations• Use advanced strategic and organisationalconcepts and principles• Judge how good a performance is anddecide how to improve it• Develop leadership skills• Realise how preparation, training andfitness affect performanceIn addition all Year 11 students complete theSports Leader UK Level 1 Award (JSLA).Course Content:The subject is divided into academic theoryand practical activities. The academic contentis worth 40% and the practical is worth 60%.Both modules are outlined right.Unit 1: The Theory of Physical EducationSection 1.1: Healthy, active lifestyles.Section 1.2: Your healthy, active body.Assessment is based on a one and half hourwritten exam paper.Unit 2: Performance in Physical EducationSection 2.1: Practical performance – 48%Candidates are required to offer fourperformances, in practical contexts, in therole of either player/participant, official orleader. At least two of the four performancesmust be in the role of player/participant.Performances must be taken from aminimum of two different activity groups.The four activities should be chosen from thefollowing activity groups:A. Games activitiesB. Gymnastic activitiesC. Dance activitiesD. Athletic activitiesE. Adventurous activitiesF. Fitness and Health activitiesSection 2.2: Analysis of performance – 12%Candidates are required to undertake ananalysis of performance in a physical activitythat is selected for practical performance.This may be presented orally, as a writtenreport or as a short presentation.Examination Board: EdExcelMode of Assessment:60 % Practical (assessed in four sportsor sporting roles)40% Written examinationOPTIONAL SUBJECT

21Rishworth SchoolGCSE CHOICES22OPTIONAL SUBJECTPersonal,Social, Health andCitizenship Education:During the GCSE years 10 and 11, studentscontinue to follow the PSHCE curriculum andreceive valuable support and assistancefrom tutors and pastoral staff. There is astrong emphasis within the curriculum oncareers/ further education guidance and onexam/ coursework related study skills.Students learn to develop an array of skillsfrom time management to effective workingpractices and revision techniques to jobapplications.Opportunities are presented for students tobecome involved in charitable work andin the broader role of the School.The careers section of the school library iswell resourced with computer software, booksand leaflets. Guidance is given on how tomake the best use of these.Notes:Year 10 students receive an hour sessionevery two weeks and sessions to cover studyskills and careers education. External careersadvice is provided by the Independent Schools’Careers Organisation (ISCO). Students alsoreceive advice and guidance on issues suchas relationships, health, crime awareness,road safety issues, internet safety, alcoholand drug education.External speakers are often invited into schoolas a “different voice” as this is often the bestway of putting difficult concepts andmessages across and consistently proves tobe popular and successful. Year 10 alsoreceive advice for work experience week, andcover work related topics including wages,interviews and presentation, as well ascitizenship.During Year 11 students receive a 1 hourlesson every 2 weeks dedicated to similarissues and to the issue of Citizenship.Year 11 students will also have CareersGuidance, and in particular, advice on writinga curriculum vitae, study skills and examtechnique. Students may also receive careersinterviews organised by ISCO.