The UCL Academy A Level Courses Guide

6
A Co-educational School from Year 7 to Sixth Form
The
UCL Academy
A Level
Courses Guide

A Level Courses Guide Contents
01
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03
04
05
06
08
09
10
11
12
13
15
16
17
19
20
22
23
24
25
General Entry Criteria
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Computer Science
Drama and Theatre
Economics
English Literature
Fine Art
Further Maths
Geography
Government and Politics
History
Mathematics
Mandarin
Photography
Physics
Psychology
Religious Studies
Sociology
Spanish

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level General Entry Criteria
A Level Biology (AQA Biology)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: Grade 6 in Biology or 6/6 in Combined Science. Grade 6 in English Language and Maths.
Subject Combinations: Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Geography.
Why this A Level? A Level Biology is a highly respected academic A Level and it makes an excellent choice,
offering you access to a wide range of university courses and careers. You’ll need biology for most degrees in medicine,
biology, biomedical sciences, dentistry, dietetics, physiotherapy, orthoptics and veterinary medicine.
Path 1: 3 A Levels
3 grade 6 grades at GCSE
plus
Grade 5 English Language GCSE
Grade 5 Maths GCSE
plus
subject specific entry criteria
Path 2: 4 A Levels
5 grade 8 grades at GCSE
plus
Grade 8 English Language GCSE
Grade 8 Maths GCSE
plus
subject specific entry criteria`
For more information about applying to the UCL Academy Sixth Form,
Please visit: www.uclacademy.co.uk
Topics:
1: Biological molecules
2: Cells
3: Organisms exchange substances with their environment
4: Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
5: Energy transfers in and between organisms
6: Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
7: Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
8: The control of gene expression
Assessment
• Paper 1: 91 marks (35%)
2 hours
Any content from topics 1–4, including
relevant practical skills
76 marks: a mixture of short and long
answer questions
15 marks: extended response
questions multi choice
• Paper 2: 91 marks (35%)
2 hours
Any content from topics 5–8, including
relevant practical skills.
76 marks: a mixture of short and long
answer questions
15 marks: comprehension questions
Fieldwork: Required for topics 7-12.
• Paper 3: 78 marks (30%)
2 hours
Any content from topics 1–8, including
relevant practical skills
38 marks: structured questions,
including practical techniques
15 marks: critical analysis of given
experimental data
25 marks: one essay from a choice of
two titles
• Non Exam Assessment:
Pass or Fail
Practical Endorsement
12 Practical Activities
Additional Information: This subject requires high levels of academic and subject specific literacy for
extended writing essay exam questions.
University Pathways: Agriculture, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Genetics, Ecology, Medicine,
Nursing, Dentistry, Neurology, Physiology, Veterinary Science, Zoology. Also, Forensic Science and Biological
Engineering.
Careers: A fifth (18%) of Biology graduates are employed as natural and social science professionals (9%) and
science, engineering and production technicians (9%). Careers as teaching professionals, business, research and
administrative professionals, sales, marketing and related associate professionals and business associate professionals
are also popular.
01
02

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Business (AQA Business)
A Level Chemistry (OCR A Chemistry)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 5/Merit in Business if taken at GCSE, 6 in English.
Subject Combinations: Sociology, Psychology, Government and Politics, Maths, History, Geography, English
Literature.
Note: A Level Business cannot be taken in conjunction with A Level Economics.
Why this A Level? Students will study key contemporary developments such as digital technology and business
ethics, and globalisation is covered throughout the topics. Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to
analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions – all skills that are needed for further study and
employment.
Assessment
Components:
Paper 1: Business 1
Paper 2: Business 2
Paper 3: Business 3
• Paper 1: 100 marks (33.3%)
• Paper 1: 100 marks (33.3%)
• Paper 1: 100 marks (33.3%)
• Any of the topics below can come up in any of the
three papers.
• What is business
• Managers, leadership and decision making
• Decision making to improve marketing performance
• Decision making to improve financial performance
• Decision making to improve operational performance
• Decision making to improve human resources performance
• Analysing the strategic performance of a business
• Choosing strategic direction
• Strategic methods: How to pursue strategies
• Managing strategic change
Entry Criteria: GCSE: Grade 6 in Chemistry or 6/6 in Combined Science. Grade 6 in English Language and Maths.
Subject Combinations: Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Geography.
Why this A Level? Chemistry helps us to understand the world in which we live and underpins a wide range of
science-based degree courses and careers. Success with A Level Chemistry will prepare you for a future in chemistry,
pharmacy, pharmacology, chemical engineering, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, medicine and dentistry.
Assessment
Modules:
1: Development of practical skills in Chemistry
2: Foundations in Chemistry
3: Periodic table and energy
4: Core organic Chemistry
5: Periodic table and energy
4: Core organic Chemistry
5: Physical Chemistry and transition elements
6: Organic Chemistry and analysis
• Paper 1: 100 marks (37%)
2 hours 15 minutes
Periodic table,elements and physical
chemistry (01)
Assesses content from modules 1, 2,
3 and 5
15 marks –multi choice
85 marks – structured questions
• Paper 2: 100 marks (37%)
2 hours 15 minutes
Synthesis and analytical techniques (02)
Assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4
15 marks: multiple choice
85 marks –structured questions
• Paper 3: 70 marks (26%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Unified chemistry (03)
Assesses content from all modules
(1to 6)
70 Marks – structured questions and
extended response questions.
• Non Exam Assessment:
Pass or Fail
Practical endorsement in chemistry (04)
12 Practical Activities
Additional Information: High levels of literacy are required. Quantitative skills are also necessary.
University Pathways: Business Management, Marketing, Finance, Economics, Risk Management, International
Business, Accounting, Human Resources.
Careers: Banking, Finance, Accountancy, Marketing and Sales are common jobs attained by Business Graduates.
Additional Information: This subject requires high levels of academic and subject specific literacy for
extended writing essay exam questions.
University Pathways: Health and Clinical Professions, including Medicine, Veterinary Science, Nursing,
Dentistry and Forensic Science.
Careers: 21% of Chemistry graduates are working as natural and social science professionals. Other notable jobs
include science, engineering and production technicians, teaching professionals, finance professionals, IT professionals,
business, research and administrative professionals and quality and regulatory professionals.
03
04

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Computer Science (OCR Computer Science)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in Maths, 6 in Computing if taken at GCSE.
Subject Combinations: Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Design Engineering, Philosophy.
Why this A Level? Studying Computer Science at A Level will open up a broad range of opportunities. You’ll
develop transferable skills, including problem-solving and critical thinking. If you choose to continue your studies, you
will find that programming, IT and computer science jobs are lucrative and rewarding.
Topics:
1: The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
2: Software and software development
3: Exchanging data
4: Data types, data structures and algorithms
5: Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
6: Elements of computational thinking
7: Problem solving and programming
8: Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
Assessment
• Paper 1: 140 marks (40%)
2 hours 30 minutes
Component 01
Computer systems: Students are
introduced to the internal workings
of the (CPU), data exchange, software
development, data types and legal
and ethical issues.
• Paper 2: 140 marks (40%)
2 hours 30 minutes
Component 02
Algorithms and programming: This
builds on component 01 to include
computational thinking and problemsolving.
• Non-Exam Assessment:
70 marks (20%)
Approx 45 hours
Component 03
Programming project: Students are
expected to apply the principles of
computational thinking to a practical
coding programming project.
University Pathways: Design Engineering, Engineering, Product Design, Marketing, Business Studies.
Careers: 62% of Computer Science graduates in employment in the UK 15 months after graduation are working as
IT professionals. Information technology technicians (7%) and web and multimedia design professionals (1%) are also
among the top ten jobs held by graduates.
A Level Drama and Theatre
(Pearson Edexcel Drama and Theatre)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in English Literature and Language, 6 in Drama if undertaken at GCSE. Or evidence of
talent in Drama, students may be asked to attend an audition.
Subject Combinations: English Literature, Art, Design Engineering.
Why this A Level? When students study Drama and Theatre Studies at A Level, it invests students with
invaluable skills in articulating thoughts, exploring ideas, sharpening communication skills and providing the ability to
work within a group situation both in a practical and academic setting.
Components:
1: Devising
2: Text in Performance
3: Theatre Makers in Practice
Assessment
• Non-exam Assessment 1 80 marks (40%)
Component 1: Devising
• Devise an original performance piece.
• Use one key extract from a performance text and a theatre practitioner as stimuli
• Centre choice of text and practitioner
• Performer or designer routes available
• Non-exam Assessment 2 60 marks (20%)
Component 2: Text in Performance
• A group performance/design realisation of one key aspect of a performance text
• A monologue or duologue performance/design realisation from one key extract from a different
performance text
• Centre choice of performance texts
• Paper 1: 80 marks (40%) 2 hours 30 minutes
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice
• Live theatre evaluation–choice of performance
• Practical exploration and study of a complete performance text–focusing on how this can be realised for
performance.
• Practical exploration and interpretation of another complete performance text,in light of a chosen
theatre practitioner – focusing on how this text could be reimagined for a contemporary audience.
• Centre choice of 15 performance texts
• Choice of eight practitioners
Additional Information: Students are encouraged to attend theatre productions.
University Pathways: Drama and Theatre Studies, other Performing Arts courses.
Careers: Drama is a very popular degree subject - over 5,800 degrees were awarded to UK graduates. With so many
graduates around, jobs in acting are very sought after and often gained through personal contacts. Lots of roles in
the arts for Drama graduates, in direction, production, design, journalism and PR. Drama graduates can be found in
teaching, management, advertising, project and events organisation and community work. 15% of Drama graduates are
working in artistic, literary and media occupations 15 months after graduation. 8% are teaching professionals, 2% are in
design occupations and 1% are working as media professionals.
05 06

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Economics (OCR Economics)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in English Language, 6 in Maths, 6 in Economics if taken at GCSE.
Subject Combinations: Maths (especially If you wish to do Economics at a Russell group university),
Computing, History, Geography, Government and Politics, Sociology.
Note: A Level Economics cannot be taken in conjunction with A Level Business.
Why this A Level? A Level training teaches students how to apply economic theory practically to various real
scenarios. Economics is a useful subject that can help you learn skills to prepare you for the challenges you may face in
working life, like assessing the value of goods and investing for your retirement.
Components:
1: Microeconomics
2: Microeconomics
3: Themes in Economics
Assessment
• Paper 1: 80 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
Microeconomics (01)
• Introduction to microeconomics
• Introduction to microeconomics
• The role of markets
• Business objectives
• Market structures
• The Labour Market
• Paper 3: 80 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
Themes in economics (03)
• Draws together their knowledge and
skills to answer questions from across all
content areas
• Paper 2: 80 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
Macroeconomics (02)
• Aggregate demand and aggregate
supply
• Economic policy objectives
• Implementing policy
• The global context
• The financial sector
Additional Information: A Level Economics also requires well developed numeracy and literacy skills.
University Pathways: Economics, Finance, Business Studies, Marketing and Management.
Careers: Six of the top ten jobs held by Economics graduates in employment in the UK are related to business,
finance and marketing. Including finance professionals (27%), business, research and administrative professionals
(16%), sales, marketing and related associate professionals (6%), business associate professionals (5%), administrative
occupations in finance (4%), and finance associate professionals (3%).
08

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level English Literature
(Pearson Edexcel English Literature)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in English Literature and English Language.
Subject Combinations: Drama and Theatre Studies, History, Geography, Sociology, Psychology, Philosophy.
Why this A Level? A Level English Literature will help you analyse and compare a range of genres and forms.
This will give you a comprehensive understanding of English Literature’s rich history and context. English Literature will
inspire or deepen your passion for the written form and can lead on to greater studies.
Components:
1: Drama
2: Prose
3: Poetry
A Level Fine Art (Pearson Edexcel Art and Design, Art)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 5 in Art or equivalent creative course. A portfolio of work may also be considered.
Subject Combinations: Maths, Business, Engineering, English, History, Psychology, Philosophy.
Why this A Level? You will develop your creativity and independent thought, learn to express yourself visually
and let your imagination flourish. Fine art is a great companion to all other subjects as creativity, imagination and
problem solving skills can give you great ideas for your other subjects.
Components:
1: Personal Investigation - the disciplines of painting and drawing, printmaking, sculpture,
lens-based image making.
2: Externally Set Assignment - the disciplines of painting and drawing, printmaking, sculpture,
lens-based image making.
Assessment
• Paper 1: 60 marks (30%)
2 hours 15 minutes
Component 1 Drama
• Shakespeare: one essay question,
incorporating ideas from wider critical
reading
• Other Drama: one essay question
• Paper 2: 40 marks (20%)
1 hour 15 minutes
Component 2 Prose
• Students answer one comparative essay
question from a choice of two on their
studied theme
• Paper 3: 60 marks (30%)
2 hours 15 minutes
Component 2 Poetry
• Post-2000 Specified Poetry: one
comparative essay question on an unseen
modern poem written post-2000 and
one named poem from the studied
contemporary text (AO1, AO2, AO4
assessed).
• Specified Poetry Pre- or Post-1900: one
essay question
• Non-exam Assessment: 60 marks (20%)
2500–3000 words
• One extended comparative essay
referring to two texts
University Pathways: As well as an English Literature degree itself, students of Literature might go on to study
for University degrees in a range of subjects including: History, Sociology, Psychology, Drama and Theatre Studies and
Law. Medical Schools also value the subject highly.
Assessment
• Non-exam Assessment:
90 marks (60%)
Over the course of Year 1 and 2
Component 1
Internally set, assessed by the
teacher and externally moderated.
This component allows students
opportunities to generate and develop
ideas, research primary and contextual
sources, record practical and written
observations, experiment with media
and processes, and refine ideas
towards producing personal resolved
outcome(s). Incorporates three major
elements: supporting studies, practical
work (a portfolio of development
work and outcomes based on themes
and ideas developed from personal
starting points) and a personal study
(critical written communication
showing contextual research and
understanding in a minimum 1000
words of continuous prose).
• Exam 1:
72 marks (40%)
Prep time plus 15 hours
Component 2
This component allows students
opportunities to generate and
develop ideas, research primary and
contextual sources, record practical
and written observations, experiment
with media and processes, and refine
ideas towards producing personal
resolved outcome(s) in response to an
externally set theme. Incorporates two
major elements: preparatory studies
(a portfolio of practical and written
development work) and the 15–hour
period of sustained focus (focus under
examination conditions, students will
produce final outcome(s) extending
from their preparatory studies).
Careers: 13% of English graduates who entered employment have found roles as teaching professionals. Sales,
marketing associate professionals, media professionals and artistic, literary and media occupations are also among the
top five jobs held by English studies graduates 15 months after graduating.
Additional Information: Students are expected to independently visit a range of exhibitions and workshops.
University Pathways: Art, Architecture, Animation, Theatre Design, Graphic Design, Art History, Photography,
Film and Media.
Careers: 9% of Fine Arts graduates are working in artistic, literary and media occupations. Teaching professionals
(7%) and web and multimedia design professionals (3%) are also among the top ten jobs held by these graduates.
09 10

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Further Maths
(Pearson Edexcel Further Maths)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 8 in Maths (students must also take A Level Maths).
Subject Combinations: Maths, Physics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry.
Why this A Level? A Level Further Maths is also highly desirable, if not required, by many top universities for
Mathematics, Science and Engineering courses, as well as Computing and Economics. It may be studied alongside or
after A Level Mathematics.
Units/Topics: Core 1 and 2, Further Pure 1 and either Further Mechanics or Further Statistics.
Assessment
• Paper 1: 75 marks (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Core Pure Mathematics 1
• Paper 2: 75 marks(25%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Core Pure Mathematics 2
Proof, Complex numbers, Matrices,
Further algebra and functions,
Further calculus, Further vectors, Polar
coordinates, Hyperbolic functions,
Differential equations
• Paper 3A: 75 Marks (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Further Pure Mathematics 1
Further Trigonometry, Further calculus,
Further differential equations, Coordinate
systems, Further vectors, Further
numerical methods, Inequalities
• Paper 3B: 75 marks (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Further Statistics
Discrete probability distributions,
Poisson & binomial distributions,
Geometric and negative binomial
distributions, Hypothesis Testing,
Central Limit Theorem, Chi Squared
Tests, Probability generating functions,
Quality of tests
or
• Paper 3B: 75 marks (25%)
1 hour 30 minutes
Further Mechanics
Momentum and impulse, Work, energy
and power, Elastic strings and springs
and elastic energy, Elastic collisions in
one dimension, Elastic collisions in two
dimensions
Additional Information: Further Maths must be taken as a fourth A Level. During Year 1, students will be
assessed on their ability in Further Maths. If successful, students will then be requested to drop one of their other A
Levels unless they have at least 8 GCSE grades at grade 8.
University Pathways: Maths, Engineering, Economics, Medical Sciences, Sciences, Architecture.
Careers: The top five occupations for statistics graduates are business, research and administrative professionals
(27%), finance professionals (19%), IT professionals (11%), business associate professionals (9%) and teaching
professionals (3%).
A Level Geography (Pearsons Edexcel Geography)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in Geography, 6 in English Language.
Subject Combinations: Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sociology, Psychology, Computer
Science, Design Engineering, Government and Politics.
Why this A Level? Geography helps us to explore and understand space and place - recognising the great
differences in cultures, political systems, economies, landscapes and environments across the world, and exploring the
links between them.
Assessment
Units/Topics: Physical and Human Geography
• Paper 1:
105 marks (30%) 2 hours 15 minutes
Topic 1: Tectonic Processes and
Hazards
Topic 2: Landscape Systems, Processes
and Change–including
2B: Coastal Landscapes and Change
Topic 5: The Water Cycle and Water
Insecurity
Topic 6:The Carbon Cycle and Energy
Security
• Paper 2:
105 marks (30%) 2 hours 15 minutes
Topic 3: Globalisation
Topic 4: Shaping Places - Regenerating
Places
Topic 7: Superpowers
Topic 8: Global Development and
Connections-Health, Human Rights
and Intervention
• Paper 3:
70 marks (20%) 2 hours 15 minutes
Synoptic paper containing three
themes:
Players
Attitudes
Future and uncertainties
• Non-exam Assessment:
3000-4000 words
NEA Coursework - An independent
investigation that incorporates
field work and own research. The
focus of the investigation may be
either human, physical or integrated
physical-human.
Additional Information: Students are required to complete a minimum of four days of fieldwork. This
fieldwork must relate to processes in both physical and human geography. It must also provide an introduction to the
nature and process of a high-quality geographical enquiry.
University Pathways: Geography, Meteorology, Surveying, Resource Management, Environmental Sciences
degrees.
Careers: The top ten jobs held by Geography graduates employed in the UK include, sales, marketing and
related associate professionals, teaching professionals, business, research and administrative professionals, business
associate professionals, architects, chartered architectural technologists, planning officers, surveyors and construction
professionals, conservation and environment professionals and finance professionals.
11 12

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Government and Politics
(AQA Government and Politics)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in English Language and a Humanities subject.
Subject Combinations: Geography, Economics, Sociology.
Why this A Level? The study of politics and governance addresses important questions about the nature of
power, authority and governance: who gets what, when and how. Yet politics is more than this and concerns notions of
freedom and agency in situations of social choice.
Units/Topics:
Government and politics of the UK, The government and politics of the USA and Political Ideas.
Assessment
• Paper 1: 77 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
The Government of the UK
• The nature and sources of the British
Constitution
• The structure and role of Parliament
• The Prime Minister and cabinet
• The judiciary
• Devolution
The Politics of the UK
• Democracy and participation
• Elections and referendums
• Political parties
• Pressure groups
• The European Union
• Paper 3: 77 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
Core ideologies
• Liberalism
• Conservatism
• Socialism
• Other ideologies – one from the following
5 options:
Nationalism
Feminism
Multiculturalism
Anarchism
Ecologism
• Paper 2: 77 marks (33.33%) 2 hours
The Government of the US
• The constitutional framework of US
government
• The legislative branch of government:
Congress
• The executive branch of government:
President
• The judicial branch of government
• The electoral process and direct
democracy
• Political parties
• Pressure groups
• Civil rights
• Comparative politics
• Constitutional arrangements
• The executives
• The judiciaries
• Electoral and party systems Pressure
• Pressure Groups
• Civil Rights
Additional Information: High levels of literacy are required.
University Pathways: Politics, Law, Economics, International Relations.
Careers: The top four professions for Politics graduates include business, research and administrative professionals
(10%), sales, marketing and related associate professionals (7%), media professionals (6%) and finance professionals
(5%).
13

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level History (AQA History)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in History, 6 in English Language.
Subject Combinations: English Literature, Government and Politics, Sociology, Psychology.
Why this A Level? By studying History, you will develop your critical reasoning and analytical skills, as well as
the capacity for solving problems and thinking creatively. You will demonstrate intellectual rigour and independence,
together with the capacity to conduct detailed research.
Assessment
Units/Topics:
Stuart Britain and the Crisis of the Monarchy, Nationalism.
• Paper 1:
80 marks (40%)
2 hours 30 minutes
Breadth Study
1D Stuart Britain and the Crisis of
Monarchy, 1603–1702:
Part one: Absolutism challenged
Britain, 1603–1649
• Monarchs and Parliaments,
1603–1629
• Revolution, 1629–1649
Part two: Monarchy restored and
restrained: Britain
• From Republic to restored and
limited monarchy, 1649–1678
• The establishment of constitutional
monarchy, 1678–1702
Additional Information: High levels of literacy are required.
• Paper 2:
80 marks (40%)
2 hours 30 minutes
Depth Study
20 Democracy and Nazism:
Germany, 1918–1945
Part one: The Weimar Republic,
1918–1933
• The Establishment and early years
of Weimar, 1918–1924
• The ‘Golden Age’ of the Weimar
Republic, 1924–1928
• The Collapse of Democracy,
1928–1933
Part two: Nazi Germany, 1933–1945
• The Nazi Dictatorship, 1933–1939
• The Racial State, 1933–1941
• The impact of War, 1939–1945
• Non Exam Assessment:
3000 - 4000 words (20%)
Historical Investigation
• A personal study based on a topic of the student’s choice. This should take the form of a question
in the context of approximately 100 years. It must not duplicate the content of options chosen for
Components 1 and 2.
University Pathways: History, Politics, Law, Anthropology, Journalism, Business, Education.
Careers: The top ten jobs held by history graduates employed in the UK 15 months after graduation include
teaching professionals, sales, marketing and related associate professionals, business, research and administrative
professionals, media professionals and finance professionals.
A Level Mathematics
(Pearsons Edexcel Mathematics)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 7 in Maths. Students with a grade 6 in Maths may apply to take an algebra test at enrolment
interview in August, to be accepted onto the course.
Subject Combinations: Further Maths, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Geography.
Why this A Level? By studying Maths A Level, you’ll gain and work on skills such as problem solving, logic and
statistics. These are all transferable skills that will be useful in all aspects of your personal and professional life moving
forward. Your research skills with Maths A Level will increase as you are set more independent tasks to complete.
Assessment
Units/Topics:
Pure, Statistics and Mechanics.
• Paper 1: 100 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Pure Mathematics 1
• Paper 2: 100 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Pure Mathematics 2
• Proof
• Algebra and functions
• Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
• Sequences and series
• Trigonometry
• Exponentials and logarithms
• Differentiation
• Integration
• Numerical method
• Vectors
• Paper 3: 100 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Section A: Statistics
Additional Information: Students must also take A Level Maths and take Further Maths as a fourth A Level.
During Year 1, students will be assessed on their ability in Further Maths. If successful, students will then be requested to
drop one of their other A Levels unless they have at least 8 GCSE grades at grade 8.
University Pathways: Maths, Economics, Geography, Medical Sciences, Sciences.
• Statistical sampling
• Data presentation and interpretation
• Probability
• Statistical distributions
• Statistical hypothesis testing
Section B: Mechanics
• Quantities and units in mechanics
• Kinematics
• Forces and Newton’s laws
• Moments
Careers: The top jobs for Mathematics graduates include IT professionals, finance professionals, business, research
and administrative professionals, teaching professionals, business associate professionals, sales, marketing and related
associate professionals, IT technicians and finance associate professionals.
15 16

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A level Chinese - Mandarin
(Pearsons Edexcel Chinese)
Entry Criteria: 7 in GCSE Mandarin
Subject Combinations: Geography, Government and Politics, Sociology, Psychology, Maths, Sciences.
Why this A Level? Chinese language skills open up just over 1.3 billion people across China! Learning Mandarin
gives you access to communicate with many people and connect on a deeper level, not just in Asia but across the world.
Studies suggest that learning Chinese uses more parts of the brain than are required for other languages.
Units/Topics:
Listening, Reading, Writing, Translation, Speaking
Assessment
• Paper 1: 80 marks (40%)
2 hours
Listening, Reading and Translation
This paper draws on vocabulary and structures
across all four themes. Themes are based on
the society and culture of Chinese-speaking
countries.
• Paper 2: 80 marks (40%)
2 hours
Writing
• Paper 3: 72 marks (30%)
21 and 23 minutes
Speaking
Task 1 draws on vocabulary and structures
across all four themes (listed on pages 9-10).
Task 2 is based on independent research
selected and carried out by the student. The
research may be based on one of the themes
or on the student’s own subject of interest
related to the society and culture of the
Chinese-speaking world.
This paper includes a translation exercise and
two extended responses to either two literary
texts, or one literary text and one film.
University Pathways: Mandarin or conjoint degree with Anthropology, Law, Business, Classics, Criminology,
Economics, Geography for example and a range of conjoint Languages.
Careers: Teaching professional is the top job held by Modern Languages graduates in employment in the UK.
Other jobs in the top ten include business, research and administrative professionals, sales, marketing and related
associate professionals, artistic, literary and media occupations, finance professionals, welfare and housing associate
professionals, business associate professionals and media professionals.
17

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Photography
(Pearson’s Edexcel Art and Design, Photography)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 5 in Photography, Art or equivalent creative course. A portfolio of work may also be
considered.
Subject Combinations: Maths, Business, Engineering, English, History, Psychology, Philosophy.
Why this A Level? A career based on skills in photography can take you into many sectors from media and
editorial to commercial advertising and photo journalism.
Components:
1: Personal investigation – using a wide range of methods from drawing to a wide range of techniques
associated with digital photography.
2: Externally Set Assignment - using a wide range of methods from drawing to a wide range of techniques
associated with digital photography.
Assessment
• Non Exam Assessment:
90 marks (60%)
Over the course of Year 1 and 2
Component 1:
Internally set, assessed by the teacher and externally moderated. This component allows students
opportunities to generate and develop ideas, research primary and contextual sources, record practical
and written observations, experiment with media and processes, and refine ideas towards producing
personal resolved outcome(s). Incorporates three major elements: supporting studies, practical work
(a portfolio of development work and outcomes based on themes and ideas developed from personal
starting points) and a personal study (critical written communication showing contextual research and
understanding in a minimum 1000 words of continuous prose).
Non Exam Assessment:
72 marks (40%)
Year 2 – Prep time plus 15 hours
Component 2:
This component allows students opportunities to generate and develop ideas, research primary and
contextual sources, record practical and written observations, experiment with media and processes,
and refine ideas towards producing personal resolved outcome(s) in response to an externally set
theme. Incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies (a portfolio of practical and written
development work) and the 15–hour period of sustained focus (focus under examination conditions,
students will produce final outcome(s) extending from their preparatory studies).
Additional Information: Students are expected to independently visit a range of exhibitions and workshops.
University Pathways: Art, Architecture, Animation, Cinematography, Theatre Design, Graphic Design,
Photography, Film and Media.
A Level Physics (OCR A Physics)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: Grade 6 in Physics or 6/6 in Combined Science. Grade 6 in English Language and Maths.
Must also be taken in combination with A Level Maths.
Subject Combinations: Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Design Engineering, Geography.
Why this A Level? Studying A Level Physics will develop your reasoning, problem-solving and analytical skills to
the next level. This will position you ideally for university level study or the workplace. Due to the heavy mathematical
element to physics, a qualification can also help you explore mathematical studies and career path.
Modules:
1: Development of practical skills in Physics
2: Foundations of Physics
3: Forces and motion
4: Electrons, waves and photons
5: Newtonian world and Astrophysics
6: Particles and medical Physics
Assessment
• Paper 1:
100 marks (37%) 2 hours 15 minutes
Modeling physics (01)
Component 01 assesses content from
modules 1, 2, 3 and 5.
• Paper 2:
100 marks (37%) 2 hours 15 minutes
Exploring physics (02)
Component 02 assesses content from
modules 1, 2, 4 and 6.
Additional Information: Requires A Level Maths skills.
• Paper 3:
70 marks (26%) 1 hour 30 minutes
Unified physics (03)
Component 03 assesses content from
all modules (1 to 6).
• Non Exam Assessment:
Pass or Fail
Practical Endorsement in physics
(04)
12 practical activities
University Pathways: Physics, Engineering, architecture, Games Development, Astrophysics.
Careers: The most popular job for those employed in the UK is IT professional with 22% reporting this as their
most important activity. The top ten jobs also include business, research and administrative professionals, teaching
professionals, natural and social science professionals, finance professionals, engineering professionals, business
associate professionals and IT technicians.
Careers: 1in 6 people in London work in the Creative Industry, and photography can lead on to Photojournalism,
Digital Marketer, Cinematographer, Film Making, Director, Marketing, Design, Magazine Editor, TV Camera Operator,
Film/Video Editor.
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20

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Psychology (AQA Psychology)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in Maths GCSE, 6 in English Language, 6 in Psychology if taken.
Subject Combinations: Sociology, English Literature, Geography, History, Biology, Chemistry, Maths.
Why this A Level? Studying A Level Psychology allows you to gain a solid understanding of key concepts and
theories. It will explore the fascinating human mind and expand your awareness of why we behave how we do. A Level
Psychology could be the first step towards an exciting career as it helps you prepare for university study.
Units/Topics:
1: Social Influence
2: Memory
3: Attachment
4: Psychopathology
5: Approaches in Psychology
6: Biopsychology
7: Research methods
8: Issues and debates in Psychology
9: Optional Topics
Assessment
• Paper 1:
96 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Introductory Topics in Psychology
Compulsory content 1–4
• Paper 2:
96 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
• Paper 3:
96 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Issues and options in Psychology
and the optional content
Compulsory content 8 and optional
content
Psychology in Context
Compulsory content 5-7
Additional Information: High levels of literacy required.
University Pathways: Psychology, Criminology, Business, Economics, Law, Medical Sciences, Social Work.
Careers: The top five jobs held by Psychology graduates 15 months after graduation include care workers
(12%), teaching and childcare support occupations (7%), welfare and housing associate professionals (8%), therapy
professionals (6%) and teaching professionals (5%).
22

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Religious Studies (OCR Religious Studies)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in RE if taken, 6 in English Language.
Subject Combinations: History, Government and Politics, Sociology, Geography, Psychology.
Why this A Level? Students will gain knowledge of important religious and philosophical issues, and
will learn how to interpret and assess arguments and counter arguments. Students will learn the key skills
of how to write clearly and accurately, how to express persuasive arguments and how to develop their own
thinking around belief systems. They will also have the opportunity to systematically study one religious - either
Christianity or Islam.
Components:
1: Philosophy of religion - Students study philosophical language and thought, and issues and
questions raised by belief.
2: Religion and ethics - Students explore key concepts and the works of influential thinkers, ethical
theories and their application.
3: Developments in religious thought - either Christianity or Islam depending on the cohort -
Students select one religion from the following to study systematically.
Assessment • Normative ethical theories
• Paper 1:
Philosophy of Religion
120 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
• Ancient philosophical influences
• The nature of the soul, mind and body
• Arguments about the existence or non
existence of God
• The nature and impact of religious experience
• The challenge for religious belief of the problem
of evil
• Ideas about the nature of God
• Issues in religious language
• Paper 2:
Religion and Ethics
120 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
• The application of ethical theory to two contemporary
issues of importance
• Ethical language and thought
• Debates surrounding the significant idea of conscience
• Sexual ethics and the influence on ethical thought of
developments in religious beliefs
• Paper 3:
Developments in Religious Thought
120 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Either Islam or Christiainity
• Religious beliefs, values and teachings, the
interconnections and how they vary historically and in the
contemporary world
• Sources of religious wisdom and authority
• Practices which shape and express religious identity, and
how these vary within a tradition
• Significant social and historical developments in theology
and religious thought
• Key themes related to the relationship between religion
and society
Additional Information: The choice component of either Islam or Christianity will be made with the
students once they have begun the course to reflect their prior knowledge and interest.
University Pathways: Philosophy, Religious Studies, Theology, Linguist Studies, Law.
Careers: The top 5 jobs held by Religious or Philosophy graduates include the teaching profession, sales,
marketing, related associate professionals, business, research and administrative professionals, other elementary
services occupations and finance professionals. Students may also consider pursuing an academic or theological
career.
A Level Sociology (AQA Sociology)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in English Language, 6 in any humanities subject, 6 in Sociology if taken.
Subject Combinations: Psychology, History, Geography, Philosophy.
Why this A Level? Studying Sociology at A Level will give you an awareness of the social, political and
economic issues that shape society. It will help you develop greater empathy towards communities that differ from
your own and open your mind to a diverse range of ideas and beliefs.
Units/Topics:
1: Education with Theory and Methods
2: Topics in Sociology
3: Crime and Deviance with theory and methods
Assessment
• Paper 1
80 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Education with Theory and Methods:
• Role and function of education system
• Achievement of different groups
• Significance of policy
• Sociological research methods to
education
• Range of methods,theory, ethical
considerations, debates and social policy
• Paper 3:
80 marks (33.3%) 2 hours
Crime, deviance, social order and social control:
• The social distribution of crime and deviance by ethnicity, gender and social class, including •
recent patterns and trends in crime
• Globalisation and crime in contemporary society; the media and crime; green crime; human rights
and state crimes
• Crime control, surveillance, prevention and punishment, victims, and the role of the criminal justice
system and other agencies
• Range of methods and theory and the relationships between theories
Additional Information: High levels of literacy required.
• Paper 2
80 marks (33.3%)
2 hours
Topics in Sociology:
• Culture and Identity
• Families and Households
• Significance of policy
• Health, Work, Poverty and Welfare
• Beliefs in Society
• Global Development
• The Media
• Stratification and Differentiation
University Pathways: Sociology, Economics, Marketing, Business, Social Anthropology.
Careers: Welfare and housing associate professionals (8%), protective service occupations (7%), care workers (6%),
teaching professionals (4%), teaching and childcare support occupations (3%), admin (4%) and sales, marketing and
related associate professionals (3%) are all among the top ten jobs held by sociology graduates.
23 24

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
A Level Courses Guide
A Level Spanish (AQA Spanish)
Entry Criteria: GCSE: 6 in Spanish
Subject Combinations: Geography, Government and Politics, Sociology, Psychology, Maths, Sciences.
Why this A Level? Being able to speak Spanish not only enables you to communicate with the 400 million other
speakers worldwide, but it will bring other academic benefits as well. Given its rich artistic and literary history, studying
Spanish at A Level will enhance any further study you do in arts-based subjects such as Art History.
Units/Topics:
Listening, reading, translation and speaking.
.
Assessment
• Paper 1: 80 marks (40%)
2 hours
Listening, Reading and Translation
• This paper draws on vocabulary and
structures across all four themes. Themes
are based on the society and culture of
the language being studied.
Listening (30 marks)
Reading (30 marks)
Translation into English (20 marks)
• Paper 2: 120 marks (30%)
2 hours 40 minutes
Written response to works and translation
• This paper draws on the study of two
discrete Spanish works: either two literary
texts, or one literary text and one film.
The literary texts include a range of
novels, novellas, short stories and plays.
All of the films are feature length.
Translation (20 marks)
Written response to works (literary texts)
(50 marks)
• Paper 3: 72 marks (30%)
21 and 23 minutes
Written response to works and translation
• Students will be assessed on their ability
to use a range of language accurately,
communicate and interact effectively,
summarise and analyse findings
from written sources relating to their
research subject, and show knowledge
and understanding about the culture and
society where the language is spoken.
Task 1 (discussion on a Theme)
Task 2, Part 1 (independent research
presentation)
Task 2, Part 2 (discussion on independent
research)
University Pathways: Spanish or conjoint degree with Anthropology, Law, Business, Classics, Criminology,
Economics Geography for example and a range of conjoint languages.
Careers: Teaching professional is the top job held by Modern Languages graduates in employment in the UK.
Other jobs in the top ten include business, research and administrative professionals, sales, marketing and related
associate professionals, artistic, literary and media occupations, finance professionals, welfare and housing associate
professionals, business associate professionals and media professionals.
25 24

The UCL Academy Sixth Form
The UCL Academy
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www.uclacademy.co.uk
0207 449308
enquiries@uclacademy.co.uk
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