curriculum handbook for students beginning key stage 4 in

THE LAMMAS SCHOOL

CURRICULUM HANDBOOK

For Students beginning Key Stage 4 in September 2021

March 2021

A member of the Griffin Schools Trust Proud Traditions Wide Horizons High Achievement

CURRICULUM HANDBOOK for Students going into Year 10 in September 2021

Introduction Curriculum Plan Restrictions and English Baccalaureate

1

2

3

Core GCSE Subjects English and English Literature Mathematics Physical Education Science

4567

Other Core Subjects (non-GCSE) Careers, Citizenship, Personal, Social & Health Education 8

EBacc Option Subjects Computer Science French Geography History Spanish

910111213

Other Option Subjects Art Business Citizenship Creative iMedia (GCSE equivalent) Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition

Music (BTEC) Physical Education Religious Studies – Philosophy & Ethics Sociology

14151617181921222324

Directed Option Subjects (by invitation only) Functional Skills in English Language (non-GCSE) Key Skills (non GCSE)

2526

Additional Subjects Community Languages (Home Language)

27

INTRODUCTION

Dear Parent / Carer The purpose of this booklet is to help your child decide the course he or she follows during Key Stage 4 at The Lammas School. In Key Stage 4, all students are required to study the core subjects of: English Mathematics Science – Biology, Chemistry and Physics Core Physical Education

Through Tutorial lessons, Assemblies and Super Learning Days students will also study Personal, Social & Health Education (which includes Sex and Relationships

Education and Drugs Education) Careers Education, Citizenship and Religious Education

In addition, students are able to choose 4 Option subjects. Detailed guidance is set out in this booklet. You will find descriptions of each subject, written by the teachers responsible for them, so that you can see what each course of study involves. Please consider carefully which four option subjects your son or daughter should choose; making sure you are aware of your child’s aspirations for education after the age of 16 and any career needs. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, unfortunately we will not be able to hold the normal parents evening for the Option Choices this year. On this evening, Thursday 11 March 4.30-7.00pm there will be the opportunity for you to seek further clarification or details to the Option Choices, further to the information already provided in this booklet or through the Loom videos that have taken place. We recognise that students at this age are often unsure which career might suit them. Please also consider which subjects your child has an aptitude for and which they enjoy as this will result in more engaged learning. We advise that your son or daughter makes a balanced choice across practical subjects, languages and humanities subject so that future choices are as open as possible. It is also important to select the subjects in which your son or daughter has shown ability in. It is best for them to study the subjects they enjoy and where they are most likely to gain the best qualifications. If your child is likely to study A Levels and may want to progress to university, please read the note on page 3 to consider the English Baccalaureate. Mr B Sawali Assistant Head

KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM – YEAR 10 FROM SEPTEMBER 2021

All students will do the following Core compulsory subjects

SUBJECT Qualification Lessons over 1 week

Core GCSE Subjects Year 10 Year 11 English & English Literature 2 GCSEs 6 5 Mathematics 1 GCSE 5 6 Science - Double / Trilogy 2 or 3 GCSEs 5 5 Core Physical Education 2 2 Other Core non-GCSE Subjects Careers Citizenship Personal, Social, Health & Religious Education (PSHRE)

} Delivered through Tutorial } lessons, Super-Learning } Days, cross-curricular } work and assemblies.

Option Subjects: Each student will also do four option subjects from the list below, at least one of these must be an EBacc subject. Each is of 3 lessons a week during Years 10-11. See the subject page for details about each subject. Option Subjects:

Art Business Citizenship Computer Science (EBacc) Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition French (EBacc)

Geography (EBacc) History (EBacc) Creative iMedia Music Physical Education Religious Studies Sociology Spanish (EBacc)

Some students will be asked to follow one or two of these courses. We will discuss these options with parents of the students concerned. Directed Option Subjects

Functional Skills in English Key Skills

Section 1

CORE GCSE SUBJECTS (pages 4-7)

Section 2

OTHER CORE SUBJECTS (Non-GCSE) (page 8)

Section 3

EBACC OPTION SUBJECTS (pages 9-13)

Section 4

OTHER OPTION SUBJECTS (pages 14-24)

Section 5

DIRECTED OPTION SUBJECTS (pages 25-26)

Section 6

ADDITIONAL SUBJECTS and COMMUNITY LANGUAGES

(page 27)

OPTION RESTRICTIONS and EBacc

Choosing a Broad and Balanced Curriculum

Ensuring Access to College and University courses

Restrictions Some combinations of subjects are not allowed because the subject content overlaps. It is also important that students choose a broad and balanced curriculum, especially if they want to continue their education in the Sixth Form, or at Further Education colleges, University and at other institutions. These combinations are not allowed: Computer Science and Creative iMedia

Practical subjects You may only choose a maximum of two practical subjects from the following list: Art, Design Technology Drama Food Preparation & Nutrition Music English Baccalaureate The English Baccalaureate is made of six subjects:

English Maths Science Computer Science Humanities - (History or Geography) Language – (French or Spanish)

There is increasing importance attached to the English Baccalaureate since it was introduced several years ago. Students who may want to follow a university course in the future should consider choosing a Humanities subject (History or Geography) and a Language (French or Spanish) amongst their four options.

Section 1

CORE GCSE SUBJECTS

All students will study:

GCSE ENGLISH and ENGLISH LITERATURE (2 GCSEs)

GCSE MATHEMATICS

(1 GCSE)

GCSE SCIENCE (2 or 3 GCSEs)

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Core)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE (2 GCSEs)

ALL students will study the combined Language and Literature course. What will you study? The AQA syllabus, which is an integrated programme of study involving: Reading - a wide range of texts from the past and present, including articles,

reports, fiction, poetry etc. Writing - in a range of styles and genres and for a range of audiences and

purposes Speaking and Listening - including communicating effectively and appropriately

ideas, opinions, feelings and knowledge. Literature – a wide range of texts from pre and post 1914. Students will examine a

range of different contexts in which texts were produced. What will you be required to do? English Language: This comprises of TWO examinations that will result in ONE

GCSE in English Language. Students will be required to answer a series of questions commenting on the language/ purpose/ structure and writer’s craft. In addition they will be required to complete ONE compulsory writing task which will be a narrative/ descriptive or discursive piece.

English Literature: This comprises of TWO examinations that will result in ONE GCSE in English Literature. Students will be required to write FOUR essays on a variety of texts. (Macbeth/ Christmas Carol/ An Inspector Calls/ An Anthology of poems)

Attend regularly, work consistently, contribute effectively to lessons and ensure that they are prepared for all pre-public exams

Read for yourself a wide variety of material to stimulate your imagination, to widen your experience and to support your studies

Learn to think independently and express yourself effectively. How will you be assessed? English English Literature Exam 100% Exam 100% Please note that there are NO tiers of entry and NO choice – all students will be expected to complete BOTH English Language AND English Literature. All students will be graded on a scale 9-1.

MATHEMATICS All students will study Mathematics: It contributes to the development of skills and qualities such as communication,

reasoning, problem-solving and creativity It is a useful tool required throughout your life It provides you with stimulation and excitement It is a universal means of communication and tackles practical problems in everyday

life while preparing you for the world of work It encourages critical analysis and decision-making vital in understanding the world

around you. What will you study? Students will follow the Edexcel syllabus and Programme of Study, which closely reflect the National Curriculum. Topics include: Mathematics in everyday life Patterns in number and shape, looking for rules The use of mathematical language, signs, diagrams, tables and graphs as a means of

communicating clearly Use of calculators, computers and mathematical instruments accurately and

efficiently Discussing mathematical ideas and carrying out mental calculations Making logical deductions from a variety of data Using mathematics to investigate situations and to solve problems.

What will you be required to do? Attend regularly, work consistently and meet deadlines Bring and use all forms of mathematical equipment to ensure confident and accurate

usage Scientific calculator is required in every lesson Participate in all forms of class activities and have a positive attitude towards your

learning. Take responsibility for your own understanding through asking questions and

seeking advice from your teacher. You will be expected to work independently at home using GCSE pod, Mymaths,

Mathswatch, Hegarty Maths etc You will be expected to attend intervention classes that you are invited to.

How will you be assessed? You will be entered for one of the following tiers based on your level of class work and homework produced and on the result of mock examinations: o Higher Tier o Foundation Tier

(grades 9 - 4) (grades 5 -)

Assessment at all tiers of entry consists of three written terminal examination: Paper 1 Non-Calculator

Paper 2 Calculator Paper 3 Calculator

33.3% (1Hr 30 mins) 33.3% (1Hr 30 mins) 33.3% (1Hr 30 mins)

For some students there will be the opportunity to achieve further qualifications in GCSE Statistics and GCSE Further Maths.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Core) All students will study Physical Education because: As you enter your teenage years you need to know more about your body and how

to keep yourself fit and active. A GCSE in PE can be of help to nearly any form of employment you would like,

from sports medicine, coaching, journalism, teaching to a career in the armed forces.

With the 2012 Olympics a distant memory, it is essential that we carry on with the legacy that it has left and keep our young people as active and healthy as possible.

Physical Education is a national requirement to help students be more active and less at risk of obesity and conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

What will you study? You will work at a higher level in the sports you have already done at key stage 3

with an emphasis on improving your own performance You will also learn more about exercise and how your body works, in order to

maintain a healthy lifestyle You may be given the opportunity to represent the school in organising sports

events for primary school children. Opportunity to get coaching/ sport leaders awards. What are you required to do? PE will offer you the opportunity to develop your skills in a wide range of sports and activities and help you improve your own performance participating in 2 practical lessons of PE per week.

You will participate in a range of sports, as well as developing the knowledge to improve your own ability in these activities. For students who enjoy sport and have the ability to work hard on written work, GCSE PE may be an additional subject that you can achieve. Those students who chose GCSE PE will use the additional 2 lessons of PE to help with both the practical and theoretical aspects of the course.

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SCIENCE (2 or 3 GCSEs)

All students will study Combined Science because:

Studying Combined Science will enable you to study the Science subjects in the Sixth Form and progress into higher education Science courses or into science-based careers. Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are the pathway for future innovations that lengthen life, solve world problems and power economies. Most employers want workers who are able to reason and solve problems using some math, science, or technology knowledge.

What will you study in Combined Science?

There are two tiers of entry: Higher and Foundation. The course leads to two Science GCSEs. Biology - students will study topics such as how the environment affects plants and animals. Chemistry – students will study topics such as how atoms interact and how these interactions affect reactions. Physics - students will study topics such as how forces affect matter and the energy changes that occur during interactions.

What pupils will be selected for Triple Science study?

Students will be chosen for Triple Science based on their performance in yr 9. Triple Science students will follow separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics GCSE courses for the full three years. This leads to three separate GCSEs. There are two tiers of entry: Higher and Foundation. Students will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics in depth across the three GCSE years. As well as covering all the Combined Science modules, there are two additional modules: Space Physics and Key ideas in Biology. This course involves the study of 22 required practicals.

How will you be assessed?

Assessment - There is no coursework in the Combined or the Triple course.

Combined Science: For each subject; Biology, Chemistry and Physics there are 2 papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2. Each paper is 1 hour 15 minutes.

Triple Science: For each subject; Biology, Chemistry and Physics there are 2 papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2. Each paper is 1 hour 45 minutes and each paper carries 50% marks.

AQA Exam Board qualification:

GCSE Combined Science - 2 GCSEs GCSE 3 Separate Science - Biology, Chemistry & Physics = 3 GCSEs

Section 2

OTHER CORE SUBJECTS (Non-GCSE)

All students will study:

CAREERS EDUCATION

CITIZENSHIP

PERSONAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH & RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Other Core Subjects (Non-GCSE) Careers Students will develop the self-awareness and confidence needed for adult life, further learning and work. They will have opportunities to show that they can take responsibility for their own learning and career choices by setting personal targets and planning to meet them. Students will experience talks and visits that will acquaint them with the rigours and routines of the world of work and assist them in making appropriate career choices. Citizenship There will be opportunities across the board for our students to engage in active citizenship at KS4. Primarily students who take one of the ‘Ethics’ subjects will lead on these tasks. There are numerous Super Learning Days which allow pupils to think critically about their role in the world, this will be supported through tutorials which include reflection on human rights, the work of famous activists and charity collections. Finally we aim to develop our students’ knowledge of the world around them through thought provoking assemblies. We aim to build active and critical citizens throughout their academic careers and beyond. Personal, Social, Health and Religious Education During Key Stage 4, students will be given opportunities during Super Learning Days to explore issues of health, personal safety and well-being. Students will be encouraged to discuss, raise and reflect on sensitive issues during a tutorial programme, school visitors and assemblies. It is our aim to help students understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to health and welfare, the law and society.

Section 3

EBACC OPTION SUBJECTS

Computer Science French Geography History Spanish

Page

9 10 11 12 13

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COMPUTER SCIENCE

Why choose this subject? OCR’ GCSE (9–1) specification in Computer Science encourages students to: understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of Computer Science,

including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving

such problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs You will need to have outstanding Mathematical understanding and Application

Skills.

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you:

Enjoy exploring the different aspects of computing –Architecture. Want to understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they

communicate with one another and with other systems. Want to understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider

society Want to apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science. Want to further your Computing skills for the workplace. What will you study? Our GCSE Computer Science course gets students working with real-world, practical programming techniques that give them a good understanding of what makes technology work. This qualification has built-in progression to further studies and is recognised as developing the skills that employers’ value. The qualification is split into two exam units and one programming project: Paper 1: Computer Systems - This paper investigates architecture of the CPU, CPU performance, Memory and Storage, Computer network, connections and protocols, System software, and cultural, ethical and legal impact of digital technology. Written examination - 1 hour 30 minutes - 50% of the qualification

Paper 2: Computational thinking, algorithms and programming - This component investigates problem solving, algorithms and programming fundamentals, data types, programming languages, data structures and data types and security and authentication. Written examination - 1 hour 30 minutes - 50% of the qualification Formal Requirement: Programming project - 20 hours This component requires students to produce a programmed solution to a problem. Design, Write, Test and Refine a solution to a computing problem. GCSE Computer Science counts towards the English Baccalaureate science qualification, offering students a new option that achieves maximum recognition.

FRENCH

“Studies have suggested that learning a second language can slow brain ageing and can lead to higher mental function in the brain.” BBC 27.02.2019 The Top 5 jobs for language graduates according to topuniversities.com are Account Management, Finance, Retail, Social Media and Government, Politics and International Relations. Language graduates are more than just translators or teachers. In fact they have the most diverse range of career choice compared to graduates of other subjects. “If you talk to a person in a language they understands, that goes to their head. If you talk to them in their own language that goes to their heart.” ‒ Nelson Mandela Top colleges, Universities and companies all know that learning another language is challenging and helps you to develop unique as well as transferable skills. This is why people who have language qualifications at any level are more desirable to them. This may also explain why people who have language qualifications earn more money, receive promotions earlier in their career and achieve higher levels of promotion. Who should choose this subject? You should choose FRENCH, if you: Want to open doors to the new experiences and opportunities that learning a language

can bring Want to study a subject that gives you the edge in the job market Have enjoyed studying French and want to develop it further Want a skill for life that is both useful and rewarding Want to study a subject which you enjoy learning and which can expand your cultural

knowledge Like finding out about other cultures and ways of life. Remember that French is an

international language spoken widely around the world Want to be able to meet speakers of French in the UK and be able to better enjoy your

holidays in French-speaking countries Want to study a subject that is considered a “facilitating subject” (required or preferred)

by the best universities in the UK, and one of the top 3 “languages for the future” according to the British Council

Understand the demands of doing a GCSE course in languages What will you study? You will follow the AQA French GCSE course. Theme 1: Identity and culture Topic 1: Me, my family and friends Relationships with family and friends Marriage/partnership

Topic 2: Technology in everyday life

Social media Mobile technology

Topic 3: Free-time activities Music Cinema and TV Food and eating out Sport

Topic 4: Customs and festivals in French-speaking countries/communities Theme 2: Local, national and international and global areas of interest Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood and region Topic 2: Social issues Charity/voluntary work Healthy/unhealthy living

Topic 3: Global issues The environment Poverty/homelessness

Topic 4: Travel and tourism Theme 3: Current and future study and employment Topic 1: My studies Topic 2: Life at school/college Topic 3: Education post-16 Topic 4: Jobs, career choices and ambitions

What will you be required to do? Initiate and develop conversations and discussions in French about a variety of

topics, speaking spontaneously. Listen to and understand information from a range of different sources. Read and understand shorter and longer texts, including excerpts from literature in

French. Memorise vocabulary and understand and apply grammar rules. Translate short texts from French into English, and vice versa. Write extended texts in French expressing and explaining ideas and points of view,

and conveying relevant information.

How will you be assessed? All 4 language communicative competences are considered equal and therefore you must be committed to developing each one. In Year 11, you will take an exam in each skill. Listening – understand and respond to different types of spoken language (25%) Speaking – communicate and interact effectively in speech (25%), such as in role-

play, photo stimulus card, and general conversation Reading – understand and respond to different types of written language (25%) Writing – communicate in writing (25%)

GEOGRAPHY Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Want to understand and explain the world in which you live Are concerned about worldwide issues such as development, famine,

pollution, tourism and the economy Enjoy exploring and investigating things around you Enjoy developing your own point of view, supported by facts and

evidence What will you study? Geographical Skills, such as map reading, interpreting graphs, and

reading data and images A range of topical units, such as climate change, sustainable

development, water shortages, global warming, and the global impact of tourism

Other units on plate tectonics, rivers, economic change and settlement What will you be required to do? Study a variety of materials, discuss them and interpret them. The types of materials will include: Textbooks, websites, fieldwork trips (local and national), maps,

databases and spreadsheets, charts and graphs, photographs, documentaries, TV news broadcasts, newspapers and cartoons

Present your findings and point of view in notes, written answers, oral presentation and using ICT including GIS

Independent research of secondary data and group work Fieldwork techniques and primary data gathering

How will you be assessed? The EDEXCEL specification is followed. The course will be assessed via external examinations, which will cover a wide range of Geographical knowledge and skills. A fundamental part of this assessment will be the use of Geographical fieldwork to collect, manipulate and analyse ‘real-world’ data based on two field trips that we will make during the three years.

HISTORY Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Want to understand and explain what happened in the past Want to understand and explain why events happen today Want to understand and explain why people behave the way they do today Enjoy developing your own point of view, supported by facts and evidence

What will you study? Modern World History:

1. Thematic Study and historic environment: Crime and punishment in Britain, c1000–present, and Whitechapel, c1870–c1900: crime, policing and the inner city.

2. Period Study and British Depth Study: Early Elizabethan England, 1558-1588, and Superpower relations and the Cold War, 1941–91

3. Modern Depth Study: Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918–39

What will you be required to do?

Study a variety of materials, discuss them and interpret them. The types of materials will include:

Textbooks, websites, documentaries, films on DVD/video, TV news broadcasts, trips, newspapers, databases and spreadsheets, maps, photographs, cartoons and letters and diaries

Present your findings and point of view in notes, written answers, presentations and using ICT

Independent research How will you be assessed? We currently use the Edexcel GCSE History specification. The qualification will be assessed in a range of ways through external examinations, including outline studies, depth studies of particular periods of modern history, and a source enquiry. Each of these assessment methods is designed to test the wide range of skills required in Historical study.

SPANISH

“Studies have suggested that learning a second language can slow brain ageing and can lead to higher mental function in the brain.” BBC 27.02.2019 The Top 5 jobs for language graduates according to topuniversities.com are Account Management, Finance, Retail, Social Media and Government, Politics and International Relations. Language graduates are more than just translators or teachers. In fact they have the most diverse range of career choice compared to graduates of other subjects. “If you talk to a person in a language they understands, that goes to their head. If you talk to them in their own language that goes to their heart.” ‒ Nelson Mandela Top colleges, Universities and companies all know that learning another language is challenging and helps you to develop unique as well as transferable skills. This is why people who have language qualifications at any level are more desirable to them. This may also explain why people who have language qualifications earn more money, receive promotions earlier in their career and achieve higher levels of promotion. Who should choose this subject? You should choose SPANISH, if you: Want to open doors to the new experiences and opportunities that learning a

language can bring Want to study a subject that gives you the edge in the job market Have enjoyed studying Spanish and want to develop it further Want a skill for life that is both useful and rewarding Want to study a subject which you enjoy learning and which can expand your

cultural knowledge Like finding out about other cultures and ways of life. Remember that Spanish is

an international language spoken in Spain, in the USA as a second official language and in 21 other countries

Want to be able to meet speakers of Spanish in the UK and be able to better enjoy your holidays in Spanish-speaking countries

Want to study a subject that is considered a “facilitating subject” (required or preferred) by the best universities in the UK, and the top “language for the future” according to the British Council

Understand the demands of doing a GCSE course in languages. What will you study? You will follow the AQA Spanish GCSE course. Theme 1: Identity and culture Topic 1: Me, my family and friends Relationships with family and friends Marriage/partnership

Topic 2: Technology in everyday life Social media Mobile technology

Topic 3: Free-time activities Music Cinema and TV Food and eating out Sport

Topic 4: Customs and festivals in Spanish-speaking countries/communities Theme 2: Local, national and international and global areas of interest Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood and region Topic 2: Social issues Charity/voluntary work Healthy/unhealthy living

Topic 3: Global issues The environment Poverty/homelessness

Topic 4: Travel and tourism Theme 3: Current and future study and employment Topic 1: My studies Topic 2: Life at school/college Topic 3: Education post-16 Topic 4: Jobs, career choices and ambitions

What will you be required to do? Initiate and develop conversations and discussions in Spanish about a variety

of topics, speaking spontaneously. Listen to and understand information from a range of different sources. Read and understand shorter and longer texts, including excerpts from

literature in Spanish. Memorise vocabulary and understand and apply grammar rules. Translate short texts from Spanish into English, and vice versa. Write extended texts in Spanish expressing and explaining ideas and points of

view, and conveying relevant information. How will you be assessed? All 4 language communicative competences are considered equal and therefore you must be committed to developing each one. In Year 11, you will take an exam in each skill. Listening – understand and respond to different types of spoken language

(25%) Speaking – communicate and interact effectively in speech (25%), such as in

role-play, photo stimulus card, and general conversation Reading – understand and respond to different types of written language 25%) Writing – communicate in writing (25%)

Section 4

OTHER OPTION SUBJECTS

Page

Art 14

Business Studies 15

Citizenship 16

Creative iMedia 17

Design Technology 18

Drama 19

Food Preparation and Nutrition 20

Music 21

Physical Education 22

Religious Studies 23

Sociology 24

Art & Design Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Enjoy expressing yourself through Art Are willing to push yourself and make mistakes Enjoy using your imagination and being creative Are able to develop your own ideas and make your own artwork Enjoy experimenting with different materials: paint, drawing, printing, digital

images, sculpture and photography Are interested in looking at art and learning about different artists and craftspeople. What will you study? Students will follow the OCR GCSE exam board in Art and Design. Year 10/11: Following on from the intense but hugely important project base and skills-building work of Year 9 you will: Continue to expand your knowledge of materials and processes. Work independently on topics using methods suitable to your own ideas. Learn to analyse and evaluate your work using art specific language and vocabulary. Visit art galleries in order to look at traditional or contemporary art. Build a personal portfolio that shows your progress and development as an Artist and

independent learner. What will you be required to do? Retain your current interest in Art and continue to work hard. Be prepared to try out new ideas and techniques. Make mistakes and learn from them. Approach your work as an independent artist making choices and directing the

project yourself. Talk about your ideas to staff and other students. Study the work of other artists and gain ideas/inspiration from them. Observe and record all your ideas and drawings in a sketchbook, for each project. Develop ideas, techniques and styles through the use of various materials. Create an independent and original final piece for each project. How will you be assessed? Continual assessment of coursework throughout Years 10 and 11 against the Assessment Objectives for the GCSE. Portfolio (2 detailed projects) + Mock GCSE Final 10 hour practical exam with preparatory work (six weeks)

60 % 40%

Colleges and further Education The Art GCSE is recognised as a vigorous and challenging award. Colleges recognise that a GCSE Art students have worked hard, independently, developed skills and techniques needed for problem solving. Students are creative thinkers and good communicators with observational and analytical skills. All these are recognised transferable skills, making Art GCSE a valuable award to have no matter what plans you have for the future.

BUSINESS

Why should you choose this subject? In life there are leaders and followers? Those who direct and those that are directed. In the commercial world people find jobs to do and entrepreneurs create jobs. Those that choose to study business equip themselves with instincts and knowledge to be those very people who take the risk to create. If you see yourself as an individual with the vision and energy to be involved in building a business, then GCSE Business could be where you could begin your journey. The GCSE in Business looks at what happens in businesses, and analyses why they behave in certain ways. For the duration of the two -year course you will learn crucial skills, which will prepare you for your future careers whether in the scientific, legal or financial world. Business skills will help you to succeed in any area. What will you study?

Examination board – Edexcel

The topics you will study include:

Entrepreneurs and Enterprise Marketing and Promotion How to start up your own business Understanding the economy Human resource management E-Commerce

How will you learn? In Business we aim to make the lessons engaging, interesting and innovative! Lessons are created to be student led, which means there will be many opportunities for you to be involved. You will learn Business through a variety of presentations, discussions, projects, analyses of web-based /case studies and regular assessment. All lessons will have opportunities to build examination skills as well as build the very real knowledge need to succeed in business in a technological and automated world of goods and service production. How will you be assessed? There will be two exams in year 1, both being 1 hour 30 minutes long. Questions range from shorter MCQ calculation- based questions to longer essay questions that cover all 4 assessment objectives. Throughout the course we will hold regular assessments to ensure you are making progress and building your capacity to succeed. What should you think about? The study of business requires to be or be prepared to be happy working with numbers and texts and welcome learning a completely new subject- unlike anything in KS3.

CITIZENSHIP Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Have enjoyed learning about Global Citizenship in Ethics or RS Lessons Have opinions about the world around you Have strong feelings and ideas about how the world should change Want to understand our society, and your role in it Are interested in Politics, Sociology, Criminology, Psychology and Law Would like to study the media in more depth Like the idea of getting out of the classroom and into the community Enjoy debates and discussions

What will you study? What does it mean to be British? How can we support our community? What do politicians actually do? Does the media have a negative impact on our society? What can we all do to save the planet? What is your role in the electoral system? Is society fair? What are Human Rights? Should we allow torture and the death penalty?

What will you be required to do? Read a newspaper Watch the news Assess the use of Social Media Contribute to discussions Show an ability to formulate your opinion in detailed, written answers Outline many differing opinions Plan, run and evaluate a campaign on an issue that is important to you.


The exam board we use is Edexcel, you will sit three exams, two based on content we look at in class and a further one in which you must explain the impact of a campaign you have carried out yourself.

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Creative iMedia OCR Level 2 Cambridge National Certificate

“Digital media skills are essential for success in employment and higher education, and are among the fundamental transferable skills required by employers. Cambridge Nationals deliver these skills across the whole range of learning styles and abilities, effectively engaging and inspiring all students to achieve great things.” Who should choose this subject? YOU should, if you: Want to learn the application of ICT skills through their practical use. This will

provide you with essential knowledge, transferable skills and tools to improve your learning in other subjects with the aims of enhancing your employability when you leave education, contributing to your personal development and future economic well-being.

This qualification will: Equip you with sound ICT skills for everyday use and Provide opportunities to develop in context those desirable, transferable skills such as

planning, research and analysis, working with others or communicating technical concepts effectively.

Also challenge all students, including high attaining students, by introducing them to demanding material and skills; encouraging independence and creativity; providing tasks that engage with the most taxing aspects of the National Curriculum (including data handling, modelling and programming).

What will you study? 2 Mandatory units:

R081: Pre-production skills (Written Paper Exam) R082: Creating digital graphics (Internally Assessed Task)

2 Optional units (internally assessed):

R085: Creating a multipage website R087: Creating interactive multimedia products

What will you be required to do?

R081: Timetabled, 75 minutes written paper 60 marks (60 UMS) OCR set and marked For this question paper students are to demonstrate their understanding of pre-production skills used in the creative and digital media sector. It will develop their understanding of the client brief, time frames, deadlines and preparation techniques that form part of the planning and creation process. All other units are set by OCR but assessed internally after students have produced digital content in lessons for set tasks. In all cases written communication will also be assessed.

How will you be assessed? Externally assessed units: During the external assessment, students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding through questions that require the skills of analysis and evaluation in particular contexts. Internally assessed units: After each unit is completed, your teacher will mark it but a sample of all work will be externally moderated by OCR.

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY Design and technology is about providing opportunities for students to develop their capability, combining their designing and making skills with knowledge and understanding in order to create quality products. The exams and non-exam assessment will measure how students have achieved the following assessment objectives. AO1: Identify, investigate and outline design possibilities to address needs and wants. AO2: Design and make prototypes that are fit for purpose. AO3: Analyse and evaluate:

design decisions and outcomes, including for prototypes made by themselves and others

Wider issues in design and technology. AO4: Demonstrate and apply knowledge and understanding of:

technical principles Designing and making principles.

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you:

Are interested in how things are made and work, using a variety of materials and techniques

Enjoy designing and making things Are creative and imaginative Interested in designing and making with tools and equipment (specialist tools

like CAD/CAM) to produce products Interested in combining your passion in Art & Design, Maths, Science and ICT Can identify and solve problems Can work independently.

What will you study?

New and emerging technologies Energy storage and generation Modern and smart materials Systems approach to designing Mechanical devices Materials and their working properties. Forces and stresses Ecological and social footprint Scales of production Sources and origins Using and working with materials Stock forms, types and sizes Specialist techniques- CAD/CAM Surface treatments and finishes Designing and making principles.

This would be useful for you if you would like a career in: Architecture, Product Design, Industrial Design, Information Technology, Carpentry, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Product Manufacturing or as an Inventor, Technician or Surveyor. There are lots of different career paths which you could follow after studying Design and Technology.

What will you be required to do? Follow a similar product pattern as you have in Years 7, 8 and 9. However, it will

be in much more detail and more time will be allocated. Plan your time effectively and work independently at home and in school. Deadlines must be met if you are to complete the work. Use ICT in your project work.


Exam: 2 hours Section A – Core technical principles. A mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions assessing a breadth of technical knowledge and understanding. Section B – Specialist technical principles. Several short answer questions and one extended response to assess a more in depth knowledge of technical principles. Section C – Designing and making principles. A mixture of short answer and extended response questions including a 12 mark design question.

Non-Exam Assessment Criteria:

• Investigating • Designing • Making • Analysing and Evaluating.

We are using the AQA examination board for GCSE for Certificate. Unit 1: Examination: 50 % Examination paper is un-tiered.

Unit 2: Non-Examined Assessment: 50 % NEA is completed in school as independent work with the teacher’s supervision.

DRAMA Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: like to work practically and can express yourself creatively are self-confident, or want to develop your self-confidence are creative and enjoy devising plays of your own and rehearsing and performing

from scripts like co-operating with other students and sharing decision-making enjoy reading, watching and talking about plays have an interest in all aspects of theatre: acting, directing, devising, writing, stage

management, lighting, sound, costumes, scenery &c can appreciate and understand the views and values of others want to achieve through a subject where attainment is not based just on writing

skills. What will you study? We follow the Eduqas specification; the course is in three parts: Component 1: Devising Theatre (40% of the qualification)

In this component you will create, develop and perform a devised piece of drama which you will then evaluate. Internally assessed, externally moderated.

Component 2: Performing from a Text (20%) In this component you will perform in two extracts from a play text. Externally assessed by a visiting examiner.

Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice (40%) This is the final component where you write about a play you have studied in class and review another that you have seen live. Written exam externally assessed.

Each of these components can also follow a design route rather than performance if you prefer the production skills in Drama to the performance ones – you don’t have to be an actor to do GCSE Drama. As part of the course you will be introduced to a range of theatre practitioners and will learn how each of them approached the art of Drama. You will practice working in their style and will develop your own ideas from theirs. You will devise your own pieces of drama inspired by their work and built around stimuli given in class. You will also be introduced to a range of play texts that we will read, study and perform in class. Some of these plays will be the texts studied for the final exam, and you will also write in the exam about a play you have seen in performance

What will you be required to do? You will be expected to work creatively and co-operatively during lessons, to work hard and have fun. You will keep a detailed record of the drama that you are involved in and build a portfolio of evidence about your devised work. You will develop rehearsal skills so that you can keep working on a script, making your interpretation of it better and better over time. This will involve learning lines and moves, working with others to build to a performance of the script. You will learn to evaluate your own work and that of other students and professional actors in great detail, using the language of drama appropriately. There will be theatre trips and workshops in which you can see how professional performers use the drama techniques – you must write a review of one of these plays. How will you be assessed? You will be assessed for Component 1 by your class teacher; for Component 2 an external examiner will come in to assess your performance; Component 3 is an exam.

Food Preparation and Nutrition

Why choose GCSE Food Preparation & Nutrition This new GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which focuses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. At its heart, this qualification focuses on nurturing students' practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition.

What will you study? The new Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE will help you develop a greater understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials. You’ll also learn about food from around the world, through the study of British and international culinary traditions as well as developing an understanding of where food comes from (food provenance) and the challenges surrounding food security.

You’ll master culinary skills and appreciate the science behind food and cooking. This is an exciting and creative course which will allow you to demonstrate your practical skills and make connections between theory and practice.

Food preparation skills are integrated into five core topics:

Food, nutrition and health Food science Food safety Food choice Food provenance.

Where will GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition take you? This course will equip you to go on to further study. After taking this course, you could embark on AS or A-level study, begin an apprenticeship or perhaps begin employment in the catering or food industries. You’ll have the knowledge and skills to feed yourself (and others) affordably and nutritiously for life. Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Enjoy working with food and are curious about the function of ingredients. Are interested in acquiring a proper understanding of the scientific principles behind

food and nutrition. Are an independent learner and willing to use a number of practical cooking

techniques to prepare and cook food Can use your imagination to design new food products. Enjoy experimenting with new ideas and are not afraid to make mistakes.

In studying Food preparation and nutrition, students must: Demonstrate effective and safe cooking skills, preparing and cooking using a variety of

food commodities, cooking techniques and equipment. Develop knowledge and understanding of the functional properties and chemical

processes as well as the nutritional content of food and drinks. Understand the relationship between diet, nutrition and health, including the

physiological and psychological effects of poor diet and health. Manufacturing methods Understand economic, environmental, ethical, and socio-cultural influences on food

availability, production processes, and diet and health choices. Understand and explore a range of ingredients and processes from different culinary

traditions, to inspire new ideas or modify existing recipes. It will prepare you for further study, such as a high-quality food-related tech level, or apprenticeships in the catering or food industries. What will you be required to do? Follow a similar project pattern as you have in Years 7, 8 and 9. However, it will be in

much more detail with more focus on nutrition as well as doing more independent practical work.

Plan your time effectively and work independently. Deadlines must be met if you are to complete the work.

Use ICT in your Non Exam Assessment (NEA) work. How will you be assessed? We are using the AQA examination board for GCSE. Written Examination Theoretical knowledge of food preparation and nutrition from Sections 1 to 5. Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes

100 marks (50% of you GCSE grade)

Multiple choice questions (20 marks) Five questions each with a number of sub questions (80 marks) Non Exam Assessment (NEA) Task 1: Food investigation (30 marks) 15% of your GCSE grade.

Students' understanding of the working characteristics, functional and chemical properties of ingredients.

Practical investigations are a compulsory element of this NEA task.

Task 2: Food preparation assessment (70 marks) 35% of your GCSE grade.

Students' knowledge, skills and understanding in relation to the planning, preparation, cooking, presentation of food and application of nutrition related to the chosen task. Students will prepare, cook and present a final menu of three dishes within a single period of no more than three hours, planning in advance how this will be achieved.

MUSIC (BTEC First Award)

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: like to work practically and creatively enjoy performing on an instrument, singing or rapping have an interest in composing music want to learn about the music industry are able to work well with others and contribute to the devising, performing and

evaluating of group work. What will you study? Students will be following the Pearson BTEC First Award course, equivalent to one GCSE. The course consists of a number of units such as: The Music Industry Managing a Music Product Introducing Music Composition Introducing Music Performance

You will learn important musical skills within these units and have the chance to perform, compose and investigate within a variety of genres. There will be opportunities to work with music technology as well as to express yourself musically through your own compositions or the work of others. You will also learn important life skills such as presentation, research and team work. For some students there may also be an opportunity to undertake a GCSE in Music in parallel, reinforcing skills in performance, composition and listening to music critically. You will be working with a range of set musical works that will help develop your knowledge of musical styles and song writing skills. What will you be required to do? You will be expected to work creatively and co-operatively during lessons. You will put on a concert for which you will perform and work behind the scenes. You will keep a detailed record in your music diary of all the work that you are involved in (performance and production). You will learn to evaluate your own work (and that of other students) in great detail, using the language of music appropriately. How will you be assessed? You will be assessed through a combination of practical performances and written evidence supporting your work. All this work is assessed by your teachers and then externally moderated. There is also an exam based on the music industry consisting of multiple choice and scenario-based questions.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (GCSE Theory)

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Are enthusiastic about Physical Education Already have a good idea that you want further education or a career in the Sport and

Leisure sector Are interested in the areas of study listed below Are very highly motivated to make yourself a better sports person through

extracurricular activities. Enjoy all aspects of sport, not just playing it. Are performing well in English and Science.

What will you study? We follow the AQA Exam board specification. The course is broken down in to 3 elements. You will need to excel in all 3 elements in order to succeed on this course: Practical Sport – 30% of Final Grade

Over the duration of the course you will participate in a range of practical activities. You will then be assessed by an external examiner on your 3 highest scoring activities. At least one of these must be a team game or an individual activity.

Theoretical Aspects of Physical Education – 60% of Final Grade For the majority of the course, you will have at least 2 classroom based lessons every week. In these lessons you will study topics such as applied anatomy and physiology, movement analysis, use of data, sports psychology and socio-cultural influences in sport.

Analysis & Evaluation of Performance. – 10% of Final Grade

It is important that you are able to improve your fitness through exercise. In this section you are required to analyse your own sports performance and design ways to improve different aspects of your performance. This is carried out either verbally or as a written piece of coursework.

What will you be required to do? You will have 3 lessons of GCSE PE per week of which all be classroom-based learning the theory content. It is the expectation of any pupil taking GCSE PE to take part in at least one extracurricular club per week in addition to any other out of school club that they also do to maximise their practical grade. Your practical lessons will take part in your 2 lessons of core PE each week. How will you be assessed? This course is assessed through a final practical moderation day where the practical ability of each child is assessed. Two theoretical exams are also sat at the end of year 11.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Have enjoyed the topics you have studied in RS or Ethics this year Are interested in understanding motivations behind people’s actions Enjoy learning about different cultures, ideas and belief systems Want to develop your reasoning skills and expressing your views about the world. If you enjoy discussion, debate and crafting an argument Are interested in the ‘ultimate questions’, such as the purpose of our existence, is

there an afterlife and can we justify war? What will you study? The course is called Religious Studies and whilst a large part of the course is to do with beliefs and practices of religious people, we also do a great deal of discussion centred around non-religious opinions, scientific beliefs and the work of philosophers The following areas will be studied:

What is God like? Why do people believe in an afterlife? Does religion justify war? How can we explain human suffering? Can we justify the death penalty? How should we spend our money? Why is racism wrong? Can we justify torture?

What will you be required to do? Use a variety of sources and activities to discuss, interpret, evaluate and debate the various issues and information. The types of activities and materials that will be used will include: Core Religious Texts (The Bible, The Qur’an) The Works of Notable Philosophers (Karl Marx, Frederich Nietzsche) Various forms of media- including YouTube debates on the nature of God. Newspapers articles Films.

How will you be assessed? This course is purely exam and will be based on 2 Exam papers. We sit the AQA exam board. In the exam you will be expected to make reference to two religious beliefs, usually Islam and Christianity as well as a non-religious viewpoint.

SOCIOLOGY

Who should choose this subject? You should, if you: Are interested in an exciting and illuminating field of study that explains important

matters in our personal lives, our communities, and the world. Are interested in the study of Politics, Psychology and Law Want to develop opinions and new ideas on social issues such as gender and racial

inequality Enjoy debates, discussions and analysing human behaviour Want to gain an insight into the causes of issues like poverty and oppression

What will you study? Why are some groups of individuals more likely to commit crimes? Is Crime socially constructed? Do Single-parent households result in children underachieving in education? Why are there different forms of Families? What causes stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination? Is there a culture of poverty? Is it unethical to study human behaviour?

What will you be required to do? Analyse and consider a variety of published sociological research that has studied human behaviour in many different areas such as research by Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim. You will: - Read published sociological research Read news reports Assess the usefulness of sociological research Assess the use of Social Media Contribute to discussions and formulate ideas based on the usefulness of

sociological research. Watch films and documentaries such as the case study of ‘James Bulger’


The exam board we use is AQA and will be based on 2 Exam papers. In paper 1 you will be assessed on The sociology of families and education, and paper 2 will be based on The sociology of crime and deviance and social stratification.

Section 5

DIRECTED OPTIONS SUBJECTS

Functional Skills in English - Entry Level (for students who don’t yet have enough English to access the full curriculum)

Key Skills (non-GCSE) (for students who need to improve Literacy and Numeracy to access the full curriculum)

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FUNCTIONAL SKILLS English Language - Entry Level

YOU WILL BE INVITED TO JOIN THIS GROUP.

What is it? It is a course in which you will learn the skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. It is not a GCSE subject. The course aims at improving your social and academic English language skills and to support you in attaining your target grades in your GCSE subjects. Who is this subject for? This course is for students whose first language is other than English

and they will find the work in GCSE subjects extremely difficult at this point of time or who join the school in late year 8 or Year 9 and their English language skills are

still insufficient to study the full range of GCSE courses.

Please note that in some cases it is possible to move a student to a GCSE option if their language improves sufficiently to understand and complete the work in that option and it is early enough in the GCSE course to catch up with the work already done by other students. What will you do? This is an option subject so you get the same number of lessons as other option subjects. You will be learning English by reading a variety of texts from a variety of contexts, discussing ideas, completing written assignments as well as doing listening and speaking tasks. Provided that you engage fully in all this work, it will allow you to improve your English sufficiently to move to a GCSE option at a later date or stay in the course and work on achieving or exceeding your target grades in other GCSE subjects. If you are in the FS option in year 11, we will additionally cover the skills for work, applications for colleges and we will help you with your GCSE work as well. How will you be assessed? You will need to complete and submit assignments, which will be in the form of controlled assessments.

KEY SKILLS

YOU WILL BE ESPECIALLY INVITED TO JOIN THIS GROUP

Who will study Key Skills? Students studying Key Skills: want to make sure they have the skills required to successfully transition to

college or the workplace. will benefit from improving literacy and numeracy will be supported to improve their attainment in all core subjects.

What will you study? The Key Skills course is tailored towards the individuals in the group. Not everyone will be studying the same thing at the same time. The small group size supports a fully differentiated intervention. Teachers will work to support learning in specific areas that need development. The course uses ICT and other methods of learning to support your work in English, Maths and Science. This will be through: Independent work using specifically tailored programmes proven to improve

literacy and numeracy such as Lexia, GCSE pod and BBC Bitesize. Discussion tasks to improve your verbal reasoning Written tasks to support handwriting, and other written work across the

curriculum. What will you be required to do? You will be required to see this intervention as a vital part of your progress in all of your subjects. You will use what you learn from key skills and apply it to what you are learning elsewhere. You will work independently towards your own goals set by your teacher. How will you be assessed? Assessment may be different for each student depending on the level that the student is working at. You may be assessed online through various programmes or you may be required to do past GCSE exam papers. Some students who make significant progress within the first term in year 10 (Autumn) may leave the Key Skills group and move to a GCSE option subject, subject to availability.

Section 6

COMMUNITY LANGUAGES

ADDITIONAL SUBJECTS in YEAR 11

The School actively encourages and supports students who wish to be entered for a GCSE in their home language. See page 27 on Community Languages.

There is also the possibility to take additional subjects in Year 11. These usually include:

Statistics

You will be chosen to enter one or both of these subjects at the end of Year 10 or beginning of Year 11, depending on how well you are doing in Mathematics.

COMMUNITY LANGUAGES Community Languages include:

Arabic Bengali Chinese Dutch Greek German Italian

Polish Portuguese Russian Turkish Urdu and others.

We have an excellent history of 100 % pupils achieving top grades for GCSEs in Community Languages and some students even go on to A Level study. At present the exam boards do not offer GCSEs in some of the languages spoken by Lammas pupils. However, this is checked every year and the range of languages we offer is updated. Who should take a GCSE exam in a Community Language? If you already understand, read, speak and can write in your home language, then you have the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve a top grade at GCSE. If you are independently attending regular lessons in your home language, you may also be able to take a GCSE. See your language teacher or Ms Hurley for advice. What will you be required to do? The skills required are: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing in your home language. You need to be proficient in all four skills as lessons in school are not currently offered. We do offer support in understanding the content of the exams and providing you with practice exam materials. Once you get parental agreement that you are capable at GCSE level, you’ll be entered for the exams. How will you be assessed? As all specifications have gone linear, you will have to sit 4 different exams at the end of year 11 covering the 4 skills required: Listening – understand and respond to different types of spoken language (25%) Speaking – communicate and interact effectively in speech (25%), such as in role-

play, photo stimulus card, and general conversation Reading – understand and respond to different types of written language (25%) Writing – communicate in writing (25%)

curriculum handbook for students beginning key stage 4 in

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