GCSE options
Your guide to choosing your GCSE subjects.
Choosing your GCSEs
Welcome to Upper School. Now is the time to start thinking about which GCSEs you would like to do. You might already have a clear idea of the subjects that appeal to you and even have a specific career path in mind – but it’s more likely that you are still working this out and discovering where your interests and strengths lie. While the choices you make at this stage can have a bearing on the A levels you can take up in the Sixth Form, rest assured that our broad range of core subjects will give you the solid academic foundation that you need. Remember, your teachers are always happy to discuss subjects with you, and our Careers Coordinator can also provide you with further specific advice as needed.
You will be asked to choose 4 options subjects plus one reserve option. We will do our best to accomodate your first choices. We encourage everyone to take at least one language and one humanity subject. These will be studied alongside the nonexamined core subjects of Religious Studies, Physical Education and PSHMEE.
Everyone starts Year 10 studying the Science Trilogy Award. As the course progresses, the Science Department will work with you and your parents to decide on the most appropriate pathway for GCSE success. There are three Science options for GCSE: these are the higher or foundation papers for Science Trilogy which equate to two GCSEs overall or Separate Sciences where you gain three GCSEs (one for each of the subjects).
Next steps...
At the options evening we will explain the process for filling out your option choices. You will be given time to finalise your decision.
The Options
We encourage everyone to take at least one language and one humanity subject.
GCSE Requirements
Your GCSEs will include:
- 5 x core subjects
Plus, you will need to choose:
- 4 x option subjects
Core Subjects
English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Science Trilogy (2 GCSEs)
Separate Sciences (3 GCSEs)
Option Subjects (x4)
Geography
History
Religious Studies
French
Latin
Spanish
Art
Drama
Music
Photography
Statistics
Computer Science
Physical Education
Independent study may be a option for those who do not want to take four option subjects.
GCSE Grading
GCSEs and International GCSEs (IGCSEs) use a nine point numerical grading system (with a Grade 9 being the top mark). For Maths, Foreign Languages and Sciences, there are two tiers that you can be entered for: higher or foundation. Higher tier exams are awarded grades 9-4, while foundation tier exams are awarded grades 5-1. Decisions about which tier will be appropriate for you will be made with your teachers in the January / February before your GCSE exams in Year 11.
Current Grading
9 8 7
Old Grading
The proportion of students who would have previously achieved a grade A or above should be about the same as those who will achieve a grade 7 or above today.
A* A
The proportion of students who would have previously achieved a grade C or above should be about the same as those who will receive a grade 4 or above today.
6 5 4
C 3 2 1 D E F G U U
B
English Language
English Language will help you broaden your knowledge and understanding of non-fiction texts and writing styles. You will read and compare contemporary nonfiction texts from different world cultures as well as use different forms of non-fiction writing for a particular purpose, for example, to create the text of a leaflet that gives your opinion on a topic. You will also develop your own piece of personal or creative writing, as well as discuss poetry and short prose texts together.
What will I learn?
How will I be assessed?
- One exam paper (worth 60% of the IGCSE)
- Two pieces of written coursework (each worth 20% of the IGCSE)
You will learn to read a wide range of texts fluently and with good understanding as well as read critically and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve your own writing. Additionally, you will learn to use Standard English appropriately and apply accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling to your own writing. You will also acquire and apply a wide variety of vocabulary alongside your knowledge and understanding of grammatical terms, and linguistic conventions for reading and writing.
Core
English Literature
English Literature includes a range of prose fiction, poetry and drama texts, from the heritage times of Shakespeare, through the 19th century, to modern times. The set texts are engaging, popular and suitable for all learners, and draw from a diverse range of writers and poets, such as John Steinbeck, Harper Lee, J.B. Priestley, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, John Agard, Imtiaz Dharker, Alice Walker, John Keats, Christina Rossetti and Vernon Scannell.
How will I be assessed?
- One exam paper (worth 60% of the IGCSE)
- Two pieces of written coursework (each worth 20% of the IGCSE)
What will I learn?
You will learn to engage with and develop the ability to read and respond to a wide range of literary texts from around the world, developing an appreciation of the ways in which writers use literary effects as well as the skills needed for literary study. In exploring the writer’s use of language to create effects, the syllabus will encourage you to find enjoyment in reading literature while understanding its influence on individuals and societies.
Core
Science
Science continues at GCSE with the study of all three sciences: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students will follow the AQA Combined Science: Trilogy course, which is equivalent to 2 GCSES. This core subject is an excellent preparation for A level study in any of the sciences and is held in high regard by universities and employers alike, because science equips students with a logical mind and many transferable skills.
At the end of Year 10, students who show a particular flair for the sciences may be offered the opportunity to be entered for the three separate sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). This comes with the expectation that students will work at a faster pace during lessons and at home to complete the additional content required for these courses.
Can I study A level Science if I study the Trilogy at GCSE?
Students studying the Science Trilogy will have the same opportunity to study science at A level as those studying Separate Sciences.
What will I learn?
Biology
Cell Biology; Organisation; Infection and response; Bioenergetics; Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, Variation and evolution; and Ecology.
Chemistry
Atomic structure; Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter; Quantitative chemistry; Chemical changes; Energy changes, The rate and extent of chemical change; Organic chemistry; Chemical analysis; Chemistry of the atmosphere; and using resources.
Physics
Energy; Electricity; Particle model of matter; Atomic structure; Forces; Waves; and Magnetism and electromagnetism.
How will I be assessed?
Science Trilogy (2 GCSEs)
Six written exam papers of 1hr 15 each (16.7% each):
- 2 Biology papers
- 2 Physics papers
- 2 Chemistry papers
The marks for each paper are aggregated to give 2 GCSE grades.
Separate Sciences (3 GCSEs)
Six written exam papers of 1hr 45 each (50% each):
- 2 Biology papers (1 GCSE)
- 2 Physics papers (1 GCSE)
- 2 Chemistry papers (1 GCSE)
Each subject is given its own grade worth 1 GCSE.
Core
Mathematics
Maths is an amazing subject, and one that will be useful in many careers and also generally in everyday life. Achieving a good grade will be needed to do many subjects after GCSEs, including Sciences, Computing, Engineering and Economics.
You will continue to study the key curriculum areas from KS3, but greater emphasis will be put on proportional reasoning and algebraic techniques. The GCSE will require you to apply your understanding of Mathematics to solve non-routine or unfamiliar problems. As a result, lessons are challenging with significant focus on “thinking through a problem”.
What will I learn?
There are 6 main areas of GCSE Maths: number; algebra; ratio, proportion and rates of change; geometry and measures; probability; and statistics. If you enjoy the statistical parts of GCSE Maths, you might also like to consider studying GCSE Statistics as one of your options. See the Statistics page for more information.
How will I be assessed?
Three examinations assessing the entire curriculum, equally weighted. All papers are 90 minutes at either Higher or Foundation tier.
- 1 non-calculator
- 2 calculator papers
The most able and/or keen Year 11 mathematicians will also be invited to attend “To Infinity and Beyond” extension classes, in which you will explore further aspects of Maths, including those that are covered at A level.
Core
Statistics
You will develop skills in statistical enquiry, calculating and interpretation using real world data and authentic contexts. This supports skills development for progression to a range of subjects and develops your awareness of statistics beyond the classroom. You will build on the statistics within Higher tier GCSE Maths, extending this to cover risk, normal and binomial distributions, seasonal variation, standard deviation and much more, preparing you for A level Maths. This is a specialist course for those who are good at and enjoy mathematics. Statistics will prepare you for a wide range of future careers and courses, particularly those involving maths, business and science.
How will I be assessed?
Two examinations, both assessing the entire curriculum (50% each)
- 90 minutes each and require the use of a calculator
- Higher tier only
What will I learn?
Using the statistical enquiry cycle, you will
- understand the importance of initial planning when designing an investigation
- recognise the constraints involved in sourcing appropriate data
- understand how data can be processed and presented, including using technology
- understand that results must be interpreted with reference to the context of the problem
- appreciate the importance of clear and concise communication of the key findings, and an awareness of the target audience
- understand the importance of evaluating statistical work
Option
Computer Science
GCSE Computer Science is a highly technical and academically challenging subject with huge real-world implications. It helps you think about how technology is created and allows you to understand how people work together with computers to develop world changing platforms such as Facebook, Spotify and eBay. You will develop a wide number of skills, such as critical thinking, analysis and problem solving which are transferable to STEM subjects, but also other disciplines such as running a business.
How will I be assessed?
Two written exams, consisting of a mix of multiple choice, short answer, longer answer and extended response questions.
Paper 1: Programming, practical problem-solving and computational thinking skills, 2 hrs (50%)
Paper 2: SQL programming skills and theoretical knowledge, 1 hr 45 (50%)
What will I learn?
You will develop advanced skills in Python programming, learning basic syntax and structured code. You will analyse problems and design, write, test, debug and evaluate programs to solve a practical task. You will learn the fundamentals of data representation and computer networks and understand the components that make up digital systems and how they communicate with one another and with other systems. You will also delve into the world of cyber security and look at the ethical, moral, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on individuals and the wider society.
Option
Physical Education
Physical Education includes both practical and theoretical aspects of sport. In the practical element you will be expected to choose three sports, one team and two individual or two team and one individual, from a set list provided by the exam board. This will include all the major sports. The course does require that you are competing in all three that you choose to be assessed in, this can be just at school level if needs be. This is worth 40% of your overall grade. The theory covers all aspects of anatomy and physiology, fitness training, diet, PEDS, biomechanics and social aspects. This is worth 60% of your overall grade.
How will I be assessed?
- Assessed in competition in three different sports (30%)
- Planning and performing a six week training programme (10%)
- One exam paper on Fitness and Body systems (30%)
- One exam paper on Health and Performance (30%)
What will I learn?
In the practical you will spend the time developing your skills in your chosen sports. You will also get the opportunity to try other sports so you have a wider range to choose from in Year 11 for assessment. You will learn how to plan and carry out a 6 week training programme which you then need to write up as a project. In the theory you will learn all about the different topics in order to then be able to apply these to sporting situations. Everything learnt is geared towards the wider understanding of applying your knowledge to improve performance.
Option
Geography
The main focus of this syllabus is an understanding of physical processes and factors that produce diverse and dynamic landscapes over time. This includes the interdependence of physical environments and the interaction between people and the environment as well as an understanding of the need for sustainable management of both physical and human environments. Students will learn to appreciate the differences and similarities between people, places and cultures leading to an improved understanding of societies and economies.
How will I be assessed?
You will sit three written examinations
Paper 1: Living with the physical environment, 1hr 30 (35%)
Paper 2: Challenges in the human environment, 1hr 30 (35%)
Paper 3: Geographical applications, 1hr 15 (30%)
What will I learn?
Students will study a broad range of human and physical geographical topics. In the specification content, students are required to study case studies and examples. Case studies are broader in context and require greater breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding. Examples are more focused on a specific event or situation, are smaller in scale and do not cover the same degree of content. Students will also develop a range of geographical skills including cartographic, graphical, numerical and statistical skills. Students undertake two days of fieldwork and visit West Wittering (coastal study) and Farnham (urban study).
Option
Religious Studies
Religious Studies will allow you to explore a wide range of moral and religious questions such as ‘Is it ever acceptable to use violence?’; ‘Is it ok to use animals for food?’, ‘What do Christians believe about gay relationships?’, ‘Can you be ‘Christian and wealthy?’, and ‘How can there be a Creator if the world evolved?’.
As well as this you will study the main beliefs and practices of Christianity and one other world religion – currently Judaism.
How will I be assessed?
The GCSE course is assessed by two exam papers (no coursework) taken in Year 11:
- Study of Religions – we currently study the key beliefs and practices of Christianity and Judaism (50%)
- Philosophical and Ethical themes (50%)
What will I learn?
You will learn to think clearly about the above questions, and come to a clear understanding of Christian, Jewish and non-religious approaches. You will develop skills that will be of great value to you throughout life:
- how to express yourself clearly in writing and in discussion
- how to respond sensitively to views that are different from yours
- how to present a clear argument and draw a logical conclusion
Above all, though, you will develop a sound understanding of how to think clearly about how we should live, how to make moral decisions, and consider why we are here.
Option
History
In History GCSE you will study a range of historical periods from Medieval England through to 20th Century Europe. If you are interested in examining and learning about the past and questioning why and how things have shaped the world around us today, this could be the GCSE topic for you.
As well as studying some fascinating elements of History, you will also learn key academic skills along the way. Skills such as source analysis and the processing and evaluation of information are hugely valuable skills that employers look for in potential employees. Being able to gather information, process that information and formulate a supported opinion is vital in many future careers.
How will I be assessed?
There are three examination papers at the end of your course. Each of these will assess the skills you have perfected throughout the course.
What will I learn?
The topics covered over this 2-year course include
- Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, 1060 - 1088
- Medicine Through Time, 1250Present
- Russia and the Soviet Union, 1917 - 1941
- Superpower Relations and the Cold War, 1941 - 1991
Developing your ability to process large amounts of information and construct extended pieces of writing is an essential part of this course. Developing your organisational skills is also an essential part of processing the material needed for the course.
Option
French
Did you know that French is the fifth most spoken language in the world? Or that around one third of the English language originates from French?
French is an official language of around 30 countries and is spoken across five continents. French is an excellent choice either in the working world or if you want to travel.
Lots of institutions use French as their official language, from the European Union to the International Olympic Committee and Médecins sans Frontières.
If you master French, you already have a great base to learn Italian.
If you know Italian, you’ve got a great base to learn Spanish and the list goes on.
What will I learn?
The following areas will be covered:
- Identity and culture: friends and family; hobbies; technology; customs and festivals.
- Local, national, international and global areas of interest: house and area; social and global issues; travel and tourism.
- Current and future study and employment: school; education post-16; jobs.
How will I be assessed?
- Listening exam (25%)
- Reading exam (25%)
- Written exam (25%)
- Speaking exam conducted by your teacher (25%)
Option
Latin
Latin is sophisticated, challenging, unusual and enormous fun! When you study Latin, you will be introduced to the amazing wealth of the Classical World. It will be proof that you have a logical mind and will give you the opportunity to develop linguistic skills which will help both in the study of English and other European languages. It is an impressive subject on your CV and has particular benefit for studying subjects such as Medicine in the future.
How will I be assessed?
- 1 language paper with comprehension, grammar questions or English into Latin sentences and translation (50%).
- 1 prose literature paper (25%)
- 1 verse literature paper (25%)
What will I learn?
You will continue to build your knowledge of vocabulary and grammar through the study of stories in Latin. You may also enjoy the option for learning how to write simple sentences into Latin. You will develop an appreciation of Latin literature through the study of two set texts and learn how to comment on the author’s style. The study of ancient literature will also help you to gain an insight into the life and culture of the ancient world.
Option
Spanish
Spanish is a great option to take at GCSE because over 400 million people in the world speak this fun, phonetic language. It is now the USA’s second official language and is spoken in most of Latin America, giving you access to amazing historical sites such as Machu Picchu in Peru and Tulum in Mexico. Speaking Spanish allows you to enjoy a rich and vibrant array of popular songs, films and literature produced by Hispanic artists, as well as allowing you to form friendships with some of the world’s friendliest people!
What will I learn?
The following areas will be covered:
- Identity and culture: friends and family; hobbies; technology; customs and festivals.
- Local, national, international and global areas of interest: house and area; social and global issues; travel and tourism.
How will I be assessed?
- Listening exam (25%)
- Reading exam (25%)
- Written exam (25%)
- Speaking exam conducted by your teacher (25%)
- Current and future study and employment: school; education post-16; jobs.
Option
Art
Art and Design is a great subject to choose if you enjoy being creative. This is a non-exam subject and over the two years you will develop a portfolio of coursework exploring a variety of specialisms. This can include textile and 3D design, printmaking, graphic communication, photography and fine art. The course is flexible and designed to inspire, challenge and motivate you to explore personal interests in art and design.
What will I learn?
How will I be assessed?
Component 1: A portfolio of project-based work produced throughout Years 10 and 11 (60%)
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%). A projectbased investigation ending in 10 hours of unaided work under exam conditions.
Art and Design is a practical based course. You will explore a range of project based starting points and learn how to use your practical knowledge to create personal outcomes. Through independent investigation you will increase your artistic skill level and develop analytical communication fuelled by artist research and contextual understanding. Experimentation is the key to success, with the opportunity to explore a range of media, materials, techniques and processes. You will also develop a range of transferable skills such as self motivation, time management, creative thinking, problem solving, and improve your ability to develop, refine and present ideas.
Option
Drama
GCSE Drama offers you the opportunity to grow your imagination, communication skills and confidence. You will study different practitioners, such as Frantic Assembly; Brecht; Artaud; Stanislavski; Splendid theatre, which will allow you to develop new performative skills and will provide inspiration for performance. By following this course you will study the process of theatre making from the perspective of deviser, designer, director and performer. We have built in as much opportunity as possible for you to do what you like best – participate practically.
How will I be assessed?
Component 1: A written exam, divided into 3 sections (40%)
Component 2: Students will devise their own performance in small groups and complete a log of their process (40%). Students may contribute as a designer or performer.
Component 3: Students will perform 2 extracts from 1 play (20%). Students may contribute as a performer or a designer.
What will I learn?
You will learn to critically assess performance and practically explore contemporary and classical plays, which will develop your voice, physicality and characterisation to a high standard. You will learn how to harness your creativity and refine your ideas into coherent, cohesive and original performance. You will study a set work and be able to theoretically explain how to use performative skills and justify your choices.
Option
Music
Music is a fun subject! You will work together with your classmates on exciting projects, and develop effective creative, social and project-management skills. Many of the topics will be exploring music you already like (including popular and film music). You will also expand your horizons by discovering new styles and genres. You do not have to read music notation to study music at GCSE level. Passion for the subject and enjoyment of practical music-making are essential!
What will I learn?
How will I be assessed?
Coursework: 60%
Performing (30%): portfolio (4 mins) of recordings (one solo, one ensemble)
Composing (30%): portfolio (4-6 mins) of two compositions (one free choice; one on a brief)
Appraising exam (40%): 2hr 15 listening exam, exploring the four Areas of Study
In performing, you will work on solo and ensemble performances. This can be in any style or genre, with accompaniment or a backing track if appropriate. In composing, you will learn how musical works are made; this will help you develop your own compositions. You will use professional-standard software to produce your coursework. In the appraising part of the course, you will explore four Areas of Study: Musical Forms and Devices, Music for Ensemble, Film Music and Popular Music. There is one classical set work and another one from popular music.
Option
Photography
Photography is a great subject to choose if you enjoy being creative and want to explore a practical based GCSE. As a non-exam subject, over the two years you will develop a portfolio of coursework which requires an imaginative exploration of the world around you. You will explore how ideas, themes and feelings can inspire a response through a variety of photographic specialisms. Including a combination of studio and location photography, digital imagery, fine art photography and mix media techniques.
What will I learn?
How will I be assessed?
Component 1: A portfolio of project-based work produced throughout Years 10 and 11 (60%)
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%). A projectbased investigation ending in 10 hours of unaided work under exam conditions.
The course is flexible and designed to stimulate personal creativity. You will explore a range of project based starting points and learn how to use your practical knowledge to create personal outcomes. Through independent investigation you will increase your artistic skill level and develop analytical communication fuelled by artist research and contextual understanding. Experimentation is the key to success, with the opportunity to explore a range of photographic techniques and processes. You will also develop a range of transferable skills such as self motivation, time management, creative thinking, problem solving, and improve your ability to develop, refine and present ideas.
Option
Trips and Visits
There are two short residential trips during Years 10 and 11 which all pupils attend. In Year 10 we visit Bath and Bristol where we explore the SS. Great Britain, immerse ourselves in the innovative Aerospace Bristol experience, go to the theatre, and fit in a full day’s tour of Bath, including the University. In Year 11 we set off for Canterbury, stopping off at Leeds Castle on the way. We visit the Canterbury Tales Museum and the Cathedral. We have a whole day of team-building challenge activities, and squeeze in another theatre or ballet trip. Both trips enhance our curriculum and are significant cultural and social experiences for our pupils, as well as being a lot of fun.
The two GCSE years are an intense period of study and it is important that students have some time away from the everyday coursework to broaden their outlook and be reminded that education is not just about GCSEs. These trips are wonderful opportunities for them to bond with their peers and form tutors, to have space and time to learn about new things outside of their exam courses and to create some special memories of school experiences with their friends.
Some GCSEs also require day trips and residential trips in support of the course, such as Geography field trips and theatre trips for those taking Drama. There may be additional trips for Years 10 and 11 such as a cultural trip, ski trip or trip to Iceland.
What our students say
“Ienjoyedthetripmassively.Itwas arealeyeopenerandallowedmeto thinkaboutmyfuturecareerpaths andwhereIwanttoendupin10years’ time.”-Sport Science University visit.
Learning Support
If we are already aware that you have additional learning needs, the Head of Learning Support, Mrs Beard, along with your subject teachers, will continue to monitor and review your access arrangements to ensure that they remain up to date and appropriate. Sometimes, however, additional needs only become apparent as pupils approach GCSEs, often due to concerns with your progress. If this is the case, staff will alert Mrs Beard, who will then investigate to establish whether there is a need for interventions and then advise teaching staff of strategies to support you in class. If appropriate, you might also receive one to one guidance, or be invited to small group sessions or workshops to look at skill building for GCSEs, such as revision skills, decoding exam questions, formulating and planning an answer, and managing your time. Depending on what’s right for you, you might need just a short boost in certain areas to increase your confidence or ability, or you might benefit from more continued guidance.
What does a typical day consist of in Year 10 and 11?
Each school day is divided into six teaching periods (30 periods per week) distributed between:
- English
- Maths
- Sciences
- Each of your four option choices
- Religious Studies (1 period each week)
- Physical Education (2 periods each week)
- Personal, Social, Health, Moral and Economic Education (1 period each week)
FAQ
Contact us Alton School Anstey Lane Alton Hampshire GU34 2NG altonschool.co.uk
