LEH School A level Course Guide 2022-2024

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A LEVEL COURSE GUIDE 2022-2024

Welcome to our A level Course Guide

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Your teachers have produced this guide to provide you with information about their subjects and to help you choose the best combination of A level courses and the EPQ. Subject choices at this stage will have an important influence on which courses you may wish to study at university. Our Careers staff are here to give you the best possible guidance on this, and we hope you will take advantage of their expertise, both by carefully reading this information and by discussing your options with them.

Your academic future starts here!

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Art Who should choose Art? If you enjoy the subject, are motivated, creative, and fascinated by the increasingly visual world we live in then this subject will suit you well.

Course details (Exam Board - Edexcel Art, Craft and Design - 9AD0) Students are encouraged to explore diverse approaches to their studies where development and outcomes can encompass painting, drawing, life drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, illustration, fine art, textiles and design crafts, as well as new technologies and multimedia.

A level students enjoy an increased emphasis on their own personal and independent journey through the A level Art and Design course. We encourage the cultivation of ideas and the generation of multi directional starting points for art, craft and design practice and creative process.

Students consider and interpret their own personally evolving themes in dialogue with their teachers and undertake in-depth research by investigating the work of relevant artists, craftspeople and designers throughout history and across genres.

Art and Design has a crucial role to play at the centre of science, technology, engineering and mathematics; fostering creativity and innovation, supporting other subjects, industries and sectors. Art makes a significant contribution to the global economy, helping to shape how we see the world.

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Experimentation with materials, processes and technology form an essential part of the course. Students demonstrate an in depth understanding of their chosen theme creating a range of innovative outcomes.

What other subjects go well with Art? Art combines well with a great range of other subjects and is well received by very many universities.

Promoters of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths) recognise the importance of creativity and innovation in our future, to solve problems, and endorse critical thinking, inquiry, and dialogue.

Leonardo Da Vinci stated, “Study the science of art. Study the art of science.”

Beyond the classroom Trips to galleries, museums and weekly life drawing classes form an essential part of the course. These trips and study visits provide opportunities for students to engage with works of art, craft and design first hand, vital for the study of the subject at this level. There are opportunities to attend lectures presented by highly respected and successful practitioners, discussing a range of social, professional and educational issues relevant to the subject. Workshops and artist residencies that introduce the students to new technologies, processes and ways of working are built into the extended curriculum.

Those wishing to pursue a career in the visual arts produce outstanding portfolios with students gaining places at highly competitive establishments at Foundation and Degree level.

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Biology Who should choose Biology?

Biology is a fast developing and exciting area of study. With media coverage ranging from the role of our gut flora in health and disease, the Coronavirus pandemic and the problem of nanoparticles in aquatic ecosystems, Biology is relevant to our modern world and at the forefront of solving some of the challenges we face.

You should choose Biology if you are interested in it and enjoy scientific enquiry and practical work. If you find yourself questioning the living world around you then this is a good choice for you – although it will probably raise as many new questions as it answers. You should expect to get a Grade 7 at GCSE in Biology or in Combined Science and you should also be a competent mathematician.

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Course details - Edexcel Biology B The course offers excellent insight into many areas of modern Biology ranging from molecules and Biochemistry to organisms and whole ecosystems. There is an emphasis on practical skills and data handling covered through a variety of both Core Practicals and more wide-ranging practical activities.

Assessment is comprised of three examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth year; there is no coursework. However, the practical skills that you will develop throughout the course contribute towards a Practical Endorsement, a stand alone pass or fail qualification that sits alongside your A level.

In both years, students have two teachers who will cover different areas of the syllabus. This provides variety and helps to develop synoptic links, especially when dealing with the more abstract topics. There is a field trip in the summer term of the Lower Sixth to contextualise the Ecosystems topics and develop fieldwork skills.

What other subjects go well with Biology?

A level Biology is an excellent foundation for traditional subjects such as Medicine, Veterinary Science, Psychology and Biology. As a facilitating subject it also supports many non-biological degrees. It is very useful for those taking Biology A level to also consider choosing Chemistry, in order to support the understanding of the biochemistry sections, and because many university courses related to Biology also often require A level Chemistry for entry.

Beyond the classroom Students are encouraged to attend related extra-curricular activities such as Medical Society, PandA (physiology and anatomy) Club and Biology+ sessions. There will also be opportunities to attend outside lectures and make visits to, for example, Barts Cancer Institute or The Wellcome Genome Campus. We host an annual Brain Day and invite students to participate in competitions such as The British Biology Olympiad.

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Chemistry Who should choose Chemistry?

You should choose Chemistry if you have enjoyed the GCSE course and wish to explore the subject at a higher level. Chemistry is a challenging subject but that is what also makes it so interesting to study at A level. It is, of course, a requirement for a wide range of university courses, from pure Chemistry, Biological Sciences and Medicine, to Food Science, Geology and Chemical Engineering.

As a guide, to be able to achieve success in Chemistry at A level, you will probably need a minimum of Grade 7 but preferably an 8 or 9 at GCSE for Chemistry or Combined Science. A good grade for Mathematics at GCSE is also important, but you do not necessarily need to study Mathematics for A level. However, if you are thinking of continuing with a Chemistry-related course at University, then Mathematics, especially for the highly selective universities, is often essential.

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Course details (Exam Board - Edexcel) We have been offering the new linear Edexcel (Pearson) A level course since September 2015. As with the other science subjects, practical assessments no longer form part of the course although some skills relating to practical work will still be assessed as part of the new examinations.

However, there will still be plenty of practical work undertaken by students as part of the course as this is a requirement for achieving the ‘practical endorsement’ and it will always be a fundamental part of the approach to the teaching and learning of Chemistry anyway. While largely similar to previous Chemistry A level specifications, there is a 20% mathematical content of questions in the examinations.

Beyond the classroom Each year, LVI students attend a Chemistry Study Day at the Institute of Education as well as lunchtime enrichment activities. Students can take part in the International Chemistry Olympiad in January and also the LVI Cambridge Chemistry Challenge in June.

A small group of LVI students also take part in the Schools’ Analyst Competition and we have had considerable success in recent years, winning the regional round against the best schools in London and the South East three times in five years.

What other subjects go well with Chemistry?

Chemistry can be studied with any other sciences, for example Physics or Biology. Geography is another subject which combines well with Chemistry. For other students, Chemistry is their only Science A level. Universities regard the qualification highly owing to the analytical skills as well as knowledge and understanding required to achieve success at A level.

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Computer Science Why choose Computer Science?

Computer Science at A level is a challenging, fast paced introduction into the way that mathematics, science and technology combine to transform our daily lives at home and at work in an increasingly digital world.

The study of Computer Science will further develop your ability to reason, to think logically and to use mathematics in decision making and problem solving. You will become accustomed to using the techniques of abstraction and decomposition when working on algorithms to solve increasingly complex problems. These skills will allow you to identify the processes and data structures that you will use to create algorithms and programs that solve these problems with creativity and flair.

You should choose Computer Science if you are a resilient learner who is eager to understand more about how digital technology works, solve problems and rapidly develop into an independent, analytical and resourceful programmer.

Paper 3 Advanced Theory – 75 marks – 25% This paper will a 1 hour and 30 minutes written paper. The topics covered will be Data Representation, Communication and Internet technologies, Hardware and Virtual machines, System Software, Security and Artificial Intelligence.

Paper 4 Practical – 75 marks – 25% This will be a practical paper lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The topics covered will be Computational Thinking and problem solving and Further programming. In these units students will be learning about abstract data types, file handling and different programming paradigms such as low level and declarative.

Throughout the course students will be encouraged to work on their own independent programming project.

Course details

Other subjects that work well with Computer Science Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics are useful subjects to study alongside Computer Science.

Cambridge International AS & A level Computer Science 9618 Our approach in Cambridge International AS & A level Computer Science encourages learners to be: • Confident, using a range of technology and programming paradigms • Responsible, using technology ethically • Reflective, as programmers, improving their own programming solution • Innovative, creating efficient solutions to problems • Engaged, in technology, how it is built and how software solutions are developed Paper 1 Theory Fundamentals – 75 marks – 25% This paper will be a 1 hour and 30 minutes written paper. The topics covered will be Data Representation, Communication, Hardware, Processor fundamentals, Systems software, Security Privacy and data integrity, Ethics and Ownership and Databases.

Paper 2 Fundamental Problem solving and Programming Skills – 75 marks – 25% This paper will a 2 hour written paper. The topics covered will be Algorithm design and problem solving, Data types and data structures, Programming basics and Software Development.

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Beyond the classroom Enrichment classes will take place on a regular basis and students will be encouraged to attend these in order to extend and broaden their knowledge and skills. All Sixth Form Computer Scientists will enter The British Informatics Olympiad, a national computing competition for schools and colleges.

A variety of lectures, presentations and workshops will be offered throughout the course.

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Drama and Theatre Students who take Drama and Theatre A level are investing in the development of invaluable life skills. Inspired through creativity, experimentation, team work and critical thinking, our students deepen their passion for the theatre world, alongside the strengthening of vital communication skills and self-confidence. As well as working on your feet, the course will challenge you academically by asking you to engage in a range of cultural discourses that challenge your perception of what constitutes dramatic art, and what it is for. Many students choose to study acting however working as designers, technicians, and directors on the course can be just as exciting.

The Drama Department are committed to enriching each student’s individual interest in Drama and one of the major benefits of our A level is its incredible scope for interdisciplinary work. Candidates develop a combination of intellectual, imaginative and practical skills that allow them to draw links across the full range of subjects. For example, if also studying Spanish, you may want to specialise in Lorca; physicists may prefer the work of Complicite. We will also challenge your tastes through a diverse programme of theatre trips, professional workshops run by industry specialists, and through practical exploration in the studio. Often you will find yourself working in collaboration with students from other schools, including the A level students at Hampton School, with whom we work very closely.

You will study a wide range of texts, from Ancient Greece to present day. Some texts will be taken to full performance realisation: others are written up after extensive experimentation. The assessments require students to

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develop a deep understanding of why a given play emerged from its particular social, cultural and political context, drawing on the fields of sociology and anthropology in the process. The study of these texts also underpins the creation of an original production - a highlight of the A level experience - with students undertaking intensive creative collaboration to realise theatre of an exceptionally high standard.

Ultimately, Drama and Theatre is a creative, challenging and academic subject for those who enjoy active and dynamic lessons and who want to learn how to turn independent thought and insightful research into tangible outcomes. These are invaluable skills for University, for your career, and for life beyond.

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Economics Who should choose Economics?

Skills: • Problem solving • Communication • Logic • Quantitative skills • Data analysis • Research • Evaluation

You should choose Economics if you want to know why: • • • •

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Tennis players earn more than netball players Computers cost less than they used to Commodity and food prices are rising Economists cannot agree on what the Government should do next There are NHS waiting lists Firms’ profits are rising Environmental taxes are rising

Course details The Economics A level course covers elements of microeconomics and macroeconomics and is very topical.

The Market System: Investigating the issues of allocating scarce resources to meet unlimited wants and needs.

Market Failure and Intervention: Why are some goods over produced and others under produced? Why are there high taxes on cigarettes?

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The National and International Economy: How might governments ensure that nations and their citizens receive fair economic treatment in a global world?

What other subjects go well with Economics?

Economics combines well with almost any other subject.

Geography, History and Mathematics make for particularly good combinations, but scientists take this subject too, as well as linguists and classicists. If you are considering Economics at degree level, it is advisable to study Economics and Mathematics.

Beyond the classroom We organise a variety of activities each year to enrich the learning experience of pupils studying this subject.These include: • Trips to student conferences • Joint lectures with Hampton School • City visits (including to investment banks and BP) • Economics Club: a chance to enter Economics and Business competitions including the ICAEW BASE Challenge, as well as to discuss current affairs.

If you are considering Business and Management degrees then Economics is helpful.

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English Literature Who should choose English?

A level English Literature is concerned primarily with the close critical analysis of literary texts and the development of interpretative skills. Students conduct extensive research in order to evaluate the significance of a range of contextual issues and engage in debate with established critical opinions. For anyone who loves reading and discussing books in an intellectual and rigorous way, this is the subject for you.

Is English Literature right for you?

Course details (Exam Board - OCR)

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Component 1 - Shakespeare, Drama and Poetry Pre-1900 Written examination of 2 hours 30 minutes (40%) Students will demonstrate detailed knowledge of one of the following Shakespeare plays: Coriolanus, Hamlet, Measure for Measure, Richard III, The Tempest or Twelfth Night. They will also write a comparative essay exploring the significance of cultural and contextual conditions of one play and one poetry text from the following lists:

Are you keen to broaden your literary horizons and discover something new?

Are you interested in learning to engage critically and creatively with texts? Would you like to explore the relationships between texts?

Do you enjoy examining the significance of cultural and contextual influences on writers and readers?

What other subjects go well with English Literature?

Students combine English Literature successfully with a wide range of complementary and contrasting subjects at A level.

If you enjoy literature and you want to develop your analytical and communication skills, it is a very useful subject to study in preparation for both Arts and Science courses at university.

Beyond the classroom Trips organised in connection with the A level course include lecture and conference days in central London, theatre trips to see productions relevant to the course, and visits to exhibitions, such as the King Richard III Visitor Centre and the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre as part of students’ study of Shakespeare’s Richard III. The English Department also has a programme of regular Literary Lectures, inviting academics to the school to speak on areas of interest in relation to set texts.

There is a lively Debating Club and Public Speaking Club, which plan for both local and national competitions. There are also opportunities to join the Sixth Form Literary Society, contribute and edit the English Department’s creative writing journal, The Fable, and participate in English enrichment sessions for those wanting to pursue their study of literature beyond the A level syllabus.

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Drama - Edward II, The Duchess of Malfi, She Stoops to Conquer, A Doll’s House, An Ideal Husband.

Poetry - The Merchant’s Prologue and Tale, Paradise Lost Books 9 and 10, Coleridge - Selected Poems, Tennyson - Maud, Rossetti - Selected Poems.

Component 2 - Comparative and Contextual Study Written examination of 2 hours 30 minutes (40%) Students will study two texts from one of the following topic areas: American Literature 1880-1940, The Gothic, Dystopia, Women in Literature or The Immigrant Experience. The examination involves a close reading exercise based on an unseen passage, followed by a comparative essay on two set texts.

Component 3 - Literature Post-1900 Coursework (20%) The coursework involves two tasks, leading to a combined folder of 3000 words. Three texts are studied, one of each genre (Poetry, Prose, Drama). All texts studied will have been first published or performed in 1900 or later, with at least one from 2000 or later.

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French Who should choose French?

You should choose French if you are interested in languages and communication and you enjoy learning about other cultures and ways of life. You should achieve at least a Grade 7 at GCSE. Course details The course will develop to an advanced level using the language skills already acquired for GCSE. You will also have the opportunity to learn much more about the culture, literature and civilisation of France.

The four skills of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking will be further developed and tested at A level. The prescribed topic areas and cultural topics allow for greater linguistic challenge and a greater awareness of various aspects of French culture through the study of French media, literature and films.

The students all have a time-tabled session with the French Language Assistant to improve oral competence, fluency and confidence.

What other subjects go well with French?

French goes well with almost every other subject offered at A level. If you are interested in business, travel, tourism, literature, journalism, law, science, accountancy, music, art,

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philosophy, history and the media then you are likely to find the course appropriate.

The range of skills offered by the course will develop the key skills of communication, information technology, working with others, and independent learning required by the A level specification.

Beyond the classroom Every student who studies French is given the opportunity to take part in a study trip to Antibes or Nice. There are plenty of opportunities to speak French with the host family, or at the language school, as well as discovering interesting aspects of French culture.

Each year, students in the UVI, take part in a Regional French Debating competition that provides them with an excellent opportunity to debate complex motions with other schools.

Under the supervision of our French Language Assistant the Lower Sixth students are responsible for running a French club at the Junior School.

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Geography Who Should Choose Geography?

You should choose Geography if you have an interest in how people interact with their environment. Physical Geography looks at the science of our planet and Human Geography looks at the different lives of people around the world. Put the two together and you get a subject that tackles the major issues humans face today at local, national and global levels.

Course details (Exam Board - OCR H481) The Geography of Disease: Disease is rarely confined within borders. The reasons for distributions of diseases and how countries deal with health issues is studied both in developing and developed regions of the world.

Exploring Oceans: Oceans cover over 70% of the earth’s surface and are the last remaining undiscovered wilderness. They hold 96.5% of all our water and are important for humans in terms of resources and communication. Humans impact the ocean through pollution and climate change. This unit studies the human, physical and environmental elements of our oceans.

The Earth’s Life Support Systems: A study of the distribution and size of major carbon stores on land, oceans and atmosphere and factors driving change in the magnitude of these over time and space. A look also at distribution and size of water stores on land, ocean, atmosphere and cryosphere.

Landscape Systems: A study of the processes, landforms and human use of glacial and periglacial landscapes. We will look at glacial landforms such as corries, arêtes, and moraines.

Global Systems and Governance: A study of Global Migration, looking at movement of people across the globe. The unit also looks at Human Rights with a significant section studying how Women’s Rights vary across the globe.

Changing Places: An investigative study into how places are changing in terms of people, culture, economies, and resource consumption.

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Fieldwork and NEA: A compulsory fieldwork residential trip takes place in the LVI year. A total of four days of fieldwork in both physical and human geography is carried out over the two years to help develop investigative skills. The work is written up into a research project.

International Expedition The Geography Department run a five day, four night expedition to an exciting international destination. We have previously taken students to Iceland, and in summer 2022, will be setting off for the Azores. This trip helps students to develop further their understanding of the landscape and geographies of an unfamiliar environment. Several students claim that this is the highlight of the A level course.

What subjects go well with Geography?

Geography is both a physical science and a social science and as a result, goes with lots of different subjects. The analytical side and understanding physical processes work very well with Mathematics and all the Sciences.

Geography is a humanites subject and therefore works very well with Philosophy, History and Politics. You need to be able to write extended pieces of writing and be critical about global issues which link well with Economics and English. There isn’t really a subject that doesn’t go well with Geography.

Beyond the classroom In addition to fieldwork and residential trips, students are also encouraged to attend the Royal Geographical Association Monday lectures in London, lectures at the Kingston Geographical Association at Hampton School and University based Geography enrichment and taster days.

“The fantastic diversity of Geography links so well to other subjects and its relevance to the real world makes it very interesting and useful for whatever you go on to study at university.”

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German Who should choose German?

You will feel confident in and enjoy all four language skills of Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You should have achieved at least the equivalent of IGCSE Grade 7.

German is a language of increasing importance in the enlarged European Union and is the second most widely spoken language in Europe after English. There are over one hundred million native speakers and German is spoken and understood in many Eastern European countries.

Course details Your A level will involve all four language skills of Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing. You will learn to listen to and read authentic material in the target language relating to contemporary society. In addition, you will also study a piece of literature and a film and you will be required to write an essay on these under examination conditions. Grammar and translation (both into English and into the target language) will also play an important role in your A level course.

You will have dedicated conversation lessons where you will learn to communicate more spontaneously, fluently and at a higher level than for your IGCSE speaking examination.

We use a wide range of materials for our teaching and learning: you will be issued with a textbook, but you will also be working with authentic materials like articles from newspapers and websites. Students also subscribe to a magazine to further their independent reading skills. There is a large selection of foreign films in the LRC and Sixth Form Library, as well as plenty of other books and literary texts to provide a deeper cultural and linguistic understanding.

What other subjects go well with German?

Students take German with almost every other subject offered at A level. It combines well with arts and humanities, as well as science subjects. It can be combined with a wide variety of subjects at university level.

Beyond the classroom The study of German in the Sixth Form at LEH extends far beyond the confines of the classroom, too. We run a thoroughly enjoyable and successful annual Sixth Form exchange, jointly with Hampton School, to the Ottobrunn Gymnasium in Munich. We offer regular cinema and theatre trips, and we also enjoy considerable success in debating competitions with other schools. Our Sixth Form Germanists also get the opportunity to network and practise their language skills by taking part in various language conferences and study days.

“My experience has been so positive that I’ve decided to study German at university, which never occurred to me before this year!”

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Greek Who should choose Greek?

If you enjoyed the GCSE you will continue to enjoy the subject at A level.

While it is usual for someone who is doing Greek A level to do Latin as well, this is not always the case. If you enjoy literature and linguistics this will appeal to you. If you are considering doing Classics at university then it is a good idea to continue with Greek. We would expect anyone who is doing the A level to have achieved at least a Grade 7 in GCSE Greek.

Course details (Exam Board – OCR) The Greek A level is set up in exactly the same format as Latin (see Latin page), with 50% language and 50% Literature, for A level. However, the authors are Homer’s Odyssey I, VI and VII, and Sophocles’ Ajax as verse set texts, and Plato’s Symposium, and Book VI of Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War for the prose set texts.

What subjects go well with Greek?

Greek is a subject that goes extremely well with a wide range of other courses, including English, History, Psychology, Art, History of Art, Modern Languages, Theatre Studies, Mathematics and Philosophy. It is an ideal complemetary subject for those studying sciences.

Beyond the classroom Whichever Classical subject you choose to do, there is a range of additional activities which the Classics Department runs.

Theatre trips These are sometimes traditionally staged Greek tragedies, modern versions of those plays, or plays inspired by the myth.

In the past year we have been to see Antigone and The Frogs.

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Visiting speakers The department aims to get speakers in each year from university Classics Departments to give enriching lectures. These can be on Greek or Roman topics.

Residential trips The department plans a trip to either Greece or Italy every 18 months.

Clubs From January to July, there is the Sixth Form ‘Classics Breakfast Club’ for those who want to pursue further studies in Classical subjects. Also our weekly Classics society, ClasSoc, runs jointly with students from Hampton. Sixth Form students often run sessions.

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History Who should choose History?

History combines the excitement of discovery and exploration with the sense of reward which comes from making sense of complex and challenging problems.

As well as building up a breadth and depth of knowledge, you will learn to analyse critically historians’ views and search for your own interpretation of the past.

Course details (Exam Board – OCR) Unit 1: Britain 1930-1997. The political and economic history of Britain, including a depth study of Churchill’s rule.

Unit 2: The French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon 1774-1815. The causes, events and consequences of the French Revolution and the rule of Napoleon. This unit is taught through the LVI and UVI. Unit 3: Russia and its Rulers 1855-1964. The nature of Russian government and its impact on the Russian people and society. We study the last three Tsars, the revolutions of 1917 and the first three Communist rulers of the USSR. From Alexander II to Khrushchev, we explore power, social reform, economic policy and the effect of war and revolution.

Unit 4: Coursework. An independently researched essay, based on an aspect of the French Revolutionand Napoleon unit.

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How would I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a combination of essay writing and source analysis. 20% of the course is an independently researched enquiry.

What other subjects go well with History?

History works well with any combination of subjects offered at A level, be it Sciences, Mathematics, Languages or other Humanities. Its great strength is that it provides a course which encourages argument and analysis. It is useful for those wanting to go into journalism, the law and management, and for those wishing to study PPE at university.

Beyond the classroom There is a wide variety of opportunities to further your love of this subject, including History Enrichment sessions, talks from visiting academics and study trips. There is a biennial History trip to Moscow and St Petersburg for Sixth Form.

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History of Art Who should choose History of Art? If you have a wide range of academic interests, then you will enjoy this subject.

History of Art is incredibly cross-curricular, drawing connections between art and architecture, politics, history, philosophy, literature, religion and science.

It teaches you visual literacy – an important skill in our increasingly visual world - and you will gain a life-long understanding and enjoyment of the art and architecture that surrounds you. In addition, you will develop visual, verbal, critical and analytical skills that can be applied to many walks of life, and gain the tools to understand how images and objects shape our social and political identities. No previous knowledge of Art History is required and you do not need to have studied Art or History at GCSE. 26

Course details (Exam Board – Edexcel) The course content is chronologically wide-ranging, from the art of classical antiquity to cutting-edge 21st century works of art. It also provides the opportunity to study the rich tradition of non-Western works of art and architecture. Stylistic developments are considered alongside the historical, cultural and social contexts of the works, helping to create a broader understanding of the periods in which they were produced.

The subject content is divided into three areas: 1. Visual Analysis – you will develop the ability to undertake effective visual analysis and learn a visual language that will enable you to appreciate all artworks.

2. Themes – you will study two themes (Nature and Identities) which are intended to be an inherently broad-based exploration of the developments in art and connections between movements and periods.

3. Periods – you will study two different periods (Renaissance Italy & Avant-Garde Britain and France). These are intended

to give you the opportunity to research and explore the key movements, concepts, artists, architects, contextual factors and related developments of art and architecture in a specific place and across a clearly defined time frame.

What other subjects go well with History of Art? History of Art goes well with all subjects, either as a contrast to the sciences or to complement other Humanities subjects.

Beyond the classroom Trips to galleries and museums form an integral part of the course. We regularly visit London galleries and there is also a residential trip to Italy. This gives you the opportunity to engage with works of art at first-hand, vital for the study of the subject.

Each week History of Art Society meets to discuss any aspect of the subject that is not part of the curriculum.

You will have the opportunity to take part in SPoKE – an art historical documentary film making competition, as well as ARTiculation – a nationally acclaimed public speaking event.

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Latin Who should choose Latin?

If you have enjoyed the GCSE then you will enjoy the A level as the course naturally follows on from it. We would expect anyone who is studying the A level to have achieved at least a Grade 7 in GCSE Latin. If you love language, literature, history and politics, want to hone your analytical and critical skills, and study works that have stood the test of time and shaped our modern culture and world, then Latin is for you.

Course details (Exam Board - OCR) There are two elements: Language: For this element there are two papers in which you translate unadapted passages of Latin prose and verse, answer comprehension questions or complete a passage of Latin prose composition. There is no prescribed vocabulary list; however, you will develop your knowledge of the language through wide reading of different Latin authors. (50% of A level marks).

Literature: You will study two prose set texts and two verse set texts, each of about 225 lines in Latin, and additional literature in translation to set the context of the literature studied. Prose authors set include Cicero’s Pro Cluentio and Tacitus’s Annals IV and verse options are Virgil Aeneid XII and a selection of Catullus’s poems. You will be tested in much the same way as for GCSE, with context questions on the content and style of the set text, a passage for translation and an essay question on the whole set text, including the material set in English. (50% of A level marks).

What other subjects go well with Latin?

It is a subject which goes extremely well with English, History, Philosophy and Music as well as modern foreign languages.

Often, however, students with a science or mathematical bias will choose Latin as a 4th contrasting A level.

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Beyond the classroom Whichever Classical subject you choose to do, there is a range of additional activities which the Classics Department runs.

Residential trips The Department plans a trip to either Greece or Italy every 18 months.

Clubs From January to July, there is the Sixth Form ‘Classics Breakfast Club’ for those who want to pursue further studies in Classical subjects. Also there is a weekly Classics society, ClasSoc, run jointly with Hampton. Members of the Sixth form regularly run sessions.

Theatre trips These are sometimes traditionally staged Greek tragedies, modern versions of those plays, or plays inspired by the myth.

In the past year we have been to see Antigone and The Frogs.

Visiting speakers The Department aims to get two or three speakers in each year from university Classics Departments to give enriching lectures. Recently we have had a talk on Tacitus by Professor Catharine Edwards.

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Mathematics Why choose Mathematics?

Mathematics is a fascinating subject and for many people this is sufficient reason to study it. Others are motivated by its key role in the development of Science.

Perhaps less well known is its role in Economics and the Social Sciences.

Mathematics develops vital skills, including clear logical thinking and a training in problem solving. Together with the range of applications for the subject, there are well paid and prestigious career opportunities for students with Mathematics A level.

You should choose Mathematics if you enjoy it and expect to achieve at least a Grade 7 in IGCSE or GCSE Mathematics.

Please note, whilst the FSMQ (Add Maths) forms excellent preparation for both the Further Mathematics and the Mathematics course, it is not a requirement for either course.

Course details (Exam Board – Edexcel) We offer A levels in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics.

In Mathematics A level, all students study Pure Mathematics.

These form two thirds of the A level course and develop knowledge of algebra, coordinate geometry, calculus and trigonometry. The remainder of the course is applied mathematics and is split equally between Mechanics (kinematics, forces and moments) and Statistics (sampling, probability, distributions and hypothesis testing).

Further Mathematics A level can only be taken together with Mathematics A level. In addition to the modules studied for A level Mathematics, students study different aspects of Pure Mathematics, including complex numbers, matrices and proof.

The Pure Mathematics aspect of this course forms 50% of the qualification, with the remaining 50% being split equally between Further Statistics and Further Mechanics.

What other subjects go well with Mathematics?

Students take Mathematics with almost every other subject at A level. Statistics complements university courses in Biology, the Social Sciences and Economics, whilst Mechanics complements courses in Physics and Engineering.

Beyond the classroom Enrichment classes take place on a regular basis and students are encouraged to attend in order to extend and broaden their mathematical understanding. This is especially useful for students who are considering a degree in Mathematics or a Mathematically related subject.

All Sixth Form mathematicians enter the Senior Mathematical Challenge involving problem solving and logical thinking.

Lectures, presentations and workshops on a variety of significant mathematical topics may be attended.

For any student who needs extra support with Mathematics, a Maths Clinic is available on two lunchtimes each week.

Students are also encouraged to assist with nQuire, the extra-curricular Maths club for IIIrds and LIVs.

“We love the challenge of working through the problem and seeing the rewards by getting the right answer!”

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Music Who should choose Music?

You should enjoy a wide variety of music and be interested in learning about the various disciplines involved in the study of music. These include performing, listening, composing and the historical / cultural contexts of different musical styles. You should have studied music at GCSE, play an instrument or sing to at least Grade 6 standard and have basic keyboard skills.

Course details (Exam Board - Edexcel) Component 1 (30%) For performing, students are required to prepare an 8 minute recital, to be recorded in the spring term of their final year of study. No formal lesson time is given to the performing part of the course, but to help prepare them for this component, a mock recital is scheduled for the end of the summer term in their first year of study and as part of their mock exams in Upper 6.

Component 2 (30%) In composition, you will start by looking at how to use the different elements of music effectively. You will study examples by different composers and complete short composition tasks to refine skills relating to melody, harmony, modulation and texture and accompaniment. The remainder of the year is spent writing a free choice composition.

Students are given ideas and stimuli in order to decide on their own brief, after which, teaching becomes individually tailored to meet their needs.

For the compositional techniques paper, students study the chorales of J.S Bach and learn about, and complete exercises on, the most common cadential formulas, principles of SATB part-writing, common harmonic progressions, modulation, suspensions, passing-notes and melodic bass-lines.

Component 3 (40%) You will analyse 13 set works and look at how the composers use different musical elements (Melody, Texture, Harmony, Tonality, Dynamics, Rhythm and Metre, and Instruments and Sonority) and how these relate to their musical contexts and the six different Areas of Study (Instrumental Music, Vocal Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, New Directions and Fusions). You will also listen to, and study, related unfamiliar pieces of music to develop a broader understanding of different periods and styles. The exam contains three listening questions, one dictation question, and two essay questions which require candidates to appraise pieces of music in relation to a particular context.

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What other subjects go well with Music?

Music combines well with a wide variety of other subjects; English Literature, History or History of Art all contribute to a broader contextual understanding of music history and analysis. Mathematics is linked to the study of harmony and compositional techniques. Drama and Theatre Studies helps with musical performance, particularly for singers. Music A level is recognised as an academic qualification by all universities.

Beyond the classroom There is an extensive variety of extra-curricular music in the school, ranging from classical to jazz, rock and pop ensembles. All ensembles perform to a very high standard.

The Holles Singers have been regular finalists in national choral competitions. There are many concerts every year as well as a biennial two day Music Competition in the Spring Term. The musicians of LEH have performed both nationally and internationally at venues such as St. John’s Smith Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trinity College, Cambridge, Yale University and St Mark’s, Venice. In addition to the orchestras, ensembles, choirs and rock bands, there is also a comprehensive programme of specialist chamber coaching.

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Philosophy What is Philosophy?

It is the love of wisdom, the love of enquiry, and the love of debating ideas. The A level course introduces you to some of the world’s most influential philosophers and their ideas about the world, and most importantly, it creates an environment in which you learn to philosophise about the nature of the world and existence.

The skills of Philosophy You will develop an ability to ask penetrating questions, to analyse and evaluate the arguments of others, and be able to present your own arguments clearly and logically. You will develop your writing skills so that you can be concise, precise and accurate.

AQA course assessment Assessment is through examinations only, each of 3 hours and each carrying 50% of A level. Each paper has two sections, with both comprising five questions requiring responses of varying length, from short answers to one short essay per topic. The objectives are to enable students to demonstrate understanding of the core concepts and methods of Philosophy and to be able to analyse and evaluate philosophical arguments to form reasoned judgements.

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Course details Epistemology and Moral Philosophy Epistemology is an enquiry about what knowledge is and how it can be acquired. Is it enough to trust the knowledge that comes to us from our senses? Is knowledge entirely reliant on experience or do we possess some kind of in-born knowledge?

Metaphysics of God and Metaphysics of Mind Metaphysics of God asks broad questions about the existence of God and if the belief can be justified by appealing to aspects of the world such as design and causation. Challenges to it are addressed, such as the problem of evil. Religious language is studied, with pupils assessing whether religious statements have meaning or not.

Moral Philosophy is an enquiry into ways of making moral decisions. The system of Utilitarianism, Kantian ethics and Virtue ethics are assessed as to their effectiveness. Students will be able to apply these theories, critically, to the topics of stealing, simulated killing, eating animals and telling lies.

The nature of moral language is also considered, whether it expresses facts or preferences.

Metaphysics of mind analyses the debate concerning the relationship between the mental and the physical. Is the mind distinct from the physical, as suggested by Descartes? Or is the mind reduced to entirely physicalist explanations? Why is the contemporary theory of David Chalmers so attractive?

And what are the challenges posed by Patricia Churchland and neuroscience?

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Physics Who should choose Physics?

Physics is a dynamic and ever changing subject whose applications are widespread in the world around us. Without physics, there would be no digital cameras, cars or computers to name a few. The versatility of Physics will see you study a vast array of topics ranging from the smallest particles to the widest reaches of space; in Physics, we seek to explore the near and far mysteries of the universe.

You should study Physics if enjoy the subject and have an enquiring, logical mind.

You should find pleasure in probing the depths of your understanding whilst trying to seek a rational explanation for every physical experience in the universe.

You may also be looking to study physical sciences at university, such as Physics, Cosmology, Engineering or Medical Engineering.

To study Physics at A level you should expect to get a Grade 7 at GCSE in Physics or in Combined Science. Physics can be studied without Mathematics, as long as the student performed well in their GCSE Mathematics course.

Assessment Physics A level will have three written examination papers at the end of the course; 30% on half the content, 30% on the other half and a 40% synoptic paper. 40% of each paper involves the use of mathematical skills. Practical work is completed throughout the course to build up evidence of practical ability and can be tested in the synoptic paper through written questions.

Course details (Exam Board – Edexcel) • • • • • • • •

Mechanics and Motion Materials and Waves Electricity Quantum Physics Further Mechanics and Oscillations Electric, Magnetic and Gravitational Fields Particle Physics and Nuclear Decay Astrophysics and Cosmology

What other subjects go well with Physics?

Physics A level as a science subject obviously combines well with subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Music, Mathematics and Geography. However, its philosophical component can also lead to a combination with subjects such as Philosophy, Classics and Psychology or indeed any number of other subjects.

Physics has links with all areas of the curriculum. The study of all topics leads to amazing revelations as to exactly why things work the way they do, as well as to an understanding of just how much more we have to learn about the universe.

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Beyond the classroom The Lower Sixth physicists attend a study day entitled “Physics in Action” in November, take a trip to Thorpe Park to study the mechanics of rollercoasters and compete in various Olympiads over the two years. There are also many opportunities to get involved in real research, as well as visit CERN on our biennial trip.

“Having a small group has made it easy to ask questions and start discussions, leading to a fantastically informal and friendly atmosphere.”

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Politics Who should choose Politics?

Political decisions shape all our lives in the present and in the future. For that reason alone every young person should be aware of how their system of government operates. The study of Politics is an exciting intellectual challenge where students can develop a variety of skills: debate and discussion, the ability to create an effective argument and analyse information to make valid judgements.

What other subjects go well with Politics?

Politics works well with almost any combination of subjects offered at A level, be it Sciences, Mathematics, Languages or other Humanities. It complements the study of subjects where there is an emphasis on evaluation and analysis such as History, English, Geography and Economics. It is useful for those wanting to go on to work in public affairs, the media and for those wishing to study Politics, International Relations or PPE at university.

How is Politics Assessed?

Politics is assessed through stimulus response and extended writing and essays.

“Politics is a ‘cutting edge’ subject which is constantly changing and developing.

Studying Politics will allow you to take a fresh look at the issues of power and conflict.”

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Course details (Exam board - Edexcel) Unit 1: UK Politics During this unit you will learn about the key channels of communication between government and the people. You will consider the nature of democracy, party policies and ideas, elections, the media and pressure groups.

Unit 2: UK Government During this unit you will learn about the political system of the UK and other countries, the constitution, the role of Parliament, the Prime Minister and Cabinet, judges and civil liberties.

You will also be introduced to political ideologies such as the major ideas of liberalism, conservatism, socialism and feminism.

Unit 3 Comparative Politics During this unit you will learn about the US Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US Presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation, and comparative theories.

Beyond the classroom There are a wide variety of opportunities to further your love of this subject, including Current Affairs Society, a visit to Parliament, Politics Enrichment and Model United Nations.

There is a biennial Politics trip to Washington D.C. for Sixth Form.

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Product Design Who should choose Product Design?

This course is aimed at students who are inquisitive and passionate about design and the designed world.

We would expect anyone wishing study Product Design to have completed an appropriate GCSE in DT and have a desire to create innovative, modern products which address real-life problems and needs.

Beyond the classroom To be a successful designer, students need to be exposed to a wide range of product designs. The school is committed to providing a wide range of industrial visits, lectures and exhibitions throughout the course.

Course details Learning about design and technology at A level strengthens learners’ critical thinking and problem solving skills enabling them to develop and make prototypes/products that solve real world problems.

What subjects go well with Product Design?

The course is ideally suited to students wishing to study product design, engineering, or architecture at university.

Complimentary A levels would include Mathematics, Physics and Art. Students may also find a MFL or Economics beneficial qualifications for their proposed career.

There are three elements to the qualification:

Workshops and Visiting Speakers In recent years, the department has organised design workshops for students at the V&A, the Design Museum and the University of London. Leading designers, architects and technologists have spoken to the students at school including Professor Christopher Barnatt on The Future of 3D printing, and Lydia Beaton from The James Dyson Foundation.

Facilities A level Product Design is taught in our new accommodation which includes a fully equipped design and modelling studio, rapid prototyping/CAD/CAM room and designated computing suite. All are available for students to use both in lessons and study periods.

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Principles of Product Design (26.7%) The content of this component focuses on product analysis and design with respect to: materials, components; industrial and commercial practices; and the wider issues affecting design decisions.

Assessment: 1 hour 30 minute written examination Problem Solving in Product Design (23.3%) This component requires students to apply their technical knowledge and design skills by responding to a series of tasks set within a context. An understanding of stakeholder needs, product analysis, methods of commercial design and manufacture, and the application of mathematics is assessed in this paper.

Assessment: 1 hour 45 minute design examination Iterative Design Project (50%) The Iterative Design Project requires students to identify market needs and opportunities for new products, initiate and develop design solutions, and make and test prototype products. It has drawn on research and authentic practices of the initiative ‘Designing Our Tomorrow’, from the University of Cambridge. This component is designed to cultivate important personal qualities and skills including: independence and critical thinking; curiosity and creativity; innovation and imagination; risk-taking and resilience. Qualities which are applicable not only to study in Higher Education but also within the world of work and day-to-day life.

Assessment: 65 hour design project (Portfolio & Prototype)

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Psychology Who should choose Psychology?

You should be interested in studying research and theory which attempts to understand and explain human behaviour.

Psychology tries to find answers to questions such as: • How many memory stores do we have and how do they work?

Students will conduct their own investigations using a range of research methods.

Assessment: Psychology has 3 written examinations at the end of the course which last 2 hours each.

• Do the attachments we form as infants affect our later relationships?

• How do minorities bring about social change?

Beyond the classroom Visiting Speakers: In the Spring Term, Dr Guy Sutton visits our Psychology department to deliver ‘Psychology Brain Day‘. Students learn about brain functioning in relation to mental disorders.

What other subjects go well with Psychology?

We have students with almost all combinations of A level subjects in our groups. These include Arts or Science subjects, or a combination of both.

Residential Trips: As well as day trips to “Psychology in Action” and competitions at Royal Holloway, the department travels to Vienna (the home of Freud) biannually.

Course details We follow the new AQA A level Specification [7182]. This course develops knowledge, understanding and skills of analysis and evaluation in relation to several key areas:

Clubs: From January to July, there is a session aimed at looking at Psychology not on the Specification allowing students who are interested to plan and carry out their own research.

• What causes mental disorders?

• What are the best ways to treat mental disorders?

Wider Reading: All students have access to a shared area where current news, interesting articles, podcasts and Psychological journals are shared with them by the team for students to expand their knowledge of the subject.

Approaches in Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Psychopathology and Research Methods.

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“Many activities involve working with others … highlights for me have included the role of an angry animal rights’ activist in a group debate about bullfighting!”

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“Sixth form feels quite a separate entity here – the older students are revered.”

Good Schools Guide

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e: office@lehs.org.uk @LEHSchool

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