Supporting your child through their GCSE Art and Design
Supporting your child through their GCSE Biology
Supporting your child through their GCSE Business Studies
Supporting your child through their GCSE Chemistry
Supporting your child through their GCSE Digital Technology (Programming)
Supporting your child through their GCSE Drama
Supporting your child through their GCSE Economics
Supporting your child through their GCSE English Language and English Literature
Supporting your child through their GCSE Food and Nutrition
Supporting your child through their GCSE French
Supporting your child through their GCSE Further Mathematics
Supporting your child through their GCSE Geography
Supporting your child through their GCSE German
Supporting your child through their GCSE Government and Politics
Supporting your child through their GCSE History
Supporting your child through their GCSE Latin
Supporting your child through their GCSE LLW (Form 4)
Supporting your child through their GCSE LLW (Form 5)
Supporting your child through their GCSE Mathematics
Supporting your child through their GCSE Moving Image Arts
Supporting your child through their GCSE Music
Supporting you child through their GCSE Physical Education
Supporting your child through their GCSE Physics
Supporting your child through their GCSE Religious Studies (Form 5)
Supporting your child through their GCSE Russian
Supporting your child through their GCSE Spanish
Supporting your child through their GCSE Technology and Design
GCSE ART & DESIGN
KEY DATES
October Work on preparatory work for Part B
November Finish prep work and work on outcome for Part B
December Complete Component 1, Part B
January Component 2 paper issued by CCEA. Begin work on this
February Continued with preparatory work for Component 2
March Finalise ideas for outcome (completed in 10- hr exam). 10 hour exam and final submission of prep
EXAMINATION CONTENT
May Moderation UNIT COMPONENT 2
Outcome produced under formal supervision over 10 hr period (2 school days)
Pupils produce preparatory work and complete an outcome in response to stimulus paper issued by CCEA in January 2024. Preparatory work produced in class and at home, being mindful of controlled assessment conditions. Outcome is completed under formal examination conditions over a 10-hr (2 school days) period. Pupils entitled to extra time receive up to 2.5 hrs extra time on the third day.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA COMPONENT 2 PREVIOUS PAPER
Please note that the 2026 theme will be different
SUPPORT WITH ORGANISATION FOR 10-HR EXAM
Pupils are given a planning calendar to support them in breaking their preparatory work into smaller chunks. Pupils are taught by individual tutorial and given support in ensuring readiness for the 10-hr exam, being mindful of controlled assessment conditions.
GCSE BIOLOGY
KEY DATES
October Tracking test w/c 29 September 2025
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock examination Unit 1&2
Feb/March Revision at home increased. Internal Practical (Booklet A)
April Easter holiday revision programme
May/June External examinations
EXAMINATION CONTENT
UNIT COMPONENT 2
1 1.1 Cells
1.2 Photosynthesis
1.3 Nutrition and Health
1.4 Enzymes and Digestion
1.5 Breathing and Respiration
1.6 Nervous System and Hormones
1.7 a Ecology-Ecological Relationships and Energy Flow
1.7b Ecology - Energy and biomass, Nutrient cycles and Global Warming
2 2.1 Osmosis and Plant Transport
2.2 Circulatory System
2.3 Reproduction
2.4 Genome, Chromosomes, DNA and Genetics
2.5 Variation and Selection
2.6 Microbes, Defence and Medicine
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA COMPONENT 2 PREVIOUS
PAPER
SUPPORT WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers:
• Encourage your child to start revision early. This will also be beneficial for the December mock exam.
• Encourage your child to be organised, use a revision timetable, and also space out different topics they study.
• Encourage your child to use the revision guides recommended and revision notes provided by the department.
• Ask your child if you can help them: chatting to them or using flash cards to quiz them etc.
• Encourage your child to use the ‘How to revise in Biology’ sheet that gives hints on the best way to revise Biology.
• Ensure your child has breaks, eats well, exercises (even a short walk) and gets a good work/ life balance.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
From September, every class had already begun spaced revision. Pupils have access to a set of ‘recall questions’ for each topic. A printed ‘Study Calendar’ and ‘Chunking’ of Topics’ will be provided to help organise.
For homework they must revise the topic by completing their workbook using the guides.
ONLINE REVISION
The Biology staff use Google Classroom to share past examination papers, revision videos, revision notes, PowerPoints and worksheets. They also use Century Tech for retrieval practice.
RECOMMENDED APPS
Gojimo / Anki
THE BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Every member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so:
Dr Campton (Head of Department), Mr Finlay, Mr Gallagher, Mrs Marrs, Mrs Oliver & Mr Hampton
GCSE BUSINESS STUDIES
•
•
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils have access to a set of ‘recall questions’ for each topic. These are available on Google Classroom.
For homework they must revise the topic by completing their workbooks and ensuring all key terms are completed.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
The task will address the following areas of the specification: Creating a Business (Why businesses start, Business Aims and Objectives, and Risks and Rewards), Business Operations (Job manufacturing) and Finance (Financial statements).
Booklet A: to be completed as part of the 12 hours of research. 15 marks available Booklet B: on completion of Booklet A - I hour structured response. 45 marks available
Total: 60 marks
ONLINE REVISION
The Business Studies staff use Google Classroom to share past examination papers, revision videos, revision websites, revision guides, PowerPoints, share good practice, examination technique resources and booklets.
RECOMMENDED APPS AND WEBSITES
Tutor2U
Two Teachers
Revision World
BBC Bitesize
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will begin in March 2026. These will consist of both lunch time and afterschool revision sessions. Individual classes may have time to revise specific topics before the examinations. Individual help can be sought from your teacher.
THE ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS STUDIES DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mr O’Neill (Head of Department), Mr Armstrong, Mr Davidson, Mr Holland and Mr McGarry.
GCSE CHEMISTRY
KEY DATES
October Start revising at home, L6th mentoring sessions, every Thursday, lunchtime in J5 at 1.00
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11), Half term Unit 1 Revision booklet (retrieval). Lunchtime revision classes for specific topics.
December Mock examination Unit 1&2 (part only) (1hr 30mins)
Feb/March Lunch time revision classes for specific topics and revision at home increased, GCSE Practical examination (Booklet A) 16th March 2026
April Easter holiday revision programme
May/June 19.05.26 Unit 1 External examinations 13.06.26 Unit 2 External examinations 20.05.26 Unit 3 External examinations
EXAMINATION CONTENT
UNIT TOPICS
1 1.1 Atomic Structure
1.2 Bonding
1.3 Structure
1.4 Nanoparticles
1.5 Symbols, formula and equations
1.6 The Periodic Table 1.7 Quantitative Chemistry 1.8 Acids, bases and salts
1.9 Chemical Analysis 10.0 Solubility
2 2.1 Metals and reactivity Series 2.2 Redox, rusting and iron
2.3 Rates of reaction
2.4 Equilibrium
2.5 Organic Chemistry
2.6 Quantitative Chemistry
2.7 Electrochemistry
2.8 Energy changes
2.9 Gas Chemistry
3 Units 1 and 2 include a number of practical tasks that pupils carry out during the course. Nine of these are prescribed practicals. Elements of these practical will make up the Practical Examination Booklet A
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PREVIOUS PAPER
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils will complete a 1hour 15mins revision paper on Unit 1 over half term break.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
The Chemistry Practical Examination will take place on Monday 16th March 2026. Details to follow.
ONLINE REVISION
Each class has a Google Classroom which contains completed booklets for each Unit and revision material such as quizzes. The CCEA Chemistry microsite has a number of useful resources, including Factfiles which contain revision notes on each topic, past papers and mark schemes. A new BBC Bitesize web page has been launched which is specific for CCEA.
CHEMISTRY CLINIC
Every Thursday 1pm in J5. Lower 6th mentors will help students with theory that they are unsure about or past paper questions that they cannot answer.
REVISION SESSIONS
Lunch time revision sessions this year, starting in November 2025 on specific topics in GCSE. Individual classes may have time to revise specific topics before the examinations.
THE CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mrs Drumm (Head of Department), Mr Marron, Mrs Sowney, Miss Hamilton, Mrs Hammond, Mr Hart & Dr Campalani.
GCSE DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY (PROGRAMMING)
KEY DATES
Sept to March Controlled Assessment, Units 4 & 5 theory, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Winter examination - Units 1 (some topics) & 4 (1 hour)
April Complete course and revise theory
May 18 May 2026 - Unit 1 Exam 2 June 2026 - Unit 4 Exam
EXAMINATION CONTENT
1 Pupils explore a range of digital technologies available for data storage, manipulation, presentation and transfer. They also evaluate the importance of data security and data legislation.
4 Pupils analyse trends in software development and the concepts involved in designing and building digital systems using coded solutions.
5 Pupils design, develop and test coded solutions when creating digital systems.
CCEA SPECIFICATION, SPECIMEN ASSESSMENT MATERIALS AND FACT FILES
CCEA PREVIOUS PAPERS
SUPPORT WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Ensure you are fully prepared for your Controlled Assessment classes
• Try past paper questions, and use mark schemes, available using the link above or your revision
• Make pupil notes from Fact Files and eTextbook (CCEA GCSE Digital Technology by Matthewson, Lynch and Debbadi)
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils should look over the eTextbook and Fact Files regularly. The Winter exam in December provides a good test of their retrieval learning. The exams in the summer covers theory from 4th and 5th Form so it is important to revise all theory for Units 1 and 4.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
Controlled assessment is an ongoing piece of work. Preparation starts in 4th Form and should be completed by the end of March of 5th Form. Pupils are required to work independently on the design and development of a programmed system. This should meet the task requirements set by CCEA.
ONLINE REVISION
All Fact Files, code snippets (to help with Controlled Assessment) and extra resources are available for pupils through Google Classroom. Pupils have access to a textbook/eTextbook for the course (CCEA GCSE Digital Technology by Matthewson, Lynch & Debbadi (978- 1510414969)). Pupils may also wish to make use of the following resources:
* My Revision Notes: CCEA GCSE Digital Technology by Matthewson, Lynch & Debbadi (978- 1510427211)
* BBC Bitesize
REVISION SESSIONS
Controlled Assessment support is available through the class teachers, Miss Richmond or Mr Wright. Pupils will be notified of additional support for the Units 1 and 4 theory examinations. Individual help can be sought from their teacher.
THE COMPUTING DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Miss J Richmond (Head of Department) and Mr N Wright
GCSE DRAMA
KEY DATES
November Start revising at home, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Revision at Home Using Departmental Revision Booklets and Google Classroom.
January Winter Examination (1 hour 30 minutes) Theatre Review and Blood Brothers
February Practical examination dates - Between the 2nd and 20th February
March Revision at home increased
April
Easter Holiday Revision Programme set
May 08.05.26 am Unit 1 ‘ Understanding Drama’ External Examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
COMPONENT
1. Understanding Drama
2. Devising Drama
3. Texts in Practice
TOPICS
• Genre
• Structure
• Character
• Form
• Style
• Language
• Sub-text
• Character Motivation and Interaction
• The Creation of Mood and Atmosphere
• The Development of Pace and Rhythm
• Dramatic Climax
• Stage Directions
• The Practical Demands of the Text- Blood Brothers
• Theatrical elements of live theatre
• Carry out Research
• Develop their Own Ideas
• Collaborate with Others
• Rehearse, Refine and Amend their Work in Progress
• Analyse and Evaluate their Own Process of Creating Devised Drama.
• Interpret Texts
• Create and Communicate Meaning
• Realise Artistic Intention in Text- Based Drama.
AQA SPECIFICATION
PAST PAPERS
A selection of past papers are contained in the Google Classroom where you will find an original bank of tailored resources designed to meet the needs of all learners. These include PowerPoints, multiple-choice questions, exemplar essays, essay plans, assessments, writing frames and practical activities.
AQA QUESTIONS AND MARK SCHEMES
SUPPORT WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Ensuring that you have made revision notes on each topic.
• Engaging in continued home study using the departmental revision booklets.
• Attending after-school revision sessions.
• Practising the specimen AQA past paper questions.
• Using online quiz platform Kahoot! to test your knowledge of ‘Theatre Roles and Responsibilities’.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
We have a number of quizzes on the online platform Kahoot! The BBC Bitesize website offers revision aids for the study of Blood Brothers and Roles and Responsibilities in Theatre.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
The Controlled Assessment is based on Devising Drama (Component 2).
ONLINE REVISION
Google classroom is used to support learning by providing exemplar work, videos, past papers, and PowerPoints which aids pupils understanding.
REVISION SESSIONS
Coursework catch-up sessions are available on Tuesday each week until Christmas. Pupils should meet at the Drama studio and let Miss Anderson know beforehand if they are attending. Drop-in revision session slots will begin in February and will be every Monday until May in A7 at 3.15pm. Attendance is encouraged if you have any specific questions.
THE DRAMA DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Miss Anderson (Head of Department), Dr Devlin and Mrs Clarke.
GCSE ECONOMICS
1 Paper 1: Students answer:
• All three short response questions
• Two short, structured data response questions
• One extended writing question from a choice of three
2 Paper 2:
• Students answer the two data response questions.
KEY DATES
Nov to March F5 Parent Consultation (6/11), Completing Course & Start of Study Support Classes
April Completing Course and organisation of notes
May 08.05.26 Paper 1 External Examination 27.05.26 Paper 2 External Examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
COMPONENT TOPICS
1.
• Basic Economic Ideas
• Producing and Consuming
• Financial Capability
• Managing the Economy
• The Global Economy
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
*Note pre 2018 will contain useful questions but not necessarily within the same unit due to new specification.
SUPPORT WITH REVISION
Subject specific revision tips include:
• Practice using economic terminology appropriately and accurately in responses.
• Use a range of sources to address problems and issues raised in questions.
• Include application in responses by using both quantitative and qualitative evidence to support conclusions and judgements.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils have access to a set of ‘recall questions’ for each topic. These will be available on Google Classroom. For homework they must revise the topic by completing their workbooks and ensuring all key terms are completed.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
N/A
ONLINE REVISION
The Economics staff use Google Classroom to share past examination papers, revision videos, revision websites, revision guides, PowerPoints, share good practice, examination technique resources and booklets.
RECOMMENDED WEBSITES
Tutor2U
Economics Theory Help
EconDal Videos
Seneca
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will begin in March 2026. These will consist of both lunch time and afterschool revision sessions. Individual classes may have time to revise specific topics before the examinations. Individual help can be sought from your teacher.
THE ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS STUDIES DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mr O’Neill (Head of Department), Mr Davidson, Mr Holland, Mr Armstrong & Mr McGarry
GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND ENGLISH LITERATURE
1 Prose: Of Mice and Men OR Lord of the Flies & UNSEEN 19th
Prose.
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
Oct/ Nov Completion of final Language CAT (Written Language)
Jan/Feb Completion of Literature (Macbeth) CAT
March External Moderation of Sp & List. Revision Morning Support Series Starts
April Morning Support Series Continue
May Final practice essays in class
June Drop-in sessions with teachers
• Know your TECHNICAL VOCAB well: DEVICES must be accurate and effectively understood.
• Develop your understanding of connotation and suggestion: Vital to ANALYSIS and EVALUATION
• ENGAGE with the KT, don’t just tack on.
• READ, READ, READ: we cannot over-state the sheer value of exposing yourself to a wide range of non-fiction and literature. Everything from magazines to blog posts, to short stories and longer novels.
MORNING SUPPORT SERIES
Each year, the English Dept run daily targeted revision session in the morning before school. Sessions take place in A28 with Mr Bleakley and a detailed timetable will be released later in the year.
This year, the topics are:
Language Papers 1 & 2 The Writer’s Craft Questions: The Mechanics of Language Study Language Paper 1, Tasks 4 & 5
The Media Text questions
Language Paper 1, Task 1 Writing for Audience and Purpose
Language Paper 2, Task 1 Creative and / or Personal Writing
Literature Paper 2, An Inspector Calls
Literature Paper 2, Identity Poetry Anthology.
These will all be further sub-divided into precision-targeted areas.
ONLINE REVISION
The English team has put past examination papers, revision videos, revision guides, PowerPoints and worksheets on GC. Google Classroom will increasingly become our pathway for resourcing your learning.
THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
Mr Bleakley (Head of Department), Mrs Parker, Mrs Cooney, Mr Latimer, Miss Coll, Mx Devlin, Mr Maltman, Mrs Webster, Ms Artherton, Mrs Rafferty-Tally.
GCSE FOOD & NUTRITION
KEY DATES
September Unit 1 - Exam theory
October Unit 1 - Exam theory, Unit 2 - Mock practical assessments - w/c 13th October
November Unit 1 - Exam theory, Unit 2 - Controlled assessment, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Unit 1 - Mock Examination, Unit 2 - Controlled Assessment
February Unit 2 - Controlled Assessment, practical assessments - w/c 16th February
March Unit 2 - Controlled Assessment, Unit 1 - Exam theory
April Unit 1 - Exam theory
June Unit 1 examination
Tuesday 19th May 2026 (2hrs)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
COMPONENT TOPICS
1. You will study:
• Food provenance;
• Food processing and production;
• Food and nutrition for good health;
• Energy and nutrients;
• Macronutrients;
• Micronutrients;
• Fibre;
• Water;
• Nutritional and dietary needs;
• Priority health issues;
• Being an effective consumer when shopping for food;
• Factors affecting food choice;
• Food safety;
• Resource management; and
• Food preparation, cooking and presentation skills.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
*(GCSE revised from 2017)
Past papers also available from legacy specification
SUPPORT WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, subject specific revision tips include:
• Go over past paper questions.
• Use mark schemes available on website for your revision.
• Make pupil notes from booklets provided.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils should look over booklets regularly and their mock exam in December will provide a good test of their retrieval learning.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
• Controlled assessment is an ongoing piece of work. It will start in October of Form 5 and should be finished by the start of March.
• It is important that pupils listen to all advice given in controlled assessment to achieve the best mark possible as it is worth 50% of the GCSE.
• The exemplar material is also useful to see what pupils should be aiming towards.
REVISION SESSIONS
• Study support session running for the second term of Form 5 for those pupils who are underperforming.
• Revision will also take place in class if time allows before study leave.
THE FOOD AND NUTRITION DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Miss Lloyd (Head of Department), Mrs Glasgow, Mrs Hart, Mrs Kelly and Mrs Steenson.
GCSE FRENCH
KEY DATES
Oct/Nov
Tuesday L/R workshops in R35 with Mrs Young and Mrs McCrum
End of module exam practice
Past Reading/Writing paper (w/b 14 Oct)
F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock examination All modules studied to date
January Mock oral examination (Teachers will advise of the date)
February End of Module exam practice
March Revision at home increased
Past paper practice
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May Unit 2 Speaking – 23 March – Friday 1 May
Unit 1 Listening – 20 May
Unit 4 Writing – 4 June
Unit 3 Reading – 11 June
EXAMINATION CONTENT
COMPONENT TOPICS
1. Myself, my family, relationships and choices (for example family and friends)
• Social media and new technology
• Free time, leisure and daily routine
• Culture, customs, festivals and celebrations
2. My local area and the wider environment
• Community involvement
• Social and global issues
• Travel and tourism
3. My studies and school life
• Extra-curricular activities
• Part-time jobs and money management
• Future plans and career
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
*Note pre 2018 will contain useful questions but not necessarily within the same unit due to new specification.
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Be specific in your revision. Look at the Contexts for Learning here:
• Do you think you know this topic well?
• If not, make sure you revise the vocabulary.
• Have you completed your oral question preparation for each topic?
• Have you learned your oral preparation?
• Can you write short sentences on each topic in a range of tenses? Could you put these together into an extended writing piece?
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
• End of module writing practice assessments take place at the end of each module.
• We begin past paper practice in class in October. It is vital that pupils familiarise themselves with the exam.
• Retrieval sessions will take place at lunchtimes in the Easter term.
ONLINE REVISION
Past examination papers, revision tips and worksheets on Google Classroom.
RECOMMENDED APPS, WEBSITES
• BBC Bitesize (CCEA section)
• Quizlet
• Language gym
• Google Classroom
• wordreference.com
THE FRENCH DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so including Mrs Young (Head of Department) & Mrs McCrum.
GCSE FURTHER MATHS
KEY DATES
October Course teaching (Unit 2 Mechanics)
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11) Pure Maths/ Mechanics revision material issued.
December Internal exam 1hr 30mins (Pure/ Mech)
January Continue with Unit 2
Feb - March Past papers in Pure/ Mechanics issued
April Unit 3 Statistics completed
May Revision, Unit 1 Pure (Fri 15 May 2026- pm)
June Unit 2 Mechanics (Mon 1 June 2026 - pm)
Unit 3 Statistics (Tue 16 June 2026 - am)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
COMPONENT TOPICS
1.
2.
3.
• Algebraic fractions
• Algebraic manipulation
• Completing the square
• Simultaneous equations [context]
• Quadratic equations
• Quadratic inequalities
• Trigonometric graphs
• Trigonometric equations
• Differentiation
• Tangents/normals
• Practical differentiation
• Logarithms
• Matrices
• Kinematics
• Equations of motion
• Vectors
• Resultant force
• Equilibrium
• Newton’s laws of motion
• Car and trailer/pulley
• Moments
• Central tendency and dispersion
• Mean and standard deviation
• Probability
• Binomial distribution
• Normal distribution
• Bivariate analysis
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Resources : notebook / jotters / assessments / past papers
Practice of material is essential and will allow confidence to be built. List of topics in each external paper / possible outcomes.
The department will provide practice questions ahead of internal examinations.
Completion of past papers and examination style booklets provide the most effective way of improving outcomes.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Regular class testing and reinforcement of concepts. Revision of concepts in longer style questions.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
None
ONLINE REVISION
CCEA website [past papers].
CCEA subject support [guidance].
MCB Maths YouTube channel.
REVISION SESSIONS
Drop-in revision classes after Easter (Mr Lyttle). Individual staff offer support and guidance outside the classroom.
THE MATHS DEPARTMENT
Mr Lyttle (Head of Department), Mrs Barry, Dr Callachand, Mrs Campton, Mr Johnston, Mr Jones, Mr Lindsay, Mr Martin, Mrs E McKay, Mrs S McKay, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Neill, Mr Shaw, Mrs Scott & Miss Walker.
GCSE GEOGRAPHY
Pupils completed Unit 1 in Summer 2025. Some may want to repeat this in Summer 2026 – their teacher will discuss this with them.
KEY DATES
September Unit 3 Fieldwork test
October Geog ur Memory = Population and Migration
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11), Geog ur Memory = Changing Urban Environments
December Mock Examination - Unit 2 Population and Migration & Changing Urban Environments (1hr)
February Tracking Test, Geog ur Memory = Development
March Geog ur Memory = Managing our Environment
April Revision and PPQ, Preparation of Data Sheet and 100
May Revision, Unit 1 Examination - Wednesday 13th May 9:15am, Unit 2 Exam - Tuesday 26th May 9:15am
June Unit 3 Examination - Friday 5th June
EXAMINATION CONTENT
3 Fieldwork Skills – Crawfordsburn River - Data sheet and key hypotheses supplied in exam. CCEA SPECIFICATION
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Know your case studies well – facts, details and locations – this can lift your grade to A* - if these are done well through extended writing and factual detail..
• Practice your Geoskills – mapskills, grid references, drawing graphs, interpreting key geography sources such as choropleth maps or population pyramids and more
• Have the right tools for the exam – colouring pencils, calculator, ruler, black ink pens etc.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Classes have option to complete retrieval of content through:
1. GEOG UR MEMORY – monthly revision calendars to prepare revision notes
2. Glossary pages for each topic
3. Kahoot Quizzes on Core Topics
4. Topic on a page summaries for each topic
5. Revision Clock for each topic
ONLINE REVISION
BBC Bitesize
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will begin after February half term. Each teacher will give information on individual sessions.
THE GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mrs Duckett (Head of Department), Dr Crawford, Mr Welshman, Mr Kirk, Mr Ferguson, Mrs Bedi.
GCSE GERMAN
KEY DATES
Sept to May
Provision of weekly Listening and Reading revision materials for revision purposes, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock Examination (2hr)
March Revision at home increased with revision programme distributed
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May Past Paper Practice
June GCSE exams (in order)
Speaking 23rd March - 1st May, Listening: 6th May (pm), Writing 13th May (pm), Reading 2nd June (pm)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
UNIT TOPICS - for detailed breakdown refer to the specification
1 External written examination with stimulus material in German
There are two tiers of entry:
• Foundation (35 mins approx.); and
• Higher (45 mins approx.).
Students answer 12 questions.
Four of these are the same in both tiers. Responses include:
• selection
• gap-filling;
• answering questions in English; and
• answering questions in German.
2 One teacher-conducted and externally marked speaking examination. There is one tier of entry.
The test lasts 7−12 minutes, plus 10 minutes of supervised preparation time. Each test includes:
• two role-plays, both from the same Context for Learning; and
• a general conversation on two topics, one from each of the other two Contexts for Learning. Each role-play lasts up to 2 minutes and each conversation topic takes up to 4 minutes.
Students prepare the first conversation topic in advance from the Context for Learning prescribed. Examinations are recorded and submitted to CCEA for marking
3
4
External written examination with stimulus material in German. There are two tiers of entry:
• Foundation (50 mins);
• Higher (1 hour).
Students answer 12 questions.
Four of these are the same in both tiers. Responses include:
• selection
• answering questions in English
• gap-filling
• answering questions in German; and
• translating short sentences from German into English.
External written examination There are two tiers of entry:
• Foundation (1 hour); and
• Higher (1 hour 15 mins).
Students answer four questions. One of these is the same in both tiers. Responses include:
• a listing and short phrase task in German (Foundation Tier only)
• short phrase/sentence responses in German (both tiers);
• short responses in German to one or more pieces of text (Higher Tier only);
• translation of short sentences from English into German (both tiers); and one structured, extended writing task in German from a choice of three (both tiers).
CCEA SPECIFICATION
PAST PAPERS
A selection of German GCSE papers is available on the CCEA German GCSE website. It would also be beneficial for students to practise reading and listening past papers from the older specification and from other examination boards, such as AQA and Edexcel, as the level of difficulty and content included are of a similar standard. Pupils will be aware of mark schemes from class but are encouraged to re-examine these on the CCEA website, particularly for the speaking and writing units - the mark scheme is the answer!
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Practising translation/comprehension passages from past papers and also the Kerboodle digital textbook.
• Miss Moore is available in R28 before and after school to offer help and support.
RECOMMENDED APPS
• Memrise (for vocabulary and grammar)
• Duolingo
• FluentU
• Leo
GCSE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
KEY DATES
November Start revising at home, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock Examination Unit 2 (1 hour 30mins)
January
February After school revision programme starts
March Increase home revision
April Easter holiday revision programme set
June 05.06.26 Unit 1 External Examination 11.06.26 Unit 2 External Examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
1 Democracy in Action
• Political Ideas and Concepts
• Decision-making in a Democracy
• Elections and Voting in a Democracy
• Political Parties in a Democracy
• Political Information in a Democracy
• Taking Action in a Democracy
2 International Politics in Action
• Interdependence
• The European Union
• Conflict and its Resolution
• Conflict Resolution in Practice –Northern Ireland
• Migration
CCEA SPECIFICATION
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Subject specific revision advice
• Make detailed revision notes for each unit
• Ensure you know the glossary of terms for each unit (links are on Google classroom)
• Make a list of examples to provide supporting evidence in your exam answers
• Watch the news, read newspapers or online political blogs. Politics appears every day on TV, radio and in the papers. Paying attention to the news will not only increase your understanding but give you examples you can use in your examination.
ONLINE REVISION
• The Form 5 GCSE Politics Google Classroom page has copies of work that has been set, handouts (including examination advice), videos, PowerPoints, past paper questions and other resources.
• CCEA website. Past papers and subject guidance.
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will begin after the mock exams and will be after school from 3.15-4.00. We will cover Unit 1 work. The day will be arranged after the mock examinations.
THE POLITICS DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so. See the individual teacher in their room or K5 1/2: Mr Lynas (Head of Department), Miss Bleakley, Mrs McGlinchey.
CCEA SUBJECT
GCSE HISTORY
KEY DATES
September Continue work on International Relations course
October International Relations Practice Tracking Test. This will be a sourcework test
November International Relations, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock examination USA & International Relations
January Start Ireland course
March Northern Ireland tracking test. Drop in clinics begin for F5
April Easter holiday revision programme set, Revision sessions after school
May 15.05.26 AM Unit 1 External Examination
June 04.06.26 AM Unit 2 External Examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
UNIT TOPICS
1 Section A Option 2: Life in the United States of America, 1920-33
• Life for Minority Groups
• Prohibition
• Social Change and Popular Entertainment
• The ‘Roaring Twenties’
• Economic Problems in the 1920’s
• The Wall Street Crash, 1929
• The Great Depression, 1929-33
2 Section B Option 1: Changing Relations: Northern Ireland and its Neighbours, 1965-98
• The O’Neill Years
• The campaign for civil rights
• A deteriorating situation, 1969-72
• The search for a political solution – attempt at power sharing 1973-74
• Changing Republican Strategy
• Changing relations – towards closer co-operation
• The Downing Street Declaration, 1993
• The Good Friday Agreement, 1998
3 International Relations, 1945-2003
• Co-operation ends and the Cold War begins
• Emerging superpower rivalry and its consequences 1945-49
• Flashpoints in Europe and the impact on international relations
• Flashpoints outside Europe and the impact on international relations
• The end of the Cold War, 1985-91
• New tensions emerge, 1991-2003
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
• Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include :
• Make revision notes as you reach the end of being taught each topic
• Use past paper questions
• Include facts, figures, dates and statistics
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT MATERIAL
GCSE BBC Bitesize History is a great resource and designed to reflect the CCEA course. This includes relevant information for every topic studied at GCSE. It supports pupils notes and the textbook.
ONLINE REVISION
The History team has put past examination papers, revision guides, PowerPoints and worksheets on Padlet. All pupils have been given the Padlet codes. There is also key information and articles for further reading. Each class will also have a Google classroom specific to their class.
REVISION SESSIONS
After school revision sessions will begin in March. All pupils will be informed of these dates. These will be organised by topic with some practice exam technique as well.
THE HISTORY DEPARTMENT
Pupils should approach their individual teacher for help in the first instance, or the Head of Department. Different staff may run revision classes and can also be asked for help. Staff will usually be found in their room or in K5.5/ Central staff room:
Mrs Maguire (Head of Department), Miss Leitch, Miss Reaney and Mr Lynas
GCSE LATIN
KEY DATES
October Start revising at home, component 2 examination
November Revision at home, Component 3A examination, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Winter Examination- Component 1 (1 Hour 30 mins)
February Latin Revision Lunchtime Slots, Ongoing revision, Past Papers started
March Revision at home increased
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May
08.05.26 - Component 1 Latin Language external examination
15.05.26 - Component 2 Latin ‘Love and Marriage’ external examination
21.05.26 - Component 3A Virgil ‘Hercules and Cacus’ external examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
UNIT AREAS OF STUDY
1
2
3
• GCSE Defined Vocabulary List
• GCSE Grammar and Syntax
• GCSE English/Latin Vocabulary List (if required)
• General ‘Love and Marriage’ information
• Passages in Latin from the set writers
• Virgil ‘Hercules and Cacus’ passages in Latin and English.
EDUQAS SPECIFICATION
PAST PAPERS
• Specimen Eduqas questions and mark schemes will be added to Google Classroom as the year progresses.
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils. Some tips for parents/carers are included below:
• Revising vocabulary and grammar frequently for short periods of time.
• Practising translation/comprehension passages from past papers and also the Latin Momentum Tests for GCSE textbook (answers are at the back).
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
From September 2024 onwards each class has been involved in spaced revision of vocabulary and grammar.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
There are no controlled assessment activities.
ONLINE REVISION
Google Classroom has all vocabulary and grammar elements as well as set text notes. There is also a quick guide to GCSE grammar and syntax.
Vocabulary can be revised using the GCSE vocabulary self-tester.
Useful material for revising the Component 2 and Component 3A set texts
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will run from February until April. Attendance is encouraged.
THE CLASSICS DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Dr Dempsie (Head of Department) & Miss Williamson.
GCSE LLW (FORM 4)
KEY DATES
March Revision at home, Class tests on recent topics
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May Mock exams in class
External examination - Citizenship
External examination - Personal Development
EXAMINATION CONTENT
The examination content is covered by 2 booklets of notes, one for each module. These notes cover all content required by the CCEA specification. The notes are supported by workbooks, to help apply information to exam style questions.
TOPICS FOR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
1. Personal health and well-being
2. Emotions and reactions to life experiences
3. Relationships and sexuality
4. Personal safety and well-being
5. Responsible parenting
6. Making informed financial decisions
TOPICS FOR EMPLOYABILITY
1. The impact of globalisation on employment.
2. Preparing for employment: recruitment and selection.
3. Rights and responsibilities of employers and employees.
4. Social responsibility of business
5. Exploring self-employment.
6. Personal career management.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
PAST PAPERS
• Follow this link then choose ‘GCSE Revised (Sept 2017), past papers.
• These are the only papers available for the revised specification.
Note: These papers are for a previous specification. They are useful for examination practice, but be aware that some topics have changed or been replaced.
REVISION ADVICE
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Read the notes carefully, using spidergrams, bullet points or other methods to focus attention.
• Use the questions in the workbook to help learn material and also to apply course content to exam style questions.
• Practice answering past papers.
ADDITIONAL REVISION MATERIALS
• Past papers - These are available on CCEA’s website.
• BBC Bitesize - This online revision site has been up-dated to cover the CCEA LLW specification. Bitesize notes and quizzes can be a helpful way to learn, but they do not replace learning the notes in the booklets.
HELP IN SCHOOL
Please contact Mr Ferguson or Mrs Wright if you need any further help or advice.
GCSE LLW (FORM 5)
KEY DATES
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Winter Examinations
March Revision at home, Class tests on recent topics, Complete Controlled Assessment
External examination - Citizenship
External examination - Personal Development
EXAMINATION CONTENT
The examination content is covered in a booklet of notes. These notes cover all content required by the CCEA specification. The notes are supported by a workbook, to help apply information to exam style questions. Pupils also have access to the Learning for Life and Work textbook. Additional resources are available on Google Classroom.
TOPICS FOR EMPLOYABILITY
• The impact of Globalisation on Employment
• Preparing for Employment: Recruitment and selection
• Rights and responsibilities of employers and employees
• Social responsibility of businesses
• Exploring self-employment
• Personal Career management
CCEA SPECIFICATION
PAST PAPERS
• Follow this link then choose ‘GCSE Revised (Sept 2017), past papers.
• These are the only papers available for the revised specification.
Note: These papers are for a previous specification. They are useful for examination practice, but be aware that some topics have changed or been replaced.
REVISION ADVICE
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Read the notes carefully, using spidergrams, bullet points or other methods to focus attention.
• Use the questions in the workbook to help learn material and also to apply course content to exam style questions.
• Practice answering past papers.
ADDITIONAL REVISION MATERIALS
• Past papers - These are available on CCEA’s website.
• BBC Bitesize - This online revision site has been up-dated to cover the CCEA LLW specification. Bitesize notes and quizzes can be a helpful way to learn, but they do not replace learning the notes in the booklets.
HELP IN SCHOOL
Please contact Mr McComiskey or Mr Ferguson if you need any further help or advice.
GCSE MATHEMATICS
KEY DATES
November Revision booklets issued, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Internal Exam 2 hours (Calculator)
January M6 - M8 topics studied
March Tier of entry finalised, Past Papers issued
April Course completed
May/June
M2 M3 M4 Thur 14 May 2026 (am)
M6 M7 M8 Wed 3 June 2026 (am)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
3
• Number [%/bounds]
• Algebra [factorising/algebraic fractions]
• Coordinate geometry
• Compound measures/mensuration/trig
• Statistics [box plots/cumulative frequency]
4
• Bounds in calculations
• Algebraic denominators/harder factorising
• Forming and solving quadratics
• Perpendicular lines
• Advanced mensuration/circle theorems
• Sampling/histograms
7
• Surds/indices
• Graphical inequalities
• Changing the subject [multi-step]
• nth term [non-linear sequences]
• Standard graphs/direct proportion
• Transformations/similar shapes [area]
• Probability
8
• Rational/irrational numbers/negative and fractional powers
• Growth and decay/rationalising the denominator
• Simultaneous equations [linear/non-linear]
• Exponential graphs/graphical solutions
• Gradient as rate of change/equation of circle
• Indirect proportion
• Sine and cosine rules/area of triangle
• 3D [Pythagoras/trigonometry]
• Similar shapes [length/area/volume]
• Probability [non-independent events]
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
Resources : notebook / jotters / assessments / past papers
Practice of material is essential and will allow confidence to be built. List of topics in each external paper / possible outcomes. The department will provide practice questions ahead of internal examinations. Completion of past papers and examination style booklets provide the most effective way of improving outcomes.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Regular class testing and reinforcement of concepts. Revision of concepts in longer style questions.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
None
ONLINE REVISION
CCEA website [past papers]. CCEA subject support [guidance]. MCB Maths YouTube channel. www.corbettmaths.com [revision material and videos by topic].
REVISION SESSIONS
Drop-in revision classes after Easter (Mr Lyttle). Individual staff offer support and guidance outside the classroom.
THE MATHS DEPARTMENT
Mr Lyttle (Head of Department), Mrs Barry, Dr Callachand, Mrs Campton, Mr Johnston, Mr Jones, Mr Lindsay, Mr Martin, Mrs E McKay, Mrs S McKay, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Neill, Mr Shaw, Mrs Scott & Miss Walker.
GCSE MOVING IMAGE ARTS
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENTS
KEY DATES
August - Sept Choose the genre and scenario for film from the CCEA stimulus paper. LOGLINE, SYNOPSIS, PLOT planning.
October Begin planning and experimenting. Write and hand in a research analysis (1st draft) 1200 words.
November Pitch presentation (present to class) – PowerPoint including influences (genre) ideas for actors, locations, shot types, costumes – edited film experiments relevant to own intentions
December Experiment with film techniques to be used in your film (including photographs and clips –complete director’s notebook.) Winter exam prep Before Christmas Holidays. Shooting raw footage.
Jan/Feb Editing in class, Titles and sound in class.
March Final film hand in. Screenings in class. Writing evaluation
April Preparation for online examination
1 • Film Language
• Genre
• Practices, techniques and contexts
• Creative and technical knowledge and skills
• Analysis and evaluation of unseen clips demonstrating awareness of technical purpose and audience response.
SUPPORT WITH ORGANISATION FOR COURSEWORK
All pupils are expected to be ready to shoot their footage by the end of December. Pupils have been given a list of all of the important coursework components needed to reach the top band of marks in the coursework unit. This is available on Google Classroom. Here you will also find a full pre-production guidelines booklet and examples of top level portfolios.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
All work produced by pupils over the two years of the GCSE course is presented for assessment. Component 3 (planning and making a film), is worth 40% of the overall marks.
The online exam at the end of 5th form is worth 40% of the overall grade. It is important to use the revision guide booklets. Pupils will be tested on their knowledge and understanding and ability to analyse the film-making techniques used in unseen clips.
RECOMMENDED APPS
Google Classroom is used to share documents with pupils. All of the guideline documents for each component can be found on the form 5 page. The BBC bitesize website has useful revision guidelines.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
SUPPORT SESSIONS
Weekly support is available at lunch time or after school for any pupil who wishes to avail of it. Please speak to Mrs Steadman or Mrs Irvine. You may also speak to Dr Moore (Head of Art and MIA Department).
GCSE MUSIC
THE ASSESSMENTS
Component 3: Listening and Appraising
KEY DATES
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
March/April/ May GCSE Practical Date TBC Music Performance Visiting Examination Period: (23 March – 8 May 2026) Final deadline for compositions: February Half-Term
June
EXAMINATION CONTENT
TOPIC SET WORKS
Western Classical Music 1600-1910
Film Music
1.1
Handel: For Unto Us a Child is Born from Messiah
1.2 Mozart: Horn Concerto No.4, third movement
1.3 Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique, fourth movement
2.1 Coates: March (The Dam Busters) from The Dam Busters
2.2 Williams: Superman Theme from Superman
2.3 Horner: Young Peter from The Amazing Spider-Man
Musical Traditions in Ireland 3.1 Beoga: Prelude Polkas: Prelude Polka, Paddy’s Polka No.2 and Millstream Reel
Popular Music 1980Present Day
CCEA MICROSITE
3.2 Stonewall: Fife Medley: Boys of Belfast and The Girl I Left Behind
4.1 Eurythmics: Sweet Dreams
4.2 Ash: Burn Baby Burn
4.3 Florence and the Machine: Cosmic Love
One examination lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. The examination has 3 sections.
Section A: questions based on set works.
Section B: question based on unfamiliar music from within the areas of study.
Section C: One extended writing, listening question based on a set work.
The total available for the examination is 70 marks.
REVISION
In order to get the best mark/grade in this subject, pupils should do the following:
• Practise on a daily basis for the solo performances. Ensemble performances should be practised at least twice per week.
• Ensure that they have pre-prepared answers to the questions for the discussion.
• Make sure that their accompanist has the accompaniment and that they make an appointment for a rehearsal.
• Make sure they are up to date with composition work and adhere to all deadlines.
• Make sure any scores for Set Works are fully marked up and listen to the Set Work whilst reading the score.
• Revise the Set Works which do not have scores in conjunction with the relevant track timings/tables which can be found in the CCEA Fact Files.
• Learn the ‘Glossary of Terms’ list which was prepared in class.
QUESTIONS TO BE PREPARED FOR DISCUSSION WITH THE EXAMINER:
1. Please tell me the title(s) and composer(s) of the piece(s) you performed.
2. Identify the style of the piece(s) or period in which it was written.
3. How does the music reflect the period or style in which it was written?
4. What challenges did you encounter in the music?
5. How did you overcome these challenges?
6. Is there anything else about your performance that you would still like to mention?
THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mrs Rolston (Head of Department), Miss Orr or Ms Houghton.
GCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION
THE EXAMINATIONS
KEY DATES
November Start revising at home, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Video evidence for sports completed outside of school must be submitted, Mock examination Unit 1 and 2 (1hr 30mins)
January
February Finalising of practical marks INCLUDING ANALYSIS
March Revision at home increased, Practical moderation day (Date TBC)
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May 19.05.25 Unit 1 External Exam (1hr 15min)
June 02.06.25 Unit 2 External Exam (1hr 15min)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
1
2
3.1.1 The Body at Work
3.1.2 Health and Lifestyle Decisions
3.1.3 The Active Leisure Industry
3.2.1 Developing Physical Fitness for Performance
3.2.2 Developing Skilled Performance
3 Assessment of 3 sports Tactical and Technical Analysis of own performance in one of these sports
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
*Note - pre 2018 papers will contain useful questions but not necessarily within the same unit due to new specification.
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Ensure glossary terms are memorised
• Don’t confuse one bout of exercise with a period of training
• Look out for ‘explain’ and ‘interpret’ questions
• Ensure RELEVANT sporting examples are given when asked for
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Every pupil has been learning how to self-test. Pupils have access to a set of ‘recall questions’ for each topic. Revision preparation - they should revise the topic by completing flash cards; questions on one side, answers on the other.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
Practical assessment has been ongoing since the start of the course. Pupils who compete in sports outside of school, must provide video evidence for assessment e.g. skiing
ONLINE REVISION
Teaching resources have been shared with pupils on Google Classroom.
RECOMMENDED APPS
Coaches Eye for self-analysis of practical technique.
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will take place when necessary. They will also be held during study leave at the times when the pupils would have had GCSE PE class. Attendance is encouraged to do well in GCSE PE.
THE PE DEPARTMENT
PE staff are willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so.
GCSE PHYSICS
THE EXAMINATIONS
Booklet A Practical Skills assessment
Booklet B External written examination
2nd March (2 hours)
November Start revising at home, F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock examination Units 1 (full) and 2 (completed so far) (1hr 30min)
January
February Drop-in clinic available to all students
March In school lunchtime and before school support class available to all students. Personal revision at home increased. 3A Practical assessment 2nd March, for all MCB pupils.
April Completion of Unit 2, Easter holiday revision programme set
May Study leave/ other GCSE examinations Unit1: Friday 22nd May June Unit 2, 15th June, Unit 3B: Monday 22nd June
EXAMINATION CONTENT
2
1.4 c
1.5
1.5 b Fission & Fusion
2.1 Waves
2.2 Light and lenses
2.3 a
2.3 b Electricity in the home
2.4 Magnetism and electromagnetism
2.5 Space physics
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
*NOTE “The first Past papers from the current specification are from 2017. There are additional past paper resources on the site (Legacy). It would be advisable to also attempt these. There will be only a few parts of some questions which might not be accessible due some changes in the ‘2017’.
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Regular revision makes final examination preparation easier to complete. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Construct tables listing all Physical quantities covered with appropriate units.
• Write out formulae and formal definitions on a regular basis.
• Take completed mathematical questions and re- try with different input values and well as changing the subject of the equation.
The following textbooks are available via Amazon:
• CCEA GCSE Physics Workbook Paperback – 27 April 2018
• My Revision Notes: CCEA GCSE Physics Paperback – 24 Nov. 2017 (Both books have an image of an astronaut on the front cover).
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
On completion of each booklet revisit the information at the front to check precisely what should now be known. This is a link to 88 videos covering almost all the topics for unit 1 and 2. Retrieval learning at any time is a good move!
ONLINE REVISION
To assist with revision during any time of the year - Completed Pupil booklets are added to Google classroom by each teacher. These should be accessed to ensure no pupil copy has blanks.
RECOMMENDED APPS
Gojjmo
Century Tech
REVISION SESSIONS
Drop-in clinics are available this term and will continue in the Spring term. (Monday lunchtime and Tuesday before school session per week- information sent via Google GCSE Revision classroom). Classroom code fpp4xc5. (80% of the year group are already enrolled in this class so if not yet joined up join today!)
THE PHYSICS DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mr Harkness (Head of Department), Mr A Miller, Mrs Corrigan, Miss Neale, Ms McManus, Mrs Stott & Dr Triguero.
GCSE RELIGIOUS STUDIES (FORM 5)
THE EXAMINATION
GRE61 An Introduction to Christian Ethics
Pupils have already completed the ‘Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion’ module at the end of Form 4 accounting for the remaining 50% of their grade
KEY DATES
November F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Mock Examination
Feb/March Revision at home, Class test on recent topics, revision booklet provided.
April Easter holiday revision programme set
May Unit 6 External Examination
EXAMINATION CONTENT
The examination content is covered in 3 booklets of notes produced by the RE Department. These notes cover all the content required by the CCEA specification.
1 Ethics
2 Ethics
3 Ethics
• Matters of life and death: Abortion, euthanasia, justice and punishment
• Personal and family issues
• Developments in bioethics
• Contemporary issues in Christianity
• Modern warfare
In addition to the booklets of notes, the RE Department has produced a Revision Guide which will be issued to pupils before the Easter break. Regular examination practice, outside of work done in class, is necessary.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
The CCEA Learning outcomes are included in each booklet of notes, at the start of each section. Pupils can download their own copy of the specification from the Religious Studies section on the CCEA website.
CCEA Past Papers
SELECT ‘AN INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN ETHICS’ (UNIT 6)
These are the only papers available for the revised specification
Please note: These papers are for a previous specification. They are useful for examination practice, but be aware that some topics have changed or been replaced and questions are worded differently. The paper also follows a different layout.
REVISION ADVICE
Revision is vital for all pupils but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Read the notes carefully, using spidergrams, bullet points or other methods to focus attention.
• Use the questions in the Revision booklet to help learn material and also to apply course content to exam style questions.
• Pay careful attention to learning at least 2-3 key Bible verses and/or Church teachings for every topic in the Christian Ethic exam.
• Regularly practice written answers.
ADDITIONAL REVISION MATERIALS
• Past papers – These are available on CCEA’s website.
• BBC Bitesize – This online revision site has recently been up-dated to cover the CCEA Religious Studies specification. Bitesize notes and quizzes can be a helpful additional way to learn, but they do not replace learning the notes in the booklets.
THE RE DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so: Mrs Macartney (Head of Department), Mr McComiskey, Mr Gibson, Miss McCloy and Mrs Wright.
GCSE RUSSIAN
KEY DATES
October Speaking mock exam - 03/10/25 - Chosen Theme Presentation and questions
Feb/Mar Practice of Role Play Cards and Picture Based. Revision at home.
5 THEMES TOPICS
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Revise Core Vocabulary form the Core Vocabulary booklet handed out at the start of the year and posted on Google Classroom
• Decide if you know the topic thoroughly and if there are any weak areas: note them and look for ways to improve them in the next topic, e.g. use of adjectives, use of the past tense.
• 3 ALWAYS read the question first carefully and highlight the question word so that you know the information that you are listening for. Use any visuals to help you to predict what you might hear.
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
From January 2026 every class will begin revision booklets on Listening, Reading, Writing and Translation covering all topics covered in the last two years. For homework they must revise the topics by completing their workbooks in all the skill areas.
ONLINE REVISION
Past examination papers, revision tips and worksheets on Google Classroom
RECOMMENDED APPS, WEBSITES
Gojimo, languages online, Quizlet
REVISION SESSIONS
Revision sessions will begin in January and will be every week until the exam. Attendance is encouraged to do well in GCSE Russian.
HELP IN SCHOOL
Please contact Mrs McCrum if you need any further help or advice.
GCSE SPANISH
KEY DATES
Sept - Oct Practice Listening, Reading and Writing papers. L6 mentoring for specific pupils.
Nov/Dec Winter mock examination to include Listening (teachers will advise of date), Speaking (teachers will advise of date), Reading and Writing examinations.
February Revision at home to increase. L6 mentoring and drop-in sessions with teachers.
March Practice Listening, Reading and Writing papers in class under examination conditions. Final mock Speaking examination (teachers will advise of dates).
March/April Unit 2 Speaking (date TBC between Monday 23 March - Friday 1 May 2026).
June Unit 1 Listening – Friday 22nd May (PM)
Unit 4 Writing – Friday 29th May (PM) Unit 3 Reading – Tuesday 9th June (AM)
EXAMINATION CONTENT
Students study the following topics and can be tested on any of these across the four units.
Context for Learning Topics
1. Identity, Lifestyle and Culture
• Myself, my family, relationships and choices
• Social media and new technology
• Free time, leisure and daily routine
• Culture, customs, festivals and celebrations
2. Local, National, International and Global Areas of Interest
3. School Life, Studies and the World of Work
CCEA SPECIFICATION
• My local area and the wider environment
• Community involvement
• Social and global issues
• Travel and tourism
• My studies and school life
• Extra-curricular activities
• Part-time jobs and money management
• Future plans and career
Appendix 5 is particularly important – this is the minimum core vocabulary list that students need to learn. Students have been given a copy of this vocabulary.
PAST PAPERS
A selection of Spanish GCSE papers is available on the CCEA Spanish GCSE website. It would also be beneficial for students to practise reading and listening past papers from the older specification and from Edexcel & AQA, as the level of difficulty and content included are of a similar standard. Pupils will be aware of markschemes from class but are encouraged to re-examine these on the CCEA website, particularly for the writing unit – the markscheme is the answer!
Unit Examination Format
1. Listening
• External written examination with stimulus material in Spanish.
• There are two tiers of entry: Foundation (35 mins approx.) and Higher (45 mins approx.).
• Students answer 12 questions. Four of these are the same in both tiers.
• Responses include: Multiple choice; Gap-filling; Answering questions in English; Answering questions in Spanish.
2. Speaking
• One teacher-conducted and externally marked speaking examination.
• There is one tier of entry.
• The test lasts 7-12 minutes, plus 10 minutes of supervised preparation time.
• Each test includes: Two role-plays, both from the same Context for Learning and a general conversation on two topics, one from each of the other two Contexts for learning.
• Each role-play lasts up to 2 minutes and each conversation topic up to 4 minutes.
• Students prepare the first conversation topic in advance from the Context for Learning prescribed for CCEA. This year the prescribed Spanish topic is Myself, my family, relationships and choices.
• Teachers must record and authenticate all evidence and submit it to CCEA for marking.
3. Reading
• External written examination with stimulus material in Spanish.
• There are two tiers of entry: Foundation (50 mins) and Higher (1 hour).
• Students answer 12 questions.
• Four of these are the same in both tiers.
• Responses include: Multiple choice, Gap-filling; Answering questions in English; Answering questions in Spanish; Translating short sentences from Spanish into English
4. Writing
• External written examination.
• There are two tiers of entry: Foundation (1 hour) and Higher (1 hour 15 mins).
• Students answer four questions. One of these is the same in both tiers.
• Responses include: A listing and short phrase task in Spanish (Foundation tier only); Short phrase/sentence responses in Spanish (both tiers); Translation of short sentences from English into Spanish (both tiers); One structured, extended writing task in Spanish from a choice of three (both tiers).
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Make use of the revision resources for each skill area on Padlet. The link to this will be shared with students via Google Classroom.
• Complete past paper questions in all skill areas. These can be found on Padlet and on the CCEA website. Consult the mark schemes and Examiners’ Reports on the CCEA website.
• Use your sentence builder booklet to practise writing out high-quality paragraphs on each topic. Use the checklist at the start of each topic in the booklet to guide your revision.
• Know your vocabulary well. Little and often is key. Use resources shared on Padlet to complete vocabulary revision every week.
• Pupils should also look back on all teacher feedback of their written work in preparation for the Writing exam.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
There are no controlled assessment activities.
ONLINE REVISION
The CCEA website has past papers, examiner reports, sample responses (from all units), as well as the specification which includes an extensive vocabulary list.
RECOMMENDED APPS
Quizlet, BBC Bitesize (CCEA section), Google Classroom / Padlet for revision resources
REVISION SESSIONS
Drop in sessions will begin in February, as well as mentoring sessions before Christmas for certain pupils.
THE SPANISH DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so. Pupils may also see Mrs Cairns (Head of Spanish) if they need further support or guidance.
GCSE TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN
KEY DATES
October Controlled Assessment/ Unit 2 Theory
November Unit 2 Theory/ F5 Parent Consultation (6/11)
December Controlled Assessment pages 1-8. Mock examination (1st - 12th December) Unit 1 + 2 Theory.
January Controlled Assessment & Theory
February Controlled Assessment & Theory
March Unit 3 Deadline
April Revision Unit 1 + 2
EXAMINATION CONTENT
May-June Unit 1 Exam Unit 2 Exam Unit
1. Technology and Design Core – Already completed in Form 4
2. Electronic and Microelectronic Control systems - for a detailed breakdown refer to Unit 2 specification option B on the CCEA website.
3. Controlled assessment Students complete a design project comprising a design portfolio. Teachers mark the design project, and CCEA carry out moderation.
CCEA SPECIFICATION
CCEA PAST PAPERS
(GCSE revised from 2017) Past papers also available from legacy specification
SUPPORTING WITH REVISION
Revision is vital for all pupils, but it can lead to a great deal of stress and anxiety. We have included some tips below for parents/carers at the start of this booklet. Subject specific revision tips include:
• Go over past paper questions available on CCEA website
• Use mark schemes available on website for your revision
• Make pupil notes from booklets provided
• Address any knowledge gaps by reading relevant booklets & answering exam style questions on CCEA website
• Attend extra revision classes – dates TBC
RETRIEVAL LEARNING
Pupils should look over booklets regularly and their mock exam in December provided a good test of their retrieval learning.
Create recall questions for each topic area in Unit 2. Recall past paper questions from your booklet’s and complete past papers provided on CCEA Website. For homework they must revise the topic by completing their workbook and class notes.
CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT
Controlled assessment is an ongoing piece of work. It starts in January of Fourth form and is finished by March of 5th Form.
Pupils are required to work independently on design and making an electronic system and a product. This product should solve the problem provided by CCEA.
ONLINE REVISION
All booklets can be accessed from subject teacher if misplaced. Pupils should also make use of the following websites.
THE TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN DEPARTMENT
Any member of the department is willing to help any pupil if they have free time to do so. Pupils may also see Mr Mallon (Head of Technology & Design), Mrs Bell, Mr Greer, Mr McGoldrick, Mr McKee and Mr Thompson if they need further support or guidance.
STUDY TIMETABLE
It is recommended that you study for 2 hours on any 5 days. Use the timetable as a template to create 25 minute study periods. A short break of 5 minutes is needed between each study. If you are studying 10 GCSEs, use two study periods per subject. Regular revision will reap reward. There is also space to enter planned content areas of study within the subject. Printing a weekly timetable can help space your revision. This helps interleave subject material. Note: During study leave, the number of study periods need to increase.
