KS4 Curriculum Guide

Curriculum 2026-2028

Resilience Respect Reach Reward www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

English: Language and Literature Studying our English GCSE course will help you to develop the skills and understanding required for studying the subject further at A-level, foster a love of language and literature in all its forms and enable you to communicate effectively in a wide variety of other subjects and situations.

Description of the course Whilst studying English Language GCSE you will learn to read and respond to challenging texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.

The examined texts, across a range of genres and types, will support you in developing your own writing through the provision of effective models. The texts will include literature and extended literary non-fiction, and other writing such as essays, reviews and journalism.

When writing, you will learn to write for impact and to produce clear and coherent written texts.

You will build a familiarity with a range of fiction and non-fiction texts, and engage with creative as well as real writing contexts. The course will provide opportunities to develop sophisticated reading and critical thinking skills that encourage genuine enquiry into different topics and themes.

Assessment English Language The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through two papers: Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Writing and Reading Paper 2: Writer’s viewpoints and perspectives Spoken Language Assessment Student presentation where you’re asked to respond to questions and feedback Students are awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction by their class teacher English Literature Paper 1: Shakespeare and the 19th century text Paper 2: Modern Texts and Poetry

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Miss Evans (Head of English) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Mathematics Mathematics is the language of the universe, and the gateway to many prestigious careers.

Description of the course

Assessment

Mathematics at GCSE will build and expand upon the ideas you have already seen in previous years, while introducing some new exciting topics.

Throughout the course you will further develop your numeracy and problem-solving skills, while strengthening your ability to analyse, deduce, and present formal arguments and proof.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through 3 papers: Paper 1 - Non-Calculator Paper 2 - Calculator Paper 3 - Calculator

Your GCSE Mathematics will feature many topics from the following overarching themes: Number Algebra Ratio, Proportion, and Rates of Change Geometry and Measure Probability Statistics You will also have access to lunchtime support, and after-school Masterclasses to supplement your in-class learning.

Each paper may examine any content from the whole syllabus.

Grading Higher Tier You will be awarded a grade 9-4 Foundation Tier You will be awarded a grade 5-1

Mrs Reid (Head of Mathematics) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Biology Biology provides an essential foundation for a future in medicine, health care and ecology as well as leading towards many careers involving plants or animals.

Description of the course

Assessment

Biology at GCSE will build upon the skills and knowledge gained through previous years whilst introducing new and exciting topics some of which make direct links to the world around you.

You will develop your skills in scientific thinking, experimental skills and strategies, analysis and evaluation through the study of topics in these key areas: Cell Biology Organisation Infection and response Bioenergetics Homeostasis and response Inheritance, variation and evolution Ecology Through the course of your study you will complete many practical activities which will allow you to see science working in action and bring the ideas you are studying to life.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through two papers.

Grading You will be awarded a grade based on your total score across the two papers.

Miss Coates (Head of Biology) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Chemistry Chemistry is the central science that joins together Physics, Biology, Mathematics and medicine. It is a highly sought after qualification and leads to numerous careers.

Description of the course

Assessment

Chemistry at GCSE will build upon the skills and knowledge you have gained in previous years whilst introducing some new and exciting topics.

You will develop your skills in scientific thinking, experimental work, analysis and evaluation through the study of topics in these key areas: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table Properties of Matter Chemical changes Energy changes The Earth and the Atmosphere Through the course of your study you will complete many practical activities which will allow you to see science working in action and bring the ideas you are studying to life.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through two papers.

Grading You will be awarded a grade based on your total score across the two papers.

Mrs Perry (Head of Science and Chemistry) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Physics Physics helps you to understand the world around you, and satisfy your curiosity. Studying Physics develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Physicists are versatile, which opens a wide range of future careers.

Description of the course

Assessment

Physics at GCSE will build upon the skills and knowledge gained through previous years whilst introducing new and exciting topics some of which make direct links to the world around you.

You will develop your skills in scientific thinking, experimental skills and strategies, analysis and evaluation through the study of topics in these key areas: Energy Electricity Particle model of matter Atomic structure Forces Waves Electromagnetism Space Throughout the course of your study you will complete many practical activities which will allow you to see science working in action and bring the ideas you are studying to life.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through two papers.

Grading You will be awarded a grade based on your total score across the two papers.

Mrs Garner (Head of Physics) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Combined Science (Trilogy) Everything we know about the universe is a result of scientific research and experiment.

Study science at GCSE to open your eyes to the world around you and open doors to hundreds of career paths.

Description of the course

Assessment

Science at GCSE will build upon the skills and knowledge you have gained in previous years whilst introducing some new and exciting topics.

You will develop your skills in scientific thinking, experimental work, analysis and evaluation through the study of key topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Through the course of your study you will complete many practical activities which will allow you to see science working in action and bring the ideas you are studying to life.

The course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through six papers: 2 Biology papers 2 Chemistry papers 2 Physics papers

Grading You will be awarded two grades based on your total score across the six papers.

Higher Tier You will be awarded a grade from 99-44 Foundation Tier You will be awarded a grade from 55-11

Mrs Perry (Head of Science and Chemistry) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam Board: Pearson Grade: Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Business Enterprise Whatever the future holds, you are going to need business enterprise skills and this course will set you up for future success by helping you to develop the skills required to work within the world of business enterprise!

Description of the course

Assessment

This course will introduce you to some of the key elements of every successful business enterprise organisation. You will also explore what it means to set up and run a business enterprise as well as develop key skills and gain an insight into the sector.

The course consists of three components: Component 1 - Exploring Enterprises.

Coursework (30%) Component 2 - Planning and Presenting a Micro-Enterprise idea. Coursework (30%) Component 3 - Marketing and Finance for Business. Written Exam (40%)

You will study a range of topics including: Enterprise in the Business World Planning your own Enterprise Customer Service Business Finance Recruitment and Selection of Staff Training and Development The Internet, E-Commerce and the use of Social Media Marketing and Promotion within Enterprises Business Enterprise Decision Making

Each component is marked and given a points score. The final grade awarded represents an aggregation of a student’s performance across the three components.

Grading You will be awarded Level 2 Distinction* to Level 1 Pass (equivalent to 9-1)

Mr Phillips (Head of Business and ICT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: NCFE CACHE Grades: Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Child Development To gain a greater insight into children’s development from birth to five years and the various factors that can impact on this.

Description of the course Students will gain knowledge and understanding across nine topics ranging from holistic development to factors that influence the child’s development. They will explore care routines and different types of play activities that support children’s development. They will learn about a range of childcare settings and the roles and responsibilities of staff who work with children, along with what the expectations are of early years practitioners. Students will learn the importance of good planning in early years settings and how to implement relevant legislation and policies and procedures to keep children safe.

Assessment 50% Non-examined Assessment 50% Examination

Grading You will be awarded a grade of Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Mrs Kaitell (Head of Childcare) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: OCR Grades: 9-1

Computer Science This exciting GCSE gives you an excellent opportunity to investigate how computers work and how they are used and to develop computer programming and problem-solving skills.

Description of the course

Assessment

In GCSE Computer Science you will:

The course requires students to complete two written exam papers, each worth 50% of the final grade awarded.

Paper 1 - Computer Systems Paper 2 - Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving these problems, including designing, writing and debugging programs.

Understand the different components that make up computer systems, and how they communicate with one another to make systems function.

Build skills in the ever important realm of cyber security such as investigating how computer systems can be protected from attack.

Understand the impacts of digital technology on the individual and on wider society such as with the development of artificial intelligence.

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mrs McCue (Head of Computing) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Dance If you have the passion to develop your creativity, teamwork, confidence, critical thinking, selfdiscipline, physical health and are willing to work collaboratively, then Dance is the subject for you.

Description of the course

Assessment

The course is 60% practical and 40% theory. The practical side is split into three different elements: A trio performance Two short phrases which show your technical skills A choreography task where you create your own dance, choose your own music and create in your own style.

The theory side teaches you how to analyse, interpret and evaluate your own work and builds your knowledge and understanding of six different professional works.

For the majority of the course you will have two practical lessons and one theory lesson per week.

We are planning to have a trip to London in the summer term of Year 10 where we will watch a West End show and do activities linked to Performing Arts. We encourage you to join the different dance teams available after school and we would love all students to perform in the annual REACH Dance Show. We will champion your successes and provide you with as much support as you need. We believe in each and every student no matter what your dance experience is.

60% practical: Trio performance 2 x 30 seconds set phrases Choreography These are assessed at different stages across the year in Year 11.

40% theory Written exam at the end of Year 11.

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mrs Games (Head of Dance) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Design Technology Design and Technology is a fun and exciting course that allows you to design new solutions to a wide range of real life problems using a variety of different materials.

Description of the course GCSE Design and Technology students will gain knowledge and skills to help them use their creativity and problem solving skills to create new and exciting products. Across the two years you will study the theory topics of Core Technical Principles, Specialist Technical Principles and Designing and Making Principles.

The course is taught through a combination of theory lessons and practical lessons. In Year 10 you will complete practical projects using woods, metals and polymers. In Year 11 you will complete a ‘design and make’ project called an NEA. This is worth 50% of your final GCSE mark. You will also sit a written exam which will make up the other 50% of the qualification.

Assessment 50% Non-examined Assessment 50% Written Examination

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mrs Freckleton (Head of Art & Design and DT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam Board: Pearson Grade: Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Digital Information Technology The Digital Information Technology sector is a major source of employment in the UK, with over 1.5 million people working within the sector and you could be one of them when you leave school!

Description of the course

Assessment

This course will introduce you to some of the key elements of using digital information technology including website design, computer gaming and app development.

The course consists of three components: Component 1 - Exploring User Interface Design Principles and Project Planning Techniques.

Coursework (30%) Component 2 - Collecting, Presenting and Interpreting Data. Coursework (30%) Component 3 - Effective Digital Working Practices.

Written Exam (40%)

You will study a range of topics including: The importance of Digital Information Technology The Internet, Website Design and the uses of Social Media Digital Technologies within the Information Technology Industry including Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence Multimedia Product Design Computer Game and App Design Problem Solving using Digital Information Technology

Each component is marked and given a points score. The final grade awarded represents an aggregation of a student’s performance across the three components.

Grading You will be awarded Level 2 Distinction* to Level 1 Pass (equivalent to 9-1)

Mr Phillips (Head of Business and ICT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Drama Studying Drama will support you in every aspect of your life. Drama focuses on confidence, communication, creativity and leadership and also nurtures and rewards talent. It will enable you to go on to study and work directly in the creative industries as well as developing key skills needed for any industry you choose.

Description of the course

Assessment

In Year 10, lessons are mostly practical. You will explore a wide range of stimuli using a variety of techniques. You will work collaboratively in groups to create performances, play a range of different characters and use an extensive toolkit of techniques to tell stories in a creative and engaging way.

You will be introduced to the set text Blood Brothers and will attend a trip to the Liverpool Empire to see the production performed live.

Year 10 focuses on developing performance skills, confidence and creativity. Students will also take part in a summer acting showcase in Year 10, providing the opportunity to perform work to a live audience and celebrate progress and achievement.

In Year 11, you will continue your work on Blood Brothers, as well as studying and evaluating live theatre. You will complete 40% of the course through the practical devised examination, which takes place during Year 11. You will also complete your second practical exam, where you perform two scripted extracts to an external examiner in full costume.

Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to attend various trips to theatres in Manchester, Chester and Liverpool, allowing you to experience a wide range of live performances and theatre styles.

The course consists of three components: Component 1 - Written exam (40%) Component 2 - Practical Exam 1: Coursework (40%) Component 3 - Practical exam 2: Visiting Examiner (20%)

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Miss Elliott (Head of Drama) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Fine Art If you enjoy being creative, learning about artists and exploring different art media and techniques then this is the subject for you.

Description of the course The course consists of 2 projects which will either be presented in sketchbooks or on boards alongside a final piece. We aim to cover a wide variety of skills and aspects of Art & Design including: drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, printing and mixed media. The final grade is for both coursework and exam units combined. The exam paper is set in January of Year 11 and the preparation work takes 10 weeks of lesson time with a final piece being produced in a practical exam over two school days.

Assessment This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through an exam (60%).

This course also includes coursework produced throughout Year 10 and Year 11 (40%).

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mrs Freckleton (Head of Art & Design and DT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

French and/or Spanish Learning a language is fun and infinitely rewarding. It is a skill you will use throughout your life.

Description of the course

Assessment

Modern Foreign Languages will build on the knowledge of topics and skills developed at KS3.

You will study many exciting topics linked to the following themes: People and lifestyle Popular culture Communication and the world around us You will practise the four skill areas of Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. You will also develop transferable skills relevant to further study and the world of work.

You will be assessed at the end of Year 11 and will have exams in the following skills: Reading Listening Writing Speaking Each exam is worth 25% of the overall grade.

Grading You will be awarded a grade based on your total score across the four exams.

Higher Tier You will be awarded a grade from 9-4 Foundation Tier You will be awarded a grade from 5-1

Mr Graham (Head of MFL) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Geography Geography supports you in understanding the world around you, offering hands-on and relevant content to study, field trips to examine the environments in which we live, whilst offering skills that are beneficial in supporting your other subjects of study.

Description of the course

Assessment

The course is divided up into 3 main components, Physical Geography, Human Geography and Geographical Applications. Students will examine the natural features of the world and how these influence the way of life in these environments.

Areas of study will focus on tectonic processes, involving earthquakes and volcanoes. Students will also examine the tropical rainforest and the cold, Arctic environment of Svalbard.

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through three papers: Paper 1: Living with the physical environment Paper 2: Challenges in the human environment Paper 3: Geographical applications

The Human Geography aspect of the course investigates human processes, systems and also outcomes. The focus of study is based on the development of urban spaces, and the changes within these environments.

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Students will also undertake both a physical and human fieldwork study where they will investigate particular processes in relation to their topics of study.

Mr Houghton (Head of Geography) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: Pearson Grades: Level 2 Distinction* - Level 1 Pass

Health and Social Care This is a great choice for you if you would like to work within the HSC industry - be that as a doctor, nurse, paramedic or social worker or in any career where you will work directly with people!

Description of the course

Assessment

In ‘Human Lifespan Development’ students look at how people grow and develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially throughout the life stages and the factors which can affect this.

‘Health and Social Care Services and Values‘ looks at the health and social care services available to support clients in the industry and how they meet the needs of service users. It also examines the care values which must be shown towards clients.

‘Health and Wellbeing’ allows learners to show their understanding of the factors that affect health and wellbeing and will learn about health indicators and person-centred approaches to make recommendations to improve a person’s health and wellbeing.

This course consists of three components: Component 1 - Human Lifespan Development Component 2 - Health and Social Care Services and Values Component 3 - Health and Wellbeing.

Written Exam Each component is marked and given a points score. The final grade awarded represents an aggregation of a student’s performance across the three components.

Grading You will be awarded Level 2 Distinction* to Level 1 Pass (equivalent to 9-1)

Mrs Woods (Head of HSC) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: Edexcel Grades: 9-1

History Studying History allows you to view the world through a critical lens!

Description of the course

Assessment

GCSE Historians are students who enjoy reading and writing extended pieces of analysis. The GCSE History course allows you to study major events that have shaped the country and wider world that we live in today. Students who opt for GCSE History will develop an ability to analyse events and study why and how they happened, as well as how they affected the world. Studying GCSE History at Weatherhead will involve analysing how Medicine has evolved in Britain since 1250, The First World War, Queen Elizabeth 1, the Cold War 1941-1991 and Weimar and Nazi Germany 1918-1939.

Studying History will also benefit other subjects where you have to analyse texts and write essays, such as English and Sociology.

100% Exam 3 Exams covering 5 different units: Paper 1: Medicine in Britain 1250-present & The Western Front 1914-1918 Paper 2: Early Elizabeth England 15581588 & Superpower Relations in the Cold War 1941-1991 Paper 3: Weimar & Nazi Germany 19181939

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mr Green (Head of History) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam Board: Eduqas Grade: Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Hospitality & Catering When studying Hospitality and Catering you will develop practical skills that will last you a lifetime!

Description of the course

Assessment

Hospitality and Catering students will develop an

60% controlled assessment 1 piece of coursework completed within lessons 40% Exam 1 hour 20 minute written exam at the end of Year 11

understanding of the hospitality and catering industry, the types of hospitality and catering providers and about the working industry. You will also develop an understanding of food safety, as well as food related causes of ill health.

In Year 11 you will learn about the importance of nutrition and how cooking methods can have an impact on the nutritional value of the food we are eating.

Across the two years you will learn many practical skills and techniques needed to prepare,

Grading You will be awarded Level 2 Distinction* to Level 1 Pass (equivalent to 9-1)

cook and present dishes.

Mrs Ferry (Head of Food Technology) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam Board: Pearson Grade: Distinction* to Level 1 Pass

Media To help you understand the visual, written and interactive world around you by developing skills such as critical thinking, analysis, research, planning, practical skills, time management, teamwork and essay writing skills.

Description of the course

Assessment

In Media Studies you will learn a range of production techniques such as camera, lighting and sound operation. You will also learn how to edit practical work into finished products. Project work will develop your knowledge of how to structure all the planning paperwork and review and refine your own skills. On this course you will learn how to analyse the construction of meaning within media texts such as TV/Film, posters and online media including websites. You will look at how they have used certain aspects including camera shots, sound and settings to influence how we read the representations being created within certain genres.

The course consists of three components: Component 1 - Exploring Media Products (30%) Component 2 - Developing Media Production Skills (30%) Component 3 - Create a Media Product in Response to a Brief (Exam 40%) Each component is marked and given a points score. The final grade awarded represents an aggregation of a student’s performance across the three components.

Grading You will be awarded Level 2 Distinction* to Level 1 Pass (equivalent to 9-1)

Mr Anderson (Head of Media Studies) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Music GCSE Music is an ideal choice for anyone who has a passion and interest in developing their musical skills and abilities, as well as developing creative thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability and communication skills, used in life beyond school.

Description of the course

Assessment

The

This course consists of three components: Component 1: Understanding Music (40%).

Written exam focusing on a listening section on unfamiliar music and 2 questions on set study pieces Component 2: Performing Music (30%).

Performances as an instrumentalist and/or vocalist, as a soloist and as an ensemble/group Component 3: Composing Music (30%).

Compositions - 1 to a brief issued by AQA and 1 free choice

emphasis

knowledge

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on

developing

musical

skills

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practical

exploration. You will develop your ability to perform an instrument or sing, at a level suitable to achieve success in the performance exam. To support you, you will be encouraged to take instrumental lessons, to improve your technique.

There will be opportunities to perform at Performing Arts events, as well as lunch-time showcases and pop-up activities. You need to be willing to perform as a soloist, as well as part of a group.

You will also build upon your KS3 Music knowledge, to prepare you to recognise musical features in different styles of music. There are 4 areas of study and 2 set works to prepare and you will receive support and resources to help

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

you.

You will then apply your musical knowledge, to create 2 compositions, which could include songwriting.

In addition, there will be trips to concerts and musicals and professional musicians/composers will run workshops to support and inspire your work.

Mr Smith (Head of Music) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Photography If you have a genuine interest in taking photographs, are creative and independent with a keen eye for detail, then this is the course for you.

Description of the course

Assessment

The course consists of two projects which will

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through an exam (60%).

This course also includes coursework produced throughout Year 10 and Year 11 (40%).

either be presented in sketchbooks or on boards alongside a final piece. We aim to cover a wide variety of skills and aspects of Photography including: using DSLR cameras, shutter speed, aperture, composition, digital work, photoshop, collage and mixed media. The final grade is for both coursework and exam units combined. The

Grading

exam paper is set in January of Year 11 and the

You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

preparation work takes 10 weeks of lesson time with a final piece being produced in a practical exam over two school days.

Mrs Freckleton (Head of Art & Design and DT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: OCR Grades: 9-1

Physical Education If you have the passion and love for sport and want to learn about how the human body works, along with practically performing in your chosen sports then this is the course for you.

Description of the course

Assessment

The course is a combination of theory (60%) and practical (40%).

The theory part of the course is split and taught separately over the two year course.

Paper1 - Factors affecting Performance. You will gain an understanding of how the human body works and how it is affected by exercise.

Paper 2 - Socio-cultural issues and Sports Psychology. Covers the impact society has on a sports performer, how to optimise performance and the well-being of an athlete.

Practically students will experience sports in more depth than at Key Stage 3 and will be provided with more opportunities to extend their practical capabilities.

Many students will represent the school in sports teams ranging from netball, football to trampolining and gymnastics to name a few.

The subject is a combination of theory and practical. 60% of the course is assessed via written examination.

Paper 1 - Physical Factors affecting performance Paper 2 - Socio-cultural issues and Sports Psychology Practical component Students are marked in 3 sports A combination of team and individual sports Coursework - written Analysis and Evaluation of Performance in your chosen sport

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Miss Wilding (Head of PE) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: OCR Grades: 9-1

Religious Education Religious Studies gives you a greater insight into the world and people around you, whilst also giving you the opportunity to reflect on life's ultimate questions.

Description of the course

Assessment

The course is split into three main components: Component 1 - A study of Christianity (25%) Component 2 - A study of Islam (25%) Component 3 - A study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics in the Modern World.

(50%)

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through three papers: Paper 1 - A study of Christianity - Written exam at the end of Year 11 (25%) Paper 2 - A study of Islam - Written exam at the end of Year 11 (25%) Paper 3 - A study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics in the Modern World - Written exam at the end of Year 11 (50%)

Students of Religious Studies have an enquiring mind. During the GCSE course you complete two in depth studies into the beliefs, teachings and practices of two of the major world religions; Christianity and Islam. You will then apply your knowledge of Christianity to some of the philosophical and ethical issues in the modern world, including; the ethics of relationships, questions regarding the existence of God, the ethical issues of peace and conflict and an exploration of the dialogue between religious and non-religious beliefs in an increasingly secular society.

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Miss Mallon (Head of PSCHE and RE) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Sociology Sociology gives you a critical understanding of the complex global society you are living in - it exposes the way society really works and gives you the tools needed to make a positive difference. Once you see the world through the eyes of a sociologist, you will never see it in the same way again. It is the perfect subject for a curious mind.

Description of the course

Assessment

GCSE Sociology will be of interest to students who would like to explore the social and political issues of society today. Sociology is the history of now! It challenges what you thought you knew and allows you to see things as they really are.

Two written exams assessed at the end of Year 11.

The main topic areas are the sociology of families, education, crime and deviance, and social stratification. Both sociological theory and research methods are taught and referred to throughout the course.

Students need to have good writing skills as essay writing is a key requirement of both examination papers for this course. Students also need to be able to read and interpret data for short answer questions.

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Sociology looks at how people live, behave and work together in groups with a focus on power and inequality. Sociology exposes the biases we all take for granted and frees you from previous ‘common sense’ assumptions.

Ms Ferrebe (Head of Sociology) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk

Exam board: AQA Grades: 9-1

Textiles If you are creative and enjoy experimenting with colour, techniques and materials then you will enjoy Textiles.

Description of the course

Assessment

Students create a portfolio of work which forms 60% of their GCSE grade and a practical exam unit at the end of the 2 years which is worth 40%.

A wide range of practical skills will be taught including embroidery, applique, batik and sewing on machines. Inspiration will come from a variety of artists and designers who are linked to each project. Skills developed throughout the course will be utilised in the exam unit where students will choose from a list of themes set by the exam board.

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through an exam (60%).

This course also includes coursework produced throughout Year 10 and Year 11 (40%).

Grading You will be awarded a grade from 9-1

Mrs Freckleton (Head of Art & Design and DT) www.weatherheadhigh.co.uk