YEAR 9 OPTIONS
YEAR 9 OPTIONS
Dear Parents and Pupils
After the Easter holidays, the Year 9 pupils will begin studying their compulsory GCSE subjects (English, Maths, and Science). This marks the beginning of their final stages of their Secondary Education.
In addition to the compulsory core subjects, Year 9 pupils will also choose two additional subjects to study when they start Year 10 in September 2024.
This mix of compulsory and optional courses has been designed to ensure the pupils study a broad range of subjects, which together, cover all the main areas of the curriculum.
What will the timetable look like?
After the Easter holidays, Year 9 pupils will begin studying the curriculums for GCSE English, GCSE Maths, and GCSE Science. This is to ensure they have a solid understanding of the expectations for these important core subjects before they start Year 10. The pupils’ other subject lessons (e.g., Humanities, PE, Spanish, etc.) will continue to follow the Year 9 trajectory.
Pupils will begin studying their optional subjects in September 2024, when they start in Year 10.
What are the optional subjects?
Pupils will need to choose an option from both option blocks, as listed in the diagram below. Pupils will need to choose one subject from Block 1, and one subject from Block 2. Art GCSE Spanish GCSE Food & Nutrition GCSE Psychology GCSE
Block 1 Block 2 PE GCSE Computer Science GCSE History GCSE IT User Skills
For some pupils, we appreciate that it may be difficult to choose between subjects, especially if both of their first choices are in the same option block. To support pupils with this choice, we have made this information booklet. It contains details about all the qualification options for pupils, including the compulsory subjects. Pupils will also receive a presentation about their different subject choices before the Easter holidays. We would be grateful if you could discuss the issue of your options at home.
Pupils will begin selecting their optional subjects durng the current term. We hope to have all GCSE options finalised by the end of Summer term 1 (Friday 24th May).
If you have any concerns or questions about the Year 10 options, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards,
Liam Gaster Head of EducationMATHS
What will I study in GCSE Maths?
The Edexcel Maths GCSE course covers a broad range of mathematical topics including: Number; Algebra; Ratio, proportion and rates of change; Geometry and measures; Probability & Statistics.
The course has three attainment objectives: fluency, reasoning and problem-solving. During the GCSE, you will focus on all three of these areas within each unit of study. Rather than just knowing methods and procedures, you will learn how to apply your maths skills to solve sophisticated and challenging problems.
How will you be assessed?
» There are three 1.5-hour GCSE examinations in the summer term of Year 11. These include one non-calculator paper and two calculator papers.
» The three exams contribute equally to the final grade and all papers are externally marked.
» There are 2 tiers available to study: Foundation Tier - GCSE Grades 1-5 available or Higher Tier - GCSE Grades 4-9 available
What sort of student does well at this subject?
A successful Maths student will be a resilient learner who is prepared to make mistakes and learn from them. Students are required to work independently and to show workings out for their chosen methods. They should try to complete homework each week to the best of their ability.
What work would you do?
You will study 10 topic units on the GCSE course from the start of Year 10 until Easter in Year 11. These will be Maths lessons in a format that is similar to those in Years 7, 8 and 9.
Why is a GCSE in Maths important to you?
Maths can take you anywhere! The subject can be seen in everything you do: from checking you have the correct change in a shop to calculating the angle you need to kick the ball to score. Having a Maths qualification gives you the opportunity to follow whatever career path you choose and enables you to access a full range of courses in further and higher education. GCSE Mathematics is a requirement for progression to a wide range of courses at Level 3. Students are expected to continue with their study of GCSE Mathematics after the age of 16 if they have not achieved the qualification (Grade 4 or above) at Key Stage 4. If students opt to study maths beyond GCSE then it gives them opportunities to work in a variety of industries such as financial sector, engineering, computing and research.
For further information on the course, see: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/mathematics-2015.html
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Language Paper 1- explores creative reading and writing. Pupils specifically look at fiction texts and creative writing. Five questions will be asked, and these are separated into Section A and Section B.
Language Paper 2- is also split into two sections. This paper allows the pupils to explore one non-fiction text and one literary non-fiction text. They will use their developed understanding of debate and opinion skills to present a viewpoint.
Section A
- Pupils are asked four questions about a fiction extract from the 20th/ 21st centuries.
Section B
- Pupils will use prior knowledge on descriptive and narrative writing to complete Q5.
Section A
- Section A consists of 4 questions, in which pupils are expected to analyse two linked sources across different time periods and genres.
In Section B
- Question 5 provides the opportunity to show how pupils can write effectively to explain a point of view on a specific issue.
What will I study in Years 10 & 11?
» English Language Paper 1
» English Language Paper 2
» Articles/Reports/Critical Analysis/Forming an Opinion
» Narrative Writing/Descriptive Writing
ENGLISH LITERATURE
In year 10 and 11, pupils will continue applying versatile vocabulary successfully through model tasks, live marking and self-reflection. Emphasis on Cultural Capital further explores the importance of identity, relationships, hierarchy, society, diversity and belonging.
Prior Learning & End Goal
» Analysing texts
» Using PEEL
» Commenting on the writers intentions
» Summarising language and structural devices
» Understanding the difference between a modern audience compared to a Victorian/ Elizabethan audience
What texts will I study in Years 10 & 11?
» Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
» A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
» Animal Farm by George Orwell
» AQA Anthology Poetry (Power and Conflict)
» Speaking and Listerning Module
Potential Career Pathways Editor Journalist Lawyer Writer Actor Teacher
MATHS FUNCTIONAL SKILLS
What will I study in Functional Skills Maths?
The Edexcel Maths Functional Skills course covers a broad range of mathematical topics, focusing on real world application of Maths, including: Number; Ratio and Proportion; Common Algebra; Shape, Space and Measure; and Data Handling and Probability.
The course is intended to enable you to gain confidence and fluency in, and a positive attitude towards, Mathematics. The knowledge you gain will be directly connected to real world situations and applications, to develop your ability and use of Maths in everyday life.
How will you be assessed?
» There are two levels, Level 1 and Level 2, with Level 1 focusing on the earlier stages of KS3, and Level 2 focusing on the later stages of KS3 and the core skills of KS4.
» There are two papers per level, one 30-minute non-calculator paper, and one hour and a half calculator paper, sat at the same time.
» The exams are sat when you are seen as ready to attempt the appropriate level. The timing of which would be discussed between the teacher and student on a individual basis.
What sort of student does well at this subject?
A successful Functional Skills Maths student will be a resilient learner who typically finds more abstract Maths harder to engage with, and benefits from engaging with real world scenarios. An ideal candidate would have the skill to interpret questions, identifying the underlying Maths that is needed, and an aptitude to self-assess their own ability.
What work would you do?
There are 31 small units of work at Level 1, with a sizeable proportion being a consolidation of topics studied in Years 7,8 and 9. This content would be studied in Year 10 for the majority of Functional Skills students. There are 28 small units of work at Level 2, building on Level 1 content, which would be studied in Year 11.
Why is Functional Skills Maths important to you?
Maths can take you anywhere! The subject can be seen in everything you do: from checking you have the correct change in a shop to calculating the angle you need to kick the ball to score. Having a Maths qualification gives you the opportunity to follow whatever career path you choose and enables you to access a full range of courses in further and higher education. Functional Skills Maths is often regarded as a suitable substitute for a level 4 in GCSE Maths for the purposes of post-16 education, and it also allows you to progress in your life with greater numeracy skills and an ability to access common maths challenges.
For further information on the course, see:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/functional-skills-subject-content-mathematics
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-functional-skills/maths-2019.html
ENGLISH FUNCTIONAL SKILLS
Functional Skills English is all about learning practical language skills that can be used every day. It is an alternative qualification to GCSE English, and better suits those who find analysing language difficult, and would benefit from a course that focuses more on functional reading and writing skills, such as writing formal letters.
One of the benefits of Functional Skills is that the exams are distributed throughout year 10 and 11, therefore limiting the number of exams taken in the summer of year 11. We may advise pupils to take this qualification if we feel that GCSE English is too challenging. Pupils will work towards a Level 1 qualification in year 10 and a level 2 qualification in year 11, which is equivalent to a grade 4 at GCSE.
Paper 1: Reading
Written exam: 1 hour
» Paper based.
» Level 1 - 26 marks.
» Level 2 - 30 marks.
» Set and marked by AQA.
Questions:
A mix of question styles, including multiple choice and short response.
Paper 2: Writing
Written exam: 1 hour
» Paper based.
» Level 1 - 27 marks.
» Level 2 - 30 marks.
» Set and marked by AQA.
Questions:
Two writing tasks, including 12 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar. Learners must not have access to dictionaries or any spelling or grammar aid.
Non-exam assessment: Speaking, Listening, and Communicating.
» Tasks set by centre in line with AQA guidelines.
» Marked by centre using pass criteria.
One presentation task (10 minutes) and one discussion task (15 minutes).
SCIENCE
What will you study?
You will be following the AQA Combined Science trilogy course. This course covers Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics.
In Biology you will learn about cells and how we respond to infection, how we inherit traits from our parents and how to preserve the environment. In Chemistry you will learn about how chemical reactions happen and how we use chemistry to make new materials and analyse what things are made of. Physics covers topics on energy, electricity, forces, waves and radioactivity.
At the end of the course there are 6 papers to sit, each an hour and fifteen minutes long. There is no coursework in the course but there are required practicals which are then assessed in the exams.
Why should you do Science?
Science is a challenging subject; there is a lot of information to learn and then apply to new situations. This is why it is such an important subject to study. The Science course requires you to have good English. Maths and problem-solving skills. These are considered transferable skills and these are what employers are looking for. Being successful in Science shows future employers that you have the skills needed to be successful in your chosen career, even if you choose a career outside of Science.
You will also learn a lot about the world around you and if recent years have taught us anything, it is that anything can happen and scientific knowledge and understanding will help you with that.
You will also learn how important it is to protect the world around us. The environment is changing and we have a duty to be custodians and preserve it. This will be a big issue in the future and learning how we can help is vital.
Who does well in Science?
Science is the practical application of English and Maths, so you will need to develop your skills in these areas. You will have to be committed to learning a lot of information and then being able to apply it to new situations. Creative problem solving is a vital part of Science and you will be developing these skills. Pupils who do well in Science are committed to their learning and open to changing their ideas and trying new things.
We are sure we can work together so you can be successful in Science. We look forward to teaching you next year!
ART AND DESIGN
What is GCSE Art and Design?
GCSE Art and Design is great for bringing out your creativity. If you enjoy being creative, want to increase your practical skills and improve your analytical, communication and research abilities, art and design is a great choice. The skills you gain make it a great complement to other subjects. Art and design is a way of seeing things and making sense of the world around you. It can help you with further study and prepare you for the world of work
What will you study?
You will follow the AQA GCSE Art, craft and design specification. This is an excellent general introduction to the study of art, craft and design. You’ll look at different approaches to art and use lots of different media, techniques and materials. You are required to complete a portfolio of work throughout year 10 and 11. The first sustained project is ‘Celebrations’ and the second unit of work is ‘Travel’. This will take place in the form of study sheets and sketchbooks. In the second term of year 11 you will start the exam preparation work which is set by AQA.
How will you be assessed?
There are two components:
» Component 1 Portfolio: produce a sustained project and a selection of further work that represents the course of study. This is worth 60% of your overall marks.
» Component 2 Externally set assignment: there’s a separate externally set task paper for each title. It features seven tasks and you have to complete one of them. You get preparation time, plus ten hours of supervised time. This is worth 40% of your total marks
What will you study?
You will follow the AQA GCSE Art, craft and design specification. This is an excellent general introduction to the study of art, craft and design. You’ll look at different approaches to art and use lots of different media, techniques and materials. You are required to complete a portfolio of work throughout year 10 and 11. The first sustained project is ‘Celebrations’ and the second unit of work is ‘Travel’. This will take place in the form of study sheets and sketchbooks. In the second term of year 11 you will start the exam preparation work which is set by AQA.
What sort of person do I have to be to study GCSE Art and Design?
GCSE Art and Design is perfect for you if you are creative and willing to try out new ideas and techniques. You need to use your imagination and look at things around you differently. You will be creating your own personal portfolio so you must experiment with ideas and be willing to work hard.
Did you know?
More people work in the creative indudtrie than the finance industry! The creative industries generate £84.1 billion to the United Kingdom (UK) economy eah year and employ over 2.8 million people. Unlike many industries, the creative industries continues to grow.
BTEC APPLIED SCIENCE
Pearson BTEC Level 1
Applied science qualification
The Applied science qualification is providing students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge, skills and understanding to the context of future development.
It is an alternative to GCSE Science and gives learners the opportunity to gain a broad understanding of scientific principles and practice, develop a range of related skills and techniques that are essential for working life and gives leaners the opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised level 1 or level 2 science qualification.
The Units of the course are as follows:
1. Principles of Science
2. Chemistry and our Earth
3. Energy and Our Universe
4. Biology and Our Environment
Units 2,3 and 4 are assessed through internal assessments alongside a 60 minute external assessment for Unit 1. This may better suit some students as these are undertaken throughout year 10 and 11.
SPANISH
What is Spanish GCSE?
You will finish the course with a mastery of intermediate Spanish, focusing on writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills.
What will I study in Spanish GCSE?
The course is divided into three themes, within which you will focus on three different topics, each with their own vocabulary and language skills
» Identity and culture: relationships with family and friends; marriage/ partnership; technology in everyday life; free-time activities; customs/festivals in Spanish-speaking countries
» Local, national, international, and global areas of interest: home, town, neighbourhood and region; social issues; global issues; travel and tourism
» Current and future study and employment: my studies; life at school; post-16 education; jobs, career choices and ambitions
Assessment
You will be assessed with 4 exams:
» Listening – 35 minutes; 25% of the GCSE
» Speaking – you will speak in Spanish for 5-10 minutes, and then answer questions in Spanish; 25% of the GCSE
» Reading – 45 minutes; 25% of the GCSE
» Writing – 1 hour; 25% of the GCSE
Why should I study Spanish GCSE?
Studying Spanish at GCSE will allow you to communicate with 595 million other people in the Spanish-speaking world. Furthermore, being able to speak a foreign language is a skill that sets you apart when applying for college positions and jobs in the future. Learning Spanish will also give a general boost to your communication skills and self-confidence.
What sort of person do I have to be to study Spanish GCSE?
This course would suit someone who doesn’t mind speaking out loud – in addition to there being a speaking exam, you will also be required to speak frequently in class to demonstrate your learning. Furthermore, learning a foreign language takes a lot of time and repetition. So it helps to be a patient person who doesn’t mind taking their time to learn something.
HISTORY
What is History?
History is the study of people and events from the past, and how they affect our lives today.
What will I study in GCSE History?
» Medicine through time: how our knowledge of medicine and the human body has changed over time, from the ancient Greeks to the development of public healthcare systems that we have today.
» Early Elizabethan England: the early life and reign of Elizabeth I. You will look at how she became Queen, and how England changed during the early stages of her reign.
» The Cold War: you will look at how the relationships between the Soviet Union and the USA got much worse after the end of World War 2. You will also study some key events that took place during The Cold War.
» Weimar and Nazi Germany, 1918-1939: you will have a look at the interwar period between in Germany. You will look at the challenges that faced the Weimar Republic and how the Hitler and the Nazi Party rose from obscurity to creating a fascist police state.
Why should I study GCSE History?
By studying GCSE History, you will prove your ability to develop and extend your knowledge and understanding of specific key events, eras, and societies in national and world History. You will become a successful independent learner and a critical and reflective thinker.
What sort of person do I have to be to study History?
In order to study GCSE History you must be ready to do a lot of reading. Also, people who like to analyse information to pick up on hidden messages are also a good fit for the subject. You must also be prepared to write extended answers for the final exam.
IT USER SKILLS
Why study IT User Skills?
When pupils take IT User Skills, there is an extensive range of units that students can study which enables us to tailor courses to suit our pupils’ interests and aspirations. The qualification involves the creation of a digital portfolio.
Subject Content
Students are able dictate their programme of study and chose from an extensive list of units. I have listed the more popular units below, but a full list can be found at https://tlm.org.uk/ getcriteria/?certid=81
» Improving Productivity Using IT
» IT Security for Users
» Computer Games Development
» Video Software
» Imaging Software
» Additive Manufacture (3D Printing)
» Audio Software
» Drawing and planning
» Desktop Publishing Software
» Multimedia Software
How is it assessed?
The qualification at Level 1 and 2 has two assessment components, both of which cover the full content of the qualifications. Level 2 is equivalent to GCSE grade 4 or above.
» Coursework assessed in terms of competence in practical areas where knowledge and understanding can be applied in real and motivating contexts.
» An externally set and externally marked examination to assess knowledge and understanding that underpins user competence.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Why should I choose GCSE PE?
Physical Education will open your eyes to the amazing world of sports performance. You will learn the reasons why we do things and why some people outperform others, mentally and physically. You will also explore the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and gain an understanding of the consequences of inactivity and poor diet. Not only will you have a chance of performing in three different sports through the non-assessment component, but you will also develop wide range of knowledge in the human body and movement, socio-cultural influences and wellbeing in physical activity and sport.
What will I study?
- Applied anatomy and physiology
- Movement analysis
- Physical training
- Use of data
- Sports psychology
- Socio-cultural influences
- Health, fitness and wellbeing
This course can lead to studying Physical Education subjects at college, normally in the form of A levels or BTEC. This can then allow you to move onto university and study specific areas within sport at a degree level.
PSYCHOLOGY
What is Psychology?
The aim of Psychology is to find out how the brain controls behaviour. We focus mainly on human behaviour, but we also look at animals too.
What will I study in GCSE Psychology?
In Year 10, you will study:
» How memory works
» How our brains perceive the world around us
» How our brains develop and change over time
» How to carry out psychological research
» In Year 11, you will study:
» How our brains work in social situations
» How our brains control the language we use
» Neuropsychology – the physical structure of the brain
» Why our brains sometimes suffer from psychological problems
Why should I study GCSE Psychology?
Psychology is a subject that gives you an excellent understanding of how the human brain works, and how it causes people to behave in certain ways. Therefore, Psychology GCSE is useful for improving your communication and teamwork skills. For this reason, Psychology GCSE is highly valued by employers and colleges.
What sort of person do I have to be to study Psychology?
Quite often, people who enjoy Science also enjoy Psychology. In order to be a good Psychologist, you need to be prepared to do lots of reading about different theories and research. You will also need to be prepared to write extended answers for the exam. Finally, it is also useful to have good Maths skills.
FOOD PREPARATION AND NUTRITION
What is Food Preparation & Nutrition (F&N) GCSE
The course aims to provide pupils with practical cooking skills, and to help them develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, where food comes from, and the different characteristics of food materials (e.g., the flavours of different foods and how they effect the overall character of a dish).
What will I study in F&N GCSE?
The course is divided up into 6 different areas:
» Food, nutrition and health – looking at the different nutritional properties of different foods, and the effects they have on our bodies.
» Food science – how heat is transferred to food, and the chemical properties of different types of foods.
» Food safety – food spoilage and contamination; safely storing and disposing of food.
» Food choice – physical influences that affect our food choices; food labelling; British and international cuisines.
» Food provenance – where different types of food comes from; food production; food and the environment.
» Food preparation and cooking techniques – learn how to create different dishes based on different factors (e.g., lifestyle choices, budget, nutrition, sensory satisfaction, etc.).
Assessment
The qualification is assessed with an exam that tests your understanding of points 1-5 (above). Point 6 is assessed with by a 3-hour food preparation assessment, in which you plan and cook a menu of three dishes. You will also have to complete a 2000 word food investigation report.
Why should I study GCSE Food & Nutrition?
This subject can equip you with skills that will serve you well if you are interested in working in the catering or hospitality industries in the future. It will also give you practical skills related to cooking that you can use later in life and can help you to live more independently.
What sort of person do I have to be to study GCSE F&N?
A large aspect of this course is very scientific and mathematical in nature. Therefore, someone who enjoys science and maths would be a good fit for the course. Furthermore, there is only one exam, so this course would suit someone who finds exams difficult. However, the coursework aspect of the course is very challenging – you will have to produce a lot of writing.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Why study Computer Science?
Students will complete this course equipped with the logical and computational skills necessary to succeed at A-level, the workplace or beyond. Students should undertake this option if they are dedicated to Computer Science and programming and see themselves with a future as a software developer/engineer.
Subject content
» Fundamentals of algorithms
» Programming
» Fundamentals of data representation
» Computer systems
» Fundamentals of computer networks
» Fundamentals of cyber security
» Ethical, legal and environmental impacts of digital technology on wider society, including issues of privacy Aspects of software development
» Programming project
How it’s assessed?
Paper 1: Computational thinking and problem solving
Paper 2: Written assessment Programming project
