AS and A Level Course Handbook 2015-2017padworth.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Padworth... · GEOGRAPHY GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS HISTORY ICT MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS MUSIC

AS and A Level

Course Handbook

2015-2017

Padworth College A Level Course Prospectus 2015-17

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO AS AND A LEVEL COURSES ACCOUNTING ART AND DESIGN (FINE ART) ART AND DESIGN (GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION) ART AND DESIGN (TEXTILE DESIGN) BIOLOGY BUSINESS STUDIES CHEMISTRY ECONOMICS ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE GEOGRAPHY GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS HISTORY ICT MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS MUSIC PHYSICS PSYCHOLOGY SOCIOLOGY UNIVERSITY ACCESS (FOUNDATION) COURSE IN BUSINESS


INTRODUCTION A Level courses offer students aged 16-19 the opportunity to specialise in the subjects they enjoy and in which they have done well at (I)GCSE level or equivalent. They also provide new opportunities for subjects which have not been previously studied. A Levels remain the most popular route into UK Universities and our Higher Education/Careers Advisor works closely with all A Level students to make sure they are making the right choices of course and university and to support and encourage them in making their UCAS applications. A Levels are based on four to six units of approximately equal size, depending on the subject. English, chemistry, physics, biology, history, psychology, art and design, sociology, business studies and economics are linear 2 year courses, with all examinations taking place at the end of Year 13, graded A*-G (pass) and U (fail). All other subjects (maths, accounting, government and politics, geography and music) are made up of AS Levels and A2 Levels. AS (Advanced Subsidiary) takes place in Year 12 and is worth half an A Level in terms of UCAS points for university entrance. At the end of the 2 years of study, students will receive the full A Level. At Padworth, students normally study up to 4 subjects during the first year with supporting courses, such as IELTS where needed. It is possible to study fewer subjects or in very exceptional cases to study 5 subjects. During the course of the first year, depending on performance and after careful discussion, it may be appropriate for a student to drop one of their subjects and carry the remainder through to A Level. Padworth offers a wide range of subjects including accounting, art and design, biology, business studies, chemistry, economics, English Language and Literature, geography, government and politics, mathematics, further mathematics, physics, psychology, and sociology. Please note that further mathematics counts as two A Levels and is only for the most able mathematicians. The subjects offered are regularly reviewed and new subjects are added from time to time. It cannot be guaranteed that all subjects listed will run in any particular year as it depends on the number of students who opt for that subject. Prospective students and parents may specifically request subjects that are not on the list, e.g. French. The College will do its best to accommodate such requests. There may be extra tuition costs for these subjects. Please ask for further details. If you require any further information, please contact the Deputy Principal to discuss your requirements. Tel: +44 (0) 118 983 2644 Email: [email protected] Fax: +44 (0) 118 983 4515

mailto:[email protected]


AS/A LEVEL ACCOUNTING

Exam Board: OCR

Accounting is a subject that will appeal to students who enjoy working with numbers, analysing data and problem solving. In the first year, various accounting concepts and principles are introduced and applied to a range of accounting situations. The second year builds on the first year and covers aspects of management accounting and company accounts.

The course provides an excellent foundation for further study of accountancy at university or later. Students wishing to follow a wide range of careers in business or industry will find the decision-making and interpretation skills in particular to be very useful.

Qualification The A Level consists of four units.

AS Level - Year 1

Unit 1: Accounting Principles – 40% of AS, 20% of A Level, 1 hour, 80 marks Introduction to Accounting Principles, The Trial Balance, Accounting Concepts, Classification of Expenditure, Changing Asset Values, Ledger Entries and Adjustments, Final Accounts.

Unit 2: Financial Accounting – 60% of AS, 30% of A Level, 2 hours, 120 marks The Journal, Correction of Errors, Control Accounts, Accounting Adjustments and Statements, Organisations, Sole Trader, Partnerships, Clubs and Societies, Analysis and Evaluation of Accounting Statements, ICT in Accounting.

A2 Level - Year 2

Unit 3: Company Accounts and Interpretation – 20% of A Level, 1.5 hours, 80 marks The Preparation of Final Accounts for Limited Companies, Financing, The Role of Accounting Standards, Analysis and Interpretation of Accounts.

Unit 4: Management Accounting – 30% of A Level, 2 hours, 120 marks Budgeting and Budgetary Control, Standard Costing and Variance Analysis, Capital Expenditure Appraisal, Stock, Costing and Decision Making, Costing Applications, Social Responsibility.

Assessment In the first year, assessment for AS Level is undertaken by examinations in Unit 1 and Unit 2 in June. In the second year, students take examinations in Unit 3 and Unit 4 in June.

Entry requirements It is not necessary to have studied accounting before starting the course, as no prior knowledge is assumed. However an interest and aptitude for mathematics is advisable.


A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN COURSES Exam Board: AQA: Graphic Communication, Fine Art A range of A Level art and design courses are offered with different specialisms. Students wishing to follow a full-time art and design course may choose a combination of 2 A Levels from the following. Students should have a Grade C or above in (I)GCSE art or equivalent. A good level of drawing ability is required. A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN (FINE ART) Qualification Students are introduced to a variety of experiences whilst exploring a range of media, processes and techniques. This course is particularly suitable for those wishing to study fine art, architecture or interior design at university. Areas of study may be selected from the following:

- Painting, drawing and mixed media - Sculpture - Land art, installation and construction - Printmaking - Photography

Assessment Practical coursework: Introductory projects on drawing and painting skills and use of media and a coursework project based around a chosen theme incorporating a written personal investigation (1000-3000 words) Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 15 hour exam. A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN (GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION) Qualification Students are introduced to a variety of experiences whilst exploring a range of graphic media and techniques. Suitable for those wishing to study graphics, animation, marketing, media or web design at university Areas of study may be selected from the following:

- Advertising and computer graphics (Photoshop) - Illustration - Packaging - Editorial work - Animation

Assessment Practical coursework: Introductory projects on typography and design and a coursework unit based around a chosen theme incorporating a written personal study (1000-3000 words) Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 15 hour exam


A LEVEL ART AND DESIGN TEXTILE DESIGN Qualification Textile students will select subject matter from the natural world to inspire their coursework such as marine life or flowers and leaves. They will learn textile techniques such as: Painting on silk, dyed fabrics Embroidery techniques Designing a repeat pattern – digital textiles Constructed textiles In their work they will consider colour, texture, pattern and form. This course is suitable for those wishing to study courses such as fashion or textiles at university. Assessment Practical coursework: Introductory units on textile techniques and a coursework unit based around a chosen theme, this work incorporates a written personal investigation (1000-3000 words) Exam unit and preparation: Practical project work with final piece created in a 15 hour exam.


A LEVEL BIOLOGY Exam Board: AQA This course is taught over two years. Students wishing to study this course must have GCSE grade C or higher in biology, maths, English and preferably chemistry. As with the GCSE course, the complex scientific vocabulary demands confidence in English. Over the two years, students explore ways in which living organisms are affected by and fight disease, find food, use energy, regulate their bodies, get rid of waste substances, exploit their environments and produce offspring. Students also study the impacts of certain biotechnological advances. Students are encouraged to think for themselves and to take responsibility for their studies (in preparation for university), but the course is clearly structured, with a variety of regular assignments and plenty of practical work and practice on past papers. Skills and qualities that are developed include experimental design, observation, safe use of scientific apparatus, data analysis and statistics, exam technique, awareness of human effects on our planet and respect for all life. Year 12 Topics covered include: Unit 1: Biological molecules

- The structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids - The properties of water as a biological molecule.

Unit 2: Cells

- The structure of eukayotic cells, prokaryotic cells and viruses - Microscopy - The cell cycle and mitosis - Transport across cell membranes - Cell recognition and the immune system -

Unit 3: Exchange of substances with the environment - SA:Vol ratio - Gas exchange - Digestions and absorption - Mass transport in animals and plants

Unit 4: Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

- DNA, genes and chromosomes - DNA and protein synthesis - Genetic diversity, mutations and meiosis - Genetic diversity and adaptation - Species and taxonomy - Biodiversity and investigating diversity


Year 13 Topics covered include: Unit 5: Energy transfers in and between organisms

- Photosynthesis - Respiration - Energy and ecosystems - Nutrient cycles

Unit 6: Responding to changes in internal and eternal environments

- Stimuli and responses - Receptors - Control of heart rate - Nervous coordination - Skeletal muscle - Homeostasis

Unit 7: Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems

- Inheritance - Populations - Evolution and speciation - Ecosystems

Unit 8: Control of Gene Expression

- Gene mutations - Gene expression - Regulation of transcription and translation - Using genome projects - Gene technologies - Differences in DNA and diagnostics - Genetic fingerprinting

Mathematical Requirements Overall at least 10% of the marks in assessment for biology will require the use of mathematical skills. These skills include arithmetic and numerical computation, handling data, algebra, graphs, geometry and trigonometry. Practical Assessment Practical work is at the heart of biology. Practicals will be assessed both during experimental work and in written exams. Written Exams The A Level specification comprises 3 external exams. Paper 1 covers content form units 1-4, Paper 2 covers content from units 5-8 and Paper 3 covers content from all units. Each paper also has questions on relevant practical skills. The papers contribute 35%, 35% and 30% of total marks respectively. For more information about this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk

http://www.aqa.org.uk/


A LEVEL BUSINESS STUDIES Exam Board: AQA 7132 Qualification The course provides a good foundation for the further study of business in higher education as well as providing a good general education. It is also useful for students intending to pursue careers in any area of business. Students engage with, explore and understand business behaviour and develop a critical understanding of what business is and does. The course includes the following topics:- 1. What is business? 2. Managers, leadership and decision making. 3. Decision making to improve marketing performance. 4. Decision making to improve operational performance. 5. Decision making to improve financial performance. 6. Decision making to improve human resource performance. 7. Analysing the strategic position of a business. 8. Choosing strategic direction. 9. Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies. 10. Managing strategic change.

Assessment The A :Level is assessed by three two hour written exams at the end of the two year course, each being equally weighted. Paper 1: Multiple-choice questions, short answer and two essays. Paper 2: Three compulsory data response questions. Paper 3: One compulsory case study consisting of six questions. Entry requirements No prior business studies knowledge is required to undertake this two-year course of study. Students must have an acceptable level of English language understanding (at least (I)GCSE English grade C or equivalent) as written essays are a major part of assessment. For more information on this course, please visit http://www.aqa.org.uk



A LEVEL CHEMISTRY Exam Board: AQA Chemistry is the study of the substances that help to make our life more comfortable. Materials developed by chemists can be seen in the clothes we wear, the fuels that we burn in our homes and cars, fertilisers used in the production of our food and in the medicines we take. Chemists need also to study how and why substances react together and how they can change the properties of compounds so as to produce those characteristics that will be beneficial to humans. Qualification 7405 The course develops those skills learnt at GCSE or its equivalent and develops students' interest and enjoyment of chemistry. It aims to produce an appreciation of the interlinking patterns that exist amongst the chemical elements so that predictions can be made about the likely structure and reactions of elements not previously studied. The course is a stepping stone to future study and many transferable skills are developed. There is a supportive atmosphere amongst chemistry students with the younger ones being encouraged by their older peers. Content Physical chemistry 3.1.1 Atomic structure 3.1.2 Amount of substance3.1.3 Bonding 3.1.4 Energetics 3.1.5 Kinetics 3.1.6 Chemical equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle 3.1.7 Oxidation, reduction and redox equations 3.1.8 Thermodynamics 3.1.9 Rate equations 3.1.10 Equilibrium constant Kc for homogeneous systems 3.1.11 Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells 3.1.12 Acids and bases. Inorganic chemistry 3.2.1 Periodicity 3.2.2 Group 2, the alkaline earth metals 3.2.3 Group 7(17), the halogens 3.2.4 Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides (A-level only) 3.2.5 Transition metals 3.2.6 Reactions of ions in aqueous solution. Organic chemistry 3.3.1 Introduction to organic chemistry 3.3.2 Alkanes 3.3.3 Halogenoalkanes 3.3.4 Alkenes 3.3.5 Alcohols 3.3.6 Organic analysis 3.3.7 Optical isomerism 3.3.8 Aldehydes and ketones 3.3.9 Carboxylic acids and derivatives 3.3.10 Aromatic chemistry 3.3.11 Amines 3.3.12 Polymers 3.3.13 Amino acids, proteins and DNA 3.3.14 Organic synthesis 3.3.15 Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy 3.3.16 Chromatography. Assessment: 3 written exam papers Paper 1: 2hrs, 105 marks accounting for 35% of total. Physical chemistry topics (sections 3.1.1 to 3.1.4, 3.1.6 to 3.1.8 and 3.1.10 to 3.1.12). Inorganic chemistry (section 3.2). Relevant


practical skills. Short questions and long answers. Paper 2: 2hrs, 105 marks accounting for 35% of total. Physical chemistry topics (sections 3.1.2 to 3.1.6 and 3.1.9). Organic chemistry (section 3.3). Relevant practical skills. Short questions and long answers. Paper 3: 2hrs, 90 marks accounting for 30% of total. Any content and any practical skills. Multiple choice and long answer. Practical work Practical work is at the heart of chemistry and is assessed in two different ways; in the written exams and the experiments carried out by the students. A Level grades are based on those examined. A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A Level. Entry requirements Requirements for taking the course are (I)GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or higher in chemistry, maths and English. Due to the mathematical content, the potential to do A Level maths is desirable. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



AS/A LEVEL ECONOMICS Exam Board: OCR We all play a role in the economy and all our lives are influenced by economic events. This course aims to develop an understanding of economic models and theories so that they can be applied to the real-world issues reported by the media. Students are given the opportunity to learn the tools of economic analysis and to acquire the skills for evaluating the decisions made by consumers, producers, citizens and governments. By adopting an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach to the study of economics, students are able to develop both their enthusiasm for the subject and also their ability to think as an economist. The course offers a sound basis for progression into higher education in Economics or related subjects, including Finance and Investment Banking, Business Administration, Environmental Planning, Transport and Logistics and Globalisation Studies. This qualification also offers students the opportunity to enter directly into employment, particularly in the fields of business, finance and the professional service sector.

Qualification: Linear assessment from 2015 A Level Economics will be fully linear so assessment of a student’s knowledge and understanding of the whole course takes place at the end of two years of study. The first assessment of the two-year course that starts in September 2015 will be in June 2017. Component 1: ‘micro-economics’. Students explore and evaluate how well the theories of demand and supply explain the behaviour of consumers and producers in the markets of the real world. Imperfections and market failures provide a lead into discussing the merits and drawbacks of government intervention in the markets. For example, in order to reduce smoking, should the government raise the tax on cigarettes, ban smoking in all public places or would it be more effective to simply provide people with more information on the dangers of smoking?

Component 2: ‘macro-economics’. It will provide students with the technical and analytical tools required to understand national and international issues, such as global trade, exchange rates, investment by companies and how the government controls the economy and encourages economic growth. For example, how could the government encourage firms to produce more goods and improve the standard of living in the country? Component 3: ‘themes in economics’. The assessment of this component will be synoptic in nature and will draw on content from both the micro-economics and the macro-economics components. Data will be provided on particular issues in the news, such as the different wage rates or the different inflation rates which enable firms to operate more efficiently in one country rather than another. Assessment Each component is assessed by a 2 hour written examination paper consisting of: Component 1: Data response questions and a structured essay. Component 2: Data response questions and a structured essay. Component 3: Multiple choice section and structured essay questions based on the stimulus material provided.


Entry requirements No previous study of this subject is required but students should have an interest in current affairs. Students will require a Grade C or above in (I)GCSE English and maths or equivalent. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.ocr.uk

http://www.ocr.uk/


A Level English Language and Literature

Exam board: AQA

This specification offers opportunities for students to develop their subject expertise by engaging creatively and critically with a wide range of texts. Using literary and linguistic concepts and methods, students analyse literary and non-literary texts in a range of modes and genres, in the process gaining insights into the nature of different discourses and ideas about creativity. Students develop skills as producers and interpreters of language by creating texts themselves and critically reflecting on their own processes of production. The key areas of learning embedded in the specification – the representation of place, point of view and genre in prose, the forms and functions of poetic voice, and creative transformations of texts – will effectively engage students and help them to develop key critical, creative and analytical skills. Paper 1 Telling Stories

A. Remembered Places - Students study the AQA Anthology: Paris. The anthology

includes a wide range of text types with a particular emphasis on non-fiction and non-

literary material. This section is of paper 1 is closed book.

B. Imagined Worlds - Students study Margaret Atwood’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’. In this

part of the subject content, students explore the imagined world of this text and

analyse the language choices made by the writer in order to study the following: point

of view, characterisation, presentation of time and space/place and narrative structure.

This section is open book.

C. Poetic Voices – Students study poems from either John Donne or Robert Browning.

Students explore and analyse: the presentation of time: understanding the past, the

importance of place: locations and memories and their effect on individuals. This

section is open book.

Paper 2 Exploring Conflict

D. Writing about Society – Students study ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khaled Hosseini and

explore the ways the writer presents people and uses situations of conflict to express

ideas about societies and their values. In addition, students shape the original

material into their own creative piece. This section of paper 2 is open book.

E. Dramatic Encounters - Students study one play, exploring the ways that conflicts are

presented. As part of their study, students analyse areas relevant to the study of

drama and dramatic discourse, including how playwrights: represent natural speech

features and use language to create distinctively different characters. This section of

paper 2 is open book.

F. Making Connections - This part of the subject content focuses on language use in

different types of text. It is called 'Making Connections' because it requires students to

make active connections between a literary text and some non-literary material.


Students’ work will be assessed by the production of an investigation of 2,500-3,000

words in length.

Entry requirements

Students must have an acceptable level of English language understanding (at least GCSE

English grade C or equivalent) as written essays are a major part of assessment.

For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



A LEVEL GEOGRAPHY Exam Board: AQA Unit Summary of content Qualification Geography is a diverse and engaging subject that covers issues relevant to our world today. The course embraces contemporary geography whilst retaining key elements of traditional geography. Geography is a subject which explicitly engages with the relationship of human populations to each other over space and time and their relationship with their physical environment at a variety of scales from the local to the global. The subject content follows an 'issues and impacts' approach throughout. It has a developmental structure which helps to facilitate progression through the course and beyond to link with the demands of higher level study. A Level geography helps to develop skills of understanding, analysis, interpretation, evaluation and communication. Geographers are well placed to find employment in sectors as diverse as government administration; GIS consultant, The Environment Agency, climate change mitigation, law, the European Union, transport, education and research. Unit 1 (AS year) Physical and Human Geography This includes the study of core geographical concepts along with contrasting themes of contemporary or environmental impact, management and sustainability. Candidates study the following:

- Rivers, floods and management - Population change - One topic from Cold environments, Coastal environments and Hot desert

environments - One topic from Food supply issues, Energy issues and Health issues

Unit 2 (AS year) Geographical Skills

- A geographical skills paper based on the content of Unit 1. Skills include: investigative, cartographic, graphical, ICT and statistical skills. Fieldwork will be undertaken as part of this unit. Students will develop an understanding of all stages, from planning and risk assessment, collecting the data and finally presenting, interpreting and evaluation the results.

Unit 3 (A2 year): Contemporary Geographical Issues. An issues-based approach to contemporary geographical themes. Candidates study three topics: Optional physical topics:

Plate Tectonics and associated Hazards Weather and Climate Ecosystems: change and challenge


Optional human topics: World cities Development and Globalisation Contemporary Conflicts and Challenges

Unit 4A (A2 year) Geographical Issue Evaluation OR Geography Fieldwork Investigation Geographical Issue Evaluation: This unit gives candidates the opportunity to use their skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation. An advance information booklet is pre-released prior to the exam to facilitate candidates’ research into an area which extends from the specification content. Geography Fieldwork Investigation: This unit gives candidates the opportunity to extend an area of the subject content into a more detailed fieldwork study. Candidates analyse and evaluate their fieldwork in response to the questions set. In addition, candidates will be assessed on fieldwork skills. Assessment AS Level

- Unit 1: Physical and Human Geography - 2 hour written exam. 70% of AS (35% of A Level)

- Unit 2: Geographical Skills -1 hour written exam. 30% of AS (15% of A Level) A Level

- Unit 3: Contemporary Geographical Issues. A 2 hours 30 minutes written exam. 30% of A Level

- Unit 4: Geography Fieldwork or Geographical Issue. 1 hours 30 minutes written exam. 20% of A level

Course requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English and mathematics For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



AS/A LEVEL GOVERNMENT & POLITICS Examination Board: AQA Students should be prepared to read newspapers and follow current events. Conferences will include some leading British politicians. Qualification AS Year 1

- Unit 1: People, Politics and Participation. Political behaviour in the UK - it explores how people's different patterns of participation can be explained and the forms of participation in a democracy. The importance of voting behaviour, the influence of electoral systems in communicating political opinion and the controversies surrounding the use of referendums are crucial topics for analysis.

- Unit 2: Governing Modern Britain. The process of governing the UK, with power dispersed from local to European levels. The role of Westminster in providing a democratic element in government is examined as well as the degree to which power rests in the hands of unelected bureaucrats.

A2 Year 2

- Unit 3: The Politics of the USA. Amongst a number of topics we study the main characteristics of presidential and congressional elections and campaigns and the main influences on their outcomes.

- Unit 4: The Government of the USA. We study a number of features of the government apparatus of the USA grounding all our work on the nature and significance of the US Constitution and the framework of government that it lays down. The importance of the constitutional principles of the separation of powers and checks and balances to the operation of government and the way that these apply in practice today.

Assessment

- Unit 1: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. 50% of AS, 25% of A Level

- Unit 2: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. 50% of AS, 25% of A Level

- Unit 3: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks. Two topics from a choice of four. 25% of A Level.

- Unit 4: A one hour 30 minutes written examination for 80 marks topics from a choice of four. 25% of A Level.

Entry Requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English. For more information on this course please go to www.aqa.org.uk/



A Level History Examination Board: AQA History A Level is a much respected and highly interesting subject and is commonly taken by students seeking to study law, journalism or the humanities at university. History combines well with geography and other humanities A Levels; A Level history students frequently also study English at A Level. Students must be prepared to undertake significant reading and be willing, and able, to write at some length. Qualification This is a two year course, and is designed primarily to lead to an A Level qualification with study and teaching undertaken and delivered in a linear format over two academic years. Assessment There will be two examinations each lasting two hours thirty minutes, worth 80 marks apiece. In addition students will submit a 3,500 word personal research paper worth 40 marks. The topics and the key ideas covered for the two examination papers are: The Making of Modern Britain, 1951–2007 We will study in depth the key political, economic, social and international changes which helped to mould Britain in the second half of the 20th century. We will explore concepts such as government and opposition, class, social division and cultural change. This course encourages students to reflect on Britain’s changing place in the world as well as the interrelationship between political policies, economic developments and political survival. Tsarist and Communist Russia, 1855–1964 Students will study in breadth issues of change, continuity, cause and consequence in this period through the following key questions: • How was Russia governed and how did political authority change and develop? • Why did opposition develop and how effective was it? • How and with what results did the economy develop and change? • What was the extent of social and cultural change? • How important were ideas and ideology? • How important was the role of individuals and groups and how were they affected by developments? There is also the personal study which must be started a full 12 months before the final examinations are taken. This will be an analysis of 100 hundred years of history on a topic negotiated between the teacher and the student; the work will be questioning, will examine an issue of controversy between historians, and will involve the scrutiny and deployment of primary evidence. The personal study will be rigorous with a full bibliography and written in the appropriate academic style. Entry Requirements A grade C or above in GCSE English, ideally students will have achieved a grade C in history at GCSE but well-motivated and capable students who have not studied history at GCSE will be able to succeed on this course.


For more information on this course please go to www.aqa.org.uk/ OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma in IT Exam Board: OCR Unit Summary of content Cambridge Technicals are vocational qualifications that are designed to give students a work-focused alternative to A Levels. They allow for greater flexibility with the choice of units that make up the qualification and are wholly internally assessed. In addition, the Level 3 qualifications have UCAS points, supporting progression to higher education. Cambridge Technicals provide students with opportunities to develop skills demanded by employers. They have been structured to enable students to gain qualifications at their own pace and build on their achievements. It is an ideal foundation for students entering the workplace, providing them with a theoretical background reinforced with practical skills that transfer into the modern workplace Qualification To achieve OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma in IT, students must complete 2 mandatory units, Units 1 and 2, and an additional 4 units from a selection of 42 optional units. Year 1: Unit 1: Communication and employability skills for IT This unit will equip students to use a variety of communication skills, and provide them with an understanding of the skills an employer wants and how to adapt the message to their audience. Unit 2: Information systems This unit demonstrates the types of information held in the workplace, how it can be used to gain a competitive edge and how it must comply with legislation. Optional Unit: Cambridge Technicals in IT consist of a wide range of optional units such as installing hardware, creating a website, identifying an IT fault, computer animation and e-commerce. For more information visit cambridgetechnical.org.uk Year 2: Students must complete 3 Optional Units to at least pass level. Assessment The assessment for the qualifications is task-based, so students do not need to take exams to achieve Cambridge Technicals qualifications. Units are graded using Pass, Merit or Distinction. At least a pass must be achieved in each unit for students to achieve this qualification. The Distinction* in the Introductory Diploma has the same number of UCAS points as an A* at A Level, and a Pass in the Introductory Diploma has the same number of UCAS points as an E grade.



AS/A LEVEL SINGLE MATHEMATICS (Single Award) Single Mathematics is a valuable qualification for students intending to study mathematics and related subjects at university. It is very necessary for medicine and Eengineering and preferable for those studying the sciences at A Level and at university. A number of the social sciences also require a mathematical background to this level. Exam Board: Edexcel Qualification In Year 1 three papers are studied for the AS qualification

- Core Mathematics 1 - Core Mathematics 2 - Application1 (Mechanics, Statistics or Decision Mathematics)

In Year 2 three papers are studied to complete the A Level qualification.

- Core Mathematics 3 - Core Mathematics 4 - Application 2 (Mechanics, Statistics or Decision Mathematics)

Assessment Each unit is assessed with a one and a half hour paper (which is allocated 75 marks). Each unit carries equal weighting. Core Mathematics 1 is a non-calculator paper. For all other papers calculators are allowed. Entry Requirements (I)GCSE Mathematics or equivalent to grade “B” or above For more information on this course, please go to http://www.edexcel.org.uk

http://www.edexcel.org.uk/


AS/A LEVEL FURTHER MATHEMATICS (Double Award) Exam Board: Edexcel 9371 and 9372 Qualification This option is for those who are very keen on mathematics and who are likely to consider studying mathematics, or a closely related subject, at university. In Year 1 six papers are studied for the AS qualification

- Core Mathematics 1 - Core Mathematics 2 - Core Mathematics 3 - Core Mathematics 4 - Mechanics 1 - Statistics 1

In Year 2 - six units are studied

- Further Pure 1 - Further Pure 2 - Further Pure 3 - Decision 1 - Statistics 2 - Mechanics 2

Entry Requirements (I)GCSE mathematics or equivalent to grade “A” or above Assessment Each unit is assessed with a one and a half hour paper (which is allocated 75 marks). Each unit carries equal weighting. Core mathematics 1 is a non-calculator paper. For all other papers calculators are allowed. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.edexcel.org.uk

http://www.edexcel.org.uk/


A LEVEL PHYSICS Exam Board: AQA

Physics is a subject of enormous breadth. It examines the workings of the universe with its billions of stars and ranges down to the behaviour of tiny particles inside atoms from which we and everything around us are made. Areas of study include natural philosophy and raise many questions that current research seeks to answer. Physics is increasingly extending into every area of our lives - computers, the Internet, mass media, modern transportation systems and medicine. Experimental skills are considered very important in physics and these are developed in a dedicated physics laboratory with computer links. Emphasis is given to progress in current research and we use, for example scientific literature and videos clips, to keep up to date and to promote discussion. The study of physics finds applications in many varied fields such as:

- Scientific research - what is the nature of reality - Engineering - the appliance of science to change our surroundings - Computing and Electronics - producing ever increasing complexity - Medicine, scanners, nuclear medicine, and micro- and nano-technologies - Financial World - modelling financial systems - Management - developing problem-solving skills - Media storage and communication technology

Qualification Year 1 Areas of study include particles and radiation, mechanics and motion, materials, waves and electricity.

Year 2 Areas of study include nuclear physics, thermal physics, fields and their consequences, and an option topic. Throughout both years investigation skills and data analysis techniques will also be taught and will be included in the examinations at the end of the second year. Assessment Assessment will be by examinations, all at the end of the second year of study. The content consists of three examinations, each two hours long. Some units contain multiple choice questions, and all have short and long answer sections. Entrance requirements Students will normally be required to have a Grade C or above in GCSE physics or equivalent. Students also need to be confident in mathematics. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



A LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY Exam Board: AQA Specification (7182) Psychology A Level is of interest to students both of the sciences and the humanities. Psychology is studying human behaviour, experiences and the mind and it mostly uses scientific methodology. Qualification The A Level course consists of: Compulsory content

1 Social influence 2 Memory 3 Attachment 4 Psychopathology 5 Approaches in psychology 6 Biopsychology 7 Research methods 8 Issues and debates in psychology Optional content

Option 1 9 Relationships 10 Gender 11 Cognition and development Option 2 12 Schizophrenia 13 Eating behaviour 14 Stress Option 3 15 Aggression 16 Forensic psychology 17 Addiction Assessment Assessment is by means of written examination only at the end of a two year course. There are three exams of two hours long, each worth 33.3% of the A Level. Entry requirements No previous study of psychology is required but students will normally be required to have a Grade C or above in (I)GCSE English and maths or equivalent. It is also desirable to have good general knowledge and an interest in current affairs. For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



A LEVEL SOCIOLOGY Exam Board: AQA Specification 7192 Sociology is a particular way of looking at society and social life through various means, and they all have one thing in common – they do not take anything at face value. If you are interested in challenging pre-conceived ideas about the way society works, then sociology could be for you. Qualification The A Level course consists of:

Compulsory content

Education with Theory and Methods

Education

Methods in Context

Theory and Methods

Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods

Crime and Deviance

Theory and Methods

Optional content

Topics in Sociology

Option 1

Culture and Identity

Families and Households

Health

Work, Poverty and Welfare

Option 2

Beliefs in Society

Global Development

The Media

Stratification and Differentiation

Assessment Assessment is by means of written examination only at the end of a two year course. There are three exams of two hours long, each worth 33.3% of the A Level. Entry Requirements No prior knowledge is required for A Level sociology, but you should possess good communication skills, including an acceptable level of English language (minimum grade C at (I)GCSE or equivalent). For more information on this course, please go to http://www.aqa.org.uk



UNIVERSITY ACCESS COURSE (Business Foundation) This is a one-year foundation business course which acts in place of A Levels as an entrance qualification to British Universities. Qualification The course is designed to improve academic achievement in the subjects which students plan to study at University, to foster the more analytical approach to learning which is required in British universities and to ensure that students attain the standard of English required to successfully undertake a degree course. Students work in small classes of 10-12 students facilitating individual attention and tuition from the highly qualified and experienced teachers. The course requires three terms of study, normally September to June. In very exceptional circumstances a university may accept a two-term course starting in January, but is more likely to require a student to continue classes through July and August. Most university programmes in Britain start in late September or early October. However the University of Buckingham offers courses beginning in January and therefore accepts students from Padworth who begin the course in January and complete it in December. The Business Foundation course has four compulsory components. All students study courses in Business, Law, Finance and ICT. Students who need to improve their English in order to achieve the minimum entrance requirement receive about 6 hours of intensive language teaching per week. Assessment Throughout the year, students compile s a portfolio of coursework which includes a series of written assignments. Internal examinations take place mid-year to monitor progress and at the end of the course. The overall result is an average of the grades for the coursework and the final written examination, both of which are internally assessed. University Entrance Padworth has an excellent record in placing its Access students on university courses. We provide individual counselling for each student to support and guide them in the selection and application process. The course is recognised by an increasing number of British universities as an entrance qualification for undergraduate study and in recent years, students who have successfully completed the course have been admitted, or have been offered a place by the following universities:

St Andrews University Exeter University Aston University Business School

Royal Holloway College University of London Brunel University

University of Buckingham Coventry University University of Kent

Middlesex University Oxford Brookes University South Bank University

University of Surrey Cardiff University Winchester University

Whilst the University Access course provides an entry qualification for a wide range of courses at British Universities, students interested in the University Access course are advised that some of the more competitive degree courses are only open to students with at


least 3 A Levels. Padworth provides a comprehensive range of A Level courses and specialist English Language support for all students. Entry requirements The course is especially suitable for students aged 17+ wishing to go to university in the UK who have completed their high school education but who have not taken A Level examinations or their equivalent. With regard to level of English, we will usually require an IELTS equivalent of 5.0.

AS and A Level Course Handbook 2015-2017padworth.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Padworth... · GEOGRAPHY GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS HISTORY ICT MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS MUSIC

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