Gracemount High School 2014/15 Curriculum for Excellence S3 Course Choice
Gracemount High School 2014/15
Curriculum for Excellence S3 Course Choice
CONTENTS
ART & DESIGN 5
BIOLOGY 6
BUSINESS IN PRACTICE 7 - 8
CHEMISTRY 9
COMPUTING 10 - 13
DANCE 14
DESIGN AND MAKE 15
DRAMA 16
ENGLISH 17
FRENCH 18
GEOGRAPHY 19 – 21
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION 22
HISTORY 23 - 24
HOME ECONOMICS 25
MATHEMATICS 26 – 27
MODERN STUDIES 28 - 29
MUSIC – PERFORMING 30
MUSIC WITH TECHNOLOGY 31
PE - PERFORMANCE DEVELOPMEN T 32
PHYSICS 33
RELIGIOUS AND MORAL EDUCATION 34
SCHOOL OF FOOTBALL 35
SKILLFORCE 36 - 37
SPANISH 38
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
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Notes of Guidance
The S1-3 curriculum in Gracemount High School comprises the ethos and wider life of the school,
curricular areas and subjects, interdisciplinary learning and planned opportunities for personal
achievement. Pupils have the opportunity to enhance their skills and abilities to ensure a strong basis
for later learning and also a successful transition towards qualifications in the senior phase.
During S1 & S2 pupils attend all subject departments to ensure a broad general education. Pupils learn
best when they are enthusiastic and interested to learn. Giving pupils choices about what they learn
and how they learn can improve enthusiasm for learning. Throughout S1 & S2 pupils are offered
personalisation and choice within their learning and with an element of course choice at the end of S1.
During S3 pupils will continue to follow a broad general education but are able to make choices about
which courses they will follow within the eight curricular areas. This enables them to begin to
specialise their learning by doing fewer subjects in greater depth.
Progression to Exams and Qualifications
At the end of S3 pupils will enter the senior phase and choose subjects to study towards qualifications.
It is important to note that the Scottish Qualifications are changing. The diagram below shows the new
exam structure.
Old Exams New Exams
Standard Grade Foundation
Access 3 National 3
Standard Grace General
Intermediate 1 National 4
Standard Grade Credit
Intermediate 2 National 5
Higher Higher
Advanced Higher Advanced Higher
Other Achievement & Qualifications
Achievement is also recognised through awards such as:
Positive Rewards
Sports Leaders
Skillforce
John Muir
Duke Of
Edinburgh
Sports Academy
Prize Giving
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
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In this booklet there are outlines of all the courses available in the third year. Before making a final
choice, this booklet should be studied very carefully.
If you have difficulty completing the Choice Form, please telephone the school (664 7440) to arrange
an appointment with your child’s Guidance Teacher or Depute Head.
It is important that all forms are returned to school no later than Monday 24th February 2014.
Completing the Subject Choice Form
a. Your daughter/son will be given considerable guidance by the school prior to making a final
choice.
b. Please discuss the choices made with your daughter/son. If there are difficulties, or you wish
to discuss a particular subject in more detail please contact the school and make an
appointment with your daughter’s/son’s Guidance Teacher.
d. An information evening to go over S3 courses and the coursing process will be held on
Thursday 6th February 2014 at 6 pm. Completed and signed course choice forms should be
returned to school no later than Monday 24th February 2014.
e. Finally, may I point out that all courses are offered subject to a reasonable uptake and it may
be necessary to ask a number of pupils to reconsider their choice. In such circumstances you
will be fully consulted.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
ART AND DESIGN
CURRICULAR AREA - EXPRESSIVE AND PERMORMING ARTS
AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
CONTENT: Learners will explore various forms of communication, covering expressive
art, design, and the work of others.
Design: Pupils will work through the design process and make a final piece; pupils will choose from
graphics, fashion and textiles, product design and jewellery design.
Expressive: Drawings and painting projects: Still life and portrait including art history.
Pupils will explore a variety of media and techniques, which will focus on developing pupil’s creative
skills, techniques and technology.
Theory work: Pupils will research and analyse the work of artists and designers in relation to their
practical work.
HOMEWORK: Artist research and presentations
ASSESSMENT: Pupils complete a self evaluation and are given written feedback at the end of
each unit of work
Peer and self- assessment, working with success criteria throughout each
project
Pupils will take part in an end of year exhibition showing design and
expressive projects.
PROGRESSION: Pupils will develop critical thinking, problem solving, creative skills and
techniques which will enable them to undertake the Access 3, National 4 and
5 course for assessment by the SQA.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
BIOLOGY
CURRICULAR AREA – SCIENCES AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
CONTENT: Biology is all about the living world.
The course is made up of three units:
Cell Biology – Investigate the structure and variety of cells and their functions;
the function of DNA; risks and benefits of using DNA profiling for example in
solving crimes. In this topic you will also investigate the conditions plants
need to photosynthesis, the different types of micro-organisms and how micro-
organism growth can be controlled.
Multicellular Organisms – Investigate the structure and function of organs
such as the heart and lungs and their role in sustaining life. We will also
investigate the use of technology in monitoring your health and how to
maintain a healthy
lifestyle. We will investigate and discuss fertilisation and embryonic
development and how drugs such as alcohol and tobacco can affect human
foetal development.
Life on Earth – We will sample and identify living things from different
habitats to compare the types of plants and animals found there. We will
investigate the types of chemicals used in agriculture, alternatives and their
impact on global food production.
HOMEWORK: Homework will be issued on a regular basis.
ASSESSMENT: Pupils will be internally assessed to ensure the development of scientific skills
in problem solving, knowledge and investigative research.
PROGRESSION: This course will lead onto National 4 or 5 in S4 depending on
the level achieved during S3. National 5 leads to Higher Biology.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
BUSINESS AND IT
CURRICULAR AREAS - SOCIAL SUBJECTS AND TECHNOLOGY
CONTENT: Business and enterprise is all around us and often affects the world we live in
even without us realising it.
Edinburgh’s world famous Hogmanay street party, 2014
Commonwealth Games Glasgow, 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil.
These large events raise money and awareness throughout the world.
Other events include film premieres, charity events and organising
staff meetings.
During the course you will plan an event using ICT,
money management and considering the affect the event will
have on the environment. Which will involve the following:
Communicating effectively is a skill that successful entrepreneurs
possess. If you are running an enterprise you need to manage
everything from serving customers to preparing your accounts.
Cash is vital to any enterprise; they need to budget to make sure
they don’t run out of cash and can't pay their suppliers or their
employees. Employees need to know how to budget the money that
they earn.
Businesses have a responsibility not only to keep their employees
safe and healthy but also to understand the impact they have on the
wider world.
There are 4 areas of study:
Planning an Event
Fair Trade
Personal and Business Budgeting
Health and Safety
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
BUSINESS AND IT
Skills developed throughout the course:
ICT
Teamworking and communication
Planning, researching and organising
HOMEWORK: Written homework will be issued regularly, approximately every 2 weeks.
Pupils are expected to read over their core notes regularly at home.
ASSESSMENT: Pupils will be assessed continually throughout the year based on their
classwork, homework and summative assessments.
PROGRESSION:
CAREER
OPTIONS: You name it! This is a subject which will equip you for life! Today, almost
every job requires the use of ICT. Whether you become Managing Director of
a multi-national company, a nurse in the Edinburgh Infirmary, a retail
assistant or run a sole trader business (e.g. plumber, hairdresser, electrician);
the knowledge of how a business operates can help you get there.
N4 Admin & ICT
N4 Business
N5 Admin & ICT
N5 Business Management
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
CHEMISTRY
CURRICULAR AREA – SCIENCES AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
From the moment you are born, and throughout your life, you are surrounded by chemistry – in the air
you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear. Chemistry is the study of substances; what
they are made of, how they interact and what role they play in living things.
CONTENT: Explore Materials all around you such as plastics and metals that make up so much of
the chemistry in society.
Planet Earth – Gases in the atmosphere, pollution, fertilisers
and organic farming and much more of nature’s chemistry.
Electricity and Energy – making electricity from chemicals in batteries, electric cars,
energy sources such as oil, coal, gas and plants.
Topical science – Chemistry in the news in 2014-2015.
Practical techniques using chemicals, burning, fizzing, colour changes, light, heat and
occasionally an explosion!
Investigations combining practical and research into topical chemistry.
HOMEWORK: Homework will be issued once per week through a variety of formats.
ASSESSMENT: Pupils will be internally assessed to ensure the development of scientific skills
in problem solving, knowledge and investigative research.
PROGRESSION: This course will lead onto National 4 or 5 in S4 depending on
the level achieved during S3. National 5 leads to Higher Chemistry.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
COMPUTING
CURRICULAR AREA - TECHNOLOGY AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
How does a computer actually work?
What is RAM and how much do I need?
Why do I need to backup my data?
How do I make my computer safe?
What computer should I buy?
How can I create my own apps?
How can I put my apps onto my mobile devices?
How can I create a multimedia animation?
Computers and Computing is all around us and often affects the world we live in even without us
realising it! Almost all jobs nowadays days involve computers in some way or another. More and
more people purchase goods online, play computer games online, search for jobs online and use
computers to be successful in business.
CONTENT: The computing world changes daily and our Computing course will help you
understand its many aspects.
There are 4 key areas of study:
1
Computer Systems &
Networks
How does the computer actually work? You’ll learn all about
these machines! You’ll also learn about the importance of
Computer Networking including E-mail, wireless networking,
SMS texting and mobile internet technologies.
2
General Purpose
Packages
This area covers all the packages and more that you might
find yourself using when you leave school including
spreadsheets, databases, presentation software and graphics
packages.
3
Computer Programming
We use a programming environment called LiveCode. This
is one of the latest and most innovative programming
language on the market. You’ll learn how to use this to make
simple applications.
4
Computing Project
You will plan and create a digital solution which will include
all aspects of multimedia such as pictures, audio, video and
animation.
5
Website Design
You will be given the opportunity to make a good start to the
National 4 Added Value Unit for S3 Computing Science by
starting some website design in HTML.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
COMPUTING
The skills developed in Computing may be used to help with or use the following:
Buying a
Computer
Protecting your
computer from
Viruses and
Hackers
Multimedia
Presentation
Software to
produce
eye-catching
presentations
How computers
work
Networking
Computers and
use of
Producing simple
programs in
LiveCode
Develop simple
animations
Website design
using HTML – the
standard
programming
language for
websites.
HOMEWORK: Homework will be issued regularly throughout the course.
Pupils are expected to read over their course notes regularly at home.
All notes and homework exercises will be made available through
iTunesU. Students will submit their completed homework to their
teacher through Edmodo.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
COMPUTING
ASSESSMENT: Pupils will be assessed at the end of the main topic as well as at the end
of each practical unit with a Practical Abilities assessment task.
RESOURCES: Our computing resources have just been updated to reflect the ever-changing
world of computing.
On starting Computing, you will be given the theory notes that you need to
know for the course. This will be available as a digital download from
iTunesU.
The Computing Department are big users of iTunesU and Edmodo. These
are e-Learning tools that can be used to access the S3 Computing Science
Course through the Internet at home or in the school.
The department has some of the finest resources on Glow which include
course notes, multiple choice quizzes and practical work.
PROGRESSION: This course will enable the pupil to progress onto NQ levels 4 and 5 which
lead onto Higher Computing, Advanced Higher Computing and beyond.
CAREER
OPTIONS: Computing is the biggest growth area and at the moment…but there’s a
problem! There are not enough people to fill these ICT posts due to a lack of
skills in the field. We’ll teach you these skills and at a level you can cope
with.
Computers are all around us! Our desktop computers, mobile phones and
server computers which bring together the Internet.
No business nowadays can operate without a network of computers and one
of the most important parts of the course will be learning how to use the most
important application packages that you might find yourself using in the
workplace.
There is an ever-growing demand for programmers. These are the people
who create code for the apps and games. You’ll also learn how to do just that.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
COMPUTING
This course will give you the knowledge and confidence that can
perhaps be used to create the next Angry Birds app.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
DANCE
ADDITIONAL CHOICE
CONTENT: Learners will develop movement, control and skills in a variety of different
dance styles including Jazz, Contemporary and Ethnic.
Pupils will be given the opportunity to develop a range of skills required
when working in groups, including leadership, communication, listening and
co-operative skills.
Pupils will develop performance qualities and musicality through learning and
performing a whole class piece in the annual dance show.
Learners will learn about and develop a range of choreographic skills
including: choreographic devices, short motifs, spatial patterns and
choreographic form
Teacher led classes will provide pupils with the opportunity to devise their
own movement material in small groups, based on the following stimuli:
audio, visual and written.
Theory work: Pupils will research and write 2 reports or give a 3 minute
presentation based on a jazz and contemporary choreographer of their choice.
HOMEWORK: Research choreographers and presentations
Practicing dance skills and technique learned in class.
ASSESSMENT: Pupils complete a self evaluation and are given written feedback at the end of
each unit of work.
Ongoing Peer and self- assessment, working with success criteria.
Learning will be expected to produce a report or oral presentation at the end
of each unit of work.
PROGRESSION: Pupils will develop a variety of interpersonal skills and dance technique,
which will enable them to undertake the NQ4 or NQ5 course for assessment
by the SQA in S4/5.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
DESIGN AND MAKE
CURRICULAR AREA – TECHNOLOGY AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
CONTENT: This course will allow pupils develop their design and craft skills throughout
the session. It will be expected that all pupils taking part in this course will
have some design input into all models that are manufactured. This will
include research, generating ideas, developing ideas, presentation and analysis
of ideas. Models will be manufactured in a range of materials including wood,
metal and plastic. Pupils will be expected to contribute towards the cost of
material used during in this course.
HOMEWORK: Homework will be as required for research, developing
sketching and presentation skills.
ASSESSMENT: Assessment will be through the completion of the various design
processes and the safe and successful completion of crafted models.
PROGRESSION: Successful completion of this course will enable pupils to progress either into
Practical Woodworking (National 4/5) or Product Design (National 4/5).
Pupils who demonstrate an understanding of graphics during the design
process may also be able to progress onto Graphic Communication (National 4/5).
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DRAMA
CURRICULAR AREA - EXPRESSIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS
CONTENT: The S3 Drama course offers opportunities to explore a wide variety of drama
skills. Mandatory units include: Improvisation; Role-Play; Characterisation;
Voice; Movement; Stagecraft; Types of Staging; Theatre Arts (Lighting,
sound, costume, make-up, set, props). Personalisation and Choice will allow
a selection from the following units: Script-writing and Directing; Acting for
Film; Stage Combat; Mask. Performance is an essential element of Drama
therefore pupils will be expected to share their work in the safe environment
of the classroom. Opportunities will be available to perform to an outside
audience for those who wish to do so.
HOMEWORK: Written work and evaluation will often be completed as homework.
Examples of homework activities include: learning the key terminology,
learning lines, completing logbook entries, research, character cards, costume
designs, cue sheets. Pupils will be expected to take part in theatre visits.
ASSESSMENT: The S3 Drama course will meet the Level 3 and 4 outcomes and the four
principles of assessment; make, say, write and do.
Practical work will be assessed continuously throughout the course and in the
final presentation. A folio will contain all written work – self evaluations;
evaluation of professional production; logbook; vocabulary tests; character
cards; cue sheets etc.
PROGRESSION: The S3 Drama course will give pupils the opportunity to gain skills and
confidence in drama and theatre concepts which will be required if pupils
choose to study Drama in S4.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
ENGLISH
CURRICULAR AREA - LITERACY
CONTENT: During the course you will continue to develop your skills in reading, writing,
listening and talking.
You will read a wide variety of texts, both fiction and non-fiction, for
information and enjoyment.
You will write in a number of different ways and forms, and for a variety of
purposes, including to convey information and to express yourself creatively.
You will talk with others as a pair or in a group to complete tasks and discuss
your work.
You will present your work to a group or to the class.
HOMEWORK: This will be a regular feature. Each week, a list of critical terms or vocabulary
will be identified from the homework book issued. Weekly lists will be tested
in class. Other homework may involve reading, watching, preparing for
performance, redrafting or completing work begun in class.
ASSESSMENT: This will involve self, peer and teacher assessment of
performance
PROGRESSION: The course will continue to build on the work of S1 and S2 in depth and
breadth and will work towards the further development of skills in reading,
writing, listening and talking in order to use and understand language in a
variety of situations – the skills required to progress to appropriate levels of
new National Courses
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
FRENCH
CURRICULAR AREA - MODERN LANGUAGES
“Languages can help students feel at ease with other cultures and the global economy and to
make their mark both here and abroad as citizens of a diverse, multilingual, global society.”
Scottish Executive
COURSE: Every pupil will be able to develop his/her skills of listening and talking,
reading and writing in order to use French.
Main topics covered:
Literacy in Language
Numeracy in Language
Culture and Society
The World of Work
CONTENT: We are committed to maximising the potential of all our pupils.
Use is made of ICT including the Internet, Smart-boards, Software packages
and Speaking/listening recording units.
Making learning enjoyable is important to us and language-learning games
form part of lessons.
Much work is undertaken in a co-operative and interactive situation with a
partner or a group.
HOMEWORK: To learn/revise vocabulary twice a week.
Skills homework will be set once a fortnight.
ASSESSMENT: All topics will be assessed internally and will cover all language skills –
reading, listening, writing and speaking.
PROGRESSION: Pupils can progress to National Qualifications in NQ3, NQ4 and 5 French.
Some pupils will have the opportunity to sit their Added Value Unit (AVU) in
June which is a part of the NQ4 French course. Pupils may also progress onto
a National Qualification in another Modern Language.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
GEOGRAPHY
CURRICULAR AREA - SOCIAL SUBJECTS AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
Geography allows young people to make better sense of their world and to see how human and
physical processes have shaped and continue to shape our world. Geography allows pupils to see how
processes and places are often inter-connected. In Geography students consider challenges facing
people and earth’s environments both at present and in the future and helps them develop informed
views on the best ways in which these challenges can be addressed.
“Geography is the key to the future” -
Michael Palin
(Actor, comedian, writer, adventurer)
The S3 Geography course is divided into three sections:
1. Global Issues
2. Our Human Planet
S3 CURRICULUM
XCE
Water, the most important natural resource? Learn
why we shouldn’t take water for granted, how poor
access to water can affect people’s lives, how demand
for bottled water is created by big business, the impact
of bottled water on the environment, how to calculate
your own water footprint, how to use water in a more
sustainable way and how water can lead to war.
Globalisation – Learn what globalisation is and how it
affects people and the environment both here in Scotland
and elsewhere?
World Environments, Survival or Extinction? – Learn
how areas such as the Sahel, rain forest and Polar Regions
are under threat from human activity including climate
change.
Food – Learn about the environmental impact and
sustainability of the food we eat and other resources that
are grown for our use.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
GEOGRAPHY
Urbanisation, the making of our cities – Learn why growing numbers of the world’s population
choose to live in cities, how the sites for cities were chosen, why cities grow, why new towns are built
and what might Scotland’s next new town look like?
HOMEWORK: Students will be given at one piece of formal homework every fortnight week.
They will also be expected to complete class tasks missed through absence
and to keep up-to-date will geographical news stories by watching the TV
news/documentaries at least once per week.
ASSESSMENT: There will be continuous formative assessment in the form of individual and
group tasks. Students receive a formal assessment covering all three sections
of the course towards the end of the year.
3. Our Physical Planet
Our Dynamic Coastline – The British Isles have a coastline over 17,800 kilometres long! Discover the
processes that are constantly changing the coastline of our island home.
Transport – Learn what causes traffic congestion, how
different cities are tackling the problem of traffic congestion
and evaluate whether the building of the new Forth Road
Bridge, is a good idea or not?
Population, - How does Scotland
shape up?
Learn how our population compares to
other countries. Find out what is
happening to the population of Scotland
and elsewhere and what this will mean
for our country and others.
Scotland’s Weather – Learn why it
rains so much in Scotland, how the
weather is measured and forecasted,
what air pressure has to do with
weather, how to use weather
technology and how weather affects
business, leisure and our everyday
lives.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
GEOGRAPHY PROGRESSION: This Geography course provides an excellent basis for progression onto
Access 3, National 4, National 5 Qualifications and the Higher Geography
course.
Studying geography can be the gateway to a wide range of careers. Most employers, colleges and
universities are looking for young people with a good range of recognised and well-respected
qualifications and geography is one of them.
Some careers where having studied Geography could be a distinct advantage include: cartographer,
estate agent, chartered surveyor, remote sensing analyst, GIS specialist, market researcher, planner,
social worker, housing officer, transport manager, retail buyer, travel agent, logistics manager,
location analyst, charity co-ordinator, aid worker, diplomat/civil service, flood prevention officer, risk
assessor, weather forecaster or presenter, disaster manager, civil engineer, geologist, hydrologist, soil
conservationist, oceanographer, coastal engineer, estate manager, forestry ranger, environmental
consultant, pollution analyst, conservation officer, marketing manager, teaching, tourism officer,
media researcher, civil aviation etc
Transferable Skills: Geography equips young people with a very wide range of transferable skills,
knowledge and informed attitudes highly prized by virtually all employers.
These include literacy e.g. through writing descriptive and explanatory
answers and short summaries, numeracy e.g. interpreting and processing data
and using various types of graph, computer literacy e.g. through using
databases, spreadsheets, web based research and specialised geographical
software, problem solving by posing questions and investigating to help in
complex decision making, team work through class activities and outdoor
field work, social and environmental awareness, as well as spatial awareness
with well developed map making and reading skills giving you a better sense
of place.
Fieldwork is an important part
of the S3 Geography course.
You will have opportunities to
go on fieldtrips both in the
local area and further away.
Gracemount Geography
Field trip – Isle of Arran
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
CURRICULAR AREAS - TECHNOLOGY AND EXPRESSIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS
CONTENT: Pupils will gain experience in completing Manual 3D Drawings and
Computer Aided 3D Drawings. This will include
Isometric views
Oblique parallel drawings
Planometric drawings
One and two point perspective drawings
The course will also highlight drawing techniques used in industry and will allow pupils to gain
experiences in the following areas
The use of graphic pens, pastels and pencils to render 3D drawings
Use a powerful CAD program to render computer generated images
Design and use drawing techniques to enhance information displayed on a
graph
Design and make a scaled model of a room. An example may be – design
and make a scaled model of a kitchen suitable for a wheelchair user
HOMEWORK: A drawing board and drawing instruments will be provided to complete
homework exercises or finish incomplete class work at home. Homework
exercises will be issued every second week on average.
ASSESSMENT: Assessment will be through the completion of a folio, which will show the
range of work completed throughout the session.
The ability to work both independently and in small groups will be assessed
throughout.
PROGRESSION: Pupils who can develop their drawing skills and who show potential during
this session can progress into the next level of study at National 4/5.
Ultimately we are hoping to develop candidates who can eventually study
Higher Graphic Communication.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
HISTORY
CURRICULAR AREA - SOCIAL SUBJECTS AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
CONTENT:
Britain: The Atlantic Slave Trade 1770-1807
World: WWI: Causes, conflict and consequences.
Scotland: 1700-1800: A divided nation? An
investigation into why Scotland
signed The Treaty Union in 1707 and
became part of the United Kingdom.
Pupils will also learn how Scotland
changed in this period and how
changes in the economy also changed
where people lived.
Pupils will investigate the Atlantic Slave
Trade with a focus on the reasons why it came
about, how it impacted those who were
enslaved in Africa, and how and why slavery
was abolished in Britain in 1707. Pupils will
also investigate the lives of slaves in the West
Indies so as to gain an understanding of the
horrors they lived through. This topic
provides pupils with a real opportunity to
understand one of the most brutal and
inhumane periods in recent History.
Pupils will study the causes of the Great War with a focus on the long
and term short factors that resulted in the war happening. They will
then study what life was like for soldiers in the trenches, the new
technology that was used to such devastating effect on the Western
Front (such as machine guns, gas and tanks) and some of the major
battles that took place. Following this, pupils will look at why the
Allies won and the attempts by the international community to make
peace following the war.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
HISTORY
HOMEWORK: Once every fortnight pupils will be expected to complete source based
questions or revision mind maps on what was covered that week.
ASSESSMENT: There will be continuous formative assessment in the form of group and
individual tasks, as well as regular homework. A formal assessment covering
all three topics will take place at the end of the year.
PROGRESSION: Pupils who successfully complete their homework and formative assessments
throughout the year and then pass their end of unit assessment can expect to
progress to NQ3, NQ4 and NQ5.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
HOME ECONOMICS – FOOD TECHNOLOGY
CURRICULAR AREAS – TECHNOLOGY AND EXPRESSIVE & PERFORMING ARTS
CONTENT: Pupils will:
Develop their basic cookery skills, food preparation techniques and
cookery processes to produce a range of dishes
Investigate ingredients and their uses while looking at sustainability.
Develop their organisational skills to plan, prepare and evaluate dishes
and meals
Investigate how new food products are developed and make a food
product to meet a specified brief.
There will be an option to choose to study textile technology.
This will include developing knowledge of fashion and textiles and production of textile items.
This flexible course will allow pupils to be equipped to make a choice of courses to suit their interests
and abilities for National Presentations.
HOMEWORK: As this is a mainly skills based course there will not be a need for regular
homework. When homework is issued it will be considered very important
and must be to a high standard.
ASSESSMENT: There will be both practical and written assessments at the end of each unit
and a practical food exam at the end of the course.
PROGRESSION: National 5 Health and Food Technology
National 4 Health and Food Technology
National 5 Creative Cake Production
National 5 Hospitality
National 4 Hospitality
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
MATHEMATICS
CURRICULAR AREA - NUMERACY
CONTENT: Mathematics is important in everyday life, allowing us to make sense of the
world around us. It equips us with many of the skills required for life,
learning and work. In S3, pupils will continue to develop their skills such as
logical reasoning, analysis, problem solving and the ability to think in abstract
ways.
Depending on their ability, pupils will continue to develop their mathematics
in the following areas:
Algebra: Patterns and relationships; expressions and equations
Geometry: Properties of 2D shapes and 3D objects, angles, symmetry and
transformation, Pythagoras and trigonometry.
Statistics: Data and analysis
Mathematics: its impact on society
Numeracy: Basic number processes, money, estimation and rounding, time,
measure, ideas of chance and uncertainty
The mathematics will be taught in units of work. Where possible, the topics will be linked to other
subject areas so that pupils will be able to see the relevance of what is being taught. Links will also be
made where Maths may be used in later life.
HOMEWORK: Homework will vary depending on the level of the course and is likely to be
of the following types: independent homework assignments, practising work
carried out in class, researching a topic, preparing a presentation (sometimes
part of a group). All pupils will be expected to back up their class work with
a considerable amount of private study.
ASSESSMENT: will be informal and formal and will take place throughout the year. Informal
assessment will be through class activities and homework, formal assessment
through tests.
PROGRESSION:
Access 3 Mathematics
National 4 Lifeskills
National 5 Lifeskills
OR
National 4 Mathematics
National 5 Mathematics
Higher Mathematics
Advanced Higher Mathematics
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
MATHEMATICS Possible Careers where maths would be needed:
Actuarial Mathematics
Engineering
Accountancy
Many other careers involve a maths component. Further information may be found at:
http://plus.maths.org/content/Career
http://www.mathscareers.org.uk/viewItem.cfm?cit_id=383039
http://www.mathscareers.org.uk/11-14/career_profiles.cfm
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
MODERN STUDIES
CURRICULAR AREA - SOCIAL SUBJECTS
CONTENT Modern Studies is the social, economic and political study of local, national
and international issues. It is an essential subject which informs students of the
changes in today's society and helps them understand the most important
issues facing people the world today. Modern Studies encourages students to
develop informed decisions and attitudes towards different values, cultures
and beliefs. In a climate of political change and global conflicts, Modern
Studies provides students with the skills and knowledge to make decisions that
will shape their future.
The Modern Studies course is divided into three sections.
Democracy in Scotland and the United Kingdom – Option 1: Democracy
in Scotland
The Scottish Parliament and
Local Government in Scotland.
Case study of the impact of the
media, pressure groups or trade
unions on democracy in Scotland.
Social Issues in the United Kingdom – Option 2: Crime and
the Law
Evidence, causes and consequences of crime as well as responses to
crime, such as local community, police, courts/ sentencing, legislation
including the role of the Children's Hearing System.
International Issues – Option 1: World Power
China – political, social and economic issues as well as the
impact of China on other countries.
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MODERN STUDIES HOMEWORK: Students will be given one piece of formal homework per week. They will
also be expected to keep up-to-date with current affairs by watching the news
at least once a week.
ASSESSMENT: Students will complete an assessment at the end of each section of the course.
The evidence from each assessment can be banked for National 4 and 5 unit
accreditation in S4.
PROGRESSION: The Modern Studies course provides an excellent basis for progression into
National 4 and National 5 Qualifications and the Higher Modern Studies
course.
Modern Studies is a very useful subject to study if you are interested in
pursuing careers in any of the following areas:
Police, Law, Teaching, Banking, Broadcasting and Media, Fundraising and
Charity Work, Civil Service, Insurance, Clerical Work, Youth and
Community Work, Economics, Journalism, Local Government, Management,
Marketing, Politics, Social Care, Social Work and Trade Union Work.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
MUSIC - PERFORMING
CURRICULAR AREA - EXPRESSIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS
CONTENT: The S3 Music Course will be made up mostly of performing and creating
music and through these activities you will develop your vocal and/or
instrumental skills that you chose to focus on in S2. You will develop your
understanding and enjoyment of music through listening to musical
performances and commenting on them. Some of you will also use music
software to create your work.
PERFORMING - You may choose one or two instruments on which to
develop your skills already started in S1/2.
UNDERSTANDING - On completion of this unit you should be able to
recognise and identify simple music concepts and styles and have a basic
understanding of the musical features that influence the sound of specific
music styles.
COMPOSING SKILLS - By the end of this unit you should be able to
understand the things that influence and inspire musicians’ work and be able
to create your own music.
HOMEWORK: You will be expected to practise on your chosen instruments on a daily basis
and complete assignments to help your understanding of music and the
meaning of simple music signs, symbols and terms.
ASSESSMENT: Practical work will be assessed on a regular basis in the following ways:
verbal and written feedback from staff; discussion with and help from your
peers; recording your work to build up a folio of performances, either solo or
in an ensemble. Assessment of concepts and terms will be through listening
quizzes.
PROGRESSION: By the end of S3 you should have made sufficient progress and be proficient
enough to move forward to Nat4/5 certificate courses.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
MUSIC WITH TECHNOLOGY
CURRICULAR AREA - TECHNOLOGY
YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE ABLE TO PLAY AN INSTRUMENT FOR THIS COURSE
CONTENT: SKILLS
Set up recording equipment appropriately and safely
UNDERSTANDING
Learn about 20th and 21st century popular music styles and the
developments of music technology.
APPLYING SKILLS AND UNDERSTANDING
Create short sound tracks for film/animation
Produce a radio podcast
Create sound/music for gaming
Create ring tones
Use samples and loops
ASSESSMENT You will develop your skills by completing short tasks that will build up a
folio of work. You will then complete short assessment tasks e.g.
How to record a bass guitar
How to set up a microphone
You will develop your understanding of a variety of popular music styles by
presenting evidence through e.g.
Blogs
Powerpoint presentations/posters
Video clips
HOMEWORK: You will use your mobile phones, apps, Ipads, laptops etc. to record
and mix your own work.
PROGRESSION: By the end of S3 you should have made enough progress in your recording
sills to move forward to a NAT 4 or NAT 5 certificate course.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
PHYSICAL EDUCATION –
PERFORMANCE DEVELOPMENT
CURRICULAR AREA – EXPRESSIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS
CONTENT: The purpose of this course will be to develop, demonstrate and improve practical and
performance skills in variety of physical activities, including:
Badminton, Table Tennis, Basketball, Gymnastics and Trampolines, Football,
Hockey and Rugby.
This course will also develop pupils’ knowledge and understanding of
improving and maintaining their fitness.
CHOOSE PE IF:
You enjoy PE.
You are a keen, enthusiastic participant.
You would like to develop your skills and knowledge of PE
You are interested in improving your level of fitness.
DO NOT CHOOSE THIS COURSE IF:
You have trouble remembering your kit.
You are not keen to improve your fitness and ability in activities.
HOMEWORK: Pupils are expected to join/attend extra curricular activities.
ASSESSMENT: Through practical performance, pupils will apply and demonstrate their knowledge
and skills in a variety of physical activities.
PROGRESSION: National 3, National 4/5, Higher PE, Sports and Football Leaders.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
PHYSICS
CURRICULAR AREA – SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY
Physicists don’t just ask big questions about the universe, they research and develop safer transport
systems, new modes of communication and better sound recording equipment.
CONTENT: Forces and Waves - measure and calculate
acceleration, forces and density
Electricity - Investigate electricity and magnetism
Planet Earth - Explore how the universe has
evolved over time
Practical skills will be challenged by measuring electrical components,
input /output devices, material densities and electro-magnets.
HOMEWORK: Homework will be issued once per week through a variety of formats.
ASSESSMENT: Pupils will be internally assessed to ensure the development of scientific skills
in problem solving, knowledge and investigative research. By the end of S3
all pupils should be able to gain an award at N3 in Physics).
PROGRESSION: National 4 and 5 leading to Higher Physics
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
RELIGIOUS AND MORAL EDUCATION
COMPULSORY SUBJECT
CONTENT: The course in S3 focuses on medical ethics and deciding how we make moral
decisions. In the last few decades, the progress in Science has been terrific
and we now can do many things, which were unthinkable 50 years ago. The
course examines 3 main times in our life, the very beginning of our life,
prolonging life and the ending of life and looks at the ethics of medicine in
these times.
Should we be able to choose when we die? Is that up to us, our families,
doctors, the court, or even God? Is it our right to be able to choose when we
die?
We also look at the ethics of transplant medicine….from who gets the organ
and organ shortages to cloning, black markets and xenotransplantation.
The final part of the course looks at the beginning of our lives…or even
earlier. Do our parents have the right to decide what we look like or whether
we are sporty, musical etc? Is this acceptable at all, or what sort of choices
can we approve; is the film my sisters keeper a possibility, do saviour siblings
exist? And what if the baby is going to be sick, what are our responsibilities
to that child?
HOMEWORK: Occasional, keeping up to date with scientific developments, looking at wider
opinions.
PROGRESSION: Having studied this unit satisfactorily, you will progress to choosing to study
Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies in the senior school.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
SCHOOL OF FOOTBALL
ADDITIONAL CHOICE
The School of Football will provide an individualised training programme built into the school
curriculum that will enhance the young player’s life skills, education, physical, psychological and
social development. The programme will be delivered in conjunction with the Scottish Football
Association (SFA).
The Programme, which is entering its 5th year, will select the pupils from the current S2 School of
Football and a new intake of pupils wishing to enter the programme in S3. Should you wish to be
considered for School of Football please find out more information from Mr Kidd in the PE
department.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
SKILLFORCE SKILLFORCE – COURSE INFORMATION
SkillForce delivers a proven, core skills based alternative to the traditional educational curriculum to
young people across the country. The course draws together academic and vocational qualifications
and awards, community work and life skills, and sits squarely within the aims of the Scottish
Government’s Curriculum for Excellence.
The aim of the course is to develop citizenship and improve the employability of the students in the
crucial years before they leave school. Students will be expected to adhere to the core values of
RESPECT, RESOLVE and RESPONSIBILITY.
Students participating in the course will have the opportunity to attain ASDAN Bronze and Silver,
(vocational qualifications recognised by employers), the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award,
Emergency First Aid Certificate (adult version), National Navigation Award and Heart Start.
Assessment:
ASDAN Bronze and Silver
Student portfolios undergo a process of continuous assessment followed by internal and external
moderation at each award level. They must show evidence of the core skills:
Working with others
Problem Solving
Improving own Learning and Performance
Research
Discussion
Oral Presentation
Duke of Edinburgh:
There will be internal and external moderation of student books. Students must show evidence of
having completed:
Skills – Developing a skill over a minimum of six months;
Physical Recreation – Undertake a minimum three month programme to improve an existing or
recently started sporting or leisure activity;
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Volunteering – Providing a service to the community over a minimum of three months;
Expedition – Attain the skills required to complete a two day supervised practise walk and final
unassisted expedition.
Heart Start
Heart Start is an initiative co-ordinated by the British Heart Foundation to teach people what to do in a
life threatening emergency: simple skills that can save lives. It aims to facilitate and support
Emergency Life Support training in the community and schools across the UK.
First Aid
Students will be given the opportunity to attain this qualification towards the end of their fourth year.
This is the adult version of the course, lasts approximately sixteen hours and is a useful addition to any
young persons CV as they prepare to enter the wider world.
National Navigation Award (NNA)
Basic map reading skills, how to use a map and compass. Preparation for the Duke of Edinburgh
Award expeditions.
Please note: this is NOT an outdoor pursuit course; approximately 80% of instruction takes
place within the classroom.
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S3 CURRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE COURSE CHOICE
SPANISH
CURRICULAR AREA - MODERN LANGUAGES AND ADDITIONAL CHOICE
COURSE: Every pupil will be able to develop his/her skills of listening and talking,
reading and writing in order to use Spanish.
Main topics covered:
Literacy in Language
Numeracy in Language
Culture and Society
The World of Work
CONTENT: We are committed to maximising the potential of all our pupils.
Use is made of ICT including the Internet, Smart-boards, Software packages
and Speaking/listening recording units.
Making learning enjoyable is important to us and language-learning games
form part of lessons.
Much work is undertaken in a co-operative and interactive situation with a
partner or a group.
HOMEWORK: To learn/revise vocabulary twice a week.
Skills homework will be set once a fortnight.
ASSESSMENT: All topics will be assessed internally and will cover all language skills –
reading, listening, writing and speaking.
PROGRESSION: Pupils can progress to National Qualifications in Access 3, NQ4 and NQ5 in
Spanish. Pupils may also progress onto a National Qualification in another
Modern Language.