St Crispin’s School Sixth Form Course Guide€¦ · Examination offered: AS Level A2 Level OCR H021/H421 AS Units Unit F211: Cells, Exchange and Transport Module 1: Cells 1.1.1

St Crispin’s School

Sixth Form Course Guide

The subject range is listed below; details follow later in the booklet.Art - Fine Art, Illustration & PhotographyBiologyBTEC & CTEC Courses

- Certificate in Engineering- Certificate in Travel & Tourism- Certificate in Sport - Cambridge Technical in Business

Business StudiesBusinessChemistryComputingDesign & TechnologyDrama & Theatre StudiesEconomicsEnglish Language and LiteratureEnglish LiteratureExtended Project Food Technology and TextilesGeographyHistoryInformation and Communication TechnologyMathematics & Further MathematicsMedia StudiesModern Foreign Languages - French & GermanMusic Music TechnologyPhilosophy and EthicsPhysicsPhysical EducationPsychology

In this booklet you will find details of how tojoin our Sixth Form, and of the courses fromwhich you will be able to choose.

More information about courses and theinterview process will be available from tutorsand on the Open Evening in October.

St Crispin’s Sixth Form

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St Crispin’s offers a good range of AS and A2 courses, as well as other Level 3 courses. Most students study four

AS Levels in their Lower Sixth Year, and have the option to study four or three A2 Levels in Year 13. All programmes

of study are agreed after individual advice and guidance has been given, so that your course is best suited to your

abilities and aspirations. Students also study for an Extended Project and Critical Thinking as part of the entitlement

curriculum.

The Entry requirements for St Crispin’s Sixth Form are generally a minimum of five A*-C grades at GCSE to take AS

courses, although exceptions are made in some cases. The requirements for entry onto all of our courses are

detailed in the brochure and you will have an opportunity to consult teachers in charge of A Level subjects, who are

usually Heads of Department, to see whether they think you are suited to take their subject in Year 12 and/or 13.

For students who are Gifted and Talented challenges exist at both Department and Sixth Form level for you to

develop these talents fully. If you achieve outstanding GCSE results then we will do our best to nurture you towards

study at the very best universities and encourage you to apply for leadership schemes such as The McKinsey

Leadership Scheme and The Bright Sparks Network where you will meet and be given opportunities to work with the

most successful professionals in the country. We also have partnership links with Wellington College and other

Wokingham Federation Schools which allow you to meet others as gifted as yourself.

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Staying on TrackWe hope that you decide to become amember of St Crispin’s Sixth Form andlook forward to helping you maximiseyour potential and reach your goals.

During your courses your subjectteachers will set you regular TrackingTasks and report back to you and yourparents whether you are,

• Exceeding your targets• Are on target• Are working below set target grades

If you are performing below yourtarget grades, your teachers and tutorwill work with you to correct this. Yourtutor will also work closely with you toensure your voice is heard and thatyou can feedback on your Sixth Formexperience. These Student/Tutorreviews take place at least once everyterm. We pride ourselves on ourfriendly open approach to you thestudent. Should you experience anydifficulties teachers whom you knowand trust are always available to help.

The objective behind the systems weuse is to ensure that we treat eachstudent -

• As an individual• As an exception• As someone to be valued

Both of these tracking systems useyour GCSE point score averages astheir starting point. We add up thenumber of points you achieve anddivide this figure by the number ofcourses you were examined in.

A*= 58 points, A = 52 points, B = 46 points, C = 40 points, D = 34 points, E = 28 points, F = 22 points, G = 16 points

for each GCSE grade achieved. HalfGCSEs are given half the values.

These are then fed into a nationaldatabase of hundreds of thousands ofstudents who achieved similar resultsat GCSE.

These systems have been developed asanalytical tools to improve the self-esteem, confidence and achievementsof young people like you. The Alissystem is run by The University ofDurham and also requires you to sit amultiple choice test. Both systems areconsulted by teachers and enable us togive you base-line targets which youshould not fall below.

ChoiceHere at St Crispin’s we believe inkeeping you as involved as possible inyour own learning and the progressyou are making. At the end of thesummer, when you come into schoolto receive the good news about yourGCSE results the Head of Year 12, andHead of Year 13 are in school to givefurther guidance on your choice ofcourses. If you wish to make changesto your programme of study as a resultof better or worse results thanexpected, then you will be invited toattend a separate Enrolment meetingbefore school starts. We aim to makesure that the courses you chose duringthe application process are still thebest possible choices for you givenyour achievements.

Tracking AchievementWhen you join the school as a SixthForm student in September you will begiven a tutor who will mentor andguide you through our tracking andreporting procedures. Like manythousands of other further educationproviders we use nationally recognizedtracking systems and these are:

ALPS - A Level Prediction SystemsALIS - A Level Indication Systems

We hope that youdecide to become amember of St Crispin’sSixth Form and lookforward to helping youmaximise your potential and reachyour goals.

Pauline RankineDirector of Achievement and Well-being, Post 16

All Sixth formers are expected to wear a uniform, which is distinctivefrom that of the rest of the school.

GirlsBlack skirt, black tailored trousersWhite blouse. Black tights Black sweater/cardigan Dark coloured shoes

No eccentricities of personal appearance will be allowed. Expensive orexcessive jewellery including facial piercing is discouraged for safetyand security reasons.

Sixth Form Uniform

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BoysBlack ‘V’ neck sweaterBlack trousersWhite shirt Dark grey socks Dark coloured shoesTie

Sixth formers are expected at all times to set a standard commensurate with theirstatus as leading students. If for exceptional reasons, such as medical, homecircumstances, any student is unable to wear a correct item of uniform, then onreceipt of a letter of explanation from the parents, the Head of Year may issue atemporary uniform pass. The school reserves the right to temporarily excludeany student whose form of clothing or appearance falls below an acceptablestandard.

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Special RequirementsA good performance at GCSE in terms of technical performance,quality of thought, maturity of approach and an ability to workindependently. As a practical subject a high degree of commitmentis expected.

Career OpportunitiesAn A Level in art is an excellent basis for any career in the visualarts, architecture, or any aspect of design and is vital for studentsconsidering studying Art at college or university Level.

A Level Art is a sound and highly rewarding complementaryqualification taken in conjunction with other subjects.

Art & Design (Fine Art, Illustration & Photography)

Examination offered: (AQA) AS Level and A2 Level 1201A/2201A

Course ContentThe AS course lasts one year, during which students produce aportfolio of coursework. The final exam takes the form of anexternally set project which includes a supplementary 5 hourcontrolled test. The coursework includes critical analysis, recordingproject development through sketchbooks, experimental studies andfinal pieces of work within the disciplines associated to thespecialism chosen. Fine Art involves experimental media, drawing,painting, print making or sculpture. Illustration is run alongside thefine art course and can be developed from either a fine art or graphicperspective and involves the use of photo-shop and text in the finalpresentation of work. Photography is run as a separate A levelcourse and does not require prior art qualifications.

The A2 course lasts one year and can only be taken by thosestudents who have completed the AS course. Students produce aportfolio of coursework; one practical unit as for A2, supported by awritten study of 1,000-3,000 words on an aspect of Art / Illustration/Photography of their own choice. The final exam takes the form of apreparation period and a 15 hour controlled test.

The courses include visits to galleries and related workshops. Fineart and Illustration students have their own studio space.

AS A2Coursework 50% 25%

Externally set assignment (5 hours controlled test) 50% 25%

Coursework - 25%

Externally set assignment (15 hours controlled test) - 25%

Assessment

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Course ContentThe specification is divided into biological topics, each containing different key concepts ofbiology. Once the key features of a biological topic have been developed, applications areconsidered. For assessment purposes, knowledge and understanding of key concepts aretreated separately at AS; important links between different areas of biology are largely assessedsynoptically at A2. While the teaching of practical skills may be integrated with the theoreticaltopics, they are assessed separately. The course follows the OCR Modular Syllabus asdetailed below.

UnitsThe Three-Unit AS GCEThe Advanced Subsidiary GCE is both a ‘stand alone’ qualification and also the first half of thecorresponding Advanced GCE. The AS GCE is assessed at a standard appropriate forcandidates who have completed the first year of study (both in terms of teaching time andcontent) of the corresponding two-year Advanced GCE course, ie between GCSE andAdvanced GCE.

From September 2008 the AS GCE is made up of three mandatory units, of which two areexternally assessed and one is internally assessed and will include the assessment of practicalskills. These units form 50% of the corresponding six-unit Advanced GCE.

The Six-Unit Advanced GCEThe Advanced GCE is made up of three mandatory units at AS and three further mandatoryunits at A2.

Two of the AS and two of the A2 units are externally assessed.

The third AS unit and the third A2 unit are internally assessed and will include the assessmentof practical skills.

BiologyExamination offered: AS Level A2 Level OCR H021/H421

AS Units

Unit F211: Cells, Exchange and TransportModule 1: Cells1.1.1 Cell Structure1.1.2 Cell Membranes1.1.3 Cell Division, Cell Diversity and Cellular Organisation

Module 2: Exchange and Transport1.2.1 Exchange Surfaces and Breathing1.2.2 Transport in Animals1.2.3 Transport in Plants

Unit F212: Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and HealthModule 1: Biological Molecules2.1.1 Biological Molecules2.1.2 Nucleic Acids2.1.3 Enzymes

Module 2: Food and Health2.2.1 Diet and Food Production2.2.2 Health and Disease

Module 3: Biodiversity and Evolution2.3.1 Biodiversity2.3.2 Classification2.3.3 Evolution2.3.4 Maintaining Biodiversity

Unit F213: Practical Skills In Biology 1Practical tasks

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AssessmentThere are two examination sessions per year - inJanuary and June. Practical skills are comprised ofthree tasks set by OCR that are marked internally usingboard mark schemes. Exams are of 1 hour or 1 hour45 minutes duration. Practical skills account for 20%of the total marks.

Aims of the CourseThe aims of these specifications are to encouragecandidates to:

• Develop their interest in and enthusiasm for biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology;

• Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society;

• Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of How Science Works;

• Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they relate to each other.

Prior Learning/AttainmentThese specifications have been developed for studentswho wish to continue with a study of biology at Level3 in the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). TheAS specification has been written to provideprogression from GCSE Science and GCSE AdditionalScience, or from GCSE Biology; achievement at aminimum of grade C in these qualifications should beseen as the normal requisite for entry to AS Biology.

However, students who have successfully taken otherLevel 2 qualification in science or applied science withappropriate biology content may also have acquiredsufficient knowledge and understanding to begin theAS Biology course. Other students without formalqualifications may have acquired sufficient knowledgeof biology to enable progression onto the course.

Recommended prior learning for the AS units is shownin the introduction to each AS unit. The A2 units buildupon the knowledge and understanding acquired at AS.

Recommended prior learning for the A2 course is successful performance at Advanced Subsidiary Biology.

A2 Units

Unit F214: Communication, Homeostasis and EnergyModule 1: Communication and Homeostasis4.1.1 Communication4.1.2 Nerves4.1.3 Hormones

Module 2: Excretion4.2.1 Excretion

Module 3: Photosynthesis4.3.1 Photosynthesis

Module 4: Respiration4.4.1 Respiration

Unit F215: Control, Genomes and EnvironmentModule 1: Cellular Control and Variation5.1.1 Cellular Control5.1.2 Meiosis and Variation

Module 2: Biotechnology and Gene Technologies5.2.1 Cloning in Plants and Animals5.2.2 Biotechnology5.2.3 Genomes and Gene Technology

Module 3: Ecosystems and Sustainability5.3.1 Ecosystems5.3.2 Populations and Sustainability

Module 4: Responding to the Environment5.4.1 Plant Responses5.4.2 Animal Responses5.4.3 Animal Behaviour

Unit F216: Practical Skills in Biology 2Practical tasks

Biology continued

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BTEC & CTEC CoursesEdexecel BTEC Level 3

The qualification is coursework based and students willreceive a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* dependingupon their level of achievement.

BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Engineering is for young peoplewho think creatively by generating and exploring ideas tomake original connections. This course would suit those whoenjoy problem solving and working with others to findimaginative solutions. The BTEC qualifications inEngineering have been designed to give students theunderpinning knowledge and specific skills needed to meetthe needs of modern engineering industries. The main areasof focus will be electronics, computer aided design andmanufacture. Students will complement their studies withvisits to local industries and universities.

*These units may change depending on a new syllabus.

A BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Engineering involves thecompletion of 30 credits over three units and isbroadly the equivalent to one GCE AS Level. The following units* will be taught as part of thecourse:• Health and Safety in the Engineering Workplace• Electrical and Electronic Principles• Computer Aided Manufacture

This specialist qualification focuses on particular aspects of employmentwithin the sport and fitness sector. Students who either wish to pursue acareer in this vocational area or are just interested in Sport and SportsPerformance would be suitable for this course. The qualification iscoursework based and students will receive a Pass, Merit, Distinction orDistinction* depending upon their level of achievement.

Certificate in Engineering

The BTEC course involves the completion of 30 credits over threeunits and is broadly the equivalent to one GCE AS Level.

Units: Unit 1: Investigating Travel & TourismUnit 2: The UK as a destinationUnit 4: Customer services in Travel & Tourism

Certificate in Travel & Tourism

This specialist qualification focuses on particular aspects of employmentwithin the travel and tourism sector and will offer students the opportunityto achieve a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* over the course andvaluable teaching and learning, which will support any future vocation andfurther education within the travel industry.

Certificate in Sport

A BTEC in sport involves the completion of 30 credits over four unitsand is broadly the equivalent to one GCE AS Level.

The following units will be taught as part of the course:• Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport• The Physiology of Fitness• Assessing Risk in Sport• Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise

Businesses are at the heart of the economy and thiscourse is an ideal foundation for students to gain atheoretical background reinforced with practicalskills that transfer into the workplace. Topicscovered include:• The business environment – understanding the

different types of businesses and how they are influenced by the wider environment

• Business resources – developing an understanding of managing core resources available to businesses, including human, physical, technological and financial

• Marketing – the role of market research and how it contributes to market planning and the marketing mix

• Business accounting – Creating some of the most common financial accounting methods, including ratios to determine business performance.

Cambridge Technical inBusiness

CTEC – Certificate in business – level 3 – involves thecompletion of 30 credits and is broadly equivalent to oneAS level. There is no external assessment; instead studentswill prepare assignments to meet assessment criteria.Business is one of the most popular subjects offered byOCR.

OCR CTEC Level 3

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Course RequirementsStudents are expected to have achieved at least a grade B atGCSE Business Studies. It is a requirement to have studiedGCSE Business Studies. All students will need a genuineinterest in the subject and must be prepared to keep up to datewith business issues. Students will also need to give their freetime to assist in the running of a Young Enterprise Company.

Career Opportunities The course will help to provide students with investigative andproblem solving skills that can be applied to most areas offurther education and employment. Subject specific careerpaths include, law, accountancy and finance, marketing,management, human resources and any area of businessoperations.

Course ContentThis course will provide students with a detailedunderstanding of how a business works. Students will learnthrough an investigative and problem solving approach. Muchof the teaching for the first part of the course revolves aroundsetting up and running a Young Enterprise Company. Studentswill also learn to develop analytical and evaluation skills andwill understand the role of the entrepreneur and business insociety.

At AS Level, this specification introduces candidates to thechallenges and issues of starting a business, includingfinancial planning. It then explores the key internal functions ofbusiness and how the management of these functions canassist in improving the effectiveness and performance of abusiness.

Business StudiesExamination offered: AS Level A2/A Level AQA 1131/2131

AS Units

Unit 1 will cover• Starting a Business• Financial Planning

Unit 2 will cover• Employees• Operations Management• Finance• Marketing and Competition

A2 Units

Unit 3 will cover• Strategies for Success – financial, marketing,

operations and Human Resources

Unit 4 will cover• External Influences• Leadership, Corporate Culture, Ethics• Managing Change

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Career OpportunitiesAll students will be given guidance on careers as part of the course. Althoughthe course centres around Business and ICT, students develop an array of skillsthat are useful to many careers.

• AS/A2 level courses• Modern Apprenticeships (all trades)• Business Administration• Employment (various)• Public sector

Companies Studied• Disneyland Resort Paris• Pizza Hut• McDonalds

This is a unique course within Sixth Form that allows students who did not gain 5 A*- Cpasses to stay on at St Crispin’s. Students will receive a Pass, Merit or Distinction. Thoseachieving a Distinction will be able to stay on and follow the AS level programmes.

Course ContentThe course will give students a thorough understanding of the main areas of business studiesfor example:• ICT communications• Business purpose• Business Finance• Marketing• Customer Service • Personal selling

Students will also be given the opportunity to re-sit GCSE Maths and English. The majority of lessons take place in an IT suite in order that coursework may be typed andthe internet used for research.

AssessmentNo examination, six coursework investigations.

Work ExperienceStudents are allocated one day a week for work experience. Students are responsible forfinding their own placement with a business or charitable organisation. Not only will the workexperience assist in coursework, but it is a valuable addition to students CV’s.

Special RequirementsStudents must achieve 4 GCSE passes at grade E or above. It is important that students areself-motivated and able to adhere to deadlines. It is vital that students enjoy coursework.

BusinessExamination offered: OCR Level 2 Cambridge Tec in Business (Diploma)

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TeachersTeaching is shared by two enthusiastic teachers who wish to share their enjoyment of thesubject with their pupils.

Course RequirementsProspective students should have achieved a grade A or B at GCSE level in Chemistry or inthe Core and Additional Science. Emphasis is given to attitude and aptitude of the individual.Thorough consideration is given to the suitability of a prospective student.Career Opportunities

Chemistry A Level is highly regarded by employers and universities because pupils will havewell developed skills in literacy, numeracy, logical and analytical thinking and IT.With A Level Chemistry there are a wide variety of degree courses and careers that can befollowed e.g. Medicine, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Metallurgy, Brewing, Forensic Science,Dentistry, Environmental Science, Polymer Science etc. It is essential for many of these.Pupils with A level Chemistry have gone on to do degrees in a wide variety of unrelatedsubjects too e.g. Law, Accountancy and is highly regarded in the city.

ChemistryExamination offered: AS Level A2/A Level OCR - H034/H434

About the CourseThe specification was developed with the RSC and GlaxoSmithKline and teachers. There is anincreased emphasis on understanding and application. The course has been updated inresponse to modern developments. Pupils are encouraged to

• Speculate• Experiment• Discuss• Consolidate

In addition, the specification includes fundamental key concepts of chemistry needed forprogression into higher education and employment. A wide range of resources will beavailable to support the delivery of this new specification.

AssessmentAssessment is modular with sittings in the January and June of each year. The LaboratorySkills make up 20% of the total grade at A level.

AS Units

F321- Atoms, Bonds and GroupsF322: Chains, Energy and ResourcesUnit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry I – Internal Assessment

A2 Units

F324: Rings, Polymers and AnalysisF325: Equilibria, Energetics, and Elements ChemistryF326: Practical Skills in Chemistry 2 – Internal Assessment

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ComputingExaminations offered: AS Level A2/A Level AQA 1511/2511

AS Level

Unit 1 Problem Solving, Programming, Data Representation andPractical ExerciseThe unit culminates in an on-screen practical exam which allows students todisplay their fundamental understanding of computing principles with a focuson programming.

Unit 2 Computer Components, The Stored Program Concept and theInternetThis unit focuses on the hardware and software aspects of computing andalso covers the social and economic consequences of computing.

Course ContentThis course aims to provide students with knowledge of the hardware, software andtechnologies that are used within computer systems. In both years of the course there is astrong “hands on” stream where students develop practical skills in computer based problemsolving with a focus on computational thinking and programming using VB.net.

Course RequirementsStudents are expected to have achieved at least a Grade B at Mathematics. Students who donot meet this criterion but who display enthusiasm for and a strong commitment to thesubject will be considered on an individual basis.

Career OpportunitiesThe course is ideally suited to students who wish to take a computer science degree whichwill offer a wide range of technical career paths in the Information Technology industry.However, the prime aim of the course is to equip students with the knowledge and skillsrequired for either higher education courses or employment where knowledge of computing isbeneficial. For example, computing students can go on to a career in medicine, law, business,politics or any type of science.

A2 Level

Unit 3 Problem Solving, Programming, Operating Systems, Databases and NetworksThis unit focuses on computational thinking, defining what can be computed,programming and problem solving techniques and includes communicationsand networking.

Unit 4 The Computing Practical ProjectStudents produce a report detailing their analysis, design, production andtesting of a computer-based programmed solution to a problem solvingexercise of their choice.

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Design & TechnologyExaminations offered: EDEXCEL and AQA syllabi, as well as a BTEC Engineering

Product DesignExamination offered: AS/ A2 Level Product Design AQA 1551/2551,

The course is structured in two parts: The AS units which may lead to a discrete AS qualification, or may be the first half of a full A level. The A2 units studied in the second year, together with the AS units lead to a full A Level qualification. The courses are a suitable follow-on from the following GCSE courses– Textiles, Resistant Materials, Product Design, Food Technology and Graphic Products. Thiscould also be the next step For BTEC students.

Units and Assessments for Product Design AS and A2 Award AQA 1551 and 2551

AS Unit 1

PROD 1 Materials, Components and Application(available January & June)50% of AS, 25% of A2, 2 hour paper - 80 marksBased primarily on Materials and Components and consisting of three sections: Section 1 contains compulsory limited response questionsSection 2 offers a choice of one question from twoSection 3 contains one compulsory question

AS Unit 2

PROD2 Learning Through Designing and Making (available in June only)50% of AS, 25% of A2, Coursework – approx. 50 hours - 80 marksWritten (or electrical) design portfolioManufactured outcome (so)Coursework may take a number of forms: a simple design-and-make project, twosmaller projects or a portfolio of work.

A2 Unit 3

PROD3 Design and Manufacture (available June only)25% of A Level, 2 hour written paper - 84 marksBased primarily on Design and Manufacture and consisting of two sections.Candidates answer three questions: one question from three in each section, plus afinal question from either section. Includes a synoptic assessment.

A2 Unit 4

PROD4 Design and Making Practice (available June only)25%if A Level, Coursework – approx 50 hours – 85 marksWritten (or electrical) design portfolioManufactured outcomeCandidates submit evidence of a simple, substantial designing and making activityBTEC Engineering

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Note – Modules 1 and 3 are written exampapers that are taught through both practicaland written sessions. Modules 2 and 4 are thepractical aspects of the course which studentsmust provide supporting notes for.

Course RequirementsStudents who wish to take AS/A Level Dramaand Theatre Studies must gain a C grade orabove in English at GCSE level, within their 5A*-C passes. There is no requirement forstudents to have taken GCSE Drama, but theymust show an interest in Drama and TheatreArts as well as a strong commitment to thesubject area.

Extra-CurricularThe Drama department runs several theatretrips during the course. In addition studentsare encouraged and expected to attend thetheatre regularly and experience a wide rangeof live theatre performances – these can beseen locally, in London or elsewhere.We encourage all our senior students toparticipate in the department’s extra curricularprogramme of Drama and Dance, and there aremany opportunities for them to run workshops/ clubs throughout the year. We alsoencourage students to be involved with ourannual whole school production (often amusical) – this can be on or off stage as thereare many technical roles and responsibilitiesavailable.

AS/A Level Drama and Theatre Studies combines practical skills with critical theory and studyof plays from different eras. It offers students the chance to devise their own work and performpublished work alongside studying different acting techniques, practitioners and play texts.

Drama & Theatre StudiesExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA 1241/2241

Career OpportunitiesThe career opportunities for study beyondAS/A Level Drama are wide ranging. Inaddition to specific performance or technicalbased theatre courses offered by UCASdestinations and Drama colleges, mostemployers recognise the value of Drama studyand training in any workplace to enhancecommunication and personnel skills. Dramaqualifications are widely accepted in manycareer paths including journalism, teaching,drama therapy, human recourses as well asretail and sales jobs.

AS

Unit 1 Live Theatre Seen and Prescribed Play – 1 hour 30minsSection A – students write a response to live theatre seen during the course.Section B – Study of set play – Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House”.

Unit 2 Scripted Extract – students work in groups to realise, rehearse and perform anextract from a published play.

A2

Unit 3 Further Prescribed Plays – 2 hoursSection A – Students answer 2 questions one on each set text: (Pre 20th C) Goldoni’s “A Servant to Two Masters” (Contemporary) Wertenbaker’s “Our Country’s Good”Section B – Synoptic question – students give their suggestions for a complete stage realisation of an extract from one of their set plays (above).

Unit 4 Devised Drama – Students work in groups to create and perform an original piece of Drama within their chosen style.

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Course RequirementsStudents are expected to have achieved at least a grade B at GCSE Maths and EnglishLanguage. Those students who have not met this requirement but display an enthusiasm andcommitment to the subject will be considered on an individual basis. It is NOT a requirementto have studied GCSE Business Studies. All students will need a genuine interest in thesubject and must be prepared to keep up to date with economic issues.

Career Opportunities The course will help to provide students with evaluation and analytical skills that can beapplied to most areas of further education and employment. Subject specific career pathsinclude, law, accountancy, marketing, insurance, banking, management and the civil service.

Course ContentThis course will provide students with a detailed understanding of how an economy works.Students will be kept up-to-date with the latest economic developments, including the currentcredit crunch and consequent recession. This course provides a fascinating insight into howmarkets operate. Students will learn to analyse and evaluate economic issues and areencouraged to voice their own opinions. Students will also have the opportunity to enter theBank of England’s interest rate competition.

EconomicsExamination offered: AS Level A2/A Level AQA 1141/2141

AS

Unit 1 Markets and Market FailureDemand and Supply, Government Intervention, Competitive Markets and Efficiency

Unit 2 The National EconomyThe Economic Cycle and Economic Performance, Inflation and Employment

A2

Unit 3 Business Economics and the Distribution of IncomeTheory of the firm, labour markets, competition and monopolies, inequalities in income and wealth.

Unit 4 The National and International EconomyManaging the national and international economy. Fiscal and monetary policy.

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SummaryThis specification is designed to:• encourage candidates to use integrated linguistic and literary

approaches in their reading and interpretation of texts • encourage candidates to engage creatively and independently

with a wide range of spoken, written and multimodal texts, exploring the relationships between texts

• encourage candidates to undertake independent and sustained studies to develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language.

English Language & LiteratureExamination offered: AQA English Language & Literature Specification B. Course Code 1726/2726.

An attractive feature of the specification is the opportunity itprovides students to respond creatively to texts, both incoursework and exam units. Teachers can benefit from the clearlines of development from the previous specification,preserving, as it does, the core of study from the earliermodules.

Course RequirementsIn order to study English language and Literature students mustachieve a grade B or above in both Language and Literature at

AS Outline

At AS, candidates study language and literature using an Anthology of literary and non-literary texts and a chosen set ofpaired texts. Further study focuses upon the ways in which different writers have approached similar subjects and the waysin which language and style are affected by change over time and contextual variation:• Unit 1: Introduction to Language and Literature Study • Unit 2: Themes in Language and Literature.

A2 Outline

At A2, the specification includes coursework as a means of applying the knowledge, understanding and insights gainedfrom literary and linguistic studies to transform an original work into a different genre or sub-genre. Candidatesdemonstrate the use of appropriate terminology when analysing set texts. Drama texts are included at A2 level:• Unit 3: Talk in Life and Literature • Unit 4: Text Transformation.

Why choose English Language and Literature B?The specification provides a full and coherent integration of literary and linguistic study in each of the four units. It offersstudents an accessible and stimulating course in which they will engage with a variety of spoken and written texts. Thecourse is suitably demanding, leading students beyond the levels expected at GCSE towards an independence in analysingand commenting on texts, thus providing a firm foundation for study in Higher Education.

GCSE. Progression on to A2 will be dependent on the studentachieving a minimum of a grade D at AS. Students areexpected to have an interest in the areas outlined in the courseover view.

Is this Course for You?Is this Course for You? First and foremost, students will gainan enormous degree of enjoyment and satisfaction! On a morepragmatic level, students with a qualification in this subjectwill have a wide range of possible careers and highereducation opportunities open to them.During the course a wide variety of transferable skills will beacquired, including writing for a variety of purposes,responding to both fiction and non-fiction, expressinginformed and independent opinions and identifying anddeveloping links between texts and possibly other subjects.These are highly valued skills and are in great demand fromemployers, colleges and universities. They are also extremelyvaluable in their own right. English Literature and Languagecan be studied together or as single degree subjects in highereducation or can be combined with a number of other subjects.It is a good basis for study in any arts-based subject incombination with, for example, History, Media Studies,Philosophy, Law, Politics or Languages. For those studentswho will use their qualifications to go straight intoemployment, English will open the doors to a wide range ofopportunities in areas such as journalism, the media, the lawor management-based occupations.

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English LiteratureExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA Specification B 1746/2746

The specification has been designed to build on theknowledge, understanding and skills established atGCSE. The course will allow students to:• Develop their interest in and enjoyment of

literature by reading widely• Gain an understanding of the traditions of

Literature • Communicate responses to a wide variety of texts

and periods• Make informed opinions and judgements• Gain an understanding of social, historical and

cultural influences on literary texts

There is clear progression from AdvancedSubsidiary (AS) to A2 in content and styles ofassessment. At AS level, the focus is on developingunderstanding of genres; at A2 the study moves toindependent interpretation and reflection. There isan opportunity at both levels for students to respondcreatively to texts.

Course RequirementsIn order to study English Literature at AS, itexpected that students have GCSE language andliterature at B grade or above. To study the full A2Literature, it is expected that students have an A orB in literature at GCSE level. Students will beexpected to have an interest in the areas specified inthe course overview.

Is this Course for You?First and foremost, students will gain an enormousdegree of enjoyment and satisfaction! On a morepragmatic level, students with a qualification in thissubject will have a wide range of possible careersand higher education opportunities open to them.During the course a wide variety of transferableskills will be acquired, including writing for a varietyof purposes, responding to literary texts, expressinginformed and independent opinions and identifyingand developing links between texts and possiblyother subjects. These are highly valued skills andare in great demand from employers, colleges anduniversities. They are also extremely valuable intheir own right.

English Literature can be studied as a single degreeas a single subject in higher education or can becombined with a number of other subjects. It is agood basis for study in any arts-based subject incombination with, for example, History, MediaStudies, Philosophy, Law, Politics or Languages.For those students who will use their qualificationsto go straight into employment, English will openthe doors to a wide range of opportunities in areassuch as journalism, the media, the law ormanagement-based occupations.

AS

Unit 1: Aspects of the Narrative (LITB1)Four texts for study: two novels (at least one post 1990) and two poetry texts1800-1945. The paper has two sections; Candidates answer one question fromeach section. Available January and June.

Written paper, 2 hours, Open Book 84 marks.Weighting 60% of AS, 30% of A Level.

Unit 2: Dramatic Genres (LITB2)Minimum of two texts for study within the dramatic genre of Comedy. A portfolioof two pieces of written coursework (one may be re-creative) each 1200-1500words. Available January and June.

Coursework 60 marks.Weighting 40% of AS, 20% of A Level.

Unit 3: Texts and Genres (LITB3)Minimum three texts for study including at least one text 1300-1800. Candidateschoose one topic area for study. Elements of the Gothic or Elements of thePastoral. For each topic there will be two sections. Candidates answer onequestion from each section. Available January and June.

Written paper, 2 hours. Closed book 80 marks.Weighting 30% of total A Level.

Unit 4: Further and Independent Reading (LITB4)Minimum of three texts for study including one pre-released anthology of criticalmaterial. A portfolio of two pieces of written coursework: comparative study of anaspect of two texts (1500-2000 words): an application of an aspect of pre-releasedcritical anthology to a literary text (1200-1500 words). Available January and June.

Cousework 60 marks.Weighting 20% of A Level.

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St Crispin’s now offers students the opportunity to study for the extended projectqualification (EPQ).

Project ContentThe EPQ is a Level 3 qualification which Learners may chose to take as anextension of their studies. The project will develop and extend from one or more ofthe learner’s study areas and /or from an area of personal interest or activityoutside their main programme of study.

Learners are required, with appropriate supervision to:• Choose an area of interest• Draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval by the centre• Plan, research and carry out the project• Deliver a presentation to a specified audience• Provide evidence of all stages of project development and production for

assessment.

What are the Learning Outcomes of the Extended Project?The learner will:• Identify, design, plan and complete an individual project, applying a range of

organisational skills and strategies to meet agreed objectives• Obtain, critically select and use information from a range of sources: analyse

data, apply it relevantly and demonstrate understanding of appropriate linkages,connections and complexities of the chosen topic.

• Select and use a range of skills, including new technologies where appropriate, solve problems, take decisions critically, creatively and flexibly to achieve planned outcomes

• Evaluate outcomes both in relation to agreed objectives and own learning and performance. Select and use a range of communication skills and media to present evidenced outcomes and conclusions in appropriate format.

Extended ProjectExamination offered: Examination Offered (AQA 9990)

Special RequirementsStudents will need excellent time management skills and a strong desire to developideas independently.

OpportunitiesThe EPQ has become very popular with admissions tutors at our best universitiessince its introduction in 2008.More information can be found at: http://www.aqa.org.uk/qualifications/projects/extended-project-epq.php

TextilesThe AS course lasts one year, during which students complete 2 projects. Unit 1 consists oflearning and experimenting with different techniques, researching Artists and Designers to inspiretheir work and producing various responses developed from their research. This will form thebackbone of their sketchbook which they will then use to enhance their designs and create a finaloutcome. Textiles incorporates Fashion, Art and Product Design and shows that students canthink, be creative and experimental in their approaches. Unit 2 is an examination project wherestudents will be asked to research a theme, develop a sketchbook and then complete theiroutcome in an 8 hours practical exam.

A2 follows the same path, but allow students to tackle an area of interest, theme or question morethoroughly. They will develop their project by looking for inspiration from other Artists andDesigners and alongside their responses they will produce a written study of around 3,000 words.Unit 4 is again a practical exam, but they will have 12 hours to complete their projects.

Food TechnologyThe AS course lasts one year and comprises of two units. In Unit 1 students are given theopportunity to develop their creative, technical and practical skills through a series of productinvestigation, design and manufacturing activities. Students will produce one portfolio withthree distinct sections which will demonstrate their creativity and flair when investigating,designing and making products. It will contain a variety of evidence covering a wide range ofskills and demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Unit 2 is a 1hr 30 mins Exam Paper. In this unit students will develop a knowledge andunderstanding of a wide range of materials, components, additives and processes used in thedesign and production of food products.

In the A2 year Unit 3 is a 2hr Exam Paper. In this unit students will develop a knowledge andunderstanding of a range of food commodities, aspects of nutrition, product development andfood innovation.

In Unit 4 Students will apply their skills in designing and making, being creative andadventurous and considering time and resources with a commercial design approach. Theywill investigate a real commercial use for the design problem with a client or user group andsustainability.

Food Technology & TextilesExaminations offered: Food Technology: Edexcel 8FT01 A2 9FT01 Art & Design - Textiles: Edexcel AS- 8TE01 A2 9TE01

Special RequirementsProspective candidates will have performed well in their GCSE Technology coursework andExam, C grade or above. They will need to be an enthusiastic and well motivated student.The practical nature of the coursework will incur the purchase of materials and components.

Career OpportunitiesTechnology is a recognised University entrance qualification subject. It is also an excellentfoundation for careers involving Design, Engineering, Fashion, Food Science and Nutrition.

AS Units

Unit 1 - Art & Design Coursework 60% of AS marks, 30% of total GCE marks (internallyassessed)Unit 2 Art & Design Externally set assignment 40%of AS marks, 20% of total GCE marks(internally assessed)

A2 Units

Unit 3 – Art & Design coursework 60% of A2 marks, 30% of the total GCE marks(internally assessed)Unit 4 – Art & Design Externally set assignment 40% of A2 marks, 20% of total GCEmarks (internally assessed)

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GeographyExamination offered: OCR AS/A2 LEVEL H083/H483

The Geography syllabus aims to cover topics which are relevant in young people’s lives and toencourage a sense of place and awareness. The number of topics in the syllabus has beenreduced in order to allow more depth in the topics studied and a balance has been reachedbetween physical and human geography. Fieldwork also plays a significant part in the courseand a residential trip to Gredos, Spain will take place to cover this aspect.

AS topics studied

Managing the Physical Environment• River environments• Coastal environments• Hot and semi arid environments

A2 topics studied

Global Issues• Environmental issues – Earth Hazards and Climatic Hazards• Economic issues – Population and Resources

Geographical Skills• Based on the 6 stages of fieldwork, including data presentation and analysis.• GIS and statistics skills developed.

Fieldwork• 1 week residential trip to the Sierra de Gredos National Park in north-west Spain.• Expert and local guides used for geographical tutoring and first hand experience of

unique case study material for the Physical Environments and Geographical Skills exam.

Managing Human Environments• Managing urban change• The energy issue• The growth of tourism

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A Level History is a challenging and fascinating course. You will study four modules, basedon British and European History in the 19th and 20th Centuries.Two teachers and a range of study techniques make the History lessons varied and exciting.You will build on the essential skills of essay writing and source analysis that have alreadybeen developed at GCSE. You will also carry out independent research, take part inpresentations and debates, contribute to discussions and watch videos. In order to extendstudents’ learning the department also organise at least one visit per year to relevant sites or tolectures by leading lecturers in the field.

AssessmentSince the course is modular, the workload is spread over two years. Coursework relieves thepressure of final exams and gives you the opportunity to investigate a historical topic that is ofparticular interest to you.

AS : Two written papers; each of one hour and 30 minutesA2 : One written paper of two hours; plus coursework with a study of interpretations of theVietnam War and a 2,000 word investigation of a historical issue of your choice.

RequirementsA Level History is open to all students who have at least a grade B in History or above forGCSE. It is not essential to have taken GCSE History; however, students need to be competentin written English and therefore need at least a grade B in English Language.

Career OpportunitiesUniversities and employers value History A Level. This is because History students are trainedto learn independently, express their views persuasively, weigh up evidence, carry out researchand produce clearly written reports. These skills can be harnessed in a range of careersincluding journalism, law, management and politics. History also makes you a better informedcitizen. After all, you can only understand Britain and Europe today if you know how and whywe got here!

HistoryExamination offered: AS/A2 Level OCR H106/ H506

AS

Unit 1 Lancastrians, Yorkists and Tudors, 1450-1509The Wars of the Roses are a bloody stain upon English history when the crown wasseized no fewer than five times as rival dynasties sought to wrest control of thecountry. Students examine the causes of the conflict from the weak monarchy andover-mighty nobility in this period of tyrannical leaders, complex politicalmachination, love affairs and betrayal.

Unit 2 The Unification of Italy 1815-70Garibaldi? The downfall of the Bourbons? No, not biscuits, this is the riveting storyof a nation’s desire to unite under one banner. Italy was in 1815, as Metternich’sclaims, ‘A geographical expression’. 60 years later, after bloodshed and politicalintrigue, it was a unified state. How? Why? This course looks to address the issuesand complexities surrounding the Risorgimento.

A2

Unit 3 Russia and its Rulers 1855-1964“Assassinated, died, murdered, heart attack, suspected poisoned, removed” may nothave the same ring as “divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived” butthe actions and fate of Russia’s rulers in this period is every bit as absorbing. This isa thematic unit in which students examine the reasons for and consequences ofchange and continuity in Tsarist and Communist Russia.

Unit 4 Historical Interpretations and Investigations Students complete three Historical Interpretations tasks on America in the 1920sand 1930s based around Prohibition, the Wall Street Crash and Roosevelt’s NewDeal. The final part of the coursework is a Historical Investigation based on an areaof interest to the students. In previous years these have been as diverse as theabolition of slavery, the Spanish Civil War and Bloody Sunday.

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Information for this page has been taken from The OCRwebsite:http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/ict_tec/ict/

This course is designed to enable students to develop awide range of ICT skills together with an in-depthknowledge and understanding of ICT. Candidates areencouraged to become discerning users of ICT.

Benefits• Provides the ideal foundation for those students who

wish to pursue ICT at degree level or as a career.• Assessment has been streamlined: the coursework

element is still 40% but examinations are 2 hours.• Coursework assessment has been retained as the best

method to assess practical skills.• AS coursework covers a wide range of skills and A2

coursework has been rewritten.

ICTExamination offered: AS/A2 Level OCR H117/H517

Information and Communication Technology

Course DeliveryExtensive use of ICT tools will be used in thedelivery of the course. Students will be expectedto carry out research using the Internet, accessresources and submit work via the school VLE.

Career OpportunitiesICT plays a central role in every employmentsector from local and national government to thearmed services, agriculture, manufacturing,construction, engineering, retailing andtransport. New jobs have been created inInternet services, web and multimedia design,telecommunications and network management.A further insight into the skills needed to worksuccessfully in the “Information Age” can beobtained from the IT National TrainingOrganisation’s website http://www.e-skills.com.

Is the Course for You?The answer is yes if you have a genuine interestin using and developing application packages.As you have already studied ICT at Key Stage 4you will have a good idea of what is involved.

AS

Unit G061: Information, Systems and Applications • Data, information, knowledge and processing • Software and hardware components of an information system • Characteristics of standard applications software and application areas • Spreadsheet concepts • Relational database concepts • Applications software used for presentation and communication of data • The role and impact of ICT – legal, moral and social issues

Unit G062: Structured ICT Tasks• Design • Software development • Testing • Documentation

A2

Unit G063: ICT Systems, Applications and Implications • The systems cycle • Designing computer-based information systems • Networks and communications • Applications of ICT • Implementing computer-based information systems • Implications of ICT

Unit G064: ICT Project• Definition, investigation and analysis • Design • Software development, testing and installation • Documentation • Evaluation)

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MathematicsAims of the courseThe aims of the course enable the students to develop:• Understanding of Mathematics in a way that promotes confidence and fosters enjoyment• Abilities of logical reasoning• Their range of Mathematical skills and techniques• An awareness of the relevance of Mathematics to their fields of study, to the world of work

and to society in general• The skills needed to use technology such as calculators and computers effectively, recognise

when such use may be inappropriate and be aware of limitations

RequirementsThe Mathematics Department will consider applications from students who obtain grades A*, A, B at GCSE and invite applicants to a short interview at the beginning of the term to discusstheir suitability.

Futher MathematicsAims of the courseAll aims from the Mathematics course apply, but also• To develop a further understanding of Mathematical concepts• To equip students with a sound grounding for a Pure Mathematics graduate course

RequirementsThe Mathematics department will consider applications from students who obtain grades A*, A and B at GCSE and invite applicants to a short interview at the beginning of the term todiscuss their suitability.

Career OpportunitiesMathematics A Level is highly respected by Universities and Employers. A wide range of coursesand careers require

A Level MathematicsIf you are considering Mathematics at university Further Mathematics is desirable by mostinstitutions.

Mathematics & Further MathematicsExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA 5371/6371

Mathematics : Course Content, Units and Assessment

AS

Module Units Assessment 1 Core 1 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)2 Core 2 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)3 Mechanics 1 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)

A2

4 Statistics 1 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)5 Core 3 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)6 Core 4 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)

The detailed specification for the course is downloadable as a pdf file from the followingwebsite: http://www.aqa.org.uk/qual/pdf/AQA-5361-6361-W-SP-05.pdf

Further Mathematics: Course Content, Units and Assessment

AS

Module Units Assessment 1 Decision 1 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)2 Further Pure 1 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)3 Decision 2 1hr 30mins exam 331/3% (162/3%)

A2

4 Further Pure 2 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)5 Further Pure 4 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)6 Mechanics 2 1hr 30mins exam (162/3%)

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Media StudiesExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA 1571/2571

This is a course which aims to equip you with the critical tools necessary to carry out yourown 'readings' and investigations of the mass media. The course also enables you to buildupon your own interests, knowledge and enjoyment of media technologies.

AQA Media Studies involves learning about contemporary media, how people and artefacts arerepresented in them and the institutions that ‘own’ them. Also studied is the ‘language’ ormeans of communication they use, media values and ideologies and the effect of the media ontheir audiences.

Course ContentAt AS, you will investigate the media in order to reach an understanding and basic evaluationof how meanings and responses are created. The contemporary media landscape and itschanging contexts will be studied in terms of products, platforms and technologies. In Unit 2,you will produce two linked media artefacts taken from two of the three media platformsstudied in Unit 1 with a single, accompanying evaluation and pre-production folder for bothpieces.

At A2, you are encouraged to examine the media in a less formulaic way and demonstrate,develop and formulate their understanding of the media and its influential role in today’ssociety as well as debating major contemporary media issues. Unit 4 will investigate a mediatheme/text in more depth and realise a production piece reflecting this research.

Extra-CurricularThe department offers many opportunities to experience the media at work. We provide youwith an opportunity to visit the BBC television centre where you get a guided tour of thestudios, visit the National Museum of Film, Photography and Television and work with digitalediting equipment. We also attend conferences in London at the BFI. You will also get theopportunity to become part of St Crispin’s Media Crew which has close links with Sony inBasingstoke.

Course RequirementsYou will be expected to question what is presented to you by the media. This will take the formof written assignments and presentations. You should also be competent in the use of IT asthis will be required to utilise digital editing facilities.It is expected that students wishing to join the course will have at least a GCSE grade B inEnglish.

Career OpportunitiesA range of courses at higher education and career opportunities can be offered by this coursesuch as Journalism, Advertising and Marketing, Publishing, Web design, Graphic Design.Students who have previously studied Media Studies have gone on to take Media Studiesdegrees at University.

Is this the Course for You?Are you interested in a range of contemporary media from print to film? Do you like the idea ofdiscussing and analysing them? Are you keen to produce your own materials?If you have answered YES, then Media Studies is for you!

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The Edexcel Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced GCE inFrench/German enables students to:• derive enjoyment and benefit from language learning• acquire knowledge, skills and understanding for practical

use, further study and/or employment• communicate with speakers of the language• take their place in a multilingual global society.

Entry RequirementsGrade B or above in the relevant language at GCSE orequivalent.

Course content and assessmentThe AS examination comprises two units of assessment. Itmay be awarded as a discrete qualification, or it may be thefirst half of a full A2/A-Level qualification. The exam is takenat the end of Year 12. The A2 Level comprises a further twounits of assessments which when taken together with thetwo AS units leads to the full A2/A-Level qualification. Theexam is taken at the end of Year 13.

If you have a passion for communication and like learningabout other cultures and ways of life, then the ModernForeign Languages course could be for you. A ModernLanguages course can combine well with any other subjectincluding Art, Economics, Science and Mathematics. If youare also interested in the business world, travel and tourism,literature, or journalism and the media, you may find this acourse to suit you. There are a number of options where youcan choose your topic or question to suit your interests.Whether you want to use language for work, further study,training or leisure, this course will equip you with thenecessary skills and knowledge.

Aims of the courseThe Edexcel Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced GCE inFrench/German aims to encourage students to:• develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, language

learning• develop understanding of the language in a variety of

contexts and genres• communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in the

language for a range of purposes• develop awareness and understanding of the

contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of countries or communities where the language is spoken

• consider their study of the language in a broader context.

Modern Foreign LanguagesExamination offered: Edexcel AS/A2 Level French 8FR01/9FR01 German 8GN01/9GN01

(French and German)

Career OpportunitiesThere will be a range of opportunities open to you, whereyou can continue to use and further develop your languageskills and knowledge of contemporary society. Somestudents choose to do degree courses in languages; otherschoose to pursue a Higher Education course in anothersubject, but choosing a language option alongside it.Having a language at AS or A Level will certainly improveyour employability, in particular, with companies which haveinternational branches. Whether you are interested incontinuing your studies or working at home or abroad, alanguage course at AS or A Level is an excellent steptowards achieving your goals.

AS

Unit 1 Spoken Expression and Response in French/German AS 30%Unit 2 Understanding and Written Response in French/German AS 70%

A2

Unit 3 Understanding and spoken response in French/German A2 35%Unit 4 Research, Understanding & Written Response in French/German

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MusicCourses offered: AS/A2 Music - Edexcel AS 8MU01 A2 9MU01

AS

Module 1Performing MusicProduce a 5-6 minute assessed performance – eitherinstrument or voice, performing as a soloist or in anensemble.

Module 2ComposingProduce a 3 minute composition in response to a brief

Module 3Developing Musical UnderstandingListening and Analysis of set works through examinationquestions.Short harmony exercises

Music Course ContentMusic A level examines skills in performance,composition, compositional techniques,listening and analysis. Students increasinglyfollow their own interests in music, whilstdeveloping a broader and deeperunderstanding of a range of musical styles.

Special RequirementsStudents would be expected to achieve a ‘B’grade at GCSE Music and be at least Grade 4standard in their first instrument/voice.

Career OpportunitiesPerformer, composer, recording musician,conductor, instrumental teacher, classroomteacher, music therapist, arts administrator,producer, recording engineer, soundtechnician.

A2

Module 1Extended PerformanceProduce a 12-15 minute assessed performance – eitherinstrument or voice, performing as a soloist or in an ensemble.

Module 2Composition and Technical StudyProduce two compositions or one composition and onetechnical study or two technical studies

Module 3Further Musical UnderstandingListening tests and Analysis of set works and unpreparedpieces through examination questions focussing on analyticalunderstanding and aural perception

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Music TechnologyCourses offered: Edexcel AS 8MT01 A2 9MT01

The Music Technology course involves much practical work and encouragesthe cultivation of a wide range of musical skills. Students sequence MIDI andaudio, record live instruments, produce CDs and compose using musictechnology. They also develop an understanding of the technical processesand principles that underpin effective use of music technology, and commenton it in writing.

Should I study Music or Music Technology?It is possible for students to study both Music and Music Technology asthese two courses are separate and independent A levels. Both need anenthusiasm for music and a willingness to understand how music works.Both involve creative practical work such as composition and a theoreticalunderstanding of music as well. Before starting either course, studentsshould be active musicians, and remain committed to developing their skillsas a musician throughout the course.

Music Technology primarily focuses on the popular music of the last 100years, whereas Music examines music from different styles and traditions -classical, popular and world music. Music Technology focuses on the skillsand processes of recording and sequencing music, but does not access theperformance skills of the student.

Career OpportunitiesPerformer, composer, recording musician, conductor, instrumental teacher,classroom teacher, music therapist, arts administrator, producer, recordingengineer, sound technician.

AS

Unit 1: Music Technology Portfolio 1Sequenced Realised PerformanceMulti-track RecordingCreative Sequenced Arrangement

Unit 2: Listening and AnalysingStudents study the evolution and developmentof popular music of the last 100 years throughlistening and analysing. This part of the courseis assessed in a written exam.

Music Technology Course Content

A2

Unit 3: Music Technology Portfolio 2Sequenced Integrated PerformanceMulti-track RecordingComposing using music technology

Unit 4: Analysing and ProducingStudents use their knowledge of music andmusic technology to analyse music in a writtenexam. As part of the same exam they edit,manipulate, mix and produce music fromdifferent audio tracks to show their practicalunderstanding of these skills.

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Course ContentPhilosophy: The AS course covers Ancient Greek influences on the philosophy of religion,focusing on the teachings of Plato and Aristotle looking at whether the body and soul areseparate and the concept of 'the Good'. We consider the influence of the Judaeo-Christianworld and the concepts of God as creator. We will analyse the arguments for the existence of God, the problem of evil and Religion and Science.

The A2 course will extend the understanding of some concepts covered at AS Level andconsider various views of life after death. We also study the concept of revelation and religiousexperience, miracles, the use and meaning of religious language and the nature of God.

Philosophy & EthicsExamination offered: AS/ A2 Level OCR H172/H572

AS

2 exam papers of 11/2 hours worth 50% of the total A2 grade.• Philosophy of Religion – Answer 2 two part essay questions from a choice of 4.• Religious Ethics – Answer 2 two part essay questions from a choice of 4.

A3

2 exam papers of 11/2 hours to be taken in June. • Philosophy of Religion – Answer 2 open essay style questions from a choice of 4.• Religious Ethics – Answer 2 open essay style questions from a choice of 4.

Ethics: The AS considers what is meant by absolutist and relativist morality. The ethicaltheories of natural law, Kantian ethics, Utilitarianism and Christian ethics will be studied.These theories will be applied to the situations of abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineeringand war and peace.

The A2 course will extend the knowledge of the theories covered at AS and also include thestudy of ‘Meta ethics’, Freewill and determinism, the nature and role of conscience and virtueethics. Ethical theories will be applied (practical ethics) to the study of Environmental andbusiness ethics and sexual ethics.

Assessment

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Advancing PhysicsExamination offered: AS/ A2 Level OCR H159/H559

AS

Unit Assessment Duration Assessment WeightingG491 Physics in Action 1 hour Written AS 30%

Examination Advanced GCE 15%

G492 Understanding Processes 1 hour 45 mins Written AS 50%Examination Advanced GCE 25%

G493 Physics in Practice – Coursework AS 20%Advanced GCE 10%

A2

G494 Rise and fall of the Clockwork UniverseRise and fall of the Clockwork 1 hour 25 mins Written Advanced GCE 15% Universe Examination

G495 Field and Particle PicturesField and Particle Pictures 2 hours Written Advanced GCE 25%

Examination

G496 Researching Physics Coursework Advanced GCE 10%

Schemes of AssessmentThe Advanced Subsidiary (AS) forms 50%of the assessment weighting of the fullAdvanced GCSE. AS is assessed at astandard between GCSE and Advanced GCEand can be taken as a stand-alonequalification or as the first half of the fullAdvanced GCE course.

Assessment is by means of 3 units ofassessment for Advanced Subsidiary GCEand 6 units of assessment for AdvancedGCE.

Advanced Subsidiary GCE Candidates takeUnits G491, G492 and G493.Advanced GCE Candidates take Units G491,G492, G493, G494, G495 and G496.

Course DescriptionAdvancing Physics is a contemporary course, developed by the Institute of Physics as part of the response to the falling numbersof students studying physics beyond GCSE.

Our core aims and objectives are that the course:• Is contemporary in content and modes of delivery• Is attractive and accessible to the widest possible variety of students• Sets physics in a variety of contexts, illustrating connections with everyday life, people, places and cultures• Rewards students for initiative and commitment and allows them to develop their own interests• Fully supports and recognises the use of essential mathematical methods in physics, helping students to understand them• Fully supports teachers using extensive tried and tested resources and ongoing support makes physics exciting and relevant.

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The specification is an innovative approach to the study of Physical Education and Sport at Advanced level. Students arecentral to the study and are encouraged to review their current participation and performance in sport and to identify local andnational opportunities for them to advance this, ultimately creating a life plan linked to sports participation and health.

Course Content

Physical EducationExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA 1581/2581

Requirements for EntryGrade B or above at GCSE in PE is expected, however, individual considerations willbe made for those with a grade C or who have not studied the subject at GCSE level.Students who take the subject must be actively playing sport outside of school in order to be successful on the course.

A2

Unit 3 Preparation for Optimum Sports Performance

a) Applied Exercise Physiology 2Energy SystemsBiomechanicsRecovery from Sport Performance

b) Sports PsychologyTheories to improve personal and team performance

c) Development of Elite SportWorld Games StudiesInfluence of Commercialism on Sport

Unit 4 The Developing Sports PerformerPersonal Performance in a full game as player, official or coachAnalysis of Performance

AS

Unit 1 Participation in Sport and Recreation:a) Applied Exercise Physiology

Health and FitnessDeveloping Personal Fitness & PerformanceNutrition and Performance

b) Skill AcquisitionTheories of LearningImproving Performance

c) Opportunities for Participation in SportLocal & National issues in SportDevelopment of Physical Education

Unit 2 The Critical Sports Performer:Practical performance as a player, leader and official

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Career OpportunitiesThe material studied provides a sound basis for further graduate and postgraduate studyleading to a professional career in Psychology. It is equally useful to an understanding ofpeople in every walk of life, and thus, for a career in business or the public sector.

Entry RequirementsStudents will be expected to have a grade B or above in English and at least a C grade inMathematics and Science.

PsychologyExamination offered: AS/A2 Level AQA 1181/2181

AS

Unit Title & Content Assessment Exam Duration Weighting

Creative Psychology Written 11/2 hours AS 50%Developmental Psychology Examination A2 25%DevelopmentalResearch Methods

Biological Psychology Written 11/2 hours AS 50%Social Psychology Examination A2 25%Individual Differences

A2

Further study in 3 Written 11/2 hours A2 25%of eight topics Examination

Psychopathology, Issues Written 11/2 hours A2 25%& Approaches ExaminationResearch Methodology

Course OverviewThe first year consists of two AS units which are designed to provide students with a broadknowledge of the six core areas of Psychology, including Research Methodology and anappreciation of the relationships between different aspects of the subject.

In the second year, students will cover three areas of Psychology in greater depth in the firstA2 unit and explore key issues and approaches to the subject in the second

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