History At GCSE level, the course followed is the AQA syllabus B- Modern World History. The course is based on three key themes: - Britain in the two World Wars
- USA 1919-1941
- International Relations from 1919- 1963
Assessment: The units on USA and International Relations are assessed by means of two written examinations worth 75% in total. The unit on World War One and Two are assessed by means of a controlled assessment of approximately 2000 words. This is worth 25% of the final grade. The major part of the course concentrates on the three key themes, using original evidence, diaries, film and videos, newspapers and a wide variety of texts. Pupils are expected to work in groups on special projects and use their own initiative in examining evidence. A number of visits will take place during the course e.g. Second World War exhibition, Hitler on Trial performance and the First World War artifacts handling at the Royal Armouries. This course will be useful to those considering a career in marketing, law, teaching, sales or management, as the skills of investigation, debate, research and communication are all necessary for these areas of work. More information is available from Mrs. S. Simpson Geography The GCSE syllabus offers pupils a broad and interesting understanding of how the world works. It looks at the relationship between man and the environment and focuses on current global issues. The course is broken down into two main sections: Paper One: Paper Two: For each of these sections, we select a variety of examples from the UK, Europe and the Wider World to give a broad understanding and knowledge. Pupils will be entered for either a Foundation or Higher Tier exam paper. Fieldwork is an important part of the course and pupils will visit an area of geographical interest to collect their data. Last year, pupils spent a day in Malham, looking at how tourism is affecting this area of outstanding beauty. Assessment:Pupils have to complete a geography coursework folder, which accounts for 25% of the total marks. Paper One accounts for 37.5% Paper Two accounts for 37.5%. More information is available from Mr. C. Wheaton. Religious Education RE is a compulsory subject that all pupils in Years 9-11 must study. All pupils follow the Edexcel GCSE in Religious Studies. Pupils may be entered for the short course GCSE, Unit A ‘Religion and Life’ based on the study of Christianity and Islam, the second Unit H ‘Religion and Society’ based on the study of Christianity and Islam. The two halves make up a full GCSE.The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed in Key Stage 3. It reflects the fact that religious traditions in the United Kingdom are, in the main, Christian, whilst taking into account other principal religions. It also reflects the need to explore not only religious, but also moral issues. The course aims to allow pupils to: Acquire knowledge and develop understanding of the beliefs, values and traditions of two religions. Consider the influence of the beliefs, values and traditions associated with these religions. Consider religious and other responses to moral issues. Identify, investigate and respond to fundamental questions raised by religion and human experience, including questions about the meaning purpose of life. Understand issues arising from the study of religion.
Assessment: Each Unit has a separate examination paper divided into four sections. Each section requires the candidate to answer one question from a choice of two. Both unit A and B are 100% written examination and are 1 ½ hours in length. |
