Pathway Options 2016 - Dartford Science & Technology · PDF file · 2016-02-1119...

Pathway Options 2016

Inspiring Education, Nurturing Success

- 2 -

3 A message from your Principal

4 Art & Design GCSE

5 Business BTEC

6 Computer Science GCSE

7 DT - Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE

8 DT - Product Design GCSE

9 DT - Textiles Technology GCSE

10 English Language GCSE

11 English Literature GCSE

12 Geography GCSE

13 Health and Social Care BTEC

14 History GCSE

15 Mathematics GCSE

16 Media Studies GCSE

17 Modern Foreign Languages - French GCSE

18 Modern Foreign Languages - Spanish GCSE

19 Music BTEC

20 Performing Arts: Dance BTEC

21 Philosophy & Ethics GCSE

22 Science - Combined Science Trilogy GCSE

23 Science - Biology, Chemistry and Physics GCSE

24 Sport BTEC

25 Your Pathway Options Form To be returned by Monday, 29th February

Contents


- 3 -

A message from your Principal

Hello and welcome to the next step on your academic journey

These are exciting times at DSTC as we embark on a new curriculum to better meet the needs of all our

students. This is the first time in your school career that you have had the opportunity to choose what you

study so I urge you to make the most of this opportunity and make your choices wisely.

The decisions you take now will significantly shape your future, whether that is in employment or in

further education. There are good reasons to choose a subject such as you are good at it, you enjoy it, or

you want to take it further. There are also reasons not to choose a subject such as your friends are taking it

or you like the teacher. It is essential, therefore, that you make an informed choice. You should seek

advice and guidance from your form tutor, subject teachers and, of course, your family.

This booklet contains all the information you will need to help you make your choices. The Options

Evening is on Tuesday 9th February from 5 - 6.15 pm. It is essential that you attend this evening with your

parents/carers and make sure you bring this booklet with you.

The form to make your options choices is at the back of this booklet and this must be completed and

handed to Mrs Kelly by Monday 29th February.

It will not be possible for all of you to receive your first choice subjects in all areas which is why we are

asking you to list your preferences. If you have any concerns about the curriculum offer you receive,

please see Mrs Kelly.

This is a very exciting time for all of you and I wish you the best of luck in the next steps you take. Please

make sure you ask as many questions as you need to and listen carefully to the advice you are given.

Miss A Chapman

Acting Principal


- 4 -

SUBJECT

Art & Design GCSE DEPARTMENT Art EXAM BOARD AQA

What are the access criteria for the

course?

What subject specific topics are

covered during the course?

What can students use the

course for?

You should have an end of KS3

National Curriculum Level 5 or above

in Art plus a high level of drawing

skills. We need you to be creative and

have lots of imaginative ideas as a large

proportion of your planning and

research will be completed as

homework. You will also need to

produce written projects based on

contextual research.

Unit 1 - Water, Identity, Mock Exam

Unit 2 - Exam (10 hours)

Students will gain practical skills using

clay, printing, drawing and painting.

What are the expected

outcomes from the course?

Students are expected to achieve a

GCSE at Grade 1-9.

Students can go on to study NVQs,

Diplomas or A Levels in a whole

range of creative subject areas

including graphics, hairdressing,

beauty, photography and retail.

How is the course assessed?

The course is 60% coursework

(including three controlled tests

completed during lesson time)

and 40% timed test. The work is

internally marked and moderated

with samples externally

moderated at the end of the two

years.


- 5 -

SUBJECT

Business BTEC Level 2 First Award DEPARTMENT Business EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?



What can students use the course

for?

To be enrolled onto this course you

need to have at least a Level 2M (new

grading system) in English and a keen

interest in developing your knowledge

and understanding of Business. As part

of the core aspects, you will be required

to show a high level of dedication as

well as being able to work as part of a

group and independently. You should

also be prepared to use role play and

give presentations as part of your

assessment so it is advised that you have

good communication and language

skills.


25% of this course is assessed via an

exam which is taken on the computer.

75% of the course is assessed via

coursework.

The course is made up of various units

which are listed below.

Enterprise in the Business World

(coursework unit)

Finance for Business (exam unit)

Branding and Promotion

(coursework unit)

Providing Business Support

(coursework unit)



Upon completion of this course students

can obtain a BTEC qualification which

carries GCSE equivalence. There are a

range of levels: Level 1, Pass, Merit and

Distinction so you will be able to gain a

qualification regardless of your ability.

This course is an excellent

introduction for students wishing to

move onto the Level 3 BTEC

course. It will also provide the

student with skills that they could

use in the workplace later on in life.

As a new course beginning in 2012

the exam board has made sure that

there is relevant content that will

look good on a CV.


- 6 -

SUBJECT

Computer Science GCSE DEPARTMENT Computer Science and ICT EXAM BOARD OCR


course?





To be enrolled onto this course you need

to have at least a Level 4 in English and

Mathematics (new grading system) and a

keen interest in the subject.


Unit A451: Computer systems and

programming

1 hour 30 minutes written paper.

80 marks, 40% of the qualification.

Unit A452: Practical investigation

Investigative task. OCR-set scenario

with a choice of research tasks.


Unit A453: Programming project

Controlled assessment programming

task. Design, develop and test a

solution to a problem within the

OCR-set scenario.


Unit A451: Computer systems and

programming

This unit covers the body of knowledge

about computer systems on which the

examination will be based.

Unit A452: Practical investigation

An investigative computing task, chosen

from a list provided by OCR.

Controlled assessment which assesses

the following: research, technical

understanding, analysis of problem,

historical perspective, use of technical

writing skills, recommendations/

evaluation.

Unit A453: Programming project

Students will need to:

Understand standard programming

techniques.

Be able to design a coded solution to a

problem including the ability to:

* Develop suitable algorithms.

* Design suitable input and output

formats.

* Identify suitable variables and

structures.

* Identify test procedures.

Create a coded solution, fully

annotating the developed code to

explain its function.

Test their solution:

* To show functionality.

* To show how it matches the design

criteria.

Identify successes and any limitations.

Acquire and apply knowledge,

some technical skills and an

understanding of the use of

algorithms in computer programs

to solve problems using

programming.

Develop computer programs to

solve problems.

Develop the skills to work

collaboratively.

Evaluate the effectiveness of

computer programs/solutions and

the impact of, and issues related

to, the use of computer

technology in society.


for?

Students who want to go on to

higher study and employment in the

field of computer science will find it

provides a superb stepping stone.

GCSE qualifications are general

qualifications which enable

candidates to progress either directly

to employment or to proceed to

further qualifications e.g. Level 3

qualifications such as GCE

Computing and GCE ICT.

Computer Science is now part of the

English Baccalaureate and is

included as one of the qualifications

that count towards new school

performance measures.


- 7 -

SUBJECT

DT - Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE DEPARTMENT Design and Technology EXAM BOARD AQA


course?

To be enrolled on this course you need to

have a keen interest in both cooking and

the science behind food. You should also

have previously achieved a National

Curriculum Level 5 or above in the

subject. Generally, you should have good

literacy skills because a large part of the

course entails reading, comprehension

and writing; you will be required to learn

factual information from a subject text-

book and also complete a series of

projects which involve planning,

analysing research and evaluation. For

the practical work, which accounts for

approximately half of all lessons, you

will need to show a high level of

organisation skills through following a

recipe to make high quality food

products.

Please note that the practical element

will only make up 50% of the course.


EXAM:

Paper 1: Food preparation and

nutrition (50%)

Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes The paper will be made up of 20 multiple

choice questions worth 20 marks and 5

questions each with a number of

sub-questions worth 80 marks.

NON- EXAM ASSESSMENT (NEA):

Task 1: Food investigation (15%)

Written Report

Students' understanding of the working

characteristics, functional and chemical

properties of ingredients. Students will

submit a written report (1500–2000

words) including photographic evidence

of the practical investigation.

NON- EXAM ASSESSMENT (NEA):

Task 2: Food preparation assessment

(35%) Written Portfolio Students' knowledge, skills and

understanding in relation to the planning,

preparation, cooking, presentation of food

and application of nutrition related to the

chosen task. Students will prepare, cook

and present a final menu of three dishes

within a single period of no more than

three hours, planning in advance how this

will be achieved. Students will submit a

written portfolio (15 A4 pages) including

photographic evidence.



GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is a

new, exciting and creative course which

focuses on practical cooking skills to

ensure students develop a thorough

understanding of nutrition, food

provenance and the working characteristics

of food materials. At its heart, this

qualification focuses on nurturing students'

practical cookery skills to give them a

strong understanding of nutrition.

Food preparation skills are integrated into

five core topics:

1. Food, nutrition and health – Macro

Nutrients, Micro Nutrients, Nutritional

Needs and Health.

2. Food science – Cooking of Food, Heat

Transfer and the Functional and Chemical

Properties of Food.

3. Food safety – Food Spoilage,

Contamination and the Principles of Food

Safety.

4. Food choice – Factors affecting Food

Choice, British and International Cuisines,

Sensory Evaluation, Food Labelling and

Marketing

5. Food provenance – Environmental

Impact and Sustainability of Food, Food

Processing and Production.



Students studying this course are

expected to achieve an 1-9 Grade

at GCSE plus an outstanding

knowledge of food science and

nutrition, cooking and presentation.


for?

Studying food preparation and

nutrition can lead to exciting and

well paid career options. Consumers

are becoming increasingly reliant on

the food industry to develop

solutions for their nutritional needs.

This course could lead you into

roles such as a Chef, Food Product

Developer, Buyer (who travels the

world sourcing new food products

for manufacturers), Food Safety

Inspector, Nutritionist, Dietician,

Quality Manager, Teacher, Food

Engineer, Food Scientist, Food

Technologist, Food Photographer,

Food Stylist, Home Economist,

Hotel and Restaurant Manager,

Microbiologist, working in food

magazines, radio and television –

for more information on food

careers please visit www.

http://tastycareers.org.uk/

Please note - students will be

cooking on a regular basis and are

expected to bring in ingredients. The

cost will vary depending upon the

dishes made.

http://tastycareers.org.uk/


- 8 -

SUBJECT

DT - Product Design GCSE DEPARTMENT Design and Technology EXAM BOARD AQA


course?




for?

Product Design is a practical subject

area which requires the application of

knowledge and understanding when

developing ideas, planning, making

products and evaluating them. You

will be required to show enthusiasm

and a high level of dedication, as well

as be able to work creatively,

methodically and independently.


Written Paper:

40% of the total marks, 2 hours.

Controlled Assessment:

60% of the total marks, 45 hours.

Drawing skills

Designing skills

Computer Aided Design and

Computer Aided Manufacture

Making Skills

Materials and Components

Design and Market Influences

Processes and Manufacture



Upon successful completion of this

course students can obtain one GCSE

Grade A*-G.

Product Design encourages candidates to

be inspired, moved and challenged by

following a broad, coherent, satisfying

and worthwhile course of study.

Students gain an insight into related

sectors, such as manufacturing and

engineering. It prepares candidates to

make informed decisions about further

learning opportunities and career

choices.

Product Design prepares candidates

for taking higher level courses or for

entering the world of work.

Students may choose to further their

skills and go on to study:

Product Design

Industrial Design/Engineering

Furniture Design/Packaging

Design

Interior Design

Architecture

Landscape Design

Set Design

Automotive Design

Eco Design

Design Marketing and

Advertising

Please note - a £6 contribution will

provide materials and technical

drawing equipment.


- 9 -

SUBJECT

DT - Textiles Technology GCSE DEPARTMENT Design and Technology EXAM BOARD AQA


course?

Textiles Technology requires the

application of knowledge and

understanding when developing ideas,

planning, producing products and

evaluating them. As part of the core

aspects you will be required to show a

high level of dedication and

independent learning. Due to the

requirements of the course, you must

also have good communication and

language skills and be able to evaluate

and analyse your work in detail.


Unit 1 (45701): written paper;

2 hours; 120 marks; 40%

Unit 2 (45702): controlled

assessment; approx. 45 hours;

90 marks; 60%. Consists of one

design and make activity, selected

from a range of board-set tasks.

Students are required to produce a

written portfolio of evidence, leading up

to the manufacture of one final product.



Unit 1:Written Paper

Materials and components: Develop a

working knowledge of materials and

components appropriate to modelling,

prototyping and manufacturing.

Design and market influences: Analyse

textile products and processes. Consider

how design and technology affects the

manufacturer, user and environment, and

the importance of health and safety

issues. Be aware of new developments in

technology and current social issues that

may influence product design.

Processes and manufacture: Use

appropriate manufacturing processes and

techniques including CAD and CAM.

Be aware of industrial and commercial

practice and know about the processes

involved in the commercial manufacture

of textile products.

Unit 2: Design and Making Practice

controlled assessment criteria:

Candidates will undertake a single

design and make activity which is

selected from a range of board-set tasks.

Candidates will submit a 3D

outcome and a concise design folder.

The following is a summary of the

assessment criteria:

Investigating the design opportunity

Development of design proposals

(including modelling)

Making

Testing and Evaluation

Communication




course, students can obtain one GCSE

Grade A*-G. Students will develop their

independent learning skills as well as

their critical thinking and problem

solving skills. Over the two years, they

will be encouraged to:

Make decisions, consider

sustainability and combine skills with

knowledge and understanding in

order to design and make quality

products.

Explore ways in which aesthetic,

technical, economic, environmental,

ethical and social dimensions interact

to shape designing and making.

Analyse existing products and

produce practical solutions to

needs, wants and opportunities,

recognising their impact on

quality of life.

Develop decision-making skills

through individual and

collaborative working.

Understand that designing and

making reflect and influence

cultures and societies, and that

products have an impact on

lifestyle.

Develop skills of creativity and

critical analysis through making

links between the principles of

good design, existing solutions

and technological knowledge.


for?

This specification prepares

candidates for taking higher level

courses or for entering the world of

work. Students may choose to

further their skills at college, or

develop their studies within A Level

- specialising within Art Textiles or

Product/Fashion Design courses.

For students who choose to take a

more vocational route, this course

can help students move into a more

practical work-based programme or

specialised fashion course.

Please note - students will need to

purchase their own fabric, plus any

specific components that they have

on their design which are not

available from the school (this will

obviously vary depending on their

design ideas).


- 10 -

SUBJECT

English Language GCSE DEPARTMENT English EXAM BOARD AQA


course?




for?

The GCSE course is a compulsory

course. The set you are placed in is

dependent on your prior attainment in

English, as well as your potential in the

subject.


The course is linear and assessed by

100% examination. There is no

coursework.

You will sit two exams in Year 11 and

you will be assessed for your reading

and writing skills.

The specification will enable students of

all abilities to develop the skills they

need to read, understand and analyse a

wide range of different texts covering

the 19th, 20th and 21st century time

periods.




course, students will achieve a GCSE at

Grade 1-9 (previously A*–G grades).

Students will develop their

understanding of the writer’s

craft, reading for meaning, the writer’s

choice of linguistics, presentational

and structural devices and analysis of

structure, form and content. Students

will also have the appropriate literacy

skills to be able to further their

education or to pursue other career

opportunities.

Upon successful completion of the

course students can continue to

study English at A Level and then at

university. The ability to

communicate effectively both

written and orally is very useful in

the world of work as well as life in

general. Specific career routes may

include teaching, journalism,

politics, law, media, advertising and

PR.


- 11 -

SUBJECT

English Literature GCSE DEPARTMENT English EXAM BOARD AQA


course?




for?

The GCSE course is a compulsory

course. The set you are placed in is


English, as well as your potential in the

subject.


The course is linear and assessed by

100% examination; you will sit two

exams in Year 11. There is no

coursework.

Shakespeare plays and 19th century

novels; modern texts and a poetry

anthology.




course, students will achieve a GCSE at

Grade 1-9 (previously A*–G grades).

Students will develop their

understanding of the writer’s craft,

reading for meaning, the writer’s choice

of language, structure, form and

content. They will be required to write

in detail about an extract from the play

and prose and then to write about the

play as a whole.



study English at A Level and then at

university. The ability to

communicate effectively both

written and orally is very useful in

the world of work as well as life in


include teaching, journalism,

politics, law, media, advertising and

PR.


- 12 -

SUBJECT

Geography GCSE DEPARTMENT Social Sciences EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?





To be enrolled onto this course you need

to have at least one National Curriculum

Level 4A in Social Sciences and a keen

interest in Geography. You will be

required to show interest in different

countries and current affairs and will

need to be able to work both

independently and as part of a group.


Written Exams

Unit 1: The Physical Environment;

37.5%.

Unit 2:The Human Environment;

37.5%.

Fieldwork and UK Challenges

Unit 3:Geographical Investigations;

25%.

*A compulsory day of out-of-school

fieldwork is an integral part of this at a

cost of about £20.

Geography helps to make sense of our

continually changing planet. You will

learn about the natural environment

(climate change, coasts, natural hazards

such as floods and storms) and how

people can adapt and manage it. You

will discover faraway places as well as

find out more about your local area. You

will become an excellent written, oral

and visual communicator and will gain

the transferable skills that a future

college or employer is looking for.

Lesson styles in Geography vary

enormously. As a result you will

develop a range of skills that future

colleges or employers are looking

for. You will become an excellent

written, oral and visual

communicator, as well as develop

your numeracy, map, problem

solving and team working skills.

Importantly, however, you will get

to think through real-life problems

and situations, such as how best to

manage migration into the UK or

how to protect a community at risk

from flooding. These exceptional

learning opportunities will improve

your ability to analyse choices and

make sound judgements; a critical

skill for all managers and leaders.


for?

Geography students are well

prepared to continue to study

Geography, or indeed similar

subjects such as Environmental

Management or Geology, at A

Level. Geography is a rigorous

academic subject at any university

and is valued by a range of both

public and private sector employers.


- 13 -

SUBJECT

Health and Social Care BTEC Level 2 DEPARTMENT Health and Social Care EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?

There are no specific entry

requirements for this course. However,

this is a practical course and you will

be expected to participate fully in all

the work and compete all coursework

according to the deadline dates.


You will study 4 units. There is one

externally examined unit, which is one

hour long and carries 25% of the final

mark. The remaining units are

assessed by a portfolio of work.



You will study:

Unit 1 - Examined Unit

Human Lifespan Development

Understanding what is growth and

development, and the life stages that we

go through.

The different influences that can affect

our growth and development.

The impact of social, cultural and

emotional factors on growth and

development

Unit 2 - Health and Social Care Values

You will explore care values in Health and

Social Care such as the importance of

confidentiality and dignity. You will then

discuss and research the need for the focus

of these values to be seen individually for

the specific needs of a service user.

Unit 5 - Promoting Health and

Wellbeing

We will explore what is considered Health

Promotion, what the aims of Health

Promotion are, and discuss and research

the different types of health promotions.

You will then need to consider types of

intervention in Health and Social Care

such as vaccinations and immunisations.

Unit 6 - The Impact of Nutrition on

Health and Wellbeing.

Consider what is a balanced diet and what

the components of a balanced diet are.

You will need to assess the long-term

effects of a balanced or an unbalanced

diet, linking influencing factors such as

religion and culture.



All students are expected to achieve

a minimum of a Pass grade. It is

also possible to attain a Merit,

Distinction and Distinction* grade.

This qualification carries GCSE

equivalence.


for?

The course will help you develop

the skills, understanding and

knowledge that many employers

across lots of industries are looking

for, especially in the social sectors,

child care, health care and

education. The course also

provides a good foundation for

higher levels of study – A level,

Level 3 Health and Social Care and

progression to university.


- 14 -

SUBJECT

History GCSE DEPARTMENT Social Sciences EXAM BOARD Eduqas


course?




for?

The History GCSE is a good choice for

students who are keen to think, discuss

and question big ideas, events and

processes. You will be encouraged to

think critically about the information

presented to you and must be prepared to

work independently and as part of a

group. As an academic course, which is

assessed by written exams and

coursework, we would expect all

students studying the course to have

achieved at least a National Curriculum

Level 4A in Social Sciences.


The course is assessed via 2 written

exams, both of which are of 2 hours

duration.

Paper 1 is a study in Depth. Paper 2 is a

study in Breadth. There will be no

coursework.

In Year 10 students will study

Elizabethan England and American

History 1910-1929.

In Year 11 students study The

Development of the UK 1919-1990 and

Changes in Health and Medicine in

Britain.



Successful students will achieve a

GCSE. Studying the past brightens your

future because a History GCSE

demonstrates that you have the ability to:

Take an interest in the world around

you and the past which has shaped it.

Research and present your ideas

effectively.

Analyse information to find changes,

similarities, differences and causes.

Think critically about the information

presented to you.

History students are well prepared

for further study at college because

they have developed their

communication, judgement and

critical thinking skills. In addition,

many History students go on to

study the course at A Level.

Students who continue to study

History at college and university are

well prepared for a broad range of

careers, particularly law, media and

politics.


- 15 -

SUBJECT

Mathematics GCSE DEPARTMENT Mathematics EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?




for?

GCSE Mathematics is a core subject and

is therefore compulsory for all

students. The set you are placed in is


the subject, as well as your potential.


At both levels, Foundation and Higher,

students will follow the linear syllabus

with Edexcel. There are three exams at

the end of the course, one

non-calculator and two calculator. All

exams are one and a half hours long.

A final grade is then awarded based on

the combined marks of all papers.

All subject syllabus specifications will

involve core topics which include:

number, algebra, ratio, proportion and

rates of change, geometry and measures,

probability and statistics. For further

details please go to the following

website www.edexcel.com. If you have

no internet access please consult your

subject teacher.




course students will achieve one GCSE

at Grade 1-9 (depending on tier of

entry). This qualification in Mathematics

encourages students to develop

confidence in their lives and prepares

them to make informed decisions about

the use of technology, the management

of money, further learning opportunities

and career choices.

Mathematics teaches patience,

discipline and step-by-step problem

solving skills. For those with a

substantial background in

Mathematics, an unlimited number

of career opportunities are

available. Careers that require a very

strong background in

Mathematics are:

Software Engineer

Actuary

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Programmer

Mathematician

Engineer

Scientist

Accountant

Almost all of the top fifty jobs in the

'best' jobs list involve mathematical

reasoning and knowledge.


- 16 -

SUBJECT

Media Studies GCSE DEPARTMENT English EXAM BOARD AQA


course?




for?

This course is optional. An interest in the

media (TV, film, music, magazines,

newspapers, radio and the internet) is

vital.


Unit 1: Investigating the media;

examination; 40%.

Unit 2: Understanding the media;

controlled assessment taken from

banks of set assignments; 60%.

Unit 1: Based on a pre-released topic

that is changed annually. The exam

contains four tasks.

Unit 2: Three assignments taken from

assignment banks set by the exam

board. Three different mediums must

be studied. One introductory

assignment, one cross-media

assignment and one practical

production and evaluation.



study at A Level and then at

university. It is also useful in the

world of work as well as life in


include: teaching, journalism, media

and advertising.




course students will achieve one GCSE

at Grade A*-G. Students will become

critical thinkers and develop their daily

appreciation and understanding of the

media and its role in their daily lives.

They will also understand how to use the

key media concepts to analyse

media products. Additionally, students

will gain practical skills - taking and

editing photographs, storyboarding,

filming and editing moving image texts.


- 17 -

SUBJECT

Modern Foreign Languages - French GCSE

Please note that you will continue with the language you have

studied in Year 9

DEPARTMENT Modern Foreign Languages EXAM BOARD AQA


course?

Students complete a two year course in

GCSE French. Good prior attainment,

behaviour and attendance are important,

as is completion of homework and

independent study.


GCSE French is based on the assessment

of four skills in a final examination at

the end of Year 11.

Each of the four exam components

(Listening, Reading, Speaking and

Writing) is worth 25% of the final exam

mark. There is no coursework

element.

The speaking examination will consist of

a role play, a short conversation about a

photograph and a wider discussion on a

contemporary theme.

The writing examination will consist of

several short written tasks and a

translation from English to French.

Higher tier candidates would also be

expected to respond to an open-ended

written task.



Over the two year course three main

themes are covered. These consist

of:

Identity and culture

Local, national, international and

global areas of interest

Current and future study and

employment




course, students will achieve one

GCSE at grade 1-9 (depending on

tier of entry) as well as having a

good understanding of the topics

covered. They will have built up

confidence to speak, read and write

in French which should help them

with communication skills in

general.


for?


course, students can continue to

study French at A Level and then at

university. The ability to speak a

second language is very useful in

the world of work and may give you

the opportunity to live and work in

another country.


- 18 -

SUBJECT

Modern Foreign Languages - Spanish GCSE

Please note that you will continue with the language you have

studied in Year 9

DEPARTMENT Modern Foreign Languages EXAM BOARD AQA


course?

Students complete a two year course in

GCSE Spanish. Good prior attainment,

behaviour and attendance are important,

as is completion of homework and

independent study.


GCSE Spanish is based on the

assessment of four skills in a final

examination at the end of Year 11.

Each of the four exam components

(Listening, Reading, Speaking and

Writing) is worth 25% of the final exam

mark. There is no coursework

element.

The speaking examination will consist of

a role play, a short conversation about a

photograph and a wider discussion on a

contemporary theme.

The writing examination will consist of

several short written tasks and a

translation from English to Spanish.

Higher tier candidates would also be

expected to respond to an open-ended

written task.



Over the two year course three main

themes are covered. These consist

of:

Identity and culture

Local, national, international and

global areas of interest

Current and future study and

employment




course, students will achieve one

GCSE at grade 1-9 (depending on

tier of entry) as well as having a

good understanding of the topics

covered. They will have built up

confidence to speak, read and write

in Spanish which should help them

with communication skills in

general.


for?


course, students can continue to

study Spanish at A Level and then at

university. The ability to speak a

second language is very useful in

the world of work and may give you

the opportunity to live and work in

another country.


- 19 -

SUBJECT

Music BTEC Level 2 First Award DEPARTMENT Performing Arts EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?





Any students wishing to study music

must have the desire to perform in front

of an audience at concerts and other

events throughout the year. You will be

required to work as part of a team and to

attend rehearsals at lunchtime and after

school. If you are unable to dedicate

additional time to the subject then this is

not the course for you.


25% of the course is externally assessed

and 75% is internally assessed.

There are two compulsory units and one

optional specialist unit. The optional unit

will be chosen based on the strengths of

the class.

Unit 1: The Music Industry

(Compulsory) This unit provides an overview of the

industry, particularly focusing on the

shape of the modern industry and

covering the emergence of the

self-employed producer, performer and

promoter.

Unit 2: Managing a Music Product

(Compulsory)

This unit looks at the development of a

music product. As well as providing a

vehicle for demonstrating skills and

learning, it also introduces the role of

planning and promotion in the

management of a music product.

The optional units are:

Introducing Live Sound, Introducing

Performance, Introducing Composition,

Introducing Recording or Introducing

Sequencing.

This is a Level 2 qualification; the

successful completion of this course

will provide you with a BTEC Level

2 First Award in Music graded at a

pass, merit or distinction. This is the

equivalent of a GCSE qualification.

If you do not meet the criteria for

the Level 2 pass you may be

awarded a Level 1 pass.


for?

On successful completion of the

course students can progress to

BTEC Level 3 in Music or A Level

Music.


- 20 -

SUBJECT

Performing Arts: Dance

BTEC Level 2 First Award DEPARTMENT Performing Arts EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?




for?

Any students interested in studying

Dance must have a desire to perform

and be able to work co-operatively with

other students. It is important that they

are willing to perform in front of others,

like observing and evaluating

performances and are willing to accept

constructive criticism in order to

improve. Students will also be involved

in rehearsals at lunchtimes and after

school, particularly prior to assessments

and other performances. They must

understand that this course also has a

theoretical component and this must be

completed satisfactorily to achieve the

grading criteria.


The majority of the course is assessed

internally by the course tutor, allowing

students to receive feedback on their

progress throughout the course as they

complete assignments. Evidence for

assessment may be through a range of

media, such as audio-visual recordings

of performance, performance logs,

presentations or projects. One of the

compulsory units will be assessed

externally.

Students will complete two compulsory

units:

Individual Showcase; 25%

Preparation, performance and

production; 25%

A further optional unit will then be

chosen; 50%



Upon successful completion students

will have achieved a BTEC Level 2 First

Award in Performing Arts: Dance (with

GCSE equivalence). The award may

show a grade of Level 2 Pass, Level 2

Merit, Level 2 Distinction or Level 2

Distinction*. If these are not achieved a

Level 1 or Unclassified grade may be

awarded.

On successful completion of a

BTEC First qualification learners

can progress to BTEC Level 3

Nationals in Performing Arts or

A Level Dance.


- 21 -

SUBJECT

Philosophy & Ethics GCSE DEPARTMENT Social Sciences EXAM BOARD OCR


course?




for?

To be successful in this subject you will

need to:

Take an interest in humans and our

place in the universe.

Take part in debates and discussions,

giving your opinions and being able to

support them with reasons.

Have an open mind and be able and

willing to engage with those who

disagree with you.

As an academic course, which is

assessed by written exams, we would

expect all students studying the course

to have achieved at least one National

Curriculum Level 4A in Social

Sciences at KS3.

Religion is an important part of our

day-to-day lives. The questions that it

raises are some of the oldest and most

important that humanity has ever posed.

What should we do? How should we

live? Is there life after death? Does God

exist? During your religious

education we will look at these

questions, viewed from the perspective

of Hinduism and Christianity. Current

affairs will play a large role in your

GCSE as we will discuss religious

attitudes towards war, abortion and the

environment.

Philosophy & Ethics students are

well prepared for further study at

college because they have

developed their communication and

analytical thinking skills. Given the

focus on argument and debate, as

well as on sound reasoning, students

who continue to study Philosophy &

Ethics at college and university are

prepared for a broad range of

careers, particularly law, media and

politics. It is also a valuable

qualification if you want to work

with people in careers such as

teaching, journalism, catering and

leisure and tourism.




Four one hour exams.

Philosophy 1 & 2 and Ethics 1 & 2 taken

at the end of Year 11. Each exam is

worth 25%.

Successful students will achieve a

GCSE. Studying this topic will develop

your knowledge of the world we live in.

Philosophy & Ethics may challenge

beliefs that have gone unquestioned, or

support what you have always thought to

be true. It will also support the

development of your literacy and

communication skills.


- 22 -

SUBJECT

Science -

Combined Science Trilogy GCSE DEPARTMENT Science EXAM BOARD AQA


course?





This is a compulsory course, all students

who are not already studying Triple

Science will take this course.


This double AQA award is equivalent to

two GCSEs and covers much the same

content as the current core and additional

science of the old GCSEs.

Exams

Six papers: two Biology, two Chemistry

and two Physics. Each will assess

different topics.

Duration: all the papers are 1 hour 15

minutes.

Weighting: the papers are equally

weighted. Each is worth 16.7% of the

grade and has 70 marks.

Question types: multiple choice,

structured, closed, short answer and

open response.

Engaging practicals

We know that practicals are not only one

of the most engaging parts of a science

education but are also essential for

students’ understanding of scientific

theory. There are 16 compulsory

practicals.

Summary of content

Biology

Cell biology

Organisation

Infection and response

Bioenergetics

Homeostasis and response

Inheritance, variation and evolution

Ecology

Chemistry

Atomic structure and the periodic table

Bonding, structure, and the properties

of matter

Quantitative chemistry

Chemical changes

Energy changes

The rate and extent of chemical change

Organic chemistry

Chemical analysis

Chemistry of the atmosphere

Using resources

Physics

Forces

Energy

Waves

Electricity

Magnetism and electromagnetism

Particle model of matter

Atomic structure

The A* to G grades will be replaced

by 9 to 1. Combined Science will

have a 17 point grading scale.

Students will be expected to achieve

grades 9–9, 9–8 through to 5-5.


for?

Students can progress to study GCE

A Levels in Pure Sciences or

Applied Science.


- 23 -

SUBJECT

Science - Biology, Chemistry and Physics GCSE DEPARTMENT Science EXAM BOARD AQA


course?

This course is aimed at students wishing to

gain 3 GCSEs for Science. The course

enables students to further develop their

interest in science and is most suited to

students wishing to take science further

than GCSE as it provides a deeper and

broader foundation for A Level Science

studies than a Combined Science GCSE.


There will be two exam papers for each

subject - Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Each paper will assess knowledge and

understanding from different topics. The

questions will use clearer and simpler

language to assess students only on their

scientific ability. All papers are 1 hour 45

minutes. Question types are: multiple

choice, structured, closed short answer and

open response.

Biology

Two papers: Each is worth 50% of the

grade and has 100 marks available.

What’s assessed?

Paper 1: Cell biology; Organisation;

Infection and response and Bioenergetics.

Paper 2: Homeostasis and response;

Inheritance, variation and evolution and

Ecology.

Chemistry



What’s assessed?

Paper 1: Atomic structure and the periodic

table; Bonding, structure and the properties

of matter; Quantitative chemistry;

Chemical changes and Energy changes.

Paper 2: The rate and extent of chemical

change; Organic chemistry; Chemical

analysis, Chemistry of the atmosphere and

Using resources.

Physics



What’s assessed?

Paper 1: Energy; Electricity; Particle

model of matter and Atomic structure.

Paper 2: Forces; Waves; Magnetism and

electromagnetism and Space Physics.



Biology

Cell biology

Organisation

Infection and response

Bioenergetics

Homeostasis and response

Inheritance, variation and evolution

Ecology

Chemistry

Atomic structure and the periodic table

Bonding, structure and the properties

of matter

Quantitative chemistry

Chemical changes

Energy changes

The rate and extent of chemical change

Organic chemistry

Chemical analysis

Chemistry of the atmosphere

Using resources

Physics

Forces

Energy

Waves

Electricity

Magnetism and electromagnetism

Particle model of matter

Atomic structure

Space Physics



The A* to G grades will be replaced

by 9 to 1 for Biology, Chemistry

and Physics. Students will be

expected to achieve grades 9–5 in

each subject.


for?

Students can progress to study GCE

A Levels in Pure Sciences or other

Level 3 qualifications in Science

which will enable them to read

science degrees in STEM subjects.


- 24 -

SUBJECT

Sport BTEC Level 2 First Award DEPARTMENT Performing Arts EXAM BOARD Edexcel


course?




for?

Potential students should have a keen

interest in physical activity. Although

some of the course units are practical

they should understand that the course

has a high theory content. Excellent

attendance and behaviour are essential if

students are to meet and complete the

assessment criteria for this

qualification. The course provides a

suitable foundation for further

vocational study within the Sport and

Leisure industry or continuing to study

Physical Education at Advanced Level

within the College.


The majority of the course is assessed

internally by the course tutor, allowing

students to receive feedback on their

progress throughout the course as they

complete assignments. Evidence for

assessment may be through a range of

media, such as performance logs,

presentations, vocational projects or

written work. One of the compulsory

units will be assessed externally.

Students will complete two compulsory

units:

Health and fitness for sport and

exercise; 25%.

Practical sports performance; 25%.

A further two optional units will then be

covered; 50%.These will be selected

from topics such as the psychology of

sports performance, leadership, training

for excellence and voluntary projects.



Upon successful completion students

will have achieved a BTEC Level 2 First

Award in Sport (with GCSE

equivalence).

On successful completion of a

BTEC First qualification learners

can progress to NVQs, Coaching,

Instructing or A Level Physical

Education. The qualification will

enable learners to develop their

knowledge, understanding and skills

to enable progression within

specific areas of employment such

as exercise and fitness leadership.


Contact

Dartford Science and Technology College

Heath Lane

Dartford

Kent DA1 3NE

Telephone 01322 224309

Email [email protected]

Website www.dstc.kent.sch.uk

Pathway Options 2016 - Dartford Science & Technology · PDF file · 2016-02-1119...

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