SIXTH FORM Course Choices 2013ADVANCED COURSES Course Requirements Entry requirements – students...

SIXTH FORM Course Choices

2013

ADVANCED COURSES

Course Requirements Entry requirements – students need to achieve a minimum of five GCSE grades at A* to C (some subjects require a grade B or higher) .

Please note: All courses are currently planned for September 2013. Minor changes may be made later this year as a result of student demand and staffing. Some courses will run as part of our twilight sessions which are scheduled to end at 4.30 and this will be confirmed once time-tabling has been undertaken. Courses with insufficient demand may not be offered in Year 12. The same applies to A2 courses in Year 13 for 2013 and 2014.

THE SIXTH FORM

COURSE OFFER – SEPTEMBER 2013

Year 12 AS level courses or level 3 courses (Year 1) leading to Y13 A2 level courses or continuation of level 3 (Year 2)

Applied (Forensic) Science ** Art & Design Biology Business Studies AS Business Studies BTEC ** Chemistry Design & Technology Drama & Theatre Studies English Language and Lit. Fine Art French Further Maths Geography Graphic Design Government & Politics

Health & Social Care ** History ICT Single Award ICT BTEC National Law Mathematics Media Studies Music Philosophy & Ethics (RS) Photography ** Physics Psychology Sociology ** Spanish Sport Level 3

** these courses run as a consortia offer and will be taught at Bushey Academy **

Applied (Forensic) Science

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com Syllabus Number: 500/6673/0

Course Requirements 4 Grades at C or above Who to see? email: thebusheyacademy.org

Topics Covered The course is studied over a two year period. To complete the course, students study six units. The first three core units are: Fundamentals of Science: the aim of this unit is to be able to communicate scientific information. Working in the Science Industry: this unit provides an opportunity for learners to explore science in the workplace. Scientific Practical Techniques: the aim of this unit is to allow students to develop scientific enquiry skills, to carry out scientific investigations and to interpret and evaluate results achieved. Students then study a further three units of work: Genetics & Genetic Engineering & Forensic Evidence. The final unit will be one of the following three:

Criminology Forensic Photography Criminal Psychology

Key Features

This course is a 2 year, double option qualification worth 120 credits.

Art & Design Applied

Double Award Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/art/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features The course is both active and enjoyable and ideal for someone with a keen interest in both art and design and who has made a commitment to further study.

Students will develop skills, knowledge and understanding of art and design and gain confidence in

independent learning They will be following a course that enables progression to both higher

education and employment

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete six units The units are listed bellow. 2D visual language 3D Visual Language Historical and contextual referencing Working to set briefs Visual communication and meaning Professional practice

Course Requirements 5 grade C GCSEs including a good C grade at GCSE Art, but this is not essential if an adequate portfolio of artwork is shown.

Who to see? Mr Heywood Email: [email protected]

Biology AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/science/biology

Key Features How to collect data and evaluate it How to investigate facts • How to put over your point of view effectively

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units. Unit 1: Biology and disease This topic looks at the fundamentals of biology and how this is applied to diseases that affect our every day lives such as lung and heart disease. Unit 2 : The variety of living organisms This topic looks at variety and the causes of variety within living organisms. Unit 3: A practical assignment designed to sharpen your investigative skills.

Course Requirements For A-level Biology you will need to have at least a B in Additional Science (Sets 1 – 2).

Who to see? Miss Greenwood Email: [email protected]

Business Studies

AS Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/business/business_materials.php?id=05&prev=05

Key Features You will get the chance to gain a critical understanding of the functions and

decision making within a business You will develop skills in research and information organisation You will gain confidence in presenting arguments and making judgements on

topical issues

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units. Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business: 40% of the AS: This unit introduces you to the entrepreneur and business start up. It will consider the legal ownership, entrepreneurial skills and characteristics, finance, marketing and the importance of business planning. Unit 2 – Managing a Business: 60% of the AS: Taking the start up to the next level, this unit will consider the effective management of the business as it begins to expand and grow. It will look more closely at the different departmental functions and how they work together to achieve the aims of the business.

Course Requirements You will need five GCSEs at grade C or above, to include English and Maths. You should have an interest in topical issues and enjoy reading news reports as well as following television documentaries on business issues, such as The Money Programme and The Apprentice.

Who to see? Mrs E Pinkus Email: [email protected]

Business Studies

BTEC Level 3 Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com

Course Requirements 4 Grades at C or above

Who to see? email: thebusheyacademy.org

Topics Covered The four mandatory units are The Business Environment: This unit considers the purposes of different organisations and the influence of stakeholders, as well as how businesses organise themselves through strategic planning and organisational structures. Business Resources: Students will learn about the range of resources used by business including human, physical, technological and financial resources. Introduction to Marketing: This unit introduces learners to the role of marketing, research and planning and the marketing mix. Business communication: Learners will consider the role of information and communication in the running of a successful business. The optional units will include units from the following pathways: Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, Management, Law, Administration, Retail and General Options.

Key Features This course is a 2 year, double option qualification worth 120 credits. There are 4 mandatory and 8 optional units.

Chemistry AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/science/chemistry_overview.php?id=03&prev=

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units. Unit 1: Foundation Chemistry. Students will be able to: Explain the arrangement of subatomic particles within an atoms and how they contribute

to the atoms characteristics. Explain the nature of bonding between atoms and the types of bonding that occur. Write and balance chemical equations. Unit 2 : Chemistry in Action Students will be able to: Understand Hess’s Law and use this to calculate the enthalpy changes in certain

reactions. Understand the idea of Equilibrium and how changing the conditions of a reaction can

effect an equilibrium constant. Identify Redox reactions and write half equations by identifying elements oxidation states. Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills. Very similar in style to GCSE ISAs, you are now required to focus more on the data you collect including analysis and calculation of error margins, as well as consider the theory behind the practical.

Course Requirements Grade B in GCSE Core and Additional Science. GCSE Grade B in Maths. However, grade C students are accepted if you gain B grades in your Chemistry Additional exam papers.

Who to see? Miss Lee Email: [email protected]

Key Features The course places the subject firmly in a range of contemporary contexts. It introduces students to new areas of chemistry such as nanotechnology

and new analytical techniques (Mass Spectrometry, Infra-red Spectroscopy, for example)

You will acquire a set of experimental analytical techniques which you can use and adapt throughout any career in science.

Design & Technology:

Product Design Full specification is available at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/dt/product_design/index.html

Key Features You will develop your creativity with a focus on innovative design. You will learn about the real world of design and product manufacture. You can specialise in graphics, textiles or resistant materials (inc. electronics). You will develop your making skills through a range of modelling, trialling

and prototype work.

Topics Covered

To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units.

Unit 1: F521: Innovation Challenge – This will test your creativity and ability to present ideas through sketches and models. It is a timed design challenge based on a pre-released theme, under examination conditions, consisting of a design and modelling exercise and a written reflection paper. Unit 2: F522: Product Study (coursework project) – This is an individual project where you select an existing product and explore possibilities for improving it. You will produce a design portfolio that reflects your creativity and make an improved version of the chosen product.

Course Requirements: A minimum of at least a C grade in both Design & Technology Maths and English. It would be advisable if you have an interest in designing and making and a talent for creativity.

Who to see? Mr Chalkley, Ms Freeman or Mr Ashter Email: [email protected]

Drama and Theatre Studies

AS Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/drama/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features A practical approach to AS-level study A chance to develop creative and analytical study skills as well as

developing your ability to work independently or as part of team An opportunity to develop cultural awareness through the study of

different plays, genres and styles.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units. Unit 1: Drama Exploration. A study of two published plays. Recently studied plays have included ‘Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me’ and ‘The Insect Play.’ Plays are studied from a practical point of view. Your work in class will be supported by a series of exploration notes. Unit 2 : Plays in Performance. You will be part of a company working towards a production of a published play. This will be teacher directed. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to perform either a monologue or a duologue from another published play. Alternatively this unit can be used to explore lighting, sound, costume, set design, props, make-up or mask design.

Course Requirements In addition to the standard school requirements, it would be advantageous to have a C grade or higher in GCSE Drama or at least a Pass grade in BTEC Performing Arts. The main requirement is your passion for the theatre and a commitment to the subject.

Who to see? Mr G Knowles Email: [email protected]

English Language and Literature AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/GCE - follow links to English Language and Literature

Key Features You’ll produce your own creative writing pieces You’ll encounter many kinds of texts - spoken and written; literary and

non-literary… ...and learn how to explore these texts creatively and analytically.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units. Unit 1: Exploring Voices in Speech and Writing: This unit analyses speech and the creation of voice in a wide range of situations from spontaneous conversation to the construction of voice in literature. Students will be assessed though a 2 hour 15 minute examination involving several questions on unseen materials and a single question on a studied literature text. Unit 2 : Creating Texts: This unit is a creative writing unit, entirely coursework based. We begin reading a shared text (‘The Collector’ by John Fowles) and continue with wider reading of short stories, poems and other texts. This leads to our own creative writing - based on a theme of entrapment.

Course Requirements You will need at least a C in English and English Literature at GCSE, although grades B and above are preferable. A love of reading (of any kind of text), an analytical mind and a willingness to discuss and debate are all desirable qualities.

Who to see? Mr M. Dawson Email: [email protected]

Fine Art AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/art/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features Students will develop their knowledge and skills with materials, practices and technology within art. They will also develop their imaginative and creative powers. Students will develop skills in interpreting and conveying ideas and feelings.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units. Unit 1: (60%) You will learn how to use visual language and practices to express your ideas as well as discover how to work from a

given theme. Unit 2 : (40%) An externally set assignment. A question paper will be set at the beginning of the Autumn term.



French Language AS

Full specification is available at: http://store.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2650-2660-2695-W-SP.PDF

Key Features You will become much more fluent and able to discover the culture and history of the target language country Your chances of employment will rise considerably

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units. Unit 1: Comprised of the reading, listening and writing aspects whereby you demonstrate the content and knowledge acquired over the Year 12 period. Subjects included are Popular Culture, Media, Family and Health. Unit 2 : The oral exam: this covers the same topics as Unit One but you may prepare one topic of your choice. There is a report card with questions covering another topic and you must then discuss the remaining two topics with your examiner (normally one of the class teachers)

Course Requirements You will need at least a high B, preferably an A/A* in order to continue to AS Level

Who to see? Mrs Dawson Email: [email protected]

Further Maths AS

Full specification is available at: www.ocr.org.uk/download/kd/ocr_10096_kd_l_gce_spec.pdf

Key Features Developing an ability to reason logically and to construct mathematical

proofs Recognising how a problem can be represented mathematically Increasing an awareness of coherence and progression in

Mathematics.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units. Further Pure 1: Summation of series, Mathematical induction, Polynomial equations, Complex numbers, Matrices. Mechanics 2 : Centre of mass, Equilibrium of a rigid body, Motion of a projectile, Uniform motion in a circle, Coefficient of restitution and impulse, Energy, work and power. Mechanics 3: Equilibrium of rigid bodies in contact, Elastic strings and springs, Impulse and momentum in two dimensions, Motion in a vertical circle, Variable forces, S.H.M.

Course Requirements You will need to have achieved A* or A in GCSE Mathematics and be studying Mathematics AS level.

Who to see? Mr. G. King Email: Graham. [email protected]

Geography AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/geography/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features You will get the chance to experience learning outside the classroom

with fieldwork opportunities You will learn geographical theories and case study examples of the

topics covered. You will also learn how to interpret and analyse various data sets.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units.

Unit 1: Global challenges This unit looks at challenges humans may face in the future. The

impacts of geophysical hazards and global warming are the physical units studied while globalisation and population change is the main focus for the human element.

Unit 2 : Geographical Investigations This unit looks at the challenge of managing coastal areas and how

places can rebrand themselves. This unit requires students to take part in fieldwork studies which entails a residential trip to a coastal zone to study the processes learnt in class.

Course Requirements You do not necessarily need to have studied Geography at GCSE however it is recommended that you have achieved a B grade or above in either Geography or one of the other humanities if you wish to succeed at A Level.

Who to see? Ms Fricker Email: [email protected]

Government and Politics

AS Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/gov/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features This A Level will encourage interest in and enthusiasm for the study of Government and Politics and will enable students to develop an insight into political beliefs central to an understanding of the modern world. With an emphasis on contemporary political issues, British politics is the focus in the first year before students have the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of aspects of the United States political system in the second year. A variety of modes of assessment will be used, including short-answer questions, stimulus response, extended writing and essays. Students will have a choice of questions within the examinations for each unit. There is no coursework. Students will develop the skills required to analyse conflicting political viewpoints, including the extent of rivalry between these viewpoints. Debate and discussion is one way this is achieved.

Topics Covered Unit 1 – People and Politics

Democracy and Political Participation Elections (including reform) Party Policies and Ideas Pressure Groups

Unit 2 – Governing the UK

The Prime Minister and Cabinet Parliament Constitution (including reform) Judges and Civil Liberties

Course Requirements

A grade C at GCSE English Language is normally required, but no previous experience of Politics is nec-essary – very few students have studied this subject at school. However, enthusiasm and willingness to learn are essential.

Who to see? Mr Arnold Email: [email protected]

Unit 3C – Representative Processes in the USA Elections and voting Political parties Pressure groups Racial and ethnic politics Unit 4C – Governing the USA The Constitution The Supreme Court Congress Presidency

Graphic Design AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/art/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features Students will explore the way Graphic Design reflects and influences contemporary tastes and styles and has connections to the wider historical context of Art and Design. Work is developed using a range of techniques and processes including

computer assisted graphics. Students will produce work that has visual clarity, impact, originality and a high

standard of technical finish as well as fulfilling its specific function (usually predetermined by a design brief).

The course involves an in-depth exploration of the nature and function of graphic design. Work produced at this level needs to have visual clarity, impact, originality and a high standard of technical finish., as well as fulfilling its specific function (usually predetermined by a design brief).

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units. Unit 1: (60%) You will learn how to use visual language and practices to express your ideas, also how to work from a given design brief.

Unit 2 : (40%) An externally set assignment will be issued at the beginning of the Autumn term.



Health and Social Care AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/hpsc/hsc/index.html

Key Features You will acquire knowledge and understanding of health, early years care and education and issues affecting the health and social care sector. You will develop skills that will enable you to make an effective contribution to the care sector including skills or research, evaluation and problem solving in a work related context.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units.

Unit 1: Promoting Quality Care– examined based unit that covers attitudes and prejudices, rights and responsibilities of people who use services and providers, access to services and values of care

Unit 2 : Communication in Care Settings– portfolio based unit which covers the different types of communication, skills used to communicate and factors that can support and inhibit communication.

Unit 3 : Promoting good health– portfolio based unit which covers principles of health, preventative measures and the planning and delivery of a health campaign.

Course Requirements Students should have achieved a C grade or above in GCSE English. GCSE Health and Social Care is an advantage but is not mandatory. This course would benefit those students who have a desire to work in health, social care or early years services.

Who to see? Miss L Williams Email: [email protected]

History AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/hss/history_a/

Key Features The History AS level investigates the changing fortunes of 20th Century Europe focusing on

democratic Britain and Fascist Germany.

You will develop skills such as interpretation, comparison, analysis, synthesis and communication.

A qualification in history shows you have the ability to communicate effectively, an awareness of the world in which we live and the events and personalities which have helped create it.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units. Unit 1: Germany 1933-63: From Democracy to Dictatorship and back again. Why did the German people vote for a man who openly stated he would destroy democracy? Could a man who woke up around lunchtime, spent the afternoon reading the papers and his evenings watching films really be an all powerful dictator who caused the Second World War and killed 6 million people? Why was Germany split in two after the war? Which side would you have preferred to live in? Unit 2 : Britain: Foreign and Imperial Policies 1945-90 How has Britain dealt with the decline of its Great Power status? Why are we no longer a world Superpower? Are the French correct when they say the British always believe the Channel is wider than the Atlantic? Maggie Thatcher—Hero or Villain?

Course Requirements You will need at least a C grade if you have completed History GCSE, however a B or above is highly recommended. If you have not studied History GCSE then you will need to have at least 5 A-B’s.

Who to see? Mr Young Email: [email protected]

Information and Communication Technology AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/app-gce/app-ict/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features

You will be studying and using computers in a range of situations You will be using a wide variety of software and extending the skills that you will use after

you leave school You will learn how to create and produce e-books and flash animation.

You wont have to hand in any written work, you will learn how to be creative with e– media.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units. Unit 1: Life in the information age. Research and report, using an interactive creative e-book, what life is like in the 21st century to be communicated to a reader in a 100 years time! Unit 2 : The Digital economy. Become an ebusiness expert. Learn about ecommence and what happens behind the scenes of a transactional website. Unit 3 : The knowledge worker. Become a worker of knowledge in the 21st cen-tury and demonstrate, under examination conditions, that you can turn data into valuable information.

Course Requirements You will need at least 5 A* - Cs at GCSE, one of which MUST include either a B grade at GCSE in ICT OR a Merit Grade in BTEC First for IT practitioners.

Who to see? Ms L Heartfield Email: [email protected]

Information & Communication

Technology BTEC National Certificate

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nat/IT-comp/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features You will be studying and using computers in a range of situations You will be using a wide variety of software and extending the skills that you will use after

you leave school You will gain the equivalent of 2 A levels by the end of the two year course

You wont have to hand in any written work or take any examinations but you will complete 12 pieces of coursework over two years, to a high standard and on time.

Topics Covered There are twelve units of study in this two year course. The qualification consists of four core units and eight specialist units which might, for example, include: Human Computer Interaction Website production & management Digital graphics & computers Advanced Database skills E-commerce Computer animation Advanced Spreadsheets skills Advanced Database skills

Course Requirements You will need at least 5 A* - Cs at GCSE, one of which MUST include either a B grade at GCSE in ICT OR a Merit Grade in BTEC First for IT practitioners.

Who to see? Ms L Heartfield Email: [email protected]

Law AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/business/law_overview.php

Key Features

You’ll get the chance to explore who makes the laws, and why, and to study in depth two key areas of law.. Through discussion, problem solving, visits and writing, your skills in

analysis, recall and evaluation will be developed You have the chance to study a relevant, dynamic and interesting subject..

Topics Covered

To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units, both of which are assessed by an exam Unit 1: Law making and the legal system, such as the use of juries, lawyers and judges. The questions will be short essay style answers. Unit 2 : Criminal Liability, including non-fatal offences against the person and Negligence Liability. The questions will be based upon two scenarios.

Course Requirements You will need 5 GCSEs of ‘C’ or above and at least a B in English Language. A questioning, lively person, who is interested in current affairs, would be ideal. .

Who to see? Ms S Knowles Email: [email protected]

Mathematics AS

Full specification is available at: www.ocr.org.uk/download/kd/ocr_10096_kd_l_gce_spec.pdf

Key Features Extend your range of Mathematical skills and techniques Develop your understanding of Mathematics in a way that promotes confi-

dence and enjoyment Increase your awareness of the relevance of Mathematics to other fields of

study

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units. Core 1: Indices and surds, Co-ordinate geometry, Polynomials, Graphs, Differentiation. Core 2: Trigonometry, Sequences and series, Algebra, Integration. Probability and Statistics 1: Representation of data, Probability, Discrete random variables, Bivariate data

Course Requirements You will require at least a grade B in GCSE Mathematics to start this course and, an average GCSE points score of 6.0 (average GCSE B Grade across all your subjects). AS Mathematics supports a number of other A Level subjects, particu-larly Physics, Biology, Psychology, Economics and Geography.

Who to see? Mr. G. King Email: Graham. [email protected]

Media Studies AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/arts/media_materials.php?id=06&prev=06

Key Features You will explore a variety of media products across three main media

platforms: Moving image, Print & E-Media. You will acquire a set of analytical skills that will help you understand and

interpret media products. You will develop practical skills in video production / editing and graphics

design.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units.

Unit 1: Investigating Media: 50% of AS. Two hour written exam. This unit explores the theory of media production across the three media platforms, exploring the concepts of Media Language, Ideology, Audience, Genre, Narrative, Representation & Institution by close analysis of a variety of media texts.

Unit 2 : Creating Media: 50% of As. Practical Production Coursework. This unit allows students to apply the theoretical concepts learned in unit one to the practical production of media products by responding to externally set design briefs which require the production of two linked products e.g. a film trailer plus contrast-ing magazine articles/ reviews.

Course Requirements You will need at least a C in English, preferably a B or above. It would be desirable if you have a love of Film and T.V. and an interest in developing creative practical skills. It is not a requirement that you can draw, but some creative ideas and aesthetic interest will be an advantage, combined with sound writing ability.

Who to see? Mr. I. English Email: [email protected]

Music Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Music (Performing)

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/BTEC

Key Features This course allows you to study music as a practical, intellectual and

creative subject. As well as performance-related core units, there are specialist pathways

to allow focus on a wide variety of performing techniques, styles and genres.

Topics Covered There are 6 Units in total. There is one core unit and a choice from two specialist units - to be taken by everyone, and four further units - selected from the optional units list. Core Unit: Music Performance Techniques

Specialist Units: Solo Music Performance Skills Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble

Optional Units including: improvisation, modern music, music theatre, pop music, singing, listening and further performance in a group

Course Requirements You will need to be a good and confident performer with a sound knowledge of your instrument. You will hopefully have studied Music at GCSE level, but this is not essential. You must have a keen interest in music and a real commitment to the subject, particularly to performance and the practice required.

Who to see? Mrs E Lavelle Email: [email protected]

Philosophy and Ethics AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/rs/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features: It will enable students to develop insights into areas of knowledge, belief and

thought central to an understanding of the modern world. Through a study of philosophy, ethics and the world’s major religions,

students will be equipped with a range of knowledge and skills which will help them to make sense of contemporary events.

To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units: Unit 1: Foundations: A study of philosophical arguments about the existence of God: Design and Cosmological. Non-existence of God and critiques of religious belief. A study of selected problems in the philosophy of religion: Problems of evil and suffering, different types of problems and solutions. A study of philosophical debates about miracles: concepts of miracle; reasons people believe in miracles. A study of ethical concepts: The relationship between religion and morality, Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics and War and Peace. A study of ethical dilemmas: Issues of war and peace. Unit 2 : Investigations: Investigating the Sanctity of Life in relation to Genetic Engineering and ethical concepts.

Course Requirements: You will need 5 A-C GCSE examinations, in subjects such as Maths, English, Sci-ence and any Humanities subject. It would be desirable if you have a love of de-bating, reading and watching controversial TV programmes and movies.

Who to see? Mrs S A Moore Email: [email protected]

Photography AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/arts.php?id=06&prev=05

Key Features Students will complete two projects over the course of the year. One will be coursework based and the other is set from the exam board. Each project is worth 50% of the final grade. Students are required to present their units with a portfolio of images relating to the theme.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units. Unit 1: Consists of a landscape and portrait element; students will develop these themes into projects around their tastes and interests Unit 2 – This is the exam unit, it follows the same format; however the final piece is under controlled exam conditions.

Course Requirements You will need at least a C in Art & Design, Graphics or Media Photography has a lot of coursework and it is important that any student allows for the demand on their time.

Who to see? Ms Belinda Bean Email: [email protected]

Physics AS

Full specification is available at: http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/science/physics-a-materials.php

Key Features The course places the subject firmly in a range of contemporary

contexts. It introduces students to new and exciting areas of physics such as

particles and new particles. You will acquire a set of experimental analytical techniques you can

use and adapt throughout any career in science.

Topics Covered

Course Requirements Grade B in GCSE Core and Additional Science or GCSE Physics. Student will need to have achieved a grade B or above in GCSE Mathematics. Studying Mathematics AS is not required although is preferable.

Who to see? Mr V Gami Email: [email protected]

To achieve the AS award you need to complete 3 units.

Unit 1: This unit involves two contrasting topics in physics: particle physics and electricity. Through the study of these topics, students should gain an awareness the on-going development of new ideas in physics and of the application of in-depth knowledge of well-established topics as electricity. Particle physics introduces students to the fundamental properties and nature of matter, radiation and quantum phenomena. In contrast, the study of electricity in this module builds on and develops previous GCSE studies and provides opportunities for practical work and looks into important applications.

Unit 2 : This AS unit is about the principles and applications of mechanics, materials and waves. The first section introduces vectors and then develops knowledge and understanding of forces and energy from GCSE Additional Science. In the second section, materials are studied in terms of their bulk properties and tensile strength. The final section extends GCSE studies on waves by developing in-depth knowledge of the characteristics, properties and applications of waves, including refraction, diffraction, superposition and interference.

Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills in AS Physics.

Psychology AS

Full specification is available at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/type/gce/hss/psychology/index.html

Key Features You will learn about some of the most famous psychology experiments that have taken

place.

You will learn that there is no one solution to the problems psychology poses

You will learn how psychology can inform our views about human experience and action

You will learn how to look at the impact of psychology on everyday life

It will give you a deeper understanding of your own behaviour and those around you.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete two units. Unit 1:Psychological investigations: you will study the different methods psychologists use to investigate human behaviour and conduct four investigations. This will be assessed in a 1 hour examination. Unit 2 :Core studies : where you will study 15 core studies, which are either classics in psychology or studies that raise interesting debates and issues in psychology. This will be assessed in a 2 hour examination. These two papers are equal to 50% of the final A2 grade Course Requirements Five GCSEs at C or above - GCSE Psychology is NOT a requirement

Who to see? Mrs S Lawrence Insert name Email: [email protected]

Sociology AS

Full specification is available at: http://store.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2190-W-SP.PDF

Key Features You will develop critical and reflective skills, vital for HE and working life. You will develop understanding and respect for differences between people. You will acquire a much greater awareness of the social processes and

social changes that affect everyday lives e.g. the impact of poverty on educational achievement.

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units Unit 1: Families and Households This unit covers the relationship of the family to the society including: • changing patterns of marriage, cohabitation, separation, divorce, child bearing and the diversity of contemporary family, the nature and extent of changes within the family and changes in the status of children in the family and society and demographic trends in the UK since 1900 includ-ing reasons for changes in birth rates, death rates and family size. Unit 2 : Education This unit covers the role and purpose of education, including vocational education and training, in contemporary society, differential educational achievement of social groups by social class, gender and ethnicity in contemporary society and the relationships and processes within schools, e.g. teacher/pupil relationships, pupil subculture and the organisation of teaching and learning.

Course Requirements You will need to have at least a grade C in English Language to take this course as well as the enthusiasm, drive and ability to discover new forms of learning. An interest in the world around you and social issues relevant to everyday life will enable you to immediately engage with the topics.

Who to see? Mrs W Verity Email: [email protected]

Spanish Language AS

Full specification is available at: http://store.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/pdf/AQA-2650-2660-2695-W-SP.PDF

Key Features You will become much more fluent and able to discover the culture and history of the target language country Your chances of employment will rise considerably

Topics Covered To achieve the AS award you need to complete 2 units. Unit 1: Comprised of the reading, listening and writing aspects whereby you demonstrate the content and knowledge acquired over the Year 12 period. Subjects included are Popular Culture, Media, Family and Health. Unit 2 : The oral exam: this covers the same topics as Unit One but you may prepare one topic of your choice. There is a report card with questions covering another topic and you must then discuss the remaining two topics with your examiner (normally one of the class teachers)

Course Requirements You will need at least a high B, preferably an A/A* in order to continue to AS level

Who to see? Mrs Dawson [email protected]

BTEC Level 3 Sport

Full specification is available at: http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nat/sport/sport/Pages/default.aspx

Key Features Designed to provide work-related qualifications in the sporting sector Range of areas of sporting theory taught in an active, learning

environment including coaching, exercise and fitness and practical sport No examinations—whole course consists of ongoing coursework and

assignments

Topics Covered To achieve the Level 3 Certificate in Sport (equivalent to 1 AS Level) you need to complete 4 units. Unit 1: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport Unit 2 : The Physiology of Fitness Unit 3 : Assessing Risk in Sport Unit 7 : Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise To achieve the Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (equivalent to an A Level ) you need to complete a further 3 units. Unit 5 : Sports Coaching Unit 8 : Practical team Sports Unit 14 : Exercise, Health and Lifestyle

Course Requirements A minimum of a C grade at GCSE PE or a Merit at BTEC Level 2 Sport is desirable. Those who have not followed a sports course as a Key Stage 4 option but have achieved 5 Grade Cs or equivalent are welcome to apply. A genuine interest in sport is essential.

Who to see? Mr A Cartledge HEAD OF PE and HEALTH FACULTY Email: [email protected]

I am delighted to inform you we have just received our performance analysis at A level from the ‘A Level Performance Systems’ analysis organisation, and I quote from the report below:

“We have completed our analysis of A level performance at Bushey Meads School for 2011. It is with great pleasure that we recognise that Bushey Meads’ results match the top 25% nationally over three years. In 2011 your A level results were among the top 10% of schools nationally”.

Keith Douglas Headteacher

Bushey Meads School Coldharbour Lane, Bushey, Herts WD23 4PA

Tel: 020 8950 3000 Fax: 020 8950 6208 Email [email protected]

www.busheymeads.herts.sch.uk

SIXTH FORM Course Choices 2013ADVANCED COURSES Course Requirements Entry requirements – students...

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