Sixth Form Curriculum: Subjects 2015-16

Sixth Form Curriculum

Subjects 2015-16

Contents

Please Note: Due to forthcoming changes at A Level, current course information is subject to change

for 2015 entry onwards. This will be published as soon as more information is available.

Page No.

Art & Design 5

Biology 7

Business and Management 12

Chemistry 15

Classics 18

Design Technology 22

Economics 26

English 29

Food, Nutrition and Health 33

French 36

Geography 39

German 43

Government and Politics 47

History 51

Mathematics 54

Music 58

Philosophy, Theology and RE 61

Physics 64

Psychology 68

Sixth Form Enrichment 70

Spanish 72

Sport Science 76

Theatre Studies 80

Careers Information 82

Extension Classes in the Upper 6th 85 - 114

Art & Design

Head of Department: Mr K Yearsley

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3212

Students work in three main specialist areas in the Art and Design Department. These are Painting,

Textiles and Ceramics.

At all levels, as a Department, we are aiming for all students to be expected to demonstrate a response

to all of the following:

Record observations, experiences, ideas, information and insights in visual and other forms

appropriate to intentions.

Analyse and evaluate critically sources such as images, objects, artefacts and texts,

showing understanding of purposes, meaning and contexts.

Develop ideas through sustained investigations and exploration.

Present a personal, coherent and informed response, realising intentions, and articulating /

explaining connections with the work of others.

At the core of all work within the Department, drawing from primary source plays a key role as a

starting point for all projects.

We encourage work in mixed media, experimental ideas and students who show personal initiative and

translation of media and ideas.

Co-Curricular Activities Students studying Art and Design have the opportunity to become in a variety of C0-curricular

activities, these include students helping with set designs, posters etc. for School Drama Productions.

The Department also invite practising Artists/past students to visit to deliver workshops and

demonstrate techniques. There is also Life Drawing Class for Sixth Form Students.

There are a number of trips outside School also organised by the Department - each year group has

the opportunity to go on one visit per academic year. Visits are made to Galleries, Museums,

Collections, Design Studios, Workshops etc. where and when appropriate to the studies. A variety of

specialist Art Clubs are run for each year group.

The Department has close links with local Junior Schools and Sixth Formers have the chance to work

with these groups of younger children.

In the Summer Term the Department holds an Annual Art Exhibition of all GCSE, AS and A2 work

which is open to parents, staff and students.

Course Entry requirements Candidates are required to obtain a minimum Grade B and preferably A or A* at GCSE level.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details

This course is designed to encourage students to:

• develop the interest of, and enjoyment in, the study of art and design, fostering its value in

lifelong learning • develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences environments and cultures

• work from their own strengths and interests within the remit of the specification.

• to develop personal responses to ideas, observations, experiences, environments and cultures

• to allow students and teachers to work from their strengths

• embark upon further study of Art and Design or related subjects in Higher Education

The department aims to enhance:

a) Intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive powers.

b) Investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills, aesthetic

understanding and critical judgement.

c) An understanding of the interrelationships between art, craft and design and awareness of the

contexts in which they operate.

d) Knowledge and understanding of art, craft and design in contemporary society and in other

times and cultures.

Career/HE opportunities

Students may apply via direct entry for the following degree courses:

Architecture; Art History; Product Design; Film/Animation OR Foundation Course:

1 year course covering a range of skills – eventually applying for a degree course in a wide variety of

specialist areas e.g. Fine Art, Graphics, 3D design, Textiles, Interior Design etc.

Art and Design AS Level

Content of course:

Coursework:

Students are required to work in at least two areas of art, craft and design. They may explore

overlapping areas and combination of areas.

Fine Art - drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture

Textiles - printed fabrics, domestic textiles, constructed textiles, fashion

Three Dimensional Design - ceramics, sculpture

Photography

Unit 1: ARTA1

Coursework Portfolio

50% of AS, 25% of A Level

No time limit

80 marks

Portfolio of work set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA

Available in June only

Unit 2: ARTA2

AS Externally Set Assignment

50% of AS, 25% of A Level

Supervised time 5 hours

80 marks

Work produced will be marked by the centre and moderated by AQA

Available in June only.

Art and Design A2 Level

A2 Examinations

Content of Course Unit 3: ARTA3

Personal Investigation

25% of A Level

No time limit

80 marks

Personal investigation supported by written element of 1000-3000 words, set and marked at the centre

and moderated by AQA


Unit 4 - ARTA4

A2 Externally Set Assignment

25% of A Level

Supervised time 15 hours

80 marks

Work produced will be marked by the centre and moderated by AQA


Coursework: - Candidates are required to submit a coursework unit in the specified area of study. (see

AS level)

Art and Design Extension Classes The aim of the Art and Design Extension Class is:

to foster and interest in and enthusiasm for the subject beyond the set weekly lessons;

to help further develop the talents of students showing high potential;

to help students considering applying to study Art and Design at University with the practical skills and

wider reading experience needed for success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field.

More information is available from the Head of Department

mailto:mailto@[email protected]

Biology

Head of Department: Mr Jonathan Hedwat

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3250

Twitter: @Biology_CHS

The Biology Department is staffed by six teachers and two technicians. We have a wide range of

experience including examining, training and moderating for examination boards. Our philosophy

includes the aim to use a variety of teaching and learning styles to involve and cater for all students.

We try to use practical work and other kinesthetic exercises as much as possible in order to reinforce

the idea that scientific knowledge can only progress with experimentation to test hypotheses. We are

well resourced and offer students relevant and modern practical work such as DNA extraction,

restriction enzyme analysis, PCR and gel electrophoresis.

Co-Curricular Activities

The Department runs its own Society (more details of which can be found on the co-curricular pages).

Outside speakers are invited into School to talk to Sixth Form students on specialist topics. We also

organise evening lectures and workshops for our Sixth form students throughout the year.

In order to address the requirements of A2 Unit 4 Populations and environment, students will complete

a four day residential field course at one of the Field Studies Council Centres across the country. These

are staffed and run by experienced ecologists with excellent local knowledge. This field course is

normally in October of the Upper Sixth year. In previous years the trip has been to North Wales where

students have studied coastal ecology.

Entry requirements: A minimum GCSE Grade A for Single Science Biology or AA in Co-ordinated Science.

Exam Board: AQA

Course Details The AQA specification is designed to fulfil the QCA criteria and provide logical progression from the International GCSE

specification. The emphasis is on the application of knowledge; for example the first unit looks at disease

of digestive and circulatory systems which are major health issues in the United Kingdom. In order to

understand the subject better, and to enable you to make valid judgments, you need information on

disease causing organisms, the physiology of these systems, and the principles of immunity by which

the body naturally defends itself. Therefore topics are not taught in isolation, but with a purpose to but

with a purpose to complete a larger jigsaw of ideas.

Careers/HE Opportunities

Biology enables you to develop an informed interest in new areas that have important medical,

commercial and ethical consequences. Many students leave school to study a subject allied to Biology

(Medicine, Vet. Medicine, Dentistry, Biology, Genetics, Natural Science).

https://twitter.com/Biology_CHS

https://www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/clubs_and_activities

Biology AS level

The AS qualification consists of two theory units and one practical unit involving an externally marked

practical assignment (EMPA). A summary of the two theory units follows:

Unit 1: Biology and disease (110 UMS Marks 1 ¼ hour exam)

The emphasis of this unit is upon fitting together the pieces of the jigsaw to enable students to

understand disease and how the human body responds to fight off infection.

How bacteria, viruses and fungi enter the body and cause diseases affecting the lungs and

digestive systems. How lifestyle affects health.

The structure and basic function of the digestive system. The biochemistry of proteins and amino

acids, the biochemistry of carbohydrates.

• The structure of cells as seen with the electron microscope. The role of lipids in membranes and

membrane function.

• Lung structure and function. Related disease and the effects of smoking and pollution.

• Heart structure, stimulation and contraction. Heart disease and risk factors.

• Principles of immunology; vaccination and the use of monoclonal antibodies.

Unit 2: The variety of living organisms (140 UMS Marks – 1 ¾ hour exam)

This unit looks at the causes of variation in living things, classification and an introduction to biodiversity.

• Measuring and evaluating the importance of variation.

• The structure of DNA, genes and the importance of translated polypeptides. Chromosome structure

and meiosis.

• The effects of selection on genetic diversity.

• Haemoglobin occurrence and function. Carbohydrate biochemistry. Animal and plant cell

differences.

• Replication of DNA, mitosis and the cell cycle.

• Cell differentiation and the organisation of cells into organisms.

• Size and surface area effects, especially related to gas exchange surfaces, the blood system and

transport in plants.

• The principles of taxonomy.

• Genetic comparisons between species using DNA sequences and protein structures.

• Antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

• Practical methods for measuring biodiversity.

Unit 3: Investigative and practical skills in AS Biology (60 UMS marks)

Externally marked practical assignment (EMPA)

Biology A2 level The A Level qualification consists of a further two theory units and one practical unit (in addition to the

AS units) involving one externally marked practical assignment (EMPA). Total UMS marks available for

the 3 AS units and the 3 A2 units = 600). A summary of the two theory units follows:

Unit 4: Populations and environment (100 UMS Marks 1 ½ hour exam)

This unit looks at ecology of ecosystems, and the flow of energy by focusing upon photosynthesis

and respiration. It is expected that candidates will carry out fieldwork involving the collection of

quantitative data from at least one habitat and will apply elementary statistical analysis to the

results.

• The study and measurement of populations.

• The synthesis of ATP from ADP and phosphate and its role as the immediate source of energy f

or biological processes.

• Photosynthesis. The light-independent and light-dependent reactions in a typical C3 plant.

• The biochemistry of aerobic respiration

• The transfer of energy through ecosystems and the efficiency of transfer, including farming

systems.

• The recycling of chemicals in ecosystems, including the role of micro-organisms.

• Succession from pioneer species to climax community.

• Genetic variation within a species and geographic isolation leading to new species. The genetics

of inheritance.

Unit 5: Control in cells and in organisms (140 UMS Marks 2 ¼ hour exam)

• Responding to stimuli.

• Coordination may be chemical or electrical in nature. Content includes the conduction of the

nerve impulse.

• Muscle contraction, and the role of ATP and phosphocreatine in providing the energy supply

during muscle contraction. The structure, location and general properties of slow and fast

skeletal muscle fibres

• Homeostasis is the maintenance of a constant internal environment. The control of body

temperature, blood glucose, and types of diabetes.

• The role of positive and negative feedback in reproductive systems.

• DNA structure, its transcription into RNA and subsequent translation into protein. Mutations

and oncogenes in cancer.

• The control of gene expression. The use of oestrogen, siRNA, and tumour suppressor genes.

• Gene cloning technologies. Content includes industrial and medical processes, genetic

engineering, gene markers, PCR, and the ethical issues surrounding the subject.

Unit 6: Investigative and practical skills in A2 level Biology (60 UMS Marks)

Externally Marked Practical Assignment (EMPA)

Field course

In order to address the requirements of Unit 4 Populations and environment, students will complete a

five day residential field course at one of the Field Studies Council Centres across the country. These

are staffed and run by experienced ecologists with excellent local knowledge. This field course is

normally in the last two weeks of the Upper Sixth year.

Biology Extension Classes Students at A2 can choose to take a Biology extension class. This is a unique opportunity for

students to explore areas of Biology beyond the syllabus with a view to continuing their study at

University.

The aim of the Biology Extension Class is:

to examine contemporary issues and frontier technology in the Biological Sciences.

to develop critical thinking skills to use during debate.

to promote independent practical and investigate skills.

to bridge A Level and undergraduate concepts.

Business and Management

Head of Department: Mr Gareth Matthews

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3268

The Business and Management Department aims to interest students, develop their confidence

and self-reliance and, of course, to achieve academic success.

The students are encouraged to develop a variety of skills relevant to their future careers and lives

which include the presentation and interpretation of data and the analysis of it to generate well

founded opinions and recommendations.

Co-curricular Activities

The Department runs a number of Co-curricular activities, including:

Young Enterprise for Lower Sixth students

Student Investor for students in years 9-13

Manchester Airport Dragon’s Den Competition for students in years 9-11

Manchester Airport Year 7 and 8 Enterprise Competition for students in years 7-8

Make it in Manufacturing Enterprise Competition for year 9 students

Enterprise opportunities during Activities Week including Dragon’s Den and Smoothie challenge

BASE Enterprise Competition for year 13 students

The provision of external speakers throughout the year

Entry requirements The Department sets no formal entry requirements, other than those for entry into the Sixth Form. No

prior knowledge of the subject is required. This is not an indication as to the difficulty of the course;

rather the educational philosophy of the department.

Content of course

Business and Management provides an appreciation of the value of business activity, plus a practical

understanding of how businesses operate and why business decision-making is so important. The

course aims to blend academic rigour with the development of practical skills. Knowledge relevant to

businesses in the twenty-first century is embodied in the curriculum content. For example, there are

topics such as corporate social responsibility, Porter’s Five Forces model, waste management and

off-shoring, as well as the more traditional principles which will continue to be relevant in business.

Syllabus content is divided into five areas:

• The Business Environment

• Marketing

• Accounts and Finance

• Operations and Project Management

• People in Organisations


The study of Business & Management need not lead to the study of Management at university,

although a large number of students on the course do proceed to this type of course. As a Social

Science, it could be a useful preparation for study in many areas and as a third subject it will meet

the A Level entry requirements for any degree where the subjects to be studied at ‘A’ Level are not

specified. Universities offer a wide range of courses that combine Business Studies with other

subjects such as Modern Languages, Economics, ICT and even Engineering. Theses combinations of

technical skills and understanding of the business world are positive selling points in a competitive

employment market.

Business and Management Cambridge Pre-U Course

Course details

Candidates will complete the coursework project at the start of the Upper Sixth and take the two

examination components at the end of the course.

Paper 1 - Business Concepts - multiple-choice, case study and essay questions

Paper 2 - Strategic Decisions – short answer and essay questions

Paper 3 - Personal Investigation – coursework project

There will be no external examinations in the Lower Sixth.

Business and Management Extension Classes

The purpose of this course is to deepen students’ knowledge of Business Studies, develop an

awareness of historical and current trends in the subject and introduce students to some of the

concepts which will be studied on undergraduate courses. This course is recommended for students

who have an active interest in the subject and wish to engage in wider reading and discussion.

More details of the course are available from the Head of Department.

mailto:[email protected]

Chemistry

Head of Department: Mr I Chippendale

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3270

The Chemistry Department is staffed by a team of 7 teachers (3 men and 4 women) and 2

technicians. We have five laboratories all with multi-media capabilities. The laboratories offer a

modern, comfortable wand well equipped working environment.

Our aim is to challenge our students, to open their eyes to the wonders of Chemistry and to have fun

at the same time. Our results and Sixth Form uptake are excellent and we take pride in the

professional job that we do.

Co- Curricular Activities

At A Level we have a Chemistry Club offering 3 or 4 talks by external speakers each year. Periodically,

interesting external lectures are advertised which we aim to attend, such as those offered by

Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society. Sixth Form Chemistry Students are encouraged to be

involved in mentoring younger students in the School in Chemistry Clinics. In the Upper Sixth Mr

Taylor organises a visit to Sheffield University for a 1 day laboratory class.

Entry requirements

Ideally, minimum GCSE Grade A for Single Science Chemistry or AA in Co-ordinated Science. Students

with Grade B would be assessed by the Department on an individual basis.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details

The aim of the course is to allow students to develop essential knowledge and understanding of the

concepts of Chemistry, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and challenging situations.

Students gain an understanding of the link between theory and experiment and become aware of how

advances in ICT and instrumentation are used in Chemistry. Students appreciate the contribution of

the subject to society and the responsible use of scientific knowledge and evidence. The course aims to

develop and sustain students’ enjoyment of and interest in Chemistry. A2 takes a much more in depth

approach to Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, and allows students to make connections

between these three branches of the subject.

Career Opportunities

Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Teaching, Research – e.g. in pharmaceuticals,

Chemical Engineering

As well as this obvious list, it must be noted that a Chemistry degree has a high currency in the

general job market, and Chemistry graduates are highly sought after by firms such as management

consultants and accountants.


http://www.manlitphil.ac.uk/

Chemistry AS Level

Content of the course Lower Sixth (AS) covers units 1, 2 and 3. Unit 3 is based on an externally assessed practical activity.

The students take both modules in the summer of their Lower Sixth year.

Unit 1 – Foundations in Chemistry (100 UMS marks, 1 ¼ hour exam)

Topics covered

Atomic Structure, Bonding and Structure, Amount of substance, Periodicity and an introduction to

Organic Chemistry.

Unit 2 – Chemistry in Action (140 UMS marks, 1 ¾ hour exam)

Topics

Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibria, Redox reactions, Halogens, Organic Chemistry, Group 2 and Extraction

on metals.

Unit 3 is worth 60 UMS marks.

Chemistry A2 level

Content of Course

Upper Sixth (A2) covers units 4, 5 and 6. Unit 6, like unit 3, is externally assessed coursework.

Unit 4 – Kinetics, Equilibria and further Organic Chemistry (120 UMS marks, 1 ¾ hr exam)

Topics:

Kinetics, Equilibria, Acid/Base reactions, Carbonyl Chemistry, Aromatic, Amine and Amino acid

Chemistry, Polymers, Synthesis and Analysis and Structure determination.

Unit 5 – Energetics, Redox and Inorganic Chemistry. (120 UMS marks, 1 ¾ hr exam)

Topics:

Thermodynamics, Periodicity, Redox Equilibria, Transition metals and Aqueous Chemistry.

Unit 6 – 60 UMS marks based on internal assessment.

In general A2 is more mathematical, and goes into topics in a much greater depth,

particularly in Organic Chemistry.

Chemistry Extension Classes

The aims of the Chemistry Extension Classes are to extend the students' thinking beyond the confines

of the Chemistry GCE specification, and to encourage students to be able to think across the various

Chemistry disciplines. Each session will have the structure of an Oxbridge tutorial which also mirrors

the structure of the academic interview at these institutions. Topics covered include molecular orbital

theory and advanced organic chemistry. Students are also encourage to have a go at the Chemistry

Olympiad which is organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

More information is available from the Head of the Department.

http://www.rsc.org/


Classics

Head of Department: Mrs A Johnson

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3213

The Classics Department offers Latin AS and A2 courses to Sixth Form students as well as Latin

Extension Classes to the Upper Sixth. The Department also offers A Level Classical Civilisation.

Co-Curricular Activities Students often have the opportunity to attend the Sixth Form Classics Conference at Manchester

University and visit to the British Museum. The Department runs a trip abroad every two years.

Latin

Entry requirements:

Latin GCSE Grade A*, A or B

Exam Board: OCR

Course details

Latin A Level builds on the foundation of GCSE Latin and develops further many skills which are

already familiar. The aims of the course are to enable students to read Latin literature with

understanding and enjoyment, and to develop their linguistic skills. There is no translation from

English into Latin.

Career/HE opportunities The linguistic skills acquired in A Level Latin can clearly be of great use to those studying Modern

Languages, whilst the mythological, social and historical content of the course enables the study of

Latin to complement well the study of subjects such as History and English. AS level Latin should also

appeal to those who are studying 3 sciences as their main A Level subjects.

A Latin A Level qualification is highly regarded both by universities and prospective employers, and

law, accountancy, computing, teaching, personnel management, merchant banking, advertising and

archaeology are just some of the diverse careers pursued by those who have done Latin A Level.

Classical Civilisation

Entry Requirements

Minimum GCSE Grade B in English. GCSE Latin, Greek or Classical Civilization is not a pre-requisite.

Exam Board: OCR

Course Details Many of the topics in the Classical Civilisation A Level course will already be familiar to students from

their Year 7 Classical Studies Foundation Course and from the background sections of the Cambridge

Latin Course. The course is entirely non-linguistic, and offers the opportunity to study the Classical

World from various different perspectives: archaeological, historical, cultural and literary.

The course aims to develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the Classical World, and to give students

a knowledge and understanding of selected aspects of Classical Civilisation. The continuing influence of

the Classical World on later times will be studied, as will the similarities and differences between the

Classical World and our own. Students will be expected to analyse and evaluate material, and make an

informed, personal response to it.

The course consists of 4 Units, two at AS and two at A2. There is no coursework.

Career/HE opportunities Classical Civilisation A Level is highly regarded by Universities and is an excellent preparation for stu-

dents wishing to progress to further study. The literacy, cultural and historical content of the course

complements well the study of subjects such as English, Philosophy, Art, Drama, Modern Languages,

History and Latin, but such a wide-ranging course should appeal to students of all academic disciplines.

Career opportunities are similar to those of any graduates in Arts and Humanities subjects, and might

include law, journalism, the media, personnel management, advertising, archaeology, teaching, banking

and the Civil Service.

Latin AS Level

Content of course Unit 1 Language (written paper 1 ½ hours – 100 UMS marks)

· Unseen Latin prose, tested by translation·

Unit 2 – Latin Verse and Prose Literature (written paper 1 ½ hours - 100 UMS marks)

· Prescribed verse and prose text

Latin A2 Level

Content of Course

Unit 3 – Latin Verse

· Prescribed verse text

· Unseen Latin verse, tested via comprehension and translation (written paper 2 hours – 100 UMS

marks)

Unit 4 – Latin Prose (written paper 2 hours - 100 UMS marks)

· Prescribed prose text

· Unseen Latin prose, tested via comprehension and translation

Latin A2 Level

Content of Course Unit 3 – Latin Verse

· Prescribed verse text

· Unseen Latin verse, tested via comprehension and translation (written paper 2 hours – 100 UMS

marks)

Unit 4 – Latin Prose (written paper 2 hours - 100 UMS marks)

· Prescribed prose text

· Unseen Latin prose, tested via comprehension and translation

Latin Extension Classes The aims of the Latin Extension Classes are to develop further translation skills and an appreciation of

Latin literature through practising the techniques of literary criticism; to read a wider selection of Latin

authors; to place the literature read in some kind of historical and social context.

Classical Civilisation AS Level

Two of the following Units:

Archaeology – Mycenae and the Classical World

Homer’s Odyssey and Society

Roman Society and Thought

Greek Tragedy in its context

Greek Historians

City Life in Roman Italy

Each Unit is assessed by a 1 ½ hour written paper (100 UMS marks each).

Classical Civilisation A2 Level

Two of the following Units:

Roman Britain : Life in the Outpost of Empire

Art and Architecture in the Greek World

Comic Drama in the Ancient World

Virgil and the world of the hero

Each Unit is assessed by a 2 hour written paper (100 UMS marks each).

Design Technology

Head of Dept: Mrs F J Buxton

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3246

The Design Technology Department is housed in a well-equipped self-contained unit, comprising

three multi-media work studios, each accommodating 14 students seated, with facilities for design

and written working, practical modelling and 3D making production as well as a Plastics Room, two

ICT rooms and Resources Library.

The Department offers courses at AS and A2 level as well as Design Technology Extension Classes for

the Upper Sixth.

Co Curricular Activities Through the Student Leadership Scheme Sixth Formers can help students in Years 7 to 9 with

lunchtime activities such as Design Challenge and Electronics Club.

The Department holds an Annual Design Technology Exhibition which showcases the work of GCSE,

AS and A2 students to parents, students and staff.

Entry requirements It is expected that students will have been predicted an A grade GCSE in Design Technology.

Students with Grade B would be assessed by the Department on an individual basis.

Exam Board: AQA

Course Title: Design Technology: 3D Product Design

Course details The course aims to provide an opportunity for students to exercise initiative, imagination,

resourcefulness and creativity in the solution of design problems. They will develop awareness in all

aspects of design activity and an understanding of the role of design technology in meeting human

needs. Students will acquire a body of knowledge and skills which will be of considerable benefit to

them, whether or not they continue further studies in this or related areas. Students are encouraged

to make use of available ICT facilities at all times.

Career/HE opportunities There are a large number of DESIGN based Higher Education courses available, throughout the

country, including;- the various branches of Engineering, Electronics, Motor Vehicle Design, Product,

Furniture and Industrial Design, Advertising, Manufacturing, Systems Design, Architecture to highlight

but a few.

Design and Technology AS Level

Content of course Product Design (3D Design)

There are TWO units of assessment; one unit is assessed by internal marking and external

moderation and one unit is externally assessed by examination.

Unit 1: MATERIALS, COMPONENTS AND APPLICATION

AS Examination paper (80 marks) 2 Hours 50% AS: 25% A2

The 2 hour Examination Paper, in the form of a question and answer booklet, is set and marked by

AQA.

https://www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/clubs_and_activities

The examination paper is designed to test the candidates knowledge and understanding of:-

• Materials and Components — Metals, Plastics and Polymers, Timbers and Manufactured Materials,

Composites and Laminates, Compliant Materials, Smart materials, Modern Materials, Product

components and Adhesives.

• Design and Market Influences — the broader issues for a designer such as: environmental

sustainability of products and their manufacture, ergonomic and anthropometrics, inclusive design, and

consumer safety.

• Processes and Manufacture — Methods of preparing, processing, manipulating and combining

materials and components to enhance their properties. This will include associated tools, machinery

and equipment including CAD CAM, and the use of basic quality control measures. Through study and

first-hand experience students will also develop knowledge of health and safety issues relevant to

working with materials.

Unit 2: LEARNING THROUGH DESIGNING and MAKING

AS Coursework project (80 marks) Approx. 50 Hours 50% AS: 25% A2

Internally Marked and Externally Moderated

Students will be set three projects to be included in a portfolio of work. These will be set in different

context and will cover design, manufacture/modelling and evaluation. The product outcomes must be

of sufficient complexity to demonstrate high level skills and outcomes in all areas of design and

manufacture, using appropriate Materials, processes and components.

The Design and practical activity must be supported by an A3 design portfolio of between 26-30 pages

in length. The folio must include appropriate ICT generated images.

Five criteria for assessment are as follows:

- Investigation and Clarification of Problems

- Development of Design Proposal

- Making/Modelling

- Evaluation and Testing

- Communication and Presentation

Design Technology Extension Classes The Design Technology Extension Classes introduce students to CAD software and applications and

systems as well as tailoring sessions to individuals to meet the needs and interests of further studies

such as Architecture, Engineering, Civil Engineering, Automotive Engineering.

Design and Technology A2 level

Content of Course On completion of the TWO AS Units a further TWO Units are studied to complete the Advanced GCE.

Marks are carried over from AS to A2 to give the final overall grade for the subject.

Unit 3: DESIGN and MANUFACTURE

A2 Examination paper (84 marks) 2 Hours 25% A2

The 2 hour Examination Paper, in the form of a question and answer booklet, is set and marked by

AQA.

This unit will build upon the knowledge and understanding gleaned in the AS Unit 2 studies and

examination, but will include new and possibly unfamiliar areas of study which will include:-

Materials and Components —At A2 this knowledge and understanding will be developed through

Unit 4 coursework and a further study of how materials and components play a major part in the

sections which follow.

• Design and Market Influences — Major developments in technology, a study of manufactured

products and systems, product life cycle, the influence of design and technology in society, role of the

designer, the marketing function, design methods, design processes, safety, safety legislation,

communication methods, illustration, selection and use of appropriate 2D/3D techniques,

enhancement, information drawing, modelling, use of ICT in Design, development, human needs,

human factors, quality assurance and quality control, the work of past and present designers,

copyright protection, Design Methods, product development and improvement, communication

methods- detail and form of products, environments and system so that they may be manufacture,

Design in the Human Context, Sustainability and Environmental Concerns.

• Processes and Manufacture-ICT applications, manufacturing systems, product development/

improvement, manufacturing systems, safety, systems and control.

Unit 4: DESIGN and MAKING PRACTICE

AS Coursework project (85 marks) Approx. 60 hour 25% A2

Single substantial ‘Designing and Making’ activity.

Internally Marked and Externally Moderated

Students identify a client / user group, with whom they liaise, throughout the duration of their project.

The A2 ‘design and make’ activity is a ‘synoptic’ element building upon experiences gained throughout

the whole of a students Design Technology educational experience, with a greater emphasis upon ‘real

-life’, ‘industrial / commercial’ procedures and technologies.

• Students are expected to identify a suitable product topic and external ‘client / contact’ to work

with throughout the project.

• As practical project outcome should be a functioning prototype that matches its original

specification.

• The practical outcome must be supported by an A3 design folio, which is likely to be between 26-

30 pages long, including appropriate ICT produced work and images.

• The product must be manufactured to full size, using any of the appropriate materials specified in

Unit 1, Materials, Components and Application and Unit 3 Design and Manufacture.

• Students must ensure that at least two-thirds of their work focuses on the appropriate materials

both in practical outcome and in the design folio.

• Photographic evidence throughout the design folio, of each stage in product development,

manufacture and testing is crucial - this is the only evidence External Moderators have of the

practical processes used and the standard of outcome and finish of the final product.

The six criteria for the areas of assessment are as follows;

- Context and Objectives

- Plan of Action and Classification of Problem

- Design Specification

- Development of Design Proposal

- Manufacture/ Modelling

- Conclusions, Evaluations and Recommendations

Economics

Head of Department: Mr G Matthews

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3268

The Economics Department aims to interest students, develop their confidence and self-reliance

and, of course, to achieve academic success.

The students are encouraged to develop a variety of skills relevant to their future careers and lives,

which include the presentation and interpretation of data and the analysis of it to generate well

founded opinions and recommendations.


The Department runs a number of local and national co-curricular activities such as Student Investor

and the Bank of England Challenge, as well as often inviting speakers into School to talk on a range of

topics from urban regeneration to sanitation in the 3rd world.

Entry requirements

The Department sets no formal entry requirements, other than those for entry into the Sixth Form.

This is not an indication as to the difficulty of the course; rather the educational philosophy of the

department. No prior knowledge of the subject is required but a minimum of GCSE Grade B in

Mathematics is essential.

Content of course

The course aims to encourage an understanding of current economic issues, through the application of

economic theories and models, that will be useful to students as citizens, consumers or producers.

Economics enables students to:

gain a thorough and rigorous understanding of the theory that underpins the workings of a

modern day economy

develop quantitative skills through the appreciation and use of various statistical methods

have a sound understanding of events, both internal and external, that have influenced the UK

and the world economy over the past 10 years.

Syllabus content is divided into four areas:

Microeconomics

The National Economy

International Economics

Investigation Topics


Economics is highly regarded by Admissions Tutors for a wide range of courses in HE. It is an excellent

complement to Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages, Geography and Politics. It is also particularly

suited to the skill–set of many scientists who may be looking for an extra subject to provide variety in

their Post-16 choices. A degree in Economics might lead to careers in the City, and other financial

areas, as well as public policy making, but will also develop the analytical skills necessary in a large

number of careers, such as journalism or Law.

Economics Cambridge Pre-U Course


Course details

Candidates will take all three examination components at the end of the Upper Sixth.

Paper 1 - Multiple Choice, Short Answers and Data Response – questions testing the entire syllabus

content

Paper 2 – Essay Paper – Three essays; one micro, one macro and one free choice

Paper 3 - Investigation – one essay from four titles, which reflect current issues in economics:

• Transport and the Environment

• China and the Global Economy

• The Millennium Development Goals and the Post-2015 Development Agenda

• Behavioural economics and government policy.

There are no external examinations in the Lower Sixth.

Economics Extension Classes

The purpose of this course is to deepen knowledge of Economics, develop an awareness of historical

and current trends in the subject and introduce students to some of the concepts which will be stud-

ied on undergraduate courses. This course is recommended for students who have an active interest

in the subject and wish to engage in wider reading and discussion.

For further information please contact the Head of Department.


English

Head of Department: Mr N Westbrook

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3238

The English Department at Cheadle Hulme School currently comprises twelve fully qualified

graduate members of staff, all dedicated to achieving the best for all students by enabling everyone to

read widely with understanding and pleasure; to write accurately, neatly and imaginatively in both

hand-written and computerized formats; and to speak and listen to one another with assurance,

tolerance and effectiveness in a wide range of situations.

We encourage and reward excellence while giving clear and practical guidance on how to learn from

errors and improve performance.

We aim to make the work we do enjoyable, stimulating and stretching; we insist on the highest

standards of effort at all times.

Our teaching rooms in the Holden Hall are fully equipped with the latest multi-media technology.

The English Department offers courses at AS and A2 level in both English Language and English

Literature

English Language

Entry requirements Ideally, minimum GCSE Grade A in English. Students with Grade B would be assessed by the

Department on an individual basis.

Exam Board: AQA Specification B

Course details:

The aim of the course is to develop your interest in and enjoyment of English, through learning about

its structures, functions, development and variations, and your ability to express yourself with

increasing confidence and sophistication. A2 consolidates and develops further your knowledge of and

ability to apply linguistic frameworks to a wide variety of texts, and to investigate and research

language use.


Degrees in English, Linguistics, Media Studies. Careers in: journalism; advertising; writing; teaching;

editing; child-centred learning etc.

English Literature

Entry requirements: Ideally, minimum GCSE Grade A in English. Students with Grade B would be assessed by the


Exam Board: AQA (Specification ‘A’)

Course details To develop your interest in and enjoyment of English Literature, through reading widely, critically and

independently and to gain a wider sense of the scope of literary study.

Career/HE opportunities Degrees in English, Law, combined courses. Careers in writing, editing, teaching, journalism, TV, film

and theatre etc.


English Language AS Level

Content of Course

Unit 1: Categorising Texts (Written Exam 2 hours)

Weighting: 60% of total AS marks / 30% of total A Level marks

You will study the introductory aspects of language, including the fundamental structures and functions

of writing, speech and conversation, and also focus on three specific social contexts: Language and

Power, Language and Gender and Language and Technology

Unit 2: Creating Text

Coursework

Weighting: 40% of total AS marks /20% of total A Level marks

You will develop your writing skills by studying style models and producing your own writing in

different genres for different audiences and for different purposes.

English Language A2 level

Content of Course

Unit 3: Developing Language (Written exam: 2 hours 30 mins.)

Weighting: 60% of total A2 marks. 30% of total A Level marks

You will focus in detail on two specific areas of language study: Child Language Acquisition (how

children from 0 to 11 years develop language and social skills) and Language Change (historical and

contemporary changes from 1770 to the present day).

Unit 4: Investigating Language

Coursework (Weighting: 40% of total A2 marks /20% of total A Level marks)

You will apply your knowledge of linguistic methods and concepts to an investigation of your choice.

Your investigation is followed by the production of a media text (e.g. newspaper or magazine article)

focussing on the language ideas and issues surrounding the investigation topic.

English Language Extension Classes

The aims of the English Language Extension Classes are to encourage students to develop further their

interest in the use and study of English; to help develop the linguistic talents of students; to equip

students considering applying to study English Language at University with the analytical skills and

wider reading experience needed for success.

More information is available from the Head of Department.


English Literature AS Level

Content of course

Unit 1: Texts in context (Written Exam 2 hours (Open book)

Weighting: 60% of total AS marks / 30% of total A Level marks

One set poetry text plus wider reading in the chosen area of study, either Victorian Literature or

World War 1 Literature or ‘The Struggle for Identity in Modern Literature.’

You answer two questions: Question 1 invites you to link your wider reading to the focus of a given

passage; Question 2 assesses the set poetry text.

Unit 2: Creative Study

Coursework, consisting of two tasks using 2000 to 2500 words in total.

Weighting: 40% of total AS marks /20% of total A Level marks

You study one prose text and two drama texts. Your first piece of writing will be a personal informed

response to the prose text and may be a re-creative piece. The second piece will compare the two

drama texts.

English Literature A2 level

Content of Course

Unit 3: Reading for Meaning (Written exam: 2 hours 30 mins (closed book)

Weighting: 60% of total A2 marks /30% of total A Level marks

You answer two compulsory questions involving unprepared extracts and wider reading on the theme

of Love Through the Ages.

You will have to comment critically on the extracts which will be linked by theme; compare and

connect these texts to your wider reading; offer informed and creative interpretations and evaluate the

significance of contextual factors.

Unit 4: Extended Essay and Shakespeare Study

Coursework

Weighting: 40% of total A2 marks / 20% of total A Level marks

Three texts with a shared theme: any two texts of any genre of your choice, plus any one Shakespeare

play. Your one task will be an extended essay of about 3000 words comparing the three texts and

exploring your appreciation of the writers’ choices of form, structure and language, your interpretations

of the text and your understanding of the significance of the context in which the texts were produced.

English Literature Extension Classes

The aims of the English Literature Extension Classes are to foster interest in and enthusiasm for the

subject; to help further develop the talents of students showing high potential; to help equip students

considering applying to study English at University with the practical skills and wider reading

experience needed for success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field.

More information is available from the Head of the Department.


Food, Nutrition and Health

Head of Department.: Mrs R Dalton-Woods

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3254

The Food, Nutrition and Health Department was completely refurbished a few years ago, creating

two well-resourced and well equipped teaching rooms. The teaching staff is well supported by two

part time technicians. The rooms are equipped with computers and the equipment is replaced on a

regular basis.

A Level teaching began in September 2013.


The Department runs a ‘Good Food’ Club. Students also have the opportunity to enter national

competitions, for example, The Guild Of British Food Writers, Future Chef. The Department also runs

an external speakers programme, which includes skills workshops, visiting chef demonstrations and

lectures from food industry specialists. There is a residential trip to River Cottage.

Entry Requirements

Minimum GCSE Grade B in Food and Nutrition, or Food Technology, minimum GCSE Grade B in

English.

Exam board: OCR

Course Title: Home Economics: Food, Nutrition and Health

Course details The study of Food, Nutrition and Health plays an important role in our School curriculum by

delivering the needs identified in national polices which recognise the importance of adopting a

holistic approach to the promotion of healthy lifestyle and understanding the inter-relationships

between diet and health throughout life. It provides the opportunity for students to learn practical

life skills in food preparation and at the same time providing important theoretical background to

issues such as nutrition and food safety.


The course gives an excellent foundation for courses in Food Science, Food Technology, Food

Journalism, Sports Science, Management, Marketing and Retailing, Hospitality and Catering,

Dietetics, Nutritional Analysis, Consumer Science, Nursing, Midwifery and Teaching. The range of

employment in the food industry is very wide and challenging.


http://www.rivercottage.net/

Food, Nutrition and Health AS Level The course is divided into two mandatory units at AS:

1. Society and Health

This covers:

• Demography and the study of population changes

• Family and Society

• Key issues for society, unemployment and poverty

• Environmental issues

• Social issues and the welfare state

• Health and nutrition

2. Resource Management

This covers:

• The management of resources and budgeting

• Food provision and food choice

• The selection and purchase of food and household goods

• Food preparation and cooking equipment

• Food safety and hygiene

Both are externally assessed through 1 ½ hour written examination.

Food, Nutrition and Health A2 Level 3. The Coursework Study

This contributes to 25% of the overall grade and will be completed in and out of school. It will be an

investigation using a suitable agreed title. This is internally assessed.

Examples of investigations are:

• Dietary needs in pregnancy

• Reducing the risk of coronary heart disease

• The rise in demand for party food products

This also involves a range of practical work.

4. Nutrition and Food Production

This covers:

• Nutrition

• Nutrients and energy

• Groups with nutritional and dietary needs

• Properties of food

• Design development and production of food

This is externally assessed by 1 ½ hour written examination.

French

Head of Department: Mrs F Lucas

Contact No: 0161 488 3330

The French Department, located in the Christopher Simon Building, has the benefit of specialist

language laboratories for students studying A Level French.

There are five graduate teachers in the Department teaching at Sixth Form level, together with a

French Assistant to help students with verbal skills.

Co-Curricular Activities The Department believes very strongly in the value of educational visits and exchanges as a method of

complementing the learning in the classroom and providing the students with a greater awareness of

the life and culture of the French. Annually the Upper Sixth students have the opportunity to visit

Paris.

The Department also takes part in the annual Northwest Schools' Debating Competition for Modern

Languages, which is hosted by the School's Modern Foreign Languages Departments.

Entry requirements: Minimum GCSE or IGCSE Grade A in French.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details The aim of the course is to develop the ability to use French effectively for purposes of practical

communication, and to provide the confidence and linguistic skills to understand, discuss and write

about contemporary events and issues in France. The course also aims to provide enjoyment and

intellectual stimulation and offer insights into the culture and civilisation of France and French-

speaking countries. It also aims to foster independent learning and provide a very good basis for

further study of the language at degree level or equivalent.

Career/HE opportunities transferable linguistic and communication skills

opportunities in expanding European Union and global markets

importance of language skills for employers when recruiting in the world of business, industry,

commerce, media, education.

French AS Level

Content of Course

• Media: TV, advertising and communication technology

• Popular culture: cinema, music and fashion/ trends

• Healthy living/lifestyle: /exercise, health and well-being and holidays

• Family/relationships: relationships within the family, friendships and marriage/partnerships.

The AS specification has 2 units:

Unit 1: Listening, Reading and Writing

Assessment

Externally Examined. Written Paper: 2 hours

Weighting: 70% of total AS / 35% of total A Level marks


Candidates will answer a range of questions based on approximately 5 minutes of heard material and

on a selection of written stimulus texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of

the AS topics.

The stimulus material for the Listening sections of specimen Unit 1 is available as a written transcript

and as an electronic sound file. The material is not available on cassette tape or on CD. These

arrangements apply to the specimen material only. Centres will be informed in due course of the

arrangements for the examinations for the new specifications in January 2009 and beyond.

Unit 2: Speaking Test

Written Paper: 35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)


Speaking.

Candidates will discuss a target-language stimulus card based on one of the AS topics and take part in

a conversation covering three further AS topics.

French A2 level

Content of Course The A2 course will cover:

• Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet

• The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism

• Contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and

technological progress

• Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community or the study of a

period of 20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study

of a novelist/dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of

a director/architect/musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.

The A2 specification has 2 units:


Assessment

Externally Examined. Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes

Weighting: 35% of total A Level marks

Listening, Reading and Writing


on a selection of written texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of the four

A2 cultural topic areas.

Unit in 4: Speaking Test

Assessment

Externally Examined. Written Paper: 35 minutes (including 20 minutes preparation time)


Speaking

Candidates will present a point of view based on a target-language stimulus card from one of the A2

topic areas and take part in a conversation covering three further A2 topics.

French Extension Classes The aims of the French Extension Classes are a better understanding of French history, culture,

literature and arts and to give a better overall view of the evolution of thought in that era and to

nowadays; to develop critical thinking from the ideas of French philosophers and to discuss themes

found in literature, thus laying the foundations for University; to promote interest and enthusiasm to

pursue further study at University level.



Geography

Head of Department: Mrs C Shallcross

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3278

Why Choose Geography at A Level?

Geography has never been more relevant or interesting: Climate Change; Hurricane Katrina; Poverty in

Africa; Resource Use; Trade, Aid and Debt; Sustainability; the HIV-AIDS pandemic to give but a few

examples.

Geography is one of the most exciting subjects you can study. It is concerned with the multicultural

society and interdependent world in which we live, where events in one place are part of a chain of

events spanning the globe. Our complex interaction with the increasingly fragile physical environment

and the way in which it shapes us and we in turn shape it, requires sophisticated analysis and sensitive

management. It is these issues that are the central problems of modern Geography. Our aim is to help

you develop an informed knowledge and understanding of the world. Geography straddles the Arts and

the Sciences, and you will find yourself dipping into a variety of disciplines. There is strength in this

breadth, which allows a wide combination of subjects to be taken alongside Geography.

Above all, you should choose Geography because you are interested in it and have the appetite and

enthusiasm to study it for another two years.

The Geography Department is a lively and thriving Department staffed by 5 full time subject

specialists. As a Department we have a wide range of effective teaching styles and subject interests.

We meet weekly to discuss issues, share good practice and monitor student progress. The department

achieves excellent results and each year a number of students go on to study Geography at university.

In recent years the department has had a number of successes at many of the more selective

universities.

Fieldwork and Other Opportunities

There is no longer any coursework required for A Level Geography, but fieldwork remains an integral

part of the course. At AS we run a three day residential trip to North Wales and Manchester. We also

run a fieldtrip to the Gambia every other year. In addition to fieldtrips we encourage students to attend

Geographical Association lectures at The Universities of Chester and Manchester.

Specification Summary Exam Board: WJEC

This Geography syllabus is designed specifically to be engaging and relevant to you, whose adult life

will span most of the 21st Century. The emphasis is firmly placed on change, reflecting the dynamic

nature of the world. Included are newer issues and areas of study such Climate Change, Extreme

Environments, Sustainability and the emerging Asian superpowers of China and India. This syllabus will

require you to adopt a more critical approach as there will be a shift away from the acceptance of

material as uncontested fact to a debate surrounding the truth of the material you are being presented

with and an examination of the reliability of sources and evidence.

Entry requirements Ideally, minimum GCSE Grade A in Geography. Students with Grade B would be assessed by the


Career/HE opportunities Many of those who have taken A Level Geography in recent years have gone on to study it at

university.

Geography is a very broadly-based subject and, as such, leads to a wide number of job possibilities.

Geographers are both literate and numerate and develop a wide range of transferable skills which are

very much sought after by employers. Indeed evidence shows that those who study Geography

throughout their school lives are amongst the most employable people in our society.


Geography AS Level

Content of AS course

Module One: Changing Physical Environments (25%)

• Investigating climate change

• Investigating tectonic and hydrological change

Module Two: Changing Human Environments (25%)

• Investigating population change

• Investigating settlement change

Content of A2 Course

Module Three: Contemporary Themes and Research in Geography (30%)

One theme selected from four physical options:

Climatic hazards

Extreme environments

Glacial landforms and their management

Coastal landforms and their management

One theme selected from four human options:

Development

Emerging Asia – China

Emerging Asia – India

Globalisation

Research enquiry based on candidate’s own choice of one topic from the list below, assessed by a two-

part exam question.

Crime

Deprivation

Disease

Ecosystems

Environmental Psychology

Leisure and Recreation

Microclimates

Pollution

Retailing

Rivers

Module Four: Sustainability (20%)

All four topic areas are studied and the exam is based on a pre-release resource booklet.

Sustainable Cities

Sustainable Energy

Sustainable Food Supply

Sustainable Water Supply

Geography Extension Classes The aim of the Geography Extension Course is to help further develop the breadth and depth of

geographical knowledge for students intending to study Geography (or related courses) at University; to

help equip students with the relevant practical, research, wider reading and referencing skills needed for

success in gaining offers and adapting to the different requirements of university Geography.



German Head of Department: Mrs N Meredith

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3232

The German Department offers courses at AS and A2 level as well as Extension Classes. There is

extra provision for outstanding linguists who wish to prepare for Oxford and Cambridge and extension

lessons are offered for talented linguists.

The German Department contains four full-time members of staff. In addition, we benefit from the

service of a German Language Assistant. Results in public examinations are consistently very good.

Co- Curricular Activities

The Department believes very strongly in the value of educational visits and exchanges as a method of

complementing the learning in the classroom and providing the students with a greater awareness of

the life and culture of the people whose language they are studying. The perfect opportunity to practise

dealing with real life situations comes with the trips the Department offers. The German Department

regularly organises a Sixth Form trip for Lower and Upper Sixth students.

Apart from the range of trips and exchanges offered by the MFL Department, we take students to a

variety of activities available in the area. These may include study days at universities or visits to the

Corner House and the Goethe Institute in Manchester for talks and lectures.

The MFL Department has hosted the North West Debating Competition for the last two years in which a

number of other schools have taken part and in which our candidates have excelled and made the

Department very proud. The Department also organises for guest speakers to come in for all year

groups.

The Department also runs a weekly film /music club according to interest which is open to anyone to

attend.

Entry requirements

Minimum GCSE Grade A in German.

Exam Board: A Level: AQA

Course details

The aim of the course is to develop the ability to use German effectively for purposes of practical


about contemporary events and issues in Germany. The course also aims to provide enjoyment and

intellectual stimulation and offer insights into the culture and civilisation of Germany and German-

speaking countries. It also aims to foster independent learning and provide a very good basis for

further study of the language at degree level or equivalent. All Sixth Form students have the

opportunity to go on a study trip and have access to the many resources including a variety of

literature, magazines, DVDs/CDs, the internet, Contact time with the German Language Assistant.


• transferable linguistic and communication skills

• opportunities in expanding European Union and global markets

• importance of language skills for employers when recruiting in the world of business, industry,

commerce, media, education


German AS Level

Content of Course

The AS course will cover:







Assessment




on a selection of written stimulus texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one

of the AS topics.


and as an electronic sound file. The material is not available on cassette tape or on CD. These ar-

rangements apply to the specimen material only.




Candidates will discuss a target-language stimulus card based on one of the AS topics and take part

in a conversation covering three further AS topics.

German A2 level

Content of Course The A2 course will cover:

• Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet

• The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism



• Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community or the study of a period

of 20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a novel-

ist/dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a director/

architect/musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.



Assessment



Listening, Reading and Writing.

Candidates will answer a range of questions based on approximately 6 minutes of heard material and on

a selection of written texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of the four A2

cultural topic areas.


and as an electronic sound file. The material is not available on cassette tape or on CD. These arrange-

ments apply to the specimen material only.


Assessment



Speaking.



German Extension Classes

The syllabus of the German Extension Classes aims to broaden pupils’ knowledge about German history,

culture, literature and film, to develop pupils’ language skills as well as their critical thinking skills from

the aims of the authors and producers, to discuss themes found in literature and film and thus laying

the foundations for university and to promote interest and enthusiasm to pursue further study at uni-

versity level.

The course is divided into three periods: 1933-45, 1945-88, 1989-90



Government and Politics

Head of Department: Mr N Axon

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3312

Read the Politics Blog and follow the Government and Politics Department on Twitter @PoliticsCHS

The Government & Politics Department is based in a suite of rooms on the top floor of the Main

Building. It offers AS and A2 courses to Sixth Form students.


The Department runs an extensive programme of co-curricular activities. These include:

- Think Tank: a current affairs society that meets fortnightly during the Friday lunch break. Guest

speakers over the past couple of years have included MPs from all the major parties, as well as

journalists, academics, and activists from a variety of pressure groups. The society is also responsible

for running mock elections, most recently a 2012 US presidential election.

- Question Times: occasional evening meetings prior to local and national elections, allowing students

the opportunity to quiz the candidates

- Dubs Lecture: inaugurated in 2005, this annual lecture series provides an eminent public figure with

a platform to speak on an issue of the day; Clare Short MP addressed a school audience in April 2008

on Britain’s changing role in international relations, and Peter Tatchell gave a talk on human rights law

in 2012.

- Trips: A Level students have the opportunity to take part in a trip to Washington, DC as part of their

two-year A Level course, as well as joining the History trip to Moscow & St. Petersburg.

Amnesty International: Students design school-wide campaigns raising awareness for the work

done by Amnesty in protecting human rights worldwide.

- Political Studies Association: Students can enter a national short video competition ran by

the PSA. The competition was won by students from CHS in 2011, and in 2012 and 2013

students from CHS were finalists.

Course Entry requirements

The Department sets no formal entry requirements, other than those for entry into the Sixth Form. No

prior knowledge of the subject is required but a GCSE in History would be an advantage.

Exam Board: OCR


http://blogs.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/politics/

https://twitter.com/PoliticsCHS

The aims of this course are to encourage candidates to:

• develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas,

institutions and processes;

• acquire knowledge and understanding of the structures of authority and power within the political

system of the UK and the USA, and how these may differ from those of other political systems;

• acquire knowledge and informed understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the individual;

• encourage an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics

Government & Politics makes extensive use of the school’s online learning facility. As well as a valuable

teaching and learning tool, it provides candidates with an experience of the kind of resource they can

expect to use at university.

The focus of the AS Level course is a wide-ranging survey of the political and governmental systems of

the United Kingdom and European Union.

The A2 course covers the political and governmental systems of the United States of America, as well a

comparative study of other systems.


Politics and associated degree courses at university have proved popular with Cheadle Hulme School

students in recent years, notably at Oxford, Nottingham, Leeds, Bristol and Lancaster.

The Department also offers help to students seeking practical work experience, such as placements in

parliament and the media.

Government & Politics is a well-established and respected degree subject in the social sciences. It

serves as a valuable preparation for candidates interested in a career in law, journalism, the civil

service, public consultancies, teaching and academia, business and advertising.

Government & Politics AS Level

Content of Course

Contemporary Government and Politics of the UK

The focus of the new AS Level course is a wide-ranging survey of the political and governmental

systems of the United Kingdom and European Union.

Unit 1: Political parties; pressure groups; electoral systems and referenda; parliamentary elections in

the UK; voting behaviour

Unit 2: British constitution; the executive; the legislature; the judiciary; the European Union

All units are examined externally. There is no coursework.

Politics A2 level

Content of Course

Contemporary US Government and Politics / Synoptic

The A2 course covers the political and governmental systems in the United States of America, as well

as considering comparative systems elsewhere within the European Union and beyond.

Unit 3 (US): Presidential elections; political parties; pressure groups; the constitution; Congress; the

presidency; the Supreme Court; civil rights and liberties

Unit 4 (Synoptic): Elections; political parties; pressure groups; civil rights and liberties; constitutions;

legislatures; executives; judiciaries

All units are examined externally. There is no coursework with this A Level.

Politics Extension Classes The aims of this extension programme are:

to stimulate the students' interest, curiosity and enjoyment in Government and Politics with a lively,

well-resourced and fresh approach to the discipline that goes beyond the confines of the A Level

specifications – specifically, students are introduced to political thought, political history and in-

ternational relations

to foster the development of the students' ability to arrive at carefully reasoned, well researched

and plausible interpretations of challenging questions

to provide the students with opportunities to enhance their abilities to undertake independent re-

search and enquiry

to enable the students to improve their skills in communicating their understanding of the subjects

both on paper and in class discussion, with emphasis on conveying their views in a clear, accu-

rate and literate manner

to advertise the exciting intellectual challenges provided by the study of the subject at University

For more information, please contact the Head of Department.


History

Head of Department: Mr N Axon

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3312

The Department is based in a suite of rooms on the top floor of the Main School building. There are five

classrooms for teaching. There is a Department office and an additional resources and study area.

The History Department offers courses at AS and A2 level as well as Extension Classes.


The History & Politics Departments run an extensive programme of co-curricular activities. These

include:

- Diggers, a society that meets on Thursdays after school; it serves to broaden students’

experience of the past, tackling subjects not covered on the current A Level specifications;

recent talks have included crime in Victorian Manchester, a genealogical mystery, the Titanic and

colonialism. Students have also set up a related History book club.

- Think Tank, a current affairs society that meets fortnightly during the Friday lunch break; guest

speakers over the past couple of years have included MPs from all the major parties, as well as

activists from environmental and human rights groups. The society is also responsible for

running mock elections, including a 2012 US Presidential election.

- Dubs Lecture: inaugurated in 2005, this annual lecture series provides an eminent public figure

with a platform to speak on an issue of the day; at the first meeting Lord Dubs spoke movingly of

his childhood escape from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia and subsequent life and career in

Britain. Subsequent guests have included former Labour MP and government minister, Clare

Short, and campaigner Peter Tatchell.

- Trips: A Level students will have the opportunity to take part in trips to Washington DC and

Moscow & St. Petersburg as part of their two-year A Level course.

Entry requirements

Ideally, minimum GCSE/IGCSE Grade A in History. Students with Grade B would be assessed by the


As an A Level subject, History makes extensive use of the school’s online learning facility. As well as a

valuable teaching and learning tool, it provides candidates with an experience of the kind of resource

they can expect to use at university.


History is a popular degree with CHS students, with recent candidates going on to read the subject at a

variety of universities, including Oxford, Leeds, Nottingham, UCL, Bristol and Edinburgh.

The Department also offers help to students seeking practical work experience, such as placements in

museums and the Institute of Historical Research in London.

History is a highly respected humanities degree subject. It serves as a valuable preparation for

candidates interested in a career in law, journalism, the civil service, public consultancies, teaching and

academia, business and advertising.


History AS Level

Content of Course

Unit 1: Historical Themes in Breadth

D3: Russia in Revolution, 1881-1924: From Autocracy to Dictatorship

D4: Stalin’s Russia, 1924-53

Unit 2: British History Depth Studies

B1: Britain 1830-85: Representation and Reform

History A2 Level

Content of Course

Unit 3: Depth Studies and Associated Controversies

B1: France 1786-1830: Revolution, Empire and Restoration

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry (Coursework)

CW39: The USA: From Reconstruction to Civil Rights, c.1877-1981

History Extension Classes

The aims of this extension programme are:

to stimulate the students' interest, curiosity and enjoyment in History with a lively, well-resourced

and fresh approach to the disciplines that goes beyond the confines of the A Level specifications.

to foster the development of the students' ability to arrive at carefully reasoned, well researched

and plausible interpretations of challenging questions

to provide the students with opportunities to enhance their abilities to undertake independent re-

search and enquiry

to enable the students to improve their skills in communicating their understanding of the subjects

both on paper and in class discussion, with emphasis on conveying their views in a clear, accurate

and literate manner

to prepare students for examination, at A Level, at Advanced Extension Award level and for other

pre-university tests

to advertise the exciting intellectual challenges provided by the study of both subjects at University

For more information, please contact the Head of Department.


Mathematics

Head of Department: Mr Steven Norton

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3416

The Mathematics Department at Cheadle Hulme School is staffed by 14 graduates, all experienced

teachers. We aim to develop an appreciation for and interest in Mathematics, both for itself and for the

part it plays in everyday life.

The Department offers AS and A2 Level Courses in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics as

well as Mathematics and Further Mathematics Extension Classes.

Students who choose to study Mathematics or Further Mathematics at AS or A2 Level are entered for

the MEI examinations (OCR). In both cases, the full A Level consists of six modules each.


Students have the opportunity to enter the Senior United Kingdom Mathematics Challenge. The UKMT

Challenge is a National competition consisting of questions designed to stimulate students’

mathematical thinking and to test their mental agility. We also enter a team for the Senior UKMT Team

Challenge. Several of our students take part in the UKMT Mentoring Scheme.

Our AS and A2 Mathematicians regularly attend Mathematical lectures held in the region, as well as

attending talks after school given by former students and local experts.

The Department also offers two weekly support sessions: Thursday lunchtime and Tuesday after

school, available for students studying Mathematics or Further Mathematics at AS or A2 level.

Mathematics Entry requirements

Minimum IGCSE or GCSE Grade A in Mathematics.

Exam Board: OCR (MEI)

Course details

The AS course builds on the student’s GCSE experience and encourages students to:

develop their understanding of Mathematics in a way that promotes confidence and fosters enjoyment

extend their range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them in more difficult unstructured

problems

The A2 course develops and extends ideas encountered on the AS course. Students should learn an

approach to Mathematics that will equip them to use it in the adult world and to be able to

communicate what they are doing to those around them.


Further Mathematics

Entry requirements Grade A* at IGCSE or GCSE Mathematics.

Exam Board: OCR

Course details This course is ideally suited for those students who have a particular aptitude and ability in

Mathematics. Students who elect to study Further Mathematics receive double the teaching time of

single mathematicians and work towards the completion of two full A Levels (Mathematics and Further

Mathematics). In some circumstances it is possible to gain an AS level in Further Mathematics instead

of the full A Level.

The general aims of this course are the same as the single option Mathematics. However, the content

and depth to which the students will study is greater within Further Mathematics. As such, students

who have studied Further Mathematics are heavily sought after by universities and employers alike.


Mathematics A Level is recognised as a valuable qualification, useful not only in financial and numerical

fields, but also in a broad spectrum of careers where the skills of problem solving and analysis are

needed. In Higher Education Mathematics can be studied as a degree course or to complement other

courses such as business studies, computing, engineering and science. Some Universities are now

requiring Further Mathematics for Engineering or Economics related degree courses.

Mathematics AS Level Content of course:

A total of six modules are covered over the two years. A student chooses to follow either the Mechanics

or Statistics route dependent on their future career choices.

AS level (3 modules)

Introduction to Advanced Mathematics (C1) aims to build on and develop the techniques students

have learnt at GCSE.

Concepts for Advanced Mathematics (C2) is to introduce students to a number of topics which are

fundamental to the advanced study of Mathematics e.g. Calculus.

Either: Statistics (S1) aims to build on and extend handling data techniques from GCSE and give

insights into ideas of hypothesis testing.

Or: Mechanics (M1) aims to introduce the student to mathematical modelling and to the basic

concepts in kinematics, static’s and dynamics which underlie the study of mechanics.

Mathematics A2 level Content of Course

A2 Level (3 modules)

Methods for Advanced Mathematics (C3) aims to build on and develop the techniques form AS

level especially in the area of calculus.

Applications of Advanced Mathematics (C4) applies all techniques to real world problems.

For those who studied S1 at AS: Statistics (S2) includes the representation of data in bivariate

situations with linear and rank-order modelling; hypothesis testing.

For those who studied M1 at AS: Either Statistics (S1) or Mechanics (M2). The second

mechanics module extends the range of mechanical concepts covered and modelled.

Further Mathematics in the Lower Sixth Content of Course During the first year of the course the students will cover 6 modules leading to an A Level in Mathe-

matics. These are:

· Introduction to Advanced Mathematics (C1)

· Concepts for Advanced Mathematics (C2)

Methods for Advanced Mathematics (C3)

Applications of Advanced Mathematics (C4)

Statistics 1 (S1)

Statistics 2 (S2)

The content of these units are outlined in the A Level Mathematics specification.

Further Mathematics in the Upper Sixth Content of Course

In the second year of the course we cover 6 modules leading to the award of the Further Mathematics

A-level. Although there is some flexibility here, these 6 modules are typically:

· Further Pure 1

· Further Pure 2

· Further Pure 3

· Mechanics 1 (M1)

· Mechanics 2 (M2)

· Differential Equations (DE)

Outlined below are the additional modules covered in Further Mathematics:

Further Pure 1, 2 and 3 develop and extend the student’s knowledge and techniques within pure

mathematics, introducing fundamental ideas in complex numbers, matrices and proof. We also look

at some new areas of the subject such as multivariable calculus and group theory.

Differential Equations extends the work carried out in C4 on differential equations to cover the sec-

ond order and higher equations which occur in practical situations within mechanics and are useful in

work carried out at a higher level.

Mathematics and Further Mathematics Extension Classes

The aims of the Mathematics and Further Mathematics Extension Classes are to develop the ability of

students to think through problems and apply their knowledge in novel and unusual ways; to give op-

portunities for students to express themselves within the mathematical context both verbally and in

written form.



Modern Foreign Languages

Heads of Department: Mrs Francoise Lucas (Head of French)

Mrs Nicole Meredith (Head of German)

Mr John Wilson (Head of Spanish)

Contact No: 0161 488 3330:

Mrs Lucas (French) ext. 3271

Mrs Meredith (German) ext. 3232

Mr Wilson (Spanish) ext. 3301

We firmly believe that successfully learning other languages enriches your life forever. Knowledge of

languages opens doors to another world. Nothing can replace reading a novel or seeing a play in the

original, and visits to foreign countries are so much more interesting if you can eavesdrop on

conversations in buses and restaurants, read what is written all around you and speak to anyone you

meet. It can also be a lifesaver in moments of crisis! We teach our students how to become skilled

linguists, to be independent in how to learn a language, and to understand how to become better at

an art that can be challenging to perfect.

The Modern Languages Department is divided into three separate language departments: French,

German and Spanish. There are ten teaching staff and each of three languages taught on the core

curriculum benefits from a native-speaker Language Assistant.

Having achieved at least an A at GCSE/iGCSE as a minimum requirement, our students combine their

languages with a variety of other subject areas, varying from sciences to humanities. Many study

Modern Languages at university, either as a specialism or in combination with another subject such as

Economics, Medicine Law or Geography.

We cover the AQA course which gives students the opportunity to access a range of topics associated

with the enriching cultures related to the languages they are learning. At AS these include: “Family

and Relationships”, “Popular Culture”, “The Media” and “Healthy Living”. At A2 these are: “The

Environment”, “Contemporary Issues”, “Multicultural Society” and a range of cultural topics from art,

literature and film.

AS is assessed as follows:

Unit 1: Listening, Reading and Writing (Written Paper: 2 hours)

Weighting: 70% of total AS / 35% of total A-level marks

Unit 2: Speaking Test (35 minutes including 20 minutes preparation time)

Weighting: 30% of total AS / 15% of total A-level marks

A2 is assessed as follows:

Unit 3: Listening, Reading and Writing (Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes)

Weighting: 35% of total A-level marks

Unit 4: Speaking Test (35 minutes including 20 minutes preparation time)

Weighting: 15% of total A-level marks

There is also the opportunity to investigate the languages and their cultures further during the

extension classes in each of the languages during Upper Sixth. Furthermore, in the Sixth Form

Enrichment Programme students have the opportunity to opt for Russian and Italian from beginners’

level.

For more detailed information on each subject, please see French, German, or Spanish




Music

Head of Department: Mr P Dewhurst

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3267

There is a strong tradition of music making at Cheadle Hulme School as witnessed by the number and

quality of co-curricular groups, the frequent concerts and the large number of students receiving pri-

vate music lessons in School.

The Department is lively and well-resourced and has a reputation for excellence. Senior school facili-

ties include:

• Twelve practice rooms & three main teaching classrooms

• A large rehearsal/concert room

• Two music technology rooms are equipped with 20 Macs/PCs in one and 12 PCs in the other,

both running 'Garage Band', ‘Cubase’, & ‘Sibelius 7’ software

• Dedicated Sixth Form teaching room

• A keyboard room

• A professionally equipped recording studio

The principal aim of the department is to develop every student’s enjoyment and appreciation of mu-

sic and to ensure that the musical potential of every student is fulfilled. Courses in AS and A2 Music

are offered to students as well as Music Extension Classes. Students can also take private music les-

sons.

Co-Curricular Activities The School’s concert calendar is very busy and is designed to give as many students as possible the

opportunity to perform. There are also several opportunities each year for students to hear live music

groups both in and out of School.

There are a variety of Music Groups which students can join including Concert Band, CHS Big Band,

Wind Band, Boys' Choir, Swing Band, Orchestra, Rockshop, Sinfonia, Chamber Choir and Samba

Band. Several other Chamber Groups also rehearse on a weekly basis.

Entry requirements GCSE music is desirable but not a pre-requisite. However, it is expected that all students will have a

secure working knowledge of music theory as well as a minimum of Grade V distinction on their princi-

pal instrument or voice at the start of the course.

Exam Board: OCR

Course details The course provides further development of the skills gained at GCSE in composing, performing and

listening. If you require further details or have any queries, the music staff would be very happy to

talk to you and answer any questions.

Career/HE opportunities Some of our students go on to read music each year at university or Music College. Music is regarded

by universities as having academic rigor combined with creativity. Students leaving higher education

with a degree in music have the same career opportunities as those with any other arts degree. Previ-

ous students of the school who have studied music at A-level have gone on to careers in music, medi-

cine and law.


Music AS Level

Content of course:

Unit 1 (G351): Performing

For this unit you will give a short solo recital and also perform either on a second instrument, in an

ensemble, perform your own composition or a short improvisation. There will also be a short viva voce

related to the programme you perform. Both will be assessed by a visiting examiner.

Unit 2 (G352): Composing 1

For this unit you will compose a piece of music (maximum of 3 mins.) for between four and ten

instruments which will be performed and recorded by professional musicians. You will also learn about

western tonal harmony through short exercises to develop your understanding of basic harmony. Your

work will be assessed by your own teacher/tutor and moderated by OCR.

Unit 3 (G353): Introduction to Historical Study

For this unit you will study music directly linked to your work for Unit 2. There is a 2 hour examination

for this unit, divided into three sections. In the first, you will listen to an extract related to your

harmonic exercises in Unit 2 and answer questions on it. In the second, there will be questions on two

sets of prescribed works – 18th/19th century orchestral music, and 20th century jazz – and in the third,

there will be a choice of questions about the background to the music you have been studying.

Music A2 level

Content of Course

These 3 units complete the Advanced GCE qualification.

Unit 4 (G354): Performing: Interpretation

For this unit you will be able to choose for yourself what music to study and perform. You will give a

recital as a soloist or accompanist, or in an ensemble. There will also be a short viva voce related to the

programme you perform. Both will be assessed by a visiting examiner.

Unit 5 (G355): Composing 2

The are two components to this unit - 1. You will complete a folio of eight two-part Baroque

counterpoint exercises 2. you will write one composition from the following: a vocal composition, a

piece of programme music, a soundtrack to accompany a TV or Film clip.

Unit 6 (G356): Historical and Analytical Studies

This will consist of a timed examination paper (2 hours) with two main sections: aural extracts,

prescribed historical topic – Programme Music from 1700 to the present day. In preparation for the first

section you will study a wide range of early 20th-century vocal music, learning about techniques of

word-setting and about more advanced techniques of handling harmony and tonality.

The full specification is available by following the links on this OCR website

• MUSIC Advanced Subsidiary GCE H142

MUSIC Advanced GCE H542

Music Extension Classes

The aims of the Music Extension Classes are to foster an interest and enthusiasm for the subject; to

help further develop the talents of students showing high potential; to help equip students considering

applying to study Music at University with the practical skills and wider reading experience needed for

success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field.


http://www.ocr.org.uk/


Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies

Head of Department: Mrs H Firth

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3227

The Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies Department at Cheadle Hulme School currently

offers the Cambridge Pre-U Philosophy and Theology. The course is non-sectarian, non-

denominational open to and suitable for students of all religions or none. We do not assume any

particular beliefs on the part of students. We aim to inform, deepen understanding and develop

tolerance of different traditions and cultures.

The Department has two classrooms for teaching and two seminar rooms with a departmental

resources base and library for Sixth Form classes in Broomefield. We use TV, video and IT in a

variety of ways to enhance students` work and learning. Many students complete work on their

own computers or on the IT equipment in school.

The Department also offers Extension Classes.

Co-Curricular Activities The Department runs The Philosophical Society which is open to Sixth Form students and

encourages them to discuss all aspects of philosophical thinking from the nature of knowledge to

current issues of concern. Occasionally guest speakers, from both inside and outside School

present their views.

Entry requirements: The Department sets no formal entry requirements, other than those for entry into the Sixth

Form. No prior knowledge of the subject is required.

Philosophy and Theology Cambridge Pre-U Course

What we are trying to achieve: This course is intended to allow students to think rigorously about fundamental questions of truth

and human understanding.

The Philosophy and Theology option available to Sixth Form students at Cheadle Hulme School

aims to equip students with the skills required to make a success of their subsequent studies at

university. It provides not only a solid grounding in each specialist subject at an appropriate level,

but also the ability to undertake independent and self-directed learning and to think laterally,

critically and creatively.

Throughout this programme of study, we seek to develop an understanding of the shared heritage

of Philosophy and Theology. It will allow students to gain a real insight into both subject areas,

rather than simply the topics of ethics and philosophy of religion. A major aim of this course is to

prepare students thoroughly for the study of either Philosophy or Theology in Higher Education; or

any other subject which requires rigorous thinking and the analysis of complex ideas. It will

enhance skills in the critical examination and evaluation of evidence and arguments, and develop

the ability to construct, develop and maintain a clear and coherent argument. Students will be

introduced to some of the key ideas and texts which have played a large role in shaping our

intellectual heritage.

Career/HE opportunities At heart this is a programme of study which supports the development of well-informed, open and

independently-minded individuals. It is a curriculum which retains the integrity of subject

specialisms and which can be efficiently, effectively and reliably assessed, graded and reported to

meet the needs of universities. Ultimately it is designed to recognise a wide range of individual

talents, interests and abilities and which provides the depth and rigour required for a university

degree course. This is particularly important as an increasing number of university courses

incorporate elements of Philosophy and Critical Thinking.


Philosophy and Theology Cambridge Pre-U Course

Course details

As the course unfolds students will be required to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the

issues arising from the relevant philosophical and theological themes and texts; and the ability to

identify, select and apply ideas and concepts, through the use of examples and evidence from

recognised sources of authority.

They will be required to provide a systematic critical analysis of the texts and theories they have

studied, sustain a line of argument and justify a point of view. Different views, including those of

different scholars and schools of thought, will be referred to and evaluated where appropriate.

The course is assessed in three written papers, externally set and marked, at the end of Year 13. The

three topics are:

• Introduction to Philosophy and Theology

• Philosophy of Religion

• Ethics

Philosophy and Theology Extension Course The aim of the Philosophy and Theology Extension Classes is to introduce candidates to the major

ideas of western philosophy and to enhance their skills in philosophical discussion.

Physics

Head of Department: Dr J Johnstone

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3211

The Physics Department consists of 4 full-time and 2 part-time teaching staff. Teaching is supported

by 1 full-time and 1 part-time technician.

The Department has the sole use of 4 laboratories. It has modern accommodation and is very well

equipped.

The Department offers courses at AS and A2 Levels as well as Physics Extension Classes. We have had

considerable success at A Level and Oxbridge and Sixth Form students have the opportunity to enter

the British Physics Olympiad competition. All members of the Department are committed to working as

a team and we aim to develop an appreciation for and interest in Physics so that you gain a better

understanding of the world around you. We always share good practice and continually try to improve

what we do.

Entry requirements Ideally, minimum GCSE Grade A for Single Science Physics or AA in Co-ordinated Science. Students

with Grade B would be assessed by the Department on an individual basis. A minimum of GCSE Grade

B in Mathematics is essential.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details Are you interested in the natural laws which govern the Universe? If so, read on. The aim of the course

is to provide students with interest, enjoyment and a sense of achievement from their study of

Physics. The course will not only suit those who may go on to further study in Physics, but also those

who may pursue other studies such as Engineering, Mathematics, Chemistry, or Medicine/medically

related careers. It also gives students who will not need Physics for studies beyond A-level a sound

scientific grounding, nicely complementing non-scientific AS levels.

The approach is to revise and extend work met at GCSE and to introduce new topics, including some

very up-to-date ideas. Students should be able to understand ideas and methods and be able to apply

their understanding to problems. The level of demand is equal to that expected of students half way

through a full A-level course.

The A2 course extends the AS work to include some more mathematical topics and brings out some of

the main themes in physics and emphasises the coherence and unity of the subject. Students should

be able to understand ideas and methods and be able to apply their understanding to problems.

Taking A-level Mathematics is not essential as long as you are competent in Mathematics.

Mathematics for Physics

For those students who are not taking AS level Mathematics, there is a

Mathematics for Physics course run by the Physics Department. At one period per week this course

covers the mathematical skills required for AS and A2 Physics

Career/HE opportunities A-level Physics is a good choice for entry into many science-based degree courses, especially those

related to physics such as engineering, materials science or geophysics. It is also useful for those who

may pursue other studies such as mathematics, architecture, medicine, medically related careers,

dentistry and veterinary science courses. In the past some students have gone on to take degrees in

subjects like history, geography and law.


Physics AS Level

Content of course

UNIT 1

(Written paper 6/7 short, structured questions. 1 hour 15 minutes. 40% of AS marks. 20% of A Level

marks)

Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity.

· Atom, nucleus, particles, antiparticles, quarks, photon.

· Photoelectric effect, wave particle duality.

· Electric circuits, components, current, voltage, resistance, power, resistivity, alternating current.

UNIT 2

(Written paper 6/7 short, structured questions. 1 hour 15 minutes (40% of AS marks /20% of A Level

marks))

Mechanics, Materials and Waves.

· Forces, motion, energy, power.

· Density, Hooke’s Law, stress, strain, Young’s modulus.

· Longitudinal and transverse waves, progressive and stationary waves, refraction, diffraction,

interference.

UNIT 3

Investigative and Practical Skills (20% of AS marks / 10% of A Level marks)

· Selection and use of various equipment

· Processing of data

· Making observations and measurements

· Analysing and evaluation of results

Physics A2 level Content of Course

The A2 course extends the AS work to include some more mathematical topics and brings out some of

the main themes in physics and emphasises the coherence and unity of the subject.

Students should be able to understand ideas and methods and be able to apply their understanding to

problems.

UNIT 4

(Written paper 25 multiple choice, 4/5 structured questions (1 hour 45 minutes / 20% of A Level

marks))

Further Mechanics and Fields.

· Momentum, circular motion, simple harmonic motion.

· Gravitational fields, electric fields, capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction.

UNIT 5 is in two parts

(Written Paper Section A 4/5 structured questions / Section B 4/5 structured questions

1 hour 45 minutes. (20% of A Level marks / (11% for A, 9% for B))

Section A: Nuclear and Thermal Physics

· Radioactivity, probing the nucleus, nuclear instability, nuclear energy.

· Thermal properties of materials, ideal gases molecular kinetic theory of gases.

Section B: One of these Options:

· Astrophysics: lenses, telescopes, non-optical telescopes, classification of stars, cosmology

· Medical Physics: physics of the eye, physics of the ear, biological measurements, non-ionising

imaging, X-ray imaging

· Turning Points in Physics: discovery of the electron, wave-particle duality, special relativity

If there are 3 teaching groups all 3 options will be put on, if there are 2 teaching groups the most

popular 2 will be put on.

UNIT 6 Investigative and Practical Skills (10% of A Level marks)

· Selection and use of various equipment

· Processing of data

· Making observations and measurements

· Analysing and evaluation of results

Physics Extension Classes The aims of the Physics Extension Classes are to explore the wider thinking and use of techniques

that can be applied in the topics already covered at AS Level and that will be covered at A2 in the

Autumn term; to practise expressing good, clear Physics both in writing and verbally, in classroom

discussion.



Psychology

Head of Department: Ms K Gilbertson

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3255

Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour and students on the ‘A’ level course will study some of

the major topics and approaches in Psychology. In addition students will undertake psychological

research using a number of methods.

Psychologists are interested in topics such as:

- how children learn language

- treatments for depression

- the relationship between stress and illness

- improving performance in sport

- the behaviour of animals

- how memory works


The Department runs a lunch time Psychology club for students in Years 9, 10 and 11. Members have

the opportunity to learn about the subject and participate in fun quizzes. Topics covered so far include

personality, perception, memory, visual illusions, face recognition and non-verbal communication.

Course Entry requirements

The Department sets no formal entry requirements, other than those for entry into the Sixth Form. No

prior knowledge of the subject is required.

Exam Board: AQA (Specification B)

Course details

Psychology is often defined as ‘the scientific study of mind and behaviour’. In AS Psychology you will

discover some of the major influences on behaviour and also develop investigative skills. The aim of the

A2 course is to further develop the knowledge and skills achieved at AS Psychology via additional

psychological topics and synoptic assessment.

Career/HE opportunities Psychology as a subject blends well with both the sciences and arts. It is useful for students studying

medicine as universities are developing the psychology element for prospective doctors, and over the

past few years students studying Psychology A Level have all received offers from medical schools. It is

relevant to the world of work (e.g. in Business and the Caring Professions), and is offered at many

universities. Psychology graduates go into diverse fields, including careers in Clinical, Forensic and

Educational Psychology.


Psychology AS Level

Content of Course

Unit 1: Introducing Psychology

Approaches – the key perspectives e.g. Behaviourism, Biological theory and Psychoanalytic

perspective

Research Methods, Statistics and Ethics

Psychology of Gender - Do we behave as males and females due to nature or nurture?

Unit 2: Social & Cognitive Psychology and Individual Differences

Social Psychology

Social Influence – Why do we obey those in authority? What have psychologists discovered

about why we conform to others?

Cognitive Psychology

Memory and forgetting i.e. How does your memory work? Why do we forget?

Individual Differences

The symptoms, explanations and treatments for phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Psychology A2 level

Content of Course

Unit 3: Child Development and Applied Options

Child Development

- Moral Development – i.e. how do children learn right from wrong?

Psychology of Atypical Behaviour

- The symptoms, explanations and treatments of mood disorders and schizophrenia

Cognition and Law – How do we recognise faces? The study of the accuracy of eye-witness

testimony.

Unit 4: Perspectives, Debates and Methods

Perspectives

Behavioural

Cognitive

Psychoanalytic

Humanistic

Biological

Debates in Psychology

Ideographic / Nomothetic

Freewill / Determinism

Nature/Nurture

Holism / Reductionism

Psychology and science

Methods

Inferential Statistics

Ethical Issues in Research

Psychology Extension Classes

The aims of the Psychology Extension Class is to foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject; to

help further develop the talents of students showing high potential; to help equip students considering

applying to study Psychology at University with the analytical and evaluative skills and wider reading


For more information please contact the Head of Department.


Sixth Form Enrichment Programme (SFEP)

Head of Department: Mrs N Meredith

The Sixth Form Diploma is available to both Lower and Upper Sixth Form students.

Sixth Form Diploma for the Lower Sixth.

In the Lower Sixth SFEP is taught as a non-examined skills based course, looking at the following

units in a carousel:

Compulsory

Communication

Critical Thinking

Life Skills for Uni and Beyond

Optional

Cooking on a Budget

Gardening

ICT

Italian

Russian

Sixth Form Diploma for the Upper Sixth

In the Upper Sixth students continue to learn new skills in a 3 Unit carousel as follows:

Cookery

Design for your own space

ICT

Those students in Upper Sixth who study 4 A Levels or undertake the Psychology AQA Extended

Project are not required to attend Sixth Form Diploma lessons

Spanish

Head of Department: Mr John Wilson

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 ext. 3301

The Spanish Department aims to give students confidence in their ability to use Spanish as a real-life

communication tool and to make students aware of the diversity of the Spanish-speaking world, with its

rich artistic, musical and literary heritage. At the same time, we hope to allow students and teachers to

develop their special interests and share them with others.

Studying Spanish at Cheadle Hulme School The Department offers courses in AS and A2 Level Spanish as well as Extension Classes. By the time

you finish your Spanish studies at Cheadle Hulme School, we hope that you will have developed a love

and understanding of the Spanish-speaking world, will have acquired a specialist knowledge of the topics

that most interest you from that world, will have visited at least one Spanish-speaking country on an

educational visit, and will feel comfortable speaking to Spanish native-speakers on most topics.

Co-Curricular Activities We have regular visits to see films and plays. In March we also attend workshops at the Viva Film

Festival and the Instituto Cervantes. The Sixth Form also help staff run a Spanish Clinic which younger

students can attend to obtain advice or help in aspect of their course, as part of the School's Leadership

Scheme. Through this Scheme they can also help with the Department's involvement with the Junior

School and with other local Primary Schools.

The Spanish Department, in conjunction with the French and German Departments, host the annual

Northwest Schools' Debating Competition for Modern Languages.

There are study trips to Spain including a long weekend in Barcelona also taken place for Sixth Form

students.

Entry requirements Minimum GCSE or IGCSE Grade A in Spanish.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details The aim of the course is to develop the ability to use Spanish effectively for purposes of practical


about contemporary events and issues in Spain. The course also aims to provide enjoyment and

intellectual stimulation and offer insights into the cultures and civilisations of Spain and Spanish-

speaking countries. It also aims to foster independent learning and provide a strong basis for further

study of the language at degree level or equivalent.

Career/HE opportunities • transferable linguistic and communication skills

• opportunities in expanding European Union and global markets

• importance of language skills for employers when recruiting in the world of business, industry,

commerce, media and education


Links: www.kerboodle.com

- support material to accompany A Level topics

www.cornerhouse.org

– local independent cinema often showing films in Spanish and also the host venue for the annual

¡Viva! Spanish Film Festival in March

www.manchester.cervantes.es

- the Instituto Cervantes, Manchester Branch, based on Deansgate in Manchester a public institution

founded in 1991 to promote Spanish language teaching and knowledge of the cultures of Spanish

speaking countries throughout the world.

www.llas.ac.uk – for ideas on Careers with languages

www.elpais.com – respected Spanish daily newspaper

www.lanacion.com.ar – respected Argentinean daily newspaper

T:\public\spanish – for departmental resources, students’ work and photos from trips.

Spanish AS Level

Content of Course

The AS course will cover:







Assessment



Candidates will answer a range of questions based on approximately 5 minutes of heard material

and on a selection of written stimulus texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on

one of the AS topics.




Speaking.

Candidates will discuss a target-language stimulus card based on one of the AS topics and take part

in a conversation covering three further AS topics.

http://www.kerboodle.com/

http://www.cornerhouse.org/

http://www.manchester.cervantes.es/

http://www.llas.ac.uk/

http://www.elpais.com/

http://www.lanacion.com.ar/

Spanish A2 level

Content of Course

• Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet • The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism



• Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region/community or the study of a period of

20th century history from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a novelist/

dramatist/poet from a target language-speaking country/community or the study of a director/architect/

musician/painter from a target language-speaking country/ community.



Assessment



Listening, Reading and Writing.

Candidates will answer a range of questions based on approximately 6 minutes of heard material and on

a selection of written texts. They will also respond in writing to a question based on one of the four A2

cultural topic areas.


Assessment



Speaking.



Spanish Extension Classes

The Spanish Extension Classes provide students with a broad insight into the cultures, politics and

societies of the Spanish-speaking world.

There will be five series of weekly, teacher-led introductions to topics. These will be followed by a

student-led seminar session in which students give further discussion of chosen topics from those

covered in the given session. Students will deliver no more than 3 seminar papers each but all will be

expected to contribute to discussion following the papers. This structure is subject to change as events

such as the ‘Viva Spanish and Latin American Film Festival' occur.

There will be regular film showings, related to the various topics. These will be shown at stated times,

outside the timetabled lessons. A list of recommended reading for each of the five series of the course

will be provided.

Sport Science

Head of Department: Mr A Wrathall

Contact: 0161 488 3330

Sport Science is offered as an examinable option at AS and A2 level. The Department is

housed in its own dedicated classroom in the Main Building. A wide range of teaching styles and

resources are used in a variety of ways to enhance students` learning and understanding.

The Department also offers Extension Classes.

Co-Curricular Activities The Department runs an extensive programme of Co-curricular activities, in conjunction with

the PE and Games Department. Clubs specific to Sport Science include:

- A Question of Sport: an occasional lunch time or after school session where guest speakers

from the world of sport are invited in to give a presentation and allow students to quiz them

about life in sport.

- Sport Science Clinic: a regular clinic aimed at helping students with their understanding of

the course.

Course Entry requirements No prior knowledge of the subject is required. The Department sets no formal entry require-

ments, other than those for entry into the Sixth Form.

Exam Board: AQA

Course Details To develop an interest in, and enjoyment of the subject, through theoretical, applied and practi-

cal aspects of Sport Science. It is a broad based course with scientific, psychological and socio-

logical components that link well with many other A Level options. A2 level further develops a

holistic approach to the improvement of individual performance.

Career / HE Opportunities Sport Science is recognised as a creditable subject for entry at all universities. It is an excellent

foundation for students intending to pursue careers in a wide range of disciplines. Examples in-

clude teaching, coaching, sports development, sports science, recreation, health and fitness,

physiotherapy, psychology and professional sport.


Aims of AS and A2 Sport Science

This subject encourages students to:

Become increasingly physically competent by:

developing the skills and techniques they require to perform effectively in physical activities

applying and adapting a wide range of skills and techniques effectively in different types of

physical activity

developing and applying their skills in different roles, such as performer, leader and official

within physical activities

applying their skills in different contexts within a physical activity

Maintain and develop their involvement and effectiveness in physical activity through

developing their knowledge and understanding of factors that enable them and others to be

physically active as part of a balanced lifestyle, and as part of a lifelong involvement in an

active and healthy lifestyle

Develop their knowledge and understanding of the relationship between skill, strategy/

composition, and body and mind readiness in ensuring effective and efficient performance in

their own and others’ roles such as performer, leader and official

Be informed and discerning decision-makers who understand how to be involved in physical

activity through helping them to

understand how they and others make the most of the opportunities and pathways available

to be involved in physical activity

understand and critically evaluate how contemporary products and consumer-focused

influences related to physical activity affect and inform young people’s decisions about

being involved in a range of physical activities

understand and critically evaluate current key influences that might limit or encourage

young people’s involvement in physical activity.

AS Level

Content of the Course

Unit 1- Opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle (60% of

AS marks – 2 hour exam)

1. Applied Exercise Physiology

• Health, nutrition, fitness, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, joint movement analysis,

training principles & methods, fitness testing

2. Skill acquisition

• Types & classification of skill, information processing, learning & performance, teaching styles,

feedback & guidance

3. Opportunities for participation

• Play, leisure, sport, historical, social, cultural, sport in school, sports initiatives

Unit 2 – Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or in an adopted

role(s) (40% of AS marks – internal assessment)

Candidates will be assessed in two sections:

• Section A – The ability as a performer, official or leader via demonstration in a practical

situation (internal assessment and external moderation)

• Section B – Application of theoretical knowledge for effective performance and development of

skills in a practical situation. This is assessed in Section B of the Unit 1 question paper.

A2 Level Content of Course

Unit 3 – Optimising performance & evaluating contemporary issues within sport (30% of

A Level marks – 2 hour exam)

1. Section A - Exercise physiology

• Energy systems (aerobic & anaerobic), muscles, sports supplements, training, sports injuries,

mechanics of movement

2. Section B - Sports psychology

• Personality, arousal, anxiety, attitudes, aggression, confidence, attribution theory, groups,

leadership

3. Section C - Contemporary influences

• World Games, Sport England, world class performance, recreation, sportsmanship, violence,

drugs, legislation, sponsorship, media

Unit 4 – Optimising practical performance in a competitive situation (20% of A Level

marks – internal assessment)

1. Section A – The ability to perform and analyse relevant core skills/techniques as a performer,

official or leader/coach within a fully competitive situation/equivalent scenario. (Internal

assessment and external moderation - 60 marks).

2. Section B – The ability to analyse and critically evaluate their own/others’ weaknesses within a

fully competitive/equivalent situation in relation to an elite level performer. (Internal assessment

and external moderation - 30 marks).

3. Section C – Their ability to identify theoretical causes for weaknesses in performance and

suggest appropriate corrective practices to optimise performance. (Internal assessment and

external moderation - 30 marks).

Sport Science Extension Classes The aims of the Sport Science Department Extension Class are to foster interest and enthusiasm

for the subject; to help further develop talents of students showing high potential; to help equip

students considering applying to study Sports related courses at University with the practical skills

and wider reading experience needed for success in gaining offers in an ever expanding and

competitive field.

More information is available from the Course Co-Coordinator


Theatre Studies

Head of Department: Ms C Harms

Contact No: 0161 488 3330 extension 3221

The Drama Department consists of 3 teaching studios, with blackout facilities and theatre lighting.

Exam performances and main School productions take place on the stage in Holden Hall.

Theatre Studies is offered at AS and A2 level and there is also an extension course for pupils in the

Upper Sixth.


The Drama Department produces major School productions each year. Sell-out performances have

included 'The Sound of Music' and a dramatic production of 'Antigone' and 'A Kind of Alaska'. There is the

opportunity for Sixth Form students to produce and perform their own self-directed Play.

The Department also arranges numerous Theatre Trips for students, and there is a biennial joint A

Level trip to New York with the Art department.

Careers/HE opportunities The course is useful for those considering degrees and careers in the following areas:

Acting; Performing Arts; Film, Television and Theatre work; Law; Teaching; Media & Print journalism;

Arts Administration; Sales & Marketing; Social Sciences; Psychology and Drama Therapy; Art &

Design.

Entry requirements: Minimum GCSE Grade B in Drama, minimum GCSE Grade B in English.

Exam Board: AQA

Course details:

At AS, candidates will gain a knowledge and understanding of theatre practice as both participant and

informed audience member. Candidates will develop performance and/or production skills appropriate

to the creation and realisation of drama and theatre.

At A2, candidates will demonstrate a more advanced level of performance and/or production skills

alongside the ability to think independently, make judgements and refine their work in the light of

research. They will also demonstrate the ability to analyse the ways in which different performance

and production elements are brought together to create theatre.

At AS, candidates will gain a knowledge and understanding of theatre practice as both participant and

informed audience member. Candidates will develop performance and/or production skills appropriate

to the creation and realisation of drama and theatre.


https://www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/podium/default.aspx?t=204&nid=667466

https://www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/podium/default.aspx?t=204&nid=624254&bl=back

https://www.cheadlehulmeschool.co.uk/podium/default.aspx?t=204&nid=661970

Unit 1 will cover:

• Candidates’ personal response to live theatre seen during the course

• Interpretation of a set play from a performance perspective.

Written paper – 30% 2 essay questions

Unit 2 will cover:

• working in groups to develop and present an extract from a published play chosen by the candidates

• Study of an influential director, designer, theatre company or other practitioner, linked to the candi-

date’s practical work.

Practical Script Performance and Supporting Research Notes – 20%

At A2, candidates will demonstrate a more advanced level of performance and/or production skills along-

side the ability to think independently, make judgements and refine their work in the light of research.

They will also demonstrate the ability to analyse the ways in which different performance and production

elements are brought together to create theatre.

Unit 3 will cover:

• Study of a pre-twentieth century set play

• Study of a twentieth century or contemporary set play (synoptic)

Written paper – 30% 2 essay questions

Unit 4 will cover:

• working in groups to develop and present a devised drama, performed in a theatrical style of their

choice (synoptic)

• Research into a theatrical style chosen by the group for their practical work.

Practical Devised Performance and Supporting Research Notes – 20%

The course is useful for those considering degrees and careers in the following areas:

Acting; Performing Arts; Film, Television and Theatre work; Law; Teaching; Media & Print journalism;

Arts Administration; Sales & Marketing; Social Sciences; Psychology and Drama Therapy; Art & Design.

The aims of the Drama Department Extension Classes are to help to equip students applying to study

Acting courses at Drama Schools or Drama at University, with the audition and interview skills and wider

experience needed for success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field; to foster interest in and en-

thusiasm for the subject; to help further the talents of students showing high potential.



Careers

The sheer level of support we give Cheadle Hulme School Sixth Formers at this crucial point in their lives

is another differentiator of the School from other A level centres. This is the jumping off point between

school and university and, from there the rest of your life. We want to make sure that students are as

prepared as possible to make informed decisions on universities, courses and careers.

UCAS Applications

For Sixth Formers, the UCAS process can seem, and often is, very daunting. However our expert staff

are on hand to process and support each student's application from start to finish.

All students are interviewed individually by members of the Schools' Careers Department during the

Lower Sixth year, so that students can discuss their plans for the future and their academic progress so

far, as well as shaping course choices and careers decisions. Form Tutors and Heads of Year are also

very much involved in getting students ready to make their UCAS applications.

Interview Practice

Each year a 'Mock Interview' evening is held for Upper Sixth Form students. We are fortunate to have a

large body of parents and friends of the School, with a variety of experience in many different fields, who

give up their time to 'interview' pupils. This not only gives students a great opportunity to practice

interview technique; it also encourages the student to find out about a particular career choice straight

from 'the horse's mouth' and provides invaluable feedback. Students gain confidence and techniques via

this safe environment for university and job interviews.

Challenge of Management

In July each year, all members of the Lower Sixth Form take part in the 'Challenge of Management'

conference. This is run by advisors who come from industry, education and commerce. More information

about this is available on the Sixth Form Events page.

Careers Events and Courses

The Careers Department organises a number of special events, including a biennial Careers Convention,

involving about a hundred representatives of various professions, which is open to all members of the

Upper School and Sixth Form, together with their parents. There are also a number of more specialised

workshops and talks throughout the year.

Many of our Sixth Form use the School holidays to undertake Work Shadowing or attend University

Taster Courses. All have the chance to attend University Open Days.

With the benefit of these opportunities and expert careers advice, Cheadle Hulme School has a very

strong record of its pupils securing places at the top universities.

Academic extension is an integral part of the 6th Form Curriculum. Much of this is delivered through the

challenging programmes of study at A Level and Pre-U, as well as through extra-curricular clubs and

competitions.

Extension Classes have played an important role since their introduction in 2007. The courses, which

run from September to May, are designed to take Upper 6th students beyond the boundaries of their A

Level or Pre-U specifications, providing an excellent opportunity to enrich their experience in a chosen

subject in preparation for university application and undergraduate study.

Extension Classes take place each week - Period 3 on Fridays.

Further details on the courses can be obtained from the relevant Head of Department or Course

Teacher.

Subject Course teachers

Art & Design Ms Baker & Ms Craig

Biology Mr Hedwat

Business Management Ms Curl

Chemistry Mr Taylor

Classical Civilisation Mrs Johnson & Mrs Barfoot

Design Technology Mrs Buxton

Economics Mr Matthews

English Language Mr Parkin

English Literature Mr Westbrook

French Mr Watts

Geography Mr Cawtherley & Mrs Shallcross

German Frau Meredith

History Mr Bell

Latin Mrs Johnson

Law Mrs Barfoot

Mathematics Mr Barnett

Further Mathematics Mr Norton

Medicine Mr Chippendale

Music Mr Dewhurst & Mr Hall

Philosophy Mrs Firth

Physics Mr Ahmed

Politics Mr Axon

Psychology Mrs Stafford

Spanish Senorita Martiñez

Sports Science Mr Wrathall

Theatre Studies Ms Harms

Exten

sion

Cla

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th Extension Classes in the Upper 6

th

Art & Design Extension Classes

Aims to foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject beyond the set weekly lessons;

to help further develop the talents of students showing high potential;

to help students considering applying to study Art & Design at university with the practical skills

and wider experience needed for success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field.

Autumn Term: Students are naturally stretched on an individual basis within a project or

scheme of work. Work is further developed or taken into a different direction according to the

strengths, interests and preferences of the individual student. Work would be extended in class,

at lunchtimes and after school.

Session 1: Preparatory work for folder for application to specific University Course. This would

be mounting and displaying coursework to fullest potential and extending further lines of

enquiry into other media, sketchpad work or Art History further reading. The majority of

students, post A2 level, apply for a Foundation Course (1 year) which prepares them for a

Specialist Degree Course, e.g. Fine Art, Graphics, Textiles, Photography, Three Dimensional

Design. Students are usually asked to complete a practical project to take to interview.

Session 2: Students who apply direct to Degree Courses will obtain help and support with work,

mounting and folders. Specialist courses e.g. Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Art

History Medical Illustration, Combining Practical Art & Design with other subjects e.g.

Languages, business studies, media, finance, marketing

Session 3: Conducting Mock interviews with students applying for Art & Design Practical

Courses.

Session 4: Promoting the ‘Life Class’ Course and ensuring regular attendance – one 1½ hour

session per week, after school, as an addition to the folder for interview.

Session 5: Promoting and recommending Gallery Visits to view specific work relevant to

ongoing practical projects. Visiting practical workshops at Galleries or studios to enhance

and develop personal skills.

Session 6: Preparing folders and conducting mock interviews for specific courses e.g.

Architecture, Art History, Fine Art. Suggesting wider Art History reading, Gallery visits or

practical workshops tailored to individual requirements.

Session 7: The Art & Design Department would welcome students who do not take A2 practical

Art and are applying for Degree Courses e.g. Architecture, Art History and would given

support with folders, further practical work, suggest Gallery visits and conduct mock

interviews.

Session 8 to 12: Students will focus on completing preparatory work, developmental ideas and

final pieces before their Controlled Test Examination begins in the Spring Term.

Spring Term: students focus on their Controlled Test and completing coursework for final

exhibitions. Those applying for Art and Design courses at University complete work for

interviews. We continue to focus on individual requirements, projects, interview techniques and

personal development of projects.

Exten

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Biology Extension Classes

Aims

To develop students’ knowledge and interest in biological topics

To develop critical thinking skills to use during debate and when answering written questions

To inform students about contemporary issues

To prepare students for the demands of university interviews

This is the basic scheme of work for the Biology Extension classes; although we do take up

other issues in the news as they arise.

This extension course would be suitable for all those students doing A Level Biology who are

considering University courses in Biological Sciences or Medicine. It also is accessible to other science

students who find the area fascinating.

Week Topic Content Aims

1,2 Bad Science Comparing credible scientific research with hearsay and sensationalist articles

To assess the reliability of Biological findings reported through various media

3,4 Biological journals Examining current research published through journals and assessing their impact

To understand how data is presented from academic research

5,6 An introduction to animal behaviour

Debating the evolutionary origins of unusual behavioural traits in a range of organisms

To explain how behavioural traits can originate and perpetuate through time

7,8 Earthworm behaviour Using experimental means to ascertain the different behavioural strategies of earthworms

To choose appropriate practical methods to investigate Earthworm behaviour and present findings.

9,10 Bee behaviour and social organisation

Examining the behaviour of Bees and their unusual social organisation in the colony

To establish how Bee’s use different behaviours to communicate and assess how their genetics contributes to their social organisation.

11,12 Communication and signalling

Researching the different forms of communication in animals e.g. Electro-communication, olfactory, auditory.

To explain the adaptations of organisms for different means of communication and present findings to the class.

13,14 Project Nim Watching the documentary ‘Project Nim’: the story of a chimpanzee raised by humans.

To examine the way in which behaviours are innate or learnt. To evaluate the research that took place on ‘Nim’

15,16 Biology Olympiad Students are introduced to the Biology Olympiad and attempt past papers.

To begin preparation for the Biology Olympiad competition.

17,18 Evidence of common descent

Researching interesting cases of common descent in groups and presenting ideas to the class

To scrutinise the evidence for divergence of the taxonomic groups from a common ancestor

19,20 Drosophila (fruit fly) introduction and setting up genetic crosses

Using microscopes to identify the different features of fruit flies. Practise techniques in setting up a genetic cross.

To understand how drosophila can be used as a model organism in genetics experiments.

21,22 Drosophila genetic crosses and results

Anaesthetising Drosophila and setting up the first genetic crosses

To assemble the different crosses for breeding and use genetic diagrams to predict the outcomes

23,24 Drosophila genetic crosses results and statistics

Setting up the second generation of crosses and using statistics to analyse results

To use statistics to determine the significance of the second generation results.

25,26 Neurological disorders To research and present findings on rare neurological disorders e.g. synaesthesia

To investigate how changes in the brain manifest themselves in different neurological conditions.

Exten

sion

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th

Business Management Extension Classes

The purpose of this course is to deepen understanding of Pre-U Business Management, develop an


concepts which will be studied on undergraduate courses.

This course is recommended for students who have an active interest in the subject and wish to

engage in wider reading and discussion.

Autumn Term – Business and Management

Management – what it is (and isn’t)

Enterprise – nature or nurture?

Strategy – welcome to the boardroom

Change – the hardest thing

Ethics – does it pay to care?

Global Business – saint or sinner?

Spring Term – Application to current business practice

Tesco

Innocent Drinks

Microsoft

Ikea

Ford

Enterprise case-study

Stakeholder conflict case-study

Problem-solving case study

Suitable for students applying for undergraduate courses in Business, Management and Finance

Exten

sion

Cla

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Chemistry Extension Classes

Aims

To extend students’ thinking beyond the confines of the Chemistry GCE specification

Students will be expected to apply their knowledge in novel ways to solve challenging problems.

Structure

Each session will be used to develop our understanding of a particular area of study linked to the

A Level syllabus, through discussion and problem-solving. Students wanting to attend extension

classes will be encouraged to extend their reading, to subscribe to “Chemistry Review” (which is a

periodical aimed at Sixth Form chemists who wish to hear about current Chemistry), to enter the

RSC Chemistry Olympiad and there is the possibility of a visit to the Chemistry Department of

Sheffield University to complete a laboratory experiment and experience first-hand the

spectroscopic techniques encountered in theory in the A2 modules. Some sessions will be used to

prepare students for interview where appropriate.

Content

We will study areas from across the three main branches of Chemistry, but see how there are

inter-links between the disciplines and between Chemistry and the other Sciences. New evidence

will be presented to challenge the models used at A Level and we will discuss whether the new

evidence can be explained by the models, requires modification of the models or needs new

models. This will include studies into “The Emission Spectrum of Hydrogen”, “Hybridisation of

Atomic Orbitals”, “Mechanistic Studies into the rate of Nucleophilic Substitution”, “The direction of

second and further substitution on Benzene rings”, “Why He2 cannot exist”, and “How and why O2

exhibits para-magnetism”. Other areas of students’ own interest can be brought in and

developed. We will look at Olympiad Questions and use this as a basis for discussion into how

best to approach difficult questions in exams and at interview, as well as looking at the

interesting Chemistry behind the questions.

Why should I choose Chemistry Extension?

Chemistry is the “central Science”, linking areas as diverse as Biology and theoretical Physics with

solutions to real world problems. It will be Chemists who will help to solve the biggest problems

yet to face mankind; pollution, use of resources and the energy crisis. This course will give an

insight into the next stage of your Chemical education, whether that be in a pure Chemistry

degree or any of the related disciplines such as Chemical or Nuclear Engineering, Biochemistry,

Environmental Chemistry, Geology and Petro-Chemistry, Materials Science and other courses too

numerous to mention. Chemistry is the key which opens many doors; hopefully this course will

open your mind to the possibilities in your own future.

Exten

sion

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Classical Civilisation Extension Classes

Aims

To develop students’ understanding and appreciation of a number of aspects of the classical world,

including its literature, history and society.

Structure

Sessions will follow students’ areas of interest and students will be expected to suggest areas for

study and discussion. Topics might include:

An introduction to Classical Greek

Greek and Roman Theatre

Women in the Ancient World

The influence of Classical Literature on Modern Art Forms (literature, film, art)

The world of Cicero

Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey

Sessions will be flexible and discursive and aim to both complement and build on students’ current

and/or previous areas of study.

Recommended reading

There is a wealth of books to choose from and students should follow their own interests, but the

following are a useful starting point:

Henderson J and Beard M : Classics: a very short introduction

Morales H : Classical Myth: a very short introduction

Thorpe M : Homer – inside the ancient world

Beard M : Confronting the Classics

Holland T : Rubicon

Exten

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Design Technology

These sessions will be individually tailored to meet the needs and interests of your further studies

e.g. Architecture; Engineering; Product Design. It is also useful for students intending to apply for

Apprenticeship Schemes in Engineering.

Design and the Environment

The roles of Designer, Engineer and Architect in the Environment

The Utopian Environment- Social Pioneers

Environmental and sustainability Issues

Inclusive Design and Consumer safety

ICT in Manufacturing

Introduction to CAD software applications using Techsoft 2D; Solid Works 3D. Students will

have the opportunity to use the programmes to develop work for their portfolio and extend their

experience in using design packages that are used commercially in industry.

Implications of ICT in the Design world

Applications of ICT

Current Issues

Technological developments in areas of chosen interest

Ethical Issues

Preparation of material for interview

University interviews for Design related courses often require the presentation of a portfolio of

work. An application for Engineering Apprenticeships asks for a demonstration of practical

aptitude. During the course of extension classes, advice and guidance will be given to individuals

in the selection and preparation of suitable examples of work for presentation, again tailored to

the nature of the course.

Additional reading and interview practice will also be available to individuals.

Exten

sion

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Economics Extension Classes

The purpose of this course is to deepen understanding of Pre-U Economics, develop an


concepts which will be studied on undergraduate courses. This course is recommended for

students who have an active interest in the subject and wish to engage in wider reading and

discussion.

Autumn Term – An introduction to Economic Philosophy

Economics at undergraduate level

Discussion with students about their course choices

The Economic Problem Revisited - the purpose of Economics

How to be a social scientist – concepts and models, positive and normative

Political Economy, Economics and Postmodernism – the history, present and future?

How Economists Changed The World – an introduction to Smith, Marx, Mill, Marshall,

Keynes, Friedman and others

Liberalism, Globalisation and Sustainability - Economics in the 21st Century

Spring Term – Application of the Economist’s Toolkit

The price of milk

The sugar industry

Economics of football

The EU single market - labour

Global markets - cars

The Economics of starvation

The Economics of global warming

Suitable for students applying for undergraduate courses in Economics and Econometrics

Exten

sion

Cla

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English Language Extension Classes

The main aim of the English Language Extension Class is to encourage students to develop further

their interest in the study of English both from a theoretical and analytical perspective. Active

participation is expected so that students become confident and knowledgeable when discussing

and evaluating a variety of language issues.

The course will begin with an overview of language as a system of communication. This will focus

on both the spoken and written word and explore different language systems that humans use and

adapt for a variety of purposes. There will be revision of phonology, lexis, grammar and semantic

change as well as a greater focus on pragmatics.

The classes will presume as well as expand upon knowledge of topics covered at AS Level such as

gender, power and technology. New topics to be explored will include:

language and society;

accents and dialects;

language and occupation;

the role of the media in shaping language in the 21st Century.

The course will also include wider reading for the A2 Unit 3 topics of Language Change and Child

Language Acquisition.

There will be a strong focus on exploring theoretical research as well as background reading from a

course textbook selected for the Extension Class. Students will be expected to undertake their own

wider reading throughout the year (eg David Crystal; Steven Pinker). The classes will be

predominantly discussion based with some preparatory work/reading being set in advance.

These classes will help those students who are particularly interested in pursuing a university

course which is either wholly or in part Language/Linguistics based.

E

xten

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English Literature Extension Classes

Aims

To foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject; to help further the talents of students

showing high potential; to help equip students considering applying to study English at

university with the practical skills and wider reading experience needed both for gaining the

top grades at A2 essential for success in achieving offers in a highly competitive field and for

preparing for the first year of undergraduate study.

Structure

A sequence of weekly lessons, timetabled in Year 13, built around a close reading of a wide

range of texts, both provided by the teacher and suggested by students themselves, and

designed to give valuable insights into areas of the literary canon not otherwise covered in

AS or A2 classes. Sessions provide a forum for the oral exchange of critical ideas and

responses; the emphasis is very much on what the student can find in a text that is worth

exploring.

It is intended to allow as much flexibility as possible in choosing literary material to read

and discuss, so that the programme of wider reading can both complement the works

studied for A Level English and stretch readers with work that is increasingly demanding in

various ways.

Typically we will start with the poetry of T.S. Eliot as a prime example of early 20th Century

Modernism, then proceed to other poets like Dylan Thomas, Philip Larkin, Sylvia Plath and

Ted Hughes who have been influenced by or reacted against his work. We also shadow the

T.S.Eliot Poetry Prize awarded to the best newly published collection to keep up to date with

contemporary verse, by sampling poems from the shortlisted authors and coming to our

own tentative judgements before the winner is announced in late January.

We explore examples of fiction writing from the 18th century onwards, focusing on narrative

techniques, and also study excerpts from drama texts, from Shakespeare to modern

playwrights, to understand in what ways they differ from prose or verse in how they achieve

their effects.

Students will be expected to select examples of their own favourite writing for critical

discussion, including the possibility of reading examples of their own creative work

The course will not necessarily require the production of substantial written work, but does

expect students to be prepared to give more time to extending their reading in ways that

should prove enjoyable and stimulating, and should certainly enhance their chances of doing

well in A2 modules.

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French Extension Classes

Aims

To understand French history/ culture/ literature and arts and give a better overall view

of evolution of thought in that era and to nowadays

To develop critical thinking from the ideas of French philosophers and to discuss themes

found in literature, thus laying the foundations for university

To promote interest and enthusiasm to pursue further study at university level

Method

Seminars will be taught by teachers from the department according to specialisms. The

course will be delivered in a mixture of target language and English.

Through newspaper articles of the time, extracts from works of philosophers and writers,

on the study of a painter’s work, presentations by pupils etc.

Cross-curricular input from students. Other A Level courses will be invaluable in bringing a

variety of different perspectives

Translation and language work to develop skills needed for the EAL

Guest speakers will also be invited

18th century in context

1. Setting the scene ( influences from the Renaissance to 18th century )

2. Historical and social context of France in the 18th century

3. Philosophers of the 18th century ( extracts from Rousseau, Diderot and Voltaire )

4. The Arts: What do we learn from some of the key painters of the century?

Racine: Britannicus (extracts) Rousseau : Education Sentimentale (extracts)

Diderot: Jacques le Fataliste (extracts) Voltaire : Candide (extracts)

David : Marat expirant


1. Setting the scene (transition from the 18th century)

2. Historical and social context of France in the 19th century

3. Literature (Balzac, Flaubert, Maupassant) and Poetry (Rimbaud, Verlaine)

4. The Arts: Gericault, Delacroix, Impressionistes ( mirrors of the society of the time )

Maupassant:Boule de suif ( Extracts ) Balzac : le Colonel Chabert ( Extracts)

Flaubert : Trois contes ( Extracts ) Gericault : Le radeau de la » Meduse »

Delacroix : La liberte guidant le peuple Manet : Dejeuner sur l’herbe


1. Historical and social context of the 20th Century

2. Philosophers: Sartre 3. Literature: Camus/ Saint Exupery

4. Poetry: Eluard, Apollinaire 5. The Arts: Matisse/Braque

Sartre : Les mains sales Camus : L’étranger Saint-Exupery : Le Petit Prince

Poems by Eluard et Apollinaire Matisse : la Desserte Braque : Nature morte

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Geography Extension Classes

Aims

To help further develop the breadth and depth of geographical knowledge for students

intending to study Geography (or related courses – see below) at university.

To help equip students with the relevant practical, research, wider reading and

referencing skills needed for success in gaining offers and adapting to the different

requirements of university Geography.

Course Structure

There will be an initial discussion about university and course choices and assistance with

completing the UCAS personal statement.

The lessons are discursive and allow extension beyond the A Level specification.

Sessions will cover both Physical and Human Geography.

Themes may last several weeks depending on topicality and student interest.

Other themes may be introduced to respond to contemporary global events and issues

that occur or develop through the course.

There will be a focus on the skills a Geography degree may require such as referencing,

research etc.

You will be issued with wider reading lists and set extension research projects.

Course Content

The broad themes of the syllabus will cover:

1. What is Geography? 2. Climate Change

3. Desert Environments 4. Famine

5. El Niño 6. Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

7. Development 8. Globalisation

9. Geography of Disease 10. Multiculturalism

Other topics are likely to be covered ( depending on the exigencies of events at the time ) and

will concentrate in particular on contemporary issues; examining topics in the news and the

way in which the media presents geographical issues such as famine, climate change,

international debt and poverty, etc.

Reading and Resources

You will be issued with a reading list. This is by no means an exhaustive list nor is it, in any

way, prescribed, as there is a wealth of information that could be read which does not appear

on the list at all! The main thing is that you should read (books, magazines, periodicals,

journal articles and newspapers), watch and listen to anything that is relevant! The nature of

Geography as a discipline is so varied that recommending just a few books would be limiting. It

is expected that you will be subscribing to A Level Geography Review. Others to look at include

Geographical, National Geographic, New Scientist and The Economist. Keeping up to date with

current affairs is also very important.

Related subjects: Geology, Earth Science, Meteorology, Environmental Science

Sustainable Development, Real Estate, Anthropology, Sociology

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German Extension Classes

Aims

To broaden pupils’ knowledge about German history/ culture/ literature/ film, especially

for those considering applying for German at university but also for those who are

simply interested in German literature and film

To develop pupils’ language skills as well as their critical thinking skills from the aims of

the authors and producers and to discuss themes found in literature and film, thus

laying the foundations for university

To promote interest and enthusiasm to pursue further study at university level

Method

The course will be delivered predominantly in the target language:

Through authentic German literature and film

Cross-curricular input from pupils. Other A Level courses will be invaluable in bringing a

variety of different perspectives

Translation and language work to develop language skills

The lessons are a lot more flexible as they do not need to prepare for an exam. Therefore,

books and films for the individual periods can be agreed with pupils in advance according

to their interests. There will often be set preparatory reading or watching of specific scenes

so that these can be discussed in lessons.

For pupils wishing to apply to very selective universities, lessons will be adapted and

language and interview practice will be offered accordingly.

Structure

Autumn

term Period Content Theme/topic

-45 Das kurze Leben der Sophie Scholl by

Hermann Vinke

Oder

Die verlorenen Schuhe by Gina Mayer

Oder

Nationalsozialismus

Spring term 45-88 Der Vorleser by Bernhard Schlink Auseinandersetzung

mit der Schuldfrage

Summer

term 89/90 Mauersegler-Ein Haus in Berlin-1989 by

Waldtraut Lewin

Oder

Good Bye Lenin by Wolfgang Becker

Wiedervereinigung

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History Extension Classes

What is the course for?

The purpose of History classes is to explore and develop historical ideas, concepts and skills

which are not always on the A Level syllabus. Examples would include:

historiography (the study of historical debate and interpretation);

causation (understanding the complex roots of historical events);

ideologies that affect history, such as nationalism and federalism;

revolutionary ideas and events.

How will it be taught?

The skills, ideas and concepts will be taught in the context of subjects that you have not

touched on yet, which might be anything from German unification to African history and a

range of one-off historical issues.

What will the lessons be like?

The lessons will feel a lot more freestyle than those that are preparing you for exams, as the

intention is to develop your skills through interaction and testing of ideas. There will often be

reading for lessons, which you will need to do in advance, so this is probably not the course

for those who don’t enjoy reading. There will be a focus on discussion, debate and stretching

your thinking with challenging ideas.

Who is it for?

Clearly, if you are considering applying for History, especially at a very selective university,

this would be an ideal course. We provide a separate and complementary course in the

Autumn Term for candidates for the most selective universities, which focuses on the skills

required for those universities that have pre-tests and interviews (e.g. Oxford and

Cambridge). This additional course is mandatory for Oxbridge History candidates.

However, the skills of argument and analysis that the extension course would develop might

also appeal to someone studying a subject like Law.

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Latin Extension Classes

Aims

To develop further translation skills and an appreciation of Latin literature through practising the

techniques of literary criticism; to read a wider selection of Latin authors; to place the literature

read in some kind of historical and social context.

Structure

Books used will be:

Unseen Practice ‘Latin Unseens for ‘A’ Level’ A Carter

Literary Criticism ‘Aestimanda’ M G Balme & M S Warman

‘Stilus Artifex’ C Stace & P V Jones

‘Aere Perennius’ D G Fratter

Historical Background ‘The Ancient World’ R J Cootes & L E Snellgrove

and a selection of other books on Roman history and social customs.

Short extracts from the works of Roman writers (in translation).

The course will be split into twelve modules:

1. Historical Background 1 - The beginnings of Rome. The Republic. Livy

2. Unprepared Translation 1

3. Literary Criticism 1

4. Historical Background 2 - The final years of the Republic. Cicero, Caesar



7. Historical Background 3 - The Age of Augustus. Vergil, Horace, Ovid



10. Historical Background 4 - The Julio-Claudian & Flavian Emperors

Tacitus, Juvenal, Pliny



Help will be given with the writing of essays and interview technique ( as required ).

The study of Latin in the Sixth Form will lead to University courses in:

Classics, Classical Civilisation, Ancient History, Archaeology

Classics scholars often go on to study Law, English, Linguistics, Modern Languages, History

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Law Extension Classes

Aims

To foster interest in and enthusiasm for Law as an academic subject; to develop students’ skills

in critical thinking and contentious essay writing; to enable students to perform to the best of

their ability in the National Admissions Test for Law (“LNAT”) and to gain offers in a highly

competitive field.

Structure

Autumn Term

An introduction to critical thinking, focusing on the best way to approach the critical thinking

section of the LNAT and the skills required accurately to analyse passages of complex English

prose.

Work will focus on more detailed preparation for the LNAT and will include:

An overview of the LNAT. Students will gain familiarity with the format of the paper and

the general skills required to complete it

Critical thinking practice

Essay writing practice

Spring Term

Sessions will aim to develop students’ interest in and knowledge of legal issues. Topics

covered will follow the interests of the students. In recent years we have considered the

relationship between law and morality, the English Penal System, the basics of Contract Law

and euthanasia.

Recommended reading

Students should be regularly reading a quality newspaper, particularly the Law and Editorial

Opinion sections. In addition, the following provide a useful introduction to law:

- The English Legal System: Jacqueline Martin

- Law in Focus: Simon Jackson

- Learning Legal Rules: James Holland & Julian Webb

- The Woman who tickled too much: Jonathan Herring

Whilst the Law extension class is aimed primarily at those intending to study Law, it may also

be of use to those applying for related degrees such as Criminology.

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Mathematics Extension Classes

Aims

To develop the ability of students to think through problems and apply their knowledge

in novel and unusual ways.

To give opportunities for students to express themselves within a mathematical context

both verbally and in written form.

The material covered within these extension classes will complement the work already

covered within ordinary mathematics at AS and A2 Level. It is clear, however, that those

students who are taking Further Mathematics are already extending their mathematical

knowledge. In both cases the emphasis is on solution of problems requiring insight,

ingenuity, persistence and the ability to work through substantial sequences of algebraic

manipulations.

The aims will be achieved by:

tackling more demanding questions from past STEP and Oxford Entrance papers. Regular

written solutions will be submitted and analysed to develop all three disciplines

of Pure, Mechanical and Statistical Mathematics,

considering the work covered in ordinary lessons and allowing students to present a

favoured topic in whatever form they choose,

looking at and solving mathematical puzzles at all levels to develop the ability to think

‘outside the box’,

developing the ability to apply mathematical knowledge in novel and unfamiliar ways

through application to ‘interview’ type questions,

encouraging wider reading of both factual and recreational books on different aspects of

Mathematics.

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Further Mathematics Extension Classes

The Further Mathematicians will also be introduced to mathematical ideas that will be taken up at

university, and have included the following topics to extend their thinking:

Integration from first principles.

Integration in more than one dimension.

The idea of a limit in Calculus.

Number Theory topics including Euclid’s algorithm, Continued fractions, Linear Diophantine

equations.

'Rocket Science' - modelling variable mass problems.

Topics in Calculus on surface area and volume.

Partial derivatives.

The idea of minimising an integral, and applications including finding geodesics.

Conic sections and polar co-ordinates.

The use of Newton’s laws to describe rotational dynamics of rigid bodies, and planetary motion.

Both of these Extension Classes provide an insight into University level Mathematics and offer some

enrichment into closely related disciplines such as Engineering, Physics and other scientific subjects.

Readable Textbooks

Allenby, R.B.J.T. Numbers and Proofs

(1997)

Baylis, J. What is Mathematical Analysis?.

(MacMillan, 1991)

Burn, R.P. Groups: A Path to Geometry.

(CUP, 1987)

Bryant, V. Yet Another Introduction to

Analysis. (CUP, 1990)

Harel, D. Algorithmics -- The Spirit of

Computing. (Addison-Wesley, 1992)

Liebeck, M. A Concise Introduction to Pure

Mathematics. (Chapman& Hall/CRC

Mathematics)

Lunn, M. A First Course in Mechanics.

(OUP, 1991)

Spiegel, M.R. Probability and Statistics.

(Schaum's outline series; McGraw-Hill,

1982)

Readable Mathematics

Acheson, D. 1089 and All That (2002)

Bondi, C. (ed.) New Applications of

Mathematics. (Penguin, 1991)

Cipra, B. What's Happening in the

Mathematical Sciences. (AMS, 1993, '94,

'96, '99)

Clegg, B. A Brief History of Infinity (2003)

Courant, R., Robbins, H. What is

Mathematics?. (OUP, 1996)

Davis, P.J., Hersh, R. The Mathematical

Experience. (Penguin, 1990)

Devlin, K., The Millennium Problem (2004)

Devlin, K., Mathematics: The New Golden

Age (1998)

Dunham, W. Jouney through Genius

(1991)

Du Sautoy, M. The Music of the Primes

(2003)

Gibilisco, S. Reaching for Infinity. (Tab/

McGraw-Hill, 1990)

Gleick, J. Chaos. (Minerva/Random House,

1997)

Gowers, T. Mathematics: a very short

introduction. (OUP, 2002)

Hall, N. (ed.) The New Scientist Guide to

Chaos. (Penguin, 1991)

Hoffman, P. Archimedes' Revenge.

(Penguin, 1991)

Kaplan, R. & E. The Art of The Infinite.

(2003)

Körner, T.W. The Pleasures of Counting.

(CUP, 1996)

Lauwerier, H. Fractals. Images of Chaos.

(Penguin, 1991)

Maor, E. e: The Story of A Number (1994)

Paulos, J. A. Beyond Numeracy.

(Penguin, 1991)

Polya, G. How to Solve It. (1945)

Stewart, I. From Here to Infinity. (OUP,

1996)

Wells, D. The Penguin Dictionary of

Curious and Interesting Numbers.

(Penguin, 1997)

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Recreational

Gardner, M. Penrose Tiles to Trapdoor

Ciphers. (CUP/Math. Assoc. of America,

1997)

Or any other book by Martin Gardner: he has

written numerous books in similar style, all

excellent. His Mathematical Puzzles and

Diversions and More Mathematical Puzzles

and Diversions (both available in Penguin)

and The Unexpected Hanging (Chicago) are

classics.

Stewart, I. Game, Set and Math.. (Penguin,

1997)

Maor, E. To Infinity and Beyond. (Princeton,

1991)

Historical and General

(edited by B. Bollobas) Littlewood's

Miscellany. (CUP, 1986)

Fauvel, J., Flood, R., Wilson, R. A

Mathematician’s Apology (1940)

Feynman, R.P. Surely You're Joking, Mr

Feynman. (Arrow Books, 1992)

Hardy, G.H. A Mathematician's Apology.

(CUP, 1992)

Hodges, A. Alan Turing, the Enigma.

(Vintage, 1992)

Hollingdale, S. Makers of Mathematics.

(Penguin, 1989)

Hoffman, P. The man who loved only

numbers. (Fourth Estate, 1999)

Kanigel, R. The Man Who Knew Infinity.

(Abacus, 1992)

McLeish, J. Number. (Bloomsbury, 1991)

Singh, S. Fermat's Last Theorem. (Fourth

Estate)

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Medicine Extension Classes NB: in June of the L6 there is a meeting for all potential medics run by Mr Chippendale. Any

students wanting to do the BMAT paper are given text books, a mini question paper and will

start to have a go at the essay questions.

The format of the extension lessons is as follows

The overall focus of the sessions is on the process of applying to medical school. So we

discuss and fine-tune personal statements, all of which will be read by IC, research all the key

areas students are expected to know about medicine (such as the role of the GMC) and prepare

for interviews by practising technique. In addition each student must prepare a presentation

and use it to lead part of the one of the sessions. Much time is spent discussing current news

concerning medicine and the NHS and also looking at all the tricky ethical issues such as

abortion and euthanasia. By the middle of the Spring Term we usually switch to this being a

Chemistry class where IC helps all students achieve their maximum grade as after all, to get

into medical school students must get an A in Chemistry.

The initial areas researched in the first sessions are:

- The role of the GMC

- The current make-up of the NHS and how it is managed, plus any changes that are being

proposed by government

- Career pathways in medicine

Ethical issued discussed will cover areas such as:

Attitudes to death and how death is managed Euthanasia

Abortion New drugs and NHS funding

Private vs NHS The role of the GP and confidentiality

The obesity crisis and how this can be managed Compulsory organ donation

Stem cell research Animal testing

Topical medical issues will be discussed, so it hard to know in advance what they might be.

However topics covered last year included:

Epigenetics following the talk at the RNCM The role of statins

Stem cell function New methods to restore sight

GP working hours

Interview preparation includes:

Discussions of what to wear The role of body language and eye contact

Travelling to the interview Peer interview each other and feedback

Discussions of the general types of questions asked and how to respond to them.

IC interviews all those who are called up for interview about a week before their date.

Those doing the BMAT exam continue to prepare for their exam, which is in early November, by

looking at the critical thinking and science multiple choice and by writing essays. The essays

open up some very interesting areas of discussion that the whole group can share. There is

a BMAT mock exam about two weeks before students break up for October half term.

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Music Extension Classes

Aims

to foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject; to help further develop the talents of

students showing high potential; to help equip students considering applying to study Music

at university with the practical skills and wider reading experience needed for success in

gaining offers in a highly competitive field.

Introduction

University or Conservatoire – a look at courses

What is Music? A brief introduction to music history through reading, listening and score

analysis. Wider Reading: The Cambridge Music Guide ed. Sadie, The Oxford

Companion to Music: ed. Latham.

Core Listening and analysis

Listening to and analysis of music of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Modern

periods

Practical skills

choice of recital material

keyboard harmony

composition portfolio

Harmony and Counterpoint

Practice mock interview

This course is suitable for those wishing to read Music at university or those who wish to

pursue a performance course at a conservatoire.

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Philosophy Extension Classes

Course Text

Philosophy: the Basics - Nigel Warburton

Other books are available for reading from the Philosophy, Theology & RS Departmental

Library.

Programme of Study

Aim: to introduce candidates to the major ideas of western philosophy and to enhance their

skills in philosophical discussion. It has become increasingly clear that interviews at

universities may be made easier by knowledge of particular philosophers and ideas, but that

the development of skills in handling difficult philosophical questions on the spot are the

most important part of a candidate’s preparation.

There is one timetabled lesson per week. The course will cover some major issues in

philosophy:

What is philosophy?

What is human nature?

Is mind distinct from body?

Is there an enduring self?

Are we social beings?

What is real?

How do we encounter the world?

Do we have free will?

Is time real?

Does God exist?

Can we know God through experience?

Is reason the source of knowledge?

Does knowledge depend on experience?

Does the mind shape the world?

How does science add to knowledge?

Does science give us truth?

Are interpretations true?

Is morality relative?

Does the end justify the means?

Can rules define morality?

Is ethics based on virtue?

Can ethics help solve moral dilemmas?

What justifies the state?

What is justice?

What is art?

What is the meaning of life?

Not all these issues can be covered. The interests of students and the direction of

discussions will determine which topics predominate. Students interested in Philosophy at

degree level should inform the course leader of the main areas of study of their preferred

UCAS choice.

Written work: this should be set and completed as much as seems reasonable in terms of

the heavy demands on the time and energy of students. At least two major essays should be

attempted.

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Physics Extension Classes

Aims

To explore the wider thinking and use of techniques that can be applied in the topics already

covered at AS Level and which will be covered at A2 in the Autumn Term.

To practise expressing good, clear Physics both in writing and verbally in classroom discussion.

This is achieved by:

(i) completing more advanced questions from past STEP papers, British Physics Olympiad

papers and past Oxford Entrance papers.

(ii) looking in particular at more advanced techniques that can be called for, e.g. use of

different frames of reference; a more sophisticated understanding of the role of centre of

mass, in mechanical problems; use of energy relations in mechanical problems, where this

can avoid otherwise complex force processes; interference, involving light paths of differing

refractive indices; problems requiring values to be estimated; use of calculus techniques.

(iii) covering areas of Physics outside the A Level specification, e.g. Archimedes Principle;

variation of pressure with depth; superconductivity alternating current theory and resonant

circuits.

(iv) discussing questions of Physics in class, particularly examples from ‘everyday life’ – and

which might, therefore, arise in an interview, e.g. Why are pressure vessels, for storing

fluids under high pressure, spherical in shape? Why do street lamps glow red when first

turned on, before glowing their normal yellow colour? Why does a kettle make so much

noise before the water in it boils?

(v) encouraging wider reading around the subject by suggesting books from the School Library

on different Physics or Physics related topics.

(vi) students giving a PowerPoint presentation to the rest of the class after doing research on a

topic that interests them.

Finally: Interview techniques and a practice mock interview.

Summer Holiday Reading

Surely You’re Joking Mr Feynman – Richard Feynman

Mr Tompkins in Paperback - by George Gamov

The Character of Physical Law – by Richard Feynman

Any book by Paul Davies

British Physics Olympiad

All students attending the extension classes will be encouraged to enter the British Physics

Olympiad Competition. It is designed to provide opportunities for candidates expected to attain

an ‘A’ Grade, to demonstrate a much greater depth of understanding than that required at

Advanced GCE and to demonstrate the ability to think critically and creatively. Awards are made

on a five-point scale: gold, silver, bronze 1, bronze 2 and commended.

University courses: Physics, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, Materials

Science, Electronics, Computing and Philosophy

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Politics Extension Classes

Politics extension classes seek to broaden and deepen students’ knowledge of a wider

variety of subjects than that covered by the A Level syllabus. Specifically, classes address

3 other branches of political science that could be further explored at university: political

thought, political history and international relations. Weekly lessons will be mainly

discussion-led, and based on suggested reading or a film.

Autumn Term: Political Thought

Why study Politics? Uses and abuses of political concepts

Democracies ancient and modern

Conservatism

Socialism

Anarchism

Spring Term: Politics of the UK

‘Losing an empire, finding a role’: British political history since 1945

Margaret Thatcher

The making of New Labour

Democracy in crisis? Political participation in Britain

Spring/Summer Term: World Politics in the twenty-first century

Manufacturing Consent: The role of the mass media

Responding to terrorism: The post 9/11 world

A Clash of Civilisations? The New World Order

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Psychology Extension Classes

Aims

To foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject; to help further develop the talents of

students showing high potential; to help equip students considering applying to study

Psychology at university with the analytical and evaluative skills and wider reading


Structure

A detailed reading list will be provided for all students taking the extension course.

Sessions will be on topics selected from the following:

Animals and language Brain and Behaviour

Sleep and Dreams Cultural bias in Psychology

Sport Psychology Gender bias in Psychology

Perception Research on sensitive topics

Attachment Ethical Issues

Cognitive Development Use of psychology in interrogation

Evolutionary Psychology Animal research in psychology

Happiness and Resilience Research Methodology

Parapsychology Environmental psychology

Stress Attraction

Key People Intelligence

Bystander behaviour Aggression

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Spanish Extension Classes

This exciting course provides students with a broad insight into the history, politics and

societies of the Spanish-speaking world.

The sessions, delivered in Spanish, will combine teacher-led activities and student-led

reflective seminars. Students will be very well prepared for continuing with courses involving

Spanish/Hispanic Studies at university level.

As well as the programme detailed below, all students will enter the national Canning House

Essay Competition which our students have won in the past:

Historia de España

Los reinos de Taifas (El Cid) – palabras heredadas de los musulmanes

Los Reyes Católicos y la Reconquista (Granada y la Alhambra (arquitectura) – Boabdil –

El descubrimiento de América y Colón)

Felipe IV (Las Meninas de Velázquez - pintura)

Primera y Segunda República y la Familia Real Española

Guerra Civil / La dictadura franquista / La transición (23F: El Tejerazo)

Política

España:

Partidos políticos

Gobierno central – gobiernos autonómicos

Presidentes del Gobierno (Aldolfo Suárez) – elecciones

Chile:

Salvador Allende – Augusto Pinochet (El golpe de estado)

Pablo Neruda (poesía)

¡No! – Gael García Bernal (cine)

(Comparaciones entre el español de España y el español de Sudamérica)

Argentina:

Evita Perón

Ernesto (Che) Guevara

Diarios de motocicleta – Gael García Bernal (cine)

(Comparaciones entre el español de España y el español de Sudamérica)

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Sport Science Extension Classes

Aims

To foster interest and enthusiasm for the subject; to help further develop the talents of students

showing high potential; to help equip students considering applying to study Sports related

courses at university with the practical skills and wider reading experience needed for success in

gaining offers in an ever expanding and competitive field.

Scheme of Work

The classes will include extension of the following topics:

Pupils will use a variety of presentation techniques when analysing different topic areas and there

will be some additional reading in preparation for the course over the Summer break.

University courses

This extension class will be beneficial to any pupils who are considering applying for any sports

related course at university.

University study/careers Stress management

Goal setting Sports Development Officers

Successful teams Coaching young athletes

Being an elite athlete Training diary

London 2012 Olympics – legacy Performance enhancing drugs

Diet of an athlete Biomechanical analysis of the high jump

Sports injuries Technology in sport

Sports supplements Great leaders in sport

Recovering from exercise Fitness testing

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Theatre Studies Extension Classes

Who should take the course?

Anyone considering applying to study

Acting or Design/Technical courses at Drama Schools

Drama/Theatre/Performance Studies at University (single or joint degrees)

Aims

To help equip students with the audition and interview skills and wider experience needed

for success in gaining offers in a highly competitive field

To foster interest in and enthusiasm for the subject

To help further develop the talents of students showing high potential

What will the course cover?

Initial Introduction:

Drama Courses: The Two Routes

Introduction to the academic or vocational training courses available at Universities and

Drama

Schools (Single/Joint Honours, Acting, Musical Theatre, Stage Management, Technical and

Design)

methods of application

researching the requirements (auditions, workshops, interviews)

preparing the personal statement

The following aspects will be covered but not necessarily in this order as we will

respond to requirements for particular auditions/interviews as they arise throughout

the year.

My Favourite… A discussion of a student’s personal favourite plays, performances, actors

etc. Suggestions for further research, wider reading and development of interview

techniques

From Greek Theatre to Ibsen and the Realists

An overview of the History of Theatre up to the 20th Century

Contemporary theatre (1900 – the present)

An overview of modern theatre practice

Finding & performing classical monologues (contrasting and alternatives)

Finding & performing contemporary monologues (contrasting and alternatives)

Preparation of Audition pieces

The Improvisation Workshop

Mock Interview

You should be prepared to read several plays from different periods and research

aspects of contemporary theatre practice.

Exten

sion

Cla

sses in th

e Upper 6

th

Sixth Form Curriculum: Subjects 2015-16

Documents

Transcript of Sixth Form Curriculum: Subjects 2015-16