PARENT/CARERS HANDBOOK

YEAR 112011/12

Year 11 Handbook

Year 11 Handbook

BIDEFORD COLLEGEPARENT/CARERS GUIDE TO YEAR 11

Miss V Matthews Principal

Ms Alison Pollok Assistant Principal (Key Stage 4)

Mr Rod Cope Head of Year

Ms Sandra Ohlson Home School Liaison Officer

Mrs Loraine Symons Student Support Assistant

Miss Claire Sanders Admin Support to Key Stage 4

Contact Number 01237 477611

LETTER FROM HEAD OF YEARDear Students and Parents/Carers

As we approach the final year of compulsory education I am sincerely looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that arise in the course of the next few terms. It is a busy and stressful year and the students will need to remain focused on the final outcome: exam success. It is important to me that all students fulfil their potential. In order for this to happen they will need to keep their attendance to a maximum, spend a minimum of two hours a night on homework and take advantage of all the revision opportunities offered by staff. Coursework is a requirement of many subjects and if at any time it appears that your child does not have work then this is an area that can be considered for extra attention.

However it is important that the students continue to function in a normal fashion and despite the extra workload they need to still take part in sport, social activities and take a break from their studies. Whether this is as a part of College organised events or external it is vital that they get some exercise, eat well and challenge themselves mentally and physically.

I fully expect students to give 100% to focusing on their work in class, maintaining any extra-curricular commitments and improving their relationships around the College.

Traditionally the end of Year 11 sees the “Prom”, a Year photograph and a group activity on the last day before study leave. The Year Council will also be trying to put together a yearbook and signed “hoodies” as a celebration of their time at the College. These events need a great deal of planning and organising and I hope that students will volunteer to take an active role in ensuring that they happen.

If you have anything that you wish to discuss, please contact your child’s tutor in the first instance. However students are welcome to approach me when I am not teaching to discuss any of their concerns.

Mr Rod CopeHead of Year 11

Year 11 Handbook

TUTOR GROUP ARRANGEMENTSEvery student is in a mixed ability tutor group for registration purposes.

CODE OF CONDUCTPlease refer to this section in the College prospectus.

REWARDSEveryone works better when the good work they do is recognised. Your child’s teachers will praise enthusiasm, effort and achievement in a variety of ways; by speaking to the student in class, by writing comments on their work and by giving good marks. Recognition of achievement is open to all students of all ages and all abilities: it will reflect effort and achievement related to the students’ individual ability.

To reward good effort and achievement on a particular piece of work, or over a period of time, teachers will use the College Award System. Recognition may also be earned for anything which is done that sets a new standard for the student personally, or for others to follow; for example: good conduct, helpfulness, leadership and other qualities which make a genuine contribution to College and community life.

We run a different Reward System for students in Key Stage 4 than the postcards of KS3. Every month, teachers will award a “credit” to every student who has made good progress and shown

sustained effort. This can be in lessons, in extra-curricular activities, in any college activity and for good attendance and punctuality.

Each month, your child will be told how many credits they have. They should record the total in the planner. When your child has achieved 25 credits, their Year Head writes home. When your child has achieved 50 credits, the Director of Key Stage 4 will present them with a Certificate, a

letter home, and a pen. When your child has achieved 100 credits, the Principal will present them with a Certificate, a letter home,

and a cash donation. When your child has achieved 150 credits, the Chair of Governors will present them with a Certificate, a

letter home, and a cash donation.

Principal’s and Governor’s Certificates will be presented to students in The Principal’s Office.

SANCTIONSWe hope that formal discipline procedures are not required, but if the informal warnings are not acted upon, students may be involved in more formal and recorded consequences. These are: Being on report to Subject Teacher, Form Tutor, Year Head or Principal. Being sent out of the lesson (withdrawal) to another classroom Isolation which will include the student losing their time at break or lunch or after college College detention Principal’s detention Fixed Period exclusion Permanent exclusion

If it is necessary to remind students of the need for better behaviour or a better attitude to their studies, the College has a detention policy. Detentions are held after College from 3.15pm to 3.45pm. Parents/carers will be informed by letter of the reason and of the date of the detention at least 24 hours in advance. These are not optional. More serious punishments, involving temporary or permanent exclusion will involve parents/carers and Governors.

We want to work closely with parents and carers in our efforts to improve the behaviour and attitudes of those students who are not making best use of their time here. Everyone has the right to work: students and teachers. Every teacher has the right to teach and every student has the right to learn.

Parents/carers are invited to contact their child’s Form Tutor or Head of Year if they wish to discuss their child’s progress. The Principal and members of the College Leadership Group are also available but it is usual for the first contact to be made with the Year Head or Form Tutor.

USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGYBideford College has a large network of computers used for the education of all containing up-to-date software.

In Key Stage 4, students can gain access to the latest computer technology through consultation with Mr Fairweather, Head of ICT. Subjects often make use of the network to enhance the teaching of their courses.

Year 11 HandbookOur intention is to increase the range of Information and Communication Technology provision for students and remain at the forefront of this technology. This will give our students up to date information and practical experience resulting in a thorough grounding in information technology.

The network obviously utilises a range of information. To ensure proper use of the system we maintain the following rules: Students and parents/carers support the College in ensuring that all students act responsibly with all

computer equipment and treat it with respect. Students are expected to obey the rules in the use of computer equipment.

Parents’/carers permission is sought for students to access the Internet. The College will take all reasonable precautions to ensure students cannot access inappropriate materials, but cannot be held responsible for the nature or content of materials accessed through the Internet. The College is not liable for any damages arising from the use of Internet facilities.

If selected, students’ work may be published on the College Website, with parents’/carers’ permission. Photographs that include students may be published, with parental permission; such photographs will not

clearly identify individuals and full names will not be used.

USE OF THE LIBRARYWe have an extensive library based in the Geneva building. CD-ROM facilities are available to students and we encourage students to use the library as a resource for homework and private study, as well as reading for pleasure. Library staff are always pleased to give all students, and their parents/carers, advice on the most appropriate books and reference materials.

Students also have access to networked computers that they may use to assist them with their studies.

YEAR 11 CURRICULUMIn Year 11 all students continue to study English, Mathematics, Science, Physical Education, Personal Social Health Education (including sex education) Citizenship and Religious Education plus their optional subjects chosen in Year 10. All students have the opportunity to gain experience in Information Communication Technology across other subjects of the curriculum.

The College is placing a greater emphasis on the range of courses that are on offer to students, particularly matching this to ability and interest. For some students it is more appropriate to focus on a narrower range of skills than for other students and to emphasise the work related or vocational elements of education. These courses reflect the needs and expectations of employers and, for some students; part of their College time is spent on an extended work placement in a vocational area of their choice. Our XL programme – a special programme for Year 11 students has been particularly successful in helping students who have not found school very rewarding. Parents are involved in the Key Stage 4 course decisions.

HOMEWORK POLICYHomework is both important and necessary. Homework done regularly throughout secondary school can be equivalent to an additional year of study!

The Student Planner is used to keep a check on what students have to do and by when it must be completed. Students should talk to their teachers and arrange when the homework will be set each week. The homework for each subject must be written in the subject space of the Student Planner.

Please note: Students should try to do homework in a quiet place where they are free from distraction. Students are likely to achieve more by working regularly for relatively short periods (say 1 hour at a time)

than in a single long session when concentration will fail. Please remember – it is not the time taken to the homework that is important, it is the quality of the work that

is done. Above all, it is vital to plan ahead to make the best use of time and not to leave projects, coursework or

homework until the last minute.

In Year 11 the length of time for homework will extend to 10 hours per week during the GCSE courses with homework for each of your subjects. All of your GCSE subjects will set at least one task per week; sometimes it will be two. Homework can take a variety of forms including revision, research and improving coursework.

Young people with learning difficulties do not always follow the official homework timetable, as a more flexible approach may be necessary in these cases; these changes are discussed during the regular and routine review meetings with the College SENCO.

Year 11 HandbookWe ask parents/carers to encourage their child to do the homework set and, as far as possible, to provide them with suitable facilities. If your child has difficulties with homework, please let the subject teacher or form tutor know.

There are homework clubs and revision sessions available.

The College subscribes to SAM Learning, a top quality online learning service that can be used at home and at College. The website address is www.samlearning.com

SAM Learning usually costs home users £49.99 per year, but students now have full use of this service totally free of charge. It's useful for students to take a break from textbooks and try learning on the Internet instead.

Learners need three details to login:

School ID EX39BC

User ID Date of birth followed by two initials; first name then last name. Example: 010885DJ is the User ID for David Jones born 1st Aug 1985.

Password Initially same as User ID, you should change your password as soon as you login.

We hope you will take full advantage of this service. We wish all our students good luck with their studies. If any student has a problem accessing this website, they should see Mrs Meaker in the Burrough building.

Year 11 Handbook

SUBJECT INFORMATIONART AND DESIGNStudents follow the AQA range of courses in Art and Design. These include unendorsed (range of materials), fibre arts and the vocational double award. Students will be building on the skills gained in KS3 and may be focusing on an area of study as the GCSE course progresses.

Students produce units of coursework that will take about a term to complete and collectively contribute to 60% of the final grade.

Students will be expected to produce work at home in sketchbooks and should take advantage of the extra art clubs that are on offer.

The final 40% of the GCSE is gained by sitting the exam in Year 11, which represents another project. Students would find it beneficial to own their own basic art materials such as pencils, paints, and so on. These are sold by the Art Department in the autumn term.

BUSINESS STUDIESThe business studies course in Year 11 investigates a variety of topics and building on those studied in Year 10. Coursework (25%) is started in September, for completion by January. The final exam (75%) is taken in the summer at either foundation (grades C to G) or higher level (grades A* to D).

Topics studied in Year 11 include:Business financeManaging staff

Impact of government on businessImpact of society on business

The coursework assignment topic is Marketing Strategies. Students will be asked to investigate the marketing of a small-scale business and to prepare a marketing plan.

Texts are issued in September. An additional text that is highly recommended is The GCSE Business Studies Handbook (published by Hodder). The BBC Bitesize Revision Guide is also excellent, as is their website. The ‘Bized.ac.uk’ website is also very useful. Students will also need calculators and internet access.

CAREERS EDUCATION AND GUIDANCEAt Key Stage 4 all students follow a planned programme of careers education delivered mainly but not entirely as part of the taught PSHE programme. The programme has been constructed in line with the National Framework for Careers Education and Guidance.

In Year 11 students build on the work they have done in Year 10. They will focus more sharply on career action planning and examine in detail the options open to them Post 16. Students will compare the different options and select a suitable one using their own criteria and the outcomes of information, advice and guidance. Any student needing advice or full interview with a Connexions advisor will be able to have it. The practicalities of interviews and applications will be dealt with. Free standing events on options and further education will be held and made available to all students. There will also be a programme of mock interviews in which all students are encouraged to take part. During Progress Day students will review and set targets with their form tutors.

Some students will have interviews with Connexions officers during Year 10. The college works very closely with the Connexions service on all matters relating to careers education and guidance. Connexions have an office next to the Student Reception. Staffed by advisors, the office is accessible to students of all years on a drop-in basis on most days of the week.

CITIZENSHIP, PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICSAll Year 11 students have an entitlement to Religious Education. Citizenship, Philosophy and Ethics is a new course which follows the OCR GCSE short course in Philosophy and Ethics. All students will continue to study this course which will also lead to the option of gaining GCSE short course accreditation. This will be 100% exam, with no coursework. This is a fantastic subject for students who enjoy heated discussions, and are able to express strong opinions about topical and moral issues!

Students will study the following modules: Religion and Human Relationships Religion and Medical Ethics

Religion and Equality Religion, Poverty and Wealth

Clearly some of the issues may be sensitive, if parents, guardians and students have any concerns, please contact the Head of Religious Education, or any member of the department.

Year 11 Handbook

Citizenship, Philosophy and Ethics is taught by a small team of specialist staff. Students work on a modular basis on a rotation with ICT, they will therefore have 1 x 50 mins lessons every half-term.

CitizenshipCitizenship encourages students to play a positive part in the life of their school and community.

Citizenship is taught across the whole curriculum. With a large part of it being taught in PSHE and Citizenship, Philosophy and Ethics. It gives students the knowledge, skills and understanding to play an effective role in society. It helps them to become informed, thoughtful and responsible citizens who are aware of their duties and rights. Citizenship also teaches students about our economy and democratic institutions and values; encourages respect for different national, religious and ethnic identities; and develops students’ ability to reflect on issues, take part in discussions and consider other people’s views. DRAMAYear 11 Paper 1 - 60% Coursework marks.During the Autumn Term of year 11 students are assessed on their work for Unit 1 and Unit 2. This year we begin with Unit 1: Titanic. Students will explore ideas and issues within Titanic. Again this work is practically explored and written about for their portfolio - 30% Coursework Mark.

Unit 2: Blood Brothers. Students will be working practically and through written work on this play. During this half term students will be awarded GCSE marks for this work - 30% Coursework Mark.

Paper 2: Performance - 40% of marks The performance. From January students will be working on their texts for performance. These performances take place in the two weeks following the Ester holiday with a visiting examiner present. These performances and dress rehearsals will take place in the evening. In order for students to achieve the highest mark possible, students will be expected to rehearse their plays in the weeks running up to their final performances after school.

ENGLISH, ENGLISH LITERATURE

“English is the dominant international language in communications, science, business, aviation, entertainment, diplomacy and the Internet…and is considered… to be the universal language.” (Wikipedia.)

Communication is a key aspect of human society; it goes on around us all day, every day. We listen to the radio, watch TV, read magazines, newspapers, books, instructions, web pages, signs and we converse on a daily basis. We write frequently, whether we are writing notes in class, filling out forms or writing an e-mail. Language and the ability to understand it and use it well is the key to success. The English department aims to provide you with the necessary skills to effectively communicate in today’s modern environment.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

This is a core subject and is not optional. However, the skills you will learn in English are all transferable and will help you to succeed in your other subjects too.

Assessment overview

Controlled Assessment: available in January and June.

• Selection of pre-release non-fiction texts to be read on screen or on paper• Choice of two themes that are both meaningful to students• Assessment based on two texts from the selection provided• Two tasks:

– reading to analyse key points such as the writer’s choice of presentation, image and language

– writing for identified purpose and audience.

Unit 2: The Writer’s VoiceExamination: one hour and 45 minutes, available in January and June.

• Foundation and Higher tier• Two questions:

Year 11 Handbook– one reading response EITHER based on an extract from aDifferent Cultures prose text OR on an extract from aNon-fiction text– one writing task for a specified audience expressingopinions and analysing ideas on a topic relevant tostudents’ experience.Unit 3: The Spoken LanguageControlled Assessment: available in January and June.• Three Speaking and Listening tasks• One spoken language study: a commentary on two examples of spoken language that students have listened to during their study• One writing task: from a choice of speeches, stories with a focuson dialogue, and scripts.

ENGLISH LITERATURE

Examination: one hour and 45 minutes, available in January and June

• Foundation and Higher tier• Two questions:– one on a Different Cultures text– one on a Literary Heritage text.• Two question styles:– four part question based on an extract forLiterary Heritage texts– essay question for Different Culture texts.Unit 1: Understanding ProseExamination: one hour and 45 minutes, available in January and June.

• Foundation and Higher tier• Two questions:– response to one unseen poem– response to two poems based on the collectionchosen from the Edexcel Poetry Anthology.Unit 2: Understanding PoetryUnit 3: Shakespeare and Contemporary DramaControlled Assessment: available in January and June.• Two tasks– Shakespeare task linking one Shakespeare play to aversion on page or screen– Contemporary drama task on play

For Entry-level certificates students are expected to complete coursework and also sit tests on a regular basis. These tests are administered in the classroom.

There are a number of study guides available in bookshops that can be very valuable. It is essential, however, that students use these to inform their own thoughts, as examiners are extremely familiar with their contents. Websites of value include BBC Bitesize.

HomeworkStudents are set coursework support tasks based on the specification. Homework in Year 11 is exam-based.

Websites: www.bbc.co.uk/education/bitesize

GEOGRAPHYStudents in Year 11 continue to study OCR B Geography GCSE. They study the following topics:Term Winter Spring SummerTopics Coasts

Controlled assessmentRivers

Prep for SDMEPopulation

Revision and exam questions practice

In the first term on Year 11 students will undertake a second piece of controlled assessment based on the research of a topic stated by the exam board. This is worth 10% of their final GCSE.

Year 11 Handbook

After each topic students will take an End of Topic Tests after a period of revision. These are marked, discussed with students, filed for future reference, self-evaluated and based on this work, students set themselves targets for the next End of Topic Test.

Students will complete a Sustainable Decision Making Exercise in the spring term of Year 11, which is 25% of the final GCSE grade.

Students will be set homework based on the topics they are studying at that time. These might take for the form of:Exam questions based on the class work done during that day’s lessonRevision for End of Topic Tests and Mock examsAdditional/preparatory research – if there are difficulties in performing these tasks, students can look in the library, or come and use department resources in breaks and lunchtimesConsolidation tasksThinking tasks – where there is little to write but a lot to think about!Completion of work started in classReading as a preparation for the next lessonLiteracy based work – e.g. focused on poems, leaflets, persuasive writing, diaries etc.What have you learnt today? Give me 5 things you have learntRecording informationTranslating information from one format to another

As a department, we are keen to help ALL students reach their potential – please ask your child to ask us for help if they are stuck or unsure!

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CAREIn Year 10 all students will have completed the examined unit Understanding Personal Development and Relationships. Students will also all complete a piece of work, ‘Health, Social Care and Early Years services’, under controlled assessment conditions. This means students are permitted to carry out some research but no coursework must be completed at home.Students taking the Double Award GCSE will have a further exam to sit, ‘Safeguarding and Protecting Individuals’ as well as a further piece of coursework, ‘Promoting health and Well-Being’ – this piece of work is submitted in January 2012 and the exam and final piece of work are completed by May 2012.

BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care

Students in year 11 will be encouraged to improve all completed work to a Merit standard wherever possible. Further units are also studied to add to their portfolio: Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care; the Impact of diet on health and Health and Social Care Services.

HISTORYThe Syllabus that we follow is Schools History Project History B under the guidance of the Edexcel Exam board. Students will have completed 50% of the coursework in Year 10.

We begin the year with our controlled assessment. This focuses on Vietnam and the US involvement in the Civil War in the 1960s. More information, including mark schemes, can be found in the GCSE handbook issued to all students.

We then study Medicine through Time, the development study which looks at change over time. Students will look at the core content - an overview of 2000 years of medicine, identifying trends, key individuals and factors for change and continuity. This unit is examined in June.

Please see the department’s pages on the College website and the department notice-board for details on useful websites and books, revision classes and examination feedback. More detailed information can be found in the GCSE handbook.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGYStudents are studying towards GCSE Information and communication technology (ICT) using the OCR specification B syllabus.(Further Information may be found on the Bideford College website in the ICT department pages).

Year 11 HandbookICT is a fundamental part of our lives. The growth in the use of mobile telephones, portable computers and the Internet is affecting the way we all live and work. This GCSE explores the use of ICT in society and gives students the essential background they need to work and live in a technological society. It will prepare students for life and work, helping them to secure employment. The course will also provide them with an essential foundation for any further courses, including any specific to the use of computers and new technology, such as A Level, AS Level, vocational and occupational courses.

Topics covered in the course:Practical use of ICTHow to design ICT systemsThe growth in the use of the Internet, mobile

telephones and other communications technology

How ICT is used in society, including moral and ethical considerations, and security

How to use the best hardware and software for a given situation

Skills learned by students:How to use hardware and softwareHow to research ICT use

Key skills in numeracy, communication and ICTPractical design of ICT systems

The method of assessment divides into three main sections:Paper 1 – Key Skills Examination = 20% of total mark taken in the January of Year 11

Coursework = two main sections: Coursework Task 1Extended Coursework Task

Paper 2 – Industry Context Examination = 20% of total mark taken in the June of Year 11

During Year 10, students concentrated on developing their core knowledge and understanding of the use of ICT. In Year 11 they develop and enhance their practical skills and understanding relating to the use of ICT applications. This is done by working through various practical examples of ICT use and combining this with general work on ICT theory.

Students complete the submission of their first piece of coursework in the first half term of Year 11. They complete their final piece of of coursework by spring half term. The final lessons prepare students for Paper 2, which is a context scenario short answer question paper taken in May.

Students and parents/carers support the College in ensuring that all students act responsibly with all computer equipment and treat it with respect. Students are expected to obey the rules in the use of computer equipment.

Parent’/carers’ permission is sought for students to access the internet. The College will take all reasonable precautions to ensure students cannot access inappropriate materials, but cannot be held responsible for the nature or content of materials accessed through the Internet. The College is not liable for any damages arising from the use of Internet facilities.

If selected, students’ work may be published on the College Website and/or Virtual Learning Environment (frog) with parents’/carers’ permission.

Photographs that include students may be published, with parental permission; such photographs will not clearly identify individuals and full names will not be used.

ICT Entitlement CourseFollowing on from Year 10, students continue study of ICT within the Citizenship/PSHE rotation, again studying ICT for half of the year. Students continue to build their individual e-portfolio of evidence and this can be submitted for accreditation for the Edexcel AIDA Certificate.

INTEGRATED COURSEStudents following the Integrated Course study a variety of subjects. The aim of the course is to provide information and experience which the students will find both interesting and useful, in and out of school.

Subjects studied are on a modular basis, each lasting approximately one term. Modules to be studies will include: You and Your Body, The Environment, Schools Traffic Education programme, The War at Home and in Europe, The Law and Young People, Money and European Awareness. In addition students work towards the ASDAN Award and complete courses in First Aid and Basic Food Hygiene.

MATHEMATICSIn Year 11, students will be studying for the second of their two GCSE qualifications: ‘Applications of Mathematics’.

Students will study mathematics from all the key areas such as:

Year 11 HandbookNumber, Algebra, Shape and Space, Data Handling.

Throughout the year, students will be given opportunities to develop problem solving skills and work on functional mathematics. Students are assessed regularly through formal exams and end of topic tests and their attainment is measured in GCSE grades rather than National Curriculum levels. At the end of the year, students will sit two exam papers on Applications in Mathematics.

Students need to have their own mathematical equipment for lessons including pens, pencils, ruler, protractor, compass and a scientific calculator.

MEDIA STUDIESWhat is Media Studies?Remember the work you did (and the fun you had) at the beginning of Year 9 – writing about, storyboarding and filming your own television adverts? Well, that was a sample of what goes on in media studies.

What will I have to do?In the first year you will study, in depth, at least three different media. This year’s students have had a chance to dip into various things – they’ve had a go at presenting a weather forecast for television, studied the music industry, and filmed part of a pop video. Next, we may look more closely at television, analysing TV viewing schedules and audiences.

Each piece of coursework will involve some production or design work, where you can score some good marks, BUT you will also have to do plenty of written work to go with it – about 800 words. YOU WILL ALSO HAVE HOMEWORK TO DO which may sometimes be watching specific TV programmes, or carrying out a survey, or completing an essay.

In the second year, you will concentrate on producing a really substantial piece of coursework that will include a much longer piece of writing to go with it. You will be preparing for your three hour exam, but the good news is that the exam paper is released BEFORE the exam date so that you can prepare in advance. Previous exam topics have includes comics, television advertising and the music press.

What will I be assessed?Half your marks will come from coursework, the other half from the exam.

What else do I need to know?Media studies is not an easy option. It’s a steep learning curve, and you will be expected to work independently as well as receiving technical support from your teacher.

You have to be able to work as part of a team, as well as work on your own, so you need to be able to communicate with others. You will be expected to take responsibility for you own work, and the work of any group you are part of. And of course you have to be reliable as well as responsible, as will be working with expensive equipment and will not always be supervised.

Why should I choose this course?Well, obviously if you’re interested in the media, you’re going to enjoy this. Essentially, though, you need to look at this course as a way of analysing media texts, and finding out WHY they look/sound the way they do. And you must be interested in finding out the background of the various institutions such as the film and television industry. If this sounds like you, choose Media Studies!

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGESIn Key Stage 4, students follow the AQA GCSE course in French, Spanish or German, practising listening, reading, speaking and writing. The vocabulary and structures covered relate to everyday activities, personal and social life, the world around us, the world of work and the international world. The GCSE course involves and element of written coursework which accounts for 25% of the final grade.

Homework is vital as it reinforces the work covered during lessons and contributes toward the production of coursework. In addition, regular practice and thorough learning of the necessary vocabulary and grammatical structures relating to the themes and topics covered will have a beneficial effect on performance in all skill areas. Use of revision guides and Internet sites will also have a positive impact, as will homework booklets.

There are deadlines for the submission of coursework which must be adhered to. Students are expected to show maturity and commitment throughout the course, which is based on the National Curriculum Areas of Experience.

Year 11 Handbook

MUSICMusic at GCSE level aims to increase the student’s ability to perform, both individually and as a member of an ensemble, and to compose music with understanding. Developing skills of listening and appraising, the development of Western music from late Renaissance to the present day provides a foundation for class discussion and individual research. Additionally, students are introduced to a range of World Music and are encouraged to integrate the range of techniques encountered with more conventional devices in developing their own ideas. Students’ instrumental progress is assessed throughout the academic year and individual progress in all areas of the syllabus is monitored. It is the requirement of the GCSE examination that students submit a Composition Portfolio and perform both as a soloist and as a member of a group.

PSHEPSHE lessons in Year 11 are based on the learning outcomes identified in the Passport Framework. Students participate in activities which help them to: Develop confidence and responsibility and make the most of their abilities Develop a healthy, safer lifestyle Develop good relationships and respect the differences between people Know and understand about becoming informing citizens.

Year 11 students complete five units of work which are delivered by specialist teachers. The topics covered include: Global Citizenship, The Law, Health Education Issues, Mental Health and Careers.

Each unit of work will be assessed separately and graded as follows:P*: Progress ExcellentThe student has displayed an excellent ability to work with others, has good communication skills, and has understood the unit of work well and contributed to discussion work. They have consistently worked to the best of their ability.PG: Progress GoodThe student has worked well with others, communicated effectively, contributed occasionally to group discussion and has a sound comprehension of the issues raised. The student has concentrated well on the tasks in hand and has worked with continuous interest and enthusiasm.PS: Progress SatisfactoryThe student has worked satisfactorily with others and attempted to complete most tasks set to the best of their ability. Not all tasks have been completed. There have been occasional contributions to discussion. The student is not working consistently towards achieving their potential.PU: Progress UnsatisfactoryThe student has made little effort, finds concentration difficult and does not participate in class discussions. The student has not co-operated in the lessons, and has made very little effort to improve their work.

During the Health Education aspect of the course, students will recap and build on previous lessons on Sex and Drugs Education. We hope that all pupils will benefit from this course, and that you will have the opportunity to discuss with your son or daughter what they are learning in College. If you have any queries about the course, please feel free to contact Mrs Vowles, Head of Citizenship and PSHE, at the College.

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONAll students are expected to bring full Bideford College PE kit and to take part in every lesson.At Key Stage 4, the students will have an element of choice in deciding the courses they will follow. These will come from a selection of activities, including basketball, badminton, netball, fitness, hockey, football, rugby, aerobics, trampolining, tennis, cricket, rounders, squash, athletics, dance, golf, walking and problem solving.

During the Year 11 GCSE PE course, students will complete courses in the four practical areas selected for assessment. The external moderator will visit in the spring term. Theory work will concentrate on sport and society, and revision of all topics in preparation for the final exams.

HOMEWORK September School’s physical education.October Cultural and social factors.November Opportunities for further involvement – voc/qualification/activity roles. Mock exam.December International factors. World Cup competitions/Olympics/politics.Jan/Feb Social factors – media, sponsorship, role models.Feb/Mar Sports science/technology/ICTMar/Apr/May Scenario questions and past papers, exam techniques and revision.

Year 11 Handbook

BTEC Sports CourseThe BTEC Sport level 2 course is divided into four separate modules covering the following areas over 2 years:

1. Anatomy and Physiology for Sport (studied in year 10)2. Planning and Leading Sports Activities (studied in year 10)3. Practical Sport (studied in year 11)4. Fitness Testing and Training (studied in year 11)

Anatomy and Physiology and Planning and Leading are studied in year 10 and Practical Sport and Fitness Testing and Training are followed in year 11.

Anatomy and Physiology explores the four main body systems. The skeletal system which includes main bones, joints and movement. The muscular system is then examined, the main muscles, antagonistic pairs and types of contraction are covered. The structure and function of the cardiovascular system is then covered which includes the structure of the heart and the blood vessels that carry blood around the body. To complete this unit, the respiratory system is explored and includes mechanics of breathing and gaseous exchange.

Planning and Leading looks at the qualities needed for effective sports leadership. Learners will identify the qualities required by studying real examples of successful leaders, possibly those they have worked with or observed in the community. Through completion of this unit learners will develop their knowledge and experience of how to lead sports activities and events. Learners will have the opportunity to put into practice the delivery of an activity session and sports event. They will be able to develop their leadership qualities and skills through their own relationship with their peers.

Practical Sport focuses on developing and improving the learners own practical sports performance. This is achieved through learners taking part in practical activities and reflecting on their own performance and that of other sports performers. At least one team and one individual sport will be studied giving students the opportunity to improve and develop their understanding. Learners will be able to practice and refine individual skills and techniques, experience tactics and team formations and be able to analyse their strengths and areas for improvement of themselves and others. Rules and regulations of each sport will be investigated and learners will apply knowledge through officiating different sports.

Fitness Testing and Training will give learners an insight into the physical fitness requirements and training methods used to achieve excellence in a selected sport. Learners will explore lifestyle factors, which may affect sports performance. The unit will enable learners to participate in a series of fitness tests to assess their current fitness levels and performance. Learners can then compare their own level of fitness and potential with the demand of competing at their desired level. Learners will also examine psychological factors, which may affect training and sports performance.

Each unit requires learners to complete coursework based on these units. Coursework can be expected at the end of each half term and time will be allocated for students to complete within lessons with access to computers. Usually students are given two weeks from the initial date to complete coursework and after one week there is the opportunity for a half time hand in to make sure they are on track to achieve their potential. Assignments are then returned for learners to make any alterations required in order to pass the assignment.

You can expect some examples of assignments to include:Presentations where the learner is expected to talk about a subject using powerpoint.Designing a leafletPlan and lead a sporting activity with younger students and writing reviewsParticipation in a sporting activity and officiating the sportObservation and analysis of a sports performer etc.

Practical Sport (year 11 assignments to follow as they are part of the new course)Fitness Testing and Training (year 11 assignments to follow as they are part of the new course).

SCIENCEHaving finished their Core Science GCSE in Year 10, most students will be required to follow a course from the list below. There may be opportunities for students to resit their Core Science modules in January and June.ADDITIONAL SCIENCEMost students will follow this course. It is taught as AQA Additional Science. It is examined with short answer questions and has a practical controlled assessment element worth 20% of the total mark. The course is equivalent to one GCSE and, when taken with Science, it is the Double Science course. This is a suitable grounding for A levels in the Sciences.

Year 11 Handbook

SEPARATE SCIENCES (AQA)A number of students will be entered for Biology, Chemistry and Physics as three separate GCSEs. This still involves following all of the Core and Additional material as well as an extra module and practical for each subject. Students who opt for this course must use one of their option choices. They will only be allowed to follow this course if they obtained a Level 6 or higher in the Science SATs test, at Key Stage 3.

BTEC APPLIED SCIENCE LEVEL 2 (EDEXCEL)This course is completely separate from those mentioned above and is broadly equivalent to two GCSEs. Practical uses of Science in the real world are studied and students produce a portfolio of work which counts for 100% of the final grades. This is a suitable grounding for the BTEC Level 3 which is broadly equivalent to an A level but is not suitable for further study in A level sciences.

SOCIOLOGYSociology is the study of society. At GCSE, this involves looking at the different groups within society, such as the family, religious and ethnic groups, males and females. We ask how we fit into these groups ourselves, and how they influence our life chances.

Sociology will be of interest to those students who are interested in inequality, that is, how our society is not a fair place for some people, perhaps because of their gender or their ethnic group or religion.

Much use is made of students’ own knowledge and experience, and they are encouraged to read newspapers and listen to the news regularly. Sociology also involves the study of theories and ideas, and students need to be able to read and understand the writings of sociologists.

Year 11 topics are:

Crime and deviance How our behaviour is controlled by our family and friends, the law and the police How much crime there really is in Britain The age and gender of the typical offender and the typical victim Why people are thought to commit crimes

Mass media How new technologies have affected our access to media, that is, newspapers, the internet, magazines etc How media contribute to our growth and learning How media can encourage stereotyping Whether violence in the media affects people’s behaviour

Social Inequality How your gender, your social class, your age, your religion and your ethnic group can affect your chances in

life Whether social class still matters

During Year 11, students may resit their Year 10 exam if they wish to gain a better grade. At the end of Year 11, when they will have covered the final 3 areas of study as above, they will take another exam based on these modules of work. The 2 exams together will give them a full GCSE.

There is now no coursework requirement in Sociology.

STATISTICSStatistics is offered as an option for students who reach high attainment levels in mathematics at KS3. Students at Bideford College follow the AQA Statistics GCSE programme of study.

There is one piece of coursework that, together with a controlled assessment, contributes 25% to the final grade and the terminal examination makes up the remaining 75%. This has to be completed between February and Easter in Year 11.

Statistics is a specialised part of mathematics that, finds answers to questions using surveys, charts, graphs, questionnaires and diagrams. It includes probability, chance and the use of ICT. Studying Statistics helps GCSE mathematics as there is some overlap in content. It has links with geography, technology, sociology and other subjects where market research or surveying opinions is important. Knowledge of statistics is useful for many careers in management, business, retail, science, logistics, marketing, tourism, medicine and many others.

Year 11 Handbook

TECHNOLOGY (CATERING)This course covers four main areas. We will look at the Catering Industry, Nutrition and Menu Planning, Food Production and Technological Advancements.

There are four units which are assessed in the following ways:Unit 1 – Catering skills related to food preparation and service (practical assessment) - 30%Unit 2 – Catering, food and the customer (written paper) - 20%Unit 3 – Hospitality skills related to events and functions - 30%Unit 4 – Hospitality and the customer (written paper) - 20%

Students will continue to work with a large selection of equipment and techniques to develop their practical catering abilities. They will also undergo at least one day in the College canteen to experience the real world of catering.

Students will have carried out a practical assessment in the summer term of Year 10. During their first term of Year 11 they will produce a short investigation linked to the catering industry or a project that relates to their work experience. There is another practical assessment during the Spring term of Year 11 and a final written exam paper.

TECHNOLOGY (CHILD DEVELOPMENT)The aim of this course is to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of the development of a child from conception to the age of 5 years. This covers all the stages of development in the areas of physical, intellectual, social and emotional. There is one piece of coursework, which is worth 50% of the final marks; it is a study of a child’s development over a period of 6 months combined with an element of research. It is completed by Christmas in Year 11.

At the end of the course, students should have a qualification, which will equip them well for any further course in Child Care or Health and Social Care.

TECHNOLOGY (PRODUCT DESIGN)In Year 11 students will be concentrating on the major projects which together total 60% (practical unit worth 30%, design unit worth 30%). The rest of the assessment concentrates on two exams. One practical in a workshop and the other a written paper lasting an hour and a half, which will assess what the students have learnt over the two years. Both exams are worth 20%.

TECHNOLOGY (ELECTRONICS)Students follow a course in electronic products. They will be taught to integrate their knowledge in the following areas: design and making, materials and components, systems and control, products and applications, and health and safety, and culminating in production of a quality product in Year 11. The course is assessed by 40% written examination and 60% coursework.

TECHNOLOGY (FOOD)This course is concerned with designing and making activities in food. Knowledge and understanding of food as a material, its’ properties, effect of processing and the choice of equipment are gained through the main coursework project in Year 11. Preparation for the final exam begins in March. The final exam grade comprises 60% coursework and 40% written paper.

TECHNOLOGY (GRAPHICS)In this course, students learn to design and make graphic products in response to needs which they identify. The assessment of their work for GCSE is split between practical coursework (worth 60% of the total marks) and a written exam (worth 40% of the total marks).

TECHNOLOGY (TEXTILES)This course is concerned with designing and making activities in textiles. In Year 11, students choose their own design brief and gain further knowledge and understanding of textiles as a material while developing individual products. Preparation for the final exam begins in March of Year 11. The final grade comprises 60% coursework and 40% written exam paper.

Year 11 Handbook

DIARY DATESCOLLEGE TERMAutumn Term 6 September 2011 – Friday 16 December 2011

Autumn Half Term Holiday Monday 24 October – Friday 28 October 2010

Staff Training Days Friday 25 November 2011 Tuesday 3 January 2012

Spring Term Wednesday 4 January – Friday 30 March 2012

Spring Half Term Holiday Monday 13 February – Friday 17 February 2012

Easter Holiday Monday 2 April – Friday13 April 2012

Summer Term Tuesday 16 April – Friday 19 July 2012

May Bank Holiday Monday 7 May 2012

Summer Half Term Holiday Monday 4 June – Friday 8 June 2012

OTHER IMPORTANT DATESParents/Carers Evening Wednesday 14 November 2011

Year 11 Mock Exams Week commencing Monday 12 December 2011

16+ Evening Wednesday 25 January 2011

Employer Interviews Thursday 9 February 2012

Reports to Parents/Carers Week commencing Monday 7 November 2011

Progress Day Thursday 9 February 2012

Newsletters are issued every half term and contain up-to-date College news.