GCSE Options Guide, 2019-2020

GCSE Options

2019/21



Introduction

You are entering a new and exciting phase in
your education, as you start to take responsibility
for choosing your GCSE options. This is the first
major opportunity for you to tailor your academic
programme to reflect your strengths and
passions. Choosing the right GCSEs can involve
many difficult and important decisions; however,
you should, first and foremost, be guided by your
heart. If you have a true passion for a subject then
you will enjoy your lessons, you will work hard
and you will succeed.

There are, of course, practicalities to be considered. Maintaining a balance of
the Sciences, Arts and Humanities may be important to you, but others may
wish to start to specialise. To help you with this process, a summary of the
different subject areas has been prepared by each Head of Department. This
will give you an outline of the content and assessment procedure for each
subject. There is also information regarding the wider school curriculum to
ensure you make your choices within the correct context.

I know that this process can be daunting but I sincerely hope that you enjoy
taking this important step in your education. This will lead to choosing your
A Levels and ultimately your individual path upon leaving Reading Blue Coat.

Mr Rob Tidbury

Deputy Head (Academic)

The Options

COMPULSORY SUBJECTS ARE...

English A language Science
Language

English Mathematics Religious
Literature Studies*

*Religious Studies GCSE will be examined at the end of Year 10.

THERE ARE ELEVEN OPTIONAL SUBJECTS... The Options 5

Fine Art Computer Design Drama
Science Technology

Geography Geology History

ICT Music Physical A second
Education language
3From the above
are chosen In almost all cases, we are able to offer pupils the
three subjects they have chosen. However, you
should also indicate a reserve choice, which can
be substituted in the unlikely event of one of their
first three choices being unavailable.

If the take-up of any subject offered does not
produce a class which is academically viable, we
reserve the right not to timetable it. Physical
resources may require us to limit the numbers of
pupils that study a subject if the number of pupils
choosing it is too large. In this case, the pupils will
be selected on their performance in the subject,
or a related subject, during Year 9.

In addition, pupils study Physical Education as a
non-examined subject (in Year 11 only), PSHEE
(Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education),
and they participate in Games and Activities.

Making the Choices

At Reading Blue Coat, we believe that the curriculum up to the end of
Year 11 should be broad. This is to ensure that you continue to develop
skills gained from studying as wide a range of subjects as possible, giving
you the ability to develop your own interests and to retain some flexibility
with regard to the subjects you will go on to study at A Level. However,
we recognise that everyone is different and so, within our options system,
we understand that some pupils may benefit from choosing ‘practical’
subjects whereas others may not.

The recent emphasis on an ‘English Baccalaureate’ the School finds to
be rather narrow: for example, we would argue that the fact that all of
our pupils study Religious Studies provides them with the experience of
a ‘humanity’, whereas the government does not. We therefore believe
strongly in pupils retaining breadth in their academic subjects without
necessarily adhering to the government’s prescription.

Choices made will be checked for their balance and suitability.
There are some combinations that are impossible to timetable.
These are principally those which contain more than two
‘practical’ subjects – for example, more than two from Fine Art,
Design Technology, Drama, Physical Education and, possibly, Music.

Discussions and Decisions

When making choices, you should ask You should then speak with Mr Yates, Director
yourself questions such as: of the Middle School; your subject teachers and
your form tutor for advice on the wisdom of
Which subjects do I enjoy? the choices being considered.
What am I good at?
The information in this booklet naturally gives
What will I be studying? you the opportunity to discuss potential choices
How is the course assessed? with your parent(s). Parents will also receive a
full written report from your subject teachers
How much coursework is involved? just before half term, giving a clear picture of
your current progress and potential. You will
also be individually counselled by your tutor.

Discussions and Decisions 7

Parents’ and Pupils’ Consultation Online
Form Due
This event will give you an opportunity to finalise
decisions following discussion with subject staff. Mr Yates MONDAY
and your tutor will deal with most matters of general 4 MARCH
advice and Mr Tidbury will be available should you need
advice on how the options process works. Once all the discussions
are complete, you will be
TUESDAY 26 FEBRUARY required to complete an

online form.

Recent Reforms New grading Current grading
structure structure
Incrementally, from September 2017, GCSEs and IGCSEs 9 A*
will be graded differently from before. A numerical grading 8
system of 9-1 will replace the current system of A*-G, with 9 7 A
as the highest achievable grade and 1 as the lowest (although 6
there will also be a grade U for those who fail to achieve the 5 B
minimum requirements for grade 1). 4
3 C
Grade 5 will be considered a ‘good pass’, with performance 2 D
tables focusing on students achieving grades 9-5. The old E
system takes a grade C as a benchmark for a ‘good pass’, but 1 F
the new grade 5 will be equivalent to a low B or high C – thus a G
‘good pass’ mark will become harder to achieve than previously. U U

The new system has been designed to reveal differences
between candidates at the top end of the spectrum. The
current top two grades (A* and A) will be replaced with three
top grades (9, 8 and 7). Grade 9 is being referred to by some as
an A**, as it will be awarded to approximately the top 3% only.

At Reading Blue Coat, our assessment of pupils will increasingly
reflect these new grades, as will the half-term grades, which
will now be based on a 9-1 scale.

Monitoring of Progress / Examination Fees 9

Monitoring of Progress Examination
Fees
Overseen by Mr Yates, the monitoring of pupil
progress occurs throughout their GCSE courses. Parents are responsible for all
Form Tutors have an important role in this examination fees incurred by
process and pupils and parents should refer to Year 11 pupils. Currently the
them if difficulties arise. It is usual for Form Tutors fee for each GCSE subject is
and their tutor groups to remain unchanged approximately £30, although
from Years 9 to 11. Regular reporting to parents this varies from subject to
continues through the use of half-term grades, subject and board to board.
formal written reports and parents’ consultations.

The Future

Most pupils will wish to continue at Reading
Blue Coat to sit their A Level examinations. To
qualify for Sixth Form at Reading Blue Coat, we
expect you to obtain at least 8 GCSEs at grade 5
or above. Two of these grades must be at grade
7 or above, and a further four at grade 6.
If you wish to study Mathematics, Economics,
Biology, Physics and Chemistry you must have a
grade 7 or above in that subject at GCSE (or the
relative component if studying Double Award
Science). In other subjects, it is expected you
have at least a grade 5 or 6. Most of our pupils
qualify to enter the Sixth Form.

Reading Blue Coat Sixth Form was
the ideal place to explore both my
academic and extra-curricular interests.

Kukua Blankson, 2018

The Sixth Form at Reading Blue Coat consists of three
A Level subjects, one chosen from each of three blocks,
which are devised according to student choice. New
subjects such as Business, Economics, Government and
Politics and Psychology are added to those studied at
GCSE. Students also opt from within the Enrichment
Block, which has a wide variety of subjects to choose
from, several not being offered at A Level. These
include Ancient History, Electronics and Film Studies.
Students will complete an AS in their enrichment
subject in Year 12. Alternatively, they can complete the
Extended Project Qualification, preferably by the end
of Year 12, to enable them to impress university tutors
of their commitment to a particular course.

The Future 11

12 Your options

Your options Your options 13

Compulsory Subjects
16. English

18. Languages – Latin
19. Languages – Modern Languages
20. Mathematics

21. Religious Studies
22. Science
Options Subjects
26. Fine Art
27. Computer Science
28. Design Technology
29. Drama
30. Geography
31. Geology
32. History
33. Information and

Communication Technology
34. Music
35. Physical Education

Compulsory Subjects



16 Compulsory Subjects The second element is the examination. At the end of
Year 11, students will sit one paper of two hours. This
First Language will account for the remaining 50% of the student’s
English: IGCSE grade. The examination is called Paper 1: Reading.
Questions and tasks will relate to three passages of
Compulsory between 500 and 750 words each. Students will be
expected to answer short-answer comprehension
Exam Board: CIE Code: 0900 questions, as well as three tasks of greater length,
assessing skills of summary, analysis, and reading for
First Language English at IGCSE is taught implicit meaning.
concurrently with English Literature (Syllabus
Code 0992), a separate IGCSE, for which we Mr Malcolm Stewart
enter all candidates.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

There are obvious but often unstated reasons why
the study of English is essential: it enables pupils to
understand their own language more thoroughly and
thus helps them to communicate more accurately and
appropriately in any situation. Their ability to deal with
all that they hear, read and experience will, by the
study of English, be immeasurably enhanced.

ASSESSMENT FORMAT

The CIE First Language English Course is divided into
two distinct, but complementary, elements.

The first is coursework. This element accounts for
50% of the student’s final grade. Students’ coursework
will consist of three written tasks, although teachers
may, at their discretion, complete more than this to
maximise the opportunities available for students
to achieve top marks. Two of the coursework tasks
present opportunities for students to develop narrative
and descriptive writing skills which are not assessed
elsewhere in the examination. A third task requires
analytical response to journalism.

QUICK FACTS Did you know 50% Coursework Regular Where next?
50% Exam theatre trips
English is all about creativity Journalism,
– the texts you read, how law, media and
you respond, and how you communication,
discover creativity in yourself!
advertising,
publishing

English Literature: Compulsory Subjects 17
IGCSE
WHAT YOU’LL READ
Compulsory
The current syllabus offers the following possibilities
Exam Board: CIE Code: 0992 for study in 2019 – 2021:

We want our pupils to be enthusiastic readers who Drama:
take great pleasure from the literature that they Arthur Miller – The Crucible
encounter. The study of English Literature RC Sherriff – Journey’s End
complements the study of English at IGCSE level. By William Shakespeare – Romeo and Juliet
studying a variety of literature in detail, candidates will William Shakespeare – Twelfth Night
begin to understand meaning independently, and will
develop into discerning, analytical and critical readers. Poetry:
Either a selection of poetry by Carol Ann Duffy, or a
selection of poetry by numerous poets taken from the
19th and 20th Century.

Prose:
Charlotte Brontë – Jane Eyre
John Knowles – A Separate Peace
George Orwell – Nineteen Eighty-Four
Alan Paton – Cry, the Beloved Country
A selection of short stories published by Cambridge
University Press

ASSESSMENT FORMAT

In English Literature, there is no coursework, with the
course being assessed through terminal examination.
This takes three parts:

• an unseen examination (1 hour 15 minutes – 25%
of final grade), during which candidates must write a
critical commentary on an extract which they have
never come across before.

• a set-text, closed-book examination (1 hour
30 minutes – 50% of final grade) on a novel and
collection of poetry studied during the course.

• a set-text, open-book examination (45 minutes –
25% of final grade) on a play studied during
the course.

Mr Malcolm Stewart

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam Regular Where next?
theatre trips
English is all about creativity Journalism,
– the texts you read, how law, media and
you respond, and how you communication,
discover creativity in yourself!
advertising,
publishing

18 Compulsory Subjects Vocabulary List of 440 words in Appendix A. Any other
words appearing in the narrative will be glossed. A set of
Latin grammatical structures with which learners are expected
to be familiar is given in Appendix B. Section A accounts
Compulsory for 90% of the marks in this component.

Exam Board: OCR Code: J282 Section B: this offers the choice between:

Latin offers students the chance to study an ancient A translation from English into Latin of a small number
language and its literature in the original form. Here of simple (single clause) sentences. The vocabulary
the work on grammar over the preceding years comes and accidence required for this option are given in
into context. Therefore, the Latin GCSE is only Appendix A and Appendix B.
available to those who have continued with their
study of Latin in Year 9. The recognition, analysis and explanation of syntax
and accidence within a short passage of Latin. The
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN grammatical structures required for this option are
given in Appendix B. Section B accounts for 10% of the
Latin students develop skills which are of great value marks in this component.
in other areas of academic study and in employment.
Latin is very strongly interlinked with British culture 2.2 Component 2: Latin Literature and Sources
in many ways; it promotes logical thought and (Themes)
understanding of expression; and the subject is highly
respected amongst universities and employers. Due Written examination: 1 hour 15 minutes –
to its cross-curricular nature, it sits well with Arts 30% of the qualification
and Sciences and is a good introduction to Classical
Civilisation or Latin at A Level. Each theme, comprising both prose and verse
literature, is accompanied by a selection of prescribed
ASSESSMENT FORMAT ancient source materials (e.g. paintings, mosaics) on
which one or more questions will be asked. The two
GCSE Content: comprises three modules, all of which themes to be examined in 2019-2020 are Youth and
are exam-assessed. Education and A Day at the Races.

2.1 Component 1: Latin Language 2.3 Component 3: Latin Literature (Narratives)

Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes – Written Examination: 1 hour –
50% of the qualification 20% of the qualification

This component consist of two compulsory sections, in There will be a choice of two narratives, one prose
which learners respond to unseen material. and one verse. Each narrative contains a continuous
passage of Latin and approximately the same amount in
Section A: this takes the form of a momentum test an English translation. Authors to be examined in 2020
consisting of a narrative in Latin divided into three are Ovid (Echo and Narcissus, in Latin and English) and
passages. There are comprehension questions on Parts Tacitus (Germanicus and Piso, in Latin and English).
1 and 3 (totalling 55% of the marks for this paper), and
the middle part is to be translated into English (35%). This is an open-book examination (i.e. in the
There is an incline of difficulty between Parts 1 and 3 and examination room learners will be provided with a
within the passage to be translated. There is a Defined clean copy of the resource booklet by WJEC).

Mr Sean Lambert

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam Bay of Naples Where next?
and Rome –
According to Dictionary. Easter 2020 The study of Latin/
com, 60% of English Classics can lead to
any career which
words have Latin or Greek
roots. In scientific and values clarity of
thought and precision
technical vocabulary, this
rises to more than 90%. of communication.

Modern Languages Compulsory Subjects 19
IGCSE
ASSESSMENT FORMAT
Compulsory
All four language skills are assessed by examinations
Exam Board: Edexcel taken at the end of Year 11. There are three
Code: French 4FRO, German 4GNO, examinations, all of which are based on the topics taught:
Spanish 4SPO
Listening (50 minutes – 25% of final grade):
Languages at IGCSE are designed to give students the Candidates hear a number of passages in the foreign
opportunity to learn to communicate with confidence language and respond with non-verbal responses, such
in a foreign language, as well as learn to appreciate as ticked boxes or matching exercises. Some passages
the culture of another country. Not only are languages will require a brief response in the language.
regarded as a highly valued asset by many employers,
but the course allows students to develop their own Reading and Writing (1 hour 45 minutes – 50%
self confidence and communication skills, which are of final grade): Candidates tackle five reading
indispensable in later life. Many of our students go on comprehension passages of varying length and difficulty.
to study languages at university, often combined with They also write two pieces in the language, one piece
other subjects such as business, law and economics. of 75 words and one of 150 words.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Speaking (10 minutes – 25% of final grade):
Candidates discuss a picture of their choice (based
Students will cover a number of key topic areas at on a topic area studied). This is followed by a general
IGCSE which are of relevance to the lives of young conversation on two of the topic areas studied.
people, such as health and sport, media and travel
and the wider world. The topics are taught through Mrs Sally Head
the medium of the four skills of reading, writing,
listening and speaking. As well as using course books,
the students will have the opportunity to participate
in a wide range of additional activities throughout
the course, including role plays, presentations,
independent reading, video recording, language games
and interactive activities in the computer room. In Year
11, students will have the chance to speak with the
language assistant once every three or four weeks in a
small group. As part of the course, students of German
will have the opportunity to go on a language study
course to Munich.

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam Munich, Germany Where next?
(Year 9 and 10); Geneva
More than 60% of Degrees: languages degree;
corporations who want to do and France (Year 9) languages with other subjects,
business in foreign countries such as business, economics,

don’t do so because law and engineering.
they don’t have enough Careers: business, any career
multilingual employees. which involves travel and/or
communication with people

from other countries.

20 Compulsory Subjects Mathematics: Level 2
Certificate in Further
Mathematics: IGCSE Mathematics

Compulsory Compulsory

Exam Board: Edexcel Exam Board: AQA Code: 8360
Code: 4MA1 Specification A
This examination is offered to a small number of
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN students in Year 11; however, much of the material is
The course builds on the foundations of the first three taught to the whole of Set 1 during Years 10 and 11.
years and continues courses of study in number, algebra,
geometry, statistics and an introduction to calculus. The AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics
places an emphasis on higher order technical
ASSESSMENT FORMAT proficiency, rigorous argument and problem-solving
Students are entered for the international examination skills. It gives high achieving students an introduction to
IGCSE. In common with many other independent AS Level topics that will help them to develop skills in
schools, we believe that this examination is better algebra, geometry, calculus, matrices, trigonometry,
suited to our students than is GCSE. The content is functions and graphs.
appropriate both as a final examination for those not
continuing with the subject and a firm basis for those Assessment is linear: Paper 1, written paper (non-
continuing to A Level and beyond. It is accepted as calculator) carries 40% of marks and Paper 2, written
equivalent to GCSE for university entrance. paper (calculator) carries 60% of marks.
Students will be placed in six ability sets. It is expected
that all students will be entered for Higher Tier (grades Mr Richard Shuttleworth
9-1). We expect that all students will gain a solid
knowledge and understanding of the entire syllabus,
and students in higher sets will become familiar with
material well beyond the IGCSE course.

EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT
Two 2 hour papers (50% each).
Both papers test all areas of the syllabus and require
the use of a scientific calculator.

INTERNAL ASSESSMENT
Regular module tests throughout the course.
Examinations at the end of Year 10.
Mock examinations in Year 11.

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam (equal weight Where next?
– both with calculator)
Maths is everywhere Being numerate is
– from pinecones to essential for every aspect

rocket science. of life – however, the
ability to solve problems

is what separates the
wolves from the sheep.

Religious Studies Component 2: The study of four themes from
Christian and Muslim (and secular) perspectives:
Compulsory
Theme A – Relationships and families: marriage,
Exam Board: AQA Code: 8062 divorce, gender roles, sexuality

The course is open to candidates of any religious Theme C – Religion, peace, and conflict: violence,
persuasion or none, but is designed to promote an pacifism, war, just war theory, terrorism, nuclear weapons
enquiring, empathetic and critical approach to the
study of religion. Half the course is a study of Christian Theme E – Religion, crime and punishment: factors
and Islamic beliefs and practices. The second half in the causes of crime, mental illness, different types
is a study of four themes, which are explored from of crime, aims of punishment, types of punishment,
Christian, Muslim, and secular perspectives. treatment of criminals, forgiveness, death penalty

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Theme F – Religion, human rights and social justice:
prejudice and discrimination, rights and responsibilities,
Starting in Year 9, all pupils will cover the following units: equality, wealth, poverty, charity

Component 1: The study of Christianity: beliefs, ASSESSMENT FORMAT
teachings, and practices
Each component equals 50% of the total marks for the
Beliefs and teachings: the nature of God, sin, the Full GCSE Course. Component 1 will be examined in
person of Jesus, salvation, resurrection, eternal life. one paper of 1 hour 45 minutes. Component 2 will be
examined in one paper, also of 1 hour 45 minutes. We
Practices: various types of worship, prayer, sacraments, expect all pupils to complete the Full Course. There is
pilgrimage, celebrations, role of the Church both social no coursework.
and spiritual, mission and evangelism, the experience
of the worldwide Church (including persecution), the Each question on the examination paper is divided into
work of one Christian charity. five parts, 1 to 5, and should be completed by the pupil
in 26 minutes plus extra time, if required.
The study of Islam: beliefs, teachings, and practices
This course will be assessed by external examination at
Beliefs and teachings: six Articles of Faith in Sunni the end of Year 10.
and the Five Roots in Shi’a, the nature of God, angels,
afterlife, authority, prophethood, Qur’an and other Mr Benjamin Clark
holy books, Imamate of Shi’a Islam.

Practices: Five Pillars, jihad, Ten Obligatory Acts of
Shi’a, Shahadah, Salah, Sawm, Zakah, Hajj, festivals.

QUICK FACTS Did you know Year 10 day trip to Where next?
Oxford to visit churches
1 in 10 people RS can lead to any
executed in the and Islamic Centre degree and/or career
USA is innocent
– and is beneficial
100% Exam because of the critical
thinking it engenders.

22 Compulsory Subjects preparation should the student wish to study any of the
disciplines at A Level and beyond.
Science: IGCSE
The accelerated learning necessitated to achieve
Compulsory the Triple Award qualification means that this is not
suitable for every student. The decision whether a
Exam Board: Edexcel student will study for the additional material is made
Code: Science (Double Award) 4SCO by the School in the interest of the individual pupil and
or Biology 4BIO, Chemistry 4CHO, there is no question of a Double Award qualification
Physics 4PHO disadvantaging a pupil at A Level or beyond; many
Double Award scientists go on to excel.
The aims of the course are for every pupil to achieve a
sound and comprehensive knowledge of basic scientific If students are offered the opportunity to study the
concepts and an awareness of the impact that Science Triple Award at the end of Year 9, they may opt to
has on their everyday life. Students will develop skills in study Dual Award Science if they feel this is a more
research, investigation and communication of scientific appropriate qualification.
ideas. Pupils who choose not to study Science beyond
GCSE will gain a strong scientific background, whilst WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
those intending to undertake Science A Levels will Both the Double Award and Triple Award specifications
have an excellent foundation upon which to further follow the themes listed below. Those students taking
their knowledge. the third IGCSE will encounter additional facets within
these topics.
The IGCSE Science course starts in Year 9 with pupils
studying Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate Biology
disciplines. At the end of Year 9, students will be
offered to study either Double Award (two IGCSEs in • The nature and variety of living organisms
Science where each GCSE comprises a third Biology,
Chemistry and Physics), or Triple Award (separate • Biological molecules and cells
IGCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics).
• Key physiological processes in humans and plants
Pupils are set in Years 9 and 10 in order to ensure
that every student has the chance to achieve their • Reproduction and inheritance
maximum potential whilst studying the Sciences to
GCSE level. The Triple Award Science sets will explore • Ecology and the environment
concepts in greater depth but these must be covered
at a significantly faster rate as no extra teaching time • Use of biological resources (including cloning)
can be afforded.
Chemistry
Those studying the Double Award will have the benefit
of spending more time consolidating key concepts • Principles of Chemistry
and revising and developing the skills necessary to
succeed in the Sciences. Both qualifications are ample • Chemistry of the elements

• Organic Chemistry

• Physical Chemistry

• Chemistry in Society

QUICK FACTS Did you know Where next?

A Level Science is Engineering, medicine,
still an option from finance
the Double Award

100% Exam

Physics ASSESSMENT FORMAT
• Forces and motion
• Electricity The IGCSEs do not require students to complete any
• Waves coursework or a controlled practical assessment. All
• Energy resources and energy transfer practical ideas are examined within the theory papers.
• Solids, liquids and gases
• Magnetism and electromagnetism Double Award: Students will sit papers in Biology,
• Radioactivity and particles Chemistry and Physics lasting two hours each. Each
• Astronomy paper contributes a third towards the two GCSEs.

Triple Award: Pupils will sit two papers for each
discipline. In addition to the 2 hour papers sat by
Double Award students there is a 1 hour 15 minute
long assessment, examining the core and additional
content studied.

The 2 hour paper in each subject contributes 61.1% of
the marks towards the respective IGCSE, whilst the
shorter paper accounts for the remaining 38.9%.

Mr Michael Jerstice

Optional Subjects



Fine Art ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Optional Component 1

Exam Board: Eduqas Code: C 651QS Portfolio (Coursework): 60% of the qualification:
120 marks.
Fine Art is defined here as that aspect of Art, Craft
and Design, where work is developed primarily for Component 2
aesthetic, intellectual or conceptual purposes rather than
considerations that are principally function or utilitarian. Externally-set Assignment (Examination): 40% of the
qualification: 80 marks.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
(*Recommended areas of study) Students undertaking Fine Art must explore contextual
• Drawing * sources such as the work of historical or contemporary
• Installation Fine Art and the different purposes, intentions and
• Lens- and light-based media * functions of Fine Art appropriate to the students’ own
• Land art visual work. Students should demonstrate the ability
• Printing to work creatively with processes and techniques
• Painting * appropriate to their chosen areas of study. Fine
• Sculpture * Art offers a choice of traditional, digital media and
processes and involves expressive use of a wide range
of materials, techniques and skill. Students can explore
practitioners working in such areas as film, publishing,
Arts administration, museums and galleries and
community art centres.

Mr Robert Wallis

QUICK FACTS Did you know 60% Coursework Fieldtrip (often Brighton/ Where next?
40% Exam Oxford) related to their
The department works particular course or project Architecture, product
very hard to make the design, interior design,
discipline educationally
sound BUT full of FUN! It is furniture design,
essential that the students restoration, galleries and

ENJOY their work! museums, all manner
of visual design, media,

scenery design.

Computer Science Optional Subjects 27

Optional The fun of Computing!: Through this study of
computer programming, the course will help learners
Exam Board: Cambridge CIE Code: 0984 develop critical thinking, analysis and problem solving
skills. For many, it will be a fun and interesting way to
Computing and computer technology are part of develop these skills, which can be transferred to other
just about everything that touches our lives, from subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In this
the cars we drive, to the movies we watch, to the way, the course will stimulate interest and engagement
ways businesses and governments deal with us. with technology and technology-related careers. The
Understanding different dimensions of computing is course would suit students with a strong mathematical
part of the necessary skill set for an educated person in background and a scientific and logical way of thinking.
the 21st century. Whether you want to be a scientist,
develop the latest killer application, or just know what ASSESSMENT FORMAT
it really means when someone says ‘the computer
made a mistake’, studying computing will provide you Computer Theory: 60% exam – 1 hour 45 mins
with valuable knowledge.
This component will introduce students to the
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Central Processing Unit (CPU), computer memory
and storage, wired and wireless networks, network
Computing: Central to all of these things we take topologies, system security and system software. It
for granted are computers: hardware, software and is expected that students will become familiar with
innovative applications. Indeed, computer science is the impact of Computer Science in a global context
an extraordinarily creative enterprise. It has changed through the study of the ethical, legal, cultural and
the way we live, has propelled our economy forward environmental concerns associated with Computer
through innovation and will continue to do so for the Science. It is expected that students will draw on
foreseeable future. Still, it might not be clear what this underpinning content when completing the
‘Computer Science’ is. Perhaps a better term for what programming component.
we study is ‘computational thinking’. Computational
thinking primarily emphasizes that we are interested in Problem Solving and Programming: 40% exam –
problem solving with computers. 1 hour 45 mins

ICT: deals with the purposeful application of computer This component incorporates and builds on the
systems to solve real-world problems, including knowledge and understanding gained in Computer
issues such as the identification of business needs, the Theory, encouraging students to apply this knowledge
specification and installation of hardware and software, and understanding using computational thinking.
and the evaluation of usability. Students will be introduced to algorithms and
programming, learning about programming techniques,
how to produce robust programs, computational logic,
translators and facilities of computing languages and
data representation. Students will become familiar with
computing-related mathematics.

Mr Scott Yates

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam
(20% of the exam on a student’s
If there was a computer as powerful as pre-programmed solution to a problem)
the human brain, it would be able to do 38
thousand trillion operations per second and
hold more than 3580 terabytes of memory.

Design Technology imagination to design and make prototypes that solve
real and relevant problems, considering their own and
Optional others’ needs, wants and values.

Exam Board: AQA There is also an emphasis on 20th Century engineering
Code: Design Technology 8552 and design history which is supported with popular
study trips: students have enjoyed recent visits to
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Vienna, Milan, Budapest, and also Denmark and Sweden
The new Design Technology qualification is modern to look at modern Scandinavian design and architecture.
and relevant. Students learn about contemporary
technologies, materials and CAD-CAM processes, as There is a strong element of applied Maths and Science
well as established practices, sustainability and design- in the course.
related social and moral issues. The course is ideally
suited to the student who enjoys problem solving, and ASSESSMENT FORMAT
has an emphasis on understanding and applying iterative
design processes. Students will use their creativity and The course is made up of two separate units:

Written exam:

50% of GCSE (2 hours)

100 marks

A mixture of short answer questions assessing a
breadth of technical knowledge and understanding, and
longer response questions evaluating more in-depth
knowledge of technical principles.

Non-exam assessment (NEA):

50% of GCSE (30–35 hours approx.)

100 marks

A substantial design and make task identifying and
investigating design possibilities, producing a design
brief and specification, generating, developing, realising,
analysing and evaluating design ideas. Students will
produce a prototype and a portfolio of evidence which
will be marked by teachers and moderated by AQA.

Mr Harvey McGough

QUICK FACTS Did you know 50% Coursework December study trips Where next?
50% Exam to Vienna, Copenhagen,
The father of modern Engineering,
furniture design, Marcel Budapest and Milan architecture,
Breuer’s most famous chair, product design
the ‘Wassily’, was inspired
by bicycle handlebars.

Drama Optional Subjects 29

Optional ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Exam Board: EDUQAS Code: 601/8420/6 Component 1 – Devising Theatre:

The EDUQAS GCSE in Drama is an exciting, inspiring Non-exam assessment: internally assessed,
and practical course. It gives students a broad and externally moderated
balanced experience of Drama.
40% of qualification
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Learners are required to devise a piece of original
The course promotes the enjoyment of Drama, as theatre in response to a stimulus, using either the
performers and/or designers. Additionally it provides techniques of an influential theatre practitioner or the
opportunities to attend live theatre performances characteristics of a genre of Drama.
and to develop skills as informed and thoughtful
audience members. Learners are given opportunities In addition to a live performance to an audience,
to participate in and interpret their own and others’ learners produce a portfolio of supporting evidence
Drama. Learners investigate a practitioner of Drama, and write an evaluation under supervised conditions.
work collaboratively to develop ideas to communicate
meaning and experiment with dramatic conventions, Component 2 – Performing from a Text:
forms and techniques to produce and realise a piece
of original theatre. They will also have the opportunity Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a
to participate in the performance of an extract from a visiting examiner
playtext. Learners will demonstrate their knowledge
and understanding of Drama, including their ability 20% of qualification
to interpret texts for performance, in a written
examination. Students are encouraged to speak to the Learners are required to participate in a performance
Director of Drama about suitability for the acting or from a published text. Learners will gain a deeper
design pathway. understanding of how to interpret a text for
performance and realise artistic intentions.

In addition to a live performance to an audience,
learners submit their artistic intentions to the examiner
in the form of a short report.

Component 3 – Interpreting Theatre

Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes

40% of qualification

This component requires learners to demonstrate
their knowledge and understanding of how Drama and
theatre is developed and performed through the study
of a performance text and through responding to live
theatre. Pupils will be expected to attend up to five
live theatre performances for each year of the GCSE
course. These are compulsory trips which will enrich
their own creative work.

Mrs Natasha Coccia-Clarks

QUICK FACTS Did you know 60% Coursework London West End, National Where next?
40% Exam Theatre, Oxford Playhouse,
The additional benefits Norden Farm Centre for the Arts Students taking
to taking Drama include GCSE and/or
developing tolerance, A Level Drama
empathy and increased frequently attend
Russell Group
levels of motivation. universities.

30 Optional Subjects WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Geography Course Structure: There are four units, each
concentrating on the interaction between people
Optional and environments.

Exam Board: Edexcel Code: 4GE1 The Nature of People and the Environment:
Coastal Environments
Geography is a dynamic and relevant discipline that Hazardous Environments
provides a bridge between the scientific and artistic
academic traditions. Young geographers develop a People and their Environments:
framework of spatial awareness that ranges from the Ecosystems and Rural Environments
local to the global. They recognise and understand Urban Environments
global concerns and acknowledge their responsibilities
as citizens. Teaching and learning opportunities Global Issues: Fragile Environments
are many and varied, as fieldwork, use of media,
application of appropriate technologies and enquiry are Fieldwork: Students are required to attend two day
all features of the Geography classroom. field trips during Year 10.

ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Candidates are assessed through two separate
examinations at the end of the taught element. There
is no coursework. The first examination is 1 hour 10
minutes in duration and will cover aspects of Physical
Geography. The second examination lasts 1 hour 45
minutes and will cover Human Geography themes
as well as Global Issues. All answers are written on
the paper and a combination of both short and long
responses are required. The examination will assess
knowledge and understanding of the topics set out
above and the fieldwork tasks undertaken on field trips.
Questions may include reference to maps, satellite
images, photographs or other stimulus material.

Mr Mike Baker

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam Relevant day trips Where next?

According to The Geography is a wide-ranging subject
Guardian: ‘Geography combining social and physical sciences.

undergraduates are Geographers often thrive in the
the most employable business world due to their combination

of all’. of transferrable skills, including
problem-solving and critical thinking.

Geology Optional Subjects 31

Optional 1) Rock exposures contain evidence of how rocks
were formed and subsequently deformed:
Exam Board: EDUQAS Code: 603/0598/8 Students will study minerals as the fundamental component
of the three rocks groups; igneous, sedimentary and
The EDUQAS GCSE course in Geology provides the metamorphic. Fossil content of sedimentary rocks will be
foundations for understanding the science of how the explored, as will the deformational structures of folds and
Earth works. Students will study the structure of the faults which result from stresses within the Earth’s crust.
Earth and the dynamic processes acting on and under
the Earth’s surface. Geology as a science is vital to 2) Major concepts and techniques underpin
the future quality of life and prosperity of the world’s our current understanding of the Earth and its
population; from supplying the ever-growing demand history: This idea enables students to demonstrate an
for mineral, water and energy to the mitigation of understanding of the ‘big ideas’ in Geology. These being
natural hazards by improved engineering and prediction the rock cycle, plate tectonics, the geological time scale,
techniques. Problem solving is at the heart of learning global climate and sea level change and the origin and
and the GCSE course encourages learners to respond development of life on Earth.
to Geology in both familiar and novel situations,
promoting students’ ability to think for themselves. 3) Comparisons of the Earth with other planetary
bodies within the solar system provide evidence
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN for the origin and evolution of both: This idea enables
the candidates to appreciate the links between the natural
Students will learn to develop their knowledge and processes on Earth and those on other planetary bodies
understanding by studying: within the Solar System.

• Rock types, geological structures, the geological 4) Human interaction with the Earth can increase
time scale, the rock cycle and plate tectonics as the or reduce risk: This idea enables candidates to appreciate
fundamental principles of Geology the cause and effect of human interactions with the natural
environment. The two concepts studied are Earth hazards
• The nature, processes and methods of Geology and their mitigation, and Earth resources and engineering.
through different types of scientific enquiry
ASSESSMENT FORMAT
• Observational, practical, modelling and problem-
solving skills, both in the laboratory and in the field 1) Geological Principles: On screen. Data and stimulus
including those required in understanding 3D data response questions. 1 hour 15 mins. 50%.

• Evaluation skills through looking at claims based 2) Investigative Geology: Written. Data and stimulus
on Science through critical analysis of the response with a geological map. 1 hour 30 mins. 50%.
methodology, evidence and conclusions,
both qualitatively and quantitatively Students will undertake three independent days in the
field. They study the palaeontology, structures and
sediments of the Weald, as well as visiting a Superquarry
to see how Geology can be applied to our daily lives and
how we consider that extracting geological resources has
an impact on the environment.

Mrs Gillian Finucane

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam Geology of the Weald (Summer Where next?
Term, Year 10). Two days.
Geology is a part Geology of a Superquarry. The opportunities are
of all of our lives, endless! With a shortage
from oil and gas to (October/November, Year 11) of geoscientists, the UK
minerals and water. is a net importer of these

disciplines for roles in
industry and research.

32 Optional Subjects In Year 11 the students study the following units which
are examined in Paper 2:
History: IGCSE
A4: The Vietnam Conflict, 1945-75. (Historical
Optional Investigation) : The course looks at Vietnam’s
struggle against France for independence, US foreign
Exam Board: Edexcel Code: 4HI1 policy and intervention in Vietnam, confrontation in the
war, the impact of conflict on civilians in Vietnam and
The IGCSE course has been chosen to give students on attitudes in the USA.
an excellent opportunity to develop a real
understanding of many key events and issues in 20th B4: Conflict, crisis and change: China, 1900-
Century history that have shaped the world we live 1989. (Breadth Study): This unit looks at aspects
in today. Studying History equips students with key of conflict, crisis and change that have affected this
academic skills, through reflection, argument and increasingly important country during its transition
debate. The skills and knowledge acquired and tested from imperial nation, through communist dictatorship,
throughout the course are a useful foundation for to the economic giant that it is today.
A Levels and in any future career.
The questions asked in Paper 2 require the source
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN work skills of comprehension, making inferences,
cross-referencing, evaluating representations, explaining
The course consists of four units of equal value. key features and examining change over time.

In Year 10, students will study the following units, ASSESSMENT FORMAT
which are examined in Paper 1:
At the end of Year 11, students take two exams, each
3: Germany: Development of dictatorship, worth 50% of the IGCSE, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes.
1918-1945. (Depth Study): In this unit, we study
Weimar Germany, Hitler and the growth of the Nazi Paper 1, the Depth Study exam, uses structured
party, the nature of Nazi dictatorship, Nazi domestic questions which require students to recall, select,
politics, and the defeat of Germany in WW2. organise and analyse their historical knowledge. Paper
2, on the Breadth Study and the Historical Investigation,
6: A world divided: Superpower Relations, tests the student’s ability to interpret and analyse
1943-72. (Depth Study): This is a study of the Cold War historical source materials.
from its beginnings, asking how the Cold War developed,
looking at the various forms superpower rivalry took, Miss Tanya van der Werff
examining the crises of Hungary, Berlin, and Cuba, and
looking at the Thaw and moves towards Détente.

The questions asked in Paper 1 on the Depth Studies
require students to provide written explanations of
causation and consequence, and to provide structured
answers; the final question on each unit could be
viewed by parents as an ‘essay’ question. Analysis of a
passage of historical interpretation is also included.

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam A biennial, optional trip to Where next?
Berlin in October Half Term
History has been History skills
one of the most for the Year 10s/11s are highly
popular GCSE
options at RBC prized by all
universities and
for decades.
employers.

ICT – Optional Subjects 33
Information and
Communication During this course, students develop the capacity to
Technology: IGCSE think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and
critically as they look at ICT in a range of contexts to
Optional solve problems and develop an understanding of the
effect of ICT on individuals, organisations and society.
Exam Board: Edexcel Code: (4IT1)
• Improves confidence in areas such as apps, web
IGCSE ICT expands and tests skills in the use of a page and games design
wide range of ICT tools, whilst developing a deeper
understanding of the underlying technologies and their • Improves understanding of social networking and its
impact on society. The course aims to educate students impacts
to meet the many and varied ICT challenges that they
will encounter in the future both in education and the • Enables students to keep up to date with IT
workplace. and digital developments, at home and in the
commercial world
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
• Explains how IT can help improve career options
• “The Internet? We are not interested in it.”
Bill Gates (Microsoft) 1993 • Provides students with IT skills they can use to solve
practical problems
• “It has become appallingly obvious that our
technology has exceeded our humanity.” ASSESSMENT FORMAT
Albert Einstein
• Paper 1 (written): Systems and Applications in ICT
A qualification in Information Technology opens up a (Exam 1 hour 30 minutes) (50%)
vast world of opportunities for work, not only within
the technology industry but also in supporting roles • Paper 2 (practical): Applying ICT Controlled
within other industries. ICT students will develop (Exam 3 hours) (50%)
technical skills and knowledge – that goes without
saying. They will also need other talents such as the Students study a range of ICT systems, as used in the
ability to communicate clearly at all levels, to plan and home, at school and in society. Students are made
to manage a project. Decision-making and problem- aware of current and emerging technologies and
solving are also important. the impact that advances in technology may have on
themselves and others.

Mr Scott Yates

QUICK FACTS Did you know 100% Exam (50% Theory Paper;
50% Practical paper)
The name Google was created
accidentally. A spelling error was

made by the original founders
who were under the impression

they were going for Googol.

Music Unit 2 – Practical Portfolio 30%: Candidates must
record one performance, which must be an ensemble,
Optional and a composition to a brief set by the exam board.
The ensemble performance must be a minimum of one
Exam Board: OCR Code: J535 minute long.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN The combined length of performance for Units 1 and 2
Music GCSE enables students to explore performance must be a minimum of four minutes.
and composition with a focus on their own instrument
and genre of choice. Through various genres, styles Unit 3 – Listening and Appraising 40%:
and eras in the four areas of study they will explore The listening test is a written examination in which
musical context, musical language performance and candidates will have to answer questions about extracts
composition skills. of music from four areas of study:

ASSESSMENT FORMAT • The Concerto through the Ages
Unit 1 – Integrated Portfolio 30%: Candidates
must record one performance on their own instrument • Rhythms of the World
and one composition for their own instrument. The
composition brief is set by the student and can be in a • Film Music
style of their choosing.
• Conventions of Pop

• The examination is approximately an hour and
a half long.

Pupils will be expected to take lessons on an instrument
or voice and participate in an ensemble and choir.

Mr Richard Meehan

QUICK FACTS Did you know 60% Coursework Primary Where next?
40% Exam school visit
Playing music In addition to Music in
regularly will all its roles, it is useful
physically alter your
brain structure. where there is any
need to demonstrate
creativity in a specialist

environment.

Physical Education Optional Subjects 35

Optional ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Exam Board: AQA Code: 8582w Pupils are assessed in the following ways:

Requirements to study Physical Education at GCSE: • Two written exam papers 60%
(Paper 1 – 30%, Paper 2 – 30%).
Along with in-depth theoretical content, there is a
significant practical element to the course and pupils • Coursework 40% (assessment in three player/
must be physically capable of applying themselves to performer activities – 30%, written task – 10%)
an adequate standard in a minimum of three sports.
There is no doubt that the course suits the more Written examination will comprise two 1 hour 15
able practical performer, and a strong interest and minute examination papers. Both papers will be a
understanding of a wide range of sporting activities mixture of multiple choice/objective test questions,
as well as a commitment to school sport, is essential. short answer questions and extended answer
Pupils undertaking the course should ideally be of an ‘A’ questions.
team standard, or the equivalent, in at least one sport.
Paper 1 will focus on the human body and movement
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN in physical activity and sport:

The AQA GCSE Physical Education specification Applied Physiology and Anatomy
provides pupils with an opportunity to study both the
practical and theoretical aspects of Physical Education. Movement Analysis
New and contemporary topics will help students
develop a well-rounded skill set and prepare them for Physical Training
progression to further studies. Through studying the
course, pupils will be able to develop an understanding Use of Data
of effective and safe physical performance. They
will be able to appreciate the necessity for sound Paper 2 will focus on the socio-cultural influences and
understanding of the principles and practices that well-being in physical activity and sport:
underpin improved performance as well as better
health and well-being. Sport Psychology

The specification is designed to develop knowledge and Socio-cultural influences
understanding of the factors that affect performance
and participation in physical activities. Health, Fitness and Well Being

Use of Data

The coursework component is worth 40% and pupils
will be assessed in their practical performance in three
different activities in the role of player/performer (one
in a team activity, one in an individual activity and a
third in either a team or an individual activity – 30%).
For the final part of the practical assessment, pupils
will have to evaluate and analyse their performance to
bring about improvement in one activity.

Mr Jason Dance

QUICK FACTS Did you know 40% Coursework Surrey High Where next?
60% Exam Performance Institute
Pupils gain This is a good A Level for
academic credit for accessing a myriad of courses at
all the hours they top universities, such as sports
science degrees, physiotherapy,
spend practising
their sports. sports analysis, strength and
conditioning, teaching, and
fitness centre management.

Holme Park, Sonning Lane, Sonning-on-Thames, Berkshire RG4 6SU
Tel: 0118 944 1005 rbcs.org.uk