GCSE Options Guide 2020-2022

GCSE20O20 / 2p2 tions



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...

Fine Computer Design Drama

Art 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 your
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, 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
yourself questions such as:

Which subjects do I enjoy? You should then speak with Mr Yates, Director
What am I good at? of the Middle School; your subject teachers and
your form tutor for advice on the wisdom of
What will I be studying? the choices being considered.
How is the course assessed?
The information in this booklet naturally gives
How much coursework is involved? you the opportunity to discuss potential choices
with your parent(s). 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 9 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
MONDAY 2 MARCH required to complete an

online form.

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

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

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 process examination fees incurred by
and pupils and parents should refer to them if Year 11 pupils. Currently the
difficulties arise. It is usual for Form Tutors and fee for each GCSE subject is
their tutor groups to remain unchanged from Years approximately £30, although
9 to 11. Regular reporting to parents continues this varies from subject to
through the use of half-term grades, regular focus subject and board to board.
comments and parents’ consultations.

The Future

To qualify for the Sixth Form at Blue Coat, we
expect you to attain at least eight GCSEs at
C/grade 5 or above. Two of these grades must
be at A/grade 7 or above. A further four grades
at B/grade 6 and two at C/grade 5 are required.
To study Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or
Physics at A Level, you should have at least an
A/grade 7 at GCSE or its equivalent. To study
Economics, you should have at least an A/grade
7 in Mathematics. All students are required
to have passed both English Language and
Mathematics at C/grade 5 or above.

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. 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 Compulsory Subjects
16. English

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

21. Religious Studies
22. Science

Optional 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

Compulsory Subjects 15

First Language The second element is the examination. At the end of
English: IGCSE Year 11, students will sit one paper of two hours. This
will account for the remaining 50% of the student’s
Compulsory grade. The examination is called Paper 1: Reading.
Questions and tasks will relate to three passages of
Exam Board: CIE Code: 0990 between 500 and 750 words each. Students will be
expected to answer short-answer comprehension
First Language English at IGCSE is taught questions, as well as three tasks of greater length,
concurrently with English Literature (Syllabus assessing skills of summary, analysis, and reading for
Code 0992), a separate IGCSE, for which we implicit meaning.
enter all candidates.
Mr Malcolm Stewart
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.

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advertising,
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English Literature: WHAT YOU’LL READ
IGCSE
The current syllabus offers the following possibilities
Compulsory for study in 2020 – 2022:

Exam Board: CIE Code: 0992 Drama:
Arthur Miller – The Crucible
We want our pupils to be enthusiastic readers who RC Sherriff – Journey’s End
take great pleasure from the literature that they William Shakespeare – Othello
encounter. The study of English Literature William Shakespeare – Twelfth Night
complements the study of English at IGCSE level. By
studying a variety of literature in detail, candidates will Poetry:
begin to understand meaning independently, and will Either a selection of poetry by Carol Ann Duffy, or a
develop into discerning, analytical and critical readers. selection of poetry by numerous poets taken from the
19th and 20th Century.

Prose:
Charlotte Brontë – Jane Eyre
Henry James – Washington Square
Yann Martel – Life of Pi
George Orwell – Nineteen Eighty-Four
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

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Latin Vocabulary List of 440 words in Appendix A. Any other
words appearing in the narrative will be glossed. A set of
Compulsory grammatical structures with which learners are expected
to be familiar is given in Appendix B. Section A accounts
Exam Board: EDUQAS Code: C990PA for 90% of the marks in this component.

Latin offers students the chance to study an ancient Section B: this offers the choice between:
language and its literature in the original form. Here
the work on grammar over the preceding years comes A translation from English into Latin of a small number
into context. Therefore, the Latin GCSE is only of simple (single clause) sentences. The vocabulary
available to those who have continued with their and accidence required for this option are given in
study of Latin in Year 9. Appendix A and Appendix B.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN The recognition, analysis and explanation of syntax
and accidence within a short passage of Latin. The
Latin students develop skills which are of great value grammatical structures required for this option are
in other areas of academic study and in employment. given in Appendix B. Section B accounts for 10% of the
Latin is very strongly interlinked with British culture marks in this component.
in many ways; it promotes logical thought and
understanding of expression; and the subject is highly 2.2 Component 2: Latin Literature and Sources
respected amongst universities and employers. Due (Themes)
to its cross-curricular nature, it sits well with Arts
and Sciences and is a good introduction to Classical Written examination: 1 hour 15 minutes –
Civilisation or Latin at A Level. 30% of the qualification

ASSESSMENT FORMAT Each theme, comprising both prose and verse
literature, is accompanied by a selection of prescribed
GCSE Content: comprises three modules, all of which ancient source materials (e.g. paintings, mosaics) on
are exam-assessed. which one or more questions will be asked. Previous
themes that were examined in 2019-2020 were Youth
2.1 Component 1: Latin Language and Education and A Day at the Races.

Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2.3 Component 3: Latin Literature (Narratives)
50% of the qualification
Written Examination: 1 hour –
This component consist of two compulsory sections, in 20% of the qualification
which learners respond to unseen material.
There will be a choice of two narratives, one prose
Section A: this takes the form of a momentum test and one verse. Each narrative contains a continuous
consisting of a narrative in Latin divided into three passage of Latin and approximately the same amount in
passages. There are comprehension questions on Parts 1 an English translation. Authors to be examined in 2020
and 3 (totalling 55% of the marks for this paper), and the are Ovid (Echo and Narcissus, in Latin and English) and
middle part is to be translated into English (35%). There Tacitus (Germanicus and Piso, in Latin and English).
is an incline of difficulty between Parts 1 and 3 and
within the passage to be translated. There is a Defined This is an open-book examination (i.e. in the
examination room learners will be provided with a
clean copy of the resource booklet by WJEC).

Mr Sean Lambert

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2021
According to Dictionary. 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 ASSESSMENT FORMAT
IGCSE
All four language skills are assessed by examinations
Compulsory taken at the end of Year 11. There are three
examinations, all of which are based on the topics taught:
Exam Board: Edexcel
Code: French 4FRO, German 4GNO, Listening (50 minutes – 25% of final grade):
Spanish 4SPO Candidates hear a number of passages in the foreign
language and respond with non-verbal responses, such
Languages at IGCSE are designed to give students the as ticked boxes or matching exercises. Some passages
opportunity to learn to communicate with confidence will require a brief response in the language.
in a foreign language, as well as learn to appreciate
the culture of another country. Not only are languages Reading and Writing (1 hour 45 minutes – 50%
regarded as a highly valued asset by many employers, of final grade): Candidates tackle five reading
but the course allows students to develop their own comprehension passages of varying length and difficulty.
self confidence and communication skills, which are They also write two pieces in the language, one piece
indispensable in later life. Many of our students go on of 75 words and one of 150 words.
to study languages at university, often combined with
other subjects such as business, law and economics. Speaking (10 minutes – 25% of final grade):
Candidates discuss a picture of their choice (based
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN on a topic area studied). This is followed by a general
conversation on two of the topic areas studied.
Students will cover a number of key topic areas at
IGCSE which are of relevance to the lives of young Mrs Sally Head
people, such as health and sport, media and travel
and the wider world. The topics are taught through
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.

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More than 60% of Degrees: languages degree;
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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.

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

Exam Board: Edexcel By Invitation
Code: 4MA1 Specification A
Exam Board: AQA Code: 8365
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The course builds on the foundations of the first three This examination is offered to a small number of
years and continues courses of study in number, algebra, students in Year 11; however, much of the material is
geometry, statistics and an introduction to calculus. taught to the whole of Set 1 during Years 10 and 11.

ASSESSMENT FORMAT The AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics
Students are entered for the UK-run IGCSE. In places an emphasis on higher order technical
common with many other independent schools, we proficiency, rigorous argument, and problem-solving
believe that this examination is better suited to our skills. It gives high achieving students an introduction to
students than the GCSE. The content is appropriate A Level topics that will help them to develop skills in
both as a final examination for those not continuing algebra, geometry, calculus, matrices, trigonometry,
with the subject and a firm basis for those continuing functions and graphs.
to A Level and beyond. It is accepted as equivalent to
GCSE for university entrance. Assessment is linear: Paper 1 (written paper, non-
Students will be placed in six sets. It is expected that all calculator) carries 40% of marks and Paper 2 (written
students will be entered for Higher Tier (grades 9-4). paper, calculator) carries 60% of marks.
We expect that all students will gain a solid knowledge
and understanding of the entire syllabus, and students Mr Ed Clark
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.

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is what separates the
wolves from the sheep.

Religious Studies Theme C – Religion, peace, and conflict: violence,
pacifism, war, just war theory, terrorism, nuclear weapons
Compulsory
Theme E – Religion, crime and punishment: factors
Exam Board: AQA Code: 8062 in the causes of crime, mental illness, different types
of crime, aims of punishment, types of punishment,
The course is open to candidates of any religious treatment of criminals, forgiveness, death penalty
persuasion or none, but is designed to promote an
enquiring, empathetic and critical approach to the Theme F – Religion, human rights and social justice:
study of religion. Half the course is a study of Christian prejudice and discrimination, rights and responsibilities,
and Islamic beliefs and practices. The second half equality, wealth, poverty, charity
is a study of four themes, which are explored from
Christian, Muslim, and secular perspectives. ASSESSMENT FORMAT

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Each component equals 50% of the total marks for the
Full GCSE Course. Component 1 will be examined in
Starting in Year 9, all pupils will cover the following units: one paper of 1 hour 45 minutes. Component 2 will be
examined in one paper, also of 1 hour 45 minutes. We
Component 1: The study of Christianity: beliefs, expect all pupils to complete the Full Course. There is
teachings, and practices no coursework.

Beliefs and teachings: the nature of God, sin, the Each question on the examination paper is divided into
person of Jesus, salvation, resurrection, eternal life. five parts, 1 to 5, and should be completed by the pupil
in 26 minutes plus extra time, if required.
Practices: various types of worship, prayer, sacraments,
pilgrimage, celebrations, role of the Church both social This course will be assessed by external examination at
and spiritual, mission and evangelism, the experience the end of Year 10.
of the worldwide Church (including persecution), the
work of one Christian charity. Mr Harry Stone

The study of Islam: beliefs, teachings, and practices

Beliefs and teachings: six Articles of Faith in Sunni
and the Five Roots in Shi’a, the nature of God, angels,
afterlife, authority, prophethood, Qur’an and other
holy books, Imamate of Shi’a Islam.

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

Component 2: The study of four themes from
Christian and Muslim (and secular) perspectives:

Theme A – Relationships and families: marriage,
divorce, gender roles, sexuality

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

• Chemistry of the elements

• Organic Chemistry

• Physical Chemistry

• Chemistry in Society

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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

Mr Benjamin Shuler

Mr Andrew Colville

Optional Subjects

Optional Subjects 25

Fine Art ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Optional Component 1

Exam Board: Eduqas Code: C651QS 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 Richard Ennis

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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 The fun of Computing!: Through this study of
computer programming, the course will help learners
Optional develop critical thinking, analysis and problem solving
skills. For many, it will be a fun and interesting way to
Exam Board: Cambridge CIE Code: 0984 develop these skills, which can be transferred to other
subjects and even applied in day-to-day life. In this
Computing and computer technology are part of way, the course will stimulate interest and engagement
just about everything that touches our lives, from with technology and technology-related careers. The
the cars we drive, to the movies we watch, to the course would suit students with a strong mathematical
ways businesses and governments deal with us. background and a scientific and logical way of thinking.
Understanding different dimensions of computing is
part of the necessary skill set for an educated person ASSESSMENT FORMAT
in the 21st century. Whether you want to be a scientist,
develop the latest killer application, or just know what Computer Theory: 60% exam – 1 hour 45 mins
it really means when someone says ‘the computer
made a mistake’, studying computing will provide you This component will introduce students to the
with valuable knowledge. Central Processing Unit (CPU), computer memory
and storage, wired and wireless networks, network
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN topologies, system security and system software. It
is expected that students will become familiar with
Computing: Central to all of these things we take the impact of Computer Science in a global context
for granted are computers: hardware, software and through the study of the ethical, legal, cultural and
innovative applications. Indeed, computer science is environmental concerns associated with Computer
an extraordinarily creative enterprise. It has changed Science. It is expected that students will draw on
the way we live, has propelled our economy forward this underpinning content when completing the
through innovation and will continue to do so for the programming component.
foreseeable future. Still, it might not be clear what
‘Computer Science’ is. Perhaps a better term for what Problem Solving and Programming: 40% exam –
we study is ‘computational thinking’. Computational 1 hour 45 mins
thinking primarily emphasizes that we are interested in
problem solving with computers. This component incorporates and builds on the
knowledge and understanding gained in Computer
ICT: deals with the purposeful application of computer Theory, encouraging students to apply this knowledge
systems to solve real-world problems, including and understanding using computational thinking.
issues such as the identification of business needs, the Students will be introduced to algorithms and
specification and installation of hardware and software, programming, learning about programming techniques,
and the evaluation of usability. 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
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hold more than 3580 terabytes of memory.

Design Technology design processes. Students will use their creativity and
imagination to design and make prototypes that solve
Optional real and relevant problems, considering their own and
others’ needs, wants and values.
Exam Board: AQA
Code: Design Technology 8552 There is also an emphasis on 20th Century engineering
and design history which is supported with popular
The DT option is available to those who have selected study trips: students have enjoyed recent visits to
DT (GCSE strand) for Year 9 and wish to continue’ Vienna, Milan, Budapest, and also Denmark and Sweden
to look at modern Scandinavian design and architecture.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
The new Design Technology qualification is modern There is a strong element of applied Maths and Science
and relevant. Students learn about contemporary in the course.
technologies, materials and CAD-CAM processes, as
well as established practices, sustainability and design- ASSESSMENT FORMAT
related social and moral issues. The course is ideally
suited to the student who enjoys problem solving, and The course is made up of two separate units:
has an emphasis on understanding and applying iterative
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 design pathway.

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
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.

Mr Devin Möller

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
A Level Drama
developing tolerance, frequently attend
empathy and increased Russell Group
universities.
levels of motivation.

Geography Hazardous Environments

Optional People and their Environments:
Ecosystems and Rural Environments
Exam Board: Edexcel Code: 4GE1 Urban Environments

Geography is a dynamic and relevant discipline that Global Issues: Fragile Environments
provides a bridge between the scientific and artistic
academic traditions. Young geographers develop a Fieldwork: Students are required to attend two day
framework of spatial awareness that ranges from the field trips during Year 10.
local to the global. They recognise and understand
global concerns and acknowledge their responsibilities ASSESSMENT FORMAT
as citizens. Teaching and learning opportunities
are many and varied, as fieldwork, use of media, Candidates are assessed through two separate
application of appropriate technologies and enquiry are examinations at the end of the taught element. There
all features of the Geography classroom. is no coursework. The first examination is 1 hour 10
minutes in duration and will cover aspects of Physical
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Geography. The second examination lasts 1 hour 45
minutes and will cover Human Geography themes
Course Structure: There are four units, each as well as Global Issues. All answers are written on
concentrating on the interaction between people the paper and a combination of both short and long
and environments. responses are required. The examination will assess
knowledge and understanding of the topics set out
The Nature of People and the Environment: above and the fieldwork tasks undertaken on field trips.
Coastal Environments 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 methodology, evidence and conclusions,
both qualitatively and quantitatively.
Optional
1) Rock exposures contain evidence of how rocks
Exam Board: EDUQAS Code: 603/0598/8 were formed and subsequently deformed:
Students will study minerals as the fundamental component
The EDUQAS GCSE course in Geology provides the of the three rocks groups; igneous, sedimentary and
foundations for understanding the science of how the metamorphic. Fossil content of sedimentary rocks will be
Earth works. Students will study the structure of the explored, as will the deformational structures of folds and
Earth and the dynamic processes acting on and under faults which result from stresses within the Earth’s crust.
the Earth’s surface. Geology as a science is vital to
the future quality of life and prosperity of the world’s 2) Major concepts and techniques underpin
population; from supplying the ever-growing demand our current understanding of the Earth and its
for mineral, water and energy to the mitigation of history: This idea enables students to demonstrate an
natural hazards by improved engineering and prediction understanding of the ‘big ideas’ in Geology. These being
techniques. Problem solving is at the heart of learning the rock cycle, plate tectonics, the geological time scale,
and the GCSE course encourages learners to respond global climate and sea level change and the origin and
to Geology in both familiar and novel situations, development of life on Earth.
promoting students’ ability to think for themselves.
3) Comparisons of the Earth with other planetary
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN bodies within the solar system provide evidence
for the origin and evolution of both: This idea enables
Students will learn to develop their knowledge and the candidates to appreciate the links between the natural
understanding by studying: processes on Earth and those on other planetary bodies
within the Solar System.
• Rock types, geological structures, the geological
time scale, the rock cycle and plate tectonics as the 4) Human interaction with the Earth can increase
fundamental principles of Geology or reduce risk: This idea enables candidates to appreciate
the cause and effect of human interactions with the natural
• The nature, processes and methods of Geology environment. The two concepts studied are Earth hazards
through different types of scientific enquiry and their mitigation, and Earth resources and engineering.

• Observational, practical, modelling and problem- ASSESSMENT FORMAT
solving skills, both in the laboratory and in the field
including those required in understanding 3D data 1) Geological Principles: On screen. Data and stimulus
response questions. 1 hour 15 mins. 50%.
• Evaluation skills through looking at claims based
on Science through critical analysis of the 2) Investigative Geology: Written. Data and stimulus
response with a geological map. 1 hour 30 mins. 50%.

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.

History: IGCSE are examined in Paper 2:

Optional A4: The Vietnam Conflict, 1945-75. (Historical
Investigation) : The course looks at Vietnam’s
Exam Board: Edexcel Code: 4HI1 struggle against France for independence, US foreign
policy and intervention in Vietnam, confrontation in the
The IGCSE course has been chosen to give students war, the impact of conflict on civilians in Vietnam and
an excellent opportunity to develop a real on attitudes in the USA.
understanding of many key events and issues in 20th
Century history that have shaped the world we live in B4: Conflict, crisis and change: China, 1900-
today. Studying History equips students with important 1989. (Breadth Study): This unit looks at aspects
academic skills, through reflection, evaluation, argument of conflict, crisis and change that have affected this
and debate. The skills and knowledge acquired and increasingly important country during its transition
tested throughout the course are a useful foundation from imperial nation, through communist dictatorship,
for A Levels and in any future career. to the economic giant that it is today.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN The questions asked in Paper 2 require the source work
skills of comprehension, making inferences,
The course consists of four units of equal value. cross-referencing, evaluating representations, explaining
key features and examining change over time.
In Year 10, students will study the following units,
which are examined in Paper 1: ASSESSMENT FORMAT

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

In Year 11 the students study the following units which

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 – Information think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and
and Communication critically as they look at ICT in a range of contexts to
Technology: IGCSE solve problems and develop an understanding of the
effect of ICT on individuals, organisations and society.
Optional
• Improves confidence in areas such as apps, web
Exam Board: Edexcel Code: (4IT1) page and games design

IGCSE ICT expands and tests skills in the use of a • Improves understanding of social networking and its
wide range of ICT tools, whilst developing a deeper impacts
understanding of the underlying technologies and their
impact on society. The course aims to educate students • Enables students to keep up to date with IT and
to meet the many and varied ICT challenges that they digital developments, at home and in the commercial
will encounter in the future both in education and the world
workplace.
• Explains how IT can help improve career options
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
• Provides students with IT skills they can use to solve
• “The Internet? We are not interested in it.” practical problems
Bill Gates (Microsoft) 1993
ASSESSMENT FORMAT
• “It has become appallingly obvious that our
technology has exceeded our humanity.” • Paper 1 (written): Systems and Applications in ICT
Albert Einstein (Exam 1 hour 30 minutes) (50%)

A qualification in Information Technology opens up a • Paper 2 (practical): Applying ICT Controlled
vast world of opportunities for work, not only within (Exam 3 hours) (50%)
the technology industry but also in supporting roles
within other industries. ICT students will develop Students study a range of ICT systems, as used in the
technical skills and knowledge – that goes without home, at school and in society. Students are made
saying. They will also need other talents such as the aware of current and emerging technologies and
ability to communicate clearly at all levels, to plan and the impact that advances in technology may have on
to manage a project. Decision-making and problem- themselves and others.
solving are also important.
Mr Scott Yates
During this course, students develop the capacity to

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 understanding of the factors that affect performance
and participation in physical activities.
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%
Along with in-depth theoretical content, there is a (Paper 1 – 30%, Paper 2 – 30%).
significant practical element to the course and pupils
must be physically capable of applying themselves to • Coursework 40% (assessment in three player/
an adequate standard in a minimum of three sports. performer activities – 30%, written task – 10%)
There is no doubt that the course suits the more
able practical performer, and a strong interest and Written examination will comprise two 1 hour 15
understanding of a wide range of sporting activities minute examination papers. Both papers will be a
as well as a full commitment to school sport and mixture of multiple choice/objective test questions,
games sessions, is essential. Pupils undertaking the short answer questions and extended answer
course should ideally be of an ‘A’ team standard, or the questions.
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

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