Key Stage 4 Options Brochure 2019

Options Evening Tuesday 22nd January 18.00-19.30 Options Overview

How to Choose your Key Stage 4 Options Do Don’t

During the next few weeks Do choose a broad range of Do not choose subjects you will have to make subjects to study. because your friends are some important decisions choosing them - their about which subjects you Do choose subjects that choices may suit them, but w i s h t o s t u d y f r o m you will enjoy, work hard at, may not suit you. September when you start and in which you will Key Stage 4 (Years 10 &11). achieve well. T h e s e a r e n o t e a s y Do speak to your teachers Do not choose a subject d e c i s i o n s t o m a k e , about the subjects you are because of a particular especially if you are considering. teacher. unsure of your future career path. The range of subjects on offer can be confusing. Add to that the Careful thought and discussions with your parents, your Form new GCSEs in the vast majority of Tutor, subject staff and Head of Key Stage will help you select the subjects and how they will be graded, correct combination of subjects. It pays to take some time now, (see Page 9) and the whole process of listen to all the advice on offer, and make sensible and realistic choosing options appears daunting. choices that you will be happy with throughout Key Stage 4. The Core Curriculum You will be studying your chosen subjects for two years through Key Everyone follows a core curriculum Stage 4. You may be able to change your mind before a course consisting of 5 or 6 GSEs, these being; starts in September 2019, however, there will not be the English Language and English opportunity to change once courses are underway. Literature

1 Mathematics Preferences We usually do better in those subjects we enjoy. Double Science OR Triple Science (in consultation with Careers It is important to study a broad curriculum up to Science staff) GCSE so that you do not limit your career path. The Most girls will also follow non examined courses in Religious core curriculum will ensure that you fulfill the GCSE requirements for entry into higher education Studies, Core Physical Education and PSHCE (Personal, Social, courses. Use the careers library to research areas Health and Citizenship Education). of particular interest to you so that you can choose your other options appropriately. Option Subjects Further guidance about degree courses can be found here In addition to the core curriculum, girls then select four further http://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/informed-choices/ GCSE courses from the following:

Art and Design, Classical Civilisation, Drama, Food and Nutrition, French, Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies, Spanish, Creative iMedia.

Choosing your options

We advise girls to include a Modern Foreign Language and one of the Humanities (Geography, History, Religious Education or Classical Civilisation) to provide a balanced course of study. The school reserves the right to decide if the number of pupils choosing a subject makes it a viable option to run.

Why must I choose between subjects?

Time As each GCSE subject requires a great deal of time, it is not possible to continue with all the subjects you study now.

Talents We are all better at some subjects than others. Specialising in areas in which we have talent enables us to develop our skills.

2 The Options Process

The Core Curriculum (Chapter 2) Education or Classical Civilisation) to provide a balanced course of All pupils follows a core curriculum consisting of 5 or 6 GSEs, these study. The school reserves the right to decide if the number of being; pupils choosing a subject makes it a viable option to run. English Language and English Literature Why must I choose between subjects? Mathematics Time As each GCSE subject requires a great deal of time, Double Science OR Triple Science (in consultation with it is not possible to continue with all the subjects Science staff) you study now. Most girls will also follow non examined courses in Religious Talents We are all better at some subjects than others. Studies, Core Physical Education and PSHCE (Personal, Social, Specialising in areas in which we have talent Health and Citizenship Education). enables us to develop our skills.

Preferences We usually do better in those subjects we enjoy. Option Subjects (Chapter 3) Careers It is important to study a broad curriculum up to In addition to the core curriculum, girls will then select four further GCSE so that you do not limit your career path. The GCSE courses from the following: core curriculum will ensure that you fulfill the GCSE Art and Design, Classical Civilisation, requirements for entry into higher education Drama, Food and Nutrition, French, courses. Use the careers library to research areas Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, of particular interest to you so that you can choose Physical Education, Religious Studies, your other options appropriately. Spanish, Creative iMedia.

Choosing your options Mr S. Hillier Deputy Headteacher We advise girls to include a Modern Foreign Language and one of the Humanities (Geography, History, Religious

3 Key Dates and KS4 GCSE Subjects Deadlines

GCSE Subjects Examination Controlled Assessment or Coursework Art and Design 40% 60% Biology* 100%

Chemistry* 100% Tuesday 22nd January Classical Civilisation 100% Options Evenings Drama 40% 60% Girls and parents - presentation from Ms Fantham and a Combined Science* 100% chance to speak to staff on individual subject stands English Language* 100% English Literature* 100% Week beginning 28 January Food and Nutrition 50% 50% Tutor review appointments- individual meetings French 100% about GCSE options Geography 100% German 100% Monday 11th February Parents’ Evening History 100% Creative iMedia 25% 75% Wednesday 27nd February Latin 100% Option choices deadline date - final day by which all option Mathematics* 100% choices must have been entered via Tools website Music 40% 60% (see next page) Physical Education 60% 40% Friday 29th March Physics* 100% Options confirmed to parents and students by letter Religious Studies 100% Spanish 100% *= Compulsory Core Curriculum

4 Making Your Option Choices

1) To enter your options, logon to the TOOLS website www.manorhouseschool.org/optools, using the individual username and password emailed to parents in January just before Options Evening.

2) Once in TOOLS, enter 6 choices of subjects (starting with Science Triple or Combined) as number 1 and then 2-5 against your first option choice subject, number 2 against your second choice and so on.

You are advised to ensure a balanced programme of study by choosing at least one subject from the Humanities section and one of the MFL.

Please note that we cannot guarantee all your choices as this will be dependent upon the options of the whole year group. However, we will speak to students individually if any of your choices are looking doubtful and liaise with parents before confirming your options by letter.

5 The Core - Compulsory Subjects

6 Section 1 For the two written examinations, students will look at how writers use narra- tive and descriptive techniques to engage the interest of readers. They will English Language GCSE also examine how different writers present a similar topic over time. Texts will be taken from the 19th, 20th and 21st century.

Subject contact Mrs L Mayes Students will undertake a variety of written tasks to demonstrate that they can communicate effectively in standard English for a range of purposes and [email protected] audiences. Board: AQA The assessment profile is as follows. 100% of the overall grade in English Language comes from the two written examinations:

Paper 1 (50%): a series of questions about one literature fiction text; one ex- tended writing question (descriptive or narrative).

Paper 2 (50%): a series of questions about two linked texts (one fiction and one literary non-fiction); one extended writing question (writing to present a viewpoint).

20% of the overall mark comes from accurate and effective use of spelling, punctuation and grammar in the writing questions. Marks are awarded for us- ing a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and ef- fect. Pupils will follow two GCSE courses: English Language and English Literature. For both, overall grades will be awarded for performance in There will be one mark for a presentation task for the speaking and listening examinations only. There will be no written coursework. endorsement. Students may have more than one opportunity for this. This is a separate endorsement (0% weighting of GCSE). In English Language the three main elements of the course are: speak- ing and listening; reading; writing. For the speaking and listening en- Useful Website ‘I like the fact that English dorsement, which is not a part of the overall grade for English Lan- is not just sitting and writing, AQA English guage, students will take part in a presentation activity to show their we get to read lots of different ability to express interesting ideas, adapting their speech and content texts and express our opinions.’ for their audience, and to show how well they can listen and respond Eva Y10 appropriately to others.

7 Section 2 For English Literature a selection of fiction, plays and poems are studied. Girls will demonstrate their understanding of writers’ ideas English Literature GCSE and attitudes, their uses of language, structure and form, and the literary traditions and social, historical and cultural influences which are relevant to the texts. Subject contact Mrs L Mayes The assessment profile is as follows. [email protected] Board: AQA English Literature: 100% of the English Literature grade comes from the two written ex- This course will provide you with a rich and varied range of literature aminations, as follows: which will challenge and entertain. A good GCSE in English Literature is an attractive attribute for any employer. This course will provide you Paper 1 (40%): one essay question on a Shakespeare play, and one with the range of analytical and communication skills necessary for essay question on a 19th Century novel. success. We look forward to taking girls on a literary journey Paper 2 (60%): one essay question on a modern prose or drama text; sampling some of the best writers in the English language including one comparative question about two poems from an anthology; two Shakespeare, an array of poets and Victorian and contemporary questions about unseen poems. novelists. All assessments are closed book and thus require students to fully engage with and learn quotations in order to respond 5% of the overall grade will be awarded for accurate and effective use meaningfully to tasks. of spelling, punctuation and grammar. Please be aware that there will be no ‘English’ GCSE, just these two: ‘English Language’ and ‘English Literature’. The skills you will develop will support all your chosen GCSE options in KS4:

• To express yourself powerfully and imaginatively;

• To engage critically with a range of texts;

• Use reading skills to develop your written work; • Work collaboratively using iPad technology, presenting skills, drafting and planning skills • Select and adapt writing for different purposes and audiences. Useful Website http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-literature-8702

8 Section 3 • A p p l y m a t h e m a t i c a l knowledge and understanding Mathematics iGCSE to solve problems, particularly with relevance to real world situations. Subject contact Mr. P O’Neil • Think and communicate [email protected] mathematically. Board: Edexcel • Appreciate the place and use Mathematics has in Mathematics IGCSE will allow you to have a level of confidence and society. fluency to support the rest of your learning lives. There is a strong emphasis on problem solving and the application of Mathematics. • Understand the inter-dependence of different branches of Mathematics. In Years 10 and 11 all students take Mathematics, •Acquire skills needed to use technology such as calculators and being taught in groups computers effectively. appropriate to their ability • Acquire a firm foundation for further study. and learning style. All sets The syllabus is assessed under three headings, as follows: cover the Edexcel IGCSE • Number and Algebra (AO1). course which is examined at •. Shape, Space and Measures (AO2). the end of year 11. There is •. Handling Data (AO3). no coursework for this 100% of the IGCSE in Mathematics is externally assessed by two subject. It is expected that examination papers, both with the aid of a calculator. the majority of students will take the higher tier exam All pupils are expected to have a scientific calculator (Casio which covers the grade range calculator FX-83 or FX-85) for use in lessons and in the examinations. 9 to 4, with the foundation tier covering 5 and below. If there is a Extra Curricular Activities decision to be made regarding which tier is more appropriate for your Students can get involved in the UK MT Maths Challenge at intermediate daughter, this does not have to be made until early spring of year 11. and junior levels. The specific aims of the Mathematics IGCSE are to: Useful Websites • Develop a positive attitude to Mathematics. www.mymaths.co.uk • Consolidate basic skills and meet appropriately challenging www.corbettmaths.com work. http://www.mathsaurus.com/

9 Section 4 possible outcomes and allow them the best possible options and opportunities on Science GCSE leaving Manor House at the end of Year 11. We ask that your daughter’s preference is stated on the options form to Subject contact: Mrs. R. Waterhouse allow us to open up a dialogue with her [email protected] regarding the pathway offered to her in Board: AQA Year 10.

If they take the Separate Science option they will receive grades and GCSE q u a l i fic a t i o n s f o r Biology, Chemistry and Physics on an individual basis. If they choose the Combined Science course they will be awarded two grades for Science i.e. 6-6. These grades will reflect their ‘average’ mark for the three disciplines and will be the e q u i v a l e n t o f t w o GCSEs. This is the national expectation.

Following Government guidelines both of the courses are linear i.e. All girls will be expected to study a Science course in which equal all the papers are sat weighting is given to Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The girls have at the end of Year 11. the opportunity of taking each discipline as a separate subject or they Each discipline has can follow a Combined Science course. Regardless of the pathway two written papers chosen your daughter will continue to develop their knowledge and associated with it skills from the content which they will have already started in Year 9. covering both the Knowing your daughter will allow us to best advise them on the most theory element of the appropriate pathway for them in ensuring they attain the highest course alongside the

10 practical and 'working scientifically' skills needed to be a successful Biology scientist. Depending on the course of s t u d y t h e l e n g t h o f t h e s e Cell Biology examinations varies. Organisation There is no formal coursework. The Infection and Response examination board will provide a list of required practical experiments Bioenergetics which they should carry out and are Homeostasis and Response as a result will be fed into our scheme of learning. Their knowledge and use Inheritance, Variation & Evolution of equipment and the key ideas involved in investigations are examined on the written papers mentioned above by providing and appropriate context. ‘It’s great to see how what we have learnt applies to the new topics we are Chemistry now studying. All Sciences Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table are interlinked, the more you Bonding, Structure and the Properties of learn, the more you realise it’ Water Year 10 student. Quantitative Chemistry Physics

Energy Changes Energy

The Rate and Extent of Chemical Electricity Change Particle Model of Matter

If you are interested in a Science based Forces career, you may also opt to take Triple Waves Science GCSE.

11 Section 5 Religious Studies

Core PE, RS & PSHCE Subject contact: Mr G. Phillips (non examined) [email protected]

All students in Key Stage 4 take part in General R S lessons. The course consists of 50% PSHE where we look at a wide range of issues relevant to the students health, social and personal welfare. Topics include personal safety, personal finance, drugs education and sex and relationships. The other 50% of the course is on religious studies where we look at the philosophical and ethical aspects of topical and important issues from both a secular and religious point of view.

Religious studies can also be taken as a GCSE as an Option Subject (see P29).

Pupils will take part in two core PE lessons each week.

The compulsory sports will rotate between Fitness, Hockey, Netball, Tennis, Rounders & Athletics.

They will also have an Option lesson where they can choose from the following sports for half a term;

Football , Touch Rugby, Lacrosse, Basketball, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Badminton, Zumba/Fitness, Swimming, Dance & Gymnastics.

In addition they can choose to take GCSE PE as an Option subject (see P28)

12 KS4 GCSE Options

13 Section 1 Art is an enjoyable subject and the course Art & Design GCSE will appeal to anyone who welcomes the

Subject contact: Mrs T. Williams opportunity to be [email protected] creative and to develop their practical skills. Board: EDEXCEL

However, Art is not a The GCSE is a general Art and ‘We are really encouraged to soft option. Good Design course which includes explore our own areas of quality Art work takes painting, drawing, print interest, including textiles, three time to produce. making, textiles, three dimensional work and Homework is set on a weekly basis and students are expected to dimensional and mixed media photography, as well as painting maintain a work journal/sketchbook. The final grade is awarded on work. Students are encouraged and drawing. Lots of girls carry 60% coursework and 40% examination. Coursework consists of a to take photographs and to on with Art for A Level and I am personal portfolio of work including sketchbooks. The examination experiment with ideas and hoping to do so next year.’ will be a response to an externally set, broad based thematic materials. starting point. It includes preparatory studies followed by a test Initially students follow a set piece. The test piece is produced during a ten hour period, under programme of study but as the examination conditions. course progresses there are Art GCSE is an essential grounding for A Level and GNVQ courses in opportunities to pursue individual Art and Design. areas of interest.

Career areas include interior, product, jewellery, fashion, textile and The study of the work of other graphic design as well as animation, theatrical design, media, hair artists and cultures, and visits to and beauty and teaching.However, many people opt to do Art galleries and exhibitions, forms an simply because it represents a break from more formal approaches important part of the course. to learning and an opportunity to be creative in a practical way.

14 Section 2 The GCSE course comprises two units: ‘Thematic Study’ and ‘Literature & Culture’. Each unit is tested in a written examination in Classical Civilisation the Summer of Year 11; both examinations are 1½ hours and are equally weighted.

Thematic Study: Subject contact: Mrs L Stephens [email protected] This component involves a comparative study of ancient Greece Board: OCR and Rome, and combines literary and visual/material sources.

This GCSE (9-1) qualification focuses on the civilisations of Greece The option we study is entitled ‘Myth and Religion’ in which the girls and Rome. It is a wide-ranging subject involving the study of will study myths regarding the role of the gods and heroes in the literature, art, artifacts, archaeological sites, and the ancient founding of Athens and Rome and the importance of Heracles/ historical context. All the Hercules to both the Greek and literature is read in Roman world. They will also look at translation so knowledge of the role of religion in the everyday Latin or Classical Greek is lives of ancient Greeks and Romans: not required; all you need is the study of temples, sacrifice, an interest in the Ancient festivals, death and beliefs in the World and its cultures. afterlife will give a broad overview of religion. This GCSE is open to all girls, including those who did not Literature and Culture: study Classical Civilisation in Years 7 & 8. This component contains two elements: one in-depth cultural This is a content heavy study and one study of related course but an exciting one. literature. The option we shall study Girls will be expected to is ‘Roman city life’ in which the girls write regular essays in will explore everyday life in Roman response to the topics cities, with a particular focus on covered in lessons and Pompeii, Ostia and Rome itself. The t h e s e w i l l b e m o s t l y Culture section includes examination answering examination-style questions from the outset. of Roman housing, the home and family, structure of society, leisure

15 and entertainment. The prescribed literary sources in translation include key writers such as Pliny, Horace, Juvenal and Petronius.

Why study Classical Civilisation?

Classical Civilisation is just as useful as other humanities subjects like History, Geography and Religious Studies. Subjects like this give you really good skills such as essay writing and source analysis, and teach you how to structure a good argument. They show you are good at thinking and evaluating, and also that you have an interest in people and cultures.

From women in the Ancient World, to the study of religious beliefs and ancient ideas about war, Classical Civilisation involves interesting discussions about things that are still important today:

‘… men grappled with exactly the same issues that we do: life, death, gods, love, family, children, education, the nature of the world, our origins and development, the past, money, health, status, other cultures, friendship, power, patriotism, politics, law, crime, justice, empire, war.’ - Peter Jones, advisor to Classics For All, 'Taking the Long View'

16 Section 3 The remaining two topics are also assessed through coursework Creative iMedia projects and may include: Creating a multipage website – where skills are developed to design, build and test a fully functional website. This is then Subject contact: Mrs G. Roberts reviewed against the original brief. [email protected] Board: OCR Cambridge National Level 1/2 Digital photography – the students learn about different types of digital photographic equipment, features and settings used in The Creative iMedia course provides an introduction to the world of digital photography, how to plan a photo shoot and how to present Digital Media, referring to the production and use of audio, video their portfolios. and photo content. This plays an important part in many areas of our everyday lives and is also an important part of the UK economy. There is an increasing demand from employers for a skilled and technically literate workforce as more and more media products are The course has a high focus on the practical use of Digital Media produced digitally. This Creative iMedia course provides students and thus assessment is mainly coursework based (75%), with the with specific and transferable skills which can be utilised further in remainder through an examination. a v a r i e t y o f f u r t h e r

Four topics are studied: education courses.

Pre-production skills – where the students learn how to The Cambridge Nationals in understand a client brief, the importance of time frames and Creative iMedia leads to a deadlines, and preparation and planning techniques. This topic is certificate which is the assessed through an examination. equivalent of one full GCSE. Local colleges, Creating digital graphics – the aim of this unit is for students to including Godalming learn and then demonstrate the basics of digital graphics editing for College confirm they view the creative and digital media sector, and to review the result this certificate as fully against the original brief. This is assessed through a project. e q u i v a l e n t t o a G C S E qualification.

17 Section 4 Drama

Subject contact: Mrs T. Williams [email protected] Board: EDEXCEL Drama GCSE is an interesting and varied course providing the student with many challenges.

The course is primarily practical and aims to develop the students’ imagination, sensitivity and self-confidence through the medium of Drama. Students gain a practical understanding of various examination. The Drama Coursework is divided into two sections. dramatic skills and forms such as voice, role, movement, use of The first section is based on devising and the use of Drama to space and mime. They learn to improvise and to create their own explore ideas and issues culminating in a performance. The second performances. They use a variety of issues, ideas and extracts from focuses on a performance from text or the use of costume ,lighting different texts as a starting point. They learn to work in groups and or set design. The first section is Teacher Assessed and supported to evaluate their work and that of others. They will extend and by written and/ or verbal evidence. The second is Teacher directed develop their performance skills and study costume, set and and viewed by a visiting examiner. Students may demonstrate their lighting design. skills as a performer or in a theatre craft such as set or costume design for both coursework units. Students will also study a text During the ‘I like Drama because it is a different way of from the perspective of a performer, actor and director. In the final course students learning and lessons are almost always examination they will answer questions on an extract from the text. will also have the They will also answer two questions on a production that they have practical. During the course we get involved opportunity to go seen. For this part of the examination, they are allowed to take in with the Shakespeare Schools’ Festival. This is on theatre visits. notes to help inform their answers. a challenge but a great experience and an The final grade opportunity for us to perform Shakespeare on GCSE Drama is an excellent grounding for A Level and GNVQ awarded is based a professional stage. One of my favourite parts courses in Drama, Theatre Studies and the Performing Arts. on 60% for Drama Students may be considering a career in the theatre but the of the course has been our after school Coursework and majority are more likely to study Drama because they enjoy it and theatre visits, most recently to “The Woman in 40% for the final want to build their confidence and communication skills. Black”..’ Year 11 student These are vital in all walks of life. 18 Section 5 for lessons, having familiarised themselves Food Preparation & Nutrition with their recipes prior to attending class.

How will my course be

Subject contact: Mrs. P. Knight assessed?

[email protected] • All assessment takes Board: AQA place in Year 11 • Task 1 (September to December): Food Science Investigation/ 10 hours/ 15% of GCSE • Task 2 (December toFebruary): Food Preparation Assessment/20 hours/ 35% of GCSE. This will include a 3 hour practical. • Written Paper (May or June): 1 hour 45 minutes/ 50% of GCSE

Some examples of careers in food are: Dietician, Nutritionist, Product Development, Consumer Technologist, Food Journalist, Environmental Health Officer, Hospitality Event Organiser, Food Purchaser and Teacher (clearly the best career!) What will I study? ‘I enjoy Food Preparation & • Food Preparation Skills Nutrition because it is a life skill The Food and Drink industry is booming with an annual turnover of £66 • Food Nutrition and Health that I will be able to develop. billion. The opportunities to work in the Food industry really are endless. • Food Safety Learning about nutrition will The Food industry contains many multinational companies and ensure that my food choices • Food Science opportunities for travel or work abroad exist for those who want to spread will always be healthy’- Year 10 • Food Provenance their wings. • Food Choice During the course you will be given the opportunity to practice a Useful Websites: wide range of high level skills along with having a greater www.foodafactoflife.org.uk understanding of nutrition and the science behind food as a material. It is important that you enjoy a wide variety of foods and www.nutrition.org.uk have a flair for cooking. Students are expected to take responsibility www.aqa.org.uk for their own ingredients shopping (not parents!) and be prepared

19 Section 6 • Section C: The challenge of resource management – the problems of limited resources for a growing population plus a Geography study of either: food supply, water supply or energy supply. These are assessed in a two 1hr 30minute exams with varied question types: multiple-choice, short answer and extended prose. Subject contact: Mrs. C. Grindrod [email protected] Geographical applications and skills (30% of GCSE) Board: AQA • Section A: Issue evaluation – a current geographical issue is From 2016, AQA have introduced a new specification. This discussed including thinking of ideas on how it can be qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all the managed for the future. three exams at the end of the course. • Section B: Fieldwork – methods of practical fieldwork experience done Living with the Physical Environment throughout the course are discussed. (35% of GCSE) • Geographical skills – various skills •Section A: The challenge of natural learned during the course such as drawing hazards – the study of earthquakes, graphs, using maps and statistical techniques volcanoes, hurricanes and other natural are assessed. hazards • Section B: Physical landscapes in the The final 1 hour exam uses pre-release UK material to test the skills learned over the Coastal environments course, using fieldwork and decision-making Glaciated environments or Rivers exercises. • Section C: The living world Ecosystems around the world including How will Geography GCSE help me? Tropical Rainforests Geography is useful in many ways … It mixes Desert ecosystems or Cold Environments practical skills such as map reading with scientific knowledge,

together with a social understanding of man’s place in the world. It Challenges in the Human Environment (35% of GCSE) will help you to understand some of the major problems and issues • Section A: Urban issues and challenges – the growth of cities in the world, which are often discussed in the news as well as and the issues affecting them encourage you to notice more about the natural environment • Section B: The changing economic world – the difference in around you. In this way, it is a good qualification and can lead to levels of development between countries, trade and aid. employment in most types of job, and can help you qualify for entrance to many further courses at school, college or university.

20 Section 7 Paper 1: Understanding the modern world Wider World Depth Study: Conflict and tension, 1894–1918 In this topic we delve deeper into the causes of the First History World War and why it lasted so many years. We examine key battles such as Verdun, the Somme and Passchendaele as Subject Contact: Ms R. St Johnston well as the war on other fronts and the significance of the war [email protected] at sea. We also explore why Germany lost the First World Board: AQA War.

The GCSE History course develops the girls’ ability to use “History is an amazing subject as you understand evidence critically, weigh up conflicting arguments and come why our world has evolved to be this way. It’s helpful in to reasoned conclusions. understanding politics today, as well as learning to write The course culminates in two examined papers, each of one essays – and the trips are a massive bonus” Cecily hour and 45 minutes.

Period Study: Germany,1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship Germany, 1890-1945 – This course explores was happening in Germany before the First World War and how the war changed Germany. We investigate the reasons for the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, and the nature of Nazi rule up to the end of the Second World War discovering what life was like for ordinary Germans in this period. Who resisted Hitler and why were Jews and other minorities persecuted?

Paper 2: Shaping the nation - a study of the history of Britain British Thematic Study: Health and the people c.1250- present From the superstitions of Medieval England to the modern wonders of DNA & genetic medicine. How has medicine changed, and what factors and individuals made this 21 possible? It will make you glad you weren’t a patient 100 years ago or before. You don’t need to be a scientist to enjoy this course!

British Depth Study Norman England, 1066– c1100 is a fascinating study of this crucial and controversial turning point in English history. It explores England on the eve of conquest, the Norman invasion and victory. We also examine how England changed as a result of the conquest.

There is also a visit to a historic site (castle, monastery or battlefield) and an in depth study its role in Norman England.

“I enjoy studying History because it helped to open my eyes to the world around us. Not only was the Berlin trip one of my favourites but I was apprehensive about choosing lessons are something I look forward to each History for my GCSE as I was scared week” Maya Year 11 about how much work it may be, but less than a term into it, History became Why study GCSE History? one of my favourite subjects, I’ve now History GCSE will give you a sound understanding of the chosen to continue History at A-level. world in which we live and develop your ability to analyse Izzy Year 11 evidence, articulate your thoughts and write persuasive arguments. History is a well-respected course, which opens many doors. It is highly regarded by colleges, universities and employers alike.”

22 Section 9 English sentences into Latin. The Prose & Verse Literature papers all test understanding and appreciation of prepared set texts Latin (between 110 and 120 lines each).

Roman authors regularly prescribed by OCR include Virgil, Cicero, Subject contact: Mrs. L. Stephens Ovid, Horace, Pliny, Catullus, Tacitus and Caesar. Candidates are [email protected] required to answer comprehension questions, translate a section of Board: OCR the set text into English, answer questions focusing on literary style, The new Latin GCSE (9-1) (J282) course comprises three papers: characterisation, argument as appropriate to the text studied and • ONE Language paper (01) – this is compulsory and is worth an extended response. In the new specification, candidates will 50% of the GCSE and is 1hour 30mins. now be able to study both prose set text options or both verse. • Any TWO of the following five options: Prose Literature (02), The Literature and Culture paper requires Prose Literature (03), Verse Literature candidates to study the prescribed ancient source (04), Verse Literature (05) and material covering two themes of civilisation and Literature and Culture (06). Each culture. Questions will require analysis of the examination lasts one hour and is sources provided in the assessment, a personal worth 25% of the total mark. All response to the material and a demonstration of three papers are tested by written knowledge and understanding of the sources in the examination at the end of the two- prescribed sources booklet. year course. The Language paper has two In Year 10 we work through the textbook ‘Latin to sections. GCSE’, extending the girls' knowledge of Section A requires candidates to vocabulary, grammar and classical background and answer comprehension questions, enabling them to develop their comprehension and derivations and will choose between translation skills. either answering questions on accidence and syntax or translating three short English sentences into Latin (30 marks). In Year 11 we complete the study of the set text(s), and if doing the Section B requires candidates to answer comprehension questions Literature and Culture paper, we study the primary evidence and translate a passage of unseen prose (70 marks). A Defined involved. Examination-style practice papers are regularly set Vocabulary List (DVL) is provided by OCR for the language papers throughout the two-year course. totaling 450 words, as well as prescribed syntax and accidence. A much shorter Restricted Vocabulary & Grammar List (125 words, Latin is a challenging subject which helps to develop clear and already on the DVL) will be provided for the translation of the disciplined thinking skills; it is highly respected on a CV. 23 Section 9 study and work; International and ‘I really love learning global dimension. These five languages because I especially topics are further divided into sub Modern Languages like all the trips and the plays topics. All topics will be assessed and films, it makes it all really across all four skills. good fun’ Year 11 student Modern Languages Subject contact: Mrs A Wright Listening and Understanding [email protected] The listening comprehension develops the ability to listen and Examination board: EDEXCEL understand spoken French, German or Spanish in a range of contexts and variety of styles. In the listening test pupils will The new specification is answer questions on recorded material from different topic areas. designed to support a wide Some material will be formal and some informal. There will be a range of interests, learning of mix of multiple- the target language culture, to response and open show how language can be response questions. used in practice, and to Some questions and facilitate progression from KS3 instructions will be in and to A level. English and some in the Target Language with We offer GCSE in French, no requirement to German and Spanish. The produce answers in the four linguistic skills of listening, Target Language. The speaking, reading and writing weighting for this skill is are examined and candidates 25%. will be entered for either Foundation or Higher tier Speaking papers. All four skills are The speaking examination assesses pupils on their ability to equally weighted and are communicate and interact effectively through speaking in the examined in the summer at Target Language for different purposes. It is conducted and the end of Year 11, and there recorded by the class teacher but marked by the examination are no controlled assessments. board. There will be three tasks, one of which can be prepared in The content relates to five compulsory topic areas: Identity and advance. The weighting for this skill is 25%. culture; Local area, holiday and travel; School; Future aspirations,

24 Reading and Understanding T h e r e a d i n g Languages can be combined successfully with most other subjects comprehension tests at AS or A level and also in the ability to read University or College ‘I want to do languages at A level and a n d r e s p o n d t o courses. then use them in my career as a different types of diplomat! So they are really important to written language. The new GCSE requires a me.’ Year 11 student Pupils will have to k n o w l e d g e a n d answer questions understanding of the culture of the country / countries where the about short texts on language is spoken. The best way of gaining this is to visit the different topics, for country! Past trips have included the Jerez de la Frontera / e x a m p l e , t e x t Tenidiomas language tuition and home stay trip, the German messages and exchange, the French and German Christmas Market trip and the advertisements. Paris trip. Planning is under way for next year, and we will be Some questions and instructions will be in English and some will be repeating some of these trips as well as planning some new ones. in the Target Language. There is also a translation passage from the We also run our Target Language into English, with instructions in English. The regular Love Film weighting for this skill is 25%. Club, book the Onatti theatre Writing company plays The writing paper tests the ability to communicate through writing and compete in in the Target Language for different purposes and audiences. t h e L o v e Pupils will need to produce extended responses of varying lengths Languages and and types to express ideas and opinions. Word counts are specified Business for each question. There is also one translation passage from L a n g u a g e English into the Target Language. The weighting for this skill is 25%. Champions competitions. The Modern Foreign Languages GCSE will provide a good foundation for further study and/or practical use of the foreign language. Not only will pupils have the opportunity to acquire a Useful Websites: good knowledge of French, German or Spanish, they will also have www.edexcel.co.uk the opportunity to learn about the customs and the culture of www.whystudylanguages.ac.uk those countries where the language is spoken.

25 Section 10 Paper 1 Performing Coursework (at around Grade 4 level on just one instrument, which can be singing) 30% of total marks Music Paper 2 Composing Coursework 30% of total marks Paper 3 Appraising: Written Examination (1 hr 45); 40% of total marks Subject contact: Mrs. J. Harman Assessment Objectives [email protected] The examination will assess a candidate’s ability to: • Demonstrate technical control, expression and appropriate interpreta- tion by performing two pieces (1 solo and 1 ensemble) This can be done if you play one instrument (including singing as an instrument) or on two instruments if you so wish. • Create and develop musical ideas by composing music (2 pieces) • Analyse and evaluate 8 set works using musical terminology. In the ex- amination you are expected to answer questions based upon the works. The set works are as follows:

Area of Study Area of Study Area of Study Area of Study 1 2 3 4

Instrumental Music for Stage Music Vocal Music Fusions and Screen 1700-1820 Set works Set works Set works Set works

JS Bach: Afro Celt Sound Stephen 3rd mvt from System: Purcell: Schwartz: Board: EDEXCEL Brandenburg Release (from the Music for a While Defying Gravity Concerto no. 5 in album ‘Volume 2: from ‘Wicked’ This syllabus is designed to build directly on skills, knowledge and D major Release’) understanding established by the National Curriculum at KS3 and John Williams: Esperanzaa Beethoven: Queen: Star Wars Spalding: to provide a suitable foundation for further study, including GCE ‘A’ 1st mvt from Killer Queen (from Episode IV: Samba Em Piano Sonata no. Level. the album ‘Sheer A New Hope – Preludio 8 in C minor Heart Attack’) Main Title/Rebel (from the album ‘Pathetique’ Aims blockade runner ‘Esperanza’) To develop an understanding of a wide range of musical genres Useful Website: through performance, composition, listening and appraising. http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zpf3cdm Assessment Pattern

26 Section 11 Physical training. Sports psychology. Physical Education Socio-cultural influences. Commercialisation of physical activity and sport. Ethical issues. Subject contact: Miss H. Jones Health, fitness and well-being. [email protected] Use of data. Board: AQA

The examinations will be GCSE PE involves the ‘GSCE PE is an enjoyable, i n t e g r a t i o n o f t h e in the form of two written educational and enthralling theoretical and practical papers each 1 hour 15 subject. The lessons are minutes long. The papers elements of the study of interactive and a welcome physical activity. Pupils will include a mixture of multiple choice break from more heavy work wishing to follow this questions, a number of based subjects. I thoroughly c o u r s e n e e d t o b e structured short answers recommend GCSE PE’. Y11 c o m p e t e n t i n and further extended three physical activities student (one of which must be a questions. team activity, one an individual activity and a Paper 1. The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and third can be either). Sport. Paper 2. Socio-Cultural Influences and Well Being in Physical Pupils will take on the role Activity and Sport. of player/performer and be assessed on their practical ability. They will also need to complete an analysis and evaluation task. The The course covers interesting practical element makes up 40% of the mark. aspects of physical activity and sport. As for its value and The theoretical aspect makes up 60% of the mark and covers the recognition, many employers following subject content: regard it highly as another Applied anatomy and physiology. desirable facet to a potential The structure and function of the cardio-respiratory system. employee’s credentials. In itself Anaerobic and aerobic exercise. it is a challenging, interesting Movement analysis. and varied subject.

27 Section 12 Religious Studies Pupils will be encouraged to develop and understand personal values and beliefs, with an emphasis on critical analysis and the ability to construct balanced and informed arguments within the context of religious, philosophical and ethical awareness. The course is divided into two major components: Subject contact: Mr. G. Phillips [email protected] 1. Beliefs, teachings and practice: Board: AQA The pupils will study the teachings, beliefs and practices of two of the world's great religions, The GCSE (9-1) Religious Studies course ‘RS allows me to explore other peo- Christianity and Juadism. provides the pupils with the exciting ple’s points of view and relate how we opportunity to gain a deeper 2. Religion, philosophy and ethics in the understanding of two religions, and all have different opinions.’ modern world from a religious perspective: explore philosophy and ethical studies Year 10 student Within this module the students will study in the modern world. four named themes: •Religion and life, Peace and Conflict, Crime and We strive to inspire the pupils to engage in relevant topical issues Punishment and Human Rights and Social Justice and acquire knowledge and a critical understanding of major issues that are relevant to them in the twenty-first century. The course is examined at the end of Year 11. There is no controlled assessment. We are passionate about this subject and want to share our enthusiasm and are Religious studies is a rigorous and demanding discipline and hones keen to enable pupils skills in critical thinking, philosophical thought and decision making. to acquire skills that Religious Studies makes a will be transferable unique contribution to across the understanding British curriculum. Religious heritage, plurality, values and Studies can open up futures. It provides an the possibility of in- excellent opportunity to depth debate, which engage with contentious leads to critical issues whilst developing evaluation and social, cultural, philosophical analysis.

28 Further Subject Information

RS No controlled assessment Final examinations in summer of Year 11 Art Assessment on-going in lessons throughout the two years Biology, Chemistry and Physics 6 x 1 hour 45 minutes written examinations at the end of Year 11, individual grade awarded for each Science discipline, 8 required practical's per subject discipline to be completed throughout the course Classical Civilisation No controlled assessment; 2 x 1½ hour written examinations in the Summer of Year 11 Drama There will be two coursework units. One will focus on performing or designing, the other will focus on devising and improvisation. It is likely that one of these will be done at the end of Year 10 and the other in the second term of Year 11. GCSE Combined Science 6 x 1 hour 15 minutes written examination at the end of Year 11, average of all disciplines awarded as an overall double grade, 16 required practical's to be completed throughout the course Latin No controlled assessment All 3 written examinations in Summer of Year 11 Maths No controlled assessment. Final examination in summer of Year 11 - two 2 hour calculator papers Music 2 x 10hrs composition work in lessons during Year 11 2x performances (1 solo, 1 ensemble) with 10 hours recording time per candidate to be used as necessary. Pieces to be practised outside of lesson time. Geography All 3 written examinations in Summer of Year 11 Creative iMedia Controlled assessment through Y10, then in Y11 a mixture of controlled assessment and preparation for the examination at the end of Year 11 History 30hrs teaching; 12hrs research 2 exam papers in summer of Year 11 Languages No Controlled Assessments with the new GCSE which commenced September 2016. Final examinations for listening, speaking, reading and writing in the summer of Year 11. PE Physical assessments are on-going throughout KS4 Controlled assessment - Analysis and evaluation in Year 11 2 examination papers summer of Year 11 English There will be no written controlled assessments with the new GCSE which commenced in September 2015. There will be one assessment in school for speaking and listening, given for a presentation. Teachers may offer more than one opportunity for this during the course, and students and parents will be given notice before these opportunities arise. 29 Controlled Assessments Controlled assessments form part of the FINAL GCSE results and it is important for all pupils to be present when these are done.

Controlled Assessment Y10 September October November December January February March May June Art: On-going throughout the year Creative iMedia start 1st Controlled assessment and complete by end of Year 11

Drama: Controlled Assessment Devising commences

Controlled Assessment Y11 Further Subject Information

No controlled assessment RS Final examinations in summer of S11 Art Assessment on-going in lessons throughout the two years Biology, 6 x 1 hour 45 minutes written examinations at the end of Chemistry S11, individual grade awarded for each Science discipline, 8 and required practical's per subject discipline to be completed Physics throughout the course Classical No controlled assessment; Civilisation 2 x 1½ hour written examinations in the Summer of S11 There will be two coursework units. One will focus on performing or designing, the other will focus on devising and Drama improvisation. It is likely that one of these will be done at the end of Year 10 and the other in the second term of Year 11.

30 Chapter 6 GCSE Grading and Other 9-1 Grades Compared Advice to A*-G

The way in which GCSEs are graded changed with the introduction All the GCSEs your daughter may take in the summer of 2021 will be of the more rigorous reformed GCSEs, phased in from September graded 9-1 with the exception of Creative iMedia which as OCR 2015. Cambridge Nationals, is graded Distinction*, Distinction, Merit or Pass at Level 2. Please note these are GCSE equivalent Far fewer subjects now have any controlled assessment or qualifications. coursework elements, with outcomes determined by examinations at the end of the two years rather than in modules along the way. Revised Gradings Old Gradings The most significant change however was that GCSEs are now graded on a 9-1 scale rather than the pre-existing A*-G. The new grading scale aims to better differentiate between the highest performing pupils, with the old A*-A grades now spread across the 9-7 range. Candidates achieving at least a grade 4, roughly equivalent to a low C on the old system and referred to as a ‘standard pass’ by the Department for Education’, will not need to retake English or Maths at Sixth Form. A grade 5, or ‘strong pass’, seems likely to become the new benchmark of a ‘good’ GCSE grade.

31 PracticalSection Advice 1 and Homework at GCSE Success in KS4 Homework for Core subjects is set once every week to consolidate Exam Entries the learning that occurs in the classroom and provides an opportunity for girls to develop their reading, writing, research and The transition from Key Stage 3 to 4 will be marked by an increase analytical skills. One further hour of homework is set per option in demands and workload. Girls will have to manage homework subject, per week. that may sometimes be required for the next day whilst other pieces will be planned over a longer period of time. Increasingly, How parents can help. girls will recognise that the extent of homework is open-ended • Encourage your child to spend quality time completing homework and will need to decide what is a feasible maximum, as opposed assignments. to a minimum! Not everyone manages this transition easily and • Ask to see the homework they are producing and check it assistance is generally required by all at some stage. This area is together on Schoolbase a primary role for your Form Tutor and Head of Key Stage as well as an issue discussed in PSHCE time. We strongly encourage girls to to seek guidance and support, being confident in the knowledge that this is something your staff are well used to dealing with. Early help and intervention helps avoid small problems growing in to larger ones!

• Encourage your child to have all the equipment they require, including a fully charged iPad.

32 • Encourage reading at home of both fiction and non-fiction texts, If entries are made after the published Exam Board deadlines or materials relating to their GCSE course. penalty fees are charged. These can amount to 3 times the original • Explore opportunities to experience film, documentaries, theatre cost of the exam and will be passed on to parents when visits or trips to the library in relation to the subjects your child is appropriate. studying. Withdrawal from an • The information on p30 gives an overview of when coursework / exam entry after the controlled assessment is being undertaken or due for those d e a d l i n e d o e s n o t subjects where this remains a requirement. These may be times always guarantee a when your daughter is feeling the pressure and will need refund of the exam fee. additional support in managing her time effectively. Changes in tiers, e.g. f r o m H i g h e r t o Foundation, at a late GCSE Exam Entry Procedures and Fees stage also incur an administration charge Entries for exams are made by the Exams Department following from the boards. discussion between the subject teachers, Heads of Department, pupils and parents. Exam fees will be added to your school fees account usually in January and March. Costs vary between Exam Information, including subject specifications and practice papers Boards but are can be accessed from the Examining Board websites. Care should typically £30-£40 be taken to check that the papers being looked at match the per subject. The specification taught. Check with your teacher if you need further total cost for advice GCSE exams is approximately AQA www.aqa.org.uk £275 - £330 each year dependent OCR www.ocr.org.uk on the number of subjects taken. Edexcel www.edexcel.com

33 Section 2 During the course of an evening, girls in Y9 and 10 and Post 16 Progression their families will have the chance to speak directly to and Support representatives from a range Four years ago the Government changed the law so that from of post 16 providers, posing September 2015, all young people are required to continue in questions and getting a feel for education or training until they are 18 years old. their offer to help begin shortlisting places to go on and Additionally, all students will continue to study GCSE English visit independently. Language and Mathematics until they achieve a grade ‘4’ or higher in the new GCSE. • Sixth Form Information Evening - alternating with Future There are a variety of pathways Schools, this event sees us hosting speakers from schools such as that can be followed after Year Charterhouse and Christ’s Hospital who offer their advice on what 11 (Post 16), these are: to look for post 16 and indeed what they as schools are looking for in prospective candidates. • Full-time study in school, college or with a training • Mock Interviews - undertaken by, for example, college lecturers provider. and individuals with backgrounds in business and commerce, these • F u l l t i m e w o r k o r interviews are designed to put the girls through their paces in volunteering combined with helping them to prepare for formal interviews. part-time education or training. • Headteacher Appointments - each of the girls has the • An Apprenticeship. opportunity to meet with Miss Fantham individually to talk through Guidance on Post 16 Progression at Manor House and refine and formulate their plans for life after Manor House. Pupils in Years 9-11 will be provided with the following support in choosing the right post 16 destination for each individual: • Morrisby Careers Testing (including optional Verbal and Non- • Future Schools Fair - This biannual event sees around 25 verbal reasoning tests) - after competing a series of assessments colleges, independent and state sixth forms visit Manor House. and questionnaires, a pupil’s unique profile is analysed against

34 more than 600 careers and the closest matches are highlighted for further investigation. “Those who come to our Sixth Form from Manor House School are unfailingly talented and ambitious across varying areas of school life, yet carry this with politeness and humility. Past and present • Use of the Careers Library - dedicated section of the school’s Manor House girls have included, over the years, School Captains, library which includes a ranges of resources including University Deputy School Captains, School Prefects, House Prefects, Prize Win- prospectuses. ners on Speech Day and those who excel and lead academically, ar- tistically and on the sporting front.” • Curriculum Vitae Writing - guidance on how pupils can put Headmaster, Reed’s School, Cobham together a CV that will stand out from the crowd.

• Critical Thinking Workshop (optional) - to help girls prepare for this aspect of the interview process that they will encounter if they apply to e.g. Reed’s School. • Individual advice from subject teachers when applying for scholarships and tutors/HOKS4 for applications.

Sixth Form Destinations Here are just some of the sixth form destinations that our girls have gone on to. https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx Prior’s Field School Cranleigh School Portsmouth Grammar School www.russellgroup.ac.uk/informed-choices/ Epsom College Reed’s School, Cobham Esher College www.apprenticeships.org.uk Rosebery School Ewell Castle Sir William Perkins’ School www.ucas.com George Abbott School St George’s School Weybridge Glyn School St John’s, Leatherhead or make an appointment to see Godalming College The Howard of Effingham Guildford College Your Form Tutor Reigate College [email protected] Hurtwood House University of the Creative Arts King’s College Wimbledon Wimbledon High School [email protected]

35 Target language

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