EnglishFrequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take Literature/Speaking and Listening?
Yes. Failure to sit any part of the course will mean that accreditation will not be given for any part.
Do I have to buy the Literature texts to pass the course?
No. You can pass the course using only the texts in school, but revision is made much easier if you can refer to the text. There are free versions of the older texts available online – these are perfectly acceptable alternatives.
Will I have access to the texts in the exam?
No. The exams are closed-book. This means that you will need to know all quotes and references from memory, placing a higher emphasis on effective revision.
Will I have access to the texts in the exam?
Some questions do provide small extracts from the text to assist you. These are used as starting points, so you will still need to revise for any other scenes or quotes you might wish to reference.
MathsFrequently Asked Questions
Why does my Child have to study Maths at GCSE?
Maths is compulsory and an important subject for all students. Every student will require maths to continue in any field of higher study. All students wishing to continue onto Sixth Form/College or to University (to do any course) will require grades 5 and above as a minimum
How is it decided which tier my child will study at?
The tier in which students are entered for at GCSE will be based on a range of different factors such as prior attainment, formative and summative assessments.
How are they assessed through the year?
In year 10 and 11, pupils will continuously be assessed during lessons by teachers, pupils will have to complete end of topic assessments, as well as end of year 10 Mocks along with 2 more full sets of mocks in year 11.
What can I do to support my child?
In order to support your child to succeed in maths, you will need to make sure they are in school so they can attend lessons where their teacher will be delivering high quality lessons, along with this make sure they are completing their homework, and are revising for any upcoming assessments. All students have access to Mathswatch, and Eedi which they can use as part of their revision.
How do you revise maths?
The most effective way to revise in Maths is by doing questions of appropriate challenge and checking the answers. All students have access to Mathswatch, which is an online platform which has online videos on topics along with online exam questions, once completed they are automatically marked and students can see where they have gone wrong. Along with this they can access additional exam questions on Corbettmaths which also has free access to the answers, In addition to this teachers will regularly give students detailed feedback on homework/assessments which guides students on ways to improve and make progress.
ScienceFrequently Asked Questions
Who can take triple science?
Anyone. The courses are open to all students
Why should I take triple science?
Two reasons. Firstly, if you want to study science or engineering courses post 16. Sixth forms generally prefer separate sciences to double award for A level courses. Secondly you just enjoy science.
Is there lots of maths?
Some, particularly in the physics elements of the course, but no harder than you will all study in your maths lessons. Being able to work with equations is important as is being confident in plotting graphs
GeographyFrequently Asked Questions
Are the fieldtrips compulsory?
Yes. Students will be required to attend both fieldwork visits to successful complete the course.
Do you get to go abroad?
We hope so! In the past, Geography have taken students to Italy and Iceland. We are hoping to do this again in the very near future!
What sort of career can you have with Geography?
Geography is a valuable subject which develops a range of skills from communication to data analysis, presentation, decision making and problem solving. Students in the past have gone on to further their studies and work in the field of meteorology and climatology, health and safety, teaching and lecturing, environmental consultancy and the armed forces. Although other careers pathways are available such as volcanology, conservationist, landscape architect, travel writer, surveyor, town planner and more!
Can you take more than one Humanities?
Yes. Many students have chosen to take two Humanities subjects in the past as they complement each other. However, the amount of written work required in two subjects as opposed to one should be a consideration.
Will my son/daughter enjoy the course?
Obviously, enjoyment is a personal thing but if he/she has enjoyed studying Geography at KS3, then they should enjoy GCSE too – as the type of topics we covered in KS3 reflects those at GCSE and the style of delivery of our lessons is the same.
Are there higher and foundation papers in GCSE Geography?
No. All students sit the same papers and grades 9-1 are available to all as a result.
Is Geography hard?
All GCSEs are challenging. However, if you have an interest in the subject and enjoy it then you will be fine. There is plenty of support available if you are finding a particular topic challenging!
HistoryFrequently Asked Questions
What sorts of careers is History useful for? Where can it lead?
There are several careers that History feeds directly into – the most obvious of these being teaching, archaeology and museum work. However, History is valued in many career areas for the skills it develops and that underpin it. Many historians can be found in politics, journalism and law. That said, whilst careers are important, we believe the most important reason for choosing History at this stage is because a student enjoys it.
Why have you chosen the 4 units that make up the course?
There are some restrictions/combinations that are laid down by the Exam board. However, we have chosen a course that reflects the specialisms of the staff and that will give students a broad experience of history, with a balance of modern and older history, of British and world history and of political and social history. As such, we believe there is something in the course for everyone.
Will my son/daughter enjoy the course?
Obviously, enjoyment is a personal thing but if he/she has enjoyed History at KS3, then they should enjoy GCSE too – as the type of topics we covered in KS3 reflects those at GCSE and the style of delivery of our lessons is the same.
Can you take more than one Humanities?
Yes, many students actually take two and they do, in fact, complement each other very well.
Are there higher and foundation papers in GCSE History?
No. All students sit the same papers and grades 9-1 are available to all as a result
Are there any trips linked to the GCSE course?
We hope so! These were being planned but the restrictions caused by coronavirus meant they have had to be put on hold. However, the dept would hope to “resurrect” these plans and is considering a trip to London to tie in with the Elizabeth I and Medicine units (Globe theatre, Victorian sewers, Victorian operating theatre) and/or a trip To Ypres in Belgium to tie in with the unit on medicine in World War One.
R.EFrequently Asked Questions
What sorts of careers is RE useful for? Where can it lead?
RE involves stating opinions and views clearly which is a valuable skill in management, law, public service and many other areas. Some of the topics (medical ethics, crime and punishment) are of direct relevance to some careers, but the most important transferable skill gained in the subject is understanding and explaining different ways of believing and living.
Do you have to be religious to do RE?
Most of our RE students in the past have not come from religious backgrounds. Many are completely atheist. The most important thing is that students are keen to learn, happy to make an effort to gain knowledge and can be open-minded about the beliefs of others, whilst willing to debate and articulate their own views.
Is GCSE RE respected by the most academically competitive universities?
Yes – RE is accepted by all Russell Group universities as a way of showing academic ability and promise before A Levels.
What skills do I need for RE?
You will need:
- An open mind
- Some ability to debate and understand different points of view
- A willingness to keep your own notes organised, and to learn for tests and exams
and finally, a sense of humour!
Can you take more than one Humanities?
Yes, many students actually take two and they do, in fact, complement each other very well.
MFLFrequently Asked Questions
What jobs can you get with a German/French GCSE?
Having a qualification in a foreign language opens the door to numerous career paths. Employers recognise not only your ability to have achieved a GCSE in a foreign language but they are also aware of the communication skills you will have developed in the process as well as the appreciation of foreign culture. Some examples of the industries you could work in with a foreign language are:
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- Sales and marketing
- Business and finance
- Information technology and telecommunications
- Media
- Teaching and education
- Translation and interpreting
Can I choose to study both languages at GCSE?
Which teacher will I have?
What can I do at home to help me with my learning in French/German?
Your teacher will share lots of advice with you. There are practice papers on the school’s website and it’s also a great excuse to listen to foreign music and watch foreign films (try it without the subtitles for a bit!).
Computer ScienceFrequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Computer Science and ICT?
This is a very common question! Computer Science is the more technical side of computing, and looks at how computers work under the surface, as well as programming them in a text based language. ICT is more about the real world use of computers and project development. A short way of remembering the difference is that ICT deals with what you can see and use from the outside of a computer. Computer Science deals with the things under the surface that you can’t see happening
What language will I learn to program in?
We use Python as our main programming language, but the programming skills you learn will not only make you good Python programmer, but able to learn other languages more easily in the future.
What is “data representation”?
Data representation is how computers deal with different types of data, be that text, images, sound or anything else. You will learn how binary works, and how to convert it and calculate it using a range of methods.
So I get to use computers a lot?
Not necessarily, at least not all the time. While the programming element will have you using computers regularly, some of the more theoretical content is delivered without the use of computers and are taught using more “normal” lessons.
I’m interested but I have no knowledge about any of those topics. What should I do?
There are numerous career opportunities available with a foreign language qualification. Having a GCSE in French/German on your CV is very attractive to employers! You will see some examples of career opportunities on the next page.
I’ve heard Computer Science is hard… is it?
It can be a challenging GCSE due to the number of topics and concepts you probably won’t have prior knowledge of. As such Computing often gets labelled as a hard GCSE, but if you’re willing to focus on the work and are determined to do well you will almost certainly get a good grade.
Who will teach me?
Mr Garland is the main Computer Science GCSE teacher. With a Computer Science degree and being a professional programmer before becoming a teacher, you’ll be in good hands.
I.C.TFrequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Computer Science and ICT?
This is a very common question! Computer Science is the more technical side of computing, and looks at how computers work under the surface, as well as programming them in a text based language. ICT is more about the real world use of computers and project development. A short way of remembering the difference is that ICT deals with what you can see and use from the outside of a computer. Computer Science deals with the things under the surface that you can’t see happening
If this isn’t a GCSE, does it count as one?
Absolutely! The Cambridge National qualifications will award you a grade across either Level 1 or Level 2, with each grade within those levels having an equivalent numerical GCSE grade. The qualification is recognised by colleges, universities and employers and is very popular as a Key Stage 4 option.
How does the 20 hour assessment work?
Data representation is how computers deal with different types of data, be that text, images, sound or anything else. You will learn how binary works, and how to convert it and calculate it using a range of methods.
Am I good enough to take ICT as an option?
Definitely. You might think you don’t know anything about the topics listed above – well, that’s what the lessons are for! Anyone willing to put in the required effort and try their best will be good enough for us.
What job will this help me get?
Having an ICT qualification opens a lot of doors. Computers are finding their way into a massive range of different organisations and careers – knowing how to process and control information on a computer system is a very attractive prospect to a lot of companies, whether that’s an astronomer or accountant, music technician or marketing executive. Possibilities are endless!
Who will teach me?
You will be taught by Mr Garland or Mr Simpson – we’ve been working together as a department for over 12 years, so you can be sure whoever teaches you will be backed by a lot of specialist ICT experience!
DramaFrequently Asked Questions
What does GCSE Drama involve?
GCSE Drama builds on a lot of the work you have done at KS3. There are three components to the course, they are: Component One: creating a devised performance from a stimulus and keeping a logbook of your ideas and how the performance developed. Component Two: A scripted performance. Component Three: A written exam where you answer questions about a play you have studied and a performance that you have seen live.
Can I do design or directing as part of GCSE Drama?
Unfortunately, there are no directing options. However, in both components one and two you could choose to be a designer or performer in your group. If you choose to be a designer you could design; costumes, lighting, sound effects and music or the set for the performance.
Do I need any specific skills or experience to do GCSE Drama?
No, KS3 Drama begins developing the skills that you will need so you do not need any other experience.
If I take GCSE Drama, will I have to be in the school show?
No, we encourage everyone to get involved in the show but it is not compulsory for anyone.
Are there any trips or visits?
Yes, as part of the course you will need to see a live performance so we will go on a trip to the theatre. There are also optional trips such as the London Residential which you will have the opportunity to go on if you want to.
How much of the course is practical?
At GCSE you have five lessons every two weeks. Out of these five lessons four are practical and one is theory.
Is GCSE Drama a difficult option?
All GCSEs are challenging and Drama is no exception. It is not easy but if you are willing to work hard there is no reason why you cannot succeed.
What is the best thing about GCSE Drama?
Getting to work with others to create a piece of Drama and perform it to an audience including family members and friends (if you choose to invite them).
MusicFrequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be able to play an instrument to take GCSE Music?
GCSE Music requires students to be competent musicians as a large proportion of the exam is based on performance using either an instrument of choice or vocal skills.
I don’t play an instrument or sing; can I still take GCSE Music?
Ideally, students need to be Grade 3 or 4 standard on an instrument (or voice) by the end of the course. Students should ideally have lessons, but exceptions can be made if they are at a high standard and practise regularly, particularly for vocalists. Please remember that The Wilnecote School offers instrumental lessons, and we recommend students take these where possible. Full information on instrumental lessons is available from Mr Hyden.
What if I don’t read music particularly well?
We will allow a student who can’t read music to take GCSE, as some music reading is taught within the course
Is there much practical work?
Plenty! Your timetabled lessons will cover all of the theory required but also give you weekly opportunities for practical work, listening and composition..
What are the benefits of GCSE Music?
It provides transferable skills:
- Independent learning: having to be disciplined about practising on their instrument or voice
- Team working particularly if they’re involved in weekly groups or ensembles, concerts and performances
- Performance and presentation skills which are useful for any job/career
- Listening – this is highly developed in musicians and it is an important part of the course · analytical and essay-writing skills
- Confidence and self-esteem: which has a knock-on effect in all areas of life and learning
- Creativity and self-expression: helping young people to think differently and harness the power of their imagination
What employment pathways could I take if I study GCSE Music?
Being a musician isn’t the only career in music – other options include being a sound technician, community musician, music therapist, teacher, or private tutor, or a range of careers in the music industry, in a concert hall or music venue such as musical theatre.
The arts/creative industries
This might include work in film, TV, theatre, radio, arts administration, or creative education.
Professions such as medicine, law, accountancy
Music is highly regarded as an academic subject and so could complement your other studies in leading to a professional career.
PEFrequently Asked Questions
What can a student progress on to with the qualification Post 16?
Depending on the grade the learner achieves in this qualification, they could progress to:
- A Level in Physical Education and Sport
- Level 2 Technical Certificate in Sport & Physical Activity
- Level 3 Applied General in Sport Studies
- Level 3 Technical Level in Sport & Physical Activity
- Apprenticeships in occupations within the Health & Fitness sectors such as Health Assistants, Fitness Instructors or Personal Trainers.
How much and PE practical is there?
The course is predominantly theory based but has a small element of practical activity in when undertaking and completing fitness testing for Unit 2.
What does the different grading structure mean?
No, KS3 Drama begins developing the skills that you will need so you do not need any other experience.
How is the course assessed?
Unit 1: Introduction to body systems and principles of training in health and fitness.
40% Weighting Externally Assessed: Written Examination (externally marked).
Unit 2: Preparing and planning for health and fitness
60% Weighting Internally Assessed: Synoptic Project (externally quality assured)
How does the Technical Award compare to a GCSE?
The NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Health and Fitness equally complements other GCSE qualifications. It is aimed at 14-16 year olds studying the Key Stage 4 curriculum who are interested in the health and fitness industry sector. This qualification is designed to match the rigour and challenge of GCSE study and is a level 2 qualification the same qualification level as a GCSE.
Fine ArtFrequently Asked Questions
What can a student progress on to with the qualification Post 16?
Fine art is artwork produced purely for its aesthetics or beauty. As a GCSE option it allows a student to explore any medium or technique to create their ideas and outcomes.
Do students need to buy their own equipment?
They can if they wish, but parent/ carers will have an opportunity to buy through ParentPay closer to the beginning of the course. Usually buying through school offers better value for money.
Will there be a theory exam?
No, there is no written exam.
Why is the practical exam 10 hours long?
This is an opportunity to produce a piece of artwork that is a final out to your exam board set assignment. Producing a final outcome that relates to all your previous research, experimenting, and idea development counts towards a large proportion of your marks and needs the time to be executed well.
Is GCSE Art difficult?
All subjects at GCSE are challenging for different reasons. Art courses require you to meet deadlines and work independently. To achieve at a good level you will need to commit your own time to completing and refining work started in lesson.
3D DesignFrequently Asked Questions
What can a student progress on to with the qualification Post 16?
This is an Art and Design: GCSE which has become very popular with many schools as an alternative to the DT GCSE due to its flexibility and heavy focus on making, rather than theory.
Will there be a theory exam?
No, we have chosen a GCSE course which allows students to focus more on the design process through experimenting and making. The exam portion of this course is practical and allows students to individually respond to Exam board set design briefs.
What materials will students use?
Card, wire, clay, wood, acrylic and metal.
Can I go on to study DT, Product Design or Resistant Materials in Further Education with this GCSE?
Yes. You will be producing a portfolio that will evidence a wide range of skills suitable for these subjects in Further Education, as well as other subjects such as Graphic Communication, Ceramics, and Fashion and Textiles.
PhotographyFrequently Asked Questions
Do students need their own DSLR camera and lenses?
This is an Art and Design: GCSE which has become very popular with many schools as an alternative to the DT GCSE due to its flexibility and heavy focus on making, rather than theory.
Will students use a dark room?
There is no functioning dark room in Wilnecote at present, but there are plans to create one. This may not happen straight away, but it is important to the ADT faculty that students are enriched with a range of techniques in Photography, and dark room processes are important part of the subject’s past.
Will students need to draw? Do they need to write?
Yes, students will be expected to draw and write notes about the processes they have used and of their findings. Drawing is not the main focus in this subject, and is only used to help illustrate and plan ideas. Students will always be supported in producing their best standard of work with our guidance.
Do students have to use a computer?
Yes, at the beginning of the course students will be introduced to a range of photography techniques to help guide them later when they have to produce self-initiated projects. Students may thrive on using the computer for post-editing processes, while others will see it’s benefit but prefer to explore mixed media techniques or studio photography.
Is there a theory exam?
No, there is not a theory exam paper. The ‘exam’ in this subject is called an ‘Externally set assignment’ which offers a set of starting points, set by the exam board, that the student chooses from. From then, the student creates their own project over 3 months which will plan an outcome that will be produced in a 10 hour ‘exam style’ session, split over two days, in the ADT department.
Food Tech (FPAN)Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to provide ingredients?
Yes, for practical cooking lessons ingredients will need to be provided by yourselves.
What percentage is coursework to exam?
The NEA (Non-Examined Assessment) is 50% and the written examination is also 50%.
Is there a theory exam?
Yes, 50% of the course is an examination. The examination is a written and is 1hr 45mins in duration.
Will I cook every week?
There are approximately 3 practical cooking lessons each half term.