Bathgate Academy

2012/13

Stepping Up

A handbook for third, fourth and fifth year students

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This  handbook  has  been  prepared  to  help  you make  choices  about your future.   You are at a critical stage in your career and hopefully you  will  use  the  information  in  this  booklet  to  consider  what  you want to do for the next year.  You  should  read  this  booklet  carefully,  discuss  your  thoughts  with parents/carers  and  guidance  staff  and  then  complete  your  course choice form. Remember, if you hand your sheet in late then a class may be full and you may not be able to follow your chosen course. 

IMPORTANT Once  you have chosen a set of subjects then you are committed to follow those subjects for the whole year.    The only exception to this is if your exam results in August necessitate a change of course. 

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Contents

Page • Introduction 1 • Contents 2 • Your …..First Choice, Commitment 3 • Your Schools Commitment 3 • Your …. Course s 3 • Your … Opportunities 4 • Your…Career Path, Choice Sheet, Subjects 5 • Subject Descriptions 6 – 37 • Late subject additions 38 - 41 • Further Possibilities inc. West Lothian College 41 • Your Choices (filling in the choice sheet) 42

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Your First Choice The choices you make will depend upon a number of things, for instance you may wish to study subjects for a college / university course or you may wish to take subjects that will improve your job prospects when you leave school. The careers service will be happy to advise you on your career options. If your 16th birthday falls after 30 September 2012 then you must remain at school until Christmas 2012. However there may be an alternative course that you could take e.g. a course at West Lothian College. You should consult your guidance teacher about other options.

Your Commitment S4 and S5 students take 5 subjects and S6 students take a minimum of 4 subjects. All students, including voluntarily returners (S5 & S6), are agreeing to follow the school code of conduct including attendance at all lessons1 both elective and compulsory subjects such as core Physical Education and Religious Studies. You are also expected to set an appropriate example to others by your attitude to work and by following school dress code. .

Your School’s Commitment Your school will endeavour to provide you with a course that meets your requirements. However, we cannot guarantee that a subject will run if there are insufficient students choosing it or we cannot resource the subject.

Your Academic Course Whatever the decision about the subjects you take there will be a definite change from S. grade to Intermediate /Higher and Higher to Advanced Higher. Senior students are expected to increase the amount of self-study that they do i.e. work at home or in Private Study periods. This is because the courses in senior school have to be completed in a shorter amount of time (less than one year) and a lot has to be done. This is also a preparation for life beyond school where, in a lot of jobs/courses, you will be expected to work beyond any allocated hours.

1 All absence should be covered by a signed and dated note from your parent/carer.

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Your Opportunities

Senior students are expected to contribute to the school community. This applies to fourth, fifth and sixth year. However, since sixth year students have allocated Private Study time, it is expected that they will use some of this to support others in school/ community work such as buddying, peer mediation, helping in departments etc.

Your Qualifications The level of work at which you study may vary from subject to subject. The information below tells you a little about these levels. (a) Intermediate 1 & 2: These courses are designed for those who do not achieve Credit level passes in a subject. They can lead to a more advanced course the following year. The level of course that you take (Int.1 or Int.2) will be determined, amongst other things, by the level that you achieved in S.grade. (b) Higher Grade: The standards required are much more demanding than those for Standard Grades and consequently entry will normally be limited to those achieving Credit passes at Standard Grade or band A at Intermediate 2 level. (c) Advanced Highers: These courses involve about 180 hours of work and are normally available only for sixth year students who have passed the Higher Grades in that subject. Please note these courses require a high degree of commitment to work outwith the classroom. Note also that some Advanced Higher courses will require students to work online, for a part of the time, with materials supplied by Heriot-Watt University. Some Advanced Higher courses may operate on a reduced number of instruction periods, hence requiring an even greater degree of student commitment. (d) National Progression Award: Intended for those S3 pupils likely to leave at the end of their fourth year. This will be a more vocational course, probably including work experience. More information about this will be issued separately.

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Your Career Path

Before making any decisions you should have considered what kind of a career you intend to follow. Are you intending to leave for work at the end of fourth or fifth year? Are you intending to go to university etc.? There are a lot of possibilities that you should discuss with people such as the careers advisor, your family, guidance teacher etc. Try to obtain as must information as possible. There is also a lot of information available on the Internet.

Your Choice Sheet The following pages contain descriptions of the subjects and levels that may be available. If you require further information about a subject then you should contact the teachers named on the description for that subject. If a subject you wish to study is not available then you should indicate this on your choice sheet. We can then check, via the online e.prospectus, if it is being offered at another West Lothian school and, if possible, we may be able to arrange for you to travel to that school to study that subject2. A similar arrangement is made with West Lothian College. Subjects available at the college will be published as soon as we know about them. A number of subjects, both in school and at the college, ‘fill up’ quickly. We cannot guarantee to set up extra classes once a class is full. Therefore, it is in your interests to return your choice sheet as soon as possible and certainly before the deadline.

Your Subjects The following pages give information about subjects that may be available.

INCLUSION IN THIS BOOKLET DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN THAT A SUBJECT OR A LEVEL WILL BE AVAILABLE.

The information is given by departments to help you in making your choices. Subjects are listed in alphabetical order (with later additions at the end). 2 Travel between schools normally occurs in what is called the travel block on a Tuesday and a Thursday afternoon. The travel block is column 3 on your choice sheet. Transport will be provided to get you to the other school and a bus pass to get you home on public transport. You should also be aware that if you travel to another school to study then you will have private study in this school for part of the time.

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Accounts & Finance

Levels offered: Intermediate 2 & Higher

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) Higher – Two Key Areas.

Financial – Final accounts of partnerships; PLCs; Clubs; Interpretation of Accounts; Correction of errors; Financial checks – Controls and Regulations; Provisions and Reserves; Capital and Revenue; Income and Expenditure. Managerial – Different costing systems – material, labour, overheads, job costing, service costing, processing costing; Decision making by applying principles of Break even and Marginal costing; Budgeting; IT and Accounting; Use of SS.

Intermediate 2 – as above but to a slightly lesser standard.

Entry requirements Higher – 1 or 2 in Standard Grade Accounts; Intermediate 2 Accounts (Candidates can opt to sit Higher without the above only if they have achieved a credit pass in SG Maths) Intermediate 2 – 3 or 4 Standard Grade Accounts

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Lindsay Mrs Burns

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Administration

Levels offered: Higher; Intermediate 2; Intermediate 1

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) Higher Administration There are 2 units contained within the Higher Administration course.

Administrative Services Unit – This unit consists of 5 theoretical outcomes, covering the following areas: Effectiveness in the workplace Changing working practices Recruitment Meetings Customer Service Information Technology for Management – This unit consists of 2 theoretical outcomes and the use of ICT to solve business problems, communicate and present solutions (using Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Database software)

Intermediate 1 contains: Administrative Services which covers the knowledge and function of the administrative functions carried out by a Junior administrator, as well as the uses of the internet and office technologies. Information Technology covers spreadsheets, databases and word processing. Presenting and Communicating Information focuses on the use of the internet to search for information, the use of ICT to present and communicate information, as well as the use of presentation software.

Intermediate 2 covers similar areas but at a more advanced level than Intermediate 1

Entry requirements Higher - Candidates should have achieved a Grade 1 or 2 at Standard Grade (Administration) level OR achieved a pass in Intermediate 2 Administration. Intermediate 2 – Candidates should have achieved a Grade 3 or 4 in Standard Grade Administration. Intermediate 1 – Candidates should have achieved a Grade 5 or 6 in Standard Grade Admin.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Miss Carfrae Mrs Burns

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ART

Art and Design

Levels offered: Int 1, Int 2 , Higher and Advanced Higher .

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) Art and Design – intermediate and higher This course will provide students with the opportunity to further develop the skills and knowledge acquired at Standard Grade . The course is divided into three units . The expressive unit includes drawing , painting , printing and \ or sculpture . Students are encouraged to express themselves and their ideas in the Expressive unit . The DESIGN UNIT can include fashion , textiles , jewellery , product or interior design . Students are encouraged to question , investigate and solve problems in the design unit . The critical unit involves studying and investigating the work of today’s artists and designers as well as those of the past that are relevant to the students practical work , Student reviews and assessments are at regular intervals throughout the course and particularly at the end of each unit . The Expressive and Design units of work are folio presentations . These folios contribute to approximately two thirds of the final grade . They are marked by the SQA . An Art and Design written examination takes place in May and this completes the certificate . The examination questions are based on the work of artists and designers from various movements and periods of time. Consolidating Learning – Homework will be given regularly and will include reading notes , attempting questions from past papers and completing classwork when necessary . Advanced Higher – A Higher pass at A or B is required . A folio of work is presented to the SQA in either expressive or design work with related written research . Students must be able to work enthusiastically and will be expected to work independently at times .

Entry requirements Int 2 – Grade 3 or 4 at standard grade . Higher – Grade 1 or 2 at standard grade . Advanced Higher – Grade A Or B at Higher .

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs G Ferguson – acting Head of Faculty

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Biology

Levels offered: Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher, Advanced Higher.

Intermediate 1: looks into the use of technology in measuring, recording and monitoring health, the applications of biology to industry, and the propagation and growing of plants. Intermediate 2: Study the structure and function of a variety of cells including animal, plant and microbial cells. Examine the importance of biodiversity through the study of ecology, exploring energy flow and the factors affecting the variety of species in an ecosystem, and through the study of fertilisation and genetics. Explore the ways in which animals are adapted for survival and respond to changes in their internal and external environment. Higher: Explore cells as functional living units, in particular the biochemical reactions taking place within them as fundamental to the function of the whole organism e.g. photosynthesis and respiration. Examine sources of variation within living organisms, the concepts of natural selection, artificial selection, and genetic engineering. Explore the growth and development of organisms from molecular control of cell differentiation to the effects of environmental factors on whole organism development. Adv. Higher: Cell and Molecular Biology-Study the features and ultra structure of a variety of cells as well as the legal, social, moral and ethical issues surrounding the great advances made in DNA technology. Environmental Biology –Interactions within ecosystems are studied by consideration of inter-specific and intra-specific relationships between organisms in the ecosystems as well as environmental factors. Physiology, Health and Exercise – Explore exercise and the cardiovascular system, and exercise and metabolism.

Entry requirements Intermediate 1: Standard Grade award at grade 4, 5, 6, or 7 in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Intermediate 2: Standard Grade Biology pass at grade 3 or 4, Pass at Intermediate 1 Biology, or

Standard Grade pass in Physics or Chemistry at grade 1 or 2. Higher: Standard Grade Biology pass at grade 1 or 2, or a pass at Intermediate 2 Biology,

or grade A pass at Higher Chemistry or Physics. Adv. Higher: A, B, or C pass at Higher Biology.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Mrs L Guy, Mrs C Thomson, Miss S Thomas, Mr B Hyslop - Teachers of Biology. Mr J Fleming - Head of Faculty.

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Business Management

Levels offered: Higher, Intermediate 2

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) Higher Business Management This course comprises of 3 units: Business Enterprise - Business in Contemporary Society Business Information & Info Technology Decision Making Business Decision Areas 1 – Marketing & Operations Business Decision Areas 2 – Finance & Human Resources Intermediate 2 Business Management. This course comprises the same 3 units as Higher but at a lesser level

Entry requirements Higher – Candidates should have achieved Grade 1 or 2 in Standard Grade English or a pass in Intermediate 2 Business Management Intermediate 2 – Candidates should have achieved a Grade 2 in Standard Grade English.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Lindsay Miss Prentice

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Cake Decorating

Levels offered: Intermediate 2 Creative Cake Production

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) For the final assessment candidates will be expected to:

- Plan and design a cake decoration suitable for the selected occasion. - Select materials suitable to achieve the design - Prepare a base suitable to achieve the design - Apply base coatings which are appropriate - Apply finishings specified in their design - Evaluate the finished design

Entry requirements Candidates will be expected to have achieved: Standard Grade Home Economics at General Level; or Hospitality Intermediate 1 – Practical Cookery; or Hospitality Intermediate 2 – Practical Cookery.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Any member of the Home Economics staff

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Care

Levels offered: Intermediate 2

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) The course develops knowledge and types of skills required by those wishing to work in the care industry. Candidates will have the opportunity to learn about various aspects of human development and behaviours, human needs, health and well being as well as the interpersonal skills required within the care sector.

Entry requirements Candidates will be expected to have achieved: Care at Intermediate 1; or A Standard Grade course at General level in any subject.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Glen – acting Head of Faculty

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Chemistry

Levels offered: Advanced Higher, Higher, Intermediate 2

Intermediate 2 This course aims to develop skills in scientific enquiry and increase understanding of the natural world. It will provide a basis for further study of Chemistry at Higher level in S6 and assist in many other subjects such as Biology and Physics. There are three 40 hour units:1.Carbon compounds 2. Atomic building blocks 3. Acids, Bases and Metals. Higher Chemistry This course makes an important contribution to an understanding of the physical and natural world. It also provides an essential grounding for further study in chemistry or related subjects such as Biology and Physics. Careers in many diverse areas such as textiles, metallurgy, all aspects of animal and human medicine, nursing, ecology and pharmacy, require a chemistry background. There are three 40 hour units: (1) Energy matters. (2) The World of Carbon. (3) Chemical Reactions. Advanced Higher This course builds on the understanding of the physical and natural world gained in Higher grade Chemistry. The investigation allows scope for study of a topic of a student’s own interest. There are four units: (1) Electronic structure. (2) Chemical Reactions (3) Organic Chemistry (4) An Investigation. The course is especially suitable for students who wish to progress to degree courses in higher education either in Chemistry or in subjects in which Chemistry has a major impact such as medicine, engineering, environmental and health sciences. In all National courses successful completion of unit tests and practical work, and a pass in the external exam is needed for a course award

Entry requirements: Int 2 : Standard grade Chemistry pass at level 3,4 or/

Credit or Int 2 pass in Physics or Biology (taking Chemistry for first time) Higher: Standard grade Chemistry pass at Credit level or an Int 2 Chemistry pass. Advanced Higher: A pass in Higher Chemistry.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs C Hutcheson, Mrs E Thompson, Mrs J Gilchrist (Teachers of Chemistry) Mr Fleming – Head of Faculty

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Computing

Levels offered: Intermediate 1; Intermediate 2; Higher; Advanced Higher

Higher – The mandatory units are Software Development and Computer Systems with an optional unit of Multimedia Intermediate 2 – The mandatory units are Software Development and Computer Systems with the optional unit of Multimedia (but at a lower level than Higher) Intermediate 1 – The mandatory units are Computer Applications and Multimedia with the optional unit of Computers and the Internet.

Entry requirements Intermediate 1 – No entry requirements Intermediate 2 – A or B at Intermediate 1 Higher – A or B at Intermediate 2. (Any candidate wishing to study Higher without studying Int.2 must consult a member of staff named below first.) Advanced Higher – A or B at Higher level.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mr Cowan Mrs Denham Mr Drummond

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Dance

Levels offered: Intermediate 2 units, Higher (in travel block and at Inveralmond CHS)

Higher Students who have taken dance in S3 and S4 or those who have studied dance outwith school may be recommended to take Higher Dance. Entry in to Higher Dance will subject to an audition and only those passing the audition will be accepted. The auditions and course will take place in Inveralmond High School. The course will be in the travel blocks on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and students must commit to attending on Friday afternoons as well, if they attend the course at Inveralmond High School. Intermediate 2 Students may opt to study dance at this level. They will complete three out of the six units, so will be credited with units but not the full course.

Entry requirements See above

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Miss Moran

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Drama

Levels offered: Intermediate 1 and 2, Higher, Advanced Higher

In all courses areas of study are taught and assessed by exploration and consideration of issues in practical workshops, in research, in externally assessed practical assessments and in final written examinations. In Intermediate 1 and 2 units are common between the two courses: Drama Skills, Theatre Production Skills, and Production. Drama Skills involves pupils devising a dramatic presentation, while Theatre Production Skills and Production offer the opportunity to specialise in a technical area as well as acting. Higher Drama is divided into three areas of study: Investigative Drama, Study of a Prescribed Text and Contemporary Scottish Theatre. Investigative Drama consists of pupils researching a topic and then using the results of this research to devise a dramatic presentation, working in a group. Study of a Prescribed Text and Contemporary Scottish theatre involves the study of themes and issues in particular texts. Advanced Higher Drama is divided into three areas of study: Devised Drama, Special Study and Twentieth Century Theatre. Devised Drama involves pupils developing a presentation from a theme chosen from a list set each year by the SQA. The Special Study is research into a chosen play which will form the basis of the practical examination in Acting, Direction or Design; and Twentieth Century Theatre is the study of 2 practitioners from a list set by the SQA. NPA Acting and Performance is a largely practical course in which pupils form an ensemble company to prepare and present several large-scale productions developing professional rehearsal-room etiquette. There may also be an opportunity to follow a Technical Theatre NPA by individual negotiation. Entry requirements Intermediate 1– interest and commitment Intermediate 2 – Grade 3 at Standard grade or by negotiation Higher – Credit SG Drama (In particular the Knowledge and Understanding component) and Credit SG English Advanced Higher – A or B pass at Higher (it may be possible to take some AH units, or investigate an alternative senior course, with a C pass) NPA Acting and Performance – a proven track record in practical performance, or by negotiation If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Mrs G Ferguson – Principal Teacher Mrs L Kelly Mr R Young

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NPA – Enterprise and Employability h

1

Are you looking to develop skills to progress into employment or self-employment after leaving school? If so, this is the course for you. The Enterprise and Employability Award offers you the chance to experience a wide range of vocational options as part of the learning experience. Possible options as part of this course are:

• Extended Work Experience • Car Valeting • Nail Technician • College Link Days • Running your own enterprise • Bicycle Maintenance • Training Provider Opportunties such as BLES and Sibbald Training • Extra-Time Football Coaching with Heart of Midlothian FC • Digital Media with Firefly Arts

The course is designed to help you achieve a positive destination after leaving school and will equip you with the skills to be successful in life and in work. To achieve a place on this course you must have consulted with your Guidance Teacher. For some of the vocational options (BLES, Sibbald Training, HMFC Coaching) you will have to complete a competitive interview to gain a place.

Entry requirements Speak to Mr Millar if you are interested in this award.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Glen – acting Head of Faculty

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English h

Levels offered: Intermediate 1 & 2, Higher, Advanced Higher 1

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) Int 1, Int 2 and Higher all consist of 3 units: Language study, Literary Study and Personal Study. Each course has internal unit assessments which must be passed before proceeding to the external exam. If the unit assessments are either incomplete or failed an overall grade cannot be gained. Students who achieve F or General grade 4 are advised to do Int 1. The Language Study unit requires students to produce a Creative or Expressive piece of writing and to pass a Close Reading NAB. The passage will be non-fiction. Literary Study involves the study of three genres and the writing of critical essays on these texts. A Textual Analysis NAB must be passed prior to the exam. This involves students answering questions on an unseen piece of literature. For the Personal Study, the candidate must produce an extended critical essay, under controlled conditions, on a text they have studied on their own. Students who achieve a 3 at Standard Grade or a 2 which is made up of 3s at Reading and Writing are advised to do Int 2. The course follows the same pattern as the Int 1 course. Students who gain a 2 or 1 at Standard Grade should follow the Higher course which follows a similar pattern. Student with a pass at Higher can attempt AH. This involves a great deal of reading of literature and there is an element of choice within the units studied.

Entry requirements You will be advised of the level at which you would study by your English teacher

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Ms Scott – Head of Faculty

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Geography

Levels offered: Intermediate 1 & 2, Higher

Geography - Intermediate 1 and 2 This course is made up of three separate units Physical Environments - looking at different physical landscapes in the UK and how they are used for farming, tourism, forestry etc. Human Environments - looking at world population, distribution and change with reference to urban and rural areas in developing and developed countries. Environmental Interactions - looking at development and health in different parts of the world; at different diseases and how they can be controlled. In addition environmental hazards such as tropical storms, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions will be looked at especially their causes and impact.

Geography - Higher The course is made up of three units Physical Environments - looking at four topics, namely Atmosphere, Hydrosphere, Lithosphere and Biosphere Human Environments - looking at four topics, namely population geography, rural geography, industrial geography and urban geography Environmental Interactions - looking at two topics, namely Rural Land Resources plus Developments and Health. In Rural Land resources conflicts in the countryside caused by tourism, farming etc. will be looked at. Development and Health will look at problems facing countries of the poor world.

Entry requirements Intermediate 1: Geography at Grade 5/6 or above Intermediate 2: Geography at Grade 3 or above as well as a Grade 3 or above in English Higher: Grade 1 or 2 is required in S grade geography as well as a Grade 1 or 2 in English

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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Graphic Communication

Levels offered: Intermediate 2 & Higher

Communication in all its forms is vital to society and the means of passing on information graphically is an important and relevant skill. Communication through graphics, in whatever medium, permeates all spheres of life, including education, industry and commerce. In increasingly global markets, graphic communication is a chosen medium in aspects of life from consumer to education, industry and commerce. The development of skills in the production, interpretation and analysis of graphics in a range of contexts is central to this course. The use of the computer as learning and teaching aid will permeate all aspects of the course and opportunities will exist to develop expertise in computer applications. Course Structure D171 Technical Graphics 1 1 credit (40 hours) D172 Technical Graphics 2 1 credit (40 hours) D173 Computer Graphics 1 credit (40 hours) Computer Graphics Presentation/Thematic Presentation Emphasis will be placed on the graphics incorporated in the product design process from concept through to marketing. This element will be assessed by means of an extended form of coursework in the form of a Computer Graphics Presentation (Intermediate 2), or a Thematic Presentation (Higher).

Entry requirements: While entry is at the discretion of the centre, candidates would normally be expected to have attained one of the following:

• S Grade Graphics at Grade 3 or 4 for Intermediate 2 • S Grade Graphics at Grade 1 or 2, Intermediate 2 Graphics or equivalent for Higher

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers: -

Mr Collins – Head of Faculty Mr MacLean Mr Tate

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History

Levels offered: Advanced Higher Higher Intermediate 1 and 2

The history courses offered in fifth and sixth year cover a wide variety of topics. Each course is different and offers pupils the chance to progress from one level to the next during their 5th and 6th year should they wish. All history courses teach valuable transferable skills such as essay writing and analytical thinking. Intermediate 1 and 2 offers 3 varied and exciting topics:

o Wallace, Bruce and the Wars of Independence o The Road to War with Germany 1933-39 o Social Change in Scotland – Leisure, Sport and Employment o Campaigning for social change in Scotland 1900s - 1979

Higher History offers 3 different topics covering Scotland and Europe:

o Britain 1850-1970 – Growth of democracy and the welfare state o Russia 1881 - 1921 o The Treaty of Union 1689-1740

Advanced Higher History provides a greater focus on Scottish History and the chance to produce work closer to university level:

o Scotland in the 18th Century (including Jacobites, Culture and Enlightenment) o Georgians and Jacobites 1715 - 1800

Entry requirements Intermediate 1 – A standard grade pass in any social subject or English Intermediate 2 – A grade 3 pass in standard grade for any social subject Higher – A pass at credit level in any social subject and English Advanced Higher – Grade A or B or C in Higher History

Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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Hospitality

Levels offered: Intermediate 2 Practical Cookery

Subject description (enter a brief description for each level) This course is mainly a practical course. The course is designed to offer the development of practical skills necessary in the hospitality (catering) industry and useful life skills. The course divides into 3 units, each lasting 40 hours.

- Foods of the World - Preparation for Healthy Eating - Practical Cookery Skills for Hospitality Industry

The external assessment will take the form of a practical assignment which is devised and issued by SQA. A charge is made for materials used.

Entry requirements It is recommended that students have a course or units in Hospitality 1 or that students have a general level pass at Standard grade in the majority of their subjects.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Anderson Mrs Carmichael Mrs Farmer

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Supply Chain Operations (Logistics) h

Levels offered: Int 2 1

Ever wondered the process your goods go through to make it onto the store shelf? Are you interested in working in an exciting and fast moving industry worth over £50 billion that is looking to recruit 35,000 staff in the next 10 years? If so, then this is the course for you. You will learn how goods move through the supply chain from the raw materials, through the manufacturing process, right through to the delivery of the finished product to consumers. Work Experience and work shadowing are key elements of this course and you will be able to use the knowledge gained in the classroom in the world of work. The school has a partnership with the industry and this course is a core part of the Modern Apprenticeship programme.

Entry requirements If you are interested in this course speak to your guidance teacher or Mr Millar

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mr Millar

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Mathematics

Levels offered: Advanced Higher (AH), Higher (H) Intermediate 2 (Int2), Intermediate 1 (Int1)

AH: This course aims to build upon and extend pupils’ mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding. The course offers students, in an interesting and enjoyable manner, an enhanced awareness of the range and power of mathematics and its importance to society in general. The course consists of three component units, each lasting 40 hours i.e. Mathematics 1,2 &3. H: This course aims to build upon and extend pupils’ mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding. The Higher Mathematics course has the particular objective of meeting the needs of students at a stage of their education where career aspirations are particularly important with obvious relevance in fields of commerce, engineering or science. The course consists of three component units, each lasting 40 hours i.e. Mathematics 1,2 &3. Int2: This course will provide an experience broadly equivalent in difficulty to Standard grade Credit Level. The course may serve as a general or specific entry requirement to HNC or HND courses or as a general entry requirement for other higher education courses which do not have a specific mathematical content. The course consists of three component units, each lasting 40 hours i.e. Mathematics 1,2 &3 or Mathematics 1,2 & Applications. It is possible for students to progress to Higher in S6 if Mathematics 1,2 & 3 is successfully completed. Int1: This course aims to build on previous mathematical experience. This course or its component units may form part of one or more Scottish Group Awards. The course consists of three component units, each lasting 40 hours i.e. Mathematics 1,2 & Appl. Entry requirements: AH: Pass at Higher – preferably at A or B. H: Completed the full Credit course in S4 – preferably a grade 1 or 2 in both elements or completed Int2 (Units 1,2 and 3) course in S5 – preferably with a grade A or B. Int2: Standard Grade 3 or 4 in S4 or completed Int1 course in S5 – grade A or B. Int1: Standard Grade 5 or 4.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact the Head of Department.

Mrs Glen – acting Head of Faculty

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Modern Languages

Levels offered: Intermediate 1 / 2

Chinese / French / German An Intermediate 2 Modern Language course consists of two units – the Language Unit and one from Extended Reading/Viewing, Personal Communication or Language in Work. The Language Unit covers the same skills as Standard Grade (Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing). Candidates are required to sit only one speaking test. All other skills are assessed throughout the year in class. In the Extended Reading/Viewing unit candidates are required to read a short novel/watch a film in the target language and write a personal response to it. In the Personal Communication unit candidates are expected to read a letter in the foreign language, understand the details and write a letter of reply, providing certain information requested in the stimulus letter. In the Language in Work unit they are expected to write two letters and two messages based in a work-related context. There is an external exam at the end of the course. Candidates who successfully complete internal and external assessments for both units will receive the course award. Please note: the chinese course has slightly different arrangements

Entry qualifications: A pass at Standard Grade (1 – 3) in the language the candidate wishes to study.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Glen – Principal Teacher

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Modern Languages

Levels offered: Higher

French / German A Higher Modern Language course consists of two units – the Language Unit and either Extended Reading/Viewing or Language in Work. The Language Unit covers the same skills as Standard Grade (Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing). Candidates are required to sit only one speaking test. All other skills are assessed throughout the year in class and candidates are taught new skills such as translation and directed writing. In the Extended Reading/Viewing unit candidates are required to read a short novel/watch a film in the target language and write a personal response to it. In the Language in Work unit they are expected to write a letter and message based in a work-related context. There is an external exam at the end of the course. Candidates who successfully complete internal and external assessments for both units will receive the course award.

Entry qualifications: A pass at Standard Grade 1 or 2 or Intermediate 2 A or B pass in the language the candidate wishes to study.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Glen – Principal Teacher

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Modern Languages

Levels offered: Advanced Higher

French / German The aim of these courses is to allow students to develop existing abilities in the four skill areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. There will be an opportunity to acquire greater fluency, flexibility and accuracy in their chosen language and widen their knowledge of the literature and culture of the country concerned. Since the establishment of the Single European Market many companies are seeking employees with fluency in one or more European language. Advanced Higher in a Modern Language is extremely valuable for many career paths, for entry to higher or further education and for one’s general education and personal development. There are two units of study – the Language Unit and either Extended Reading/Viewing or Language in Work. Extended Reading/Viewing provides the opportunity to extend one’s reading of literary texts, with or without the support of related videos or films. Language in Work uses source material from texts on sectors of business and industry, such as Tourism, IT or Business Studies. Both units are assessed internally and there is an eternal exam at the end of the course. Candidates who successfully complete internal and external assessments for both units will receive the course award. Progression - Successful completion of the course may lead to: • Degree/HND/HNC • Employment in arts, social science and religion; hospitality, catering and tourism; languages;

law. .

Entry qualifications: An A or B pass at Higher Grade in the language concerned

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Glen – Principal Teacher

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Modern Studies

Levels offered: Advanced Higher, Higher, Intermediate 2 and Intermediate 1

Higher – You will study Decision making in Scotland; Electoral systems, voting and public attitudes; Wealth and Health inequalities ; USA and China. In Paper 1 of the final examination you will answer four 15 mark essays in 90 minutes. In Paper 2, you will answer evaluating questions and a Decision making exercise, worth 30 marks, in 80 minutes. Advanced Higher – You will study The penal system; Crime and public disorder in the UK and Social Research Methods. Also, you will complete a 5000 word Dissertation about a Law and Order topic which accounts for one third of your grade. In the final examination, you will complete three 30 mark questions in three hours and this accounts for two thirds of your grade. Intermediate 2 and 1 - You will study Government and decision making in Scotland; Health and Wealth, China. In the final examination, you will complete three questions, worth a total of 70 marks, in two hours.

Entry requirements Higher – S5 – A Credit 2 pass for Knowledge and Understanding at Standard Grade / Credit pass at Standard Grade English S6 – A pass at Intermediate 2 Modern Studies or at least one Higher pass in S5. Advanced Higher – A pass at Higher Modern Studies. Intermediate 2 – A General level pass at Modern Studies, English, History or Geography in S3/4

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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MusicM

Music

Levels offered: Intermediate 1; Intermediate 2; Higher; Advanced Higher

Courses at all levels in Music contain the same elements: Composition: Develop skills in writing a piece of music, exploring a variety of styles and techniques.

Requirements - 2 original compositions lasting at least 1 minute 30 seconds each to be submitted.

Listening: Develop knowledge understanding of musical concepts from a wide range of

styles and periods. Requirements – all internal listening NAB’s must be passed and then a final

externally assessed listening exam in May/June. Advanced Higher only – write an essay of 1500 words analysing at least 2 pieces

of music (this replaces the listening NAB at this level). Performing: Choose 1 of the following options –

(a) Music with Performing – develop skills in playing 2 instruments, showing an understanding of related concepts and techniques; or

(b) Music with Technology - develop skills in playing 1 instruments, showing an understanding of related concepts and techniques and produce a sound engineering portfolio using computer software having shown skill in operating the equipment and related devices. (NB: entry to this route will be at the discretion of the department)

(c) Final Performance levels: Intermediate 1: AB Grade 2 (or above) (d) Intermediate 2: AB Grade 3 (or above) (e) Higher: AB Grade 4 (or above) (f) Advanced Higher: AB Grade 5 (or above)

Entry requirements

• Intermediate 1: Foundation Level Standard Grade Music or capable of performing on 2 instruments at grade 1 level

• Intermediate 2: General Level Standard Grade Music or capable of performing on 2 instruments at grade 2 level

• Higher: Credit Level Standard Grade Music or at the discretion of the department • Advanced Higher: Higher Music at A or B

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mrs Ferguson – acting Head of Faculty Mr Fowler Miss Fox

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Philosophy

Levels offered: Higher / Int 2

At Higher level you will be introduced to a range of philosophical problems through the study of the following branches of philosophical enquiry: Metaphysics, Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, and Critical Thinking. You will study the writings of influential thinkers such as René Descartes, David Hume, Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill and Jean-Paul Sartre and learn to assess the credibility of the respective arguments they advance. You will develop and refine your critical thinking skills through the close reading and analysis of philosophical texts and acquire the ability to distinguish between examples of sound and unsound reasoning. Higher Philosophy is an inherently rewarding course. It will also compliment and enrich your study of subjects such as English, History, Modern Studies and Art, broadening your understanding of the issues these subjects address. According to a tradition of thinkers (among whom may be included Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Kant and Sartre), philosophy is said to begin in the experience of wonder. Wonder inspires philosophers to pose questions, questions that are open-ended and that do not admit of simple answers. Philosophy is the science of questioning, an eminently critical enterprise given to probing received ‘truths’ and subjecting to scrutiny those self-evidences to which we often assent in life. Indeed, the philosopher Socrates is purported to have claimed that ‘the unexamined life is not worth living.’ Another philosopher, Immanuel Kant, offered the following maxim, summarizing the project of philosophy with the words sapereaude (dare to think for yourself). Philosophy, then, is an adventure in thought, an adventure in critical thinking. Higher Philosophy offers an apprenticeship in the craft of thinking.

Entry requirements (enter the entry requirements for each level): To be negotiated with subject teachers

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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Physical Education

Levels offered:Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher Grade

These courses aim to involve students in a practical and theoretical study of physical education in order to improve their practical performance in a range of activities and improve their Knowledge and Understanding of the subject. The courses offer an environment for personal development and can provide a basis for future career opportunities within sport, leisure and recreation. Assessment Practical Performance Unit Assessments: Analysis of Performance (written) Investigation of Performance (written) Specific Demands Students are expected to have a positive attitude towards investigative and written work as well as practical participation.

Students will be expected to meet assignment and extensive homework deadlines

N.B Practical Performance can be assessed at three levels: Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2 and Higher, regardless of the level of written work.

Entry Requirements Higher - Level 1, 2 at Standard Grade in English and P.E. in all three elements (K & U, EV and Practical) Intermediate 2 – Level 1, 2, 3 or 4 at Standard Grade in English and P.E in all three elements (K & U, EV and Practical). Intermediate 1 – No SG background

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:- Mr Fleming – Head of Faculty Mr Douglas – PE

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Physics

Levels offered: Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher, Advanced Higher.

Subject description. Intermediate 1: looks into the topics of telecommunications, sound and music, movement,

electricity, electronics, and radiations. Intermediate 2: Study the topics of Mechanics and Heat, Electricity and Electronics, waves and

Optics, Radioactivity. Higher: Study the topics of Mechanics and Properties of Matter, Electricity and

Electronics, and Radiations and Matter. Adv. Higher: Study the topics of Mechanics, Electrical phenomena, and Wave phenomena.

Entry requirements Intermediate 1: Standard Grade award at grade 4, 5, 6, or 7 in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. Intermediate 2: Standard Grade Physics and Maths passes at grade 3 or 4, Pass at Intermediate 1

Physics and Maths, or Standard Grade pass in Biology or Chemistry at grade 1 or 2 plus Standard Grade Maths at grade 3 or 4 or Intermediate 1 level.

Higher: Standard Grade Physics and Maths passes at grade 1 or 2, or a pass at Intermediate 2 Physics and Maths, or grade A pass at Higher Chemistry or Biology plus S Grade Maths at grade 1 or 2, or Intermediate 2 level.

Adv. Higher: A, B, or C pass at Higher Physics and Higher Maths.

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Mr J Fleming, Mr M Roberts , Mr G Batchelor (Teachers of Physics). Mr J Fleming - Head of Faculty

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Levels offered: Higher

Higher Politics is a qualification which would be useful to students who have developed an interest in this area – perhaps through studying the political aspects of Modern Studies – or who are considering taking this subject at Further or Higher Education. There are three main themes:

1. Political theory looks into concepts like the State; Authority and Power; Democracy; and Legitimacy. It then considers the three main political ideologies – conservatism, liberalism and socialism.

2. Political structures covers Constitutions and Political Assemblies, comparing the UK with the USA. Considerable attention is given to the relationship between the Legislative, Judicial and Executive arms of government.

3. Political representation studies the policies and structures of the main political parties and different electoral systems facing voters in Scotland and the UK.

The course uses a combination of class notes, discussions and debates, plus group work to ensure a broad and relevant understanding of the course content and skills required to pass at Higher level. The final exam is in two parts, with source-based enquiry questions in Paper 1 and three essays in Paper 2.

Entry requirements (enter the entry requirements for each level) A Credit pass at Standard Grade in English and in another Social Subject would be minimum entry requirements.

Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty Mr Nelson – Teacher of Politics

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Politics

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Mr MacLean

Practical Craft Skills (Engineering with Practical Electronics)

Levels offered: Intermediate1 & Intermediate2

This course will contribute to the knowledge, understanding and practical experience of candidates whose aspirations and abilities are towards practical work, or who are considering a career in an industry which involves practical activity in any capacity. The course is of a practical nature, workshop-based and provides many skills that are appropriate to a wide range of applications. The course will develop skills in marking-out, cutting, shaping and finishing materials, as well as adjusting and maintaining a range of hand tools. A unit of wor in applied electronics is included in the course. Apart from giving an insight into industrial practice and standards, such studies help with the development of self-confidence, manual dexterity and control, perseverance, maturity and spatial awareness. Course Structure This course has three mandatory units as follows: D178 11 Bench Skills 1 – Metal 1 credit (40 hours) D179 11 Machine Process - Metal 1 credit (40 hours) D181 11 Practical Electronics 1 credit (40 hours) In common with all courses, this course includes 40 hours over and above the 120 hours for the component units The candidate will also undertake an assessment project within the 160 hours.

While entry is at the discretion of the centre, candidates would normally be expected to have had some previous experience in Craft Skills. This may be evidenced by: • Standard Grade Craft and Design

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

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Practical Craft Skills (Woodworking)

Levels offered: Intermediate1 & Intermediate2

This course will contribute to the knowledge, understanding and practical experience of candidates whose aspirations and abilities are towards practical work, or who are considering a career in an industry which involves practical activity in any capacity. The course is of a practical nature, workshop-based and provides many skills that are appropriate to a wide range of applications. The course will develop skills in marking-out, cutting, shaping and finishing materials, as well as adjusting and maintaining a range of hand tools. Apart from giving an insight into industrial practice and standards, such studies help with the development of self-confidence, manual dexterity and control, perseverance, maturity and spatial awareness. Course Structure This course has three mandatory units as follows: D182 11 Bench Skills 1 – Wood Flat-Frame Construction 1 credit (40 hours) D183 11 Bench Skills 2 – Wood Carcase Construction 1 credit (40 hours) D184 11 Machining and Finishing – Wood 1 credit (40 hours) In common with all courses, this course includes 40 hours over and above the 120 hours for the component units The candidate will also undertake an assessment project within the 160 hours.

While entry is at the discretion of the centre, candidates would normally be expected to have had some previous experience in Craft Skills. This may be evidenced by: • Standard Grade Craft and Design

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers: -

Mr Collins Mr. Tate

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RMPS

Levels offered: Higher, Intermediate 1 & Intermediate 2

Part 1 Section 1 Morality in the Modern World – Crime and Punishment A crime is committed when a law made by the state is broken.This course examines:

the causes of crime; the purpose of punishment; and capital punishment We also consider two philosophical stances on the issue of crime and punishment.

Section 2 Belief and Science Planet Earth lies in the galaxy called the Milky Way. It is estimated that there are 100 billion galaxies each containing some 10 billion, trillion stars and planets. The main focus of this unit is to consider life on earth, the beginning of the universe and everything in existence and ask ‘Why is there something rather than nothing?’ Two scientific theories will be examined: Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection and the ‘Big Bang’ theory.

Part 2 World Religion– Buddhism Buddhism is unique among the world religions in that it is not based upon belief in a personal God, but on human experience and potential. It is usually counted as a religion because it puts forward a goal for human life which transcends the material world that we perceive through the senses and presents life as having meaning and purpose that implies certain truths and ways of behaving.

In this course we approach Buddhism through three organising principles:

The human condition; The goals of existence; and The means of achieving these goals

Entry requirements Higher Credit pass at Standard Grade or Int 2 pass B or above or Int 1 pass A Int 2 General pass at Standard Grade or Int 2 pass C or Int 1 pass at B Int 1 Foundation pass at Standard Grade

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers:-

Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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Travel & Tourism

Levels offered: Intermediate 1

The course will consist of three units: 1) Holiday Planning (1 Credit- 40 hours) – this focuses on broadening knowledge of types

of holiday destinations, methods of travel, understanding of the elements which are involved in a brochure holiday, aspects of booking brochure holidays.

2) Holiday Issues (1 Credit- 40 hours) – this focuses on personal issues involved in planning and taking a holiday abroad, problems which the holidaymaker may have to deal with before, during and after a holiday and a study of the impact of tourists and tourism on the host area.

3) Holiday Destinations (1 Credit- 40 hours) – this focuses on expanding knowledge about selected tourist destinations both in the British Isles and abroad by being able to identify where they are and source information about these destinations.

By the end of the course students should have developed: -an understanding of the possible attractions which are available to tourists in a variety of locations -an awareness of the main concepts and developments in travel and tourism -a practical understanding and experience of how to book a holiday -an awareness of other essential arrangements necessary for a holiday -an introduction to the principal tourist destinations in the British Isles and abroad -an understanding of how to deal with issues before, during and after a holiday -a local perspective on the use of travel and tourism facilities and the positive and negative aspects of their use -an awareness of the concept of responsible tourism on the part of the tourist

If you wish to know more about this subject please contact one of the following teachers: -

Miss Anderson – Head of Faculty

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Additional Subjects The following pages contain subjects that are late additions to the booklet:- The Personal Finance Award at SCQF level 4

This qualification suits a wide range of candidates:

• It focuses on developing basic life management skills. • It adds extra breadth to those studying mathematics or business studies. • It provides progression in numeracy.

The Personal Finance Award has been designed for on-line testing and the assessments are automatically marked and results given to learners immediately.

The course consists of three component units, each lasting 40 hours i.e.

Principles of Money This Unit focuses on opportunities to explore basic financial encounters. It will help you gain a better understanding of what ‘money’ is and where it comes from. The Unit will help you to understand sources of income and how to store and access your money. It will help you to understand how to use a budget and understand foreign exchange. Money Management This Unit focuses on managing your money. It will help you to prepare to deal with bills and budgeting. You will look at costs involved with borrowing money. You will consider insurance and long term financial planning. You will look at different ways of buying goods and how to compare different deals.

Entry requirements: Standard Grade Maths at 5 or 6

Higher Human Biology.� Higher Human Biology explores a selection of biological topics that are of particular significance and relevance to humans. The course provides the opportunity for pupils to develop deeper understanding of cellular processes, physiological mechanisms, communication between organisms and the biology of populations as they apply to the human species. As well as furthering biological knowledge and understanding this course also develops practical and enquiry skills.�� Entry requirements:� Standard Grade biology with knowledge and understanding and problem solving at credit level.� Intermediate 2 biology.� Candidates who have achieved Higher biology should not take Higher Human Biology because of overlap between the courses.

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Economics�� Higher ��Outline:�� All societies, organisations and individuals face the economic problem of allocating scarce resources among competing users. Economics explains ways of resolving this complex problem. ��You will study three topics: Microeconomics - how individuals and firms behave; the UK economy; and the International Economy. The exam is based extended answers in one two-section paper: the first section is source based and requires background knowledge as well as problem solving skills; the second section involves answering two knowledge based questions from a choice of six.�� Entry requirements:�� S5 - Credit passes in English, Maths and a social subject (History, Geography or Modern Studies)� S6 - Higher or 'A' pass in Int 2 English, Maths and a social subject (History, Geography, Politics or Modern Studies)�� More information:��Please contact Mr Nelson or Miss Anderson

HIGHER - Home Economics: Health and Food Technology

The Higher Course in Home Economics: Health and Food Technology is designed to articulate with and provide progression from a CREDIT pass at Standard Grade Home Economics. This course is NOT practical based it is mostly theory based. Home Economics is concerned with using and managing resources for the benefit of individuals, the family and society. The Course aims to develop candidates’ personal effectiveness in using and managing resources in the context of Health and Food Technology, adding to the dimensions of self, family and community a range of challenging experiences relating to the food industry. These experiences will enhance their future opportunities for further study or employment. The Course has two mandatory Units as follows:

D271 12

Health and Food Technology: Resource Management (H)

2 credits (80 hours)

D269 12 Health and Food Technology: Consumer Studies (H) 1 credit (40 hours)

Course assessment In order to gain an award in the Course the candidate must pass the internal assessments associated with the component Units. In addition the candidate must meet the standards targeted by external assessment instruments. The external assessment instruments are a Question Paper and a Technological Project. The Question Paper will be of two hours duration and is worth 80 marks. It will consist of two sections: Section A and Section B.

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Section A is a compulsory section worth 20 marks and consisting of short answer and restricted response type questions. Section B contains four questions each worth 20 marks and consisting of extended response type questions. Question 1 in this section is compulsory and the content for this question will be derived from a specified area of content:

• the interrelationship of groups of nutrients related to function • effects of storage, preparation and cooking on nutrients • the relationship between diet, lifestyle and health.

Candidates will then complete two questions from the remaining three questions in this section. The Question Paper will assess the candidate’s ability to:

• select and apply knowledge to a range of problems and situations • make critical appraisals and reasoned decisions, which involve using skills of

analysis and evaluation. Candidates will be required to submit a Technological Project worth 70 marks. The Technological Project will enable candidates to demonstrate integration of knowledge and skills across the component Units in order to realise a solution and demonstrate technological capability. Computing The computing department will be introducing two new courses for academic session 2012-13. Please note the formation of classes for these courses will be determined on the appropriateness of pupils who choose computing on their course choice form. i.e. you choose computing and you will be allocated to a class. NPA Computer Games Development In this course, students will use problem solving and creativity skills to design and create computer games for use on a variety of platforms. The course will involve the use of a variety of gaming platforms, including PC, mobile and games consoles. In addition, students will become familiar with a variety of gaming devices and will consider a number of gaming genres. Suitable for: S4-S6 pupils looking to broaden the Computing and Digital Media curriculum. S4-S6 pupils looking to move towards college or university courses based around computer games development NPA Digital Media In this course, students will make use of a wide variety of Digital Media such as animation, websites, interactive media and multimedia including video, sound and text. The course will introduce students to industry standard software and principles in addition to gaining an understanding of legal issues related to ownership of materials. Suitable for: S4-S6 pupils looking to broaden the curriculum. S4-S6 pupils looking to move towards a college course or employment within a digital media environment.

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Further Possibilities West Lothian College A number of subjects are being offered by West Lothian College. These would be taken in block 3 (travel block) and would require students to travel to the college on a Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. Transport would be available to take students to the college but you would be responsible for making your own way home at the end of the day3. A booklet detailing courses available can be obtained from your guidance teacher. You will be required to complete a separate application form for these course which will be available via guidance. These courses are generally very popular and so a prompt and well completed application form is needed. Note: The courses start at 1:15pm and so you would have to travel during your lunch break. * These courses may lead to non-SQA qualifications Intending to go to university at some time in the future? Universities require minimum grades in subjects and this varies from course to course and university to university. It is very important that you find the university requirements for courses particularly if you hope to apply for dentistry, law, medicine or veterinary science. In addition some universities have special requirements such as needing a language at S grade for all courses. University requirements vary year on year and so we cannot give specific advice in this handbook but if you have any doubts then discuss this with your guidance teacher.

3 Bus fares may be reclaimed or bus passes may be issued.

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Your Choices

The Choice Sheet consists of 5 columns or blocks. Each block contains a list of subjects. The subjects in each block were selected using the information, including the Dummy Run, to ensure that most people got the combination of subjects that they wish4. S3 to S4 and S4 to S5 – You must choose one subject from each block. Core subjects will also need to be taken. S5 to S6 – You must choose one subject from four of the five blocks. The remaining block will be allocated as a community or school programme. S6 students must take Personal & Social Education English and Maths. These subjects are shown without a level. You should simply choose it in an appropriate block and you will be told which level is appropriate for you. *********************************************************** You should consult your guidance teacher BEFORE handing in your choice sheet. ***********************************************************

4 . You should note that for a small number of people their desired combination of subjects may not be possible. Unfortunately this occurs when the subject combination is unusual or would prevent a greater number of people obtaining their subject combination.