Dear Parents and Students,
The qualifications our students get at the end of Year 11 are important. They allow students to
progress to college and as such are critical to Globe realising its mission for students. We want our
students to go to university or to enter a career of their choice. Achieving this will mean students
are more likely to lead fulfilling lives.
At Globe, students begin their GCSE Option subjects in Year 9 so that they have the best chance of
getting the best grades possible.
From Year 9 onwards, students will study:
CORE Subjects 1 EBAC Humanities subject
1 EBAC Language subject
2 Other Options From the list below
English Language
English Literature
Maths
Science
History OR Geography Spanish OR French Religious Studies
Business
Art
Computing
Food and Nutrition
PE
Music
Drama
Media
Enclosed in this booklet is the key information related to the choices that need to be made in
preparation for next year.
Please read through the booklet carefully and make your initial choices, completing reply slip with
your choices. When making your choices, think about what you would like to do after GCSE. If you
are interested in a particular university degree or career, make sure you research what
qualifications are needed. It is also a good idea to speak to subject teachers and leaders for advice
too. However, should you have any particular questions do contact me directly via e-mail at
Yours sincerely
Ms U Sookun
Vice Principal
Initial choices made by students and form returned 2 February 2018
Initial choices to be reviewed by subject leaders 9 March 2018
Options Evening for students and parents 21 March 2018
Option choices finalised 30 April 2018
OPTIONS TIMELINE
GCSE English Literature & Language
What is the subject?
GCSE English Language allows students to develop the skills they need to read, understand
and analyse a wide range of different texts. The two year course develops students as crea-
tive and analytical writers who can investigate how language is used for effect across the
19 th, 20th and 21st century.
GCSE English Literature offers students the chance to study a range of both classic and con-
temporary literary texts in drama, poetry and prose — from Shakespeare to the modern day.
Where will this qualification take
me?
English as a whole, together with Science and Maths, is one of what is called the core subjects. In this competitive world it is extremely important for students to achieve a good passing grade in English as employers recognise that it is crucial to have the ability to read, write and express yourself clearly. The ability to communicate is valuable for almost any job or career path and is essential for your success post GCSE.
The ability to analyse, justify, debate, argue, persuade, interpret and question are all skills developed through the English curriculum and are essential skills to succeed in life.
Course Components English is a dual course meaning you achieve two GCSEs. One is English literature and the other is English language.
In year 7, 8 and 9 students study texts and units of work which introduces them to and prepares them for the GCSE course. Each year they study a Shakespeare play , a modern novel and a 19th century text, as well as units on poetry. This helps our students to achieve the best possible grades in year 10 and 11, as they have acquired the skills they need to succeed in Key Stage 3.
In year 10 and 11, students follow a two year course studying both literature and language. Again such subjects as pre - 19 th century novels, poetry and Shakespeare will form the basis of the literature course while writing to persuade, descriptive writing and studying a variety of non - fiction and fiction texts will form the basis of language. At the end of the two year course, students will do two exams for each course to complete their studies.
Subject Leader: Ms Parker
GCSE Mathematics
What is the subject?
“ Without mathematics, there is nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers. “ Mathematics is for everyone. It is diverse, engaging and essential in equipping you with the right skills to reach your futur e potential. Mathematics is a universal part of human culture. It is the tool and language of commerce, engineering and other sciences such as physics, computing, biology. It helps us recognise patterns and to understand the world around us. Mathemati cs plays a vital, often unseen, role in many aspects of modern life, for example, space travel; predicting stock market prices ; d ecision making within organisations. Assessment: Edexcel GCSE (9 to 1) in Mathematics is a tiered qualification. There are two tiers: Foundation Tier — grades 1 to 5 available. Higher Tier — grades 4 to 9 available (grade 3 allowed) The assessment for each tier of entry consists of three externally examined papers, all three from the same assessment series . O ne of the three papers is non - calculator, the other two are calculator papers.
Where will this qualification take me?
Analytical and quantitative skills are sought by a wide range of employers. A degree in mathematics provides you with a broad range of skills in problem solving, logical reasoning and flexible thinking. This leads to careers that are exciting, challenging and diverse in nature. Whatever your future academic or career plans a good mathematics GCSE provides you with particularly good job prospects. Further vocational and academic qualifications This qualification prepares students for progression to further study of mathematics at AS and A level and also to the study of Core Mathematics. These level 3 qualifications prepare students for a variety of further progression routes. Careers associated with this qualification: Accountancy, Aerospace & Defence, Automotive, Biosciences, Business Support Services, Construction, Consultancies, Education, Engineering, Geophysics & Petroleum Engineering, Financial Services, Government, Healthcare, Insurance, IT & Computing, Manufacturing, Media, Metals & Minerals, Operational Research, Pharmaceuticals, Recruitment, Academic Research, Science, Telecoms, Transport/Travel, Utilities and many more.
Subject Leader: Mr Persaud
Course Components:
GCSE Mathematics will consist of the following main areas: Number, Algebra, Ratio, Proportion and rates of change, Geometry and Measures, Probability and Statistics. The aim of the course: Develop fluent knowledge, skills and
understanding of mathematical methods and concepts.
Acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems.
Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions.
Comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.
Where will this qualification take me?
If you are interested in completing a Science A Level you
must complete two Science GCSEs, English and Maths
achieving two A grades in Science, a B grade in English and
an A grade in Maths.
Employment opportunities
Candidates who study science go on to work in a range of
jobs due to the transferable skills Science allows you to
acquire. Some candidates work or study in fields related
directly to science as well as some graduates going into law,
politics and research.
Further academic qualifications
A Levels and Degrees
Course Components :
The A* - G grades have been replaced by 9 - 1 for each GCSE. Foundation papers are available.
Combined (Trilogy Route)
Six exams all one hour 15 minutes each with a weighting of 16.7% each.
Triple Science
For each discipline there are two exams all one hour 45 minutes each with a weighting of 50% for each discipline.
GCSE Science
What is the subject?
During Key Stage 3 all students will study the Activate Scheme of Learning. Science is a compulsory subject at Key Stage 4. Here at Globe we offer two pathways in Science. The majority of our students will take the GCSE Combined Science pathway which comprises of Biology, Chemistry and Physics units. This course provides a firm foundation for progression to AS and A - level Science. The subjects are taught separately and combined at the end of the year for two GCSE grades. For Triple Science candidates , there are further units studied within each of the science disciplines which will lead to students obtaining three GCSE grades. The pathway you are on will be determined by your prior attainment and progress within the year.
Subject Leader: Ms Ketcher
Where will this qualification take me?
History is a well respected subject that
provides students with an excellent level
of general knowledge. Students who
study History GCSE can go on to study History at
ALevel. It compliments a number of other
subjects.
Employment opportunities:
Studying History gives you knowledge and
skills which will prepare you for further
education, and which are also useful in any
career. Students who study history often go
on to work in research, education,
journalism, politics, law, social work and
public services.
Course Components:
We study the AQA specification, focusing on British and American History. The British History unit focuses on the topic of migration over a thousand years. The American History unit focuses on modern American History.
Unit 1: Modern World History:
America 1920 - 1973
Conflict and tension between East and West 1945 - 1972
Unit 2: Shaping the Nation (British History):
Migration, empires and the people: 790 to present
Elizabethan England 1568 - 1603
GCSE History
What is History? History is the study of the past but the qualification is by no means stuck in the past! Events of the past have shaped socie ty worldwide into what it is today. By studying History, you will gain a better understanding of the present and see that events do not ‘just happen’ but that they are the result of a complex web of factors. You will also develop your skills of analysis and an ability to formulate a coherent argument, executed with finesse. In taking History GCSE, you will study British and world his tor y. The GCSE History course has been designed to help you understand the value and significance of world events in the past. In t he process you’ll gain a deeper understanding social, cultural, religious and ethnic diversity. Knowing how people lived in the pas t helps to understand why people act like they do today.
“Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Subject Leader: Mr Whitehouse
Where will this qualification take me?
Studying Geography will not only enhance skills
needed for other subjects such as analytical,
numerical and investigative skills, it helps you to
develop your writing ability, at the same time as
using high levels of data, which will prepare you for
higher education. Through the study of Geography at
GCSE and then A-Level, you can access a wide range
of Higher Education courses such as Environmental
Sciences, Law, Social Sciences.
Further vocational and academic qualifications
Geography graduates are employed in many different
occupations including: journalism, law, marketing,
advertising, environmental awareness, education and
the travel industry. Geography is an exciting topic and
plays an important role in our future!
Course Content: We offer the AQA specification where candidates will take three exams at the end of the year: Section A: The challenge of natural hazards Natural Hazards, Tectonic Hazards, Weather haz- ards , Climate change
Section B: The living world Ecosystems, Tropical Rainforests , Hot deserts
Section C: Physical landscapes in the UK The physical diversity in the UK Coastal landscapes , River landscapes
GCSE Geography
Subject Leader: Ms Barrie
What is Geography?
T here has never been a better or more important time to study Geography. With growing interest in issues such as climate change, migration, economic change and social cohesion, Geography is one of the most relevant courses you could choose to study and it enhances your cultural and social capital of the world.
It is fun, exciting, challenging and very current. Whatever your passion for the world - fascination with landscapes or concerns about inequality - GCSE Geography will provide you with knowledge and transferable skills that will reward you personally and advance you professionally. Geographers have transferable skills wanted by all universities and are also highl y employable in a variety of careers. It is known to be one of the most employable degrees anyone could have. .
GCSE MFL (French or Spanish)
What is MFL?
MFL is the study of foreign language and culture. In MFL, pupils develop listening,
reading, speaking and writing skills. Different units of work will be covered, including
identity and culture , local, national, international and global areas of interest and
study and employment . Study relating to the French and Spanish speaking world plays
a key role in MFL learning at Globe Academy and pupils will have the opportunity to
Where will this qualification take me?
Employment opportunities
Language skills are highly prized in professional
services such as banking, law and accountancy
where many firms operate on a global level.
Qualifications in MFL are also valued by the
best universities, making entry to Russell Group
universities more likely. In turn, a degree from a
top university greatly improves long - term
employability.
Further academic qualifications
AS/A Level, single & joint honours Degree, eg.
Subject Leader: Mr Eastham
Course Components :
MFL is assessed by exams at the end of
Year 11
Unit 1 — Listening (25%) assessed by exam covering topics studied in course. All questions answered in English.
Unit 2 — Speaking assessed using role (25%) - play, discussion of personal interest topic , general conversation and a photo stimulus (April/May)
Unit 3 — Reading (25%) assessed by comprehension questions in English and Target Language and short translations into English
Unit 4 — Writing (25%) assessed by non - structured, structured and open - ended writing tasks and translation into Target Language
GCSE Computing
About Computing
Computers are going to be a big part of our future , and that future is yours to shape - Barack Obama How we use computers and Information Technology changes daily and we need to harness this change to change the world. GCSE Computing inspires students to engage with future developments in technology with topics ranging from Computer communications and networking to application development. Students will learn how information technology affects their own lives and the impact computers have on society at large. Students will be encouraged to develop an analytical approach to solving problems using computational thinking and a range of software development techniques. The skills gained on the course can be applied to real life scenarios, providing a pathway to higher education and empower them to access some of the most innovative careers.
Students will be able to:
develop an appreciation of current and emerging technologies, understanding how they work and apply this knowledge in a range of contexts
acquire and apply technical skills to use algorithms to solve problems using computer programs
use their knowledge and understanding of computer technology to become independent and discerning users of IT
make informed decisions about the use of technology and be aware of the implications of different technologies
understand the career pathways available to them and plan how to get there
enhance mental versatility – use their new - found
Subject Leader: Mr Koramoa
Course Components:
We study the OCR specification. Computer systems: 40% (1 hour and 30 minutes Exam Paper ) Systems Architecture, Memory, Storage, Wired and wireless networks, Network topologies, protocols and layers, System security, System software, Ethical, legal, cultural and environmental concerns.
Computational thinking, algorithms and programming: 40 %
hour and 30 minutes Exam Paper ) (1 Algorithms, Programming techniques, Producing robust programs ,Computational logic, Translators and facilities of languages, Data representation
Programming project: 20%
GCSE Drama
What is the subject?
Drama is an opportunity for young people to explore challenging themes , topics and issues through performance. It allows students to grow in public speaking and builds effective team work over time. During the course students will be expected to stu dy the following set texts. Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night time and Twelfth Night.
During the course students will be expected to write reviews based on theatre and keep an extended diary of their practical w ork each lesson. This is so they can reflect on how they have developed their knowledge for their exam.
The main component of the course is developing their practical skills and to enhance their imagination and creativity whilst devising from stimuli.
Where will this qualification take me?
Students will develop a multitude of skills, including collaboration, communication and an understanding of how to amend and refine work in order to make a smooth transition to the next level of study. Drama will give you the skills to present yourself in any type of business or organisation you choose. It teaches you :
Communication – active listening, oral communication, written communication, assertive communication and non - verbal communication.
Relationship - building skills – teamwork, trust, intercultural sensitivity, service orientation, self - presentation, social influence, conflict resolution and negotiation.
collaborative problem solving – establishing and maintaining shared understanding, establishing and maintaining team organisation.
If you would like to pursue Acting, Drama therapy or play writing then this is definitely the course for you!
Subject Leader: Ms Naish
Course Components : Component 1: Devising (60 Marks 40%)
Create and develop a devised piece from stimulus (free choice for centre).
Performance of this devised piece.
Analyse and evaluate the devising process and performance.
Component 2: Performance from Text (48 Marks 20 ) %
Students will perform in two key extracts from a performance text.
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice (60 Marks 40% - Exam paper)
Practical exploration and study of one complete performance text and live theatre evaluation .
Where will this qualification take me?
Employment opportunities
Professional Musician e.g. singer/instrumentalist, song writer,
composer, Music Critic, Conductor, Recording Engineer, Producer,
Publicist, Music Therapist, Music Teacher.
Further vocational and academic qualifications
Post 16: A level Music, BTEC level 3 diploma in Music and BTEC
level 3 in Performing Arts, Music Technology A level
University and beyond: Music Degree specialising in Performance
and or Composition, Popular Music Degree, Music Technology
Course Components:
Appraising Music: 40%
Written Paper – 1 hour and 45 minute written/listening exam.
There will be 9 questions and 80 marks.
Composing Music 30%
Two original compositions worth 30% of the total marks.
One free composition and one from a brief.
GCSE Music
What is the subject? Music GCSE is the option for pupils who are serious about the development of their composing, performing and theoretical skill. The course provides plenty of breadth and depth as it focuses its study on a range of Musical styles and areas of study through a variety of set works. The course demands the development of the complete musician, creating numerous opportunities for the study and application of skills, including score reading, within a variety of Instrumental and Vocal Music. Each student learning this course will explore a number of set works and styles in great detail learning the musical elements , contexts and language of the style along the way. Students will also study a range of pieces beyond these set works in order gain a larger context and provide stimulus for their compositions. Alongside all of this students will be provided with free instrumental lessons within one instrument which they will be asses in a solo and ensemble setting within their second year. It is expected that each student practises for at least one hour a week.
Subject Lead: Mr Kinnair
GCSE PE
At Ark Globe we are offering students the opportunity to study the OCR GCSE Physical Education course.
The course is split into two components: 60% Theory; 40% practical component.
Through the theory component, you will learn about topics which include: The structure and function of
the skeletal system, the structure and function of the muscular system, movement analysis, the
cardiovascular and respiratory systems, effects of exercise on body systems, diet, how to train effectively
and sports psychology .
To take GCSE PE it is important to have a strong understanding of Science — especially Biology as the
theory is quite scientific. You will be expected to play sport regularly for either a school team or outside
of school to ensure that you get a good practical grade. This is important as you will only have a Practical
lesson once every three weeks.
Where will this qualification take me?
By successfully completing this course, you will be able to study for the following qualifications at college or university:
PE teacher, variety of coaching qualifications, physiotherapist, sports psychologist , sports journalism, sports scientist, personal trainer, manager of leisure centre
Further vocational and academic qualifications
AS and A2 Level PE, BTEC Sport Level 3, University degrees associated with sports. This course would be a good choice if you want to take Biology at AS Level.
Subject Leader: Ms Davess - Humphrey
Course Components:
60 % Theory exam
Paper 1: Applied anatomy and
physiology and Physical
training (1 hour)
Paper 2: Socio - cultural
influences, sports psychology
and health, fitness and well -
being (1 hour)
40 % Practical assessment
You will be assessed in three sports.
One of these must be an individual
GCSE Media Studies
Where will this qualification take me?
Jobs in media can vary from directors, camera person, costume designer, editor, film producer, technical crew, news presenter, and games designers.
Further vocational and academic qualifications
Many GCSE students go on to study Media Studies or Film Studies at AS/ A Level.
At degree level Film and Television Studies, and Media and Communications are popular in universities across the country.
Subject Leader: Mr Mansell
Course Components: TV Study 35%: Analysing Crime Drama genre across different channels.
Exploring Media: Students will study different films, social networks and advertisements in depth.
Creating Media (30%): Students will design a print advert for a product of their choice.
What is Media?
In today’s media society we are all influenced on a daily basis by news reports, websites, newspapers, films, music, games and television. The Globe Academy Media Studies course studies how these products are designed to influence, inform, persuade and entertain their specific audience.
As part of the course you will look at different media products and build the skills required to produce your own media product. You will be expected to research, plan, cast and create a variety of media products throughout the course.
Where will this qualification take me?
Employment opportunities
Business Studies is an ideal subject for
developing a wide range of skills. Pupils will
learn how to research information from a
range of sources and critique these sources.
They will develop skills, knowledge and
understanding that will be highly valued by
employers and will be useful in the world of
work.
A GCSE in Business Studies is a stepping stone
to a whole range of future opportunities. The
skills developed will support pupils in further
studies and/or employment.
Course Components (examinations at the end of Year 11)
Theme 1: Investigating small business
Topic 1.1 Enterprise and entrepreneurship
Topic 1.2 Spotting a business opportunity
Topic 1.3 Putting a business idea into practice
Topic 1.4 Making the business effective
Topic 1.5 Understanding external influences on business
Theme 2: Building a business
Topic 2.1 Growing the business
Topic 2.2 Making marketing decisions
Topic 2.3 Making operational decisions
GCSE Business Studies
What is the subject?
What is GCSE Business Studies all about?
GCSE Business Studies requires an enquiring mind, an interest in learning about the world around us, and in discovering how businesses are set up, or what makes someone a great entrepreneur.
How to start up and successfully run a business, with the use of technology and social media The successful marketing, people management and financial control of businesses.
How businesses measure and improve performance.
Government, EU and customer influence upon businesses.
Subject Leader: Ms Fernandes
Where will this qualification take me?
Study of Religious Studies lays a good foundation for further study of
Religious Studies at A-level and complements other related A-level
subjects including Philosophy, Law, History, History of Art,
Government and Politics, Sociology and English Literature.
Employment opportunities:
Religious Studies is a relevant qualification for ANY job which
involves working with other people; doctors, nurses, teachers, police
officers, lawyers, judges and social workers. The UK is a multi-faith
society and an understanding of our differences will help us live and
work together peacefully!
Course Components & Key
Dates
You will study two main religions-
Christianity and Islam. For each
religion you will study:
Beliefs and Teachings
Practices
Sources of Wisdom and
Authority
Forms of Expression and
Ways of Life You will sit three exams in June at
the end of Year 11 and the
assessment comprises 100%
external (written)
GCSE Religious Education
What is RE?
RE is the study of religion and religious responses to fundamental questions of life.
At GCSE, RE encourages students to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of Religion by exploring the impact of beliefs, teachings, practices, ways of life and forms of expressing meaning. It also encourages them to express their personal responses and informed insights on fundamental questions about life as well as develop their interest and enthusiasm for the study of Religion and the relationship between Religion and the wider world.
We offer the AQA exam board for Religious Studies.
Subject Leader: Ms Opeku
Course Components :
GCSE Art and Design is made up of two parts or
‘components’. These are marked separately and
the marks are added together to give you your
GCSE grade. The two components are
controlled assessment (a portfolio of work) and
an externally set assignment that comes at the
end of the course.
This GCSE is a two year course with work
completed in year 10 submitted for
consideration in the final grade. There is an
emphasis on drawing and annotation in the
new GCSE specification.
The externally set exam will take place at the
end of year 11 in the Summer and w
Where will this qualification take me?
Employment opportunities
Artist, Designer, Illustrator, Teacher, Community Arts Worker, Exhibition/Set designer, Fashion Designer, Fine Artist, Printmaker, Jewellery Maker, Sculptor, Web designer, Photographer, ,Museum/Gallery Conserver.
Further vocational and academic qualifications
A - Level Art & Design
Foundation Course in Art & Design
GCSE Art & Design
What is Art?
The world of art, craft and design is so big it’s impossible to imagine.
It includes everything that any artist, craft worker and designer has ever created since the beginning of time to the present day, in any part of the world and for any useful or decorative purpose. It’s no small challenge to know even where to begin!
One advantage with art and design is that you are free to choose the aspects of the subject that in- terest you. Successful students make the most of this freedom.
Subject Leader: Ms West
GCSE Food Preparation &
Nutrition
Where will this qualification take me?
Studying food preparation and nutrition can
lead to exciting and well paid career options.
This course could lead to roles such as Chef,
Food product developer, Buyer (who travels
the world sourcing new food products for
manufacturers) Food safety inspector, Nutritionists, Dietician, Quality managers,
Teacher, Food engineer, Food scientists, Food
technologist, Food photographer, Food stylist,
Home Economist, Hotel and Restaurant
manager, Microbiologist, working in food
magazine, radio and television-for more
information about food careers please visit
www. tastycareers.org.uk
Course Components:
EXAMS: Written Paper is worth 50% of the total qualification.
NON-EXAM ASSESSMENT 1: Food investigation Assessment. (15%)
written report . Students’ understanding of the working characteristics,
functions and chemical properties of ingredients through practical
experimentation and the use of findings to achieve a specific result .
NON-EXAM ASSESSMENT 2: 35 % of total qualification: Students will be
required to plan, prepare, cook and present a selection dishes to meet
particular requirement such as dietary needs, life style choices or specific
context.
Assessment 1: The food investigation assessment will be released after
September 1st ( academic year of ward).
Assessment 2 :The food preparation assessment will be released after November 1st ( academic year of ward).
What is Food Preparation and Nutrition?
GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition is an exciting and creative course which helps students develop a thorough understanding of nutrition, food provenance and the working characteristics of food materials ., At its heart, this qualification focuses on nurturing students’ practical cookery skills
Subject Leader: Ms Hammond