As part of the curriculum, all students have to study and attain qualifications in all of the core subjects. In addition to this, students can choose from a range of optional subjects to take as extra GCSE and BTEC areas of study.
During the options process, students will be able to choose 4 subjects with a view to studying 3 of them during years 10 and 11. Although every effort is made to place students in courses of their choice, it may not always be possible due to demand and school resources.
Your Grace Academy Curriculum
Core Subjects
English Literature
English Literature at Grace Academy is designed to capture students’ imaginations and help them to interpret Literature from a range of ages. This is compulsory for all students and the literature course involves reading and understanding 3 texts, then being able to analyse a question about each of them. There is also an anthology of poems to cover and compare as well as a section of unseen poetry, so a wide range of analytical and evaluative skills are needed to be successful.
The first text that we cover is ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ by Robert Louis Stevenson, followed by ‘Romeo and Juliet’ by William Shakespeare. As the course progresses, we cover the 15 ‘AQA Power and Conflict’ poems that range from the 19th century to the modern day. The range of literature is covered in such depth that these texts usually stay relevant to students for years after completing school.
Students will work towards completing two examination papers: Paper 1 – Shakespeare and the 19th Century Novel; and Paper 2 – Modern Texts and Poetry.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Literature Paper 1 (Romeo & Juliet & Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde)
- Written Exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
- 64 marks
- 40% of GCSE
- Literature Paper 2 (An Inspector Calls and Poetry)
- Written exam: 2 hours 15 minutes
- 96 marks
- 60% of GCSE
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This GCSE feeds directly into AQA’s English Literature A-Level. The texts covered are: Othello, The Great Gatsby, A Streetcar Named Desire, Feminine Gospels and the AQA pre-19th century anthology. Many of the themes and issues raised in the texts lead on from GCSE learning. The key focus of KS5 English Literature is the idea of critical analysis and individual personal response; students have more autonomy of their wider reading which inevitably helps their work stand out. The course involves a Non-Examination Assessment that gives students the freedom to choose 2 influential texts, critically analyse them and underpin their thesis with secondary reading and literary crticism. This course prepares students for University in terms of its academic rigor and would be an enticing opportunity for any student who is an avid reader or a diligent thinker.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| English Teacher | Lawyer |
| Barrister | Solicitor |
| Banker | Director / Screenplay writer |
| Teacher / Lecturer | Advertising and marketing |
| Social Media | Film and Book reviewer |
| Reporter | Journalist |
| Writer | Civil Service |
| Health Service | Paralegal or Legal Secretary |
English Language
English Language at Grace Academy is designed to inspire and motivate students, providing appropriate stretch and challenge whilst ensuring that the texts are, as far as possible, accessible to all students. At the same time, the text types that we study range from 19th century texts to modern day literature so there is a broad spectrum for students to engage with.
It enables students to develop the skills they need to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts and write clearly. It aligns with our departmental vision to create learners who value and love the subject and learn about how the English language has been shaped over time.
Students will work towards completing two examination papers, both lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes: explorations in creative writing and writer’s viewpoints and perspectives. In addition to this, there is a speaking and listening element from which a separate certificate is issued.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Language Paper 1
- Reading (40 marks)(25%) – One single text
- 1 short form comprehension question (1 x 4 marks)
- 2 longer form questions (language and structure)(2 x 8 marks)
- 1 extended question (evaluation)(1 x 20 marks)
- Writing (40 marks)(25%)
- 1 extended creative writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
- Language Paper 2
- Reading (40 marks)(25%) – One single text
- 1 short form comprehension question (1 x 4 marks)
- 2 longer form questions (summary and language analysis)(1 x 8 marks, 1 x 12 marks)
- 1 extended question (c)(1 x 16 marks)
- Writing (40 marks)(25%)
- 1 extended non-fiction writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This GCSE feeds directly into AQA’s English Language A-Level. There is also the opportunity to complete an English Literature/English Language combined A-Level. The skills used at the top end of GCSE level are akin to the critical language analysis used in KS5. The course involves a Non-Examination Assessment that gives students the freedom to choose a range of influential texts, critically analyse the language and discourse that underpins them and engage with secondary reading. This course prepares students for University in terms of its academic rigor and would be a enticing opportunity for any student who is engaged in linguistics and the formation of language.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Digital Copywriter | Editorial Assistant |
| English as a foreign language teacher | Lexicographer |
| Magazine journalist | Newspaper journalist |
| Publishing copy-editor/proofreader | Secondary school teacher |
| Talent Agent | Web content manager |
| Writer | Academic Librarian |
| Advertising copywriter | Arts administrator |
| Education consultant | Information officer |
| Learning mentor | Marketing executive |
| Media researcher | PPC specialist |
| Primary School teacher | Private tutor |
| Public relations officer | Records manager |
| Social media manager |
Maths
The course is made up of 2 elements:
- Building fluency
Differentiated unit structure will increase the depth of understanding of maths, build fluency and nurture student’s confidence. - Problem Solving & Reasoning
The mastery approach is a specific focus on problem-solving and develops higher-order mathematical reasoning skills.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
Students will sit 3 examination papers, each 1 & 1/2 hours long at the end of year 11.
Each paper has an equal weighting and each are worth 80 marks each.
The first paper is a non-calculator paper and the second and third papers are calculator papers.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Good mathematical knowledge has many advantages. If you’re interested in studying subjects such as Economics, Physics, or Engineering at university level, then having a strong mathematical education will enhance your enjoyment and performance in these areas of study.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Accountant | Actuary |
| Computer Programmer | Doctor |
| Engineer | Investment Manager |
| Lawyer | Government research and laboratories |
| Theoretical Mathematician | Numerical Analyst |
| Statistician | Teacher |
| Market Researcher | Systems Analyst |
| Banking | Government |
| Space / Aircraft Industry |
Science
The course is split into the 3 components of science: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Within each component
are different topics:
| Biology | Chemistry | Physics |
|---|---|---|
| Cell biology | Atomic structure and the Periodic Table | Energy |
| Organisation | Bonding, structure and the properties of matter | Electricity |
| Infection and response | Quantitative chemistry | Particle model of matter |
| Bioenergetics | Chemical changes | Atomic structure |
| Homeostasis and response | Energy changes | Forces |
| Inheritance, variation and evolution | The rate and extent of chemical change | Waves |
| Ecology | Organic Chemistry | Magnetism and electromagnetism |
| Chemical analysis | ||
| Chemistry of the atmosphere | ||
| Using resources |
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
In total there are 6 exam papers (Biology Paper 1, Chemistry Paper 1, Physics Paper 1, Biology Paper 2, Chemistry Paper 2, Physics Paper 2)
Exam format:
- Written exam: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Foundation and Higher tier
- 70 marks
- 16.7% of GCSE
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This GCSE course can feed into either the AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics A-Level route or the BTEC Applied Science course. The applied science course tends to be popular with students who complete the double award. Whereas, those students who undertake triple science are usually more suited to specializing in one of the three sciences at A-Level. We offer all four courses at sixth form.
Possible career paths using this subject (areas in high demand are in bold):
| Agricultural Inspector | Agricultural Technician |
| Animal Breeder | Animal Trainer |
| Anthropologist | Athletic Trainer |
| Biochemist | Biological Technician |
| Biology Teacher | Marine Biologist |
| Microbiologist | Plant Scientist |
| Science Manager | Veterinarian |
| Veterinary Technologist & Technician | Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist |
| Aquacultural Manager | Climate Change Analyst |
| Diver | Emergency Management Specialist |
| Environmental Scientist | Geographer |
| Geoscientist | Meteorologist |
| Soil and Water Conservationist | Soil Scientist |
| Surveyor | Water& Liquid Waste Treatment Plant & System Operator |
Geography
The subject content is split into four units:
- Living with the Physical environment:
This unit is concerned with the dynamic nature of physical processes and systems, and human interaction with them in a variety of places and at a range of scales. - Challenges in the human environment:
This unit is concerned with human processes, systems and outcomes and how these change both spatially and temporally. They are studied in a variety of places and at a range of scales and must include places in various states of development, such as higher income countries (HICs), lower income countries (LICs) and newly emerging economies (NEEs). - Geographical Applications:
The Geographical applications unit is designed to be synoptic in that students will be required to draw together knowledge, understanding and skills from the full course of study. - Geographical Skills:
Students are required to develop and demonstrate a range of geographical skills, including cartographic, graphical, numerical and statistical skills, throughout their study of the specification.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Paper 1: Living with the Physical environment 35%
- Paper 2: Challenges in the Human environment 35%
- Paper 3: Geographical Application 30%
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Geography will develop and extend students’ knowledge of locations, places, environments and processes, and of different scales including global; and of social, political and cultural contexts (know geographical material) Students will also gain understanding of the interactions between people and environments, change in places and processes over space and time, and the inter-relationship between geographical phenomena at different scales and in different contexts. Each of these areas are covered in greater detail and with greater analysis at A-Level.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Environmental consultant | Town planner |
| Geographical information systems officer | Conservation officer |
| Teacher / Lecturer |
History
Students will study four different areas of history covering a time span of 1000 years. Students will learn to develop their extended writing skills as well as engage with the transferable skills of critical analysis, evaluation and they will develop the ability to assess differing interpretations of history.
The depth studies focus on a substantial and coherent short time span and require students to understand the complexity of a society or historical situation and the interplay of different aspects within it. These include social, economic, political, religious and military aspects.
The period studies focus on a substantial and coherent medium time span of at least 50 years and require students to understand the unfolding narrative of substantial developments and issues associated with the period.
4 key areas:
- Weimar and Nazi Germany 1919-1939
- The American West c1835-c1895
- The reigns of King Richard I and King John, 1189–1216
- Crime and punishment – c1000-present
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Paper 1: Crime and Punishment 30%
- Paper 2: Anglo Saxon and Superpower relations 40%
- Paper 3: Weimar and Nazi Germany 30%
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
History will encourage students to apply the skills of critical analysis through careful examination of historical evidence and assessment of interpretation. This will prepare them well for A level which will require them to engage with the historiography of certain events.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Law | Criminology |
| Teaching | Lecturing |
| Curator | Heritage manager |
| Solicitor | Journalist |
| Civil service administrator | Archivist |
Religious Studies
Students will be developing on their knowledge from year 9, studying various themes around religion such as peace and conflict, life and death, marriage and family and crime and punishment. Students will be able to go into depth about various Christian and Islamic beliefs, teachings and practices, leading to further understanding of the world around them. The course is designed to allow students to become familiar with current issues, various religious and non-religious viewpoints around them, and using those, not just to succeed in examination but to gain respect and understanding of their local community.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Paper 1: The study of religions: beliefs, teachings and practices – Christianity and Islam – 50%
- Paper 2: Thematic Studies 50%
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
GCSE RE understanding of the beliefs and practices of the faiths studied, as well as promoting religious literacy and the contemplation of ultimate questions. These skills will be used to a greater extent at A-Level. Students will be able to reflect on and develop their own values, beliefs and attitudes in light of what they have learnt. There will be a range of relevant and contemporary themes to study that will promote awareness of modern-world issues and engagement within the classroom.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Barrister | Teacher |
| Chaplain | Civil Servant |
| Lecturer | Marketing executive |
| Health service manager | Social Worker |
| Newspaper journalist |
Option Subjects
Art
Actively engage in the process of art and design in order to develop as effective and independent candidates and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds;
- Develop creative skills, through learning to use imagination and intuition when exploring and creating images and artefacts. Become confident in taking risks and learning from their experience/mistakes when exploring and experimenting with ideas, materials, tools and techniques.
- Develop competence, with increasing independence, in refining and developing ideas and proposals, and personal outcomes or solutions. Learning to actively engage with the experience of working with a broad range of media, materials and techniques including, where appropriate, traditional and new media and technologies.
- Develop cultural knowledge, understanding and application of art, craft, design, media and
technologies in historical and contemporary contexts, societies and cultures.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
60% Coursework, this represents the four Assessment Objectives; Contextual understanding, Creative making, Reflective recording and Personal presentation.
40% Exam – 10 hours.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Arts subjects encourage self-expression and creativity and can build confidence as well as a sense of individual identity. It also aims to support those learners who will study subjects or take up careers for which an art and design background is relevant or for subjects or careers where the transferable skills gained in this specification can be utilised. It prepares them for Post 16 courses; A’ level Art and vocational courses in Fashion, Interior design and even Photography and graphic design.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Graphic Design | Animator |
| Illustrator | Movie and Set Design |
| Jewellery Design | Games Designer |
| Graphic Novelist | Furniture Designer |
| Film Concept Artist | Cake Decorator |
| Printable Wedding Invitation Designer | Ceramic Artist |
| Make Up Artist |
Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Enterprise
As the BTEC Tech Award in Enterprise is a practical introduction to life and work as an entrepreneur, your students will:
- Develop an aptitude in planning and carrying out an enterprise activity.
- Develop the knowledge that underpins the effective use of skills that can affect the performance of an enterprise.
- Develop attitudes and ways of working that are important for enterprise.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
| Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Enterprise | ||||
| Component Number |
Component Title | GLH | Level | How Assessed |
| 1 | Exploring Enterprises | 36 | 1/2 | Internal |
| 2 | Planning for and Pitching an Enterprise Activity | 36 | 1/2 | Internal |
| 3 | Promotion and Finance for Enterprise | 36 | 1/2 | External Synoptic |
| Component | Description of Assessment | Availability |
| 3 |
|
February/May First Assessment 2019 |
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
The choices that a learner makes post-16 will depend on their overall level of attainment and their performance in the qualification. A Levels as preparation for entry into higher education in a range of subjects.
Studying a vocational qualification at Level 3, such as a BTEC National in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship prepares students to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying a degree in the business sector.
Possible career paths using this subject:
Students can explore what it means to set up and run a business enterprise, as well as develop key skills and gain an insight into the sector. This course will allow students to pursue careers in a number of business industries such as Finance, banking, accounting, Human resources, IT, sales, Marketing and advertising.
Food Technology
Pupils are given the opportunity to make a huge variety of products over the course of two years in a well structured environment. Pupils can achieve successful outcomes at the end of nearly every lesson which will impress their friends and family members. This course will give you valuable key life skills enabling you to cook and make informed choices about what and how well you are eating.
Students must be able to make the connections between theory and practice to apply their understanding of food and nutrition to practical preparation. Topics and themes have been grouped to help you teach the specification, but these are not intended as a route through the specification, you can teach the content in any order.
The topics are:
- Food, nutrition and health
- Food science
- Food safety
- Food choice
- Food provenance
The range of food and ingredients studied should reflect the recommended guidelines for a healthy diet based
on the main food commodity groups.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
100 marks
50% of GCSE - Non-exam assessment:
Task 1: Written or electronic report (1,500–2,000 words) including photographic evidence of the practical investigation.
Task 2: Written or electronic portfolio including photographic evidence. Photographic evidence of the three final dishes must be included.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Food Technology students will develop planning, research, analysis and evaluation skills as they learn to produce food products that are fit for purpose, satisfy wants or needs, and enhance our day-to-day lives.
There are various apprenticeships and further education courses in the Coventry area at different workplaces and further education institutions that offer Food Technology to a higher level – this GCSE course supports those courses.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Food Technologist | Nutritional Therapist |
| Product/Process Development Scientist | Quality Manager |
| Scientific Laboratory Technician | Technical Brewer |
French
French at Grace Academy Coventry equips students with a life skill that surpasses a piece of paper: it gives them the opportunities and freedom. Out of all the qualifications, fewer are more powerful than being able to confidently speak a different language. Students will build on their existing knowledge of French from KS3 and learn new topics and vocabulary, ranging from day-to-day necessities to things that relate to the culture of France. There are three main themes that are covered over the two years: identity and culture; local, international and global areas of interest; and current and future study and employment.
This option gives students the opportunity to develop their ability to listen and understand French in a range of contexts and variety of ways; communicate in writing; understand and apply a range of vocabulary and structures; develop communication strategies which will greatly increase their ability to cope successfully with unknown words. There are two main types of strategy: those that relate to understanding (reading and listening) and those that relate to production (speaking and writing). These skills are embedded within the French curriculum and are vital for their GCSE which comprises of a listening, speaking, reading and writing components.
Specific topics covered are: family, leisure, festivals, places of interest, holidays, education, employment, weather and healthy living.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
Listening:
Written exam: 35 minutes (Foundation Tier), 45 minutes (Higher Tier)
40 marks (Foundation Tier), 50 marks (Higher Tier) 25% of GCSE
Speaking:
Non-exam assessment
7–9 minutes (Foundation Tier) + preparation time
10–12 minutes (Higher Tier) + preparation time
60 marks (for each of Foundation Tier and Higher Tier) 25% of GCSE
Reading:
Written exam: 45 minutes (Foundation Tier), 1 hour (Higher Tier)
60 marks (for each of Foundation Tier and Higher Tier) 25% of GCSE
Writing:
Written exam: 1 hour (Foundation Tier), 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher Tier)
50 marks at Foundation Tier and 60 marks at Higher Tier 25% of GCSE
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
The French A-Level requires all of the GCSE content as a basis for progression. Students study technological and social change, looking at diversity and the benefits it brings. They will study highlights of French-speaking artistic culture, including francophone music and cinema, and learn about political engagement and who wields political power in the French-speaking world. Students also explore the influence of the past on present-day French-speaking communities. Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study texts and film and have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of their choice. Assessment tasks will be varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Translator | Interpreter |
| English as a Second Language teacher | Proofreader |
| Editor | Travel and Tourism |
| Tour Guide | Flight Attendant |
| Airline Administrator | Foreign Consul |
| French Teacher | Think tank Staff |
| Bilingual public sector jobs in French speaking countries | Restaurant or food |
Graphic Communication
Graphic Communication is defined as the practice of creating work to convey information, ideas and emotions through the use of graphic elements such as colour, icons, images, typography and photographs.
- Learners must explore, acquire and develop skills, knowledge and understanding through the application of techniques and processes specific to their chosen area(s) of study of Graphic Communication.
- Learners must explore practical and relevant critical and contextual sources such as the work of historical and contemporary graphic designers and the different purposes, intentions and functions of graphic communication as appropriate to their own work.
- Learners must demonstrate the knowledge, skills and understanding through area(s) of study relevant to Graphic Communication.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- 60% Course work, this represents the four Assessment Objectives; Contextual understanding, Creative making, Reflective recording and Personal presentation.
- 40% Exam – 10 hours.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Arts subjects encourage self-expression and creativity and can build confidence as well as a sense of individual identity. They also aim to support those learners who will study subjects or take up careers for which an art and design background is relevant or for subjects or careers where the transferable skills gained in this specification can be utilised. It prepares them for Post 16 courses; A’ level Art and vocational courses in Fashion, Interior design and even Photography and graphic design. Student can then go on an study HE courses in a number of courses with the Art faculty.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Animator | Illustrator |
| Flash Designer | Website Designer |
| Games Designer | Graphic Novelist |
| Layout Artist | Logo Designer |
| Photo Editing | Art Director |
| Brand Identity Designer | Architecture & Engineering Drafter |
| Production Designer | Films / TV |
Health and Fitness
During the health and fitness course you will:
- Understand and identify the main body systems and their functions.
- Understand principles of training and FITT.
- Explore how physical activities effect the body in the short and long term.
- Use relevant fitness tests for specific health and skill components of fitness.
- Create a health and fitness program.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
The course is split into two different units.
Unit one is a one hour and a half written paper based on an introduction to body systems and principles of training in health and fitness. This written examination counts for 40% of the overall qualification.
Unit two is a synoptic project based on preparing and planning for health and fitness. This takes approximately 22 hours and counts for 60% of the qualification.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
The NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Health and Fitness is designed to provide learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding of the applied study of good health and fitness practices and an understanding of working in the sector.
This course opens a number of different pathways to the learner. Depending on the grade the learner could progress to completing some of the following;
- A level PE.
- Level 2 technical certificate in sport & Physical Activity.
- Level 3 Applied general in Sports Studies.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Dietician | Nutritionist |
| Teaching | Personal Training |
| Sports Therapist |
Health and Social Care
Component 1: Human Lifespan Development
Students explore how individuals develop physically, emotionally, socially and intellectually over time; investigate how various factors, events and choices affect individuals’ growth and development; and discover how people adapt to life events and cope with making changes.
Component 2: Health and Social Care Services and Values
Students will learn which health and social care services are available; identify why people might need to use these services; discover who’s involved in providing these services; explore what might stop people from accessing the services they need; and look at the care values the sector has to make sure people get the care and protection they need.
Component 3: Health and Wellbeing
Students will learn what ‘being healthy’ means to different people; explore the different factors that might influence health and wellbeing; identify key health indicators and how to interpret them; assess an individual’s health using what they’ve learned; create a health and wellbeing improvement plan for that person, which includes targets and recommendations of support services available; and reflect on the potential challenges the person may face when putting the plan into action.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
Component 1 (Coursework) 30%
Component 2 (Coursework) 30%
Component 3 (Coursework) 40%
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This subject is studied at Level 3 in sixth form, where students complete a BTEC National in Health and Social care, which is equivalent to 1 A level. The mixture of coursework and examination components prepares students to study both A levels and BTECs at Level 3.
Possible career paths using this subject:
This qualification prepares students for both practical and academic routes into a career in health and social care. Possible careers include;
| Health care assistant | Nurse |
| Midwife | Social Worker |
| Community Support Worker | Social Services Officer |
ICT – Creative iMEDIA
The Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia will equip learners with a range of creative media skills and provide opportunities to develop, in context, desirable, transferable skills such as research, planning, and review, working with others and communicating creative concepts effectively. The course enables learners to understand pre-production skills used in the creative and digital media sector.
Digital graphics feature in many areas of our lives and play a very important part in today’s world. The digital media sector relies heavily on
these visual stimulants within the products it produces, to communicate messages effectively. Learners will be able to apply the skills and knowledge from film and television to computer gaming, the central digital characters are the foundations that whole projects are built on in the creative and digital media sector.
Learners will gain an understanding of the basics of comic strip creation. It will enable them to interpret a client brief, use planning and preparation techniques and to create their own comic strip using digital techniques. They will understand the basics of digital animation for the creative and digital media sector.
Gaming technologies, mobile phones, multimedia websites, film and television productions all use digital video to enhance and inform their content. Digital photography is used in a variety of different situations and circumstances. These range from professional photographers taking wedding and special event photographs to informal holiday and social networking photographs.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- U1 Pre-production skills – Written paper OCR set and marked (60marks) – 25%
- U2 Creating digital graphics – Centre-assessed task (course work) (60marks) – 25%
- PLUS TWO optional units – Centre –assessed (course work) (60marks each) – 25% EACH (50% total)
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Students can go on to study Level 3 qualifications A’ level or Vocational in ICT, Graphic design, Photography, Computing, Media studies and Design & Technology.
Apprenticeship in Business, ICT, Technology, Photography
Possible career paths using this subject:
Photography Creative media skills provide a fantastic progression pathway into a number of roles in an organization, and are transferable into many businesses.
Performing Arts
GCSE Drama offers students the opportunity to explore drama as a practical art form in which ideas and meaning are communicated to an audience through choices of form, style and convention. Students will create, perform and respond to drama informed by their theoretical knowledge of drama and theatre. The subject content details the knowledge, understanding and skills that students are expected to develop throughout the course of study.
The subject content for GCSE Drama is divided into three components:
Understanding drama
What’s assessed?
- Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre
- Study of one set play from a choice of six
- Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers
How it’s assessed
- Written exam: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Open book
- 80 marks
- 40% of GCSE Questions
Devising drama (practical)
What’s assessed?
- Process of creating devised drama
- Performance of devised drama (students may contribute as performer or designer)
- Analysis and evaluation of own work
How it’s assessed
- Devising log (60 marks)
- Devised performance (20 marks)
- 80 marks in total
- 40% of GCSE
Texts in practice (Practical)
What’s assessed
- Performance of two extracts from one play (students may contribute as performer or designer) How it’s assessed
- Performance of Extract 1 (20 marks) and Extract 2 (20 marks)
- 40 marks in total
- 20% of GCSE
For the practical units students choose to work as performers or designers (design students may choose lighting, sound, set, costume or puppets).
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
The Performing Arts courses at KS5 require all of the GCSE content as a basis for progression. Students study technical and production skills alongside discipline specific techniques. They will learn to develop their creative skills and a range of both performance and production elements all complimented with the industry standard understanding gained from Unit 3.
This preparation not only exposes students to a range of Performing Arts roles and responsibilities but enables students to make an educated decision regarding their next steps.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Theatre Director | Actor / Actress |
| Dancer | Musician |
| Writer | Arts Administrator |
| Theatre / Film / TV Technician | Broadcasting Presenter |
Resistant Materials
Learners are required to work in one or more area(s) of Three-Dimensional Design, such as those listed below:
- Architectural design.
- Interior design/furniture.
- Product design.
- Design for theatre, film and television including set design and making of props.
- Jewellery.
Does this course include coursework? Yes
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- 60% Coursework, this represents the four Assessment Objectives; Understanding and planning, Making, Evaluating and Reviewing the work and Final Outcomes.
- 40% Controlled Assignment – 10 hours to complete a planned piece of work.
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This could enable a student to gain a craft apprenticeship or move onto a Level 3 course such as an A Level or BTEC in Resistant Design/Product Development/Sculpture.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Carpentry | Maintenance |
| Engineering | Technical Career |
| Architecture | Designer |
| Metalworking |
Spanish
Spanish at Grace Academy Coventry gives students a fantastic opportunity to develop confidence and learn a new language that offers fantastic opportunities for a future career. With Spain being a popular holiday destination and many countries around the world speaking Spanish, undertaking the language at GCSE level is challenging but rewarding. Students will build on their existing knowledge of Spanish from KS3 and learn new topics and vocabulary, ranging from day-to-day necessities to things that relate to the culture of Spain.
There are three main themes that are covered over the two years: identity and culture; local, international and global areas of interest; and current and future study and employment.
This gives students the opportunity to develop their ability to listen and understand Spanish in a range of contexts and variety of ways; communicate in writing; understand and apply a range of vocabulary and structures; develop communication strategies which will greatly increase their ability to cope successfully with unknown words. There are two main types of strategy: those that relate to understanding (reading and listening) and those that relate to production (speaking and writing). These skills are embedded within the Spanish curriculum and are vital for their GCSE which comprises of a listening, speaking, reading and writing components.
Specific topics covered are: family, leisure, festivals, places of interest, holidays, education, employment, weather and healthy living.
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
- Listening:
- Written exam: 35 minutes (Foundation Tier), 45 minutes (Higher Tier)
- 40 marks (Foundation Tier), 50 marks (Higher Tier)
- 25% of GCSE
- Speaking:
- Non-exam assessment
- 7–9 minutes (Foundation Tier) + preparation time
- 10–12 minutes (Higher Tier) + preparation time
- 60 marks (for each of Foundation Tier and Higher Tier)
- 25% of GCSE
- Reading
- Written exam: 45 minutes (Foundation Tier), 1 hour (Higher Tier)
- 60 marks (for each of Foundation Tier and Higher Tier)
- 25% of GCSE
- Writing
- Written exam: 1 hour (Foundation Tier), 1 hour 15 minutes (Higher Tier)
- 50 marks at Foundation Tier, 60 marks at Higher Tier
- 25% of GCSE
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
Spanish at A-Level takes the subject to a new level, building on GCSE skills and relying on students’ reading, writing, speaking and listening skills to be clear and coherent communicators in the language. Students will study technological and social change, looking at the multicultural nature of Hispanic society. They will study highlights of Hispanic artistic culture, including a focus on Spanish regional identity and the cultural heritage of past civilisations. They will learn about aspects of the diverse political landscape of the Hispanic world.
Students will explore the influence of the past on present-day Hispanic communities. Throughout their studies, they learn the language in the context of Hispanic countries and issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study texts and film and will have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of their choice. Assessment tasks will be varied and cover listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
Possible career paths using this subject:
| Translator | Interpreter |
| Customer services in Spanish speaking countries | Social worker in a Spanish speaking country |
| English as a second language teacher | Proofreader |
| Editor | Travel and Tourism |
| Tour Guide | Flight attendant |
| Airline administrator | Foreign Consul |
| Spanish | Bi-lingual public sector jobs in Spanish speaking countries |
| Restaurant or food |
Triple Science
The course is split into the 3 components of science: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Within each component are different topics:
| Biology | Chemistry | Physics |
| Cell biology | Atomic Structure and the periodic table | Energy |
| Organisation | Bonding, structure and the properties of matter | Electricity |
| Infection and response | Quantitative chemistry | Particle model of matter |
| Bioenergetics | Chemical changes | Atomic structure |
| Homeostasis and response | Energy changes | Forces |
| Inheritance, variation and evolution | The rate and extent of chemical change | Waves |
| Ecology | Organic chemistry | Magnetism and electromagnetism |
| Chemical analysis | Space Physics | |
| Chemistry of the atmosphere | ||
| Using resources |
Does this course include coursework? No
GCSE Examination Percentage Breakdown / Weighting:
In total there are 6 exam papers:
- Biology Paper 1 & 2 – 50% each
- Chemistry Paper 1 & 2 – 50% each
- Physics Paper 1 & 2 – 50% each
Exam format:
- Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (for each of the 6 papers)
- Foundation and Higher Tier
- 100 marks
- 50% of single subject GCSE for each paper
How can this subject be used / developed at A-Level?
This GCSE course can feed into either the AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics A-Level route or the BTEC Applied Science course. Those who study separate sciences tend to pick a science(s) to specialize in at A Level where they will only focus on that subject. The applied science course tends to be popular with students who complete the double award however some separate science students do study it in sixth form.
Possible career paths using this subject (areas in high demand are in bold):
| Agricultural Inspector | Agricultural Technician |
| Animal Breeder | Animal Trainer |
| Anthropologist | Athletic Trainer |
| Biochemist | Biological Technician |
| Biologist | Biology Teacher |
| Marine Biologist | Microbiologist |
| Plant Scientist | Science Manager |
| Veterinarian | Veterinary Technologist & Technician |
| Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist | Aquacultural Manager |
| Climate Change Analyst | Diver |
| Emergency Management Specialist | Environmental Scientist |
| Geographer | Geoscientist |
| Meteorologist | Soil and Water Conservationist |
| Soil Scientist | Surveyor |
| Water & Liquid Waste Treatment Plant & System Operator |