Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SIXTH FORM
SIXTH FORM
COURSE
OUTLINES
Contents
Art, Craft and Design...............................................................................................................................................................................2
Biology.....................................................................................................................................................................................................3
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care....................................................................................................................4
BTEC Level 2 Extended Diploma in Sport.............................................................................................................................................5
BTEC Level 3Extended Diploma in Sport..............................................................................................................................................6
Business...................................................................................................................................................................................................7
Chemistry.................................................................................................................................................................................................8
Computer Science....................................................................................................................................................................................9
Drama.....................................................................................................................................................................................................10
Economics..............................................................................................................................................................................................12
English Language and Literature...........................................................................................................................................................13
English Literature...................................................................................................................................................................................14
French.....................................................................................................................................................................................................15
Further Mathematics..............................................................................................................................................................................16
Geography..............................................................................................................................................................................................17
History....................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Law.........................................................................................................................................................................................................19
Mathematics...........................................................................................................................................................................................20
Media Studies.........................................................................................................................................................................................21
Music......................................................................................................................................................................................................22
Physical Education.................................................................................................................................................................................23
Physics...................................................................................................................................................................................................24
Politics....................................................................................................................................................................................................25
Psychology.............................................................................................................................................................................................26
Religious Studies....................................................................................................................................................................................27
Sociology...............................................................................................................................................................................................28
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Awarding Body
AQA
Anyone interested in furthering drawing and painting, mixed media, digital art and three-dimensional media from GCSE,
through exploring the development of art over time. Through personal investigation you will develop your enquiry skills
and the ability to think critically and analytically about art history.
Many students go on to do a one-year Foundation course at art college or go to university. Students then select a
degree course (BA) to follow. A qualification in art can lead to jobs in a number of different sectors from architecture to
computer game designer.
The course is designed to develop students’ analytical and imaginative 2D skills through the use of mixed media, digital
art, graphics or with painting, or 3D sculpture skills in art, craft and design. Students may use other media such as video
and photography.
The course is taught through class teaching, practical work, field work, visits and independent research.
A level : One personal investigation project based on your choice of artist or craft designer along with a written
assessment (60% of the marks) and one exam set by the AQA exam board (40% of the mark).
Date(s) of Assessment
You will need to provide yourself with sketchbooks, all standard stationery and an A1 portfolio.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Biology
Awarding Body
OCR
Biology is a very popular course to study at A-level and is particularly suitable for those wishing to explore the living
world whilst developing key skills such as data handling, critical analysis and logical thinking.
It is a subject which can be studied effectively alongside other sciences, mathematics and other science-related courses
such as physical education and psychology. It is also important to recognise that the capacity for independent study is
crucial for success in Biology.
Studying Biology (A level) opens up many professional opportunities. It is a great choice of subject for those wanting to
pursue careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary sciences, physiotherapy, pharmacology, optometry, nursing, zoology,
marine biology and environmental sciences. The skills gained from studying A level Biology also prepare students well
for further study in other areas such as law or teaching.
OCR Biology A –.
In Year 12 the following topics are taught and studied:
Module 1 – Developing practical skills
Module 2 – Foundations in biology
Module 3 – Exchange and transport
Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease
In Year 13 the course is completed with:
Module 5 – Communication and homeostasis
Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
.
How will I be taught?
Class teaching, practical work, field work, visits and independent research.
AS Biology – Paper 1 (Breadth in Biology) and Paper 2 (Depth in Biology). Both papers contribute to 50% of the overall
grade and are 1hr 30mins in length.
A Level Biology – Paper 1 (Biological Processes) and Paper 2 (Biological Diversity) – both papers carry a 37%
weighting and are 2h 15mins in length. Additionally, Paper 3 (Unified Biology) which contributes to 26% of the overall
grade. There is also a compulsory non-exam assessment (Practical Endorsements in Biology) which is carried out
within the classroom throughout the year and reported on separately.
Date(s) of Assessment
May / June
The core textbook and other textbooks recommended by the school. Examination materials and revision guides will be
provided for all students.
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BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health
& Social Care
( 2 year course)
Awarding Board
Edexcel.
Location
Whitmore High School and Bentley Wood High School
An extended diploma is a practical, work-related course. Your assignments are based on realistic workplace situations,
activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you develop the skills you need to
start a career.
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BTEC Level 2
First Diploma in Sport
(1 Year course)
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Learning Styles
Students learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and
demands. Teaching methods will include: formal teaching, discussions, role play, practical and group work.
- Fitness for Sport and Exercise - The Mind and Sports Performance
- Practical Sports Performance - The Sports Performer in Action
- Carrying out a Sports-related Project - Training for Personal Fitness
- Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Performance
Specialist Units
Which are likely to include some of the following:
- Designing Exercise Programmes
- Facility Operations for Sport and Leisure
- Expedition Experience
- Work Experience in Sport
- Leading Sports Activities
- Promotion and Sponsorship in Sport
- Lifestyle and Well-being
- Injury and the Sports Performer
- Running a Sports Event
- The Sport and Active Leisure Industry
- Profiling Sports Performance
- The Provision of Sport and Active Leisure
- Sport Community Volunteering
Entry Requirements
Four or more Grade 3s at GCSE including 3s in English Language and Maths
and
Selection in the Watford FC trials
Course Offer Conditions
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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BTEC Level 3
Extended Diploma in Sport
(2 Year course)
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Year 1 is equivalent to 1.5 A Levels. On completion of Year 2 the qualification is equivalent to 3 A Levels.
Learning Styles
You will learn by completing assignment tasks that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.
Teaching methods will include: formal teaching, discussions, role play, practical and group work.
The qualification has been specifically designed for those students who are focused on a sporting field as a career or
university pathway. Progression to a related degree course or an advanced apprenticeship in Sports, Fitness or Leisure
operations are both popular routes for students completing this course.
Core Units
The units covered in year 1 are:
Anatomy and Physiology (written exam)
Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport & Well-being (written exam)
Application of Fitness Testing and Training (assignments)
Professional Development in the Sports Industry
(assignments)
Practical Sports Performance (assignments)
Sports Leadership (assignments)
Sports Event Organisation (assignments)
Entry Requirements
Four or more Grade 4s at GCSE including 4s in English Language and Maths or
Merit in Level 2 BTEC Diploma and 4s in GCSE English Language and Maths
and
Selection in the Watford FC trials
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Business
Awarding Body
Edexcel
This course would suit anyone interested in a career in commerce and industry or going on to a related degree course
with appropriate entry qualifications.
This course is an excellent foundation for professional careers and higher education courses in business, finance,
banking, accountancy, law, insurance, marketing, personnel and management.
In the first year students will study two themes: Marketing and People; and Managing Business Activities. In Marketing
and People, students will study theories relating to how a business meets customer needs, the market, marketing mix
and strategy, managing people and entrepreneurs and leaders. In Managing Business Activities, students will learn
about theories relating to raising finance, financial planning, managing finance, resource management and the impact of
external influences.
In the second year, students will study a further two themes: Business Decisions and Strategy; and Global Business. In
Business Decisions and Strategy students will develop an understanding of business objectives and strategy, business
growth, decision-making techniques, influences on business decisions, assessing competitiveness and managing
change. In Global Business, students will develop an understanding of globalisation, business expansion, global
marketing and global industries and markets.
Class teaching, class discussions, group activities, case studies and independent research.
AS: 100% exams. Two ninety-minute written exams using short data response and extended open response
questions.
A Level: 100% exams. Three two-hour exams using short data response and extended response questions as
well as questions based on a pre-released case study.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Chemistry
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Whilst many job opportunities specifically using Chemistry require higher qualifications, most laboratory-based jobs
benefit from a chemistry qualification, for instance dental assistant or veterinary assistant. Many employers view
success at A level Chemistry as a clear indication of sound academic ability. Many science based university courses
have a significant proportion of Chemistry content and an A level in Chemistry is excellent preparation for such further
study. In addition a number of other courses either specifically require or find it desirable. These include courses such
as chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary medicine, biological sciences, environmental science, pharmacy and
dentistry.
During year 12 students study for Papers 1 and 2 which cover topics such as atomic structure and the periodic table,
bonding and structure, redox , inorganic chemistry, formulae, equations and the amount of substance, organic
chemistry, hydrocarbons (alkanes and alkenes), halogenoalkanes and alcohols, modern analytical techniques,
energetics, kinetics and equilibrium. There is additionally the need to have a good understanding of basic Maths
principles in order to do this course.
In Year 13 Papers 1, 2 and 3 are worth 30%, 30% and 40% respectively. Papers 1 and 2 cover half of the Year 13 topics
and some Year 12 content whilst Paper 3 covers all Year 12 and Year 13 topics including an understanding of practical
chemistry and underlying theory. .
Date(s) of assessment
May/June
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Computer Science
Awarding Body
OCR
Computer systems
This component will cover the following:
The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
Software and software development
Data types, structures and algorithms
Exchanging data
Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues.
Programming project
Students and/or centres choose a computing problem to work through. This will enable students to demonstrate the
skills and knowledge necessary to meet the assessment objectives. Students will need to analyse the problem, design a
solution, implement and test the solution and give a thorough evaluation.
A core textbook, standard stationery and writing materials, plus a memory stick.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Drama
Awarding Body
EDEXCEL
Assessment overview
● Internally assessed and externally moderated.
● There are two parts to the assessment:
1)a portfolio (60 marks)
the portfolio submission recommendations are:
- can be handwritten/typed evidence between 2500–3000 words or recorded/verbal evidence between 12–14
minutes or
- can be a combination of handwritten/typed evidence (between 1250–1500 words) and recorded/verbal
evidence (between 6–7 minutes).
2) the devised performance/design realisation (20 marks)
Assessment overview
● Externally assessed by an examiner.
● Group performance/design realisation: worth 36 marks.
● Monologue or duologue/design realisation: worth 24 marks.
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Economics
Awarding Body
Edexcel
The course would suit anyone with an interest in how economic policies and theories help to explain how the economy
can efficiently allocate resources. It would be particularly useful for students going onto a related degree course and
who enjoy critical analysis and evaluation using data to reach an informed judgement.
Economics provides an excellent foundation for professional careers and higher education courses in business, finance,
banking, accountancy, law, insurance, marketing, personnel and management.
In the first year students will study both microeconomics and macroeconomics. In microeconomics, students will study
theories which help to explain the concepts of: scarcity and choice, how competitive markets work, competition and
power, labour markets and market failure and finally government intervention. In macroeconomics, students will study
theories which help to explain: how economic performance can be measured, how financial markets work and how
economic policy can affect the domestic and global economy.
In the second year, students will study both the microeconomics and macroeconomic components mentioned above,
together with a further component which involves applying all the theory they have learnt in a real world context.
Class teaching, class discussions, group activities, case studies, independent research and quantitative analysis.
100% exams
AS: there will be two written exams which will last 90 minutes each and are examined at the end of the first year.
Students will be assessed using data response and essay type questions.
A level: three two hour written exams. Students will be assessed using extended data response questions, multiple
choice and essay type questions.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Awarding Body
Edexcel
Students with an enthusiasm for reading, writing and studying English Language and English Literature.
A Level English Language and Literature provides a good foundation for degree courses in English, the arts, humanities
and media. Additionally, this course can help prepare students for a range of careers which benefit from advanced
communication skills, including journalism, the media, teaching, law, marketing and politics.
This is an integrated study of Language and Literature. Students will study a range of texts throughout the course,
including drama, prose, non-fiction and other literary and non- literary texts.
In Year 12 the exam topic is Voices in Speech and Writing, exploring the spoken voice, TV interviews, articles, travel
writing, blogs, drama and radio scripts. Students undertake transformational writing in the exam, rewriting a play script
or a speech etc. in a different genre. Two literary texts are studied in detail for the exam in the topic Society and the
Individual: “The Great Gatsby” and “Othello”.
In Year 13 students study Varieties in Language and Literature, analysing how writers craft and shape their writing and
exploring writers’ attitudes, values and ideas in a play and other texts. They complete a coursework folder including
creative fiction and non-fiction writing and a commentary on their own work.
Date(s) of Assessment
Core texts will be provided. Supplementary reading material will be suggested and you should be reading more widely
around the texts you are studying. Students also need to provide two A4 folders and dividers.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
English Language and
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English Literature
Awarding Body
OCR
A Level English Literature provides a good foundation for degree courses in English, the arts, humanities and media.
Additionally, this course can help prepare students for a range of careers which benefit from advanced communication
skills, including journalism, the media, teaching, law, marketing and politics.
Students will study a wide range of texts, ranging from poetry and prose to drama. Key texts studied include
Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”, poetry by Christina Rossetti and Carol Ann Duffy, “The Bloody Chamber” by Angela
Carter, “Dracula” by Bram Stoker, “A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams, “A Doll’s House” by Ibsen, and
“The Painted Veil” by Somerset Maugham.
During lessons, they will complete a series of different activities in response to these texts, including reading and
preparation of sections of the texts, research tasks and group presentations, class discussions and essays written both
at home and in timed conditions in class.
In Y13, students will also complete a coursework folder based on Literature post-1900. Students will complete two tasks
for this folder, including a close reading of a text and a comparative essay.
Date(s) of Assessment
Core texts will be provided. Supplementary reading material will be suggested and you should be reading more widely
around the texts you are studying. Students also need to provide two A4 folders and dividers.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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French
Awarding Body
AQA
Good linguists who have enjoyed expressing themselves in French at GCSE and want to develop their language skills, as well
as having an interest in France and French-speaking countries.
The course will build rapidly on the knowledge and skills gained in GCSE French, so that you will quickly gain confidence in
the use of spoken and written language in a range of interesting topics, including new technologies and the world of work. You
will study changes in family structure and investigate the impacts that these changes have on young people today. You will
also analyse the influence of French music and cinema through the study of a French film.
For the oral discussion you will use the knowledge acquired through the study of the topics to discuss two stimulus cards.
You will learn more about life and culture in France and French-speaking countries. You will deepen your understanding of
grammar concepts and uses. The A2 course requires further depth of study of language structure and grammar, and relevant
topics relating to Britain, to French-speaking countries and the international community.
Diverse methods to deliver all four skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing). Newspapers, magazines, TV, films and plays
will help you to acquire language on contemporary issues.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
A grammar book, a core textbook and other course materials will be provided.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be offered
at another centre or withdrawn.
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Further Mathematics
Awarding Body
Edexcel
This course is designed for you if you’re enthusiastic about mathematics and have a natural flair for this subject. It
differs from a standard A Level in that you’ll study twice as much maths and cover mathematics in greater depth. At the
end of two years you’ll have gained an A Level in Mathematics and another full A Level in Further Mathematics.
Further Mathematics is essential if you are planning to study Mathematics at university and recommended for studying
Physics or Engineering. It is also relevant for studying Economics or Computing.
Pure Mathematics – Proof, Complex numbers, Matrices, Polar coordinates, Hyperbolic functions, Differential
equations.
Decision Maths – Algorithms, Route Inspection, Critical Path Analysis, Linear Programming and the Simplex Method.
Further Statistics – Linear regression, Statistical distributions, Correlation, Hypothesis Testing, Chi Squared, Normal
Distribution, Probability generating Functions.
Further Mechanics – Direct and Oblique Collisions, Elastic Springs and Strings, Work Energy & Power.
Exams 100%
Further Maths A level is assessed by five written examinations at the end of the course.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
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Geography
Awarding Body
Edexcel
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History
Awarding Body
Edexcel
History is a highly respected academic subject and provides a very sound basis for a number of professional careers. A
History degree can lead to careers in law, media, journalism as well as teaching.
A Level History consists of four units, two of these being the AS units described above. In addition to these units, students
must study one unit (Paper 3) that investigates a period of one hundred years of British history, with two aspects studied in
breadth and four aspects studied in depth. The other unit (Paper 4) is a coursework unit, a single assignment on a question
set by the school. All 3 examination papers must be taken in May/June of Year 13. All 3 papers consist of essay questions,
whilst Paper 1 also includes a question on historical interpretations, and Paper 2 and Paper 3 include questions on source
evaluation. The coursework unit, undertaken during Year 13, involves an independent enquiry that involves analysing and
evaluating historical interpretations.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
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Law
Awarding Body
OCR
This course is ideal for those who wish to study law or a related subject like finance, business management and
criminology in higher education. It is also useful for those who have an interest in the subject and wish to develop an
appreciation and critical awareness of the legal structure and rights and obligations of citizens.
It can lead to a wide range of degrees, vocational courses and employment. Law graduates can go on to become
solicitors, barristers, legal executives or to take up careers in business, the government, social work, teaching, the
police force and politics.
In the first year students will study two units: The legal system & criminal law and law making & the law of tort.
In the legal system, students will be introduced to the nature of law and will study: civil courts and other methods of
dispute resolution, criminal courts and lay people, legal personnel and access to justice. In criminal law they will study:
general elements of criminal liability and non-fatal offences against the person. In law making students will study:
parliamentary law making, delegated legislation, statutory interpretation, judicial precedent, law reform and EU law. In
the law of tort they will study: rules, liability in negligence, occupiers’ liability and remedies.
In the second year students will study the content mentioned above with additional topics in criminal law: homicide,
mental defences, general defences, property offences, and tort: torts connected to land, vicarious liability and defences.
They will also study 2 further units which are the nature of law and human rights.
100% examination
Date(s) of assessment
May/June
A core textbook and revision book will be provided for students. Additional resources such as worksheets and revision
material will also be provided
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Mathematics
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Mathematics underpins almost every aspect of modern life. Its applications extend from the development of self-driving cars
and machine learning to the data science employed by football clubs to improve performance. You’ll enjoy this challenging
course if you like solving problems in a logical manner, applying mathematical theories to real life situations and constructing
rigorous mathematical arguments. You’ll develop your ability to reason logically, to construct mathematical proofs and to use
mathematics as an effective means of communication. You’ll extend your skills and use them to solve more difficult
unstructured problems.
Mathematics is well regarded by both employers and universities. The demanding nature of the mathematics course prepares
students well for the rigours of further study or professional life. Maths is useful for entry to any higher education course and
leads naturally to careers in engineering, data science, market research, finance, actuarial science, banking and economics.
During the 1st year students will study AS mathematics. They will be taught elements from Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and
Statistics. Pure Mathematics builds on GCSE Mathematics and covers the topics of Proof, Algebra and Functions, Coordinate
geometry in the (x, y) plane, Sequences and Series, Differentiation, Integration, Trigonometry, Exponentials, Logarithms and
Vectors.
In Statistics students will cover the topics of Statistical Sampling, Data Presentation and Interpretation, Probability, Statistical
Distributions and Statistical Hypothesis Testing.
In Mechanics students will solve problems using mathematical modelling techniques and graphical methods. Topics include
constant acceleration, variable acceleration, scalar and vector forces and application of Newton’s laws.
Students who carry on with Mathematics A Level in the 2nd year will build upon all the topics from AS. They will also study
moments in Mechanics and numerical methods in Pure Mathematics.
You will be taught through whole class teaching, classroom activities, demonstrations and small group work.
Exams 100%
For AS Level in Mathematics there will be two papers, a 2 hour Pure Mathematics paper and 1 hour Statistics and Mechanics
paper.
For A Level in Mathematics there will be three 2 hour papers; two Pure Mathematics papers and one Statistics and Mechanics
paper.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
Textbooks and online materials are provided but students will require their own Casio ‘Classwiz’ calculator.
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Media Studies
Awarding Body
Eduqas (WJEC branch for schools in England)
Course Structure
Component AS Media Studies – Year 1 A level Media Studies – Year 2
One Investigating the Media Media Products, Industries & Audiences
Section A: Investigating Media Language and Section A: Analysing Media Language and
Representation Representations
Section B: Investigating Media Industries and Section B: Understanding Media Industries and
Audiences Audiences
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (35%) Written exam: 2 hours 15 minutes (35%)
Range of forms & products studied in relation to key aspects of the theoretical framework
Two Investigating Media Forms and Products Media Forms and Products in Depth
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Music
Awarding Body
Eduqas
Students who want a wide practical and academic understanding of music and enjoy learning about a variety of styles and
music genres. Students must have reached grade 5 on their instrument by the start of the course.
Many students go on to study Music at university or college leading to employment in the music industry or teaching. Music is
a lifelong skill and includes elements of Maths, English, History and Design. The skills of team work, leadership and
confidence when performing are also developed as an integral part of the course.
Component 1: Performing
Total duration of performances: 6-8 minutes 30% of qualification (Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting
examiner)
A performance consisting of a minimum of two pieces either as a soloist, or as part of an ensemble, or a combination of both.
One piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one area of study.
Component 2: Composing
Total duration of compositions: 41⁄2-7 minutes 30% of qualification(Non-exam assessment: externally assessed by a visiting
examiner)
Two compositions one of which must reflect the musical techniques and conventions associated with the Western Classical
Tradition and be in response to a brief set by Eduqas. Learners will have a choice of four briefs released during the first week
of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken.
The second composition is a free composition.
Component 3: Appraising
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 40% of qualification
Two areas of study:
A: The Western Classical Tradition (The Development of the Symphony 1750-1830) including a choice of one set work from:
Either:
Symphony No. 104 in D major, 'London', movements 1 and 2: Haydn
Or:
Symphony No. 4 in A major, 'Italian', movements 1 and 2: Mendelssohn
B: A choice of one area of study from Rock and Pop, Musical Theatre Area of study, Jazz
(We have chosen to opt for the Jazz element)
Questions:
1. Set work analysis with a score – an in depth understanding of Haydn’s symphony no.104
2. Extended responses on wider context
3. Unprepared extracts of music with and without a score
4. Comparison questions – comparing different types of jazz / symphonies.
The A level is an extension of the above components but students study Jazz in more depth and all 4 movements of their
chosen symphony. Students can also specialise in either composition or performance at A level.
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Physical Education
Awarding Body
AQA
Year 12 Year 13
AS Theory A Level Theory
This contributes to 70% of the AS Level course and is Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary
assessed by a 2 hour written examination. The theory issues within sport. This is worth 70% of the A Level and
is studied in three sections: Applied Physiology, Skill is assessed by two 2 hour written examinations. The unit
Acquisition/Sports Psychology, Sport and Society comprises 3 sections: Section A – Exercise Physiology,
and Technology in Sport. Each section is assessed Section B – Sport Psychology and Section C – Sport and
by a combination of multiple choice, short answer Society and Technology in Sport. Each section is
and extended writing tasks. assessed by a combination of multiple choice, short
answer and extended writing tasks.
AS Coursework
This unit covers analysis and evaluation of physical A Level Coursework
activity as a performer or coach. This contributes to Students are assessed in an activity as a performer or
30% of the AS Level and has an internal assessment coach. This contributes to 30% of the A Level and has an
with external moderation. Students coach or perform internal assessment with external moderation. Students
the core skills/techniques in one sport and complete coach or perform the core skills/techniques in one sport
a written/verbal analysis of the performance. and complete a written/verbal analysis of the
performance.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
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Physics
Awarding Body
Edexcel
Physics explains the properties of matter and energy and their interaction throughout the universe. This course will help
you to develop a clearer understanding of the underlying principles of an increasingly technological world. You will
develop your ability to apply physical principles and concepts to dealing with everyday problems that require logical and
lateral thinking. You will be able to make judgements on the validity of given information and you will further your
practical skills. A sophisticated understanding of Maths will support progress in Physics.
A range of careers and higher education courses in engineering, architecture, mathematics, actuarial science, physics,
and astrophysics. It can also help gain direct entry into employment, especially into the scientific and related sectors.
During year 12, students will study two units, building on concepts of motion, forces, energy, waves and electricity from
GCSE.
Students will use trigonometry and vectors to express motion in 2D situations and link this with projectile motion. They
will gain a more in-depth understanding of Newton’s laws. They will look at conservation of energy and the changes of
both kinetic and potential energy. Students will investigate material science in both solids and liquids.
In the waves topic they will look more closely at how waves interact with each other (interference) and how they change
when they pass through objects (refraction and diffraction). During this topic they will investigate for the first time the
particle nature of light and uses in chemical analysis.
In the electricity topic the focus will be on resistivity and the idea of internal resistance of power cells.
Year 13 builds on these topics where students will study two further units.
There is no coursework and mathematical questions will comprise 40% of the exam paper.
Class teaching including pair working supported by a large element of practical work. Homework is a vital component of
the course.
100% written examination. Core practicals will be conducted throughout the year under guidance. These core practicals
lead to a scientific practical endorsement and will be assessed as part of the written examinations.
Date(s) of Assessment
June.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Politics
Awarding Body
Edexcel
For those students who feel stimulated by UK current affairs and who want to understand the background and
mechanisms that shape them. This course enables you to become knowledgeable about current affairs and the political
issues which drive them.
A wide range of higher education courses and careers in law, politics, the media, education, business and management.
Politics aims to develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics, acquire an understanding of the structures of
authority and power within the UK, and encourage an interest in, and engagement with, contemporary politics. The AS
course is divided into two units. One unit will explore government in the UK (e.g. constitution and the components of the
UK’s political system). The other unit will explore politics in the UK (e.g. voting behaviour, the franchise, political parties
and the role of the media). The course will be assessed by terminal examinations.
A Level Politics follows a similar structure to AS except that instead of only investigating the UK, students will also study
the political system of the United States. In addition, they will explore a range of political ideas.
The course will be assessed by 3 terminal examinations.
By a variety of methods including class teaching, discussion and debate, video, and documentary work.
Exams 100%
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
A core textbook will be provided. Other things such as journals, other books, magazines and IT resources will also be
made available to you.
Whitmore expects to run courses that are offered. However, courses that do not recruit to a satisfactory level may be
offered at another centre or withdrawn.
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Psychology
Awarding Body
Edexcel.
Who is the course for?
Psychology is the fascinating and scientific study of behaviour. You will study how people interact, how people change and develop,
how people think, how the nervous system works, how people differ from animals and how society decides what is normal. You’ll
develop your ability to think critically and analytically, further develop both your oral and communication skills and your ability to plan
statistically viable experiments.
Higher education courses in psychology, social sciences, and neuroscience and careers in social work, clinical or educational
psychology, research, teaching and the media.
AS Content
Paper 1
Social Psychology: Obedience and Prejudice – social interaction and how individuals, groups, society and culture influence
people
Cognitive Psychology - the workings of mental processes such as thinking and memory, which people use to make sense of
information. There is a specific focus on memory.
Paper 2
Learning Theories - how people learn behaviours, for example by associating with different events and observing others. There is a
specific focus on phobias.
Biological Approach - the relationship between biological processes, in particular the workings of the brain, and psychological
functions. There is a specific focus on aggression.
Across both papers you will be tested on research methods: how Psychologists test hypotheses in Psychology through a variety of
research techniques.
A Level Content
Paper 1
Social, Cognitive, Biological and Learning Theories, forming the foundations of Psychology.
Paper 2
Clinical Psychology - the study of mental disorders. Learning may focus on disorders such as Schizophrenia and Anorexia Nervosa.
Criminal or Child or Health Psychology – why people commit crime, jury decision making and eyewitness testimony; or
attachment, deprivation and Autism; or alcohol/drug addiction, tolerance and withdrawal.
Paper 3
Psychological skills - key debates in Psychology such as ‘Is Psychology a science?’ and issues of social control e.g. is it ethical to
control someone using medication? A review of all key issues in Psychology and the use of methodologies.
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Religious Studies
Philosophy & Ethics
Awarding Body
OCR
AS/A Level
In Year 12 and Year 13, students will study three components: Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Ethics and Development in
Religious Thought. Students will sit three exams in each year, each worth a third of the final grade. Students should be able to
demonstrate knowledge and assess critically the strengths and weaknesses of the given philosophies.
Philosophy of Religion
In Philosophy of Religion students will study philosophical issues and questions raised by religion and belief. These include
ancient philosophical influences, the nature of soul, mind and body, arguments about the existence or non-existence of God,
the nature and influence of religious experience, the problems of evil and suffering and the ideas about the nature of God.
They will also explore philosophical language and thought through significant concepts and the works of key thinkers,
illustrated in issues or debates in the philosophy of religion.
Religion and Ethics
The study of Religion and Ethics is a study of ethical language and thought through significant concepts and the works of
key thinkers, illustrated in issues or debates in religion and ethics, and also by the application of ethical theory to
contemporary issues of importance, namely euthanasia, business ethics and sexual ethics. Students will study normative
ethical theories and key ethical language and thoughts, as well as debates surrounding the significant ideas of conscience
and the influences on ethical thought of developments in religious beliefs.
Development in Religious Thought
Developments in Religious Thought provides an opportunity for the systematic study of one religious tradition. This will
include exploration of religious beliefs, values and teachings, sources of wisdom and authority and practices that shape and
express religious identity. Students will also study the ways in which religious traditions have evolved and developed over
time, and religious responses to challenges and significant contemporary social issues.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June
At AS Level, all 3 exams will be 60 marks, 1 hour 15 mins (2 essays of 30 marks each)
At A Level, all 3 exams will be 120 marks, 2 hours (3 essays of 40 marks each)
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Sociology
Awarding Body
AQA
Sociology is for any student with an interest in how people's values are formed; how societies change and the ways in which
our multicultural world is constructed. You'll also be taught to interpret data from interviews to questionnaires, analyse modern
day issues, and develop key research skills using a range of sources including autobiographies and video observations.
University degree courses leading to careers in the media, teaching, the caring professions, law, politics and business.
Sociology makes sense of human existence and human behaviour, focusing on the relationship of the individual to society.
You’ll learn to challenge widely held assumptions about human behaviour and the cultural values which produce this
behaviour. You’ll learn to interpret data and to analyse issues, as well as developing research skills.
The AS units covered are ‘Families and Households’ ‘Research Methods’ and ‘Education and Methods in Context’. The
topic 'Families and Households' allows students to take an in depth look at how the family has changed and evolved since
the 1900s and it asks students to question whether these changes will benefit our society or whether they will damage our
society.
The topic ‘Research Methods’ looks at the different research techniques used by sociologists in their investigations and the
strengths a limitations of each approach.
The topic 'Education and Methods in Context' presents students with questions about the education system such as 'why do
girls outperform boys?' and 'does wealth have an impact upon a person’s success in education?'. Students will use theoretical
perspectives and sociological studies to answer such questions. Students will also learn about the way in which a sociologist
carries out research and the strengths and weaknesses of different methodology. They will be expected to be able to apply
their knowledge of research methods to consider the best ways to study education.
In the overall A Level qualification, along with Families and Education students will study the units 'Beliefs in Society'
and ‘Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods’.
'Beliefs in Society' asks students to consider the different types of beliefs people have and to question the purpose these
beliefs have. Students will examine established religions, cults, sects and science as belief systems and consider the different
theoretical perspectives.
'Crime and Deviance and Methods in Context’ along with ‘Sociological Theory and Research Methods’ will allow the students
to look at why people commit crimes and consider who commits crimes according to national statistics. Students will be
expected to interrogate statistics and consider whether they are realistic. Students will also apply sociological theory and the
methods that theorists use.
Date(s) of Assessment
May/June.
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