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25/02/21

Retweeted From Speakers for Schools

Know someone who is passionate about the and interested in how construction can be made more sustainable? This , are offering a opportunity for students aged 14+. Applications close on March 6th: https://t.co/wmEYM08YVu. https://t.co/vLEcJUVzQI

25/02/21

Retweeted From RGS-IBG Schools

It's now 37 weeks to so here's another climate change tile to print off and collect. Are you up to speed on the ? Released every Wednesday! https://t.co/IcI6n173cK

25/02/21

Here are some examples of Year 11 students work on extending paragraphs using opinions in different tenses. This is very important to maximise marks in Speaking and Writing assessments. https://t.co/gOEEPyXX89

25/02/21

In 7V pupils are making full use of in it’s a wonderful digital exercise book (feedback is immediate),and recordings are excellent to work on tasks. https://t.co/hhBgfoPf8e

24/02/21

Thank you for another fantastic parent guide. 'What parents need to know about TikTok' https://t.co/DhjZ4xV8c7

23/02/21

Have you signed up yet for our 'Morning ' Every Mon/Wed/Fri with Miss Gulvin on . Students/Staff/Parents are all welcome, those already joined are learning valuable skills. https://t.co/jd8dOZQET0

22/02/21

Did you know has a range of brilliant Quizzes for the grammar points that we study in class? Here’s the one that Year 11 have been getting to grips with today https://t.co/OBo9BKc5tn as they revise Direct Object. https://t.co/yMDzHJfvfe

22/02/21

Our Year 8 students have been taking part in GCSE Taster lessons here is Art & Photography with 8S - Students got the chance to try out tactile .Students were asked to not look at their page and draw by feeling their face. https://t.co/rPtROPg8Mp

22/02/21

This week see's the first of our 'Women in Leadership' articles. Click the link below to read more about Amy - Assistant producer in TV. https://t.co/pC2FT3tShc https://t.co/XDGreFMGii

22/02/21

Retweeted From HeadStart Kent

The Resilience Awards are to celebrate young people’s achievements throughout this past challenging year and beyond. Find out more at https://t.co/1LhV5z6LBv https://t.co/crCJYo2ySd

22/02/21

Welcome back to all our students and staff this morning, we hope you had a half term! https://t.co/lf3M8NXKAF

19/02/21

Beautifully written story, heartwarming and uplifting. Feel free to RT. https://t.co/p5zHzpayTG

19/02/21

Thank you for sharing. About to retweet.

18/02/21

A great active challenge for why not play against friends? https://t.co/AolzfZ7eJZ

17/02/21

Thank you to everyone who joined in with our Jan-u-Fit . https://t.co/l1bl1BRAUT

16/02/21

https://t.co/4fV8Kc0pVr

16/02/21

https://t.co/Rry7xXYScn

16/02/21

Our Year 9 students were asked to write a paragraph to say how long they have been doing a particular sport, give an interesting and complex opinion and mention a benefit of doing this . Listen to these amazing audios! https://t.co/UEb0GaOzst

16/02/21

Retweeted From Speakers for Schools

We have heard from that we are not doing enough to fight climate change. Young people are the ones fighting for their future and the future of our planet. This we want to introduce young people to careers in green industries. Get involved! https://t.co/eQ1e2s9VVZ

16/02/21

Happy Pancake Day! We are looking forward to seeing your creations... https://t.co/qen9ZmC8Zx

15/02/21

For all students 11-18 can be difficult for some. https://t.co/83y4qEAvsJ

15/02/21

For anyone with little ones at home looking for something to do in this weather ... look no further! have some daily great craft ideas. https://t.co/BzxUw1ltbI

15/02/21

Calling all Y12 & 13 A Level English students, Miss Sayer is encouraging you to all get involved with this one. https://t.co/rLkHsZOUXt

12/02/21

We got there - you have all been amazing demonstrating and with your approach to work and engaging in activities. NO homework, it's a halfterm Parents we couldn't do what we do without your support Thankyou https://t.co/GT2RRU4N3a

12/02/21

Looking for a creative challenge next week - why not enter our Challenge. https://t.co/EUFhfSG5uN

12/02/21

Encouraging your creativity next week is back this half term . We are excited to see what our students will create, please share your entries with us. https://t.co/GZKAo5qCvm

12/02/21

Calling all fairy tale writers - introducing the 'Fractured Fairy Tales Competition'. We look forward to seeing our students entries https://t.co/gB0dga5SUS

12/02/21

Really pleased to see you managed to enjoy the screenfree time as a family making memories!

12/02/21

So glad to see her getting outside in the fresh air having fun!

12/02/21

Introducing an extract from Year 13 Film student Hannah’s short film – a dark and experimental exploration of astral projection. Please use the link below to view https://t.co/I6VoJ9F9YS via

12/02/21

Celebrating Chinese New Year! Keep following our feed today, Dumplings video to follow later! https://t.co/7TnHhMemVU

11/02/21

We are looking forward to seeing 35 of our Year 5 students on late this afternoon for a Classics - ‘Explore fascinating myths and legends from around the world and learn more about your favourite Mythological heroes.’ https://t.co/Wa3uDNDPsw

11/02/21

Lots of great photos coming in, we are glad to hear you are all enjoying another snow afternoon https://t.co/YSz6hKaq3i

11/02/21

Year 12 Film students have been learning about Meadows’ anti-Thatcher views in This is England. Deindustrialisation, North and South divide and a lot of political unrest! https://t.co/Nsk1WATTsJ

11/02/21

Wow this is amazing look at your WDYW images from yesterdays 'Valentines' theme. https://t.co/W99bSZusyV

11/02/21

Our Bronze participants have been busy collaborating with one another to come up with their team names and logos! Take a look at some of their creative designs https://t.co/6niwKBgA78

11/02/21

We've had an update on 'Willow' another of our sponsor . Watch the video below to see how she is getting on - well done Willow! https://t.co/MHS5ceWsfV

10/02/21

We are glad to see so many of you enjoyed your free lesson yesterday, got outside and enjoyed the fresh air and snow! ❄️☃️ https://t.co/xohATKTViC

10/02/21

Recently our Year 11 PE had fun drawing the , system and any other details they could think of on an old t-shirt to help with their . Fantastic to see different types of revision being used! https://t.co/EbdlvkEhrP

10/02/21

Star Feature Alert: Introducing Ameena one of our Y9 photographers. https://t.co/MuIHqEdhxj

The Sixth Form

A Personalised and Academic Sixth Form Curriculum 

We design an academic Sixth Form curriculum to prepare our students for higher education - including study at Oxford, Cambridge, the Russell Group and other world class universities - and high quality employment. We offer a wide choice of 28 A level subjects, from Art and Design to Further Mathematics, from Music to Product Design and many more.
In addition, a large number of our Sixth Formers pursue the Level 3 Extended Project Qualification. 

A level subjects on offer at Invicta Grammar School:

A-Level Art and Design

Subject: Art

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 units. Coursework 60%. Exam project 40%.
  • Controlled assessment to be completed at the end of Year 13. 15 hrs.

Topics Covered
  • Observational drawing
  • Tonal description
  • Colour Theory
  • Texture
  • Colour mixing
  • Watercolour
  • Acrylic paint
  • Sculpture
  • Photoshop
  • Printing – monoprinting, lino printing
  • Photography
  • Written analysis
  • Artist research
  • Conceptual development
  • Life Drawing and anatomy

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Nelson Thornes GCE Art & Design Handbook

Recommended Reading List
  • Tate.co.uk
  • NPG.co.uk
  • Story of Art By E.H Gombrich – Phaidon
  • The Shock of the New: Art and the Century of Change by Robert Hughes
  • The 20th Century Art book By Phaidon Press Ltd
  • The Art Book By Phaidon

Useful Tips
  • Ensure that ideas connect to your artist research.
  • Produce your own reference imagery
  • Develop your ideas thoroughly by exploring and experimenting with artist techniques.
  • Ensure that all evidence is recorded within your portfolio.

Subject: Art

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 units. Coursework 60%. Exam project 40%.
  • Controlled assessment to be completed at the end of Year 13. 15 hours.

Topics Covered
  • Observational drawing
  • Tonal description
  • Colour Theory
  • Texture
  • Colour mixing
  • Watercolour
  • Acrylic paint
  • Sculpture
  • Photoshop
  • Printing – monoprinting, lino printing
  • Photography
  • Written analysis
  • Artist research
  • Conceptual development
  • Life Drawing and anatomy

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Nelson Thornes GCE Art & Design Handbook
  • Tate.co.uk
  • NPG.co.uk

Recommended Reading List
  • Nelson Thornes GCE Art & Design Handbook
  • Tate.co.uk
  • NPG.co.uk
  • Story of Art By E.H Gombrich – Phaidon
  • The Shock of the New: Art and the Century of Change by Robert Hughes
  • The 20th Century Art book By Phaidon Press Ltd
  • The Art Book By Phaidon

Useful Tips
  • Ensure that ideas connect to your artist research.
  • Produce your own reference imagery
  • Develop your ideas thoroughly by exploring and experimenting with artist techniques.
  • Ensure that all evidence is recorded within your portfolio.

 

A-Level Art Textiles

Subject: Art Textiles

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 15 hour practical exam at the end of Year 13
  • Portfolio to be completed Year 12 into Year 13
  • 1000-3000 word extended essay

Topics Covered
  • Concept and artist research
  • Conceptual development
  • Written analysis
  • Drawing and recording skills
  • Surface decoration techniques; print development, dyeing, stitching, embellishment, fabric and heat manipulation.
  • Constructed textile techniques; weaving, knitting, felting.
  • 3D Manipulation; experimental pattern cutting and draping, creative garment development, sculptural textiles.
  • Computer Aided Design 
  • Creative fashion illustration
  • Digital recording techniques
  • Refinement through experimentation

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Textile artist: Layered Cloth: The Art of Fabric Manipulation, Ann Small, Search Press 2017
  • Experimental Textiles, Kim Thittichai, Batsford Ltd 2009
  • Stitching the Textured Surface, Lynda Monk, D4daisy books 2009
  • Raising the surface with machine embroidery, Maggie Grey, London: Batsford 2004
  • Pattern Magic, Tomoko Nakamichi, Laurence King Publishing, 2010

Useful Tips
  • Take inspiration from everything around you.
  • Engage in Art and Culture - visit museums and galleries. 
  • Keep a mini sketchbook.
  • Record in a wide variety of ways – your own photography, collage, sketches, it all counts.

Subject: Art Textiles

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 15 hour practical exam at the end of Year 13
  • Portfolio to be completed Year 12 into Year 13
  • 1000-3000 word extended essay

Topics Covered
  • Concept and artist research
  • Conceptual development
  • Written analysis
  • Drawing and recording skills
  • Surface decoration techniques; print development, dyeing, stitching, embellishment, fabric and heat manipulation.
  • Constructed textile techniques; weaving, knitting, felting.
  • 3D Manipulation; experimental pattern cutting and draping, creative garment development, sculptural textiles.
  • Computer Aided Design 
  • Creative fashion illustration
  • Digital recording techniques
  • Refinement through experimentation
  • Developing and presenting a personal outcome
  • Portfolio presentation

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Textile artist: Layered Cloth: The Art of Fabric Manipulation, Ann Small, Search Press 2017
  • Experimental Textiles, Kim Thittichai, Batsford Ltd 2009
  • Stitching the Textured Surface, Lynda Monk, D4daisy books 2009
  • Raising the surface with machine embroidery, Maggie Grey, London: Batsford 2004
  • Pattern Magic, Tomoko Nakamichi, Laurence King Publishing, 2010

Useful Tips
  • Take inspiration from everything around you.
  • Engage in Art and Culture - visit museums and galleries. 
  • Keep a mini sketchbook.
  • Record in a wide variety of ways – your own photography, collage, sketches, it all counts.

 

A-Level Biology

Subject: Biology

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13
  • Paper 1 – Topics 1-4
  • Paper 2 – Topics 5-8
  • Paper 3 – Topics 1-8 including essay

Topics Covered
  • Topic 1: Biological Molecules
  • Topic 2: Cells, Structure, Movement in & out, cell division and immunity
  • Topic 3: Organisms & exchange with their environment
  • Topic 4: Genetic information and variation

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CGP AQA Revision guide and workbook
  • Kerboodle
  • TED talks
  • Biozone Workbook

Recommended Reading List
  • The Selfish Gene
  • The Blind Watchmaker.
  • Unweaving the Rainbow Climbing Mount Improbable
  • The Ancestor’s Tale
  • Y: The Descent of Men
  • In the Blood: God, Genes and Destiny
  • Almost Like a Whale: The 'Origin of Species' Updated
  • The Language of the genes
  • Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters
  • The Language of Genes
  • Francis Crick: Discoverer of the Genetic Code
  • Nature Via Nurture: Genes, Experience and What Makes Us Human
  • DNA: The Secret of Life
  • The Double Helix: Personal Account of the Discovery of the Structure of DNA
  • This Is Biology: The Science of the Living World
  • The Man Who Mistook His Wife For A Hat
  • What A Plant Knows

Useful Tips

Complete examination practice on topics using old past papers and resources provided on student portal

 

Subject: Biology

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13
  • Paper 1 – Topics 1-4
  • Paper 2 – Topics 5-8
  • Paper 3 – Topics 1-8 including essay

Topics Covered
  • Topic 5: Energy transfers in & between organisms.
  • Topic 6: Organisms respond to environmental changes.
  • Topic 7: Genetics, populations, evolution & ecosystems.
  • Topic 8: The control of gene expression.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CGP AQA Revision guide and workbook
  • Kerboodle
  • TED talks
  • Biozone Workbook

Recommended Reading List
  • The Selfish Gene
  • The Blind Watchmaker.
  • Unweaving the Rainbow Climbing Mount Improbable
  • The Ancestor’s Tale
  • Y: The Descent of Men
  • In the Blood: God, Genes and Destiny
  • Almost Like a Whale: The 'Origin of Species' Updated
  • The Language of the genes
  • Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters
  • The Language of Genes
  • Francis Crick: Discoverer of the Genetic Code
  • Nature Via Nurture: Genes, Experience and What Makes Us Human
  • DNA: The Secret of Life
  • The Double Helix: Personal Account of the Discovery of the Structure of DNA
  • This Is Biology: The Science of the Living World
  • The Man Who Mistook His Wife For A Hat
  • What A Plant Knows

Useful tips

Complete examination practice on topics using old past papers and resources provided on student portal

 

A-Level Business

Subject: Business

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board

Topics Covered
  • What is business?
  • Managers, leadership and decision making
  • Decision making to improve marketing performance
  • Decision making to improve operational performance
  • Decision making to improve financial performance
  • Decision making to improve human resource performance

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CPG Revision Guide
  • Tutor2u Website
  • Business Review
  • Keep up to date with news

Recommended Reading List
  • One Click: Jeff Bezos and the Rise of Amazon.com, Richard L. Brandt
  • Capital, Thomas Piketty
  • Positive thinking, Paul Ormerod
  • The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer, Jeffrey Liker

Useful Tips

Flashcards for knowledge revision.

Practise exam style questions frequently

 

Subject: Business

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13  - each paper is 33.3% of qualification.

Topics Covered
  • Analysing the strategic position of a business
  • Choosing strategic direction
  • Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies
  • Managing strategic change

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CPG Revision Guide
  • Tutor2u Website
  • Business Review
  • Keep up to date with news

Recommended Reading List
  • One Click: Jeff Bezos and the Rise of Amazon.com, Richard L. Brandt
  • Capital, Thomas Piketty
  • Positive thinking, Paul Ormerod
  • The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World's Greatest Manufacturer, Jeffrey Liker

Useful Tips

Flashcards for knowledge revision.

Practise exam style questions frequently

A-Level Chemistry

Subject: Chemistry

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information

  • OCR A Chemistry

  • 2 papers at end of Year 12

  • Breath in Chemistry (70 marks) 1 hour 30 minutes

  • Depth in Chemistry (70 marks) 1 hour 30 minutes

  • 15% of marks based on practical work

  • 20% Mathematical requirement

Topics Covered

  • Module 1: Development of Practical skills in Chemistry

  • Module 2: Foundations in Chemistry

  • Module 3: Periodic Table and Energy

  • Module 4: Core Organic Chemistry

Recommended Extra Resources

  • Revision Guides

  • GCP Revision Books

  • Hodder – My Revision Notes

  • Workbooks

  • Pearson – Revision workbooks (AS and A2)

  • Hodder – Module Workbooks

  • Recommended Websites

  • Knockhard.org.uk

  • Kerboodle.com

  • Chemguide.co.uk

  • learnch.org

Recommended Reading List

Useful Tips

  • Review your work after each lesson, by reading through the class notes and textbook. Complete the learning grids.

  • Use Kerboodle for study guides for each topic (chapter) and complete the end of topic questions.

  • Practice and practice questions – use workbooks, end of topic questions and past papers.

Subject: Chemistry

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information

  • OCR A Chemistry

  • 3 papers at the end of Year 13  

  • Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry(100 marks) 2 hours 15 minutes

  • Synthesis and analytical techniques (100 marks) 2 hours 15 minutes

  • Unified chemistry (70 marks) 1 hour 30 minutes

  • 15% of marks based on practical work

  • 20% Mathematical requirement

  • Practical Endorsement

Topics Covered

  • Module 1: Development of Practical skills in Chemistry

  • Module 5: Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements

  • Module 6: Organic Chemistry and Analysis

Recommended Extra Resources

  • Revision Guides

  • GCP Revision Books

  • Hodder – My Revision Notes

  • Workbooks

  • Pearson – Revision workbooks (AS and A2)

  • Hodder – Module Workbooks

  • Recommended Websites

  • Knockhard.org.uk

  • Kerboodle.com

  • Chemguide.co.uk

  • learnch.org

Recommended Reading List

Useful Tips

  • Review your work after each lesson, by reading through the class notes and textbook and complete the learning grids.

  • Use Kerboodle for study guides for each topic (chapter) and complete the end of topic questions.

  • Practice and practice questions – use workbooks, end of topic questions and past papers.

 

A-Level Classical Civilisation

Subject: Classical Civilisation

Year 12 & 13  A Level Course

Examination Information
  • OCR examination board
  • 100% examination
  • Unit 1 – The World of the Hero 40% of total A Level: 2 hours 30 mins
  • Unit 2 – Greek Theatre 30% of total A Level: 1 hour 45 mins
  • Unit 3 – Love and Relationships in the Greek and Roman World 30% of total A Level: 1 hour 45 mins

Topics Covered
  • World of the Hero  Homer’s Odyssey
    • Literary techniques and composition
    • The heroic world: characterisation and themes
    • The social, cultural and religious context
  • World of the Hero  Virgil’s Aeneid
    • Literary techniques and composition
    • The heroic world: characterisation and themes
    • The social, cultural and religious context
    • Historical and political background
  • Greek Theatre 
    • ​Drama and the theatre in ancient Athenian society.
    • Nature of tragedy.
    • Nature of (old) comedy.
    • Literary techniques, structure, and dramatic conventions.
    • Social, political and religious themes in tragedy with reference to Oedipus the King and Bacchae.
    • Social, political and religious themes in comedy with reference to Frogs.
  • Love & Relationships
    • Men and women
    • Plato on love and desire
    • Seneca on love and desire
    • Sappho
    • Ovid
    • Love and relationships in poetry

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Range of fiction and non-fiction texts in the Reading Room in the Classical Civilisation section. 
  • Omnibus magazines available in A26

Useful Tips
  • Wider Reading: wider viewing: ancient Rome and Greece have inspired artists, poets, novelists and film makers, so do a little research in the library, on the internet or and even on Youtube to find the living legacies of the classical world.
  • Visit the British Museum. Their website has many tips on trails and routes to follow around the museum
  • Go to the theatre

 

A-Level Computer Science

Subject: Computer Science

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • OCR Computer Science
  • 2 papers x 2.5 hours at the end of Year 13 – 40% each
  • Programming project – 20%

Topics Covered
  • The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
  • Software and software development
  • Exchanging data
  • Data types, data structures and algorithms
  • Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
  • Programming practise

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List

Useful Tips
  • Redo questions from the previous topics without looking at the solution when revising.
  • Make use of revision resources on Student Portal.
  • Use Gap Analysis after each assessment to identify key areas to work on before the next assessment. Ask your teacher if you are not sure about something.
  • Practise use of OOP when completing programming challenges.

 

Subject: Computer Science

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • OCR Computer Science
  • 2 papers x 2.5 hours at the end of Year 13 – 40% each
  • Programming project – 20%

Topics Covered
  • Elements of computational thinking
  • Problem solving and programming
  • Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms
  • NEA (Analysis of the problem, design of the solution, developing the solution, evaluation)

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List

Useful tips
  • Redo questions from the previous topics without looking at the solution when revising.
  • Make use of revision resources on Student Portal.
  • Use Gap Analysis after each assessment to identify key areas to work on before the next assessment. Ask your teacher if you are not sure about something.

 

A-Level Dance

Subject: Dance

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA  Exam Board
  • 1 Written paper  2.5 hours at the end of Year 13 – 50%
  • Practical Performance Work  – 50%
  • You will take a series of mock exams in Year 12
  •  

Topics Covered

Studio Based: 

  • Introduction to advanced contemporary dance technique
  • Practitioner study for solo performance 1 (Christopher Bruce)
  • Introduction to advanced choreography: solo/duet project
  • Practitioner study for solo performance 1 (Robert North/Richard Alston)
  • Repertory performance: Creation of group performance piece

Appreciation:

  • Introduction to dance theory
  • Analysis of Set work 1 – Rooster (1991) by Christopher Bruce 
  • Historical Contexts – The development of contemporary dance in Britain and Rambert Dance Company. Including study of Robert North and Richard Alston. 

Recommended Extra Resources

 

 

Recommended Reading List
  • Essential guide to Dance – Linda Ashley
  • Performance Reviews or video extracts of choreographic work from the following practitioners: 
  • Christopher Bruce
  • Robert North
  • Richard Alston
  • The Intimate Act of Choreography - Linda Blom

Useful Tips
  • Watch as much live dance performance as you can, in any genre (but contemporary dance will be even more beneficial). If you can’t get to the theatre use platforms like youtube, vimeo and social media. 
  • Keep a creative journal for any choreography ideas throughout the course. This can be on paper or an electronic pinboard. You will thank yourself for it when completing your final creative project in year 13!
  • Use your free study time to do complimentary training in the dance studio, such as pilates or additional rehearsal of class material. 
  • Engage with the pre-reading and preparatory tasks for your appreciation lessons so that you get the most out of them. 

 

 

Subject: Dance

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 1 Written paper  2.5 hours at the end of Year 13 – 50%
  • Practical Performance Work  – 50%

Topics Covered

Studio Based: 

  • Practitioner study for solo performance 3 (Matthew Bourne and Akram Khan)
  • Choreographic Projects: Group composition based on given topics from the exam board.
  • Repertory performance 2: Creation of group performance piece for examination

Appreciation:

  • Contextual Area of study: The independent contemporary dance scene in Britain since the year 2000. Including study of Matthew Bourne, Akram Khan and Jasmin Vardimon.
  • Analysis of Set work 2 – Sutra (2008) by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui 
  • Revision

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Reviews from professional works found online and in journals in school library for the above practitioners:
  • Terpsichore in Sneakers: Postmodern Dance by Sally Banes

Useful Tips
  • Feel the fear and do it anyway! Year 13 will test and push your creative resilience and you may find the workshops will take you out of your comfort zone. When you embrace mistakes as learning opportunities is when it starts to get exciting. This is where you will discover your own choreographic practice and truly original work is made. 

A-Level Design Technology: Product Design

Subject: Design Technology: Product Design​

Year 12 - 13

 

 

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam board
  • 50% exam (maths and science contribute 15%) at the end of year 13 A-level. This consists of two papers: Technical Principles and Designing and making principles
  • 50% non-exam assessment (NEA). The NEA consists of a single design and make activity where students will develop a design brief in response to a context set themselves. 

Topics Covered
  • Materials
  • Timbers
  • Polymers
  • Metals
  • Compliant Materials
  • Smart Materials
  • Modern Materials
  • Fabrication Methods
  • Forming Methods
  • Finishing Materials and Processes
  • Major Developments in Technology
  • Product Life Cycle
  • The Influence of Design and Technology in Society
  • The environment and sustainability
  • Human Needs
  • Design Methods
  • The work of Past and Present Designers
  • Communication Methods and drawing techniques
  • Modelling
  • Health and Safety
  • Use of ICT in Design
  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Recommended Extra Resources
  • AQA Hodder- Design Technology Product Design
  • Visit museums
  • Watch industrial manufacturing processes on Youtube
  • Instagram- Follow #productdesign
  • Websites- Deezen, New Designers, Dexigner directory, Houzz

Recommended Reading List
  • Against the Odds: An Autobiography – by James Dyson
  • James Dyson History of Great Inventions – by James Dyson
  • Making It – Manufacturing Techniques for Product Design – Chris Lefteri
  • Designs of the Times - Lakshmi Bhaskaran 
  • Cool Hunting - Green Dave Evans 
  • The Eco-Design Handbook - Alastair Faud –Luke 
  • Design Museum: Contemporary Design - Catherine McDermott 
  • 50 Product Designs: Process - Jennifer Hudson 

Useful Tips

Look at past papers and mark schemes, familiarise yourself with the key terminology expected in an A-level examination.

Use the resources on the portal to support theory knowledge.

 

A-Level Drama

Subject: Drama

Year 12 – A Level

 

Examination Information
  • OCR Exam Board
     
  • Practitioners in Practice

             120 marks

             40% of total A Level

             Written portfolio and performance

  • Preparation for Paper A: Analysing Performance

60 marks

20% of total A Level

2 hours 15 minutes

Written paper

  • Preparation for Paper B: Deconstructing Texts

for Performance

60 marks

            20% of total A Level

            1 hour 45 minutes

            Written paper

  • Introduction to Drama and Theatre and Skills development work
  • Practitioner Study Complete research report
  • Devising workshops and work on devised project
  • Devised project rehearsals and performance
  • Introduction to semiotics and themes .
  • Read and workshop text 1 for Analysing performance. Approaching live theatre analysis
  • Read and workshop text 2 for Analysing performance
  • Read and workshop text for Exploring texts for performance

Topics Covered
  • Practitioner studies including Artaud /Brecht /Stanislavski and Frantic Assembly
  • Research and practical exploration of practitioners
  • Devise and perform original theatre
  • Evaluate and analyse live theatre
  • Study play texts from the point of view of a director, designer, performer and critic. 

Recommended Extra Resources

The National Theatre offers an Entry pass for young people between 16-21 entitles you to £5 tickets 

 

Recommended Reading List
  • Katie Mitchell -  The Directors Craft
  • Frantic Assembly -  Book of Devising Theatre
  • Stanislavski - An Actor Prepares/ Building a Character/ Creating a Role
  • Jean Benedetti – Stanislavski: An Introduction
  • Augusto Boal - Games for Actor and Non Actors
  • Peter Brook – The Empty Space
  • Jean Benedetti- The Art of the Actor
  • Patsy Rosenberg - The Actor Speaks
  • Le Coq - The Moving Body
  • The Complete Brecht Toolkit – Stephen Unwin
  • The Complete Stanislavsky Toolkit – Bella Merlin
  • OCR Drama and Theatre Studies Specification
  • Antigone – Sophocles (Jean Anouilh)
  • Cloud Nine – Caryl Churchill
  • Earthquakes in London – Mike Bartlett
  • Stockholm – Bryony Lavery
  • Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street – Patrick Quentin/Stephen Sondheim
  • The Crucible – Arthur Miller
  • The Visit – Friedrich Durrenmatt
  • Woza Albert! – Percy Mtwa/Mbongeni Ngema/Barney Simon

 

Useful Tips
  • Keep an ‘ideas journal’ to build up interesting images and articles. This can be invaluable for devising.
  • Theatre reacts to the world around it so, make sure you do wider reading to understand the social, cultural, and historic events surrounding the lives of practitioners, the time period of plays studied and theatre movements.

Subject: Drama

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Unit 2: Exploring and Performing Texts

                                 60 marks

                                 20% of total A Level

  • Unit 3: Paper A: Analysing Performance

60 marks

20% of total A Level

2 hours 15 minutes

Written paper

  • Unit 4: Paper B: Deconstructing Texts for Performance

          60 marks

                    20% of total A Level

                    1 hour 45 minutes

           Written paper

  • Text performance workshops and rehearsals
  • Text performance rehearsals and performance
  • Read text for Deconstructing texts for performance
  • Approaches to directing and the book
  • Deconstructing texts for performance workshops
  • Re-read texts for Analysing performance
  • Workshops on exam texts and informal performances
  • Exam preparation Papers 1 & 2
  • See live theatre performance for Section B Paper 1
  • Summer Exam

 

Topics Covered
  • Evaluate and analyse live theatre
  • Study play texts from the point of view of a director, designer, performer and critic. 
  • Text analysis
  • Analysis of Live theatre production
  • Revision – structuring written examination answers

 

Recommended Extra Resources

The National Theatre offers an Entry pass for young people between 16-21 entitles you to £5 tickets 

 

Recommended Reading List
  • Katie Mitchell -  The Directors Craft
  • Frantic Assembly -  Book of Devising Theatre
  • Stanislavski - An Actor Prepares/ Building a Character/ Creating a Role
  • Jean Benedetti – Stanislavski: An Introduction
  • Augusto Boal - Games for Actor and Non Actors
  • Peter Brook – The Empty Space
  • Jean Benedetti- The Art of the Actor
  • Patsy Rosenberg - The Actor Speaks
  • Le Coq - The Moving Body
  • The Complete Brecht Toolkit – Stephen Unwin
  • The Complete Stanislavsky Toolkit – Bella Merlin
  • OCR Drama and Theatre Studies Specification
  • A Day in the Death of Joe Egg – Peter Nichols
  • Caucasian Chalk Circle – Bertolt Brecht
  • The House of Bernarda Alba – Federico Garcia Lorca
  • King Lear – William Shakespeare

 

Useful Tips
  • Use Stanislavski’s relaxation techniques to help alleviate the build-up of tension, during revision.
  • Prepare a detailed revision schedule, that reflects an appropriate ratio of marks available to time spent revising.

 

A-Level Economics

Subject: Economics

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

 

Examination Information
  • OCR Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 2 hours at the end of Year 13:

1. Microeconomics (microeconomics themes 1 and 3)

2. Macroeconomics (macroeconomics themes 2 and 4)

3. Themes in economics (all four themes)

 

Topics Covered

Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure (Year 1)

Provides an introduction to microeconomics and the nature of economics, examining how the price mechanism allocates resources in markets and why market failure arises

  • Economics as a social science
  • The economic problem
  • Production possibility frontiers
  • Specialisation and division of labour
  • Types of economy
  • Rational decision making and alternative views of consumer behaviour
  • Demand, supply and the price mechanism
  • Elasticities
  • Indirect taxes and subsidies
  • Types of market failure: externalities, public goods and information gaps
  • Government intervention in markets
  • Government failure

Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market (Year 1)

Develops microeconomics from year 1 evaluating the nature of competition between companies, different market structures and government intervention to promote competition in markets

  • Business growth
  • Production
  • Costs, revenue and profit
  • Perfect competition
  • Monopolistic competition
  • Oligopoly
  • Game theory
  • Monopoly
  • Contestability
  • Business objectives
  • Efficiency
  • Competition policy
  • Government regulation

 

Recommended Extra Resources

Revision guides

Web sites:

  • pajholden videos
  • tutor2u.com
  • s-cool.co.uk
  • bankofengland.co.uk
  • hm-treasury.gov.uk
  • ons.gov.uk (office for national statistics)
  • budgetresposibility.org (office for budget responsibility)

 

Recommended Reading List
  • Peter Smith with Simon Dyer, OCR A Level Economics Fourth edition text book, 2019 (this must be purchased before the start of the course)
  • Anderton A - Economics – 6th edition (Pearson 2015)
  • Sloman J - Economics 6th edition (Prentice Hall 2006)
  • Fyfe N and Threadgould A - The UK Economy 2005-2015 (Anforme 2015)
  • Threadgould A and Meachen A -Microeconomics for A level year 1 and AS (Anforme 2015)
  • Threadgould A-Macroeconomics for A level Year 1 and AS (Anforme 2015)
  • Davis P and Joad T - Essential Maths Skills for AS/A-level Economics (Hodder Education 2016)
  • Lawrence J - Maths Skills for A Level Economics (Oxford 2014)

Periodicals

  • Economist
  • Economic Review
  • Economics Today

 

Useful Tips

 

Use the revision materials and past papers on the student portal

Subject: Economics

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

 

Examination Information
  • OCR Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 2 hours at the end of Year 13:

1. Microeconomics (microeconomics themes 1 and 3)

2. Macroeconomics (macroeconomics themes 2 and 4)

3. Themes in economics (all four themes)

 

Topics Covered

Theme 2: The UK Economy – performance and policies (Year 2)

Provides an introduction to macroeconomics assessing the key measures of economic performance and the main objectives and instruments of UK economic policy

  • Measures of economic performance
  • Aggregate demand and aggregate supply
  • National income
  • Economic growth
  • Inflation
  • Unemployment
  • Balance of payments
  • Macroeconomic objectives
  • Government policies
  • Conflicts of policies

 

Theme 4: The global economy (Year 2)

Develops macroeconomics from year 1 evaluating the causes and effects of the rise in globalisation, international trade and development economics

  • Globalisation
  • International trade
  • Trading blocs, common markets and monetary unions
  • The World Trade Organisation
  • Balance of payments
  • Exchange rates
  • International competitiveness
  • Inequality and poverty
  • Growth and development
  • Financial markets and their regulation
  • Government spending and  taxation
  • Macroeconomic policies in a global context

 

Recommended Extra Resources

Revision guides:

Websites:

  • pajholden videos (economics lessons on YouTube)
  • tutor2u.com
  • Competition and Markets Authority (theme 3)
  • United Nations (theme 4)
  • World Bank (theme 4)
  • International Monetary Fund (theme 4)
  • World Trade Organisation (theme 4)
  • Bank of England (theme 4)
  • Treasury (theme 4 and has list of PFI agreements for theme 3)
  • European Central Bank (theme 4)
  • Country profiles and data:  indexmundi.com (theme 4)
  • Free video reports:  ft.com (theme 4)

 

Recommended Reading List
  • Peter Smith with Simon Dyer, OCR A Level Economics Fourth edition text book, 2019 (this must be purchased before the start of the course)
  • Anderton A - Economics – 6th edition (Pearson 2015)
  • Sloman J - Economics 6th edition (Prentice Hall 2006)
  • Fyfe N and Threadgould A - The UK Economy 2005-2015 (Anforme 2015)
  • Nutter R - Microeconomics for A level year 2 (Anforme 2016) theme 3
  • Threadgould A - Macroeconomics for A level year 2 (Anforme 2016) theme 4
  • Cramp P - Labour Markets 5th edition (Anforme 2012) theme 3
  • Cramp P - Economic Development 6th edition (Anforme 2014) theme 4
  • Smith C - International trade and globalisation 5th edition (Anforme 2012) theme 4
  • P. Davis and T. Joad - Essential Maths Skills for AS/A-level Economics (Hodder Education 2016)
  • J. Lawrence - Maths Skills for A Level Economics (Oxford 2014)

Periodicals:

  • Economist
  • Economic Review
  • Economics Today

Useful Tips

Use the revision materials and past papers on the student portal

 

A-Level English Literature

Subject: English Literature

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 2 papers x 2hr 15 mins, 1 paper x 1hr 15 mins at the end of Year 13 – 80%
  • 3000 words coursework – 20% during Year 1

Topics Covered
  • Contemporary poetry
  • Other drama
  • Prose comparison – two texts
  • Shakespeare

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Websites/journals linked to individual texts and writers
  • University websites
  • Poetry Foundation
  • Poetry Society
  • Emagazine (subscription provided by the English Department)
  • English Review magazines (available through the school library)

Recommended Reading List
  • See KS5 reading list on the IGS website; students will also be given a booklet at the start of the year in which they can find a recommended reading list

Useful Tips
  • Read widely around the subject of the texts
  • Research historical, political, philosophical contexts and literary traditions linked to studied authors
  • Read other texts by studied authors
  • Listen to podcasts about authors, texts, literary traditions etc
Extra and Super Curricular
  • Aspire lectures
  • University visits
  • Screenings of studied texts
  • Conferences
  • Writing competitions

 

Subject: English Literature

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 2 papers x 2hr 15 mins, 1 paper x 1hr 15 mins at the end of Year 13 – 80%
  • 3000 words coursework – 20% during Year 13

Topics Covered
  • Named poet/poetry movement
  • Coursework
  • Revision of Y12 units

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Websites/journals linked to individual texts and writers
  • University websites
  • Poetry Foundation
  • Poetry Society
  • Emagazine (subscription provided by the English Department)
  • English Review magazines (available through the school library)

Recommended Reading List
  • See KS5 reading list on the IGS website; students will also be given a booklet at the start of the year in which they can find a recommended reading list

Useful Tips 

 
  • Read widely around the subject of the texts
  • Research historical, political, philosophical contexts and literary traditions linked to studied authors
  • Read other texts by studied authors
  • Listen to podcasts about authors, texts, literary traditions etc.
Extra and Super Curricular
  • Aspire lectures
  • University visits
  • Screenings of studied texts
  • Conferences
  • Writing competitions

A-Level Fashion and Textiles

Subject: Fashion and Textiles

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • Paper 1 x 150 minutes - Internal assessment
  • Paper 2 x 90 minutes - Internal assessment
  • Internal Exams taken in November and March in Year 13
  • Production of a Digital design portfolio comprised of short length projects from September to March - Internal assessment
  • Start of the External NEA component in March of Year 12

Topics Covered
  • Technical Principles
  • Materials and their applications
  • Classification of Materials
  • Methods for investigating and testing materials
  • Performance characteristics of materials, yarns, woven materials, knitted fabrics, non-woven fabrics
  • Smart materials
  • Technical textiles
  • Commercial names of fibres and fabrics
  • Performance characteristics of fabrics
  • Methods of joining and use of components
  • Seams
  • Threads
  • Fusible fleece
  • The use of fastenings
  • Trims
  • Components and their appropriateness for a range of products
  • Interfacings, under linings, linings, interlinings
  • The use of finishes
  • Fabric finishes
  • Mechanical finishes
  • Chemical finishes
  • Laminating as a finishing process
  • Enhancement of materials
  • Modern industrial and commercial practice
  • Digital Design and Manufacture
  • CAD, CAM
  • Virtual modelling
  • Electronic Data interchange
  • Production, planning and control (PPC) networking
  • The requirements for textile and fashion design and development
  • Health and safety
  • Protecting designs and intellectual property
  • Design for manufacturing, maintenance, repair and disposal
  • Care and maintenance of products
  • Feasibility studies
  • Enterprise and marketing in the development of products]Fashion cycles
  • Design communication
  • Designing and making principles
  • Design methods and processes
  • Design theory
  • Design influences
  • Design styles and movements
  • Designers and their work
  • How technology and cultural changes can impact on the work of designers
  • Socioeconomic influences
  • Major development in technology
  • Product life cycle
  • Social, moral and ethical issues
  • Design processes
  • Prototype development
  • Critical analysis and evaluation
  • Selecting appropriate tools, equipment and processes
  • Accuracy in design and manufacture
  • Responsible design
  • Environmental issues
  • Conservation of energy and resources
  • Design for manufacture and project manufacture
  • Quality assurance and quality control
  • National and international standards in product design

Recommended Extra Resources
  • You Tube - videos for textile decorative techniques
  • Online for examples of Smart and Modern Materials
  • Online case studies on the environment - BBC
  • Drapers Record
  • Premiere Vision website
  • HSE website
  • Vogue and Harpers Bazaar Online

Recommended Reading List
  • AQA AS/A-Level Design and Technology:  Fashion and Textiles, 23 Feb 3018, Treuherz, Dick et al
  • My Revision Notes:  AQA A-Level Design and Technology:  Fashion and Textiles, 29 Mar 2019, Bush & Drake
  • Clothing Technology: from Fibre to Fashion, 15 Oct 2013, Hannelore, Hermeling, Hornberger & Kilgus
  • The Fashion Resource Book:  Research for Design, 6 Aug 2012, R. Leach
  • Fashion Design, 3rd edition (Portfolio), 24 Mar 2011, Jenkyn Jones
  • Technology of Textile Properties, 1991, Taylor
  • Techno Textiles: Revolutionary Fabrics for Fashion and Design, 1999, Braddock & O’Mahony
  • Fashionpedia:  The visual Dictionary of Fashion design, 6 Jan 2016 by Fashionary
  • The Fashion Book, 2001, Buttolph, Braun & Chapius

Useful Tiips
  • Practise as many past paper questions as possible and ensure to assess them to gain an understanding of the mark scheme.
  • Develop key points around topics to be able to construct longer responses with breadth and depth. 

 

Subject: Fashion and Textiles

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • Internal exams taken in November and March of Year 13.
  • Paper 1 - Technical principles x 150 minutes  30% of A level
  • Paper 2 - Designing and Making Principles x 90 minutes 20% of A level
  • External Exams taken in June of Year 13
  • Non Exam Assessment (NEA) A Substantial design and make project 50% of A level

Topics Covered
  • Revisit all the Subject content topics covered in Year 12 to add another layer of detail and depth of knowledge.   In particular more detail on the named designers and socio economic movements.  Update on new technological developments.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • You Tube – videos for textile decorative techniques
  • Online for examples of Smart and Modern Materials
  • Online case studies on the environment -  BBC
  • Drapers Record
  • Premiere Vision website
  • HSE website
  • Vogue and Harpers Bazaar Online

Recommended Reading List
  • AQA AS/A-Level Design and Technology:  Fashion and Textiles, 23 Feb 3018, Treuherz, Dick et al
  • My Revision Notes:  AQA A-Level Design and Technology:  Fashion and Textiles, 29 Mar 2019, Bush & Drake
  • Clothing Technology: from Fibre to Fashion, 15 Oct 2013, Hannelore, Hermeling, Hornberger & Kilgus
  • The Fashion Resource Book:  Research for Design, 6 Aug 2012, R. Leach
  • Fashion Design, 3rd edition (Portfolio), 24 Mar 2011, Jenkyn Jones
  • Technology of Textile Properties, 1991, Taylor
  • Techno Textiles: Revolutionary Fabrics for Fashion and Design, 1999, Braddock & O’Mahony
  • Fashionpedia:  The visual Dictionary of Fashion design, 6 Jan 2016 by Fashionary
  • The Fashion Book, 2001, Buttolph, Braun & Chapius

Useful Tips
  • Practise as many past paper questions as possible and ensure to assess them to gain an understanding of the mark scheme.
  • Develop key points around topics to be able to construct longer responses with breadth and depth.

A-Level Film Studies

Subject:  Film Studies

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • WJEC exam board
  • Final examination taken at the end of the two year course (Year 13)
  • Paper 1: Varieties of filmmaking (35%)
  • Paper 2: Global filmmaking perspectives (35%)
  • Coursework unit: 5 minute short film and evaluation (30%)

Topics Covered
  • Introduction to film form and narrative theory
  • Hollywood: Casablanca and Bonnie & Clyde
  • British Film: This is England and Trainspotting
  • American film: La La Land and Beasts of the Southern Wild
  • Coursework – research and planning

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Media Magazine
  • WJEC Film A Level textbook

Recommended Reading List
  • Future Learn courses:
    • Explore filmmaking: from script to screen
    • Gender representation in the media
  • BBC4 The Film Programme podcasts:
    • Bonnie and Clyde at 50
    • Warren Beatty
    • The Man who invented British Cinema
  • Wider reading:
    • The Lady from Shanghai (Welles, 1947)
    • Vertigo (Hitchcock, 1958)
    • Fish Tank (Arnold, 2009)
    • I, Daniel Blake (Loach, 2016)

Useful Tips
  • Revising as you go is key, with a focus being on timed work. Building up stamina is crucial to success
  • Watch/listen to director’s commentaries to understand why they made the decisions they did and what influenced them
  • Use You Tube tutorials to practice filmmaking techniques

Subject: Film Studies

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • WJEC exam board
  • Final examination taken at the end of the two year course (Year 13)
  • Paper 1: Varieties of filmmaking (35%)
  • Paper 2: Global filmmaking perspectives (35%)
  • Coursework unit: 5 minute short film and evaluation (30%)

Topics Covered
  • Coursework – filming, editing and evaluation
  • Global Film: Pan’s Labyrinth and City of God
  • Silent Film: Sunrise
  • Documentary Film: Amy
  • Experimental Film: Pulp Fiction

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Media Magazine
  • WJEC Film A Level textbook

Recommended Reading List
  • Future Learn courses:
    • Film Distribution: connecting films with audiences
    • An introduction to screenwriting
  • Podcasts:
    • AMY: Meet the filmmakers
    • BBC4 The Film Programme: The Cabinet of Dr Caligari
    • Quentin Tarantino’s Feature Presentation
  • Wider reading:
    • Victoria (Schipper, Germany, 2015)
    • The Arbor (Barnard, UK, 2010)
    • The Cabinet of Dr Caligari (Wiene, 1920)
    • Once upon a time in Hollywood (Tarantino, 2019)
  • Useful Tips
  • Revising as you go is key, with a focus being on timed work. Building up stamina is crucial to success
  • Watch/listen to director’s commentaries to understand why they made the decisions they did and what influenced them
  • Use You Tube tutorials to practice filmmaking techniques

 

A-Level French

Subject: French

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA exam board
  • Final exam at the end of the two year course  (Year 13)
  • Paper 1 : listening, reading and writing – 2 hours 30 – 50% of A-level
  • Paper 2 : writing – 2 hours – 20% of A-level
  • Paper 3 : speaking – 21-23 minutes (including 5 minutes preparation time) – 30 % of A-level

Topics Covered
  • La famille - family
  • Le patrimoine - heritage
  • La cyber-société – cyber-society
  • La musique - music
  • Le bénévolat - volunteering
  • Le cinema - cinema

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended websites: http://www.psychologies.com/Famille http://www.restosducoeur.org/

http://www.service-civique.gouv.fr/

http://www.histoire-immigration.fr/

http://www.france-terre-asile.org/

www.sos-racisme.org

http://www.fondation-abbe-pierre.fr/

http://www.lemonde.fr/idees/article/2013/02/14/
contre-la-recidive-des-alternatives-a-la-prison_1832640_3232.html

http://www.peinedemort.org/peinedemort.php

http://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/histoire/peinedemort/

http://patrimoine-de-france.com/

http://www.musique2france.com/

http://musique.ados.fr/

http://www.festival-cannes.com/fr.html

http://www.ados.fr/

http://www.europe1.fr/

https://www.franceinter.fr/

http://www.rfi.fr/

http://www.franceinfo.fr/

http://www.feteducinema.com/

http://www.toutmoliere.net/

http://www.lemonde.fr/

http://www.lefigaro.fr/

Recommended Reading List
  • Molière, Le Tartuffe
  • Voltaire, Candide
  • Guy de Maupassant, Boule de suif et autres contes de guerre
  • Albert Camus, L’étranger
  • Françoise Sagan, Bonjour tristesse
  • Claire Etcherelli, Elise ou la vraie vie
  • Joseph Joffo, un sac de billes
  • Faiza Guene, Kiffe kiffe demain
  • Philippe Grimbert, Un secret
  • Delphine de Vigan, No et moi

Useful Tips

Listen to the radio and read the newspaper on a weekly basis.

Extra / Super Curricular
•Lunchtime revision session
•Listening club - Discover French culture/society through the study of songs wirtten in French. There will be the opportunity to sing to!
•Film club - Tuesday after school

Subject: French

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA exam board
  • Final exam at the end of the two year course  (Year13)
  • Paper 1 : listening, reading and writing – 2 hours 30 – 50% of A-level
  • Paper 2 : writing – 2 hours – 20% of A-level
  • Paper 3 : speaking – 21-23 minutes (including 5 minutes preparation time) – 30 % of A-level

Topics Covered
  • Une société diverse – Positive features of a diverse society
  • Quelle vie pour les marginalisés? Life for the marginalised
  • La criminalité – How criminals are treated.
  • La politique – Politics
  • À qui le pouvoir? Who holds power?
  • La politique et l’immigration – Politics and immigration
  • Individual research project
  • Revision from Year 1

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Websites

 Authentic newspapers for French teenage readers. Suitable to challenge any keen linguists who want to read for pleasure about what’s happening in the world.

  • Open Yale course lecture : France since 1871

Recommended Reading List
  • Marcel Pagnol - La Gloire de mon père
  • Tahar Ben Jelloun, Les raisins de la galère
  • Vercors, Le Silence de la mer
  • David Bellos , Is that a fish in your ear ?
  • Molière, Le Tartuffe
  • Voltaire, Candide
  • Guy de Maupassant, Boule de suif et autres contes de guerre
  • Albert Camus, L’étranger
  • Françoise Sagan, Bonjour tristesse
  • Claire Etcherelli, Elise ou la vraie vie
  • Joseph Joffo, un sac de billes
  • Faiza Guene, Kiffe kiffe demain
  • Philippe Grimbert, Un secret
  • Delphine de Vigan, No et moi

Useful Tips
  • Listen to the radio and keep reading the newspaper on a weekly basis.
  • Read other books from the set list published by the exam board
  • Find out how you can get more involved with the Department and become our Academic Subject Hub Leader.
Extra / Super Curricular
•Lunchtime revision session
•Listening club - Discover French culture/society through the study of songs wirtten in French. There will be the opportunity to sing to!
•Film club - Tuesday after school

 

A-Level Further Maths

Subject: Maths

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Further Mathematics Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 4 papers x 90 minutes at the end of Year 13.
  • 100 % exam

Topics Covered
  • Algorithms
  • Graphs and Networks
  • Algorithms on Graphs
  • Route Inspection
  • The Travelling Salesman Problem
  • Linear Programming
  • The Simplex Algorithm
  • Critical Path Analysis
  • Proof
  • Complex numbers
  • Matrices
  • Further algebra and functions
  • Further calculus
  • Further Vectors
  • Polar coordinates
  • Hyperbolic functions
  • Differential equations

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • How to Think like a Mathematician Kevin Houston (CUP, 2009)
  • The MαTHβOOK Clifford A Pickover (Sterling, 2009)
  • Mathematics: a very short introduction, Timothy Gowers (CUP, 2002)
  • Solving Mathematical Problems Terence Tao (OUP, 2006)
  • The Pleasures of Counting T.W. K ̈orner (CUP, 1996)
  • Calculus for the Ambitious T.W. K ̈orner (CUP, 2014)
  • What is Mathematics? R. Courant & H. Robbins (OUP, 1996)
  • From Here to Infinity Ian Stewart (OUP, 1996)
  • Archimedes’ Revenge P. Hoffman (Penguin, 1991)
  • The Mathematical Experience P.J. Davis & R. Hersh (Penguin, 1990)
  • Beyond Numeracy J. A. Paulos (Penguin, 1991)
  • The Penguin Dictionary of Curious and Interesting Numbers D. Wells (Penguin,1997)
  • New Applications of Mathematics         C. Bondi (ed.) (Penguin, 1991)
  • Reaching for Infinity S. Gibilisco (Tab/McGraw-Hill, 1990)
  • The New Scientist Guide to Chaos        N. Hall (ed.) (Penguin, 1991)
  • Chaos J. Gleick (Minerva/Random House, 1997)
  • Fractals. Images of Chaos H. Lauwerier (Penguin, 1991)

Useful Tips
  • Show all steps of your calculation as you can gain marks for your method.
  • Review your revision homework’s
  • Use the Solomon worksheets to practice any areas that you are unsure on.
  • Make sure you understand the key concepts – don’t just learn the formulae.

Subject: Maths

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Further Mathematics Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 4 papers x 90 minutes at the end of Year 13.
  • 100% exam

Topics Covered
  • Further Calculus
  • Further differential equations
  • Coordinate systems
  • Further vectors
  • Further numerical methods
  • Momentum and Impulse
  • Work, Energy and Power
  • Elastic, Springs and Strings
  • Elastic Collisions in one dimension
  • Elastic Collisions in two dimensions

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Advanced Problems in Mathematics S.T.C. Siklos (1996 and 2003)
  • Mathematical Methods for Science Students G. Stephenson (Longman, 1973)
  • Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering K F Riley, M P Hobson &S J Bence (Cambridge University Press 1998)
  • A Concise Introduction to Pure Mathematics Martin Liebeck (Chapman& Hall/CRCMathematics)
  • Groups: A Path to Geometry R.P. Burn (CUP, 1987)
  • Yet Another Introduction to Analysis   V. Bryant (CUP, 1990)
  • A First Course in Mechanics Mary Lunn (OUP, 1991)
  • Probability and Statistics M.R. Spiegel (Schaum’s outline series; McGraw-Hill, 1982)
  • Algorithmics — The Spirit of Computing D. Harel (Addison-Wesley, 1992)

Useful Tips
  • Show all steps of your calculation as you can gain marks for your method.
  • Review your revision homework’s
  • Use the Solomon worksheets to practice any areas that you are unsure on.
  • Make sure you understand the key concepts – don’t just learn the formulae.

 

A-Level Geography

Subject: Geography

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 3 examination papers at the end of year 13

Paper 1 - Dynamic Landscapes, Physical Systems and Sustainability 135 minutes- 30%

Paper 2- Dynamic Places, Human Systems and Geopolitics 135 minutes- 30%

Paper 3 – Synoptic Investigation 135 minutes – 20%

  • Non – Examined Assessment ( coursework ) – 20%

Topics Covered
  • Dynamic Landscapes – Tectonic Hazards and Coastal Landscapes.
  • Dynamic Places – Globalisation and Regenerating Places.
  • Fieldwork in Snowdonia

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CGP Revision Guide
  • Hodder Education Student Guides

Recommended Reading List
  • BBC News (or other news website/broadsheet)
  • Geography Review journal
  • New Scientist
  • The Economist
  • RGS website
  • National Geographic website
  • Tim Marshall (2016) “Prisoners of Geography”
  • Danny Dorling (2015) “Inequality and the 1%”
  • Danny Dorling and Carl Lee ( 2016)  “Geography : ideas in profile”

Useful Tips
  • Keep up to date with current events building up a store of small examples that will help justify or illustrate  the points made in your answers.

Subject: Geography

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 3 examination papers at the end of Year 13

Paper 1 - Dynamic Landscapes, Physical Systems and Sustainability 135 minutes- 30%

Paper 2- Dynamic Places, Human Systems and Geopolitics 135 minutes- 30%

Paper 3 – Synoptic Investigation 135 minutes – 20%

  • Non – Examined Assessment ( coursework ) – 20%

Topics Covered
  • Physical Systems and Sustainability – water security, energy provision and climate change.
  • Human Systems and Geopolitics – Superpowers, the development gap and human rights.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • CGP Revision Guide
  • Hodder Education Student Guides

Recommended Reading List
  • BBC News (or other news website/broadsheet)
  • Geography Review journal
  • New Scientist
  • The Economist
  • RGS website
  • National Geographic website
  • Tim Marshall  (2016) “Prisoners of Geography”
  • Danny Dorling  (2015) “Inequality and the 1%”
  • Danny Dorling and Carl Lee ( 2016)  “Geography : ideas in profile”

Useful Tips
  • Keep up to date with current events building up a store of small examples that will help justify or illustrate  the points made in your answers.

 

A-Level German

Subject: German

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • Paper 1 Listening, Reading and Writing: 2 hours and 30 minutes (50% of A-level)
  • Paper 2 Writing: 2 hours (20% of A-level)
  • Paper 3 Speaking: 21-23 minutes (30% of A-level)  
  • Individual research project (included in speaking exam)
  • All papers completed at the end of Year 13

Topics Covered
  • Changing state of the family
  • The digital world
  • Youth culture: Fashion, music and television
  • Festivals and traditions
  • Art and architecture
  • Cultural life in Berlin
  • Analysis of a German Novel

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Der Vorleser, Bernhard Schlink
  • Die Verlorene Ehre der Katharina Blum, Heinrich Böll
  • Mutter Courage und ihre Kinder, Bertolt Brecht
  • Der Besuch der alten Dame, Friedrich Dürrenmatt
  • Andorra, Max Frisch
  • Gedichte – Buch der Lieder, Heinrich Heine
  • Zonenkinder, Jana Hensel
  • Die Verwandlung, Franz Kafka
  • Russendisko, Wladimir Kaminer
  • Fundbüro, Siegfried Lenz
  • A Concise History of Germany, Mary Fulbrook

Useful Tips

Regularly read and listen to the news in both German and English to gain an understanding of current affairs and issues.

Listen to and watch German films and/or podcasts outside of the classroom to improve listening skills and broaden vocabulary.

Learn vocabulary little and often to ensure it is being stored in your long-term memory, not forgetting to keep revisiting previous vocabulary lists.

Always look up and make a note of new words you may have come across in classwork or at home.

Try to attend various events and exhibitions relating to German-speaking countries to help broaden your knowledge of the countries where German is spoken. e.g. at the Goethe Institut in London

Regularly practice typical speaking questions outside of the classroom with a friend without relying on pre-learnt answers

Ensure you maintain well-organised notes on all the different topic areas.

Create revision mind-maps or notes by topic as you go through the year.

Try to take part in an exchange or trip to Germany or other German-speaking countries where possible.

 

Subject: German

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • Paper 1 Listening, Reading and Writing: 2 hours and 30 minutes (50% of A-level)
  • Paper 2 Writing: 2 hours (20% of A-level)
  • Paper 3 Speaking: 21-23 minutes (30% of A-level) 
  • Individual research project (included in speaking exam)
  • All papers completed at the end of Year 13

Topics Covered
  • Immigration
  • Integration
  • Racism
  • Germany and the EU
  • Politics and youth
  • The Reunification of Germany and its consequences
  • Analysis of a German Film

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Der Vorleser, Bernhard Schlink
  • Die Verlorene Ehre der Katharina Blum, Heinrich Böll
  • Mutter Courage und ihre Kinder, Bertolt Brecht
  • Der Besuch der alten Dame, Friedrich Dürrenmatt
  • Andorra, Max Frisch
  • Gedichte – Buch der Lieder, Heinrich Heine
  • Zonenkinder, Jana Hensel
  • Die Verwandlung, Franz Kafka
  • Russendisko, Wladimir Kaminer
  • Fundbüro, Siegfried Lenz
  • A Concise History of Germany, Mary Fulbrook

Useful Tips

Regularly read and listen to the news in both German and English to gain an understanding of current affairs and issues.

Listen to and watch German films and/or podcasts outside of the classroom to improve listening skills and broaden vocabulary.

Learn vocabulary little and often to ensure it is being stored in your long-term memory, not forgetting to keep revisiting previous vocabulary lists.

Always look up and make a note of new words you may have come across in classwork or at home.

Try to attend various events and exhibitions relating to German-speaking countries to help broaden your knowledge of the countries where German is spoken. e.g. at the Goethe Institut in London

Regularly practice typical speaking questions outside of the classroom with a friend without relying on pre-learnt answers

Ensure you maintain well-organised notes on all the different topic areas.

Create revision mind-maps or notes by topic as you go through the year.

Try to take part in an exchange or trip to Germany or other German-speaking countries where possible.

A-Level Government and Politics

Subject: Government and Politics

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13

Topics Covered
  • Unit 1 is a study of British politics. The main areas of focus will be political parties, pressure groups, voting behaviour and elections. You will also study core political ideas such as socialism, liberalism and conservatism.
  • Unit 2 is a study of British government.  You will also study the roles of parliament, the cabinet, the Prime Minister, the civil service and the judicial system. The influence of the European Union on British politics will also be investigated. You will also study the concept of nationalism for this unit.
  • Unit 3 is a study of American government and politics, focusing on areas such as the two main political parties, the election process, the roles of the Congress, President and the Supreme Court. The different powers and responsibilities of the federal and state governments are also considered. You will also be asked to compare the UK and US systems of government.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Recommended Websites

www.bbc.co.uk/news/politics

www.politico.eu

www.guardian.co.uk

www.politics.co.uk

www.telegraph.co.uk

www.totalpolitics.com

Recommended Reading List

Hodder Politics Review

AQA Government and Politics

Peter Hennessey, the Prime Minister

British prime Ministers, Robert Parker

Who Governs Britain?, Anthony King

The Trouble with Europe, Roger Bootle

Essentails of UK Politics, Anthony Heywood

The End of the Party, Andrew Rawnsley

A Journey, Tony Blair

Useful Tips
  • Read news websites, blogs and broadsheet newspapers on a daily basis
  • Avoid personal opinion in essay writing but strive for objectivity and balance.
  • Follow us on Twitter

Subject: Government and Politics

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13

Topics Covered
  • Unit 1 is a study of British politics. The main areas of focus will be political parties, pressure groups, voting behaviour and elections. You will also study core political ideas such as socialism, liberalism and conservatism.
  • Unit 2 is a study of British government.  You will also study the roles of parliament, the cabinet, the Prime Minister, the civil service and the judicial system. The influence of the European Union on British politics will also be investigated. You will also study the concept of nationalism for this unit.
  • Unit 3 is a study of American government and politics, focusing on areas such as the two main political parties, the election process, the roles of the Congress, President and the Supreme Court. The different powers and responsibilities of the federal and state governments are also considered. You will also be asked to compare the UK and US systems of government.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Recommended Websites

www.politico.com

www.washingtonpost.com

www.nytimes.com

www.whitehouse.gov

www.house.gov

www.senate.gov

www.scotus.gov

www.270towin.com

www.realclearpolitics.com

Recommended Reading List
  • American Caesars, Nigel Hamilton
  • American Politics, Richard Valelley
  • US Presidential elections, Roddy Keenan
  • Who Rules the World?, Noam Chomsky
  • The Nine, the US Supreme Court, Jeffrey Toobin
  • Supremely Partisan, the US Supreme Court, James Zirin

Useful Tips
  • Read news websites, blogs and broadsheet newspapers on a daily basis
  • Avoid personal opinion in essay writing but strive for objectivity and balance.
  • Follow us on Twitter

 

A-Level History

Subject: History

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board (7042)
  • 2 papers x 150 minutes at the end of Year 13 – 40% each
  • Coursework – one 4,500 essay by October of Year 13 – 20%

Topics Covered
  • Germany 1871-1929
  • Britain 1951-1979
  • Slavery and emancipation in the USA 1800-1900

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Kenneth M. Stampp, The Peculiar Institution: Slavery in the Antebellum South. Knopf, 1956
  • James Oakes, Slavery and Freedom: An Interpretation of the Old South. W.W. Norton & Company, 1998
  • Stanley Elkins, Slavery: A Problem in American Institution and Intellectual Life. University of Chicago Press, 1959.
  • David Brion Davis, The Problem of Slavery in the Age of Revolution, 1770- 1823. Cornell
  • University Press, 1975.
  • Matthew Mason, Slavery and Politics in the Early American Republic. The University of North,Carolina Press, 2008
  • Eric Foner. Forever Free: The Story of Emancipation and Reconstruction. Reprint. Vintage, 2006.
  • Stephen Hahn, A Nation Under Our Feet: Black Political Struggles in the Rural South from
  • Slavery to the Great Migration, Harvard University Press, 2003.
  • Susan Eva O’Donovan, Becoming Free in the Cotton South. Harvard University Press, 2010

Useful Tips
  • Question the tone, context and provenance of historical sources.
  • Apply contextual own knowledge to source analysis questions.
  • Ensure balance, accuracy and depth in historical essays.

Subject: History

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board (7042)
  • 2 papers x 150 minutes at the end of Year 13 – 40% each
  • Coursework – one 3,500 essay by January of Year 13 – 20%

Topics Covered
  • Germany 1929-1991
  • Britain 1979-2007
  • Slavery and emancipation in the USA 1800-1900

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Kenneth M. Stampp, The Peculiar Institution: Slavery in the Antebellum South. Knopf, 1956
  • James Oakes, Slavery and Freedom: An Interpretation of the Old South. W.W. Norton & Company, 1998
  • Stanley Elkins, Slavery: A Problem in American Institution and Intellectual Life. University of Chicago Press, 1959.
  • David Brion Davis, The Problem of Slavery in the Age of Revolution, 1770- 1823. Cornell
  • University Press, 1975.
  • Matthew Mason, Slavery and Politics in the Early American Republic. The University of North,Carolina Press, 2008
  • Eric Foner. Forever Free: The Story of Emancipation and Reconstruction. Reprint. Vintage, 2006.
  • Stephen Hahn, A Nation Under Our Feet: Black Political Struggles in the Rural South from
  • Slavery to the Great Migration, Harvard University Press, 2003.
  • Susan Eva O’Donovan, Becoming Free in the Cotton South. Harvard University Press, 2010

Useful Tips
  • Question the tone, context and provenance of historical sources.
  • Apply contextual own knowledge to source analysis questions.
  • Ensure balance, accuracy and depth in historical essays.
  • Use a wide range of academic historical publications for the coursework essay.

 

A-Level Maths

Subject: Maths

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Mathematics Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 3 x 120 minutes papers at the end of Year 13
  • 100% exam

Topics Covered
  • Proof
  • Algebra and functions
  • Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
  • Sequences and series
  • Trigonometry
  • Exponentials and logarithms
  • Differentiation
  • Integration
  • Vectors
  • Statistical sampling
  • Data presentation and interpretation
  • Probability
  • Statistical distributions
  • Statistical hypothesis testing
  • Quantities and units in mechanics
  • Kinematics
  • Forces and Newton’s laws

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • How to Think like a Mathematician Kevin Houston (CUP, 2009)
  • The MαTHβOOK Clifford A Pickover (Sterling, 2009)
  • Mathematics: a very short introduction, Timothy Gowers (CUP, 2002)
  • Solving Mathematical Problems Terence Tao (OUP, 2006)
  • The Pleasures of Counting T.W. K ̈orner (CUP, 1996)
  • Calculus for the Ambitious T.W. K ̈orner (CUP, 2014)
  • What is Mathematics? R. Courant & H. Robbins (OUP, 1996)
  • From Here to Infinity Ian Stewart (OUP, 1996)
  • Archimedes’ Revenge P. Hoffman (Penguin, 1991)
  • The Mathematical Experience P.J. Davis & R. Hersh (Penguin, 1990)
  • Beyond Numeracy J. A. Paulos (Penguin, 1991)
  • The Penguin Dictionary of Curious and Interesting Numbers D. Wells (Penguin,1997)
  • New Applications of Mathematics         C. Bondi (ed.) (Penguin, 1991)
  • Reaching for Infinity S. Gibilisco (Tab/McGraw-Hill, 1990)
  • The New Scientist Guide to Chaos        N. Hall (ed.) (Penguin, 1991)
  • Chaos J. Gleick (Minerva/Random House, 1997)
  • Fractals. Images of Chaos H. Lauwerier (Penguin, 1991)

Useful Tips
  • Show all steps of your calculation as you can gain marks for your method.
  • Review your revision homework’s
  • Use the Solomon worksheets to practice any areas that you are unsure on.
  • Make sure you understand the key concepts – don’t just learn the formulae.

 

Subject: Maths

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Mathematics Course

Examination Information
  • Edexcel Exam Board
  • 3 x 2 hours papers
  • 100% exam

Topics Covered
  • Proof
  • Functions and modelling
  • Series and sequences
  • The Binomial theorem
  • Trigonometry
  • Parametric equations
  • Differentiation
  • Numerical methods
  • Integration
  • Vectors (3D)
  • Regression and correlation
  • Probability
  • The normal distribution
  • Application of kinematics
  • Moments
  • Forces at any angle
  • Applications of forces
  • Further kinematics

Recommended Extra Resources

Recommended Reading List
  • Advanced Problems in Mathematics S.T.C. Siklos (1996 and 2003)
  • Mathematical Methods for Science Students G. Stephenson (Longman, 1973)
  • Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering K F Riley, M P Hobson &S J Bence (Cambridge University Press 1998)
  • A Concise Introduction to Pure Mathematics Martin Liebeck (Chapman& Hall/CRCMathematics)
  • Groups: A Path to Geometry R.P. Burn (CUP, 1987)
  • Yet Another Introduction to Analysis   V. Bryant (CUP, 1990)
  • A First Course in Mechanics Mary Lunn (OUP, 1991)
  • Probability and Statistics M.R. Spiegel (Schaum’s outline series; McGraw-Hill, 1982)
  • Algorithmics — The Spirit of Computing D. Harel (Addison-Wesley, 1992)

Useful Tips
  • Show all steps of your calculation as you can gain marks for your method.
  • Review your revision homework’s
  • Use the Solomon worksheets to practice any areas that you are unsure on.
  • Make sure you understand the key concepts – don’t just learn the formulae.

A-Level Music

Subject: Music

Year 12/13 

Examination Information
  • Exam board: Edexcel 
  • Performance: 8-minute recital at Grade 7 standard. 30% of qualification.
  • Composition: One 4-minute free-choice composition. 2 Bach chorale harmonisations in a controlled assessment. 30% of qualification 
  • Appraising: One 2hr 10 min paper at the end of Year 13. 40% of qualification. 100 marks 
    • Section A: 
    • Three listening questions based on set works studied with audio track and skeleton score [15 marks each]
    • One dictation [8 marks]
    • Section B: 
    • One essay on an unfamiliar piece of music, related to the set works, audio track provided. [20 marks]
    • One essay from a choice of four set works [30 marks]

Topics Covered in Lesson
  • Composition: 
    • One-to-one support to help you to develop a sophisticated free composition Bach chorale harmonisation techniques. 
  • Set works:
    • ​Vocal Music 
      • J. S. Bach, Cantata, Ein feste Burg 
      • Vaughan Williams, On Wenlock Edge 
    • Instrumental Music 
      • Clara Wieck-Schumann, Piano Trio in G minor, Op. 17: movement 1 
      • Berlioz, Symphonie Fantastique 
  • Music for Film 
    • ​Danny Elfman, Batman Returns 
    • Bernard Herrmann, Psycho 
  • Popular Music 
    • Kate Bush, Hounds of Love 
    • Beatles, Revolver 
  • Fusions 
    • Debussy, Estampes 
    • Anoushka Shankar, Breathing Under Water 
  • New Directions 
    • Kaija Saariaho, Petals for Violoncello and Live Electronics 
    • Stravinsky, The Rite of Spring 

 

Recommended Extra Resources

 
  • Spotify
  • YouTube
  • BBC Radio 3
  • BBC Sounds
  • Orchestra and concert hall websites e.g. London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Albert Hall etc. 

Recommended Reading List
  • Buckholder, Grout & Palisca. (2010) A History of Western Music
  • Cook, Nicholas. (1998) Music: A Very Short Introduction
  • The Memoires of Hector Berlioz 
  • Rosen, Charles. (1995). The Romantic Generation
  • Ross, Alex. (2007) The Rest is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century

Useful Tips
  • Develop the habit of daily instrumental/vocal practice (30-minutes – 1 hour) 
  • You can never have two much wider listening! 
  • Research and plan your composition
  • Attend as many concerts as you can (live-streamed, online or in person when allowed!) 

 

A-Level Photography

Subject: Photography

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 units. Coursework 60%. Exam project 40%.
  • Controlled assessment to be completed at the end of Year 13. 15 hrs.

Topics Covered
  • Composition
  • Shutterspeed
  • ISO
  • Aperture
  • Digital manipulation
  • Manual manipulation
  • Photoshop
  • Written analysis
  • Artist research
  • Film development (wet)
  • Print development (wet)
  • Photograms
  • Studio lighting
  • Location photography
  • Black light

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Nelson Thornes GCE Art & Design Handbook

Recommended Reading List
  • Ehrlich, R (1990) Tony Ray-Jones: A Retrospective View, Manchester, Cornerhouse Publications
  • Parr, M & Walker, I (1997) The Last Resort: Photographs of New Brighton, London, Dewi Lewis Publishing.
  • Beaumont, N & Sobieszek, R (1974) One Mind's Eye: The Portraits and Other Photographs of Arnold Newman, David R Godine Publishers.
  • Evans, W (1985) Walker Evans at Work, London, Harper Collins
  • Eggleston, W (1992) William Eggleston: Ancient and Modern, New York, Random House.
  • Kruger, M (2003) Candida Hofer: A Monograph, London, Thames and Hudson

Useful Tips
  • Ensure that ideas connect to your artist research.
  • Produce your own reference imagery
  • Develop your ideas thoroughly by exploring and experimenting with artist techniques.
  • Ensure that all evidence is recorded within your portfolio.

 

Subject: Photography

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 units. Coursework 60%. Exam project 40%.
  • Controlled assessment to be completed at the end of Year 13. 15 hours.

Topics Covered
  • Composition
  • Shutterspeed
  • ISO
  • Aperture
  • Digital manipulation
  • Manual manipulation
  • Photoshop
  • Written analysis
  • Artist research
  • Film development (wet)
  • Print development (wet)
  • Photograms
  • Studio lighting
  • Location photography
  • Black light

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Nelson Thornes GCE Art & Design Handbook

Recommended Reading List
  • Ehrlich, R (1990) Tony Ray-Jones: A Retrospective View, Manchester, Cornerhouse Publications
  • Parr, M & Walker, I (1997) The Last Resort: Photographs of New Brighton, London, Dewi Lewis Publishing.
  • Beaumont, N & Sobieszek, R (1974) One Mind's Eye: The Portraits and Other Photographs of Arnold Newman, David R Godine Publishers.
  • Evans, W (1985) Walker Evans at Work, London, Harper Collins
  • Eggleston, W (1992) William Eggleston: Ancient and Modern, New York, Random House.
  • Kruger, M (2003) Candida Hofer: A Monograph, London, Thames and Hudson

Useful Tips
  • Ensure that ideas connect to your artist research.
  • Produce your own reference imagery
  • Develop your ideas thoroughly by exploring and experimenting with artist techniques.
  • Ensure that all evidence is recorded within your portfolio.

A-Level Physical Education

Subject: PE

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13 – 70%
  • Written analysis and evaluation on a sporting performance as well as an assessment as a performer or coach in a full sided version of one activity – 30%

Topics Covered

Paper 1

  • Applied anatomy and physiology
  • Skill acquisition
  • Sport and society
  • Written analysis and evaluation of weaknesses of defensive skills and tactics and strategies of a sport of their choice.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Watch “Panorama” programmes for topics such as Hooliganism in sport and Drugs in Sport.
  • Watch the athlete profile documentaries that were based on the Olympic Athletes.

Recommended Reading List
  • Getting into physiotherapy course – James Barton
  • Running Like A Girl – Alexandra Heminsley
  • Your Pace or Mine? – Lisa Jackson

Useful Tips
  • Students should expose themselves to as much current sporting news and articles as possible in order to develop breadth in their knowledge.
  • Students should consolidate their learning after everything lesson to ensure they are confident with the content.

Subject: PE

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 2 papers x 120 minutes at the end of Year 13 – 70%
  • Written analysis and evaluation on a sporting performance as well as an assessment as a performer or coach in a full sided version of one activity – 30%
  • Practical deadline for evidence is by October half term.

Topics Covered

Paper 2

  • Exercise physiology and biomechanics
  • Sport psychology
  • Sport and society and technology in sport
  • Written analysis and evaluation of weaknesses of defensive skills and tactics and strategies of a sport of their choice.
  • Practical moderation on one sport that the individual currently plays.

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Watch “Panorama” programmes for topics such as Hooliganism in sport and Drugs in Sport.
  • Watch the athlete profile documentaries that were based on the Olympic Athletes.

Recommended Reading List
  • Getting into physiotherapy course – James Barton
  • Running Like A Girl – Alexandra Heminsley
  • Your Pace or Mine? – Lisa Jackson

Useful Tips
  • Students should expose themselves to as much current sporting news and articles as possible in order to develop breadth in their knowledge.
  • Students should consolidate their learning after everything lesson to ensure they are confident with the content.
Super-curricular
  • Opportunity to attend University of Kent to learn about sports courses and gain more practical experience at degree level.

 

A-Level Physics

Subject: Physics

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Exam Board; OCR
  • 1 x Modelling Physics – 135 minutes – 37%
  • 1 x Exploring Physics – 135 minutes – 37%
  • 1 x Unified Physics – 90 minutes – 26%
  • Practical Endorsement

Topics Covered
  • Section 1 – Forces and Motion
    • Module 1 – Introduction to A Level Physics
    • Module 2 – Motion
    • Module 3 – Forces
    • Module 4 – Energy
    • Module 5 – Behaviour of Material
    • Module 6 – Momentum
  • Section 2 – Electricity and Magnetism
    • Module 1 – Electricity and Circuits
  • Section 3 – Waves and Particles
    • Module 1 – Properties of Waves
    • Module 2 – Standing Waves
    • Module 4 – Particle and Nuclear Physics Pt. 1

Recommended Extra Resources
  • New A-Level Physics: OCR A Year 1 & 2 Complete Revision & Practice
  • The Kahn Academy

Recommended Reading List
  • Seven Brief Lessons on Physics – Carlo Rovelli;  Pengiun, 2016
  • The Universe in Your Hand; A Journey Through Space, Time and Beyond – Christophe Galfard;  Macmillan, 2015
  • A Short History of Nearly Everything – Bill Bryson;  Black Swan, 2016
  • Classical Mechanics; The Theoretical Minimum – Leonard Susskind and George Hrabovsky;  Penguin, 2014
  • It’s Not Rocket Science – Ben Millar;  Sphere, 2012
  • Big Bang; The Most Important Scientific Discovery of All Time and Why You Need to Know About It – Simon Singh;  Harper Perennial, 2005

Useful Tips
  • Redo the assessed homework questions without looking at the solutions when revising.
  • Review the class tests and any previous mock tests regularly.
  • Review the Kerboodle resources and the questions from the online text books.
  • Make use of youtube and the Kahn Academy website to review topics which you struggle with.
Extra Curricular
  • CERN Trip

 

Subject: Physics

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • Exam Board; OCR
  • 1 x Modelling Physics – 135 minutes – 37%
  • 1 x Exploring Physics – 135 minutes – 37%
  • 1 x Unified Physics – 90 minutes – 26%
  • Practical Endorsement

Topics Covered
  • Section 2 – Electricity and Magnetism
    • Module 2 – Electric Fields
    • Module 3 – Capacitors
    • Module 4 – Electromagnetism
  • Section 3 – Waves and Particles
    • Module 3 – Simple Harmonic Motion
    • Module 4 – Particle and Nuclear Physics Part 2
    • Module 5 – Medical Physics
  • Section 4 – The Newtonian World and Astrophysics
    • Module 1 – Ideal Gases
    • Module 2 – Gravity
    • Module 3 – Astrophysics
    • Module 4 – Cosmology

Recommended Extra Resources
  • New A-Level Physics: OCR A Year 1 & 2 Complete Revision & Practice
  • The Kahn Academy

Recommended Reading List
  • Professor Povey’s Perplexing Problems; Pre-University Physics and Maths Problems with Solutions – Thomas Povey;  Oneworld Publications, 2015
  • Quantum; A Guide for the Perplexed – Jim Al-Khalili;  Weidenfield and Nicholson, 2012
  • Why Does E=mc2 – Brian Cox and Jeff Forshaw;  Pengiun, 2012
  • A Brief History of Time; From Big Bang to Black Holes – Stephen Hawking;  Bantam, 2011
  • The Particle at the End of The Universe – Sean Carroll;  Oneworld, 2012
  • Just Six Numbers; The Deep Forces that Shape our Universe – Martin Rees;  Weidenfield and Nicholson, 1999
  • The 4-Percent Universe; Dark Matter, Dark Energy, and The Race to Discover the Rest of Reality – Richard Panek;  Oneworld, 2012

Useful Tips
  • Redo the assessed homework questions without looking at the solutions when revising.
  • Review the class tests and any previous mock tests regularly.
  • Review the Kerboodle resources and the questions from the online text books.
  • Make use of Youtube and the Kahn Academy website to review topics which you struggle with.
Extra Curricular
  • CERN Trip

 

A-Level Psychology

 

Subject: Psychology

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information

External examinations are taken in the second year of the course. Internal examinations:

  • 3 papers x 90 minutes
  • 1 research study

Topics Covered
  • Approaches in Psychology
  • Biopsychology
  • Social Influence
  • Memory
  • Attachment
  • Psychopathology
  • Research Methods
  • Mathematics and Statistics

NOTE: Research methods covered both in classroom sessions and during a three-day residential at the University of Kent , in July of Year 12.

Recommended Extra Resources

In addition to the two set text books:

  • BPS Research Digest
  • Neuroscience News
  • New Scientist
  • Course-related videos

Recommended Reading List
  • Opening Skinner Box – Lauren Slater
  • Dibs in Search of Self – Virginia Axline
  • Flowers for Algernon – Daniel Keyes
  • The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time – Mark Haddon
  • The Psychology of Harry Potter – Neil Mulholland

Useful Tips
  • Prepare well for class tutorials
  • Keep assignments and notes up-to-date and organised
  • Use all study resources available to you – not just those you like
  • Engage in wider reading

 

Subject: Psychology

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information

AQA Psychology A:

  • 3 papers x 120 minutes
  • No coursework

Topics Covered
  • Issues and Debates in Psychology
  • Relationships
  • Schizophrenia
  • Aggression

Recommended Extra Resources

In addition to the two set text books:

  • BPS Research Digest
  • Neuroscience News
  • New Scientist
  • Course-related videos

Recommended Reading List
  • The Private Life of the Brain
  • Rhythms of Life – Foster & Kreitzman
  • We Need to Talk About Kevin – Lionel Shriver
  • Reaching Down the Rabbit Hole – Ropper & Burrell
  • The User Illusion – Tor Norretranders

Useful Tips
  • Prepare well for class tutorials
  • Keep assignments and notes up-to-date and organised
  • Use all study resources available to you – not just those you like
  • Engage in wider reading

 

A-Level Spanish

Subject: Spanish

Year 12 – Year 1 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers at the end of Year 13
  • Paper One (2 hours 30 minutes): Listening, Reading, Translation into English and Translation into target language
  • Paper Two (2 hours): Writing, two essays on set texts/films
  • Paper 3 (21-23 minutes): oral exam, discussion of a sub-theme based on a stimulus card and presentation/discussion of individual research project)

Topics Covered
  • Aspects of Hispanic society: modern and traditional values, cyberpace, equal rights
  • Artistic culture in the Hispanic world: modern day idols, Spanish regional identity, cultural heritage
  • Set text or film

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Quizlet (application or website ideal for vocabulary revision)
  • Kerboodle (online access to the set textbook with additional interactive resources)Wordreference.com (a useful online dictionary with verb conjugation tool)
  • El País (newspaper)

Recommended Reading List
  • Federico García Lorca La casa de Bernarda Alba
  • Gabriel García Márquez Crónica de una muerte anunciada
  • Laura Esquivel Como agua para chocolate
  • Ramón J. Sender Réquiem por un campesino español
  • Carlos Ruiz Zafón La sombra del viento
  • Isabel Allende La casa de los espíritus
  • Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer Rimas
  • Fernando Fernán-Gómez Las bicicletas son para el verano
  • Luis de Castresana El otro árbol de Guernica
  • Gabriel García Márquez El coronel no tiene quien le escriba

Useful Tips
  • Keep a note of all new vocabulary by family: can you deduce the noun and adjective from a verb, and vice versa?
  • Stay informed: you will be required to have and show knowledge of the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Read newspapers and blogs and watch the Spanish news to stay up-to-date.
  • Attend all speaking sessions .
  • Make use of the activities available on Kerboodle to extend your learning outside of the classroom.
  • Remember to plan and check back through your written work just as you would for other essay-based subjects.
Extra and Super Curricular
  • Mentoring opportunities for KS3-4.
  • 1-to-1 speaking sessions with native speakers.
  • Eurovicta.
  • Theatre Trips.
  • In-house Spanish magazine
  • Mentoring by University of Kent

 

Subject: Spanish

Year 13 – Year 2 of A Level Course

Examination Information
  • AQA Exam Board
  • 3 papers at the end of Year 13
  • Paper One (2 hours 30 minutes): Listening, Reading, Translation into English and Translation into target language
  • Paper Two (2 hours): Writing, two essays on set texts/films
  • Paper 3 (21-23 minutes): oral exam, discussion of a sub-theme based on a stimulus card and presentation/discussion of individual research project)

Topics Covered
  • Multiculturalism in Hispanic society: immigration, racism, integration
  • Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world: today’s youth, tomorrow’s citizens; monarchies and dictatorships; popular movements
  • Set text

Recommended Extra Resources
  • Quizlet (application or website ideal for vocabulary revision)
  • Kerboodle (online access to the set textbook with additional interactive resources)
  • Wordreference.com (a useful online dictionary with verb conjugation tool)
  • El País (newspaper)

Recommended Reading List
  • Federico García Lorca La casa de Bernarda Alba
  • Gabriel García Márquez Crónica de una muerte anunciada
  • Laura Esquivel Como agua para chocolate
  • Ramón J. Sender Réquiem por un campesino español
  • Carlos Ruiz Zafón La sombra del viento
  • Isabel Allende La casa de los espíritus
  • Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer Rimas
  • Fernando Fernán-Gómez Las bicicletas son para el verano
  • Luis de Castresana El otro árbol de Guernica
  • Gabriel García Márquez El coronel no tiene quien le escriba

Useful Tips
  • Keep a note of all new vocabulary by family: can you deduce the noun and adjective from a verb, and vice versa?
  • Stay informed: you will be required to have and show knowledge of the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Read newspapers and blogs and watch the Spanish news to stay up-to-date.
  • Attend all speaking sessions.
  • Make use of the activities available on Kerboodle to extend your learning outside of the classroom.
  • Remember to plan and check back through your written work just as you would for other essay-based subjects.
  • Practise writing essays to time in preparation for the final exam.

 
Extra and Super Curricular
  • Mentoring opportunities for KS3-4.
  • Buddy scheme with Year 11 classes.
  • 1-to-1 speaking sessions with native speakers.
  • Eurovicta.
  • Theatre Trips.
  • In-house Spanish magazine
  • Mentoring by University of Kent

 

A-Level Religious Studies

 Year 12 Curriculum

Examination Information:

  • Eduqas examination board
  • 3 x 2 hour papers at the end of Year 13
  • 100% examination

Topics Covered

Component 1:

Study of Religion: Christianity

Theme 1

Religious figures and sacred texts
  1. Jesus: his birth
  2. Jesus: his resurrection
  3. The Bible as a source of wisdom and authority in daily life

Theme 2

Religious concepts and religious life
  1. Religious concepts - the nature of God
  2. Religious concepts - the Trinity
  3. Religious concepts - the Atonement

Theme 2

Religious concepts and religious life
  1. Religious life - faith and works
  2. Religious life - the community of believers
  3. Religious  life - key moral principles

Theme 4

Religious practices that shape religious identity
  1. Religious identity through diversity in baptism
  2. Religious identity through diversity in Eucharist
  3. Religious identity through diversity in festivals

Component 2: Philosophy of Religion

 

 

 

Theme 1

Arguments for the Existence of God - inductive
  1. Inductive arguments – cosmological
  2. Inductive arguments – teleological
  3. Challenges to inductive arguments

Theme 1

Arguments for the Existence of God - deductive
  1. Deductive arguments – origins of the ontological argument
  2. Deductive arguments – developments of the ontological argument
  3. Challenges to the ontological argument

Theme 2

Challenges to religious belief

 – the problem of evil and suffering
  1. The problem of evil
  2. Religious responses to the problem of evil (i) Augustinian type theodicy
  3. Religious responses to the problem of evil (ii) Irenaean type theodicy

Theme 3

Religious experience
  1. The nature of religious experience
  2. Mystical experience
  3. Challenges to the objectivity and authenticity of religious experience

Component 3: Religion and  Ethics

 

 

 

Theme 1

Ethical Thought
  1. Divine Command Theory
  2. Virtue Theory
  3. Ethical Egoism

Theme 2

Deontological Ethics: Natural Law
  1. Thomas Aquinas’ Natural Law: laws and precepts as the basis of morality
  2. Aquinas’ Natural Law” the role of virtues and goods in supporting moral behaviour
  3. Aquinas’ Natural Law: application of the theory (abortion/voluntary euthanasia)

Theme 3

Teleological Ethics: Situation Ethics

 
  1. Joseph Fletcher’s Situation Ethics: his rejection of other forms of ethics and his acceptance of agape as the basis for morality
  2. Fletcher’s Situation Ethics: the principles as a means of assessing morality
  3. Fletcher’s Situation Ethics: application of the theory (homosexual/polyamorous relationships)

Theme 3

Teleological Ethics: Utilitarianism

 
  1. Classical Utilitarianism – Jeremy Bentham’s Act Utilitarianism: happiness as the basis of morality
  2. John Stuart Mill’s development of Utilitarianism: types of pleasure, the harm principle and the use of rules
  3. Utilitarianism: application of the theories (Act and Rule) (animal experiment/nuclear weapons)

Recommended Extra Resources

      Recommended Reading List

  • Think(www.royalinstitutephilosophy.org/think/index.php)
  • The Philosopher’s Magazine (www.philosophersnet.com)
  • Philosophy Now (www.philosophynow.org)
  • Dialogue (www.dialogue.org.uk): for Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
  • Philosophy Compass (http://philosophy-compass.com): more in-depth survey articles

 

 

      Useful Tips:

  • Apply contextual knowledge to analysis questions.
  • Ensure you personally engage with question being asked.
  • Ensure balance, accuracy and depth in essays.
  • Read widely around the subject of the texts; research religious, ethical, philosophical ideas and developments.
  • Stay informed – be aware of what is happening in the news and reflect on the views from various fronts.
  • Have an opinion!

 

Year 13 Curriculum

Examination Information:

  • Eduqas examination board
  • 3 x 2 hour papers at the end of Year 13
  • 100% examination

 

 

Topics Covered

Component 1:

Study of Religion: Christianity

Theme 1

Religious figures and sacred texts
  • The Bible as a source of wisdom and authority
  • The early church (in Acts of the Apostles)
  • Two views of Jesus

Theme 3

Significant social and historical developments in religious thought
  • Attitudes to wealth
  • Migration and Christianity in the UK
  • Feminist theology and the changing role of men and women

 

Theme 3

Significant social and historical developments in religious thought
  • Challenges from secularisation.
  • Challenges from science
  • Challenges from pluralism and diversity within a tradition

Theme 4

Religious practices that shape religious identity
  • Religious identity through unification
  • Religious identity through religious experience
  • Religious identity through response to poverty and injustice

Component 2: Philosophy of Religion

 

 

 

Theme 2

Challenges to religious belief -  religious belief as a product of the human mind
  • Belief as a product of the human mind: Sigmund Freud
  • Religious Belief as a product of the human mind: Carl Jung
  • Issues relating to the rejection of religion – Atheism

Theme 3

Religious experience
  • The influence of religious experience on religious practice and faith
  • Different definitions of miracle
  • Contrasting views on the possibility of miracles: Hume & Swinburne

Theme 4

Religious Language
  • Inherent problems of religious language
  • Religious language as cognitive but meaningless
  • Religious language as non-cognitive and analogical

 

Theme 4

Religious Language
  • language as non-cognitive and symbolical
  • Religious language as non-cognitive and mythical
  • Religious language as a language game

Component 3: Religion and  Ethics

 

 

 

Theme 1

Ethical Thought
  • Meta-ethical approaches – Naturalism
  • Meta-ethical approaches – Intuitionism
  • Meta-ethical approaches – Emotivism

Theme 2

Deontological Ethics: Natural Law
  • John Finnis’ development of Natural Law
  • Bernard Hoose’s Proportionalism
  • Finnis’ Natural Law and Hoose’s Proportionalism: application of the theory

Theme 4

Determinism and Free will:

Determinism
  • concepts of predestination: St Augustine and Calvin
  • Concepts of Determinism
  • The implications of predestination/determinism

Theme 4

Determinism and Free will:

Free will
  • Religious concepts of free will: Pelagius and Arminius
  • Concepts of libertarianism
  • The implications of libertarianism and free will

 

Recommended Extra Resources

      Recommended Reading List

  • (www.royalinstitutephilosophy.org/think/index.php)
  • The Philosopher’s Magazine (www.philosophersnet.com)
  • Philosophy Now (www.philosophynow.org)
  • (www.dialogue.org.uk): for Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
  • Philosophy Compass (http://philosophy-compass.com): more in-depth survey articles

 

 

      Useful Tips:

  • Apply contextual knowledge to analysis questions.
  • Ensure you personally engage with question being asked.
  • Ensure balance, accuracy and depth in essays.
  • Read widely around the subject of the texts; research religious, ethical, philosophical ideas and developments.
  • Stay informed – be aware of what is happening in the news and reflect on the views from various fronts.
  • Have an opinion!