1 SIXTH FORM 2024 Entry An introduction to Advanced Level Courses
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3 Sixth Form Admissions Contact Information Internal Applicants: Miss H Munday Assistant Head hrm@rgshw.com External Applicants: Application Forms and GCSE Results sixthform@rgshw.com Mr S Noyes Director of Sixth Form sjn@rgshw.com Mrs S Byrd Head of Year 12 szb@rgshw.com Boarding Applicants: Mr J Scourfield Head of Boarding jis@rgshw.com School Office: 01494 524955
4 IMPORTANT DEADLINE DATES 2024-2025 From the start of the academic year External Applicants – Register their interest in joining the RGS Sixth Form on-line Tuesday, 31 October 2023 External Applicants – Information Event for external Year 11 students Wednesday, 22 November 2023 Internal Applicants and External Applicants – Options Open Evening for Year 11 students External Applicants – Applications to join the RGS Sixth Form open on-line Wednesday, 31 January 2024 External Applicants - Deadline for applications to join the RGS Sixth Form Tuesday, 25 June 2024 Sixth Form Taster Day for Internal and External Applicants Thursday, 22 August 2024 GCSE Results - Internal Applicants: 9.00am by email 1.00pm latest deadline for subject choices to be returned to School GCSE Results - External Applicants: 1.00pm deadline to confirm results in person or by email with a scanned copy of your official Statement of Results to sixthform@rgshw.com Friday, 23 August 2024 External Applicants - places confirmed to successful applicants Final offers for A Level courses can only be made when the GCSE results are available.
5 INTRODUCTION This booklet gives details of the courses and options available at the Royal Grammar School. It is aimed at both potential Sixth Formers already at the Royal Grammar School as well as new entrants to the School. We will be pleased to give further advice to prospective entrants when you visit the School. We welcome applicants from all types of school, for day and boarding places, and are delighted by the record of successes students new to the Sixth Form have achieved at A Level and beyond. Boarding Many of our students new to the Sixth Form take up the opportunity to board at Fraser Youens House. This is an ideal stepping stone to university life. It offers academic and pastoral support whilst still giving a young man a degree of independence. Our boarders achieve excellent results at A level, A*-B grades being, historically, 10% higher than fellow Sixth Formers. We would welcome applications to Boarding from both existing students and those new to the School. How to Apply (External Applicants): Having consulted with your parents, you should fill in the Application Form, which can be found on the School website www.rgshw.com. Click on “Sixth Form” and then on “Admissions and Register of Interest” and find the Sixth Form Application Form. Once this is completed, you will receive further details about the application process You should communicate full details of all your GCSE grades to the School as soon as you receive them on 22 August, 2024. You can do this by either bringing your official Statement of Results into School or by scanning it and sending it by email to sixthform@rgshw.com 2024 Standards of Entry The minimum entry requirements for Sixth Form study at the Royal Grammar School are: ▪ 8 taught full GCSEs at Grades 9-4 including English and Mathematics at Grade 5 or above and a total point score from the 8 GCSEs of a minimum 49 points. ▪ Grade 7 is highly desirable as a starting point for any A Level course and is a minimum requirement for entry in certain subjects. ▪ If there is oversubscription in a subject, selection will be made according to the School’s Admissions Policy. ▪ Please consult the table on Page 13 for the exact requirements in each subject. ▪ Overseas students: if you have not followed a curriculum requiring certification at age 16 (i.e.: GCSE or IGCSE), please consult the Head of Boarding or Director of Sixth Form for admission advice We always seek to deal with students on an individual basis but within the above constraints. Sixth Form Admissions Policies: All applicants for Sixth Form places, whether external or internal, day or boarding, must meet the same standards. Admissions Policies can be found on the School website under Admissions. Admissions Decisions: Internal / External Applicants - A firm offer can only be made in August when your GCSE results are known.
6 External Applicants – Your GCSE results must be communicated to the School as soon as you receive them. In some cases, a decision can be made immediately this information is received. However, due to the exceptionally large number of applicants for a limited number of places, the decision is usually confirmed within 24 hours. It is wise to have alternative arrangements in hand in case the School is unable to offer a place.
7 Sixth Form Curriculum Academic Curriculum Our post-16 curriculum seeks to ensure breadth of study as well as flexibility in choice and combination of subjects. All A Level subjects follow a two-year linear programme (internal end of year exams in Year 12, final public exams in Year 13). BTEC Sport students, only, will sit a public examination in Year 12. You are expected to study three subjects in Year 12 with at least one extra enrichment activity chosen from a wide list of options. Combinations of Subjects When selecting your subjects think about the following: ▪ Choose no more than two ‘new’ subjects ▪ Combining Science and non-Science subjects is widespread and university admissions tutors have welcomed the complementary skills acquired through contrasting subjects ▪ If you are clear about two subjects you wish to take to A Level, you may wish to think ‘creatively’ about your third choice and opt for a contrasting third subject. Someone taking two Sciences might, for example, consider a Language or the Humanities ▪ If you are thinking of taking Physics, you should seriously consider doing Mathematics as well. It is rare for any student to take Physics without Mathematics ▪ Further Mathematics can only be taken as a 4th A level. ▪ Further Mathematics cannot be studied without Mathematics The combination of subjects you choose is relevant to you as an individual and you should seek advice through discussions with your Form Tutor, the Head of Year 11 and/or Careers Advisers. Applying to Study 4 A Levels If you wish to commit to studying 4 subjects to A Level, there is a minimum entry requirement of 64 points from your best 8 GCSEs. The GCE A Level and Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma standard is the master key to open the door of opportunity in very many of the professions and forms the basis of requirement for degree courses at Universities and Colleges and for many other Higher Education courses. Additional Curriculum Subjects (see Appendix A for further details) The Additional Curriculum gives you the opportunity to enrich your curriculum still further by taking an additional subject or committing to a particular activity. You may opt to study/take: • Extended Project • Critical Thinking Skills • AS Level French / German / Spanish • GCSE Italian • Beginners Japanese • University Maths Admissions Tests • DofE Gold Award • Volunteering • CCF • Stage Lighting and Sound Team If you are studying 4 A levels an enrichment subject is optional. In Year 13 you may opt for AS Further Mathematics (entry requirement Grade A in Mathematics in the Year 12 UCAS Exam), one of the above or extra Private Study.
8 Enrichment Curriculum We believe we have a broad and balanced curriculum of proven worth and excellence. In addition to your A level subjects and Additional Curriculum choice, in Year 12 you will also have a Games afternoon where you can engage in a wide variety of team and individual sports at various skill levels and, in both Year 12 and Year 13, a Lecture Series which will cover many different PSHCE, Career, Higher Education and Current Affairs topics. Sixth Formers contribute greatly to the whole School and we encourage you to participate fully in the many co-curricular activities we offer. You may work towards the RGS 360° Award which recognises excellent commitment to Co-curricular, Volunteering, Work Experience, Extended Academic Research and Leadership. Sixth Formers have initiated and run many successful Societies, mentor younger students, volunteer with Horizons, take part in Sport, Music and Drama, the Wycombe Management Conference, UK and global trips and much more besides. Choosing the Subjects for Study In deciding between subjects, you need to ask these questions: ▪ Which subjects will I be most interested in? It is likely that you will perform best at a subject, and get the most out of it, if you enjoy the work and are fully committed to it. If you choose a subject out of a sense of duty or from external pressures you are unlikely to make the most of it. You are the person best placed to judge your interest in a subject but, bear in mind, interests change and may well do so during the course of the year. In the Sixth Form many students discover their potential in both old and new areas, and they develop interests which last a lifetime. You also need to realise that subjects change too: A Level Physics, for example, is much more quantitative (i.e. mathematical) than GCSE Physics, where the emphasis is on qualitative aspects. ▪ How do you find out what an A Level subject is like? • read the course descriptions in this booklet • ask those already taking the subject in the Sixth Form • look at an A Level textbook • speak to your current teachers • attend the lunchtime sessions for new subjects • make the most of the Sixth Form Options Evening and the Sixth Form Taster Day ▪ Which subjects do I think I am best at? Feedback on how able you are at a subject comes via reports, tests, coursework and exams which, taken together, give a general indication of how you would cope at a higher level. If you are thinking of a new subject you will not have this information and you will have to make a judgement based on performance in related subject areas. All A Level subjects will involve levels of complexity, analysis and abstraction which are considerably more developed than at GCSE Level. The main requirement is that you have the potential to develop in these and other areas. ▪ Do I have a specific career/university course in mind? The majority of careers are open to all applicants, whichever degree they have studied. The obvious exceptions are Architecture, Engineering and the Medical Sciences. It is useful and natural to use the opportunity of choosing A Levels to think ahead, even beyond university, to how you intend to earn your living. Some degree courses do make specific A Level requirements as a condition of entry. In general, degrees in subjects where an A Level course exists require that the appropriate course has been studied at school. For example, A Level History is required for a candidate wishing to read History at university. Other degree courses which do make a specific A Level requirement tend to have a
9 Science or Mathematics focus. Note, with most degrees, a high grade in any A Level is an indicator of intellectual ability and application. All A Levels are ‘relevant’ as they teach you how to think and develop the skills required for any degree. Below are some of the broad A-Level requirements for certain courses. Please note requirements can vary for each university and these details are a small number of examples given for guidance only. African, Asian, Oriental languages Architecture Art History Computer Science Economics Engineering Law Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science Natural Sciences Philosophy Psychology A Modern Language Mathematics/Physics or Design and Technology/Art Any suitable Arts subject Often Mathematics Often Mathematics Mathematics and Physics An essay-based subject Usually Chemistry and Biology Two Sciences (includes Mathematics) An essay-based subject Any subject, sometimes Mathematics or a Science
10 Settling into the Sixth Form Applicants sometimes wonder how they will settle into the Sixth Form of a new school - will they be the only 'newcomer'? It is common for over thirty students to join the RGS Sixth Form. Since those already at the School are themselves embarking on totally new courses in fresh form groups, everyone sets out on a similar footing. Academic Life in the Sixth Form A Level courses are much more demanding than GCSE. There is a need for more concentration, a readiness to work on your own and a willingness to do more than the bare minimum. You must also be prepared for a different pattern of work, in which the initiative rests, much more than before, with you the student. You should aim to spend a minimum of 12 hours a week on work at home, in addition to lessons and private study at School. When problems arise, it is frequently because an inadequate amount of individual study is being done. It is essential you are sufficiently committed to the work to spend a great deal of your time outside the classroom working on notes, textbooks, examples, case studies and reading round the subject matter. For further information on Sixth Form Admissions, please go to the School Website (www.rgshw.com) or contact the relevant Subject Leader.
11 SUMMARY OF COURSES Each entrant to Year 12 will choose a minimum 3 subjects in order of preference from the following: Ancient History Art and Design Biology Business Studies Chemistry Computer Science Design and Technology Economics English Literature French Geography German History Latin Mathematics Further Mathematics (may only be taken with Maths) Music Philosophy Physics Politics Psychology Spanish Sport (BTEC) Please note that not all subject combinations are possible and all are dependent on viable numbers. If taking 3 subjects you must also choose an additional 4th subject from: Extended Project (subject to qualification) Critical Thinking (subject to qualification) AS Level French / German / Spanish (subject to qualification) GCSE Italian Beginners Japanese University Maths Admissions Tests CCF Stage Lighting and Sound Team DofE Gold Award Volunteering Please note these are the subjects currently available and are also subject to change. Availability of all subjects is dependent on viable numbers.
12 SUMMARY OF SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS SUBJECT MINIMUM GCSE GRADE REQUIREMENT Ancient History 6 in English Language or English Literature and 6 in History or Latin or Classical Civilisation Art and Design 6 in Art and Design Biology 7 in Biology or 7/7 in Combined Science and 6 in Mathematics Business Studies 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in English Language or English Literature with a minimum total of 13 Chemistry 7 in Chemistry or 7/7 in Combined Science and 6 in Mathematics Computer Science 6 in Computing if previously studied and 6 in Mathematics and 6 in English Language or English Literature Design and Technology 6 in Design and Technology and 6 in Mathematics Economics 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in English Language or English Literature with a minimum total of 13 English Literature 6 in English Language and 6 in English Literature French 7 in French Geography 6 in Geography German 7 in German History 6 in History Latin 7 in Latin Mathematics 8 in Mathematics Mathematics (Further) 9 in Mathematics or 8 in Mathematics and C in Add Mathematics (FSMQ) or 8 in Mathematics and 7 in Level 2 Further Mathematics Music 7 in Music Philosophy 6/7 in English and 7/6 in Religious Studies or History or Geography Physics 7 in Physics or 7/7 in Combined Science and 8 in Mathematics or, if not studying Mathematics at A Level, a 9 is required in Mathematics Politics 6 in History or 6 in English Language or English Literature Psychology 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in Biology with a minimum total of 13 and 6 in English Language or English Literature Spanish 7 in Spanish Sport BTEC 6 in Biology and 6 in English Language or English Literature IB Middle Years Programme – please see Appendix B for grade equivalence
13 ART AND DESIGN FINE ART and GRAPHICS Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 6 in Art and Design Art and Design – Fine Art and Graphics are both a form of communication and a means of expression of ideas and feelings. It forms a language which complements those of the literary, mathematical, scientific and factually based subjects and is especially concerned with the development of visual perception and aesthetic experience. During the 2 years of the course you will produce a comprehensive portfolio of work which is a fundamental element of the A Level course. All Higher Education Creative Courses, for example, Art Schools, Architecture, Media and Graphic Design courses require applicants to submit a digital portfolio. This specification is intended to form part of an educational continuum which progresses naturally from GCSE and is intended to meet the needs of any student with an interest and aptitude for Art. Employers actively seek out students who have undertaken Arts-based subjects due to the range of high level personal and transferable skills that students need to possess and develop to enjoy success in this field. Fine Art- Areas of Study 7202/C You will follow the Fine Art specification within Art and Design and will be required to work in one or more area(s) from those listed below: • painting, drawing and mixed media • sculpture (including ceramic sculpture) • land art, installation and construction • printmaking • photography Graphic Communication- Areas of Study 7203/C Students are required to work in one or more area(s) of graphic communication, such as those listed below. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas: • interactive media (including web, app and game design) • advertising • packaging design • design for print • illustration • communication graphics • branding • multimedia • motion graphics • design for film and television Year 12 - Fine Art and Graphic Communication In Year 12, both endorsements will be working alongside each other to develop work based on an idea, issue, concept or theme leading to a finished outcome or series of related finished outcomes. This experimental year has a similar structure to that of a Foundation Year where we encourage an exploratory approach within a critically creative environment. You will develop a range of skills fitting with each endorsement which will equip you with the ability to start defining your own, personal creative practice. You will be actively encouraged to stretch and challenge yourself. The year is an opportunity to produce an extended collection of work that exemplifies
14 aspects of your developing knowledge, skills and understanding. This work should provide evidence of research; the development of ideas; critical/contextual understanding; and making skills. It should demonstrate your ability to sustain work from an initial starting point to a realisation. September to January Theme: ‘Sense of Place’ You will produce a creative portfolio of work and final piece which demonstrates your ability to research and explore a range of visual stimuli and your personal connection, interaction and response to those surroundings. This includes a two-day workshop in a local area of geographical and artistic interest and a series of tasks designed to develop and challenge your existing knowledge and skills. Year 13 - Fine Art (7202) and Graphic Communication (7203) Coursework Portfolio (60%) and Externally Set Task (40%). Set and marked by the School and moderated by AQA. Fine Art Students should produce practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example, drawing, painting, mixed-media, sculpture, ceramics, installation, printmaking, moving image (video, film, animation) and photography. Graphic Communication Students should produce practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example, interactive media (including web, app and game design), advertising, packaging design, design for print, illustration, communication graphics, branding, multimedia, motion graphics, design for film and television. February to January - Component 1 (60%) Theme: ‘Critical Studies/Personal Investigation Skills’ You will produce a creative portfolio of work and final piece which has a focus on your own selected area of interest which might develop from previous work or be influenced by your future career and university choices. Practical elements should make connections with some aspect of contemporary or past practice of artist(s), designer(s), photographers or craftspeople and include written work of no less than 1000 and no more than 3000 words. The portfolio will be a combination of practical tasks, together with written explanations and analyses of the research and development work undertaken. February to April - Component 2 (40%) You will produce a creative portfolio of work and final piece as an externally set assignment (Fine Art and Graphic Communication). You will select one question from a choice of eight issued by the AQA examining board. Questions are issued on 1 February and you then have nine weeks to prepare and develop your ideas through your portfolio. If you are taking Graphic Communication you will be expected to respond to a specific brief. There is a final exam which lasts 15 hours. You will need to be able to work independently, managing your time effectively and demonstrate a sophisticated level of personal and thoughtful response to the stimulus, addressing all the assessment objectives through a finished outcome or series of linked final outcomes. Mrs G Francis
15 BIOLOGY Examination Board: PEARSON EDEXCEL GCSE requirement: 7 in Biology or 7/7 in Combined Science and 6 in Mathematics Biology is a fascinating subject to study at A Level. If you enjoyed learning about the biological processes covered at GCSE and find yourself asking questions and wanting to know more, then the A Level course is perfect for you. You must possess a genuine and strong interest in the study of life ranging from subcellular biochemical processes to whole organism biology of plants and animals. You level of interest must be such that you will be motivated to spend at least 5 hours a week supporting the work covered in class with enough background reading and private study into order to be able to: • complete and reinforce class notes • write up class experiments and investigations • answer examination questions given a homework Topics covered in the A Level include: Topic 1: Biological Molecules - Structure of biological molecules e.g. carbohydrates, enzymes, nucleic acids, protein synthesis, mutation Topic 2: Cells, Viruses and Reproduction of Living Things - Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure, viruses and controlling viral infections, cell division, fertilisation and reproduction Topic 3: Classification and Biodiversity - Classification, evolution, speciation, biodiversity, conservation Topic 4: Exchange and Transport - Cell transport methods, gas exchange in animals and plants, the heart and circulation, transport in plants Topic 5: Energy for Biological Processes - Photosynthesis, respiration Topic 6: Microbiology and Pathogens - Microbial techniques, disease and the immune system Topic 7: Modern Genetics - Gene sequencing, gene expression, stem cells, genetic engineering Topic 8: Origins of Genetic Variation - Variation, inheritance, population genetics Topic 9: Control Systems - Homeostasis, osmoregulation, the nervous system, hormonal communication Topic 10: Ecosystems - Energy flow through ecosystems, changes in ecosystems, human effects in the environment Assessment Overview: Paper 1: Advanced Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics Topics 1-7 Mixture of multiple choice and structured questions 1 hour 45 mins 90 marks Paper 2: Advanced Physiology, Evolution and Ecology Topics 1-4 and Topics 8-10 Mixture of multiple choice and structured questions 1 hour 45 mins 90 marks
16 Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Biology This paper will include questions from Topics 1−10, with a focus on experimental techniques. 2 hours 30 mins 120 marks Science Practical Endorsement (non-exam assessment) 15 core practical tasks will be completed during the A level that are assessed using the Common Practical Assessment Criteria which are consistent across all exam boards. Subject Combinations and Subsequent Careers Biology combines well with Chemistry and Physics due to the overlapping scientific and investigational principles that are learnt across the science A levels. Biology links particularly well with Chemistry due to the biochemistry elements of the course and many universities may require applicants to have studied Chemistry as well as Biology for biological related degree courses. Mathematics is also another popular subject to add to the Sciences combinations due to the mathematical requirements of the Science A levels. The area of Biological Sciences includes a vast array of university courses such as Zoology, Plant Science, Ecology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Genetics. The Edexcel B Biology A level course prepares students well for these degree courses due to its range and depth of topics covered. Biology is an essential A level to study if you are planning on studying Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Medicine. These courses are amongst the most competitive in the country and therefore A/A* grades are required in Biology if your application is to be successful. The Biology department runs an RGS Medical Society that supports aspiring Medical students with their applications. Mr L Rowe-Elliott
17 BUSINESS STUDIES Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in English Language or English Literature with a minimum total of 13 This course examines all aspects of business, including marketing, accounting and finance, internal organisation, human resources and operations management. It explores how an individual business is affected by and adapts to changes in government policy and economic and social changes. Although the course does involve a theoretical approach to business, the emphasis is always on how theory can be applied to realistic business situations, with the focus on providing solutions supported by evidence and analysis. You will be required to apply your knowledge and understanding to analyse and solve current business problems and issues, using case studies, videos and similar materials. The subject provides a solid foundation for any career in Accountancy, Law, Finance, Human Resources, or indeed a wide variety of jobs in the City, business or the media, and the skills of analysis and evaluation which are developed are useful in any career. For the A Level, you will study the following topics: • 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. • Analysing the strategic position of a business. • Choosing strategic direction. • Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies. • Managing strategic change. • The A level assesses quantitative skills, making up a minimum of 10% of the overall marks. The skills tested include ratios, averages, fractions, percentages and calculation of profit and loss. The course involves, in all sections, a considerable amount of both written and numerical work, and you will have to be prepared and able to read and understand written, graphical and numerical data. The A-level is assessed by three 2 hour written exams at the end of the course. Paper 1: Multiple-choice questions, short answer and two essays. Paper 2: Three compulsory data response questions. Paper 3: One compulsory case study consisting of six questions. Mr A Newton
18 CHEMISTRY Examination Board: PEARSON EDEXCEL GCSE requirement: 7 in Chemistry or 7/7 in Combined Science and 6 in Mathematics How do you make Aspirin? Why do endothermic reactions happen? Why is copper sulphate solution blue? Do you enjoy practical work? If you want to know the answers to the first three questions and answered ‘yes’ to the last, Chemistry is the subject for you! Chemistry is a very popular and challenging A Level subject. This course not only gives you a good understanding of the basic principles of the subject but it also seeks to inspire the research scientists of tomorrow. It covers aspects of Chemistry often in the media and which affect everyone’s lives. It is important you have the necessary knowledge and understanding to explain aspects of contemporary Chemistry such as climate change, green chemistry and pharmaceuticals. The specification followed is Pearson (Edexcel) A-level Chemistry (2015). It is a linear course with all examination-based assessment at the end of Year 13. Practical work gives you opportunities to use relevant apparatus and techniques to develop and demonstrate specific practical skills. These skills are assessed by completing a number of core practical experiments throughout the course. The assessment outcomes are reported on your certificate as the “Practical Endorsement” - achieved or not achieved. Practical knowledge is also assessed in the written examinations. An understanding of Chemistry is essential or desirable for a host of university courses. Apart from pure Chemistry, these include: Pharmacy, Agriculture, Horticulture, Geochemistry, Geology, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Environmental Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, General Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology and Biochemistry. A Chemistry A-level is also useful when applying for many other subjects at university. Its greatest value for those not intending to pursue a scientific discipline lies in the reasoning, problem-solving and numerical skills you will develop. For those not yet committed to a specific career path, Chemistry in combination with Mathematics, Physics, Geography or Biology keeps open a very wide set of options. Several universities offer courses where Chemistry is taken with a Foreign Language with 1 year being spent at a European university. There are also courses where students spend a year of their study at an American, European or Australian university. Mr P Elliott
19 CLASSICS Examination Board: OCR GCSE requirement: • Latin: 7 in Latin • Ancient History 6 in English Language or English Literature and 6 in History or Latin or Classical Civilisation The full, traditional Classics course consists of Latin and Ancient History. However, either of them can be taken with other subjects. A question often asked by pupils and parents focuses on what careers are available for those who take the Classical subjects for A-Level or beyond. The specimen list of potential careers at the end of this document section should offer reassurance and should not be surprising when one realises that studying Classics is an introduction to two vigorous and fascinating civilisations at critical points in their development. LATIN There are two main branches to the work: First, the study of the literature, in prose and poetry, written by authors of central importance such as Cicero, Ovid, Tacitus, Livy, Sallust, Catullus and Virgil. Activities range from straightforward translation, to discussion and explanation of the subject-matter, to literary criticism. Specific prescribed texts of both prose and poetry are set; study of individual authors begins in Year 12 and, in Year 13, there is the option to either add another author or to study the first author in greater depth. These are examined by both context and essay questions. Second, knowledge of the language is strengthened throughout the course with the grammar gradually becoming more complex in order to enable you to read Latin in the original with confidence. The skill of translating from English into Latin may be introduced in Year 13, leading, for those that want it, to the possibility of offering a prose composition (English into Latin) in the examination. The alternative is a comprehension/translation test which includes some questions on grammar. Latin fits particularly well with Modern Languages, History and English (and may be offered with those for university entrance, including Oxbridge), but in recent years it has also been combined very successfully with Mathematics and/or Science subjects to offer some breadth. The new specification offers a straightforward transition from GCSE work, and should be accessible to anyone with a Grade 7 or better. However, the prime requisite is enthusiasm for the subject and we will try to accommodate you if you are keen to study the subject. (Note that Latin at this level does not contain any Roman Life element. If you have a particular interest in this aspect you might like to consider Ancient History.) Exam Units taken at the end of the 2-year course: 1. Unseen translation of one prose and one verse passage (1 hour 45 mins) 2. Comprehension paper or optional English to Latin composition (1 hour 15 mins) 3. Prose Literature tested by translation, context and essay questions (2 hours) 4. Verse Literature tested by translation, context and essay questions (2 hours) Mrs D Dicks
20 ANCIENT HISTORY Please note that absolutely no previous knowledge of Latin or Greek, or even of the Ancient World in general, is expected if you want to take this subject. All necessary background is fully explained at the beginning of the course, and all sources are studied in English. The essential requirements for success are an interest in history per se, an enjoyment of reading and research, good reasoning skills and the ability to write good English. The course is accessible if you have GCSE English Literature at Grade 6 or above. If you fail to meet this requirement, you will be assessed on an individual basis, so do not be deterred. A Level Ancient History is made up of two aspects, both examined at the end of Year 13 in two 2 hour 20 mins exam units. Greek The 5th Century BC Period study - looking at the 5th century with a focus on the relations between Sparta, Athens and Persia, through the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars. Sparta Depth Study – looking at the politics and culture of Sparta with relation to the other Greek states. There is considerable overlap with the period study Roman The Julio–Claudians Period Study - considering the early days of Imperial Rome and the evolution of Empire. The Fall of the Roman Republic Depth Study – considering the period immediately preceding the Period study, and how it was that the Republican system ceased to be fit for purpose and allowed the creation of Imperial Rome You will be expected to have a detailed knowledge of prescribed original sources. This is a course for any student, whatever their other subjects, although it might be of special interest to those who have enjoyed the Roman Life aspect of the Cambridge Latin Course or Classical Civilisation at GCSE. Emphasis is laid on examining evidence and discussing its credibility as well as on learning the facts. Essays are regarded as a vital element in research and discussion. It should be a training of practical use to any would-be Historian or Lawyer or indeed anyone wishing to perfect their skills of expression and analysis. It also offers opportunities to demonstrate the key skills of ICT, problem solving, communication and working with others. Dr S Matthews UNIVERSITY Classical subjects can be studied at many universities, either on their own or in combination with a wide variety of other subjects (e.g. Archaeology, Anthropology, Medieval/Modern History, English, Linguistics, Modern Languages and Philosophy). For a traditional full Classics degree, an A Level in Latin is clearly an advantage, but all universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, are now happy to teach either language from “scratch”. In recent years, for example, some of those who have taken only Ancient History at A Level have gone on to study full Classics at university. CAREERS The perennial question is: “What does the study of Classics qualify you for?” An illuminating list of the careers of Oxford Classics graduates, mentioned at a talk given at this School and a survey of past pupils, lists advanced scholarship, law, business, teaching, Civil Service, wine trade, art gallery and library work, the stage, advertising, film-making, publishing, medicine, journalism and computer programming among others.
21 We regularly ask about the situation and the answer is always the same – that there are plenty of openings for good Classicists. Very few degree courses qualify a person directly for a career, and a period of additional vocational training is almost always required. The Secretary of the Oxford University Appointments Board has made it plain that Classicists are, in a sense, at an advantage because they are often more aware of this than others. He has said too, in a letter to us, “We also have many employers who actually prefer Classics graduates for the width and rigour of their degree subject.” Mrs D Dicks “Humanities teaches us to argue cogently and responsibly and intelligently and with integrity about a series of questions to which there are no right answers.” (Mary Beard as quoted in The Times, 2 October 2023)
22 COMPUTER SCIENCE Examination Board: OCR GCSE requirement: 6 in Computing if previously studied and 6 in Mathematics and 6 in English Language or English Literature Introduction Computer Science is a subject that, by its nature, requires you to consider individual, moral, ethical, social, cultural and contemporary issues. Computers are widely used in all aspects of government, business, industry, education, leisure and the home. In this increasingly technological age a study of Computer Science, and particularly how computers are used in the solution of a variety of problems, is not only valuable but also essential to the future wellbeing of the country. Computer Science integrates well with subjects across the curriculum. It demands both logical discipline and imaginative creativity in the selection and design of algorithms and the writing, testing and debugging of programs; it relies on an understanding of the rules of language at a simple level; it encourages an awareness of the management and organisation of computer systems; it extends your horizons beyond the School environment in the appreciation of the effects of computer applications on society and individuals. For these reasons, Computer Science is relevant to you if you are studying Arts or Science subjects. Course Outline Computer Systems (01) – You will gain an understanding of operating systems; 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. This element contains most of the content of the qualification and is assessed in a written paper recalling knowledge and understanding. Algorithms and Programming (02) – You will gain an understanding of elements of computational thinking, problem solving and programming and algorithms. This component relates principally to problem solving skills needed to apply the knowledge and understanding gained in the Computer Systems component 01. Programming Project (03 or 04) – this is a practical portfolio-based assessment with a task chosen by you and/or your teacher. It will involve you using an appropriate programming language. You will gain an understanding of definition, investigation and analysis, system design, software development and testing; documentation, evaluation and how to produce written reports covering these topics. You will choose a computing problem to work through which will include: • analysis of the problem • design of the solution • developing the solution • evaluation A Level Examination Computer Systems (01) 40% - 2 hours 30 mins written examination Algorithms and programming (02) 40% - 2 hours 30 mins written examination Programming Project (03 or 04) 20% - Portfolio Based Assessment Mr D Travi
23 DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 6 in Design and Technology and 6 in Mathematics This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives you the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative, product design and engineering industries. You will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put your learning into practice by producing products of your choice. You will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers. This qualification is linear meaning you will sit all your exams and submit all the Non-Exam Assessment material (Coursework) at the end of the course. An outline of the course specification is as follows: Paper 1 What is assessed? Technical Principles Written exam 2 hours 30 mins Marks available 120 Percentage of A Level 30% Type of questions Mixture of short answer and extended response. Paper 2 What is assessed? Designing and Making Principles Written exam 1 hour 30 mins Marks available 80 Percentage of A Level 20% Type of questions Section A: Product Analysis – 30 marks Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s) Section B: Commercial Manufacture – 50 marks Mixture of short and extended response questions Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) / Coursework What is assessed? Practical Application of Technical Principles, Designing and Making Principles How it is assessed? Substantial design and make project Marks available 100 Percentage of A Level 50% Evidence A3 design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype Mr D Marshall
24 ECONOMICS Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 6/7 in Mathematics and 6/7 in English Language or English Literature with a minimum total of 13 Why Study Economics? Economics is an ideal subject if you are interested in business, finance or political issues, and will also suit you if you are considering a career in the media or law. It combines well with a wide range of other subjects, such as History and Politics, but it is also a very good ‘bridging’ subject which can be combined with Arts, Social Science or Scientific subjects. Mathematicians usually make good economists and, although it is not essential to take Mathematics, you should consider doing so if you intend to study Economics at University. The course makes considerable use of material relating to current affairs, and we make much use of news articles, videos and internet resources. Each year a significant number of students continue to study Economics at university, and we have a number of Oxford and Cambridge places awarded each year to read the subject. The Course: Economics is conventionally divided into microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics involves a study of markets and prices, addressing issues such as: ▪ Why has the price of petrol risen? ▪ Why has the price of computers fallen? ▪ Why does Gareth Bale earn more than a highly qualified Head of Economics? ▪ What factors affect the housing market? We also consider areas of ‘market failure’, where the Government intervenes to ensure a more satisfactory outcome – pollution controls, public sector goods and services and legal restraints on monopolies, for example. The course involves a close analysis of several markets, such as the oil market and, in the second year, the economic analysis of business and the labour market is introduced. Macroeconomics is the study of the whole economy, and how Government policies such as use of taxation and interest rates can be used to achieve economic objectives. The course covers issues such as: ▪ How can unemployment be reduced? ▪ How can economic growth be encouraged? ▪ Can we increase UK living standards? ▪ Is income inequality a problem which should concern us? ▪ Why has Britain’s relative position in the world changed? ▪ Does inflation matter? ▪ Will we be more prosperous outside the EU? These are the main topic areas covered in the first year of the 2-year A Level course: 1. Economic methodology and the economic problem 2. Price determination in a competitive market 3. The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets 4. The measurement of macroeconomic performance
25 5. How the macroeconomy works: the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts 6. Economic performance 7. Macroeconomic policy 8. Behavioural Economics These are the main topic areas covered in the second year of the 2-year A Level course: 1. Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly 2. The labour market 3. The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality 4. The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets 5. Financial markets and monetary policy 6. Fiscal policy and supply-side policies 7. The international economy The examinations are a combination of multiple-choice questions, data questions and written answers. Please consult the examination board’s website (www.aqa.org.uk) for full details. Mr P Bastow
26 ENGLISH LITERATURE Examination Board: OCR GCSE requirement: 6 in English Language and 6 in English Literature By achieving a grade 6 or above at GCSE level in both English Literature and English Language, you have already demonstrated your ability to write fluent and accurate English. The beauty of starting an A Level in English Literature is that you are no longer studying two distinctively different courses at the same time, but one. There is much more time to delve into the finer nuances of a range of plays, novels and poems and explore the many challenging themes that they present. Lessons are very discussion based so a creative and critical outlook is essential, and you should take a personal approach to your exploration of the world through the Literature you read. The course is divided into three units: Shakespeare, Drama and Poetry Pre-1900 Exploration of Hamlet and a comparative exploration of A Doll's House and The Merchant's Tale - 40% Comparative and Contextual Study Contextual exploration of The Gothic and comparative exploration of Du Maurier's seminal novel Rebecca and Carter's influential short story collection The Bloody Chamber - 40% Literature Post-1900 Study of three chosen texts – coursework – 20% The study of English Literature complements many other subjects, particularly those where essay writing skills are a strong feature. It fosters a broad knowledge of the cultural and historical contexts of texts, as well as an openness to different ways of reading and understanding them. It sits well with a range of different subjects, offering a complement to the humanities or an engaging alternative to those pursuing the sciences. English at University English is a subject which opens doors to a range of different university pathways and careers. Successful completion of an English Literature degree course demonstrates academic capabilities, powers of analysis, mental rigour and mastery of your own language – all highly desirable qualities in many walks of life. Study of English can lead to careers in law, journalism, consultancy, advertising, the Civil Service or publishing. An English student becomes part of the longest conversation in humanity. Learning from the past, in the present, for the future. Miss N McDonagh
27 FRENCH Examination Board: AQA GCSE requirement: 7 in French Why French? Students at RGS choose to study French at A-Level for many different reasons. You might be interested in gaining fluency in another language to increase your job opportunities. You might choose French because of its importance as a global language. French is the language of international diplomacy, and is the language of instruction for numerous places across the world, including many countries in North and West Africa. You might also choose French because of its unparalleled contribution to world culture. French combines well with any combination of Arts or Sciences subjects. If you study French alongside Science and Maths, you will find French lessons a welcome contrast in the style of lesson and tasks, but equally if you study it alongside Arts and Humanities subjects you will find much of cultural content at A Level complements your study of Literature, Politics, History, Philosophy, Geography, Economics, Music or Art. The Course You will continue to build on the GCSE requirements of speaking, listening, reading and writing but the course content is much more varied and requires a depth of thought, understanding and analysis that will be a welcome stretch for you. Everything is linked to understanding the target language culture and society. The 5 main themes taught are: • Aspects of French speaking society • Artistic Culture in the French speaking world • Aspects of political life in the French speaking world • A piece of literature and a film Two periods per week are set aside for oral work with the Foreign Language Assistant and there are usually opportunities to go on a French exchange or trip to Toulouse, as well as competitions and events to get involved with in the UK. The chief aim of studying a language at A Level is to develop active interest and involvement in the language and life of cultures different to our own and to add an extra dimension to our experience which will bring enrichment and a deeper understanding of the world in which we live. The oral exam allows you to undertake an independent research project on any aspect of French-speaking culture that interests you which is excellent preparation for university and/or managing projects in later life. Beyond A Level All kinds of courses are available at universities for the study of languages. They can be studied in combinations with a wide variety of other subjects (such as Archaeology, Law, Psychology, Mathematics, Engineering to name but a few) or on their own. Even if you do not go on to study languages specifically, having an A Level language really makes you stand out from the crowd and is an asset in any course which is looking for strong communication skills. Many universities also have study abroad programmes even for students not doing languages and having A Level French will mean you have access to programmes and opportunities that other students do not. For students not proceeding to university and for those thinking about life after university, an A Level qualification in Modern Languages is an asset in the jobs market. More than 70% of trade in Europe is conducted in a language other than English, and businesses are increasingly aware of the need to deal with other countries in Europe and beyond in their own languages. France is one of the
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