GCSE’s at Langley School

We aim to provide each pupil, as far as possible, with a programme of study appropriate to his or her needs – a programme that builds on each pupil‘s strengths. While expecting all pupils to study our core subjects (English Language, Mathematics and Science), we set out to provide a broad spectrum of choice. Maintaining a diversity of subjects means that a child can embark on further study from a position of strength, with a wide field of knowledge and skills.

The range of subjects offered and the structure of the Option Blocks is intended to enable each student to study a broad, academically balanced curriculum, yet select subjects in which he or she is most interested and most capable. Pupils tend to have more motivation, and hence perform better in subjects they most enjoy. All pupils study Mathematics, with the GCSE taken in Year 11. All pupils will also study for a GCSE in English Language to be taken in Year 10. The majority of pupils having passed GCSE English Language a year early will then go on to study English Literature in Year 11. Those who need more time will have a further year to gain a pass in the Language paper.

Options we offer

English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Double Award Science
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Computer Science
Design & Technology
Drama
Fine Art
Food Preparation and Nutrition
French
Geography
History
Information and Communication Technology
Mandarin
Music
Photography
Physical Education
Physics
Spanish
Theology & Philosophy

Coursework/Controlled Assessment

A key element in many GCSE syllabuses used to be controlled assessment (which replaced coursework). This was the internal assessment part of the legacy range of specifications. This internally assessed piece of work (marked by the school) undertaken under controlled conditions within the school only remains in a few subjects, such as Art and Design & Technology. In the majority of the new specifications there are no controlled assessments or coursework. Instead, the entire grade is based on terminal assessments (examinations). It is increasingly important, therefore, that pupils develop strong study skills and revise regularly throughout Years 10 and 11 in order to build up a large body of knowledge and understanding; there will be too much to ‘cram’ just before the examinations. [In cases where controlled assessment is still required (see individual subjects), teachers and pupils need to closely follow examination board guidance when conducting such work. Even though controlled assessment may take place within normal timetabled lessons, it must be taken as seriously as external examinations, as controlled assessment can account for between 25% and 60% of a GCSE grade.

Study Pattern

All pupils study Mathematics, with the GCSE taken in Year 11. All pupils will also study for a GCSE in English Language to be taken in Year 10. The majority of pupils having passed GCSE English Language a year early will then go on to study English Literature in Year 11. Those who need more time will have a further year to gain a pass in the Language paper. The three science subjects are examined for the majority of pupils as two GCSEs (double science). There is also the option to study for three separate GCSEs in science. Three languages are offered as part of the option choices (French, Spanish and Mandarin). Prior study of the language to Year 9 is a prerequisite. Pupils who studied a language in Year 9 are encouraged to continue with the language. A spectrum of Art & Design subjects are also on offer within the blocks. Although each of the Art subjects have different endorsements and can, in theory, be studied together in any combination, pupils are restricted to choosing a maximum of two Art subjects at GCSE in order to ensure a broad base of study at this level.