GCSE changes
Wednesday 26 November 2008
Choosing your Year 9 options soon? GCSEs are changing - for example did you know that there are around 52 different subjects that have been introduced this year?
2009
The Government are changing the way education works for 14-19 year olds.
As part of those changes, starting in September 2009, GSCEs will be designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge to understand today’s world and your role and responsibilities in it.
GCSEs will also be more targeted towards learning skills that are relevant to future employers, and also more relevant to young people themselves.
Suits you
If you fall apart during exams there could also be good news for you. Exam papers are going to have a really broad range of question styles giving everyone a chance to show what they know, understand and can do.
Many GSCE’s will also have more practical elements.
Assessment
The new GCSEs will be in units and there will be different ways you can study those – either at the end of the course or as part of other modules. You will also have the chance to resit each unit.
Another key change is that ‘controlled assessment’ will replace coursework. This means that assessments will now be carried out in the classroom with more teacher supervision. It also means less homework when you get home!
New GCSEs
OCR is one of the bodies that sets and marks GCSEs. The organisation has recently announced 93 new GCSE qualifications available in 52 different subjects!
The new Law GCSE will cover subjects such as consumer rights, police stop and search powers and fundamental human rights – including the rights of young people.
The new Geography GCSE will allow students to improve grades by drawing cartoons, writing poems or submitting videos and podcasts.
The revised Citizenship GCSE will cover subject areas such as how to become an active citizen and ideas around identity, democracy and justice.
The Design and Technology: Electronics and Control Systems - will cover subject areas such as sustainable design, and consideration of the environment, society and the economy, as well as technical aspects.
The revised Music GCSE will include more opportunity for students to perform live whether that be sequencing, singing or even rapping, DJing or beatboxing!
Search for a course near you on DirectGov
The Diploma
The Diploma is a new qualification that combines normal learning in the classroom with practical experience and when you are 14 you can now choose to take a Foundation or Higher Diploma in certain subjects - find out more. You can also choose to take some GCSEs at the same time, allowing you to have a vairety of qualifcations and skills.
Confused?
If you're feeling a little confused why not talk to an advisor at Connexions Direct? Call 0808 001 3219 or check the website.
The Which Way Now website has loads of very useful information that will take you right through the process.
