A Level subject introductions

Making the right choice of A levels is crucial in terms of setting the path for your future, but making that choice is not always easy. It is important to take in to account what you enjoy, what you have been successful in and your thoughts about your future career path. In order to help you to make this decision, please read the subject outlines below. This information can also be found in the prospectus. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at sixthform@loretogrammar.co.uk

Art and Design

A Level Art and Design

About A Level Art and Design

Entry requirements: A minimum grade 6 and above in Art and Design at GCSE.

Course Content:

The specification delivered at Loreto Grammar is the AQA A Level specification for Art, Craft and Design.  This broad-based course explores both practical and critical/ contextual work through a range of 2D and/or 3D processes. Students at A Level produce work from a range of the following areas of study:

• Fine Art
• Graphic Communication
• Textile Design
• Three- Dimensional Design
• Photography

At the start of the course in Year 12 following the successful completion of the summer transition work, students will carry out a series of workshops exploring new techniques and processes. The selection of the workshops will be determined by the transition work carried out by the students. Once the workshop work and summer work have been assessed, the students will be allocated a lead teacher and from that point on, the students will work closely with them.

A-level is made up of 2 components.

	Component 1	Component 2
A-level (7201)	Personal Investigation = 60% Must cover at least 2 or more areas of study listed. Will also include a written element of 1,000-3,000 words.	Externally Set Assignment = 40% Preparatory time + 15hrs exam Exam issued in February Must cover one or more areas of study listed.

 

Assessment:

Throughout the course the work is regularly assessed internally against the Assessment Objectives (AO’s) which are set by AQA. The department provides the students with a time plan for the assessment deadlines to enable them to pace and plan their workload. These regular internal assessments are seen by the department as an ‘additive process’ and students are offered advice and guidance on how to improve and develop their work in readiness for the next internal assessment.

There are four Assessment objectives that the work is marked against:

Assessment objective 1	Assessment objective 2	Assessment objective 3	Assessment objective 4
Develop ideas through sustained and focused investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and critical understanding	Explore and select appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processes, reviewing and refining ideas as work develops	Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to intentions, reflecting critically on work and progress	Present a personal and meaningful response that realises intentions and, where appropriate, makes connections between visual and other elements

 

Higher Education and Careers:

Students who want to pursue Art and Design to a higher level generally complete a one-year foundation course in Art and Design. This gives the individual the opportunity to experiment with a broader range of disciplines and experiences before deciding on a specific course at degree. However, attending a foundation course is not a prerequisite for being offered a place on a degree course. The Art and Design department provides support and advice with applications to Art College.

A career linked to Art and Design can be rich and varied. The following list acts as a snapshot. The skills that an Art and Design related degree provides, offer invaluable attributes that can be transferred into an infinite amount of job opportunities.

• Advertising
• Media related
• Architecture
• Art Director
• Art Historian
• Illustrator
• Printer
• Sculptor
• Photojournalist
• Set Designer
• Picture Editor
• Teaching
• Photographer
• Ceramicist
• Fashion
• Costume Designer
• Jeweller
• Website Designer
• Games designer

Biology

 A Level Biology

About A Level Biology

Entry requirements: Minimum Grade 6 in Combined Science or a grade 6 in GCSE Biology for separate scientists. We would also highly recommend a grade 6 in Mathematics as 10% of the marks at A Level require the use of level 2 (Higher tier) mathematical skills.

To be successful in Biology at this level, students embarking on this course should have a real interest in the subject. They will have to commit a substantial amount of time to homework and learning. Practical work is an integral part of the course and students must be fully involved in this aspect of the course at all levels.

Course Content:

At Loreto we teach the AQA Biology specification as we believe it offers a good grounding in a range of Biological Sciences, which enables students to progress to the widest range of further education courses. The course content is delivered by two specialist teaching staff in a total of 11 lessons per fortnight.

Year 1 - The specification covers the following four areas:

1) Biological Molecules

2) Cells

3) Organisms exchange substances with their environment

4) Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

Year 2 – A Level Biology is a two year qualification which is examined on completion of the course. The specification covers the four topics listed above along with the four topics from Year 2:

5) Energy transfers in and between organisms

6) Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments

7) Genetics, Populations, Evolution and Ecosystems

8) Control of gene expression

Assessment:

Assessment is via three examination papers at the end of the two year course which are a mixture of short answer, long answer, comprehension, extended response questions and an essay. Practical skills and critical analysis of data are also examined in these papers.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Biology is a versatile subject that complements many different subject combinations. Popular combinations include Biology taken with:

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Mathematics

• Geography

• Psychology

 Such combinations can pave the way for careers in –

• Scientific Research                • Biotechnology                        • Psychology

• Medicine/Dentistry                 • Environmental Science       • Microbiology

• Nursing                                      • Biochemistry                         • Teaching

• Forensics                                   • Food Science

• Physiotherapy                          • Sports Science

 

Business

A Level Business

About A Level Business

Entry requirements: No specific requirements beyond the standard entry requirements. Students who have studied Business at GCSE will find a natural advantage in terms of their knowledge base, but new students should not be put off by this as we do give a firm foundation to those joining the subject in Year 12. It is recommended the students should have a grade 7 at GCSE Mathematics. 

Course Content:

In this ever-changing world, there has never been a more exciting time to become a business student. Whether it be discussing the implications of the cost of living crisis for UK consumers and businesses or assessing the risk of Apple introducing a new product into their expansive range, our classrooms are always filled with enthusiasm and a zest for learning.

A Level Business allows students to find out how businesses are managed and the factors that influence their ability to be successful. Areas of study include marketing, human resources, finance and operations management, leadership and management, as well as strategy and global business.

Students of this course will study business in a variety of contexts (for example, large/small, UK focused/global, service/manufacturing) and consider:

• the importance of the context of business in relation to decision making
• the interrelated nature of business activities and how they affect competitiveness
• the competitive environment and the markets in which businesses operate
• the influences on functional decisions and plans including ethical and environmental issues
• how technology is changing the way decisions are made and how businesses operate and
  compete
• the use of non-quantitative and quantitative data in decision making (including the interpretation of index numbers and calculations such as ratios and percentages).

Strategic decision making-

The study of strategic decision making should build on the study of decision making in the functional areas. Students should consider:

- the impact of technology on strategic decision making

- the influences of Corporate Social Responsibility, ethical and environmental issues on strategic decisions

- the difficulties in forecasting future trends

- the importance of assessing feasibility and risk when making strategic decisions

- the impact on stakeholders of strategic decisions and their response to such decisions.

The course is broken down into ten topic areas: 

1. What is business?

2. Managers, leadership and decision making

3. Decision making to improve marketing performance

4. Decision making to improve operational performance

5. Decision making to improve financial performance

6. Decision making to improve human resource performance

7. Analysing the strategic position of a business

8. Choosing strategic direction

9. Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies

10. Managing strategic change

Assessment:

Students must sit three assessments at the end of the second year. All three papers are written exams worth 33.3% of A-level and cover all of the topics above.

There are a range of questions across the 3 papers including:

• Multiple choice questions
• Calculations and data response questions
• Short answer questions
• Essay questions based on a case study

Students will have regular assessment in class and through homework. They will have end of topic assessments throughout the two year programme, as well as two sets of mock examinations.

Higher Educations and Careers: Business A Level provides a firm foundation for students who are looking to go to university to study business, management, events management, economics or international relations. It encourages students to think strategically and about how decisions may affect not only businesses, but the wider world around them. This is an invaluable skill which many employers would be looking for when students are going into the world of employment. It is expected that students take an interest in current affairs since business benefits from what is happening every day in the world around us. Students should be naturally interested in the topic and are expected to read a from quality news source on a weekly basis.

Chemistry

A Level Chemistry

About A Level Chemistry

Entry requirements: Minimum Grade 6 in Combined Science or a grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry for separate scientists. We would also highly recommend a grade 6 in Mathematics as much of the content at A Level requires the use of higher tier and complex mathematical skills.

To be successful in Chemistry at this level, students embarking on this course should have a real interest in the subject. They will have to commit a substantial amount of time to homework and learning. Practical work is an integral part of the course and students will need to demonstrate that they are competent in a wide range of practical skills over the two-year course to be awarded the practical competence part of the A Level.  We would encourage students choosing A Level Chemistry to do so in conjunction with A Level Biology, Mathematics or Physics. 

Course content:

Chemistry is the study of atoms and molecules, both naturally occurring and synthetic. It is rooted in the understanding of chemical and physical phenomena observed during chemical reactions.

At A Level the topics studied include atomic structure, bonding, quantitative chemistry, in depth organic chemistry, the rate and extent of chemical reactions, thermodynamics, acids and bases, structure determination and the detailed study of the properties and chemistry of a wide variety of elements and compounds.

The course will be delivered by two specialist teachers who will between them teach eleven periods per fortnight.

Assessment:

There will be three written examinations:

 

Paper 1 - Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and some practical skills. 2 hour written examination.

   105 marks = 35% of A Level.

Paper 2 - Further Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and some practical skills. 2 hour written examination.

             105 marks = 35% of A Level.

Paper 3 - Synoptic (any topics can be tested). 2 hour written examination.  Written questions based on any aspect of the practical work covered. This exam also includes 30 multiple choice questions based on any course content. 

            90 marks = 30% of A Level

Features of the Course:

Students are expected to complete the extensive transition work before starting in Year 12 to ensure that no matter what their educational background, they are prepared for the demands of the course.

Lessons are delivered in specialised laboratories. The course is sequenced to allow topics to be re-visited and further developed as the course progresses. Practical work underpins much of the understanding and course content.

Students are also encouraged to develop their ICT proficiency in a variety of ways, for example, making presentations of their research, becoming proficient using Microsoft Excel and using data logging equipment.

It is also an expectation in the course that students develop their independent learning skills. If available, students will be given the opportunity to attend external Royal Society of Chemistry lectures and take part in the chemistry Olympiad and the Cambridge lower sixth challenge.

Higher Education and Careers: 

A Level Chemistry is an acceptable qualification for virtually all degree courses and shows a commitment to learning and application of understanding that is second to none. Chemistry is often called ‘The Central Science’ because of its role connecting the physical sciences with the life sciences and applied sciences. Chemistry can often be required as an A-Level for degree courses that may not seem to be chemistry centred.

The British chemical industry is the UK’s biggest manufacturing sector and the UK’s number one export earner. Consequently, there are a very wide range of opportunities for graduates of chemistry.

 

Industries relying directly on the technical training of Chemists	Careers in science relying on the general scientific training of Chemists	Careers related to the numeracy, analytical and problem solving skills of chemistry graduates
Pharmaceutical	Forensic Science	Accountancy
Agrochemical	Medicine	Investment Banking
Biotechnology	Nuclear Fuels	Law
Perfumes and Cosmetics	Scientific Civil Service	Marketing
Textiles and Dyes	Health and Safety	Information Technology
Paints	Environmental Protection	Management Consultancy
Petrochemicals	Scientific Journalism	Actuarial/Insurance
Nanotechnology	Scientific Publishing	Personnel
Metallurgy	Teaching	Sales
Polymers (Plastics)	Patent Law
Materials Science
Semi-conductors
Photographic
Biomaterials

 

Classical Civilisation

A Level Classical Civilisation

About A Level Classical Civilisation

Entry Requirements:

No previous knowledge of the classical world is required for entry and knowledge of Latin forms no part of the course. A grade 6 in Classical Civilisation at GCSE does provide some foundation for further study but is not a requirement.  If, however you:

• Enjoy great literature;
• Are fascinated by the past;
• Are a willing participant in lively discussion and debate;
• Want to consider in depth many of the moral, philosophical and social problems of the classical world and today;
• Are able to undertake individual research;

Then Classical Civilisation is the right course for you!

Course Content and Assessment:

Course Content	Assessment
The world of the hero This is a compulsory component comprising of an in-depth study of: one of Homer’s Iliad or Odyssey  and Virgil’s Aeneid	The World of the hero (H408/11) 100 Marks 2 hour 20 minutes paper
Component Group 2: Culture and the arts Learners must study one component in this component group, chosen from: Greek theatre (21) Imperial image (22) Invention of the barbarian (23)	Culture and the arts (H408/21, H408/22, H408/23, H408/24) 75 Marks 1hour 45 minutes paper
Component Group 3: Beliefs and ideas Learners must study one component in this component group, chosen from: Greek religion (31) Love and relationships (32) Politics of the Late Republic (33) Democracy and the Athenians (34)	Beliefs and ideas (H408/31, H408/32, H408/33, H408/34) 75 Marks 1hour 45 minutes paper

 

Examinations - There is one examination for each unit, with all examinations completed at the end of the year of study.  Students will complete examination style questions throughout the year in order to prepare for their examination and to develop their writing style and technique.

Delivery - Teaching of the course will be divided equally between two teachers.  Discussion, debate, reading and acting form the basis of many lessons along with research, note taking and essay writing.  Knowledge of factual detail is of central importance, and the skills of explanation, evaluation and analysis are developed throughout the courses.

Special Features - Summer Schools in Classics are promoted and students are usually offered the opportunity to see productions of Greek Drama and visit the British Museum.  The course allows students to develop Key Skills in communication, working with others, problem solving and individual learning and performance.  Students are encouraged to develop a personal response to the topics as well as to research areas of interest to expand their knowledge.

Higher Education and Careers - Classical Civilisation combines well with a wide range of other courses, particularly English Language and Literature, History, Theology, Theatre Studies, Sociology, and provides a good balance of skills if studying sciences.  Several recent students have gone to study Classical Civilisation at university and Classics graduates are highly regarded by employers.  The subject gives an excellent grounding for a wide range of careers: Law, Teaching, Accountancy, and Business Management - you would be amazed at the number of high powered executives who are Classicists.

Computer Science

A Level Computer Science

About A Level Computer Science

Entry requirements: A minimum grade 6 in GCSE Maths.

Course Content:

Students will follow the OCR A-level Computer Science course.

The OCR Computer Science specification truly reflects the essence of Computer Science. It is recognised by Higher Education as a rigorous scientific subject and reveals the subject to be a fundamental, academic discipline underpinning other subjects

Assessment Objective 1	Assessment Objective 2	Assessment Objective 3
Structure and Function of Processor Types of Processor Input, Output and storage Systems Software Software Development Types of Programming Language Compression, Encryption and Hashing Databases Networks Web Technologies Data Types Data Structures Boolean Algebra Computing Related Legislation Ethic, moral and cultural issues	Thinking Abstractly Thinking Ahead Thinking Procedurally Thinking Logically Thinking Concurrently Programming Techniques Computation Methods Algorithms	Analysis of the problem Problem identification Stakeholders Research the problem Specify the proposed solution Design of the solution Decompose the problem Describe the solution Describe the approach to testing Developing the solution Iterative development process Testing to inform development Evaluation Testing to inform evaluation Success of the solution Describe the final product Maintenance and development

Assessment:

Paper 1 – 40% of A-Level – 2 ½ hour written examination

Paper 2 – 40% of A-Level – 2 ½ hour written examination

Project – 20% of A-Level – practical project

Non-exam assessment allows you to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve a practical problem of interest over an extended period.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Computer Science is a subject which is becoming more and more central to every type of business.

A good foundation in Computer Science will enable students to follow one of a wide variety of career paths. Well qualified and skilled programmers are in great demand.

The course is also an excellent preparation if students want to study or work in areas that rely on the skills they will develop, especially where they are applied to technical problems. These areas include engineering, design, financial and resource management, science and medicine.

Having a Computer Science qualification will provide students with a foundation of knowledge, problem solving and logical thinking that will serve as a competitive advantage to them in a wide range of careers.

Many universities are now having a strong push to recruit more students on Computer Science courses. It also is an excellent foundation for a degree in many other subjects, including Physics, Maths, Engineering, Biology, Economics and Finance.

Future opportunities in computing are without boundaries. Computer Science is one of those fields where it is almost impossible to predict what will happen next.

Drama and Theatre

A Level Drama and Theatre

About A Level Drama and Theatre

Entry Requirements: A minimum grade 6 in GCSE Drama. (Students would still be able to take this subject if they were unable to do GCSE Drama but they should have some experience in Performing Arts outside school.)

Course Content:

Component 1:  Drama and Theatre

What is assessed –

• Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre
• Study of two set plays
• Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers

How it is assessed –

• Written Exam 3 hours
• Open book
• 80 marks
• 40% of A Level

Component 2:  Creating Original Drama

What is assessed -

• Process of creating devised drama
• Performance of devised drama

Devised piece must be influenced by the work and methodologies of one prescribed practitioner.

How it is assessed –

• Working notebook (40 marks)
• Devised performance (20 marks)
• 60 marks in total
• 30% of A Level

Component 3: Making Theatre

What is assessed -

• Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts each taken from a different play
• Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to extract 3
• Extract 3 is to be performed as a final assessed piece
• Reflective report analysing and evaluation theatrical interpretation of all three extracts

How it is assessed –

• Performance of extract 3 (40 marks)
• Reflective report (20 marks)
• 60 marks in total
• 30% of A Level
• Marked by external examiner

Higher Educations and Careers:

Careers directly related to Drama - Arts/theatre administration, arts journalism, director, actor, designer, playwright, stage management, theatre management, theatrical agent, technician, broadcasting, media presenting, education, drama therapy and scriptwriting.

However the communication and presentation skills, co-operative team work, problem solving, creative thinking, literacy, planning and organization skills acquired through drama are becoming increasingly sought after by employers and universities.  This subject can add an exciting and interesting dynamic to any higher education application that sets students apart from the majority.

Economics

A Level Economics

About A Level Economics

Entry requirements: No specific requirements beyond the standard entry requirements. It is a direct entry A Level and no previous experience is required. However, as a social science, the subject does require confidence in both extended written tasks and numerical and mathematical work. It is recommended the students should have a grade 6 at GCSE Mathematics. 

Course Content:

How do rational consumers make their decisions in the market place? We live in a world of scarce resources, yet we have infinite wants and desires – so how do we choose which of us gets what?

Why does a Premiership footballer get tens of millions for kicking a ball while a fire-fighter earns £20,000 for saving lives in burning buildings?

Somehow, we must decide how, for what, and for whom these resources will be used. This is the economic problem, without which the field of economics would not exist.  When economists begin philosophizing about a world without scarcity, they cease to be economists and become philosophers. So, we must decide which of us gets what. Economics investigates how this may work. 

If you are interested in current affairs and world issues, then Economics is for you. It is an ideal choice for A Level, both in its own right, and as a complementary subject to all other areas, as it can be applied in such a wide variety of ways.

Economics is a fascinating and fast moving subject, based firmly in the real world. Economic topics are heading the front pages of our newspapers more often than at any point in the past two decades. Key economic decisions are having far reaching consequences in our lives, down to individual households.

To this end, it is expected that students are interested in current affairs since economic theory can be seen at work every day in the world around us. Students should be naturally interested in the topic and are expected to read a quality newspaper regularly or watch serious news bulletins or websites.

Course Content:

The course is broken down into two sections which cover the following topics:

Individuals, firms, markets and market failure:-

1. Economic methodology and the economic problem

2. Individual economic decision making

3. Price determination in a competitive market

4. Production, costs and revenue

5. Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly

6. The labour market

7. The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality

8. The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets

 

The national and international economy:-

9.  The measurement of macroeconomic performance

10. How the macro economy works: the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts

11. Economic performance

12. Financial markets and monetary policy

13. Fiscal policy and supply-side policies

14. The international economy

Assessment

Students must sit three assessments at the end of the second year. All three papers are written exams worth 33.3% of A-level and cover Topics 1-14 above. Paper 1 will be based on Topics 1-8 and Paper 2 will be based on Topics 9-14. Both have two sections:

• Section A: Data    response    questions   requiring   written    answers, choice    of     one     from     two    contexts   worth 40 marks  
•  Section B:  Essay questions requiring written answers, choice of one from three worth 40 marks

Paper 3 will assess all topics and has the following two sections:          

• Section A: multiple choice questions worth 30 marks
• Section B: case study questions requiring written answers, worth 50 marks

Higher Educations and Careers:

• In a typical year, there are over 200 000 job adverts in the UK that are economics-related
• Other large employers of graduate economists include Amazon (750+ annually), Sky (460+ annually), AstraZeneca (330+ annually) and Shell (240+ annually)
• The NHS is the largest graduate employer of those with economics skills, recruiting nearly 6 000 economics-related graduates every year
• Accountancy
• Journalism
• Civil Service
• Stockbroker
• Consultancy
• Banking and Finance

English Language

A Level English Language

About A Level English Language

Entry Requirements: A minimum grade 6 in GCSE English Language.

If, in addition you:

• are interested in the way that language works in the world around us;
• would like to consider issues of language diversity and change;
• find the way that children acquire language fascinating;
• enjoy producing your own original work;
• enjoy lively discussion and debate;
• are able to engage in independent research;

then this may well be the course for you!  

Course Content and Assessment:

Specification – AQA

A Level Paper 1: Language, the Individual and Society – This is an introduction to language study generally and involves learning how to apply linguistic methods to a wide variety of different types of text. Concepts of mode, genre, purpose, audience and representation are explored. The second part of this paper requires students to study child language development and explores how children learn language and are able to understand and express themselves through it.

A Level Paper 2: Language Diversity and Change – Language is studied in its wider social and geographical context. This includes a study of social attitudes to and debates about language diversity. Areas studied include: language and gender, language and occupational groups, language and social groups, language and ethnicity. This paper also looks at how language changes over time. The way in which and reasons why language has changed and continues to change are explored, as are debates surrounding that language change.

In addition, the course has a non-exam assessment component: Language in Action.

This centres around the production of a piece of original writing and commentary, and language investigation totalling 3,500 words.

English Language is a vibrant and lively course which is entirely relevant to the modern world and

which complements a wide variety of other courses including Sociology, Psychology and English Literature.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Studying English Language at A Level opens many doors. It is particularly pertinent to any career in which communication plays a key role. Such careers are wide-ranging and might include, for example, those in the media, in law, in teaching, in speech therapy.

English Literature

A Level English Literature

About A Level English Literature

Entry requirements: A minimum Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or Literature.

You should also enjoy the cut and thrust of debate; the perplexities posed by the intriguing ‘big’ questions. Indeed, by studying Literature you study Philosophy, History, Art, Theology, Psychology…so many branches of learning. You will travel through time and through worlds, hearing the finest voices along the way and you will come to understand that your own voice must also be heard.

Course Content:

In Year 12: Modern times: literature from 1945 to present day. You will study three texts including one post-2000 prose text, one single authored collection of poetry and a modern drama text as well as preparing for the unseen prose section of the examination.

In Year 13: Love through the ages. You will study one Shakespeare play, a poetry anthology and one prose text as well as preparing for the unseen poetry section of the examination.

There is further a non-examination element. You will produce a piece of coursework of approximately 2500 words in which you will compare two texts one of which is chosen independently.

Assessment:

• In Year 13 there are two examinations: Paper 1: Love through the ages: 3 hours. You will answer three questions, one extract-based question and two essay questions and Paper 2: Modern times: literature from 1945 to present day: 2 hours 30 minutes. You will answer three essay questions.
•  The non-exam assessment is worth 20% of the overall A Level marks.

Higher Education and Careers: 

The study of English Literature at university can lead to careers in the media, publishing, teaching, management and the business world. In studying English Literature A Level, you will become a good communicator; you will write well, presenting your ideas lucidly; you will confidently participate in discussion, considering and challenging a range of possible interpretations. Acquiring these skills would be beneficial for a range of career opportunities. It is a highly esteemed, traditional subject that complements many other subjects you may wish to study at A Level.

What Students Say About Our Subject:

• “English Literature has improved my essay writing which is great for other subjects.”
• “English Literature has given me the critical and analytical skills that no other subject has.”
• “English Literature is fantastic: you get to read lots of really interesting and varied texts, finding out lots about the context in which texts were written.”

'She ate and drank the precious words,

Her spirit grew robust,

She knew no more that she was poor,

Nor that her frame was dust,

She danced along the dingy days,

And this bequest of wings,

Was but a book, what liberty,

A loosened spirit brings!’

Emily Dickinson

Further Maths

A Level Further Mathematics

About A Level Further Mathematics

Entry requirements: Minimum grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.

Course Content:

Students will follow the AQA A Level Further Mathematics course.

AQA have worked closely with higher education to ensure this qualification gives the students the best possible chance to progress. It will enable students to see the links between different areas of maths and to apply their maths skills across all areas.

All students will study the Pure Mathematics content as well as Mechanics and Statistics.

Pure content:

Proof, Complex Numbers, Matrices, Further Algebra and functions, Further Calculus, Further vectors, Polar Coordinates, Hyperbolic Functions, Differential Equations, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry

Assessment:

A Level: Assessment consists of 3 papers, each 2 hours long. Each paper is worth 33 1/3 % of the final mark.

Paper 1: All the Pure content

Paper 2: All the Pure content

Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics

Higher Educations and Careers:

Studying both A-level Mathematics and A-level Further Mathematics provides a foundation for further studies in any Science or Mathematics-based course, including Physics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Statistics and Actuarial Science.

What’s the difference between Mathematics and Further Mathematics?

Mathematics A level is very often a means to a different end, whereas Further Mathematics is usually studied due to a love of the subject in its own right and for its own sake. The Further Mathematician would never ask the question “When am I ever going to use this in the real world”, even though all of the Further mathematics content is certainly used in the real world. 

Geography

A Level Geography

About A Level Geography

Entry requirements: A minimum grade 6 in GCSE Geography.

Much of the subject content links directly to and builds on the GCSE, allowing the candidates to expand upon knowledge and understanding as well as explore new skills.

Course Content:

Geography is a diverse subject that covers issues relevant to our world today. The course embraces contemporary Geography whilst retaining key elements of traditional Physical and Human Geography. The subject content follows an 'issues and impacts' approach throughout. It has a developmental structure which helps to facilitate progression through the course and beyond to link with the demands of higher level study.

Paper 1

Physical Geography

Section A: Water and carbon cycles

Section B: Coastal systems and landscapes

Section C: Hazards

Paper 2

Human Geography

Section A: Global systems and global governance

Section B: Changing places  

Section C: Contemporary urban environments 

Component 3

Fieldwork investigation

Assessment:

There are two examinations each lasting 2 hours 30 minutes, separately covering the physical and human aspects of the subject. The examination will comprise multiple-choice, short answer, levels of response and extended prose questions. The examinations reflect 80% of the final mark.

The remaining 20% of the final mark is derived from an individual investigation, which must include data collected in the field. The individual investigation must be based on a question or issue defined and developed by the student relating to any part of the specification content. The examination board recommends that the report is between 3,000 and 4,000 words. There are several field work opportunities throughout the course including a residential. All students are required to attend these excursions.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Geography is highly valued by universities as an A Level choice. Geography combines well with both arts and science subjects. You may already be thinking ahead to potential university and career choices, so it is worth bearing in mind that Geography is a broad based subject and the skills you use in your geographical studies make you of potential interest to a wide range of employers. For example, for careers in sustainability and green issues, urban regeneration, energy supply, retail location, managing the effects of hazards and climate change, Geography is an obvious choice.

For careers in the world of business, an understanding of global economics forms an important part of geography. If you are thinking of a career in law, human rights, international relations or welfare then Geography gives you the opportunity to consider relevant issues such as; How do we measure development? What are the consequences of migration on societies?

If you are working towards a future course in Medicine or Veterinary Science, then Geography is a good choice to give your A Level options the breadth that universities seek, as you will gain a clear understanding of how the environment affects health and survival of people, animals and ecosystems as well as enhancing your skills of writing essays and extended reports.

Statistics show that compared with other graduates, Geographers are among the most employable. Many of those leaving university with a Geography Degree enter three fields of employment: administration and management, marketing or financial work. However, in an ever changing world it is less likely that employees will spend all their life in one company or organisation. If your career path is to be varied, you will need to develop transferable skills. Geography fosters these qualities and provides a firm base for life-long learning.

History

A Level History

About A Level History

Entry Requirements: A minimum grade 6 at GCSE History, if taken, or a grade 6 in English Language if not.

Course Content and Assessment:

Module 1- Tsarist and Communist Russia, 1855-1964 (40% of A Level)

In this module, you will learn how and why Russia transformed from a gigantic yet ‘backwards’ autocratic Empire, through revolution and civil war, to the dictatorship of Josef Stalin in the 20^th century. The Russian Revolution of 1917 was undoubtedly one of the most significant events of the 20^th century; we will consider why it happened, looking at the roles of key players from Nicholas II to Vladimir Lenin to the ‘mad monk’ Rasputin. We will analyse the consequences of the revolution for the Russian people and see how far they really did, in the words of Marx, have ‘nothing to lose but their chains.’

Module 2- The English Revolution, 1625-1660 (40% of A Level)

Within the space of a few years in the seventeenth century, Britain was ripped apart by a rebellion in which people believed the world was being ‘turn’d upside down.’ As King Charles I and his opponents grappled over the right to rule, there was an eruption of radical ideas among the people: voting rights, equality, freedom of religion, all advocated centuries before they became enshrined in law. We will study the complex characters of this time period. Was Charles a ‘martyr’, or the ‘man of blood’ who wreaked death and destruction on his people? We also study the deeply controversial Oliver Cromwell, whose reputation is still explosive even to this day.

Coursework- The Civil Rights Movement in the USA, 1860-1970 (20% of A Level)

For your coursework, you will look at the issue of civil rights in the USA during the century from the emancipation of the enslaved Africans to the assassination of Martin Luther King. How far were African-Americans able to rebel against the powerful forces of segregation and injustice? How far do the felled heroes of the movement - King and John F. Kennedy - really deserve their golden reputations? Did Malcolm X really achieve ‘nothing’? We also consider the often-forgotten role of women in the movement as we seek to uncover how (and how far) African-Americans finally won their rights as citizens.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Study for a History degree and you’ll gain a wealth of skills like critical reasoning, research and analytical thinking. It’s a challenging academic subject, and employers regularly see a lot of value in it. 

Gaining such a flexible degree will open opportunities in the arts and heritage sector like curatorial or archivist roles. But it doesn’t end there. Such a highly sort after and academically rigorous degree opens you up to career paths in law, medicine, education, government, media, policy, marketing or business, to name but a few. History graduates are valued by a wide range of employers and organisations including heritage organisations, museums and libraries. Other typical employers include banks, accountancy firms, charities, publishing companies, television and radio broadcasters.

Latin

A Level Latin

About A Level Latin

Entry Requirements: A minimum Grade 6 in GCSE Latin to study this subject at A Level.  If you enjoyed developing your linguistic skills in Latin (and English) at GCSE level and want to discover more about the ancient world through Roman Literature, then this is the course for you.

Course Content and Assessment:

Assessment (OCR)	Course Content	Weighting
Unseen Translation (01) 100 marks 1 hour 45 minutes	Section A: Unseen prose translation (50 marks) Section B: Unseen verse translation and scanning of two lines of verse (50 marks)	33% of A Level
Prose Composition or Comprehension (02) 50 marks 1 hour 15 minutes	Either: (We would prepare students for this section) Section A: Comprehension on an unseen prose translation, including questions on grammar. Or: Section B: Prose composition from English into Latin	17% of A Level
Prose Literature (03) 75 marks 2 hours	Questions on the set texts covered, including a question which draws upon additional reading in English to support the prescribed literature. Answers will require extended writing on questions of content, style and social context.	25% of A Level
Verse Literature (04) 75 marks 2 hours	As above	25% of A Level

Set texts may include Cicero’s Pro Milone, Tacitus’s Annals or Seneca’s Letters for the prose literature unit, and Virgil’s Aeneid or poems by Catullus for the verse literature unit.

Higher Education and Careers:

Latin combines well with a wide range of other courses, especially Modern Foreign Languages, English and Mathematics and is very highly regarded by a variety of university courses.  It also provides a good balance of skills whether studying arts or sciences.  Students of Latin go on to study a range of subjects at university, from Classics to Law and Medicine. Classics graduates are highly regarded by employers and Classicists go on to pursue careers in Law, Business, Accountancy, Teaching, Journalism and Archaeology.

Maths

A Level Maths

About A Level Maths

Entry requirements:    Minimum grade 6 GCSE Maths

Course Content:

Students will follow the AQA A Level Mathematics course.

Maths is one of the biggest facilitating subjects and it is essential for many higher education

courses and careers. AQA have worked closely with higher education to ensure this qualification

gives the students the best possible chance to progress. It will enable students to see the links between different areas of maths and to apply their maths skills across all areas.

Pure content:

Proof, Algebra and functions, Coordinate Geometry, Sequences and series, Trigonometry, Exponentials and logs, Differentiation, Integration, Numerical Methods

Mechanics Content:

Vectors, Mechanics, Kinematics, Forces, Newton’s Laws, Momentum

Statistics Content:

Sampling, Data presentation and interpretation, Probability, Statistical distributions, Hypothesis testing.

Assessment:

A Level: Assessment consists of 3 papers, each 2 hours long. Each paper is worth 33 1/3 % of the final mark.

Paper 1: All the Pure content

Paper 2: All the Pure content plus Mechanics

Paper 3: All the Pure content plus Statistics.

Higher Educations and Careers:

A Level Mathematics is one of the most widely accepted and respected subject choices by universities and is likely to enhance your options rather than close them down. It is widely viewed as one of the most facilitating subjects you can select at A Level and compliments so many other subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Economics and many more

A Level Mathematics provides students with a thorough grounding in the mathematical tools and techniques often needed in the workplace. The logic and reasoning skills developed by studying A Level Mathematics make sure the qualification is widely respected even in non-mathematical arenas.

Studying A Level Mathematics provides a foundation for many careers.

Where can A Level Maths take you?

Engineering: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil. Finance: Accountancy, Auditor, Forensic Accountant. Computing: Games Development, Programmer, Web Design, Scientific Research. Business and Banking, Retail.

Modern Foreign Languages

A Level Modern Foreign Languages

Assessment:

The Examining Board is AQA.

A Level - Paper 1 - Listening, Reading and Writing - 2 hour 30 examination – 50% of A Level

This paper is topic-based and assesses listening and reading skills via responses statements from both heard and written material. Written summaries in the target language and also translations of longer passages into the target language and English are also involved.

A Level - Paper 2 - Writing - 2 hour examination – 20% of A Level

This paper is topic-based and assesses Writing skills via 2 written essays based on the study of a text or film.

A Level - Paper 3 – Speaking - 21-23 minute examination – 30% of A Level

This paper is topic-based and assesses Speaking skills and consists of two parts: a short discussion based on a prepared stimulus card followed by a presentation and discussion on an individual research project.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Languages are a highly acceptable academic qualification in almost any sector. As well as being a useful skill in their own right for degree courses in languages, the arts, business, travel and tourism etc. they are also regarded as being extremely useful in conjunction with the sciences and/or maths and also law and international law.

Music

A Level Music

About A Level Music

Entry requirements: Minimum of grade 6 at GCSE. Minimum performance standard is grade 5 or equivalent.

Course Content:

Component 1 – Appraising Music

Listening, analysis and contextual understanding.

Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes. Exam paper includes listening and written questions using excerpts of music. 40% of the A Level.

Component 2 - Performance

Musical performance.

Solo and/or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist or singer. Performance must last a minimum of 10 minutes. Maximum marks for difficulty of pieces = grade 8 so ideal performance standard is grade 7/8. 35% of the A Level.

Component 3 - Composition

Each student must compose 2 compositions, one to a brief set by the Board and one free composition. Combined composition time must last a minimum of 4 ½ minutes. 25% of the A Level.

Evening concert/theatre trips will be arranged throughout the course as appropriate.

Higher Educations and Careers:  

A Level Music is highly regarded by university admissions tutors, as it covers a wealth of academic and practical disciplines. A Music degree can obviously lead to a career as a professional in that field, but can also be used, just like any degree, as a qualification that does not relate directly to the career choice, e.g. Public Relations, Personnel Management, the Armed Forces etc.

Having completed A Level Music, our leavers recently went to university to study a diverse range of subjects including Music, Medicine, Law, Biomedical Sciences, Nursing, English and Engineering.

Philosophy, Ethics and Theology

A Level Philosophy, Ethics and Theology

About A Level Philosophy, Ethics and Theology

Entry requirements: A Grade 6 in GCSE Religious Studies is desirable.

Explore and discuss responses to ultimate questions and the crucial issues facing humanity.  Do you have an interest in those ideas which underpin key themes in politics, law, medicine, education, human rights and religion?   Are you competent in comprehension, interpretative, analytic and debating skills?  You will be when you have studied with us. This course offers you an exciting opportunity to work at the interface between philosophy, ethics and developments in religious thought.  We offer an engaging and academically rigorous preparation for a wide range of courses at degree level.

Course Content: There are three components:

Philosophy of Religion

• Ancient philosophical influences
• Arguments for the existence or non-existence of God
• The problem of evil
• The nature of the soul, mind and body
• Religious experiences and the Nature of God

Religion and Ethics

• Normative ethical theories – Kantian Ethics, Utilitarianism and Situation ethics and more
• The application to contemporary issues – business, euthanasia and attitudes towards sex.
• Ethical language and thought
• Ideas of conscience and free will

Developments in Religious Thought

• Human nature and the purpose of life
• Pluralism in theology and society
• Gender in theology and society
• The challenge of and responses to secularism
• Liberation theology and Marxism

Each examination comprises of essays. There is no coursework.

Higher Educations and Careers: 

The subject enables students to prepare for a variety of careers such as teaching, medicine, law, lecturer, literature, social work, the civil service and politics.

Physics

A Level Physics

About A Level Physics

Entry requirements: A minimum of attainment of Grade 6 at GCSE Physics or Combined Science. 

It is not necessary to study Mathematics at A Level, but it is a distinct advantage to both subjects if you take them together.

No subject has a wider scale than Physics. It encompasses everything from the study of the structure of the Universe at the cosmological scale right down to the interactions of the tiniest particles. If you have a passion for understanding how things work, enjoy scientific experiments and Mathematics, and want to enhance your understanding of the world around you, then you should study Physics. Its concepts, from Relativity to Quantum Mechanics, fire the imagination and challenge fundamental preconceptions about the nature of reality.

Physics plays a major role in Medicine, Chemistry, Biology, Electronics, Geology, and in the fields of Optics, Nanotechnology, Computer Science and any Engineering discipline. The modern world is built upon technology that could not exist without the advances in understanding that Physics delivers.

A Physics A level never fails to look impressive on any CV. It demonstrates an ability to understand challenging concepts and to apply theoretical and mathematical models to real-world situations. A Physics education develops problem-solving skills and provides a firm knowledge of essential Science and the ability to apply and adapt that knowledge within the workplace.

Course Content:

Examination board:     AQA Syllabus A

1. Measurements and their errors – What can we measure and what are the limits of those measurements?
2. Particles and Radiation – Learn about the current model of matter: quarks, leptons, gauge bosons and how their exotic behaviour is governed by the laws of Quantum Mechanics.
3. Waves – From guitar strings to lasers, waves are everywhere. A firm understanding of their properties underpins both classical and modern Physics.
4. Mechanics and Materials – The fundamentals of Engineering: how forces govern static and moving objects, together with the effects of those forces on materials.
5. Electricity – Develop a better understanding of the nature of electric current and the electromotive force that drives it.
6. Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics – Swings and roundabouts to atoms and planets, plus a deeper understanding of the behaviour of heat and gases.
7. Fields and their consequences – Understanding the forces that bind the Universe together requires a knowledge of how gravitational, electrical and magnetic fields interact with matter.
8. Nuclear physics – How can we model the decay of atomic nuclei and how does it drive stars and nuclear reactors?
9. Astrophysics – A tour around the Universe from local stars to distant galaxies.

Higher Education & Careers:

The subject and the skills acquired are an asset when applying for a wide range of scientific and engineering courses and due to the wide-ranging skills you acquire it is viewed favourably by universities and employers.  It is the ideal subject for people interested in going into Engineering, Chemistry and Materials Science as well as being a well-respected A-level by non-Physics subjects at University.

Aside from the obvious Technical and Engineering careers, Physics opens doors to a wide range of professions: Medicine (e.g. Radiography, Nuclear Medicine), Law (such as Patent Attorneys), Creative Industries (like Sound Engineering and Digital Arts), Meteorology, Video Games Design and Programming, Defence and Aerospace, Financial Modelling and Banking, advisory and consultancy roles in local and national Government and international organisations – opportunities for Physicists are endless.

Politics

A Level Politics

About A Level Politics

Entry requirements:

No specific GCSE requirements beyond the standard criteria.

Good essay writing skills are an advantage.

‘May you live in interesting times’ – An ancient Chinese Curse

Do you have an opinion on Brexit? What do you think of recent American politics?

Politics is a dynamic subject. ‘A week is a long time in politics’ as Wilson is often quoted, today that could so easily be ‘a day is a long time in politics’. So, although no prior knowledge is assumed, it is essential students have avid interest in Politics. We expect students of this subject to have lively enquiring minds, a liking for debate and argument and a willingness to develop their understanding of Politics via independent viewing and reading of suitable media. Students need to be good communicators with an ability to present a case clearly on paper including essay writing skills.

Course Content:

We follow the AQA Politics Syllabus.

A Level course content: Each paper is a 2-hour examination at the end of Year 13

Examination Paper	Course Content
Paper 1: Government and Politics of the UK	Government: The nature and sources of the British Constitution; the structure and role of Parliament; The Prime Minister and Cabinet; The Judiciary; Devolution Politics of the UK: Democracy and participation; Elections and Referendums; Political parties; Pressure groups; The European Union
Paper 2: Government and Politics of the USA and Comparative Politics	Government and Politics of the USA: The constitutional framework of US government; Congress; The President; the Supreme Court; the Electoral Process and direct Democracy; Political Parties; Pressure Groups; Civil rights Comparative Politics: a structural, rational and cultural comparison of the politics of the UK and the USA
Paper 3: Political Ideas	Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism and Feminism

 

Students learn to research ideas, collect evidence, find examples, analyse, challenge and

reach conclusions. It is a dynamic course based on current events and controversies as well

as basic institutions and theories of the political system and political ideologies. A Level Politics students have to be critical readers of the press. If possible, in addition they should use television and the Internet as sources of research. This is an A Level which relies on new technology as a tool.

 

Other activities that involve the students include a programme of lectures from visiting

respected professors of politics and Members of Parliament, visits to the Houses of Parliament and Westminster. Many Politics students have participated in our Model United Nations programme – an excellent opportunity to develop their analytical and debating skills. We are also taking students to Washington DC and the White House to study the American Congress in 2025.

Higher Educations and Careers:

Many of our students are choosing to continue their study of Politics at University, some

combining it with History, American Studies or Sociology. It is regarded as a useful training

for Journalism, Law and Public Administration.

Product Design

A Level Design & Technology: Product Design

About A Level Design & Technology: Product Design

Entry requirements: A Minimum Grade 6 and above in Design & Technology and a minimum of Grade 5 recommended Grade 6, in Mathematics at GCSE.

Course Content:

The specification delivered at Loreto Grammar is the AQA A Level specification for Design & Technology: Product Design. 

This course will require you to develop skills and understanding in both making and designing.

Making products involves working with a range of materials. Only by experiencing working with materials first- hand can you start to understand their properties and the ways in which those materials can be used for a variety of purposes. You will need to know different methods of working with materials in order to understand the right method of production for your product. 15% of your mark in the course is Maths based. It is advised that you study core Maths, alongside this course.

When designing, you will need to understand what the user or client requires, and then go on to provide them with a functional prototype, which can be tested so you and your user or client can judge how successful it is.

The course is divided into two main parts:

• Technical principles
• Designing and making principles

The A-level is made up of three components.

	Component 1	Component 2	Component 3
A-level (7552)	Paper 1-Technical principles- 2 hours and 30 minutes	Paper 2 -Designing and making principles- 1 hour and 30 minutes	NEA (Non- examined assessment) project.
	Combined mark from the two exam papers, worth 50%		The NEA is worth 50% of your overall grade

Assessment:

Throughout the course the work is regularly assessed internally against the Assessment Objectives (AO’s) which are set by AQA. The department provides the students with a time plan for the assessment deadlines to enable them to pace and plan their workload.

These regular internal assessments are seen by the department as an ‘additive process’ and students are offered advice and guidance on how to improve and develop their work in readiness for the next internal assessment.

There are three Assessment objectives that the NEA work is marked against:

Assessment objective 1	Assessment objective 2	Assessment objective 3
Identify, investigate and outline design possibilities to address needs and wants	Design and make prototypes that are fit for purpose	Analyse and evaluate design decisions and outcomes, including for prototypes made by themselves and others. Wider issues in design and technology.

Higher Education and Careers:

Students who want to pursue Design & Technology related courses to a higher level can complete a one-year foundation course. This gives the individual the opportunity to experiment with a broader range of disciplines and experiences before deciding on a specific course at degree. However, attending a foundation course is not a prerequisite for being offered a place on a degree course.

A career linked to Design or Technology can be rich and varied. The following list acts as a snapshot. The skills that related degree provides, offer invaluable attributes that can be transferred into an infinite amount of job opportunities.

• Advertising
• Media related
• Architecture
• Interior Designer
• Illustrator
• Set Designer
• Teaching
• Fashion
• Costume Designer
• Jeweller
• Website Designer
• Games designer
• Engineer
• Mechanics
• Industrial Designer
• Carpenter
• Aerospace Engineer
• Animator
• CAD designer
• Construction
• Material scientist

Psychology

A Level Psychology

About A Level Psychology

Entry requirements – No specific requirements at GCSE. However, a minimum grade 6 in English Language or English Literature is highly desirable to adjust to the written demands of the course.  The scientific process and principles are utilised in research methods used in Psychology and a Grade 6 or above in science is therefore also desirable, as well as a degree of competence in Mathematics for the statistical aspects.

Subject Content:

Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour and looks at a variety of topics ranging from memory, schizophrenia, child development and social influences.

The course is currently taught through 11 periods per fortnight.  Written assignments are frequently set.

The Psychology course covers a broad range of topics that are studied by Psychologists as well as the research methods used to carry out investigations.  You will study topics such as the biological basis of aggression, schizophrenia, and the development of attachments by infants.  You will need to be able to understand varying theoretical explanations of behaviour and to assess the value of particular studies and theories.  You will need to critically analyse studies, theories and methods, discussing key strengths and limitations, as well as applying your knowledge to novel situations.

Assessment:

Psychology is assessed by a range of question styles including short, focussed questions, often assessing the ability to apply knowledge to unfamiliar scenarios as well as extended writing.

Unit	Name
Paper 1	Social influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology
Paper 2	Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods
Paper 3	Issues and Debates in Psychology, Aggression, Gender and Schizophrenia

Higher Educations and Careers:

This is a subject which develops many different study skills.  It is welcomed by many university faculties because of this, as well as its breadth and understanding of the human condition.  It is preparation for a range of relevant careers including Psychotherapy, Physiotherapy, Child Psychology and Human Relations Management.

Sociology

A Level Sociology

About A Level Sociology

Entry Requirements – No specific requirements at GCSE beyond the standard entry requirements. Students should have a keen awareness of and interest in current affairs and the capacity to express themselves clearly in written work.  They will have to understand and compare and evaluate various theoretical explanations of social institutions and human behaviour. A minimum grade 6 in both GCSE English Language and Literature is strongly desirable.

Assessment: The A Level course includes three modules, which are assessed by 2hr written examinations in the summer of Year 13.  The AQA Examining Board is used.

Paper 1 Education with Theory & Methods

Paper 2 Topics in Sociology

Paper 3 Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods

Course Content: Topics studied in Year 12 are the Sociology of Education and the Sociology of Families & Households.  Year 13 focuses on the Sociology of Beliefs and the Sociology of Crime and Deviance.  Theories developed by and research methods used by sociologists are core themes that will be examined throughout the course.

Additional Information: It is very important that students understand the structure and demands of the subject, before deciding to study it. During Year 11, students contemplating studying this subject should discuss their interest with the specialist subject teachers and consult some of the excellent library resources, before reaching a decision.  The course is challenging and demanding because it assesses not just knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, but the application and evaluation of it also. 

Higher Educations and Careers: A Level Sociology is well established and very popular at Loreto and its successful completion offers access to a wide range of courses in Higher Education.  It has a high degree of relevance in today’s world and students should come prepared to participate actively in discussion work.  The subject provides excellent preparation for careers within Education, Social Work and the Criminal Justice System; but like most Social Science subjects it is useful preparation for a wide variety of graduate careers. Some key skills developed through this course are:

• Extended writing
• Essay writing
• Forming arguments
• Problem solving