An Introduction to GCSE English Donna Young Head of English, Media and Drama

GCSE English/English Language/English Lit Not a linear course!

GCSE English 1 GCSE A combination of English Language and English Literature Students can achieve A*-E Some cross over of units with English Language course. 1 exam in year 11 – Information and Ideas controlled assessments spread across year 10 and 11

GCSE English Literature and English Language 2 GCSEs English Language English Literature Students can achieve different grades in each. Students can achieve A*-E 1 exam in year 10 – Literature 3 exams in year 11 – 2xLiterature, 1 x Lang controlled assessments spread across year 10 and 11.

Exam board: OCR Why? The OCR GCSE English specifications (English, English Language and English Literature) have been designed to be enjoyable and inspiring. They provide good links to further study for learners. The specifications comes with a large range of set texts designed to suit a variety of learners. The English Language specification requires students to study one text in detail which provides time for them to learn about the use of spoken language in a number of contexts. The specifications are designed to bring the wonderful power of English (both Language and Literature) into our learners’ lives, and this is reflected in the texts.

Controlled Assessment All exam boards require students to complete controlled assessment tasks in place of coursework. High level of control. Silence Normal exam regulations Time varies according to task, take place during lesson time.

Controlled Assessment Usual access arrangement apply. Classroom / exam hall. Access to dictionary/thesaurus may be permitted. Teachers are not able to assist once the assessment begins. Students are aware of the task in advance.

Controlled Assessment Page of notes allowed, but not a draft or continuous prose CA tasks change each year CA dates are important and it is vital that students attend CA dates otherwise they may have to attend sessions in their own time after school.

Assessing Controlled Assessment All CA is initially marked by the class teacher. A moderation sample is taken from each class after each piece CA. Moderation sample of specific students is requested by OCR.

GCSE English GCSEENGLISHGCSEENGLISH

ENGLISH LANGUAGEENGLISH LANGUAGE

ENGLISH LITERATUREENGLISH LITERATURE

Year 10 Controlled Assessments GCSE English W/C 10 th October for two weeks (Unit A642 – Imaginative Writing) W/C 21 st November for two weeks (Unit A642 - Imaginative Writing) W/C 19 th March for one week (Unit A641 - Shakespeare) W/C 19 th June for one week (Unit A641 - Prose) GCSE English Language /Literature Week Commencing (W/C) 31 st October for two weeks (Unit A651, Shakespeare) W/C 21 st November for two weeks (Unit A661 Shakespeare) W/C 21 st January for two weeks (Unit A661 Poetry) W/C 20 th Feb for two weeks (Unit A651 Imaginative writing)

Year 10 Exams GCSE English None GCSE English Language /Literature

Year 10 Exams GCSE English None GCSE English Language /Literature 22 nd May 2012, English Literature Exam (Unit A663 Prose text from other cultures)

How Can Students Be Supported? Reading every day is important- ten minutes Make it a habit Discuss plot, characters, relationships in literature Read the poetry aloud, discuss it Model good habits e.g. using dictionary, reading Discuss importance of reading as a life-long skill

How Can Students Be Supported? The focus for English Language (and the language modules in single English) is on English in the daily world. Encourage your child to read a range of non-fiction texts e.g. weekend broadsheet newspapers, online news websites e.g. BBC. Practice writing skills to express ideas and information clearly and accurately e.g. accurate spelling, adventurous vocabulary, neat handwriting.

How Can Students Be Supported? Research shows that high attainment in reading and writing is linked to speaking and listening. Talk to students everyday about class work, homework, their thoughts, opinions, ask them to summarise the main points of their learning. Encourages students to revise their learning not just for exams but to consolidate learning. Help students identify their preferred learning style by experimenting with the following methods.

Make use of your learning style when you revise/revisit your work Tips for Visual Learners Rewrite your notes as mind ‐ maps Use colour to highlight important things Draw diagrams and sketches to help you remember points.

Make use of your learning style when you revise/revisit your work Tips for Auditory Learners Read your notes aloud. Record yourself reading key points of your notes aloud, then listen to them afterwards. Revise with other students if you can Sing the main points. Linking them with a tune may help you remember them. Use podcastrevision.co.uk

Make use of your learning style when you revise/revisit your work Tips for learners who are readers and writers Copy out your notes. Read your notes silently. Rewrite the key points using different words. Write down key points from memory.

Make use of your learning style when you revise/revisit your work Tips for Active Learners Move around the room. Revise while you do kung ‐ fu moves or other physical activity. Mentally review what you’ve been revising while you’re swimming or jogging.

Look After Yourself Diet Try and eat a healthy diet, not just chips and burgers! Take time out for meals; don’t try to work while you’re eating dinner. Caffeine Too much tea and coffee can increase your anxiety levels and induce insomnia. Exercise Get some exercise! You don’t have to go mad. 20 minutes exercise 2 ‐ 3 times a week will give you more stamina, help reduce stress and help you to sleep. Rest Don’t try to work through the night before an exam or controlled assessment. Go to bed in good time and get as much sleep as you can.

Useful Resources Websites Books