Subject Title: Music

Lead Teacher: Mrs J Harrison

Examining Body: Edexcel

Level: GCSE Full Course

Why should I study this subject?
You should study this course if you enjoy listening to all kinds of music, are interested in composing and arranging music or if you would like to learn more about music technology, sequencing and recording. You should study this course if you enjoy being practical and creative or if you would like the opportunity to play music with others, eg in a rock band, orchestra or choir.

GCSE Music is about making and listening to music. It covers performing as well as composing and will build upon and improve skills already gain in Key Stage 3. This course will also enable you to develop key skills in ICT, group work and self confidence.

During the course you will have the opportunity to learn an instrument or take singing lessons.

What use will a qualification in this subject be to me when I leave school?
There are a number of different things you can go on to do with this qualification. You could go on to take an AS or A level in Music and Music Technology, or a vocational A Level in Performing Arts. You could also take a BTEC National Diploma (in Music, Popular Music and Music Technology).

You may wish to go into a job where it is useful to have had experience of music and the skills it develops. These might include careers in the music industry, publishing, entertainment and teaching or any job which involves communication and expressive skills.

How will this subject be taught and what will be expected from me?
The course will be taught through a series of units of work based on developing skills in performing, listening, composing and appraising. Units of work cover topics such as popular music, world music classical music etc.

The course is divided into three parts. In part one you will use your performance skills to one solo (on any instrument in any style) and two in a group. In part two you will use your composing skills to compose two pieces based on a brief given by the teacher. In part three you will take part in an examination in the summer. Here you will listen to a CD and answer questions on four areas of study.

You will be expected to fully participate in all areas of the course. You will be expected to take part in all aspects of performance, such as the Year 10 Showcase and complete composing work on time to meet deadlines.

How will the work be marked and assessed?
Your work and progress will be continuously assessed throughout each lesson and written and verbal feedback will be given regularly.

Each part of the coursework will be marked internally by the teacher then moderated by the exam board. It is broken down in the following way:
Performing = 30%
Composing = 30%

The final exam is marked externally and is worth 40% of the marks.