KS4
GCSE Course Followed: Music
Specification: AQA (Syllabus code 8271)
Why Choose GCSE
“The theory of relativity occurred to me by intuition, and music is the driving force behind this intuition." - Albert Einstein
Mathematics, science and music are bound together by many common factors, such as being able to use formulas and theories to solve problems and promote critical and creative thinking. The AQA GCSE Music syllabus will explore how to compose, perform and analyse a rich variety of musical genres and cultures, and can help students to find a sense of identity. Music can also be a vital tool in helping the mind to focus deeply due to the powerful effects it can have on our minds and bodies.
There are no minimum performance entry level requirements to study this course, as the students will be able to work to their own individual strengths.
If you enjoy playing an instrument, composing in the Music iMac suite, or just enjoy listening to Music, you can expect to learn a wide range of interpersonal, theoretical and practical skills which are central to the modern workplace.
cOURSE CONTENT
Component 1: Understanding Music
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What is assessed? • Listening |
How will I be assessed? Exam paper with listening exercises using excerpts of music. |
Questions
The exam is 1 hour and 30 minutes. |
Component 2: Performing Music
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What is assessed? Music performance |
How will I be assessed? As an instrumentalist and/or vocalist and/or via technology:
A minimum of four minutes of performance in total is required, of which a minimum of one minute must be the ensemble performance. This component is 30% of GCSE marks. |
Non-exam assessment (NEA) will be internally marked by teachers and externally moderated by AQA. Performances must be completed in the year of certification. |
Component 3: Composing Music
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What is assessed? Composition |
How am I assessed?
A minimum of three minutes of music in total is required. This component is 30% of GCSE marks. |
Non-exam assessment (NEA) will be internally marked by teachers and externally moderated by AQA. |
Key Stage Four Curriculum Overview
Year 10
| NAME OF TOPIC | KEY CONTENT OF THE TOPIC | ASSESSMENT POINTS | |
|---|---|---|---|
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HT1 |
Introduction to GCSE |
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Y10 Baseline assessment |
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HT2 |
Little Shop of Horrors |
Introduction to Set work – Little Shop of Horrors |
Composition – Riffs , Ostinato Loops. |
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HT3 |
Elements of Music |
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HT4 |
Performance Masterclasses |
Develop GCSE performing skills through a series of workshops, leading up to a Mock GCSE performance. |
Mock performance Y10 |
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HT5 |
Exam preparation |
Preparation for all areas of the GCSE exam, leading up to a Trial exam. |
Trial Exam |
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HT6 |
Composition 1 |
Preparation and lesson time devoted to completion of full composition ,with performance workshop of all Y10 compositions. |
YEAR 11
| NAME OF TOPIC | KEY CONTENT OF THE TOPIC | ASSESSMENT POINTS | |
|---|---|---|---|
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HT1 |
Key topic revision |
Set work analysis - Haydn Symphony- “The Clock” |
Composing and performing check in. |
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HT2 |
Completion of NEA tasks |
Free Composition completion |
Solo Performing and Free composition Deadlines. |
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HT3 |
Ensemble performing and Composition to a Brief |
Pupils complete NEA Composition to a brief and ensemble performing. |
Ensemble performing and Composition to a brief deadline. |
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HT4 |
Unit 1 tutorials |
Feedback and intensive focus on the Appraising exam. |
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HT5 |
Unit 1 tutorials |
Exam Technique and final lessons before Exam |
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HT6 |
N/A |
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GCSE Exams |
Recommended Revision Guides for GCSE
Supporting documentation available on Office 365 to help with general revision and independent study. AGSB YouTube channel provides numerous playlists of musical repertoire to be studied for the contextual listening paper.
Parents and carers can provide additional support at home by encouraging their sons to practise regularly and engaging the services of a reputable private instrumental / voice tutor at AGSB or out of school. Musical instruments should be kept in excellent working order at all times. Students should join an appropriate ensemble at AGSB.
Attending concerts at many of the local Manchester venues (such as The RNCM, The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Apollo, Academy Venues etc.) is highly beneficial and students can often receive discounted ticket rates.
Support available for GCSE Students
Independent study sessions: Before school on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. After school Tuesday and Wednesday. (7.30am - 8.30 am and 3.30pm - 4.30pm). Weekly staffed after-school tutorials for Y 10 and Y11 on Thursday until 6pm.
Performance opportunities throughout the school year. (Assemblies, concerts, open evening events, charity fundraising etc.)