Course Descriptions
Social Subjects
National 4/5 Geography
Description
The National 4/5 Geography course builds on the principles and practices for social studies and for science. The course emphasises the development and application of skills and emphasis on the interpretation of sources, including maps, develops thinking skills. Pupils will develop an understanding of aspects of the contemporary world and understand more about their own sense of identity while learning about different countries and cultures.
Pupils will study:
Physical environments (Glacial uplands, coasts, weather, rural land use)
Human environments (Urban areas, farming, population and development)
Global issues ( Climate change, Environmental hazards)
Entry Requirement
While there are no requirements for this course the course does require a good level of literacy skills due to the written content of the course.
Assessment
National 5
Externally assessed by SQA and consists of :
80% - Written Exam
20% - AVU
The cumulation of these two elements will provide pupils with a grading at National 5.
In addition to this all pupils are assessed regularly at the end of each topic to gain experience of answering National level questions and applying the skills they have learned in class.
National 4
Internally assessed by class teacher on passing N4 outcomes in 4 units (Physical Environments, Human Environments, Global Issue and AVU)
Units
We also offer unit outcomes at National 5 level for pupils who may not perform well in the final exam. This ensures that they obtain some qualifications from the course.
Final Exam
There is a 2hr 20 minute exam at the end of the course for National 5 pupils.
National 4/5 History
Description
This course helps pupils develop their understanding of major world events and an appreciation of the forces which have shaped the world today. Pupils will utilise both Primary and Secondary sources to deepen their understanding of historic topics.
National History Modules
· The Atlantic Slave Trade, 1770-1807
· The Rise of Nazi Germany, 1919-1939
· The Era of the Great War, 1910-1928
Entry Requirement
While there are no requirements for this course the course does require a good level of literacy skills due to the written content of the course.
Assessment
For both National 4 and 5, you will be required to sit three unit assessments- one on each of the areas studied. You will also be required to complete an Assignment which is an independent research project. For National 5 pupils the assignment is worth 20% of your overall grade.
Units
We also offer unit outcomes at National 5 level for pupils who may not perform well in the final exam. This ensures that they obtain some qualifications from the course.
Final Exam
There is a 2hr 20 minute exam at the end of the course for National 5 pupils.
N4/5 Modern Studies
Description
This course aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of current political and Social Issues in the UK and in international countries.
Entry Requirement
While there are no requirements for this course the course does require a good level of literacy skills due to the written content of the course.
Topics covered
Democracy in Scotland
Crime and Law in Scotland
Social issues in Scotland/the UK
Enquiry skills
Assessment
For both National 4 and 5, you will be required to sit three unit assessments- one on each of the areas studied. You will also be required to complete an Assignment which is an independent research project. For National 5 pupils the assignment is worth 20% of your overall grade.
Units
We also offer unit outcomes at National 5 level for pupils who may not perform well in the final exam. This ensures that they obtain some qualifications from the course.
Final exam
There is a 2hr 20 minute exam at the end of the course for National 5 pupils.
National 4 Social Subjects
Description
This course has been designed to support pupils that might benefit from a more focused approach to the Social Subjects. Pupils will undertake work from History, Modern Studies and Geography with the possibility of gaining three qualifications in one column.
National History Modules
· The Atlantic Slave Trade, 1770-1807
· The Rise of Nazi Germany, 1919-1939
· The Era of the Great War, 1910-1928
National Modern Studies Modules
· Democracy in Scotland
· Crime and Law
· International Terrorism
National Geography Modules
· Climate Change
· Rivers and Valleys
· Global Development
Entry Requirement
No qualifications required.
Entry would be through invitation only and after discussion with PTG, PT Humanities and parent/guardian.
Assessment
Pupils will complete three unit assessments and an Added Value Unit for each subject (History, Geography and Modern Studies).
Final Exam
There is no final exam for this course.
Religious Studies
National 5 Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies
Description
This course gives you the opportunity to investigate the nature and scope of religion and morality and consider philosophical viewpoints in religious and other stances for living in the modern world. It helps you to reflect on your own life experiences and develop your personal beliefs and values. In addition you will gain knowledge and understanding of the different beliefs and values of others and the ability to express your opinions and give informed comments.
Topics covered
World Religion: Judaism
Morality and Belief: Morality, Medicine and the Human Body
Religious and Philosophical Questions: Miracles or Existence of God
Assignment: Candidates have an open choice of religious, moral or philosophical issue to write about
Entry Requirement
While there are no requirements for this course the course does require a good level of literacy skills due to the written content of the course.
Assessment
For National 5, you will be required to sit three unit assessments- one on each of the areas studied. You will also be required to complete an Assignment which is an independent research project. The assignment is worth 20% of your overall grade.
Units
We also offer unit outcomes at National 5 level for pupils who may not perform well in the final exam. This ensures that they obtain some qualifications from the course.
Final Exam
There is a 2hr 20 minute exam at the end of the course.