Music Department

GCSE Music

GCSE Music is offered as an option for years 10 and 11. We follow the new AQA course. Lessons are split between preparation for composing and performing coursework and listening practice. All pupils are supported in taking individual instrumental lessons during the course to help prepare them for the performance practical, which counts for 40% of the GCSE.

Salsa Music

Calypso Music

 

Course Structure

This specification follows a unitised structure. There are five areas of study for all of the units.

  • AoS1: Rhythm and metre
  • AoS2: Harmony and tonality
  • AoS3: Texture and melody
  • AoS4: Timbre and dynamics
  • AoS5: Structure and form

These are explored through three strands.

The Western Classical Tradition

  • Baroque orchestral music
  • The concerto
  • Music for voices
  • Chamber music
  • The sonata
  • Blues
  • Popular music of the 1960s
  • Rock music, R'n'B, Hip-Hop
  • Music theatre
  • Film music

World Music

  • Music of the Caribbean
  • Music of Africa
  • Music of India

 

Assessment

Assessment has four units.

Unit 1: Listening to and Appraising Music

20% 1 hour written examination 80 marks Externally assessed

Candidates explore 5 Areas of Study through 3 strands of learning.

Assessment is through a terminal examination marked by AQA examiners. Candidates respond to questions based on short musical excerpts drawing on music from all five Areas of Study. Recorded excerpts of music are provided on a CD. There will be objective tests, structured responses and extended response questions.

Unit 2: Composing and Appraising Music

20% Up to 20 hours Supervised Time for the composition and 2 hours Controlled Time for the appraisal 40 marks Externally assessed

A. Candidates compose one piece of music which explores two or more of the five Areas of Study and links to one of the 3 strands announced annually by AQA (10%),

B. Candidates appraise the process and outcome (10%)

Unit 3: Performing Music

40% Controlled Assessment 60 marks Internally assessed and externally moderated

Candidates offer one individual performance (acoustic or technology-based) and one group performance. The recordings can be made at any time during the course. Unit 4: Composing Music

20% 25 hours Controlled Assessment 30 marks Internally assessed and externally moderated

Candidates compose one piece of music which explores two or more of the 5 Areas of Study in any style or genre of the candidate's choosing.

 

Year 11 GSCE Revision

Click here for practice questions