Page 7 - Options Booklet - March 2022
P. 7
Frequently Asked Questions
How are students graded at GCSE?
The grading system for GCSE has changed in the last few years. Grades are now based
on a 9-1 system instead of A*-G. GCSEs have been made tougher and many courses that
once had coursework or controlled assessment are now 100% exam based. Each subject
assessment criteria can be found on the pages within this guide; please read each criteria
carefully so you fully understand what will be asked of you throughout the course.
What is the “English Baccalaureate”?
The English Baccalaureate is not a course you opt to study or a qualification in itself; it
recognises where students have secured pass grades across a group of academic
subjects. It is widely recognised as a benchmark of a broad and balanced curriculum
and is highly regarded by further education providers and universities.
The English Baccalaureate subjects that you need to gain a grade 5 or higher in to secure
this are:
• English
• Maths
• The Sciences
o Double Award or
o At least two subjects (Physics, Biology or Chemistry)
o Computer Science
• A Modern Foreign Language
• A Humanities (Geography or History)
