GCSE Coursework

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education) are the exams that most UK pupils take at the end of year 11 (aged 16), after studying for two years.

Older (and annoyingly younger) students also take GCSEs as they are a crucial step if you want to study at a higher level. Lots of employers also demand GCSE passes if you want a job.

IGCSEs (International GCSEs) are equivalent qualifications aimed at students in other countries. They are similar, but concentrate less on UK issues and examples.

What can I study at GCSE?

Most UK schools will make all their students take GCSE English Language, GCSE Maths and possibly one of the many science GCSEs.

Science can be split into separate awards - GCSE Physics, Chemistry or Biology - or combined in a double award which is worth 2 GCSEs.

Some vocational GCSEs, known as Applied GCSEs, are also double award. There are also a few half-award GCSEs which involve less work and time.

The list of subjects that you could take at GCSE is huge.

Different exam boards offer a wide range of academic and practical courses - check out the links below for a few ideas.

GCSEs are assessed by a mix of coursework and exams. There are rules covering how coursework is done, how much it is worth and whether you can re-do it to improve your grade. It's best to check with your teacher to make sure you know what's expected.

GCSEs are graded A* to G. Getting any grade at GCSE is OK, but scoring C or better may be needed to get you into some jobs or courses. For example passing GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language at A* to C is important for those thinking of teaching as career.

GCSEs... What Comes Next?

GCSE passes will help you find a job.

If you want to continue to study you could choose from A Levels, the International Baccalaureate or vocational qualifications like the BTEC.

Careers advisors and your local colleges can help you with your choices.

Links to more About GCSEs

http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gcse/gcse09/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.u2learn.com/success_gcse.html

http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/

Careers and course advice

http://www.connexions-direct.com/