GCSE Child Development
The specification is designed to give candidates an opportunity to extend and apply their skills, knowledge and understanding of the developm
ent and care of children from conception to the age of five years within a variety of contexts. It will enable interdisciplinary skills including all six key skills. Their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and independence relating to their personal interest will also be developed.
The specification will provide opportunities fro candidates to develop their critical thinking and to manage a range of resources in order to develop items which re suited to the needs of individuals or families, and to recognise the influence of current trends, the market economy and technological change. It promotes an understanding of the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of the child which is inter-linked through the study of the family, community and the responsibilities of parenthood. It will offer opportunities fro candidates to develo an understanding of citizenship through the relevant issues of the subject.
The specification provides a suitable basis for further study at 16+ offering progression on to academic and a variety of vocational courses including GCE Home Economics, GCE Health and Social Care, National Diplomas/Certificates in Health Studies/Care and CACHE courses. It could enhance career opportunities or provide a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for candidates who do not progress to further study in the subject.
Summary of Assessment
Written Paper: 1 hour and 30 minutes (40%)
One paper which will be externally set and marked, targeted at the full range of GCSE grades. The paper will contain short-answer, structured and free response questions drawn from all areas of the specification and will assess the quality of written communication.
Child Study: Controlled Assessment (30%)
One task to be selected from a bank of three tasks set by WJEC to include investigation and production focusing on a child's development. Duration: 15 hours to commence in the first half of the course. Internally assessed using WJEC set criteria and externally moderated.
Child Focused Task: Controlled Assessment (30%)
One task to be selected from a bank of two tasks set by WJEC, to include researching, planning, making and evaluating. Duration: 15 hours to commence in the second half of the course. Internally assessed using WJEC set criteria and externally moderated.
THe controlled assessment is a compulsory component of GCSE Home Economics: Child Development. It complements the external examination by offering a distinct means of assessment.
It enables candidates to:
- Plan investigations and tasks
- Carry out investigations and tasks
- Apply skills in the context of Child Development
- Analyse and evaluate evidence
- Make reasoned judgments and present conclusions
The specification content is divided into six compulsory core areas of study which must be interrelated whenever possible. The following content should be taught in the context of the assessment objectives.
- Family and Child
- Food and Health
- Pregnancy
- Physical Development
- Intellectual Development
- Social and Emotional Development
