On Friday 12th November, 130 of our year 11 students had a break from their usual GCSE schedule and became Sixth Formers for the day, experiencing a range of A level lessons as part of our
advice and guidance on selecting the right path for themselves post-16.
The students enjoyed being immersed in a wide range of A Level experiences. In Maths they investigated differentiation and its use. In English they explored the role of dreams of the Gothic genre in challenging cultural taboos. Students undertook a range of experiments in Biology, to hone their practical skills, including a heart dissection and use of more technical microscopes to investigate cell division, while in German they looked at popular culture and politics to explore new vocabulary and gain an insight into modern Germany.
Drama students interpreted an A level set text utilising four distinctive styles, including the physical theatre of Berkoff. During the Photography taster, students were inspired by the photographer Slinkachu, using everyday objects and mini figure
s to create surreal, humorous images. Students were introduced to the basic photographic equipment and made their own backdrops in order to create their scenes. The Chemists conducted practical experiments and calculated the molar volume of the mass of gas produced in reactions.
ICT students analysed the uses and impact of AR, (Augmented Reality) and VR, (Virtual Reality) whilst Business students looked at how the Government raises and spends funds including the basics of our taxation system. For art, students explored large scale chalk and charcoal to create responses to the Art of Guy Denning, using expressionist mark-making and movement to create their own portraits.
Overall students thoroughly enjoyed the day and the insight it gave into life as a Sixth Form student at John Masefield. This taste of JM6 will be followed up with ‘Futures’ discussions, a member of the Sixth Form team will further discuss students’ subject choices and preferences over the next four weeks.
