WJEC GCSE Music
This is a linear qualification: all the assessments must be taken at specific stages during Year 11.
The course comprises of three units which are detailed below. Different musical periods and genres are studied from the Baroque (18th century) to Popular Music (21st century).
Unit 1: Performing: 4-6 minutes
Section A: Performing (30%) Internal assessment (no external exam)
Section B: Programme Note (5%)
A programme note for one of the pieces chosen for performance, linked to an area of study.
The quality of written communication is assessed in this piece of work and learners are expected to use appropriate musical terminology.
The programme note must be between 500 and 1000 words.
Unit 2: Composing Total duration of compositions: 3-6 minutes
35% of qualification 84 marks
Section A: Composing (30%)
Section B: Evaluating (5%)
An evaluation of the piece composed in response to a brief set by WJEC.
The quality of written communication is assessed in this piece of work and learners are expected to use appropriate musical terminology. The evaluation must be between 500 and 1000 words.
Unit 3: Appraising - a written examination: 1 hour (30%)
30% of qualification 72 marks
This unit is assessed via a listening examination.
Eight questions in total, two on each of the four areas of study.
Area of study 1: Musical Forms and Devices
Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble
Area of study 3: Film Music
Area of study 4: Popular Music
Two of the eight questions are based on prepared extracts set by WJEC. The present set works are:
Aims and objectives
This WJEC GCSE in Music will enable learners to:
- develop performing skills individually and in groups to communicate musically with fluency and control of the resources used
- develop composing skills to organise musical ideas and make use of appropriate resources
- recognise links between the integrated activities of performing, composing and appraising and how this informs the development of music
- broaden musical experience and interests, develop imagination and foster creativity
- develop knowledge, understanding and skills needed to communicate effectively as musicians
- develop awareness of a variety of instruments, styles and approaches to performing and composing
- develop awareness of music technologies and their use in the creation and presentation of music
- recognise contrasting genres, styles and traditions of music, and develop some awareness of musical chronology
- reflect upon and evaluate their own and others’ music engage with and appreciate the diverse heritage of music, in order to promote
- personal, social, intellectual and cultural development.
Prior learning and progression
There are no previous learning requirements for this specification. Any requirements set for entry to a course based on this specification are at the school/college’s discretion.
This specification builds on subject content which is typically taught at key stage 3 and provides a suitable foundation for the study of Music at either AS or A level.
In addition, the specification provides a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for learners who do not progress to further study in this subject.
The course and qualification gives student’s opportunities to acquire the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to follow a music-related career e.g. entertainment, publishing, management/ administrator, music librarian, music therapy, teaching or any job which involves communication and expressive skills, such as self-confidence, concentration, creativity, evaluation and team work.
Want to know more?
Speak to Miss Ann Lloyd Thomas (Head of Music Department) or any other members of the Department if you want more information.
To find out more about this course visit the following web page: www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/music/music-gcse/
Miss Ann Lloyd Thomas