Choosing your GCSE subjects Although a degree, uni and a career seem far away, it’s worth considering when choosing your GCSE subjects.
What are Gcses?
GCSEs are the qualifications schoolchildren in the UK aim for when they turn 14 or enter Year 10. GCSE stands to General Certificate of Secondary Education. The chosen subjects are studied for two years, with the final exams occurring in Year 11. School students can then decide whether or not they want to continue their education by choosing the GCSE option and completing their qualifications.
Is there a compulsory Gcse subject?
Some subjects in GCSE are mandatory in the UK. You must take them. These subjects are:
- Science is usually broken down into three separate sciences: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. However, this breakdown can vary between schools and ability levels.
- English – English Literature & Language
- Mathematics
Optional
- Arts (e.g. drama, music, art)
- Technology and design (e.g. Electronics, nutrition and food
- Humanities (e.g. geography, history, RS)
- Modern foreign languages (e.g. French, Spanish)
Consider how your Gcses will complement your A-Level choices
Certain A-level courses require that you have completed the same subject at GCSE to be eligible for them. This will allow you to build upon the knowledge you already have. Universities often consider students who have studied A-level languages such as French. However, you will need French GCSE to start – even if it isn’t your first language.
These Gcses Will Help You Keep Your Uni Options Open
When you are weighing your options, keep your eyes on the future. You might find that certain A-levels or Highers are required to enter university courses.
Do I base GCSE options on what I am good at?
This is something you should consider when selecting your GCSEs. The subjects you are good at will be more enjoyable. You might be able complete your GCSE work faster and with better results if you are a specialist in that area. Learning more about a subject that you are naturally skilled in could be helpful when choosing a career path.
The Best Gcse Subjects to Take
GCSE Modern Foreign Languages
GCSE modern languages like French, Geman, and Spanish are all considered excellent subject options. Modern foreign languages are highly valued and you have the opportunity to learn another language. Under the GCSE curriculum, you will learn how to read, write and speak the language you choose.
Although it may be required at your school, a Modern Language at GCSE might not be. It’s worth learning if it isn’t. Languages open many doors.
It is a smart idea to learn at least one language at GCSE and many schools make it mandatory. A language can provide cognitive benefits such as better memory and improved learning. A language can offer a different educational opportunity than subjects like Triple Science or Maths.
GCSE History
Students who plan to study English or History in the future would find History useful. A history course teaches how to reason and explain your views about different situations and how to put them on paper.
Although the most difficult part of history is the time-pressured essays, which many students find the most challenging, many students also know that their skills will improve as they move through the course.
History can be a difficult subject. It requires an ability to remember dates and issues and an analytical mind. It teaches you to question the reliability and validity of sources. This is a great way to develop critical thinking skills that will help you when you go to university.
GCSE English Literature
While GCSE English Literature has not been made mandatory by examination boards, there are many schools in the U.K. that have made it compulsory for students.
Students can learn English language, which is arguably one of the most valuable skills for their future academic and professional careers. High-quality writing skills and communication skills will be valued by future employers.
A majority of university courses require a minimum grade of 5/6 in GCSE English.
GCSE Business Studies
GCSE business studies is a great subject for any aspiring businessman/businesswoman as it gives you a simple introduction to the world of business and the basic concepts you will come across if you enjoy watching old episodes of The Apprentice then you will enjoy this subject!
It’s a fascinating introduction to business and will be a great resource for you as you begin your career. This course will cover both how to start and grow a company, and other aspects such as finance and manufacturing.
GCSE Maths
GCSE Maths is the most popular GCSE. It cements basic academic skills that are essential in many situations. Maths can be used in the workplace as well as outside of it. There are many crossovers with science and other subjects, especially science.
GCSE Maths can be a facilitating subject and pre-requisite subject to many A-level combinations. Maths is a great GCSE subject because it will develop your critical thinking, logical and analytical skills. Maths will help you train your brain to find the best solution using logic.
GCSE Science
GCSE Science is a very popular GCSE. This is because many schools want their students to take this GCSE since it is one of their core subjects. A solid foundation in science can be applied to other subjects, such as weathering in GCSE Geography.
Depending on the school where you are enrolled, you may choose to take single, double, or triple science courses that increase in depth.
GCSE Physics
GCSE Physics is a highly regarded subject. It is required for many Engineering and Mathematical courses. This helps students to develop their mathematical and physical reasoning skills, as well as encouraging them to improve their problem solving and critical thinking abilities.
What are the Best Gcse Options to Choose?
You can take your GCSEs at the end of Year 10 or 11 in England and Wales. However, in some schools, this may happen as early as Year 8. If you are in Year 7, it is a good idea to begin thinking about your options.
What Subjects Must You Take for Gcse Exam?
Expect to take between 7 and 9 GCSE subjects. These numbers can vary depending on the school you attend, so make sure to verify this information before you decide on your GCSEs. To be admitted onto any university’s courses, many will require that you have at least five GCSE subjects.
What if I am unhappy with my choices once I start?
You might be able change your subject if you are unhappy. However, it will depend on whether the changes will affect your personal schedule. You must remember that choosing your GCSE subjects also means choosing your timetable. Ask your teachers about the schedule for subjects you are interested in.
Gcses are Important When Applying to Uni
These steps should be taken together
- Inform them about the A-level requirements in your school.
- Ask them to verify that their choices are in compliance with any requirements.
- Show them how they can check the university’s website information.
General Advice
- You’ll be more successful at subjects you are interested in if you’re truly curious about them.
- You don’t know what subject you want to study at university? Make sure you have a mix of GCSE subjects. For example, you could take English, maths and history, or a modern or an ancient language.
- Balance the sciences and humanities to have a wide range of skills and knowledge.
- Do not choose subjects just because you want to be with a friend or an inspirational teacher. Your friendship could change, or the teacher might leave.
Are Universities concerned about which GCSE options you choose?
Many universities require you to have English or maths GCSEs. This is a great advantage, as you will be studying them as core GCSE subjects.
Some degrees or careers don’t require a GCSE or A-level subject requirement.
Can You Change Your Gcse Options?
If you wish to change to a different subject, you can usually modify your GCSE options at an early stage. This will depend on the school. Before you make any changes, ensure that the subject that you are interested in swapping to doesn’t conflict with your other GCSE options. You should have an idea of the A-Levels you would like to take or the university course you wish to study.