What will students study in Citizenship this year?

Year 7 students will have 2 lessons a fortnight. We will begin the year exploring 'What is Citizenship?' This will give students an overview of what issues and topics are covered within this course. Following this, units will focus on:

• concepts of identity and community
•  local democracy
• the nature of the political system in the UK
• an exploration of the concept of crime

In Year 8, students continue with 2 lessons a fortnight of Citizenship. Building upon the foundation of year 7, students will cover units which aim to depend their understanding of Citizenship. Topics covered will include:

• the changing nature of laws
• an exploration of equality in the UK
• the reason for people to migrate
• the impact of the media on society

Throughout all units students will be taught how to use and apply their citizenship knowledge, understanding and skills to take action to try and make a difference, create a benefit or change in society.

What are the major assessments this year?

Students in year 7 and 8 will have three key assessments during the academic year - at the end of the Autumn, Spring and Summer terms.

What do assessments test?

Students will be tested on their subject knowledge for Citizenship, as well as their ability to apply knowledge and evaluate the issues covered in their lessons.

What are the expectations of my daughter in Citizenship?

To do well in Citizenship, students need to be willing to work hard and open to ideas and opinions other than their own. Citizenship is a subject which encourages discussion and opinions therefore students need to be able to argue a point of view coherently and engage with the current news, as issues relevant to Citizenship are constantly evolving and changing.

What should my daughter do if she feels she is struggling in Citizenship?

In the first instance, she should speak to her class teacher. She should try to identify specific areas of the subject which she is finding a challenge so that we can offer targeted support.

How can I best support my daughter in Citizenship?

Citizenship issues are constantly evolving, and it is important that students keep up with what is happening by accessing the news - encourage your daughter to keep up to date with current affairs and discuss with her what is happening. Students will be required to complete work at home, and they will need a quiet place to work free from distractions.

Whom should I contact for further advice or information? 

Feel free to contact Ms Lagess, Curriculum Leader for Citizenship, at alagess@carshaltongirls.org.uk