Options booklet 2020-2021 | Page 26

This specification fosters candidates ' musical sensitivity , creativity and aural perception through the acquisition of knowledge , skills and understanding and the exercise of the imagination . It promotes candidates ' cultural development , involvement in and enjoyment of music as performers , composers and appraisers through the study of a wide range of music .
When studying for a WJEC Eduqas GCSE in Music , candidates will consider music under four different 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
There are three key components to the course and they are :
� Performing � Composing � Appraising
Component 1 : Performing ( 30 % of qualification ) Total duration of performances : 4 – 6 minutes 
 Non-exam assessment : internally assessed , externally moderated
A minimum of two pieces , one of which must be an ensemble performance of at least one minute in duration . The other piece ( s ) may be either solo and / or ensemble . One of the pieces performed must link to an area of study of the learner ’ s choice .
Component 2 : Composing ( 30 % of qualification ) Total duration of compositions : 3 – 6 minutes 
 Non-exam assessment : internally assessed , externally moderated
Two compositions , one of which must be in response to a brief set by WJEC Eduqas . Learners will choose one brief from a choice of four , each one linked to an area of study . The briefs will be released during the first week of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken . The second composition is a free composition for which learners set their own brief .
• Total playing time of both compositions should be at least 3 minutes
• Candidates must complete a composition log .
Component 3 : Appraising 
 Written examination : 1 hour 15 minutes ( 40 % of qualification ) There are eight questions in total , two on each of the four areas of study . Two of the eight questions will be based on prepared extracts set by the WJEC Eduqas .
Careers for which this qualification is useful : A GCSE in Music can act as a stepping-stone to ‘ A ’ levels , BTEC courses , BA , BSc & BMus Degrees . Many of our ex-students in recent years are now studying for degrees in music related courses and hope to go onto careers in Sound Engineering , Composing , Music Production , Performance and more general roles within broadcasting & music industries .
Contact Staff : Mr Collins
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