Term 3

NPA Level 5 Business & IT

Topic

Web Apps: Presentations

• Slide Creation

• transitions

• collaboration tools

• sharing/publishing

• accessibility features

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to watch the news at least once a week

Have discussion on the learning topic they are working at and how it can impact business.

Encourage them to read notes and prepare for each lesson

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zd6fcdm

https://www.brightredpublishing.co.uk

Key Deadlines

Assessment for We Apps presentation:  End of February

Assessment for Understanding Business towards the end of the term before Easter break.

N5 Admin & IT

Topic

Database – MS Access this is the new software that will be introduced this term.  Pupils will also be working on all software skills learned to date from MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Outlook and MS Excel

Assignment preparation will take place as assignment will take place 3/5 March.

Theory will be given some time in the class as this will be a small part of the assignment and exam

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to use study periods, lunch and after school to come and practice their skills in the department.

Encourage them to prepare for each lesson

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.brightredpublishing.co.uk

they can log in and access practice materials and theory questions.

https://www.wiseowl.co.uk/excel/exercises/

Free Excel exercises that can be completed in own time to keep all skills updated for exam in May 

Key Deadlines

Assignment worth 58% will take place 3 and 5 March.

Term 1

N5 Admin & IT

Topic

Excel functions and formula, ensuring all are correct and printed to meet SQA Standard

Theory 

Communication in Administration will be interspersed throughout the term

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to use study periods, lunch and after school to come and practice their skills in the department.

Encourage them to prepare for each lesson

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.brightredpublishing.co.uk

they can log in and access practice materials and theory questions.

https://www.wiseowl.co.uk/excel/exercises/

Free Excel exercises that can be completed in own time

Key Deadlines

Ongoing Activity with the aim for partial Unit Assessment

w/c 6 October

NPA Level 5 Business & IT

Topic

Managing People and Finance

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to watch the news at least once a week

Have discussion on the learning topic they are working at and how it can impact business.

Encourage them to read notes and prepare for each lesson

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zd6fcdm

https://www.brightredpublishing.co.uk

Key Deadlines

Unit  Assessment: Management of People and Finance w/c 6 October 2025

Term 3

N5 Music

Topic

Performing

Learners will continue to add the finer details to their programme of music on both their instruments or instrument and voice. They will work towards their SQA external examination which takes place this term (February/March).

Composition

Learners must complete their composition, score and review by February/March 2026 for submission to the SQA.

Understanding Music

Learners will spend time revising the different styles of exam questions and completing past papers. Learners must complete their music literacy booklets by the end of February.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to practice their performing at home should they have access to their instruments. In some cases, the department will allow learners to borrow instruments with prior arrangement with the class teacher.

We would also encourage learners to engage with google classroom and in particular the revision resources that will support the exam question paper and any end of unit assessments.

Useful external resources

Achieve

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/&authuser=0

Key Deadlines

SQA Performing exam: February/March

Composition: February/March

Literacy booklets: February

Term 3 & 4

N5 Art and Design

Topic

Design Portfolio

Learners will be building a design folio, responding to a design brief by combining drawing and digital skills to create a repeat pattern design. This folio will be sent to the SQA at the end of the year.

Critical Studies

Learners will be introduced to design prompts and writing techniques exploring the work of Shepard Fairey.

Within the Art Department we have a dedicated senior space where learners can work on portfolio tasks out with class time. The space should be used during free periods, lunchtimes, or afterschool (pre-arranged with classroom teacher).

EVALUATIONS:

Pupils must write two evaluations. One to support their expressive folio and one other to support their design folio. These are essential SQA requirements. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to pursue drawing/painting/designing at home should they have access to any materials or resources. Within Senior Phase these can be provided. This will always be supported by class teachers.

We would also encourage learners to engage with google classroom and in particular the critical studies resources that will support the exam question paper.

Useful external resources

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zts3kqt

https://www.clickview.net/secondary/topics/k3eLDb9/artists-styles-and-movements 

Key Deadlines

Design Assessment: Feb-March

Design Portfolio: 24/3/26

·         Research Images – thematic, market research, colour scheme

·         4 motif developments

·         Min 4 digital pattern developments

Expressive and Design evaluations: 24/3/26

ALL coursework must be complete and ready for SQA submission prior to the Easter holiday. 

NPA Jewellery Design - Basic Techniques 1

Topic

Unit 2-3 marking out and saw piercing

During this term, learners will focus on developing their skills in marking out and saw piercing, building precision and control in jewellery manufacture. Pupils will learn how to accurately measure and transfer designs onto metal surfaces using appropriate marking tools, ensuring careful planning before cutting begins. Emphasis will be placed on accuracy, line quality and efficient use of materials, reinforcing the importance of preparation within the manufacturing process. Learners will develop confidence in handling a piercing saw safely and effectively, cutting both straight and curved lines to create increasingly intricate shapes.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Visiting contemporary jewellery exhibitions in person and online. 

Useful external resources 

https://youtu.be/m1ZfRBMNtzA?si=wlmeKwkpuPSCisln

https://youtu.be/t-Ny2VzWQgw?si=FeqFqIyS5RuIQZzw

https://www.cooksongold.com/how-to-make-jewellery

https://klimt02.net/

https://www.goldsmiths-centre.org/learn-and-upskill/

Key Deadlines

No formal assessment this term

NPA Level 5 Photography

Topic

Unit Three: Photographing Places.
Unit Four: Working with Photographs  

Learners are continuing to build an understanding of photographic principles as well as developing their practical skills. NPA pupils will learn how to edit and resize images as well as be introduced to new Styles such as Macro or commercial Photography.

Learners will be handling our department DSLR cameras and will have the opportunity to attend a trip planning and photographing on location. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to enjoy photography at home should they have access to equipment. Photography does not need to be taken on a DSLR camera, a lot of smartphones now have similar camera settings. We encourage learners to tap into their camera settings and experiment with taking photographs. 

Useful external resources

https://www.clickview.net/search?query=photography

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zhh4382/revision/1

 BBC Sounds - Mastering Photography - Available Episodes

Key Deadlines

Photography Assessment: End of March Completion date for all units.

Term 1

N5 Music

Topic

Performing

Learners will continue to build a programme of music on both their instruments or instrument and voice which is level specific (Grade 3 for N5). This programme will contribute to their final grade and will be externally examined in Feb/Mar 2026 by SQA.

Composition

Learners will begin to develop ideas in composition. This may include creating music for a particular instrument along with exploring the main musical ideas such as time signature and tonality. This element will again contribute to their final grade and will be externally marked by SQA.

Understanding Music

Learners will complete a unit of work on ‘Culture in Scotland and the Wider World’. Within this unit learners will explore different genres of music and associated concepts. Learners will also begin to work through level specific aspects of music literacy. This element of the course will again contribute to their final grade in an exam question paper set by SQA.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to practice their performing at home should they have access to their instruments. In some cases, the department will allow learners to borrow instruments with prior arrangement with the class teacher.

We would also encourage learners to engage with google classroom and in particular the revision resources that will support the exam question paper and any end of unit assessments.

Useful external resources

Achieve

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/&authuser=0

Key Deadlines

Performing Assessment: Week Beginning 15th September 2025

Culture in Scotland and the Wider World End of Unit Assessment: 27th August 2025

N5 Art and Design

Topic

Expressive Portfolio

Learners are beginning to build an expressive folio, focusing on drawing and painting. This folio will be sent to the SQA at the end of the year.

Critical Studies

Learners are being introduced to expressive writing techniques and the work of David Hockney.

Within the Art Department we have a dedicated senior space where learners can work on portfolio tasks out with class time. The space should be used during free periods, lunchtimes, or afterschool (pre-arranged with classroom teacher).

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to pursue drawing/painting/designing at home should they have access to any materials or resources. Within Senior Phase these can be provided. This will always be supported by class teachers.

We would also encourage learners to engage with google classroom and in particular the critical studies resources that will support the exam question paper.

Useful external resources

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zts3kqt

https://www.clickview.net/secondary/topics/k3eLDb9/artists-styles-and-movements

Key Deadlines

Expressive Assessment: End of Term One

Expressive Portfolio: Ongoing throughout the term.

NPA Level 5 Photography

Topic

Unit One: Understanding Photography.
Unit Two: Photographing People  

Learners are building an understanding of photographic principles as well as developing their practical skills.

Learners will be handling our department DSLR cameras.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Learners are encouraged at all stages, levels and abilities to enjoy photography at home should they have access to equipment. Photography does not need to be taken on a DSLR camera, a lot of smartphones now have similar camera settings. We encourage learners to tap into their camera settings and experiment with taking photographs. 

Useful external resources

https://www.clickview.net/search?query=photography

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zhh4382/revision/1

Key Deadlines

Photography Assessment: Friday 19th of September.

Unit 1 (Understanding Photography) completion date.

Unit Two (Photographing People) ongoing throughout the term.

Term 3

National 4/5 Physical Education

Topic

Practical Performance Preparation

 Candidates will be preparing for their Practical Performance assessments in their two chosen activities. Activities chosen this year include: -

·         Volleyball

·         Dance

·         Cross-Country

·         Athletics

·         Badminton

·         Rugby

·         Netball

·         Gymnastics

·         Basketball

·         Football

Portfolio – Section 3

Alongside their practical work, candidates will continue the process of completing their National PE Portfolios.

This process will include in-class lessons wherein candidates learn about the required content and begin to craft their answers.

This should be followed up by these answers being completed at home and being shown their class teacher for feedback, which should then be acted upon.

Once every two weeks, candidates will open their Portfolios and type up their prepared answers. 

How Can Help Be Given at Home

Remind pupils to submit homework on time so feedback can be given.

Encourage pupils to use Google Classroom as electronic copies of all resources, homework reminders and sample answers will be shared.

Encourage pupils to attend extra-curricular clubs and practice for practical assessments in own time throughout the year.

Useful external resources

Pupils can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

BBC Bitesize

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zctsr82

Achieve Website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Section 3b & 3c Write Up: Week beginning 16th February

Section 3d Write Up: Week beginning 2nd March

Section 3e & 3f Write Up: Week beginning 16th March

Final Checks and Sign Off: Week Beginning 23rd March

In addition to this, any pupils who have further work to do on Section 2 of their portfolio will be given opportunities to do so during Core PE and/or at select lunchtimes.

N3/4/5 Practical Cookery

Topic

Practical Assessment Preparation

Throughout term 3 pupils will be preparing for their practical assessment and associated assignment. Pupils will watch the demonstration of each exam dish being made then they are allowed to make each dish once. Exam recipes are not allowed to be shared out of the classroom.

75% of the final course marks will be determined by the end of term 3 - from the practical activity and assignment.

Theory

The majority of the course content has been covered in term 1 and term 2. Theory lessons in term 3 will focus on developing question answering skills and techniques, including ‘evaluate’ questions which have not yet been studied. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to plan for their assignment – they can use the practice exam recipes to create an equipment list, service details and a 3-dish time plan. All work can be handed in and feedback will be provided.

Pupils should practice key skills at home that will help them in their practical exam. The practice recipes contain many of the skills that are included in the final exam so making these would be a good place to start.

Useful external resources

Pupils can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

 SQA Understanding standards

SQA - Understanding Standards: Cookery Videos

Achieve website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Assignment – w/b 23rd February

 Practical Assessment – w/b 16th March

Term 2

National 4/5 Physical Education

Topic

Softball Cycle of Analysis

- Physical and Social Factors

- Methods of Data Collection

- Methods of Development

-‘Identify’, ‘Describe’ and ‘Explain’ command words

Factors Impacting Performance

How Can Help Be Given at Home

Remind pupils to submit homework on time so feedback can be given.

Encourage pupils to use Google Classroom as electronic copies of all resources, homework reminders and sample answers will be shared.

Encourage pupils to attend extra-curricular clubs and practice for practical assessments in own time throughout the year.

Useful external resources

Pupils can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

BBC Bitesize

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zctsr82

Achieve Website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Section 2a & 2d Write Up: Week beginning 3rd  November

N3/4/5 Practical Cookery

Topic

·       Cookery skills, techniques and processes

·       Command words – answering questions

·       Assignment - Time planning

                       - Equipment lists

                       - Service details

·       Assessment preparation – pupils will be preparing for practical and written assessments, including a full prelim for N5 pupils.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Remind pupils to submit homework on time so that feedback can be provided.

Encourage pupils to cook at home. The N5 recipe book and demonstration videos are available on Google Classroom, but any food preparation such as vegetable preparation and cooker control would be beneficial.

Set tasks for pupils to complete and give them a time target to complete the work so they become more aware of time.

Useful external resources

SQA have provided a set of demonstration videos for a variety of food preparation techniques:

https://www.understandingstandards.org.uk/Subjects/PracticalCookery

/PracticalCookeryVideos

Achieve website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Homework approximately once a fortnight – might just be pupils completing what they have started in class.

N5 Practical Activity assessments will be completed w/b 15th December

N3/N4 pupils – it is hoped that practical assessments will take place during study leave.

Term 1

National 4/5 Physical Education

Topic

Softball Cycle of Analysis

- Physical and Social Factors

- Methods of Data Collection

- Methods of Development

-‘Identify’, ‘Describe’ and ‘Explain’ command words

Factors Impacting Performance

How Can Help Be Given at Home

Remind pupils to submit homework on time so feedback can be given.

Encourage pupils to use Google Classroom as electronic copies of all resources, homework reminders and sample answers will be shared.

Encourage pupils to attend extra-curricular clubs and practice for practical assessments in own time throughout the year.

Useful external resources

Pupils can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

BBC Bitesize

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zctsr82

Achieve Website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Section 1 Portfolio Write Up: Week beginning 8th September

Section 2a & 2d Write Up: Week beginning 22nd September

Section 2b & 2c Write Up: Week beginning 6th October

N3/4/5 Practical Cookery

Topic

·       Cookery skills, techniques and processes

·       Command words – answering questions

·       Assignment - Time planning

                       - Equipment lists

                       - Service details

·       Pastry skills – pastry, meringue, fatless sponge

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Remind pupils to submit homework on time so that feedback can be provided.

Encourage pupils to cook at home. The N5 recipe book and demonstration videos are available on Google Classroom, but any food preparation such as vegetable preparation and cooker control would be beneficial.

Set tasks for pupils to complete and give them a time target to complete the work so they become more aware of time.

Useful external resources

SQA have provided a set of demonstration videos for a variety of food preparation techniques:

https://www.understandingstandards.org.uk/Subjects/PracticalCookery

/PracticalCookeryVideos

Achieve website

https://letsachieve.co.uk/

Key Deadlines

Homework approximately once a fortnight – might just be pupils completing what they have started in class.

Term 3

Nat 5 Maths

Topic

Quadratic graphs 

Similar Shapes

Pythagoras

Trigonometric Graphs

Trigonometric Equations

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Reviewing work completed in jotters, and lessons shared on google classroom. Course notes with exam questions, including solutions, have also been shared.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.national5maths.co.uk/free-national-5-maths-2/

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/

Key Deadlines

2nd Prelim. A weeks notice will be given before any assessment is given.

Nat 5 Applications of Maths

Topic

Gradients

Pythagoras

Scale Drawing

Time Management 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Reviewing work completed in jotters, and lessons shared on google classroom. Course notes with exam questions, including solutions, have also been shared.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.national5maths.co.uk/n5-lifeskills-maths/

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/

Key Deadlines

2nd Prelim. A weeks notice will be given before any assessment is given.

Term 2

Nat 5 Maths

Topic

Change the Subject

Quadratic equations

Quadratic graphs 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Reviewing work completed in jotters, and lessons shared on google classroom. Course notes with exam questions, including solutions, have also been shared.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.national5maths.co.uk/free-national-5-maths-2/

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/

Key Deadlines

Progress Check 2 and half course assessment and Prelim. A weeks notice will be given before any assessment is given.

Term 1

Nat 5 Maths

Topic

Surds & Indices

Gradients & Straight Line

Equations & Inequations

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Reviewing work completed in jotters, and lessons shared on google classroom. Course notes with exam questions, including solutions, have also been shared.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.national5maths.co.uk/free-national-5-maths-2/

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/user-start/?next=/

Key Deadlines

Progress Check 1 and Unit 1 Assessment. A weeks notice will be given before any assessment is given.

Term 3

National 5 Spanish

Topic 1

Society:  Technology

Vocabulary related to:

·         Different forms of technology and their uses

·         The benefits and risks of technology

·         TV vs Cinema

Grammar

Consolidation of grammar topics done so far

Time phrases and saying how long you have done something for. 

Topic 2

Learning in Context

Vocabulary related to:

·         School subjects and reasons for choice

·         The school building

·         The school day

·         How your school could be improved

Grammar

• Consolidation of tenses

• Reflexive verbs

• Consolidation of time

• The Conditional Mood 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to check Google Classroom to check for consolidation and extension work and to keep up to date with assessment preparation.

Listen to pupils practise speaking, using their script on Google Classroom.

Useful external resources

www.linguascope.com (beginners and intermediate sections) 

www.bbcbitesize.co.uk (practice in all skills)

www.languagesonline.org (grammar practice)

Duolingo app (not directly linked to classwork but useful practice of high frequency vocabulary)

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/ (practice in all skills and grammar as well as exam technique)

Key Deadlines

End of February:

Questions and answers on both topics written on speaking exam preparation document on Google Classroom.

End of March:

SQA National 5 Speaking Exam.  Worth 25% of final grade.  Pupils must learn their script prior to this.

Before Easter holidays:

Complete preparation for National 5 Writing Exam

Term 1

National 5 Spanish

Topic 1

Society:  Free-time, Health and Wellbeing:

Vocabulary related to:

·         Opinions on Sports/Hobbies/Foods

·         Reasons for choices

·         What you can do to stay healthy

·         Health risks

Grammar

·         The present tense of common regular and irregular verbs

·         Adjective agreement

·         Negatives

·         Verb plus infinitive, including set modal verbs in the conditional tense

Topic 2

Society/Culture: Home Area and Environment

Vocabulary related to:

·         Describing your own area as a tourist destination

·         The pros and cons of where you live

·         Living in the town vs living in the countryside.

Grammar

·         Making comparisons

·         Recognition of command forms of verbs

·         Consolidation of the present tense

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to check Google Classroom to check for consolidation and extension work and to keep up to date with assessment preparation.

Listen to pupils practise speaking, using their script on Google Classroom.

Useful external resources

www.linguascope.com (beginners and intermediate sections) 

www.bbcbitesize.co.uk (practice in all skills)

www.languagesonline.org (grammar practice)

Duolingo app (not directly linked to classwork but useful practice of high frequency vocabulary)

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/ (practice in all skills and grammar as well as exam technique)

Key Deadlines

End of term:

Questions and answers on both topics written on speaking exam preparation document on Google Classroom.

Terms 1-4

National 5 French

Topic 1

Term1: Learning: School and Education

Vocabulary related to:

·         Opinions on school subjects / teachers / homework / school building / school rules / uniform

·         Reasons for opinions

·         Descriptive language regarding school

Grammar

·         The present tense of common regular and irregular verbs

·         Adjective agreement

·         Negatives

·         Verb plus infinitive, including set modal verbs in the conditional tense

·         Using il faut / il ne faut pas

·         Using essay language

Term 2: Employability: Part Time Jobs, Future Plans, Work Experience

Vocabulary related to:

·         Opinions on job / work life balance / advantages and disadvantages of part time jobs

·         Reasons for opinions

·         How to talk about duties at work, start / finish time, pay etc

Grammar

·         The present tense of common regular and irregular verbs

·         Passé composé tense

·         Imperfect tense

·         Negatives

·         Verb plus infinitive, including set modal verbs in the conditional tense

·         Si clauses

·         Simple future tense

·         Using essay language

Topic 2

Directed Writing (12.5% of the final exam)

·         Draft the first 4 bullet points of your DW essay for the exam and learn it!

·         All resources will be on Google classroom as well as a paper copy

·         Draft essay to be done on Google Classroom

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage pupils to check Google Classroom to check for consolidation and extension work and to keep up to date with assessment preparation.

Listen to pupils practise speaking, using their script on Google Classroom.

Useful external resources

www.linguascope.com (beginners and intermediate sections) 

www.bbcbitesize.co.uk (practice in all skills)

www.languagesonline.org (grammar practice)

Duolingo app (not directly linked to classwork but useful practice of high frequency vocabulary)

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/ (practice in all skills and grammar as well as exam technique)

Key Deadlines

Prelims

Questions and answers on topic written on speaking exam preparation document on Google Classroom. Spekaing assessment done in March – 25% of the final mark.

Directed Writing draft written and marked using the Correction Code on Google Classroom doc too. 

Term 4 (start of course)

National 5 Biology

Topic

This term we will Life on Earth.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Make sure that if they are revising they are doing more than reading.  Eg: making mind maps to summarise information.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Achieve

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

Life on earth mini test mid June

Term 3

National 5 Biology

Topic

This term we will complete the course by studying Multicellular Organisms.

We will write up the Assignment after the February Break.

Any time after completing the course will be spent consolidating learning and developing skills. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Make sure that if they are revising they are doing more than reading.  Eg, making mind maps to summarise information.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Achieve

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

Extended assessment End of February

National 5 Physics

Topic

This term we will begin the Properties of Matter topic, covering Specific Heat Capacity, Specific Latent Heat, Gas Laws and the Kinetic Model. We will then move on to Waves covering Wave Parameters and Behaviours, Electromagnetic Spectrum and Refraction of Light, before the Radiation topic which covers Nuclear Radiation. Finishing with the Space topic which covers Space Exploration and Cosmology. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

All PowerPoints are shared on Google Classroom at the end of the day (or week, depending on the content) and it is part of our homework criteria that all young people use the PowerPoints to create their own notes; this activity should also allow the young person to identify any misunderstandings from the lessons this week and they should be encouraged to ask their teacher for any further support. Encourage your young person to talk about their learning; at the end of each week ask them to summarise the key concepts they have covered in class and perhaps quiz them on their learning (use the PowerPoints to help).

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with these topics using the following external links:

You-Tube Playlist:

National 5 Physics | Properties of Matter - YouTube

National 5 Physics | Waves - YouTube

National 5 Physics | Radiation - YouTube

Properties of Matter:

Revision guides: Properties of matter - National 5 Physics - BBC Bitesize

Waves:

Revision guides: Waves - National 5 Physics - BBC Bitesize

Radiation:

Revision guide: Radiation - National 5 Physics - BBC Bitesize

Space:

Revision guides: Space - National 5 Physics - BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

Assignment Experiment Approx. End of January/start of February

Assignment Write-Up Approx. Last week of February

Final exam May 

National 5 Chemistry

Topic

Fertilisers and Nuclear Chemistry

Fuels and Homologous Series

Consumer Products and Chemical Analysis 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

ClickView 

Key Deadlines

Assignment – Externally marked (early March)

2nd Prelim – covering Metals, Fertilisers, Nuclear Chemistry, Fuels, Homologous Series, Consumer Products and Chemical Analysis

Term 2

N5 Biology

Topic

This term we will be concentrating on completing Cell Biology .

Once done we will review the standards for the assignment and complete a practice assignment in groups.

Pupils will also continue to develop examination skills. 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Make sure that if they are revising they are doing more than reading.  Eg, making mind maps to summarise information.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Achieve

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

Prelim

NPA/ FA Scientific Technologies

Topic

2. Structure of the Atom

3. Bonding, structure and properties

4. Chemical symbolism

5. The mole

6. Acids and Bases

7. Salt Preparation

8. Fuels

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage your young person to talk about their learning.

You could check it is completed and quiz them on the knowledge.

National 5 Chemistry

Topic

Acids, Bases and Calculations

Metals 

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

ClickView 

Key Deadlines

Check test – Acids, bases and calculations

Prelim – Rates of reaction, Structures and Bonding, Acids Bases and Calculations, Metals

Term 1

National 5 Physics

Topic

This term we will continue our work on the Dynamics Unit of the Course (before the holidays we covered speed, acceleration, speed-time graphs and began looking at vectors and scalars) completing Vectors and Scalars, studying Newton’s Laws of Motion (including rocket motion and weight), Energy and Projectile Motion.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

The classes have sat a Dynamics Check Test in June; you should discuss this with them using the Reflection Sheets they fill in after every assessment. All PowerPoints are shared on Google Classroom at the end of the day (or week, depending on the content) and it is part of our homework criteria that all young people use the PowerPoints to create their own notes; this activity should also allow the young person to identify any misunderstandings from the lessons this week and they should be encouraged to ask their teacher for any further support. Encourage your young person to talk about their learning; at the end of each week ask them to summarise the key concepts they have covered in class and perhaps quiz them on their learning (use the PowerPoints to help).

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with these topics using the following external links:

You-Tube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4ViYiFUc7GQZBLHieq0dX_gLrc-Dcdtf

Speed:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zydyxfr/revision/4

Acceleration:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zch83k7/revision/1

Speed-Time Graphs:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zxrtw6f/revision/2

Vectors:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zydyxfr/revision/3

Newton’s Laws:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zgn82hv/revision/1

Energy:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zq2csrd/revision/1

Projectile Motion:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zrsdmp3/revision/1

Key Deadlines

End of Unit test – (approx.) week of 6th October

National 5 Chemistry

Topic

1.2 – Atomic Structure and Bonding

1.3 – Acids, Bases and Chemical Calculations

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage your young person to talk about their learning.

At the end of every subtopic a short quiz is given

You could check it is completed and quiz them on the knowledge.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with these topics using the following external links:

National 5 Chemistry - BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

End of Unit assessment – week beginning 6th October

N5 Biology

Topic

This term we will be concentrating on completing Life on Earth.  We will also start Cell Biology in this unit.

During this time we will be delivering practical outcomes and laying groundwork for the assignment.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Speak to the young person about their learning.

Ask them to show you Google Classroom and ensure they are using these resources to consolidate learning.

Make sure that if they are revising they are doing more than reading.  Eg, making mind maps to summarise information.

Useful external resources

The pupil can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

Achieve

Google Classroom

BBC Bitesize

Key Deadlines

Life on Earth Test:  Mid September.

NPA/ FA Scientific Technologies

Topic

2. Structure of the Atom

3. Bonding, structure and properties

4. Chemical symbolism

5. The mole

6. Acids and Bases

7. Salt Preparation

8. Fuels

How Can Help Be Given At Home

Encourage your young person to talk about their learning.

You could check it is completed and quiz them on the knowledge.

Term 1

National 5 Geography

Topics

Learners have studied an Urban area (Glasgow with map skills) Pupils will also study coasts and glaciation.

How can help be given at home?

Use the National Geography google classroom page to support your child – all key resources are on this site.

Use SQA past papers (available from Mrs Carlson) to test and revise with your child.

Encourage your child to make flashcard notes of key topics and questions

Revision booklets and examples answers will be issued to all learners.

Useful external resources

Learners can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.youtube.com/@royalscottishgeographicals9915

(search for National 5 Geography Chalk Talks)

https://quizlet.com/gb/64659902/geography-national-5-flash-cards/

Key deadlines

Check the National 5 Geography google classroom page for information on key deadline this term. Any details/date of assessments and revision tasks will be uploaded to the classroom site.

Key assessment dates will be sent home via the school messaging system.

National 5 History

Topic

This term we will be focusing on the World War One section of the National 5 History course. Pupils will learn about the experience of Scottish soldiers in the Western Front and the impact of WW1 on life in Britain.

How can help be given at home?

Use the National 5 History google classroom page to support your child – all key resources are on this site.

Use SQA past papers (available from Mr Shanks and Mr Fleming) to test and revise with your child.

Encourage your child to make flashcard notes of key topics and questions

Useful external resources

Learners can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/z8phvcw

https://studyrocket.co.uk/revision/national-5-history-sqa

Key deadlines

Check the National 5 History google classroom page for information on key deadline this term. Any details/date of assessments and revision tasks will be uploaded to the classroom site.

Key assessment dates will be sent home via the school messaging system.

N5 Modern Studies

Topic

This term we will be focusing on the US section of the National 5 Modern Studies course. Pupils will learn about US politics – how the government operates and how citizens can influence politics in the US. Learners will also learn about the influence of the US in the world and the causes/impact of social and economic inequalities.

How can help be given at home?

Use the Modern Studies you tube channel (with videos) to support your child.

Use google classroom to test and revise with your child – all revision resources are uploaded to google classroom.

Speak to your child about key events and examples in the US today – knowledge of current affairs is important

Encourage your child to make flashcard notes of key topics and questions

Useful external resources

Learners can find extra help with this topic using the following external links:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zdhtyrd

https://www.youtube.com/@SFleming-q2z

https://www.brainscape.com/subjects/national-5-modern-studies

Key deadlines

First US Assessment – week beginning 01/09/25

Second US Assessment – week beginning 03/11/25

Key assessment dates will be sent home via the school messaging system.

Term 3

Subject - Practical Woodworking

Topic

SQA Assignment
Pupils began their final SQA practical assignment just before the Christmas break and will continue working on this throughout Term 3. This assignment forms 100% of the overall course assessment and provides pupils with the opportunity to demonstrate the practical skills they have developed throughout the year.

During the assignment, pupils will manufacture a woodworking product while being assessed on key practical skill areas. These include measuring and marking out, cutting and shaping using both hand tools and machine tools, assembly of carcass and flat-frame construction, and the preparation and application of finish. Pupils will also demonstrate safe and effective use of workshop machinery such as the wood lathe, belt sander, and pillar drill.

As part of the assignment, pupils are required to complete supporting coursework. This includes a short case study worth 10 marks, where they demonstrate their understanding of tools, materials, and processes used in practical woodworking. Pupils will also maintain a logbook throughout the project, recording the skills, processes, and stages of manufacture they complete. This acts as a record of their progress and practical learning.

This part of the National 5 course and allows pupils to demonstrate independence, accuracy, and quality of workmanship in a practical context.

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Manufacture Assignment:  National 5 Design and manufacture - BBC Bitesize

-          Materials

-          Measuring and marking-out

-          Using hand tools

-          Using machine tools

-          Assembling components

-          Finishing

Subject - Graphic Communication

Topic

National 5 Graphic Communication — Assignment
Pupils will now be preparing for and completing the National 5 Graphic Communication Assignment. This is a practical design task set by the SQA and forms a significant part of the overall course assessment.

During this unit, pupils will apply the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the course to produce a graphics-based solution to a given design brief. This will involve both sketching techniques and computer-aided design (CAD), allowing pupils to demonstrate their ability to communicate design ideas clearly and accurately using graphical methods.

As part of the assignment, pupils will:

• Interpret a design brief

• Produce preliminary design sketches

• Create supported graphics using CAD

• Apply drawing standards, layout, and presentation skills

• Develop and present a final graphic solution

Pupils will work with increasing independence while completing this coursework under SQA assessment conditions. This assignment provides an opportunity for them to demonstrate their creativity, accuracy, and understanding of graphic communication techniques.

The assignment represents an important component of the final National 5 Graphic Communication grade.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

A Google Classroom has been set up for N5 Graphic Communication [code: 4d65jlx].

On the Classroom, you will find:

·         Practice SQA Past Paper exam questions.

Ensure pupils are completing any homework issued and answers are written out in full as would be expected in an exam paper. This will help when it comes to their exams.

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Graphic Communication: National 5 Graphic communication - BBC Bitesize

Achieve web site:

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/

ACHIEVE is a great online revision site where pupils can work independently to learn concepts, revise and self-assess.
Please note, when getting pupils to sign up for an ACHIEVE account, they should enter the School Code: 3fe4tNK3

Subject - Design & Manufacture

Topic

National 5 Design and Manufacture — Design Assignment
Throughout Term 3, pupils will be working on their National 5 Design and Manufacture Assignment. This is a key part of the course assessment and allows pupils to demonstrate the design and practical skills they have developed throughout the year.

The assignment focuses on the full design process. Pupils will respond to a given design brief and work through structured stages to develop a suitable solution. This includes researching, generating ideas, developing and refining concepts, and communicating their final design proposal using appropriate graphic techniques.

In addition to the design work, pupils will manufacture their chosen design, applying practical skills and techniques learned in previous projects. Both the design and manufacture components are formally assessed.

As part of the assignment, pupils will:

• Interpret and analyse a design brief

• Carry out research and investigation

• Generate a range of initial design ideas

• Develop and refine a selected idea

• Produce detailed design drawings and proposals

• Manufacture their chosen solution

• Justify design and manufacturing decisions

Pupils will work with increasing independence under SQA assessment conditions. The assignment forms a significant portion of the final National 5 Design and Manufacture grade and allows pupils to demonstrate creativity, problem-solving, practical skills, and design thinking.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

A Google Classroom has been set up for N5 Design & Manufacture [code: vltb7km4].

On the Classroom, you will find:

• Data sheets and theory booklets covering all aspects of the exam content

• SQA past paper and marking instructions for the course

Pupils are strongly encouraged to begin revising early and regularly using the range of resources available on the course Google Classroom. These include past papers, marking instructions, revision booklets, and topic-specific guides to support independent study.

Early and consistent revision helps pupils build confidence, identify areas for improvement, and avoid last-minute stress. By building strong study habits now, pupils will be well prepared not only for the prelim exam, but also for their final SQA exam later in the session.

Parents and carers can play a key role by helping pupils create a manageable study routine and by encouraging regular use of the revision materials provided.

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Design & Manufacture: National 5 Design and manufacture - BBC Bitesize

Achieve web site:

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/

ACHIEVE is a great online revision site where pupils can work independently to learn concepts, revise and self-assess.
Please note, when getting pupils to sign up for an ACHIEVE account, they should enter the School Code: 3fe4tNK3

Term 1/2

Year/Class/Level - N4/N5

Subject - Practical Woodworking

Topic

Practice Joints

Pupils will be assessed on the practice joint work they have completed for both flat-frame and carcass construction. These assessments are designed to reinforce accuracy when measuring, marking out, cutting and shaping.

Spice Rack Project

Pupils will begin their first assessed unit model: a spice rack project based on carcass construction, machining and finishing skills. This extended make task will allow pupils to further develop their skills in:

• Measuring and marking out

• Cutting and shaping

• Machining and finishing

• Assembly of components

The spice rack project is a key part of the course and will be formally assessed as part of the unit work. It provides an excellent opportunity for pupils to build confidence and precision in practical woodworking tasks as they prepare for future models and the final course assessment model.

Mirror Project

Pupils will begin their second assessed unit model: a mirror project based on flat-frame construction. This extended make task will allow pupils to further develop their skills in:

• Measuring and marking out

• Cutting and shaping

• Machining and finishing

• Assembly of components

The mirror project is also a key part of the course and will be formally assessed as part of the unit work.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

A Google Classroom has been set up for N4/N5 Practical Woodworking [code: lmibofwr].

Although the practical projects completed in school using specialist tools and equipment, there are still ways for parents and carers to support learning at home.

All pupils have access to a Google Classroom, where they will find:

• Working drawings for both the practice joints and the Spice Rack project

• Marking Instructions for practical work

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Manufacture Assignment:  National 5 Design and manufacture - BBC Bitesize

-          Materials

-          Measuring and marking-out

-          Using hand tools

-          Using machine tools

-          Assembling components

-          Finishing

Key Deadlines

N5 Graphic Communication

Topic

Term 1 & 2 Project – Practice Design assignment

Approx. 40% of the graphic communication course marks come from a Design Assignment that is issued and marked by SQA. The remainder of the course award comes from the final exam.

During term 1 & 2 the class will concentrate on completing previous assignments to reinforce their knowledge and practice of both Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) and Desk top publishing (DTP) techniques.

Pupils will also need to ensure that they stay on top of their revision for the design elements and principles as well as the DTP principles and will be issued with previous exam questions as homework to aid in this.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

A Google Classroom has been set up for N5 Graphic Communication [code: 4d65jlx].

On the Classroom, you will find:

·         Practice SQA Past Paper exam questions.

Ensure pupils are completing any homework issued and answers are written out in full as would be expected in an exam paper. This will help when it comes to their exams.

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Graphic Communication: National 5 Graphic communication - BBC Bitesize

Achieve web site:

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/

ACHIEVE is a great online revision site where pupils can work independently to learn concepts, revise and self-assess.
Please note, when getting pupils to sign up for an ACHIEVE account, they should enter the School Code: 3fe4tNK3

Key Deadlines

Prelim exam in December.

N5 Design & Manufacture

Topic

Design Work
Pupils will complete to work through their mock assignments. This task is designed to prepare pupils for their final assignment, due in Term 3, and helps pupils build the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

Practical Work
In the workshop, pupils will manufacture a woodwork toolbox as part of a skill-building exercise. This project introduces them to a range of traditional wood joints, the use of hand and machine tools, and includes experience on the wood lathe. The emphasis is on building a level of independence, pace and accuracy.

Theory and Homework
Pupils will also complete weekly homework tasks to support the theory component of the course. These will cover:

• Practical workshop knowledge and safety

• The design process and design theory

• Commercial and mass manufacturing theory

How Can Help Be Given At Home

A Google Classroom has been set up for N5 Design & Manufacture [code: vltb7km4].

On the Classroom, you will find:

• Data sheets and theory booklets covering all aspects of the exam content

• SQA past paper and marking instructions for the course

Pupils are strongly encouraged to begin revising early and regularly using the range of resources available on the course Google Classroom. These include past papers, marking instructions, revision booklets, and topic-specific guides to support independent study.

Early and consistent revision helps pupils build confidence, identify areas for improvement, and avoid last-minute stress. By building strong study habits now, pupils will be well prepared not only for the prelim exam, but also for their final SQA exam later in the session.

Parents and carers can play a key role by helping pupils create a manageable study routine and by encouraging regular use of the revision materials provided.

Useful external resources

BBC Bitesize further study:

Design & Manufacture: National 5 Design and manufacture - BBC Bitesize

Achieve web site:

https://achieve.hashtag-learning.co.uk/

ACHIEVE is a great online revision site where pupils can work independently to learn concepts, revise and self-assess.
Please note, when getting pupils to sign up for an ACHIEVE account, they should enter the School Code: 3fe4tNK3

Key Deadlines

Initial Ideas Mock Assignment:  Early September 2025

Weekly Theory Homework: See Google Classroom

Subject - NPA Bee Keeping

Topic

Due to the nature of this course, the pupils will spend as much time as possible at the hives during the summer months.

At this time they will learn about checking the hives to protect against disease and to ensure that the bees have enough stores.

During this time, their confidence should build so that they are able to open and check the hives unsupervised.

As and when the weather prevents us from going to the hives, the pupils have 3 units of theory work to complete.

The booklets for this work are available on the google classroom as well as the hard copy that pupils will complete in school.

How Can Help Be Given At Home

There are many videos and resources available online for the beginner beekeeper and these should be used as an aid to learning.

Useful external resources

Google classroom code: 7pnz54pu

If youtube or other online resources are being referred to, it is worth noting that any material produced outside the UK does not always directly relate to beekeeping in the UK due to differences in climate as well as forage.

A useful youtube source is “The Norfolk honey co.”