This booklet is designed to help pupils decide which subjects they would like to study
in Years S3 and S4. It contains a brief summary of the subjects on offer at IGCSE level.
More detailed information is available on the CIE and EDEXCEL websites.
www.cie.org.uk
www.edexcel.com/
Subjects are listed in alphabetical order.
1. Art
2.Business Studies
3.English Literature
4. French
5.Geography
6.German
7.History
8.I.C.T.
9.Music
10.Physical Education
11.Sciences
12.Travel and Tourism
13. Further Pure Maths
IGCSE ART
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 0400
In S3 the students produce a sketchbook of work based on the theme of Natural Forms.
They are introduced to a wide variety of materials such as, pen, pencil, paint, printing, oil
pastels, inks and relief.
They will build on skills learnt in P6 – S2 and they will become more confident with their
materials before producing a final piece of work which can be 2D or 3D.
In S4 students continue to develop their work based on the topic of Self Portraits.
Throughout both projects the students will study various artists in order to help inform
and influence their work.
In the January of the S4 year students receive their exam paper from the CIE. They will
choose 1 question to prepare and with teacher help they will spend 6 weeks preparing for
their exam. The exam will take place in April and will be 8 hours, preparation must be
taken into the exam and a final piece of finished work must be produced.
In order to pass the IGCSE the students must complete coursework throughout the 2 years
and sit the 8 hour exam.
50% coursework + 50 % exam
IGCSE BUSINESS STUDIES
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 0450
Recommendations: 8.0 global in S2 English, 7.5 global in S2 Maths.
Assessment: 100% examination
Course description:
Why isn’t El Corte Ingles a true multinational? Do governments interfere or assist business
activity? Are brands like L’Oreal really ‘worth it’? What is the difference between interest,
exchange and inflation rates? Why are firms like Dyson relocating their manufacturing
abroad? Do ethical decisions matter? How have Marks & Spencer dealt with declining
sales?
Studying Business is an opportunity to understanding how the organisations that
surround you impact on your daily life. The rhetorical questions above are just a starting
point – there’ll be many more; and some of them are complex enough to conclude that
there isn’t really a right or wrong answer! So, if there isn’t a right answer how do you
know exactly what businesses, consumers, governments, financiers, marketers can or
cannot do? Ultimately, as a student of Business, you will have to decide. You will learn
how to tackle such questions by understanding the basics of business. These include:
finance, marketing, operations, people at work and the economy. You will experience a
range of learning methods using case studies on specific companies (individual and group
work), role play, PowerPoint presentations and general theory work. A structured series
of activities will test your understanding and knowledge of the material covered.
English Literature IGCSE
C.I.E board Syllabus Number 0486
AIMS OF THE SYLLABUS:
The syllabus aims are to encourage and develop candidates’ ability to:
• enjoy the experience of reading literature;
• understand and respond to literary texts in different forms and from different periods
and cultures;
• communicate an informed personal response appropriately and effectively;
• appreciate different ways in which writers achieve their effects;
• experience literature’s contribution to aesthetic, imaginative and intellectual growth;
• explore the contribution of literature to an understanding of areas of human concern
HOW THE IGCSE IS ASSESSED:
PAPER 1- SET TEXTS OPEN BOOKS- 2 HRS 15 MINUTES (WORTH 75%)
This paper has three sections: Drama, Prose and Poetry. Candidates answer one question
from each section. All questions carry equal marks.
On each set text, candidates have a choice of three questions as follows:
• Poetry – one passage-based question and two essay questions.
• Drama – one passage-based question, one essay question, one ‘empathic’* question.
• Prose – one passage-based question, one essay question, one ‘empathic’ question.
*For “empathetic” style questions, students are invited to write as though they are one of
the characters in the text they are studying, in order to show they understand their
thoughts, feelings and point of view.
PAPER 2- COURSEWORK (25%)
Candidates submit a portfolio of two assignments.
• Each assignment should be between 600–1000 words and should be based on the study of
one complete text, equivalent in scope and demand to a set text on Paper 1.
• The assignments must be on different texts.
TEXTS TO BE STUDIED:
Students will study one drama text, one poetry collection, and one prose
text from the following selection:
Drama:
Arthur Miller Death of a Salesman,
William Shakespeare Julius Caesar
William Shakespeare The Tempest
Oscar Wilde The Importance of Being Earnest
Poetry:
Alfred, Lord Tennyson The following poems:
‘Mariana’
‘The Lady of Shalott’
‘Ulysses’
extract from ‘Maud’ final section of Part II: from ‘Dead, long dead’ to ‘Is enough
to drive one mad’
from ‘In Memoriam A.H.H’:
VII (‘Dark house, by which once more I stand’)
XXIV (‘And was the day of my delight’)
L (‘Be near me when my light is low’)
LXVII (‘When on my bed the moonlight falls’)
CVI (‘Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky’)
CXV (‘Now fades the long last streak of snow’)
‘Crossing the Bar’
from Songs of Ourselves from Part 4 (Poems from the Nineteenth and Twentieth
Centuries): Poems
110 to 123 inclusive, i.e. the following fourteen poems:
Sujata Bhatt, ‘A Different History’
Gerard Manley Hopkins, ‘Pied Beauty’
Allen Curnow, ‘Continuum’
Edwin Muir, ‘Horses’
Judith Wright, ‘Hunting Snake’
Ted Hughes, ‘Pike’
Christina Rossetti, ‘A Birthday’
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, ‘The Woodspurge’
Kevin Halligan, ‘The Cockroach’
Margaret Atwood, ‘The City Planners’
Boey Kim Cheng, ‘The Planners’
Norman MacCaig, ‘Summer Farm’
Elizabeth Brewster, ‘Where I Come From’
William Wordsworth, ‘Sonnet Composed Upon Westminster Bridge’
Prose:
Emily Brontë Wuthering Heights
Tsitsi Dangarembga Nervous Conditions
Anita Desai Fasting, Feasting
Kiran Desai Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard
F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby
from Stories of Ourselves The following ten stories:
no. 6 Thomas Hardy, ‘The Son’s Veto’
no. 12 Katherine Mansfield, ‘Her First Ball’
no. 14 V.S. Pritchett, ‘The Fly in the Ointment’
no. 15 P.G. Wodehouse, ‘The Custody of the Pumpkin’
no. 20 Graham Greene, ‘The Destructors’
no. 27 R.K. Narayan, ‘A Horse and Two Goats’
no. 29 Ted Hughes, ‘The Rain Horse’
no. 38 Morris Lurie, ‘My Greatest Ambition’
no. 42 Ahdaf Soueif, ‘Sandpiper’
no. 46 Penelope Fitzgerald, ‘At Hiruhamara’
IGCSE FRENCH
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 0520
Over the two year course pupils study a variety of written and spoken French extracts on
everyday topics such as family , school life and future plans, travel and transport, free
time and hobbies, food and drink, health and fitness, the world of work and the
environment. Emphasis is placed on communication in the foreign language and pupils are
encouraged to express themselves orally as well as in written French.
Pupils are are assessed by final examination in the third term of S4 .
Paper 1 Listening 45 minutes.
Paper 2 Reading and directed writing (1½ hours)
Paper 3 Speaking (15 minutes)
Paper 4 Continuous writing (1¼ hours)
Pupils are not expected to produce coursework.
IGCSE GEOGRAPHY
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 0460
Aims
To encourage students to develop an awareness of environment and man’s interaction
with it. To understand different cultures, opportunities and constraints presented by
different environments.
Assessment
The course is assessed by three written examination papers, taken in the May of the
second year of study. One of which is 1 3/4 hours, the other two of 1 ½ hours. There is no
coursework component.
Structure
The course includes both written and practical elements, and aims to develop skills
associated the analysis of maps, photographs, statistics, sketches and other geographical
information. Case studies illustrating real world examples are employed whenever
possible. The curriculum is divided into three themes which have been designed to
develop an understanding of both the natural and human environments. The course will
include opportunities for practical fieldwork outside of the classroom, which may be in the
form of day-long excursions or a residential study experience.
IGCSE GERMAN
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 5250
Over the two year course pupils study a variety of written and spoken German extracts on
everyday topics such as family , school life and future plans, travel and transport, free
time and hobbies, food and drink, health and fitness, the world of work and the
environment. Emphasis is placed on communication in the foreign language and pupils are
encouraged to express themselves orally as well as in written German.
Pupils are are assessed by final examination in the third term of S4 .
Paper 1 Listening 45 minutes.
Paper 2 Reading and directed writing (1½ hours)
Paper 3 Speaking (15 minutes)
Paper 4 Continuous writing (1¼ hours)
Pupils are not expected to produce coursework.
IGCSE HISTORY
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code 0470
AIMS
To develop the enquiring mind, promote an interest in the past and relevance to
current affairs. Enhance the student´s ability to communicate ideas effectively.
Provide a sound basis for further study of human activity in the past.
ASSESSMENT
The course is assessed by three written examination papers, taken in the May and
June of the second year of study. Papers one and two are 2 hours long, paper four
is 1 hour long. There is no coursework component.
STUCTURE
The course is generally written. Throughout years one and two students will
develop the skills necessary to evaluate and interpret primary sources, secondary
sources and other historical information.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A good level of written English.
GCSE ICT
EDEXCEL Board
Syllabus code 21T01,21T02
Aims
Students will explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals,
organizations and society.
They will learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by
their use in a range of contexts (learning and earning, leisure, shopping and money
management, health and wellbeing).
They will develop an awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features
of safe, secure and responsible practice.
Assessment
All students will be expected to submit a piece of supervised coursework in addition to
the ICT examination at the end of S4.
Structure
They will work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT
solutions in a range of contexts.
IGCSE MUSIC
Board: EDEXCEL
Syllabus Code: 2MU01
Aims
Students should understand:
1. How to prepare and perform/record a solo and group performance
2. How to compose music in two contrasting genres using conventional and ICT
methods
3. The conditions which have led to the developments of twelve of the main musical
genres throughout the history of music from 1600 to the present day
Assessment
Students will:
1. Record a solo and an ensemble performance (30%)
2. Complete two contrasting compositions (30%)
3. Complete a one hour and 30 minute written examination in June of S4. This
examination will be based on twelve pieces of music (the “Set Works”) which the
students will study throughout S3 and the first term of S4 (40%)
Structure
During S3, students will:
1. Complete their solo and ensemble performances. The solo will be performed
during the Upper School Music Concert in the second term. The ensemble will be
performed during the Lower School Music Concert in the third term
2. Three contrasting compositions based on the Classical genre, Popular Music genre
and Minimalist genre
3. Learn and be internally assessed on nine of the Set Works
During S4, students will:
1. Consider whether to record their performances again or choose new (more
difficult) music to perform
2. Choose which of the three compositions they wish to submit as coursework and
focus on two
3. Complete the learning on the last three Set Works and begin revising for the Mock
Examination during the first term and for the end of course external examination
IGCSE Physical Education
C.I.E Board
Syllabus Code 0413
.
Aims to encourage pupils to improve;
• Their ability to plan ,perform , analyse ,improve, and evaluate physical activities
• Their knowledge,skills and understanding of a range of relevant physical activites
Assessment:
1. Written exam : short answer and structured questions 1h 45min 40%
2. Coursework 60%
Structure:
Physical Education 0413
Unit 1 Factors affecting performance
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Unit 2
skill
motivation and mental preparation
skeleton and joints
muscles and tendons
circulatory and respiratory systems
fitness
physique
drugs
Health ,safety and training
• health
• diet
• games: safe practice
• injuries
• exercise and training
Unit 3 Reasons and opportunities for participation in physical activity
•
•
•
•
•
leisure and recreation
facilities, participation , excellence
global events
media
access to sport
SCIENCES
IGCSE Physics
C.I.E Board
Syllabus code: 0600
Aims:
 Aimed at pupils who have been passing science assessments with an average of 8
and above providing pupils with a solid foundation for further study of physics at
'A' level.
 To develop pupils scientific abilities and skills relevant to the study of Physics (The
study of energy and forces in the world around us) .
 Providing pupils with an awareness of both study and the practice of the Physical
world.
 Make pupils aware of the beneficial as well as the detrimental effects of Physical
application on the individual and the environment.
Assessment:
Paper 1
Paper 2 Core or
Paper 3 extended
Paper 6
Multiple choice
Structured Written
questions
Alternative to
practical
45min
1h 15min
30%
50%
1h
20%
Structure:
The course involves both written and practical elements based on the following topics:
Physics 0625
General physics
Thermal Physics
Properties of wave
Electricity and magnetism
Atomic Physics
IGCSE Chemistry
C.I.E Board
Syllabus code: 0620
Aims :
 For students who have passed science assessments with an average of 8 and
above providing them with a solid foundation for further study of chemistry at 'A'
level.
 To Develop pupils scientific abilities and skills relevant to the study of Chemistry
(The study of materials in the world around us) .
 Providing pupils with an awareness of both study and the practice of the
Chemical world.
 Make pupils aware of the beneficial as well as the detrimental effects of chemical
application on the individual and the environment.
Assessment:
Paper 1
Paper 2 Core or
Paper 3 extended
Paper 6
Multiple choice
Structured Written
questions
Alternative to
practical
45min
1h 15min
30%
50%
1h
20%
Structure:
The course involves both written and practical elements based on the following topics:
Chemistry 0620
The particulate nature of matter
The periodic table
Experimental techniques
Metals
Atoms ,elements and compounds
Air and water
Stoichiometry
sulphur
Electricity and Chemistry
carbonates
Chemical energetics
Organic Chemistry
Chemical reactions
IGCSE Biology
C.I.E Board
Syllabus code: 0610
Aims to:
• Aimed for students who have passed science assessments with an average of 8 and
above providing them with a solid foundation for further study of biology at 'A'
level.
• Develop pupils scientific abilities and skills relevant to the study of Biology.
• Provide pupils with an awareness of both study and the practice of the biological
world.
• Make pupils aware of the beneficial as well as the detrimental effects of biological
application on the individual and the environment
Assessment:
Final IGCSE exam taken in May/June of the second year of study. Three papers written
papers:
Paper 1
Paper 2 Core or
Paper 3 extended
Paper 6
Multiple choice
Structured Written
questions
Alternative to
practical
45min
1h 15min
30%
50%
1h
20%
Structure:
The course involves both written and practical elements based on the following topics
Biology 0610
Characteristics and classification of living organisms (5% of teaching time)
Organisation and the maintenance of the organism (50% of teaching time)
Development of the organism and the continuity of life(25% of teaching time)
Relationships of organisms with one another and their environment (20% of teaching time)
IGCSE Combined Science
C.I.E Board
Syllabus Code :0653
Aims to:
• Develop pupils scientific abilities and skills relevant to the study of Science.
• Provide pupils with an awareness of both study and the practice of the science in
the world around us.
• Make pupils aware of the beneficial as well as the detrimental effects of scientific
application on the individual and the environment
Assessment:
Final IGCSE exam taken in May/June of the second year of study. Three papers written
papers:
Paper 1
Paper 2 Core or
Paper 3 extended
Paper 6
Multiple choice
Structured Written
questions
Alternative to
practical
45min
1h 15min
30%
50%
1h
20%
Structure
Combined Science 0653
Biology
• characteristics of living organisms
• cells
• enzymes
• nutrition
• transportation
Chemistry
• The particulate nature of matter
• experimental techniques
• atoms , elements and compounds
• stoichiometry
• electricity and chemistry
• energy changes in chemical reactions
Physics
•
•
•
•
•
motion
matter and forces
energy ,work and power
simple kinetic molecular model of
matter
matter and thermal properties
•
•
•
•
•
respiration
coordination and response
reproduction
energy flow in ecosystems
human influences on the ecosystem
•
•
•
•
•
•
chemical reactions
acids bases and salts
the periodic table
metals
air and water
organic chemistry
•
•
•
•
•
•
Transfer of thermal emery
waves
light
sound
electricity
electric circuits
IGCSE TRAVEL AND TOURISM
C.I.E. Board
Syllabus code: 0471
Aims
To provide candidates with an understanding of the travel and tourism industry, in both
theoretical knowledge and practical skills. To understand the physical, social and
economic impacts for both host and donor countries, together with global perspectives of
tourism activities.
Assessment
The course is currently assessed by written examinations, one of 2 hours and one of 2 ½
hours, however it is hoped to introduce Centre-based assessment (coursework) for the
2013 session of examinations.
Structure
The course is organized into six study units:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The travel and tourism industry
Features of worldwide destinations
Customer care and working procedures
Travel and tourism products and services
Marketing and promotion
The marketing and promotion of visitor services
The course will include opportunities for practical fieldwork outside of the classroom,
which may be in the form of day-long excursions or a residential study period.
IGCSE Further Pure Mathematics
Year 1
Cambridge Board
IGCSE Mathematics (extended) : subject code 0580
Aims:
To challenge students who enjoy mathematics and find it relatively easy! The course is for
those students who are currently obtaining grades of more than 8·5 in S2.
The students will cover the 2 year IGCSE extended course this year.
They will acquire a good understanding of number, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics.
Those students who achieve a good grade in the IGCSE may then progress to the Further Pure
Mathematics course in year 2.
Year 2
EDEXCEL Board.
IGCSE Further Pure Mathematics : subject code 4PMO
Aims
The students will progress to some of the more demanding topics covered in A-level
mathematics, which will improve their chances of obtaining a higher grade in the AS
examination in S5 and the A-level in S6.