MESSAGE FROM ASSISTANT HEADTEACHER – KS4
Dear Year 9 students,
Welcome to the (I)GCSE Options Booklet. You are now embarking on one of the most important, and exciting, decisions of your educational career. KS4 (Years 10 and 11) are a very important part of your education. Making sure you pick the right subjects for you is crucial and could make the difference between a great set of results at the end of Year 11 or putting those results at risk. It is so important that you make your choices for the right reasons. These are not decisions that should be made in haste and, for this reason, the options process takes time to complete. This is the beginning of that process. You may well have been discussing this important step for some time with your parents. There are many other people you can ask to help you; your older siblings, your teachers, your tutor, our Careers Counsellor for example. What is more, there is no substitute for doing your own research. Once your choices have been made and agreed, it will be very difficult to change them. This booklet is designed to help you further when choosing your courses. It gives you all the key information about each option subject with links to the examination websites. Please do read it very carefully. If you have any questions about particular courses, your subject teachers will be very happy to answer them. For more general questions, do come and see me or your Head of Year. By making the right decisions now, it will ensure that you enjoy your time in KS4 and achieve the best results you can.
Good luck!
Mrs Jennifer Stokes Assistant Head – KS4New GCSE Grading
NEW GCSE GRADING
UNDERSTANDING THE NUMBERED GRADE SYSTEM
Key Stage 4 begins for all Doha College students at the start of Year 10.
Most (I)GCSE courses last for 2 years. The vast majority of (I)GCSE courses are now “linear”, meaning they are assessed at the end of Year 11.
Coursework and controlled assessments have gone in most subjects and, where it remains, its weighting in the overall subject grade has been heavily reduced.
Students’ performance is now measured against the grading system below. Exam boards now award numbered grades 9 to 1 rather than A*-G grades. There is no perfect conversion between the old and new grading systems except to say a new Grade 5 is equivalent to a high old-style ‘C’/low old-style B and a new Grade 9 is even higher than the old-style A*. Please see table below.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN GCSE AND IGCSE?
GCSE and IGCSE are certainly very similar. Both qualifications are at the same level: they are designed to test the completion of the UK National Curriculum’s “Key Stage 4”. They are usually sat at the end of UK Year 11, in the year a student becomes 16. They have no age restriction, though - and have been sat by many students younger and older. By most higher education institutions and employers, they are seen as equivalent qualifications.
The ‘I’ in IGCSE stands for International; IGCSEs were conceived to be more relevant to students learning in an international or non-UK context. Their key differences are as follows:
• IGCSEs tend to have less coursework than GCSEs.
• IGCSEs generally also have fewer administrative hoops to jump through, and so are often favoured by students wishing to prepare for them online.
• IGCSE marks are not recorded in UK GCSE League Tables.
• IGCSEs and GCSEs also offer different subjects. For example, IGCSEs are not available in Latin or Ancient Greek.
Standards and expectations at Doha College are very high from the outset of KS4. We expect the best from our students. To give you the best chance of turning these high expectations into great results, the first step at KS4 is making sure you choose the best courses for you. I hope this booklet goes a long way to help you with this.
Arabic IGCSE
Exam Board
Cambridge
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Cambridge IGCSE First Language Arabic offers candidates the opportunity to respond knowledgeably to a rich array of reading passages. Candidates will use some of these passages to inform and inspire their own writing, and write in a range of text types for different audiences. The passages cover a range of genres and types, including fiction and non-fiction, and may also include other forms of writing, such as essays, reviews and articles.
Candidates are encouraged to become appreciative and critical readers and writers in Arabic.
Not suitable for non-native speakers of Arabic.
SKILLS SUMMARY
AO1 Reading
Candidates are assessed on their ability to:
R1 understand and collate explicit meanings
R2 understand, explain and collate implicit meanings and attitudes
R3 select, analyse and evaluate what is relevant to specific purposes
R4 understand how writers achieve effects.
AO2 Writing
Candidates are assessed on their ability to:
W1 articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined
W2 order and present facts, ideas and opinions
W3 understand and use a range of appropriate vocabulary
W4 use language and register appropriate to audience and context
W5 make accurate and effective use of paragraphs, grammatical structures, sentences, punctuation and spelling.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
All candidates take:
Paper 1: 2 hours
Reading 50%, 50 marks
Structured and extended writing questions
Questions will be based on Arabic passages
Externally assessed
Paper 2: 2 hours
Writing 50%, 50 marks
Two composition tasks
Externally assessed.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cambridge-IGCSE%C2%AELanguage-Coursebook-International/dp/1316634515/
Exam Board
Edexcel
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Arabic allows students to develop their ability to communicate with Arabic native speakers in both speech and writing. Students will study across a variety of contexts relevant to their age and interests and will also develop a greater awareness of the culture of Arabicspeaking communities and countries. The five themes are:
1. Identity and culture
2. Local area, holiday, travel
3. School
4. Future aspirations, study and work
5. International and global dimension. Students will need to develop and use their knowledge and understanding of Arabic grammar progressively through their course of study.
The syllabus comes in Higher and Foundation tiers and there is a cross-over of topics and focus.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Students will be able to:
• develop their ability to communicate confidently and coherently with native speakers in speech and writing, conveying what they want to say with increasing accuracy.
• express and develop thoughts and ideas spontaneously and fluently.
• listen to and understand clearly articulated, standard speech at near normal speed.
• deepen their knowledge about how language works and enrich their vocabulary in order for them to increase their independent use and understanding of extended language in a wide range of contexts.
• acquire new knowledge, skills and ways of thinking through the ability to understand and respond to a rich range of authentic spoken and written material, adapted and abridged,
as appropriate, including literary texts.
• develop awareness and understanding of the culture and identity of the countries and communities where the language is spoken.
• be encouraged to make appropriate links to other areas of the curriculum to enable bilingual and deeper learning, where the language may become a medium for constructing and applying knowledge.
• develop language-learning skills both for immediate use and to prepare them for further language study and use in school, higher education or employment.
• develop language strategies, including repair strategies.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
There are two tiers: Foundation and Higher. There are 4 papers externally moderated and marked.
Students must:
• AO1 Listening – understand and respond to different types of spoken language 25%
• AO2 Speaking – communicate and interact effectively in speech 25%
• AO3 Reading – understand and respond to different types of written language 25%
• AO4 Writing – communicate in writing 25%
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
The New GCSE Arabic Companion. https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/ qualifications/edexcel-gcses/arabic-2017.html
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
General topic areas are:
1. The nature and variety of living organisms.
2. Structures and functions in living organisms (includes common animal and plant physiology topics).
3. Reproduction and inheritance.
4. Ecology and the environment.
5. Use of biological resources.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Edexcel have introduced many transferrable skills into the curriculum, to encourage high performance learning eg. self evaluation, initiative, self direction, critical thinking, problem solving and reasoning. Both papers have a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Paper 1: 61.1% of total IGCSE, 110 marks, assessment based on core content (not in bold), 2 hours.
Paper 2: 38.9% of total IGCSE, 70 marks, assessment based on core and extended content in bold, 1 hour 15 mins.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE (9-1) Biology, Student Book
ISBN 9780435185084
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/ international-gcse-biology-2017.html
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will examine the following 5 topics:
1. Business Activity and Influences on Business.
2. People in Business.
3. Business Finance.
4. Marketing.
5. Business Operations.
Business is dynamic and as such these areas are interrelated and will be assessed as such.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Throughout the course students will develop their communication, numeracy, analytical and problem-solving skills. Critical-thinking is developed as students distinguish between facts and opinion, calculating, interpreting and evaluating business data. In addition to this, they will be developing interpersonal and creative skills through group work and presentations.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Paper 1: Investigating small businesses 50% of the total International GCSE
This paper will draw on topics taken from the whole of the subject content. The question scenarios are based on a small business – up to 49 employees.
Examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes, consisting of four compulsory questions, each worth 20 marks – total of 80 marks in Paper 1. The sub-questions are a mixture of multiple-choice, shortanswer, data-response and open-ended questions.
Paper 2: Investigating large businesses 50% of the total International GCSE
This paper will draw on topics taken from the whole of the subject content. The question scenarios are based on a large business – more than 250 employees.
Examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes, consisting of four compulsory questions, each worth 20 marks – total of 80 marks in Paper 2. The sub-questions are a mixture of multiple-choice, shortanswer, data-response and open-ended questions.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO
EXAM
BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE (9-1) Business Student Book
Publisher: Pearson, Author: Rob Jones, ISBN: 9780435188634
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcelinternational-gcses/business-2017.html
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The syllabus is split into four main topics: principles of chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry and organic chemistry. The course covers a variety of fundamental chemistry concepts, resulting in an interesting and varied learning experience for the pupils and the required building blocks for pupils wishing to pursue chemistry further.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The course is designed to develop students’ practical skills by including a number of practical’s in the lessons. Pupils will improve their analytical and logic skills by applying understanding of scientific concepts and principles to a range of situations. The course will also address the need for mathematical skills to complement students’ chemistry skills by covering a range of mathematical areas.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Two exams. Paper one is 120 minutes and paper two is 75 minutes. Both papers are a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel Internation GCSe (9-1) Chemistry Student Book. J. Clark, S. Owen and R. Yu.
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/ international-gcse-chemistry-2017.html
Exam Board
Cambridge International Examination
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The aims are to enable students to develop:
• computational thinking, that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes consideration of the data required.
• understanding of the main principles of solving problems by using computers.
• understanding that every computer system is made up of sub-systems, which in turn consist of further sub-systems.
• understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including software, data, hardware, communications and people.
• skills necessary to apply understanding to solve computer-based problems using a high-level programming language.
SKILLS SUMMARY
• Ability to program with a modular approach in a high level language such as python.
• Ability to design an algorithm in pseudo code and flow charts.
• Ability to use solve logical problems Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, flexibility, confidence, problem solving and selfmanagement.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Two examinations. Paper 1 - Theory paper 60% and Paper 2 - Problem solving and programming 40%.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmesand-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-9-1-computerscience-0984/
Cambridge University Press IGCSE Computer Science Coursebook
Design and Technology IGCSE
Exam Board
Cambridge International Education
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) Design & Technology enables learners to identify, consider and solve problems through creative thinking, planning and design, and by learning about and working with different media, materials and tools to produce a made product.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The key skills identified in the syllabus enable students to:
• develop creative thinking in areas relevant to design and technology.
• apply problem-solving skills to practical and technological problems.
• develop the communication skills central to design, realisation and evaluation.
• gain knowledge and understanding of design and technology.
• develop skills in research and investigation.
• design and make products, taking into consideration sustainability and the wider impact on society.
• develop the ability to make aesthetic, economic, ethical and technical value judgements.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
50% coursework, 25% product design examination paper, 25% specialist area examination paper.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Cambridge IGCSE Design and Technology Student’s Book (Collins).
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-andqualifications/cambridge-igcse-design-and-technology-9-1-0979/
Exam Board
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The syllabus is made up of the following areas of study:
y Solo scripted performance
y Group scripted performance
y Group devised performance
y Exploration and analysis of extracts from two published texts (released by the exam board in January of Year 11)
SKILLS SUMMARY
The drama programme has a very practical emphasis, with the majority of assessment coming from performance work. Students will explore a range of stimuli and extracts from plays in exploring a range of theatre skills. They will learn to collaborate, use their bodies and voices to communicate meaning confidently, analyse and interpret text and respond creatively as individuals and as part of a group. By the end of the course students will have an understanding of the elements of drama and how different theatre-makers (designer, director, actor) contribute to
making theatre. A diverse range of transferable skills are developed over the course in areas of communication, time management, empathy, creativity and selfconfidence.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
There are two parts to the assessment of drama: Practical skills in performance:
1. An individual monologue.
2. A group scripted performance and a devised performance. Together worth 120 marks (60% of the final grade).
Final exam - 2.5 hours worth 80 marks (40% of the final grade.)
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/554581-2022-2024-syllabus.pdf
Exam Board
Cambridge International Examinations
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Year 10:
1. The basic economic problem.
2. The allocation of resources.
3. Microeconomic decision makers.
Year 11
4. Government and the macroeconomy.
5. Economic development.
6. International trade and globalisation.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The subject develops cognitive skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, analysis and reasoning. Students will also undertake group work thus developing interpersonal skills such as collaboration, communication and leadership. Numeracy and English skills are developed throughout the course.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Paper 1: 45 minutes
• Multiple Choice 30%
• 30 marks
• Candidates answer all 30 questions
Externally assessed
Paper 2: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Structured Questions 70%
• 90 marks
• Candidates answer one compulsory question and three questions from a choice of four
• Externally assessed
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Cambridge IGCSE and O Level Economics 2nd edition, P. Hoang, M. Ducie, S. Stoddard and D. Horner ISBN: 9781510421271.
Link to exam board: https://www. cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-andqualifications/cambridge-igcse-economics-0455/
Exam Board
Pearson EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will study a range of non-fiction texts from Part 1 of the International GCSE Anthology in preparation for the reading component of the Paper 1 examination, together with a range of poetry and prose texts from Part 2 of the same anthology for one of the coursework tasks. Students will also produce a piece of imaginative writing coursework, together with developing their transactional writing skills - for a variety of purposes and audiences - in preparation for the writing component of the Paper 1 examination.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Reading
AO1: Read and understand a variety of texts, selecting and interpreting information, ideas and perspectives.
AO2: Understand and analyse how writers use linguistic and structural devices to achieve their effects.
AO3: Explore links and connections between writers’ ideas and perspectives, as well as how these are conveyed.
Writing
AO4: Communicate effectively and imaginatively, adapting form, tone and register of writing for specific
purposes and audiences.
AO5: Write clearly, using a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, with appropriate paragraphing and accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Paper 1 - Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing60% written examination.
Paper 3 - Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing - 40% coursework portfolio.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE (9-1) English Language A Student Book
International GCSE Anthology (these will be provided for students)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/ international-gcse-english-language-a-2016.html
Note: The set texts for the 2022 examinations will be ‘Of Mice and Men’ - John Steinbeck, ‘Macbeth’ - William Shakespeare and ‘An Inspector Calls’ - J.B. Priestley. (Copies of all set texts will be provided for students.)
Exam Board
Pearson EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will study a range of poems from Part 3 of the International GCSE Anthology in preparation for the ‘seen’ poetry component of the Paper 1 examination, together with wider poetry to develop the skills required for the ‘unseen’ poetry element. They will also read and study a modern prose text for this examination. For Paper 2, students will study a modern drama text, together with a literary heritage one.
SKILLS SUMMARY
AO1: Demonstrate a close knowledge and understanding of texts, maintaining a critical style and presenting an informed personal engagement.
AO2: Analyse the language, form and structure used by a writer to create meanings and effects.
AO3: Explore links and connections between texts.
AO4: Show understanding of the relationships between texts and the contexts in which they were written.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Paper 1 - Poetry and Modern Prose - 60% written examination.
Paper 2 - Modern Drama and Literary Heritage Texts40% written examination.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE (9-1) English Literature Student Book
International GCSE Anthology (these will be provided for students, together with copies of the set texts)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/ international-gcse-english-literature-2016.resources.html ?filterQuery=category:Pearson-UK:Publisher%2FPearson
Note: The set texts for the 2022 examinations will be ‘Of Mice and Men’ - John Steinbeck, ‘Macbeth’ - William Shakespeare and ‘An Inspector Calls’ - J.B. Priestley. (Copies of all set texts will be provided for students.)
Fine Art GCSE
Exam Board
Pearson
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
60% Coursework Project 40% Examination Project.
SKILLS SUMMARY
• Drawing, Painting, Mixed Media, Sculpture, 3D, Printing and Textiles
• Investigate
Experiment
Record
Refine
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
On going by the subject teacher, sketch book work and outcomes.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-gcses/art-and-design-2016.html
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The syllabus is made up of the following topic areas:
y Home and abroad.
y Education and employment.
y Personal life and relationships.
y The world around us.
y Social activities, fitness and health.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Students are assessed in the four main skills of Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking, each of which is worth 25% of their final grade. By the end of the course, students should be able to understand intermediate level language and be able to express themselves in French on a range of topics and be able to display creativity and spontaneity.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Students take three assesments at the end of the course:
• A 10-12 minute oral exam (worth 25% of the total grade).
• A 1 hour and 45 minute Reading and Writing exam (worth 50% of the final grade).
• A 35 minute listening exam (worth 25% of the final grade).
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE French Student Book
https://www.hoddereducation.co.uk/subjects/ languages/products/14-16/edexcel-international-gcsefrench-student-book-sec
Further Pure Mathematics
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Provides an opportunity to stretch strong students and enable them to gain an additional Mathematics qualification. It extends and deepens knowledge covered in the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) Mathematics. This course cover elements of the content that can be found in Pure units of the GCE, A level and IAL Mathematics. Topics include: number, algebra and calculus, geometry and trigonometry. However, it is important to note that this qualification is not compulsory for progression
SKILLS SUMMARY
This course is heavily based around improving problem solving skills, logical thought and connection finding in mathematics. It provides students with a holistic view of mathematics and how to combine the different areas to find solutions whilst being precise and accurate.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
2 papers of 2 hours each.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-certificates/ international-gcse-further-pure-mathematics-2017.html
Further Pure Mathematics (9-1) For Edexcel
Exam Board
OXFORD AQA
GEOGRAPHY IGCSE SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will travel the world from their classroom, developing an awareness of tectonic and weather hazards,
the issue of climate change and deforestation of tropical rainforest as well as an appreciation of physical landscapes in a physical environment context. The human environment will offer a similar global dimension exploring urban and economic growth, the contrasts in levels of development, as well as issues of population change, resource provision and management and the development of infrastructure. Integrated into the content will be a study of diverse locations.
Upon completion of this two year course, students will have the skills and experience to progress on to A-level and beyond.
1) Challenges of Natural Hazards
2) The Living World
3) Physical Landscapes
4) Challenges of the Human Environment
5) The Changing Economic World
6) Global Issues
7) Fieldwork
SKILLS SUMMARY
By studying geography you will develop your practical and independent learning skills. Students are also encouraged to understand their role in society by considering different viewpoints, values and attitudes. These transferable skills are highly valued by universities and employers.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
There are three examinations
Paper 1: Physical geography
This paper is worth 34 % and is 1 hour 30 minutes
Paper 2: Human geography and Global Issues
This paper is worth 34 % and is 1 hour 30 minutes
Paper 3: Skills and Fieldwork
This paper is worth 32 % and is 1 hour 15 minutes
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Text Book: Oxford AQA International GCSE Geography https://www.oxfordaqaexams.org.uk/subjects/ geography/international-gcse-geography-9230
Sylabus: https://cf.oxfordaqaexams.org.uk/ oaqaresources/specifications/oxfordaqa-internationalgcse-geography-specification.pdf
Exam Board
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Core Study of the Twentieth Century
• The consequences of the Peace Treaties of 1919-23.
• The extent of the success of the League of Nations.
• The causes of the Second World War.
A Depth Study of Russia 1905-41
• Why did the Tsarist regime collapse in 1917?
• How did the Bolsheviks gain power and how did they consolidate their rule?
• How did Stalin gain and hold onto power?
• What was the impact of Stalin’s policies on the USSR?
Coursework: The USA 1919-41
• The boom and bust of the American economy in the 1920s.
• The changing nature of US society in the 1920s.
• The causes and consequences of the Wall Street Crash.
• The success of Roosevelt’s New Deal 1932-41.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The student develops the ability to analyse conflicting data; becoming skilled in the evaluation of differing interpretations; they are trained in presenting complex issues in a lucid and convincing fashion; their verbal and critical skills become highly developed.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Two examination papers and one piece of coursework.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
20th Century History, Cambridge Russia and the USSR 1905-1941
The USA between the Wars 1919-1941
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmesand-qualifications/cambridge-secondary-2/cambridgeigcse/subjects/
International Btec L2: Creative Media Production
Exam Board
PEARSON
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
BTEC L2 Extended Certificate in Creative Media is the equivalent to 1 GCSE. The course is assignment-based only and divided into 4 Units: 1. Research for Creative Media Production 2. Communication Techniques for Creative Media Production 3. Video Production 4. Advertising Production.
SKILLS SUMMARY
BTEC L2 Extended Certificate has been developed to provide:
• education and training for those who work or who are intending to work in the creative media sector.
• understanding of how media products are created for specific audiences and purposes.
• opportunities for learners to develop practical skills and techniques specialising in the moving image sector.
• opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
All units in the BTEC International Level 2 qualifications are assessed through internal assessment, which means that the school sets the deadline for when the assignments need to be submitted. Assignments vary from written reports to media productions and evaluations of products that have been made. All students will create their own blog where they will upload their work for assessment.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ btec-international-level-2/creative-media-production. html
Islamic Studies IGCSE (9-1) (in English) 4IS1/01
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
ISLAMIC STUDIES
IGCSE (9-1) (IN ENGLISH) 4IS1/01
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The course is divided into three key sections:
Section A:
• The life, teachings and achievements of the Prophet Muhammad. Students will be expected to know the historical facts and understand the significance of the Prophet’s achievements in the development of Islam.
Section B:
• The key beliefs, practices and features of the early Muslim community founded by the Prophet. Students will be expected to know the historical facts and understand the significance of the beliefs and practices of the early Muslim community in the development of Islam.
Section C:
• Living the Muslim life today. Students will be expected to know how Muslims express their religion in their day-to-day lives and understand the obligations placed upon Muslims by their faith.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The design of the new International GCSE aims to extend students’ knowledge and understanding by broadening and deepening their skills, for example students will:
• develop knowledge and understanding of the religion, history and culture of Islam and engage with questions in relation to contemporary and historical issues within Islam.
• construct well-argued, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating depth and breadth of understanding of Islamic studies.
• challenge students to reflect on and develop their own understanding of what they have learned, and contribute to their preparation for adult life in a global community.
Progression – IGCSEs enable successful progression to A Level and beyond in subjects such as Islamic Studies, religious studies and other humanities subjects.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Islamic Studies is a linear qualification. It consists of one examination taken at the end of the course of study.
• The examination lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and is worth 100% of the qualification.
• The paper consists of three sections, students will answer one question on Section A, one question on Section B and both questions on Section C, for a total of 90 marks.
• Each question begins with short-answer questions, then an explanation question worth 6 marks and finally a longerresponse question worth 12 marks, related to a given passage from the Qur’an or Hadith (see Appendix 5: Passages from the Qur’an and Hadith). Students will be expected to use their own or others’ views to support their answer to the 12-mark question.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Teacher-sourced materials
Resources will be approved by the MoE&HE
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
In this course you will build on your previous knowledge of mathematics. Continuing to enhance your skills in algebra, geometry, data handling, number and ratio and proportion.
SKILLS SUMMARY
You will need to be precise and accurate, to use your logical thinking along with the ability to find connections within mathematics. You will need to see how abstract mathematics can represent real life situations.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Two 2 hour papers at the end of year 11 EDEXCEL International GCSE (9-1) Mathematics A Student.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Book 1 and 2. https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/ pdf/International%20GCSE/Mathematics%20A/2016/ Specification%20and%20sample%20assessments/ International-GCSE-in-Mathematics-Spec-A.pdf
Music IGCSE
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
40% Appraisal Exam, based on set and unseen works. 60% coursework (performing and composing in equal measure).
SKILLS SUMMARY
Need to be willing to perform on an instrument and have a passion for music - some theory knowledge would be beneficial but is not essential.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Exam at the end of year 11 for appraisal and coursework.
ALL TEXTBOOKS ARE PROVIDED BY US. HERE IS A LINK FOR MORE INFORMATION:
We provide everything. Here is the exam board: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-gcses/music-2016.html
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will receive a well-rounded and full introduction to the world of PE, sport and sport science by developing an understanding of how the mind and body works in relation to performance in physical activity. Students will also have an opportunity to perform a wide range of sporting activities over the 2 year course.
SKILLS SUMMARY
This course encourages learners to become more competent, confident and expert in their techniques, and apply them across different sports and physical activities. It will help students develop important transferable skills for progression to the next level, including numeracy, communication and an understanding of practical performances.
The blend of scientific and social knowledge will be also be developed during the course.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
2 Written Exams (60%), 1 Personal Exercise Program (10%), 3 Practical Sports (30%)
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Physical Education by Tony Scott. https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-gcses/physical-education-2016.html
Exam Board
Pearson
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
60% Coursework Project and 40% Examination Project.
SKILLS SUMMARY
• Drawing, Painting, Mixed Media, Sculpture, 3D, Printing and Textiles
• Investigate
Experiment Record
Refine
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
On going by the subject teacher, sketch book work and outcomes.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-gcses/art-and-design-2016.html
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The syllabus is split into 8 discrete topics areas, with some overlap between these topics. They are as follows: Forces and Motion; Electricity; Waves; Energy Resource and Transfers; Solids, Liquids and Gases; Magnetism and Electromagnetism; Radioactivity and Particles; Astrophysics.
The content is varied, and links to real world examples, including various industry uses, e.g. medical science and engineering fields. The course is designed to be the foundation stone to allow students who wish to follow an applied science, physics, engineering or related field to develop further areas of interest.
SKILLS SUMMARY
The physics course will test many skills, including but not limited to: conceptualisation, logic and pattern recognition, analytical and problem solving, practical and experiment planning, mathematical reasoning and arithmetic understanding. Physics does work hand-inhand with core mathematical skills, and although these skills will be practised regularly, the basics come from the skills students learn during mathematics lessons.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Two exams at the end of the 2 year course. Paper 1 is 120 minutes and Paper 2 is 75 minutes. Both papers are a mixture of various question styles, including multiple-choice, short-answer, calculations and extended open-response. Paper 2 also has some synoptic style questions, testing student knowledge with a different or new situation they may not have encountered.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE 9-1 Physics Student Book; Brian Arnold, Penny Johnson, Steve Woolley
https://www.pearsonschoolsandfecolleges.co.uk/ secondary/Science/IGCSE/edexcel-international-GCSE9-1-science/ISBN/StudentBooks/
Exam Board
EDEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The syllabus is made up of the following topic areas:
• Home and abroad.
• Education and employment.
• Personal life and relationships.
• The world around us.
• Social activities, fitness and health.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Students are assessed in the four main skills of Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking, each of which is worth 25% of their final grade. By the end of the course, students should be able to understand intermediate level language and be able to express themselves in Spanish on a range of topics and be able to display creativity and spontaneity.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
Students take three assesments at the end of the course:
• A 10-12 minute oral exam (worth 25% of the total grade).
• A 1 hour and 45 minute Reading and Writing exam (worth 50% of the final grade).
• A 35 minute listening exam (worth 25% of the final grade).
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Edexcel International GCSE Spanish Student Book
https://www.hoddereducation.co.uk/subjects/ languages/products/14-16/edexcel-international-gcsespanish-student-book-se
Exam Board
ESEXCEL
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Assess the appropriateness of statistical methodologies and the conclusions drawn through the application of the statistical enquiry cycle.
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding, using appropriate terminology and notation, of standard statistical techniques used to:
• collect and represent information.
• calculate summary statistics and probabilities.
• interpret statistical information and results in context and reason statistically to draw conclusions.
SKILLS SUMMARY
You will be expected to analyse data and to be able to connect mathematics to real life events and make logical predictions.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
2 papers both of which are 1 hour and 30 minutes (at the end of year 10).
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-gcses/statistics-2017.html
Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Statistics
Exam Board
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Unit 1 – Theory and Methods.
Unit 2 – Culture, Identity and Socialisation.
Unit 3 – Social Inequality.
Unit 4 – The Family.
Unit 5 – Education.
Unit 6 – Crime, Deviance and Social Control.
SKILLS SUMMARY
• Awareness, knowledge and understanding of human societies.
• Understanding of sociological methods, including the collection, analysis and interpretation of data.
• An understanding of sociological concepts, theories and research findings.
• Awareness of the range and limitations of sociological theory and research.
• Understanding of continuity and change in social life.
• A critical awareness of social, economic and political processes, and their effects.
• The capacity for critical evaluation of different forms of information and evidence.
• An appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity.
• The application of sociological knowledge to their own lives and their participation within society.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED
All students take paper 1 and paper 2 at the end of year 11. Students in year 10 and year 11 will be continually assessed and complete a mock examination each year.
• Paper 1 (2 hours, 80 marks) - Students answer one compulsory question from unit 1, and one other question from unit 2 or 3.
• Paper 2 (1 hour 45 minutes, 70 marks) –Students answer two questions from unit 4, 5 or 6.
TEXT BOOKS AND/OR OTHER RESOURCES (INCLUDING HYPERLINK TO EXAM BOARD)
Cambridge IGCSE Sociology coursebook
Johnathan Blundell
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcsesociology-0495/
OUR MISSION
With the growth-mindset philosophy of High Performance Learning, we develop confidence, creativity and intellectual curiosity in a safe, caring and inclusive environment for our students to make a lasting contribution to global society.
OUR CORE VALUES
• Excellence and diligence
• Respect and integrity
• Commitment and accountability
• Perseverance and honesty
• Fun and enjoyment.
• Challenge and reward