CORE CURRICULUM

The details in this booklet are accurate as at 16 February 2023.

We do our very best to accommodate the options choices of our pupils to ensure they are studying the subjects that are appropriate for them. Pupils and parents are encouraged to discuss individual questions and concerns with the Form Tutor in the first instance, and following this with Mr Hartley, Deputy Head (Academic).

ENGLISH & ENGLISH LITERATURE

At the end of the two-year course, pupils will obtain two distinct GCSE qualifications.

English Igcse

The English IGCSE course aims to equip students with the necessary skills to ensure effective communication in the future through the development of sophisticated reading and writing skills. There is also a compulsory Spoken Language component that is reported separately at the end of the course. Students will read widely both challenging fiction and non-fiction texts and will be required to write in a range of forms and styles in preparation for the exam and for the coursework element of the course.

Written Paper –

Non-fiction texts and transactional writing 2 hours 15 minutes (60%)

Coursework – Poetry and Prose texts and imaginative writing (40%)

The Spoken Language presentation is a compulsory part of the course but does not contribute to the overall grade. It is reported on the final certificate as either a Pass, Merit or Distinction.

ENGLISH LITERATURE IGCSE

English Literature Igcse

The English Literature IGCSE course covers the key genres of Prose, Poetry and Drama from a wide range of periods, providing a solid grounding for further study at A-Level and hopefully instilling in them a long-lasting interest in great writing.

The course is assessed with one examination paper (60%) and two pieces of written coursework (40%). The coursework covers the Shakespeare and a modern drama text while the exam looks at the prose text and both unseen and prepared poetry.

The course allows us to choose interesting texts that will engage the students and broaden their understanding of the importance of literature.