International School of Bucharest
Guide to AS/A level options for Year 12 and 13 2014-2015
AS and A Level Students at the International School of Bucharest have proved their academic ability and are beginning a journey that will take them to University and into their adult life. During their time with us they will be given the subject specialist knowledge needed to commence a degree course through following Cambridge International Examinations’ (CIE) rigorous and globally recognized A Level program. University entrance is a highly competitive area and applicants need to be able to stand out from the crowd. Therefore senior students at ISB are given the kind of study skills and leadership training that the best universities in the world are looking for. In the following pages you will find details about the academic courses available at ISB. What next? The decision you are making now is an important one and you should think very carefully about how your choices fit in with your future plans for Higher Education and Careers. At ISB we offer careers and university guidance for our students, but it is never too early to start your research.
Preamble
Entry requirements
All students entering year12 need to have achieved five or more Grade Cs or above at Here are some web sites you might like to use to IGCSE Level. help you decide on your future plans: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/ http://www.ucas.com/students/ Length nonukstudents/ http://www.ucas.com/students/beforeyouapply/whattostudy/ stamfordtest AS Level and A2 Level http://www.ukcoursefinder.com http://careersadvice.direct.gov.uk/helpwithyourcareer/skills/ courses are one year in
duration each (a duration
Study Cambridge or Edexcel International A Levels if you... of two years together). • Want to gain in-depth knowledge and lifelong skills that will prepare you for success in higher education and employment. • Require qualifications that are accepted as proof Assessment of academic ability for Universities worldwide. • Wish to study courses that have been created See relevant subject pages. specifically for an international audience. What will I study? You will choose up to four subjects for AS Level, most candidates will follow three of these through to A Level. Students whose mother tongue is not English can take the IELTS qualification, (see the relevant page later in this prospectus for details).
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Subjects are graded A through to E.
For more information contact the exam officer
AS and A Level If you change your mind after handling in your options form it may be possible to accommodate the change. Any request for change should be made as soon as possible to Deputy Principal accompanied by a letter from parents/ guardians. If there are any questions regarding option choices or this booklet please do not hesitate to contact the school office.
Qualifications
Compulsory Non-Examination Subject(s) A Level means Advanced In addition to the core subjects studied each student will follow a compulsory curriculum Level, AS stands for Physical Education programme. This course does Advanced Subsidiary and not follow an examination syllabus. counts as approximately half an A Level. Option Choices Students must choose 4 subjects from the Assessment option Blocks 2-7. If a student chooses Mathematics in option Depending on the course Block 5 they must take Statistics/Mathematics in assessment might be via option Block 6. examinations, coursework or a portfolio Attendance of evidence. At least 90% attendance is required in order to sit for the IGCSE, and for the AS or A Level examinations.
For more information contact the exam officer
Name of pupil: COMPULSORY SUBJECTS: 1. PE OPTIONS: • You may choose only AS exam subjects for which you have achieved A-C in that subject at IGCSE level. • You may choose only A2 exam subjects for which you have achieved A-C in that subject at AS level. • You may only choose 4 AS subjects which will be reduced to 3 A2 subjects in Year 13
2
English Literature Physics Business Studies Music Study Hour
3
Economics Geography Biology Thinking Skills Study Hour
4
Chemistry History ICT Travel & Tourism Study Hour
5
Mathematics Sociology English Language Drama Study Hour
6
Statistics/Mechanics Study Hour
7
MFL (Spanish, Turkish, French) Global perspectives (AS only) Art & Design Study Hour
We are aware and agree with the subject choices made above. We agree to the rules and regulations of the examination boards in this external certificate programme. Parent signature: _________________________________________________ Student signature: ________________________________________________ Deputy Principal signature:_________________________________________
International School of Bucharest
An Overview of the AS/A Level Courses Subject Art & Design Business studies Biology Chemistry Drama Economics English Language English Literature French Geography History Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Pure Mathematics Physics Spanish Global Perspectives Travel and Tourism AS & A Level Turkish as a Mother Language
Examination Board University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations University of Cambridge International Examinations OCR
Art and Design ( 9704 ) Study Art & Design if you... • Have good observational skills. • Enjoy creative activities. • Can use your imagination. • Are able to develop an idea to a conclusion. • Want to study Art, Design, Architecture or Fashion at College or University. Wish to pursue a career in Graphic Design, Product Design, Interior Design, Stage Design, Fashion and Styling, Illustration, Ceramics, Painting/ Entry requirements Sculpture, Public Art or Teaching. What will I study? All students entering year A Level Art and Design Exam has 4 Components: 12 need to have achieved five or more Grade Cs or • Component 1: Controlled Test above at IGCSE Level. • Component 2: Coursework 1 • Component 3: Coursework 2 • Component 4: Personal Study Length First year (AS Art) Component 1: Controlled Test This is a 15 hour examination based on an Imaginative theme.
AS Level and A2 Level courses are one year in duration each (a duration of two years together).
Component 2: Coursework 1 This aims to introduce the student to a wide range Assessment of materials and experiences with processes. They will work on a given theme leading through a See relevant subject series of developmental stages to a final piece. pages. Second year (A Level Art) Subjects are graded A Component 3: Coursework 2 through to E. As component 2 but more in depth. Component 4: Personal Study A detailed study of any aspect of the visual arts that relates to one of the candidate’s coursework themes.
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For more information contact the exam officer
Music Study Music if you… Why choose Cambridge International A & AS Level Music? A and AS Level Music candidates develop an appreciation of, and an informed critical response to, music of the Western tradition, from at least two genres and periods. Candidates learn how to listen attentively and responsively in order to better understand the musical processes at work; they also learn how to communicate this understanding, supporting their judgements by evidence-based Performing (100 marks) argument. Candidates will be As part of the course, candidates are encouraged to required to perform music develop their own creative and interpretative skills through the disciplines of composing and performing that reflects a single focus in Western and/or non-Western traditions. This leads, from any tradition, e.g. in turn, to a deeper understanding of music in its wider one substantial piece or cultural context.
a group of pieces which
The aims of the Cambridge International A & AS reflect a common theme, syllabuses are: • To foster a discriminating aural appreciation of, and an informed critical response to music of the Western tradition from at least two representative genres and periods • To encourage the development of creative and interpretative skills through the disciplines of composing and performing in Western and/or nonWestern traditions • To deepen understanding of music in its wider cultural context
style or purpose, on any instrument (or voice). This program should last at least 12 minutes, but not more than 20 minutes.
Composing (100 marks) A single composition (or a group of shorter related pieces conceived as a Assessment objectives whole) for any instrument, Candidates will be required to demonstrate an ability voice or combination, to listen attentively and responsively, understanding lasting between 8 and 12 of the processes at work in music, an ability to communicate clearly knowledge nad understanding minutes. and musical insight. Candidates will also need to demonstrate technical and interpretative competence in performing and musical invention in composing. Investigation and Components Listening (100 marks) Students are required to show a wider knowledge of the historical, social and cultural background and understanding of other relevant contextual and interpretative issues in Western Music.
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Report (100 marks) Practical musicianship (100 marks) For more information contact the exam officer
Biology ( 9700 ) Study Biology if you… • Want to pursue a career in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Biological Sciences, Ecology or Sport Science. • Are intending to study any science-based course at University. • Want to improve your understanding of the fundamental scientific concepts that describe our world. • Like practical laboratory work and studying the Entry requirements ecology. • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries Grade C or above at IGCSE and how the application of biological ideas can Science or equivalent. solve global problems. Length • Want to keep up with your science but don’t really want to do all 3 at Advanced level! 1 Year AS Level What will I study?
2 Years A Level Assessment
First Year (AS Biology): Written and practical Cells, Biological Molecules, Enzymes, Cell Membranes, Cell Division, Genetics, Transport, laboratory-based examinations at the end of Gas Exchange, Infectious Disease, Immunity, the first and second years of Ecology study. Second Year (Advanced Level Biology): AS level: Energy and Respiration, Photosynthesis, Paper 1: Multiple choice - 1 Regulation and Control, Inherited Change, hour Paper 2: Structured Selection and Evolution, Applications of Biology: questions – 2 hours Biodiversity & Conservation, Gene Technology, Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills- 2 hours Biotechnology, Crop Plants, Aspects of Human Reproduction
A2 level: Paper 4: Structured questions - 2 hours Paper 5: Planning, Analysis and Evaluation - 1 hour 15min
The three assessment objectives in Biology are: 1. Knowledge with understanding- 50% of the examination marks 2. Handling information and solving problems30% of the examination marks 3. Experimental skills and investigations- 20% of For more information the examination marks contact the exam officer
Business Studies ( 9707 ) Study Business Studies if you… • Want to learn about how businesses operate and the role business plays in society. • Enjoy subjects that are relevant to your own life and experiences. • Think you will need skills in making business decisions and solving business problems. • Want to study Business Management, Accounting or Economics. • Are trying to keep your options open for higher Entry requirements education and careers. • Expect to follow a career in business, marketing, accounting, banking, management or Grade C or above at human resources. IGCSE level or equivalent What will I study? You will find out about management of people and operations, the external influences affecting business and the importance of objectives and strategies. First year (AS Level) Business and the Environment, People in Organizations, Marketing, Operations Management, Business Finance, Business Accounting and Information for Decision Making. Second year (A Level) The AS Level units listed above are studied at greater depth in the second year of study. The final 3 hour paper focuses on a business case study.
Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment Two written examinations for AS Level at the end of the first year. One 3 hour paper for the full A Level at the end of the second year.
For more information contact the exam officer
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Chemistry ( 9701 ) Study Chemistry if you… • Enjoy science and want to know more about the exciting materials that make up our world. • Want to pursue a career in Medicine, Food Science, • Chemical Engineering, Forensic Science or Industry. • Are intending to study any science-based course at University. • Want to improve your understanding of the fundamental scientific concepts about matter. • Like practical laboratory work and want to know Entry requirements more about chemical reactions. • Enjoy solving problems and analyzing information Grade C or above at IGCSE precisely. or equivalent. • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries and Good mathematical skills. new materials. • Want to find out how industry and chemistry impacts Length 1 Year AS Level on society and the environment. What will I study?
2 Years A Level Assessment
First Year Core Material (AS Chemistry):
Written and practical laboratory - based examinations at the end Atoms and Stoichiometry, Atomic Structure, Chemical of the first and second years of Bonding, States of Matter, Chemical Energetics, study.
Electrochemistry, Equilibria, Reaction Kinetics, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry. Second Year (A-level):
Extended study of the above topics, together with ‘Applications of Chemistry’ (Chemistry of Life, Analytical Chemistry, Design and Materials). The three assessment objectives in Chemistry are: 1. Knowledge with understanding 50% of the exami nation marks 2. Handling information and solving problems 30% of the examination marks 3. Experimental skills and investigations 20% of the examination marks
AS level: Paper 1: Multiple choice 1 hour Paper 2: Structured questions - 1hour 15min Paper 3: Advanced Practical Skills - 2 hours A2 level: Paper 4: Structured questions - 2 hours Paper 5: Planning, Analysis and Evaluation - 1 hour 15min
For more information contact the exam officer
Drama Study Drama if you‌ Since the emphasis in most GCSE Drama and Theatre Arts courses is on improvisation, devised work and/or performing, the Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Drama and Theatre Studies deliberately focuses on working with plays. In this way the Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Drama and Theatres Studies aims to bridge the gap between GCSE and full Advanced GCE by providing an opportunity to study plays from the point of view of a director, designer, Unit 2: performer and critic. The qualification is designed to enable Theatre Text in Performance students to acquire a knowledge and understanding of the language of drama and theatre as well as to develop their Externally assessed performing and analytical skills. Content summary: The course is designed to provide a balance across a This unit offers students range of learning activities. This specification combines the activities of exploring plays, creating theatre, the the chance to demonstrate performing of plays, the analysis of theatre and the critical skills in a performance evaluation of all of these elements. Students completing environment. The knowledge the course successfully will have a thorough understanding and understanding gained of drama and theatre, highly toned analytical and creative during the study of two plays skills and an ability to communicate effectively with others. in Unit 1 can now be applied with a view to delivering a AS Assessment Units performance to an audience. Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre Assessment: Internally assessed Content summary: This unit introduces students to the content of plays written for the theatre. They will learn how to analyse plays in a variety of ways so that they become familiar with the way written plays can be interpreted for realization in performance.
This is an externally assessed unit. The first section requires students to offer either a monologue or duologue. The second section requires students to contribute to a performance of a professionally Assessment: published play by a known This internally assessed unit requires students to explore writer. two contrasting play texts, chosen by the centre, in a practical and active way. At least one of the plays must be Students may offer either explored in the light of a recognized theatre practitioner. acting or a design form and A video/DVD of one session of the practical work must be must also provide a concept made available for use in moderation. A set of Exploration of the interpretation of their Notes must be submitted. Students are also required to chosen roles or designs. experience a live theatre performance and submit an evaluation.
For more information contact the exam officer
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English Language ( 8693 ) Study English Language if you… • Want to improve your communication skills. • Wish to improve your reading and analysis of written material. • Want to keep your career and higher education options open. • Hope to study any language intensive course at University such as Law, History, Psychology, Sociology, • Media Studies and many more. • Have ambitions to work in media, business management, public relations, marketing, law, theatre or television and many other careers. What will I study? Paper 1: Passages for Comment • How to identify the key features of passages and relate them to the context of the writing. • Aspects of language such as vocabulary, metaphor, simile and prejudice. • Writing using vocabulary, tone and style appropriate for a specific purpose/audience.
Entry requirements • Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. • Good mathematical skills. Length • 1 year AS Level only Assessment • Two 2 hour written examinations at the end of the year.
Paper 2: Composition • Descriptive/Imaginative Writing • Discursive/Argumentative Writing
For more information contact the exam officer
English Literature ( 9695 ) Study English Literature if you… • Love reading and want to develop your reading and writing skills to a higher level. • Want to know how writers achieve the effects they do and improve your own skills in communication and analysis. • Wish to develop your interest in literature, culture and human nature. • Would like to study Literature, Law, Media Studies, History, Psychology, to name just a few Entry requirements at University • Hope to enter a career in writing, law, business management, media/journalism, public relations, • Grade C or above at IGCSE level or equivalent communication arts and many more. What will I study? First year (AS Level) Poetry: Wordsworth, and an anthology of poems from the last two centuries Prose: Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte), and short stories by Katherine Mansfield Drama: Julius Caesar (Shakespeare), A View from the Bridge (Arthur Miller) and The Importance of Being Earnest (Oscar Wilde) Second year (A Level) Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century texts including the poetry of Andrew Marvell and Chaucer. 20th Century literature including works by T.S. Eliot and Harold Pinter.
in English • Literature and English Language (first or second language). Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment
Two 2 hour written examinations for AS Level at the end of the first year. Similarly for the full A Level at the end of the course.
In all your examination essays you will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the text and offer an independent opinion.
For more information contact the exam officer
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French Language ( 8682 ) Study French Language if you… Aims: • Develop the ability to understand a language from a variety of registers • Enable students to communicate confidently and clearly in the target language • Form a sound base of skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure • Develop insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken, including the study of literary texts where appropriate (this does not apply to AS Language qualifications) • Encourage positive attitudes to language learning and a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations • Support intellectual and personal development by promoting learning and social skills.
Levels of Entry
Candidates who take the Core lev- el examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. Candidates who take the Extended tier examination are eligible for the award The examinations are designed to assess of grades A* to G. Students candidates’ linguistic competence and their knowledge will be advised of their of contemporary society. In the exams, candidates will examination entry level be expected to: during their second year of • understand and respond to texts written in the target study. language, drawn from a variety of sources such as magazines, newspapers, reports, books and other Assessment forms of extended writing • manipulate the target language accurately in spoken The exam has four and written forms, choosing appropriate examples of components: lexis and structures • Component 1: Speaking • select information and present it in the target Test 20 minutes language • Component 2: Reading • organise arguments and ideas logically. and Writing 1 hour 45 minutes, 70 marks Consideration for entry on course • Component 3: Essay Ideally, pupils should have studied French for a 1 hour 30 minutes, 40 marks minimum of two years before starting the course. • Component 4: Texts However, exceptions can be made for motivated pupils 2 hours 30 minutes, 75 with no previous knowledge of French. marks Pupils are expected to complete all homework to a good standard and on time. They should spend at least an hour a week on French homework. It is advisable for pupils to read frequently as part of their For more information commitment to the subject.
contact the exam officer
Geography ( 9696 ) Study Geography if you… • Are interested in issues such as climate change, causes of conflict, eradicating poverty, economic development, natural disasters, landscape and more. • Want to understand and interpret social, economical, political and environmental conditions and change. • Enjoy working with maps, graphs, photographs, statistics, diagrams and charts. • Recognise the importance of sustainable development and how we humans need to manage our impact on the environment. • Wish to have your finger on the pulse of current world Entry requirements issues and want to help influence important decisions that will affect future generations. Grade C or above at • Plan to study courses such as Geography, Environment IGCSE or equivalent. Studies, Oceanography, Earth Sciences or Urban Studies at University. • Would like a career in weather prediction, urban planning, Length Geographical Information Systems (GIS), geology, 1 Year AS Level cartography and many other areas. What will I study? First year-Core Geography (AS Level) Core units • Global Hazards and climate change • Going global Optional units = A choice 2 option from; • Extreme weather, Crowded coasts, Unequal spaces, Rebranding places Second year-Advanced Options (A Level) 6 compulsory topics; • Energy Security, Water conflicts, Biodiversity under threat, Superpower Geographies, Bridging the development gap, and The Technological fix?
2 Years A Level Assessment
AS - 2 written examinations. Paper 1, Global challenges = 1 hour 30 minutes Paper 2, Geographical investigations = 1 hour 15 minutes A2 – 2 written examinations Paper 1, Contested planet = 2 hours 30 minutes Paper 2, Geographical research = 1 hour 30 minutes
One option from; • Tectonics, Cold environments, Life on the margins, The world of cultural diversity, Pollution and world health and Leisure and tourism in the rural landscape
For more information contact the exam officer
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History ( 9389 ) Study English Language if you… Course Aims: The educational aims of Cambridge A & AS Level History are for candidates to gain historical knowledge, understanding and skills. These aims include: • Developing an interest in the past and an appreciation of human endeavour • Gaining a greater knowledge and understanding of historical periods or themes • Gaining a greater awareness of historical concepts such as Levels of Entry similarity and difference, change and continuity, cause and Pupils are assessed within effect • Appreciating the nature and diversity of historical sources the full range of grades. (A - E) available, and the methods used by historians • Exploring a variety of approaches to different aspects of History and different interpretations of particular Assessment historical issues • Thinking independently and making informed AS Level judgments on issues • Developing empathy with people living in different places At AS Level students sit and at different times. Consideration for entry on course An IGCSE in History shows that you have a high level of literacy and that you are able to analyse complex information.
a one hour source based document examination (Paper 1) and a one and a half hour outline study examination (Paper 2). This consists of 2 sections made up of two questions.
The student will be required to learn content on a regular basis, write essays demonstrating their understanding of the topic and use their knowledge to A2 Level interpret and make inferences from given sources.
At A2 Level students will sit a one hour interpretations question (Paper 3) and a one First year (AS Level) and a half hour and a Depth • Paper 1 - American Option: The Origins of the Civil War, Study paper consisting of 1846–1861 two questions (Paper 4). What will I study?
• Paper 2 - American Option: The History of the USA, 1840–1941 Second year (A2 Level) • Paper 3 - The Origins and Development of the Cold War, 1941–1950 • Paper 4 - International History, 1945–1991
For more information contact the exam officer
Sociology Study Sociology if you‌ Want an opportunity to explore the processes that are shaping current trends, and also to develop an understanding of the complexity and diversity of human societies and their continuities with the past. The study of Sociology should stimulate awareness of contemporary social, cultural and political issues, and focus attention on the importance of examining these issues in a rigorous, reasoned and analytical way. The Cambridge International AS Level provides a solid grounding in the central ideas and approaches in Sociology, including family Entry requirements as well as theory and methods. Cambridge International A Level students can choose to explore a variety of important Grade C or above at IGCSE areas of sociological enquiry including global development, Sociology or equivalent. education, religion and media. Length What will I study? First Year (AS Sociology):
1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment
The Family: family and social change, family roles, marriage and changing relationships, the social construction Written based examinations at the end of the first and second of age years of study. Theory and methods: the sociological perspective, socialization and the creation of social identity, methods of AS level: Paper 1: Candidates answer research, the relationship between theory and methods one compulsory data response question and one essay Second Year (Advanced Level Sociology): question from a choice of two 1 hour 30 minutes Education: education in social context, structures and Paper 2: Candidates answer processes within schools one compulsory data response Global development: development and inequality, global question and one essay question from a choice of two issues 1 hour 30 minutes Media: ownership and control of the media, media A2 level: representation and effects Paper 3: Candidates answer Religion: religion and social change, religious movements three essay style questions from four sections with two questions per section - 3 hours
For more information contact the exam officer
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Information and Communication Technology ( 9691 ) Study ICT if you… • Have a keen interest in the use of technology and computers. • Prefer a course that has a greater focus on the demonstration of practical skills, rather than written theory. • Enjoy problem solving and applying your skills to real-world projects and scenarios. • Would like to develop your ICT practical skills in a variety of different applications, including spreadsheets, databases and website design editors. • Are interested in learning about the increasingly prominent role technology plays both at home and in the workplace. • Plan to attend university in the future. Strong ICT based research and presentation skills are an asset on most undergraduate courses. • Have ambitions to pursue a career in design, multimedia or computing. Good computer skills are desirable in a large number of employment sectors. What will I study? First year— (AS Level) PRACTICAL: Web design, Document presentation and production, Data handling, Software Integration THEORY: Communication devices, How Organisations use ICT, ICT & Society, and Systems Development.
Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment One 90 minutes written examina- tion, followed by two 150 minute practical tests at the end of the AS year.
Second year - (A Level) PRACTICAL: Numerical modelling using spread sheets, relational database design, output data and automation. THEORY: Computer networks, How Organisations use ICT (part 2) , Impact of ICT on Society (Part 2)
For more information contact the exam officer
Pure Mathematics ( 9709 ) Study Mathematics if you… • Have a passion for the subject; it is a demanding yet hugely rewarding course. • Want a career in business, science, architecture, computing, teaching and many, many more. • Enjoy problem solving and have a logical mind • Are organized and well motivated. • Want to study Mathematics at University level, or any subject with mathematical components Entry requirements such as Engineering, Economics, Physics and Business. C or above at • Are taking arts or languages and want to give Grade IGCSE or equivalent. yourself a broad curriculum for study. Length
What will I study? First Year (AS Mathematics):
1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment
Pure Mathematics: - Quadratics, Inequalities, Graphs and functions, Arithmetic and geometric Written examinations at the end of the first and second sequences, Coordinate geometry, Volume of years of study. revolution, Trigonometry, Vectors, Calculus Differentiation & Integration. Mechanics: - Velocity and acceleration equations, Newton’s Laws of motion, Motion in s straight line, Vertical motion, Friction, Work, energy and power. Second Year (A Level): Pure Mathematics: Logarithms, Vectors, Complex numbers, Differential Equations, Calculus. Statistics: - Probability, Permutations & Combinations, Binomial distribution, Normal distribution, Expectation and Variance. For more information contact the exam officer
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Physics ( 9702 ) Study Physics if you… • Enjoy science and you want to know more about what drives the Universe and our world. • Want to pursue a career in Medicine, Aeronautical & Space Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Armed Forces, Forensic Science or Industry. • Are intending to study any science-based course at University. • Want to improve your understanding of fundamental Entry requirements scientific concepts. Grade C or above at • Like practical laboratory work and want to know IGCSE or equivalent. more about physical phenomena. • Enjoy solving problems and analyzing information Length precisely. • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries and 2 years developments. • Want to find out how industry and physics impact on Assessment Written and practical society and the environment. laboratory - based examinations at the end of What will I study? the first and second years of study. First Year (AS Physics): General Physics, Newtonian Mechanics, Oscillations AS level: Paper 1: Multiple choice & Waves, Electric Fields, Current Electricity and 1 hour Nuclear Physics Paper 2: Structured questions - 1hour 15min Second Year (A-level): Paper 3: Advanced Motion in a Circle, Gravitational Fields, Ideal Gases, Practical Skills - 2 hours Thermal Properties of Materials, Electric A2 level: Fields, Capacitance, Magnetic Fields, Paper 4: Structured Electromagnetism, Alternating Currents, Quantum questions - 2 hours Physics, Nuclear Physics, Gathering and Paper 5: Planning, Communicating Information. Analysis and Evaluation 1 hour 15min
For more information contact the exam officer
Spanish Language ( 8665 ) Study Spanish Language if you… Aims: • develop the ability to understand a language from a variety of registers • enable students to communicate confidently and clearly in the target language • form a sound base of skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure • develop insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken, including the study of literary texts where appropriate (this does not apply to Levels of Entry AS Language qualifications) • encourage positive attitudes to language learning and a Candidates who take the Core level examination are sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations eligible for the award of • support intellectual and personal development by promoting learning and social skills. grades C to G. The examinations are designed to assess candidates ‘linguistic competence and their knowledge of contemporary society. In the exams, candidates will be expected to: • understand and respond to texts written in the target language, drawn from a variety of sources such as magazines, newspapers, reports, books and other forms of extended writing • manipulate the target language accurately in spoken and written forms, choosing appropriate examples of lexis and structures • select information and present it in the target language • organise arguments and ideas logically.
Candidates who take the Extended tier examination are eligible for the award of grades A* to G. Students will be advised of their examination entry level at the beginning of their second year of study. Assessment
The assessment has four compo- nents: • Component 1: Speaking Test 20 minutes, 100 marks Consideration for entry on course • Component 2: Reading Ideally, pupils should have studied Spanish for a minimum and Writing - 1 hour 45 minutes, 70 marks of two years before starting the course. However, exceptions can be made for motivated and able pupils with • Component 3: Essay little previous knowledge of Spanish. Pupils are expected 1 hour 30 minutes, 40 marks to complete all homework to a good standard and in time. • Component 4: Texts They should spend at least an hour a week on Spanish 2 hours 30 minutes, 75 homework. marks
For more information contact the exam officer
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Travel and Tourism ( 9395 ) Study Travel and Tourism if you… This course leads to AS level at the end of Year 12 and A level in Year 13. It introduces students to the scope and economic importance of travel and tourism. Through six units it tracks the development of the industry post-war and brings the student right up-to-date with the latest trends and economics. The course is recognised by all universities. It is ideal for those wanting to follow a related career. As level and A 2 level Travel and Tourism exams are internationally recognised as qualification in the Travel and Tourism industry. Some of the units are assessed by examination and some by coursework requiring considerable independent research. Entry requirements: No specific requirements, but students are expected to have solid knowledge of English language and at least 3 IGCSEs at grade of C.
Assessment AS level: Cambridge examination
Paper 1. This is a written paper testing the core content of the Travel and Tourism syllabus. There are four structured questions which require short and extended answers. Each question is based on original stimulus material. Aims Paper 2. This is a coursework project which involves planning The aims of the Cambridge International AS and A Level Travel and managing a travel and tourism event. Candidates work and Tourism are to enable candidates to develop: in a team but present their project • an understanding of the scale and importance of the industry individually. • an appreciation of the importance of host destinations and A2 Level: Cambridge communities to the industry examination • an understanding of the importance of sustainable development Those who passed the AS level to the industry exam will be assessed in the • the ability to recognise the positive and negative impacts the following way: industry may have on people, environment Paper 3. This is a written paper, and economy testing syllabus content on • an understanding of the global and dynamic nature of the international business and leisure industry travel services. There are four • an interest in the issues affecting the industry and their potential structured questions which require effect on employment opportunities short and extended answers. Each • an appreciation of the importance of the customer to the industry question is based on original • practical and technical skills relevant to the industry stimulus material. • an understanding of how the industry responds to change Paper 4. This is a written paper, • an appreciation of the impact of ICT on the industry testing syllabus content on • their own values and attitudes in relation to industry issues. specialised tourism. There are two structured data response questions. Content Each question is based on original stimulus material. • The nature of travel and tourism • The scale of the travel and tourism industry • The development of the modern travel and tourism industry • The structure of the travel and tourism industry For more information • The management and development of tourist destinations • The principles of customer service contact the exam officer
OCR Turkish ( H197 H597 ) Study OCR Turkish if you… Aims: • The specification develops an interest in, and en- thusiasm for, language learning. It helps candidates further develop the skills of listening, reading and writing at a level beyond GCSE. They learn about the culture of countries where Turkish is spoken and become able to Levels of Entry communicate with people in these countries. Candidates who take the Core • This specification builds on best practice GCSE and provides interesting and meaningful level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. assessment. Candidates who take the Extended • The specification aims to provide a coherent tier examination are eligible for the course of study for all students as well as a good award of grades A* to G. Students will be advised of their basis for further study of languages at higher examination entry level at the education. beginning of their second year of • There is a new element to this qualification: study. listening features in both AS and A level and gives candidates an opportunity to demonstrate Assessment their ability in this skill. • Topics for study have been streamlined and it AS Level : Reading and Writing 1 is no longer a requirement to specifically assess Listening, Topics include aspects of daily life, knowledge of target language country/community.leisure and entertainment, Consideration for entry on course
communication and media, education and training. Activities are listening, reading, writing and responding in Turkish/English.
Ideally, pupils should have studied Turkish for a minimum of two years before starting the course. However, A Level : exceptions can be made for motivated and able Listening, Reading and Writing 2 pupils with little previous knowledge of Turkish. Topics include society, the science and Pupils are expected to complete all homework to environment, technology, culture. a good standard and in time. They should spend at Activities are listening, reading, least an hour a week on Spanish homework. writing and responding in Turkish/English.
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International School of Bucharest
Global Perspectives Study Global Perspectives if you… Aims: (AS only) Cambridge International AS Level Global Perspectives aims to prepare young people for positive engagement with a rapidly changing world, broadening their outlook through the critical analysis of, and reflection on, issues of global significance. This syllabus is firmly based on skills rather than specific content. Through the study of global issues, candidates will explore different and sometimes opposing perspectives and will acquire and develop thinking and reasoning skills as well as research and communication skills. These skills will enable candidates to meet the demands of the twenty-first century and to make a Assessment successful transition to study in higher education.
Written paper 1.5 hours 30%
Students will develop research skills that will enable them toEssay – assessed externally obtain information, evaluate the reliability and usefulness of this information, and use the evidence gathered to construct 30% of course Presentation – 40% their own arguments and support lines of reasoning. Through well-defined stages of research, called the Critical Path, students will apply a logical approach to decision making. They will be able to analyze the structure and context of arguments, assess the impact and limitations of evidence, and make well-reasoned judgments through informed research. Similarly, they will learn to organize and communicate their findings in appropriate formats. Cambridge International AS Level Global Perspectives prepares students for further education and for lifelong learning across a range of disciplines by helping them to be: • confident in working with information and ideas—their own and those of others • responsible for themselves, responsive to and respectful of others • innovative and equipped for new and future challenges • engaged intellectually and socially, ready to make a difference Course Components The course consists of three components, a written paper, an essay and a presentation. For each of these components the following skills will be assessed • identify and analyze the structure and context of arguments, reasoning, and claims • evaluate the strength of the arguments • identify the key components of arguments • identify and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of arguments • assess the validity of conclusions or claims • assess the credibility of sources • identify and evaluate different perspectives.
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Exam officer1: Exam Officer2: International School of Bucharest Sos Gara Catelu, Nr.1R Sector 3 032991Bucharest, Romania Tel:+4 (0) 21 306 9530 Fax: +4 (0) 21 306 9534 www.isb.ro