Inte rna tional S chool of Bu c h a r e s t
A S/A Le v e l O p t i o n s 2012 A guide to options for Year 12 and 13 at ISB
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. Here are some web sites you might like to use to help you decide on your future plans: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/ http://www.ucas.com/students/nonukstudents/ http://www.ucas.com/students/beforeyouapply/whattostudy/stamfordtest http://www.ukcoursefinder.com http://careersadvice.direct.gov.uk/helpwithyourcareer/skills/ Study Cambridge International A Levels if you…. • 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 of academic ability for Universities worldwide. • Wish to study courses that have been created 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).
I n t e r na tiona l S chool of Bucha r e s t
Preamble Fact File: Entry requirements All students entering year12 need to have achieved five or more Grade Cs or above at IGCSE Level. Length AS Level and A2 Level courses are one year in duration each (a duration of two years together). Assessment See relevant subject pages. Subjects are graded A through to E.
AS and A Level You will have their option choices confirmed by the end of June. 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. Core Examination subjects English will be taught to all pupils. Students have the option to choose between • AS Language (only for students with grade A-C in IGCSE 1st Language English) • IGCSE 1st Language English • English Support • IELTS Compulsory Non-Examination Subject(s) In addition to the core subjects studied each student will follow a compulsory curriculum Physical Education programme. This course does not follow an examination syllabus. Option Choices The following subjects are available as options. Students must choose one area of study from each option box. OPTION 1
OPTION 2
OPTION 3
OPTION 4
Business studies
Economics (fle only) Geography Biology IT*
Chemistry
French/spanish/ turkish Maths Sociology Global perspectives *
Physics Business studies * Literature (fle only)
ICT History (fle only) Travel and tourism*
Art&design
Students can take exams for syllabuses different than the ones offered by the school provided they take off-campus courses with private teachers. Marks given by these teachers will be transferred and will appear in the report card. Please see the exam officer for more details. Attendance At least 90% attendance is required in order to sit for the IGCSE, and for the AS or A Level examinations.
Qualificatio n s
Fact File: A Level means Advanced Level, AS stands for Advanced Subsidiary and counts as approximately half an A Level. Assessment Depending on the course assessment might be via examinations, coursework or a portfolio of evidence.
AS Level Courses O ption Selection Sheet Name of pupil: ___________________________ COMPULSORY SUBJECTS : 1. ENGLISH • AS Language (only for students with grade A-C in IGCSE 1st Language English) • IGCSE 1st Language English • English Support • IELTS 2. MATHEMATICS • MECHANICS/STATISTICS (compulsory for those taking AS Maths) • Applied Maths (for those requiring evidence of attending a Maths course) • Study Hours (this may be an examined course) 3. 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. Each group has an applied or non-exam subject marked *. You may choose only 2 of these. Write your choice here 4.BUSINESS STUDIES PHYSICS BUSINESS * LITERATURE (FLE only) _________________________ 5.ECONOMICS (FLE only) GEOGRAPHY BIOLOGY IT* ART&DESIGN 6.CHEMISTRY ICT HISTORY (FLE only) TRAVEL AND TOURISM* 7.DRAMA FRENCH/SPANISH/TURKISH MATHS SOCIOLOGY GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES *
_________________________
_________________________ ________________________
I, ___________________________ am aware of the choices my child has made and will endeavour to do my part to support him or her in this external examination certificate programme. __________________________ Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature
I n t e r na tiona l S chool of Bucha r e s t
An Overview of the AS/A Level Cours es
Subject
Examination Board
Art & Design
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Business studies
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Biology
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Chemistry
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Drama
Edexcel
Economics
University of Cambridge International Examinations
English Language
University of Cambridge International Examinations
English Literature
University of Cambridge International Examinations
French
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Geography
University of Cambridge International Examinations
History
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Mathematics
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Physics
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Sociology
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Spanish
University of Cambridge International Examinations
Travel and Tourism
University of Cambridge International Examinations
AS & A Level Turkish as a Mother Language
OCR
Global Perspectives
University of Cambridge International Examinations
A rt a n d D e si g n ( 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/Sculpture, Public Art or Teaching.
What will I study? A Level Art and Design Exam has 4 Components: • • • •
Component 1: Controlled Test Component 2: Coursework 1 Component 3: Coursework 2 Component 4: Personal Study
First year (AS Art) Component 1: Controlled Test This is a 15 hour examination based on an Imaginative theme. Component 2: Coursework 1 This aims to introduce the student to a wide range of materials and experiences with processes. They will work on a given theme leading through a series of developmental stages to a final piece.
Fact File: Entry requirements All students entering year12 need to have achieved five or more Grade Cs or above at IGCSE Level. Length AS Level and A2 Level courses are one year in duration each (a duration of two years together). Assessment See relevant subject pages. Subjects are graded A through to E.
Second year (A Level Art) Component 3: Coursework 2 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.
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 ecology . • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries and how the application of biological ideas can solve global problems. • Want to keep up with your science but don’t really want to do all 3 at Advanced level!
What will I study? First Year (AS Biology): Cells, Biological Molecules, Enzymes, Cell Membranes, Cell Division, Genetics, Transport, Gas Exchange, Infectious Disease, Immunity, Ecology Second Year (Advanced Level Biology): Energy and Respiration, Photosynthesis, Regulation and Control, Inherited Change, Selection and Evolution, Applications of Biology: Biodiversity & Conservation, Gene Technology, Biotechnology, Crop Plants, Aspects of Human Reproduction The three assessment objectives in Biology are: 1.Knowledge with understanding- 50% of the examination marks 2.Handling information and solving problems- 30% of the examination marks 3.Experimental skills and investigations- 20% of the examination marks
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE Science or equivalent. Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment Written and practical laboratorybased examinations at the end of the first and second years of study. AS level: Paper 1: Multiple choice - 1 hour Paper 2: Structured questions – 2 hours 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
B u s i n e ss S t u d i e s (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 education and careers. • Expect to follow a career in business, marketing, accounting, banking, management or human resources.
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.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSElevel or equivalent 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.
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.
For more information contact the exam officer
C h emist r y ( 9 7 0 1 ) 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 more about chemical reactions. • Enjoy solving problems and analyzing information precisely. • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries and new materials. • Want to find out how industry and chemistry impacts on society and the environment.
What will I study?
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Good mathematical skills. Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level
First Year Core Material (AS Chemistry):
Assessment
Atoms and Stoichiometry, Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, Chemical Energetics, Electrochemistry, Equilibria, Reaction Kinetics, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry.
Written and practical laboratory based examinations at the end of the first and second years of study.
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
D ram a 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, performer and critic. The qualification is designed to enable students to acquire a knowledge and understanding of the language of drama and theatre as well as to develop their performing and analytical skills. The course is designed to provide a balance across a range of learning activities. This specification combines the activities of exploring plays, creating theatre, the performing of plays, the analysis of theatre and the critical evaluation of all of these elements. Students completing the course successfully will have a thorough understanding of drama and theatre, highly toned analytical and creative skills and an ability to communicate effectively with others.
AS Assessment Units Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre 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. Assessment: This internally assessed unit requires students to explore two contrasting play texts, chosen by the centre, in a practical and active way. At least one of the plays must be explored in the light of a recognized theatre practitioner. A video/DVD of one session of the practical work must be made available for use in moderation. A set of Exploration Notes must be submitted. Students are also required to experience a live theatre performance and submit an evaluation.
Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance Externally assessed Content summary: This unit offers students the chance to demonstrate skills in a performance environment. The knowledge and understanding gained during the study of two plays in Unit 1 can now be applied with a view to delivering a performance to an audience. Assessment: 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 published play by a known writer. Students may offer either acting or a design form and must also provide a concept of the interpretation of their chosen roles or designs.
For more information contact the exam officer
E n g l i sh L a n g u a g e (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.
Fact File: 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
E n g l i sh L i t e r a t ure (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 at University • Hope to enter a career in writing, law, business management, media/journalism, public relations, 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.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE level or equivalent 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
I ELTS Study IELTS if you‌. • Are planning to study or work in English or to live in an English speaking country and English is not your mother tongue.
What will I study? Listening: Conversations and dialogues featuring a variety of English accents and dialects. Academic Reading: Texts from books, magazines, journals and newspapers. General Reading: Texts taken from sources such as newspapers, advertisements, instruction manuals. You will learn how to show you can understand and use the information.
Fact File: Entry requirements English as a Second Language students should take this course if they do not study AS or A Level English Language or Literature
Academic Writing: Writing reports based on data presented in tables and charts. Writing essays in response to opinions and problems. How to construct arguments using appropriate tone and register. General Writing: Writing letters asking for information or explaining a situation. Presenting your own ideas and challenging other ideas. Speaking: Answering general questions about yourself and speaking on a given topic. IELTS (the International English Language Training System) is a test jointly administered by the University of Cambridge and the British Council, and a suitable grade is a requirement for all international students whose first language is not English for entry to universities in the UK, Australia, NZ, Canada and most other English speaking countries including, increasingly, the USA.
For more information contact the exam officer
F ren ch La n g u a g e (8682) 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. 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.
Fact File: Levels of Entry Candidates who take the Core level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. 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 during their second year of study. Assessment The exam has four components: • Component 1: Speaking Test 20 minutes • Component 2: Reading and Writing 1 hour 45 minutes, 70 marks • Component 3: Essay 1 hour 30 minutes, 40 marks • Component 4: Texts 2 hours 30 minutes, 75 marks
Consideration for entry on course Ideally, pupils should have studied French for a minimum of two years before starting the course. However, exceptions can be made for motivated pupils with no previous knowledge of French. 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 commitment to the subject.
For more information contact the exam officer
G eo g r a p h y ( 9 6 9 6) 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 issues and want to help influence important decisions that will affect future generations. • Plan to study courses such as Geography, Environment Studies, Oceanography, Earth Sciences or Urban Studies at University. • Would like a career in weather prediction, urban planning, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), geology, cartography and many other areas.
What will I study? First year-Core Geography (AS Level) PHYSICAL: Atmosphere and Water, Weather processes, Rocks. HUMAN: Population, Migration, Urban and Rural settlements.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment One 3 hour written examination at the end of the first year for the AS Level, followed by two 1.5 hour papers at the end of the second year for the full A Level.
Second year-Advanced Options (A Level) PHYSICAL: Tropical, Coastal, Hazardous and Arid/ Semi Arid Environments HUMAN: Agriculture and Industry, energy supply, Global Economics.
For more information contact the exam officer
H i s to r y ( 9 6 9 7 ) 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 similarity and difference, change and continuity, cause and effect • appreciating the nature and diversity of historical sources available, and the methods used by historians • exploring a variety of approaches to different aspects of History and different interpretations of particular historical issues • thinking independently and making informed judgements on issues • developing empathy with people living in different places 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. 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 interpret and make inferences from given sources.
Fact File: Levels of Entry Pupils are assessed within the full range of grades. (A - G) Assessment Essay questions Each essay question will have a weighting of 25 marks. Candidates’ answers should be focused on the question, and show a depth of historical understanding and evidence of reading. Source-based questions The source-based question will have a weighting of 25 marks and will consist of one sub-question. This will present candidates with an assertion which they need to test against given sources and their background knowledge of the issue.
For more information contact the exam officer
In fo r m at ion and Communi c a ti o n 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 ICTbased 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, Systems Development.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Length 1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment One 90 minutes written examination, 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
M a th e m a t i c s( 9 7 09) 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 such as Engineering, Economics, Physics and Business. • Are taking arts or languages and want to give yourself a broad curriculum for study.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Length
What will I study? First Year (AS Mathematics): Pure Mathematics: - Quadratics, Inequalities, Graphs and functions, Arithmetic and geometric sequences, Coordinate geometry, Volume of 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.
1 Year AS Level 2 Years A Level Assessment Written examinations at the end of the first and second years of study.
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
P h y s i c s( 9 7 0 2 ) 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 scientific concepts. • Like practical laboratory work and want to know more about physical phenomena. • Enjoy solving problems and analyzing information precisely. • Want to learn about new scientific discoveries and developments. • Want to find out how industry and physics impact on society and the environment.
What will I study? First Year (AS Physics): General Physics, Newtonian Mechanics, Oscillations & Waves, Electric Fields, Current Electricity and Nuclear Physics Second Year (A-level): Motion in a Circle, Gravitational Fields, Ideal Gases, Thermal Properties of Materials, Electric Fields, Capacitance, Magnetic Fields, Electromagnetism, Alternating Currents, Quantum Physics, Nuclear Physics, Gathering and Communicating Information.
Fact File: Entry requirements Grade C or above at IGCSE or equivalent. Length 2 years Assessment Written and practical laboratory based examinations at the end of the first and second years of study. 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
S p an i sh L a n g u a g e (8665) 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. 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.
Consideration for entry on course Ideally, pupils should have studied Spanish for a minimum of two years before starting the course. However, exceptions can be made for motivated and able pupils with little previous knowledge of Spanish. Pupils are expected to complete all homework to a good standard and in time. They should spend at least an hour a week on Spanish homework.
Fact File: Levels of Entry Candidates who take the Core level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. 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 components: • Component 1: Speaking Test 20 minutes, 100 marks • Component 2: Reading and Writing 1 hour 45 minutes, 70 marks • Component 3: Essay 1 hour 30 minutes, 40 marks • Component 4: Texts 2 hours 30 minutes, 75 marks
For more information contact the exam officer
Tra v el a n d To u r ism (9395) Course aims • an understanding of the scale and importance of the industry • an appreciation of the importance of host destinations and communities to the industry • an understanding of the importance of sustainable development to the industry • the ability to recognize the positive and negative impacts the industry may have on people, environment and economy • an understanding of the global and dynamic nature of the industry • an interest in the issues affecting the industry and their potential effect on employment opportunities • an appreciation of the importance of the customer to the industry • practical and technical skills relevant to the industry • an understanding of how the industry responds to change • an appreciation of the impact of ICT on the industry • their own values and attitudes in relation to industry issues.
Fact File: Assessment There are four assessment objectives in Cambridge International A & AS Level Travel and Tourism: AO1: Demonstration of knowledge, understanding and skills Candidates should be able to demonstrate basic knowledge of the specified content. AO2: Application of knowledge, understanding and skills Candidates should be able to use their command of the specified content in both familiar and unfamiliar vocational contexts. AO3: Analysis and research Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to use appropriate research techniques when producing their event-based coursework, as well as analysing vocationally-related issues and problems. AO4: Evaluation and decisionmaking Candidates should be able to evaluate information to make judgements, draw conclusions and make recommendations about vocationally-related issues and problems For more information contact the exam officer
O C R Tu r k i sh ( H 197 H 597) Aims: • The specification develops an interest in, and enthusiasm 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 communicate with people in these countries. • This specification builds on best practice GCSE and provides interesting and meaningful assessment. • The specification aims to provide a coherent course of study for all students as well as a good basis for further study of languages at higher education. • There is a new element to this qualification: listening features in both AS and A level and gives candidates an opportunity to demonstrate their ability in this skill. • Topics for study have been streamlined and it is no longer a requirement to specifically assess knowledge of target language country/community.
Consideration for entry on course Ideally, pupils should have studied Turkish for a minimum of two years before starting the course. However, exceptions can be made for motivated and able pupils with little previous knowledge of Turkish. Pupils are expected to complete all homework to a good standard and in time. They should spend at least an hour a week on Spanish homework.
Fact File: Levels of Entry Candidates who take the Core level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. 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 AS Level : Listening, Reading and Writing 1 Topics include aspects of daily life, leisure and entertainment, communication and media, education and training. Activities are listening, reading, writing and responding in Turkish/English. A Level : Listening, Reading and Writing 2 Topics include society, the environment, science and technology, culture. Activities are listening, reading, writing and responding in Turkish/English.
For more information contact the exam officer
S oci ol o g y ( 9 6 9 9 ) In a rapidly changing world, A and AS Level Sociology offers students the opportunity not only to explore the processes that are shaping current trends, but also to develop an understanding of the complexity and diversity of human societies and their continuities with the past. The study of sociology stimulates awareness of contemporary social, cultural and political issues, and focuses on the importance of examining these issues in a rigorous, reasoned and analytical way.
Course aims • knowledge and understanding of sociological concepts, theories, methods and research findings, as well as sociological principles, perspectives and applications • an awareness of the range and limitations of sociological theory and research • an understanding of the relationship between sociological findings and everyday life, including contemporary social, cultural and political issues • an appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity, and of continuity and change in social life • an understanding of sociological methods, including the collection, analysis and interpretation of data • improved skills of communication, interpretation, analysis and evaluation • an excellent foundation for further study.
Fact File: Assessment AS Level There are two papers (Papers 1 and 2) for the AS Level qualification. These papers both test syllabus units 1 to 3: Unit 1: The sociological perspective Unit 2: Sociological methods Unit 3: Social differentiation and stratification A Level Paper 3 tests syllabus units 4 to 9: Unit 4: Family and households Unit 5: Education Unit 6: Religion Unit 7: Crime and deviance Unit 8: Work and leisure Unit 9: Mass media
For more information contact the exam officer
G l ob a l P e r sp e c t ives Aims:
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 successful transition to study in higher education. Students will develop research skills that will enable them to obtain information, evaluate the reliability and usefulness of this information, and use the evidence gathered to construct 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.
Fact File: Assessment Written paper 1.5 hours 30% Essay – assessed externally 30% of course Presentation – 40%
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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Not e s
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