ST. MARK'S AUSTRALIAN
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Tri-Lingual School of Mathematics and Science
IGCSE
PROGRAM
IGCSE The Cambridge IGCSE curriculum offers a variety of routes for learners with a wide range of abilities, including those whose first language is not English. It is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. The program is truly international, as it gives students more options than any other international qualification, resulting in more ways to learn and succeed. The Cambridge IGCSE Curriculum is built around students' specific needs, where students are given the choice of taking either the core or the extended curriculum, depending on the students' ability. Therefore, it is easy to add breadth and cross-curricular perspectives. The Cambridge IGCSE's approach to learning focuses on encouraging learners to engage with a variety of subjects, and make connections between them. It offers a flexible and stimulating curriculum, supported with excellent resources and training for the instructors. For learners, the Cambridge IGCSE helps improve performance by developing skills in creative thinking, inquiry and problem solving. It is the perfect springboard to advanced study into the Australian Matriculation Program offered at our Upper Secondary School.
What is the difference between IGCSE Core and IGCSE Extended?
IGCSE Core The Core curriculum is within the ability range of a large majority of students. It provides a full overview of the subject and is targeted at students expected to achieve grades C to G.
IGCSE Extended The Extended curriculum has been designed for the more academically able. It is targeted at those expected to achieve grades A* to E.
IGCSE SUBJECTS
Accounting The Cambridge IGCSE Accounting syllabus introduces learners to the theory and concepts of accounting and the ways in which accounting is used in a variety of modern economic and business contexts. Learners focus on the skills of recording, reporting, presenting, and interpreting financial information and build an ideal foundation both for further study and for a future career within the profession.
The aims are to enable students to develop: knowledge and understanding of the principles and purposes of accounting for individuals, businesses, non-trading organisations, and society as a whole an understanding of accounting concepts, principles, policies, techniques, procedures, and terminology improved skills of numeracy, literacy, communication, enquiry, presentation, and interpretation improved accuracy, orderliness, and the ability to think logically an excellent foundation for advanced study
CONTENT OVERVIEW
The fundamentals of accounting Sources and recording of data Verification of accounting records Accounting procedures Preparation of financial statements Analysis and interpretation Accounting principles and policies
Mathematics An essential subject for all learners, Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics encourages the development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill, and as a strong basis for more advanced study. The syllabus aims to build learners' confidence by helping them develop competence and fluency with mathematical concepts, methods, and skills, as well as a feel for numbers, patterns, and relationships. The syllabus also places a strong emphasis on solving problems and presenting and interpreting results. Learners also gain an understanding of how to communicate and reason using mathematical concepts. The aims are to enable students to develop: • develop an understanding of mathematical principles, concepts and methods in a way that encourages confidence, provides satisfaction and enjoyment, and develops a positive attitude towards mathematics • develop a feel for number and understand the significance of the results obtained • apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part that mathematics plays in learners’ own lives and the world around them • analyse and solve problems, present the solutions clearly, and check and interpret the results • recognise when and how a situation may be represented mathematically, identify and interpret relevant factors, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem, and evaluate the method used • use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression and structured argument • develop an ability to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly science and technology • develop the ability to reason logically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions • appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics and make generalisations • appreciate the interdependence of different areas of mathematics • acquire a foundation for further study of mathematics or for other disciplines.
CONTENT OVERVIEW Number
Mensuration
Algebra and Graphs
Trigonometry
Coordinate Geometry
Vectors and transformations
Geometry
Probability Statistics
Biology Cambridge IGCSE Biology helps learners to understand the biological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of biology, and a strong emphasis on practical skills. Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level, further education, or a career related to science.
The aims are to enable students to develop: The aims are to enable students to: acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of scientific theories and practice develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely use scientific data and evidence to solve problems and discuss the limitations of scientific methods communicate effectively and clearly, using scientific terminology, notation and conventions understand that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment enjoy science and develop an informed interest in scientific matters which support further study.
CONTENT OVERVIEW
Gas exchange in humans Respiration
Characteristics and classification of
Excretion in humans
living organisms
Coordination and response
Organisation of the organism
Drugs
Movement into and out of cells
Reproduction
Biological molecules 5 Enzymes
Inheritance
Plant nutrition 7 Human nutrition
Variation and selection
Transport in plants
Organisms and their environment
Transport in animals
Human influences on ecosystems
Diseases and immunity
Biotechnology and genetic modification
Chemistry Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of chemistry, and a strong emphasis on practical skills. Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level, further education, or a career related to science.
The aims are to enable students to: acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of scientific theories and practice develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely use scientific data and evidence to solve problems and discuss the limitations of scientific methods communicate effectively and clearly, using scientific terminology, notation and conventions understand that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment enjoy science and develop an informed interest in scientific matters which support further study.
CONTENT OVERVIEW States of matter
Acids, bases and salts
Atoms, elements and compounds
The Periodic Table 9 Metals
Stoichiometry
Chemistry of the environment
Electrochemistry
Organic chemistry
Chemical energetics
Experimental techniques and chemical
Chemical reactions
analysis
Physics Cambridge IGCSE Physics helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of physics, and a strong emphasis on practical skills. Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level, further education, or a career related to science.
The aims are to enable students to: acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of scientific theories and practice develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely use scientific data and evidence to solve problems and discuss the limitations of scientific methods communicate effectively and clearly, using scientific terminology, notation and conventions understand that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment enjoy science and develop an informed interest in scientific matters which support further study.
CONTENT OVERVIEW Motion, forces, and energy Thermal physics Waves Electricity and magnetism Nuclear physics Space physics
English Cambridge IGCSE First Language English is designed for learners whose first language is English. The course enables learners to: develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately, and effectively when speaking and writing use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed. Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.
The aims are to enable students to: read a wide range of texts, fluently and with good understanding, enjoying and appreciating a variety of language read critically, and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing write accurately and effectively, using Standard English appropriately work with information and with ideas in language by developing skills of evaluation, analysis, use and inference listen to, understand, and use spoken language effectively acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology and linguistic conventions.
CONTENT OVERVIEW
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English offers candidates the opportunity to respond with understanding to a rich array of reading texts during the course as a whole. Candidates will use these texts to inform and inspire their own writing, and write in a range of text types for different purposes and audiences. Candidates will develop both their speaking and their listening skills, delivering a presentation, and responding to questions and engaging in conversations. Candidates are encouraged to become appreciative and critical readers, writers, speakers and listeners.
English as an Additional Language Cambridge IGCSE English (as an Additional Language) enables learners to develop practical language skills and build their confidence in communicating in English.
The aims are to enable students to: develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in English at level A2 (CEFR Basic User), with elements of level B1 (CEFR Independent User) offer insights into the culture and society of countries and communities where English is spoken develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning encourage positive attitudes towards speakers of other languages and a sympathetic approach to other cultures provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation develop transferable skills (e.g. memorising, drawing of inferences) to complement other areas of the curriculum form a sound base of the skills, language, and attitudes required for progression to work or further study, either in English or another subject area.
CONTENT OVERVIEW
The subject content is organised into five broad topic areas. These provide contexts for the acquisition of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to gain an insight into countries and communities where English is spoken.
Topics: Everyday activities Personal and social life The world around us The world of work The international world
Mandarin as a Foreign Language This is designed for learners who are learning Mandarin Chinese as a foreign language. The aim is to develop an ability to use the language effectively for practical communication. The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on as learners progress through their studies.
The aims are to enable students to: develop the language proficiency required to communicate effectively in Mandarin Chinese at level A2 (CEFR Basic User) offer insights into the culture and society of countries and communities where Chinese is spoken develop awareness of the nature of language and language learning encourage positive attitudes towards speakers of other languages and a sympathetic approach to other cultures provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation develop transferable skills (e.g. memorising, drawing of inferences) to complement other areas of the curriculum • form a sound base of the skills, language
CONTENT OVERVIEW
The subject content is organised into five broad topic areas. These provide contexts for the acquisition of vocabulary and the study of grammar and structures. The study of these topic areas enables students to gain an insight into countries and communities where Chinese is spoken.
Topics: Everyday activities Personal and social life The world around us The world of work The international world
Thai as a First Language The Cambridge IGCSE First Language Thai syllabus is for learners whose first language is Thai. This First Language syllabus develops learners' ability to communicate clearly, accurately, and effectively. They learn how to employ a wide-ranging vocabulary, use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed. Learners are also encouraged to read widely, for their own enjoyment and to develop an appreciation of how writers achieve their effects. The syllabus also complements other areas of study by encouraging skills of more general application.
The aims are to enable students to: read a wide range of texts, fluently and with good understanding, enjoying and appreciating a variety of language read critically, and use the knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their own writing write accurately and effectively, using appropriate, standard language work with information and ideas in language by developing skills of critical evaluation, analysis, comparison, synthesis, and inference acquire and apply a wide vocabulary, alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology and linguistic conventions.
CONTENT OVERVIEW
Cambridge IGCSE First Language Thai 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 Thai.