IGCSE Handbook for Students and Parents (2021-2022)

WE L L I NGTO N CO LLE GE I N T E R NATI O N AL SC HOOL BA NGKOK I GCSE HANDBOOK FOR S TUD E N TS A N D PA R E N TS

2021-2022

WELCOME TO THE IGCSE PROGRAMME At Wellington College International School Bangkok, we teach the British curriculum. Between the ages of 14 and 16, students follow a set two year academic course which leads towards externally assessed IGCSE examinations.

IGCSEs (or International General Certificates of Secondary Education) are the international version of the British government’s GCSEs – exams which all students in England take at the end of Year 11. They are the most popular international qualifications for 16-year-olds in the world.

At WCIB, all students take six or seven Core Subjects at IGCSE, as well as some additional non-examined subjects. Students then have the option to choose three further IGCSE subjects from a wide range of options.

Most IGCSEs are assessed at the end of Year 11; some have practical as well as written exams; a few have coursework elements to be completed at different points during the two-year study programme.

As each subject is studied separately, at the end of Year 11 students receive a number of separate IGCSE qualifications. Although students need to do further qualifications to gain university entrance, IGCSE results are nonetheless recognised and scrutinized by universities as indicators of student potential.

This is an exciting time for students, who are now invited to explore different subjects and options and to take greater ownership of their journey through education. We have designed the IGCSE Programme at WCIB to provide students with a solid core of subjects and a range of choices which helps to ensure that choices made now will keep options open in the future.

This handbook is designed as a guide to IGCSEs and to those choices. I hope you find it helpful.

Dr Jim Panton Head of Senior School Michaelmas Term 2021

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

CONTENTS

FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS 2022

Welcome to the IGCSE Programme

2

WCIB Timeline and Key Dates

4

An Introduction to the IGCSE

4

The WCIB Curriculum

5

Student Choice

6

Choosing the ‘Right’ Subjects

6

Core IGCSE Subjects

7

Non-core (Optional) IGCSE Subjects

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WCIB TIMELINE AND KEY DATES Below is an overview of the IGCSE options process for Year 9 with some key dates for your diary.

Date

Event

Attendee

Michaelmas Term 1

IGCSE Launch and introduction to the WCIB Options and Careers Programme

Students

Ongoing

Careers Sessions*

Students

Ongoing

One-to-one meetings

Students with Mrs Salisbury and Dr Panton

Michaelmas Term 1

IGCSE Launch

Parents and Students

Lent Term 2

Y9 Skills and Enterprise Day

Students

Lent Term 2

IGCSE Options Fair

Parents and Students

Lent Term 2

Year 9 Parents’ Evening

Parents and Students

Lent Term 2

IGCSE Options Deadline

N/A

* Throughout Terms 1 and 2 students take part in weekly timetabled careers sessions and workshops.

These sessions focus on self-awareness and reflection, skills, strengths, and ambitions for the future.

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE IGCSE The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a two-year programme; the principal means of assessing students’ attainment is through externallyassessed examinations, which take place at the

end of Year 11. The start of this programme marks an important step in the academic pathway of students, as the IGCSE results can impact subject choice at A-level and options beyond, including university applications.

THE BRITISH CURRICULUM

The core programme and subject choices for Year 9 students are outlined in this handbook.

AT WCIB we aim to offer a broad and balanced curriculum for all. We speak to each student individually to ascertain their strengths, their ambitions and their goals for the future. We ensure that every student undertakes a broad range of subjects that will equip them with the

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knowledge and the skills needed to progress, whatever their ambitions at A-level, and for university and college entry beyond school. The curriculum includes core subjects which are compulsory for all students in Years 10 and 11, as well as a diverse range of optional subjects that can be selected by the student.

IGCSE HANDBOOK

THE WCIB CURRICULUM In addition to the core subjects of English Language, English Literature, Mathematics Biology, Chemistry and Physics (The Sciences), WCIB students are offered a range of optional subjects from which to construct their own individual pathway.

The process of IGCSE selection is carefully supervised in order to inspire each individual student’s curiosity, self-reflection, and courage

to be ambitious and successful. We encourage students to keep doors open and to follow a broad and balanced curriculum whilst pursuing the subjects that suit their strengths and interests. Choosing the subjects, they like best is hugely important. Dr Panton, Mrs Salisbury (who coordinates our Options and Careers Programme) and the House Tutor Team are all on hand to help and advise.

Core IGCSE Subjects

Core (non-examined) subjects

English Language *

Physical Education

English Literature

Wellbeing

Mathematics

Enrichment

Biology ** Chemistry ** Physics ** Thai or Modern Foreign Language *** * Some students may take IGCSE English as a Second Language ** All students study all three sciences and work towards either the Double or Triple Science award *** Thai citizens follow the IGCSE curriculum towards an IGCSE exam or equivalent. Non-Thai students are encouraged to study a Modern Foreign Language if they opt not to take Thai

Non-Core (Option) IGCSE Subjects. Most students study 3 Art and Design

Drama

Mandarin (MFL)*

Business Studies

French (MFL)*

Music

Computer Science

Geography

Physical Education (PE)

Design and Technology

History

Spanish (MFL)*

Thai *MFL stands for ‘Modern Foreign Language’

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STUDENT CHOICE The Options and Careers Programme launched in September 2021 with the inaugural Year 9 cohort. The programme aims to contribute towards students’ development of the Wellington Identity – that they become independent, intellectual, inspired, inclusive, individuals. The importance of courage, one of our College Values, has remained a core theme throughout the academic year as we have supported students to look deeper into

their ambitions, exploring options and asking big questions of themselves and the world around them. Wellingtonians are reflective learners who are curious and ambitious. It is important that students own their choices by making decisions themselves in accordance with areas they really do want to explore at a more advanced level.

We know that choosing subjects you don’t enjoy is unlikely to result in success.

CHOOSING THE ‘RIGHT’ SUBJECTS The following list of questions has formed the basis of conversations with students, and we encourage them to take these questions (and answers) home to discuss further with family and friends and, of course, with individual subject teachers and tutors.

• • • • • •

What subjects do you like and why?

What subjects do you dislike and why?

What are you good at?

What have you been recommended to do by teachers?

How far ahead have you looked? What do you need to get there?

What skills do you have?

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT CHOOSE A SUBJECT: Students should not allow themselves to be influenced by:

• •

Whether they like or dislike their current teacher in a particular subject What their friends are choosing

As with all things in life, it is often helpful to talk things through. IGCSEs are new to students and many parents, but they are not new to us as teachers and educators. No question is too big or small – just ask.

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

CORE IGCSE SUBJECTS

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ENGLISH LITERATURE MATHEMATICS BIOLOGY CHEMISTRY PHYSICS THAI

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IGCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

“Write to be understood, speak to be heard, read to grow.”

Lawrence Clark Powell

OVERVIEW: This course develops students’ ability to communicate clearly, accurately, and effectively when speaking and writing; to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation; and to develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.

Students will also read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. This IGCSE also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.

Students will achieve one IGCSE grade in this subject.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: Inference; comprehension; summarising; analysis; evaluation; expression in writing and speaking; communication.

ASSESSMENT: Students will take two examinations, Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 is called the Reading paper and is assessed on three unseen texts. Students will be required to summarise, analyse and complete an extended writing question on one of the texts. Paper 2, Directed Writing and Composition, requires students to write in response to a text, and to write either a descriptive or narrative piece.

USEFUL LINKS: http://www.geoffbarton.co.uk/student-resources.php https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zr9d7ty http://www.englishbiz.co.uk/

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE

“Reading is the sole means by which we slip, involuntarily, often helplessly, into another’s skin, another’s voice, another’s soul.”

Joyce Carol Oates

OVERVIEW: This course enables students to read, interpret and evaluate texts through the study of literature in English. Students develop an understanding of literal meaning, relevant contexts and of the deeper themes or attitudes that may be expressed. Through their studies, they learn to recognise and appreciate the ways in which writers use English to achieve a range of effects, and will be able to present an informed, personal response to the material they have studied. The course also encourages the exploration of wider and universal issues, promoting students’ better understanding of themselves and of the world around them.

Students will achieve one IGCSE grade in this subject.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: Inference; critical thinking; comprehension; analysis; evaluation; articulation of a personal response.

ASSESSMENT: Students will sit three examinations, Paper 1, Paper 3 and Paper 4. Paper 1 assesses a set of poems students will have studied, as well as a prose text. Paper 3 is called the Drama paper and students will answer a question on a play they will have studied. Finally Paper 4 is an unseen paper in which students explore an unseen literary text.

USEFUL LINKS: YouTube: Mr Bruff; English Literature Hub; Melanie Kendry; Mrs Wheelan’s English Twitter: @Literature; @lancaster_words; @lithub; @duckworth_ms; @ElectricLit Instagram: @NYTBooks; @BraveLiteraryWorld; @ReesesBookClub; @ChronicleBooks

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IGCSE MATHEMATICS

“Mathematics knows no races or geographic boundaries; for mathematics, the cultural world is one country.”

David Hilbert

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS: 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 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. (Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics overview).

Students will study the core strands of: number, algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics. Problem solving and reasoning play a large part in investigations across all strands.

ASSESSMENT: Students will follow the extended curriculum, and sit two exams. Paper 2 lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, and is worth 35% of the qualification overall. It consists of short-answer questions. Paper 4 lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes, and is worth 65% of the qualification overall. It consists of longer, structured questions.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/tags/zrsg6v4/jobs-that-use-maths/1

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE BIOLOGY

“Biology is the science. Evolution is the concept that makes biology unique.”

Jared Diamond

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS: Biology is the outcome of all the scientific disciplines working together. It is the product that we can see, feel and touch. We use our understanding of the sciences of chemistry and physics to learn about life and about the interaction between all life on the planet. Nothing could be more exciting or more relevant than learning about the functions of the human body, about the brain, about the environment, evolution and about disease. The course contains core units on (1) The nature and variety of living organisms, (2) Structure and function of living organisms, (3) Reproduction and inheritance, (4) Ecology and the environment, (5) Use of biological resources.

All units will contain elements of theory as well as practical work. Core practicals are integrated into the content and will be assessed as part of a written exam at the end of Year 11.

Students pursuing Biology as a separate science will gain one IGCSE qualification in Biology.

SKILLS: Students will

•

acquire knowledge and understanding of biological facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques

•

appreciate the practical nature of biology, developing experimental and investigative skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques

• •

develop a logical approach to problem solving prepare for more advanced courses in biology and for other courses that require knowledge of biology.

ASSESSMENT: Students will sit two externally assessed exam papers.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.bbc.com/news/science_and_environment https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/scientific-field/biology/ https://careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/subject/biology https://www.sciencefriday.com/

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IGCSE CHEMISTRY

“Chemistry begins in the stars. The stars are the source of the chemical elements, which are the building blocks of matter and the core of our subject.”

Pete Atkins

OVERVIEW: During the course of two years, student will study, (1) Principles of Chemistry, (2) Inorganic Chemistry, (3) Physical Chemistry, and (4) Organic Chemistry. All units will contain elements of theory as well as practical work. Core practicals will be integrated into the content and will be assessed as part of a written examination in the summer of Year 11.

Students pursuing Chemistry as a separate science will gain one IGCSE qualification.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: Students will learn to: solve problems set in a practical content; apply scientific knowledge and understanding in questions with a practical context; devise and plan investigations, using scientific knowledge and understanding when selecting appropriate techniques; demonstrate or describe appropriate experimental and investigative methods, including safe and skilful practical techniques; make observations and measurements with appropriate precision, record these methodically and present them in appropriate ways; identify independent, dependent and control variable; use scientific knowledge and understanding to analyse and interpret data to draw conclusions from experimental activities that are consistent with the evidence; communicate the findings from experimental activities, using appropriate technical language, relevant calculations and graph; assess the reliability of an experiment activity; evaluate data and methods, taking into account factors that affect accuracy and validity.

ASSESSMENT: Students will sit two written papers.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.rsc.org/journals-books-databases/about-journals/chemical-science/ https://careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/subject/chemistry https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3LhNRJkh87w

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE PHYSICS

“In order to make an apple pie from scratch, you must f irst create the universe.”

Carl Sagan

OVERVIEW: Students will cover the following core units: (1) Forces and motion, (2) Electricity, (3) Waves, (4) Energy resources and energy transfers, (5) Solids, liquids and gases, (6) Magnetism and electromagnetism, (7) Radioactivity and particles, and (8) Astrophysics.

All units will contain elements of theory as well as practical work. Core practicals are integrated into the content and will be examined as part of a written exam at the end of Year 11.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: Students will: learn about unifying patterns and themes in physics and use them in new and changing situations; apply the principles and concepts of physics, including those related to the applications of physics, to different contexts; analyse, interpret and evaluate data and experimental methods, drawing conclusions that are consistent with evidence from experimental activities and suggesting possible improvements and further investigations; develop a logical approach to problem solving in a wider context; select and apply appropriate areas of mathematics relevant to physics as set out under each topic; prepare for more advanced courses in physics and for other courses that require knowledge of physics.

ASSESSMENT: Students will sit two written papers.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.iop.org/#gref https://careerpilot.org.uk/job-sectors/subject/physics

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IGCSE THAI (FIRST LANGUAGE)*

OVERVIEW: The course is for Thai national students who are able to read and write fluently. It incorporates both Thai language and Thai Social Studies. The course aims to (1) enable students to communicate accurately, appropriately, and effectively in writing, (2) enable students to understand and respond appropriately to what they read, (3) encourage students to enjoy and appreciate the variety of Thai language and culture, (4) complement the students’ other areas of study by developing skills of more general application (e.g., analysis, synthesis, drawing of inferences), and (5) promote the students’ personal development and an understanding of their own and others’ cultures.

The materials used are selected from a variety of Thai textbooks, news, magazines and journal articles, literature, and contemporary literature.

ASSESSMENT: All candidate take four papers which cover reading, directed writing and composition.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-thai-first-language-0518/

*Students will work towards this, or our equivalent, qualification in Thai.

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

NON-CORE (OPTIONAL) SUBJECTS

ART AND DESIGN BUSINESS STUDIES COMPUTER SCIENCE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY DRAMA FRENCH GEOGRAPHY HISTORY MANDARIN MUSIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION SPANISH

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IGCSE ART AND DESIGN

“The artist sees what others only catch a glimpse of.”

Leonardo Da Vinci

OVERVIEW: This course offers a broad choice of media and approaches so that students can produce a personal response based on their own interests. The broad areas of study are (1) drawing, painting, assemblage/ collage, printmaking and mixed media, (2) graphic communication, (3) three-dimensional design, (4) textiles and fashion, (5) photography.

The course will enhance student’s visual literacy, stimulate their aesthetic awareness, expand their knowledge and critical understanding of art, and provide opportunities to gain a wide range of practical and transferable skills.

ASSESSMENT: The course is assessed in two components. Component 1 is coursework and is worth 50% of the final mark. Students research, develop and realise a project from one or more areas of study and should explore a theme. Component 2 is the final outcome – a resolved piece of work that demonstrates breadth and depth of exploration and inquiry – and is worth the other 50% of the final mark.

USEFUL LINKS: http://www.thelonelypalette.com/ https://uppercasemagazine.com/ https://www.artspace.com/ https://www.artcuriouspodcast.com/artcuriouspodcast

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE BUSINESS STUDIES

OVERVIEW: IGCSE Business Studies develops students understanding of business activity in the public and private sectors, and of the importance of innovation and change. Students find out how the major types of business organizations are established, financed, and run, and how their activities are regulated. Factors influencing business decision-making are also considered, as are the essential values of cooperation and interdependence.

Students not only study business concepts and techniques but also enhance their skills in related areas such as numeracy and critical enquiry. The syllabus provides a foundation for further, A-level study in Business and/or Economics, and for the world of work.

THE BUSINESS CYCLE

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IGCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE

“Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn.”

Stephen Hawking

OVERVIEW: Students will cover (1) Theory of Computer Science: data representation, communication and internet technologies, hardware and software, security, ethics, and (II) Practical Problem Solving and Programming: algorithm design and problem solving, programming concepts, databases.

The aims and objectives of this IGCSE are to develop: computational thinking, that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes consideration of the data required; critical thinking and problem-solving skills; understanding of the main principles of solving problems by using computers; understanding that every computer system is made up of sub-systems, which in turn consist of further sub-systems; understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including software, data, hardware, communications and people; skills necessary to apply understanding to solve computer-based problems using a high-level programming language

ASSESSMENT: Candidates sit two externally assess exam papers. Paper 1: Theory (60% - 1 hour 45 minutes), and Paper 2: Problem-solving and Programming (40% - 1 hour 45 minutes)

USEFUL LINKS: https://techxplore.com/computer-sciences-news/ https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/computers_math/

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.”

Steve Jobs

OVERVIEW: This course enables students to identify, consider and solve problems through creative thinking, planning and design, and by working with different media, materials, and tools. As a result, learners gain greater technical and design awareness, while developing skills such as initiative, resourcefulness, enquiry, and ingenuity. Students also develop communication skills central to design making and evaluation.

All students study product design, and all students undertake a practical coursework project, specializing in one of the following three areas: resistant materials, systems and control, or graphic products.

ASSESSMENT: The qualification is assessed in four parts. All students take Paper 1: Product Design and undertake Component 2: Project. Students then sit one further exam in either resistant materials, systems and control, or graphic materials.

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IGCSE DRAMA

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”

William Shakespeare

OVERVIEW: In Drama, students develop an understanding and enjoyment of drama through practical and theoretical study. Students will study: the elements of practical drama; how to work with extracts from published plays as an actor, director and designer; how to devise, develop and structure their own original dramatic material from stimuli such as short titles, poems, pictures, songs, historical events and stories; how to evaluate their contribution to the devising process and the success of the final piece; how to use staging and design as part of a dramatic performance; individual and group performance skills and how they are applied to create character and communicate meaning to an audience.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: Students will develop: an interest in and enjoyment of drama and theatre; an understanding of the dramatic process of moving from script to performance skills in devising original drama; practical performance skills as individuals and within a group; an understanding of, and engagement with, the role of actor, director and designer in creating a piece of drama; an understanding of how performers communicate with an audience.

ASSESSMENT: There is a written exam which is worth 40% of the overall mark, and practical coursework component worth 60%. This consists of three pieces of practical work: an individual performance based on an extract from a play; a group performance based on an extract from a play; a group performance based on an original devised piece.

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE FRENCH*

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: The subject content is organised in 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 use the language effectively for practical communication and to gain an insight into countries and communities where French is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitude towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages.

The topic areas are (1) everyday activities, (II) personal and social life, (III) the world around us, (IV) the world of work, and (V) the international world.

During the two-year course, students will develop the key language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in French.

ASSESSMENT: Candidates take four exam and the end of the course. Paper 1: Listening; Paper 2: Reading; Paper 3 Speaking, and Paper 4: Writing.

*Please note IGCSE French is not offered ab initio. To choose this subject you must have studied French in Years 8 and 9 or have an equivalent background in French language.

USEFUL LINKS: https://apprendre.tv5monde.com/en https://lecoursdefrancais.weebly.com/ https://www.lepointdufle.net/

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IGCSE GEOGRAPHY

“Geography is a subject which holds the key to our future.”

Michael Palin

OVERVIEW: Throughout the course of IGCSE Geography, students will cover the following: Theme one Population and settlement: population dynamics; migration; population structure; population density and distribution; settlement (urban and rural) and service provision; urban settlements; urbanisation.

Theme two – The natural environment: earthquakes and volcanos; rivers; coasts; weather; climate and natural vegetation. Theme three – Economic development: development; food production; industry; tourism; energy; water; environmental risks of economic development.

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: The skills that students will develop as part of IGCSE Geography are: an understanding of location on a local, regional and global scale; an awareness of the characteristics, distribution and processes affecting contrasting physical and human environments; an understanding of the ways in which people interact with each other and with their environment; an awareness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different environments; an appreciation of and concern for the environment; an appreciation of the earth including its people, places, landscapes, natural processes and phenomena

ASSESSMENT: Students will be examined on two exam papers and one piece of course work. Paper 1: Geographical Themes (1 hour 45 minutes) (75 marks – 45% of overall weighting). Paper 2: Geographical Skills (1 hour 30 minutes) (60 marks – 27.5% of overall weighting). Component 3: (2000 words) (60 marks – 27.5% of overall weighting). Candidates answer one question, set by the student and teacher. Internally assessed.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.youtube.com/c/NatGeo https://www.youtube.com/natgeokidsplaylists https://m.youtube.com/c/ordnancesurvey

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE HISTORY

“We are not makers of History, we are made by History.”

Dr Martin Luther King

OVERVIEW: Students will cover the following sections: Section A: Core Content Option B - The Twentieth Century: international relations since 1919.

Were the peace treaties of 1919-23 fair? To what extent was the League of Nations a success? Why had international peace collapsed by 1939? Who was to blame for the Cold War? How effectively did the USA contain the spread of Communism? How secure was the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe, 1948-89? Why did events in the Gulf matter, 1970-2000?

Section B: Depth Study: Germany, 1918-45. Was the Weimar Republic doomed from the start? Why was Hitler able to dominate Germany by 1934? The Nazi Regime.

Section C: Depth Study: The United States, 1919-41. How far did the US economy boom in the 1920s? How far did US society change in the 1920s? What were the causes and consequences of the Wall Street Crash? How successful was the New Deal?

SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: An interest in and enthusiasm for learning about the past; acquisition of knowledge and understanding of individuals, people and societies in the past; develop knowledge rooted in an understanding of the nature and use of historical evidence; understanding of key historical concepts: cause and consequence, change and continuity, and similarity and difference; develop a sound basis for further study and the pursuit of personal interest; international understanding; development of historical skills, including investigation, analysis, evaluation and communication skills.

ASSESSMENT: Paper 1: Structed Essays (2 hours) (60 marks – 40% of overall weighting): Candidates answer two structured essay questions from Section A (Core Content – Option B) and one essay question from Section B (Depth Study). Paper 2: Source Based Questions (2 hours) (50 marks – 33% of overall weighting) Candidates answer six source-based questions on the prescribed topic from the Core Content - Option B. Component 3: Extended Essay (2000 words) (40 marks – 27% of overall weighting). Candidates answer one essay question on a Depth Study, the focus is on the issue of significance. Internally assessed.

USEFUL LINKS: https://m.youtube.com/user/timelinesTV https://m.youtube.com/c/Simplehistory https://m.youtube.com/c/TheArmchairHistorian

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IGCSE MANDARIN

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS: This course develops candidates’ ability in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Mandarin.

Candidates will gain a comprehensive coverage of the syllabus content including vocabulary and a full range of grammar and structure in a readable and interesting style. Content is explored through the syllabus topic areas of everyday activities, personal and social life, the world around us, the world of work and the international world. Candidates develop the skills of Reading, Listening, understanding Vocabulary, Grammar, Speaking, and Writing.

ASSESSMENT: Candidates will take four examinations, Paper1, Paper2, Paper3 and Paper4.

Paper1 - Listening - 30 marks: Candidates listen to a number of recordings and answer multiple-choice and matching questions. Paper2 - Reading - 40 marks: Candidates read a number of texts and answer multiple-choice and matching questions as well as questions requiring short answers. Paper3 - Speaking - 40 marks: Candidates complete one role play and conversations on two topics. Internally assessed.

Paper4 - Writing - 45 marks: Candidates complete one form-filling task, one directed writing task and one task in the format of an email/letter or article/blog. Externally assessed.

USEFUL LINKS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=nkKLteI_pu8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=XCKxjXTJ_y4

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE MUSIC

“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent.”

Victor Hugo

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS: Students will listen to, perform and compose music, encouraging aesthetic and emotional development, self-discipline and, importantly, creativity. As a result, students enhance their appreciation and enjoyment of music, an achievement that forms an ideal foundation for future study and enhances life-long musical enjoyment. Students study music of all styles; each style is placed in its historical and cultural context, and they are encouraged to be perceptive, sensitive, and critical when listening. Although the majority of the syllabus examines Western European music, the music of other cultures is always represented.

This syllabus offers students the opportunity to develop their own practical musical skills through performing and composing. They also develop their listening skills by studying music from the main historical periods and styles of Western music as well as from selected non-Western traditions. The emphasis of the syllabus is as much on developing lifelong musical skills as on acquiring knowledge.

Students will listen to and learn about music from a wide range of historical periods and major world cultures; develop their skills in performing music, both individually and in a group with other musicians; develop their skills in composing music in a style of their own choice.

ASSESSMENT: All candidates take three components: a Listening assessment; performing is worth 30% and includes two prepared performances, one individual and one ensemble; composing is worth 30%.

USEFUL LINKS: https://lso.co.uk/lso-discovery/digital-resources.html https://learningmusic.ableton.com/

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IGCSE PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PE)

“Physical f itness is not only the most important key to a healthy body, but also the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.”

John F. Kennedy

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS YOU WILL DEVELOP: The syllabus provides candidates with an opportunity to study the practical and theoretical aspects of Physical Education. It is designed to foster enjoyment in physical activity. The knowledge gained will enable candidates to develop an understanding of effective and safe physical performance. Candidates will study: anatomy and physiology; health, fitness and training; skill acquisition and psychology; social, cultural and ethical influences Candidates will also undertake four different physical activities chosen from at least two of the following seven: games; gymnastics; dance; athletics; outdoor and adventurous activities; swimming – multiple pool activities allowed; combat activities.

ASSESSMENT: Two components. Paper 1 is a 1-hour-45-minute exam composed of short and extended answers.

The second component involves the candidate’s selection of four activities from at least 2 areas on the above list. This is internally assessed by WCIB PE staff.

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IGCSE HANDBOOK

IGCSE SPANISH*

OVERVIEW AND SKILLS: The subject content is organised in 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 use the language effectively for practical communication and to gain an insight into countries and communities where Spanish is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitude towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages.

The topic areas are (1) everyday activities, (II) personal and social life, (III) the world around us, (IV) the world of work, and (V) the international world.

During the two-year course, students will develop the key language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish.

ASSESSMENT: Candidates take four exam and the end of the course.

Paper 1: Listening; Paper 2: Reading; Paper 3 Speaking, and Paper 4: Writing.

*Please note IGCSE Spanish is not offered ab initio. To choose this subject you must have studied Spanish in Years 8 and 9 or have an equivalent background in Spanish language.

FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS 2022

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