Options Booklet 2019-20

Jeddah Prep and




Grammar School



IGCSE Options










Information Booklet




2019-20

















1

Choosing Options for IGCSE


Our students choose their IGCSE options in the middle of Year 9. These are the subjects
they will study over two years at an extended level in Years 10 and 11. Students must

choose English Language and Literature, Mathematics, at least one Science and a
Second Language, plus 4 other subjects of choice from the option blocks.


Some selected students may be invited to study in the Fast Track Mathematics class.
This allows students to sit at their IGCSE Mathematics exam at the end of Year 10 and

then, grade dependent, continue with IGCSE Additional Mathematics in Year 11.
Similarly, certain students will be invited to also study IGCSE English Literature
alongside their English First Language programme of study, if they show a flair in this

area. Thus for our more able students, it is possible to obtain up to 10 IGCSE’s.

We aim to offer a broad and wide ranging school experience for our pupils at JPGS.

Therefore, students should have a good balance of Science and Arts subjects at IGCSE
level.



















































2

Years 10 & 11 – IGCSE


At JPGS, each subject currently follows the Cambridge CIE IGCSE syllabus. As a school
we have chosen this examination board as we feel it best suits our students in terms of

content and its suitability for students in an international context. Should the school
decide to change exam boards or allow different subjects to follow different exam
boards, then that will be a school decision. As such our students follow one set syllabus.


The students embark upon their two year IGCSE Extended programme at the beginning
of Year 10 and will sit their final examinations at the end of Year 11.


Why ‘Extended’ OR ‘Core’ – Mathematics?

At JPGS our students sit the extended level in subjects. In Mathematics, however, it is possible to
sit the Core paper. This paper is designed for students who struggle with mathematical concepts

but may be able to reach a C grade. For universities in the United Kingdom, it is required that
applicants reach a C grade in Mathematics and English, to gain entry into undergraduate degree
programmes. The difference in these papers is outlined in the table below.


















































3

Sitting a minimum of 8 IGCSE’s


The IGCSE exams are sat at the end of Key Stage 4 examinations. Their purpose is to show
how well a student has been able to master each subject up to this point in a range of

subject discipline areas. They are used as a guide for students as to what next steps they
should follow for Key Stage 5, whether that be vocational or whether they should move
onto further academic programmes such as A Level or the IB Diploma programme

(IBDP). In the UK the IGCSE’s are not used to gain entry onto a degree programme at
university and the IGCSE’s were never designed to be University entry certificates. In the
UK students applying for a degree course are generally required to have a minimum of 5

IGCSE’s including Mathematics and English at ‘C’ and above. Unless a student is applying
to Oxford or Cambridge, or Medicine, the universities generally only look to the results of

the pre-university courses (A Level) to make their offers.

The decision to sit a minimum of 8 IGCSE’s at the end of Year 11 is in line with the

educational norms of the UK. In order for students to be able to cope with the depth and
rigour of the A Level pre-university course, they need to demonstrate that they have a

solid educational foundation upon which to build. This means that they have been able
to cope in a range of subject areas and manage their time and priorities across a number
of subjects. It allows them to progress onto the next stage of their academic career.


It is important to remember that JPGS strives to
give pupils a broad choice. We offer an education

which opens pathways to International universities,
but we also push our students to achieve their
potential rather than secure the bare minimum.

We do not allow our students learning to plateau at
a level that will make the step into university too

difficult for them academically. In catering for the
International universities we ensure that all our
students have been exposed to the educational rigor

that prepares them for university life and beyond. Good learning practices are therefore
embedded from early on in the educational journey.










4

Year 9 Options process.


It is important that you make the right choices when choosing your option subjects for the IGCSE

courses, as you will study these for two years (Year 10 and Year 11).

The subjects you choose will impact on your future career and education choices. In school, we will

help and support you in making the right decisions. You need, of course, to involve your family
and your subject teachers (particularly of subjects that are new to you) when making your choices.
All staff will do their best to help you to make the choice best suited to your abilities, interests and

future plans.

Staff will also make sure that you are confident with the subjects you have chosen by meeting

individually with you and your parents to discuss your choices at the Options evenings and the one
on one Guided Choice Interviews. This will hopefully ensure they are the right subjects for you. We
want everyone to be happy and successful.


Please read the information in this booklet carefully as it will give you an insight into the subjects
that are available to you and help you choose wisely. If in doubt - just ask!


Subjects which are compulsory in Year 10:

English Language and English Literature.

Mathematics.


One Language: either French or Arabic.

One Science subject.

You must then choose 4 other subjects:


Biology Computer Science Sociology

Chemistry Geography Physics

History Business Economics

Art PE (IGCSE level) Music



Please note: students with high ability in Mathematics will be invited into the Fast Track Mathematics
class so that they can complete their IGCSE Mathematics at the end of Year 10 and then move onto

‘Additional Mathematics’ IGCSE in Year 11 , dependent on their final IGCSE grade.




5

Please note that for the next Academic year all pupils will study both the IGCSE English Language
and IGCSE English Literature courses, in preparation for dual entry into both exams during the

exam session of Year 11 in May/ June. These courses will be taught simultaneously in the allocated
English lessons.


How do you choose?

Think carefully about your answers to the following questions.


1. What career do you want to follow?
We all have fantasies about being a millionaire, a star football player or a film star; but this is
the moment to put these ideas aside. Your parents, probably, will have quite definite ideas

about what they want you to be; and, if their ideas and yours do not agree, it is important
that you discuss this with them. They have experience on their side and they have legitimate
ambitions for you. They can advise you and warn you of pitfalls that you may have not

considered. However, you will know whether you really want to follow your idea or whether
it is just a whim. You will also know how strong or weak you are in certain subjects which
might be absolutely necessary for your career.


2. What subjects do you need for the profession (s) you are interested in?
Find out what subjects you need in order to go into a particular profession (the next page

gives you a few ideas for the most popular types of degree). Ask your teachers and ask
relatives / friends who may already be following the career you are thinking about. Look up
information on the Internet – all universities have prospectuses which can tell you the

subjects and grades you’ll need for courses you might be interested in. Be pro-active and take
positive action!


3. Am I choosing my subjects for the right reasons or am I being swayed by the wrong reasons?
Wrong reasons can be:
I want to be in the same class as my friends.
I do not like the teacher who teaches the subject I really want to do.
I want to do this subject because everyone says it is easy.

4. Be honest with yourself. Do you have the ability to take this subject?

You know in your heart the answer; but, if in doubt, ask the teacher who knows you, and
knows the subject you are considering. Be prepared for them to be brutally honest with
you!









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5. If you know what career you want to follow, you will probably find it easy to choose three or four

options. What to do about the last options?
Is there a subject which is new to you and which sounds interesting? If so, find out about it.
It might be a subject that apparently has no connection with the other subjects: perhaps it
might be fun to escape from those subjects and study something completely different. Is there

any reason why an Engineer should not have knowledge of History? But: does a Doctor really
need to have studied Economics, or is there something that might be better?



You are now entering an important phase in your education at JPGS. The options you elect to study
will take you through Years 10 and 11. At the end of these two years you will take IGCSEs in eight
to ten subjects. With these subjects, you will be able to go on to study AS and A level (hopefully at
JPGS; but in other countries as well) and then go on to University. With a combination of good
IGCSE passes, AS (year 12) and A-Level passes (year 13), you will have the necessary qualifications
for university entry. At IGCSE level it is regarded as a higher level pass if you obtain any of the
following grades: A*, A, B, C.




























































7

Entry to the UK or USA University systems


For entry on to a Degree course in the UK,
universities make conditional offers based
upon full A Level results (A/S and A/2
combined). In general, they request a ‘suitable
range’ of IGCSE subjects at grade ‘C’ and
above, including Mathematics and English.
Usually, 5 IGCSEs is considered enough because they are more interested in the results of your
pre-university programme (A Level).


However; you must check the requirements for each university! For certain Degrees, there are
certain expectations of IGCSE choices:


 Medicine / Dentistry / Veterinary / Pharmacy (and all things related): 3 Sciences at IGCSE
are required: Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

 Architecture: Mathematics, Physics (often specified), Art / DT (often advised), or a portfolio
to showcase the level of your work.

 Engineering: Mathematics and then the Science pertaining to your specialisation in
Engineering: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.

 Computer Science: Mathematics, Physics (often mentioned).


Of course, you need to have an idea of a career path; as in order to select certain subjects at A Level,
you will be expected to have an IGCSE in that subject also. So, if you have not taken Physics at
IGCSE, you could not then join the Physics A Level class.


US Universities will require all students to take the SAT test and
TOEFL. Once you apply they usually make offers based on the
transcript of your grades for the past 3 years: so that will include
your performance throughout Year 10 as well as your final IGCSE
results. Again each college and course has its own requirements so
you need to start looking early. However, it is worth noting that
often US universities will give credits to students entering on the
back of an IB Diploma or full A Level qualification, often meaning
you will skip Year 1.





The following pages give you information about the different subjects on offer.





8

IGCSE English Language




English Language is compulsory for all pupils.

Course description:
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)
This is a skills based qualification and does not involve the study of any literature texts. There is no
single ‘correct’ English Language IGCSE textbook that should be used. It is generally agreed that
the best approach to learning First Language English is to study a variety of books, articles,
newspapers, magazines, as well as the internet; also to use recordings (to develop listening) and
oral activities (to develop speaking).

Learners will investigate and produce both fictional and non-fiction texts, including narratives,
speeches, interviews, articles and letters, allowing students to see the relevance of English in all
aspects of life. They will evaluate texts; summarising and analysing the writer’s use of language.
There is also a creative writing part of this qualification where students will learn to produce
narrative and descriptive texts. Students will also enliven and develop their own presentation and
discussion skills by performing a range of verbal activities.


The aims are to enable students to:
 Read a wide range of texts fluently and with good understanding; enjoying and appreciating
a variety of English language
 Read critically, and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve their
own writing
 Write accurately and effectively, using Standard English
 Work with information and with ideas in language by developing skills of evaluation,
analysis and interpreting 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.

There are two components to the Cambridge IGCSE course undertaken at JPGS:

1. Paper 1 Reading Passages (50% of final grade)
2. Paper 2 Directed Writing and Composition (50% of final grade)

Grades A*, A, B, C, D, E, F or G indicate the standard a candidate achieved at First Language English
Cambridge IGCSE.

All pupils will also sit a Speaking and Listening Test:
This is marked separately from the rest of the syllabus and you will receive a separate grade for this.
It involves a compulsory individual presentation and following discussion and is worth 40 marks
overall and is graded from 1 (high) to 5 (low).
Examined in May 2022.

9

IGCSE English Literature



English Literature is compulsory for all pupils.

Course description:
Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English (0475)
Cambridge IGCSE Literature offers learners the opportunity to read, interpret, evaluate and
respond to a range of literature in English. The range includes drama, prose and poetry from a
variety of time periods and authors. This course enables learners to deepen their understanding and

appreciation of the ways in which writers use English to express meaning and achieve effects.
Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English will stimulate learners to read for pleasure and to explore

wider and universal issues, promoting a better understanding of themselves and the world.

The syllabus enables learners to read, interpret and evaluate texts through the study of literature in
English. Learners 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 syllabus also encourages the
exploration of wider and universal issues, promoting

learners’ better understanding of themselves and of the world around them.

There are three components to the Cambridge Literature in English IGCSE course undertaken at
JPGS:

1. Paper 1 Poetry (Carol Ann Duffy) and Prose (A Separate Peace by John Knowles)
1 hour 30 minutes examination (50% of final grade)
Two questions on two texts: One poetry and one prose. Externally assessed.

2. Paper 3 Drama (The Crucible by Arthur Miller)
45 minutes examination (25% of final grade)

This paper has one question on the text The Crucible by Arthur Miller. Externally
assessed.

3. Paper 4 Unseen

1 hour 15 Minutes Examination (25% of final grade)
One question from a choice of two previously unseen texts, poetry or prose.
Externally assessed.


Examined in May 2021.
10

IGCSE Mathematics





Mathematics is a compulsory subject at this level and the routes followed are:


1. The majority of our students will follow a two year
course and will sit either the core or the extended IGCSE
exam in the final term of Year 11.

2. A select group* of students will follow the Fast Track
IGCSE course and will sit the extended exam in the final
term of Year 10. These students will then follow the
Additional Mathematics course (dependent on their
final IGCSE grade) which provides an excellent
preparation for the further study of advanced mathematics in the sixth form. (*This group which will
comprise of students based on Department recommendations, will have completed the first year of the
IGCSE course by the end of Year 9)

The children are in four ability groups and all initially follow the extended course. Later on there may be a
core group created depending on the needs of the children in a particular year.


In-class support is provided where there is a greater need and children are also encouraged to come to the
‘drop in’ mathematics support club after school for extra help.

Assessment of work


The examination involves two written question papers (35 % and 65% weighting). The examination papers
are differentiated and you will be entered at one of two tiers: Core or Extended.

Core Components: Paper 1 (35%) 1 hour Paper 3 (65%) 2 hours Calculators required Grades Available: C, D,
E, F, G


Extended Components: Paper 2 (35%) 1 hour 30 minutes Paper 4 (65%) 2 hours 30 minutes Calculators
required Grades available: A*, A, B, C, D, E

It is a requirement of the Examining Board that you should be entered for the papers appropriate to your
level of ability. Failure to observe this means that you run a very high risk of being unclassified in the
assessment.

Further study: Additional Mathematics, AS and A-level Mathematics. The JPGS Mathematics Department
encourages pupils to develop their understanding of Mathematics, promoting confidence and enjoyment.
Students think and communicate mathematically - precisely, logically and creatively, and can apply their
mathematical knowledge and understanding to solve problems of an appropriately challenging nature. All
pupils are encouraged to reach their potential in Mathematics and develop a high level of confidence and
sound Numerical ability. This is achieved through a wide range of teaching methods and resources ranging
from investigation to teacher-led learning.






11

.


IGCSE Sciences


It is advisable that only students who maintain consistent A*- B grades in each of the three disciplines at KS3
Science take all three Sciences as an option: or else it may become too difficult to cope with at KS4


IGCSE Biology


With an emphasis on human biology, the Cambridge IGCSE Biology syllabus helps learners to
understand the technological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and
scientific developments. Learners gain an understanding of the basic principles of Biology through
a mix of theoretical and practical studies. They also develop an understanding of the scientific skills
essential for further study at Cambridge International AS and A Level, which are useful in everyday
life.


A study of Biology can prepare you for a career in the science and health sectors. You also develop
a range of transferable skills.


Jobs related to Biology include:


 Clinical molecular geneticist
 Nature conservation officer
 Pharmacologist
 Research scientist (life sciences)
 Research scientist (medical)
 Soil scientist
 Dentist
 Medical Doctor


Please contact the Head of Department or a Biology teacher for further information.


IGCSE Chemistry

The Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry syllabus enables learners to understand the technological world

in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. Learners
gain an understanding of the basic principles of Chemistry through a mix of theoretical and practical
studies. They also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study at

Cambridge International AS and A Level, skills which are useful in everyday life.

Studying Chemistry allows you to develop subject-specific and transferable skills, which are valued

by all employers, meaning your future career doesn't have to be in a laboratory!







12

Jobs directly related to Chemistry include:


 Analytical chemist
 Chemical engineer
 Clinical biochemist
 Forensic scientist
 Pharmacologist
 Research scientist
 Science writer
 Toxicologist


IGCSE Physics


The Cambridge IGCSE Physics syllabus helps learners to understand the technological world in

which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. They learn
about the basic principles of Physics through a mix of theoretical and practical studies. Learners
also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study at Cambridge
International AS and A Level, skills which are useful in everyday life.

While a study in Physics is based in practical work, it also includes a good deal of theoretical
learning, preparing you for research-based roles and positions in the other sciences, as well as
business and finance.


Jobs related to Physics include:


 Geophysicist/field Seismologist
 Higher Education Lecturer
 Medical Physicist
 Radiation Protection Practitioner
 Research Scientist (physical sciences)
 Scientific Laboratory Technician
 Systems Developer


Exam Requirements for ALL IGCSE Sciences:


The examination involves three written question papers (30 %; 50% and 20% weighting). The examination
papers are differentiated and you will be entered at one of two tiers: Core or Extended. It is a requirement
of the Examining Board that you should be entered for the papers appropriate to your level of ability.
Incorrect entry may result in the student obtaining a U grade.

Core: Components: Paper 1 Multiple Choice Questions (30%) 45 mins; Paper 2 (50%) 1 hour 15 mins; and a
practical component Paper 6 (20%) 1 hour. Grades Available: C, D, E, F, G

Extended: Components: Paper 1 Multiple Choice Questions (30%) 45 mins; Paper 2 (50%) 1 hour 15 mins;
Paper 4 1 hour 15 mins; and a practical component Paper 6 (20%) 1 hour. Grades Available: A*,A, B, C, D,
E, F, G



13

IGCSE Business




IGCSE Business Studies is a subject that teaches students the knowledge, understanding and critical

awareness on how businesses and organizations operate.

Students gain the following knowledge and skills on;

 An understanding of different forms of business
organisations, the environments in which businesses
operate and business functions such as marketing,
operations and finance.

 An appreciation of the critical role of people in
business success.

 The confidence to calculate and interpret business data.

 Communication skills including the need to support arguments with reasons.

 An ability to analyse business situations and reach decisions or judgements.

The IGCSE Business Studies syllabus consists of the following topics:-



 Understanding business activity
 People in business
 Marketing
 Operations management
 Financial information and financial decisions
 External influences on business activity


Paper 1 Short Answer Questions (50%) 1hour 30 mins

Paper 2 Case Study (50%) 1 hour 30 mins

Please contact any of the Business teachers for further information.











14

IGCSE Economics



IGCSE Economics students gain the following lifelong skills;



 Develop knowledge and understanding of economic terminology, principles and theories.

 Develop basic economic numeracy and literacy and an ability to handle simple data including
graphs and diagrams.

 Develop an ability to use the tools of economic analysis in particular situations.

 Learn how to identify and discriminate between differing sources of information and how to
distinguish between facts and value judgments in economic issues.

 Develop an ability to use economic skills (with reference to individuals, groups and organizations
to understand better the world in which we live.

 Develop an understanding of the economies of developed and developing nations and of the
relationships between them; and to develop an
appreciation of these relationships from the
perspective of both developed and developing
nations.


The IGCSE Economics syllabus consists of the
following topics:-

1. The Basic Economics Problem: choice and the
allocation of resources
2. The allocation of resources: how markets work; market failure
3. Individual as producer, consumer and borrower
4. The firm as a producer and employer
5. The Role of government in an economy
6. Economic Indicators
7. Developed and developing economies: trends in production, population and living standards
8. International aspects



Assessment objectives The assessment has two components

 Knowledge with understanding Paper 1: Multiple choice (45m) 30% of the total marks
 Analysis Paper 2: Structured questions (2h 15m) 70% of the
 Critical evaluation and decision- total marks
making
All student must take both papers and are eligible for
grades A* to G



Please contact any of the Economics teachers for further information




15

IGCSE Sociology





Course Overview:


The Cambridge IGCSE Sociology syllabus enables learners to understand the relationship between
the individual and society, and take an informed interest in the process of carrying out research and
methods used to influence social policy.


Cross-Curricular Links:


Sociology allows you to develop subject-specific and transferable skills, which are valued by all
employers. Links are made to fields such as; statistical math, socio-biology, socio-psychology, and
law.


Jobs:

Social Worker, Childcare, Law Enforcement, Rehabilitation Counseling, Public Relations,
Marketing/Sales, Journalism, Teacher, Media


Course: IGCSE (0495)


Paper 1
Unit 1: Theory and Methods

Unit 2: Culture, Identity, and Socialisation
Unit 3: Social Inequality


Paper 2:
Unit 4: Family
Unit 5: Education

Unit 6: Crime, Deviance and Social Control
Unit 7: Media

Assessment:


Paper 1: 2 hours (15 minutes reading time) - Percentage: 54%


Paper 2: 1 hour 45 minutes (15 minutes reading time) - Percentage: 46%

Please contact a Sociology teacher for further information.



16

IGCSE Geography




‘Geography is the subject which holds the key to our future.’ Michael Palin


Studying Geography at IGCSE level will introduce the students to the world around them. They consider
where and why settlements have been chosen and the impact of human behaviour on the physical
environment. Furthermore students will use their skills to interpret and analyse geographical information.


What the students will study:

Paper 1 - 1 hour 45 minutes: Geographical Themes


Students answer three questions, each worth 25 marks. The paper has three sections and each section will
be based on Themes 1, 2 or 3. Candidates must answer one question from each section:

* Theme 1: Population and settlement


* Theme 2: The natural environment


* Theme 3: Economic development

(75 marks, weighted to 100 marks = 45%)


Paper 2 - 1 hour 30 minutes Geographical Skills

Students answer all the questions. The paper is based on testing the interpretation and analysis of
geographical information, decision making and the application of graphical and other techniques as
appropriate. The questions will not require specific information about places but will require the use of a
1:25 000 or 1:50 000 map with a key. (60 marks = 27.5%)


Paper 4 - 1 hour 30 minutes Alternative to Coursework

Students answer two compulsory questions, completing a series of written tasks. The field work scenarios
for the two questions will be taken from different aspects of the Syllabus content. The questions involve an
appreciation of a range of techniques used in fieldwork studies. (60 marks = 27.5%)

Geography graduates have one of the highest rates of graduate employment, pursuing a wide range of
career paths. Put simply, there is no such thing as a geography job; rather there are multiple jobs that
geographers do.


Going places with Geography: Please look at the following site which outlines possible career
destinations for students that pursue studies in Geography:
http://www.rgs.org/OurWork/Study+Geography/Going+places+with+geography.htm







17

IGCSE History



"Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it." George Santayana

Studying History at IGCSE level will challenge students’ ability to think and
critically evaluate the past. They will gain a better understanding of how
and why our world is in its current state. It is a challenging and academic
option but one that is highly regarded by universities and future employers
alike. Most importantly it lends itself to many debates and is most enjoyable.

What will I study?


This course looks at the 20th Century Modern World. We begin with the peace at the end of World War I and
finish with the first Iraq war. Within this period students will also take in Depth Study examining a particular
country and particular time period in deeper detail.


Paper 1 – 2hrs 40%
The Core topics covered are:
Were the Peace Treaties 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 Communism?
How secure was the Soviet Union’s control over Eastern Europe 1948-c.1989?
Why did events in the Gulf matter c.1970- 2000?

Depth study
Students taking History will study
Germany 1918-45
Their depth study will be examined in both Paper 1 and Paper 4

Paper 2 - 2hrs 33%


This is a paper based totally around the students’ skill and ability to investigate and evaluate evidence. They
are asked to compare, consider the nature, origin and purpose and evaluate how this may affect its reliability
and utility.




Paper 4 - 1 hour 27%


Candidates answer one question on the Depth Study


Careers: Employers value highly the research, analytical, teamwork and communication skills that
history students develop throughout their studies. Please view the following website for more
information: https://www.history.org.uk/student/resource/2914/careers-in-history


18

IGCSE Art




Students choosing to take Art and Design in Year 10 will be following the Cambridge IGCSE syllabus. This
will take up all of year 10 and the first two terms in year 11. The completed portfolios will be sent to
Cambridge in April of the 2nd year. All pupils will sit an 8 hour exam in the 2nd term of year 11.

The Art and Design course encourages personal expression, imagination, sensitivity, conceptual thinking,
powers of observation, an analytical ability and practical attitudes. Learners will have opportunities to gain
a greater understanding of the role of the visual arts in the history of civilisations, and so widen and enrich
their cultural horizons through gallery visits and work experience. Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design
complements literary, mathematical, scientific and factual subjects. It is especially concerned with the
development of visual perception and aesthetics and is a form of communication and a means of expressing
ideas and feelings.


Students will learn to develop the following:

• An ability to record from direct observation and personal experience
• An ability to identify and solve problems in visual and/or other forms
• Creativity, visual awareness, critical and cultural understanding
• An imaginative, creative and personal response
• Confidence, enthusiasm and a sense of achievement in the practice of art and design
• Growing independence in the refinement and development of ideas and personal outcomes
• Engagement and experimentation with a range of media, materials and techniques, including new media
and technologies, where appropriate
• Experience of working in relevant frameworks and exploration of manipulative skills necessary to form,
compose and communicate in two and/or three dimensions
• A working vocabulary relevant to the subject and an interest in, and a critical awareness of, other
practitioners, environments and cultures
• Investigative, analytical, experimental, interpretative, practical, technical and expressive skills which aid
effective and independent learning. Cambridge IGCSE Art & Design has been designed to offer a broad
choice of media and approaches so that candidates can produce a personal response and schools can play
to their strengths in terms of staff expertise and interests.

The broad areas of study are:

• Painting and related media
• Print making
• Three-dimensional design
• Photography, digital and lens-based media
• Graphic communication
• Textiles and fashion.

Candidates can respond to either component using any of the media above.


Please contact the Head of Department or your Art teacher for further information.




19

IGCSE Computer Science



Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science learners study the principles and practices of computing and gain
confidence in computational thinking and programming. They learn to program by writing computer code
and they develop their understanding of the main principles of problem-solving using computers.
Learners apply their understanding to develop computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms
and a high level programming language. They also develop a range of technical skills, as well as the ability
to test effectively and to evaluate computing solutions. This qualification helps learners appreciate current
and emerging computing technologies and the benefits of their use. They learn to recognise the ethical
issues and potential risks when using computers.


You will learn:


 What a computer system is and what it is made up of.
 How data is stored in a computer.
 How hackers work and how to protect computer
systems against them.
 How to use the Python programming language to create
computer programs.


Assessment at a glance:

Component 1- Paper 1 Theory - Written paper, 1 hour 45 minutes, paper weighting - 60%, 75 marks.


 All questions are compulsory.
 No calculators are permitted in this paper.


Component 2- Paper 2 Problem solving and Programming - Written paper, 1 hour 45 minutes, paper
weighting - 40% - 50 marks.


 This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. All questions are compulsory.
20 of the marks for this paper are from questions set on the pre-release material.
 No calculators are permitted in this paper.

Aims

 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus aims are to develop:
 Computational thinking that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes
consideration of the data required
 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.




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IGCSE Physical Education




Universities and employers accept Cambridge IGCSE Physical Education as proof that candidates have
knowledge, skills and an understanding of a range of relevant physical activities. Candidates’ knowledge,
skills and understanding come from studying both practical and theoretical aspects of Physical Education.

Successful IGCSE Physical Education students gain lifelong skills, including:
• An ability to plan, perform, analyze, improve and evaluate physical activities.
• Knowledge, skills and understanding of a range of relevant physical activities.
• An understanding of effective and safe performance.
• An understanding of the role of sport and physical activity in society and in the wider world.
• An excellent foundation for advanced study.
• An enjoyment of physical activity.


Assessment at a glance:


The syllabus provides candidates with an opportunity to
study both the practical and theoretical aspects of Physical
Education. It is also designed to foster enjoyment in physical
activity. The knowledge gained should enable candidates to
develop an understanding of effective and safe physical
performance.


Candidates will study all of the following topics:
1: Anatomy and physiology
2: Health, fitness and training
3: Skill acquisition and psychology
4: Social, cultural and ethical influences
Candidates will also undertake four different physical
activities chosen from at least two of the seven categories.

Physical activities make a significant contribution to
syllabus aims and objectives, serving as a source of material
to facilitate learning.














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IGCSE Arabic





The aim of IGCSE Arabic is to develop an ability to use the language effectively for the purposes of practical
communication. The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing,
and these are built on as student’s progress through their studies. The syllabus also aims to offer insights
into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken, thus encouraging positive
attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of foreign languages.
















The IGCSE Arabic syllabus encourages students to develop lifelong skills, including:

• The ability to use a foreign language as a means of practical communication
• Insight into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken
• A positive attitude towards language learning, towards the speakers of other languages, and towards other
cultures and civilisations
• Techniques which can be applied to other areas of learning, such as analysis and memory skills
• A sound foundation for progression to employment or further study.


All students have access to all elements of the examination. However, for the examination to be appropriate
to candidates across the full ability range, separate options are available for Foreign Language Arabic
students and First Language Arabic students.


Why study Arabic?


Arabic is the official language of over 20 countries and there are well over 300 million native speakers of the
language. These speakers are largely concentrated in the Middle East, but there are minority groups of native
speakers throughout the world. It is also an official language of the United Nations, the Arab League, the
Organisation of Islamic Conference, and the African Union. Relatively few Westerners ever venture to learn
Arabic. With the growing importance of the Middle East in international affairs, there is thus an extreme
shortage of workers in the West who are versed in Arabic language and culture. Those who study Arabic
can find careers in a variety of fields: journalism, business and industry, education, finance and banking,
translation and interpretation, consulting, foreign service and many others.











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IGCSE French






When you learn French you have a skill at your fingertips which
enables you to communicate effectively with people from
another culture. You also develop a positive attitude to language
learning and, not forgetting, of course it will be fun!

You will focus on the four skills of listening, speaking, reading
and writing and be assessed on your understanding and

response to spoken and written language and your ability to
speak the language effectively. Of course you will also need to
show knowledge of a range and variety of vocabulary and apply the grammar and structures of French as
accurately as possible.

We will be learning French through the following topics (but there will also be the opportunity to learn
through a topic of your own choice):


1. Everyday activities; home life; school life; what you eat and drink;
your health and fitness
2. Your personal and social life; your family and personal relationships;
holidays and special occasions
3. The world around us; your home town and local area; the natural and

made environment; people, places and customs.
4. The world of work; continuing education; careers and employment;
language and communication in the work place
5. The international world; tourism at home and abroad; life in other
countries and communities; world events and issues




Hopefully this all sounds good! Knowledge of at least one other language is a valuable asset in the work
place and will make you increasingly more marketable in your future career.



Please contact your French teacher for further information.














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IGCSE Music





Aims of the course:

 To listen to, perform and
compose music

 To develop an historical

and cultural awareness of
different types of music

 To acquire and consolidate
a range of musical skills,
knowledge and

understanding





Why study music?
Structure of the course:
By studying music you will
Component 1: Listening
1 hour 15 minute exam develop a range of skills
including: self-discipline, inter-
Topics covered: Western
personal skills, confidence and
Classical tradition and world
genres (African and Arab, Latin creativity. You will also gain an

American, Chinese, Japanese, appreciation of different cultures
Indian, and Indonesian) from around the world.
70 marks Oxford University has expressed,

40% of final grade “Teaching, performance and arts
administration are among the

Component 2: Performance popular destinations for Music
2 performances (solo and graduates, but others include
ensemble)
broadcasting, publishing, law,
50 marks politics and the Civil Service.”
30% of final grade


Component 3: Composition
2 contrasting compositions “Without music, life would be

100 marks (scaled to 50)
a mistake”
30% of final grade
- Friedrich Nietzsche







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