IGCSE Course Selection EN final 1

IGCSE 1PAGE

Welcome from the Academic Affairs

Foreword

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to our “Zhi Hui” Handbook which
outlines for Year 9 and Year 10 programmes
of study from academic year 2017-18. The
name “Zhi Hui” refers to the end of our
Shanghai Plus curriculum in Year 9 to our
International Plus curriculum in Year 10, in
which they will complete a number of
International General Certificate of
Secondary Education (IGCSEs) to prepare
them for the International Baccalaureate
Diploma Programme (IBDP).

The “Zhi Hui” program allows students to meet the requirements of Chinese courses, while
integrating some IGCSE content where possible. All students will complete a YK Pao School Zhong
Kao examination, in which students will be tested to determine if they are ready to progress to
International Plus and enter the Senior Secondary Division.

The school adopted Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) as it’s examination board as it is
the largest and most established IGCSE provider in the world. For IGCSE, students pick particular
subjects that they can develop the necessary skills and content to be successful in, as a solid
foundation for the IB Diploma.

We are very proud of our IGCSE programme which has delivered excellent and improving results
for the past two years, with students now achieving “top in the world” awards in Chinese First
Language and Mathematics. We hope that your child enjoys our program and a pursuit of academic
excellence as we strive for our students to be the best in the world.

This handbook serves to outline the IGCSE subjects offered by the school and provides an
overview of the subject specific requirements for assessments. We hope you find the information
useful, and, if you have any questions, please contact our subject teachers or school
administrators.

Sincerely,

Lee Sanders Amy Donald
Dean of Academic Affairs IGCSE Coordinator

IGCSE 2PAGE

Zhi Hui Introduction

Each student’s IGCSE selection will In addition to English, Chinese and Mathematics,
comprise a number of compulsory which must be taken by all pupils, students are
subjects, and a range of electives asked to number the optional subjects in order of
(optional subjects). There are also preference.
Extra Depth qualifications available in
core subjects such as English 1. Students should indicate their first choice and
Literature and Additional Mathematics. second choice of option. If a subject proves to be
However, this requires a lot of extra unavailable then the student will automatically be
work and will only be offered to those entered for the next preferred option.
students who have shown outstanding
ability in the subject and will be 2.Students must choose at least two separate
selected by subject teachers’ Science subjects; one subject from the Humanities
professional judgment. block, and one subject from the Options block.

Chinese, English, and Mathematics, 3.Parents and students should note that the final
Science and a Humanities subject will choice of the subjects has to meet with the
be offered as part of a core program. approval of the school. When making the final
However, pupils will be entered for decision, the school will take into consideration the
either First Language or Second student’s ability and attitude.
Language English and Chinese based
on their level of language proficiency. We aim to ensure that every student gets his or her
In addition, students will have to first choice; however, this cannot be guaranteed. It
choose one humanities subject. is also possible that subjects will not be run if they
only attract a small number of students, in which
case we will take the students’ next preferred
option.

IGCSE 3PAGE

Year 9 Zhong Kao Requirements

Year 9 provides a unique mixture of 12 Shanghai Curriculum and IGCSE subjects. Students will gain the
benefit of studying in Chinese and English to deepen their knowledge and broaden their vocabulary
while meeting the requirements of compulsory education.Throughout Year 9 and in all subject areas,
teachers pay close attention to providing excellent preparation for IGCSE studies in Year 10.

Core Courses Extension and Research Courses
Chinese (ZK Curriculum) IGCSE Science Courses
English (based on IGCSE) IGCSE Humanities Courses
English Literature (YKPS designed course IGCSE Arts Courses
to prepare for IBDP)
Mathematics (ZK and IGCSE integrated)
Physics (ZK Curriculum)
Chemistry (ZK Curriculum)
Society and Politics (ZK Curriculum)
Character Education (Beijing Curriculum)
Physical Education (ZK Curriculum)

- In order to graduate from Junior Secondary School to Senior Secondary School, all students will have

Requirements for Successful Completion of
Year 9

Attendan Sufficient Attendance of all required
ce of courses including PE and Character
Courses Education

Examinati Successfully score above 60% in
ons in the following courses: English,
Core Chinese, Mathematics, Physics,
Courses Chemistry, PE and Society.

Extension By the end of the academic year,
and attain grade D or better in YK Pao
Research School examinations
Courses

IGCSE 4PAGE

IGCSE SUBJECTS

All students will take the following combination of subjects to gain the ICE (International Certificate of
Education) Diploma and a minimum of 7 IGCSEs:
Chinese First Language (0500) or Chinese Second Language (0508)*
English First Language (0500) or English Second Language (0510)
Mathematics (0580)

ADDITIONAL DEPTH QUALIFICATIONS

Additional Mathematics (0606) - taken by all students who achieve A or A* in IGCSE Mathematics
OPTION SUBJECTS

Science (choose two) Humanities (choose one) Option (choose one)

Biology (0610) History (0470) Physical Education (0413)
Chemistry (0620) Geography (0460) Sociology (0495)
Business Studies (0450) Art (0400)
Physics (0625)
Computer Science (0478)
Drama (0411)
Music (0410)

* Mandarin Foreign Language may be offered to those students who are very new to the Chinese
Language.

IGCSE 5PAGE

Submitting Choices

You need to complete the options form and hand it to the Academic Affairs office by April 7th 2017.
Should a students’ first choice selection not be available, we will notify the student that we will select
their next preferred choice.

Changing Subjects

It is normal for students to be unsure about some subjects, particularly those they have not studied
before. As such, it is possible to request a change to your subject choices after the form has been
submitted. Any request must take the form of a letter outlining the reasons for the proposed change
signed by the parent/guardian. This should be handed to the IGCSE Coordinator as soon as
possible.

However, please bear in mind that some subjects may become full, and changing into a certain class
may not be possible. After the end of September students will no longer be able to change into a
subject, however, if a student is really struggling with a subject there will be opportunities to drop
subjects later in the course.

IGCSE 6PAGE

The total cost of a student’s IGCSE As a guide, fees for an
examinations will vary depending on average students’ IGCSEs
the number of subjects they take and were approximately 6600
the exchange rate at the time of RMB.
payment. This is usually asked for in Certificates will only be
the February and March of Year 10. In released to students and
2017, each IGCSE will cost: parents when full payment
has been made.
Single Subjects – $120

Example for a student: Cost
US$120
Subject US$120
First Language Chinese (0509) US$120
First Language English (0500) US$120
Mathematics (0580) US$120
Additional Mathematics (0608) US$120
Biology (0610) US$120
Chemistry (0620) US$120
History (0470) US$960
Physical Education (0413)
Total

IGCSE 7PAGE

IGCSE &IBDP


After completing their IGCSEs students will complete the final stage of their education with YKPSSD,
the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). For those wishing to go on to tertiary
education, it is important they make the right choices for their IBDP.

At IBDP students are asked to take six subjects: three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard
Level (SL). For progression to IB Diploma, students are expected to attain a minimum of 6 B grades
in their IGCSEs with additional requirements stated below:


i. a minimum of grade B in IGCSE for all Higher Level subjects, except Mathematics;

ii. a minimum of Grade A in IGCSE Additional Mathematics for Higher Level Mathematics.


For students who do not meet the above course selection requirements but achieved a minimum of 6C
grades in the IGCSE are advised to opt to complete IB Certificates. They will be able to select 3 HL and
3 SL courses, but will not be entered for the Core components of Theory of Knowledge, Extended
Essay and Community, Activity, Service.

Students must choose one subject from each of the following groups, or, they may take two options
from groups 3 or 4 at the expense of a group 6 subject. The subjects we expect to offer are listed
below.

Group Subjects Offered For further
1: Native Language information on the
(Language A) Chinese A IBDP please feel
English A free to consult our
2: Second Language IB Diploma
English A Coordinator or
3: Individual and Societies English B subject teachers.
Chinese B Detailed information
4: Experimental Sciences Chinese ab initio is also available on
5: Mathematics French ab initio* the IB website
6: The Arts (http://
History www.ibo.org/).
Business and Management
Economics * These subjects
Geography must be taken as
Biology an alternative to
Chemistry selecting a Group 6
Physics subject.
Computer Science*
Mathematics
Mathematics Studies
Visual Arts
Music



IGICGSCESE 99PAPGAEGE

Subjects Page Number
First Language English (0500) 10
English as a Second Language (0510) 11
English Literature (0486) 12
First Language Chinese (0509) 13
Second Language Chinese (0523) 14
Mathematics (0580) 15
Additional Mathematics (0606) 16
Biology (0610) 17
Chemistry (0620) 18
Physics (0625) 19
History (0470) 20
Geography (0460) 21
Business Studies (0450) 22
Sociology (0495) 23
Computer Science (0478) 24
Art and Design (0400) 25
Drama (0411) 26
Music (0410) 27
Physical Education (0413) 28
Contact Details 29

IGCSE PAGE10

IGCSE First Language English (0500)

Why study this course？

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 synthesis, inference, and the
ability to order facts and present
opinions effectively.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed by
Exam 50%
Candidates answer three questions 50% Cambridge Exam
Coursework on two passages, which test their Board
reading and writing skills.
Teacher
Candidates complete a portfolio of
three assignments, 500-800 words
each.

What will we study on the course?

This course doesn’t cover content in the same way as most other IGCSE courses do. English is quite
different. You will study English in a wide variety of contexts, so that you understand the different ways
that English can be used and you are able to respond appropriately.

Success in this course is linked to using a variety of different resources that will enable you to practise all
the skills that you will be tested on.

IGCSE PAGE 11

IGCSE English as a Second Language (0510)

Why study this course?

Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language is designed for learners who already have a
working knowledge of the language and who want to consolidate their understanding in order to
progress in their academic or professional career. The qualification reflects the widespread use of
English in education and commerce, and also in entertainment.  The aim is to achieve a level of
practical communication ideal for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-
depth language study.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed by
Reading and Writing 70%
Exam 90 marks Examination 30% Examination

Listening exam Listening Exam Separately endorsed Examination
40 marks Internal assessment Externally
6-9 minute speaking
Speaking Exam test checked
30 marks

What will we study on the course?

In English as a Second Lauguage, there are four main skills- two which test how well you understand
and receive information (Reading and Listening), and two which test how well you are able to
communicate, or pass on, information (Writing and Speaking). This might be information you have just
received, or it might be new and original information, The course should improve:

• how well you can control your grammar and structures. This is important in writing as well as
speaking.

• the range of vocabulary you use. You will be tested on your understanding and whether you can use
word accurately and/or appropriately, in both writing and speaking.

• how accurately you spell.
• your use of sentences, paragraphs and punnctuation in longer pieces of writing.
• your awareness of 'register' in formal and informal situations, for example, the different ways that you

would write to your friend and to your headteacher; and the language you need when you are
discussing or arguing about a topical subject.

IGCSE PAGE12

IGCSE English Literature(0486)

Why study this course？

Cambridge IGCSE Literature (English) offers learners the opportunity to read, interpret, evaluate and
respond to a range of literature in English. The range includes drama, prose and poetry to
contemporary literature. 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 (English) will stimulate learners to read for pleasure, to explore wider and universal issues,
promoting a better understanding of themselves and the world.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed by

Poetry+Prose Exam Candidates answer two 50% Cambridge Exam
questions:-one from section A 25% Board
Poetry and one from Section B 25%
Prose. Cambridge Exam
Board
Drama Exam Candidates answer one
Coursework question on one text Teacher

Candidates complete a
Coursework portfolio of two
assignments.

IGCSE PAGE 13

IGCSE First Language Chinese (0509)

Why study this course？

The Cambridge IGCSE First Language Chinese Course is designed for candidates whose mother
tongue is Chinese. Cambridge IGCSE First Language qualifications are accepted by universities and
employers as proof of knowledge and understanding of a language. Successful candidates gain
lifelong skills including:
• the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively in writing;
• the ability to use a wide range of vocabulary, and correct grammar, spelling and punctuation;
• a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.
Students are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their
awareness of the ways in which the language can be used. Cambridge IGCSE First Language
qualifications also develop more general analysis and communication skills such as synthesis,
inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed by
60% Examination
Reading Candidates answer two 40% Examination
50 marks questions: Question 1 –– 25
marks
Writing
40 marks Candidates answer a series
of comprehension questions
based on Passage 1.

Question 2 –– 25 marks

Candidates write a summary
based on Passages 1 and 2.

Candidates write one
composition of 400–600
characters.

What will we study on this course?

We will read a novel intensively each semester. The novels are from the recommended list in IBDP,
Chinese novels based, supplemented by foreign novels. Such as “Fortress Besieged” by Qian
Zhongshu, “Nahan and Panghuang” by Lu Xun, “A Dream in Red Mansions” by Cao Xueqin, “Scarlet
and Black” by Stendhal, “Lu Fan Yan Shi” by Yan Geling etc.


Through the novel reading, students will learn methods of searching information, text analysis, and
characterization, improve their abilities of appreciating literary works. At the same time, we will also
learn some of the classic works of Tang Song poetry and ancient proses, to enable students to
understand and accumulate Chinese culture, and to appreciate the beauty of classical literature.







IGCSE PAGE17

IGCSE Biology (0610)

Why study this course?

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 in this single
award course, through a mix of theoretical and practical studies.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed by
30% Examination
Paper 1
A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40
(45 minutes) items of the four-choice type.

Paper 3
Extended curriculum – Grades A* to G 50% Examination
(75 minutes) available (option for all the candidates)

Extended theory paper consisting of short-
or Paper 2 (75 answer and structured questions.
minutes) Core curriculum – Grades C to G available
(option for candidates who are not strong in
Science)

Core theory paper consisting of short-answer
and structured questions, based on the core
curriculum.

Paper 6
Alternative to Practical
20% Examination
(1 hour) Questions based on experimental analysis
and data handling

What will we study on this
course?

Students will explore the world of living
organisms from the microscopic to the
macroscopic including, cell structure and
function, biological systems of plants and
animals, inheritance, classification, and
ecosystems. Candidates learn how
science is studied and practiced, and
become aware that the results of
scientific research can have effects on
individuals, communities and the
environment.







IGCSE PAGE 21

IGCSE Geography (0460)

Why study this course?

Geography is an important and practical subject which develops students understanding of the organsation
of human society, the natural world and how these can interact. It has a range of applications within
business and the government especially in research and planning. IGCSE Geography gives an ideal
introduction to most Geographic concepts.

Successful Cambridge IGCSE Geography candidates develop lifelong skills, including:

• An understanding of the impacts which both physical and human geography can have and the processes
which affect their development;

• A sense of place and an understanding of how a location can impact on a local, regional and global scale;

• The ability to use and understand geographical data and information;

• An understanding of how communities and cultures around the world interact with different environments.

How is the course assessed?

Component Description Weighting Assessed
45% By
Paper 1: Six Questions from across the
Core Content Curriculum each worth 25 marks. Examination

Paper 2: Students answer three 27.5% Examination
Application of responses, mixture of short
Geographic answers and longer passages. 27.5% Examination

Skills 105 minute paper

Paper 4: 60 mark paper, the majority short
Field Studies answers. Students respond using
their own knowledge and analysis

of an unstudied map.
90 minute paper

60 mark paper, students use
knowledge gained from their
Field Trip to respond to another
two unseen investigations.

90 minute paper.

What will we study on this course?
The syllabus is divided into three themes:

The Human World (Population Growth and Patterns, Rural and Urban Settlements)

The Natural World (Plate Tectonics, Weather, Climate and Natural Vegetation, Natural Hazards,
Weathering, River Systems, Marine Processes)

Economic Development (Development, Food production, Industry, Tourism, Energy, Water and
Environmental risks of economic development)







IGCSE PAGE 25
IGCSE PAGE 25

IGCSE Art and Design (0400)

Why study this course?

The Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design syllabus encourages a range of art making skills, stimulates
aesthetic awareness, knowledge and critical understanding of art, and provides opportunities for
learners to develop their artistic sensibilities. Crucially, a personal and independent perspective is
encouraged at all times. The syllabus is designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities,
materials and resources, and allows the different skills of the teaching staff to be fully exploited.
Successful candidates who have taken Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design gain life-long skills,
including:

• Confidence and enthusiasm as they develop technical skills in two-and three-dimensional form and
composition
• The ability to identify and solve problems in visual and tactile forms
• The ability to develop ideas from initial attempts to outcomes.

Source: www.cie.org.uk

How is the course assessed?

Components Requirement Weighting
Component 1
Students produce supporting studies for 50%
Broad-based assignment (Exam)
their exam from January until mid-April.

Students produce the final outcome artwork 50%
100 marks during the eight-hour exam (over 2 days).
Externally assessed
Students produce a portfolio of up to four
Component 4 sheets (eight sides) of A2. They also create
Coursework assignment
a final artwork outcome.
Students must show evidence of drawing in
100 marks a range of media, working from primary
Internally marked by teachers and sources, explore ideas independently and
demonstrate skill in use of art media.
externally moderated

What will we study on this course?

The IGCSE Art and Design course is 2 years in duration.
In the first year students are introduced to the major 2D
art disciplines: drawing, painting and printmaking. These
disciplines are structured into different units of study,
where students also explore art theory and culture
through written research and reflection.
In the second year students become more independent
as they begin producing their portfolios by exploring
personal ideas and themes. Students are encouraged to
work to their strengths and take artistic risks as they look
to create a personalized body of work.







IGCSE PAGE 29

CONTACT DETAILS
Academic Affairs office

Dean of Academic Affairs-Lee Sanders IGCSE Coordinator - Amy Donald
[email protected] [email protected]

Subjects Contact Name and Email address
First Language English (0500)
Natalie Swailes
English Literature (0486)
English as a Second Language (0510) [email protected]
Patricia Arrieche
First Language Chinese (0509)

Second Language Chinese (0523) [email protected]
Mathematics (0580)
David Xiong

Additional Mathematics (0606)
Biology (0610)
[email protected]
Chemistry (0620)
Jessica Yang

Physics (0625)
History (0470)
[email protected]
Geography (0460) Gary McDonald
Art and Design (0400)
[email protected]
Business Studies (0450) Coco Shi

Computer Science (0478) [email protected]
Jason Dufty
Drama (0411)
[email protected]
Music (0410) Clare Spencer


Physical Education (0413) [email protected]
Daniel Mac Leon
Sociology (0495)
[email protected]
! Jo-Anne Richardson


[email protected]

Dawn Morris

[email protected]

James Donald

[email protected]
Helen Sanders

[email protected]