i GCSE / GCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11) September 2018 Information Booklet

Transcription

1 i GCSE / GCSE Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11) September 2018 Information Booklet

2 Dear Parents and Students in Year 9 Welcome from the Principal GCSE and igcse Programmes of Study / Key Stage 4 (Years 10 & 11) / September 2018 Welcome to Key Stage 4. Please find enclosed important information regarding Programmes of Study and Assessment requirements for individual subjects at Key Stage 4, beginning in September 2018 at Diyafah International School. As an English National Curriculum school students will follow IGCSE or GCSE (International General Certificates of Secondary Education) syllabuses which are approved and accredited by one of three main UK Examination Boards: EdExcel (Pearson) (EdEx) Oxford AQA International Examinations (AQA) Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) In recent years there have been important changes happening at Key Stage 4 at a national level in England: New curricula content and assessment methods have been developed with more focus on final examinations performance New grading systems from 9 1 for GCSEs have been introduced Inevitably these changes will impact on igcse examinations also. It is also important for you to speak with Subject Specialists directly in order to find out what your son or daughter will be studying at Key Stage 4 and how he or she will be assessed. The content of Key Stage 4 courses have changed as have the assessment methods.

3 GCSE and igcse courses are recognized and respected throughout the world and success at this level at the end of Year 11 opens the doors for further study at Key Stage 5 (Advanced Levels). These in turn open further doors to well respected Universities both in the UAE, UK, USA and throughout the world. Good grades at igcse and GCSE also can be the passport to successful employment opportunities and admission to other Higher and Further Education colleges and institutions. It is very important, therefore, that your son or daughter commits to their studies from the very beginning in Year 10. The Subject Specialists are here to help and guide them along the way. As you will see there are some courses which are considered CORE and some which are OPTIONAL. Please study these requirements carefully. We are committed to ensuring quality teaching and learning at Key Stage 4 by ensuring we have fully qualified teachers delivering these key courses. We are committed to ensuring that all students follow a broad and balanced, yet rigorous, curriculum offer which both challenges our students and, at the same time, provides them with the life skills required in an ever changing and more complex world. I hope you find the information contained in this Booklet useful. Please don t hesitate to ask if you have further questions. Yours sincerely B Cannon Principal

4 Key Stage 4 Years 10 & 11 Curriculum Design & Overview From September 2018 our school will begin Key Stage 4 Programmes of Study following the English National Curriculum model. Students will follow a combination of core, compulsory subjects and optional subjects. The range of Options will depend on student interest as well as staffing requirements. igcse or GCSE courses are the standard English General Certificate of Secondary Education courses which students in the UK follow and which Diyfah International School students will follow from Year 10. These courses are tried and tested over many years and have been developed for the international market. There are a range of different syllabuses, devised by different UK Examination Boards, for each of the possible subjects on offer. Examination Boards include: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) EdExcel (Pearson) Oxford AQA (Assessment & Qualifications Alliance). Subject Specialist teachers have researched the components and requirements of different Examination Boards and have selected the one they think best suits the interests of their potential students. This information is detailed in the subsequent pages Courses are two years in length with most having final examinations at the end of Year 11 usually beginning in May and running into the month of June if each year. Grades awarded at the end of Year 11 were, until recently in England, A* - G grades. However, this has and continues to change. English Language, English Literature and Mathematics grades are now awarded in numbers, 9 being the highest and 1 being the lowest grade. Other GCSE and igcse subjects will change to this new grading system in 2018 and beyond in England. Most igcse Examination Boards are also adopting this new grading structure.

5 See table below: CORE Subjects There is no doubt that what employers, colleges and universities want more than ever is for students to have a strong grounding in core key life skills and especially in Literacy (Communication & Language) and Numeracy (Problem Solving and Understanding the World). Therefore (i)gcse subjects such as: English Language (First & Second Language) Mathematics Science (Biology, Chemistry & Physics) Arabic Language (First & Second Language) will be considered CORE. That means they are compulsory for all students in Years 10 and 11.Other non (i)gcse accredited courses which are also CORE compulsory subjects, as part of the UAE National Curriculum are: Islamic Studies (for Muslim students) Ministry of Education accredited PSHE (for non Muslim students0 Core Physical Education Moral Education UAE Social Studies

6 The knowledge and understanding component, as well as the skills development component of these compulsory courses, is rigorous and challenging yet achievable and necessary for further study at Advanced Level (Years 12 & 13) or for successful transition into the world of work and employment in an ever-changing world. OPTIONAL Subjects Optional subjects from which students will choose three will include: GCSE or igcse Physical Education GCSE or igcse History GCSE or igcse Geography GCSE or igcse Spanish GCSE or igcse ICT GCSE or igcse Art & Design GCSE or igcse Business Studies Given the fact that students will have an element of choice in what they study at Key Stage 4 parents and the students themselves will be supported and guided throughout this process in Year 9 by Specialist Staff. More details of each of these subjects is contained in this Booklet. Students are asked to complete the Options Sheet at the back of the Booklet indicating their first three preferences from the list of subjects above and one reserve choice. UAE Secondary Equivalency Certificate This Certificate (Shahadat Al-Thanawiya Al- Amma) is required by the UAE as evidence that a student has completed General Secondary Education in the UAE. For all students, and especially those who wish to continue studying in the UAE or gain employment in the UAE and in some other Arab countries beyond A Level, it is important that they select subjects which enable them to gain this Equivalency Certificate. The Equivalency Certificate is awarded when students have successfully passed and completed 5 subjects from a predefined list. At the time of writing the only (i)gcse subject from the above lists (Core and Optional Subject lists) which is not accepted as part of the Equivalency Certificate is (i)gcse Spanish. Students who continue with their study in the UAE will also have to pass Ministry of Education Examinations in Arabic Language and Islamic Studies (Muslim students only).

7 Making the Right Choices for the Right Reasons Questions such as the ones below are a useful starting point: What do I want to be doing in 10 years time? What do I need to study now to achieve my goals? What subjects do I enjoy and want to learn more about? What are my strengths and skills now? What do they need to be? What subjects will help keep my future options open? What type of learner am I? What information do I need and where can I find it out? Advice such as the points listed below is also very useful in thinking about Options: DO Do choose subjects that you are good at - this is more likely to lead to good grades. Do choose subjects that you really enjoy - if you enjoy the subject you will find it easier to do. Do make a balanced choice - it will keep the widest possible career choice open to you. Do keep in mind Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13) opportunities - it pays to plan ahead. Do read the information on the courses you are interested in - know exactly what is expected of you. Do talk to your parents and teachers - their advice is useful. DON T Don t choose a subject just because your friend has chosen it - you may not be in the same teaching group. Don t choose a subject just because you like the teacher - you may not be taught by that person next year. Don t choose a subject because you are looking for an easy life - all subjects involve considerable work and effort.

8 GCSE Subject Course Outline igcse Core Subjects English Language First Language English Language Second Language Mathematics Biology Chemistry Physics Arabic Language First Language Arabic Language Second Language igcse Optional Subjects Art & Design Biology Business Studies Geography History Information Communications Technology Physical Education Spanish

9 IGCSE English First Language Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) English First Language is a compulsory subject for students who are chosen to do it. The twoyear programme is designed for students whose first language is English, or for students whose language proficiency is advanced. Course Overview Cambridge IGCSE First Language English offers candidates the opportunity to respond with understanding to a rich array of reading texts during the course. Candidates will use these texts to inform and inspire their own writing and write in a range of text types for different purposes and audiences. Candidates will develop both their speaking and their listening skills. Candidates are encouraged to become appreciative and critical readers, writers, speakers and listeners. Recognition and Progression The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE First Language English gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language. Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements. Assessment Overview All candidates take two papers. Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1, Reading. Structured and Questions will be based extended writing on three reading texts questions Paper 2, Directed Writing and Composition Extended writing question and a composition task 2 hours 80 marks Weighting 50% 2 hours 80 marks Weighting 50% Externally assessed Externally assessed Resources Cambridge IGCSE First Language English Course book by Marian Cox Contact: For more information, please contact Mr. Paul Livingston, Head of English, DIS. paul.livingstondiyafahinternationalschool.com

10 IGCSE English Second Language Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) English as a Second Language is a core subject for students who are chosen to do it. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language offers learners the opportunity to gain lifelong skills and knowledge including: better communicative ability in English improved ability to understand English in a range of everyday situations and in a variety of social registers and styles greater awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills wider international perspective. Recognition and Progression The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses. Candidates who achieve grade C overall, with a Grade 2 in the Speaking component, in Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language Course 0510 (Speaking Endorsement) can be considered to be at a level equivalent to B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Assessment Overview All candidates will take three components. They will study the Extended Syllabus content and will be entered for Paper 2, Paper 4 and Component 5. These candidates will be eligible for grades A* to E pass grades. 2 hours 80 Six exercises testing a range of reading Weighting marks and 60% Paper 2 Reading and Writing Paper 4 Listening Component 5 Speaking Approx. 50 minutes Approx minutes 40 marks 30 marks writing skills Candidates listen to several short extracts and longer texts and complete a range of task types, including shortanswer questions, gap filling, matching, multiple choice and note making. Following a 2 3 minute warm-up conversation, candidates engage in a 6 9 minute discussion with the examiner on a given topic. Weighting 20% Weighting 20% Resources Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Published by Collins and endorsed by Cambridge) Grades A* E Externally assessed Grades A* E Externally assessed Internally assessed / Externally moderated Contact: For further information, please contact Paul Livingston, Head of English (paul.livingston@diyafahinternationalschool.com)

11 IGCSE Mathematics Examination Board: Edexcel (Pearson) IGCSE Mathematics is a fully examined course which encourages the development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill and as the basis for more advanced study. The syllabus aims to build students' confidence by helping them develop a feel for numbers, patterns and relationships, and places a strong emphasis on solving problems and presenting and interpreting results. Students also learn how to communicate and reason using mathematical concepts. Course Overview (Higher) Number; squares, square roots and cubes; directed numbers; vulgar and decimal fractions and percentages; ordering; standard form; the four rules; estimation; limits of accuracy; ratio, proportion, rate; percentages; use of an electronic calculator; measures; time; money; personal and household finance; graphs in practical situations; graphs of functions; straight line graphs; algebraic representation and formulae; algebraic manipulation; indices; solutions of equations and inequalities; geometrical terms and relationships; geometrical constructions; symmetry; angle properties; mensuration; trigonometry; statistics; probability; vectors in two dimensions; transformations; set notation and language; functions; calculus; transformation of graphs. Assessment Overview Mathematics is assessed through 100% examination. Mathematics Higher Tier Paper 1H: Two- hour examination with a total of 100 marks. Paper 1H is worth 50% of the total International GCSE (Grades awarded 9-1). Mathematics Higher Tier Paper 2H: Two- hour examination with a total of 100 marks. Paper 2H is worth 50% of the total International GCSE (Grades awarded 9-1). The short-answer questions test knowledge, understanding and manipulative skills, while greater emphasis is placed on problem solving in the structured question papers. NOTES (i) (ii) (iii) There is no choice of question. Scientific calculators may be used with every paper however algebraic or graphical calculators are not permitted. Tracing paper may be used with every paper.

12 IGCSE Mathematics contd. Career Progression International GCSE is a key qualification for entry into UK universities and allows you to develop your level of numeracy and your logical reasoning skills. After Y10 and Y11, further study in Mathematics aims to develop those skills essential for a successful university career in Mathematics, Physics, Actuarial Science, Statistics, Engineering, Operations Research, Computer Science, Business and Industrial Management, Economics, Finance, Chemistry, Geology, Life Sciences and Behavioural Sciences and many other disciplines. Resources Edexcel website: Text: Mathematics for Edexcel Specification A (Hodder) ISBN: Contact: For further information please contact ks3coordinator@diyafahinternationalschool.com

13 IGCSE Biology Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Biology is a core subject and all students must study this course. The syllabus is linear and is taught over two years with the final examinations taken at the end of Year 11. Course Overview Candidates study the following topics: 1)Characteristics and classification of living organisms 11) Gas exchange in humans 2) Organisation of the organism 12) Respiration 3) Movement in and out of cells 13) Excretion in humans 4) Biological molecules 14) Coordination and response 5) Enzymes 15) Drugs 6) Plant nutrition 16) Reproduction 7) Human nutrition 17) Inheritance 8) Transport in plants 18) Variation and selection 9) Transport in animals 19) Organisms and their environment 10) Diseases and immunity 20) Biotechnology and genetic engineering 21) Human influences on ecosystems Assessment Overview All candidates will take three examination papers at the end of the course in Year 11. Students will be eligible for grades A*-G. Paper 2 45 minutes 40 multiple choice questions 40 marks Core and supplement syllabus Externally assessed Paper 4 1 hour 15 minutes Theory: Short-answer and structured questions Paper 6 1 hour Alternative to Practical: Questions will be based on the experimental skills in Section 4 80 marks Core and supplement syllabus Externally assessed 40 marks Core and supplement syllabus Externally assessed Weighting 30% Weighting 50% Weighting 20% Career Progression IGCSE Biology enables students to pursue a career in Medicine, Paramedical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Studies, Biotechnology, Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Nursing to name a few. Resources Cambridge IGCSE Biology: Course book with CD-ROM Third Edition, (Endorsed by Cambridge) Contact: For more details, please contact Ms. Tiny Paul, Biology Teacher. tiny.paul@diyafahinternationalschool.com

14 IGCSE Chemistry Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) IGCSE Chemistry is a core subject and all students must study this course. The syllabus is linear and is taught over two years with the final examinations taken at the end of Year 11. Course Overview Candidates study the following topics: 1) The particulate nature of matter 8) Acids, bases and salts 2) Experimental techniques 9) The Periodic Table 3) Atoms elements and compounds 10) Metals 4) Stoichiometry 11) Air and water 5) Electricity and chemistry 12) Sulphur 6) Chemical energetics 13) Carbonates 7) Chemical reactions 14) Organic chemistry Assessment Overview All candidates will study the extended subject content. Candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G. Paper 2 Multiple Choice. 40 fourchoice multiple-choice questions. Paper 4 Theory, Short-answer and structured questions. Paper 6 Alternative to Practical Questions will be based on the experimental skills. 45 minutes 40 marks 1 hour 15 minutes 80 marks 1 hour 40 marks Assessing Grades A* G Assessing Grades A* G Assessing Grades A* G Externally assessed Externally assessed Externally assessed Weighting 30% Weighting 50% Weighting 20% Career Progression The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Chemistry. Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Resources Collins Cambridge IGCSE - Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry Student Book (Second edition) Contact: For more information please ks3coordinator@diyafahinternationalschool.com

15 IGCSE Physics Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations Physics is a compulsory, core subject for all the students. Course Aims and Overview to allow learners to recognise that Science is evidence based and to understand the usefulness, and the limitations, of scientific method to develop skills that encourage a systematic approach to problem solving and safe practice Candidates will study the following topics: 1 General physics 4 Electricity and magnetism 2 Thermal physics 5 Atomic physics 3 Properties of waves, including light and sound Assessment Overview All candidates will take three papers. Paper 2, paper 4 and Paper 6. Paper 2: Multiple Choice 40 fourchoice multiple-choice questions 45 minutes 40 marks Assessing Grades A* G Weighting30% Externally assessed Paper 4: Theory Short-answer and structured questions Paper 6: Alternative to Practical, Questions will be based on the experimental 1 hour 15 minutes 80 marks Assessing Grades A* G 1 hour 40 marks Assessing Grades A* G Weighting50% Weighting20% Externally assessed Externally assessed Career Progression The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE Physics gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics. Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements. Resources Cambridge IGCSE Physics, Third Edition. Contact: For more information, please contact Ms. Lynette, Head of Key Stage 3. ks3coordinator@diyafahinternationalschool.com

16 IGCSE First Language Arabic Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) Cambridge IGCSE First Language Arabic is a core subject for students who are chosen to do it. Course Overview Cambridge IGCSE First Language Arabic offers candidates the opportunity to respond to a rich array of reading passages. Candidates will use some of these passages to inform and inspire their own writing and write in a range of text types for different audiences. The passages cover a range of genres and types, including fiction and non-fiction. Candidates are encouraged to become appreciative and critical readers and writers in Arabic. Assessment Overview All candidates take: All candidates take: Paper 1 Reading, 2 hours Paper 2 Writing 2 hours. 50 marks 50 marks Structured and extended writing questions. Two composition tasks which are externally Questions will be based on Arabic passages. assessed Externally assessed Progression The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE First Language Arabic gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Level Arabic. Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements. Resources Collection of Cambridge CIE Past Papers Contact: For more information, please contact Ms. Lamis, Head of Key Stage 4 Arabic at hosarabic@diyafahinternationalschool.com

17 IGCSE Arabic Second Language Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) IGCSE Arabic is a core subject for students who are chosen to do it. Assessment Overview All candidates will take the following three components: Grades available: A*, A, B, C, D, E, F, G Paper 2 Reading 1 hour Candidates read a number of texts and answer questions testing comprehension. 45 marks Externally assessed Paper 3 Speaking Approximately 15 minutes Candidates complete two role plays, a topic presentation/conversation and a general conversation. 100 marks Internally assessed/externally moderated Paper 4 Writing 1 hour Candidates respond in the target language to three tasks. 50 marks Externally assessed Weighting of Papers 33% 33% 34% Progression Cambridge IGCSE Arabic is accepted by universities and employers as proof of good linguistic ability and understanding. Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C in Cambridge IGCSE Arabic are well prepared to follow courses leading to Cambridge International AS and A Level Arabic or the equivalent. Contact: For more information, please contact Ms. Lamis, Head of Arabic at hosarabic@diyafahinternationalschool.com

18 Optional Subjects Students are expected to chose three from the subjects which follow.

19 IGCSE Art and Design: Fine Art Course Overview: Examination Board: EdExcel (Pearson) The Edexcel International GCSE in Art and Design enables students to develop: Creative and imaginative skills and the practical skills for communicating and expressing ideas, feelings and meanings in Art, Craft and Design Investigative, analytical, experimental and interpretive capabilities, aesthetic understanding and critical skills Understanding of codes and conventions of Art, Craft and Design and awareness of the contexts in which they operate Knowledge and understanding of Art, Craft and Design in contemporary society and in other times and cultures. Assessment Overview The course is assessed through a single practical external examination. With a choice of four different endorsements - Fine Art, Graphic Design, Photography and Textiles - it s designed as a two-year course for teaching in international schools and colleges. Examination Piece (maximum size A2) with six weeks preparatory time and 10 hours assessment time Up to three sheets of preparatory studies (maximum size A2 each sheet) carried out during the six-week preparatory period 100 marks available for this assessment: Assessment Objectives (AO) A01: Record observations, experiences and ideas which are appropriate to intentions (25%) A02: Analyse and evaluate images, objects and artefacts, making informed connections with the work of others (25%) A03: Develop and explore ideas, using a variety of media and processes that are appropriate to intentions (25%) A04: Review and refine ideas, modifying work as it progresses, before presenting a coherent personal response. (25%) TOTAL 100%

20 IGCSE Art and Design: Fine Art contd. Progression and Careers Creativity is extremely important in most careers. An IGCSE qualification in Art and Design will equip you with the tools to be creative and aesthetically aware in all fields. It does not mean that you are limited to becoming an Artist or Designer. Many professions require the skills you would retain after completing this course e.g learning how to see the world and learning how to describe yours. This qualification supports progression to: Edexcel GCE AS and A Level in Art and Design other related Level 3 courses in Art and Design. Resources Materials and resources will be provided by the Art Department. For Further Information Visit the Edexcel website at or or contact Mr Daniel Zins, Art Co-ordinator at DIS.

21 IGCSE Business Studies Course Overview Examination Board: Edexcel (Pearson) This subject will enable students to acquire the skills needed to progress to higher studies in the Business field by exposing them to the world of Business, Economics and Finance. The focus will be on: Business Activity and the Changing Environment examining the objectives of businesses, the changing environment and the criteria for judging success. Human Resources looking at people in organizations, focusing on their roles, relationships and management in business. Accounting and Finance exploring the use of accounting and financial information as an aid to decision making. Marketing focusing on identifying and satisfying customer needs in a changing and competitive international environment. Production examining the way organizations use and manage resources to produce goods and services. Commitment Necessary: Students must be able to relate their learning to real business examples. They need to be aware of current issues which affect businesses, their operation and success and how they adapt to change and understand the importance of seeing business issues and situations through different perspectives. Assessment Overview: Paper 1 focuses on investigating small businesses. It is a written examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes. This paper is weighted at 50% of the overall qualification. Paper 2 focuses on investigating large businesses. It is a written examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes. This paper is weighted at 50% of the overall qualification. Career Progression Students can progress to Business/Economics Advanced Level courses and Business/Economics/Management courses at university. There are many career possibilities including: Finance, Banking, Accountancy, Advertising, Public Relation, Retail and Operations Management to name a few. Resources: Textbook is Edexcel International GCSE (9-1) Business by Rob Jones. A full reading list will be provided at the start of the course. For Further Information: Website:

22 IGCSE Geography Course Overview Examination Board: Edexcel (Pearson) This two-year course will focus on the elements of Physical and Human Geography. The course will allow you to explore how the world we live in is constantly changing, while also concentrating on how we, as humans, interact within it s boundaries. You will acquire key skills that will allow you to analyse and investigate our world. Year 10: Economic activity, coastal and hazardous environments. Coastal fieldwork will also be an aspect of this section of the course. Year 11: River Environments, urban and rural environments and global issues. Urban environment fieldwork will be an aspect of this course. Commitment Necessary You will need to be willing to work hard in class and complete all homework and assignments on time as there is a significant subject content. An enthusiasm for Geography, while being prepared to complete fieldwork and presentations is essential. Assessment Overview Paper 1 is a written examination of 1 hour and 10 minutes, consisting of two sections. The questions are a mixture of multiple-choice, short-answer, data-response and open-ended questions. It deals specifically with Physical Geography and will incorporate fieldwork. Paper 2 is a written examination of 1 hour and 45 minutes, consisting of three sections. The questions are a mixture of multiple-choice, short-answer, data-response and open-ended questions. This deals specifically with Human Geography and will incorporate fieldwork. Progression and Careers An International GCSE in Geography enables progression to Level 3 qualifications (such as the International A Level in Geography). The skills you learn during this course are very valuable. In today s world, the ability to analyse, investigate and present your findings with confidence and clarity are skills that are transferrable to any form of further study or employment. Students can progress into roles in Law, Teaching, Government, Data Analytics and more. Resources: Textbook Edexcel IGCSE Geography. There will be a range of other resources and materials used in the classroom and ICT lab to aid student understanding. For Further Information: Contact: Mr. Craig Smith, craig.smith@diyafahinternationalschool.com.

23 IGCSE History Course Overview Examination Board: Edexcel (Pearson) This two-year course will give you the opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of selected periods and aspects of History, exploring the significance of historical events, people, changes and issues. You will use historical sources critically, in context, recording significant information. Content Year 10: Unit 1: A divided union: civil rights in the USA, Unit 2: A world divided: superpower relations, Content Year 11: Unit 1: The origins and course of the First World War, Unit 2: The Vietnam Conflict, Commitment to the Course You will need to have willingness to work hard in class and at home. Any work missed in the event of absence will need to be caught up as there is a significant amount of subject content. An enthusiasm for studying history, being prepared to do the extended reading and complete presentations is essential. Good written skills are also an advantage as the examination responses include extended essays. Assessment Overview Paper 1: written 1 hour and 30-minute examination comprising a mixture of extended writing and essay-based questions, based on 2 units of work. Paper 2: written 1 hour and 30-minute examination comprising a mixture of extended writing and essay-based questions, based on 2 units of work. 100% written external examinations covered by two exams at Grades 9-1. Progression and Careers. The skills you will learn in history are very valuable and transferable into any employment situation or into further study. The natural progression from the IGCSE is to take History A level which will enable students to study a specific degree at University or go directly into employment. History graduates can gain employment in areas such as Law, Government, Journalism and the Media, Museum Curators, Teaching, Librarian Work, Information and Archiving careers Resources Textbook Edexcel IGCSE History. There will be a range of additional resources both on line and hard copies distributed throughout the course including revision guides. For Further information contact: Mr David Barton, Humanities Co-ordinator: david.barton@diyafahinternationalschool.com and see Website:

24 IGCSE Information Communication Technology (ICT) Course Overview Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) This course encourages learners to develop lifelong skills, including: understanding and using applications using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to solve problems analysing, designing, implementing, testing and evaluating ICT systems, ensuring that they are fit for purpose understanding the implications of technology in society, including social, economic and ethical uses awareness of the ways ICT can help in home, learning and work environments. Assessment Overview There are three components to the Assessment Paper 1 Theory: 2 hours 40% Weighting 100 marks Tests sections 1 21 of the course. All questions are compulsory, mostly multiple choice or short answer questions. Externally assessed Paper 2 Document Production, Data Manipulation and Presentations: 2 hours 30 minutes 30% Weighting 80 marks Assesses the practical skills required to use the applications covered in sections 17, 18 and 19 of the syllabus content. All tasks are compulsory. Externally assessed Paper 3 Data Analysis and Website Authoring. 2 hours 30 minutes 30% Weighting 80 marks Assesses the practical skills required to use the applications covered in sections 20 and 21 of the syllabus content. All tasks are compulsory. Externally assessed Progression Candidates who are awarded grades A* to C are well prepared to follow courses leading to Cambridge International AS and A Level Applied Information and Communication Technology, or the equivalent. Contact: Ms Akila, ICT Teacher at akila.ramachandran@diyafahinternationalschool.com for more information

25 IGCSE Physical Education Course Overview Examination Board: Edexcel (Pearson) IGCSE Physical Education helps students develop knowledge and practical skills in a range of physical activities, examining the effects of exercise and training to improve performance, and appreciating the benefits of promoting sport for all. IGCSE Specifications in Physical Education equips students with the knowledge, understanding, skills and values to develop and maintain their performance in physical activities and understand the benefits to health, fitness and well-being. Candidates will be required to: develop theoretical knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport and use this knowledge to improve performance understand how the physiological and psychological state affects performance in physical activity and sport perform effectively in different physical activities by developing skills and techniques and selecting and using tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas develop their ability to analyse and evaluate to improve performance in physical activity and sport understand the contribution which physical activity and sport make to health, fitness and well-being understand key socio-cultural influences which can affect people s involvement in physical activity and sport

26 IGCSE Physical Education Contd Assessment Overview Component 1 Fitness and Body Systems 36% Component 2 Health and Performance 24% Component 3 Practical Performance 30% Component 4 Exercise Programme (PEP)_ 10% Progression and Careers An IGCSE in PE is helpful if you want to go on to study A level PE or a BTEC in Sports Science. It will also support other subjects and will prove useful for any careers in Sports Coaching, Leisure and Recreation and Public Services. Employers also look on it positively as it shows you are able to cooperate and work as part of a team. For further information: See Website: Specification%20and%20sample%20assessments/GCSE-physical-education specification.pdf

27 IGCSE Spanish Course Overview Examination Board: Oxford AQA (SYLLABUS/CODE: Spanish 8698) IGCSE in Spanish builds on the work covered in Key Stage 3 in the four key skill areas of Listening Speaking Reading Writing Five themes are covered: Identity and Culture; Local Area, Holiday, Travel; School; Future Aspirations, Study, Work; International and Global Dimension. Assessment Overview Students may be entered for the Higher Paper or the Foundation Paper: Speaking 25% Listening 25 % Reading 25% Writing 25% Higher: 10min / Foundation: 7min Higher: 45min / Foundation: 35min Higher: 60min / Foundation: 45min Higher: 75min / Foundation: 60min Career Progression Being able to communicate in Spanish can broaden the range and variety of accessible careers, improving employability and facilitating personal mobility. Speaking Spanish as a skill is desirable and useful in a wide range of careers at different levels. People with foreign language skills tend to have good communication skills, which enhances their personal effectiveness. Resources Mira AQA GCSE Spanish Higher/Foundation Student Book For further information Contact: Mr. Alejandro Pérez. Spanish Teacher: spanish@diyafahinternationalschool.com

28 Key Stage 4 IGCSE Course Selection for Option Subjects Name: Group: Tutor: Date: From the list of optional subjects below select three subjects choices which you wish to study in Year 10. In the event that it is not possible to grant you all three subjects please also indicate a fourth reserved choice. Place the numbers 1, 2 and 3 next to your first 3 choices. Place a 4 next to your Reserve Choice GCSE or igcse Physical Education GCSE or igcse History GCSE or igcse Geography GCSE or igcse Spanish GCSE or igcse ICT GCSE or igcse Art & Design GCSE or igcse Business Studies Once you have completed hand this form to your Form Tutor as soon as possible. Please insert below any other comment you wish to make regarding Year 10 and in particular any comment on the courses on offer. Additional Comment on Year 10 Courses Thank you for completing this Options Form