IGCSE & A-Level Options PRIMARY FOBISIA GAMES A Guide for

PRIMARY FOBISIA GAMESA Guide for Students & Parents

IGCSE & A-Level OptionsA Guide for Students & Parents

The British Schoolof Guangzhou


4 The British School of Guangzhou

School Mission & Core Values................................................................................................................6Our Promises To You................................................................................................................................7An Introduction to the IGCSE Examination Programme (Key Stage 4)......................................... 8An Introduction to the AS & A2 Level Examination Programme (Sixth Form)..............................9Key Stage 4 & 5: Mentoring & The Excellence Profile.........................................................................11

IGCSE Subject Options

Art................................................................................................................................................................12Biology........................................................................................................................................................13Business Studies.......................................................................................................................................14Chemistry...................................................................................................................................................15Chinese.......................................................................................................................................................16Chinese (First Language).........................................................................................................................17Computer Science....................................................................................................................................18Drama.........................................................................................................................................................19Economics.................................................................................................................................................20English as a Second Language (ESL)....................................................................................................21English Language......................................................................................................................................22English Literature......................................................................................................................................23French.........................................................................................................................................................24French (First Language)...........................................................................................................................25 Geography..................................................................................................................................................26German.......................................................................................................................................................27German (First Language).........................................................................................................................28History.........................................................................................................................................................29Mathematics..............................................................................................................................................30Further Pure Mathematics......................................................................................................................31Music...........................................................................................................................................................32Physical Education...................................................................................................................................33Physics........................................................................................................................................................34Science (Double Award)..........................................................................................................................35Spanish.......................................................................................................................................................36Statistics.....................................................................................................................................................37

Contents

5The British School of Guangzhou

AS & A2 Level Subject Options

Art................................................................................................................................................................38Biology........................................................................................................................................................40Business Studies........................................................................................................................................42Chemistry...................................................................................................................................................44Chinese.......................................................................................................................................................46Drama and Theatre Studies....................................................................................................................48English Literature......................................................................................................................................50French.........................................................................................................................................................52Geography..................................................................................................................................................54German.......................................................................................................................................................56History.........................................................................................................................................................58Information & Communication Technology........................................................................................60Mathematics..............................................................................................................................................62Further Pure Mathematics.......................................................................................................................64Music...........................................................................................................................................................66Physical Education....................................................................................................................................68Physics........................................................................................................................................................70Psychology.................................................................................................................................................72Spanish.......................................................................................................................................................74


Our mission is ‘to create a lifelong love of learning’ within all who attend The British School of Guangzhou.

The School has a strong and clearly defined set of ‘core values’ that are permanently engrained within the school’s philosophy. They underpin our success and overarch all that takes place within the school community. Our hope is that students will develop a lifelong love of learning as they adhere to and adopt these values as their own.

A love of learning

We aim to nurture intellectual curiosity through engaging and enquiry-led teaching that will create a love of learning within our students. We encourage students to work independently and collaboratively and to demonstrate creativity and innovation in their approach to solving problems. Our students are provided with a safe, stimulating and supportive learning environment that gives them the courage to take calculated risks and to learn and improve from feedback. We use innovative teaching methods and technology to enhance our students’ mastery and enjoyment of their studies.

Respect

It is our duty to demonstrate respect and awareness to all. The British School of Guangzhou actively works to help students nurture these qualities by giving them opportunities to develop self-esteem and self-confidence. This respect is evident in interactions with students, parents, staff and the environment. Respect requires an open mindedness and incorporates an understanding, tolerance and compassion towards others in both thought and action. We aim to develop an international awareness and cultural sensitivity within all of our students and to provide them with daily opportunities to demonstrate this.

Integrity

As a school, we act in a completely transparent manner. We see integrity as being honest, open and truthful. We believe in being trustworthy in our dealings with each other and being able to give and receive constructive feedback. We encourage our student body to have the courage of their convictions and the strength of character to stand up for what they believe is right.

Responsibility

Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning and their behaviour. We aim to make our students confident, autonomous learners who are able to meet deadlines and learn to solve problems effectively. They develop their sense of responsibility by making informed choices, learning to consider the consequences of their actions and through leadership opportunities. Responsibility extends beyond the classroom where we demonstrate a consideration towards others and to the environment.

Commitment

We seek to establish a strong work ethic within our students and a desire to strive for excellence. Students are encouraged to develop a resilient attitude and persevere to overcome difficulties. We believe that sustained effort greatly enhances students’ chances of success.

Our Mission & Core Values


Our Promises To You

Promise 1

“Your child will be inspired by highly qualified, professional teachers to develop a lifelong love of learning.”

We have a rigorous recruitment process that ensures we select the very best possible teachers who are able to enrich learning through innovative modern teaching practices. These are enhanced by the many additional programmes that are in place to encourage students to further enjoy learning while celebrating individual progress and group success.

Promise 2

“Your child will be challenged by a world-class curriculum to achieve academic success within a safe and truly international environment.”

Creating a safe and nurturing environment is our prime objective as we deliver the English National Curriculum (ENC) with an international twist within a school that only accepts children from the international community.

Promise 3

“Your child will attend a school that actively promotes the core values of respect, integrity, commitment and responsibility.”

Our academic results are excellent but the focus throughout the school is on developing children holistically using the school’s core values as a cornerstone.


The IGCSE Examination Programme (Key Stage 4)

First Year of IGCSE Programme – Year 10Final Examination Year of IGCSE Programme – Year 11

The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Education) programme is a globally recognised academic qualification, which follows a set curriculum over 2 years, leading to summative, externally accredited examinations (which students sit a the end of the course). This external qualification is essential, as this ensures that the achievements of our students are recognised by every college, university and major employer around the world, and we believe they give them a very strong advantage in being able to prove their academic skills and abilities.

The IGCSE programme provides the perfect foundation upon which students can progress their understanding by going on to study A-Level (as is the case at BSG). However, due to the wide range of subjects students will study at IGCSE level, these qualifications also provide an excellent basis for students to study the International Baccalaureate (IB).

IGCSE Subjects

Our students are all required to study the following subjects:

- Mathematics. - Science (Double or Triple award, equivalent to 2 or 3 IGCSEs). - An English Examination (most students will study English Literature and English Language, however some will complete English as an Additional Language IGCSE). - Core PE – 1 lesson of non-examined Physical Education per week. - Global Perspectives.

All of the remaining subjects are then divided into 4 options blocks and students are required to choose 1 from each block (selecting Triple Science counts as one of these choices). Further details on all of our IGCSE subjects can be found in this booklet.

When deciding on which subjects to study, we advise that students ask themselves the following three questions:

1. Are they good at the subject?2. Will the subject be useful for any potential future career direction?3. Will then enjoy studying the subject for the next 2 years?

Grades

All IGCSEs are graded on a scale from A* (highest grade) down to U (ungraded). In the UK, the basic expectation for all students is that they should achieve 5 IGCSEs at grade C or above. However, given the nature and quality of our school, we would expect all our students to be aiming well above this and to achieve grades comparable with the best students from around the world.


The AS & A2 Level Examination Programme (Sixth Form)

Lower Sixth Form – Year 12Upper Sixth Form – Year 13

Students who achieve good passes at (I)GCSE are invited to move into the next phase of The British School of Guangzhou, to prepare themselves for life at university. This is a two-year programme in Advanced Level (A2 Level and AS-Level) study.

Minimum Entrance Requirements

Each student’s application to the Sixth Form will be treated individually and assessed on a case-by-case basis. For those students who have studied at GCSE or IGCSE level, the minimum entrance requirements are usually that students must have obtained 5 A*-C grades and ideally have A*-B grades in those subjects, which they are hoping to study in the Sixth Form. Further details on the Entry Requirements for each subject can be found later in this booklet. Applications are welcome from students who have not studied the IGCSE programme and their entrance will be determined through a combination of admissions tests and school reports.

Choosing Subjects at A-Level

Upon entry into the Sixth Form, students choose either 3 or 4 subjects to study at AS-Level (in Year 12), which will progress into 3 subjects in Year 13. Previously, all subjects had exams at the end of Year 12, which provided students with an AS-Level qualification (effectively half of the full A-Level), however, due to important changes recently introduced by the British Government for the start of the 2014/15 academic year, all A-Level subjects are now split into 2 groups:

1. Some subjects now only have exams at the end of Year 13, which means that students will NOT be able to stop doing these subjects at the end of Year 12 (as there are no AS-Level exams).

2. Other subjects have continued using the previous system and still have AS-Level exams at the end of Year 12 and A2 exams at the end of Year 13. Any student who chooses one of these subjects will be able to stop studying them after their AS exams.

This important change means that students need to ensure they consider which courses they choose carefully to ensure that they are not studying more than 3 subjects in Year 13. For example, if a student chooses 4 subjects, which are all in group 1 (with no Year 12 exams), they will be unable to continue all of these into A2. Instead they would need to pick 3 subjects in group 1 and one subject in group 2, which they could then stop after their Year 12 (AS-Level) exams.

It is important to note that the very top global universities only require 3/4 subjects at AS-Level and 3 full A-Levels. No additional advantage is given to any students who study more than this, therefore students are strongly encouraged to ensure that they choose subjects to match these expectations.

University and Careers Advice and Support

As well as maintaining this academic excellence, one key element of our upper school provision is to continue providing all of our students and parents with the best possible careers and university applications guidance. Please find below a list of support available to all students in Years 10 to 13 and their parents:

1. University Visits: Our growing success continues to attract an ever-expanding list of top global universities, who are sending representatives to BSG. Each year we attract presentations from top 10 UK universities, Ivy League universities from North America, as well as universities in Hong Kong and Australia.


2. Summer Courses: As the competition for places at top universities around the world increases, summer programmes (many held on university campuses) are becoming increasingly popular in providing students with invaluable experiences to help support their university applications. Each year we will arrange for speakers to come into to school to present information regarding these courses.

3. SATs: For those considering applications to US universities, BSG is accredited as an official SAT centre, allowing our students to sit both SAT and SAT Subject Tests.

4. Work Experience: This is also becoming an increasingly important way of adding value to university applications. As part of our Sixth Form provision, all Year 12 students are assisted in organising a work placement lasting at least one week, however this support is also available to younger students.

5. University Applications: All Sixth Form students will receive one-to-one support in completing their university applications and writing their personal statements. We believe this personalised service gives all of our students the best possible chance of obtaining offers at top universities around the world. Last year this resulted in 88% of our students securing places at their first choice university (50% of which were ranked in the top 35 in the world).

6. One-to-One Discussions: Parents and students are always welcome to contact the Assistant Head, Head of Curriculum or the Head of Sixth Form to arrange a one-to-one appointment to discuss any individual concerns or questions regarding the IGCSE or A-Level Programmes.


Key Stage 4 and 5: Mentoring and The Excellence Profile

Mentoring

All students in Years 10 to 13 will be allocated a teacher as their mentor. They will then meet with their mentor a minimum of six times over an academic year. These meetings will focus on discussing targets that the student has set related to activities both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as their performance in relation to these. Throughout the process, mentors will be in contact with the student’s parents at key points to inform them of progress being made.

What is the purpose of Mentoring?

- To support our young people in becoming ‘truly world-class, well-rounded students’. - To link targets directly to BSG’s core values. - To ensure that all students are taking on suitable responsibilities and challenges, both related to the academic curriculum and enrichment activities. - To set targets, discuss successes and to identify areas where they can improve. In relation to subject-specific targets, this will be carried out through ‘traffic-lighting’. - To support work that students will be carrying out in their Excellence Profiles.

The Excellence Profile

Students will be supported during the first half term in creating a personalised Excellence Profile, which outlines the main goals that they wish to work towards and achieve over a set time period. All of these targets will be tied around BSG’s core values and how these can be addressed, both within the academic curriculum as well as through extra-curricular, enrichment activities.

The Excellence Profile is structured as follows:

Section 1 – Academic Progress (Academic Transcript & Reports).Section 2 – Core Values (Evidence provided for Love of Learning, Respect, Responsibility & Commitment). Section 3 – Careers (Up-to-date CV & Personal statement, as well as records of careers meetings & work experience).Section 4 – Mentoring (Copies of all completed mentoring sheets).

The Excellence Profile is important for a number of reasons:

- The most prestigious universities and businesses want more from their respective applicants than just very impressive grades. - We want our students to be able to demonstrate to higher education institutions, as well as future employers, that they are well-rounded, talented and diverse. - The Profile allows students to celebrate their impressive achievements through Key Stages 4 and 5, whilst demonstrating that our Core Values are present within their everyday practice. - The evidence they collect will be immediately transferrable to another school/college if and when they leave Guangzhou.


IGCSE ArtExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course Content- Two dimensional studies- Painting and related media - Print making- Collage - Mixed media- Three dimensional studies: - Sculpture - Photography - Environmental / architectural design - Graphics

Course AssessmentThe assessment objectives required to pass the IGCSE Art and Design Exam are: - Gathering, recording, research and investigation - Exploration and development of ideas - Organisation of relationships of visual and / or other forms- Selection and control of media and processes - Personal vision and presentation

Assessment Weighting- 50% from Paper 2- Interpretative Study - 8 hour practical, requiring an examination piece (maximum size A2), plus no more than two sheets (four sides) of supporting work (maximum size A2), assessed by CIE. - 50% from Coursework Assignment carried out during Year 10 and Year 11, requiring one main finished piece, plus no more than four sheets (eight sides) of supporting work (maximum size A2), assessed by BSG and moderated by CIE.

IGCSE Subject Options


IGCSE BiologyExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe Separate Science IGCSE Biology course is aimed at students who have a strong interest in the Sciences and intend to further study Biology after IGCSE level.

The following topics are covered in Year 10 and Year 11:

Unit 1: Characteristics and classification of living organismsUnit 2: Organisation of the organismUnit 3: Movement in and out of cellsUnit 4: Biological moleculesUnit 5: EnzymesUnit 6: Plant nutritionUnit 7: Human nutritionUnit 8: Transport in plantsUnit 9: Transport in animalsUnit 10: Diseases and immunityUnit 11: Gas exchange in humansUnit 12: RespirationUnit 13: Excretion in humansUnit 14: Coordination and responseUnit 15: DrugsUnit 16: ReproductionUnit 17: InheritanceUnit 18: Variation and selectionUnit 19: Organisms and their environmentUnit 20: Biotechnology and genetic engineeringUnit 21: Human influences on the ecosystem Course AssessmentAll candidates are entered for three papers:Paper 1 (30% of total marks) (45 minutes): A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40 items of the four choice type. Questions will be based on the Core syllabus content.AND Paper 3 (50% of total marks) (1 hour 15 minutes): Core curriculum – Grades C to G available. Core theory paper consisting of short-answer and structured questions, based on the Core curriculum.

OR

Paper 2 (30% of total marks) (45 minutes): A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40 items of the four choice type. Questions will be based on the Extended syllabus content.ANDPaper 4 (50% of total marks) (1 hour 15 minutes): Extended curriculum – Grades A* to G available Extended theory paper consisting of short answer and structured questions. A quarter of the marks available will be based on core material and the remainder on the supplement.

ANDPaper 6 (20% of total marks) (1 hour): Alternative to practical written paper, designed to test familiarity with laboratory-based procedures and experimental skills.


IGCSE Business StudiesExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Successful IGCSE Business Studies students gain lifelong skills, including:

- Understanding 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. - Confidence to calculate and interpret business data. - Communication skills, including the need to support arguments with reasons. - Ability to analyse business situations and reach decisions or judgements.

Course ContentThe course is divided into six units:

1. Business Activity 2. Human Resource Management3. Marketing4. Operations Management5. Accounting and Finance6. International Trade

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through two written exams:

Exam 1The first exam lasts for 1.5 hours and is worth 50% of the final IGCSE mark. During this exam students need to respond to short answer questions and structured/data response questions. There will be no choice of questions. These questions will cover the entire content of the course (see above).

Exam 2The final exam also lasts for 1.5 hours and is worth 50% of the final IGCSE mark. The paper focuses on a given case study (not pre-released). During this exam students need to present reasoned explanations, develop arguments and make judgements. There will be no choice of questions.


IGCSE ChemistryExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

The Separate Science IGCSE Chemistry course is aimed at students who have a strong interest in the Sciences and intend to further study Chemistry after IGCSE level.

Course ContentThe following topic are covered in Year 10 and Year 11

Unit 1: Experimental Techniques

Unit 2: Particles, atomic structure, ionic bonding and the Periodic Table

Unit 3: Air and water

Unit 4: Acids, bases and salts

Unit 5: Reaction Rates

Unit 6: Metals and the Reactivity Series

Unit 7: Covalent Bonding

Unit 8: Organic Chemistry I

Unit 9: Amount of Substance

Unit 10: Organic Chemistry II

Unit 11: Redox, electrochemistry and Group VII

Unit 12: Equilibria

Course AssessmentAll candidates are entered for three papers:Paper 1 (30% of total marks) (45 minutes): A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40 items of the four choice type. Questions will be based on the Core syllabus content.AND Paper 3 (50% of total marks) (1 hour 15 minutes): Core curriculum – Grades C to G available. Core theory paper consisting of short-answer and structured questions, based on the Core curriculum.

OR




IGCSE ChineseExamination Board: Edexcel

Course ContentThis two-year course is designed for students who have studied the language for at least two years. During the course, students cover language from the following topic areas:

Core Topics: - Out and About (Basic weather, Local amenities, Accommodation, Public transport, Directions) - Customer Service & Transactions - Personal Information - Future Plans, Education & Work

Controlled Assessment Topics: - Media and Culture - Sport and Leisure - Travel and Tourism - Business, Work and Employment

Course AssessmentThis course is assessed by a combination of final examination and by controlled assessment. Each examination can be taken at foundation or higher level.

Listening – ExaminationThe listening exam lasts for 35 minutes (foundation level) and 40 minutes (higher level) and is worth 20% of the final mark. Students answer a variety of comprehension tasks relating to the core topics.

Speaking – Controlled AssessmentStudents submit two different speaking tasks relating to two of the Controlled Assessment Topics. This may be a presentation and interview, a discussion of photography or a role-play situation.

Reading – ExaminationThe reading exam lasts for 45 minutes (foundation level) or 50 minutes (higher level) and is worth 20% of the final mark. Students answer a variety of comprehension tasks relating to the core topics.

Writing – Controlled AssessmentStudents submit two different written tasks relating to two of the Controlled Assessment Topics. This may be a formal or informal letter, a magazine article, a report or a blog post.


IGCSE Chinese First LanguageExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentIn this course, we will learn different types of compositions from the textbook, “YUWEN” (Volume 8), and various magazines. Students will practise writing compositions with different topics. 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.

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through 2 written exams.

Text and questions are printed in both traditional and simplified characters on the question paper. Candidates choose the form they prefer in the examination and may write their answers in either traditional or simplified characters.

Exam 1(Reading): The first exam lasts for 2 hours and is worth 60% of the final IGCSE mark. During this exam, students need to respond to 2 questions, which relate to two passages of approximately 1200–1400 characters in total, linked by a common theme.

Question 1 (25 marks): Students answer a series of comprehension questions based on Passage 1.

Question 2 (25 marks): Students write a summary of approximately 225–275 characters based on Passages 1 and 2.

Exam 2(Writing): The second exam lasts for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This exam is worth 40% of the final IGCSE mark. In this exam, eight titles will be set in total. Candidates are required to write between 400 and 600 characters on their chosen title.


IGCSE Computer ScienceExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentComputer Science is the study of the foundational principles and practices of computation and computational thinking, and their application in the design and development of computer systems.

Section 1:Theory of Computer Science

Data representation - Binary systems - Hexadecimal - Data storageCommunication and Internet technologies - Serial and parallel data transmission - Security aspects - Internet principles of operationHardware and software

- Logic gates- Computer architecture and the fetch execute cycle- Input devices- Output devices- Memory, storage devices and media- Operating systems- High and low-level languages and their translators

SecurityEthics

Section 2:Practical Problem-solving and Programming

Algorithm design and problem-solving - Problem-solving and design - PseudocodeProgramming - Programming concepts - Data structures; arraysDatabases

Course AssessmentPaper 1: Theory - 1 hour 45 minutesThis written paper contains short-answer and structured questions - 60% of overall marks

Paper 2: Problem-solving and Programming - 1 hour 45 minutesThis written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. 20 of the marks for this paper are from questions set on the pre-release material - 40% of overall marks


IGCSE DramaExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThis is both a practical and theoretical course exploring and understanding the twin worlds of Drama and Theatre. The course is broken down into a series of modules, which focus on combinations of the following three aspects:

1. UnderstandingStudents explore the performance possibilities of a variety of texts and other stimuli from the different perspectives of actor, director and designer.

2. DevisingStudents learn how to create, shape and refine dramatic material and reflect on its effectiveness.

3. Performance SkillsStudents engage in the process of developing their voice and movement skills in order to portray roles, which are engaging and stylistic.

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through one written exam and three pieces of practical, filmed coursework.

Coursework:Students submit one monologue (max. 5 minutes) and two group pieces (max. 15 minutes each), one of which is devised and one scripted extract. The coursework makes up 60% of the overall grade.

Written Exam:The two and a half hour paper requires students to answer questions based on both their own devised work and a pre-release text that has been studied in class. It consists of 8 short and two long-answer questions.


IGCSE EconomicsExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Successful IGCSE Economics students gain lifelong skills, including:

- An understanding of economic theory, terminology and principles. - The ability to apply the tools of economic analysis. - The ability to distinguish between facts and value judgements in economic issues. - An understanding of, and an ability to use, basic economic numeracy and literacy. - The ability to take a greater part in decision-making processes in everyday life. - An understanding of the economies of developed and developing nations. - An excellent foundation for advanced study in economics.

Course ContentThe course is divided into six units:

- The basic economic problem and the allocation of resources. - The individual as a producer, consumer and borrower. - The private business as a producer and employer. - International trade. - Economic indicators. - Developed and developing economies.

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through two written exams.

Exam 1The first exam lasts for 45 minutes. This is a multiple-choice paper (30 questions) weighted at 30% of total available marks.

Exam 2The final exam lasts for 2 hours 15 minutes. Candidates answer one compulsory question, which requires them to interpret and analyse previously unseen data relevant to a real economic situation, and three optional questions from a choice of six. This is weighted at 70% of total available marks.


IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL)Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe IGCSE English as a Second Language Course is designed for students of whom English is not a first language /mother tongue, but is the language of study.

Main curriculum content entails: Reading and Writing, Listening and Speaking.

Reading and Writing - Reading short texts and answering a series of questions using skim/gist reading skills. - Reading a text and answering with greater detail. - Note taking and summary writing. - Two longer writing tasks of approximately 200 words each, in formal and informal register.

Listening - Listening to six short scenarios and answering questions on each. - Listening to longer texts and completing gaps in forms or charts. - Listening to longer texts and answering questions on each.

Speaking (Oral Endorsement or Count-In Oral) - An assessed conversation that lasts approximately 6-9 minutes based on an oral test card. - In the oral endorsement, the oral component does not contribute to the overall grade (a separate grade from 1-5 is given). In the count-in-oral, the speaking component contributes to 15% of the overall grade.

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through 2 written examinations and grades are awarded according to the curriculum that is chosen.

Reading and Writing (Core) - Eligible for grades C to G - 70 % of total marks - Duration- 1 hour and 30 minutes Listening (Core) - Eligible for grades C to G - 30 % or 15% of total marks depending on speaking component - Duration - 30–40 minutesReading and Writing (Extended) - Eligible for grades A*–E - 70% of total marks - Duration - 2 hours Listening (Extended) - Eligible for grades A*–E - 30% or 15% of total marks depending on speaking component - Duration – 45 minutes


IGCSE English LanguageExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe course focuses on developing students’ reading and writing skills and covers a set number of assessment objectives.

1. Reading Assessment Objectives - R1 Understand and collate explicit meanings. - R2 Understand, explain and collate implicit meanings and attitudes. - R3 Select analyse and evaluate what is relevant to specific purposes. - R4 Understand how writers achieve effects.

2. Writing Assessment Objectives - W1 Articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined. - W2 Order and present facts, ideas and opinions. - W3 Understand and use a range of appropriate vocabulary. - W4 Use language and register appropriate to audience and context. - W5 Make accurate and effective use of paragraphs, grammatical structures, sentences, punctuation and spelling.

Course AssessmentThe course is currently assessed in two sections: Reading and Writing.

Reading: This will be in the form of a two hour and fifteen minute examination, where all questions are focused around two texts. Students will answer the three questions below. Together these make up 50% of the IGCSE final mark for English Language.

1. Recreation: Candidates are required to recreate a text in a different form, putting the relevant information into their own words. For instance: an autobiographical account may need to be recreated in the form of a letter to a family member.2. Language analysis: Candidates analyse two sections of text in depth, exploring the effects of language.3. Summary: Candidates produce a focused summary of both texts in their own words.

Writing: This will either be in the form of a two-hour written examination or a coursework portfolio, being made up of three written pieces. This will contribute to 50% of the IGCSE final mark for English Language.

Directed Writing and Composition Examination: Here students will answer two questions. The Directed Writing question requires the candidate to develop information from one or more short texts in another form. However, the Composition question tests a candidate’s ability to produce an extended, imaginative text for a specific purpose. For this question candidates have a choice of purpose: argumentative, descriptive and narrative.

Coursework Portfolio: Candidates would be required to submit three pieces of written coursework: assignment 1 (informative, analytical and/or argumentative writing), assignment 2 (imaginative, descriptive and/or narrative writing) and assignment 3 (a response to a chosen text, which contains facts, opinions and arguments).


IGCSE English LiteratureExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe course focuses on developing abilities of students in relation to exploring language within various texts. The various Assessment Objectives below are covered throughout the course.

Literature Assessment Objectives - AO1: Show detailed knowledge of the content of literary texts in the three main forms (Drama, Poetry, and Prose); - AO2: Understand the meanings of literary texts and their contexts, and explore texts beyond surface meanings to show deeper awareness of ideas and attitudes; - AO3: Recognise and appreciate ways in which writers use language, structure, and form to create and shape meanings and effects; - AO4: Communicate a sensitive and informed personal response to literary texts.

Course AssessmentAt present, the course is assessed through two examinations and a coursework piece.

Paper 1: Poetry and Prose, Open texts (Component 1).This examination is one hour and 30 minutes in length and makes up 50% of the overall total for IGCSE English Literature.

Students must answer one question from a choice of two, for each of the topic areas below. These questions come in the form of essay questions or passage based questions.

1. Poetry (Cambridge anthology: ‘Songs of Ourselves’).2. Prose (Cambridge short story anthology: ‘Stories of Ourselves’).

Paper 2: Drama, Open text (Component 3).This examination is forty-five minutes in length and goes toward 25% of the overall total for IGCSE English Literature. Candidates answer one question in this examination, which will either be essay based or passed based. At present, the drama text studied is ‘An Inspector Calls’.

Coursework:Students produce a coursework portfolio of two assignments on different texts. This too will constitute 25% of the overall course. Each piece will be a developed, analytical response, which explores the relevance of language, structure and the author’s intent, whilst focusing on a specific area/character/theme within the text. At present, the two texts studied for coursework are Shakespeare’s ‘Julius Caesar’ and Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls’ (as the cross-over text between coursework and examination).


GCSE French (Examination Board: Edexcel)IGCSE French (Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Both two-year courses will be taught in conjunction as they both require the same core topics to be followed. The only difference arises in the form of assessment. Student progress throughout the course will determine which of the two courses is finally chosen for assessment.

Core Topics - Everyday Activities - Personal and Social Life - The World Around Us - The World of Work - The International World

Controlled Assessment Topics (Edexcel GCSE only) - Travel and Tourism - Business, Work and Employment - Sport and Leisure - Media and Culture

Course Assessment (Edexcel) – 60% Controlled Assessment / 40% final examination

- Listening: Examination 20% of final grade - Speaking: Controlled Assessment Students submit two 6-minute oral pieces on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade - Reading: Examination 20% of final grade - Writing – Controlled Assessment Students submit two 200-300 word essays on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade.

Assessment: (Cambridge IGCSE) – 100% final examinationStudents take four separate examinations in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing, and each examination is worth 25% of the final grade. All examinations are focused on language sourced from the Core Topics.Cambridge IGCSE is regarded as better preparation for further study at A-Level in French.


IGCSE French First LanguageExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Prior LearningThis course is only recommended to those candidates that have a first language competence level in French.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, correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. - a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.

AssessmentThis course is assessed by a final examination consisting of two papers.

Paper 1: Reading Candidates answer a series of comprehension questions based on a passage and then write a summary based on this and one other passage.Candidates are assessed on their ability to:

- understand and collate explicit meanings - understand, explain and collate implicit meanings and attitudes - select, analyse and evaluate what is relevant to specific purposes- understand how writers achieve effects.

Paper 2: WritingCandidates write two compositions of 350–500 words each.Candidates are assessed on their ability to:

- articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined - order and present facts, ideas and opinions - understand and use a range of appropriate vocabulary - use language and register appropriate to audience and context - make accurate and effective use of paragraphs, grammatical structures, sentences, punctuation and spelling.


IGCSE GeographyExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe course is divided into 3 themes, which develop an understanding of both the natural and human environment:

1. Population and settlement - Population dynamics - Settlement

2. The natural environment - Earthquakes and Volcanoes - River - Coasts - Weather climate and natural vegetation

3. Economic development - Development - Food Production - Industry - Tourism - Energy and Water - Environmental risks of economic development

Course Assessment The course is assessed through three written exams papers:

Paper 1 - Geographical Themes: The first exam lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is worth 45% of their final IGCSE mark. Students will answer 3 questions out of 6. There are 2 questions on each of the 3 themes outlined above. Questions will be structured with gradients of difficulty.

Paper 2 – Geographical Skills: The second exam will last 1 hour 30 minutes and is worth 27.5% of their final IGCSE mark. Students will answer all the questions on the paper. The test is based on the interpretation and analysis of geographical information and on the application of graphical and other techniques.

Paper 4 - Alternative to coursework: The third exam paper is 1 hour 30 minutes and is worth 27.5% of their final IGCSE mark. Students will answer 2 compulsory questions, completing a series of written tasks based on the 3 themes outlined above. The questions involve an appreciation of a range of techniques used in fieldwork studies including data collection techniques, developing hypotheses for specific topics, and process, presenting and analyzing data.

The course will include a fieldtrip to practice their geographical skills and enhance their knowledge and understanding of a range of geographical concepts and processes studied throughout the course.


GCSE German (Examination Board: Edexcel)IGCSE German (Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Both two-year courses will be taught in conjunction as they both require the same core topics to be fol-lowed. The only difference arises in the form of assessment. Student progress throughout the course will determine which of the two courses is finally chosen for assessment.

Core Topics - Everyday Activities - Personal and Social Life - The World Around Us - The World of Work - The International World

Controlled Assessment Topics (Edexcel GCSE only) - Travel and tourism - Business, Work and Employment - Sport and Leisure - Media and Culture

Course Assessment: (Edexcel) – 60% Controlled Assessment / 40% final examination - Listening: examination 20% of final grade - Speaking – Controlled Assessment Students submit two 6-minute oral pieces on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade. - Reading: examination 20% of final grade - Writing – Controlled Assessment Students submit two 200-300 word essays on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade.

Assessment(Cambridge IGCSE) – 100% final examinationStudents take four separate examinations in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing and each examination is worth 25% of the final grade. All examinations are focused on language sourced from the Core Topics.Cambridge IGCSE is regarded as better preparation for further study at A-Level in German.


IGCSE German First LanguageExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Prior Learning

This course is only recommended to those candidates that have a first language competence level in German.

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, correct grammar, spelling and punctuation - a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.

AssessmentThis course is assessed by a final examination consisting of two papers.

Paper 1: Reading Candidates answer a series of comprehension questions based on a passage and then write a summary based on this and one other passage.Candidates are assessed on their ability to:

- understand and collate explicit meanings - understand, explain and collate implicit meanings and attitudes - select, analyse and evaluate what is relevant to specific purposes- understand how writers achieve effects.

Paper 2: WritingCandidates write two compositions of 350–500 words each.Candidates are assessed on their ability to:

- articulate experience and express what is thought, felt and imagined - order and present facts, ideas and opinions - understand and use a range of appropriate vocabulary - use language and register appropriate to audience and context - make accurate and effective use of paragraphs, grammatical structures, sentences, punctuation and spelling.


IGCSE HistoryExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThis is a modern world IGCSE course, studying 20th century global events. The course is divided into 2 main parts:

1. International Relations 1919-1945 - The Treaty of Versailles. - The League of Nations. - The Causes of World War Two. - The Causes of the Cold War.

2. Germany 1919-1945 - The Weimar Republic (1919-1933). - Hitler’s rise to power (1919-1934). - Life in Nazi Germany (1933-1945).

Course AssessmentThe course is assessed through 2 written exams and 1 piece of coursework.

Coursework: Students will complete 1 piece of coursework on their depth study, Germany 1919-1945. This will take the form of an extended piece of writing which can be no more than 2000 words in length. This will be completed in class time towards the end of Year 10 or start of Year 11. Once assessed, coursework will account for 33% of the final IGCSE mark.

Exam 1: The first exam lasts for 2 hours and is worth 40% of the final IGCSE mark. During this exam students need to respond to 9 questions, the vast majority of which require extended written answers. These ques-tions will cover the entire content of the course (see above).

Exam 2: The final exam also lasts for 2 hours & only focuses on 1 topic from the course. The paper tests the students’ ability to respond effectively to sources by asking them to respond to 6 questions, through writing extended answers. This exam is worth 33% of the final IGCSE mark.


IGCSE MathematicsExamination Board: Edexcel

The Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics is a course that is assessable to all students and can be sat at either higher or foundation level. It incorporates a large range of mathematical concept providing a solid basis for students wishing to progress to the Edexcel AS qualification. Course Key aims:

- To develop a knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques - To give students a foundation in mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas - To enable students to enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and concepts, and be come confident in using mathematics to solve problems - To give students an appreciation of the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study.

Course ContentThe course is structured around five main topic areas that are then broken down into sub topics, these are:

- Number - Algebra - Graphs - Shape and space - Handling data

Course AssessmentThe range of grades available for this qualification at the higher tier are A* – D .There will be two examinations. Each examination paper will be 2 hours.Each paper will carry a total of 100 marks.Each paper is weighted at 50% of the qualification.


IGCSE Further Pure MathematicsExamination Board: Edexcel

This course emphasises the importance of a common core of Pure Mathematics and is designed for students who have a high ability in or are motivated by mathematics. The course has been constructed to broadly extend knowledge of the pure mathematics topics in the International GCSE and provides an excellent step-ping-stone to AS mathematics in Year 12.

Course Key aims:

- develop knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques - develop mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas - enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and concepts, and become confident to use mathematics to solve problems

Course Content

NumberStudents should be able to: - apply their numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and to real-life situations.

Algebra and calculusStudents should be able to: - use algebra and calculus to set up and solve problems - develop competence and confidence when manipulating mathematical expressions - construct and use graphs in a range of situations.

Geometry and trigonometryStudents should be able to: - use properties of shapes, angles and transformations - use vectors and rates of change to model situations - solve problems involving coordinate geometry - solve problems involving trigonometry

Course AssessmentThe range of grades available for this qualification at the higher tier are A* – D There will be two examinations. Each examination paper will be 2 hours.Each paper will carry a total of 100 marks.Each paper is weighted at 50% of the qualification.


IGCSE MusicExamination Board: Edexcel

Course Content The Edexcel Music GCSE covers the three main aspects of music: performance, composition and listening/ appraising. Students will gain insight into how music is constructed and learn how to analyse music in a variety of styles. Emphasis is also placed on an understanding of the social and historical context in which music has been composed over the last 400 years.

The course is divided into three main parts:1. Performing Music (30%) - One solo performance (15%) - One ensemble performance (15%)2. Composing Music (30%) - Two compositions (15% each)3. Music - Listening and Appraising (40%) - Area of Study 1: Western Classical Music (1600-1899) - Area of Study 2: Music in the 20th Century - Area of Study 3: Popular Music in Context - Area of Study 4: World Music

Course Assessment The course is assessed through two performances (one solo, one ensemble), two compositions and a listening examination.

Performances:Students will have many opportunities to perform throughout the two years. The exam requires one solo performance and one ensemble performance to be assessed.

Compositions: These are taken from the ‘areas of study’ and could be a popular song and a dance track, a classical piece or some world music.

Listening and Appraising:The listening examination lasts for 90 minutes and is worth 40% of the final GCSE mark. During this examination, students need to complete two sections.

- Section A has 8 questions relating to the set works studied for the ‘areas of study’ (85% of the listening examination). - Section B is an extended writing question (15% of the listening examination).


GCSE Physical EducationExamination Board: Edexcel Course Content Section 1: Healthy, Active Lifestyles 1.1 Healthy, active lifestyles and they could benefit you 1.2 Influences on your healthy, active lifestyle 1.3 Exercise and fitness as part of your healthy, active lifestyle 1.4 Physical activity as part of your healthy, active lifestyle 1.5 Your personal health and wellbeing

Section 2: Your Healthy, Active Body 2.1 Physical activity and your healthy mind and body 2.2 A healthy, active lifestyle and your cardiovascular system 2.3 A healthy, active lifestyle and your respiratory system 2.4 A healthy, active lifestyle and your muscular system 2.5 A healthy, active lifestyle and your skeletal system

Course AssessmentUnit 1: The Theory of Physical Education Externally Assessed Exam1 hour and 30 minutes written examination which includes multiple choice, short answer and essay type questions. The maximum mark is 80.This makes up 40% of the total GCSE PE mark.

Unit 2: Performance in Physical Education Internally Assessed, Externally Moderated ExamStudents must offer four performances across at least two different activity areas. This can be in the role of player/participant, official or leader.

Analysis of Performance:Students undertake an analysis of performance in a selected physical activity made up of five different com-ponents:

- Rules, regulations and terminology - Observe and analyse performance - Evaluate performance - Plan strategies, tactics and practices - Plan a Personal Exercise Programme (PEP)

This makes up 60% of the total GCSE PE mark.


IGCSE PhysicsExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Course ContentThe Separate Science IGCSE Physics course is aimed at students who have a strong interest in the Sciences and intend to further study Physics after IGCSE level.

The following topic are covered in Year 10 and Year 11

Unit 1: General Physics - Mechanics, Forces, Energy, Work, Pressure Unit 2: Thermal Physics Unit 3: Properties of waves including light and sound Unit 4: Electricity and magnetism Unit 5: Atomic Physics

Course AssessmentAll candidates are entered for three papers:Paper 1 (30% of total marks) (45 minutes): A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40 items of the four choice type. Questions will be based on the Core syllabus content.AND Paper 3 (50% of total marks) (1 hour 15 minutes): Core curriculum – Grades C to G available. Core theory paper consisting of short-answer and structured questions, based on the Core curriculum.

OR




IGCSE Science (Double Award)Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

This course is equivalent to two IGCSE’s.

Course ContentThe curriculum content is divided into three sections: Biology (B1–B10), Chemistry (C1–C12) and Physics (P1–P12). Students study all three sections.

Biology: B1 Characteristics of living organisms, B2 Cells, B3 Enzymes, B4 Nutrition, B5 Transportation, B6 Respiration, B7 Coordination and response, B8 Reproduction, B9 Energy flow in ecosystems, B10 Human influences on the ecosystem.

Chemistry: C1 The particulate nature of matter, C2 Experimental techniques, C3 Atoms, elements and compounds, C4 Stoichiometry, C5 Electricity and chemistry, C6 Energy changes in chemical reactions, C7 Chemical reactions, C8 Acids, bases and salts, C9 The Periodic Table, C10 Metals, C11 Air and water, C12 Organic chemistry.

Physics: P1 Motion, P2 Matter and Forces, P3 Energy, Work and Power, P4 Simple kinetic molecular model of matter, P5 Matter and Thermal Properties, P6 Transfer of thermal energy, P7 Waves, P8 Light, P9 Electromagnetic spectrum, P10 Sound, P11 Electricity, P13 Electric circuits.

Course AssessmentPaper 1 (30% of total marks) (45 minutes) A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40 items of the four choice type.

Paper 2 (50% of total marks) (2 hours) Core curriculum – Grades C to G available. Core theory paper consisting of short-answer and structured questions, based on the core curriculum.ORPaper 3 (50% of total marks) (2 hours) Extended curriculum – Grades A* to G available Extended theory paper consisting of short answer and structured questions. A quarter of the marks available will be based on core material and the remainder on the supplement.

Paper 6 (20% of total marks) (1 hour) Alternative to practical written paper designed to test familiarity with laboratory based procedures.


GCSE Spanish (Examination Board: Edexcel)IGCSE Spanish (Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Both two-year courses will be taught in conjunction as they both require the same core topics to be followed. The only difference arises in the form of assessment. Student progress throughout the course will determine which of the two courses is finally chosen for assessment.

Core Content - Everyday Activities - Personal and Social Life - The World Around Us - The World of Work - The International World

Controlled Assessment Topics (Edexcel GCSE only) - Travel and tourism - Business, Work and Employment - Sport and Leisure - Media and Culture

Assessment (Edexcel) – 60% Controlled Assessment / 40% final examination

- Listening: Examination 20% of final grade - Speaking: Controlled Assessment Students submit two 6-minute oral pieces on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade - Reading: Examination 20% of final grade - Writing – Controlled Assessment Students submit two 200-300 word essays on two of the above assessment topics. Worth 30% of final grade.

Assessment(Cambridge IGCSE) – 100% final examinationStudents take four separate examinations in Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing and each examination is worth 25% of the final grade. All examinations are focused on language sourced from the Core Topics.Cambridge IGCSE is regarded as better preparation for further study at A-Level in Spanish.


GCSE StatisticsExamination Board: Edexcel

The statistics course is a 1 year course aimed at high achieving mathematicians and complements the IGCSE course. Pupils who take this course will gain an extra GCSE and will find it supports them in the progression to the Statistics module at AS in Year 12.

Course key aims: - actively engages students in an accessible and relevant discipline - helps students acquire knowledge and understanding of statistical techniques and concepts - encourages statistical problem solving - develop student understanding of the importance and limitations of statistics

Course ContentIn this course, students will learn: - how to collect, summarise and represent unbiased data - the skills necessary to read, analyse and interpret data and various diagrams and statistical statements accurately - to develop your ability to reason and discuss results - how to predict what will happen in the future by making forecasts based on statistical results and considering the probability of something happening.

Course AssessmentAt the higher tier the course has a range of grades of A* – D and is assessed through:

- a written paper lasting 2 hours - an internal assessment with controlled conditions (controlled assessment tasks)

The written paper consists of 100 marks and is worth 75% of the GCSE.The internal assessment consists of 40 marks and is worth 25% of the GCSE.


AS & A2 Subject Options

A-Level Art & DesignExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry Requirements: Art and Design at IGCSE level with grade ‘B’ or above

Course Content AS-Level (Year 1) Component 1. CourseworkComponent 2. Controlled Test - Two dimensional studies- Painting and related media - Print making - Collage - Mixed media- Three dimensional studies - Sculpture - Photography - Environmental / architectural design - Graphics

A2 Level (Year 2) Component 3. CourseworkComponent 4. A detailed study of any aspect of the visual arts that may have influenced the candidate. The format of this may be a written essay, a sequence of annotated drawings, paintings, photographs, video presentation or any combination of recorded analysis. First-hand experience is essential.

AssessmentThe assessment objectives required to pass the A2 Level Art and Design Exam are: - Personal Qualities (personal ideas, subject and themes) - Manipulative, artistic and analytical skills- Aesthetic qualities- Knowledge and critical understanding

Component 1 A Controlled Test with A2 Level weighting 30% AS weighting 60% 15 hour Controlled Test with 3 weeks preparation time. Externally set and assessed by CIE.

Component 2 One project and up to four sheets of supporting work 9maximum size A1). (The result of one year’s work in Y12). A2 Level weighting 20% AS weighting 40%. Internally assessed by BSG.

A2 Candidates take components 3 and 4 in addition to 1 and 2Component 3 Coursework carried out in Y13. One project, plus a supporting folder of work (maximum size A1, maximum 10 sheets) and a sketchbook. A- level weighting 30%. Internally assessed by BSG


Component 4 Personal Study. May take an appropriate format (maximum of 3,500 words, maximum A1 size). A- level weighting 20%. Externally assessed by CIE.

Career Pathways Advertising, animation, architect, art director, art gallery curator, public art, art teacher, art therapist, illustrator, cartoonist, graphic designer, ceramic artist, cinematographer, computer aided designer, import and export of artifacts, costume designer, display artist, exhibition designer /curator, pattern designer, fashion designer, fashion buyer, film director, film editor, production designer, product designer, fine artist, footwear designer, furniture designer, interior architect/ designer, jewellery designer, knitwear designer, landscape architect, packaging designer, photographer, print maker, model-maker, set designer, screen printer, textiles designer, typographer, urban designer, web page designer.


A-Level BiologyExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry Requirements:Candidates wishing to choose Biology at AS or A2 Level will need at least a B grade in Double Award Science IGCSE, or B grades or above in GCSE Science and Additional Science, or a B grade or above in both Biology and Chemistry GCSE/IGCSE. Due to the nature of the topics being covered and the style of exam questions, candidates will need to have confidence in their written use of English and be competent in Mathematics. It is recommended that students taking Biology have at least C grades in IGCSE/GCSE English and Maths.

Course ContentAS-Level (Year 1) – Examined at the end of Year 12

Unit 1 Lifestyle, Transport, Genes and Health - structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins; enzyme action - heart structure and function - structure and properties of cell membranes; passive and active transport - structure and role of DNA and RNA - replication; protein synthesis - monohybrid inheritance - gene mutations - principles of gene therapy; social and ethical issues

Unit 2 Development, Plants and the Environment - cell structure and ultrastructure of eukaryote and prokaryote cells: cell specialisation - the role of meiosis - genotype and environmental influence - stem cell research and its implications - biodiversity, adaptations and natural selection - principles of taxonomy - plant cell structure - transport of water in plants - uses of plant products

Unit 3 Practical Biology and Research SkillsA2 Level (Year 2) – Examined at the end of Year 13

Unit 4 The Natural Environment and Species Survival - photosynthesis; energy transfer within ecosystems - evidence for global warming - evolution through natural selection and speciation - nutrient recycling - DNA profiling and PCR - structure of bacteria and viruses - infectious diseases (eg AIDS and TB) and immunology


Unit 5 Energy, Exercise and Coordination - ATP, glycolysis, anaerobic/aerobic respiration - control and functioning of heart; ventilation and cardiac output - homeostasis - the nervous system - impact of exercise on body, and improving performance - hormonal coordination - brain structure and development - imbalances in brain chemicals - Human Genome Project

Unit 6 Practical Biology and Investigative Skills

AssessmentEach unit at AS and A2 Level is assessed by means of a written examination paper, which lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.

Career PathwaysThe knowledge and skills gained on the Biology course are useful as preparation for a wide range of University courses and careers. Examples include: - Medicine and Healthcare - Scientific research - Education - Laws


A-Level Business StudiesExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry Requirements:No previous study of this subject is assumed however; IGCSE Business Studies would be advantageous. Due to the nature of the topics being covered and the amount of extended writing in the exams, candidates will need to have confidence in their written use of English.

Course Outline – What will I study?AS-Level (Year 1)

Unit 1: Business and its environment - Enterprise - Business Structure - Size of business - Business objectives - Stakeholders in business

Unit 2: People in organisations - Management and leadership - Motivation - Human resource management

Unit 3: Marketing - What is marketing? - Market research - The marketing mix (product and price) - The marketing mix (place and promotion)

Unit 4: Operations and project management - The nature of operations - Operations planning - Inventory management

Unit 5: Finance and accounting - Business finance - Forecasting cash flows - Costs - Accounting fundamentals

A2 Level (Year 2)

Unit 1: Business and its environment - Business structure - Size of business - External influences on business activity - External economic influences on business behavior


Unit 2: People in organisations - Further human resource management - Organisation structure - Business communication

Unit 3: Marketing - Marketing planning - Globalisation and international marketing

Unit 4: Operations and project management - Operations planning - Capacity utilization - Lean production and quality management - Project management

Unit 5: Finance and accounting - Costs - Budgets - Contents of published accounts - Analysis of published accounts - Investment appraisal

Unit 6 Strategic management - What is strategic management? - Strategic analysis - Strategic choice - Strategic implementation

Course AssessmentAS-Level (Year 1)Unit 1,2, 3, 4 and 5: These modules will each be assessed through two written exams.In paper 1, students will be required to answer 4 short answer questions and 1 essay (1 from a choice of 3) worth 40% of AS-Level and 20% of A2 Level. The duration of the exam is 75 minutes. In paper 2, students will be required to answer 2 data response questions worth 60% of AS-Level and 30% of A2 Level. The duration of this exam is 90 minutes.

A2 Level (Year 2)Unit 1,2,3,4, 5 and 6: These modules will each be assessed through one written exam known as Paper 3.In paper 3, students will be required to answer 5 questions related to a case study and write 1 essay (from a choice of 2). The duration of this exam is 3 hours and is worth 50% of A2 Level.

Career PathwaysA2 Level Business Studies provides a suitable foundation for the study of Business Studies or related courses in higher education. Equally it is suitable for candidates intending to pursue careers or further study in busi-ness or management, or as part of a course of general education. A2 Level Business Studies is suitable for a wide variety of careers such as accountancy, law, economics, education, politics, marketing, strategic man-agement, international trade and human resource management.


A-Level ChineseExamination Board: Edexcel Examinations taken in Year 12 and Year 13

Entry Requirements:Candidates wishing to choose Chinese at AS or A2 Level will need at least a ‘A’ grade in Chinese MFL in GCSE or a “B” grade in Chinese First Language IGCSE.

Course Outline – What will I study?AS-Level (Year 1)Using a variety of class-based and authentic materials, students develop their lexical and grammatical knowledge so that they can interpret opinions and give their own points of view on a variety of engaging and relevant social issues, including;

- Food, diet and health - Transport, travel and tourism - Education and employment - Leisure, Youth Interests and Chinese festivals

Unit 1. Spoken Expression and Response (30% of AS, 15% of the total GCE marks)

This unit requires students to demonstrate an ability to speak Chinese for 5–6 minutes in response to a short English-language stimulus. Students will be expected to refer to a series of questions printed on the stimulus so that they can communicate effectively in Chinese about the stimulus topic. Students will need to express opinions as well as provide relevant and appropriate information.

Unit 2 – Understanding and Written Response (70% of AS, 35% of the total GCE marks)

Section A

Students will be required to listen to a range of recorded Chinese-language material and to retrieve and convey information given in the recording by responding to Chinese-language questions. Students will need to show understanding of both the general sense and specific details conveyed. The questions will elicit non-verbal responses and short answers in Chinese. In this section, students will have individual control of the recording and may stop, revisit and replay sections of the recording at will. They must undertake this section of the test within the first 45 minutes allocated to this unit.

Section B

Students will be required to read Chinese-language printed materials and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of mainly target-language test-types. The questions will elicit non-verbal responses, target-language answers, and English answers that require a transfer of meaning from Chinese.

Section C

Students will be required to write 180–200 characters of Chinese in the form of a letter, report or article based on a short printed Chinese-language stimulus. Students must respond to four to six bullet points based on the stimulus text and demonstrate their ability to communicate accurately in Chinese using correct grammar and syntax.


A2 Level (Year 2) (100% of A2, 50% of the total GCE marks)

This unit rewards students for their ability to understand and respond in writing to written Chinese. It also enables them to demonstrate their ability to write in Chinese and promotes knowledge and understanding of Chinese culture and/or society through focused research.

The assessments link to the following general topic areas:

- Food, diet and health - Transport, travel and tourism - Education and employment - Leisure, youth interested and Chinese festivals - Environment (energy, pollution and environmental campaigns)

Section A - Reading

Students will be required to read a piece of authentic Chinese text and to retrieve and convey information from it. To demonstrate that they can do this, they will need to answer a series of questions in Chinese.

Section B - Translation

Students will be assessed on their ability to transfer meaning from a short passage written in English into Chinese.

Section C - Essay Writing

Students must write an essay in Chinese (250–500 characters) in response to an essay title that links to the reading text in Section A. A maximum of 30 marks will be awarded in accordance with the assessment criteria that reward content and response and quality of language.

Section D - Research-Based Essay

Students will write in Chinese (250–500 characters) about an area of interest to them and which they have researched in advance. Students will be free to set their own titles for this activity. All research must link to Chinese culture and/or society and to a specific topic area, film or book chosen from a prescribed list.

Career Pathways

The course is designed with maximum flexibility to allow students to pursue areas of particular interest, whilst developing greater all-round knowledge of the language. It is an ideal course for students who are considering studying language at university, or who simply want to improve their CV and university application by further developing their existing language skills. Speaking a language to an advanced level is both personally and academically rewarding, as well as a skill, which is highly sought after by employers.


A-Level ChemistryExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry Requirements:Candidates need at least a B grade in Double Award Science IGCSE or a B grade in Chemistry IGCSE. Due to

the demands made on reading, writing and mathematics it is recommended that students taking Chemistry have at least C grades in IGCSE English and Maths.

Course ContentAS-Level (examined at the end of Year 12)Unit 1 - Particles - Atoms and sub-atomic particles

- Electrons and mass- Moles

Unit 2 - Bonding and Structure- Types of bonds- Structure- Effects of bonds

Unit 3 - Controlling Reaction 1 - Energy 1 - Kinetics 1 - Equilibria 1

Unit 4 - Organic Chemistry 1 - Hydrocarbons

- Halogenoalkanes- Carbonyls- Carboxylic acids 1

Unit 5 - Chemical Trends - Periodicity

- Group 2- Group 17- Nitrogen and Sulfur

A2 Level (examined at the end of Year 13)

Unit 6 - Acids and Bases

Unit 7 - Electricity and Metals - Electrochemistry - Transition metals


Unit 8 - Controlling Reaction 2 - Energy 2 - Kinetics 2

Unit 9 - Organic Chemistry 2 - Hydrocarbons 2

- Phenol- Carboxylic acids 2, acyl chlorides and nitrogen compounds- Polymerisation and synthesis

Unit 10 - Chemical Analysis

Practical skills are taught throughout the course.

Course Assessment: (% values show the weighting across the 2 year course)The AS course is examined by three papers; paper 1 (multiple choice) 1hour 15.5%, paper 2 (structured ques-tions) 1hour 15minutes 23%, paper 3 (advanced practical skills) 2hours 11.5%.

The A2 course has 2 papers; paper 4 (structured questions) 2hours 38.5%, paper 5 (planning, analysis and evaluation) 1hour 15minutes 11.5%. In paper 4 knowledge will be required of the whole of the A-Level sylla-bus

Career Skills A-Level Chemistry gives you many transferable skills you can use in many jobs regardless of whether you choose a ‘science’ career. Skills include but not limited to:

- analytical and problem-solving ~ examining and interpreting results and making evaluations based on limited information - time management and organisation ~ planning and executing experiments - processing ideas and communication ~ assimilating scientific theories and arguments for discussion and debate - monitoring - systematically recording chemical properties, events and changes - processing and presenting numerical data, using IT where appropriate


A-Level Drama and Theatre StudiesExamination Board: EdexcelWritten and Practical Coursework (both years) and a written examination in Year 13

Entry Requirements:Candidates wishing to choose Drama and Theatre Studies at AS or A2 Level will need at least a B in Drama GCSE/IGCSE or be able to demonstrate a confident and effective grasp of performance skills. Due to the nature of the topics and the amount of extended written work involved in both coursework and exam, candidates should have achieved a B in either or both of their GCSE/IGCSE English grades.

Course Content: AS-Level

Unit 1 – Exploration of Drama and Theatre (Internally Assessed: 40% of AS, 20% A2)

Students will be introduced to the content of plays written for the theatre, They will learn how to analyse plays in a variety of ways so that they become familiar with the way written plays can be interpreted for realisation in performance. Two contrasting texts are studied practically, contextually and theoretically. A live theatre performance must also have been experienced and students are required to submit an evaluation of this.

Unit 2 – Theatre Text in Performance(Externally Assessed: 60% AS, 30% A2)

This unit offers students the chance to demonstrate skills in a performance environment and in front of a live audience. The knowledge and understanding gained from Unit 1 can now be applied with a view to delivering performance to an audience. For the first section, students will perform either a monologue or a duologue and for the second they will contribute to the performance of a professionally published play by a known writer. There is an option for students to offer a design concept for this section, but most will choose the performance option.

Course Content: A2

Unit 3 - Exploration of Dramatic Performance(Internally Assessed: 20% A2)

This unit requires the creation of a unique and original piece of theatre. All knowledge gained from the AS course can be applied to a created production. Students are assessed on both the process of creation and the performance of the finished product in front of an invited and identified audience. There is a 3,500- word piece of coursework to accompany the performance that requires the student to explain various elements of the devising process as well as a thorough evaluation.


Unit 4 – Theatre Text in Context(Externally Assessed: 30% A2)

The written exam at the end of the course requires the detailed and far-reaching study of one set play text (Dr Faustus - Marlowe, Lysistrata – Aristophanes or Woyzech – Buchner) and one contrasting prescribed historical period of theatrical development. The 2-hour-and-30-minute paper is split into three sections:

A: Short-question answers requiring the justification of rehearsal techniques and design aspects applied to an extract of the set play text.

B: One essay style answer requiring an explanation and justification of the student’s directorial concept a full production of the set play text.

C: One essay style answer that both evaluates a live performance of a play from the chosen historical period and compares it with the play’s original staging conditions.

Career PathwaysAs well as gaining a broad and varied understanding of the world of theatre, the study of this course at A-Level develops a huge range of transferable skills including analysis, evaluation and effective written and oral communication. These skills are suitable for a variety of careers including: - Performance / Production - Media - Management - Education - Politics - Journalism - Customer Relations - Law - Social Work


A-Level English LiteratureExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose English Literature at AS or A-Level will require at least a ‘B’ grade in English Language and/or English Literature at GCSE/IGCSE. Due to the quantity of texts covered throughout the course candidates will need to possess a passion and motivation for reading literature, as well as producing in-depth textual analysis.

Assessment ObjectivesCandidates must demonstrate:

AO1: The ability to respond to texts in the three main forms (Prose, Poetry and Drama) of different types and from different cultures.

AO2: An understanding of the ways in which writers’ choices of form, structure and language shape meanings.

AO3: The ability to produce informed, independent opinions and judgements on literary texts.

AO4: The ability to communicate clearly the knowledge, understanding and insight appropriate for literary study.

AO5: The ability to appreciate and discuss varying opinions of literary works.

Course Content: AS-Level (Year 1)

Cambridge International AS-Level Literature in English requires candidates to answer two compulsory papers: Paper 3 Poetry and Prose, and Paper 4 Drama. Overall, at AS-Level candidates are required to study four set texts. In each paper candidates answer two questions, each on a different text. Candidates are required to answer questions on a range of poems, prose and plays, with options from the canon of English Literature and modern texts in English. Close study of all the texts chosen is needed in preparation for a choice of essay and passage-based questions.

Paper 3 – Poetry and Prose (50% of AS-Level course= 25% of A-Level course) (AO1/2/3/4)

The paper contains two sections: Section A: Poetry and Section B: Prose. Candidates answer two questions, each from a different section.

- An essay question and a passage-based question are set on each text.

- In all answers, candidates must show understanding of the text and an informed independent opinion; they must communicate these clearly and appropriately.

Paper 4 – Drama (50% of AS-Level course = 25% of A-Level course) (AO1/2/3/4)

Candidates answer two questions on two plays.

- An essay question and a passage-based question are set on each text.

- In all answers, candidates must show understanding of the text and an informed independent opinion; they must communicate these clearly and appropriately.


Course Content: A2 Level (Year 2)

Cambridge International A-Level Literature in English requires students to have completed the AS units as well as Paper 5 Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts. The optional papers are: Paper 6 1900 to the Present, Paper 7 Comment and Appreciation, and Component 8 – Coursework.

Paper 5 – Shakespeare and other pre-20th century texts (25% of A-Level course)

This paper is divided into: Section A: Shakespeare Section B: Other pre-20th Century Texts.

Candidates answer two questions: one question from Section A and one question from Section B. At least one of the questions candidates answer must be a (b) passage-based question chosen from

Textual Content

Examples of texts covered on the syllabus:

Prose- Edith Wharton – ‘The House of Mirth’, Jhumpa Lahiri –‘The Namesake’, Stories of Ourselves – selected short stories, Aravind Adiga – ‘The White Tiger’. Poetry- Wilfred Owen, Songs of Ourselves, Ted Hughes –selected poems.

Drama: Shakespeare – ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello; Alan Ayckbourn – ‘Absurd Person Singular’.

Career PathwaysThis course clearly instills a passion for reading and discovery of literature and broadens one’s literary and even philosophical and historical knowledge. As well as this, it also develops a wide range of capabilities such as high-end analysis, evaluation, synthesis and effective, purposeful communication (written and oral) all the time encouraging independence and creativity. Thus, it is a suitable pre-cursor to a wide variety of careers such as: Law, Education, Politics, Journalism and Philosophy, amongst others.


A-Level FrenchExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 and Year 13

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose French at AS or A2 Level will need at least a ‘B’ grade in French GCSE.

Course ContentAS-Level (Year 1)Using class-based and authentic materials, students develop their lexical and grammatical knowledge so that they can interpret opinions and give points of view on a variety of engaging social issues, including;

- Youth culture and concerns- Lifestyle: health and fitness- The world around us: travel, tourism, environmental issues and the French-speaking world - Education and employment

Unit 1: Spoken Expression and Response (30% of AS, 15% of A2) 8-10 minute assessment in two sections.

Section A:Requires students to respond to four Edexcel-set questions on a stimulus related to the student’s chosen general topic area.Section B:The teacher/examiner engages the student in a discussion that, although still relating to the same general topic area and its linked subtopics, moves away from the main focus of the stimulus.Unit 2: Understanding and Written Response (70% of AS, 35% of A2) 2 hour 30 minute paper in three sections.Section A :Requires students to listen to a range of authentic recorded material and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of French-language questions.Section B :Requires students to read authentic French-language printed materials and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of mainly French-language test types.Section C :Requires students to write 200-220 words in the form of a letter, report or article in French-based on a short printed French-language stimulus.

A2 Level (Year 2)Edexcel A2-Level French picks up from the AS course and provides an ideal basis for those students who aim to study languages at the highest level. During the course, students gain a more nuanced appreciation of the complexities of the language, develop their written and spoken fluency in French as well as honing their translation skills. In addition to the four topics introduced at AS, students study: - Customs, traditions, beliefs and religion - National and international events: past, present and future - Literature and the arts.

Students also are required to demonstrate evidence of independent and advanced level French reading research of a chosen text, play, film or topic area that links to the culture and society of a French speaking country or community.


Unit 3. Spoken Expression and Response (15% of A2)

Students first outline their chosen issue for about one minute, adopting a definite stance towards the issue. They should then defend and justify their opinions for up to four minutes. The teacher/examiner will then initiate a spontaneous discussion in which a minimum of two further unpredictable areas of discussion will be covered.

Unit 4. Research, Understanding and Written Response (35% of A2)

Section A:A short written translation exercise to test students’ ability to transfer meaning from English into French effectively.Section B: A French-language essay in response to one from a choice of seven questions, linked to the prescribed general topic areas, which invite either discursive or creative writing.Section C:A research-based essay in French (240-270 words) to reward students for French-language research skills linked to an area of interest to the student that relates to the culture and/or society of a French-language country, countries or community. They have freedom to determine the Content of their research (potentially in negotiation with their teacher) but it must relate to the four research-based essay topic areas for this unit.

Career PathwaysThe course is designed with maximum flexibility to allow students to pursue areas of particular interest, whilst developing greater all-round knowledge of the language. It is an ideal course for students who are considering studying language at university, or who simply want to improve their CV and university application by further developing their existing language skills. Speaking a language to an advanced level is both personally and academically rewarding, as well as a skill which is highly sought after by employers.


A-Level GeographyExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry Requirements Candidates wishing to choose Geography at AS or A2 Level will need at least a ‘B’ grade in Geography GCSE/ IGCSE. Due to the amount of extended writing in the exams, candidates will need to have confidence in their written use of English.

Course ContentAS-Level (Year 1) - Core GeographyThe Course Content in the first year is divided into the physical and human core. Students must study all the physical and human core topics.

Physical Core: - Hydrology and fluvial geomorphology - Atmosphere and weather - Rocks and weathering

Human Core: - Population - Migration - Settlement dynamics

Course AssessmentThe AS-Level will be assessed through 1 exam paper lasting 3 hours and is worth 100% of their AS-Level (50% of the A2 level). The paper will be divided into 3 sections.

Section A Consists of 6 questions. 3 questions on the human core and 3 questions on the physical core. Students will answer 5 of the 6 questions. Questions will be based on either a single topic or on a combination of topics. The questions use a variety of resources and are largely skill based. All questions are worth 10 marks each.

Section B Consists of three questions based on the physical core topics outlined above. Students must answer 1 ques-tion in this section.

Section C Consists of three questions based on the human core topics outlined above. Students must answer 1 ques-tion in this section.


A2 Level (Year 2) In the second year, students study four topics:

Advanced Physical Options: Students will study two of the following: - Tropical environments - Coastal environments - Hazardous environment - Arid and semi-arid environments

Advanced Human Options Students will study two of the following: - Production, location and change - Environmental management - Global interdependence - Economic transition

Course AssessmentThe A2 level will be assessed through 2 exam papers, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes and each worth 25% of the A-Level (50% of the A2).

Paper 2: Advanced Physical Options Students will answer 2 essay questions, each on a different optional topic from a total of 8 questions based on the Advanced Physical Option syllabus, for a total of 50 marks.

Paper 3: Advanced Human Options Students will answer 2 essay questions, each on a different optional topic from a total of 8 questions based on the Advanced Human Option syllabus, for a total of 50 marks.

Career Pathways The study of Geography at A-level and university develops not only a wider knowledge and understanding of geographical concepts and processes, but also a range of skills suitable for a wide range of careers. These skills include analysis, evaluation, communication (in writing and orally), group work and fieldwork skills. Such skills are suitable for careers including: - Education - Medicine - Climatology - Environment - Economics - Journalism


A-Level GermanExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 and Year 13

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose German at AS or A2 Level will need at least a ‘B’ grade in German GCSE.

Course ContentAS-Level (Year 1) :Using class-based and authentic materials, students develop their lexical and grammatical knowledge so that they can interpret opinions and give points of view on a variety of engaging social issues, including;

- Youth culture and concerns- Lifestyle: health and fitness- The world around us: travel, tourism, environmental issues and the German-speaking world - Education and employment

Unit 1 Spoken Expression and Response (30% of AS, 15% of A2)8-10 minute assessment in two sections:

Section A:Requires students to respond to four Edexcel-set questions on a stimulus related to the student’s chosen general topic area.Section B:The teacher/examiner engages the student in a discussion that, although still relating to the same general topic area and its linked subtopics, moves away from the main focus of the stimulus.

Unit 2 Understanding and Written Response (70% of AS, 35% of A2)2 hour 30 minute paper in three sections:

Section A:Requires students to listen to a range of authentic recorded material and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of German-language questions.Section B:Requires students to read authentic German-language printed materials and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of mainly German-language test types.Section C:Requires students to write 200-220 words in the form of a letter, report or article in German based on a short printed German-language stimulus.

A2 Level (Year 2):Edexcel A2 level German picks up from the AS course and provides an ideal basis for those students who aim to study languages at the highest level. During the course, students gain a more nuanced appreciation of the complexities of the language, develop their written and spoken fluency in German as well as honing their translation skills. In addition to the four topics introduced at AS, students study: - Customs, traditions, beliefs and religion - National and international events: past, present and future - Literature and the arts.


Students also are required to demonstrate evidence of independent and advanced level German reading research of a chosen text, play, film or topic area that links to the culture and society of a German speaking country or community.

Unit 3. Spoken Expression and Response (15% of A2):Students first outline their chosen issue for about one minute, adopting a definite stance towards the issue. They should then defend and justify their opinions for up to four minutes. The teacher/examiner will then initiate a spontaneous discussion in which a minimum of two further unpredictable areas of discussion will be covered.

Unit 4. Research, Understanding and Written Response (35% of A2):

Section A:A short written translation exercise to test students’ ability to transfer meaning from English into German effectively.Section B: A German-language essay in response to one from a choice of seven questions, linked to the prescribed general topic areas, which invite either discursive or creative writing.Section C:A research-based essay in German (240-270 words) to reward students for German-language research skills linked to an area of interest to the student that relates to the culture and/or society of a German-language country, countries or community. They have freedom to determine the Content of their research (potentially in negotiation with their teacher) but it must relate to the four research-based essay topic areas for this unit.



A-Level HistoryExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose History at AS or A-Level will need at least a ‘B’ grade in History GCSE/IGCSE. Due to the nature of the topics being covered and the amount of extended writing in the exams, candidates will need to have confidence in their written use of English.

Course Outline – What will I study?The course is split into AS-Level in Year 1, progressing to the full A-Level in Year 2.AS-Level (Year 1)

Unit 1 – Source based Depth Study (40% of AS-Level = 20% of A-Level). This module is based around the study of Historical sources. It aims to give students a strong understanding of a topic/theme at the same time as allowing them to improve their skills around the study of sources. Students will complete a 1 hour examination on this topic. The subject content for this topic will be either:

- European Option: Liberalism and Nationalism in Italy and Germany, 1815-1871- American Option: The Origins of the Civil War, 1846-1863

Unit 2 - Breadth Study (60% of AS-Level = 30% of A-Level)During this module students will study a broader period of History in less depth. They will be expected to develop two skills in particular: the ability to comment on causation (the inter-linking reasons that explain why events happened) and significance (the relative importance/impact of an event). Students will complete an hour and a half long examination on this topic.The subject content for this topic will be either:

- European Option: Modern Europe, 1789–1917- American Option: The History of the USA, 1840–1941- International Option: International Relations, 1871–1945.

A2 Level (Year 2)Unit 3 – Historical Interpretations Study (40% of A2 Level = 20% of A-Level)During this module students will undertake a depth study at a more demanding level than in unit 2. Students will examine different interpretations of the period studied and use this information to improve their understanding of the discipline of History and the ways in which History is produced. The subject content for this topic will be:

- The Holocaust: Why did the Holocaust occur?

This module will be assessed by students sitting a written exam lasting 1 hour. The exam will require students to answer 1 question based on an extract from a historian’s writing. They will need to apply the skills they have learnt to effectively interpret and evaluate this piece of writing.


Unit 4 – Depth Study (60% of A2 Level = 30% of A-Level)In the final unit, students will study one topic over a short period of time in depth, allowing them to improve their knowledge of a particular time period and enhance the skills that they began working on at AS-Level, such as analysis, evaluation and historical reasoning.The topic for this unit will be either:

- Europe of the Dictators, 1918-1941- The History of the USA, 1945-1990- International History, 1945-1991

Students will complete an hour and a half long exam that includes two questions on the chosen depth study.

Career Pathways The study of History at A-Level demonstrates and develops a number of skills, including analysis, evaluation, communication (in writing and orally), the ability to critically evaluate evidence to produce a supported judgement and debating. The study of History will also improve students’ understanding of the English language. Such skills are suitable for many varied careers, including: - Education - Medicine - Law - Economics - Journalism - Politics - Marketing - Business Management


A-Level Applied Information and Communication Technology (ICT)Examination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry RequirementsThe written theory exam requires the students to communicate a lot of technical information and terms in an essay-style manner. This can be quite taxing for students with limited English skills. With this in mind, the following grades should be achieved at (I)GCSE level: - ICT B - English C - Mathematics C

Course ContentThis course helps students develop a broad range of ICT skills, knowledge and understanding. Students gain an understanding of the structure and use of ICT systems within a wide range of organisations, including the use of a variety of computer networks. As a result, students learn about ICT system life cycles, and how these affect the workplace. They also gain an understanding of the wider impact of ICT on society in general. - AS-Level (Year 1) - Written (Theory) - ICT systems - How organisations use ICT - The impact of ICT on society - The system life cycle

Practical - Use of e-mail and the internet to communicate - Creating and editing word processed documents - Creating and manipulating relational databases to search for information - Creating and testing spreadsheet models

A2 Level (Year 2)Written (Theory) - Develops the theory of all AS units in further detail, as well as: - Computer networks - Software selectionPractical - Develops the skills learnt in the AS in further detail, as well as: - Use of different software packages to perform complex mail merges - Use of macros and Visual Basic to automate applications

Course assessmentAS - Paper 1 – Written, 1 ¼ hours, 40% - Paper 2 – Practical, 2 ½ hours, 60%A2 - Papers 1 and 2 can be repeated here to try and improve AS grade - Paper 3 – Written, 1 ¼ hours, 40% - Paper 4 – Practical, 2 ½ hours, 60%


Career PathwaysThe following list is a glance at some of the university course available with Applied ICT A level: - Computing - ICT - Business Communications Systems - Systems Analysis - Information Systems - Multi Media - Business Studies - Management Information Systems

Here is a list of the possible career opportunities that the Applied ICT A level could lead to: - Systems analyst - ICT researcher - Technical support - Systems administrator - Data entry - Web designer - Accounts - Analyst and tester - Project developer


A-Level Mathematics Examination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 13 only

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose Mathematics at A-Level should ideally have at least an A grade at IGCSE (or GCSE) Mathematics. Those with a B grade will be considered but should discuss the option with their teacher first as to whether they will be suitable.

Course Outline – What will I study?The course is based around a series of 6 modules. For AS Mathematics students need to take Core 1, Core 2 and an applied moduleFor A2 Mathematics students need to take Core 3, Core 4 and an applied module

Typically a Mathematics student can expect to study the following modules to make up the A2 course: Core 1 Core 3Core 2 Core 4Statistics 1 Mechanics 1

Modules:Core 1 Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences andseries; differentiation; integration.

Core 2 Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences andseries; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; integration.

Core 3 Algebra and functions; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms;differentiation; numerical methods.

Core 4 Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences andseries; differentiation; integration; vectors.

Applied Modules:Mechanics 1 Mathematical models in mechanics; vectors in mechanics; kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line; dynamics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane; statics of a particle; moments.

Mechanics 2 Kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane; centres of mass; work and energy; collisions; statics of rigid bodies.

Mechanics 3 Further kinematics; elastic strings and springs; further dynamics; motion in a circle; statics of rigid bodies.

Statistics 1 Mathematical models in probability and statistics; representation and summary of data; probability; correlation and regression; discrete random variables; discrete distributions; the Normal distribution.

Statistics 2 The Binomial and Poisson distributions; continuous random variables; continuous distributions; samples; hypothesis tests.

Statistics 3 Combinations of random variables; sampling; estimation, confidence intervals and tests; goodness of fit and contingency tables; regression and correlation.


Decision 1: Algorithms; algorithms on graphs; the route inspection problem; critical path analysis; linear programming; matchings.

Decision 2: Transportation problems; allocation (assignment) problems; the travelling salesman; game theory; further linear programming, dynamic programming; flows in networks.

Course AssessmentAll module exams are 1.5 hours in length and are marked out 75. The board, to create a mark out of 100, standardises the marks.

Average Score Grade 90 A* (Only applicable at the end of A2) 80 A 70 B 60 C 50 D 40 E


Further Mathematics (AS & A-Level)Examination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 and Year 13

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose Further Mathematics at A-Level should ideally have an A* grade at IGCSE (or GCSE) Mathematics. Those with an A grade will be considered but should discuss the option with their teach-er first as to whether they will be suitable. Note: This course should be taken in addition to A-Level Mathematics (It is a separate course).

Course Outline – What will I study?The course is based around a series of 6 modules. For AS Further Mathematics students need to take Further Pure 1 and 2 applied modulesFor A2 Further Mathematics students need to take Further Pure 2 and 2 applied modules

Note that the applied modules must be different from those used for the A-Level Mathematics courseTypically a Further Mathematics student can expect to study, in addition to A-Level Mathematics: Further Pure 1 Further Pure 2Decision 1 Mechanics 2Statistics 2 Statistics 3 or Mechanics 3

Modules unit contentFurther Pure 1 Series; complex numbers; numerical solution of equations; coordinatesystems, matrix algebra, proof.

Further Pure2 Inequalities; series, first order differential equations; second order differentialequations; further complex numbers, Maclaurin and Taylor series.Unit Summary of unit contentApplied Modules:

Mechanics 1 Mathematical models in mechanics; vectors in mechanics; kinematics of aparticle moving in a straight line; dynamics of a particle moving in a straightline or plane; statics of a particle; moments.

Mechanics 2 Kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line or plane; centres of mass;work and energy; collisions; statics of rigid bodies.

Mechanics 3 Further kinematics; elastic strings and springs; further dynamics; motion in acircle; statics of rigid bodies.

Statistics 1 Mathematical models in probability and statistics; representation andsummary of data; probability; correlation and regression; discrete randomvariables; discrete distributions; the Normal distribution.

Statistics 2 The Binomial and Poisson distributions; continuous random variables;continuous distributions; samples; hypothesis tests.

Statistics 3 Combinations of random variables; sampling; estimation, confidence intervalsand tests; goodness of fit and contingency tables; regression and correlation.Unit Summary of unit content


Decision 1 Algorithms; algorithms on graphs; the route inspection problem; critical pathanalysis; linear programming; matchings.

Decision 2 Transportation problems; allocation (assignment) problems; the travellingsalesman; game theory; further linear programming, dynamic programming;flows in networks.A Specification at a glanceCourse AssessmentAll module exams are 1.5 hours in length and are marked out 75. The board, to create a mark out of 100, standardises the marks. Average Score Grade 90 A* (Only applicable at the end of A2) 80 A 70 B 60 C 50 D 40 E


A-Level MusicExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 and Year 13

Entry Requirements:Grade 5 instrumental, Grade 5 theory or at least a Grade B at GCSE/IGCSE

Course ContentAS-Level (Year 1)

Performing music Composing Developing musical understanding:

- ‘Keyboard Music’- ‘Popular Music and Jazz’ - ‘Music for Film and Television’ - ‘World Music’ - ‘Sacred Vocal Music’ - ‘Music theory’

Course AssessmentTwo hour examination: (40% of the AS/20% of the GCE)

- Section A: Listening- Section B: Investigating musical styles - Section C: Understanding chords and lines

Performance recital: (30% of the AS/15% of the GCE) - Solo and/or ensemble 5-6 minute assessed performance

Composition: (30% of the AS/15% of the GCE) - Students must compose a three-minute piece in response to a chosen brief - Students must also complete a CD sleeve note to describe their composition and influences

Course Content:A2 Level (Year 2)

Extended performanceComposition and technical study Further musical understanding:

- ‘Keyboard Music’- ‘Popular Music and Jazz’- ‘Music for Film and Television’ - ‘World Music’ - ‘Sacred Vocal Music’- Music theory


Course Assessment:Two hour examination: (40% of the A2/20% of the GCE)

- Section A: Aural analysis - Section B: Music in context - Section C: Continuity and change in instrumental music

Performance recital: (30% of the A2/15% of the GCE) - Solo and/or ensemble - 12-15 minute assessed performance of a balanced programme of music

Composition and technical study: (30% of the A2/15% of the GCE) - Students must complete two tasks: either two pastiche pieces, two compositions in response to a chosen brief, or one of each.

Career Pathways - University - music degree, music technology degree, performance college - Teaching - Musician/composer - Music therapist - Ethnomusicologist - Music industry - Producing - Directing - Business management - Marketing - Events management - Music journalism - Conductor


A-Level Physical EducationExamination Board: Edexcel Examinations taken in Year 13 only

Course Content AS-Level (Year 1)

Unit 1. Participation in Sport and Recreation, this unit is divided into two sections:Section 1 : TheoryDevelops the student’s knowledge and understanding of what constitutes a healthy, active lifestyle. Students will investigate how the body responds and adapts to exercise.Section 2 : PracticalEncourages the student to develop their knowledge and understanding of how competitive sport has developed over time. They will learn how a lifelong involvement in sport is encouraged.

Unit 2. The Critical Sports Performer The fundamental aim of this unit is to engage participants in four tasks. These tasks will offer a framework of opportunities to develop practical experiences and conduct independent research into the structure, provision and analysis of physical activity. - Students will have the chance to offer two performances from a choice of three roles (player / participant, leader, official) recording their performance over a period of time. - They will then undertake a study into the provision of all three roles at local level, followed by a study for one role at national level. - Lastly, they will produce an analysis of their performance relating to at least one of the activities.

A2 Level (Year 2)

Unit 3. Preparation for Optimum Sports Performance Students will develop a knowledge and understanding of the short and long term physiological and psychological preparations made by elite athletes.They will consider the short and long term technical preparations of required, e.g. selection of appropriate kit and equipment, the use of training camps, and different types of ergonomic aids.

Unit 4. The Developing Sports Performer The tasks undertaken in Unit 2: The Critical Sports Performer lay the foundation for students to specialise in one practical performance role and progress this performance, and undertake three further tasks. - Students will construct a development plan to further progress their performance as a player / participant, leaders or officials. - They will research one of these roles in an international context, taking into consideration grassroots participation, elite performance and other factors. Students will then continue to refine their performances in one chosen role. - Lastly, they will plan their life in physical activity, from the AS course to the potential opportunities and performance structure open to them, thereby outlining a time line through school, college, university, club, veteran and future roles.


Course AssessmentUnit 1. Participation in Sport and Recreation - Externally assessed through a 1 hour and 30 minutes written examination. - The paper will be a question and answer booklet, consisting of short answer and extended writing type questions, all of which are compulsory. - 50% of the total AS mark. (25% of the total GCE Mark)

Unit 2. The Critical Sports Performer - Internally assessed, externally moderated. - Students must complete all four tasks. - 50% of the total AS mark. (25% of the total GCE mark)

Unit 3. Preparation for Optimum Sports Performance -Externally assessed through a two hour written examination. The paper will be a question and answer booklet, consisting of short answer and extended writing type questions, all of which are compulsory. - 50% of the total A2 mark. (25% of the total GCE Mark)

Unit 4. The Developing Sports Performer - Internally assessed, externally moderated. - Students must complete all four tasks. - 50% of the total A2 mark (25% of the total GCE mark)

Entry Requirements(B Grade GCSE, English) Minimum B grade in GCSE PE

Career Pathways - Coaching - Sport Development - PE Teacher - Sports Science - Physiotherapy


A-Level PhysicsExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose Physics at AS or A2 Level will need at least a B grade in Double Award Science IGCSE, or B grades or above in GCSE Science and Additional Science, or a B grade or above in Physics and another Science GCSE/IGCSE. Due to the nature of the topics being covered and the style of exam questions, candidates will need to have confidence in their written use of English and be competent in Mathematics. It is recommended that students taking Physics have at least C grades in IGCSE/GCSE English and B grades in Maths.


Unit 1 – Physics on the Go (40% of AS-Level = 20% of GCE) - Mechanics: rectilinear motion, forces, energy and power .

- Materials: flow of liquids, viscosity, Stokes’ Law, properties of materials, Young’s modulus and elastic strain energy.

Unit 2 – Physics at work (40% of AS-Level = 20% of GCE)- Waves: including refraction, polarisation, diffraction and standing (stationary) waves.- Electricity: current and resistance, Ohm’s law and nonohmic materials, potential dividers, emf and internal resistance of cells, and negative temperature coefficient thermistors.- Wave/particle nature of light.

Unit 3 – Practical physics and research skills (20% of AS-Level = 10% of GCE)The skills required for this unit will be taught throughout units 1 and 2

A2 Level (Year 2)

Unit 4 – Physics on the move (40% of A2 Level = 20% of GCE)- Further mechanics, momentum and circular motion.- Electric and magnetic fields.- Particle physics. Particle physics is the subject of current research, involving the acceleration and detection of high-energy particles.

Unit 5 – From creation to collapse (40% of A2 Level = 20% of GCE)- Thermal energy including the gas laws, kinetic theory and specific heat capacity.- Nuclear decay including nuclear radiation, nuclear fission and fusion and nuclear power stations.- Oscillations including simple harmonic motion and damped and forced oscillations.- Astrophysics and cosmology including gravitational fields, stellar properties and Hubble’s law.

Unit 6 – Experimental Physics (20% of A2 Level = 10% of A-Level)The skills required for this unit will be taught throughout units 4 and 5

http://www.bsg.org.cn/home/InternationalSchool/en/


Course AssessmentUnits 1, 2 and 3 are examined in the first year and contribute the entire marks for AS-Level. Units 1 and 2 being worth 40% each and unit 3 being allocated 20%.

Units 4, 5 and 6 are examined in the second year and contribute towards the attainment of the full A2 level. Units 4 and 5 being worth 40% each and unit 6 being allocated 20%.

Career PathwaysThe knowledge and skills gained on the Physics course are useful as preparation for a wide range of Universi-ty courses and careers. Examples include:

- Engineering and Architecture- Scientific research- Education- Medicine and Dentistry


A-Level PsychologyExamination Board: Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)Examinations taken in Year 12 (AS) and Year 13 (A2)

Entry RequirementsEven though no prior knowledge of psychology is required to succeed in studying the subject at A-Level, it is necessary to have a good understanding of scientific methodology as well as analytical and evaluative skills. Therefore, at a minimum B grades in both English and Science would be useful to a candidate wishing to do well in psychology.


Defining the core content of psychology is a topic that can stimulate endless debate. The growth of the subject over the last hundred years has continually widened the areas of interest and the body of knowledge. The syllabus prescribes 4 core studies for each of the 5 key approaches to encourage breadth and depth of knowledge whilst maintaining balance. The 5 approaches are Cognitive, Social, Developmental, Physiological, and Individual Difference.

Paper 1: Core Studies 1. (50% AS-Level = 25% A2)Section A will examine candidates’ knowledge and understanding of the core studies. Section B will examine candidates’ ability to make evaluative points about the studies and their ability to see the studies in the wider context of psychological themes. Both structured essay questions will have three named core studies from which candidates choose one study on which to write their answer.

Paper 2: Core Studies 2 (50% AS-Level = 25% A2)The paper will examine how well candidates can draw out and apply the themes of methods, approaches and perspectives, and issues and debates in the course to the core studies. Candidates will be asked to make comparisons and distinctions between a number of core studies, as well as placing them within the broader context of general debates within psychology. A2 Level (Year 2)

A traditional approach in the study of psychology is to progress to greater and greater specialism and, in so doing, narrow the range of study. This syllabus is designed to increase the specialism of study yet retain a breadth of coverage. This syllabus aims to integrate the knowledge derived from a variety of psychological sources and applies it to specific problems. The chosen specialist applied areas are: Health and Abnormality.

Paper 3: Specialist Choices (50% A2 Level) Questions will require candidates to consider various themes in psychology: methods, approaches and perspectives, and issues and debates. Psychology & Health content: - The patient-practitioner relationship - Adherence to medical advice - Pain - Stress - Health promotion - Healthy and safety


Psychology & Abnormality content: - Models of abnormality - Schizophrenia - Abnormal affect - Addiction and impulse control disorders - Anxiety disorders (phobias) - Anxiety disorders (obsessions & compulsions)

Course Assessment 100% ExaminationPaper 1 Core Studies 1 This paper will consist of short-answer and structured response questions and will be assessed by a 1.5-hour examination. The examination paper will consist of two parts: 15 compulsory short-answer questions (75% of available marks) and two structured essays (25% of available marks).

Paper 2 Core Studies 2This paper will consist of structured essay questions and will be assessed by a 1.5-hour examination. The examination paper will consist of three parts: one compulsory methodology question (36%) related to a named core study, one compulsory approaches and perspectives, and issues and debates question (36%), related to a named core study. Also, one approaches and perspectives and issues and debates question (28%) related to a number of named core studies, from a choice of two questions.

Paper 3 Specialist Choices The paper will consist of short-answer and structured essay questions and will be assessed by a 3-hour examination. The questions for each specialist choice option are divided into three sections: Section A: Compulsory short-answer questions on a particular topic area , Section B: one compulsory structured essay and Section C: one structured question on applying psychology, from a choice of two.

AS-Level qualification: Candidates take Papers 1 and 2. Both papers must be taken at the same examination series.

Advanced Level qualification: Candidates take Papers 1, 2 and 3. Papers 1 and 2 must be taken at the same examination series, but Paper 3 may be taken at a later examination series.All three papers are available in both the June and November examination series.

Assessment Objectives: Assessment Objective Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3 TotalA: Knowledge and Understanding 15% 10% 25% 50%B: Analysis, Evaluation and Application 10% 15% 25% 50%Weighting 25% 25% 50% 100%

Career Pathways : As well as gaining understanding real life applications of psychology, the study of psychology at A-Level develops a range of analytical and evaluative skills. The fields of psychology are broad and varied, possible career choices could be: - Medicine - Education - Science - Counseling - Sports psychology - Law


A-Level SpanishExamination Board: EdexcelExaminations taken in Year 13 only

Entry RequirementsCandidates wishing to choose Spanish at AS or A2 Level will need at least a ‘B’ grade in Spanish GCSE.


Using class-based and authentic materials, students develop their lexical and grammatical knowledge so that they can interpret opinions and give points of view on a variety of engaging social issues, including;

- Youth culture and concerns- Lifestyle: health and fitness- The world around us: travel, tourism, environmental issues and the Spanish-speaking world- Education and employment.

Unit 1: Spoken Expression and Response (30% of AS, 15% of A2) 8-10 minute assessment in two sections.

Section A:Requires students to respond to four Edexcel-set questions on a stimulus related to the student’s chosen general topic area.Section B:The teacher/examiner engages the student in a discussion that, although still relating to the same general topic area and its linked subtopics, moves away from the main focus of the stimulus.

Unit 2: Understanding and Written Response (70% of AS, 35% of A2) 2 hour 30 minute paper in three sections.

Section A :Requires students to listen to a range of authentic recorded material and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of Spanish-language questions.Section B :Requires students to read authentic Spanish-language printed materials and to retrieve and convey information by responding to a range of mainly Spanish-language test types.Section C :Requires students to write 200-220 words in the form of a letter, report or article in Spanish based on a short printed Spanish-language stimulus.

A2 Level (Year 2)Edexcel A2 level Spanish picks up from the AS course and provides an ideal basis for those students who aim to study languages at the highest level. During the course, students gain a more nuanced appreciation of the complexities of the language, develop their written and spoken fluency in Spanish as well as honing their translation skills. In addition to the four topics introduced at AS, students study: - Customs, traditions, beliefs and religion - National and international events: past, present and future - Literature and the arts.

Students also are required to demonstrate evidence of independent and advanced level Spanish reading research of a chosen text, play, film or topic area that links to the culture and society of a Spanish speaking country or community.


Unit 3. Spoken Expression and Response (15% of A2):

Students first outline their chosen issue for about one minute, adopting a definite stance towards the issue. They should then defend and justify their opinions for up to four minutes. The teacher/examiner will then initiate a spontaneous discussion in which a minimum of two further unpredictable areas of discussion will be covered.

Unit 4. Research, Understanding and Written Response (35% of A2):

Section A:A short written translation exercise to test students’ ability to transfer meaning from English into Spanish effectively.Section B: A Spanish-language essay in response to one from a choice of seven questions, linked to the prescribed general topic areas, which invite either discursive or creative writing.Section C:A research-based essay in Spanish (240-270 words) to reward students for Spanish-language research skills linked to an area of interest to the student that relates to the culture and/or society of a Spanish-language country, countries or community. They have freedom to determine the Content of their research (potentially in negotiation with their teacher) but it must relate to the four research-based essay topic areas for this unit.


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