IGCSE options booklet

IGCSE Options 2012

The Internat ional School of Bucharest

A guide to options for Year 10 and 11 at ISB


Opt ions Booklet

Dear Parents and Students,

Year 10 is the year in which decisions need to be made for the important IGCSE courses ahead. This booklet will help you decide which subjects to choose. The subjects that you choose will be dependent on many factors such as:

Do you want to go to university?What subject would you like to study?What career are you thinking of? What subjects would be useful to you in your chosen career?What subjects are you good at?What subjects do you enjoy?What advice has been given by your teachers?

Do not choose a subject because you like the teacher (they can change!) or because your friends have chosen it. Above all, talk with the subject teachers, your tutor, or the relevant Deputy Principal. Throughout Year 10 and 11 you will focus on a two year programme of study in the differ-ent subjects you have chosen. This study culminates in public examinations during the summer term of Year 11. At least 90% attendance is required in order to sit for the IGCSE examinations at the end of year 11. Examinations and syllabuses are provided by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) board.

Remember that the following courses are compulsory for all students:EnglishMathematicsBiologyICTPhysical Education

You can choose 4 further subjects from the following IGCSEs : Geography, Business Stud-ies, Economics, Travel and Tourism, IGCSE PE, Art and Design, History, Sociology, Chemistry, Physics, French, Turkish and Spanish (see the option sheet for more information).

YouwillhaveyouroptionchoicesconfirmedbytheendofJune.Ifyouchangeyourmindafter handing in your options form it may be possible to change them. Any request for change should be made as soon as possible to the Deputy Principal accompanied by a letter from your parents/guardians. If there are any questions regarding option choices or this booklet please do not hesitate to contact the relevant Deputy Principal.

Students can take exams for syllabuses different than the ones offered by the school pro-vided they take off-campus courses with private teachers. Marks given by these teachers will be transferredandwillappearinthereportcard.Pleaseseetheexamofficerformoredetails.

Making Informed Decis ions

Discuss your ambitions with your parents, subject teachers, form tutor, etc.

Find out more about the quali-ficationsneededtofollowthiscareer.

Find out:Do you need a university de-gree or other higher diploma for this career?

Whatqualificationse.g.ALev-elcertificates/diplomadoyouneed to get into this kind of de-gree courses?

Can you study the same sub-jects at IGCSE?

Ask yourself:

What subjects do you most enjoy in school?

Which subjects do you do well in?

Also:Talk to your teachers about possible careers in their sub-ject area.Talk with your parents about your options IGCSE (A level and beyond) and ask for their advice.Find out more about the IGC-SE courses in different sub-jects.Talk to students already in Years 10 and 11 or in the A Levelprogramme.

Do you have a career in mind?

YES NO


IGCSE Courses Option Select ion Sheet

Name of pupil: ___________________________

COMPULSORYSUBJECTS:

1. ENGLISH (1stLanguage/2ndLanguage)2. MATHEMATICS 3. ICT 4. PE5. French / Spanish / Turkish / English Support

OPTIONS :Choose ONE of the following subjects from each group: Subjects followed by (FLE) can only be taken by students who are taking 1st Language English.Students may not take both Business and Enterprise Write your choice here

6.PHYSICS BUSINESS STUDIESLITERATURE ___________________________

7.GEOGRAPHY ART& DESIGNECONOMICS(FLE)BIOLOGY ___________________________ 8.CHEMISTRY TRAVELANDTOURISMHISTORY(FLE) ___________________________

9.SOCIOLOGY ENTERPRISE DRAMA PE ___________________________

I, ___________________________ am aware of the choices my child has made and will endeavourtodomyparttosupporttheexaminationcertificateprogram._______________________

An Overview of the IGCSE Courses

Subject Examination Board

Art & Design University of Cambridge International Examinations

Business studies University of Cambridge International Examinations

Biology University of Cambridge International Examinations

Chemistry University of Cambridge International Examinations

Drama University of Cambridge International Examinations

Economics University of Cambridge International Examinations

EnglishFirstLanguage University of Cambridge International Examinations

EnglishSecondLanguage University of Cambridge International Examinations

EnglishLiterature University of Cambridge International Examinations

Enterprise University of Cambridge International Examinations

French University of Cambridge International Examinations

Geography University of Cambridge International Examinations

History University of Cambridge International Examinations

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University of Cambridge International Examinations

Mathematics University of Cambridge International Examinations

Physical Education University of Cambridge International Examinations

Physics University of Cambridge International Examinations

Sociology University of Cambridge International Examinations

Spanish University of Cambridge International Examinations

Travel and Tourism University of Cambridge International Examinations

Turkish University of Cambridge International Examinations


IGCSEEnglishLanguage(Firs t Language0500;SecondLanguage0510)

First Language English

The main aims of this course are to:•Enable students to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively in speech and avariety of writing styles•Enablestudentstounderstandandrespondappropriatelytowhattheyhear,readandexperi-ence•Encouragestudentstoenjoyandappreciatevarietyoflanguage•Complementstudents’otherareasofstudybydevelopingskillsofamoregeneralapplication(e.g. analysis, synthesis, drawing of inferences)•Promotestudents’personaldevelopmentandanunderstandingofthemselvesandothers.

Second Language English

The main aims of this course are to:•DeveloptheabilitytouseEnglisheffectivelyforthepurposeofpracticalcommunication•FormasoundbasisortheskillsrequiredforfurtherstudyoremploymentusingEnglishasthe medium•Develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning skills, alongwithskills of a more general application•Promotestudents’personaldevelopment.

Assessment

•First Language English

Paper2 : 2 hours Paper3: 2 hoursReading Passages Directed Writing and Composition50% 50%

•English as a Second Language

Core curriculumGrades available: C-G

Extended curriculumGrades available: A*-E

Paper 1 - 70% (1 1/2 hours)

Reading and writing

Paper 2 - 70%(2 hours)

Reading and writingPaper 3 - 30%(30 minutes)Listening

Paper 4 - 30%(30 minutes)Listening

PLUSComponent 5 - Speaking

separately endorsed

PLUSComponent 5 - Speaking

separately endorsed

IGCSEEnglishLi terature (0486)

Course Aims

The course aims are to encourage and develop the ability to:•EnjoytheexperienceofreadingLiterature;•UnderstandandrespondtoLiterarytextsindifferentformsandfromdifferentperiodsandcultures;•Communicateaninformedpersonalresponseappropriatelyandeffectively;•Appreciatethedifferentwaysinwhichwritersachievetheireffects;•ExperienceLiterature'scontributiontoaesthetic,imaginativeandintellectualgrowth;•ExplorethecontributionofLiteraturetoanunderstandingofareasofhumanconcern.

Levels of Entry Pupils are assessed within the full range of grades. (A* - G)

Course components CandidateswillstudyindetailindividualtextsinthethreemainLiteraryformsofpoetry,prose and drama.

Programmes of Study Students will read a selection of poetry, prose and drama texts. These texts are set by the examination board and chosen by the teacher according to the interests of the pupils. Details of required text study are published when students have started the course. Texts are selected from a rangeofculturesandincludecontemporaryandclassicworksofLiterature.‘SongsofOurselves’The Cambridge International Poetry Anthology will be one of the set poetry texts. Class based teaching will focus on the discussion of the texts and exploration of personal response. Students will be expected to respond in oral and written forms.

Assessment The examination is designed to assess the ability of the candidate to present an informed personalresponsetoworksofLiteratureread,heardorviewed.

The assessment scheme consists of:•Examinationpaper—Settexts:OpenBooks70%•Coursework30%


IGCSE Mathematics (0580)

The aims are to enable students to:

•Developtheirmathematicalknowledgeandoral,writtenandpracticalskillsinawaywhichencouragesconfidenceandprovidessatisfactionandenjoyment•Readaboutmathematics,andwriteandtalkaboutthesubjectinavarietyofways•Developafeelfornumbers,carryoutcalculationsandunderstandthesignificanceofthere-sults obtained•Applymathematicsineverydaysituationsanddevelopanunderstandingofthepartwhichmathematics plays in the world around them•Solveproblems,presentthesolutionsclearly,checkandinterprettheresults•Developanunderstandingofmathematicalprinciples•Recognisewhenandhowasituationmayberepresentedmathematically,identifyandinter-pret relevant factors and, where necessary, select an appropriate mathematical method to solve the problem•Usemathematicsasameansofcommunicationwithemphasisontheuseofclearexpression•Developanabilitytoapplymathematicsinothersubjects,particularlyscienceandtechnol-ogy•Developtheabilitytoreasonlogically,toclassify,togeneraliseandtoprove•Appreciatepatternsandrelationshipsinmathematics•Produceandappreciateimaginativeandcreativeworkarisingfrommathematicalideas•Developtheirmathematicalabilitiesbyconsideringproblemsandconductingindividualandcooperative enquiry and experiment, including extended pieces of work of a practical and in-vestigative kind•Appreciatetheinterdependenceofdifferentbranchesofmathematics•Acquirea foundationappropriate to their furtherstudyofmathematicsandofotherdisci-plines.

You will be studying either the core or the extended syllabus and your teacher will advise you on the course that is the best for you. If it becomes clear that you are not studying the appropri-ate course, then changes can be made. Candidates who have followed the Core curriculum and take the relevant papers (Paper 1 and Paper 3) are eligible for the award of grades C to G only. Candidates who have followed the Extended curriculum will take Paper 2 and Paper 4 and are eligible for the award of grades A* to E only. Below is a brief outline of the examination papers.

Core curriculumGrades available: C-G

Extended curriculumGrades available: A*-E

Paper 1 (1 hour)

Short answer questions

Paper 2 (1 1/2 hours)

Short answer questions

Paper 3 (2 hours)

Structured questions

Paper 4 (2 1/2 hours)

Structured questions

Sciences

Everyoneofushastobeabletothinkscientifically,andtounderstandsomesciencetoparticipate in everyday life. Every day we face decisions that hinge on science, and even for deci-sionsthatdon'tdependonspecificscientificfacts,scienceremainsthebestsetofprovenmethodsfor acquiring accurate information about the world.

Science teaches you to think because it is about understanding how to observe things, see patterns and discover how they work. It demands verbal, maths, reasoning and communications skills. The skills learned in Science enable students to become critical thinkers and problem solv-ers. A person trained in science learns to think about information in a disciplined, systematic way -askillheorshecanlateruseinmedicine,engineering,architecture,teachingoranyotherfield.

By studying Science you will improve your career prospects. Practically any career today re-quiresskillslearnedinthesciences,whetherit'sajobinhealthcare,petrochemicalsorinformationmanagement. By studying Science a student will be ideally suited to choose from a wide variety of careers and University courses. At ISB sitting for at least one science exam ( Chemistry, Physics or Biology) is mandatory.

Paper 1 (45 minutes): Multiple choice questions.

Paper 2 ( Core - Maximum grade C) or 3 (Extended - Maximum grade A) (2 hours): short answer questions.

Paper 5 (Alternative to Practical): which will assess students knowledge of the practical aspects of Science.


IGCSE Biology (0610)

The course aims are to encourage and develop the ability to:

•Haveaworthwhileeducationalexperiencethroughwelldesignedexperimentalandpracticalscience tasks•Recognisetheusefulnessandlimitationsofthescientificmethodandtoappreciateitsappli-cation in other disciplines and in everyday life•LearnskillsthatarerelevanttothestudyandpracticeofBiology•DemonstrateattitudesthatarerelevanttoBiologysuchasenquiry,accuracy,precisionandinventiveness•Stimulateinterestin,andcarefor,theenvironment

Levels of EntryPupils are assessed within the full range of grades, (A* - G)

Course componentsThis is a summary of the topic areas that will be covered:

1. Characteristics and Classification of Living OrganismsThis topic includes the study of: the adaptation of living things to their environment, the clas-sificationofplantsandanimalsandtheuseofkeys.

2. Organisation and Maintenance of the OrganismDetailed study will be undertaken on enzymes, the movement of substances in and out of cells, nutrition, respiration, human excretion, hormones and the nervous system.

3. Development of the Organism and the Continuity of LifeThe study of sexual and asexual reproduction, and the growth and development of living things. This topic also includes studies on inheritance including work on chromosomes, mito-sis, meiosis, variation and selection.

4. Relationships of Organisms with One Another and with Their EnvironmentA detailed study of food chains and webs, the carbon and water cycle, the growth of human populationandtheinfluenceofhumansonecosystemsincludingpollutionandconservation.

Throughoutthecourse,attentionwillbedrawntotherelevanceofBiologytothestudents’every-day life and to the natural and man-made world.

IGCSE Chemistry (0620)


•ProvideaworthwhileknowledgeofChemistrythroughexperimentalandpracticalactivities•LearnskillsthatarerelevanttothestudyandpracticeofChemistry•UnderstandhowChemistryisusedintheeverydayworldincludingitsbeneficialanddetri-mental effects on people, the community and the environment•Undertakechemicalinvestigationsinanefficientandsafemanner,givingdueattentiontotheaccuracy of the work being completed•CommunicatetheirideasaboutChemistryeffectively

Levels of EntryPupils are assessed within the full range of grades, (A* - G)

Course componentsThis is a summary of some of the topic areas that will be covered:

1. Atoms, Elements, Compounds and the Periodic TableThe study of atomic structure, bonding and the basis of the Periodic TableAlso the study of the periodic groups including the transition metals and the noble gases

2. StoichiometryThis topic includes work on deducing the formula of compounds and the construction of bal-anced chemical equations.

3. Electricity and ChemistryA detailed study of the process of electrolysis and how it is used in industry

4. Acids, Bases and SaltsThe study of the characteristic properties of acids and bases, types of oxides and the prepara-tion of salts.

5. MetalsDetailed studies of their properties, extraction, uses and reactivity

6. Organic ChemistryThe fractional distillation of petroleum and the uses of its fractions such as petrolAstudyoftheformation,usesandproblemsofplastics,andman-madefibres


IGCSE Physics (0625)


•ProvideaworthwhileknowledgeofPhysicsthroughexperimentalandpracticalactivities•LearnskillsthatarerelevanttothestudyandpracticeofPhysics•UnderstandhowPhysicsisusedintheeverydayworldincludingitsbeneficialanddetrimen-tal effects on people, the community and the environment•Undertakeinvestigationsinanefficientandsafemanner,givingdueattentiontotheaccuracyof the work being completed•CommunicateideasaboutPhysicseffectively

Course componentsThe Physics syllabus is composed of:

• General PhysicsTopics include length and time, speed, velocity and acceleration, mass and weight, density, forces and energy, pressure.

• Thermal PhysicsTopics include Kinetic molecular models of matter, thermal properties of matter and transfer of thermal energy.

• Properties of wavesTopics include general wave properties, light and sound.

• Electricity and MagnetismTopics include simple phenomena of magnetism, electrical quantities, electrical circuits, dan-gers of electricity and electromagnetic effects.

• Atomic PhysicsRadioactivity and the nuclear atom

IGCSE Information Technology (0417)

A working knowledge of ICT has become a vital skill for a modern global citizen. The Information Technology syllabus offers a course containing a combination of theoretical and prac-tical studies focusing on the ability to use common software applications, including word process-ing, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation software, electronic mail, web browsers and website design.

Some benefits of IGCSE Information Technology:•Increasesawarenessofhowapplicationsareusedintheworkplaceandconsiderstheimpactof new technologies on methods of working•DevelopsITskillsthatareusefulforworkacrossthecurriculumandforfutureemployment•CanformpartofawiderIGCSEprogramwithothernonITsubjects•ProvidesagoodfoundationforhigherlevelcoursessuchasAandASLevel•Offersspecificmodulesintheassessmenttwiceayear–inJuneandNovember

Assessment comprises of 1 theory paper and 2 practical papers.There are few areas of modern life not affected by computer technology.Thecourseaimstodevelopeachstudent’sskillsbaseinarangeofsoftwareapplicationsandwidentheir knowledge and understanding of the role of ICT in the world today.

Students will be able to:a) experience a range of software applicationsb) develop their information technology skills in order to enhance their work in a variety of subjectareas;c)developunderstandingofhowinformationtechnologysystemswork;d) consider the impact of new technologies on methods of working in the outside world and on social,economic,ethicalandmoralissues;e) grow in their awareness of the ways in which Information Technology is used in practical and work-related situations

Course componentsThe subject will be taught through 8 interrelated units of study:

1. Components of a Computer System2. Input and Output Devices3. Storage Devices and Media4. Computer Networks5. Data Types6. The Effects of Using IT7. The ways in which IT is used8. Systems Analysis and Design

By the end of the course students should be able to:1.Usee-mailandtheInternettogatherandcommunicateinformation;2.Usewordprocessingfacilitiestopreparedocuments;3.Usedatabasefacilitiestomanipulatedatatosolveproblemsandrepresentdatagraphically;4.Useaspreadsheettocreateandtestadatamodel,extractingandsummarisingdata;5.Createastructuredwebsitewithstylesheets,tablesandhyperlinks;6. Create and control an interactive presentation


IGCSE Art and Design (0400)

In an increasingly competitive society, the ability to solve problems creatively or present ideaswithflairisanadvantage.Thesedays,manyuniversitiesandbusinessescreditstudentswhohave studied an Arts course. IGCSE Art and Design encourages students to use their imagination, work to a deadline and develop a strong visual language which balances and supports other subjects such as Science, Maths, English and History.The two year (year 10 and year 11)course is packed full of skills-based learning with technical development and provides interested students with the opportunity to discover more about the fas-cinating art world.

IGCSE Art and Design 4 Components: •Component1:Observational/InterpretativeAssignment•Component2:DesignAssignment•Component3:CriticalandHistoricalAssignment•Component4:CourseworkAssignment

Assessment:To pass, Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design candidates must meet the following Assessment Ob-jectives which apply to all components:

WeightingGathering, recording, research and investigation

(a) Investigate and research a variety of appropriate sources(b) Record and analyse information from direct observation and/or other sources and personal experience - 20%

Exploration and development of ideas(a) Explore a range of visual and/or other ideas by manipulating images(b) Show a development of ideas through appropriate processes - 20%

Organisation and relationships of visual and/or other forms(a) Organise and use the visual and/or other forms effectively to express ideas(b) Make informed aesthetic judgements by recognising the effect of relationships between visual and/or other forms - 20%

Selection and control of materials, media and processes(a) Show exploration and experimentation with appropriate materials(b) Select and control appropriate media and processes, demonstrating practical, technical and expressive skills and intentions-20%

Personal vision and presentation(a) Show personal vision and commitment through an interpretative and creative response(b)Presentaninformedresponsethroughpersonalevaluation,reflectionandcriticalthinking- 20%

There is the option to reproduce this portfolio as a power point presentation for higher edu-cation and career interviews. Time is allowed before the exam for research and supportive study. There is no mock exam. Students are encouraged to attend appropriate exhibitions and workshops that support their studies, via school trips or personal visits.

IGCSE Business Studies (0450)

The course will provide an excellent opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with business concepts and practices that they will inevitably encounter in later life. It will also provideasolidfoundationforthosewishingtogoontoAS/ALevel,and/orpursueBusinessorLawdegreesinthefuture.StudentschoosingBusinessStudiesasanoptionshould,oncompletionof the course have:

•developedknowledgeandunderstandingoftheenvironmentwithinwhichbusinessactivitytakesplace,andthewayinwhichchangesinthatenvironmentinfluencebusinessactivity;•developedknowledgeandunderstandingofthemajorgroupsandorganizationswithinandoutsidebusiness;•developedknowledgeandunderstandingofthemaintypesofbusinessenterpriseswithre-gardtostructure,ownershipandfinance;•developedknowledgeandunderstandingoftheconceptofmarketing;•developedknowledgeandappreciationofthefunctionofmanagement;•developedknowledgeandunderstandingoftheconceptsanddecisionmakingproceduresinbusinessbehaviour;•developedskillsofpresentationandinterpretationofbusinessdata;•developedanawarenessofthenatureandsignificanceofinnovationandchangewithinthecontext of business activities.

Students following the course should possess a high degree of competence in English and Mathematics.Thisisduetothesignificantamountofquestionsinpastexaminations,whichre-quired‘essaytype’answers;alsoconceptssuchasratioandbreak-evenanalysis,financialratios,cashflowforecasts,exchangerates,presentationandinterpretationofdata,etcareanintegralpartof the examination.

Course components In all of the following, candidates are required to apply their understanding to a variety of simple business situations. Candidates should be able to make simple decisions based upon evalu-ation of the information provided.

1. Business and the environment in which it operates2. Business structure, organization and control3. Business activity to achieve objectives4. People in business5. Regulating and controlling business activity

Assessment:The assessment will be at the end of year11 and take the form of two written papers:

Paper 1 (1¾ hours)A paper containing short-answer questions and structured/data response questions.There will be no choice of questions.

Paper 2 (1¾ hours)Candidates will be presented with a business situation or problem, and required toanswer questions arising from it.


IGCSE Economics (0455)

The aims are to:1.developcandidates’knowledgeandunderstandingofeconomicterminologyandprinciples,andelementaryeconomictheory;2.developcandidates’basiceconomicnumeracyandliteracyandtheirabilitytohandlesimpledataincludinggraphsanddiagrams;3.developcandidates’abilitytousethetoolsofeconomicanalysisinparticularsituations;4. show candidates how to identify and discriminate between differing sources of information andhowtodistinguishbetweenfactsandvaluejudgmentsineconomicissues;5.developcandidates’abilitytouseeconomicskills(withreferencetoindividuals,groupsandorganizations)tounderstandbettertheworldinwhichtheylive;6. enable candidates to participate more fully in decision-making processes as both consumers andproducersandascitizensofthelocal,nationalandinternationalcommunity;7.developcandidates’understandingoftheeconomiesofdevelopedanddevelopingnationsandoftherelationshipsbetweenthem;andtodeveloptheirappreciationoftheserelationshipsfrom the perspective of both developed and developing nations.

Course Components:•Basiceconomicproblem:choiceandtheallocationofresources•Theallocationofresources:howthemarketworks;marketfailure•Theindividualasproducer,consumerandborrower•Theprivatefirmasproducerandemployer•Roleofgovernmentinaneconomy•Economicindicators•Developedanddevelopingeconomies:trendsinproduction,populationandlivingstandards•Internationalaspects

AssessmentAll candidates take Paper 1 (Written Examination) and Paper 2 (Coursework) and are eligible for the award of grades A* to G.

Paper 1: Written examination 2½ hoursCandidates answer thirty multiple choice questions.20% of total marks

Paper 2 Structured questions 2 hoursCandidates answer one compulsory question and three questions from a choice of six.50% of total marks

Paper 3 Analysis and critical evaluation 1 hour 30 minutesCandidates answer two compulsory questions and are required to interpret and analyze previouslyunseen data relevant to a real economic situation.30% of total marks

IGCSE Geography (0460)

The future is unpredictable; studentsneed tobe equipped todealwith changes that aretaking place to our planet. Geography stimulates interest in the world and develops an informed concern for the world. Geography creates an understanding and knowledge of where you live, of other people and places. Geography is a popular subject in schools at all levels, and appears regularly among the fourorfivemostpopularchoicesatGCSEandAlevel.Graduatesinthesubjecthaveahighsuc-cessrateinfindingemployment,afactwhichisattributedtothe‘relevance’ofthesubjectinanever-changing, environmentally conscious world and to the broad range of skills and knowledge it covers. These skills and awareness of different cultures are highly regarded by international em-ployers. The IGCSE Geography course is designed to encourage a sense of place and an under-standing of relative location on a local, regional and global scale.Through a study of the characteristics and distribution of a selection of contrasting physical and human environments, students will come to understand some of the processes which affect the de-velopment of these environments. They will gain an insight into the spatial effects of the ways in which people interact with each other and with their environments. Together with a wider understanding of different communities and cultures throughout the world, students will come to appreciate the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different environments.

The aims are to encourage the students to develop;• Asenseofplaceandanunderstandingofrelativelocationonalocal,regionalandglobalscale;•Anawarenessofthecharacteristicsanddistributionofaselectionofcontrastingphysicalandhumanenvironments;•Anunderstandingofsomeoftheprocessesaffectingthedevelopmentofsuchenvironments•Anunderstandingofthespatialeffectsofthewaysinwhichpeopleinteractwitheachotherandwiththeirenvironments;•Anunderstandingofdifferentcommunitiesandculturesthroughouttheworldandanaware-ness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different environments.

The following three themes will be studied at IGCSE:•PopulationandSettlement•TheNaturalEnvironment•EconomicDevelopmentandtheuseofresources.

AssessmentAll candidates must enter for three written papers. These will be Paper 1, Paper 2,Paper 4 and also Paper 5 (Computer based assessment). The best mark from either paper4and5willgoforwardtothefinalgrade.The weighting of papers:

1. 45%2. 27.5%4. 27.5%


IGCSE History (0470)

The study of history encourages students to develop a wide range and variety of skills. At the core of this is the fact that history is primarily a literary subject. In History students will be expected toreadawidevarietyofsourcematerial fromdifferentperiodsandsocieties; in theirwrittenresponsesandessaystheywillbeexpectedtowritefluentlyandcommunicateclearly. The IGCSE History syllabus offers students the opportunity of studying some of the major international issues of the 19th and 20th Centuries as well as looking in greater depth at the his-tory of a particular region or regions. However, the emphasis within the syllabus is as much on the development of historical skills as on the acquisition of knowledge.

The aims of the IGCSE course are as follows:•Stimulateinterestinandenthusiasmaboutthepast•Promotetheacquisitionofknowledgeandunderstandingofhumanactivityinthepast•Ensurethatthecandidatesknowledgeisrootedinanunderstandingofthenatureanduseofhistorical evidence•Promoteanunderstandingofthenatureofcauseandconsequence,continuityandchange,similarity and difference•Provideasoundbasisforfurtherstudyandthepursuitofpersonalinterest•Encourageinternationalunderstanding•Encouragethedevelopmentoflinguisticandcommunicationskills

AssessmentCandidates must be entered for the following papers:Paper 1 – Core content and Depth Studies (2 hours 40%)Paper 2 – 2 options from either 19th Century or 20th Century topics (2 hours 33%)

In addition

Paper 3 – Coursework, 2 pieces of work 1500 words in length on any one or two of the Depth Studies (27%)ORPaper 4 – An alternative to course work: Source based examination (1 hour 27%)

IGCSE Physical Educat ion (0413)

IGCSE PE tests a student physically and mentally with the course being split into two components. Component one is practical coursework and component two is a theory examination.Health and physical well being is becoming a major issue in society today. This course educates students about the importance of physical activity and enables them to apply knowledge and un-derstanding to their own personal performances.

Component 1 60%Students must select four activities in which they will be examined. These must be chosen from at least two of the following categories:

•Games•Gymnastics•Dance•Athletics•Swimming•Outdoor•AdventurousActivities

50% of the mark is awarded for planning, Performing and Evaluating (Personal performance)10% of the mark is awarded for analysing and improving (knowledge of techniques etc)

The strongest 4 activities are chosen for each individual student. If a student performs an activity outside of school time such as Taekwondo or Horse Riding etc it can be used for the as-sessment. Students are assessed over the two year course and video evidence of their performance is sent to the examination board.

Component 2 40%Students take a theory course learning about all aspects of physical education.

The topics are in the following 3 categories:•Factorsaffectingperformance–skeletonandjoints,musclesandtendons,circulatorysystem,fitness,skill,motivation•Health,SafetyandTraining-health,diet,safepractice,injuries,exerciseandtraining•ReasonforParticipation-leisureandrecreation,facilities,media,accesstosport

Students sit a 2 hour theory exam.


IGCSE Sociology (0495)

Sociology is the study of how people behave in a society. It teaches how society is or-ganised,eachperson’sroleinitandhowitworks.Itisalsothestudyofsociety’sbeliefs,values,cultureandtheidentitiesofitscitizens.Sociologyutilizesthescientificmethodwhencarryingoutresearch and favours objective evidence over subjective opinion to guide its theories.

The aims of this course are to:1.Promotecandidates'awareness,knowledgeandunderstandingofhumansocieties2.Developcandidates'understandingofsociologicalmethodsincludingthecollection,analy-sis and interpretation of data3.Provideanintroductiontosociologicalconcepts,theoriesandresearchfindings4. Stimulate awareness of the range and limitations of sociological theory and research5.Promotecandidates'understandingofcontinuityandchangeinsociallife6. Encourage a critical awareness of social, economic and political processes, and their effects7. Develop the capacity for the critical evaluation of different forms of information and evi-dence8. Promote an appreciation and understanding of individual, social and cultural diversity9.Enhancecandidates'abilitytoapplysociologicalknowledgeandunderstandingtotheirownlives and participation within society.

Main Curriculum Content•UnderstandingSociety•ResearchMethods•SocialDivisionsandSocialClass•Gender•CrimeandDeviance•Media•PowerandAuthority•Education•Family

IGCSE Exam

Paper 1 2 hours 30 minutesCandidates answer one compulsory question on sociological research methods and three optionalquestionsoncultureandsocialisation;socialstratificationandinequalityandpowerandauthority.Weighting: 60% of total marks

Paper 2 1 hour 45 minutesCandidatesanswerthreeoptionalquestionsonthefamily;education;crime,devianceandsocialcontrol and the mass media.Weighting: 40% of total marks

EDEXCELDrama(0411)

Drama is accepted by universities and employers as proof of knowledge and understanding of both the theory and practical application of drama.Through practical and theoretical study, the IGCSE Drama syllabus encourages students to understand and enjoy drama by:

•developingtheirperformanceskills,bothindividuallyandingroups•consideringwaysinwhichideasandfeelingscanbecommunicatedtoanaudience•discoveringtheperformancepossibilitiesoftextsandotherstimuli•devisingdramaticmaterialoftheirown.

Course Aims:

1.Todevelopcandidates’understandingofDramathroughpracticalandtheoreticalstudy.2. To enable candidates to realize the performance possibilities of text and other stimuli.3. To encourage the use of dramatic forms and structures to communicate feelings and ideas to an audience.4. To help candidates to acquire and develop skills in Drama, both individually and in groups.5. To develop understanding of the processes leading to performance and the elements involved increatingaperformance;tobeabletoevaluatethevariousstagesofperformancework.6. To encourage enjoyment of drama.

Assessment:

Paper 1: Written examination 2½ hoursWritten examinationCandidates answer questions relating to a pre-release text and three stimuli.•SectionA(30marks)8to10short-answerquestionsonalloftheprereleasematerial.Answerallquestions.•SectionB(25marks)Answeronefromthreelonger-answerquestionsonthepre-releaseextract.•SectionC(25marks)Answeronefromthreelonger-answerquestionsonthethreestimuli.Weighting: 40%

Paper 2: CourseworkInternally assessed and externally moderated.Candidates submit three pieces of practical work:•Oneindividualpiece(max5mins):eitheroriginaldevisedworkoraperformanceofanextractfrom a piece of repertoire.•Twogrouppieces(max15minuteseach):oneoriginaldevisedpieceandoneperformanceofanextract from a piece of repertoire.Weighting: 60%


Frenchas a ForeignLanguage(0520)

Course Aims

1. Develop the ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication within the country of residence, where appropriate, and in all the countries where the language isspoken;2. Form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure;3. Offer insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken –thismayincludeliteraturewhereappropriate;4.Encouragefullerintegrationintothelocalcommunity,whererelevant;5.Developafullerawarenessofthenatureoflanguageandlanguagelearning;6. Encourage positive attitudes toward language learning and towards speakers of other lan-guagesandasympatheticapproachtootherculturesandcivilisations;7.Provideenjoymentandintellectualstimulation;8. Complement other areas of study by encouraging skills of a more general application (e.g. analysis, memorising, drawing of inferences)

Levels of EntryCandidates who take the Core level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. Candi-dates who take the Extended tier examination are eligible for the award of grades A* to G. Students will be advised of their examination entry level during their second year of study.

Course components Pupils will study different areas of the following topics over the two years: Everyday ac-tivities,homelifeandschool,food,healthandfitness,personalandsocial life,self, familyandpersonal relationships, holidays and special occasions, the world around us, home town and local area, natural and made environment, people, places and customs, the world of work, continuing education, careers and employment, language and communication in the workplace, the interna-tional world, tourism at home and abroad, life in other countries and communities, world events and issues.

Pupils will cover these topics in the form of listening, reading, speaking and writing. By the end of the course candidates will be able to hold conversations, write messages and letters, design leaflets,understandnoticesandlistentodialogues.

AssessmentThe assessment scheme is as follows:Paper 1 - Listening - 45 minutesPaper 2 - Reading and Directed Writing - 1 hour 30 minutesPaper 3 - Speaking - 15 minutesPaper 4 (Extended Tier) Continuous Writing- 1 hour 15 minutes

Spanishas a ForeignLanguage(0530)

Course Aims

1. Develop the ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication within the country of residence, where appropriate, and in all the countries where the language isspoken;2. Form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure;3. Offer insights into the culture and civilisation of the countries where the language is spoken –thismayincludeliteraturewhereappropriate;4.Encouragefullerintegrationintothelocalcommunity,whererelevant;5.Developafullerawarenessofthenatureoflanguageandlanguagelearning;6. Encourage positive attitudes toward language learning and towards speakers of other lan-guagesandasympatheticapproachtootherculturesandcivilisations;7.Provideenjoymentandintellectualstimulation;8. Complement other areas of study by encouraging skills of a more general application (e.g. analysis, memorising, drawing of inferences)

Levels of EntryCandidates who take the Core level examination are eligible for the award of grades C to G. Candi-dates who take the Extended tier examination are eligible for the award of grades A* to G. Students will be advised of their examination entry level during their second year of study.

Course components Pupils will study different areas of the following topics over the two years: Everyday ac-tivities,homelifeandschool,food,healthandfitness,personalandsocial life,self, familyandpersonal relationships, holidays and special occasions, the world around us, home town and local area, natural and made environment, people, places and customs, the world of work, continuing education, careers and employment, language and communication in the workplace, the interna-tional world, tourism at home and abroad, life in other countries and communities, world events and issues.

Pupils will cover these topics in the form of listening, reading, speaking and writing. By the end of the course candidates will be able to hold conversations, write messages and letters, design leaflets,understandnoticesandlistentodialogues.

AssessmentThe assessment scheme is as follows:Paper 1 - Listening - 45 minutesPaper 2 - Reading and Directed Writing - 1 hour 30 minutesPaper 3 - Speaking - 15 minutesPaper 4 (Extended Tier) Continuous Writing- 1 hour 15 minutes


Turkishas a Mother Language(0513)

Course Aims

•Enablestudentstocommunicateaccurately,appropriatelyandeffectivelyinwriting;•Enablestudentstounderstandandrespondappropriatelytowhattheyread;•Encouragestudentstoenjoyandappreciatethevarietyoflanguage;•Complementthestudents’otherareasofstudybydevelopingskillsofamoregeneralapplication(e.g.analysis,synthesis,drawingofinferences);•Promotethestudents’personaldevelopmentandanunderstandingofthemselvesandothers.of papers

Course Components:

Reading •Demonstrateunderstandingofwordswithinextendedtexts•Scanforandextractspecificinformation•Identifymainandsubordinatetopics,summarize,paraphrase,re-express•Showsomesenseofhowwritersachievetheireffects•Recognizeandrespondtosimplelinguisticdevicesincludingfigurativelanguage•Showamorepreciseunderstandingofextendedtexts•Recognizetherelationshipofideas•Evaluateeffectiveness,drawinferences,compare,analyze,synthesize•Showunderstandingofhowwritersachievetheireffects•Recognizeandrespondtomoresophisticatedlinguisticdevices

Writing •Expressthoughts,feelingsandopinionsinordertointerest,informorconvincethereader•Showsomesenseofaudience•Demonstrateadequatecontrolofvocabulary,syntaxandgrammar•Exercisecareoverpunctuationandspelling•Writeaccuratesimplesentences•Attemptavarietyofsentencestructures•Recognizetheneedforparagraphing•Useappropriatevocabulary•Showawiderandmorevariedsenseofdifferentstylestointerest,informorconvincethereader•Showaclearsenseofaudience•Demonstrateasophisticateduseofvocabularyandstructures•Demonstrateaccuracyinpunctuationandspelling•Writeaccuratecomplexsentences•Employvariedsentencestructures•Writeinwell-constructedparagraphs•Useimaginativeandvariedvocabulary

AssessmentThe assessment scheme is as follows:Paper 1 – Reading : 2 Hours – 50%Paper 2 - Writing : 2 Hours – 50%

IGCSE Travel and Tourism (0471)

Course Aims:

IGCSE Travel and Tourism is designed to help meet the need for skilled and knowledge-able individuals in this rapidly diversifying industry. The intention of the syllabus is to provide a broad introduction to the travel and tourism industry and related ancillary service industries. The syllabus develops practical skills across a range of working roles, as well as providing a global and local perspective on travel and tourism. Students gain an overview of the industry, and learn about popular destinations, customer care, working procedures, travel and tourism products and services, and marketing and promotion.Through their studies, students will gain an understanding of the concepts, models and theories used within the industry, and also enhance their skills of investigation, analysis, interpretation and evaluation.

The aims of the IGCSE Travel and Tourism syllabus are to provide candidates with:•Understandingofthetravelandtourismindustry• Theoreticalknowledgeof the industryand relatedsectors, includingknowledgeof traveland tourism products and services, the infrastructure on which they depend and the transport system needed to operate them•Practicalabilityinarangeofskillsandproceduresrelatedtoworkinginthetravelandtour-ism industry, including knowledge of the essential personal and professional skills required by individuals working in the service sector•Criticalawarenessofthephysical,socialandeconomicenvironmentsinwhichtravelandtourism takes place, including understanding of the global, regional and local perspectives of travel and tourism.

The syllabus develops a clear understanding of the relationship between the theory and practice of working in travel and tourism. Candidates are encouraged to develop an understand-ing of tourist industry operations and problems, and competence in identifying procedures and solutions, by using best practice from industry, established business techniques and information systems.

Course Components:•Unit1:Thetravelandtourismindustry•Unit2:Featuresofworldwidedestinations•Unit3:Customercareandworkingprocedures•Unit4:Travelandtourismproductsandservices•Unit5:Marketingandpromotion•Unit6:Themarketingandpromotionofvisitorservices

AssessmentThe assessment scheme is as follows:Paper 1 – Short answers : 60%Paper 2 – Alternative to Coursework : 40%OrCoursework : 40%


IGCSE Enterpr ise (0454)

Course Aims

•Enablestudentstosetupandrunabusiness.•Enablestudentstoidentifytargetmarkets.•Enablestudentstodevelopproductsandservicesthatcontinuetosellunderallmarketconditions.•Enablestudentstoturnabrilliantideaintoapractical,successfulbusinessmodel.

Curriculum Contents:

Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise is a unique new syllabus that brings the world of business into the classroom and gives learners a clear insight into what it means to think like an entrepreneur. This is the firstCambridgeIGCSEsyllabuswhichaskslearnerstoadoptthethoughtsandactionsofentrepreneurs,developing their knowledge and understanding of the practicalities of setting up and running their own new enterprise. Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise equips learners with a range of vital life skills for use in planningandorganisation,communicationandfinancialmanagement.

Assessment

The assessment objectives are:•Demonstrateknowledgeandunderstandingoftheconcepts,skillsandterminologyrelatingtoen-terprise.•Applytheskillsofenterprisetofamiliarandunfamiliarenterpriseproblemsandissues.•Developcommunicationmaterialsappropriatefortheintendedaudienceandpurpose.•Solveenterpriseproblems.

The assesment is in two parts:

•Paper 1 – is a written paper based an a pre-seen case study. Candidates apply their knowledge to solve enterprise problems in the context of: - the case study - organisations they have studied - their own enterprise•Coursework - Enterprise project, assessedbytheschool.Learnersruntheirownactivityorprojectandproduce a portfolio of evidence using a variety of communication methods.

Notes

International School of BucharestSos Gara Catelu, Nr.1R Sector 3

032991Bucharest, Romania

Tel:+4 (0) 21 306 9530Fax: +4 (0) 21 306 9534

www.isb.ro

Documents

IGCSE options booklet