SIXTH FORM ENTRANCE TESTS – 2011 ENTRY
Maths
The paper is a non calculator paper with 20 short questions arranged roughly in order of difficulty.
The topics covered are all to be found in GCSE and IGCSE syllabi. There is an emphasis on algebra
and number work with some questions on geometry and probability.
Extended Maths (for candidates in Hong Kong only)
The paper is a non calculator paper with eight questions. You should answer as many questions as
possible. The topics examined are algebra, geometry, trigonometry and early ideas in calculus.
English
The paper will require the analysis of an unseen poem. We will reward understanding of the poem and
a rigorous analytical style. Some bullet-point guidance will be provided.
Chemistry
The Chemistry exam will assume a knowledge of the following key concepts:
1)
The structure of the atom
2)
Bonding (ionic, covalent and metallic) and Structure
3)
Redox (OIL RIG)
4)
Mole calculations on pure substances and balanced equations (not on solutions or gases)
as well the following chemical topics:
1)
Acids and Bases
2)
Metal chemistry, including group 1
3)
Halogens
4)
Noble gases
5)
Organic (Alkanes and alkenes)
6)
Electrolysis
7)
Energy changes in chemical reactions (no knowledge of bond energies required)
Also an ability to interpret data from practical investigations including an evaluation of the method
employed.
Physics
This paper covers standard elements from the GCSE syllabus. Particular topics of interest include
themes such as forces, motion, waves, energy and work done, solid liquids and gases, magnetism and
electromagnetism, radioactivity and simple circuits.
Biology
The paper consists of three questions. The first requires the candidate to present and analyse data from
an experiment that they are likely to have encountered during their GCSE studies. The second
questions their knowledge of human organ systems. The final question is more open ended, requiring
the candidate to write in continuous prose, and allows scope for pupils to use information they have
gleaned from sources outside the remit of their academic studies.
French
The test is largely based on a series of grammatical exercises. Amongst the grammatical topics tested
are:
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Plurals of nouns
Agreements of adjectives
Direct and indirect object pronouns
Verb conjugation in the present, past and future tenses
Negatives
Relative pronouns
Candidates may also be required to do one or more of the following:
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Translate sentences from English into French
Write a short story of approximately 150 words in French, based on a series of pictures
provided
Answer questions in English on a French text
History
Candidates will be required to answer one essay question in 45 minutes. Questions will be set in such a
way that all candidates who have studied GCSE or similar courses will have access.
Geography
The Geography paper will comprise three essay questions which may be sub-divided. Candidates must
answer one question. The questions will be broadly on a human theme, a physical theme and an
environmental theme and are designed to be accessible to all candidates irrespective of which
Geography Specification they have followed at their present school. Candidates are encouraged to
make use of relevant sketch maps, diagrams and specific examples.
Theology, Philosophy and Ethics (Religious Studies)
The paper consists of five questions based on an article concerning a particular moral issue. You will
be required to construct reasoned arguments in response to this issue.
Classics
The test will consist of one passage of prose to be translated into English. The passage will test the
grammar and vocabulary required for both language papers at GCSE (we use the OCR syllabus as our
benchmark).
Spanish
The exam consists of some gap-fill exercises and translation exercises aimed at testing grammar, and
an essay.
German
The paper consists of two grammatical exercises and an essay in German.
Music
Candidates will be required to read an extract of an orchestral score and answer analytical questions
relating to it. They will also be expected to write intelligently about at least two periods of music
history.
Economics
The test is in three parts which are weighted equally.
Part A: Questions that test arithmetic and ask about the reasons for the changes that are shown
on graphs.
Part B: A data response question about a current issue with an economic aspect.
Part C: A short précis in which candidates will be required to summarise an economic
argument.
Design and Technology
The paper consists of a selection of GCSE questions from Design and Technology Resistant Materials
papers.
We are looking for an ability to design and sketch answers to the set questions. Answers must be
annotated (materials used, construction methods, important dimensions, fittings and finishes).
There are also questions which require a short answer which demonstrates an understanding of
technology.