International General Certificate of Secondary Education
subject selection booklet
IGCSE
IGCSE BOOKLET
International General Certificate of Secondary Education
Add value to your education
Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international curriculum for 14-16 year olds,
leading to globally recognised and valued Cambridge IGCSE / ICE qualifications. It is part
of the Cambridge Secondary 2 stage. IGCSE is taken in over 100 countries worldwide and
is recognised by universities, employers, and governments around the world as evidence
of academic ability.
Cambridge IGCSE encourages learner-centred and enquiry-based approaches to learning.
It develops learners’ skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving, giving
learners excellent preparation for the next stage in their education. Cambridge IGCSE is
compatible with other curricula and is internationally relevant and sensitive to different
needs and cultures. It develops learner knowledge, understanding and skills in
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Subject content
Applying knowledge and understanding to familiar and new situations
Intellectual enquiry
Flexibility and responsiveness to change
Working and communicating in English
Influencing outcomes
Cultural awareness
Assessment for Cambridge IGCSE includes written and oral tests, coursework and practical assessment. However, assessment patterns differ slightly from subject to subject. Each
learner's performance is benchmarked using eight internationally recognised grades (A*G). Grade C in IGCSE English (both First Language and Second Language) satisfies the
English proficiency requirements of universities in the UK and other anglophone
countries.
at ABWA
1.
2.
3.
4.
Group 2
Humanities
& Social
Sciences
1. English
Literature
2. Economics
3. History
4. Geography
5. Global
Perspectives
Cambridge ICE Group Award
ICE stands for International Certificate of Education. ABWA offers 19 subjects at the IGCSE
level. These are offered under 5 groups for the ICE award. At the IGCSE one needs to
choose a minimum of 7 subjects to qualify for the ICE Award. Students are required to
choose these seven subjects as follows. Two languages, and one subject from each of the other subject groups: Humanities and
Social sciences, Sciences, Mathematics and Business, Creative, Technical & Vocational.
This accounts for 6 Subjects. The 7th subject may belong to any group from 2 to 5
The ICE may be awarded at one of the three levels Distinction - 5 Grade As and 2 Grade Cs or better
Merit - 5 Grade Cs and 2 Grade Fs or better
Pass Grade G or better in 7 subjects
However, remember that Grade C or better is required for higher education
www.cie.org.uk
English
Hindi
French
Spanish
Group 1
Languages
Group 3
Sciences
1.
2.
3.
4.
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Environmental
Management
Group 4
Mathematics
1. Mathematics
2. Additional
Mathematics
Group 5
Business,
Creative,
Technical &
Vocational
1. Art & Design
2. Accounting
3. Business
Studies
4. ICT
IGCSE BOOKLET
Aditya Birla World Academy
Group 1 Languages
First Language English (0500)
It is compulsory for all IGCSE students at ABWA. Learners are also
encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to
further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English also develops more
general analysis and communication skills such as synthesis,
inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions
effectively.
covering the history of particular regions in more depth. The
emphasis is on both historical knowledge and on the skills required
for historical research. Learners develop an understanding of the
nature of cause and effect, continuity and change, similarity and
difference and find out how to use and understand historical
evidence as part of their studies. History will stimulate any learner
already interested in the past, providing a basis for further study,
and also encouraging a lifelong interest in the subject.
Geography (0460)
Geography learners will develop a 'sense of place' by looking at the
world around them on a local, regional and global scale. Learners
will examine a range of natural and man-made environments, and
The aim is to develop the ability to communicate clearly,
accurately and effectively when speaking and writing, to learn how study some of the processes which affected their development.
They will also look at the ways in which people interact with their
to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar,
environment, and the opportunities and challenges an
spelling and punctuation and to develop a personal style and an
environment can present, thereby gaining a deeper insight into
awareness of the audience being addressed.
the different communities and cultures that exist around us.
Hindi as a second language (0549)
Hindi as a second language is designed for learners who already
have a working knowledge of the language and who want to
consolidate their understanding in order to progress in their
academic or professional career. The qualification reflects the
widespread use of Hindi in education and commerce, and also in
entertainment. Through their studies, learners gain an
understanding of how to use Hindi effectively in the type of
situations, and Hindi-speaking environments, they will encounter
in their daily lives. The aim is to achieve a level of practical
communication ideal for everyday use, which can also form the
basis for further, more in-depth language study.
French - Foreign Language (0520)
Spanish - Foreign Language (0502)
This syllabus is designed for learners who are learning French /
Spanish as a foreign language. The aim is to develop an ability to
use the language effectively for purposes of practical
communication. The course is based on the linked language skills
of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on
as learners progress through their studies. The syllabus also aims
to offer insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where
French is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards
language learning and towards speakers of foreign languages.
Group 2 Humanities &
Social Sciences
History (0470)
Topics in History look at some of the major international
issues of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as
Further Details www.cie.org.uk
English Literature (0486)
The syllabus enables learners to read, interpret and evaluate texts
through the study of literature in English. Learners develop an
understanding of literal meaning, relevant contexts and of the
deeper themes or attitudes that may be expressed. Through their
studies, they learn to recognise and appreciate the ways in which
writers use English to achieve a range of effects, and will be able to
present an informed, personal response to the material they have
studied. The syllabus also encourages the exploration of wider and
universal issues, promoting learners' better understanding of
themselves and of the world around them. Recommended for
students intending to do the IB Diploma.
Economics (0455)
Economics syllabus develops an understanding of economic
terminology and principles and of basic economic theory. Learners
study the economics of developed and developing nations and
how these interrelate. They also learn to handle simple data and
undertake economic analysis, evaluate information and
discriminate between facts and value judgements in economic
issues.
Global Perspectives (0457)
Meeting government ministers, organising a local river clean-up
project and writing to the UNO about climate change, are just
some of the activities learners are pursuing through the Global
Perspectives course. Global Perspectives is a groundbreaking new
course that is cross-curricular, stretching across traditional subject
boundaries. It taps into the way learners of today enjoy learning,
including group work, seminars, projects, and working with other
learners around the world. The emphasis is on developing the
ability to think critically about a range of global issues where there
is always more than one point of view. Recommended for students
intending to do the IB Diploma.
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IGCSE BOOKLET
Aditya Birla World Academy
Group 3 Sciences
Physics (0625)
Chemistry (0620)
Biology (0610)
Science helps learners to understand the technological world in
which they live, and take an informed interest in science and
scientific developments. They learn about the basic principles of
Physics / Chemistry / Biology through a mix of theoretical and
practical studies. Learners also develop an understanding of the
scientific skills essential for further study at Cambridge
International A Level / IB Diploma, skills which are useful in
everyday life. As they progress, learners gain an understanding of
how science is studied and practised, and become aware that the
results of scientific research can have both good and bad effects
on individuals, communities and the environment.
These subjects provide an excellent foundation for advanced study
in pure sciences at the A level / IB Diploma.
Students develop
Group 4 Mathematics
Mathematics (0580)
An essential subject for all learners, Cambridge IGCSE
Mathematics is a fully examined course which encourages the
development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill, and as
a basis for more advanced study. The syllabus aims to build
learners' confidence by helping them develop a feel for numbers,
patterns and relationships, and places a strong emphasis on
solving problems and presenting and interpreting results. Learners
also gain an understanding of how to communicate and reason
using mathematical concepts.
Additional Mathematics (0606)
This syllabus is intended for high ability learners who have
achieved, or are likely to achieve, grade A*, A or B in the
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics examination. Cambridge IGCSE
Additional Mathematics enables learners to extend the
mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding developed in
 an understanding of the usefulness (and limitations) of scientific the Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics course and use skills in the
context of more advanced techniques. The syllabus has a Pure
method, and its application in other subjects and in everyday
Mathematics only content which enables learners to acquire a
life
suitable foundation in mathematics for further study in the
 a concern for accuracy and precision
subject. Knowledge of the content of the Cambridge IGCSE
Mathematics syllabus (or an equivalent syllabus) is assumed.
 an understanding of the importance of safe practice
 an awareness of the importance of objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness
Environmental Management (0680)
Cambridge IGCSE Environmental Management is concerned with
education for sustainable development in a world where the
security of resources and life-sustaining systems is endangered by
human impact. The syllabus draws upon disciplines such as biology, earth science, geography, economics and anthropology. It
starts with the interdependence of the Earth's natural systems and
how people use natural resources, and moves on to examine the
impact of development on the environment. Issues such as environmental pollution and resource depletion are examined, but the
view of them is forward looking, to see how we may change the
nature of development towards future sustainability.
Further Details www.cie.org.uk
4
IGCSE BOOKLET
Aditya Birla World Academy
Group 5 Business,
Creative, Technical,
and Vocational
Information and Communication
Technology (0417)
Better known as ICT, the Information Communication Technology
syllabus combines theoretical and practical studies focusing on the
ability to use common software applications, including word
processors, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation
software, e-mail, web browsers and website design. Learners will
Business Studies (0450)
develop a greater awareness of how applications are used in the
workplace, and consider the impact of new technologies on
Business Studies syllabus develops learners' understanding of
methods of working and on social, economic, ethical and moral
business activity in the public and private sectors, and the
issues. The skills learnt will be useful to them in their work across
importance of innovation and change. Learners find out how the
major types of business organisation are established, financed and the curriculum, and will prepare them for future employment.
Assessment of the practical tests is hardware and software
run, and how their activities are regulated. Factors influencing
business decision-making are also considered, as are the essential independent. Any hardware platform, operating system, and
applications packages can be used, providing that learners have
values of cooperation and interdependence. Learners not only
study business concepts and techniques but also enhance related the opportunity to demonstrate the full range of skills in the
syllabus.
skills such as numeracy and enquiry. The syllabus provides both a
foundation for further study at Cambridge International A Level
Art and Design (0400)
and an ideal preparation for the world of work.
Accounting (0452)
Accounting syllabus introduces learners to the theory and
concepts of accounting and the ways in which accounting is used
in a variety of modern economic and business contexts. Learners
focus on the skills of recording, reporting, presenting and interpreting financial information and build an ideal foundation both
for further study and for a future career within the profession.
The Cambridge IGCSE Art and Design syllabus aims to encourage a
personal response by stimulating imagination, sensitivity,
conceptual thinking, powers of observation and analytical ability.
Learners gain confidence and enthusiasm as they develop technical skills in two and three dimensional form and composition,
and are able to identify and solve problems in visual and tactile
forms. They also learn how to develop ideas from initial attempts
to final solutions. An ideal foundation for further study, Cambridge
IGCSE Art and Design also develops a greater awareness of the role
played by the visual arts in society and in history, broadening
cultural horizons and individual experience.
on the anvil....Computer Science
Computer Science is new subject on the IGCSE block. Its designed to help
learners develop their understanding of the main principles of problem solving
using computers. They can apply their understanding to develop computer-based
solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language.
Learners also develop a range of technical skills, as well as being able to effectively
test and evaluate computing solutions.
Studying Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science will help learners appreciate
current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and
recognise their potential risks. Computer Science helps learners develop an
interest in computing and gain confidence in computational thinking. It is an ideal
foundation for further study at Cambridge International AS and A Level / IB
Diploma, and the skills learnt can also be used in other areas of study and
in everyday life.
Further Details www.cie.org .uk
5
IGCSE BOOKLET
Aditya Birla World Academy
from the career counsellor’s desk ....
It’s time you need to take care of the complicated stuff. Making decisions is part of the process of growing up and managing your life.
Often these decisions are not very easy but you can’t shelve them aside.. Deciding your IGCSE subjects is one of the first influential
decisions you will make in a long process of choosing what to do with your life, what kind of person you want to be and how you want
to fulfil your potential. Luckily, there are fewer chances to make big mistakes with IGCSEs as you are encouraged to take key subjects
and keep your choices broad enough not to limit your future.
However, I need to remind you that a few things you need to consider are -
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Your personal qualities, (the things which make you unique)
Your abilities and aptitudes, (that which you can do)
Your aspirations, (the goals that you would like to achieve)
Your needs, (the requirements you have), and
Your values, (that which you believe in doing)
Should you require any further information or help do not hesitate to contact the career counselling department / faculty member.
On behalf of the ABWA faculty I wish you all the very best.
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How to go about it?
All students at ABWA will choose to study 9 IGCSE subjects
Step 1
You need to first choose at least 7 subjects
2 languages from Group 1. First Language English (0500) is compulsory.
1 subject from each Group 2 to 5 (this totals to 6 subjects)
The seventh subject may be chosen from any one syllabus group i.e. from Group 2 to 5
Step 2
Choosing the 8th and the 9th subject
The 8th and the 9th subject may similarly be chosen from any one syllabus group i.e from Group 2 to Group 5
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Academic structure
Principal
Radhika Sinha
IGCSE & A Level
Coordinator
Franak Bandekar
IB Diploma
Coordinator
Robert Muntzer
College Counsellors
Laiq Ahmed
Shiv Pratap Singh
First Language
English
Ranjini Sasikumar
Preeti Sharma
Gita Balsekar
Spanish
Mathew Lawrence
Physics
Priti Suresh
Economics
Shantala Kothare
Chemistry
Mandeep Kaur
English Literature
Radhika Sinha
Gita Balsekar
History
Michelle Rego
Biology
Franak Bandekar
Prema Santhosh
Hindi
Anita Sabharwal
Renu Singh
French
Hema Koppikar
Mahroz Shaikh
Further Details www.cie.org.uk
Geography
Nandini Ghatak
Mobin Baby
Global Perspectives
Michelle Rego
Environmental
Management
Anita Kapadia
Mathematics
Shaishav Mehta
Mrudangi Khushrushai
Additional
Mathematics
Prodipta Hore
D Jayaseelan
Accounting
Vandana Kulkarni
Business Studies
Vandana Kulkarni
ICT
Mahesh Patwardhan
Deepak Shetye
Art & Design
Poornima Dukle
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IGCSE BOOKLET
Aditya Birla World Academy
Next step ....
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One size doesn’t fit all
Our interests, learning needs, and career aspirations differ. To give our students the best of education, ABWA offers
two of the most globally respected and recognized curriculums, the IB Diploma and Cambridge A Level, in grades 11
and 12. The progression chart is for quick reference to help your subject selection process; it is not exhaustive .
IGCSE Subjects
IB Diploma Program
A Level
First Level English
English Literature
Hindi as a second language
English A Language and Literature HL
English A Language and Literature SL
English A Literature SL*
Languages A1.1 SSST SL
French ab Initio SL
Spanish ab Initio SL
Mandarin ab Initio SL
English Language
English Literature
Foreign languages
French B HL / French B SL
Spanish B HL / Spanish B SL
Economics
Geography
History
Global Perspectives
Economics HL / Economics SL
Geography HL / Geography SL
Economics
Business Studies
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Environmental Management
Biology HL / Biology SL
Chemistry HL / Chemistry SL
Physics HL / Physics SL
Environmental systems and societies SL
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Mathematics
Additional Mathematics
Mathematics HL / Mathematics SL
Mathematical Studies SL
Mathematics
Art & Design
Accounting
Business Studies
Information and Communication Technology
Computer Science*
Visual Arts HL / Visual Arts SL
Business and Management HL
Business and Management SL
Information Technology in a Global Society HL
Information Technology in a Global Society SL
Computer Science HL*
Computer Science SL*
Art & Design
Accounting
Applied Information and
Communication Technology
Computer Science*
* decision pending
Further Details www.cie.org.uk
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Subjects chosen for the IGCSE Examination 2015
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Name:
Grade
Division:
Email:
Cell phone:
Date of birth:
Citizenship:
Father’s Name:
Mother’s Name:
Email:
Cell Phone:
Cell Phone:
IGCSE Subjects
Group
1 First Language English
1
2 Second language (choose one ) Hindi as a second language / Spanish / French
1
3 Mathematics
4
4
5
6
7
8
9
After my IGCSE I would like to do
The IB Diploma
Signature of Parents
Signature of the pupil
Date:
Cambridge A Level
I am undecided