IGCSE PROSPECTUS
Multinational School Riyadh
Y8 - Y9 Information Evening
28th April 2013
IGCSE 2013-2014
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
Contents
Contents ........................................................................................................................................................ 2
Welcome ....................................................................................................................................................... 3
Subject Choices ............................................................................................................................................. 3
How to Choose Options ................................................................................................................................ 3
ENGLISH (First Language) .............................................................................................................................. 5
ENGLISH (Second Language) ......................................................................................................................... 6
MATHEMATICS .............................................................................................................................................. 7
ACCOUNTING ................................................................................................................................................ 8
ARABIC .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
ART & DESIGN ............................................................................................................................................. 10
BIOLOGY ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
BUSINESS STUDIES ...................................................................................................................................... 12
CHEMISTRY.................................................................................................................................................. 13
CLAiT (International) ................................................................................................................................... 14
DRAMA & SPEECH ....................................................................................................................................... 15
FRENCH ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
GEOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................................................ 17
GRAPHIC DESIGN (Graphics) ....................................................................................................................... 18
HISTORY ...................................................................................................................................................... 19
ICT ............................................................................................................................................................... 20
MUSIC......................................................................................................................................................... 21
PHYSICAL EDUCATION................................................................................................................................. 22
PHYSICS ....................................................................................................................................................... 23
YEAR 9 OPTION FORM – 2013/2014 ........................................................................................................... 24
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
Welcome
This booklet has been prepared to inform parents and students about the courses offered by the school
in Years 9 and 10 to help you to make well-informed choices for study at IGCSE Level. For questions
about individual subjects the relevant teachers should be approached. For an overview parents and
students should approach Mrs K. Jones (Curriculum Manager), Mrs A. Safadi (High School Coordinator)
or Mrs A. Philip (High School Coordinator).
Subject Choices
The MNS-R offers a range of IGCSE Level courses that should appeal to the majority of students. These
are British qualifications that are internationally recognised and accepted around the world due to their
rigour.
THE OPTIONS FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED BY SUNDAY 5 t h MAY 2 013
THE CORE SUBJECTS
THE OPTIONAL SUBJECTS
In keeping with the National Curriculum all
 French
 Accounting
students study the Core Subjects which are:
 Geography
 Arabic
 English (First/Second) Language (IGCSE)
 History
 Art
 Mathematics (IGCSE)
 ICT
 Biology
 Science (IGCSE): Biology or Chemistry or
 Music
 Business Studies
Physics
 PE
 Chemistry
 Physics
How to Choose Options
Course details for all the above subjects form the bulk of this booklet, but a real flavour of each subject
will only be gained by talking to the relevant subject teachers. You are encouraged to choose subjects
for which you have an affinity (either talent or enjoyment), though difficulties can arise if you are
talented in many areas – if in any doubt PLEASE ASK.
IGCSE exams follow a two-year programme. The option blocks are designed to provide a broad and
balanced curriculum to develop a good mix of knowledge and skills. Certain subjects offer Extended and
Core entry levels. Subject teachers will use assessment data, together with the Curriculum Manager and
High School Coordinators, to decide which entry level is most appropriate for you.
Year 9: This is the first year of IGCSE Levels. Most students will study 7 subjects at this level and take
internal exams in June 2014 with pass grades ranging from A*-G.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
Year 10: This is the second year of IGCSE Levels. The external exams will be taken in June 2015 with pass
grades ranging from A* - G.
We are offering the following subjects for 2013 folowing extended feedback from parents and students:
Option A
Option B
Option C
Option D
Option E
Biology
Business Studies
Art
Geography
Accounting
Graphics
Physics
Chemistry
History
ICT
CLAiT
French /Arabic
Physical Education
Music
ICT
You should select one subject from each Option Block and indicate your choices on your Option Form.
Not all Options can be guaranteed to run, since this depends upon there being adequate demand and
sufficient staffing. You should consider your choices very carefully, as it may not be possible to
accommodate requests for change at a later date. Certain subjects, for example Art, Music, Physical
Education and Languages will have particular entry requirements and it is important that you discuss
these with the subject teacher before making choices.
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ENGLISH (First Language)
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff contact: Mrs K. Jones
Students who take English as a First Language in Years 9 and 10 follow a combined course in both
English Language and English Literature, which leads to TWO separate certificates at IGCSE. Both are
traditional academic subjects of high status, valued by employers and Universities.
 WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?
We use a variety of resources including plays, novels, poetry, non-fiction and media texts to give
students experience in speaking, reading and writing about a wide range of materials.
 In lessons, we encourage a variety of viewpoints to be shared in discussions and use a range
of materials and activities to extend understanding and develop key skills
 Varied homework tasks include reading, research, learning spelling,
grammar exercises, preparing oral work and drafting essays
 WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?
 Speaking and listening: the ability to communicate clearly and with confidence in different
situations; listening and responding; discussion; and analysing how speech works
 Reading: following arguments and collating material from various sources; understanding
how writers and speakers achieve their effects
 Writing: communicating fluently for different purposes and audiences; improving
grammatical accuracy and extending vocabulary
 HOW ARE ENGLISH AND ENGLISH LITERATURE ASSESSED?
The English Language examination tests reading and writing skills with two external exams; the
Literature papers assess understanding of a novel, a play and poetry though two external exams.
English Language:
Paper 1: Reading Passages
Paper 2: Directed Writing and Composition
English Literature:
Paper 1: Poetry, Prose and Drama
Paper 2: Unseen
IGCSE 2013-2014
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER GCSE?
This course is excellent preparation for A-level
with its emphasis on developing reading,
writing and research skills; it combines easily
with any other subject.
English is valued as a minimum requirement
for entry to most professions and all
University departments. Skills developed are
important for a wide range of professions
including
Journalism,
Law,
Medicine,
Advertising, Business and Psychology.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
ENGLISH (Second Language)
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff contact: Mr M. Haffajee
Students in Years 9 and 10 follow a course in English Language, which leads to one IGCSE certificate
with a separate grade for Speaking and Listening. English is a traditional academic subject of high
status, valued by employers and Universities.
 WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?
We use a variety of resources including non-fiction and media texts to give students experience in
speaking, reading and writing about a wide range of materials.
 In lessons, we encourage a variety of viewpoints to be shared in discussions, and use oral
presentations, improvisation, scripted drama, audio, video recording and research sessions to
extend understanding and develop key skills
 Varied homework tasks include reading, research, learning spelling, grammar exercises,
preparing oral work and drafting essays

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?
 Speaking and listening: the ability to communicate clearly and with confidence in different
situations; listening and responding
 Reading: understanding how writers and speakers achieve their effects
 Writing: communicating fluently for different purposes and audiences; improving
grammatical accuracy and extending vocabulary
 HOW ARE ENGLISH AND ENGLISH LITERATURE ASSESSED?
The English Language examination tests reading writing and listening skills with two external exams.
There is also an oral component to assess speaking skills.
Reading and Writing Paper (Core)
Grades C-G
70% 0f total mark
Listening Paper (Core)
30% of total mark
Oral Component (separately endorsed)
IGCSE 2013-2014
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER GCSE?
This course is excellent preparation for A-level with its
emphasis on developing reading, writing and research
skills, combines easily with any other subject.
English is valued as a minimum requirement for entry
to most professions and all University departments.
Skills developed are important for a wide range of
professions including Journalism, Law, Medicine,
Advertising, Business and Psychology.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
MATHEMATICS
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mrs Leander/ Mrs D’Silva
 THE COURSE:
An essential subject for all learners, 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 course consists of many topics which aim to develop basic competence in the areas of number,
algebra, shape and handling data. Within each topic opportunities arise for students to demonstrate
their understanding of the concepts involved, problem solving capabilities, ability to use correct
mathematical language and notation, accuracy and how well they can present their work.
 A TIERED APPROACH:
The examination board offers two tiers of entry: The core and extended. Students will be entered for
their respective tier based on their performance in Grade 8 and indicative data from the UK. Core
curriculum students are eligible for grades C to G. Extended curriculum students are eligible for grades
A* to E. Students may need to change level during the course based on their progress.
 ASSESSMENT:
External: The students will answer two examination papers at the end of the two-year course. Each
paper will assess the students’ ability to recall, select and apply their knowledge of mathematics and to
interpret, analyse and solve problems.
Internal: Assessment of all the concepts taught will be done at regular intervals through tests, quizzes,
and assignments. There will also be two examinations each year to inform students of their progress.
 ORGANISATION OF WORK
Homework is usually organised on a daily basis to cover current teaching topics together with
consolidation, revision and practise of previous work. The aim is to build up a thorough understanding of
the principles involved in the subject.
 CAREERS
The importance of Mathematics in many careers cannot be over-stressed. Studying mathematics
develops analytical skills and the ability to work in a problem-solving environment. Nowadays most
employers look for evidence of at least some form of attainment in Mathematics whether for direct use
in the job, or as a guide to ability. Mathematics is a key subject in the areas of science, technology and
engineering. It is indispensable in the business world. Other areas of employment with a significant
mathematical content include accountancy, banking, actuarial work, electronic data processing,
operational research and teaching.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
ACCOUNTING
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mrs Z. Jabeen
 WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW, OR BE ABLE TO DO, BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
There is a misconception among learners that Accounting is similar to Maths, but it is not. Another idea
is that the subject is very tough, but it is not. However, like any other subject, Accounting demands a lot
of hard work in the form of daily practice and understanding. You need not be creative to take
Accounting, but you do need to understand the concepts.
 WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will learn how business accounts for its incomes and expenses based on the principle of the double
entry concept, comparisons of businesses using ratios, conversion of the single entry system into double
entry, how to account for non trading organisations such as Clubs and Societies, evaluating the cost of
producing the product (which will help the students to get specialised in Cost and Works Accounting),
the income statement of a sole trader, partnership and company forms of business organisations and
preparation of the financial statements for the same.
 ASSESSMENT
Students will take two external exams with a mixture of multiple-choice and short-answer questions.
There are usually between 4 and 6 questions based on topics from the whole of the syllabus. All
questions are compulsory. This syllabus is examined in the May/June examination session.
 ORGANISATION OF WORK
This course is split between two years. In Year 9 the students will learn fundamental journals, ledger
preparation of trial balance and accounting treatment regarding bad debts and depreciation. The
remainder of the syllabus will be covered in Year 10. After completion of each topic students have to do
the revision questions and past papers to gain practise to do the examination paper.
 KEY AREAS FOR ACCOUNTING CAREERS
Audit, Budget Analysis, Financial, Management Accounting, Tax.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
ARABIC
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mrs Henawi
The study of Arabic is a rewarding and enriching experience. The course is a practical one, with emphasis
being placed on broadening and extending a student's ability to comprehend more complex texts and to
communicate, express and justify ideas in the Arabic language.

THE COURSE
The requirement for students to take Arabic in Year 9 is to have taken Arabic as a First Language in Year
8, and/or have a solid background in reading and writing, to be able to cope with the IGCSE curriculum.
 LEVELS OF STUDY
We offer Arabic as a First Language and as a Foreign Language. The main course focuses on studying
Arabic as a Foreign Language, however if students wish to take up Arabic as a First Language, then they
may do so. Please note that the First Language course is much more challenging than the Foreign
Language course.
 ASSESSMENT:
Arabic Foreign Language:
 Paper 2: Reading a passage and answering questions relating to it.
 Paper 3: Speaking (2 general conversation- speaking role play cards).
 Paper 4: Essay (110-140 words) (Formal / informal letter).
Arabic First Language:
 Paper 1: Reading and Directed Writing (Two passages which students have to read and
answer questions about, and then summarize in their own words).
 Paper 2: Writing: Two Essays (350-500 words each).
 COURSE CONTENT:
In the classroom, students will practice reading, writing and speaking around the following topic areas:
Area A: Everyday Activities, Area B: Personal and social life, Area C: The world around us, Area D: The
world of work and Area E: The international world. Students will be expected to participate in class
discussions and other activities that encourage active learning.
 CAREERS:
There are many demanding careers that require the study of the Arabic Language, including: teaching,
journalism, writing, library management, travel, tourism, translating, law, international banking,
accountancy, the civil service and the diplomatic service.
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ART & DESIGN
Examination Board: IGCSE in Art and Design: Fine Art
Staff Contact: Mr. J Dawson
The acquisition of a visual language aids communication and expressive ability, complementing many
other subject areas. It helps students to understand both themselves and the world around them.
 THE NATURE OF THE WORK
We offer a broad-based fine art course, which gives students the opportunity to work within several
artistic disciplines including experience of drawing and painting, ICT and work in three dimensions. The
wider range of work undertaken will develop the skills acquired in Year 8 and prepare students for
mixed media work should they wish to progress to AS/A2 level. Candidates are required to meet the
following assessment objectives in their work:
A01
‘Develop’
A02
‘Experiment’
A03
‘Record’
A04
‘Present’
Developing their ideas through investigations informed by contextual and other sources,
demonstrating analytical and cultural understanding.
Refine their ideas through experimenting and selecting appropriate resources, media,
materials, techniques and processes.
Record ideas, observations and insights relevant to their intentions, in visual and other
forms.
Present a personal, informed and meaningful response demonstrating critical understanding
and, where appropriate, making connections between visual, written, oral & other elements.
 ORGANISATION OF WORK
Coursework is completed in class and supported by research and development in homework. The
department provides a stimulating environment in which creative ideas can be developed.
 EQUIPMENT
Students require a stock of basic art equipment for personal/homework use (2-8B pencils, eraser, ruler,
sharpener, acrylic paint set, brushes and a set of chalk pastels).
 CONTENT AND ASSESSMENT
Assessment is continually measured throughout the year, in close consultation with the student. A
further unit is required to be completed in examination conditions.
UNIT 1-2 – Art and Design Portfolio (60%): These units constitute the ‘coursework’ component.
A portfolio of work showing their personal response to a designated starting point, brief,
scenario or stimulus provided by their teachers.
UNIT 2 – Art and Design Set Task (40%): This is a set examination task provided by the IGCSE
examination board. From a range of starting points the candidates must produce supportive
work. A ten-hour exam, in supervised conditions will then be timetabled for its completion.
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BIOLOGY
Examination Board: ED EXCEL GCE
Staff Contact: Mrs A. Safadi
 COURSE AIMS & OBJECTIVES:
 Develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology including developing an interest in
further study and careers in the subject
 Appreciate how society makes decisions about biology – related issues and how biology
contributes to the success of the economy and society
 Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge of how science
works

Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they
relate to each other
 ASSESSMENT:
Knowledge and understanding of science and of how science works. There is internal continuous
assessment and regular tests. External exams will take place at the end of Y10.
 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
Life Scientist
Science Writers
Animal Caretakers
Laboratory
Technicians
Medical Laboratory
Workers
Physicians
Naturalist
Horticulturalists
Cooperative
Extension Agents
Dieticians
Inhalation Therapists
Paramedics
Medical Assistants
Physical Education
Instructors
Medical Secretaries
Biomedical Engineers
Nurse Practitioners
Radiological
Technologists
Physical Therapists
Pharmacists
Psychiatrists
Neurosurgeons
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
BUSINESS STUDIES
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mrs Z. Jabeen
 WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW, OR BE ABLE TO DO, BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
You might have an interest in business, and want to start your own business one day. You may have an
enquiring mind and be interested in learning about the world around you, how businesses are set up,
and what it is that makes someone a great entrepreneur.

IS THIS THE RIGHT SUBJECT FOR ME?
This course is both active and enjoyable. You need to be good at communicating and explain your ideas,
and not afraid of learning new things and working with numbers to solve business problems. You will
learn how to be a creative thinker and how to make decisions. What’s more, you will also learn about
the world of business through research and investigation, as well as through practical tasks.
 WHAT WILL I LEARN?
In Year 9 you will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone a
successful business manager. You will find out how to spot an opportunity, develop an idea and turn
that into a successful business. You will gain an understanding of 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 and confidence
to calculate and interpret business data.
In Year 10 you will find out how to think like an economist and learn how the economy functions, the
government’s role in the economy and its impact on business. You will also examine what causes
businesses to grow. You will study many issues within the world of business such as inequality.
 HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
At the end of Year 10 you will take two exams. There will be Paper 1 (50%) with structured questions
and Paper 2 (50%), which requires answering essay questions about your understanding of the subject.
Staff use a wide variety of teaching methods; we make use of up to date DVDs, worksheets, study visits,
case studies, computers and simulations. Students are encouraged to become involved with the subject
using other resources, accessing radio and television programmes on the school network, newspapers,
journals, data bases, internet, CD-ROMs and contacts with firms.
 CAREERS
Business Studies has a direct bearing on Accountancy, Banking, Building Societies, Insurance, Broking
and all business-related activities. It also has links with virtually every other job as most workers will
require an understanding of budgets, motivation of employees, communication and the effects of the
government and economy, revenues and costs.
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CHEMISTRY
Examination Board: CAMBRIDGE
Staff Contact: Mrs A. Safadi
 ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: 50% or above in Year 8 Science
 COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The three assessment objectives in Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry are:
A.
B.
C.
Knowledge with understanding
Handling information and problem solving
Experimental skills and investigations
 COURSE CONTENT
The course will cover major disciplines of chemistry, namely physical, inorganic and organic.
The Particulate Nature of Matter; Experimental Techniques; Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table;
Bonding; The Mole Concept and Stoichiometry; Electricity and Chemistry; Chemical Energetics and
Equilibrium; Rates of Reactions; Redox; Acids, Bases & Salts; Qualitative Analysis; The Periodic Table;
Metals; Air and Water; Sulphur; Carbonates; and Organic Chemistry (Nomenclature, Fuels, Alkanes,
Alkenes, Alcohols, Carboxylic Acids, Synthetic Polymers and Natural Macromolecules).
Students are required to study conscientiously and independently; they assume responsibility for
maintaining high standards of classwork and homework and asking for help when necessary. They need
to take an active part in class activities and to organize their practical work taking possible risks into
account.
 ASSESSMENT
INTERNAL ASSESSMENT: Continuous Assessment and an end of Semester Examination.
EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT: Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry candidates are awarded grades ranging from A*
to G. The Core Curriculum is for students expected to attain grades C to G. Students expected to achieve
grade C or higher should study the Extended Curriculum, which comprises the Core and Supplement
Curriculums; these students are eligible for all grades from A* to G. All students must enter for three
papers.
 CAREERS
Chemistry is about how the physical world works, and any job that has to do with the physical world
probably involves chemistry. The knowledge gained through the study of chemistry opens many career
pathways in the Medical field as well as Engineering and Agriculture.
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CLAiT (International)
Level 1 Certificate/Diploma for IT Users
Examination Board: OCR
Staff Contact: Mrs A. Rishani
 WHAT IS CLAIT?
CLAiT stands for Computer Literacy And Information Technology. The CLAiT qualification has been the
leading IT skills qualification in the UK since 1987, and has been achieved by over 2.5 million learners. It
is a package of three qualifications, which help learners of all abilities to develop their IT skills. New
CLAiT (level 1) for the beginner to boost confidence.CLAiT Plus (level 2) for those with some experience
to develop skills.CLAiT Advanced (level 3) for confident and productive IT users to enhance IT
proficiency.
 A MODERN COURSE FOR A MODERN WORLD
The CLAiT International Certificate/Diploma for IT Users is a qualification designed to recognise the skills,
knowledge and understanding of IT users in employment, education or training. The CLAiT International
qualification will equip learners with the basic range of transferable skills necessary to meet the
demands of the modern work place, and will prepare learners for progression to further training and
accreditation in IT User skills. It will develop candidates' knowledge of standard IT hardware and
software ;develop candidates' knowledge of a range of different software applications and their ability
to use different applications effectively to complete tasks; develop candidates' ability to manage
documents and data in a variety of applications and enter data accurately.
 ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
New CLAiT International has been designed to be accessible to learners who are entirely new to using IT
and as such it is common for it to accredit the first learning journey a candidate may make in IT.
 STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE
To achieve the Certificate, candidates must complete a total of 1 mandatory unit (and 2 optional units).
To achieve the Diploma, candidates must complete a total of 1 mandatory unit (and 4 optional units).
In Year 9 students achieve the Certificate and in Year 10 students achieve the Diploma.
The units that will be covered in Year 9:
Unit 1 - File Management and e-Document Production (Mandatory unit) / Unit 2 - Creating
Spread-sheets and Graphs / Unit 5 - Create an e-Presentation
The units that will be covered in Year 10:
Unit 3 - Database Manipulation / Unit 7 - Web Page Creation
 ASSESSMENT
All units are assessed by means of an OCR-set assignment, with notional assessment duration of 2½
hours. All units are centre assessed and externally moderated by the OCR-appointed Examiner
moderator.
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DRAMA & SPEECH
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Ms K. Mwale
 THE COURSE
Drama is an art form, a practical activity and an intellectual discipline. A drama education, which begins
naturally with learning through dramatic play, will eventually include many elements of theatre. Like the
other arts, it involves imagination and feelings and helps us to make sense of the world. It does this
through the creation of imagined characters and situations, and the relationships and events that they
encounter.
 COURSE CONTENT
1. To develop students’ understanding of Drama through practical and theoretical study.
2. To enable students to realise the performance possibilities of text and other stimuli.
3. To encourage the use of dramatic forms and structures to communicate feelings and ideas.
4. To help students 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
in creating a performance; to be able to evaluate the various stages of performance work.
6. To encourage enjoyment of drama.
 ASSESSMENT
The assessments for Drama are both internally and external moderated through coursework and a
written exam.
Students will be assessed on their ability to demonstrate understanding of:
• Performance possibilities of text and other stimuli
• Differing roles of actor, director, stage manager and technician in its realisation
Students will be assessed on their ability to devise dramatic material and reflect on its effectiveness.
Students will be assessed on their performing skills in Drama.
 CAREERS
Actor / Agent/Art Dealer / Art Director / Arts Administrator / Announcer / Box Office Manager / Casting
Director / Comedian / Commentator/ Corporate Trainer / Cosmetologist / Costume Designer / Critic /
Director / Disc Jockey / Dramaturge / Drama & Speech Coach/Drama Therapist / Early Child Educator /
Event Planner / Film/TV/Radio Producers / Journalist / Motivational Speaker / Performing Arts Publicist /
Producer/Set Designer / Sound Technician / Stage Manager / Television and Radio Reporter / Voice Over
Artist.
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FRENCH
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mrs S. El Beayni
Cambridge qualifications develop successful students. They build not only understanding and knowledge
required for progression, but also learning and thinking skills that help students become independent
learners and equip them for life. The aim of French as a foreign language is:
 To develop an ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication
within the country of residence, and in all countries where the language is spoken
 To form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and
leisure
 To offer insights into the culture and civilization of countries where the language is spoken
 THE COURSE
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. To ensure a firm basis for further study all
aspects of the grammar and vocabulary previously studied will be revisited. Students will be provided
with study guides to help them in their preparation and the teacher gives the interactive support.
Students opting French for a second language must have at least 3 years of previous study.
 HOMEWORK
Students need to review their work on daily basis. They will have written work twice a week.
Furthermore, a student can prepare him or herself very well for all parts of the examination if he/she is
willing to learn the language tasks.
 ASSESSMENT
For the examination to be appropriate to candidates across the full ability range, separate options are
available for Core Curriculum candidates (Listening, Reading and Directed Writing and speaking) and
Extended Curriculum candidates (Listening, Reading and Directed Writing, Speaking and Continuous
Writing). NB: Any student doing core cannot achieve higher than a C.
 CAREERS
While any language will be useful for some jobs French is the only foreign language that can be useful
throughout the world; it is the second most frequently taught language in the world after English. Many
universities prefer students with a second language. This is an advantage for students when applying to
universities. French, along with English, is the official working language of: United Nations, UNESCO,
NATO, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and International Olympic Committee.
Soyez les bienvenues et bonnes chances!
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GEOGRAPHY
Examination Board: CAMBRIDGE
Staff Contact: Mrs A. PHILIP
As international links become closer, easier and faster, we need more than ever to understand the
geography of the world. To help protect the environment – both at home and abroad – we need to
understand geographical influences and the geographical relationships linking people and their
surroundings. To make the most of our multicultural society we need to understand and appreciate the
cultures and backgrounds of people from all over the world.
 WHAT DO WE DO IN GEOGRAPHY?
Our exciting new course looks at a range of important and significant questions. We shall investigate
themes from both Human and Physical sides of the subject. These burning issues include:
 HUMAN TOPICS
How can the planet cope with 7 billion people or more?Are the world’s cities heading for meltdown?
How will changing global patterns of wealth and production affect us?
 PHYSICAL TOPICS
Can we ever understand the forces controlling the impacts of earthquakes and volcanoes?Why are the
landscapes of snow and ice so appealing in a warming world?How are coastal areas changing in
response to recent trends?
 COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
 A sense of place and an understanding of relative location on a local, regional and global scale
 An awareness of the characteristics and distribution of a selection of contrasting physical and
human environments and an understanding of some of the processes affecting the
development of such environments
 An understanding of different communities and cultures throughout the world and an
awareness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different
environments
 ASSESSMENT
The candidates will answer 3 written papers which will be externally assessed.
 CAREERS
Geography is an excellent preparation for the world of work or further studies. The skills developed are
useful in a wide range of occupations, for example: Airline Pilot Cartography Environmental
Management, Tourism and Transport.
Geography tackles the big issues! Without geography    you’re nowhere!
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
GRAPHIC DESIGN (Graphics)
Examination Board: Edexcel
Staff Contact: Mr. J Dawson
 WHY DO THIS COURSE?
The course encourages students to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a
range of computer based design programs and materials including airbrushing, plastics, paper and card.
Packaging, labelling and instructions are also encouraged as part of the complete design proposal along
with marketing tools, such as advertising and points of sale, which can be used to supplement the
making experience and help create products which can be evaluated for their commercial viability.
Much of the course will be delivered by means of a practical ‘hands on’ approach.
 GRAPHICS SPECIFICATION has a focus on sustainable design with two assessments:

Examination (40% of total marks) – a 2-hour exam based on the subject content, which includes
a simple design question. The examination is taken at the end of Year 10.

Controlled Assessment (60% of total marks) – a design-and-make activity, which is, selected
from a broad range of IGCSE board-set tasks. Students will produce a design portfolio and a 3dimensional product to be completed at the end of Year 10 that pupils will keep. The emphasis
is on quality rather than complexity.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
HISTORY
Examination Board: CIE – Cambridge International IGCSE
Staff Contact: G. Marais
 WHY DO THIS COURSE?
Historical knowledge provides an essential backdrop to understanding in many other subjects and is also
the basis of an understanding of the world in which we live. 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.
 THE KEY TOPICS COVERED ARE:
 Core content:
Were the peace treaties of 1919–23 fair?
To what extent was the League of Nations a success?
Why had international peace collapsed by 1939?
Who was to blame for the Cold War?
How effectively did the USA contain the spread of Communism?
How secure was the USSR’s control over Eastern Europe, 1948–c.1989?
 Depth Study:
Life in Germany 1919-45
Life in Russia 1905-41
 Source Enquiry:
How effective has the United Nations Organisation been?
 ASSESSMENT
Students answer three papers. All examinations are internal, until the final external examination at the
end of the Y 10.
 CAREERS
History is recognised as an academically rigorous discipline and the knowledge, understanding and skills
it develops make for students whose attributes are sought after by many employers. There are many
successful historians in the legal profession and the civil service, in the media, in the tourism and
heritage industries, and in business and commerce. To name but a few, Gordon Brown, Jeremy Bowen
(BBC correspondent), Steve Coppell (football manager), and Louis Theroux and Michael Palin
(documentary makers) are all History graduates.
‘Histories make men wise.’ Francis Bacon (1561-1626)
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
ICT
Examination Board: CIE
Staff Contact: Mrs R. Samir
 THE COURSE
Information and Communication Technology (0417) falls into Group V, Creative, Technical and
Vocational. The curriculum content is set out in eight interrelated sections. The sections are:
1- Types and components of computer
systems
3- Storage devices and media
5- Data types
7- The ways in which ICT is used.
2- Input and output devices
4- Computer networks
6- The effects of using ICT
8- Systems analysis and design.
The assessment criteria for the practical tests are set out in eight sections:
Communication (using internet)
9- Document production (using MS Word
2010)
Data manipulation (Using MS Access 2010)
10- Integration
11- Output data
12- Data analysis (using MS Excel 2010)
13- Website authoring (Using MS FrontPage)
14- Presentation authoring (Using
PowerPoint 2010)
 ASSESSMENT
Paper 1 (2 hours): written paper-testing sections 1-8 of the syllabus. It may also assess knowledge and
understanding from sections 9-16 of the syllabus. All questions compulsory mostly multiple choice or
short answer questions, but also some requiring longer responses.
Paper2 (2 ½ hours): practical test assessing knowledge, skills and understanding of sections 9-16 of the
syllabus. It may also assess some core knowledge and understanding from sections 1-8 of the syllabus.
Paper 3 (2 ½ hours): practical test assessing knowledge, skills and understanding of sections 9-16 of the
syllabus. It may also assess some core knowledge and understanding from sections 1-8 of the syllabus.
 CAREERS
Virtually every career these days involves some use of computers and this qualification demonstrates a
level of computing skill, which all Universities and employers are looking for. This course will enable the
students to learn how to use the most commonly available software including the latest version of the
Microsoft Office suite of programs.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
MUSIC
Examination Board: Edexcel
Staff Contact: Mr Barker
Due to the rigours of this course, the following Prerequisites must be in place:
 You MUST be at least ABRSM Grade 5 (or equivalent) in a solo instrument
 A pre examination audition may be held to gauge suitability for the course
 You MUST have a good working knowledge of the keyboard
 It would be desirable if you had access to a computer at home with sequencing software
The GCSE Music Course is designed to allow the study of music through the integration of performing,
listening and appraising with opportunities to use music technology. It is flexibly structured to allow
students to capitalise on their different interests whilst experiencing a balanced range of music across
time, culture and tradition.
 PERFORMING (30%)
All students are required to perform either vocally or instrumentally on any instrument with marks being
adjusted according to the degree of difficulty of the pieces being performed. They will have the
opportunity of taking part in both solo and ensemble performances. It is not essential for students to
have reached a particular grade before commencing the course. Help will be given in school for those
who do not receive instrumental tuition although it can be an advantage if such lessons are being taken.
The performing component of the course can be undertaken at any time during Years 9 and 10.
 COMPOSING (30%)
Throughout the two years students will compose and arrange music in a style suited to them using
either conventional or electronic instruments according to a chosen brief. Towards the end of Year 10
they will select two of their pieces for assessment. All students will have the opportunity of using the
music technology facilities.
 LISTENING AND APPRAISING (40%)
During Years 9 and 10, students will listen to a wide range of music encompassing a variety of styles and
traditions across four Areas of Study dating from 1600 to the present day. Assessment takes the form of
a written paper where students will respond to questions based on recorded extracts taken from the set
works and an in-depth question on a chosen set work.
 CAREERS
There are many obvious careers in music in the areas of teaching and performing. Less obvious, perhaps,
are journalism, music therapy and work in the recording industry. Universities and colleges universally
accept music as an entrance qualification and many employers recognise the degree of motivation, selfdiscipline and co-operation with others that the subject requires.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Examination Board: Cambridge
Staff Contact: Mr S. Bermingham
 THE COURSE
The course provides an opportunity for those with an active interest in sport to further develop their
knowledge, understanding and skill in a range of activities whilst performing at a high level. There is a
strong cross-curricular link with science and students will focus upon anatomy and physiology; factors
affecting performance; health, safety and training; reasons and opportunities for participation in sport;
and the role of sport in society. Universities and employers accept Cambridge IGCSE Physical Education
as proof that candidates have knowledge, skills and an understanding of a range of relevant physical
activities.
Successful IGCSE Physical Education students gain lifelong skills, including:
 Ability to plan, perform, analyse and improve, and evaluate physical activities
 Knowledge, skills and understanding of a range of relevant physical activities
 Understanding of effective and safe performance
 Understanding of the role of sport and physical activity in society and in the wider world
 Enjoyment of physical activity
 ASSESSMENT
All candidates take:
Component 1: (Theory based, 40% weighting) and Component 2: Coursework Centre-based assessment
(Practical base, 60% weighting)
 ORGANISATION OF WORK
There will be five lessons a week, three of which will be practical and two practical. Due to the nature of
the course there will be some flexibility here, as ‘performance analysis’ will take place regularly during
practical learning. A total of four different practical activities must be chosen for assessments, which are
selected from at least two of the Physical Education Areas of Activity (Games, Swimming, Athletic
Activities, Gymnastics, Dance, Exercise Activities, Outdoor and Adventurous Activities). In the past
couple of years, the practical activities chosen include: Football, Badminton, Table Tennis, Lifesaving,
Swimming, Weight Training for fitness, Volleyball.
 CAREERS
Physical Education can lead students choosing Physical Education at Advanced Level, then careers in
Leisure and Recreation, Tourism, Sports Psychology, Coaching, Physiotherapy, Youth Work, Outdoor
Pursuits, Management, Physical Education Teaching and Sports Science are among those that are
available to successful students.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
PHYSICS
Examination Board: Cambridge IGCSE
Staff Contact: Mrs B. Joseph
 THE COURSE: Cambridge IGCSE Physics (0625)
The IGCSE course consists of many topics, which aim to develop basic competence in the areas of
electricity and magnetism, forces and motion, light and waves, atomic physics etc.
Within each topic, opportunities arise for students to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts
involved, problem solving capabilities, ability to use correct units, accuracy and precision and how well
they can present their work.
 ASSESSMENT
 All candidates must enter for 3 papers: Paper 1; one from either paper 2 or paper 3 and paper
6.
 Candidates who are expected to achieve a grade D or below, should normally be entered for
paper 2.
 Candidates who have studied the extended curriculum and who are expected to achieve a
grade C or above should be entered for paper 3.
 ORGANISATION OF WORK
Homework is usually organised on a weekly basis to cover teaching topics together with consolidation,
revision and practice of previous work. The aim is to build up a thorough understanding of the principles
involved in the subject.
Semester exams and chapter tests will be conducted to inform students of their progress.
 ORGANISATION OF GROUPS:
Candidates are separated into core and extended curriculum depending on their performance in year 8
science.
Candidates should maintain a 50% or above to remain in the extended curriculum throughout the
course.
 CAREERS
Career opportunities for physics are wide ranging. Apart from moving into further studies and research
many have employment in IT industry and Engineering, but also in the financial and business sector
where analytical skills obtained in the subject are highly sought after.
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IGCSE PROSPECTUS
YEAR 9 OPTION FORM – 2013/2014
Name: .............................................................................................
Form: .........................................
Parent’s Signature: ........................................................................
Date: ..........................................
You should select one subject from each Option Block and indicate your choices below.
Not all options can be guaranteed to run, since this depends upon there being adequate demand and
sufficient staffing and facilities. You should consider your choices very carefully, as it may not be possible
to accommodate requests for change at a later date. Certain subjects, for example Art, Music, Physical
Education and Languages will have particular entry requirements and it is important that you discuss
these with the subject teacher before making choices.
We are offering the following subjects for 2013:
Option A
Option B
Option C
Option D
Option E
Biology
Business Studies
Art
Geography
Accounting
Chemistry
History
ICT
CLAiT
French /Arabic
Physical
Graphics
Music
Physics
Education
ICT
When will I know whether my Option choices can be accommodated?
The vast majority of choices will be accommodated; however they will not be finally confirmed until
June. Should you wish to change your original options there is no guarantee that this will be possible.
In May we occasionally have to go back to a small number of students and ask you to re-opt because a
group size is too small or too large. By June it becomes clear whether particular combinations of options
are possible or not. We structure the timetable to minimise these clashes, should there be any.
PLEASE RETURN THIS COMPLETED FORM TO YOUR HOMEROOM TUTOR BY
SUNDAY 5th MAY 2013
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