2018 Year 9 GCSE Options - Helping you make the right choices for your future - King's College Murcia
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2018
Year 9 GCSE Options
Helping you make
the right choices
for your future
Contents
K
i. Page 2 Introduction - What are options?
ii. Page 3 The Options Process
iii. Page 4 Making the right choices
iv. Page 6 What are the choices?
v. Page 7 Example options form
vi. Page 8 GCSE Developments and Changes
C vii. Page 9 Access to Spanish Universities
viii. Page 11 Subject Descriptions
ix. Page 37 Next Steps
M
1
INTRODUCTION – What are Options?
K
This term you will be making your choices for (I)GCSE. At this stage, the
curriculum will still be broad, so that you can continue to extend your
knowledge and skills in a central core of subjects while beginning to
make choices in other areas, based on your own abilities and
preferences. This curriculum will ensure that as many opportunities as
possible remain open to you, both for further study, at school and in
higher education, and for your future career.
The (I)GCSE curriculum at King’s College combines a core of
compulsory subjects – English Language and English Literature,
Mathematics, Spanish, the Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) –
C with four option choices. You will also take compulsory courses in
PSHE and PE.
You will cover a total of 10 (I)GCSE subjects, and it is important that your
workload is manageable to allow you to continue to pursue other
interests. It is important that you keep as many options open as possible,
and you should bear the ‘A’ Level curriculum in mind, which encourages
breadth, and from which you will be choosing 4 subjects. You should not
be too quick to see yourself as a ‘scientist’ or a ‘humanities’ student, as
combinations of these subjects will be encouraged right up to A Level.
Universities will be looking for students with breadth, as well as depth, in
their choice of subjects. In making your choices listen to your parents,
M teachers and friends, but remember:
THE CHOICE AND THE WORK ARE YOURS!
2
The Options Process
The diagram below shows the steps involved for pupils to decide on their
option subjects. The process is designed to ensure pupils and parents
K
have the necessary time and guidance to help them make the best
choices.
OPTIONS LAUNCH EVENING
Presentation about GCSE choices where pupils
and parents can talk to teachers. RECEIVE OPTIONS BOOKLET
PREFERENCES FOR GCSE SUBJECTS 1 – OPTIONS EVENT
Pupils discuss and indicate how they feel
about different choices.
ATTEND DISCUSSION AFTERNOON
C
PREFERENCES FOR GCSE SUBJECTS 2
Having discussed and considered carefully,
pupils complete their 3 choices and 2 reserves. OPTION BLOCKS ARE FINALISED
SELECT 3 OPTIONS FROM THE ASSIGNED BLOCKS
Pupils select one subject from each of the three
option blocks. FINAL CHOICES ARE MADE
The final choices may still be changed with good reason prior to starting
or soon after starting in Y10. However, there will be no flexibility
M regarding the timing of the lessons at that stage.
3
Making the right choices
K
Your choice should be based on:
1. What you enjoy;
2. What you are good at and can do well in;
3. What you might need for future study and
careers.
C
You might have difficulty deciding which subjects to choose and be
reluctant to opt for one course at the expense of another. It is therefore
important to check which can be studied in the Sixth Form without a
(I)GCSE background and which cannot. Where the (I)GCSE is a
requirement for ‘A’ Level, a pass at grade ‘6’ is usually the minimum
expected. There is often the chance to pick up subjects at a later stage
during further and higher education. First, look into the content of the
course. A summary of each course can be found in this booklet. Make
sure that it matches up with your abilities and interests and, if necessary,
M talk to the students in Year 10. It is always sensible to check if there is
coursework involved so that you do not overload yourself.
4
Your interest must be in the subject itself, not the teacher. A poor reason
for choosing a subject would be just because you like your teacher, since
it is possible that a different member of staff would teach you next year.
A more positive indicator would be that you are successful in the subject,
K can cope competently with its demands and enjoy the lessons.
Unfortunately, we are not always good at the things we like and
sometimes do not like the things at which we are good! Some careers
need certain subjects. If you have a particular career in mind, you can
find out what is required by using a computer database, such as
KUDOS. For more information or advice you should consult your
teachers, however, by the end of Year 11, you might have very different
aspirations. Fortunately, the core subjects will help you to keep your
options open.
Recommendations could be important. Your parents will have views and
there are certainly advantages in listening to their advice. Your teachers
C will know your strengths and weaknesses, how you cope under pressure
and how well you are likely to perform in your coursework (if there is
any). Your friends, too, may try to persuade you to follow their course.
Remember: It has to be your choice, your work & your results!
Where you have strengths or particular talents – be they practical,
numerical, creative, expressed orally or in writing – you are likely to have
greater confidence in your own ability to succeed and those subjects
M might well lead on to interests at a higher level.
So listen to advice, think about it seriously and then choose your own
(I)GCSE course.
5
What are the choices?
The two boxes below show the choices available this year.
K Core subjects students Option subjects:
MUST study:
Art and Design
English Language Business Studies
English Literature Computer Science
English Second Language Dance
Drama
Mathematics
French
Combined Science/ Separate
Geography
Sciences
German
Spanish (GCSE)
C History
Lengua / Cultura Religious Studies
Physical Education (Core) ICT
Music
PSHE (Non – examined)
Physical Education
You will have to choose three option subjects. The next page shows an
example of an option choices form. We try and design the timetable
M blocks around the preferences pupils make, but inevitably, not everyone
can always do their first 4 options, so we ask for 2 reserve choices as
well.
6
The GCSE Options Form
K
C
M
7
GCSE Development and Changes
The grading system for GCSE examinations changed for GCSE courses
starting in September 2016. This is the case throughout England and
the international community. Instead of grades being given from A*-G,
K the new system will be numerical from 9-1 as shown below:
C
IGCSE and GCSE subjects will now all use the 9-1 grading for final
exams taken in 2019 (hence starting in 2017). This is made clear in the
‘Subject Descriptions’ later in this document.
The reasons for the change is that it helps to separate attainment more
clearly for the majority of pupils who historically achieved a grade C or
above. Instead of 4 grades, there will now be 6 grades to separate
performance. Grade 9 in particular is designed to show the very best
performers.
M PLEASE NOTE – A GRADE 10 (AS IN THE SPANISH SYSTEM) IS NOT POSSIBLE
8
Access to Spanish Universities
The Ley Organica de Educacion (LOE) of May 2006 and its subsequent
Calendario de Aplicacion from the Boletin Oficial del Estado (BOE) of
K July 2006, states that students who have followed the educational
system of countries of the European Union will be able to access
Spanish universities without taking the EvAU examination, as long as
they comply with the established requirements of the universities of their
own educational system. This direct access became effective from 1st
June 2007.
‘A’ Level students are, therefore, legally exempt from taking EvAU
examinations.
Students apply directly to the university of their choice and UNED act as
C the intermediary between the Spanish institutions and the British
examination boards, which prepare all the documents required in the
third term of Year 13. This will allow students following the English
system to be given a place on the course of their choice based on their
(I)GCSE grades, their ‘AS’ grades and the predictions of their final ‘A2’
grades, which are sent by the school to the examination boards in the
UK. The place on the course is offered in June, and is then confirmed in
August, subject to their attaining the necessary ‘A2’ results.
This is a table of equivalences that is published each year that
establishes the comparative Spanish grades with their English system
M equivalents.
9Below is last year’s table.
A* - 56 points A- 48 points, B- 40 points, C- 32 points, D- 24 points, E- 16 points
UCAS
Nota 3 ‘A’ Levels 4 ‘A’ Levels
Tariff
K 5 48 EEE
6.14 88 CCD
7.09 120 A*CC ACDE
8.18 160 A*A*A A*BCC
9.09 192 AAAA
10 224 A*A*A*A*
The current minimum is three passes at ‘A’ level, the established
C requirement of British universities. Obviously, a student with 4 A grades
at ‘A2’ will have more choice of courses available to them than a student
that has only achieved three C grades. For competitive subjects such as
Medicine Spanish universities may require students to sit the fase
específica in certain subjects to raise the credentials of the ‘A’ level
examinations. Of course, should the need arise we shall prepare you
appropriately. Students from King’s College branches in Spain have
always gained places to the best Spanish universities using the British
‘A’ level system.
M
10Subject Descriptions
The following pages describing the (I)GCSE courses have been drawn
up by Heads of Departments to help you decide which subjects are best
suited to your abilities and interests. They will answer your questions on
K the content and structure of the course, the balance between
examinations and coursework requirements and, most importantly, the
interest and relevance of the subject itself for you.
Core subjects* Option subjects*
(PAGE NUMBERS SHOWN) 25. Art and Design
12. English Language 26. Business Studies
27. French/German
13. English Literature
28. Geography
14. English Second Language
C 29. History
15. Mathematics 30. Religious Studies
16. Combined Sciences 31. Computer Science
18. Separate Sciences 32. ICT
33. Music
20. Spanish
34. Physical Education
21. Lengua y Literatura/ Cultura
35. Dance
Y10
36. Drama
23. Lengua y Literatura/Cultura
Y11
M
11English Language
Why study IGCSE English Language?
K English is the second most widely spoken language in the world. As well as enabling students
to access the rest of the school curriculum, it allows them to communicate effectively in
numerous countries, which opens up lots of possibilities in the world of employment. In fact,
to move on to A levels, higher education or indeed many jobs, the minimum requirement is a C
in English and Maths. The course is enjoyable and enriching; as well as reading interesting
texts, students are able to express themselves and develop their creativity and imagination.
Course Details
IGCSE English Language involves both reading and writing. This means reading a range of texts
including poetry and prose as well as literary non-fiction and learning to write analytical
responses. A secure knowledge of both grammar and literary devices is key. Students will also
learn to write in many different forms for various audiences; such as letters, speeches, stories
and articles which are undoubtedly essential in the outside world.
In Year 10 we use the textbook First Language English to build upon previous knowledge of
writing creatively and imaginatively as well as responding to fiction and non-fiction pieces. In
Year 11 we use the Edexcel Anthology to practise essay writing and analysing texts effectively.
C We also regularly practise speaking and listening activities as individuals and in groups as these
build confidence and improve communication skills.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
There are two exams at the end of Year 11. Paper 1 is worth 60% of the overall IGCSE and
takes 2 hours 15 minutes. Students need to answer an essay question on the Anthology pieces
we have studied in class as well as an unseen extract and then write their own piece which is
aimed at a particular audience. Paper 2 is a 1 hour and 30 minute exam worth 40%. After
writing a response to poetry or prose, students write their own imaginative piece from a
choice of three questions. There is no assessed coursework.
Looking to the Future (A level requirements/careers)
Students who wish to study A Level English Literature should aim to achieve a level 7 in both
Language and Literature. A minimum of 6 is required to begin the course.
Additional Information
M All students will be entered for this exam at the end of Year 11.
12English Literature
K Why study this IGCSE English Literature?
English Literature is important in school life as it improves knowledge of our literary heritage
through the study of Shakespeare, classic authors and playwrights and famous poets. These
are not all British, they can be American or have Ancient Greek origins. Modern literature also
plays an important role.
An enjoyment and appreciation of Literature will give students the ability to develop this into
an interest in books and reading as they move away from their studies and into their adult
lives. They will have the confidence to approach and tackle new forms of books and writing,
since they were exposed to a range of literature during their school days.
Course Details
Students will study a range of poetry, modern prose, modern drama and a literary heritage
text. The poetry collection is from the Edexcel Anthology and covers a broad spectrum, from
Shakespeare, Keats and Blake to modern poets such as Alice Walker and Carol Ann Duffy.
In modern prose students will study the famous American novella ‘Of Mice and Men’ and focus
on themes and characters. As well as enjoying the plot, students learn about the life of the
C author and facts about this period in American history after the Wall Street Crash.
Modern drama is the famous 1945 play ‘An Inspector Calls’ by JB Priestley, in which a young
woman commits suicide and a rich prosperous family learn how their actions can have severe
consequences and many lies are exposed.
The literary heritage text builds on pupils’ knowledge of Shakespeare from KS3 and invites the
students to explore a classic play in detail.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
There are two exams at the end of Year 11. Paper 1 is worth 60% of the overall IGCSE
Literature and takes 2 hours. Students need to answer the first question on an unseen poem,
the second on poems studied in the Anthology and finally an essay question on the prose text
from a choice of two. Paper 2 is a 1 hour and 30 minute exam worth 40%. Students need to
answer one question on the modern drama text and one on the literary heritage text; both
have a choice of two. Clean copies of the text can be taken into this exam.
Future Study (A level requirements)
Students who wish to study A Level English Literature should achieve at least a level 6 in both
M Language and Literature.
Additional Information
Pupils will either study English Literature or English as a Second Language in Year 11.
13CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH
FIRST CERTIFICATE
K
(FCE)
Why study IGCSE ESL?
The First Certificate in English (B2) is aimed at students whose mother tongue is not English.
The two year course develops the four skill areas of reading/writing/speaking/listening in
addition to the development of lexical knowledge and grammatical understanding. The course
also helps raise the level of English, helping pupils access all areas of the curriculum.
Course Details
The FCE certificate is assessed through four examination papers: Reading and Use of English,
Writing, Listening and Speaking. During the course, students practise and develop their English
language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), whilst expanding their knowledge of a
variety of contemporary topics. They develop grammatical understanding and communicative
competence and extend their vocabulary. The lessons are in small groups and generally
tailored to meet the pupils’ needs.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
C Reading and Use of English(1 hour 15 minutes)
Writing (1 hour 20 minutes)
Listening (40 minutes)
Speaking (14 minutes per pair of candidates)
Future Study (A level requirements)
A pass in this subject may be counted as the minimum requirement in English to access UK
universities, and to prove a level of English good enough to follow a university degree.
Additional Information
The exams take place in Cartagena or Murcia.
In Years 12 and 13 we offer the Cambridge Advanced Exam, which is level C1 or C2.
M
14Mathematics
Why study IGCSE Mathematics?
K Mathematics presents frequent opportunities for creativity, and can stimulate moments of
pleasure and wonder when a problem is solved for the first time, or a more elegant solution to
a problem is discovered, or when hidden connections suddenly manifest. Mathematics is
important for pupils in many other areas of study, particularly Science and Technology. It is
also important in everyday living, in many forms of employment, and in public decision-
making.
Course Details
The aim of this course is to develop further your knowledge of mathematics in six areas as
listed below. The course involves some new topics such as calculus but also covers a higher
level of topics already studied. The specific details of the six areas depends on the Higher or
Foundation course. The areas are:
o Numbers and the number system
o Equations, formulae and identities
o Sequences, functions and graphs
o Geometry and trigonometry
C o Vectors and transformation geometry
o Statistics and probability
Assessment Information
2 x 2 hour examinations (Each paper has 100 marks available and calculators are allowed in
both exams). No coursework is required.
o Questions in the Foundation Tier paper are targeted at grades in the range 5-1.
o Questions in the Higher Tier paper are targeted at grades in the range 9-4.
Looking to the Future
A mathematics qualification is a requirement in a large number of jobs and higher education
institutions and it is applicable in a range of careers. Pupils wishing to study A level
mathematics will need to achieve at least a grade 6. A minimum grade 4 is needed to enter
the Sixth Form.
M Additional Information
A scientific calculator is essential for studying this course.
It may be possible to sit the GCSE early in Year 10 and do further qualifications in Year 11 .
15Combined Science
(2 GCSEs)
K Why study GCSE Combined Science?
GCSE study in the sciences provides the foundation for understanding the material world.
Scientific understanding is changing our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity. All
students should learn essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of
Science. They should gain appreciation of how the complex and diverse phenomena of the
natural world can be described in terms of a small number of key ideas that relate to the
Sciences and that are both inter-linked and of universal application.
Course Details
B1: Topic 1 – Key concepts in biology, Topic 2 – Cells and control, Topic 3 – Genetics, Topic 4
– Natural selection and genetic modification, Topic 5 – Health, disease and the
development of medicines
B2:Topic 1 – Key concepts in biology, Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions, Topic 7 –
Animal coordination, control and homeostasis, Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in
animals, Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles
C
C1: Topic 1 – Key concepts in chemistry, Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures, Topic 3 –
Chemical changes, Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria
C2: Topic 1 – Key concepts in chemistry, Topic 6 – Groups in the periodic table, Topic 7 –
Rates of reaction and energy changes, Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science
P1: Topic 1 – Key concepts of physics, Topic 2 – Motion and forces, Topic 3 – Conservation of
energy, Topic 4 – Waves, Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum, Topic 6 –
Radioactivity
P2: Topic 1 – Key concepts of physics, Topic 8 – Energy - Forces doing work, Topic 9 – Forces
and their effects, Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits, Topic 12 – Magnetism and the motor
effect, Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction, Topic 14 – Particle model, Topic 15 – Forces
and matter
M
Continued on next page
16Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
Edexcel GCSE (9–1) in Combined Science consists of six externally examined papers. These are
available at foundation tier and higher tier. Foundation pupils can achieve a grade 1-5, while
Higher pupils can achieve a grade 4 to 9.
K There are 2 papers in each Science, (B1, B2, C1, C2, P1, P2), each of a 1hr 10 min duration and
containing 60 marks. Each exam is worth 16.67% of the final GCSE grade. There will be key
ideas in each Science that will be examined in both papers, in each Science.
The final grade will be awarded based on a total accumulative score in all six exams out of a
total of 360 marks.
The exam papers include a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice
questions, short answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.
Future Study (A level requirements)
In order for pupils to progress onto A level Science they should achieve at least a 6 but if not
doing Single Sciences, a 7 would be preferable. Pupils who wish to do more than one A level
Science subject should ideally choose Separate Sciences.
Additional Information
There will have at least 15% of marks assigned to the assessment of practical skills.
C This is assessment of both knowledge of core practicals, but also of a candidate’s ability to
apply that knowledge to new contexts, or to apply investigative skills to scenarios presented in
the examinations. Increasingly with the new specification, there is a greater emphasis on use
of Maths skills in the exam papers. An additional 10 minutes has been added to the papers to
allow pupils thinking time in practical based questions.
M
17Separate Sciences
(3 GCSEs)
Why study GCSE Separate Sciences?
K GCSE study in the sciences provides the foundation for understanding the material world.
Scientific understanding is changing our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity. All
students should learn essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of
Science. They should gain appreciation of how the complex and diverse phenomena of the
natural world can be described in terms of a small number of key ideas that relate to the
Sciences and that are both inter-linked and of universal application.
Course Details
B1: Topic 1 – Key concepts in biology, Topic 2 – Cells and control, Topic 3 – Genetics, Topic 4
– Natural selection and genetic modification, Topic 5 – Health, disease and the development
of medicines.
B2: Topic 1 – Key concepts in biology, Topic 6 – Plant structures and their functions, Topic 7 –
Animal coordination, control and homeostasis, Topic 8 – Exchange and transport in animals,
Topic 9 – Ecosystems and material cycles.
C C1: Topic 1 – Key concepts in chemistry, Topic 2 – States of matter and mixtures, Topic 3 –
Chemical changes, Topic 4 – Extracting metals and equilibria, Topic 5 – Separate chemistry 1.
C2: Topic 1 – Key concepts in chemistry, Topic 6 – Groups in the periodic table, Topic 7 – Rates
of reaction and energy changes, Topic 8 – Fuels and Earth science, Topic 9 – Separate
chemistry 2.
P1: Topic 1 – Key concepts of physics, Topic 2 – Motion and forces, Topic 3 – Conservation of
energy, Topic 4 – Waves, Topic 5 – Light and the electromagnetic spectrum, Topic 6 –
Radioactivity, Topic 7 – Astronomy.
P2: Topic 1 – Key concepts of physics, Topic 8 – Energy - Forces doing work, Topic 9 – Forces
and their effects, Topic 10 – Electricity and circuits, Topic 11 – Static electricity, Topic 12 –
Magnetism and the motor effect, Topic 13 – Electromagnetic induction, Topic 14 – Particle
model, Topic 15 – Forces and matter.
M
Continued on next page
18Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
Edexcel GCSE (9–1) in Separate Science consists of 3 GCSE´s, 1GCSE in Biology,1GCSE in
Chemistry and 1GCSE in Physics. There are 2 exams for each GCSE.These are available at
foundation tier and higher tier. Foundation pupils can achieve a grade 1-5, while Higher pupils
can achieve a grade 4 to 9.
There are 2 papers in each Science, (B1, B2, C1, C2, P1, P2), each of a 1hr 45 min duration and
K containing 100 marks. Each exam is worth 50% of the final GCSE grade in each individual
Science. E.g. B1 +B2 = 1 GCSE in Biology. There will be key ideas in each Science that will be
examined in both papers, in each Science.
The exam papers include a mixture of different question styles, including multiple-choice
questions, short answer questions, calculations and extended open-response questions.
Future Study (A level requirements)
In order for pupils to progress onto A level Science they should achieve at least a 6. Pupils who
wish to do more than one A level Science subject should ideally choose the Separate Science
route as part of their options.
Additional Information
There will have at least 15% of marks assigned to the assessment of practical skills.
This is assessment of both knowledge of core practical’s, but also of candidates’ ability to apply
C that knowledge to new contexts, or to apply investigative skills to scenarios presented in the
examinations. Increasingly with the new specification, there is a greater emphasis on use of
Maths skills in the exam papers. An additional 10 minutes has been added to the papers to
allow pupils thinking time in practical based questions.
M
19Spanish
Why study IGCSE Spanish?
Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world after mandarin: it is spoken by over 500
K million people and it is the official language in 22 countries all over the world. Knowing Spanish
increases your chances of communicating in a non-English speaking country and the prestige of
Spanish art, music, dance, literature, fashion, cuisine, and cinema makes Spanish a culturally
important foreign language. Language training develops skills which are useful in a wide range of
future careers, as well as the ability to communicate clearly, being confident about speaking in
public, using problem-solving strategies etc. Finally, you will add an international dimension to
your choice of IGCSE subjects, which is important for future employment.
Course Details
The IGCSE grade will be awarded on the candidates’ achievement in listening, speaking, reading
and writing. Five topic areas, and their subtopics, will be studied:
Topic area A: Home and Abroad: life in the town and rural life; holidays, tourist information
directions; services; customs; everyday life, traditions and communities.
Topic area B: Education and Employment: school life and routine; school rules and pressures;
school trips, events and exchanges; work, careers and volunteering; future plans.
Topic area C: Personal Life and Relationships: house and home; daily routines and helping at
C home; role models; relationships with family and friends; childhood.
Topic area D: The World Around Us: environmental issues; weather and climate; travel and
transport; the media; information and communication technology.
Topic area E: Social Activities, Fitness and Health: special occasions; hobbies, interests, sports
and exercise; shopping and money matters; accidents, injuries, common ailments and health
issues; food and drink.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
In all papers, all questions will be in the target language. Candidates will be required to answer in
the target language. Rubrics will be in the target language and in English.
Paper 1: Listening. 30 minutes, plus 5 minutes’ reading time. 25% of the qualification
Paper 2: Reading and Writing. 1 hour 45 minutes. 50% of the qualification
Paper 3: Speaking. Maximum 8-10 minutes. 25% of the qualification
Future Study (A level requirements)
IGCSE Spanish is required to access A level, with a minimum entrance GCSE Grade of a 6.
Additional Information
M Motivation and perseverance are two of the most important elements for learning a language
successfully. The course aims to enable you to use your Spanish, through both spoken and written
word, with confidence in a large number of contexts and to appreciate modern Spanish society
and culture. You will be able to share your interests and opinions with other people in Spanish.
20Lengua y Literatura
3º ESO. Y10
Why study Lengua y Literatura?
Enriquecer las capacidades comunicativas (expresivas y comprensivas) del alumnado.
K Reflexionar sobre la diversidad lingüística.
Mejorar la coherencia, cohesión y corrección de los usos de lingüísticos del alumnado.
Apreciar las semejanzas entre la lengua oral y escrita.
Enseñar los conceptos lingüísticos (fonológicos, morfosintáctico, semánticos) de la lengua.
Course Details
La comunicación. Elementos. Las funciones del lenguaje
El texto. Distintos tipos de textos según su estructura, finalidad y ámbito de uso, y
específicamente los expositivos, narrativos y descriptivos
La lengua y su organización. Unidades lingüísticas. Fonemas, grafías, acento y entonación
La palabra. Estructura. Clases. Formación de palabras
Las categorías gramaticales
El sintagma. Estructura. Clases
La oración simple. Constituyentes. SN y SV. Núcleo y complementos
El verbo. La conjugación. Complementos del verbo
Clasificación de la oración según la estructura del predicado y según la actitud del hablante.
Origen y evolución de la lengua española
C Características del lenguaje literario, recursos expresivos y métrica
Los géneros literarios. Rasgos relevantes
Características generales de la Literatura hasta el siglo XVIII así como las obras y autores
principales a través de sus textos. (Edad Media, Prerrenacimiento, Renacimiento, Siglo XVIII)
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
La calificación del alumno, desde el principio de evaluación individualizada y continua, tiene por objeto
reflejar de la manera más comprensiva posible su rendimiento y adquisición de las capacidades
recogidas en los objetivos generales de la Etapa y del Área de Lengua y Literatura.
La calificación en las fechas de las evaluaciones preceptivas, para información del alumno y a los
padres, así como para la evaluación final, en caso de que se realicen pruebas globales, tendrá en cuenta
toda la información recogida por el profesor hasta ese momento. Para la calificación del alumno se
valorarán con un 80 % las pruebas objetivas y con un 20 % otros indicadores de su rendimiento como
pueda ser el cuaderno de clase, la realización de tareas, las notas de clase, la actitud y la participación,
el trabajo en grupo, las fichas de lecturas voluntarias, etc.
M Additional Information
La asignatura de Lengua y Literatura es de curso obligatorio para la posible homologación del título de
secundaria además de ser un impositivo legal del Ministerio de Educación con el fin de que nuestros
alumnos enriquezcan mediante el estudio de su idioma y su literatura, sus capacidades expresivas y
comprensivas.
21Lengua y Literatura
4º ESO. Y11
Why study this subject
Los alumnos conocerán el contexto histórico, social y cultural de la literatura española hasta el siglo XX
K para situar en su contexto histórico a los principales autores y obras literarias. Leerán y analizarán las
obras literarias propuestas, así como los fragmentos seleccionados. Se realizarán trabajos
encomendados consultando fuentes de información, estos les permitirán trabajar de manera
autodidacta e independiente, adquiriendo así un hábito de trabajo verdaderamente importante con
vistas a estudios superiores.
Course Details
El texto. Características. Mecanismos de cohesión. Distintos tipos de textos. Los textos
argumentativos.
Las unidades lingüísticas. Palabra. Sintagma. Enunciado, oración y frase. Clases. Características.
La palabra. Estructura. Clases. Las categorías gramaticales.
El sintagma. Estructura. Clases. El enunciado.
La oración simple. Constituyentes. SN y SV. Núcleo y complementos. El verbo. La conjugación.
Clases de oraciones simples según la modalidad y la naturaleza del predicado.
La oración compuesta. Coordinación, Subordinación y Yuxtaposición. Clases de oraciones
compuestas.
C Oraciones coordinadas y subordinadas
La Literatura de los siglos XIX y XX: El contexto histórico y social. Obras y autores principales a
través de sus textos (Romanticismo, Realismo, Naturalismo, Modernismo, Generación del 98,
Generación del 27, la literatura de posguerra, la literatura actual)
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
La calificación del alumno, desde el principio de evaluación individualizada y continua, tiene por objeto
reflejar de la manera más comprensiva posible su rendimiento y adquisición de las capacidades
recogidas en los objetivos generales de la Etapa y del Área de Lengua y Literatura.
La calificación en las fechas de las evaluaciones preceptivas, para información del alumno a los padres y
tutores, así como para la evaluación final, en caso de que se realicen pruebas globales, tendrá en
cuenta toda la información recogida por el profesor hasta ese momento. Para la calificación del alumno
se valorarán con un 80 % las pruebas objetivas y con un 20 % otros indicadores de su rendimiento como
pueda ser el cuaderno de clase, la realización de tareas, las notas de clase, la actitud y la participación,
el trabajo en grupo, las fichas de lecturas voluntarias, etc.
M Additional Information
La asignatura de Lengua y Literatura es de curso obligatorio para la posible homologación del título de
secundaria además de ser un impositivo legal del Ministerio de Educación con el fin de que nuestros
alumnos enriquezcan mediante el estudio de su idioma y su literatura, sus capacidades expresivas y
comprensivas.
22Cultura 3ºESO
K
Why study this subject
Es de vital importancia que los alumnos conozcan la geografía actual ya que no se limita a describir los territorios,
sino que los analiza, interpreta su funcionamiento y detecta sus problemas. Se ocupa de experiencias cotidianas, del
paisaje que forma nuestro entorno, de los alimentos que comemos, de los combustibles que consumimos y del
trabajo que hacemos. Nunca ha tenido más importancia que en la actualidad para entender procesos, cambios y
problemáticas de nuestro mundo.
Course Details
-La diversidad de España: La diversidad geográfica de España (principales aspectos físicos y humanos de las
diferentes Comunidades Autónomas).
.- El medio físico de España: Territorios que componen España. Principales unidades de relieve de España.
Las vertientes hidrográficas españolas. Los climas españoles.
.- La actividad económica en España: Los tipos de sistemas económicos. Características de la economía de
mercado. El mundo del trabajo.
Las actividades del sector primario: Definir sector primario. Factores físicos y humanos que influyen en el
C sector primario. La agricultura de subsistencia y de mercado.
La Industria: Definición de actividad industrial. Materias primas y fuentes de energía. Los tipos de industria. Los
espacios industriales. Consecuencias medioambientales de la actividad industrial.
Las actividades del sector terciario: Definición de sector terciario. El comercio interior. El comercio exterior.
Características del transporte terrestre, marítimo y aéreo. El turismo: factores que lo determina y tipos de turismo.
Consecuencias medioambientales de estas actividades
-Preparación de examen de IGCSE Spanish.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
La calificación del alumno, desde el principio de evaluación individualizada y continua, tiene por objeto reflejar de la
manera más comprensiva posible su rendimiento y adquisición de las capacidades recogidas en los objetivos
generales de la asignatura de cultura.
La calificación en las fechas de las evaluaciones preceptivas, para información del alumno y a los padres, así como
para la evaluación final, en caso de que se realicen pruebas globales, tendrá en cuenta toda la información recogida
por el profesor hasta ese momento. Para la calificación del alumno se valorarán con un 80 % las pruebas objetivas y
con un 20 % otros indicadores de su rendimiento como pueda ser el cuaderno de clase, la realización de tareas, las
notas de clase, la actitud y la participación, el trabajo en grupo, las fichas de lecturas voluntarias, etc.
Additional Information
M La asignatura de Cultura es de curso obligatorio para la posible homologación del título de secundaria además de
ser un impositivo legal del Ministerio de Educación con el fin de que nuestros alumnos enriquezcan mediante el
estudio de su idioma y su literatura, sus capacidades expresivas y comprensivas.
23Cultura 4º ESO
K Why study this subject
La Historia es ciencia social, que nos permite conocer la evolución de los procesos humanos, desde los orígenes de
las primeras comunidades hasta la actualidad. Se ocupa del estudio de los acontecimientos relativos al hombre a lo
largo del tiempo, tomando como base el análisis crítico de testimonios concretos y verídicos. Sin embargo, estudiar
Historia no es memorizar, no es empeñarse en recordar una serie de nombres y fechas; eso lo podemos encontrar
en cualquier texto. La Historia es un recuento de lo que seres iguales a nosotros hicieron en su época. Lo
importante dentro de esta gran base de datos son los procesos, aquel camino por donde ha transitado el hombre y
del cual se derivan nuestros senderos.
Course Details
Siglo XVIII en España: los Borbones.
La España del siglo XIX
-La Guerra de la Independencia.
-Las Cortes de Cádiz y la Constitución de 1812, la primera constitución española.
-La vuelta al absolutismo con Fernando VII: etapas de su reinado y conflictos.
-La construcción del Estado liberal con Isabel II: etapas de su reinado y problemas.
-La Restauración: la vuelta de la monarquía constitucional y la alternancia pacífica de conservadores y liberales
en el poder.
España de 1902 a 1939
C Conocimientos:
-El reinado de Alfonso XIII.
-La Segunda República.
-La Guerra Civil española.
.La dictadura de Franco
-El franquismo y sus diferentes etapas.
-La posguerra.
-Oposición al régimen dentro y fuera de España.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
La calificación del alumno, desde el principio de evaluación individualizada y continua, tiene por objeto reflejar de la
manera más comprensiva posible su rendimiento y adquisición de las capacidades recogidas en los objetivos
generales de la asignatura de cultura.
La calificación en las fechas de las evaluaciones preceptivas, para información del alumno y a los padres, así como
para la evaluación final, en caso de que se realicen pruebas globales, tendrá en cuenta toda la información recogida
por el profesor hasta ese momento. Para la calificación del alumno se valorarán con un 80 % las pruebas objetivas y
con un 20 % otros indicadores de su rendimiento como pueda ser el cuaderno de clase, la realización de tareas, las
notas de clase, la actitud y la participación, el trabajo en grupo, las fichas de lecturas voluntarias, etc.
Additional Information
M La asignatura de Cultura es de curso obligatorio para la posible homologación del título de secundaria además de
ser un impositivo legal del Ministerio de Educación con el fin de que nuestros alumnos enriquezcan mediante el
estudio de su idioma y su literatura, sus capacidades expresivas y comprensivas.
24Art & Design
Why study GCSE Art & Design?
K Art and Design equips students with the skills to enjoy, produce and engage with the visual arts
throughout their lives, and it has immense value as a GCSE subject.
GCSE Art and Design provides the opportunity for students to:
explore both contemporary and historical sources of art, craft and design first hand through,
for example:
visiting museums, galleries, art shows and fairs
experiencing audio-visual productions, including still and moving imagery
their surroundings and environments.
take an individual approach to their art, craft and design making
develop the skill of selecting their best and most appropriate work for presentation.
Course Details
The GCSE covers a range of activities and in-depth assignments. Students will have the opportunity to
experiment with different media in order to explore your strengths and preferences. There are a wide
range of options within the different endorsements, or you may choose to work in several areas.
Whatever you choose, the main aim of the course is to develop your visual language skills and for you
to build a comprehensive portfolio of work to progress to further courses or employment.
C Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
Assessment Information
Unit 1 – 60%
Personal Portfolio in Art and Design.
Internally set and marked; assessed through controlled assessment.
Unit 2 - 40%
Externally Set Assignment in Art and Design
Externally set theme and internally marked.
Each unit is assessed separately out of 80 marks. You will be assessed using 4 assessment objectives of
develop, review/experiment, record, present.
Future Study (A level requirements)
The GCSE Supports progression to A level – the GCSE and the A Level have a common structure and
titles, and follow a similar approach to the Externally Set Assignment and the assessment grid to ensure
smooth progression to A Level at the end of the GCSE course. Students are usually required a grade 6
and above to progress onto the A level.
Additional Information
M
GCSE Art & Design develops transferable skills – students will learn to: ● apply a creative approach to
problem solving ● consider and develop original ideas from initiation to realisation ● analyse critically
their own work and the work of others ● express individual thoughts and choices confidently ● take
risks, experiment and learn from mistakes.
25Business Studies
K Why study IGCSE Business Studies?
Core business skills are essential for many careers. The IGCSE Business Studies course covers a wide
range of issues that are important in the world of business today including the ownership and control
of business, its aims and objectives, the management of people, finance, production and marketing. All
content has a focus on how it can be applied to real-life business situations. Owning, starting up a
business enterprise or working for any type of formal organisation will require knowledge of how a
business functions so that you can be an effective manager or employee. IGCSE Business Studies allows
you to develop an understanding of business concepts, terminology, aims and the integrated nature of
business activity that will be useful in any chosen career path. The study of business draws on the
knowledge and skills acquired in other subjects such as Geography, Mathematics and ICT. The content
also develops your ability to participate effectively in global society as citizens, producers and
consumers.
Course Details
The course involves the study of: 1. Business activity and influences on business - covers the various
objectives of a business, changing business environments and the criteria for judging success. 2. People
in business - looks at people in organisations, focusing on their roles, relationships and management in
C business. 3. Business finance - explores the use of accounting and financial information as an aid to
decision making. 4. Marketing - focuses on identifying and satisfying customer needs in a changing and
competitive international environment. 5. Business operations - examines the way organisations use
and manage resources to produce goods and services. Critical-thinking and enquiry skills, calculating,
interpreting and evaluating business data to help build arguments and make informed judgements are
developed throughout the course of study. An understanding of the dynamics of business activity and
the related considerations of ethics and sustainability for global businesses is also gained.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
This qualification is assessed through TWO one and a half hour examination papers set and externally
marked by Edexcel. Paper 1 focuses on small businesses of up to 49 employees that have a
local/national market. Paper 2 will focuses on large businesses of more than 250 be given compulsory
short-answer, structured, data response and open-ended questions on a business related context.
Future Study (A level requirements)
An IGCSE at a minimum of grade 6 Is required for students wishing to further their study of
Business Studies at AS and A level.
M
26French / German
Why study IGCSE French or German?
K Language graduates work for a huge variety of employers and sectors, with media, tourism,
PR, business, finance, commerce, advertising, marketing and the public sector all featuring in
the destinations of graduates.
Course Details
The IGCSE grade will be awarded on the candidates’ achievement in listening, speaking, reading and
writing. Five topic areas, and their subtopics, will be studied:
Topic area A: Home and Abroad: life in the town and rural life; holidays, tourist information directions;
services; customs; everyday life, traditions and communities.
Topic area B: Education and Employment: school life and routine; school rules and pressures; school
trips, events and exchanges; work, careers and volunteering; future plans.
Topic area C: Personal Life and Relationships: house and home; daily routines and helping at home; role
models; relationships with family and friends; childhood.
Topic area D: The World Around Us: environmental issues; weather and climate; travel and transport;
the media; information and communication technology.
Topic area E: Social Activities, Fitness and Health: special occasions; hobbies, interests, sports and
C exercise; shopping and money matters; accidents, injuries, common ailments and health issues; food
and drink.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
In all papers, all questions will be in the target language. Candidates will be required to
answer in the target language. Rubrics will be in the target language and in English.
Paper 1: Listening. 30 minutes, plus 5 minutes’ reading time. 25% of the qualification
Paper 2: Reading and Writing. 1 hour 45 minutes. 50% of the qualification
Paper 3: Speaking. Maximum 8-10 minutes. 25% of the qualification
Future Study (A level requirements)
IGCSE French/German is required to access A level, with a minimum entrance GCSE Grade of a
6.
Additional Information
The motivation for studying a language at this level is knowing that it will open a range of
doors for you in the future, both in terms of work and pleasure. It takes a lot of dedication and
time to be able to use and understand a language well, but the rewards are clearly visible once
M you are able to converse with others in the world and enjoy what you have worked hard for. It
is a beautiful skill that will be of benefit to you for the rest of your life.
27Geography
Why study IGCSE Geography?
K Geography is the perfect subject to study for both art-based and science -based career plans. At
university it is classed as both a science and an art A Level. It can for example be a third science for
medicine or Veterinary studies. Geography lends itself directly to careers such as meteorologist, civil
engineering, geology, social work, law, town planning, police, military, marine biologist, renewable
energy, surveyor, conservation, cartography, agriculture, and architect, Geography is the second-most
employable degree in the UK.
Course Details
Section A – The Natural Environment
1 Coastal environments and 2 Hazardous environments
Section B – People and their Environments
Complete two of the three topics:
1 Economic activity and energy
2 Ecosystems and rural environments
3 Urban environments
C Section C – Practical Geographical Enquiry
We will undertake practical fieldwork in all of the topics. This will include three days out of school,
undertaking data collection at the coast and in a local city.
Section D – Global Issues : Fragile environments
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
It is externally-assessed currently through a 3-hour examination paper, set and marked by Edexcel. The
exam board is currently considering a change to two, shorter papers.
The single tier of entry will contain a variety of question types, such as multiple-choice questions, short
and extended answer questions, graphical and data questions and practical enquiry questions.
Looking to the Future (A level requirements/careers)
IGCSE is required in order to study the A level, because the courses build upon each other and IGCSE
ideas are examined at the A level. The minimum entrance grade is 6, but it is also important to have a
good English grade, for example, a 5 or higher.
M Additional Information
Practical skills are an essential part of the examination and there will be compulsory fieldwork days
both in the city of Cartagena and at the coast.
28History
Why study IGCSE History?
K The study of IGCSE History encompasses a wide range of themes, historical events and eras.
This allows students to understand the past and its impact upon the world around us today.
Students are expected to communicate their historical knowledge and understanding in
different ways. IGCSE History aims to improve students´ skills of analysis and evaluation as well
as developing an ability to learn independently. This complements the study of other subjects
including English language, English Literature and Geography.
Course Details
The current IGCSE History units studied are:
1. Germany 1918-1945 – Germany after World War One; the rise of Hitler and the Nazis;
Life in Nazi Germany; the impact of World War Two on Germany.
2. The Cold War, 1943-1972 – Origins of the Cold War; Soviet Control of Eastern Europe;
the Korean War; the Hungarian Uprising; the building of the Berlin Wall; the Cuban Missile
Crisis; Detenté.
3. The USA, 1918-1941 – the impact of World War One; the reasons for the economic
boom; developments in sport and leisure; prohibition and gangsters; the Wall Street Crash.
C 4. Changes in Medicine, 1845-1945 – ideas about the causes of disease; changes to
treatment; developments in surgery and public health; the changing role of women in
medicine.
The options studied are subject to change.
Assessment Information
Assessment of IGCSE History comprises 2 exam papers, both taken at the end of year 11.
Paper 1 and Paper 2 each focus on 2 of the units studied, (4 units in total), and each unit is
worth 25 % of the overall IGCSE grade. Each exam paper lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Coursework is not a feature of IGCSE History.
Future Study (A level requirements)
It follows, that a good IGCSE History grade would allow students to study the subject at A level.
At A level, History is often combined with subjects such as English and Geography, but it can
also be studied alongside languages and Science subjects.
History students often go on to establish careers in politics, law, journalism and education, but
M the knowledge and skills developed at A level are highly valued in the business world.
Additional Information
For further information, please visit the history classroom or speak to your history teacher.
29Religious Studies
Why study GCSE RE - Ethics, Philosophy and Religion?
GCSE RE is based around Philosophical and Ethical discussions and debates about topical issues affecting
K modern day society. The study of RE encompasses a thematic approach, and allows for the consideration
of a wide range of religious and non-religious responses to some fundamental questions of life. A choice
of topics is offered, allowing for study of the relevance of religion to issues of morality, questions of
meaning, lifestyle and choices, etc. with reference to Christianity and one or more of the other major
world religions. Topics are designed to be relevant to students’ lives and enjoyable. No prior learning or
level of attainment is necessary for candidates to undertake a course of study based on this RE
Specification. The study of RE encourages students to be open and engage in dialogue, ask thought
provoking questions and develop arguments based on religious and non-religious beliefs and views.
Course Details
The RE units to be studied include the belief and practices of two world religions plus 4 themed units as
follows:
Relationships and Families which includes the study of – attitudes towards human sexuality; sex outside
marriage; contraception; marriage; divorce; the purpose of families in the 21st century and gender
equality.
Religion and Life which includes beliefs about the origins of the universe; abuse of the environment;
attitudes towards pollution; the use and abuse of animals; the origin of human life; abortion; euthanasia;
C the afterlife.
Religion, Crime and Punishment which includes the study of – beliefs about the reasons for crime; the aims
of punishment; attitudes towards suffering; attitudes towards punishment including the death penalty;
attitudes towards forgiveness.
Religion, Peace and Conflict which includes the study of violent protest and terrorism; reasons for war;
attitudes towards nuclear war and weapons of mass destruction; beliefs about a just war; pacifism and
peace; responses to victims of warfare.
Other units are available and there is scope to amend the units for study each academic year.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
Assessment of GCSE RE comprises 2 written exam papers, both taken at the end of year 11.
Each paper lasts for 1 hour 45 minutes Candidates answer five questions varying in value in each unit with
4 units in each paper.
Future Study (A level requirements)
It follows, that a good GCSE RE grade would allow students to study the subject at A level. At A level, RE
Philosophy and Ethics is often combined with subjects such as English, History and Geography, but it can
M also be studied alongside Languages and Science subjects.
RE students often go on to establish careers in politics, law, journalism and education, but the knowledge
and skills developed at A level are highly valued in the business world.
Additional Information
For further information, please speak to your RE teacher or visit the AQA website.
30Computer Science
Why study IGCSE Computer Science
K Most contemporary organisations require students and employees to possess good levels of
information and communication skills and knowledge. Attaining an IGCSE in Computer Science
is therefore a valuable asset when applying for jobs and continuing with studies. Potential
employees demonstrating these skills will have an advantage in a competitive job market.
IGCSE Computer Science also opens up the route to further study at A level and degree level.
Graduates starting work in the Computer Science sector in the next few years will enable
students to meet the demands of 21st Century employers. The new curriculum offers changes
that will engage students and give them the skills that will support progression to further study
of computer science, mathematics, physics and engineering.
Course Details
The International GCSE in Computer Science is designed to extend students’ knowledge and
understanding by broadening and deepening skills. For example students will develop the
ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including
abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation, analyse problems in
computational terms through practical problem-solving experience. This will include designing,
C writing and debugging programs. Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and
critically applying mathematical skills relevant to computer science.
Assessment Information (including coursework if applicable)
Paper 1 • Assessment is through a 2-hour examination paper externally assessed. • The paper
consists of multiple-choice, short open-response, open-response and extended open-response
answer questions and is worth 50% of the total marks. Paper 2 Assessment is through a 3-hour
practical examination, set and marked externally. • A choice of three programming languages
will be available (Python, C# or Java). • The paper consists of multiple-choice, short open-
response, open-response, extended open response answer and task-based questions. • The
task-based questions will be carried out using a computer system under supervision
Future Study (A level requirements)
An IGCSE at a minimum of grade of a 6 is required for students wishing to further their study of
Computer Science.
Additional Information
M This qualification will enable students learn up to 3 different programming languages, think
creatively and apply mathematical skills relevant to Computer Science. Therefore an aptitude
and enjoyment of mathematical problem solving would be advantageous to students wishing
to study Computer Science.
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