(I)GCSE COURSES 2016-2018 - Sherborne Qatar

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(I)GCSE COURSES 2016-2018 - Sherborne Qatar
(I)GCSE COURSES
    2016-2018
KEY CONTACTS

Headmaster                       Mr Michael Weston   mweston@sherborneqatar.org

Deputy Head Academic             Mrs Julia Moore     jmoore@sherborneqatar.org

CONTENTS

Foreword

Introduction

The Key Stage 4 curriculum

Key Stage 4 at Sherborne Qatar

Choosing subjects

Compulsory subjects

Optional subjects
FOREWORD

Sherborne Qatar is still a young school, but with a history stretching back over five hundred years. We are
fortunate to be part of the larger Sherborne education family and this is why we have decided to offer our
pupils broadly the same academic opportunities as those enjoyed by pupils in Sherborne Dorset.

I believe that the range of subjects we are able to include is a sign of our commitment and determination
that our pupils should be given a wide education, one that will allow them to prepare for their post-16
courses with a very good grounding in languages, sciences and humanities, as well as creative and
technical subjects.

My experience of preparing pupils for Key Stage 4 examinations tells me that there are challenges ahead
for all who embark on these demanding courses. Let us be clear: there are no shortcuts or easy routes to
examination success; but pupils’ dedication and hard work will be recognised and rewarded both along
the way by our teachers and at the end by the examiners.

As we – pupils, teachers and parents – all set out together on this exciting journey, I want to wish all of our
pupils well and to encourage them to embrace these courses, playing as full a part as they can in their own
education and their own future.

                                                                                             Michael Weston
                                                                                           Senior Headmaster
INTRODUCTION

Building upon the educational foundations established in previous key stages, the Key Stage 4 curriculum
of Year 10 and 11 seeks to create an academically challenging, relevant and varied course of study that
acts as a springboard for further education. Key Stage 4 (KS4) refers to the period covered by Years 10
and 11. GCSE and IGCSE examinations are sat at the end of Key Stage 4, which is why we refer to KS4
examinations in this document.

All pupils must work exceptionally hard to meet the rigours of this challenging programme. They must
demonstrate a committed attitude, diligent work ethic and a highly honed set of organisational skills. They
should also be willing to become independent learners determined to succeed and fulfil their potential,
ready to question critically, go that extra mile and be proud Shirburnians.

This booklet is designed to aid you in your choice of KS4 subjects and inform you of what you can expect
in the time to come, so please study it carefully. By understanding the nature of what you are learning, you
can take the first steps to success. Please also remember that the staff at Sherborne Qatar, are always
willing to help you in these decisions, so please do not hesitate to approach them if needed.

                                                                                             Julia Moore
                                                                                   Deputy Head Academic
THE KEY STAGE 4 CURRICULUM

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is an examination which is taken at the end of Key
Stage 4. It is the standard qualification for pupils aged 14 to 16 years old. The equivalent examination
taken by some pupils in an international context is the International General Certificate of Secondary
Education (IGCSE) because it allows pupils in countries throughout the world to gain a British qualification
that is highly respected.

Pupils at Sherborne Qatar will sit both GCSE and IGCSE examinations authorised and prepared by
Cambridge International Examinations (www.cie.org.uk) and by Edexcel Examination Board
(www.edexcel.com ). The IGCSE and GCSE programmes, encourage learner-centred and enquiry-based
approaches to learning; and they develop learners’ skills in creative thinking, in enquiry and problem-
solving, giving pupils excellent preparation for the next stage of their education. Heads of Department
have chosen carefully between the IGCSE and GCSE courses to ensure that the qualification best suits the
learners at Sherborne Qatar and will ensure that each child has the opportunity to reach their potential.

With its clearly defined content and learning outcomes, the Key Stage 4 curriculum, is compatible with
other curricula and is internationally relevant and sensitive to different needs and cultures.

Key Stage 4 qualifications, develop pupils’ knowledge, understanding and skills in the following ways:

      subject content
      applying knowledge and understanding to familiar and new situations
      intellectual enquiry
      flexibility and responsiveness to change
      working and communicating in English
      influencing outcomes
      cultural awareness

Assessment at KS4, includes written and spoken tests, coursework and practical tasks. Coursework is set
and marked by the pupils’ teachers and is then externally moderated by qualified examiners. There are
eight internationally recognised grades (A* – G) or equivalent, against which the pupils’ performances are
judged. There are specific guidelines which explain the standard of achievement required for the different
grades.

Pupils who begin their KS4 courses in the academic year 2016 – 2018 will sit their KS4 examinations in
May and June 2018.

Entry to our Key Stage 4 courses does not guarantee entry to our Key Stage 5 (A-level) courses. These will
be dealt with on a case by case basis, but we would expect pupils to achieve a minimum of 5 A*-C grades
or equivalent at KS4, including Maths and English, plus a B grade minimum or equivalent at KS4 in their
chosen A-level subjects or in prerequisite courses.
KEY STAGE 4 AT SHERBORNE QATAR

Assessment

Pupils will typically study eight to ten KS4 courses, with the aim of sitting examinations in each subject
area. Each subject area may have a number of separate examination papers, resulting in a strenuous
examination programme in May and June 2018. Some subject areas have coursework as part of the
course, which means that various assignments are submitted at stages throughout the course.

Our courses will include continuous assessment, providing formative feedback for both pupils and
teachers. Such assessment may include, but not be exclusive to:

      classwork
      homework
      testing at the end of a topic or unit
      essays and projects
      practical work

Assessment in its many forms is an integral part of the curriculum. The main purposes of the assessment
are:

      to discover what pupils have achieved in terms of knowledge, skills and understanding
      to encourage and to praise
      to set targets
      to inform planning and teaching
      to inform reporting

At the end of Year 10, all pupils will sit school examinations in the subjects they have been studying. These
will be conducted in a formal setting, replicating how KS4 examinations will be conducted. These end-of-
year examinations will assess what pupils have studied throughout the year, and so it will be important for
pupils to learn how to revise too.

In January 2018, all Year 11 pupils will sit mock examinations which will cover as much of the syllabus as
possible at that stage. These examinations will be summative in their nature, in order to give pupils,
teachers and parents a clear picture of where pupils’ attainment lies at that time. Additionally, and perhaps
more importantly, the examinations also have a formative element, because they will give pupils and
teachers guidance on where strengths and weaknesses lie, so that further improvement and progress can
be made.

After the mock examinations have been taken and the results published, discussions will take place about
the advisability of pupils taking the final examination in subjects in which they are struggling to make the
necessary headway. However, such cases will be exceptional.
Reporting

The reporting cycle for the Key Stage 4 course is:

November, Year 10             interim progress report
March, Year 10                full report and parent/teacher meeting
June, Year 10                 end of year exam tracking report

November, Year 11             interim progress report
January, Year 11              mock exam tracking report
February, Year 11             full report and parent/teacher meeting

Homework

Homework is a vital aspect of the curriculum and pupils are expected to complete their tasks by the
specified deadline and to the best of their ability. It is expected that pupils will usually spend between two
and three hours per night on their homework, but this is only a general guideline because a number of
assignments given during the KS4 courses will be long-term essays or projects and will require good time
management. Pupils need to be prepared to work hard and be diligent in their studies. Independent
learning, organisational ability, good study habits and dedication are all important attributes in a
successful KS4 candidate.

Tutor Groups

All pupils are part of a tutor group which is overseen by the House Tutor. Pupils meet their tutors every
day for registration and are encouraged to see them at any other time.

House Tutors are the first point of contact for pupils; they monitor Pupil Planners; and they play a key role
in setting and monitor individual targets. Parents are encouraged to develop good working relationships
with their son’s or daughter’s House Tutor, in order to create an environment in which everybody can work
together to the benefit of the pupil and his or her achievement.

Pupil development

Throughout Years 10 and 11, the School will continue to seek opportunities to develop Qatar
Shirburnians, so that they can exemplify the spirit and ethos of Sherborne Dorset, demonstrating:

      independence and self-discipline
      commitment to the wider life of the school
      consideration for others
      confidence
      communication skills
      initiative
      leadership
      ability to work with others
CHOOSING SUBJECTS

The KS4 curriculum combines a core of compulsory subjects and a range of optional subjects selected
from a range of groups. Pupils will study eight to ten subjects and it is important to recognise the need for
a sensible workload, one that is appropriate to the pupil’s abilities.

Pupils might have difficulty deciding which subjects to choose and might be reluctant to opt for one
course at the expense of another. Therefore, they should consider a number of factors:

      content – a summary of each course can be found later in this booklet. It is important to match
       pupils’ interests and abilities, checking the workload so that pupils are not overloaded. Discussion
       with teachers is recommended if there is doubt.

      balance and breadth – it is important to keep options for the future as open as possible at this
       stage. Whilst a particular career might be uppermost in a pupil’s mind now, a lot can change over
       the coming years.

      interest – this must be in the subject and should not be determined by the likeability factor of a
       particular teacher. Whilst it is hoped that the teaching staff will remain unchanged over the course
       of the two years, it is not possible to guarantee that a particular teacher will be responsible for a
       particular subject or group. Success in a subject, coping with the current demands and enjoying it
       are all positive indicators.

      strengths or talents – where pupils have particular ones – be they practical, numerical, creative,
       expressed orally in in writing – they are likely to have a greater confidence in their ability to
       succeed and those subjects might lead to interests at a higher level.

Pupils should make their choices based on a combination of these factors, but choose ultimately what
gives them the greatest chance of success.

Options structure

Core subjects – all pupils must study English as either a first or second language. Those who study English
as a first language will also study English Literature. All pupils must also study Mathematics and either
Single Award Science (counts for a single GCSE), Coordinated Science,( which is a dual award and counts
for two IGCSE grades) or the Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics, which count for three
IGCSE grades).

Qatari pupils are required to study Arabic and Islamiyat.

Optional subjects – all pupils must choose one subject from each of the remaining groups. A subject can
only be studied in one group.
Some frequently asked questions

How many subjects can my child study?

Please select one subject from each column. Where there are several subjects in the same column, please
indicate a first and second choice.

Can my child take both English and Arabic?

This is possible and these are separate Key Stage 4 subjects.

What is the difference between English 1st language and English 2nd language?

English 1st language is suitable for native speakers or those with extremely good second language ability.
English 2nd language is accepted by Higher Education institutions in the UK and elsewhere as an indication
of proficiency in English.

Can my child study all three sciences?

All pupils must study all three sciences; Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
We offer Coordinated Science, which is a combination of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Pupils are
entered for Double Award Science, which is the equivalent of two IGCSEs. For some students, they will be
able to choose to study Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics, each examined as separate
IGCSE subjects). If a child wishes to study the Separate Sciences course, this must be chosen in the
designated option block. We also offer the Single Award Science course for pupils who would benefit
from some extra learning support. This course is a combination of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Pupils
are entered for Single Award Science, which is the equivalent of one (I)GCSEs.

What happens if not enough pupils choose a particular subject?

We reserve the right to close an option if too few pupils have chosen it. However, this step will only be
taken in extreme circumstances. If this is necessary, we will inform those parents whose children are
affected.

Pupils will be allocated to their second choice subject if the first is not available.

What happens if my child changes his or her mind in the coming weeks?

We will do all that we can to accommodate any changes of mind, but if a particular class is already full
then the change will not be possible.
I(GCSE) OPTIONS

   Name of Pupil:                                             Nationality:

   The option bands are as follows. Please indicate your 1st and 2nd choices in the boxes where appropriate.
   You must choose a first and second choice in each band (except for Maths and English).

Option A       Option B       Option C         Option D        Option E       Option F        Option G
                                                              Separate
                                                              (Triple
English                                                       Award)         Islamiyat
                                              Arabic GCSE
First                        Single Award                     Sciences       IGCSE (all
               Maths                          (all Qatari’s
Language                     Science                          IGCSE (this    Qataris must    Art GCSE
               IGCSE                          must choose
and                          (GCSE)                           must be        chose this
                                              this option)
Literature                                                    chosen if      option)
                                                              ticked in
                                                              Option C)
                             Coordinated
English as a                 (Double                          Business       Business
                                              French                                         Drama
Second                       Award)                           Studies        Studies
                                              GCSE                                           GCSE
Language                     Science                          IGCSE          IGCSE
                             IGCSE
                             Separate
                                              Spanish                                        Computer
                             (Triple Award)                   Geography      Geography
                                              GCSE                                           Science
                             Sciences                         IGCSE          IGCSE
                                                                                             IGCSE
                             IGCSE
                                                                                             Business
                                                                             Art GCSE        Studies
                                                                                             IGCSE
                                                                                             Geography
                                                                             PE GCSE
                                                                                             IGCSE

                                                                             Computer
                                                                                             History
                                                                             Science
                                                                                             IGCSE
                                                                             IGCSE

                                                                                             ICT
                                                                                             IGCSE

   Games, Tutor time, Assemblies and Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) are non-examination
   subjects that are also part of the curriculum.

   Arabic and Islamiyat are compulsory for Qatari pupils.

   There is a copy of this form at the back of the book for you to hand in. Please hand in your option choices
   to your House Tutor by Sunday 7th February 2016
OPTION A

ENGLISH 1ST LANGUAGE (0500)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=852

The aims are to:
    enable pupils to communicate accurately, appropriately and effectively in speech and writing
    enable pupils to understand and respond appropriately to what they hear, read and experience
    encourage pupils to enjoy and appreciate variety of language
    complement pupils’ other areas of study by developing skills of a more general application (e.g.
       analysis, synthesis, drawing of inferences)
    promote pupils’ personal development and an understanding of themselves and others.

Assessment

Paper One (Core)                       Paper Two (Extended)             Paper Four (Coursework)
or                                     and
    Reading Passage                       Reading Passages                   Three assignments of
    1 hour 45 minutes                     2 hours                             500-800 words
    Answer two questions on               Answer 3 questions                 50% of marks
      one passage 700-800 words               on two passages 600-
      each                                    700 words each
    Eligible for grades C-G or            Eligible for grades A*-
      equivalent                              E or equivalent
    50% of marks                          50% of total marks

Content

Pupils must demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening using a variety of techniques and
texts studied throughout the course.
ENGLISH LITERATURE (0486) – FOR THOSE STUDYING ENGLISH 1ST LANGUAGE
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=853

The aims are to encourage pupils’ to:
    enjoy the experience of reading literature;
    understand and respond to literary texts in different forms and from different periods and
      cultures;
    communicate an informed personal response appropriately and effectively;
    appreciate different ways in which writers achieve their effects;
    experience literature’s contribution to aesthetic, imaginative and intellectual growth;
    explore the contribution of literature to an understanding of areas of human concern.

Assessment

Paper One (Set texts)                 Paper Three                         Paper Four (Unseen)
and
       1 hour 30 minutes                    45 minutes                         1 hour 15 minutes
       Poetry and Prose                     Drama (Open Text)                  Candidates answer one
       Candidates answer two                Candidates answer one               question.
        questions on two texts: one           question on one text.              There is a choice of two
        poetry and one prose.                There is a choice of two            questions requiring critical
       There is a choice of two              questions (one passage-             commentary (one based on
        questions (one passage-               based and one essay) on             literary prose and one
        based and one essay) on               each text.                          based on a poem or extract
        each                                 Externally marked 25% of            of a poem).
        text.                                 final mark                      
       Externally marked 50% of
        final mark

Paper 1 is a closed text component: i.e. candidates may not take their books into the examination.
Poems (or extracts from poems) referred to will now be printed on the question paper for all poetry questions.

Content

Set texts are published on the syllabus contained on the website. The English department shall choose
texts for the students later this year.
ENGLISH 2ND LANGUAGE (0511)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=1002

The aims are to:
    develop the ability to use English effectively for the purpose of practical communication;
    form a sound base for the skills required for further study or employment using English as the medium;
    develop an awareness of the nature of language and language-learning skills, along with skills of a more
         general application;
        promote students’ personal development.

Assessment

Paper One (Core)                                       Paper Two (Extended)
or
     1 hour 30 minutes                                       2 hours
     Reading and writing                                     Reading and writing
     Eligible for grades C-G or equivalent                   Eligible for grades A*-E or equivalent
     70% of marks                                            70% of marks
In addition to
Paper Three (Core)                                     Paper Four (Coursework)
or
     30-40 minutes                                           45 minutes
     Listening                                               Listening
     Eligible for grades C-G or equivalent                   Eligible for grades A*-E or equivalent
     30% of marks                                            30% of marks
In addition to
Component Five                 or                      Component Six
     10-12 minutes                                       Oral coursework
     Oral                                                Endorsed by the school
     Endorsed by the school

Content

Pupils must demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening using a variety of techniques and
texts studied throughout the course.
OPTION B

MATHS (4MA0)
HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/IGCSE/IGCSE09/MATHS/MATHSA/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

The aims are to:

        develop their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques
        acquire a foundation of mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas
        enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and concepts, and become confident
         to use mathematics to solve problems
        appreciate the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study.

Assessment

Paper One (Foundation)                             Paper One (Higher)
or
     2 hours                                             2 hours
     Grades C-G or equivalent                            Grades A*-E or equivalent
     Short answer questions                              Short answer questions
     50% of marks                                        50% of marks
In addition to
Paper Two (Foundation)                             Paper Two (Higher)
or
        2 hours                                          2 hours
        Short Answer Questions                           Short Answer Questions
        50% of marks                                     50% of marks

Content

Please refer to the syllabus on the website for all components.
Number
    Use numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and in real-life situations.
Algebra
    Use letters as equivalent to numbers and as variables.
    Understand the distinction between expressions, equations and formulae.
    Use algebra to set up and solve problems.
    Demonstrate manipulative skills.
    Construct and use graphs.
Geometry
    Use properties of angles.
    Understand a range of transformations.
    Work within the metric system.
    Understand ideas of space and shape.
    Use ruler, compasses and protractor appropriately.
Statistics
    Understand basic ideas of statistical averages.
    Use a range of statistical techniques.
    Use basic ideas of probability.

As a member of the Year 10 Set 1 cohort students will be sitting two IGCSE courses in the two years rather
than one. They will be sitting IGCSE Edexcel Further Pure Mathematics in addition to Mathematics.
Edexcel Further Pure Mathematics (4PMO)

http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-international-gcses-and-edexcel-
certificates/international-gcse-further-pure-mathematics-2009.html

The course will be delivered in conjunction with the IGCSE Mathematics Higher course. With this in mind,
students will need to understand

      They are undertaking two IGCSE courses beginning at the start of Y10
      They will not be able to opt out of either course during the course.
      Both IGCSE courses will be tested at the end of Y11.
      No IGCSE Mathematics will be sat during any earlier examination period

The aims of this course are to

   1. Enhance the ability of gifted mathematicians with a proven track record of outstanding
      achievement.
   2. Develop the skills and methods that will become vital during A ‘Level Mathematics
   3. Prepare students who are planning to aim for A* grades at A ‘Level Mathematics.

Assessment

Paper One 4PM0/01                               Paper Two 4PM0/02
    2 hours                                        2 hours
    Grades A-D Only                                Grades A-D Only
    Calculators are permitted                      Calculators are permitted
    Each paper will contain questions              Each paper will contain questions
      from more than one section of the                from more than one section of the
      specification content and the                    specification content and the
      solution of any question may require             solution of any question may require
      knowledge of more than one section               knowledge of more than one section
      of the specification content.                    of the specification content.
    50% of total score                             50% of total score
    Each paper will carry a total of 100           Each paper will carry a total of 100
      marks                                            marks
Knowledge, skills and understanding

This Edexcel International GCSE in Further Pure Mathematics requires students to demonstrate application
and understanding of the following.

Number

Students should be able to apply their numerical skills in a purely mathematical way and to real-life
situations.

Algebra and calculus

Students should use algebra and calculus to set up and solve problems , develop competence and
confidence when manipulating mathematical expressions, construct and use graphs in a range of
situations.

Geometry and trigonometry

Students should use properties of shapes, angles and transformations, vectors and rates of change to
model situations coordinate geometry and trigonometry.
OPTION C

COORDINATED SCIENCE (0654)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=885

The aims are to:
    provide a worthwhile educational experience for all candidates, through well-designed
      studies of experimental and practical science. In particular, candidates’ studies should
      enable them to acquire understanding and knowledge of the concepts, principles and
      applications of biology, chemistry and physics;
    recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific method and appreciate its
      applicability in other disciplines and in everyday life
    develop abilities and skills that are relevant to the study and practice of science, are useful
      in everyday life, encourage safe practice and encourage effective communication
    promote an awareness that the study and practice of science are co-operative and
      cumulative activities subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and cultural
      influences and limitations
    emphasise that some principles and concepts are common to all science, while others are
      more particular to the separate sciences of biology, chemistry and physics
    promote interdisciplinary enquiry through practical investigations and through the co-
      ordination of the subject matter of the three separate sciences.

Assessment

Paper One (Multiple choice core)           or   Paper Two (Multiple choice extended)
     45 minutes                                    45 minutes
     30% of marks                                  30% of marks
In addition to
Paper Three (Core)                          or Paper Four (Extended)
     Grades CC-GG or equivalent                       Grades A*A*-GG or equivalent
     2 hours                                          2 hours
     50% of marks                                     50% of marks
In addition to
Paper Six      Alternative to practical
     Grades A*A* - GG or equivalent
     1 hour
     20% of marks

Content

Biology – living organisms, cell structure, movement in and out of cells, enzymes, plant nutrition,
animal nutrition, transport in plants, transport in humans, respiration, coordination and response,
reproduction, inheritance, and ecosystems.
Chemistry – matter, experimental techniques, atoms, stoichiometry, electricity in chemistry,
energy in reactions, chemical reactions, acids, bases and salts, the periodic table, metals, air and
water, sulfur, carbonates, organic chemistry.
Physics – motion, matter and forces, water, work and power, simple kinetic model of matter,
matter and thermal properties, transfer of thermal energy, waves, light, electromagnetic
spectrum, sound, magnetism, electricity and radioactivity.
SEPARATE SCIENCES

BIOLOGY (0610)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=837
CHEMISTRY (0620)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=840
PHYSICS (0625)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=879

The aims for the subject are the same as those for the Coordinated Science course.

Assessment for each Science Subject.

Paper One (Multiple choice core)               or   Paper Two (Multiple choice extended)
     45 minutes                                        45 minutes
     30% of marks                                      30% of marks
In addition to
Paper Three (Core)                              or Paper Four (Extended)
     Grades CC-GG or equivalent                          Grades A*A*-GG or equivalent
     1 hour and 15 minutes                               1 hour and 15 minutes
     50% of marks                                        50% of marks
In addition to
Paper Six      Alternative to practical
     Grades A*A*-G G or equivalent
     1 hour
     20% of marks

Content

See the different specifications for details

Biology – living organisms, cell structure, movement in and out of cells, enzymes, plant nutrition,
animal nutrition, transport in plants, transport in humans, respiration and gas exchange,
excretion, coordination and response, reproduction, inheritance, variation and selection,
ecosystems and biotechnology and genetic engineering.
Chemistry – matter, experimental techniques, atoms, stoichiometry, electricity in chemistry,
energy, chemical reactions, acids, bases and salts, the periodic table, metals, air and water, sulfur,
carbonates, organic chemistry.
Physics – motion, matter and forces, water, work and power, simple kinetic model of matter,
matter and thermal properties, transfer of thermal energy,waves, light, electromagnetic spectrum,
sound, magnetism, electricity and radioactivity.
OPTIONAL SUBJECTS – LANGUAGES

OPTION D

ARABIC (5AR01) – COMPULSORY FOR QATARI STUDENTS
HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/GCSE/GCSE09/MFL/ARABIC/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

The aims are to:
To enable students to develop:
    an understanding of Arabic in a variety of contexts
    a knowledge of Arabic vocabulary and structures
    transferable language learning skills
    the ability to communicate effectively in Arabic
    awareness and understanding of countries and communities where Arabic is spoken.

Assessment

Unit One                Unit Two               Unit Three              Unit Four
and                     and                    and
      45 mins                10 mins                 55 mins              1 hour
      Listening and          Speaking in            Reading and           Writing in Arabic
       Understanding           Arabic                  Understanding         27% of marks
       in Arabic              27% of marks            in Arabic
      23% of marks                                   23% of marks

Content

Pupils must demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening using a variety of
techniques and texts studied throughout the course.

The SEC requirements will also be followed as part of this course.
FRENCH (2FR01)

HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/GCSE/GCSE09/MFL/FRENCH/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

The aims are to enable students to develop:
    an understanding of French in a variety of contexts
    a knowledge of French vocabulary and structures
    transferable language learning skills
    the ability to communicate effectively in French
    awareness and understanding of countries and communities where French is spoken.

Assessment

Unit One                Unit Two               Unit Three              Unit Four
Listening               Speaking               Reading and             Written
                                               Understanding
      30 mins                4-6 mins per        50 mins in               2 hours in total
      Listening and           oral exam              total                  Writing in French
       Understanding          Two speaking        Reading and              Two written
       in French               exams                  Understanding           assessments
      20% of marks           30% of marks           in French              30% of marks
                                                   20% of marks

Content

Pupils must demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening using a variety of
techniques and texts studied throughout the course.
SPANISH (2SP01)

HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/GCSE/GCSE09/MFL/SPANISH/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

The aims are to enable students to develop:
    an understanding of Spanish in a variety of contexts
    a knowledge of Spanish vocabulary and structures
    transferable language learning skills
    the ability to communicate effectively in Spanish
    awareness and understanding of countries and communities where Spanish is spoken.

Assessment

Unit One                Unit Two               Unit Three              Unit Four
and                     and                    and
      30 mins                10 mins                 50 mins              2 hours
      Listening and          Speaking in            Reading and           Writing in
       Understanding           Spanish                 Understanding          Spanish
       in Spanish             30% of marks            in Spanish            30% of marks
      20% of marks                                   20% of marks

Content

Pupils must demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening using a variety of
techniques and texts studied throughout the course.
OPTIONAL SUBJECTS
OPTIONS E-G

ART, CRAFT AND DESIGN (1AD0)

Aims are to encourage pupils to;

      Develop – their work through investigations informed by other
       artists, movements demonstrating cultural awareness.
      Refine – experiment with a range of different materials, resources
       and media adapting and modifying ideas.
      Record- ideas, observations relevant to their theme and intentions in
       a visual form.
      Present- a personal informed and meaningful response, realising
       intentions to produce a thoughtful final outcome.

Assessment

Unit 1: Coursework                             Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (Exam)
    60% weighting set by the centre and           40% of weighting set by the exam
       assessed by the centre.                        board, marked by the teacher and
    Coursework consists of a portfolio,              assessed by the moderator.
       sketchbook development and final            The exam consist of preparatory work
       outcomes.                                      including portfolio work, sketchbook
                                                      and a final exam piece.

Content

Course work
All the coursework is set by the centre and marked by the centre. Students will work from a broad
theme whilst learning new techniques and experimenting with new materials. Students get to
explore a range of mediums from 2D to 3D, including (printing , mixed-media, painting and
drawing, photography, sculpture and textiles). Throughout the course students are expected to
work in their sketchbooks, gathering visual research, recording their ideas in a visually exciting
way which supports their final outcomes at the end of the course. Students are expected to
complete at least 2.5 hours of homework each week.

Externally Set Assignment

The Art exam is 10 hours long and split over 2 days, it is set by the exam board. During the
month of February the exam themes are issued and work on the 2nd unit in the form of supporting
studies is expected to take place. Students are to complete a sketchbook and other preparatory
studies before their final piece is completed with the sustained study period of 10 hours. Students
are assessed by the above criteria which is used for both unit 1 and unit 2.
BUSINESS STUDIES (4BS0)
HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/IGCSE/IGCSE09/BUS-STUD/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

Aims are to;

      Develop an interest in, and enjoyment of, business subjects that will be sustained in later
       life use relevant terminology, concepts and methods effectively and recognise the
       strengths and limitations of the ideas used
      develop and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to current issues in a wide
       range of appropriate international and UK contexts
      use an enquiring, critical approach to distinguish between facts and opinion and evaluate
       qualitative and quantitative data, to help build arguments and make informed judgements
      appreciate the range of different stakeholder perspectives in relation to business activities
      have an understanding of the dynamics
   

Assessment

Exam Paper
    Short answer questions
    2 hours
    100% of marks

Content

Students need to demonstrate specified knowledge and critical understanding of the following
sections:
1 Business Activity and the Changing Environment
2 Human Resources (HR)
3 Accounting and Finance
4 Marketing
5 Production.
    Section 1: Introduces the nature and types of business within an economy and encourages
       students to examine the interaction between businesses and the environment within which
       they operate.
    Sections 2–5: Focus on the main functional areas of business – HR, accounting and finance,
       marketing and production.
COMPUTER SCIENCE (EDEXCEL 2016)
HTTP://QUALIFICATIONS.PEARSON.COM/EN/QUALIFICATIONS/EDEXCEL-GCSES/COMPUTER-SCIENCE-
2016.HTML

Aims are to enable pupils to:
    Understand and apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including
       abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms, and data representation
    Analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems,
       including designing, writing and debugging programs
    Think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically
    Understand the components that make up digital systems, and how they communicate with one
       another and with other systems
    Understand the impacts of digital technology to the individual and to wider society
    Apply mathematical skills relevant to computer science.

Assessment

Component 1: Principles of Computer Science (Paper Code: 1CP1/01)
     Written Externally assessed Examination: 1hr 40 mins
     40% of the qualification
In addition to
Component 2: Application of Computational Thinking (Paper Code: 1CP1/02)
     Written Externally assessed Examination: 2 hours
     Based on a Scenario
     40% of the qualification
In addition to
Component 3: Project (Paper Code: 1CP1/3A-3E)
     Internally assessed and externally moderated non-examined coursework
     20% of qualification
     20 hours of controlled time to create and test a computer program set by examination
        board

Content

Constants, variables and data types, Structures, Program flow control, Procedures and functions,
Pseudocodes, Error handling, Handling external data, Computer structure, Systems, Truth Tables,
Binary and Data Representations Hardware, CPU (Central Processing Unit) Algorithms,
Application testing, Networking, Client server, Web application concepts, Use of external code
sources, Database concepts, Query methods (SQL), Emerging trends in computer technologies,

Computer Science is a very rigorous course, that counts towards EBacc Science Measure and it has a
minimum grade requirement of level 6b in ICT by the end of April 2016. Please speak to your ICT teacher
and Mr Ranglall if you are unsure about this course.
DRAMA (2DR01)
HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/GCSE/GCSE09/DRAMA/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

Aims are to;
    develop a personal interest in why drama matters and be inspired, moved and changed by
       studying a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study
    work imaginatively and creatively in collaborative contexts, generating, developing and
       communicating ideas
    consider and explore the impact of social, historical and cultural influences on drama texts and
       activities
    reflect on and evaluate their own work and the work of others develop and demonstrate
       competence in a range of practical, creative and performance skills
    develop a basis for their future role as active citizens in employment and society in general, as well
       as for the possible further study of drama
    actively engage in the process of dramatic study in order to develop as effective and independent
       learners and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds.

Assessment

Unit 1                               Unit 2                            Unit 3
    Drama Exploration of a              Drama Exploration of a           Drama Performance in
       Topic/ Theme                         Play Text                         line with a brief set by
    6 One hour practical                6 One hour practical                Edexcel
       Workshops                            Workshops                      40% of marks (no
    2000 word documentary               1000 word                           written response)
       response on Practical                documentary response
       Workshops                            on Practical Workshops
    30% of marks                        2000 word
                                            documentary response
                                            of a Live Theatre
                                            Performance
                                         30% of marks

Content

It represents a comprehensive scheme that allows students to gain relevant skills, knowledge and
understanding that can be applied to the required work in the assessment units. The content of the
Programme of Study is designed to cover all the main requirements that contribute to the drama form and
allows students to appreciate what is needed to communicate meaning through drama.
Explorative strategies:
Still image, Thought-tracking, Narrating, Hot-seating, Role play, Cross-cutting, Forum theatre, Marking the
moment
The drama medium
The use of costume, The use of masks and/or make-up, The use of sound and/or music, The use of
lighting, The use of space and/or levels, The use of set and/or props, The use of movement, mime and
gesture, The use of voice, The use of spoken language
The elements of drama:
Action/plot/content, Forms, Climax/anti-climax, Rhythm/pace/tempo, Contrast, Characterisation,
    Conventions, Symbols
    Forms of stimuli:
    Poetry, Artefacts: photographs, pictures, masks, props, costume, sculptures, objet d’art, Music, Play
    Scripts, Live theatre performance, Television, films, DVDs and videos, Newspaper and magazine
    articles, Extracts from literary fiction and non-fiction
GEOGRAPHY (0460)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/PROGRAMMES-AND-QUALIFICATIONS/CAMBRIDGE-IGCSE-GEOGRAPHY-0460/

The aims are to encourage pupils to develop:

       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;
       an understanding of some of the processes affecting the development of such environments;
       an understanding of the spatial effects of the ways in which people interact with each other
        and with their 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
Paper One                                            Paper Two
    Three resource based questions                      Map based questions
    1 hour 45 minutes                                   1 hour 30 minutes
    47% of marks                                        27.5% of marks
Paper Four
    Paper based alternative to coursework
    1 hour 30 minutes
    26.5% of marks

Content
Year 10
    Population dynamics and migration, world population growth and its associated problems, population-
        structures, theories and policies, density and distribution, movements of population
    Settlement, settlement characteristics, villages, urban issues in the developed and developing worlds
        including case studies
    The dynamic earth, volcanoes, earthquakes and plate tectonics
    Natural environment, rivers and valleys, flooding, water supply and pollution, rocks and relief
    Coasts and coastal management, extreme weather, instruments and measuring the weather (using our
        electronic weather station), local climates, atmospheric pollution, tropical rainforests and ecosystems
    Energy and resources

Year 11
    Agriculture and food supply, factors affecting farming and types of farming, food scarcity and
        problems relating to malnutrition
    Recent trends and changing patterns of tourism
    Development and industry, manufacturing industry, tertiary activities, organisation of industry
    Water as a resource and conflict issues
    Environmental risks of economic development

       Fieldwork techniques, revision and examination practice. There will be two compulsory field visits
        within Qatar in Year 10 and Year 11, plus one optional Overseas Residential Geography Field Trip.

                                                                                                             25
HISTORY (4H10)
HTTP://QUALIFICATIONS.PEARSON.COM/EN/QUALIFICATIONS/EDEXCEL-INTERNATIONAL-GCSES-AND-
EDEXCEL-CERTIFICATES/INTERNATIONAL-GCSE-HISTORY-2011.HTML

The aims are to encourage pupils to:
      stimulate interest in and enthusiasm about the past
      acquire knowledge and understanding of selected periods and/or aspects of history,
      be confident in exploring the significance of historical events, people, changes and
       issues
      use historical sources critically, in context, recording significant information and
       reaching conclusions
      organise and communicate their knowledge and understanding of history
      draw conclusions and make historical judgements.
      provide a sound basis for further study and the pursuit of personal interest
      encourage international understanding
      encourage the development of linguistic and communication skills.

Assessment

Paper One                           and        Paper Two
    2 questions to be answered based on           Source based questions: two
      each of the two depth studies                   questions, one question on their
      (Germany and USA)                               historical investigation and one
                                                      question on their breadth study in
      1 hour and 30 minutes                          change.
      50% of marks                                1 hour and 30 minutes
                                                   50% of marks

Content

The focus is on the international history of the 20th Century

Paper 1 Depth Studies: Development of dictatorship: Germany, 1918-45
                       A world divided: Superpower relations, 1945-62

Paper 2 Historical Investigation: The USA, 1917-29
                                  The changing nature of warfare, c1936-c2003

                                                                                           26
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (0417)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=969

Aims are to;
    help candidates to develop and consolidate their knowledge, skills and
      understanding in ICT and be aware of new and emerging technologies;
    encourage candidates to develop further as autonomous users of ICT;
    encourage candidates to continue to develop their ICT skills in order to enhance their
      work in a variety of subject areas;
    provide opportunities for candidates to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate
      ICT systems;
    encourage candidates to consider the impact of new technologies on methods of
      working in the outside world and on social, economic, ethical and moral issues;
    help candidates to improve their skills and increase their awareness of the ways in
      which ICT is used in practical and work-related situations.

Assessment

Paper One (Written)
     2 hours
     Multiple choice, short and longer answer questions
     40% of marks
In addition to
Paper Two (Practical)
     2 hours and 30 minutes
     Based on computer skills
     30% of marks
In addition to
Paper Three (Practical)
     2 hours and 30 minutes
     Based on computer skills
     30% of marks

Content

Types and components of Computer Systems, Input and output devices, Storage Devices
and Media, Computer Networks, Effects of using ICT, Ways in which ICT is used, Systems
Analysis and Design, ICT Applications, Safety and Security, Data Manipulation, Data
Analysis and Web Authoring.

                                                                                         27
ISLAMIYAT (0493)
HTTP://WWW.CIE.ORG.UK/QUALIFICATIONS/ACADEMIC/MIDDLESEC/IGCSE/SUBJECT?ASSDEF_ID=1038

The aims are to develop:
    an understanding of the importance of the major beliefs of Islam and of the early
      history of the Islamic community
    evaluation skills to understand how these beliefs impact on the daily lives and
      thoughts of Muslims around the world
    familiarity with the Qur’an and Hadith in Arabic.

Assessment

Paper One                                     Paper Two
and
      1 hour 30 minutes                             1 hour 30 minutes
      Four questions                                Four questions
      50% of marks                                  50% of marks

Content

Paper One – Major themes of the Qur’an, the history and importance of the qur’an, the life
and importance of the Prophet Muhammad, the first Islamic community.

Paper Two – Major teachings of the Hadiths of the Prophets, the history and importance of
the Hadiths, the period of the rule of the Rightly Guided Caliphs and their importance as
leaders. The Articles of Faith and the Pillars of Islam.

These papers shall be supplemented with the guidance of the Supreme Education Council.

                                                                                         28
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (1PE0)
HTTP://WWW.EDEXCEL.COM/QUALS/GCSE/GCSE09/PE/PAGES/DEFAULT.ASPX

Aims are to;
    encourage students to be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad,
      coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study and to develop an awareness and
      appreciation of their own and others’ cultures in relation to physical education
    encourage creativity and decision-making skills to enable students to plan effectively
      for performances and to respond to changing situations
    prepare students to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities
      and career choices
    enable students to become increasingly physically competent through being actively
      engaged in a range of physical activities, and to become increasingly effective in their
      performance in different types of physical activity and roles such as
      player/participant, leader and official
    enable students to develop their ability to engage independently and successfully in
      different
      types of physical activity, and to develop and maintain their involvement in physical
      activity as part of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Assessment

Paper One                            and        Paper Two
    Based on core content                          Coursework
    I hour 45 mins                                 3 Practical component and One
    60% of marks                                     Analysis of practical
                                                    40% of marks

Content

The Edexcel GCSE in Physical Education requires students to develop their knowledge and
understanding of physical education and physical activity, in relation to balanced health
lifestyles, including:
     how, and why, people take part in physical activity, physiological and psychological
     exercise and fitness
     personal health and wellbeing.
Students will also develop their knowledge in relation to performance in physical activity.

In addition, the Edexcel GCSE in Physical Education requires students to develop their
knowledge and understanding of how a healthy, active lifestyle contributes to the growth
and development of body systems, and structures (including the cardiovascular, muscular,
respiratory and skeletal systems), as well as general and psychological wellbeing

                                                                                           29
How to make your choice of options

                       •Consider the options on offer
                       •Think about your strengths and how the subjects on
                        offer will match these.
Read the Booklet

                   •Make use of the Options Evening on Wednesday
                    13th January 2016
Discuss your ideas •Be prepared to change your mind based on the
with parents and    advice of parents and staff
       staff

                       •Make sure you list your choices in order of
                        preference
 Fill in the options   •Make sure you and your parents sign the form
form and return it     •Return the form by Sunday 7th February 2016
    to your tutor

                       •The school will consider your preferences and may
                        wish to discuss these with you further
                       •Your choices will be circulated to subject staff to
                        confirm that they feel you have the right subject
 Options process
                        choices

                                                                              30
31
(I)GCSE OPTIONS

   Name of Pupil:                                             Nationality:

   Parents Signature:

   The option bands are as follows. Please indicate your 1st and 2nd choices in the boxes where
   appropriate. You must choose a first and second choice in each band (except for Maths and English).

Option A       Option B       Option C         Option D        Option E        Option F       Option G
                                                              Separate
                                                              (Triple
English                                                       Award)         Islamiyat
                                              Arabic GCSE
First                        Single Award                     Sciences       IGCSE (all
               Maths                          (all Qatari’s
Language                     Science                          IGCSE (this    Qataris must    Art GCSE
               IGCSE                          must choose
and                          (GCSE)                           must be        chose this
                                              this option)
Literature                                                    chosen if      option)
                                                              ticked in
                                                              Option C)
                             Coordinated
English as a                 (Double                          Business       Business
                                              French                                         Drama
Second                       Award)                           Studies        Studies
                                              GCSE                                           GCSE
Language                     Science                          IGCSE          IGCSE
                             IGCSE
                             Separate
                                              Spanish                                        Computer
                             (Triple Award)                   Geography      Geography
                                              GCSE                                           Science
                             Sciences                         IGCSE          IGCSE
                                                                                             IGCSE
                             IGCSE
                                                                                             Business
                                                                             Art GCSE        Studies
                                                                                             IGCSE
                                                                                             Geography
                                                                             PE GCSE
                                                                                             IGCSE

                                                                             Computer
                                                                                             History
                                                                             Science
                                                                                             IGCSE
                                                                             IGCSE

                                                                                             ICT
                                                                                             IGCSE

   Games, Tutor time, Assemblies and Personal, Social, Health Education (PSHE) are non-examination
   subjects that are also part of the curriculum.

   Arabic and Islamiyat are compulsory for Qatari pupils.

   There is a copy of this form at the back of the book for you to hand in. Please hand in your option
   choices to your House Tutor by Sunday 7th February 2016

                                                                                                         32
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