IGCSE - Years 9 - 10

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ntents

Principals’ Welcome…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3

Individual Success...................................................................................................................................... 4

Subject Choices ......................................................................................................................................... 4

Options ...................................................................................................................................................... 5

Results ....................................................................................................................................................... 7

English (First Language) …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………......8

English (Second Language) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9

Economics ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..10

Mathematics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….11

Accounting .... …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….13

Arabic ……………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………………..14

Art & Design . …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….16

Biology .............................................................................. ………………………………………………………………..…18

Business Studies ....................................................................... ……………………………………………………..……19

Chemistry ......................................................................... ………………………………………………………………..…21

CLAiT (Level One) .......................................................................... ………………………………………………………23

French ..................................................................... …………………………………………………………………………….25

Geography ............. …………………………………………………………….……………………………………………………………..26

Design & Technology ........................ …………………………………………………………………………………………….……26

History ....................... ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..…30

Information and Communication Technology……………………………………………………………………..……………..31

Music .................................................................... ……………………………………………………………….…………..…32

Physical Education …………………………………………………….……………………………………………………………………...34

Physics ……………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………….….36

Computer Science……………..……………………………………….……………………………………………………………………..37

CONTENTS

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PRINCIPAL'S WELCOME

We hope that students will make the most of the opportunities on offer. We have a proven track

record of supporting students to help them fulfil their potential. As High School students they have

a key role to play in maintaining our school ethos and reputation. They are an example for the rest

Primary students to follow.

Students in the High School must have a responsible attitude towards their studies. They will need

to balance their work demands with their personal life, but they will be supported to ensure they

reach their full potential. We have high expectations of our students to develop their academic and

personal strengths to help them succeed in the future.

Our school’s success is driven by our philosophy on learning. Students’ happiness and wellbeing are

central and the school is a happy place. We work as a community with a common purpose of

reaching academic goals, but enjoying ourselves as we do so. Our school is about educating the

whole child and this is reflected in our support of students with learning needs or special gifts.

As our Executive Principal, Julia Jefferson says;

“Our young people’s success as adults will be down to their character at least as much as their

qualifications. We want our students to be known for their creativity, imagination, resilience and

people skills, the things that will make them great men and women.”

PETER HERON

HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

The Multinational School Riyadh aims to offer its students an educational

experience that will equip them with all the lifelong learning skills they

would need to become successful citizens in the 21st Century. Entering

the High School brings with it many different opportunities and

challenges. The courses on offer will help our students prepare for the

next level of their education.

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This booklet has been prepared to inform parents and students about the courses offered by the school

in Years 9 and 10 at IGCSE Level. For questions about individual subjects the relevant teachers should

be approached. For an overview parents and students should approach Mrs A. Philip, High School Vice

Principal.

Individual Success

The school celebrates good outcomes as a result of good learning. We have steadily improving results

of which we, and our students, are very proud.

Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards- 2015

Alanood Ahmad Al Sudairi Top Student in A/S Art and Design in Riyadh

Zeyana Musthafa Top Student in the Middle East at AS Mathematics and best overall AS results in Riyadh. She has been offered a place at Clare College, Cambridge University.

Ahmed Hussain Top Student in Accounting in the Middle East

Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards- 2014

Joanna Shiacola Highest Mark in Saudi Arabia for Foreign Language Greek

Dena Alhesan Highest Mark in Saudi Arabia for Business Studies

Zeyana Ayesha Musthafa Joint Second Highest Mark in Saudi Arabia for Best Across Eight Cambridge IGCSEs

Wajiha Yousuf Highest Mark in Riyadh for Mathematics

All our students who wished to move into further education gained places at excellent universities.

Subject Choices

We offer a range of IGCSE Level courses that appeal to the majority of students. These are British

qualifications that are internationally recognised and accepted around the world due to their rigour.

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Options

Course details for all the above subjects are detailed booklet, but a real flavour of each subject will only

be gained by talking to the relevant subject teachers. Their contact details are included in this booklet

and you will get a chance to discuss each subject in detail at the Options Evening.

IGCSE exams follow a two-year programme. The option blocks are designed to provide a broad and

balanced curriculum to develop a good mix of knowledge and skills. Certain subjects offer Extended

and Core entry levels. Subject teachers will use assessment data, together with the Curriculum Manager

and Head of Department, to decide which entry level is most appropriate for you.

Core Subjects Optional Subjects

In keeping with the National Curriculum all

students study the Core Subjects which are:

English Language

(First or Second Language)

Mathematics

Choose Five of the below- you must include at

least one science:

Accounting

Arabic

Art

Biology

Business Studies

Chemistry

Computer Science

Design and Technology

Economics

English Language & Literature

French

Geography

History

ICT

Music

PE

Physics

Compulsory Subjects

Kingdom History and Geography/Islamic

Studies

Kingdom Arabic (Qur’an for Saudi

Nationals)

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Year 09: This is the first year of IGCSE Levels. Most students will study 7 subjects at this level and take

internal exams in May-June each year with pass grades ranging from A*-G.

Year 10: This is the second year of IGCSE Levels. The external exams will be taken in May-June each

year with pass grades ranging from A* to G.

The following subjects are available this year following extended feedback from parents and students:

Option A Biology Business Music

Option B Chemistry Economics Design and

Technology

Option C Physics Accounting

Option D ICT Computer Science Geography CLAIT (non IGCSE)

Option E PE History Arabic/French Art

Option F English Literature – only select this if you are happy to take two lesson 9 classes from 2:10 – 2:50

Choose one from rows A – E, including at least one Science and select F if you wish to take and ‘extra’

IGCSE in English Literature.

Although Art has now been moved to option E as requested by some parents, "Art" and "Design and

Technology" cannot be selected simultaneously.

Our students select one subject from each option line however certain subjects, for example Art, Music,

Physical Education and Languages will have particular entry requirements. We ask our students to

discuss these with the subject teacher before making choices.

There are no such things as easy IGCSEs, many of our less academic students choose PE thinking it is

easy. Instead they find there is a lot of theory and science. Students should research what they will

need for their chosen career pathway and make sure they have the required qualifications. They are

more likely to succeed at subjects they enjoy and also should be careful not to over-specialise in case

they change their minds later about their first career after University if they follow the tertiary route.

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Results

The graphs below gives the percentage of each grade achieved for all the IGCSE examinations from in

2015 and 2016. We are pleased that the vast majority are at ‘C’ or above particularly considering that

we are a holistic and inclusive school supporting some children with educational challenges. All our

students are encouraged to achieve the best grade they can regardless of their ability.

The subject chart gives an indication of IGCSE success by subject.

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Examination Board: Cambridge (0500/0486)

Staff contact: Ms H. Clarke, [email protected]

Students who take English as a First Language in Years 9 and 10 follow a combined course in both

English Language and English Literature, which leads to two separate certificates at IGCSE.

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

We use a variety of resources including plays, novels, media texts, non-fiction and poetry to give

students experience in speaking, reading and writing about a wide range of materials. In lessons, we

encourage a variety of viewpoints to be shared in discussions and use a range of materials and activities

to extend understanding and develop key skills. Varied homework tasks include reading, research,

learning spelling, grammar exercises, preparing oral work and drafting essays.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

Speaking and listening: the ability to communicate clearly and with confidence in different situations;

listening and responding; discussion; and analysing how speech works.

Reading: following arguments and collating material from various sources; understanding how writers

and speakers achieve their effects.

Writing: communicating fluently for different purposes and audiences; improving grammatical

accuracy and extending vocabulary.

ASSESSMENT

The English Language examination tests reading and writing skills with two external exams; the

Literature papers assess understanding of a novel, a play and poetry though three external exams.

ENGLISH (FIRST LANGUAGE)

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Examination Board: Cambridge (0511)

Staff contact: Mrs N. El-Beheiry, [email protected]

Students in Years 9 and 10 follow a course in English Language, which leads to one IGCSE certificate

with a possible separate grade for Speaking.

WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?

We use a variety of resources including non-fiction and media texts to give students experience in

listening, speaking, reading and writing about a wide range of materials. In lessons, we encourage a

variety of viewpoints to be shared in discussions, and use oral presentations, improvisation, group

work, audio, videos and research sessions to extend understanding and develop key skills. Varied

homework tasks include reading, research, learning spelling, grammar exercises, preparing oral work

and drafting articles and letters.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

Speaking and listening: the ability to communicate clearly and with confidence in different situations;

listening and responding.

Reading: understanding how writers and speakers achieve various styles from formal to informal.

Writing: communicating fluently for different purposes and audiences; improving grammatical

accuracy and extending vocabulary.

ASSESSMENT

The English Language examination tests reading, writing and listening skills with two external exams.

There is also an oral component to assess speaking skills with the choice of the student of either

including or excluding it as a separate component.

ENGLISH (SECOND LANGUAGE)

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Examination Board: CIE (9708)

Staff Contact: Mr M. Mason, [email protected]

COURSE AIM AND OBJECTIVES

An understanding of economic theory, terminology and principles. The ability to apply the tools of

economic analysis. The ability to distinguish between facts and value judgements in economic issues.

An understanding of, and an ability to use, basic economic numeracy and literacy. The ability to take a

greater part in decision-making processes in everyday life. An understanding of the economies of

developed and developing nations. An excellent foundation for advanced study in economics.

COURSE CONTENT IGCSE LEVEL

Basic economic problem: choice and the allocation of resource

The allocation of resources: how the market works; market failure

The individual as producer, consumer and borrower

The private firm as producer and employer

Role of government in economy

Economic indicators

Developed and developing economies: trends in production, population and living standards

International aspects.

ASSESSMENT

Continuous internal assessment as well as external assessment comprising of two papers.

Paper 1 Multiple choice (45 minutes) Candidates answer 30 multiple choice questions.

Paper 2 Structured questions (2 hours 15 minutes) Candidates answer one compulsory question and

three optional questions from a choice of six.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The Corporate World & the MBA, Economic Consulting, Government and Not-for-profits, Professors,

Teachers and Researchers of Economics, Law and Other Professions.

ECONOMICS

https://www.aeaweb.org/students/Careers.php#corporate_world

https://www.aeaweb.org/students/Careers.php#consulting

https://www.aeaweb.org/students/Careers.php#government

https://www.aeaweb.org/students/Careers.php#professors

https://www.aeaweb.org/students/Careers.php#professors

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Staff Contact: TBC

THE COURSE

An essential subject for all learners, IGCSE Mathematics is a fully examined course, which encourages

the development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill, and as a basis for more advanced study.

The course consists of many topics which aim to develop basic competence in the areas of number,

algebra, shape and handling data. Within each topic opportunities arise for students to demonstrate

their understanding of the concepts involved, problem solving capabilities, ability to use correct

mathematical language and notation, accuracy and how well they can present their work.

A TIERED APPROACH

The examination board offers two tiers of entry: The core and extended. Students will be entered for

their respective tier based on their performance in Grade 8 and indicative data from the UK. Core

curriculum students are eligible for grades C to G. Extended curriculum students are eligible for grades

A* to E. Students may need to change level during the course based on their progress.

ASSESSMENT

External: The students will answer two examination papers at the end of the two-year course. Each

paper will assess the students’ ability to recall, select and apply their knowledge of mathematics and

to interpret, analyse and solve problems.

Internal: Assessment of all the concepts taught will be done at regular intervals through tests, quizzes,

and assignments. There will also be two examinations each year to inform students of their progress.

ORGANISATION OF WORK

Homework is usually organised on a daily basis to cover current teaching topics together with

consolidation, revision and practise of previous work. The aim is to build up a thorough understanding

of the principles involved in the subject.

MATHEMATICS

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CAREERS

The importance of Mathematics in many careers cannot be over-stressed. Studying mathematics

develops analytical skills and the ability to work in a problem-solving environment. Nowadays most

employers look for evidence of at least some form of attainment in Mathematics whether for direct

use in the job, or as a guide to ability. Mathematics is a key subject in the areas of science, technology

and engineering. It is indispensable in the business world. Other areas of employment with a significant

mathematical content include accountancy, banking, actuarial work, electronic data processing,

operational research and teaching.

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Staff Contact: Mrs H. Chakraborty, [email protected]

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW, OR BE ABLE TO DO, BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?

There is a misconception among learners that Accounting is similar to Mathematics and is very difficult,

but it is not. However, like any other subject, Accounting demands effort, practice and understanding.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

You will learn how business accounts for its incomes and expenses based on the principle of the double

entry concept, comparisons of businesses using ratios, conversion of the single entry system into

double entry, how to account for non-trading organisations such as Clubs and Societies, evaluating the

cost of producing the product (which will help the students to get specialised in Cost and Works

Accounting), the income statement of a sole trader, partnership and company forms of business

organisations and preparation of the financial statements for the same.

ASSESSMENT

Paper 1 (1 hour 45 minutes) (120 Marks). This is a structured question paper with 8–12 multiple choice

items and short-answer questions. There are usually between 4 and 5 questions based on topics from

the whole of the syllabus. All questions are compulsory, and candidates answer on the question paper.

Paper 2 (1 hour 45 minutes) (120 marks). This is a structured question paper. There are usually 4 to 6

questions based on topics from the whole of the syllabus. All questions are compulsory, and candidates

answer on the question paper.


This course is split between two years. In Year 9 the students will learn fundamental journals, ledger

preparation of trial balance and accounting treatment regarding bad debts and depreciation. The

remainder of the syllabus will be covered in Year 10.

CAREERS

Audit, Budget Analysis, Financial, Management Accounting, Tax.

ACCOUNTING

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Examination Board: Cambridge (0508/0544)

Staff Contact: Mrs L. Hennawi, [email protected]

The study of Arabic is a rewarding and enriching experience. The course is a practical one, with

emphasis being placed on broadening and extending a student's ability to comprehend more complex

texts and to communicate, express and justify ideas in the Arabic language.

THE COURSE

The requirement for students to take Arabic in Year 9 is to have taken Arabic as a First Language in Year

8, and/or have a solid background in reading and writing, to be able to cope with the IGCSE curriculum.

LEVELS OF STUDY

We offer Arabic as a First Language and as a Foreign Language. The main course focuses on studying

Arabic as a Foreign Language, however if students wish to take up Arabic as a First Language, then they

may do so. Please note that the First Language course is much more challenging than the Foreign

Language course.

ASSESSMENT

Arabic Foreign Language: (0544)

Paper 2: Reading a passage and answering questions relating to it.

Paper 3: Speaking (two general conversation- speaking role play cards).

Paper 4: Essay (110-140 words) (Formal / informal letter).

Arabic First Language: (0508)

Paper 1: Reading and Directed Writing (two passages which students have to read and answer

questions about, and then summarize in their own words).

Paper 2: Writing: two Essays (350-500 words each).

COURSE CONTENT

In the classroom, students will practice reading, writing and speaking around the following topic areas:

ARABIC

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Area A: Everyday Activities, Area B: Personal and social life, Area C: The world around us, Area D: The

world of work and Area E: The international world. Students will be expected to participate in class

discussions and other activities that encourage active learning.

CAREERS

There are many demanding careers that require the study of the Arabic Language, including: teaching,

journalism, writing, library management, travel, tourism, translating, law, international banking,

accountancy, the civil service and the diplomatic service.

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Staff Contact: Mrs O. White, [email protected]

THE COURSE

IGCSE Art is a practical-based course, designed to ensure that students engage with, and show evidence

of, the following skills and processes:

Experimentation with a range of media, materials and techniques confidently and successfully

Recording from direct observation and responding creatively to a variety of themes

Being familiar with, and making use of, a variety of practical and theoretical art terms.

Showing knowledge of, and an appreciation for, various local and international artists

Developing an imaginative, creative and personal response to a stimulus

Solving visual problems and developing ideas from initial attempts to final solutions

Developing new concepts by researching a variety of primary and secondary sources

Responding to works both positively and critically, while being culturally and politically aware.

ASSESSMENT

Controlled Test:

This is an 8 hour external test, executed over 2 days, which counts 50% of the final mark.

The supporting work (two A2 sheets (4 sides) is thoroughly prepared the term beforehand.

The test covers broad areas such as: landscapes / interiors / objects etc.

The examination paper is released in January giving students 8 weeks to prepare.

Coursework Portfolio:

Students submit a final coursework piece plus four A2 sheets of supporting work (8 sides).

The coursework is carried out throughout the year and counts half of the final mark.

This component is marked by the teacher and is moderated by Cambridge.

The following areas are assessed in this course:

Gathering, recording, research & investigation

ART & DESIGN

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Exploration and development of ideas

Organisation and relationships of visual and/or other forms

Selection & control of materials, media & processes

Personal vision and presentation.

Please be advised that this is not an easy course. It requires a great deal of time and effort to be

successful. Students are expected to develop a range of artworks, while also showing evidence of visual

knowledge coupled with critical and cultural awareness. Students are advised not to consider this

course unless they are talented in art and are passionate about the subject.

Art examinations are completed earlier than the other subjects, as both the coursework and

examination components need to reach Cambridge by the end of April (for the June session) and end

of October (for the November session). Therefore, the final IGCSE examination takes place in April (for

the June session) or late October, early November (for the November session). Students are also given

the opportunity to practice their final exam composition beforehand as we do a full 8 hour mock exam.

This exam takes place during the last week of the term prior to the final exam.

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Staff Contact: Mrs Asha.B.S., [email protected]

COURSE AIMS & OBJECTIVES

Develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology including developing an interest in further

study and careers in the subject

Appreciate how society makes decisions about biology – related issues and how biology

contributes to the success of the economy and society

Develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge of how science works

Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology and how they

relate to each other.

ASSESSMENT

All candidates must enter for 3 papers: Paper 1 or 2; paper 3 or 4 and paper 6.

Candidates who are expected to achieve a grade D or below, should normally be entered for paper 1,

3and 6.

Candidates who have studied the extended curriculum and who are expected to achieve a grade C or

above should be entered for paper 2, 4 and 6.

Knowledge and understanding of science and of how science works. There is internal continuous

assessment and regular tests. External exams will take place at the end of Y10.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Life Scientist, Medical Laboratory Workers,

Physicians, Naturalist, Laboratory Technicians.

BIOLOGY

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Staff Contact: Mrs Z. Jabeen, [email protected]


You might have an interest in business or want to start your own business one day. You might want to

learn about the world around you, how businesses are set up, and what makes a great entrepreneur.

IS THIS THE RIGHT SUBJECT FOR ME?

This course is both active and enjoyable. You need to be good at communicating and explaining your

ideas, not afraid of learning new things and working with numbers to solve business problems. You will

learn how to be a creative thinker and how to make decisions. You will also learn about the world of

business through research and investigation, as well as through practical tasks.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

In Year 9 you will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone

a successful business manager. You will find out how to spot an opportunity, develop an idea and turn

that into a successful business. You will gain an understanding of different forms of business

organisations, the environments in which businesses operate and business functions such as marketing,

operations and finance; an appreciation of the critical role of people in business success and confidence

to calculate and interpret business data.

In Year 10 you will find out how to think like an economist and learn how the economy functions, the

government’s role in the economy and its impact on business. You will also examine what causes

businesses to grow. You will study many issues within the world of business such as inequality.

ASSESSMENT

At the end of Year 10 you will take two exams. There will be Paper 1 (50%) with structured questions

and Paper 2 (50%), which requires answering essay questions about your understanding of the subject.

Staff use a wide variety of teaching methods; we make use of up to date DVDs, worksheets, study visits,

case studies, computers and simulations. Students are encouraged to become involved with the subject

BUSINESS STUDIES

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using other resources, accessing radio and television programmes on the school network, newspapers,

journals, data bases, internet, CD-ROMs and contacts with firms.

CAREERS

Business Studies has a direct bearing on Accountancy, Banking, Building Societies, Insurance, Broking

and all business-related activities. It also has links with virtually every other job as most workers will

require an understanding of budgets, motivation of employees, communication and the effects of the

government and economy, revenues and costs.

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Staff Contact: Mrs H. Agha, [email protected]

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

60% or above in Year 8 Science.

COURSE CONTENT

The course will cover major disciplines of chemistry, namely physical, inorganic and organic.

The Particulate Nature of Matter; Experimental Techniques; Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table;

Bonding; The Mole Concept and Stoichiometry; Electricity and Chemistry; Chemical Energetics and

Equilibrium; Rates of Reactions; Redox; Acids, Bases & Salts; Qualitative Analysis; The Periodic Table;

Metals; Air and Water; Sulphur; Carbonates; and Organic Chemistry (Nomenclature, Fuels, Alkanes,

Alkenes, Alcohols, Carboxylic Acids, Synthetic Polymers and Natural Macromolecules).

Students are required to study conscientiously and independently; they assume responsibility for

maintaining high standards of classwork and homework and asking for help when necessary. They need

to take an active part in class activities and to organize their practical work taking possible risks into

account.

ASSESSMENT

Internal: Continuous Assessment and an end of Semester Examination.

External: Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry candidates are awarded grades ranging from A* to G. The Core

Curriculum is for students expected to attain grades C to G. Students expected to achieve grade C or

higher should study the Extended Curriculum, which comprises the Core and Supplement Curriculums;

these students are eligible for all grades from A* to G. All students must enter for three papers: Paper

1 or 2; paper 3 or 4 and paper 6.

Candidates who are expected to achieve a grade D or below will be entered for papers 1, 3and 6.

CHEMISTRY

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above will be entered for papers 2, 4 and 6.

CAREERS

Chemistry is about how the physical world works, and any job that has to do with the physical world

probably involves chemistry. The knowledge gained through the study of chemistry opens many career

pathways in the Medical field as well as Engineering and Agriculture.

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Examination Board: OCR

Staff Contact: Mrs A. Elkhoury, [email protected]

WHAT IS CLAIT?

CLAiT stands for Computer Literacy and Information Technology and has been the leading IT skills

qualification in the UK since 1987 achieved by over 2.5 million learners. It comprises of three

qualifications helping learners of all abilities to develop their IT skills. New CLAiT (level 1) for the

beginner, CLAiT Plus (level 2) for those with some experience and CLAiT Advanced (level 3) for confident

and productive IT users.

A MODERN COURSE FOR A MODERN WORLD

The OCR Level 2 CLAiT Plus International Certificate/Diploma for IT Users is a qualification designed to

recognise the skills, knowledge and understanding of IT users in employment, education or training.

The CLAiT Plus International qualification will equip learners with the broad range of transferable skills

necessary to meet the demands of the modern workplace or further study. The qualification recognises

complex and specialist skills in the use of IT in many vocational contexts for example, knowledge of

standard IT hardware and software, knowledge of a range of different software applications and the

ability to use these effectively plus the ability to manage documents and data in a variety of applications

and to enter data accurately.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

New CLAiT International has been designed to be accessible to learners who are entirely new to using

IT and as such it is common for it to accredit the first learning journey a candidate may make in IT.

STRUCTURE OF THE COURSE

To achieve the Certificate, candidates must complete a total of 1 mandatory unit and 2 optional units.

To achieve the Diploma, candidates must complete a total of 1 mandatory unit and 4 optional units.

In Year 9 students achieve the Certificate and in Year 10 students achieve the Diploma.

CLAiT (Level One)

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The units that will be covered in Year 9:

Unit 1 - File Management and e-Document Production (Mandatory unit) / Unit 2 - Creating

Spread-sheets and Graphs / Unit 5 - Create an e-Presentation

The units that will be covered in Year 10:

Unit 3 - Database Manipulation / Unit 8 – Online Communication

ASSESSMENT

All units are assessed by means of an OCR-set assignment, with notional assessment duration of 2½

hours. All units are centre assessed and externally moderated by the OCR-appointed Examiner

moderator.

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Staff Contact: Mr S. Lawrence, [email protected]

THE COURSE

The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these

are built on as learners’ progress through their studies. To ensure a firm basis for further study all

aspects of the grammar and vocabulary previously studied will be revisited. Students will be provided

with study guides to help them in their preparation and the teacher gives the interactive support.

Students opting French for a second language must have at least 3 years of previous study.

HOMEWORK

Students need to review their work daily with written work twice a week. Furthermore, a student can

prepare very well for all parts of the examination if he/she is willing to learn the language tasks.

ASSESSMENT

For the examination to be appropriate to candidates across the full ability range, separate options are

available for Core Curriculum candidates (Listening, Reading and Directed Writing and speaking) and

Extended Curriculum candidates (Listening, Reading and Directed Writing, Speaking and Continuous

Writing).

Paper 1 Listening: 45 minutes: Sections 1, 2 and 3

Paper 2 Reading and Directed Writing: 1 hour: Sections 1, 2 and 3

Paper 3* Speaking: 15 minutes

Paper 4 Continuous Writing: 1 hour

CAREERS

While any language will be useful for some jobs, French is the only foreign language that can be useful

throughout the world; it is the second most frequently taught language in the world after English. Many

universities prefer students with a second language. French, along with English, is the official working

language of: United Nations, UNESCO, NATO, Organization for Economic Cooperation and

Development and International Olympic Committee.

FRENCH

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Staff Contact: Mr A. Hiser, [email protected]

As international links become closer, easier and faster, we need more than ever to understand the

geography of the world. To help protect the environment – both at home and abroad – we need to

understand geographical influences and the geographical relationships linking people and their

surroundings. To make the most of our multicultural society we need to understand and appreciate the

cultures and backgrounds of people from all over the world.

WHAT DO WE DO IN GEOGRAPHY?

Our exciting new course looks at a range of important and significant questions. We shall investigate

themes from both Human and Physical sides of the subject. These burning issues include:

HUMAN TOPICS

How can the planet cope with 7 billion people or more? Are the world’s cities heading for meltdown?

How will changing global patterns of wealth and production affect us?

PHYSICAL TOPICS

Can we ever understand the forces controlling the impacts of earthquakes and volcanoes? Why are the

landscapes of snow and ice so appealing in a warming world? How are coastal areas changing in

response to recent trends?

COURSE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

A sense of place and an understanding of relative location on a local, regional and global scale

An awareness of the characteristics and distribution of a selection of contrasting physical and

human environments and an understanding of some of the processes affecting the development

of such environments

GEOGRAPHY

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An understanding of different communities and cultures throughout the world and an

awareness of the contrasting opportunities and constraints presented by different

environments

ASSESSMENT

The candidates will answer 3 written papers which will be externally assessed.

CAREERS

Geography is an excellent preparation for the world of work or further studies. The skills developed are

useful in a wide range of occupations, for example: Airline Pilot Cartography Environmental

Management, Tourism and Transport.

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Examination Board: Edexcel (2GR01)

Staff Contact: Ms. O. White, [email protected]

The course encourages students to design and make products with creativity and originality, using a

range of computer based design programs and materials including plastics, paper and card.


Throughout Art and Design you will have produced a wide range of exciting projects, including

typography, packaging design and brand identity assignments. If you particularly enjoy the design side

of Art and Design then you now have the opportunity to follow our two-year GCSE course to specialise

in Graphic Products.

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

GCSE Graphic Products covers a wide range of products including, packaging, point-of-sale display,

interior and garden design and 3D product (concept) design. Over the course of two years you will

develop a whole range of creative designing and making skills, technical knowledge and understanding

relating to graphic products and invaluable transferable skills such as problem solving and time

management.

ASSESSMENT

Creative Design and Make Activities - Coursework 60%

You will complete your coursework unit through a combined design and make activity where you design

a product and then make a model of it. Students will create a digital portfolio consisting of research,

analysing existing products before venturing in creating their own 3D model. The emphasis is on quality

rather than complexity.

Knowledge and Understanding of Graphic Products - Examination 40%

The examination is a structured 2-hour theory paper based on the subject content and textbook, which

includes a simple design question learnt in conjunction with the coursework. The examination is taken

at the end of year 10.

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

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Please be advised that this is not an easy course. It requires a great deal of time and effort to be

successful. Students are expected to develop a range of designs and models, while also showing

evidence of graphic product knowledge coupled with critical and cultural awareness. Students are

advised not to consider this course unless they are passionate about the subject and willing to give the

necessary time required for practical assignments.

* Please be advised that the availability of this course is subject to student interest.

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Staff Contact: Mr M. Mason, [email protected]

WHY DO THIS COURSE?

Historical knowledge provides an essential backdrop to understanding in many other subjects and is

also the basis of an understanding of the world in which we live. The emphasis is on both historical

knowledge and on the skills required for historical research. Learners develop an understanding of the

nature of cause and effect, continuity and change, similarity and difference and find out how to use

and understand historical evidence as part of their studies.

THE KEY TOPICS COVERED ARE

Were the peace treaties of 1919–23 fair?

To what extent was the League of Nations a success?

Why had international peace collapsed by 1939?

Why did events in the Gulf matter, c. 1970-2000?

Life in Germany 1919-45

Israelis and Palestinians since 1945

How effective has the United Nations Organisation been?

ASSESSMENT

Students answer three papers of one and two hour durations. All examinations are internal, until the

final external examination at the end of Year 10.

CAREERS

History is recognised as an academically rigorous discipline and the knowledge, understanding and skills

it develops make for students whose attributes are sought after by many employers. There are many

successful historians in the legal profession and the civil service, in the media, in the tourism and

heritage industries, and in business and commerce.

‘Histories make men wise.’ Francis Bacon (1561-1626)

HISTORY

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Staff Contact: Mrs R. Dewan, [email protected]

THE COURSE

Information and Communication Technology (0417) falls into Group V, Creative, Technical and

Vocational. The curriculum content is set out in nine interrelated sections. The sections are:

1- Types and components of computer systems

2- Input and output devices

3- Storage devices and media 4- Networks and the effects of using them 5- The effects of using ICT 6- ICT applications 7- The system life cycle 8- Safety and Security 9- Audience

The assessment criteria for the practical tests are set out in eight sections:

10- Communication 11- File Management 12- Images 13- Layout 14- Styles 15- Proofing 16- Graphs and Charts 17- Document Production 18- Data Manipulation 19- Presentations 20- Data Analysis 21- Website Authoring

ASSESSMENT

Paper 1 (2 hours): Theory- This written paper tests sections 1–21 of the syllabus. All questions are

compulsory, mostly multiple choice or short answer questions, but also some require longer answers.

Paper2 (2 ½ hours): Document Production, Data Manipulation and Presentations- This test assesses

the practical skills needed to use the applications covered in sections 17, 18 and 19 of the syllabus.

Paper 3 (2 ½ hours): Data Analysis and Website Authoring- This test assesses the practical skills needed

to use the applications covered in sections 20 and 21 of the syllabus. All tasks are compulsory.

CAREERS

Virtually every career these days involves some use of computers and this qualification demonstrates

a level of computing skill, which all Universities and employers are looking for. This course will enable

the students to learn how to use the most commonly available software including the latest version of

the Microsoft Office suite of programs.

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION

TECHNOLOGY

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Staff Contact: Mr Barker, [email protected]

Due to the rigours of this course, the following Prerequisites must be in place:

You MUST be at least ABRSM Grade 5 (or equivalent) in a solo instrument

A pre examination audition may be held to gauge suitability for the course

You MUST have a good working knowledge of the keyboard

It would be desirable if you had access to a computer at home with sequencing software. The GCSE

Music Course is designed to allow the study of music through the integration of performing, listening

and appraising with opportunities to use music technology. It is flexibly structured to allow students to

capitalise on their different interests whilst experiencing a balanced range of music across time, culture

and tradition.

PERFORMING (30%)

All students are required to perform either vocally or instrumentally on any instrument with marks

being adjusted according to the degree of difficulty of the pieces being performed. They will have the

opportunity of taking part in both solo and ensemble performances. It is not essential for students to

have reached a particular grade before commencing the course. Help will be given in school for those

who do not receive instrumental tuition although it can be an advantage if such lessons are being taken.

The performing component of the course can be undertaken at any time during Years 9 and 10.

COMPOSING (30%)

Throughout the two years students will compose and arrange music in a style suited to them using

either conventional or electronic instruments according to a chosen brief. Towards the end of Year 10

they will select two of their pieces for assessment. All students will have the opportunity of using the

music technology facilities.

LISTENING AND APPRAISING (40%)

During Years 9 and 10, students will listen to a wide range of music encompassing a variety of styles

and traditions across four Areas of Study dating from 1600 to the present day. Assessment takes the

MUSIC

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form of a written paper where students will respond to questions based on recorded extracts taken

from the set works and an in-depth question on a chosen set work.

CAREERS

There are many obvious careers in music in the areas of teaching and performing. Less obvious,

perhaps, are journalism, music therapy and work in the recording industry. Universities and colleges

universally accept music as an entrance qualification and many employers recognise the degree of

motivation, self-discipline and co-operation with others that the subject requires.

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Staff Contact: TBC

THE COURSE

The course provides an opportunity for those with an active interest in sport to further develop their

knowledge, understanding and skill in a range of activities whilst performing at a high level. There is a

strong cross-curricular link with science and students will focus upon anatomy and physiology; factors

affecting performance; health, safety and training; reasons and opportunities for participation in sport;

and the role of sport in society.

Successful IGCSE Physical Education students gain lifelong skills, including:

Ability to plan, perform, analyse and improve, and evaluate physical activities

Knowledge, skills and understanding of a range of relevant physical activities

Understanding of effective and safe performance

Understanding of the role of sport and physical activity in society and in the wider world

Enjoyment of physical activity

ASSESSMENT

Component 1: Theory based exam at the end of the course, 40% weighting).

Component 2: Coursework Centre-based assessment (Practical base, 60% weighting; 50% from your

four highest achieving practical assessments, 10% from an analysis and improvement assignment).


A total of four different practical activities must be chosen for assessments, selected from at least two

of the Physical Education Categories of Activity (Games, Swimming, Athletic Activities, Gymnastics,

Dance, Exercise Activities, Outdoor and Adventurous Activities). Practical activities chosen include:

Football, Badminton, Table Tennis, Lifesaving, Swimming, Weight Training for fitness, and Volleyball.

We endeavour to provide the students with a minimum of five practical assessments throughout the

course and then take their four highest grades. If a student has a particular strength in a sport, e.g.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

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Equestrian, Athletics, Cross Country, then an assessment and grade might be possible upon

consultation with the subject leader.

CAREERS

Physical Education can lead to careers in Leisure and Recreation, Tourism, Sports Psychology, Coaching,

Physiotherapy, Youth Work, Outdoor Pursuits, Management, Physical Education Teaching and Sports

Science among others that are available to successful students.

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Staff Contact: Mrs B. Joseph, [email protected]

THE COURSE

The IGCSE course consists of many topics, which aim to develop basic competencies in electricity and

magnetism, forces and motion, light and waves, atomic physics etc. Within each topic, opportunities

arise for students to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts, problem solving capabilities,

ability to use correct units, accuracy and precision and how well they can present their work.

ASSESSMENT

All candidates must enter for 3 papers: Paper 1 or 2; paper 3 or 4 and paper 6.

Candidates who are expected to achieve a grade D or below, should normally be entered for paper 1,

3 and 6.


above should be entered for paper 2, 4 and 6.


Homework is usually organised on a daily basis to cover teaching topics together with consolidation,

revision and practice of previous work. The aim is to build up a thorough understanding of the subject

principles. Semester exams and chapter tests will be conducted to inform students of their progress.

ORGANISATION OF GROUPS

Candidates are separated into core and extended curriculum depending on their performance in Y8

science. Candidates should maintain a 50% or above to remain in the extended curriculum throughout

the course.

CAREERS

Career opportunities for physics are wide ranging. Apart from moving into further studies and research

many have employment in IT industry and Engineering, but also in the financial and business sector

where analytical skills obtained in the subject are highly sought after.

PHYSICS

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IGCSE Computer Science (0478)

Staff Contact: TBC

THE COURSE

Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus aims are to develop:

Computational thinking that is thinking about what can be computed and how, and includes

consideration of the data required

Understanding of the main principles of solving problems by using computers

Understanding that every computer system is made up of sub-systems, which in turn consist of

further sub-systems

Understanding of the component parts of computer systems and how they interrelate, including

software, data, hardware, communications and people

Skills necessary to apply understanding to solve computer-based problems using a high-level

programming language.

ASSESSMENT

For Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science, the assessment is by written examination but the learning

should happen in a mainly practical way, problem-solving and programming. The assessment is

conducted through two written papers.

Section 1: Theory of Computer Science

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. All questions are compulsory. No

calculators are permitted in this paper. The following are the syllabus content that will be examined in

this paper.

1.1 Data representation: Binary systems, Hexadecimal, Data storage

1.2 Communication and Internet technologies: Data transmission, Security aspects, Internet principles

of operation

1.3 Hardware and software: Logic gates, Computer architecture and the fetch execute cycle, Input

devices, Output devices, Memory, storage devices and media, Operating systems, High- and low-

level languages and their translators

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1.4 Security

1.5 Ethics

Section 2: Practical Problem-solving and Programming

This written paper contains short-answer and structured questions. All questions are compulsory. 20

of the marks for this paper are from questions set on the pre-release material. The following are the

syllabus content that will be examined in this paper.

2.1 Algorithm design and problem-solving: Problem-solving and design, Pseudocode and flowcharts

2.2 Programming: Programming concepts, Data structures; arrays

2.3 Databases

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Nurturing Future Leaders

The Multinational School – Riyadh

North Ring Road Exit-7, End of Sheikh Abdullah Makhdoob Street, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 11414 Email: [email protected]

Phone: +966 11 275 1751 http://www.mns-r.com

IGCSE - Years 9 - 10

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Transcript of IGCSE - Years 9 - 10