International School, LuxembourgA.S.B.L.

Key Stage 4Curriculum

Table of Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................... 2

Overview ................................................................................................................... 3

Assessment ............................................................................................................... 4

Tutor time ................................................................................................................. 5

English Language GCSE .............................................................................................. 6

English Literature GCSE .............................................................................................. 7

Mathematics IGCSE/GCSE ........................................................................................... 8

Coordinated Sciences IGCSE ....................................................................................... 9

Physical Education ................................................................................................... 10

Art & Design GCSE ................................................................................................... 11

Business Studies IGCSE ............................................................................................ 13

Drama IGCSE ........................................................................................................... 15

Economics IGCSE ..................................................................................................... 17

French IGCSE .......................................................................................................... 19

French ..................................................................................................................... 20

Geography IGCSE .................................................................................................... 21

German IGCSE ......................................................................................................... 22

German ................................................................................................................... 23

History IGCSE .......................................................................................................... 24

Information and Communication Technology IGCSE ................................................... 25

Media Studies GCSE ................................................................................................. 26

Music GCSE ............................................................................................................. 27

Physical Education GCSE .......................................................................................... 28

Psychology GCSE ..................................................................................................... 30

SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education) ................................................ 32

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Introduction Welcome to Key Stage 4, the IGCSE 2-year programme of study for 14 to 16 year olds.

GCSEs are the General Certificate of Secondary Education and IGCSEs are the International General Certificate of Secondary Education.

The GCSEs are academic qualifications awarded in specific subjects, generally taken in a number of subject areas by students aged 14-16 in secondary education in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They were introduced in 1986 (with the first examinations taking place in 1988) replacing the former O Level / CSE qualifications. As well as amalgamating the two former examination systems, one of the main changes has been to allow students to complete course work during their two years of study, which was marked by their teachers, assessed by examination moderators and contributed to their final grade.

The IGCSEs are academically rigorous, internationally used, specialised qualifications offered to students to prepare them for International Baccalaureate and CIE A-level (which is recommended for higher level students). It is based on the GCE O-Level and is recognised as being equivalent to the GCSE. The IGCSE was developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations board in 1985 and the examination board Edexcel offers its own version.

IGCSEs are the world's most popular international curriculum for 14-16 year olds, leading to globally recognised and valued Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE qualifications.

Schools worldwide have helped develop IGCSE, which provides excellent preparation for AS/A Levels as well as other progression routes. It incorporates the best in international education for learners at this level. It develops in line with changing needs, and our subject offer is regularly updated and extended to meet the needs of our students.

At St George’s we use both GCSE & IGCSEs from both examination boards.

These courses run over 2 years, starting in Year 10 and finishing in Year 11, offering students the opportunity to gain entry into our Sixth Form for Year 12.

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Overview Here at St George’s International School we aim to offer students a broad and balanced curriculum of GCSEs and IGCSEs in Years 10 and 11. Some subjects are compulsory while others are chosen from a range of options.

Compulsory subjects are:

English Language & Literature Mathematics Coordinated Sciences (which counts as 2 IGCSEs and covers biology, chemistry & physics) a Modern Foreign Language (French or German)

Students then choose four further subjects from a list given in the Option Forms. The provision of option subjects changes from year to year, depending on the needs of each cohort.

Option subjects that are currently being offered are:

Art Business studies Drama Economics Geography History ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Media Studies Music (with Music Technology) PE (Physical Education, examination) Psychology A 2nd Modern Foreign Language (either French or German) Study skills

Please note this list is neither exhaustive nor permanent and subjects may be added or removed from year to year.

Students also have the opportunity, if requested, to sit an IGCSE language exam in their mother tongue and in the past we have had students taking Dutch, Polish, Spanish and Japanese language examinations.

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Assessment Assessment for the IGCSEs usually takes place at the end of the two-year course and includes written and oral tests, coursework and practical assessment.

Grades awarded at these levels range from A* to G. In some subjects, such as Mathematics, English Language and Science, students are entered at either core or extended level, depending on their ability in that subject. In all cases, the teacher will carefully review the appropriate level to enter the students for the final examinations, taking continuous assessment data and the results of practice mock examinations into account. The level is communicated to parents at the beginning of the two-year course and if any movement occurs, they are informed by letter from the Head of Faculty.

(Please note that the maximum grade attainable at core level is C, whereas for extended level it is A*).

For entry into the Year 12 programme of study, students are asked to have at least 5 IGCSE passes at grade C and above, with English and Maths being two of the required subjects. To progress onto their chosen AS/A2 level courses they are required to have achieved a grade B or above in that subject. This could mean that a student requires four grade Bs in their preferred AS/A2 level subjects, plus C grades in English & Maths.

For further information on the Key Stage 4 programme please enquire at the School to Mrs. C. Thomas, Assistant Head (Key Stage 4) at ks4assisthead@st-georges.lu.

Students joining Year 10 are asked to fill out an option form available either from Mrs Kerry Tranter, Admissions Officer, via e-mail at admissions@st-georges.lu or Mrs C. Thomas via e-mail at ks4assisthead@st-georges.lu. For further assessment please see: www.cie.org.uk www.aqa.org.uk www.edexcel.com

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Tutor time Beyond the IGCSE curriculum, students have lessons in SMSC with their tutor.

SMSC – Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education – covers subjects such as healthy eating and well-being, anti-smoking & drugs, sex education & sexual health, puberty & hygiene and bullying.

It also gives students an understanding of the political, legal and economic functions of

adult society and teaches them awareness as well as social and moral skills in order to

function in society.

This programme enables students to make their own decisions and to take responsibility for

their own lives and contribution to their communities.

Students will also take part in a number of schemes which are designed to assist them both

in preparation for further education and possible career choices.

Futurewise

Futurewise is the creation of The Inspiring Futures Foundation, an independent group formed to provide high quality career guidance and assistance. Futurewise aims to support students from Year 11 onwards in exploring their career aspirations and making informed decisions about subject choices, higher education, alternative pathways and future employment. It provides ongoing support from the age of 15 to 23 through a series of online psychometric assessments, a detailed profile report and access to Futurewise membership. Students will have the opportunity to discuss their individual academic options and potential career paths in an interview with a qualified career guidance specialist who will visit the School.

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English Language GCSE

CIE (0500), Compulsory

Course content:

Unit 1: Extended Reading & Text Analysis (Exam)

Developing reading skills to analyse and comment upon contemporary non-fiction

texts

Developing a variety of writing skills to express ideas and information clearly and

accurately taking into account context, audience and purpose

Developing précis skills to illustrate an ability to read, formulate and re-edit a piece

of text

Unit 2: Directed & Compositional Writing (Exam)

Developing written skills in a wide variety of forms in relation to a contemporary context.

Students examine a wide range of contemporary texts to evaluate, analyse and understand

the use of language in the modern world and how writers achieve effects through

manipulation of words and phrases. These skills are then utilised in the students own

directed and compositional writings.

Speeches

Blogs

Letters

Editorials

Non Fiction Newspaper & Magazine Articles

Developing fictional and non-fictional compositional writing in the form of Narrative and

Descriptive accounts.

Prose Fiction

Autobiographical Accounts

Travel Writing

Descriptive Composition

How will students be assessed?

There is no coursework for GCSE English Language so both Unit 1 and Unit 2 are assessed

by external examination.

Unit 1 Exam:

Writing in a Set Format Task

Analysis of Language Task

Summary/Précis Task

Unit 2 Exam:

Directed Writing Task in the form of a letter, report, speech, blog or article

Narrative and Descriptive creative writing task

All tasks are based on unseen text extracts.

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English Literature GCSE

CIE (0486) Compulsory

Course content: Component 1: Poetry & Prose (Exam)

Students study a range of English and World Literature from both Pre-1914 and more contemporary writers. Poetry: Songs of Ourselves Poetry Anthology from CIE

A range of poems from writers such as John Clare, Shakespeare, Christina Rossetti, Seamus Heaney and Simon Armitage

Prose: Pre 1914 or Post 1914 Texts

Susan Hill: I’m the King of the Castle Robert Louis Stevenson: The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

Component 2: Drama (Exam)

Students study 2 drama texts from a choice which includes both Pre-1914 and Post-1914

Literature.

Shakespeare: The Merchant of Venice Shakespeare: The Tempest JB Priestley: An Inspector Calls Oscar Wilde: The Importance of Being Earnest

How will students be assessed? There is no coursework for GCSE English Literature so both component 1 and component 2 are assessed by external examination. Component 1: Poetry & Prose (Exam)

Poetry Exam: A passage based or essay based question on one or more poems.

Prose Exam: A passage based or essay based question on a student-chosen text.

Component 2: Drama (Exam) Drama Exam: A passage based or essay based question on the text studied. Students are not allowed to take their drama text into the examination room but the extract will be printed on the examination paper.

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Mathematics IGCSE/GCSE Edexcel (4MA0, 1MAO) Compulsory

Key subject aims:

To develop a range of numeracy and problem solving skills. To develop a knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and

techniques. To give students a deep understanding of the mathematical skills required for further

study in the subject or related areas. To enable students to enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and

concepts, and become confident in using mathematics to solve problems involving real-life situations.

To give students an appreciation of the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study.

Key content to be assessed:

Number Algebra Geometry – shape, space and measures Statistics and Probability

How will students be assessed?

Mathematics (IGCSE - 4MA0 / GCSE – 1MA0)

IGCSE - Higher 50% Paper 3H

Both papers in each specification have a mixture of

content and question types.

50% Paper 4H

IGCSE – Foundation 50% Paper 1F

50% Paper 2F

GCSE - Foundation 50% Paper 1F

50% Paper 2F

Foundation G F E D C

Higher E D C B A A*

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Coordinated Sciences IGCSE Cambridge Double Award (0654) Compulsory

Course content: It will:

Cover a wide range of Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics, Link practical experience to ideas and be a spur to critical and creative thought, Show how major scientific ideas contribute to scientific and technological change and

allow evaluation of the benefits and drawbacks, Recognise the cultural significance of science and trace its world-wide development, Encourage students to question and discuss science-based issues that may affect

them, the direction of society and the future of the world, Generate opportunities for the development of key skills and ICT,

Be arranged to reflect the distinctive nature of each separate science: students who wish to continue with one or more sciences at A Level or IB Higher or Standard Level will be very well prepared as the course provides progression from Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) to Post-16 studies in Years 12 -13.

Experimental Work Experimental work is an essential component of all science. Experimental work within science education:

Gives students first-hand experience of phenomena, Enables students to acquire practical skills, Provides students with the opportunity to plan and carry out investigations into practical

problems. This can be achieved by individual or group experimental work, or by demonstrations which actively involve the students. How will students be assessed?

Coordinated Science - Double Award (0654)

Three written examinations

30% Paper 1

Multiple choice

50% Paper 2 or 3

Core theory / extended theory

20% Paper 6

Alternative to practical test

Tier of Entry Grades

extended A*A* AA BB CC DD

core CC DD EE FF GG

‘Double award’ means that the course is equivalent to, and provides two GCSE certificates.

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Physical Education

(no examination)

Compulsory

What will students learn? At present all Key Stage 4 students travel to off-site facilities including those at the INS and the Coque during their PE lessons. The students follow a programme of study across the Key Stage that continues to develop the skills and techniques of sports experienced in Key Stage 3. In Key Stage 4 there is an additional focus on leadership skills and also on health and fitness as students are encouraged to view physical activity as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle. All Key Stage 4 students follow a programme of study that could include the following activities:

Team sports including Basketball, Rugby, Hockey and Football. Individual activities including Badminton, Ballroom dancing and Athletics. Day Certificate in Sports Leadership. Fitness activities including circuit training, SAQ training.

How will students be assessed? Key Stage 4 students will be assessed on their ability to develop new skills and apply those new skills to more complex and demanding sporting situations as an individual or member of a team. The Sports Leadership award will assess the competency of the students to demonstrate the skills required of a leader of sporting activities including organisation, communication and time management. All students will also have the opportunity to be assessed in the different roles in sporting activities including choreographer, official, performer and coach.

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Art & Design GCSE

Edexcel (5AD01/2, 2FA01/2) Option

Course content: An Art and Design course should encourage personal expression, imagination, sensitivity, conceptual thinking, powers of observation, an analytical ability and practical attitudes. It should lead to greater understanding of the role of the visual arts in the history of civilisations. It should widen cultural horizons and enrich the individual. It should combine a breadth and depth of study so that it may accommodate a wide range of abilities and individual resources. Art and Design complements literary, mathematical, scientific and factual subjects. It is especially concerned with the development of visual perception and aesthetics. It is a form of communication and a means of expressing ideas and feelings. What will students need to do, know and learn? Every piece of work undertaken, whether in class or at home, will be part of the preparation towards the examination. Students will be expected to complete at least 3 to 4 hours of homework per week. Students are also encouraged to visit galleries and museums in their free time. It is essential that students become independent learners and thinkers for this course. The Edexcel GCSE in Art and Design enables students to develop the four assessment objectives:

• Creative and imaginative skills and the practical skills for communicating and

expressing ideas, feelings and meanings in art, craft and design.

• Investigative, analytical, experimental and interpretive capabilities, aesthetic

understanding and critical skills.

• Understanding of codes and conventions of art, craft and design and awareness of

the contexts in which they operate.

• Knowledge and understanding of art, craft and design in contemporary society and

in other times and cultures.

Art and Design: Fine Art (2FA01)

In the context of this subject, students are required to work in at least one of the disciplines

of painting, drawing, printmaking and/or sculpture.

Fine art may be defined as work which is produced as an outcome of the students’ personal experience, rather than that which is created exclusively for a practical function, or that which is the outcome of a tightly prescribed brief. It is a means by which ideas are explored, communicated and, through visual information and enquiry, translated into art outcomes. Work produced for this subject will demonstrate the use of formal elements and creative skills, and give visual form to individual thoughts, feelings, observations and ideas. Students will show evidence of trying to extend their own and others’ ways of seeing the world. They will use the visual language of the subject sensitively and thoughtfully to support their intentions.

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How will students be assessed? This GCSE qualification has two parts:

Unit 1: Personal Portfolio in Art & Design (Coursework) 60% final grade, together with

Unit 2: Externally set assignments in Art & Design (Examination), 40% final grade.

Students must show evidence of working in at least two disciplines and the work must show evidence of all four assessment objectives. Overview of assessment: Coursework Unit 1: Personal Portfolio

Themes for student’s personal portfolio will be selected by the teachers and

developed by the students.

Themes may have a separate focus or can be interconnected.

Internally set, marked and standardised.

Externally moderated.

Approximately 45 hours of supervised activities and 45 hours unsupervised activities

(homework).

Total of 80 marks awarded (20 for each assessment objective).

Work must show evidence of all four assessment objectives.

Unit 2: Externally set assignment • Examination piece with six weeks’ preparatory time and 10 hours’ assessment time

(Exam).

• Approximately 30 hours of supervised work plus 30 hours unsupervised activities

(homework).

• 80 marks available for this assessment (20 for each assessment and objective).

• Externally set, internally marked and standardised, externally moderated by visiting

examiner.

• Work must show evidence of all four assessment objectives.

GCSE Assessment Objectives

AO1 Develop ideas through investigations informed by contextual. Demonstrate analytical & cultural understanding.

AO2 Refine ideas through experimentation. Selection of appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques & processes.

AO3 Record observations in visual and/or other forms. Record ideas, observations in visual and/or other forms. Record ideas, observations & insights relevant to intentions in visual and/or other forms.

AO4 Present a personal, informed & meaningful response to the theme. Demonstrate analytical & critical understanding. Realise intentions & where appropriate, making connections between visual, written, oral elements.

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Business Studies IGCSE

Cambridge (0450) Option

Course content: Business Studies is a two-year IGCSE course. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, which can be summarised as follows: Understanding business activity: Business activity, Classification of Businesses. Enterprise, business growth and size, Types of business organisation, Business objectives and stakeholder objectives. People in business: Motivating workers, Organisation and management, Recruitment, selection and training of workers, Internal and external communication Marketing: Marketing, competition and the customer, Market research, Marketing mix, Marketing strategy. Operations management: Production of goods and services, Costs, scale of production and break-even analysis, Achieving quality production, Location decisions. Financial information and decisions: Business finance: needs and sources, Cash-flow forecasting and working capital, Income statements, Balance sheets, Analysis of accounts. External influences on business activity: Government economic objectives and policies, Environmental and ethical issues, Business and the international economy. Students taking the course will develop both a knowledge and understanding of business terminology, concepts, methods and theories. They will also learn how to make effective use of them and how to apply them to business problems and issues in a wide range of appropriate contexts. They should also be able to recognise the strengths and weaknesses of the ideas used. During the course students will also develop skills of numeracy, literacy, enquiry and the presentation and interpretation of data. They will also learn how to distinguish between fact and opinion and how to develop arguments and make informed judgements and decisions.

How will students be assessed?

The four assessment objectives in Business Studies are:

1. Knowledge and Understanding

2. Application

3. Analysis

4. Evaluation

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The students will be entered for two written papers:

Paper 1 Containing short-answer questions and structured/data response questions. There will be no choice of questions.

Weighting – 50%

Paper 2 Students will be presented with a business situation or problem, and required to answer questions arising from it. There will be no choice of questions.

Weighting – 50%

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Drama IGCSE

CIE (0411)

Course Content Through practical and theoretical study, learners develop an understanding and enjoyment of drama, developing group and individual skills and studying ways to communicate ideas and feelings to an audience. They learn how to discover the performance possibilities of a text and other stimuli, and devise dramatic material of their own. Learners also develop their performance skills, the demonstration of which will form part of the final assessment. What will students study?

Component 1

Written Examination (2 ½ hrs) Externally assessed

40%

The exam board will provide pre-release materials from which students will study play texts and devise new work in preparation for a written paper. The questions on this paper relate to the practical work students have completed during this part of the course. They will devise Drama from three stimuli provided by the exam board and complete a practical study of an extended extract from a play (or an abridged version of an entire play).

Component 2

Practical coursework Internally assessed/ externally moderated

60%

Students will submit three pieces of practical coursework. One individual piece (3-5 minutes) Students will perform an extract from a play as a monologue or soliloquy. This demanding element of the course is excellent preparation for any student who aspires to a career requiring solo presentation, from budding actors requiring a repertoire of audition monologues to those with a future in business, law or management positions. One original devised piece (15 minutes) With guidance from the teacher students will work as part of a small group to produce and new and original piece of theatre. One adaptation of a play script extract (15 minutes) With guidance from the teacher students will work in a small group to study and perform an extract from a published play script.

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Why choose Drama? Cambridge IGCSE Drama is accepted by universities and employers as proof of knowledge and understanding of both the theory and practical application of drama. Through practical and theoretical study, the Cambridge IGCSE Drama syllabus encourages students to understand and enjoy drama by: • developing their performance skills, both individually and in groups • understanding the role of actor, director and designer in creating a piece of theatre • considering ways in which ideas and feelings can be communicated to an audience • discovering the performance possibilities of plays and other dramatic stimuli • devising dramatic material of their own. How will students be assessed? Assessment objectives Component 1

Assessment Objectives

Component 1 Written

Component 2 Practical

Weighting

AO1: Understanding Repertoire

22% 15% 37%

AO2: Devising

18% 15% 33%

AO3: Acting Skills

_ 30% 30%

Total

40% 60% 100%

Component 1 will be assessed externally. Component 2 will be assessed internally and moderated externally. Course pre-requisites: Students who wish to undertake IGCSE Drama will be expected to - participate in rehearsals and public performances outside of school time - commit to attending theatre trips outside of school time.

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Economics IGCSE Cambridge (0455) Option

Course content: Economics is a two-year IGCSE course. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, which can be summarised as follows:

Basic economic problem: choice and the allocation of resources

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

The individual as producer, consumer and borrower

The private firm as producer and employer

The role of government in an economy

Economic indicators

Developed and developing countries: trends in production, population and living

standards

International aspects.

Students taking the course will develop both a knowledge and understanding of economic terminology, principles, elementary economic theory and will learn how to use the tools of economic analysis in particular situations. They will also learn how to employ economic skills with reference to individuals, groups, organisations and governments in order to better understand the world in which they live. During the course students will also develop skills of numeracy, literacy and the ability to handle simple data including graphs and diagrams. They will learn to identify and discriminate between different sources of information and to distinguish between fact and value judgements in economic issues. How will students be assessed?

Paper 1 Multiple-choice (45 minutes)

30 questions

Weighting – 30%

Paper 2 Structured questions (2 hours 15 minutes)

1 compulsory question and 3 optional from a choice of 6

Weighting – 70%

What will students be assessed on?

The three assessment objectives in Cambridge IGCSE Economics are:

AO1: Knowledge with understanding AO2: Analysis AO3: Critical evaluation and decision-making.

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AO1: Knowledge with understanding Candidates will be able to:

show knowledge and understanding of economic facts, definitions, concepts,

principles and theories

use economic vocabulary and terminology.

AO2: Analysis Candidates will be able to:

select, organise and interpret data

apply economic knowledge and understanding in written, numerical, diagrammatic

and graphical form

use economic data, to recognise patterns in such data, and to deduce relationships.

AO3: Critical evaluation and decision-making Candidates will be able to:

distinguish between evidence and opinion, make reasoned judgements and

communicate those judgements in an accurate and logical manner

recognise that economic theory has various limits and uncertainties

evaluate the social and environmental implications of particular courses of

economic action

draw conclusions from economic information and critically evaluate economic data

communicate conclusions in a logical and clear manner.

Why choose Cambridge IGCSE Economics? Cambridge IGCSE Economics is accepted by universities and employers as proof of knowledge and understanding of economics. Successful Cambridge IGCSE Economics candidates gain lifelong skills, including:

• 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.

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French IGCSE

Cambridge (0520) One MFL language is compulsory; the other optional

Course content: Students will develop the skills and knowledge they have already acquired in the language they are studying. In addition to that, they will cover more topics and work at a higher level than they did in the first years. They will learn to use the language for the purpose of practical communication. They will be given as much practice as possible in the four attainment targets of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They will be encouraged to use dictionaries and reference materials to assist in their learning. How will students be assessed? Students will be continually assessed through regular tests in all skill areas. These assessments will help teachers decide which IGCSE level is most suitable for them. It is expected that they will enter the IGCSE Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). This includes tests of speaking, listening, reading and writing.

The elements in the assessment are as follows:

Extended curriculum (Core + Supplement) Grades available: A* to G

Paper 1 Listening (45 minutes)

Paper 2 Reading (1 hour)

Paper 3 Speaking (15 minutes)

Paper 4 Writing (1 hour)

WEIGHTING OF PAPERS

Paper Weighting

1 25%

2 25%

3 25%

4 25%

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French Edexcel (4FR0)

Course content

Skills This qualification gives students the opportunity to: develop their ability to listen to and understand the spoken French language in a

range of contexts and a variety of styles

read and respond to different types of written language

communicate in writing

understand and apply a range of vocabulary and structures

develop effective language learning and communication skills

communicate in speech for different purposes.

Assessment Assessment summary Paper 1 is an externally assessed examination paper lasting 40 minutes plus five minutes’ reading time. Paper 2 is an externally assessed examination paper lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. Paper 3 is externally assessed through a speaking test lasting no more than 10 minutes. Summary of table of assessment Paper 1: Listening Paper code: 4GN0/01 – 4FR0/01

The paper is assessed through an examination paper lasting 40 minutes, plus five

minutes’ reading time, set and marked by Edexcel.

The total number of marks for the paper is 50.

Paper 2: Reading and Writing Paper code: 4GN0/02 – 4FR0/02

The paper is assessed through an examination paper lasting 1 hour and 30

minutes, set and marked by Edexcel.

The total number of marks for the paper is 60, with 30 marks for reading and 30

marks for writing.

Paper 3: Speaking Paper code: 4GN0/03 – 4FR0/03

Maximum 10 minutes.

The total number of marks for the paper is 40.

Weighting: 25% for each (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)

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Geography IGCSE

Cambridge (0460) Option

Course content: Geography offers students the opportunity to further their knowledge of what is an ever changing world. Human and physical aspects of the subject are tackled equally, with a great deal of comparative study between More Economically Developed Countries (MEDCs) and Less Economically Developed Countries (LEDCs). During the Summer term of Year 10 the students will be expected to complete a piece of individual fieldwork, utilising the skills they have acquired and also gaining valuable experience of producing a structured project based on their findings. Year 11 will reinforce all areas of the subject in preparation for the end of year examinations. How will students be assessed?

Paper 1

(1 hr 45)

45% This paper will be taken by all students. Students will be required to answer three questions (3 x 25 marks). Six questions will be set: two on each of the three themes. Questions will be structured with gradients of difficulty, will be resource-based and involve problem solving and free response writing. The first theme includes population, migration and settlement. The second theme focuses on the natural environment with units on earthquakes and volcanoes, rivers, coasts, weather, climate and ecosystems. The final theme is based around economic development and comprises units on development, food production, industry, tourism, energy, water and environmental risk. Total 75 Marks

Paper 2

(1 hr 30)

27.5% This paper will be taken by all students. Students must answer all the questions. This paper will be mainly skill-based and will test a candidate’s ability to handle various ways of depicting geographical information. The questions will be neutral in that they will not require specific information of place. Students will be able to demonstrate skills of analysis and interpretation and application of graphical and other techniques as appropriate.

One question will be specifically based on a large-scale (1:25 000 or 1:50 000) topographical map of a tropical area such as Zimbabwe, the Caribbean or Mauritius and will include a full key. Total 60 Marks

Paper 3

Course-

work

27.5% This paper consists of a set school-based assignment of up to 2000 words worth 60 marks. Fieldwork will be done as part of the preparation in school time; however students will have the option to continue their own independent investigations.

The coursework will be assessed by the following criteria:

AO1: Knowledge with understanding 12 marks

AO2: Skills and analysis o Observation and collection of data o Organisation and the presentation of data o Analysis 36 marks

AO3: Judgement and decision making (Conclusion and evaluation)

12 marks Total 60 Marks

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German IGCSE

Cambridge (0525)

One MFL language is compulsory the other optional

Course content: Students will develop the skills and knowledge they have already acquired in the language they are studying. In addition to that, they will cover more topics and work at a higher level than they did in the first years. They will learn to use the language for the purpose of practical communication. They will be given as much practice as possible in the four attainment targets of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They will be encouraged to use dictionaries and reference materials to assist in their learning. How will students be assessed? They will be continually assessed through regular tests in all skill areas. These assessments will help teachers decide which IGCSE level is most suitable for them. It is expected that they will enter the IGCSE Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). This includes tests of speaking, listening, reading and writing. The elements in the assessment are as follows: Extended curriculum (Core + Supplement) Grades available: A* to G

Paper 1 Listening (45 minutes)

Paper 2 Reading (1 hour)

Paper 3 Speaking (15 minutes)

Paper 4 Writing (1 hour)

WEIGHTING OF PAPERS

Paper Weighting:

1 25%

2 25%

3 25%

4 25%

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German

Edexcel (4GN0)

Course content

Skills This qualification gives students the opportunity to:

develop their ability to listen to and understand the spoken German language in a

range of contexts and a variety of styles

read and respond to different types of written language

communicate in writing

understand and apply a range of vocabulary and structures

develop effective language learning and communication skills

communicate in speech for different purposes.

Assessment Assessment summary Paper 1 is an externally assessed examination paper lasting 40 minutes plus five minutes’ reading time. Paper 2 is an externally assessed examination paper lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes. Paper 3 is externally assessed through a speaking test lasting no more than 10 minutes. Summary of table of assessment Paper 1: Listening Paper code: 4GN0/01 – 4FR0/01 The paper is assessed through an examination paper lasting 40 minutes, plus five

minutes’ reading time, set and marked by Edexcel.

The total number of marks for the paper is 50.

Paper 2: Reading and Writing Paper code: 4GN0/02 – 4FR0/02

The paper is assessed through an examination paper lasting 1 hour and 30

minutes, set and marked by Edexcel.

The total number of marks for the paper is 60, with 30 marks for reading and 30

marks for writing.

Paper 3: Speaking Paper code: 4GN0/03 – 4FR0/03

Maximum 10 minutes.

The total number of marks for the paper is 40.

Weightings: 25% for each (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking)

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History IGCSE

Edexcel (4H10)

Course content: The aims of the syllabus are as follows:

actively engage students in the process of historical enquiry to develop them as

effective and independent learners, and as critical and reflective thinkers with

enquiring minds

develop students’ knowledge and coherent understanding of selected periods,

societies and aspects of history

develop students’ awareness of how the past has been represented, interpreted

and accorded significance for different reasons and purposes

develop students’ abilities to ask relevant questions about the past and to

investigate them

critically using a range of sources in their historical context

enable students to organise and communicate their historical knowledge and

understanding in creative and different ways and reach substantiated judgements

recognise that students’ historical knowledge, understanding and skills help them to

understand the present and provide them with a basis for their role as responsible

citizens, as well as allowing further study of history.

How will students be assessed? The Edexcel International GCSE in History comprises two assessments:

Paper 1 written examination. Students complete two depth studies

o Development of dictatorship: Germany, 1918-45

o The origins of the Cold War: 1945-62

Paper 2 written examination. Students complete one historical investigation and

one breadth study in change:

o The USA, 1917-29

o Conflict, crisis and change: China, c1911-c1989

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Information and Communication Technology IGCSE Cambridge (0417) Option

Course content: Studying Information and Communication Technology at IGCSE level will familiarise students not only with the types of software available and the range of Information and Communication Technology knowledge and skills detailed below, but also with their uses in practical contexts.

1. Components of a Computer System 2. Input and Output Devices 3. Storage Devices and Media 4. Computer Networks

5. Data Types 6. The Effects of Using ICT 7. The ways in which ICT is used

8. Systems Analysis and Design

What are the aims of the course? The educational purposes of a course in Information and Communication Technology for the IGCSE examination are listed below.

1. Help students to develop and consolidate their knowledge, skills and understanding in Information and Communication Technology;

2. Encourage students to develop further as autonomous users of Information and Communication Technology;

3. Encourage students to continue to develop their Information and Communication Technology skills in order to enhance their work in a variety of subject areas;

4. Provide opportunities for students to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate Information and Communication Technology systems;

5. Encourage students to consider the impact of new technologies on methods of working in the outside world and on social, economic, ethical and moral issues;

6. Help students to grow in their awareness of the ways in which Information and Communication Technology is used in practical and work-related situations.

How will students be assessed?

Information and Communication Technology (0417)

Three examinations:

40% Paper 1 (2 hours)

A written paper of 100 marks assessing the skills.

30% Paper 2 (2 hours 30 minutes)

A practical test assessing skills.

30% Paper 3 (2 hours 30 minutes)

A practical test assessing skills.

What do students need to take this course?

- A high level of mathematical skills

- Self motivation

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Media Studies GCSE

AQA (4812) Option

Course Content: The current Media Studies course attracts an increasingly large number of students every year because it makes learning interesting, challenging, creative and fun. It offers rigorous but accessible learning on a subject of key importance for young people’s understanding of the world they experience. Media Studies is a very important subject, ultimately combining aspects of politics, sociology, history and economics. It encourages creativity, teaches analytical skills and introduces students to critical ways of thinking about the world around them. These talents are highly valued by schools and universities and could possibly lead to employment in journalism, web design and advertising. What are the aims of the course? GCSE Media Studies will not only help students acquire subject knowledge, but it will:

develop critical thinking and decision-making skills

develop the appreciation and critical understanding of the role of the media in daily

life

combine practical and theoretical knowledge and skills through opportunities for

personal engagement and creativity

encourage an understanding of how to use key media concepts to analyse media products and their various contexts.

How will students be assessed? All students will be undertaking the single award scheme. The breakdown of the assessment is as follows:

Duration Weighting

Nature of Assessment

Unit 1: Investigating the Media

1 hour 30 minutes 40% Written paper

Unit 2: Understanding the Media

N/A 60% Coursework

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Music GCSE Edexcel (2MU01) Option

Course content: GCSE music is about making music, performing and listening to music. Students will interact with music from four areas of study on this GCSE course:

Western classical music Music in the 20th century Popular music in context World music

Students will enjoy the course if: They like listening to a wide variety of music They enjoy playing music either by themselves or with others

They are keen to write songs or to arrange music for others to play They are interested in using and improving the musical skills they already have They are able to work well on their own

How will students be assessed?

60% of the course is practical work - instrumental music performance and

composition or composing and performing with music technology

40% of the course is a final exam in which they answer questions based on a series

of set works from the four areas of study seen in the course content

Practical work:

Unit 1 – Performance – 30% of the final grade Over the two years of the course the students will be expected to take lessons in their chosen instrument or instruments. Lessons can be either arranged privately or through the school music instrument teaching service. They will have regular performance assessments during the course. Coursework – one solo performance + one ensemble performance Unit 2 – Composing – 30% of the final grade During the length of the course the students will study composition, working on a variety of exercises to develop their creative skills. Coursework – two compositions Unit 3 – Listening – 40% of the final grade During the two years the students will study the rudiments of music theory; melody & rhythm; harmony; ensembles & instruments/voices; instrumental &/or vocal effects; structure; compositional devices; texture; style & genre. There are a series of 12 prescribed works which will be studied in depth for this exam. Course pre-requisites: Students who wish to undertake music GCSE will be expected to

Take part and contribute to the musical life of the school Commit to regular instrumental lessons if they are undertaking the traditional music

pathway

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Physical Education GCSE

AQA (4892) Option

Course content: The content of this GCSE Physical Education specification is designed to enable students to enjoy and understand the benefits of living a healthy and active lifestyle; to provide a route to further study at ‘A’ level and Undergraduate level as well as to related career opportunities. Course content includes elements of anatomy and physiology, psychology, sociology as well as practical performance in sports so this course is able to offer a broad range of opportunities for students. What are the aims of the course? GCSE Physical Education will encourage candidates to:

• become increasingly physically competent through being actively engaged in a range of physical activities

• become increasingly effective in their performance in different types of physical activity and roles such as player/performer, leader and official

• develop their understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body and its relationship to sports performance • develop their understanding of the multi-billion dollar sports industry.

What will students do? Each week students will have a combination of practical sports and classroom based theory lessons to develop the knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to be successful in GCSE PE as a player, coach and official. Students will also be able to be assessed in practical sports they do outside of school. If they take part in individual sports such as swimming, dancing, horse riding, golf, tennis, squash, skiing or snowboarding, for example, they will use these sports in their final assessment. If they take part in team sports such as football, rugby, basketball or handball they can also be used. The theory lessons in GCSE PE are very interesting and challenging. Students will understand how the body functions during exercise and will learn all about the muscular, skeletal and cardio-respiratory systems as well as some basic biomechanics. They will learn about how sports stars train for peak performance and will understand the difference between the principles of training and the different training methods used. We will look at the variety of sports injuries that occur and how physiotherapists treat and rehabilitate injured sports stars. The psychology of sport will also be covered to include how top sports performers are motivated to succeed, how they control their aggression in contact sports and how they use different psychological techniques in training such as mental rehearsal. In addition they will look at the sports industry including how sport is marketed, the influence of the media and the influence of sports stars as role models.

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How will students be assessed? Assessment in GCSE Physical Education is in two parts:

1. Written examination (1 hour 30 minutes) – 40% of the final grade 2. Practical Assessment in 4 different activities – 60% of final grade

GCSE PE is suitable for students who are considering careers in the medical professions including medicine or physiotherapy; sports related business and business administration; sports coaching or teaching as well as providing an interesting and exciting option choice for students who have a general interest in sport and fitness. This is a very challenging option as students must be able to cope with the academic demands of the course in addition to being very good performers in 4 different sports.

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Psychology GCSE

Edexcel (5PS01) Option

What will students learn? Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Psychology is now a recognised science subject in the curriculum and always popular. It is about people both as individuals and as members of society, the subject also looks at animal behaviour in order to study humans. At GCSE students will be introduced to the major approaches in psychology and discover a key topic of research, learn about important studies and find out how research is conducted by psychologists. They will also have the opportunity to carry out some short practicals to collect their own data that will be assessed in the examination. The subject complements the study of Biology, Maths, English, SMSC, Business Studies and Sociology. UNIT 1: Perception and Dreaming Topic A: HOW DO WE SEE OUR WORLD? This topic focuses on perception and illusions, drawing on biological and cognitive psychology. Practical: Design a laboratory experiment. Topic B: IS DREAMING MEANINGFUL? This topic addresses Freud’s dream theory and the theory of activation synthesis. Practical: Design a Study. UNIT 2: Social and Biological Debates Topic C: DO TV AND VIDEO GAMES AFFECT YOUNG PEOPLE’S BEHAVIOUR? This topic covers causes of aggression including psychological and social causes. Practical: Design a content analysis. Topic D: WHY DO WE HAVE PHOBIAS? This topic considers social learning, conditioning and evolutionary causes of phobia. Practical: Design a questionnaire. Topic E: ARE CRIMINALS BORN OR MADE? This topic considers proposed biological and social causes of criminality. The practical and ethical issues of gathering information from offenders.

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How will students be examined?

What do students need to take this course? Since this is a new subject for students, they are not required to know anything about psychology prior to starting! Through their own life experiences they will know something about people and how individuals and groups function. Students do need to be working at Grade C in English and Maths and have an interest in Science. What can students do after they finish this course? Students can go on to study A-level Psychology. The skills they learn, such as how to evaluate, how to see problems in data gathering and how to interpret graphs and data, will be very useful in further study. Below are just some of the types of careers that are possible with psychology. Further information can be obtained as we go through the course. Career Possibilities

Medicine and Health Care, the Police, Education, Management and and/or work in Human Resources, as well as the various Applied Psychology posts such as Criminal and Forensic, Educational, Organisational and Clinical Psychology.

Exam Paper

Components Exam length/Weighting

Breakdown of Exam

Unit 1 5PS01

Perception and Dreaming 1 hour 15 minutes 40%

Multiple choice Short answer questions

Unit 2 5PS02

Social and Biological Psychological Debates

1 hour 45 minutes 60%

Multiple choice Short answer questions Extended writing

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SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education)

(no examination) Compulsory

Course content: Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Education (SMSC) is cross-curricular and can be seen as the promotion of personal and social development of students throughout their school life. The overall aim of SMSC is to enable students to increase their awareness of themselves, other people, the local community and the larger society, national and international, to which they belong. This is achieved through the encouragement and development of:

individual potential good learning and organisational skills decision-making and problem-solving skills

the knowledge and understanding needed to become good citizens sound interpersonal skills self-awareness and self-esteem good health habits (practices).

SMSC objectives are developed in all subjects and in extra-curricular activities, but reinforced by dedicated lessons in SMSC. SMSC lessons deal with real life issues which affect young people and engage with the social and economic realities of their lives, experiences and attitudes.

SMSC All students in Years 10 and 11 follow a range of different units based on the key concepts of the National Curriculum. These are Personal Wellbeing, Health, Economic Wellbeing, Financial Capability and Citizenship. Health and Economic Wellbeing These courses in Years 10 and 11 aim to equip students with the necessary skills to make independent and informed choices in matters relating to their health. The main topics studied will be:

attitudes to sexual behaviour and responsibility law and legislation as regards sexual behaviour STDs, HIV/AIDS and contraception drug use and abuse mental health

health issues in the news

Economic Wellbeing:

Personal Finance Business Careers Global Issues

Enterprise Personal statement writing CV writing Interview techniques

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N O T E S

St George’s International School, Luxembourg A.S.B.L

11, rue des PeupliersL-2328 Luxembourgtel: +352 42 32 24fax: +352 42 32 34www.st-georges.lu