St.

Andrews International School, Green Valley

OPTIONS BOOKLET 2012-2014

1 Moo 7, Banchang-Makham Koo Road, Banchang, Rayong 21130 Tel:+66 3803 0701-3 Fax: +66 3889 3720 E-mail: rayong@standrews-schools.com

IGCSE Options for examinations in May 2014

The (International) General Certificate of Secondary Education otherwise known as (I)GCSE is a two year course undertaken in Years 10 and 11. The subjects are studied concurrently and final assessment is made towards the end of Year 11. For the 2014 examination session St Andrews School will be offering examinations through two examination boards: the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and EDEXCEL, both based in the UK. We have taken a great deal of care to select the best courses available that are the most appropriate to you. (I)GCSE options are an opportunity for you to specialise in certain subjects that particularly interest you, while maintaining the core curriculum. At times, two or more subjects will be taught at the same time so it is important to begin planning the timetable for next year. The best starting point is to tell you of the subjects that are available and then ask what you would ideally like to study. This enables us to do our best to plan classes in a way that minimises clashes. It is impossible to guarantee that every student will get their first choice of options, but we will do everything in our power to give you the opportunity to study what you want. To help you decide if you would be interested in a particular subject, this booklet describes each course that we may be able to offer. Please read it carefully and discuss your ideas with your parents and teachers. You will then be required to complete an 'initial options' form that will be used to plan next year. It is important that you recognise there may be occasions when we may not be able to offer your first choice, either because there are not enough students who wish to study the course or because there would be a timetable clash. This is why you are asked for alternative choices, just in case. You will see that some subjects are compulsory. This is to create a balanced curriculum that will not disadvantage any student regardless of the subjects they choose. The compulsory subjects are Maths, English, Science, PE (non exam) and PSHE (personal, social and health education). Should you or your parents have any questions about IGCSEs please make an appointment to meet with Mr Wrightson.

IGCSE Options for examinations in May 2014

1.

English

1 or 2 IGCSEs (6 periods) IGCSE Language and IGCSE Literature IGCSE Second Language

1st Language Speakers 2nd Language Speakers 2. Maths IGCSE Maths 3. Science

1 IGCSE (5 periods)

2 IGCSEs (8 Periods)

IGCSE Coordinated Science

4.

Language Option

0 or 1 IGCSE (4 Periods)

IGCSE French (for suitable candidates) IGCSE Dutch (for suitable candidates) IGCSE Thai (for suitable candidates) IGCSE Mandarin (for suitable candidates)* Thai Studies (non IGCSE course) 5. Humanities Options 1 IGCSE (4 periods) IGCSE History IGCSE Geography IGCSE Business Studies 6. Additional Subjects Options IGCSE Visual Art IGCSE Drama* GCSE Music GCSE Physical Education IGCSE ICT 1 IGCSE (3 or 4 periods)

*Note: this is a potential course that we may be able to offer and is subject to demand

Students will generally study between 7 -9 (I)GCSEs.

Art and Design IGCSE (Cambridge Syllabus 0400)

Art and Design encourages students to develop investigative, analytical, experimental, interpretative, practical, technical and expressive skills which aid effective and independent learning. In Year 10, students are taught to use a variety of materials and techniques, how to apply the creative process, make effective design decisions and solve technical problems. Students reflect on their own progress, identifying strengths and weaknesses and areas in need of improvement. In Year 11, students undertake the externally assessed components of the course. We combine components 1 and 4. Component 1: Coursework Assignment (worth 50% of the total final mark). The coursework consists of two parts One final outcome A supporting portfolio (8 sides of A2)

The theme for the coursework is set by the teacher and all students will work with this theme to develop their own, original artwork. Emphasis is placed on working independently to develop and refine personal ideas. Component 4: Observational/Interpretative Assignment (worth 50% of the total final mark) The Externally Set Assignment consists of two parts: Examination Piece completed during a tined test (8 hours) Supporting Studies (4 sides of A2)

The examination board proposes approximately 14 themes for students to choose from. Students select only one that they then use to develop via direct observational drawing. Students are given approximately 8 weeks to prepare for the examination. Both components are externally examined. It should be noted that this programme is not an easy option! Due to the time consuming nature of Art and the assessment in this subject, students will be required to work studiously and consistently for the whole 2 years, both at school and at home. Students in Year 10 and 11 can expect at least 2-3 hours of Art homework per week. This is not a subject where you can operate in isolation. Good communication skills are essential, both in written and spoken form.

Business studies IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0450)

The Business Studies IGCSE will cover the major aspects of business activity in the modern world.

The course looks at business activity and its role within the economy of a country. Students will study business growth and the problems associated with it. Ideas such as internal organization and structure are related to the changing business environment across regional, national and international economies.

Students will look at how businesses plan and develop their growth to include market research and marketing strategies. The course then develops by looking into financial information and decision-making within a business under the constraints, rules and regulations commonly in place within the international community.

Aims By the end of the course students should have an understanding of how businesses operate in the world. They should be able to appreciate the perspectives of a range of stakeholders in relation to the environment, individuals, society, governments and enterprise. They will be able to distinguish between facts and opinions, and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data in order to help build arguments and make informed judgements.

Assessment Assessment is primarily by two examination papers and can additionally include a coursework element. The decision as to whether students do coursework will be made according to the option groups aptitude and preferred learning styles.

The course is best suited to students who have an interest in business and how it operates in an international environment. The subject is ideal for those who enjoy problem solving. No previous knowledge of Business Studies is required although a good knowledge of current affairs helps a great deal.

Drama - IGCSE (CIE Syllabus)

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

Key subject aims 1. To develop candidates understanding of Drama through practical and theoretical study. 2. To enable candidates to realise the performance possibilities of text and other stimuli. 3. To encourage the use of dramatic forms and structures to communicate feelings and ideas to an audience. 4. To help candidates to acquire and develop skills in Drama, both individually and in groups. 5. To develop understanding of the processes leading to performance and the elements involved in creating a performance; to be able to evaluate the various stages of performance work. 6. To encourage enjoyment of drama.

ASSESSENT: a) Understanding Candidates will be assessed on their ability to demonstrate understanding of: The performance possibilities of text and other stimuli, and The differing roles of actor, director, stage manager and technician in its realisation. b) Devising Candidates will be assessed on their ability to devise dramatic material and reflect on its effectiveness. c) Performing skills Candidates will be assessed on their performing skills in Drama.

Dutch - IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0515)

This course is divided into 4 areas of study. Area of Study 1: Listening comprehension Students will be listening to spoken texts, concerning different topics related to current affairs. The focus on this segment is to understand and respond to the spoken language Area of Study 2: Reading and directed writing The student will be exposed to different kind of written text. These can be a phase of a book, an internet document or from other resources. The focus of this segment is to understand and respond to written language Area of Study 3: Speaking. The speaking test will comprise of three tests: role play tasks, topic conversation, and general conversation. The focus on this segment is: Communicate in speech Showing knowledge of a range of variety of vocabulary and applying the grammar and structures of the target language accurately. Area of Study 4: Writing. Candidates are expected to produce two pieces of continuous writing. Each piece should be 130 140 words of length. The tasks will allow students to demonstrate there mastery of the written target language. This topic focuses on: communication quality of language general impression Assessment The course is assessed by 4 papers: Paper 1 2 3 4 Listening Reading and directed writing Speaking Continuous writing

% of GCSE 25 % 25 % 25 % 25 %

Assessment Method Moderated Coursework Moderated Coursework On location Moderated Coursework

The IGCSE certificate is equivalent to a HAVO diploma in the Netherlands. Obtaining this certificate enables students to follow up their studies in the Netherlands on HBO level.

English Language IGCSE (Edecxcel syllabus A4EAO)

Key subject aims

to develop an understanding of the spoken word and the capacity to participate effectively in a variety of speaking and listening activities to develop the ability to read, understand and respond to material from a variety of sources, and to recognise and appreciate themes and attitudes and the ways in which writers achieve their effects to develop the ability to construct and convey meaning in written language, matching style to audience and purpose. ASSESSENT Paper 1: Reading and Writing examination (70%) There are three sections:Section A: Reading: Questions on an unprepared non - fiction text. Section B: Reading and Writing: based on a text from the Anthology section A Section C: Writing: a writing task to inform, explain and describe Paper 3: Reading and writing coursework (20%) Two coursework assignments internally assessed Unit 1 a piece of writing responding to Section B of the anthology Unit 2 a piece of personal and imaginative writing to explore, imagine, entertain or to argue, persuade, advise Paper 4: Speaking and listening coursework (10%) Two coursework assignments internally assessed An individual talk and one group work assignment

English Literature IGCSE (Edexcel syllabus 4ETO)

The English Literature course is studied in conjunction with the IGCSE First Language English course. The two subjects are, however, assessed separately and lead to two different and distinct qualifications. Candidates who are entered for both exams will have acquired a competent level in the Second Language exam taken at the end of Year Nine. Key subject aims The Edexcel IGCSE in English Literature enables students to: engage with and develop the ability to read, understand and respond to a wide range of literary texts from around the world develop an appreciation of the ways in which authors achieve their literary effects and to develop the skills needed for literary study explore, through literature, the cultures of their own and other societies find enjoyment in reading literature and understand its influence on individuals and societies. ASSESSMENT Paper 1: Drama and Prose Paper code: 4ET0/01 Students will study the following texts which will be assessed through a one- hour and 30 minute examination, set and marked by Edexcel. This exam will account for 70% of the total IGCSE marks Prose text: Of Mice and Men- John Steinbeck Play: A View From The Bridge- Arthur Miller Paper 3: Poetry coursework Paper code: 4ETO/03 Study will focus on three/ four poems in Section C of the Edexcel Anthology for IGCSE English Language and Literature. Students will then complete one coursework assignment, internally set and assessed and moderated by Edexcel. This coursework will account for 30% of the total IGCSE marks.

English Second Language IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0510)

The syllabus assesses students ability to use English as a medium of practical communication, and is aimed at students for whom English is not a first language/mother tongue, but for whom it is their language of study. Students will be encouraged to sit this examination at the end of year 9 if they have shown high levels of competence in the areas listed below. If successful these students will then have the opportunity to study for First Language English and Literature at the beginning of Year 10. For other students for whom English is not their mother tongue, this course will be studied in Years 10 and 11. ASSESSMENT There will be three exams: a reading & writing paper (paper 2), a listening paper (paper 4) and an oral exam (component 5). Students at SAIS will sit the extended exam which will enable the students to achieve the highest grade possible. The weightings for the exams will be 70% paper 2 and 30% paper 4. For the speaking exam students will get grades ranging from 1 (high) to 5 (low) depending on their performance. The students will be assessed on the following: READING & LISTENING: ability to skim and scan to find relevant information select and organise material relevant to specific purposes recognise, understand and distinguish between facts, ideas and opinions infer meaning WRITING: summarise and take notes accurately use paragraphs, punctuation, grammar , spelling correctly communicate clearly, accurately and appropriately use a range of vocabulary well employ correct register SPEAKING employ suitable pronunciation and stress patterns engage in and influence the direction of conversation use a range of vocabulary and grammar accurately

French IGCSE (Edexcel Syllabus 4FR0)

The French IGCSE equips the students with a knowledge and understanding of the French language required for everyday social interaction (on holiday, at the shops or restaurants etc). Course Content The course covers the following topic areas: A. B. C. D. E. Home and Abroad (weather, holidays, services, customs, etc). Education and Employment (school, work, future plans, etc). House, Home and Daily Routine (family and friends; food and drinks etc) The Modern World (current affairs, environmental issues, the media etc). Social activities, Fitness and Health (special occasions, hobbies, shopping etc).

It also offers valuable insights into the culture where French is spoken. By the end of the course students will be expected to communicate as accurately as possible using a variety of idiom, vocabulary structure and appropriate tense. They should also be able to understand and respond to written and spoken French.

Assessment The IGCSE French exam is designed to test ability in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. There are 2 written papers and one oral assessment. Paper 1: Listening (weighting of 33.3%) Paper 2: Reading and Writing (weighting of 66.6%) Paper 3: Speaking (separate grade)

The course is designed for students who have some previous knowledge of the French language (usually 2 to 3 years). By the end of Year 9, students should have formed a sound base in the areas of grammar and vocabulary in order to take an exam qualification in this subject. The course is best suited to students who enjoy language learning and have an interest in learning about other cultures.

Geography IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0460)

This IGCSE course will cover Human, Physical, Environmental and Contemporary issues in Geography. All topics during the two-year course will be included within three main themes and candidates will develop an understanding of both the natural and human environments. Intensive work will be carried out on various case studies throughout the themes, which will link together knowledge and real situations. Further links with themes will be made through practical hypothesis based investigations in the field. Theme 1: Population and Settlement By studying population dynamics candidates will investigate and understand problems associated with over and under-populated areas. They will understand contrasting patterns of population growth and decline and know about the effects of migration, birth/death rates and the effects of diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS. Settlement characteristics will be studied from both a developing and developed viewpoint thereby understanding differences in land use, spheres of influences and problems associated with exploitation and poverty. Theme 2: The Natural Environment We open up our planet with a study into plate tectonic activity, identifying areas of earthquakes and volcanic hazards. By linking these areas with plate boundaries, candidates will understand basic lithospheric processes and be able to list associated causes and effects. The processes shaping the land, including weather and climatic factors, will be studied. This will lead into an intensive investigation into ecological systems at various latitudes. Finally, investigating human activities in these systems will reveal our global impact both positive and negative. Theme 3: Economic Development and the Use (and abuse) of Resources Agricultural and industrial systems in both MEDCs and LEDCs will be compared and contrasted. They will be linked so that candidates will understand industrial classification from primary to quaternary sectors. A look into the worlds largest and fastest growing industry, leisure and tourism, will assess the benefits and levels of exploitation affecting peoples lives. Energy and water resource investigations will uncover new technology with a view to the transition from fossil fuel use to a more sustainable form of using renewable sources. In all themes a link with human environmental impact will be made with a view to problem solving and avoiding further environmental degradation. Assessment: Assessment will be made by three examinations: Both Paper 12 (1 hour 45 minutes) and Paper 2 (1 hour 30 minutes) AND Paper 3 (Coursework) OR Paper 4 (Alternative to Coursework 1 hour 30 minutes)

History IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0470)

The History IGCSE will cover International Relations in the 20th Century. The course begins at the end of the First World War and explores how Europe coped with peace. It explores how the victors treated the losers and how the terms of the Treaty of Versailles affected the world. The course develops by looking at the work of the League of Nations in solving international issues throughout the 1920s and 30s. We then move on to look at the effects of the Depression and how it led to isolationist policies and the rise of Nazism. From here the course moves on to the breakdown of international relations and the run up to the Second World War. During this part of the course, students undertake an in-depth study of Germany between the wars. Following the Second World War, the course looks at the relationships between the victors and how growing mistrust led to the Cold War. American policies of Containment and the Truman Doctrine lead to case studies of major Cold War incidents from the Hungarian uprising, through the Korean War to Vietnam and beyond. Eventually the course leads to the events that led to the fall of the Eastern Block including Solidarity in Poland and the policies of Gorbachev. Students will be given the opportunity to go to Vietnam during the two year course as part of their studies. Aims By the end of the course students should have an understanding of international relations that have led to the modern world in which we live. They should be able to understand the nature of cause and consequence, continuity and change, similarity and difference. They will be able to recognise bias and understand how it can be used to manipulate people's opinions. Assessment Assessment is made by two examinations at the end of Y11 and two pieces of coursework written during Y11. These will test the student's ability to 1. 2. Recall, select, organise and deploy knowledge of the syllabus content. Demonstrate an understanding of: (a) change and continuity, cause and consequence, similarity and difference; (b) the motives, emotions, intentions and beliefs of people in the past. Comprehend, interpret, evaluate and use a range of sources as evidence in their historical context.

3.

The course is best suited to students with an enquiring mind, who have an interest in why the world is like it is. The ability to use English effectively is a great asset as students will be required to explain their ideas and reasoning in clearly structured essays and open ended data response tasks.

Information Communication Technology IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0417)

The ICT syllabus offers a course containing a combination of theoretical and practical studies focusing on the ability to use common software applications, including: word processing, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation software, electronic mail, web browsers and website design. The curriculum content is set out in sections, which are as follows: components of a computer system, input and output devices, storage devices and media, computer networks, data types, the effects of using ICT, the ways in which ICT is used in society and finally systems analysis and design. Aims The aims of the ICT course are to: 1 help students to develop and consolidate their knowledge, skills and understanding of ICT; 2 encourage students to continue to develop their ICT skills in order to enhance their work in a variety of subject areas; 3 provide opportunities for students to analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate ICT systems; 4 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; 5 help students to increase their awareness of the ways in which ICT is used in practical and work-related situations. Practical Skills where students should be able to: 1. use e-mail and the internet to gather and communicate information; 2. use word-processing facilities to prepare documents; 3. use database facilities to manipulate data to solve problems and represent data graphically; 4. integrate data from different sources into a single document or report; 5. produce output (e.g. documents in a specified format); 6. use a spreadsheet to create and test a data model; 7. represent data as information in a variety of chart formats 8. create a structured website with style sheets, tables and hyperlinks; 9. create and control an interactive presentation; Knowledge and Understanding where students should be able to understand: 1. the functions of the main hardware and software components; 2. the networking of information-processing systems; 3. the ways in which ICT is used and the effects of its use; 4. the stages and methods of system analysis and design; 5. computing terminology; Scheme of Assessment Assessment is made by three examinations at the end of Year 11 there will be two practical papers (total 60%) and one theory paper (40%). The course is suitable for all students.

Mandarin Chinese- IGCSE (Syllabus code 0547)

Key subject aims to develop the ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication within the country of residence, where appropriate, and in all countries where the language is spoken to form a sound base of the skills, language and attitudes required for further study, work and leisure to offer insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken to develop a fuller awareness of the nature of language and language learning to encourage positive attitudes toward language learning and towards speakers of other languages and a sympathetic approach to other cultures and civilisations to provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation to complement other areas of study by encouraging skills of a more general application.

Course content Everyday activities Personal and social life The world around us The world of work The international world

Assessment Paper 1 Listening The Listening Examination is provided to Centres on a pre-recorded CD. Paper 2 Reading and Directed Writing All candidates must attempt all three sections. There are a variety of question types on the Reading and Directed Writing Paper. Paper 3 Speaking Test 1: Role Plays Test 2: Topic Presentation/Conversation. Test 3: General Conversation Paper 4 Continuous Writing Extended candidates only Candidates should write their answers in characters. Question 1: candidates are given a choice of two fairly structured tasks and must complete one of these. Question 2: candidates are given a more open task (narrative, descriptive, etc.) which is compulsory for all candidates.

The course is best suited to students who have previous knowledge and experience of the Mandarin language by end of year 9. Also, they should enjoy language learning and have an interest in learning about Chinese cultures.

Mathematics IGCSE (Edexcel International Syllabus 4MA0)

The Maths IGCSE course will cover Number, Algebra, Shape, Space, Measures and Statistics. The weighting of the course is as follows: Number and Algebra Shape, Space and Measures Statistics 55% 25% 20%

The course will cover the following broad topics: integers, decimals, percentages, sets, standard form, estimation, limits of accuracy, ratios, proportion, rate, calculators, measures, time, money, graphs in practical situations, graphs of functions, algebraic representation and formulae, algebraic manipulation, functions, indices, solutions of equations and inequalities, linear programming, geometrical relationships, geometrical constructions, symmetry, angle properties, locus, mensuration, trigonometry, statistics, probability, vectors in two dimensions, transformations and calculus. Aims By the end of the course, students should have developed their mathematical knowledge and skills in a way which encourages confidence and provides satisfaction and enjoyment. They should be able to apply mathematics in everyday situations, develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world around them, solve problems, present the solutions clearly, check and interpret the results and develop an understanding of mathematical principles. They should also be able to apply mathematics in other subjects, particularly science and technology, and appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics. They should also develop the abilities to reason logically, to generalise and to prove. Assessment There are two levels available for study: Foundation and Higher. For the Foundation Curriculum the grades available are from C to G. For the Higher Curriculum the grades available are from A* to D. All students will sit two written examination papers at the end of Year 11. Each paper lasts two hours and each is worth 50% of the final mark. Calculators are allowed for both papers. The course is best suited to students with logical minds, a strong sense of shapes and how they can behave, and the ability to apply different techniques to a given situation. All students will require scientific calculators and geometrical equipment to include a set of compasses and a protractor.

MUSIC GCSE (Edexcel Syllabus 1426)

This course is divided into 4 areas of study. Area of Study 1: Western Classical Music 1600-1899. Students will study set works from this period by: GF Handel WA Mozart F Chopin Students will be expected to produce their own composition of approximately 2 minutes in length using the compositional techniques studied in the set works. Area of Study 2: Music in the 20th Century. The 20th century saw more technological advances, at a greater pace, than ever before. Composers began to experiment using different styles and techniques. In this topic students will study the styles and techniques used by: A Schoenberg L Bernstein S Reich Area of Study 3: Popular Music in Context. The main area of focus for this topic is: Miles Davis: All Blues J Buckley: Grace Moby: Why Does My Heart Feel So Bad Students will be expected to produce their own composition of approximately 2 minutes in length using the compositional techniques studied in the set works or similar genres from this topic. Area of Study 4: World Music. This topic focuses on: Indian Raga English Folk Songs Fusions The course is assessed by 3 papers: Listening and Appraising (Paper 3). Paper Performing: 1 solo performance Performing: 1 ensemble performance Composing: 2 compositions based on techniques from 2 Areas of Study Listening and Appraising Performing (Paper 1), Composing (Paper2) and

% of GCSE 15% 15% 30% 40%

Assessment Method Moderated Coursework Moderated Coursework External Exam

This course is an intensive but an extremely interesting and rewarding one. It is suited to students who have an interest in music and are prepared to work hard.

Physical Education GCSE (Edexcel syllabus 5PE0)

The Physical Education GCSE will cover theoretical knowledge and understanding. It will also cover candidates physical performance as well as analytical and evaluating skills in sporting activities. Aims There are three areas of theory: Unit 1 This unit looks into factors affecting performance. The notion of skill is discussed and students will be able to define various types of skill. The students will examine factors such as motivation and mental preparation required for both training and competition. This unit also includes anatomy and physiology. Candidates will learn about the human body by linking together the skeleton, types of joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the circulatory and respiratory systems. They will examine and test various forms of fitness, study somatotypes and understand the effects of drugs on the body. Unit 2 This unit will explores health, safety and training. It begins with the physical, mental and social well-being, including nutrition and diet. It covers safe practice in activity and sports and develops a knowledge of sports injuries, how to prevent and treat them. Linked with this is the exercise and training section investigating all of the various forms and linking them to various athletic activities. Unit 3 This unit discusses the reasons and opportunities for participation in physical activity. It begins with leisure, recreation, facilities, participation and excellence in sports. It studies the history of sport from amateur to professional levels. It uncovers the role and power of the media and reveals the disparity in access to sports and what is being done to address these problems. Assessment The theory content will be assessed by a 1.5-hour exam and carries 40% of the overall marks. The practical coursework assesses candidates physical performance as well as their ability to interrelate planning, performing and evaluation whilst undertaking activity. Included in this is the ability to analyse and improve their own and others performance in four practical activities each worth 15% of the syllabus total. The four practical activities must be chosen from a minimum of 2 of the 6 categories below: Games, Gymnastic Activities, Dance Athletic Activities, Outdoor and Adventurous Activities, Swimming

Science IGCSE Double Award (Edexcel Syllabus 4SC0)

The Double Award IGCSE Science course comprises Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This course is designed to emphasise the relationship between the main areas of science while retaining the separate identities of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The examinations test knowledge and skills in all three subjects. Students will be eligible for a Double Award (i.e. they will be awarded two IGCSE grades). The course aims to impart a systematic body of scientific knowledge and facts, and an understanding of scientific concepts, principles, themes and patterns. Experimental skills based on correct and safe laboratory techniques are developed, as well as students ability to form hypotheses and design experiments to test them. As well as theoretical work in all three areas, the course provides topics through which students can study issues that arise from the interaction of science, technology and society. Practical work is an integral part of the course. The course forms a good foundation for students proceeding to IB courses in any of the Sciences or to any other post (I)GCSE course of study. Topics Covered Biology Chemistry Physics
Forces and motion

The nature and variety of living Principles of chemistry organisms Structures and functions in Chemistry of the elements living organisms Reproduction and inheritance Ecology and the environment Organic chemistry Physical chemistry

Electricity

Waves Energy transfer resources and energy

Use of biological resources

Chemistry in society

Solids, liquids and gases Magnetism and electromagnetism Radioactivity and particles

Assessment The course will be assessed by three written papers. Paper 1 will test students understanding of Biology while paper 2 Chemistry and paper 3 Physics. All students sit all three papers and their performance in all three will determine the overall grades. Students will receive an award of two IGCSE grades, (e.g. A*A*,AA, AB, BB, BC etc)

Thai First Language IGCSE (CIE Syllabus 0518)

The Thai First Language IGCSE is designed to enable students to communicate accurately and appropriately in written Thai and to understand and respond to what they read. The course is divided into three main areas as follows: 1 Reading and directed writing

Students study a range of extended texts and they learn how to scan for and extract specific information. They learn how to identify main and subordinate topics and show a sense of audience. Time is spent learning how to recognize and to respond to linguistic devices and figurative language. 2 Continuous writing

In this area students develop their ability to express thoughts and feelings in order to interest and inform the reader. They develop an increasingly sophisticated use of vocabulary and structures. 3 Usage

Throughout the course, students develop their ability to accurately control their vocabulary, syntax, grammar and spelling. They develop an increased awareness of the need for paragraphing and the use of varied sentence structures. Assessment Assessment is made by two examinations at the end of Y11. These will test the students ability to: 1. 2. Select, compare and summarise specific information from selected passages; Respond to a passage in a variety of forms (eg selective summary, a letter, a report, a speech etc); Produce a piece of continuous writing based upon a narrative or argumentative response in an appropriate style.

3.

The course is only suited to students with a well developed command of Thai. This is a 'first language' course and as such it is specifically aimed at Thai students who are successfully studying the language at the highest level in Year 9.