Strength from Diversity

West Island SchoolA better school, a better world

Key Stage 4 Options for 2010

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WEST ISLAND SCHOOLKey Stage Four (Years 10 and 11) - Options for 2010

Dear parents and students,

This booklet is about education at West Island School during Key Stage 4 (KS4), which consists of years 10 and 11. It gives some information about the courses we plan to run and the choices that have to be made by students at this stage of their educational career.

West Island School Key Stage 4 Curriculum – An Overview

The curriculum offered by all schools of the English Schools Foundation, including West Island School, is based broadly on the National Curriculum for England and Wales. The underlying principle of this curriculum is that students are entitled to a curriculum that is broad and balanced. All students will take subjects which provide coverage of the following areas of learning:

Expressive and CreativeLinguistic and LiteraryMathematicalPhysical and Recreational

ScientificHuman, Social and EnvironmentalReligious, Spiritual and MoralTechnological

This range of experience is achieved by providing a core of compulsory subjects, a set of optional subjects for students to choose from, and a set of guidelines for making these choices.

Many of the courses at KS4 are accredited through the UK General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) or its international equivalent (IGCSE). Typically, at the end of two years of study, your child will be sitting GCSE and IGCSE examinations in the summer of 2011. The pass grades for this qualification are A to G, with an A* for the most exceptional performances.

Over the next few weeks, students can get more information about the courses from their subject teachers, and their form tutors will be helping them with the choice procedure. If you would like more details about any aspect of the Key stage 4 curriculum for Year 10 and 11, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to discussing your child’s options at the Key Stage 4 Options Evening on Tuesday 24th November 2009.

Ms. K. Fagan Mr. P. Tough Mr. I. ClaytonHead of Lower School +Head of Year 9 Vice Principal Vice Principal

For further information:www.nc.uk.net - for details of the National Curriculum for England and Wales.

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Introduction for Students

The rest of this booklet is written for you, although we recommend that you read it together with your parents.

In August 2010 you will move into Year 10 and start a two-year programme of study. This booklet tells you something about your courses over that two-year period. It explains what GCSE is about and why you have a choice in some areas and not in others.

Contents

1. The plan – an overview of Years 10 and 11.

2. Achieving a Broad and Balanced Curriculum – keeping doors open

3. What to aim for – a word or two about GCSE.

4. Reasons why – explaining the plan.

5. What next? How you tell us your choices.

6. Courses – some information about each subject.

Getting ready to make your choices.

You will get help with your option choices through the Year 9 ‘Careers and Options Unit' of Learning for Life.

Remember that there is a limit to how much information and advice you can get from a booklet like this. Talk with people; ask questions; listen to what they say.

Talk to your parents – they know you best. They, and you, are invited to a Options Evening on 24th November 2009 at West Island School.

Talk to your Tutor – your Tutor is probably the teacher who knows you best.

Talk to your subject teachers to get further details about their courses.

Talk to Ms. Fagan (Head of Lower School and Head of Year 9) – in fact, anyone who you think might be able to help you. It is better to spend the time now, rather than risk being unhappy next year.

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1. The Plan

To get a picture of your typical school week for the next two years, it is best to think of two groups of subjects. The first group – the core – contains certain subjects, which you all have to study. Here is the list:

COREEnglish Language and LiteratureMathematicsScienceLearning for LifeICTPhysical Education

The second group of subjects – the options – is where you have some choice. You will be carefully guided in that choice. These subjects, in alphabetical order, are as follows:

OPTIONS

Examined Subjects FacultyArt and Design Creative Arts FacultyBusiness Studies Individuals and Societies FacultyChinese Modern Languages FacultyDesign & Technology (Food Technology) Design & Technology FacultyDesign & Technology (Graphic Products) Design & Technology FacultyDesign & Technology (Resistant Materials) Design & Technology FacultyDesign & Technology (Textiles Technology) Design & Technology FacultyDrama Creative Arts FacultyEconomics Individuals and Societies FacultyESL (English as a 2nd language) IGCSE EAL DepartmentFrench Modern Languages FacultyGeography Individuals and Societies FacultyHistory Individuals and Societies FacultyInformation and Communications Technology Maths & ICT FacultyItalian Modern Languages FacultyMedia Studies Creative Arts FacultyMusic Creative Arts FacultyPhysical Education Physical Education & Sport FacultyReligious Studies Individuals and Societies FacultySpanish Modern Languages Faculty

Non-Examined SubjectsEAL (English as an Additional Language) Support EAL DepartmentStrategies for School Individual Needs Department

You must choose 4 of these courses to achieve a full timetable.

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2. Achieving a Broad & Balanced Curriculum - Keeping Doors Open

In making your choices, you should try to ensure that you will experience all eight areas of learning through your core and optional courses. The areas of learning are:

Expressive and creative Linguistic and literary Mathematical Physical and recreational

Scientific Human, social and environmental Religious, spiritual and moral Technological

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Much of this is covered by the CORE subjects.

There are some special combinations and choices which need to be carefully considered. This includes ESL, Strategies for School and Design Technologies as follows.

Students who are advised to take IGCSE ESL will be counselled individually on the breadth and balance of their choices. They will typically be required to ensure that the three areas above are covered.

The Strategies for School course is typically open to students who are advised by the Individual Needs team to take it. Other students who think that they may not be able to cope with 4 examined options should talk to their tutor about this.

Special note on Technologies: There is a considerable overlap between the four Design Technologies on offer and students are not permitted to take more than one of these. However, any one of the Design Technologies together with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is an acceptable combination.

Looking ahead – Year 12

In Year 12, most of you will stay at West Island and enrol on one of the diploma courses that will be on offer:

IB Diploma Advanced Diploma

It is anticipated that you will want to keep your Year 12 Diploma choices open at this stage. Any combination of GCSE options will leave your choices open for the Advanced Diploma. However, this is not necessarily the case for the IB Diploma and a bit of knowledge about the IB Diploma is useful. The IB Diploma involves six courses, three at standard level and three at higher level. Your form tutor will be able to guide you and

the options form you have to fill in with your choices for Years 10 and 11 has a section which asks you to look ahead to possible future courses. You need to use this section to let us know what your plans are. This information will help us to guide you in your Year 10 choices and make sure that you keep your options for Year 12 open. The table on the next page offers some advice on taking an IB subject in Year 12 if you don’t take it for GCSE.

IB Subject Must you take this subject at Key

Stage 4 to study it for IB?

Advice if you are wishing to take this subject for IB but didn’t study it for GCSE

Geography No It is useful to have taken the IGCSE course as it provides an excellent foundation for the knowledge and understanding that is required for IB geography. Students who have an interest in global issues and the impact of the environment will enjoy this subject.

History No The history course will involve using a range of different sources. You should enjoy reading widely around the subject; enjoy debate and discussion and have an interest in current affairs and world politics

Philosophy No (not offered at GCSE)

An interest in philosophy is essential. You should enjoy debate and thinking critically about philosophical arguments.

Psychology No (not offered at GCSE)

Students should have an interest in scientific issues. Psychology looks at behaviour and the development of the mind. Students should enjoy discussion and reading widely around the subject.

Business Studies No It is useful to have taken the GCSE course as it provides an excellent foundation for IB level business & management.

Economics No It is useful to have taken the GCSE course as it provides an excellent foundation for IB level economics.

Environmental Systems

No (not offered at GCSE)

Students should have an interest in environmental issues. A basic background in biology would be useful.

Design & Technology No It is useful to have taken any of the GCSE design & technology courses before as they provide an excellent foundation for the knowledge and understanding that is required for IB Design & Technology.

Computer Science No To be successful in this subject you should have strong mathematical skills and logical thought processes and enjoy problem solving. An interest or prior experience of computer programming is advisable.

Music No It is necessary for you to be able to play a musical instrument and/or sing. You should be able to read music fluently as well.

Film Studies No Students don't need to have studied GCSE media, although it would be an advantage. You should be very interested in both the process of making and editing films and analysing films from a range of genres and through history. This is a specific and technical film course only.

Visual Arts No Prior study at GCSE level is desirable for the IB visual arts course but not essential. It is however important to have an interest in the visual recording of ideas and images, a desire to develop your creative potential and the tenacity to work to deadlines as you produce a series of artistic outcomes

Theatre Arts No Previous drama experience is advisable, either through GCSE drama or work outside of school. The course requires strong English language skills.

Language B - Higher Level (French, Spanish, Chinese)

Yes This is for the foreign language learner who has 2 to 5 years experience of the language. This course is at a high level which can enable the student to study the language further at degree level if they wish. A GCSE grade A*-C is advisable.

Language B - Standard Level (French, Spanish, Chinese)

Yes This is for the foreign language learner who has 2 to 5 years experience of the language. It is a course which aims to enable the student to attain a high level of language competence. A GCSE grade A*-C is advisable.

Language ab initio - Standard Level (French, Spanish, Chinese)

No Ab initio means from the beginning. This course begins from zero and is for those with little or no previous knowledge of the language. It is a challenging course as it aims to go beyond GCSE level in just two years. It is beneficial, if possible, to visit the target language country and learn as much as you can about the language and culture before the course starts.

3. What to aim for – a word about GCSEs

English, mathematics, science and the optional subjects (except for EAL and Strategies for School) lead to a qualification called the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE), or its international equivalent, the IGCSE. GCSE/IGCSE pass grades go from G up to A*.

Although most GCSE/IGCSE courses lead to written examinations at the end of the two years, in nearly all subjects some of the work you do during the course also counts towards your final grade. This is what is meant by “coursework” in the subject details. Your subject teachers can tell you more about the type of coursework that you will have to do.

In some subjects, there are different levels of examination. If you are good at the subject, you can show your full abilities on the hardest paper. If you find the subject difficult, you can still show that you know the basics by doing well on an easier paper. We do not need to decide on your level of entry until much nearer the time – entry deadlines will be about two years after the time you first read this booklet. All the grades of GCSE/IGCSE results represent worthwhile achievement.

Note: Science is also available at BTEC level – see the science section of this booklet.

4. Reasons why

Why do you have to do all of the Core Subjects?

No secondary school student’s curriculum could possibly be complete without mathematics, science and (in an English language school) English. These are the first three subjects on the list. Virtually all higher education institutions

worldwide expect you to have a qualification in English and mathematics and in a world increasingly affected by science, a good grounding in scientific thinking is essential.

Education is not just about passing examinations, important though they are. It is also about learning to be a healthy, active and useful member of society, with the right balance of self-interest and concern for others.

The core Physical Education programme is practical; the emphasis is on skill development, fitness and tactical awareness. In Year 11 students have the opportunity to specialise in a sport/s of their choice.  Core PE is non-examination and is an integral part of the KS4 programme due to the great benefits regular exercise has on

health and well being.

The Learning for Life course prepares you for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of the adult world – a world you are rapidly approaching. To live and work effectively in an increasingly complex and changing world, you need to develop a broad range of knowledge, understandings and skills, particularly the aptitude to be

a flexible, lifelong learner. Furthermore you need to work out your own views and values, as well as appreciate and respect other people who hold views and values different to your own.

The ICT and Supervised self-study lessons are aimed at equipping you with skills that you can apply across the curriculum. All of this will make you better at what you do now as well as prepare you well for future study, whatever course your school career takes.

Why do you have to choose Optional Subjects?

The main reason you cannot take all subjects and have to choose four is time. Add up the total number of subjects mentioned in the core and options together. In a week, how many periods, on average, would each subject get? This would be nothing like enough to get you anywhere near GCSE standard. To study all the subjects in the sort of depth appropriate to your age would require a school day about twice as long as ours, and think of the homework!

Reasons for choosing

Does it really make any difference which courses you choose? Let us look at some of the reasons for choosing some subjects and not choosing others. Some of the reasons are good, some not so good.

You may think that a particular subject will be useful for the future course or career you have in mind. That is a good reason. For instance, if you want to go into catering in a serious way, design and technology (food) might be a good choice; if urban planning appeals to you, geography would provide some useful background; and if you feel your future lies in China, then perhaps you should study Chinese.

However, there are very few courses and careers that require particular subjects, with the exception of English, mathematics and science. Your tutor will be able to help you with this.

Here are two more good reasons for choosing a subject:

because you enjoy it because you are good at it

Often the two go together. Be careful, though. Make sure that it is the subject you like and not just the particular teacher you have this year. You may well have a different teacher next year.

Now for some wrong reasons for choosing a subject. Do not be tempted to choose a subject you really do not like, just because your friends have chosen it. It might be the right subject for them but not for you and you could let yourself in for an unhappy two years and a poor result at the end of it. Also, you should not choose

or reject subjects because you think they are “girls’ subjects” or “boys’ subjects”. This sort of thinking is really out of date.For some students it may be better for them to take two courses from one faculty. This means they will concentrate more on an area they are really interested in but lessen the breadth of their curriculum. In doing this, they need to be aware of the implications for further education.

Some students may prefer or be advised by the school to take a course to further enhance their skill and understanding. This could be EAL or Strategies for School.

To sum up, the school has a clear expectation that students need to follow a broad and balanced range of courses to ensure that their future education and career options are safeguarded. The school will advise and guide you and your parents in making your decisions so that they are consistent with the curriculum principles explained in this booklet.

5. What next?

In the week of the Key Stage 4 Options Evening you will be given two blank copies of the choice form. After reading this booklet carefully and discussing your thoughts with your parents, teachers and friends complete both copies and keep one for your reference.

Finally, make sure your name and signature are on the form and the signature of a parent or guardian is at the bottom, and hand it in to your form tutor by 11th December 2009. Forms that are in earlier will not get any special treatment, but if your form is late you may not have such a good chance of getting all of your first subject choices.

After that, the school will do its best through timetabling to meet everyone’s wishes. A copy of the form appears on the next page.

West Island School Key Stage 4 Options Form 2009

Dear Year 9 students

By now you will have read the Options Booklet for Year 10 subjects and discussed this with your tutors and your parents. On 24th November, you had a chance to talk to teachers about the subjects on offer at the KS4 Options Evening. You should now have a good idea of which subjects you will be choosing. This is now your final choice form which needs to be completed and returned to your form tutor by 11th December 2009.

It is important to get this form returned on time. There will be no special treatment for students who return their form early but if you return it late, we may not be able to give you your first choices. It is also important to make sure that these are the subjects you wish to do. If you change your mind later, we may not be able to change your courses

Write down, in order of preference, the four optional subjects you would like to do. Then put down a fifth and sixth choice in case we cannot provide one of your first four or in case we find that your first four don’t suit your future plans.

If you are currently in a Strategies for School or EAL class then ensure you discuss your options with your teacher before submitting this form.

Next, try to think ahead two years to what you might want to do in Year 12. We do not want you to close down any options for the future. If you think you might want to take the Advanced Diploma, you can do this with any combination of GCSEs. However, if you think you might want to take the IB Diploma, you need to be more careful. In this case, think ahead and fill in six choices over the page, three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). This is not a commitment. We ask you to do this so that we can help to guide your choices for Year 10.

Sign the form, ask one of your parents/guardians to sign it, and then return the form to your tutor by 11th December. He/she will then pass it on to the school timetabling team.

Your choices for Years 10 and 111st 2nd 3rd 4th 1st RESERVE 2nd RESERVE

KS4Y10/11

Note: you can only select one D&T subject.

Student’s Name (IN CAPITALS): _______________________

Tutor Group:________

Signed:______________________(student) _______________________(parent)

Date:________________

Now turn over and give us some information about your plans for the future.

Potential IB Options in Yr 12 & 13

Fill in this form the best you can by selecting one subject from each group. Be aware though that the subjects below are what are currently offered and may change by the time you are in the Upper School.

Group Name SubjectSubject choice(Write the subject

name clearly)

Level(indicate SL or HL)

Signature (Head of Subject or subject

representative)

Subject Representative Comment (Only necessary if you have a concern)

1 Language A1 English English

(all students)

2Second Language

Chinese A2

Chinese B

French B

Spanish B

Chinese Ab Initio SL ONLY

French Ab Initio SL ONLY

Spanish Ab Initio SL ONLY

3Individuals and Societies

Business & Management

Economics

Geography

History

Philosophy

PsychologyEnvironmental Systems and Societies*

SL ONLY

4Experimental Sciences

Biology

ChemistryEnvironmental Systems and Societies*

SL ONLY

Design & Technology

Physics

5 Mathematics

Mathematics HL HL

Mathematics SL SL

Maths Studies SL SL

Computer Science Can only be taken as an elective in group 6

6

Arts

Music

Visual Arts

Film Studies

Theatre Studies

Elective(if you don’t choose an Art – see below)

Computer ScienceAnother subject from Groups 2, 3,4 or 5(if you meet the requirement**)

* Environmental systems can be chosen as either a Group 3 or Group 4 subject. It can not be chosen with Biology.

** It is expected that students take a named Arts subject in Group 6 to match the IBO and WIS philosophy of ensuring curriculum breadth across the six subject groups. Therefore students will

need a strong rationale linked to university entrance or future career path as to why they might use Group 6 for an elective block for a second subject.

Advanced Diploma Option Blocks for Year 12 (2010-2011)

Student Name: _______________________ Tutor Group:_____________

Pathway Certificate Award IB SL Certificates

ENG Engineering Certificate

Sport & Exercise Award Maths SL or StudiesBusiness Award Physics

Art & Design Award     

BUS Business Certificate

Sport & Exercise Award English A1Art & Design Award Language B SL or Ab InitioEngineering Award Biology

  Environmental Systems

ART Art & Design Certificate

Sport & Exercise Award English A1Business Award Language B SL or Ab Initio

Engineering Award     

Choose 1 (14 periods) Choose 1 (7 periods) Choose 1 or 2 (5 periods each)

Your Choices

                

In addition, all students will take two periods of PE and one Year 12 group session per fortnight.

In certain circumstances it may be possible to combine your Advanced Diploma pathway with IB certificates not included here, if there is a sound reason for doing so. See Mr. Stitch if this applies to you.

While we endeavour to provide a flexible range of options to best suit the needs of individual students, it should be noted that the options on offer are subject to change and we can not guarantee that all the individual courses will run. Subjects are on offer dependent on there being sufficient demand for them. This applies in particular if late changes are made to your choices.

A message from the EAL and Individual Needs Departments

Nervous about going into Year 10?

Anxious about how hard the lessons might be?

Worried about the coursework you will have to do?

All the staff in the school are dedicated to making sure that you do your best over the next two years … so do not worry. Always ask. Do not assume that you are the only one who does not understand things!

EAL and Individual Needs teachers will be available to you if you feel that you may need extra help with your GCSE courses. We offer Strategies for School and EAL. These options provide the extra support you need to improve your performance in the GCSE curriculum. During this time you will be following a set schedule for learning. This may involve:

revising important ideas, facts or language used in your GCSE course; spending extra time to complete coursework to a higher standard; doing a specific course to improve your skills in language, studying and revising; working on tasks which address your specific learning needs.

You will probably be familiar with the way we work; we support students during lessons, run activities at lunchtimes and help individuals outside of lessons. If you have received our help in the past, you may be advised to take the EAL or the Strategies for School options. EAL is for those students who would like some help with GCSEs simply because English is not their first language and academic language for examinations and coursework may be a little difficult for them. SEN students may have wider learning needs. Read the sections dedicated to them in the booklet.

You may not have needed help before, but may now feel that you are more comfortable with taking 7 or 8 instead of 9 GCSE subject courses. You might want to improve your research and study skills or spend more time on certain subjects. Talk to your tutor about this in the first instance and get some advice on what you might be able to do.

CORE GCSE SUBJECTS

Remember, these are the subjects that you all have to study for GCSE*

ENGLISH MATHEMATICS SCIENCE

*Science is also available at BTEC level for a small number of students. These students will be notified later in the year.

English Faculty

English and English LiteratureIGCSE – English Language – (OCR 0500)

IGCSE – English Literature – (Edexcel 4360)

During the two year course, all of you will study for two IGCSE qualifications- English language and English literature. Although examined separately, these will be taught as one course during your weekly lessons of English.

IGCSE stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education. As an international school, with many different cultures and beliefs, we feel that this course offers a greater range of opportunities and challenges that relate well to our students. The IGCSE qualifications are run by Edexcel International and Cambridge University in England and are fully recognised by universities and centres of higher education worldwide.

In the English language component you will study a wide range of fiction and non-fiction, examining how writers construct texts, as well as extracting information for your own writing tasks. Imaginative, personal and creative writing will also be important elements of the course. You will be asked to write in a variety of ways and for different purposes, ranging from descriptive to informative and argumentative writing. Every piece of work that you complete in English could count as coursework, which makes up 50% of your final mark.

Other areas of English language that you will study are speaking and listening. You will be asked to use appropriate language in a variety of situations, including personal anecdotes, speechmaking and debating. You will develop an awareness of how language changes depending on situation in both speech and writing.

In the English literature component you will read a novel, a play and a selection of poems. You will be asked questions on two of these texts in your final examination, which makes up 70% of your final mark and to write an analysis of poetry for your coursework, which makes up the remaining 30% of your final mark. There will be an emphasis on learning about the literary techniques and language used by authors as well as looking at themes and ideas in a variety of texts. You will be asked to make comparisons between texts and to relate the ideas and issues that are raised to one another.

When you receive your examination marks at the end of Year 11 you will be awarded three final grades and three qualifications as a result of this. One grade will be for English language and with this will be a separated speaking and listening grade; the third grade will be for English literature. It is possible to be awarded different grades in all three areas.

English language and literature are subjects that both allow a great deal of creativity, imagination and personal writing. However, they also both require hard work and determination. With these pre-requisites we believe you have every chance for success.

For Further Information:Please see Mr. Astley

Mathematics Faculty

Mathematics – IGCSE

Your mathematics course in Years 10 & 11 will be a continuation of your Year 9 course. You will follow one of two examination boards depending on your mathematical background and your plans for Year 12 and 13.

Cambridge International Examination (CIE)

You will follow the Extended Cambridge Examinations International Mathematics IGCSE course. Please see the website link at the bottom of the page to find full details of these specifications as well as examiners reports, examples of past papers and relevant mark schemes.

This course is a good preparation for IB Standard and Higher Level courses. Students wishing to study IB Higher Level mathematics will be identified as early as possible and should be in one of the accelerated groups.

How will I be assessed ?

Extended There are three written papers with a total of 4½ hours. Candidates should attempt to answer all the questions on each paper. Paper 2 Time 45 minutes 40 marks 20%

10-12 short response questions. No calculators are permitted on this paper. This paper is designed to assess knowledge and use of basic skills and methods. While any part of the syllabus content may be assessed in this paper, questions will focus

on concepts which can be assessed without access to a calculator. Paper 4 Time 2 hours 15 minutes 120 marks 60%

11-15 medium to extended response questions. A graphics calculator is required for this paper. Any area of the syllabus may be assessed. Some of the questions will particularly assess the use of the graphics calculator.

Paper 6 Time 1 hour 30 minutes 40 marks 20%

One investigation and one modelling question. A graphics calculator is required for this paper. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to investigate, model, and solve more open-

ended problems. Clear communication and full reasoning will be especially important and mark schemes

will reflect this. An extended time allowance is given for this paper to allow students to explore and

communicate their ideas fully.

Extended tier IGCSE includes grades A*to D.

Edexcel International Examinations

You will be entered for either higher or foundation level in the Edexcel IGCSE in mathematics. Please follow the link at the bottom of the page for more details.

The higher course is good preparation for IB mathematical studies. Both higher and foundation courses are good preparation for the Advanced Diploma.

How will I be assessed?

The table below gives you an overview of the assessment for this course.

Foundation Tier

Paper 1 2 Hours 100 Marks 50%Paper 2 2 Hours 100 Marks 50%

Higher Tier

Paper 1 2 Hours 100 Marks 50%Paper 2 2 Hours 100 Marks 50%

Higher tier IGCSE includes grades A*to D, Foundation Level grades C to G. There is 40% common content in these two tiers of examination to aid standardisation and comparability of the award given.

Your teaching and learning experience in mathematics will consist of a variety of approaches and techniques. Group work, ICT based learning, research tasks and whole class teaching supported by dedicated textbooks, and extension materials where appropriate, will support you in fulfilling your potential.

You will be placed in one of eight groups depending on your tier of IGCSE entry:

Accelerated (x2) CIE IGCSE Extended June Year 11Extended (x4) CIE IGCSE Extended June Year 11Higher/Foundation Edexcel IGCSE Higher/Foundation June Year 11(x2)

A Texas Instrument TI 84 Plus calculator is compulsory for all students studying CIE IGCSE mathematics. This same model will be used for all IB Diploma courses. Calculators will be available to buy through the school.

For Further Information: http://www.cie.org.uk/qualifications/academic/middlesec/igcse/subject?assdef_id=999http://www.edexcel.com/quals/igcse/igcse09/maths/mathsA/Pages/default.aspx

For Further Information: Please see Mr. Bengey

Science Faculty

Science IGCSE

In your first three years at West Island School, you have studied a subject called “science”, and this will continue into your IGCSE course. However, unlike your Key Stage 3 science course, IGCSE Co-ordinated Science is divided into biology, chemistry and physics sections. You will still cover the whole range of science – life and living processes, the behaviour of matter and materials, physical phenomena such as waves and electricity – but you will now appreciate the traditional divisions of science.

This course will therefore provide a strong foundation for future science courses at IB level and beyond and helps to provide those who will not be continuing with science after GCSE with a firm idea of the nature of scientific ideas and principles.

This is such a vast subject that you will spend more time on science than any other single subject, and after two years you will have the opportunity to gain a double GCSE in Science. For the first time this new course will have no coursework component,

As in earlier years, the course will be firmly based on experimental work and on the development of your scientific skills and understanding. As you get deeper into the subject, however, you will probably find that it seems more theoretical. This is because you cannot exercise scientific skills without a firm base of scientific knowledge and concepts. You will be taught by more than one science teacher, so that we can make the best use of their specialist knowledge.

Your final grade for the whole subject will be a double one: for example, A*A*, BB or DD, but not mixtures like AB or DE. This is different from the grading in English language and English literature. In Year 11 there may be the opportunity to do extension work and gain a triple award – a separate IGCSE in each science subject.

Science – BTEC First Diploma in Applied Science (Edexcel Level 2)

The Applied Science programme we offer is part of the Edexcel Level 2 BTEC First Diploma in Applied Science. It is aimed at a small number of students who we feel would benefit from continuous, project based assessment. Potential students will be invited on this course later in the year.

On successful completion of the course, students will receive both unit and course results, for chemistry and physical science applications, as well as biological systems. Students will carry out experiments, data collection and other practical applications to obtain raw data which is the basis for project work, and therefore assessment. Assessment portfolios are collected rather than examinations and these are maintained and added to during the course of the year. This allows students to further their knowledge and to help them identify learning areas which are most pertinent to their development in the laboratory. The syllabus includes a broad spectrum approach to applications and knowledge items such as the earth and the environment, elements and the periodic table, rates of reactions in industries, electricity production and limitations, species variation and adaptability, inherited conditions and current treatment and outcomes.

For Further Information:Please see Mr. Gilchrist

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS

Your choice

Creative Arts Faculty

Art and Design – GCSE – Edexcel (1000)

What will the course be like?It is about having an adventurous and enquiring approach to art and design and developing the skills to express it. You will develop an understanding of past and contemporary art and be able to produce personal responses embracing a range of ideas.The skills you will develop in this subject will be varied. Among them, you will learn about materials, working practices and the technology of art and design. You will develop skills to investigate, analyse and experiment using art, craft and design.

You may choose to work in one or more of the following areas:We offer students experiences in printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, mixed media, digital media, drawing and painting, so whether you see yourself as a painter, fashion designer or sculptor, the same rules of art and design apply.

What will I be assessed on?Student Portfolio (Coursework): You will produce 2 major units of work for this section. They will be based on different themes and will explore a variety of media. There are controlled assessment periods that count for 60% of the final mark.Externally Set Assignment: The externally set assignment is another theme set by the exam board. You are given a question paper 8 school weeks prior to the exam and must produce research and development studies during this period in preparation for the exam. At the end of this preparatory period, there will be a 10-hour controlled assessment period, over two days, when a final outcome should be produced (e.g. a painting or sculpture etc.) This externally set assignment is worth 40% of the overall mark.

Assessment Objectives:AO1: develop ideas through investigations informed by contextual and other sources, demonstrating analytical and cultural understandingAO2: refine ideas through experimenting and selecting appropriate resources, media, materials, techniques and processesAO3: record ideas, observations and insights relevant to their intentions in visual and/or other formsAO4: present a personal, informed and meaningful response demonstrating analytical and critical understanding, realising intentions and, where appropriate, making connections between visual, written, oral or other elements

Is this the right course for me?Studying art could lead to careers in such diverse fields as advertising, marketing, design, architecture, publishing and the media, fashion and textile design and product design. Art is also useful for many other careers where creative thinking and problem solving skills are required.You must be able to work hard, co-operatively, creatively, imaginatively and be willing to give and receive constructive criticism.

Above all you must be someone who has interest in and enjoys art.

For Further Information:

Please see Mr. Stanley

Drama – GCSE – (Edexcel 1699)

Student Guide to Edexcel Drama GCSE

Is this the right subject for me? Do you enjoy

Expressing yourself in an active and exciting way? Working in a group? Contributing your own ideas and respecting those of others? Exploring ideas by putting yourself in other people’s shoes? Playing many parts in different imaginary situations? Creating your own drama work? Looking at plays written by other people?

If you have ticked any of the boxes above, then this GCSE drama course is the ideal subject for you.

What do I need to know before, or be able to do, taking this course? You will probably have had experience of drama in drama lessons during Years 7, 8 and 9. You may also be a member of a drama club. Any of these experiences can help if you choose drama as a GCSE subject. You will develop your improvisation and acting skills to a higher level. You will also look at plays in more detail and at different ways of bringing a script to life on stage. If you are more interested in the technical aspects of drama (for example set design or lighting) you could focus on these for part of the course.

What will I learn? You will learn how drama is created, including all the acting and staging skills that are needed to put a piece of drama on to the stage. You will learn how to create a character and play this character in a performance.

You will also learn many other skills that are highly valued in any walk of life. These include teamwork and confidently presenting yourself in public.

How will I be assessed? Almost all assessment is practical. There are no written examinations although you will be required to keep a written record of your practical work.

You will explore themes, ideas and plays in a wholly practical way and your teacher will assess how well you have done. You will also be required to perform in a play or contribute a form of design to a production such as costume, lighting or sound. You will perform the play with visiting examiner in the audience.

Assessment overview The grid gives you an overview of the assessment for this course.

Edexcel GCSE DramaNew Specification

Unit 1: Drama Exploration (30%)

This is an exploration of creative and structural aspects of drama: forms of stimuli explorative strategies drama medium elements of drama

You will take part in a controlled assessment which is a six hour practical exploration which is internally assessed and externally moderated.You will also write documentary evidence which is a maximum of 2000 words and is internally assessed and externally moderated

Unit 2: Exploring Play Texts (30%)

This is the exploration of a play text chosen by your drama teacher involving: exploration of character interpretation of the play design implications of the play visits to live theatre performances

You will take part in a controlled assessment which is a six hour practical exploration which is internally assessed and externally moderated.You will also write a documentary response which is a maximum of 1000 words and a response to live theatre seen which is a maximum of 2000 words. Both pieces are internally assessed and externally moderated

Unit 3: Drama Performance (40%)

This is a devised or scripted play performance to an audience, for which you may offer; acting skills, or performance support and design skills

You will be assessed by a visiting examiner.

What can I do after I’ve completed the course?After you have completed GCSE drama you can go on to study IB theatre arts.

For further information: Please see Ms Rochester, Head of Drama or emailkerry.rochester@wis.edu.hk

Film Studies - GCSEWelsh Joint Education Committee

There is a powerful force sending its messages to virtually everyone on the planet. It is using every form of communication tool available. It is in your sitting room, your bedroom and maybe even in your bathroom. No matter how hard you might try, you cannot escape it. The name of this driving force is “the media” and, whether you like it or not, the film industry helps to define your life and the way you think. Because of this, it is important to be media literate and film studies will help you to decode the messages and meanings that are embedded in the films that we see.

Assessment – the key question

50% of the course is assessed through coursework which is aimed at allowing students to demonstrate their technical and creative ability through their analysis and production of visual texts. 25 marks are assigned to the critical analysis of a film that the students choose to study. 30 marks are given to students who are required to pitch an idea for a film and then the presentation of the pre-production artefacts which will include the script, storyboard and animatic for the opening sequence and a variety of marketing materials which could include the layout designs for posters and magazine covers. 35 marks are awarded for a production task which could include the filming and editing of their opening sequence, a film poster campaign marketing their film, a feature article about their film or a dedicated website devoted to their film. The final 10 marks is assigned to a discursive essay highlighting what the student has learnt about the main study areas for film from their preproduction and production work (film language, film organisations and audiences).

50% of the course is evaluated in a final examination with two distinct papers. Paper 1 is focused on the study of a specified genre. For the next few years, the exam will focus on disaster films. In the exam, students will be required to respond to an unseen film extract and answer questions about creative and technical aspects. Students will also be required to discuss issues of audience appeal, marketing and promotion as well as develop a creative idea like design a teaser poster for a nominated disaster film. Paper 2 is designed to expose students to films outside Hollywood and the difficulties faced in defining a national cinema. The exam board identifies a list of films from which we will select 2 or 3 for close analysis. Students will need to understand how themes are delivered through characters, film language and the director’s intent when placed in an historical or cultural perspective.

If you intend to take GCSE film studies, you must be interested in films and the industries that produce, promote and control them. You need a good standard of written English because the examination requires timed essay skills over an extended period of 2 hours. Coursework tasks will require creative and technical skills involved in film making and also print design using Photoshop

While it is not an easy course, students who apply themselves have been rewarded with very good grades at the end of the course.

For further Information:Please see Mr. Tranent

Music – GCSE – Edexcel

Is this the right subject for me? Yes it is if you enjoy• performing music• composing music• learning an instrument or singing• creating music on computers• learning about all types of music, including classical, popular and world then GCSE music is the ideal subject for you.

What do I need to know, or be able to do, before taking this course?You have already gained many of the basic skills needed for this course in your music lessons over the last three years at West Island School.

• You have been introduced to creating music in class and this is developed on the GCSE course as you choose two topics for composition. For example, this could be a popular song and a dance track, a classical piece or some world music. There is a wide choice and it can be tailored to your own musical interests and strengths.

• You have already listened to a variety of music in class and these skills are developed as you study some set pieces taken from the classical, 20th century, popular and world music areas of study.

• You enjoy making music, either as a soloist or in a group e.g. in a band, in a duet, or mixed ensemble. The GCSE course encourages you to perform music of your own choosing and in any style, as a soloist and also in a group. To take this course, you must be able to offer at least one instrument/or voice.

What will the course be like?GCSE music is about creating and listening to music. It covers performing, composing and listening in a wide variety of musical styles – popular music, world music, and classical music and there are opportunities to use music technology.

What will I learn, how does it follow on from what I have learned before?You will learn how:• to improve your performing skills• music is constructed from initial ideas through to the finished product• to analyse music in a variety of styles and discover the social and historical context in which music has been composed over the last 400 years or so.

How will I be assessed?

Performing Composing Listening & AppraisingYou will need to play one solo piece and one ensemble (group) piece. 30%

You will need to create two compositions in any style you chose.30%

You will sit a 90 minute written paper with questions on the prescribed set works. Questions such as these are asked:• ‘Name the instrument playing the solo’• ‘Give two musical reasons why you like or dislike this piece of music.’• ‘This theme is shared between two instrumental families? What are they?’40%

What other skills might I develop?GCSE music offers opportunities to develop your ability to be creative, be original and confidence when working with others.

What could I do next with GCSE Music?GCSE music is good preparation for further musical study. You may wish to take a GCSE in music for its own sake, perhaps to form the basis of a future interest. Alternatively, you may wish to go into a job where it is useful to have had experience of music or where you will need to use some of the skills developed during this course. These might include careers in the music industry, publishing, media entertainment and teaching or any job, which involves communication and expressive skills.

For further information: Please see Ms Dalgarno, Head of Creative Arts (& Music)Email: leigh.dalgarno@wis.edu.hk

Physical Education & Sport Faculty

Physical Education – GCSE – (Edexcel 1825)

What will the course be like ?

This is a part theory, part practical course. Over two years you will cover a range of sports in depth looking at areas such as planning and tactics, individual skills and teamwork. On the theory side you will study a variety of topics including anatomy, physiology, sports injuries, diet and health and reasons for participating in sport and activity. Practically, the emphasis will be on enhancing performance through skill and fitness development.

How will I be assessed?

The assessment is split into three sections:

40% of the final grade is based on an examination taken at the end of Year 11. This consists of multiple choice and short answer questions on all the theory.

50% of the final grade is taken from practical assessments in four selected sports over the two years. You will be marked on each sport as you go through the course and then you will get a mark in a final practical examination held at the end of Year 11. If you have special talents in other activities not covered during the course which you pursue in your own time, you may also be assessed in these areas.

10% of the overall mark is based on your ability to analyse your own and others’ practical performance in any given sport/activity.

Is this the right course for me ?

To do this course you must be able to:

Work hard on developing fitness; Be flexible; Enjoy challenge and sport; Work co-operatively with others; Give and receive helpful criticism.

Above all, you must be someone who enjoys sport.

For Further Information:Please see Mr. Lant

Individuals and Societies Faculty

Business Studies – IGCSE

What will the course be like ?

IGCSE business studies helps you develop a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. This will involve consideration of the internal workings and management of organisations and, in particular the process of decision-making in a dynamic world.

We will study business behaviour from the perspectives of a range of stakeholders including customers, managers, creditors, shareholders and employees. We raise our awareness of the economic, environmental, ethical, governmental, legal, social and technological issues associated with business activity. Business studies draws on a variety of disciplines which are interrelated.

Some of the topic areas you will cover include: internal structure of businesses, business ownership, human resource management, marketing, production, accounts, and economic concepts. This will be achieved through a variety of teaching methods such as business simulation, case studies and use of Internet integrated with the traditional approach to classroom teaching.

How will I be assessed ?

One final examination.

Is this course right for me ?

You must have strong mathematical and English skills. You will be drawing break-even charts and dealing with accounts!

You must be able to contribute to class discussion and offer opinions. You must be interested in the economic environment. You will need to be able to solve problems and make business decisions. You must enjoy a challenge!

For Further Information :Please see Mrs. Cooper

Individuals and Societies Faculty

Economics – IGCSE - Edexcel

What is the course about ?

Economics is the study of how humans deal with the universal problem of scarcity and how society attempts to solve it through making choices. It is a modern and dynamic subject which looks at modern economic issues.

Economics has theory but also deals with how economics is put into practice and therefore looks at policies and current economic problems in the UK and elsewhere. Economics is a constantly changing subject so an interest in current affairs is very important. While economics does not examine specific businesses, it does look at the markets in which business operates and what the role of business is in producing goods and services to solve the economic problem.

How will I be assessed ?

Two final examinations (100%). There is no coursework.

Is this the course for me ?

You must be interested in current events. You must be prepared to think independently and consider alternatives. You must be prepared to offer your opinion and to back it up. You need to have good basic mathematics skills.

For Further Information :Please see Mrs. Cooper

Maths and ICT Faculty

Information and Communications Technology – IGCSE Edexcel

What will the course be like ?This is an exciting course – it combines the elements of using different application software (programmes) with information about the technology that lies behind how we use ICT every day. We investigate current issues in ICT, as well as looking at the new inventions and how these can be put to use in our lives.

Students will learn how to use applications currently in use in the business world. These include image manipulation, web-site design, desktop publishing and word-processing, spreadsheets and databases. Students will have practical lessons in learning the capabilities of these programmes and will then need to use their skills to solve a realistic problem. This problem-solving using ICT is central to the philosophy of the course – we believe that students need to know how to use the right ICT products to solve a problem.

ICT isn’t about programming at KS4 – that is covered on the IB course that will be available to you in Years 12 & 13. ICT is about becoming skilled in and knowledgeable about a wide range of ICT topics. To aid your learning you will be encouraged to read widely – this includes magazines, books and of course the Internet. Don’t worry - your teacher will give advice about this in class and show you the resources that we already have.

How will I be assessed ?

Like most GCSE courses the ICT course has both examination and coursework components. Your final assessment is based on an examination (70%) and two pieces of coursework. Each coursework task is worth 15% - there is a set task from the board that is completed in class, and an individual project where the student solves a problem that they have investigated (allowing students to pick the software programme that they are most familiar with).

Is this the right course for me ?

To be successful in this course you need the following attributes: be able to work hard be able to practise using new software outside of class (the computer rooms are open for

students to do this) be able to think logically about a problem and break it into smaller parts.

You don’t need: to be artistically gifted to be able to program to already be ‘good’ at computers – we can teach you that!

This is also a good course to pair with business studies or one of the design and technology subjects. The skills you learn in ICT will help with these subjects and the knowledge you gain from the other subjects will assist with your learning in ICT. This course is good preparation for the computing science course on offer at IB. It will give you the necessary practical skills and understanding of issues to have a successful start on this course. Above all, ICT IGCSE will equip you with the tools to function effectively and efficiently in the future.

For further information: Please see Mr. Lewis

EAL Support Option

Students who have English as their second or additional language are advised to take the EAL support option instead of an 8th or 9th GCSE subject.

These small group lessons take place twice a week and are taught by a language specialist. Students are given an intensive academic language skills programme which includes grammar and vocabulary as well as advice on efficient study habits in the context of their GCSE work in other subjects. They also get language tips and advice on drafting, editing and improving coursework pieces from across the curriculum. Students are encouraged to bring challenging homework and class work tasks to these lessons for consultation, review and clarification.

EAL specialist teachers maintain close links with staff teaching other GCSE subjects to ensure the relevance and transferability of the work done in these lessons. Wherever necessary, work from other GCSE subjects is pre-taught, revised or followed up during this time.

What does the EAL Support Option offer you ?

A SMALL GROUP environment with supportive teachers to help you.

TIME to revise what you have learnt in other subjects.

HELP and ADVICE with drafting and editing coursework assignments, projects and homework.

CLARIFICATION of the language and vocabulary used in subjects.

STUDY SKILLS to make revision for tests and exams easier.

LEARNING STRATEGIES like mind-mapping, concept mapping and brainstorming to improve your knowledge and understanding of subject work.

ACADEMIC LANGUAGE SKILLS to make you more confident in every subject.

ACCESS to INTERACTIVE language activities online.

For Further Information : Please see Ms. Koshy

IGCSE English as a Second Language

This course is designed for students who have English as their second or additional language. It is a full IGCSE course that is accepted at A-level and universities around the world as a valid English language qualification.

The IGCSE ESL is a skills based course that aims to enable students to do the following:

To develop the ability to use English effectively for the purpose of practical communication in a variety of situations.

To form a sound base for the skills required for further study and employment using English as the medium.

To develop an awareness of the nature of language and language learning skills along with skills of a more general application, (e.g. writing for specific purposes, analysing and synthesizing material).

Students are examined on reading and writing for 2 hours and on listening skills for 40 minutes. There is also a 15-minute oral examination.All students are currently required to take the English language (first language) exam – which takes place in May at the end of Year 11. The IGCSE ESL exam is therefore taken in November, soon after students enter Year 11 and offers students an additional English language qualification.

What are the advantages of taking IGCSE ESL ?

No long coursework assignments – improve your speaking confidence with the 15-minute oral assessment.

Better English language reading and writing skills that are useful in all subjects. Improved general knowledge and vocabulary from exposure to newspapers and

magazines. Exposure to radio and television excerpts to enhance listening skills. Developing oral confidence and speaking skills through short group discussions,

presentations and speeches. Summarizing, skimming, scanning and note-taking skills. Writing in different registers, both formal and informal. Writing for specific purposes -

reports, business letters, letters of complaint, persuasion, transactions, arguments etc. Less examination pressure in May, because you take this one in November. Lots more

time after November in Year 11 to work on improving subject coursework in other subjects and developing revision and study skills.

Two useful English Language GCSE grades – IGCSE ESL and the English as a First Language.

For Further Information :Please see Ms. Koshy

Strategies for School Option

The Strategies for School Option exists as a choice for students where, instead of 1 or 2 GCSE courses, they can receive direct support for their learning needs and assistance with the coursework and homework they get in their chosen GCSE subjects.

Places are reserved for students that the Strategies for School team has worked with during their lower school years or those who exhibit substantial need for support. Such students need to be invited by the Strategies for School team.

WHAT DOES THE STRATEGIES FOR SCHOOL OPTION HAVE TO OFFER STUDENTS ?

Small Class Size……. Dedicated Resources…….

Time for Study……. Time for Study Skills……. Time for Seminars……

Small Class Sizes The option has sessions each week in small classes.

Dedicated Resources Strategies for School is based in a classroom equipped with access to 4 desktops computers as well as specialist study books which cover many areas of the KS4 curriculum. CD-ROM resources are also available. Students may also book access to the ICT and library resources by arrangement with the School Librarian.

Time for Study Students are encouraged to further develop their skills in independent learning. Time management, organisation, goal-setting and reflection are skills constantly reinforced and expected in Strategies for School. Examination preparation will be a priority at appropriate times in the school year.

For Further Information :Please see Ms. Hogan

Individuals and Societies Faculty

Geography – GCSE (Edexcel 4370)

Geography at IGCSE involves an integrated study of the earth’s places people, environments and societies. The course is divided into 3 units and will include the following topics within those units :

Section A: - The natural environment and people

Complete two of the three topics:

1. River environments2. Coastal environments3. Hazardous environments

Section B: - People and their environments

Complete two of the three topics:

4. Economic activity and energy5. Ecosystems and rural environment6. Urban environments

Section C: - Global Issues

Complete one of the three topics:

7. Fragile environments8. Globalisation and migration9. Development and human welfare

How will I be assessed ?

IGCSE geography is assessed through one 2hr 45 minute examination paper. There is a single tier of entry. Question styles include multiple choice, short and extended answer questions, graphical

and data questions and fieldwork questions based on the options chosen in section A and B.

During the course you will learn through an enquiry approach to think geographically and investigate world issues. Wherever possible, practical fieldwork will be used to enhance your understanding of the topics covered. Geography will help you make informed judgements about stewardship of the environment. You will learn how to sustainably manage physical and human environments both globally and locally.

For Further Information :Please see Miss Devine

History – “Modern World History” – IGCSE – (Edexcel 4H10)

Examination Units

A Study in Change: The Emergence of Modern China 1934-1989

A Study in Development: A Divided Union- The USA 1945- 1974

A study in Development: Stalin: Dictatorship and Conflict 1924- 1953

A Depth Study: Colonial Rule and Nationalism in India 1919-1947

Twentieth century events have shaped our world and have an effect on our lives today. In the GCSE history course you will study four twentieth century international history options through a variety of sources, from political speeches to newspaper cartoons. We also make extensive use of excellent archive videos and DVDs.

This syllabus gives you the opportunity to study history in outline and in depth. The skills you have learned over the past three years will be developed and extended. You will also learn new skills of source evaluation and analytical argument. The course will require you to cover a substantial amount of private study reading but you will be given time and support in class to help you with this.

How will I be assessed ?

Your final grade is based around one examination paper- this is divided into three sections. There is no coursework element. This is something you should think about when you make your options choices.

If you are prepared to work hard and have an interest in political, economic and social issues, you will enjoy this course.

For Further Information :Please see Mr. Stitch

Religious Studies – GCSE – (Edexcel 2RS01)

Religious studies at GCSE is interesting, relevant and fun.  We have the opportunity to study philosophy, ethics and comparative religion.

While it is not essential for you to have studied religious studies at GCSE to take IB philosophy, often students find it useful as the course prepares you to think in a philosophical way, giving you the skills to analyse, evaluate and argue different points of view.

 Students study religion and life from a Christian perspective in Year 10. Students will study four units which are:1) Believing in God- this explores if it is possible to prove God exists and how this affects faith and action.2) Matters of life and death- this explores life after death, abortion, euthanasia and world poverty.3) Marriage and the family- this explores marriage, divorce, sexuality and family life4) Religion and community cohesion- this explores sexism, ethnicity, racism, and multi faith society.

In Year 11 the students take a course called religion and society in which they consider issues of social responsibility including politics, war, crime and punishment, as well as the environment and science. They are given the opportunity to extend their religious knowledge through adding a religion of their choice to the study.

 Within each unit, we look at religious attitudes to the issues, beliefs and teachings and how these relate to non-religious beliefs. We then aim to under-pin these ideas through looking at real life situations and locate their learning in the world we live in.

How will I be assessed ? Your final grade is made up of one exam (2 hours) in Year 10 and one exam (2 hours) in Year 11. There is no coursework. This is an excellent course which inspires many debates; we use film and other forms of media as stimuli for these discussions.  The exam questions require concise written answers that reflect the understanding and evaluation that we practise in class.

For Further Information : Please see Ms. Hudson

Modern Languages Faculty

IGCSE Foreign Language: CHINESE, FRENCH, SPANISHIGCSE First Language: CHINESE

GCSE: CHINESE

The ability to speak modern foreign languages such as those listed above, which rank in the top ten most spoken languages in the world today, is, without a doubt, a huge advantage in these days of growing internationalism, competition and the global economy. The courses offered, faithful to the spirit of the International Baccalaureate, are infused with an international flavour and emphasise the development of an appreciation of the target language settings and cultures.

All French/Spanish students and the majority of foreign language Chinese students will take IGCSE courses. In each of the IGCSE language courses offered, you will develop your skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. Each of these skill areas is worth an equal proportion so finding one skill particularly difficult does not mean disaster. When studying any of the languages, it is particularly important that you develop your understanding of grammatical rules and are able to apply these. As a preparation for IB, it is particularly important to improve your written skills as much as you can.

There are two tiers of examination: core (grades C to G) and extended (grades A* to G). Most WIS students will be entered for the extended tier.

Core TierGrades C to G

Extended TierGrades A* to G

Paper 1 (33%): Listening (45 minutes) Paper 2 (33%): Reading and directed writing (1½ hours) Paper 3 (33%): Speaking (15 minutes)

Paper 1 (25%): Listening (45 minutes) Paper 2 (25%): Reading and directed writing (1½ hours) Paper 3 (25%): Speaking (15 minutes)

Paper 4 (25%): Continuous writing (1¼ hours)

You will study a variety of topics, many of which you have covered to some extent in Years 7 to 9. The main IGCSE topics are:

Topic AreasA Everyday activities

Home life and schoolFood, health and fitness

B Personal and social lifeSelf, family and personal relationshipsHolidays and special occasions

C The world around usHome town and local areaNatural and made environmentPeople, places and customs

D The world of workContinuing educationCareers and employmentLanguages and communication in the work place

E The international worldTourism at home and abroadLife in other countries and communitiesWorld events and issues

Our courses make use of a wide variety of resources, including online exercises, videos, listening and reading materials. We also encourage individual language home stays as well as one and two week language immersion programmes in the target language countries themselves, where students speak nothing but the target language and enhance their oral fluency in the language considerably as a result. It is possible to participate in these in Year 9 as well, just before embarking on the GCSE programme, as an added boost.

You will need to work hard but remember, having a qualification in a modern language can be a passport to exciting career prospects in the future and the rewards can be very great indeed.

In French and Spanish, you are given the opportunity to learn more about French and Spanish culture, food and music in addition to language structures and using the language for practical purposes. You will also find out about famous people in French, Spanish and Latin American history as well as the countries where French and Spanish are spoken.

Living and studying in Hong Kong presents an ideal opportunity for students to learn Chinese in a natural and authentic environment and acquire a skill which, in today’s world, could become a real asset in the future.

In Chinese (IGCSE and GCSE second language programmes – i.e. as a foreign language), students develop a range of skills and enhance their knowledge and understanding of the language. There is an emphasis on developing an understanding of the spoken and written forms of Putonghua and using the language effectively in different contexts.

We also offer a short course in GCSE Chinese which gives some students an alternative way to become confident in using Chinese. This is a two year course with an emphasis on speaking and listening skills and will suit students who are not so confident with writing.

In all the IGCSE foreign language courses, students are exposed to a wide range of grammar, equipping them with the tools needed for further study of the language at IB level, where they can choose to continue either with the language B Standard or Higher options.

IGCSE Chinese – First language Course

For native or near-native speakers of Chinese

The course aims to improve students’ confidence in expressing themselves in Chinese and places an emphasis on accuracy, appropriateness and effectiveness in both written and oral communication. Students will explore Chinese literature, studying a wide variety of texts, while also enhancing their knowledge of Chinese culture, history, geography and philosophy. Students following this programme will sit the IGCSE Chinese First Language examination at the end of Year 11. This is also a course to help students to move towards a higher level qualification in the IBDP Chinese programme in KS5.

For Further Information :Please see Mr. Hammond

Design & Technology

Design & Technology: Resistant Materials Technology – AQA (4562)

If you enjoy creating items in materials such as wood, plastic and metal then consider this course which builds on the experience and skills you have developed at Key Stage 3. Over the two-year course you will develop your designing and making skills as well as gaining an understanding of the technology behind the subject. You will learn about the methods used by industry to manufacture the products we use every day and gain an insight into issues related to design and technology that affect us all. Both computer-aided-design (CAD) and computer-aided-manufacture (CAM) will be practised.

What will I be assessed on?Coursework project 60% of total marks:This is for an extended personal design assignment consisting of a 3-dimensional product and a concise design folder. Written Paper (2 hour examination) 40% of total marks:The final examination that tests the student’s ability to understand the design process and the theory and techniques behind their knowledge and understanding of designing and making based on the resistant materials range.

Is this the right course for me?Students who enjoy this course are hardworking, well organized, able to meet deadlines, solve problems, creative and enjoy practical activity. Above all, they have a personal passion and interest of how products we use on a daily basis are designed and made.

What are my Career Options?If you wish to consider a career in architecture, computer aided design, product design, environmental design, furniture design, industrial design or mechanical or structural engineering.

For Further Information:Please see Mr. Zobrist

Design & Technology

Design & Technology: Graphic Products – AQA (4552)

If you enjoy creating items in materials such as paper, plastic and card then consider this course which builds on the experience and skills you have developed at Key Stage 3. This course is concerned with the designing of graphic products and presenting solutions through drawings and models. Graphic products are items such as display posters, packaging and promotional items too.

There are a wide range of graphic products used to enhance advertising and marketing such as advertisements, promotional merchandise, displays, packaging, poster and magazines as well as presentation drawings for products and architecture. There are also many elements of graphical design that enhances the styling and colour of everyday products, such as your laptop or mobile phone. All of these areas offer the student the opportunity to express their creativity and skills.

For much of the course the student will be placed in a situation, much like a professional graphics studio, where real life design problems will have to be solved within the restraint of the commercial environment. Students will also have to study industrial manufacturing processes so that their designs could be produced in quantity.

What will I be assessed on?Coursework project 60% of total marks:This is for an extended personal design assignment consisting of a 2- and 3-dimensional product and a concise design folder. Written paper (2 hour examination) 40% of total marks:The final examination that tests the student’s ability to understand the design process and the theory and techniques behind their knowledge and understanding of designing and making based on the graphic products range.

Is this the right course for me?Students who enjoy this course are hardworking, well organized, able to meet deadlines, solve problems, creative and enjoy practical activity. You should enjoy designing and making using card, paper and other modeling materials and be willing to work as part of a team. Above all, they have a personal passion and interest of how products we use on a daily basis are designed and made.

What are my Career Options?If you wish to consider a career in architecture, product design, computer aided design, graphic Design, promotion & advertising (marketing), interior design or engineering.

For Further Information:Please see Mr. Williams or Mr. Milburn

Design & Technology

Design & Technology: Textiles Technology – AQA (4572)

A textile is a creative, challenging and inspiring course. You will experience the opportunity to use your imagination and develop your own ideas. You will play the role of fashion designer and manufacturer and will have the opportunity to design and print you own fabrics, to design for fashion, interiors or theatrical costume. ICT plays a good part in this course and you will have a chance to use computer aided design systems.

What will you be doing in Year 10? Fashion design and illustration: You will design a range of fashion clothing or interiors while

analyzing what makes a good design. Fashion history: you will investigate what influences fashion and will look at current fashion

designers to see what inspires them. Manufacture: You will learn how to construct clothing, make paper patterns and improve your

sewing skills in a creative and professional way. Fibres & fabrics: You will research the properties and qualities of textiles and what makes a

fabric suitable for its purpose. Technological textiles: textiles of the future, electro textiles, micro encapsulation and nano

textiles, where does textiles fit into our future? Developing your CAD & CAM skills: Learning to design using computer aided design &

manufacture.

What will you be doing Year 11? Major project: This counts for 60% of your final grade. The coursework is comprised of a

research and design folder (20%) and a practical product (40%). Exam: A 2 hour written exam accounts for the other 40%.

What are my career options?If you wish to pursue a career in fashion design, interior design, theatrical costume design, textiles manufacture, fashion forecasting, textiles science, fashion manufacture, fashion merchandising, fabric manufacture, costing, retailing, quality control, shoe design, bag design, textile engineering, CAD or CAM then this course would be an excellent choice for you!

For Further Information:Please see Ms. Inger-Smith

Design & Technology

Design & Technology: Food Technology – AQA (3542)

This is a fun, creative and technological course where you get to play the role of the food technologist, the designer, the client and use ICT!

What will you be doing in Year 10? Lots of COOKING! A foundation practical skills unit : you will make various cakes, pastry and sauces Special diets e.g. vegetarianism, food allergies Food hygiene and preservation – jam making and risotto Christmas cookery: Chocolate logs Product analysis / sensory analysis using chilled desserts, soft drinks, cheeses etc. Nutrition – with focused practical tasks of your own choice The famous Pizza Factory Project – including a visit to San Marzano Pizza Express restaurant

to make pizza to their design specifications The functional properties of food –focused practical tasks to help you to understand why sauces

thicken, eggs set, how egg whites form foams, etc. Designing food for colour, taste, texture – make cheesecakes Food processing Food additives and labeling Nutritional analysis using the P.C. nutrients programme

What will you be doing Year 11? A major coursework project over 6 months from September to March. This counts for 60% of

your final GCSE grade. The 2 hour written exam in June accounts for the other 40%. You will choose a coursework outline and develop new food products in response to a design

brief Example of an outline: Design and make a special occasion sweet food or dessert product for a

food outlet of your choice

You will further your knowledge and understanding in concepts for example:

Food product development & its stages Food product design, development & market influences The application of appropriate screening and checking procedures in the food production

system in order to provide feedback, monitor performance and ensure quality control nutrition, labelling, information, legislation and codes of practice

Awareness of the social and economic implications of food production and processing technology

Food processes and product manufacture The effect of combining different ingredients and the interaction of foods during preparation

and cooking The importance of appropriate proportions on the structure, shape and volume of mixtures The need and effect of additives on the appearance, flavour, consistency and storage of food Selection and use of equipment for a particular task or process to produce a consistent result in

both test kitchen and industrial production The beneficial and detrimental effect of micro organisms and enzymes on food Preparation and preservation methods that affect quality and storage of food

What are my career options? If you wish to pursue a career in food product development, food buying, quality assurance and control, food science, food technology, hospitality, dietetics, food manufacture, food merchandising, costing, retailing, CAD or CAM then this course would be an excellent choice for you!

For Further Information:Please see Ms. Revans