GCSE & IGCSE OPTIONS - John Lyon School
GCSE & IGCSEOPTIONS2021 - 2023www.johnlyon.org@johnlyonharrow
A John Lyon pupil will aim high and exceed expectations.A John Lyon pupil has a can-do ethos. Ours is a culture that encourages pupilsto ask more, want more and push themselves to their limit. Small form groups,specialist teachers and a supportive culture create an environment in whichpupils are motivated and ambitious. A John Lyon education enriches and addsvalue; we ensure pupils have the tools and character to prosper.John Lyon pupils achieve excellence in their endeavours.Inspirational, dynamic teaching ensures pupils are encouraged, mentored andnurtured to excel and achieve. We provide a springboard for later life with abroad curriculum that ensures each individual is challenged. John Lyon pupilsbecome the best they can be.A John Lyon pupil is willing to be bold, experiment and beresourceful.We welcome unconventional and original ideas. We are a listening School whereideas and concepts are readily communicated and implemented. We embracetechnology to support the application of imagination and initiative.John Lyon pupils have the capacity to embrace adversity,recovcer quickly, and learn from the experience.John Lyon pupils are determined, tenacious and steadfast. Our teaching,mentoring and pastoral care cultivate an environment where courage,mental fortitude and grit prevail.John Lyon pupils have a strong moral code and pride in thecharitable history of the School’s founder.We celebrate heritage. We are proud of our charitable history: a strong moralcode, our ethical approach to education and core values derived from ourfounder, John Lyon. We have a contemporary approach in an established andtraditional setting. We maintain close relationships with our Alumni and widerJohn Lyon family. We are a local School with an international horizon.John Lyon pupils are compassionate and respectful, looking afterboth each other and our wider community.We are happy, kind-hearted and tolerant, approaching life with a spirit ofservice. Community starts at School and extends to the Hill, our Alumni,our peers within John Lyon’s Foundatio, our families, neighbours and beyond.Our friendship is for life.John Lyon pupils have enquiring minds and a love of learning.A John Lyon pupil is encouraged to challenge the status quo and be curious.Pupils are inspired to ask questions of themselves and the world around them.We foster their interests through our bespoke curriculum, outstandingextra-curricular provision and excellent facilities.John Lyon pupils will explore, use their imagination and beinventive.We embrace individuality and celebrate creativity of thought and deed. TheCreative Arts are cherished and nurtured. We approach School life with energyand with purpose. John Lyon pupils have flair and vision.www.johnlyon.org/values
WelcomeYear 10 is the start of an exciting timefor John Lyon pupils as the formalbeginning of their GCSE and IGCSEeducation.GCSE and IGCSE results are increasingly valued byuniversities; they will also influence the A-Level subjectspupils will study, their options for higher educationand indeed the careers they go on to pursue. It isimportant, therefore, that careful consideration is givento which subjects are selected.Narrowing down from fourteen academic subjectsin Year 9 to only nine subjects inYear 10 can be adaunting task, but please do not feel overwhelmed.Our best advice is for pupils to select the subjectsthey enjoy the most and those in which they feel theirstrongest abilities lie. Of course, thinking ahead towhich subjects pupils may wish to study at A-Level andthen university is an important consideration.Mr T LewisAssistant Head (Academic)TJL@johnlyon.orgThis booklet is designed to help all pupils and theirparents make subject decisions and from those choicesthe School will then be able to plan next year’stimetable and recruit any further specialist staff to helpmeet our requirements.There are also many members of School staff ableto assist in making these decisions. Pupils and theirparents are encouraged to discuss their suitability foroption subjects with their subject teachers. Furtherguidance should be sought from both the pupil’s FormTutor and the Head of Year 9, Miss Fiona Easton.TheSchool’s Careers Advisor, Mrs Marion Harper, canprovide guidance on which subjects pupils should studyto enable a particular career.Choices need to be submitted via the “Forms” sectionof the Parent Portal by Monday 8th March 2021.
GCSE and IGCSEThe GCSE (General Certificate of SecondaryEducation) and IGCSE (International GeneralCertificate of Secondary Education) are simplytwo different versions of the same qualification.Whilst there is occasional debate as to which ismore challenging, official reviews of their relativedifficulty show them to be very similiar anduniversities view these qualifications equally.Within (I)GCSE there are a number of differentexamination boards that set their own curriculumand examination structure. John Lyon encouragesits Heads of Department to select the bestqualifications that provide suitable challenge andenrichment opportunities for our pupils. As such,qualifications are sourced from a variety ofexamination boards. Some will be deemed GCSEs(accessible only by UK schools) whilst othersIGCSEs (accessible only by international and UKindependent schools).The government’s education agenda and,consequently, examination board specificationsare constantly changing.Whilst the informationcontained within this booklet is correct at thetime of print, Heads of Department constantlyreassess the best option for our pupils and as suchthe specification followed may change.In each subject section, we have provided thespecification that our current Year 11 are studying.Throughout this booklet, unless referringspecifically to either GCSE or IGCSE, we shall usethe term (I)GCSE.GRADINGAll (I)GCSEs will be assessed by the relatively new9-1 grading system in 2023.Grade 7 and above will be achieved by the sameproportion as previously achieved grades A*-A.Grade 4 and above will be achieved by the sameproportion as previously achieved grades A*-C.Beyond this, there is little alignment between thetwo grading systems and the guidance we havereceived is that a grade 9 will be significantlyharder to achieve than an A* was previously.New grading structurePrevious grading structure98A*7A654BCD3E2F1GUUCORE SUBJECTSAt I(GCSE) all pupils study English Language,English Literature and Mathematics.OPTION SUBJECTSPupils are required to choose six subjects fromthe istryPhysicsLanguagesFrenchSpanishLatinClassical GreekHumanitiesGeographyHistoryReligious StudiesDigitalComputer Science
Since the decoupling of AS-Levels from A-Levelsand the subsequent decline of the AS, universitiesare increasingly looking to (I)GCSE grades andsubject choices to demonstrate both an applicant’sability and coherency in the choices they make.Therefore, to ensure a balanced portfolio weencourage pupils to choose:At least TWO sciencesAt least ONE creative subjectAt least ONE humanityAt least ONE languageAdmission to all (I)GCSE option subjects may bebased on aptitude, motivation and proven ability.In some cases, pupils will be interviewed by therelevant Head of Department before admission isgranted.ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONSWhilst most pupils study for nine (I)GCSEs, ourmost eager pupils should anticipate theopportunity to pursue additional qualifications:Higher Project Qualification (HPQ)An independent research project that providespupils with the opportunity to learn about a topicoutside those taught in the more traditionalsubjects. Pupils acquire research skills and reporton their learning through both a presentation anda written report or essay.An additional Mathematics qualificationStudied by the most able mathematicians byinvitation of the Head of Mathematics, thisprovides a strong grounding for A-Level FurtherMathematics. The current course is theAQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics.THE WIDER CURRICULUMOutside each pupil’s academic subjects, they willcontinue with a programme of Physical Education,Games, Co-Curricular and PSCHE activities. Otheropportunities to demonstrate talents beyond theclassroom exist through Extra-Curricular musicconcerts and drama performances as well as theSchool’s clubs and societies.
Core SubjectsENGLISH LANGUAGE ANDENGLISH LITERATUREMATHEMATICSBoth core English qualifications are of crucialimportance in terms of delivering key skills in reading,writing, speaking and listening.All pupils follow the Edexcel IGCSE Mathematicscourse, aimed at the higher level of entry.Pupils will have the opportunity to explore a diverserange of literature from different genres and timeperiods.Wider reading is essential for success inEnglish and we have high expectations of pupilscompleting their own reading at home in addition toset homework.IGCSE set authors for English Literature includeWilliam Shakespeare and John Steinbeck. Pupils areexpected to write at length about their set texts.Pupils will have a significant amount of revision in thissubject, and will need to work hard to meet thechallenges of the course.What could I do with English?English is a key part of Years 10 and 11. Fluent literacyand an ability to express clearly what is thought andfelt is essential to academic success, and fulfilment ofcareer ambitions. Being able to reach critical decisionsabout books enlarges a pupil’s understanding of theworld outside their own time and place as well asimproving their ability to communicate accurately andwith clarity.Having a sophisticated grasp of English allows a pupil toaccess a wide range of academic subjects at the highestlevel and to convey their understanding with precision.The subject also instils the skills of debate and criticalargument, which can be applied in virtually all academicsubjects and career paths.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:Edexcel IGCSE 4EA1 English Language A& Edexcel IGCSE 4ET1 English LiteratureThe course fuses an understanding of numbers,algebra, geometry and statistics. Pupils learn torepresent real-life problems in mathematical languageand then solve them using an array of differentmethods.In Year 11, the most advanced pupils will be invited tosit an additional examination alongside the IGCSE.Thisis currently the AQA Level 2 Certificate in FurtherMathematics.Work towards this begins in Year 10,withrelevant topics integrated into the IGCSE programme.Are there any special requirements?The Further Mathematics course is studied byinvitation of the Head of Mathematics. Pupils need tobe in Set 1 for eligibility.What could I do with Mathematics?Mathematics is the most popular A-Level choice inthe United Kingdom, signifying its high regard byuniversities and employers, who see it as a mark ofdiligence, insight and intellect.Many pupils at John Lyon continue with Mathematicsbeyond (I)GCSE and standards are high. Research bythe Centre for Economic Performance at The LondonSchool of Economics found that “individuals with aMathematics A-Level earn 7-10% more than otherwisesimilarly educated workers without this qualification.”Mathematics is a highly useful subject that is usedthroughout careers in science, engineering and financebut is widely appreciated by employers from almostevery sector.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:Edexcel IGCSE 4MA1 Mathematics A
Option SubjectsCOMPUTER SCIENCEPupils who opt for Computer Science GCSE willdevelop their understanding of current and emergingtechnologies.During the course pupils learn how to design, writeand evaluate computer programs in different codinglanguages, both as an individual and workingcollaboratively. Pupils also learn to appreciate anefficient design to ensure their programs makeeffective use of their processing capacity.Additionally, pupils learn about the wider issuessurrounding technology in society and how to assessthe impact of their programs on their users and wideraudiences.Are there any special requirements?Pupils who are strong in both Mathematics and thescience subjects are likely to enjoy Computer Science.Solving the challenges that programming presentsrequires initiative and tenacity. Entry to the ComputerScience course is limited and subject to certain criteria.A benchmarking test will be required to confirm entryonto this course, based on a set of self-study materialsprovided.What could I do with Computer Science?Programming is the clear and concise expression oflogical thought and is attractive to employers in manyfields.GCSE Computer Science will provide a strongfoundation for a candidate to develop computingsolutions for everyday problems. It develops criticalthinking, analysis and problem solving skills. It is anexcellent starting point for a career in engineering,sciences, digital arts/games and computing.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:Edexcel GCSE 1CP1 Computer Science
Option SubjectsCREATIVEAt least ONE creative subject is recommendedARTDRAMAJohn Lyon follows a Fine Art syllabus allowing pupilsand teachers to focus on the development oftraditional drawing and painting skills alongside morecontemporary disciplines including graphics, animation,print and 3D work.In an increasingly competitive world, speech andcommunication skills are becoming more important.Through studying Drama, pupils gain a greater sense ofself-confidence and an increased capacity to expresstheir opinions and beliefs to others.Knowledge and understanding of art, craft and designare developed through research, the developmentof ideas and making activities work from first-handexperience and, where appropriate, secondary sourcematerials.We encourage personal exploration andexperimentation with both ideas and media.Studying Drama is not only for pupils who have aparticular interest in theatre but for those who wishto take a subject that will develop communication,presentation and group working skills.All Art pupils receive excellent access to the School’sstudios at lunchtime and after school.Pupils must enjoy working with others and be preparedto rehearse extensively and independently.They shouldalso be actively involved in School Drama productions.Pupils considering Drama should be achievingconsistent marks of 7 and above in assessments.Are there any special requirements?Pupils who opt for Art should anticipate that it is anextremely demanding course requiring a high level ofcommitment of more than three hours’ work per weekbeyond the lesson time. Pupils should have gooddrawing skills and be able to express themselvesvisually in a variety of ways. Combining the high level ofcommitment with a talent for the subject, pupils with aGrade 6 in the end of Year 9 examinations are typicallyable to cope well with the subject for GCSE.What could I do with Art?Art can lead to many different careers includingarchitecture, advertising, film directing, set design,art therapy, graphic design, art history, animation,illustration, engineering and many others. It is alsovalued in dentistry and medicine as it demonstratesdexterity, creative thinking, independent research andother relevant skills.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:AQA GCSE 8202 Art & Design (Fine Art)Are there any special requirements?What could I do with Drama?For pupils who are interested in a career in drama,theatre or media, the GCSE Drama course will providean excellent grounding.The A-Level course in Dramaand Theatre Studies is offered for those pupils whowish to take the subject further.Above all, the Drama course is about communication,confidence and teamwork.These are vital skillsnecessary in all careers.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:CIE IGCSE 0994 Drama
MUSICGCSE Music develops skills in performing, composing,listening to and analysing music. It covers the study of awide variety of musical styles including classical music,world music and popular music.required to attend the weekly theory class, which willaid skills in analysis and composing.Pupils will learn to use technology in both thearranging and composition of music alongside editingrecorded music.GCSE Music is a good preparation for further musicalstudy and a solid foundation for the A-Levels in Musicand Music Technology. Many pupils may study GCSEMusic purely out of enjoyment for the subject.Are there any special requirements?Pupils must be able to sing or play an instrument tothe minimum level of Grade 3 or equivalent and haveconfidence in reading staff notation.Throughout the GCSE course, pupils must commit toone-to-one music lessons in at least one study, with theaim of reaching Grade 5 by the end of the course.What could I do with Music?Alternatively, others may wish to go into a job whereit is useful to have had experience of music or wherethey will need to use some of the skills developedduring this course.These might include careers in themusic industry, publishing, entertainment and teachingor any job that involves communication and expressiveskills.Our current Year 11 pupils are studying:Grade 5 Theory is not a prerequisite. However, pupilswho have not studied theory up to this level will beEdexcel GCSE 1MU0 Music
Option SubjectsSCIENCESAt least TWO science subjects are recommendedBIOLOGYCHEMISTRYBiology IGCSE develops an appreciation for thesignificance of biological facts, concepts and principlesalongside the skills needed for their application in anever-changing world.In studying IGCSE Chemistry, pupils develop anappreciation for the structure of different chemicalelements and how these are combined to form morecomplex compounds.Pupils develop excellent dexterity skills throughaccurate experimental readings. Analysing data allowspupils to draw apposite conclusions which they cancompare to the theories studied.Pupils learn how different elements are categorisedand the properties of elements and compounds thatmake them best suited in the manufacture of everydayproducts. Further, it gives pupils an understanding ofand the ability to explain the world around them.A strong understanding of the benefits and drawbacksof the latest scientific and technological developmentsis also nurtured with a critical eye to how these willinfluence social, environmental and economic issues.Experimental work is key to pupils’ understanding ofthe concepts covered and how environmental factorsinfluence the outcome of chemical reactions.Are there any special requirements?Are there any special requirements?In common with the other science subjects, pupilscommence study of the IGCSE specification duringtheir Year 9 course.The material covered during Year 9is the basis for the rest of the course and it is essentialthat pupils spend time consolidating this work beforecommencing Biology in Year 10.In common with the other science subjects, pupilscommence study of the IGCSE specification duringtheir Year 9 course.The material covered during Year 9is the basis for the rest of the course and it is essentialthat pupils spend time consolidating this work beforecommencing Chemistry in Year 10.What could I do with Biology?What could I do with Chemistry?A good grade in Biology will enable candidates toprogress to A-Level. Alongside developing scientificknowledge, the range of transferable skills developedby pupils includes analysis, teamwork, manual dexterity,mathematics and independent and logical thinking skills.A qualification in Chemistry is highly respected owingto the wide variety of skills that are developed in itsstudy.These include logical reasoning, problem solving,numeracy and literacy, all of which are highly prized byuniversities and employers.The skills gained provide a firm grounding in anyBiology related degree.This can open up possibilities towork towards any biological or medical career such asmedicine, dentistry, pharmacy and research.Chemistry is excellent training for many fields. Formerpupils have gone on to a variety of successful careersin industry and com
Edexcel IGCSE 4EA1 English Language A & Edexcel IGCSE 4ET1 English Literature MATHEMATICS All pupils follow the Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics course, aimed at the higher level of entry. The course fuses an understanding of numbers, algebra, geometry and statistics. Pupils learn
IGCSE ARABIC for Native Arabic Speakers - Edexcel 11 GCSE ART & DESIGN - Edexcel 13 IGCSE BUSINESS STUDIES - Cambridge 15 IGCSE ECONOMICS - Cambridge 17 IGCSE COMPUTER SCIENCE - Cambridge 19 GCSE DRAMA - Edexcel 20 IGCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE - Cambridge 22 IGCSE ENGLISH LITERATURE - Edexcel 22 IGCSE GEOGRAPHY - Edexcel 25
IGCSE First Language English 12 IGCSE World Literature 13 IGCSE English as a Second Language 14 . IGCSE Business Studies 19 IGCSE Global Perspectives 21 IGCSE Geography 22 IGCSE History 23 IGCSE Sciences 24 IGCSE Cambridge Mathematics Extended & Core 26 . At BISP, Year 12 and 13 (Key Stage Five) students study the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP .
University of Cambridge International Examinations London GCE AS/A-Level / IGCSE / GCSE Edexcel International. 6 Examination Date in 2011 Cambridge IGCSE Oct/Nov X 9 Cambridge GCE / May/Jun 9 9 London GCE London GCSE May/Jun 9 X Chinese London IGCSE Jan X 9 Cambridge IGCSE / May/Jun 9 9 London IGCSE London GCE Jan 9 9 Cambridge GCE Oct/Nov X 9 Private Candidates School Candidates Exam Date. 7 .
GCSE Computer Science - OCR GCSE Geography - AQA GCSE History - AQA GCSE Triple Science [Biology, Chemistry & Physics] - AQA. Computer Science OCR GCSE For More Information Contact: Mrs Roche at the Academy. This GCSE specification encourages candidates to explore how
17 GCSE Geography 18 GCSE History 19 GCSE Mathematics 20 Modern Languages: GCSE French GCSE German GCSE Spanish . January 2019 Dear Student In September 2019, you will begin your General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) courses which . Externally Set Assignment makes
IGCSE Mathematics –the motivation for top end . B ABCambridge IGCSE November 2013 Paper 4 (Extended) Question 2 OCR Linear GCSE November 2013 Paper 4 (Higher) Question 16. New GCSE AO1 GCSE–Use and apply standard techniques .
14 GCSE Maths in a Week (Foundation) GCSE MATHS EXAM STRUCTURE Your GCSE Maths (Foundation) examination is comprised ofthree sections: Paper 1: Non-Calculator 1 hour and 30 minutes 33.3% of GCSE Marks out of 80 Paper 2: Calculator 1 hour and 30 minutes 33.3% of GCSE Marks out of 80 Paper 3: Calculator 1 hour and 30 minutes 33.3% of GCSE Marks .
10 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 02.02, in the Related Material section (gray pages). 11 Available from Standardization Documents, Order Desk, Bldg. 4, Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094, Attn: NPODS. TABLE 1 Chemical Composition Limits NOTE 1—When single units are shown, these indicate the maximum amounts permitted. NOTE 2—Analysis shall be made for the elements .
