A Parent’s Guide to Key Stage 4

I/GCSE International /General Certificate of

Secondary Education

Options and Examinations

Secondary School Structure

Key

Stag

e 3

Year 7 English National Curriculum

• End of year school exams and Assessments

Year 8 English National Curriculum

• End of year school exams and Assessments

Year 9 English National Curriculum

• End of year school exams and Assessments

Key

Sta

ge 4

Year 10 First year of I/GCSE courses with Edexcel Pearson Examination Board

• End of year exams and Assessments

Year 11 Second year of I/GCSE courses

• Mock exams in December

• Most external exams in May/June

Sixt

h Fo

rm

Year 12 First year of A Level Courses Edexcel Pearson Examination Board

• Assessments in November, March & June

Year 13

Second year of A Level Courses with Edexcel Pearson Examination Board

• Mock exams in January

• Linear exams in May/June

Key Personnel Mr. Derek Laidlaw Executive Principal Mrs. Nadège Johal Assistant Head of Secondary Ms. Farrah Awan Form Tutor

Key Stage 4

Key Stage 4 (KS4) is an important stage in your child’s education. It is the start of a two-year programme of study that will culminate in examinations that are set and marked by examination boards in the U.K and indicate the final two years of this stage of compulsory education. During these two years your son or daughter will be studying a range of subjects, some of which are optional and some of which are compulsory. This booklet is designed to give you further information on what to expect from the next two years and to encourage you to start thinking about the optional subjects your child may wish to study when they start Year 10.

Curriculum The following subjects are compulsory in Year 10 and 11:

Core Subjects (with I/GCSE examinations) English Language & Literature 5 lessons / week

Mathematics 4 lessons / week

Double Science Award 4 lessons / week

The above subjects total equivalent of 5 IGCSE courses

Complementary Subjects (no examination) Physical Education 1 lessons / week

PSHE embedded in the curriculum Delivered during Form

Time

Optional Subjects (with IGCSE examinations) Students are then able to choose from a selection of optional subjects. A maximum of four subjects can be chosen giving nine subjects in total. These optional subjects are normally taught for three lessons per week and include:

Arabic First Language (4 lessons/week) * Design Technology

Art & Design Geography

Business History

Drama Computer Science

Spanish Music

French Physical Education

* Arabic is compulsory for Arabic students

Choosing appropriate subjects can seem like a daunting task. You and your child will be given opportunities to seek advice and ask questions via the Admissions Team who will introduce you to members of the academic team who will be available to discuss with you and your child. At this time, the numbers of students joining in September 2018 are not yet confirmed, students are asked to choose a selection of subjects from 5 different blocks to map out their preferred curriculum choice. You may find that when the final subjects are published you are unable to select the exact combination of subjects you originally wanted. We do our best to meet the desires of the entire cohort, but it is not always possible to run courses that gives everyone their first choice and makes that subject viable for the student. An example is one

student alone cannot meet the requirements of a physical education course as they are unable to participate in team games.

Examinations Throughout the course of Year 10 and 11, students will be working towards IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) or GCSEs. These are official examinations that prove a student has successfully completed this stage of compulsory secondary education. I/GCSE examinations are managed by various government approved organisations in the UK. Oryx International School is an approved examination centre for one of the biggest examination boards for all its exams: Pearson Edexcel International Examinations. The exams are marked on a 9-point scale as shown in the table below:

I/GCSE Old Grades

I/GCSE NEW

GRADES Description

A* 9 8 7 High Grade

PASS A

B 6 5 4 C

D 3 2 1

Low Grade PASS

E

F

G

U U Ungraded

In order to ‘pass’ Year 11 and meet the entrance requirements of our Sixth Form, students must achieve a minimum of 5 A*- C grades (9 - 5) in their I/GCSE examinations.

Mock examinations

Please note that mock examinations in December for Year 11 are compulsory for all students. These are used by the school to support and mentor our students and the results can be requested by the examination board in the event of a query. You are asked not to arrange holidays before the end of Term 1.

Important dates Students are entered for their final I/GCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. Some subjects, however, have controlled assessments which are ‘coursework-like’ activities that take place at different points throughout Year 10 and 11. Controlled assessments are activities, undertaken by students in a controlled environment or under examination conditions, which directly contribute to their final exam grade. In some cases they could account for 60% or more of the grade that is awarded. If students are absent and miss these activities then it is highly unlikely the examination board will allow them to attempt them at a later date. It is essential that students do their best to attend school at all times, but particularly when these activities have been organised.

The table below explains some of the key dates when students must ensure they are in school.

NB: The examination board sets the date and time of the examinations and we are unable to change those dates.

Year 10

All Year Ongoing Controlled Assessment activities.

May/June Year 10 Formal end of year exams.

Year 11 All Year Ongoing Controlled Assessment activities.

Dec Year 11 Mock Examinations.

March Year 11 until July Year 11

Practical and oral examinations will start in March and continue until May. Written exams usually begin at the end of April and can continue until the beginning of July.

I/GCSE results from the exam board are released around the middle of August each year. Students and parents will be given a secure 'log-on' access code to find out the results of their exams.

Work experience and careers All Year 10 students will have the opportunity to take part in a one-week placement in June, with a local business or work place. Work experience opportunities with the Airline will be available. Students gain a valuable insight into the world of work in a structured and motivated environment.

All students will also receive guidance and advice on careers, life skills and future pathways from Mrs. Johal, Assistant Head of Secondary, their tutors and other key staff.

Enrichment opportunities We provide a range of optional activities and clubs to help our students develop various skills and pursue interests. We also provide a number of visits and trips which are complemented by a programme of visiting speakers from other areas of the community. We expect our students to take advantage of these opportunities and to contribute to the wider life of the school through in-school events, charity events and other organised activities. Students in KS4 must attend at least one activity per week.

Concerns If you have any concerns regarding the welfare of your child, you should contact your child’s Form Tutor in the first instance in order to raise the matter. Thereafter, senior staff will be able to meet with you to discuss any specific ongoing concerns.

The school operates an Anti-Bullying Policy (including Cyber-Bullying) and we encourage students, parents and staff to discuss concerns openly towards a satisfactory conclusion. In all cases of wrong-doing we aim to change attitudes and behaviour to more acceptable levels and where necessary implement appropriate sanctions.

If you have a concern regarding a member of staff, or a particularly sensitive issue, please contact Mr. Laidlaw, Executive Principal, directly.

Attendance Attendance at school and at every timetabled lesson or activity is compulsory. If you wish your child to leave school during the school day this must be approved by Mrs. Johal. All requests for time off during term time must be notified to the Executive Principal in writing in advance. Requests to miss school will be treated on an individual basis and generally cannot be supported unless in extraneous circumstances.

It is important to understand that during examinations, including the Mock Examinations held in December of Year 11, any absence must be justified with a doctor’s certificate. With this document it is possible for us to apply to the examination board for special consideration. Please bear in mind that it is unlikely that the examination boards will still award a grade if a candidate has missed an exam – but without a doctor’s note, translated into English, it is impossible to even apply for that consideration.

Did you know? An attendance level of 90% means:

your child is missing 1 day of learning every two weeks…

Optional subjects The final two pages of this guide provide you with brief information on some of the optional subjects that we offer at Oryx International School, Doha

For more detailed information please speak to the Admissions Team, who will direct you to the answers. Arabic 1st Language (Compulsory for Arabic students) Compulsory topics will be linked to identity and culture; local, national, international and global areas of interest; and current and future study and employment. Papers will include:

• short translations from and into the target language • some target-language questions in the reading and listening papers • authentic stimuli in the reading paper, including literary texts

Art & Design We aim to encourage a lasting enjoyment of art and design by encouraging students to explore visual experiences and to communicate ideas and meanings. Students work with traditional and new media, developing confidence, competence, imagination and creativity. They work on a portfolio and in sketchbook/journals to demonstrate an ability to sustain work from initial starting points to the realisation of final piece/s. These include evidence of research, experimentation and the development of ideas.

Business IGCSE Business is an interesting and relevant course which uses an investigative approach to problem solving and skill development. This course begins with business start-ups and moves on to look at wider issues of the global market and Government influence.

Computer Science The Edexcel International GCSE in Computer Science specification is assessed through a written theory paper and practical examination. This qualification provides students with the opportunity of operating confidently in today’s digital world, enabling students to apply computational thinking in context Design Technology The GCSE in Design and Technology enables students to understand and apply iterative design processes through which they explore, create and evaluate a range of outcomes. The qualification enables students to use creativity and imagination to design and make prototypes (together with evidence of modelling to develop and prove product concept and function) that solve real and relevant problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants and values. It gives students opportunities to apply knowledge from other disciplines, including mathematics, science, art and design, computing and the humanities Drama Drama GCSE is both practical and reactive. Students will develop improvisation and acting skills to a higher level. They will look at plays in more detail and work at different ways of bringing a script alive on stage. This is an excellent option whether you are seriously interested in the performing arts or not, because it develops confidence, self-expression and teamwork skills.

French / Spanish The main aim of the course is to allow students to develop the ability to use the target language as a means of practical communication. A competent, accurate use of grammar will also be important. Four main skills are developed, understanding the written and spoken language and communicating in the written and spoken language. Geography The IGCSE Geography course provides the opportunity to develop communication skills; graphical and cartographical techniques; technology including ICT and GIS; interpersonal skills through debate and discussion; literacy, numeracy and problem solving through enquiry-based learning. The overall approach to the subject is thematic rather than regional so we’ll study coastal change, sustainable water management or changing populations in different parts of the world. Geography is not about learning facts, but the emphasis is on your ability to analyse data and to make considered decisions. Planning, carrying out and writing up field work investigations form an important part of the learning and assessment of the course and a field trip abroad is generally organised in Year 10 to develop these skills and is a compulsory aspect of the course.

History In this IGCSE course we aim to promote the enjoyment of History through the study of 20th century Modern World History. This involves a study of different periods of time across the world History. The course involves a range of learning activities such as debates, essays, role-play, analysis of films and computer simulations. A History qualification is well respected both by universities and employers. The study of History shows employers that you have a range of invaluable skills such as the ability to analyse evidence and an enquiring mind. Music Students who have already gained many of the basic skills needed for this course in music lessons during KS3 in secondary school. You have been introduced to creating music of your own in class and this is developed on the IGCSE course as you choose two topics for composition. 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 world music. Areas of Study. You enjoy making music, either as a soloist or in a group. The IGCSE 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. Physical Education The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in Key Stage 3 Physical Education. It will give you exciting opportunities to be involved in a number of different physical activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. You can perform in one or all of the following roles: player/participant, leader or official. You will also examine the effects of exercise on the health of your body and how training can improve performance, find ways to improve your own performances in a variety of roles and identify ways to develop and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle through participation in physical activity. Please note that there will be a theory exam at the end of the course. Useful Examination Information You can find more information regarding I/GCSE Examinations and Edexcel Pearsons International Examinations Board at the following web sites: Edexcel Pearsons https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/home.html Edexcel Pearsons Subjects Information https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/subjects.html

Questions frequently asked by the students I am not sure what subjects to choose Choosing your subjects can be tricky, especially if you are not sure what career you want to pursue. The following tips will help you choose the best subjects for you. Do choose a subject if:

• You are successful at it already • You enjoy it • This subject may help you to achieve your career plans

Do not choose a subject if:

• The subject looks an easy option, because it will not be • You want to do it because your friend is doing this subject too. He or she may have different abilities and

different career plans. He or she may also be in a different group to you • You like the teacher you have this year. You might have a different teacher next year

Who can I speak to about my choices?

• Parents • Older brothers or sisters • Form tutor • Subject teachers • Mrs. Johal

What if I am not happy with one of my subjects in September? If you find that you have made a mistake and chosen an inappropriate subject, then you have until the end of September to swap to a different option. The most important thing is to talk to your teacher or Mrs. Johal soon as you start having doubts and not worry in silence or wait until it is too late. Students are only allowed to change subjects after discussion with Mrs. Johal and authorisation from Mr. Laidlaw.

I/GCSE Subject List Y10 September 2018 - 1st Exam May/June 2020

Subject IGCSE /

GCSE Exam Board Exam

Code Papers

English Language A IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4EA1 A: Papers 1 & 2 or B: Papers 1& 3 (coursework)

English Literature IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4ET1 A: papers 1 & 2 or B: Papers 1 & 3 (coursework)

English as a Second Language

IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4ES1 Papers 1 & 2 (Optional Paper 3 – oral)

Mathematics A IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4MA1 Foundation: Papers 1F & 2F Higher: Papers 1H & 2H

Science Double Award IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4SD0 Biology Paper 1 Chemistry Pap.1 Physics Paper 1

Arabic 1st Language Arabic

IGCSE GCSE

Pearson/ Edexcel

4AA1 1AA0

Paper 1: Reading, Summary & Grammar Paper 2: Writing 1: Listening & Understanding in Arabic 2: Speaking in Arabic 3: Reading & Understanding in Arabic 4: Writing in Arabic

Art & Design IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4FA1 4TE1 4PY1 4GC1 4TD1

Fine Art Textiles Photography Graphic Communication 3D Design

Business IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4BS1 Paper 1: Investigating small businesses Paper 2: Investigating large businesses

Computer Science IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4CP0 Paper 1: Principles of Computer Science Paper 2: Application of Computational Thinking

Design Technology GCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

1DT0 Component 1: Written exam Component 2: Project

Drama GCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

1DR0 Paper 1: Written Paper 2: Practical Coursework

French IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4FR1 Paper 1: Listening Paper 2: Reading & Writing Paper 3: Speaking

Geography IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4GE1 Paper 1: Physical Geography Paper 2: Human Geography

History IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4HT1 Paper 1: In-depth studies Paper 2: Investigation & breadth study

Music GCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

1MU0 1: Performing 2: Composing 3 - Appraising

Physical Education GCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

1PE0 1: Fitness 2: Health 3: Practical 4: PEP

Spanish IGCSE Pearson/ Edexcel

4SP1 Paper 1: Listening Paper 2: Reading & Writing Paper 3: Speaking

Uniform We take great pride in our appearance and our school. The official Oryx International School uniform is compulsory for all students in secondary school up to and including Y13. Students are expected to wear uniform correctly at all times and to look presentable and tidy.

Please see our website for details of uniform regulations and supply outlets: https://oryxschool.qa/school-life/uniform

Girls Uniform

Boys Uniform

• White socks • Black stockings can be worn with the skirt, leggings are not permitted • Black leather school shoes (no trainers) • Girls hair must be tied back neatly, boys must have their hair cut short and neat • Girls may wear one set of earrings (studs, nothing big), boys may not wear earrings

PE Uniform

Accessories

Active backpack or portfolio bag Wet bag for sport/swim wear Water bottle Compulsory Not compulsory

Swim Wear

Shoes These can be purchased at any outlet

Permitted – leather shoes that can be polished,

with no branded logos Not permitted – canvas with logos or any black

or coloured training shoe

Contacts Mr. Derek Laidlaw: Executive Principal – exec.principal@oryxschool.qa Mrs. Nadège Johal: Director of Teaching and Learning – nadege.johal@oryxschool.qa For all admission requirements, please contact the Admissions Office: Contact details

General enquiries: +974 4036 0063 reception@oryxschool.qa Admissions office: +974 4036 0085 admissions@oryxschool.qa Finance office: +974 4036 0081 finance@oryxschool.qa Visit oryxschool.qa Join OryxSchool Join @oryx_school

For all admission requirements, please contact the Admissions Office: