Novaschool Sunland

International

IGCSE BOOKLET
Key stage 4 examinations programme
2023-2025
Index
1. What are IGCSEs? p.3

2. IGCSE subjects p.4

3. Making choices p.5

4. IGCSE blocks p.6

5. Core IGCSE subjects p.7

6. Optional IGCSE subjects p.17

2
 1. What are IGCSEs?
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education
(IGCSE) has been developed by the University of Cambridge and
the examination board Edexcel offers its own version, the
Edexcel International GCSE.

It is based on the English National Curriculum GCSE model but is

tailored to international students’ needs. The IGCSE qualification
is an internationally recognised passport to post-16 education.

• IGCSE’s are usually taken following a two-year period of

study between the ages of 14 to 16.
• Students will take examinations in the spring of Year 11.
• These examinations are externally marked.
• The IGCSE examinations are graded on a scale of 9-1.
• Students will normally study up to nine examination courses,
making selections from the school-based options system.
• Some subjects also include coursework.

The main objective within our option system is to ensure students

undertake a sufficiently broad-based curriculum to enhance their
opportunities for further study in whatever disciplines they might
choose and wherever in the world they might find themselves.

IGCSE courses are demanding, and they require a real

commitment from students over the whole of the period of study.

After the completion of the courses, the Cambridge International

Examination Board will issue certificates to candidates.

3
 2. IGCSE subjects
To be successful in their IGCSEs, students are required
to pass (achieve a Level 4 or higher) in five subjects.
This is a requirement to access AS/A-Level courses.

Compulsory subjects
These subjects are necessary in giving you a general base, as well
as providing you with a wider variety of options for the future.
• English First Language or English as a Second Language
• Spanish First Language + Spanish literature or Spanish as a Second
Language
• Mathematics
• Combined or Coordinated Sciences (Single/Double Award)
• Ciencias Sociales** or English Literature
• Physical Education*
• Personal Social & Health Careers Education*

Optional subjects
• History
• Sociology
• Business Studies
• Economics
• Drama
• Physical Education
• Geography
• Computer Science
• Art & Design, Fine Art
• French
• German
• Music

N.B. The availability of courses depends on student numbers and demand.

*Non – IGCSE subjects
** This subject is compulsory for those students who wish to obtain a validation of their studies by the Spanish
Ministry of Education - The Título de Graduado en Educación Secundaria Obligatoria (a specific requirement
if they want to study at Spanish University).

4
 3. Making choices
Your choice of IGCEs can be an important step towards future
study and careers options.

Making decisions is part of the process of growing up and

managing your life. With plenty of help, advice and lots of common
sense, you can learn to make sensible decisions.

Deciding your IGCSE subjects is one of the first decision-making

times in a long process of choosing what to do with your life, what
kind of person you want to be and how you want to fulfil your
potential.
Why do I have to choose?

Each subject taken to IGCSE level with internationally set

syllabuses and examinations from Cambridge is a demanding
programme and has to be studied in some depth, so it is not
possible to include more than a sensible number for each student.
Many students have certain abilities, strengths and interest in
some subjects which guide their choice.

Factors influencing option choices

• ABILITY: Choose subjects that you are good at or you think you
may be good at.
• INTEREST: If you’re unsure of your strengths then interest in a
subject may be a good basis for choice.
• CONTENT: Have a serious look at the content of a course!
• CAREER IMPLICATIONS: Some careers need certain
subjects. Luckily the core subjects take care of most of these,
even Medicine and Engineering.

5
 4. Option blocks
Students will be asked to choose their options from the following
blocks. They will choose one option from each block (please note
that students can only choose Business Studies once!):

Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4

Ciencias Art Business Business
Sociales Studies Studies
English Economics Geography History
Literature
PE Sociology Music
French Drama Computer
Science
German

Students will be required to choose their subject by the 31st of

March 2023. Families will receive a link to a form in which they
can confirm their choices.

If students are unsure what to choose, they can discuss their

options with their tutors or subject teachers.

Please be aware that the availability of IGCSE subjects depends

on demand for each subject.

6
 5. Core subjects
1st Language English
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0990
Aims
The aims of this course are to allow you to read a wide range of texts
fluently, with a good understanding and to appreciate various types of
language used for specific purposes and audiences. You will be able to
write in various styles, improving your accuracy and precision when
making language choices. You will learn how to analyze language for its
effects on the reader using inference and deduction skills. There are
many opportunities for discussion and oral communication to develop
your speaking and listening competence.

You will take two exam You will enjoy this course if
Assessment

Keep in mind

papers of equal weight: you enjoy improving your

• Reading - 50% of your linguistic fluency and
final grade (80 marks) - accuracy, expanding your
2 hours vocabulary and being able to
write in various styles
(comprehension,
including creatively. It offers
summary writing, text
opportunities to broaden your
analysis, writing) analytical, deduction,
• Writing – 50% of your reading, writing and
final grade (80 marks) - communication skills which
2 hours (2 pieces of are highly beneficial in
more extended writing today’s modern world. The
including creative course will help you towards
composition) achieving a more proficient
use of English.
*Separately endorsed
Speaking and Listening
exam
7
English literature
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0992

Aims
The course aims to promote an enjoyable experience of reading various
types of literature in English including poetry, drama and prose from
different periods and cultures. You will learn how to interpret and analyze
texts and to write critically on chosen texts. The course allows you to
appreciate ways in which writers achieve their desired effects on writers
through their words and writing style. You will develop an understanding
of contexts and be able to express opinion on deeper themes and
attitudes expressed in the course texts as well as widening your
understanding of the wider and universal issues explored.

You will take three exam You will enjoy it if you are
Assessment

You will enjoy it if

papers of similar weighting: interested in how literature in

its many forms reflects the
• Paper 1: Poetry and themes and attitudes that
Prose (novel or short form our society. This course
stories) (50 marks) is for those students who
1hour30 enjoy reading and the
challenge of interpreting a
• Paper 3: Drama (play)
text and making inferences
(25 marks) 45 mins
regarding its deeper
• Paper 4: (Unseen paper – meanings. For those who
unseen poetry/prose) - appreciate language and the
(25 marks) 1hr15 ways it can be used to move,
challenge or influence
readers, this is a course for
you.

8
English as a Second
Language
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0991

Aims
This course is designed for learners whose first language is not English
but who have a strong working knowledge of English. It aims to help them
progress their skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening to be able
to use English adeptly in a variety of practical situations: for school,
university, work or travel.

Learners will be assessed on • You want to develop your

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

their Speaking, Listening, communication skills in

Reading and Writing skills by English.
taking a total of three exams • You like talking about
at the end of Year 11: current events, new
• Reading and Writing technologies, social
Paper - 50% of marks issues, other cultures,
• Listening Paper - 25% of travel and hobbies.
marks • You want to use English in
• Speaking Exam - 25% of the future to confidently
marks communicate with people
from other countries.

Note: Both English as a Second Language and First Language English

are valid for university applications; however, if learners want to study in
an English-speaking country or pursue an English-based career, it is
recommended that you take First Language English.

9
Spanish literature
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0488

Aims
The aims of this syllabus are to give the students the opportunity to enjoy
reading literature, understand and respond to literary texts in different
forms and from different periods and cultures. Students will appreciate
different ways in which writers achieve their effects.
The students will gain an appreciation of texts and themes, from a
straightforward knowledge of content to the communication of an
informed personal response.

Paper 1: Prose and • You are interested in

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

Drama (50 marks, 50%) literature and language.

• The question paper has • You love learning new
two sections: things from other cultures.
Section A Prose • You like interpreting a text
Section B Drama. and looking for a deeper
• Candidates answer two meaning.
essay questions on set
texts they have studied,
one from each section.
• This is an Open Book
exam.
• Candidates answer in
Spanish.
• Externally assessed
Paper 3: Poetry and
unseen (50 marks, 50%)
• The question paper has
two sections:
• Section A Poetry
Section B Unseen.

10
Spanish First
Language
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0502

Aims
This syllabus aims to allow students to read a wide range of texts, fluently
and with good understanding and read critically using knowledge gained.
Furthermore, it gives the students tools to write accurately and effectively,
using Spanish appropriately, acquiring and applying a wide vocabulary
alongside a knowledge and understanding of grammatical terminology
and linguistic conventions.

Students will take two You are interested in text

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

components: analysis and creative writing.

It will help you improve the
• Paper 1: Reading accuracy of your language,
80 marks, 50%. Candidates expand your vocabulary and
answer structured and discover the richness of the
extended writing questions Spanish language.
based on three reading
texts.

• Paper 2: Directed
Writing and
Composition 80 marks,
50%. Candidates write
extended writing question
and a composition task.

11
Spanish Second
Language
Syllabus Ref. CIE 7160
Aims
This syllabus aims to allow students to develop the language proficiency
required to communicate effectively in Spanish at level A2 with elements
of level B1.
Enable students to offer insights into the culture and society of countries
and communities where Spanish is spoken.

• Paper 1: Listening (40 • You are interested in

You will enjoy it if
Assessment

marks, 25%). Candidates communicating clearly

listen to a number of and effectively in a
recordings and answer range of predictable
multiple-choice and everyday situations in
matching questions. Spanish.
• Paper 2: Reading (45
• You love learning the
marks, 25%). Candidates
culture and society of
read a number of texts and countries and
answer MCQ as well as communities where
questions requiring short Spanish is spoken.
answers.
• Paper 3: Speaking (40
marks, 25%). Candidates
complete one role play and
conversations on two topics.
• Paper 4: Writing (45 marks,
25%). Candidates complete
one form-filling task, one
writing task and one task in
the format of a letter or
article.
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Mathematics
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0980

Aims
IGCSE Mathematics builds on the ideas learned in Year 9 and is divided
into nine topics: Numbers, Algebra & Graphs, Coordinate Geometry,
Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Vectors & Transformations,
Probability, and Statistics.

In this course students learn a variety of mathematical and problem-

solving skills, from practical operations, such as percentage or interest,
to more abstract concepts, such as differentiation.

Core exams: The Maths syllabus has two

Assessment

Keep in mind

• Paper 1 (56 points): 1hr options: Core and Extended.

– short answer questions
• Paper 3 (104 points): Core exams are for those
2hrs – structured students on target to get a
questions grade 4 or 5.
Extended exams: Extended exams are for
• Paper 1 (70 points): 1hr
those on target to get higher
30m – short answer
than a 5 and would like to
questions
continue studying Maths in
• Paper 3 (130 points):
2hrs 30m – structured Year 12 and 13.
questions

Students are required to have a scientific calculator for the IGCSE Maths
course.

13
Science
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0653 (Combined);
0654 (Coordinated)

Aims
IGCSE Science offers students the opportunity to study Biology,
Chemistry and Physics topics in an integrated and coherent manner.
Students learn the principles of each subject through a mix of theoretical
and practical studies, while also developing an understanding of scientific
skills.
The work in Year 10 lays the foundations of their IGCSE Science studies.
In Year 11 they continue onto either the Single Award Combined Science
or the Double Award Coordinated Science pathway, depending upon
which course is better suited to them.

The Science assessments All students follow a core

Assessment

Keep in mind

test knowledge and curriculum in Year 10. For

understanding of all three
science subjects. This
includes end of unit tests
throughout the course, mock
examinations and the final
external examinations:
• Paper 1 Multiple-choice
question paper (30% of
marks)
• Paper 2 Theory paper
(50% of marks)
• Paper 3 Alternative to
Practical- written paper
(20% of marks)
Cambridge IGCSE Science,
teachers can also stretch
their students with an
extended curriculum in Year
11. Students can change
level during the course
according to their
progression. Those following
the core curriculum are
eligible for grades 5 to 1;
extended curriculum
students are eligible for
grades 9 to 1.

14
Ciencias sociales
Aims
Ciencias Sociales is a subject taught in Spanish in which students learn
about human behaviour and society and acquire the knowledge, skills,
and attitudes necessary to understand the reality of the world in which
they live, past and present collective experiences, as well as the space
in which life in society takes place.

This subject is evaluated via: This subject is not an

Assessment

• The learning process and

acquired knowledge.
You will enjoy it if IGCSE, it is assessed via
continuous assessment, and
• Activities carried out we will continue to work as in
(projects, summaries, text previous KS3 courses.
comments, etc.) in groups
or individually. In Year 10 we will work on
• Ability to interpret and concepts of economics,
manage information. politics, and geography. In
• Oral and written Year 11 we will focus on the
expression in the development of History in
assessment tests. Europe and Spain since the
• Reflective, critical, and 18th century.
participatory attitude.
If you like Geography and
Contemporary History, you
will love the subject.

Ciencias Sociales is not an IGCSE subject, but it is a “compulsory”

option for those students who want to obtain their Graduate Certificate
in Secondary Education (E.S.O.) issued by the Spanish Ministry of
Education upon completion of their Secondary studies. It is an essential
requirement for the homologation of foreign studies according to Royal
Decree 806/1993, of May 28, on the regime of foreign educational
centers in Spain.

15
PSHCE
(Personal, social, health and career education)

Aims
This course aims to develop study skills, interpersonal skills, emotional
intelligence, communication and problem-solving skills, while providing
learners with accurate and current information about health and
economic issues. It is delivered by the students´ tutors, who provide
guidance to help students succeed in IGCSE courses and to make
informed decisions about the future.

This is not an IGCSE • you want to learn skills

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

subject. that will help you for the
rest of your life.
Informal continuous • you like talking about
assessment is conducted by issues that affect young
the tutor through people.
discussions, written tasks • you enjoy discussion,
and class participation. debate and role-playing.

16
6. Optional subjects
History
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0977

Aims
The History IGCSE helps turn curious learners into critical thinkers. The
syllabus is organised so that students gain a strong understanding of 20th
century History without repeating content from Year 9. Through the study
of historical evidence and the writing of argumentative essays, students
develop their ability to question, debate and draw their own conclusions.

The syllabus focuses on key international events between 1918 and 1991
with a depth study on the USA from 1919 to 1941.

Students preparing their • You are interested in

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

History IGCSE will be world events and would

required to sit three exams at like to learn more about
the end of Year 11: international relations.
• Paper 1 assesses • You have enjoyed Year 9
historical knowledge and History and would like to
ability to argue. gain more depth in your
• Paper 2 is required the understanding of the
examination of historical events.
sources. • You enjoy reading,
• Paper 4 assesses researching and debating.
knowledge of our Depth
Study (USA, 1919-1941)

17
Sociology
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0495

Aims
Sociology is the study of human behaviour in different societies around
the world and through recent history. This course builds the foundations
of a sociological mind through a study of the main theoretical approaches,
important sociologists and influential case studies. Learners are
encouraged to think critically about different methods and ideas within the
field of sociology.

We cover approximately one • You question why people

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

unit per term. The behave the way they do
assessment is divided into • You wonder why we have
two papers: certain rules and
institutions, why different
• Paper 1 (80 marks) groups of people believe
Unit 1: Theory, methods different things, and why
Unit 2: Culture, identity and people feel they are part
socialisation of a certain group.
Unit 3: Social inequality • You want to know how our
interactions shape our
• Paper 2 (70 marks) identities.
Unit 4: Family • You enjoy debate and
Unit 5: Education discussion
Unit 6: Crime • You are interested in
Unit 7: Media learning how to apply
scientific methods to study
The exams contain a mix of social behaviour.
definition, explanation and
essay questions.

18
Business Studies
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0986

Aims
The syllabus is organised so that curious students will be able to learn
about Business Studies acquiring a foundation about relevant
terminology, concepts and methods, strengths and limitations of the
ideas used in business. Through the study of this subject, the students
will also understand the current issues and problems in a wide range of
business contexts, which is useful for real life and the future of the
students when they are part of a workforce.

Students preparing for their • You would one day like to

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

Business Studies IGCSE will have your own business,

be required to sit two exams work in your family’s
at the end of Year 11: business or even if you
are planning to work for
• Paper 1- Short answer the public sector.
questions and data • You are curious about
response. 80 marks. 1h what is happening in the
30 min. different industries around
us every single day.
• Paper 2 - Case Study. 80 • You enjoy researching,
marks. 1h 30 min. understanding different
graphs and databases.

Students may need mathematical skills for applying different calculations.

19
Economics
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0987

Aims
The Economics IGCSE enables students to learn and understand
economic terminology, concepts and theories for the first time. This is
related to Business Studies to a certain extent, but Economics requires
more mathematics and analytical skills as more graphs and calculations
are used. Through the study of this subject, students will also understand
the current economic issues that are happening throughout the world.

Students preparing for their • You are curious about

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

Economics IGCSE will be what is happening in the
required to sit two exams at different countries and you
the end of Year 11: would like to understand
economic issues, e.g.,
• Paper 1- Multiple choice poverty.
questions. 30 marks. 45
min. • You enjoy researching,
understanding different
• Paper 2 - Structured graphs and databases.
questions. 90 marks. 2h
15 min.

Students may need mathematical skills for applying different calculations.

20
Drama
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0994

Aims
The Drama IGCSE is a skills-based, practical course. If you choose this
subject it should be because you have an enjoyment of drama and would
like to improve your acting skills. You should also enjoy reading plays and
experiencing live theatre.

Learners will understand the artistic choices made by actors, directors

and designers in presenting performances for an audience. They will also
learn about theatrical styles and genres. Learners will explore how to
develop their own ideas in creating original drama.

You will perform 3 pieces of Drama enhances your artistic

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

practical coursework. A and creative abilities and will

monologue, a group scripted help develop your confidence
performance and a group and teamwork skills.
devised performance. This is Drama is a subject that can
your 60%. The remaining be used in many different
careers, after all, being
40% is drama theory and
confident is essential and
written work. You will take a
public speaking is an
2 ½ hour exam and be important aspect to many
required to answer questions jobs.
on the two set texts we have You will enjoy the practical
studies and your devised work and being able to think
practical performance. like a real theatrical director.

Please remember that IGCSE Drama is a practical subject, from the very
first lesson you will be expected to perform in front of others, it is essential
that you have the confidence to do so.

21
Physical Education
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0995

Aims
The Physical Education IGCSE helps students to understand the theory
that underpins physical performance, applying it to understand and
improve performance.
Furthermore, this subject helps students perform in a range of activities.

Students preparing for their Physical Education can be

You will enjoy it if
Assessment

Physical Education IGCSE useful in many careers since

will be required to: awareness of performance is
essential to lead a team.
• Paper 1: one exam to be
sat (1h45min) about Sports You will enjoy it if:
Science • You enjoyed PE
throughout KS3
• Coursework: candidates
• You are interested in
must perform four
health, teaching and/or
activities from a given list
science
• You are
• You enjoy researching
• You are a critical thinker

Please remember that IGCSE PE is also a practical subject and has a

specific list of sports. However, not all the activities may be undertaken
at school, so the off-site ones must be discussed and agreed upon with
the teacher. Moreover, even though you are not required to be a high-
level performer, it is highly recommended that you enjoy doing physical
activity.

22
Geography
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0976

Aims
With the growing importance of climate change, migration, inequalities
and sustainability, the IGCSE Geography is one of the most relevant
courses students could choose to study. They will develop lifelong
transferable skills that will reward them personally and advance them
professionally. Students will learn how to use unique combinations of
knowledge and skills to become well-informed global citizens and make
a positive difference in the world.

Students preparing for the • You are interested in

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

IGCSE Geography will sit 3 recognising the great
exams by the end of Year 11: differences in cultures,
• Paper 1 assesses political systems,
geographical knowledge economies, landscapes
• Paper 2 assesses skills and environments across
such as reading maps the world.
and interpreting • You would like to receive
geographical data an education for life and
• Paper 3 focuses on for living by connecting
testing hypotheses related other fields of knowledge.
to fieldwork

You will need some mathematics skills for applying different calculations
and you will be expected to participate in fieldwork.

23
Computer Science
Syllabus Ref. CIE 0478

Aims
Computer science aims to prepare students for the digital world in which
we live and to enable them to develop: • computational thinking skills • an
understanding of the main principles of solving problems using
computers • the skills necessary to solve computer-based problems using
a high-level programming language • an understanding of the component
parts of computer systems and how they interrelate • an understanding
of the internet as a means of communication and its associated risks • an
understanding of the development and use of automated and emerging
technologies
The course is assessed by Computer science suit those
Assessment

You will enjoy it if

completing the following students who enjoyed

papers:
• Paper 1: Computer
Systems 50% (75 Marks
1 hr 45 min) Questions
are based on units 1-6 of
the syllabus.
• Paper 2: 50%
Algorithms,
Programming and Logic
(75 Marks 1 hr 45 min)
Questions are based on
units 7-10 of the syllabus.
computing lessons part in
Key Stage 3 and who want
to pursue the subject further.
The course is perfect for
those with an eye for detail
who can work independently.
The contents overview:
- Computer systems (Data
representation and
transmission, Hardware and
Software, The internet and
its uses, Automated and
emerging technologies)
- Algorithms, programming
and logic (Algorithm design
and problem-solving,
Programming, Databases
and Boolean logic)

24
Art & Design, Fine Art
Syllabus Ref: Edexcel 4FA1
Aims
Fine Art is a practical subject where students develop their drawing and
painting skills as well as investigating and exploring a range of other
materials including mixed media, printing, painting, and sculpture.

Fine Artwork could be the outcome of personal experiences, thoughts

and feelings or simply observation and records of people place and things
in new and unique ways. Fine Artwork will demonstrate an understanding
and application of formal elements and creative skills. Students will use
visual communication sensitively and thoughtfully to document their
artistic journey.

The assessment for this Fine Art is great if you

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

course is through particularly enjoy drawing

coursework with a final and painting and want to
‘exam’ or sustained period of improve your use of visual
working over 10 hours language. If you are curious
where students create a final about the work of other
piece. Artists and enjoy visiting
galleries and museums.
Students complete two
projects of work for You will do well on this
submission to the exam course if you are willing to
board: dedicate time outside of
• Component 1 is a theme school to collecting, creating
set by the teacher. and improving your skills.
• Component 2 is a theme
set by the exam board.

While the school facilitates much of the resources needed for this
practical subject, students are expected to have their own collection of
quality drawing materials if opting for this subject.

25
French
Syllabus Ref. CIE 7156

Aims
French IGCSE will be incredibly valuable! This course will help you with
the practical part of speaking French. Holding such a certificate
demonstrates a high level of perseverance and willingness to learn a new
language, as well as being a rewarding skill which you can make use of
throughout your life.

• Paper 1: Listening (40 • You enjoy learning

Assessment

You will enjoy it if

marks, 25%). Students languages and feel
answer questions after someone connected to
listening to a number of other cultures.
recordings. • You see yourself travelling
• Paper 2: Reading (45 or working abroad in the
future.
marks, 25%). Students
• You are interested in
read a series of texts and
learning the international
answer multiple-choice as language of cooking,
well as questions fashion, theatre, the visual
requiring short answers. arts, dance and
• Paper 3: Speaking (100 architecture.
marks, 25%). Students
complete one role play
and two topics of
conversation.
• Paper 4: Writing (45
marks, 25%). Students
complete one form-filling
task, and two writing
tasks.

26
German
Syllabus Ref. CIE 7159

Aims
To develop fluency (level A1-B1); to gain further insights into the culture
and society of German speaking countries; to develop awareness of the
nature of language and language learning; to provide enjoyment and
intellectual stimulation; to develop transferable skills.

• Paper 1: Listening (40 Are you doing well at

Assessment

marks, 25%). Answer You will enjoy it if German? Do you find it easy
multiple choice questions to remember vocabulary? Do
after listening to a number you want to be able to
of recordings. understand more and
• Paper 2: Reading (45 communicate more? Do you
marks, 25%). a series of get the difference between
texts and answer multiple- the tenses?
choice as well as
If so, this course is for you
questions requiring short and you will be great at this
answers in German. subject!
• Paper 3: Speaking (40
marks, 25%) one role play
and two topics of
conversation.
• Paper 4: Writing (45
marks, 25%) one form-
filling task, and two writing
tasks.

To do well in German, revise little and often; watch videos; do quizzes

and keep vocabulary and notes organised.

27
Music
Syllabus Ref. Edexcel 1MU0

Aims
The GCSE Music course aims to nurture young musicians who can
perform at a high level, compose their own music, and identify and
analyse features from music of different periods, places and genres.

You will be expected to If you enjoy playing an

Assessment

perform 2 pieces of music of

your choice (one solo and
You will enjoy it if
instrument or singing, and
you are a confident and fairly
one as part of a group) on experienced performer
any instrument or voice, at (maybe you have had
around Grade 4 standard. lessons outside school or
You will also be asked to have been in a conservatory,
compose 2 pieces of music; or maybe you have an
1 of which is a free instrument at home and can
composition of your own play a number of songs at
choice and the other to a set quite a good level; maybe
brief. The compositions will even you have a good
be recorded or notated. singing voice and are used
Finally, you will sit a listening
to singing in public). If you
and appraising examination enjoy inventing your own
based on 8 set works that music you will enjoy the
encompass a number of composing part of the
different styles and historical
course, and of course if you
periods. like playing with other
musicians, this course gives
you opportunities for this.
You do not have to be a classically trained musician to study GCSE
music. You just have to have an interest and ability. Take into account
though that being able to read music, whilst not being a requirement, is a
big advantage!
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For more information, please contact:
• Miss Evans, Principal:
revans@novaschool.es
• Miss Victoria, Vice-principal:
veosuna@novaschool.es
• Miss Hannah, Secondary headteacher:
hhick@novaschool.es
• Miss Hodson, Examinations officer: 29
echodson@novaschool.es