International GCSE Chemistry

GCSE Chemistry helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.  The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of chemistry, and a strong emphasis on practical skills.  Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to International AS and A Level, further education or a career related to science.

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Knowledge with understanding
Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts and theories
• scientific vocabulary, terminology and conventions (including symbols, quantities and units)
• scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety
• scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications.

Subject content defines the factual material that candidates may be required to recall and explain. Candidates will
also be asked questions which require them to apply this material to unfamiliar contexts and to apply knowledge
from one area of the syllabus to another.
Questions testing this objective will often begin with one of the following words: define, state, describe, explain
(using your knowledge and understanding) or outline.

AO2 Handling information and problem solving
Candidates should be able, in words or using other written forms of presentation (i.e. symbolic, graphical and numerical), to:

• locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources
• translate information from one form to another
• manipulate numerical and other data
• use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences
• present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships
• make predictions and hypotheses
• solve problems, including some of a quantitative nature.

Questions testing these skills may be based on information that is unfamiliar to candidates, requiring them to apply the principles and concepts from the syllabus to a new situation, in a logical, deductive way.
Questions testing these skills will often begin with one of the following words: predict, suggest, calculate or determine.

AO3 Experimental skills and investigations
Candidates should be able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of how to safely use techniques, apparatus and materials (including following a sequence of instructions where appropriate)
• plan experiments and investigations
• make and record observations, measurements and estimates
• interpret and evaluate experimental observations and data
• evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements.

International GCSE Physics

GCSE Physics helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.  The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of physics, and a strong emphasis on practical skills.  Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to International AS and A Level, further education or a career related to science.

International GCSE Biology

GCSE Biology helps learners to understand the biological world in which they live and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments.  The syllabus includes the basic principles and concepts that are fundamental to the subject, some current applications of biology, and a strong emphasis on practical skills.  Learners also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for progression to  International AS and A Level, further education or a career related to science.

International GCSE Geography

Through the GCSE Geography syllabus, learners will develop a 'sense of place' by looking at the world around them on a local, regional and global scale.  Learners will examine a range of natural and man-made environments, and study some of the processes which affected their development.  They will also look at the ways in which people interact with their environment, and the opportunities and challenges an environment can present, thereby gaining a deeper insight into the different communities and cultures that exist around the world.

International GCSE Business Studies

The GCSE Business Studies syllabus develops learners' understanding of business activity in the public and private sectors, and the importance of innovation and change.  Learners find out how the major types of business organisation are established, financed and run, and how their activities are regulated.  Factors influencing business decision-making are also considered, as are the essential values of cooperation and interdependence.  Learners not only study business concepts and techniques but also enhance related skills such as numeracy and enquiry.  The syllabus provides both a foundation for further study at International A Level and an ideal preparation for the world of work.

International GCSE Computer Science

GCSE Computer Science helps learners develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers.  They apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language.  Learners also develop a range of technical skills, and the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions.  Studying GCSE Computer Science helps learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise their potential risks.  It provides an ideal foundation for progression to International AS and A Level and is valuable for other areas of study and everyday life.

International GCSE Economics

The GCSE Economics syllabus develops an understanding of economic theory, terminology and principles.  Learners study the economics of different countries and how these interrelate.  They also learn to work with simple economics data and to use the tools of economic analysis.  Learners apply understanding of economics to current economic issues.  The GCSE Economics syllabus provides a foundation for further study, including International AS and A Level Economics, or the equivalent.

International GCSE History

The GCSE History syllabus looks at some of the major international issues of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as covering the history of particular regions in more depth.  The emphasis is on both historical knowledge and on the skills required for historical research.  Learners develop an understanding of the nature of cause and effect, continuity and change, similarity and difference and find out how to use and understand historical evidence as part of their studies.  GCSE History will stimulate any learner already interested in the past, providing a basis for further study, and also encouraging a lifelong interest in the subject.  Both coursework and non-coursework options are available.

International GCSE Afrikaans as a Second Language

GCSE Second Language Afrikaans is designed for learners who already have a working knowledge of the language and who want to consolidate their understanding in order to progress in their academic or professional career.   The qualification reflects the widespread use of Afrikaans in education and commerce, and also in entertainment, throughout Southern Africa.  Through their studies, learners discover how to use Afrikaans effectively in the type of situations, and Afrikaans-speaking environments, they will encounter in their daily lives. The aim is to achieve a level of practical communication ideal for everyday use, which can also form the basis for further, more in-depth language study.

Syllabus:

AO1: Reading

• R1 - understand and respond to information presented in a variety of forms.
• R2 - select and organise material relevant to specific purposes.
• R3 - recognise, understand and distinguish between facts, ideas and opinions.
• R4 - infer information from texts.

AO2: Writing

• W1 - communicate clearly, accurately and appropriately.
• W2 - convey information and express opinions effectively.
• W3 - employ and control a variety of grammatical structures.
• W4 - demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a range of appropriate vocabulary.
• W5 - observe conventions of paragraphing, punctuation and spelling.
• W6 - employ appropriate register/style.

AO3: Listening

• L1 - understand and respond to information presented in a variety of forms.
• L2 - recognise, understand and distinguish between facts, ideas and opinions.
• L3 - select and organise material relevant to specific purposes.
• L4 - infer information from texts.

AO4: Speaking

• S1 - communicate clearly, accurately and appropriately.
• S2 - convey information and express opinions effectively.
• S3 - employ and control a variety of grammatical structures.
• S4 - demonstrate knowledge of a range of appropriate vocabulary.
• S5 - engage in and influence the direction of conversation.
• S6 - employ suitable pronunciation and stress patterns.

International GCSE French - Foreign Language

This syllabus is designed for students who are learning French as a foreign language.  The aim is to develop an ability to use the language effectively for practical communication.  The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on as learners progress through their studies.  The syllabus also aims to offer insights into the culture of countries where French is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages.

International GCSE Spanish - Foreign Language

This syllabus is designed for students who are learning Spanish as a foreign language.  The aim is to develop an ability to use the language effectively for practical communication.  The course is based on the linked language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing, and these are built on as learners progress through their studies.  The syllabus also aims to offer insights into the culture of countries where Spanish is spoken, thus encouraging positive attitudes towards language learning and towards speakers of other languages.

International GCSE Art and Design

The GCSE Art and Design syllabus aims to encourage a personal response by stimulating imagination, sensitivity, conceptual thinking, powers of observation and analytical ability.  Learners gain confidence and enthusiasm as they develop technical skills in two and three dimensional form and composition, and are able to identify and solve problems in visual and tactile forms.  They also learn how to develop ideas from initial attempts to final solutions.  An ideal foundation for further study, GCSE Art and Design also develops a greater awareness of the role played by the visual arts in society and in history, broadening cultural horizons and individual experience.

International GCSE Music - not available yet, coming soon

When studying the GCSE Music syllabus, learners listen to, perform and compose music, encouraging aesthetic and emotional development, self-discipline and, importantly, creativity.  As a result, learners enhance their appreciation and enjoyment of music, an achievement that forms an ideal foundation for future study and enhances life-long musical enjoyment.  Learners study music of all styles; each style is placed in its historical and cultural context, and they are encouraged to be perceptive, sensitive and critical when listening.  Although the majority of the syllabus examines Western European music, the music of other cultures is always represented.

RHYTHMIC MOVES - THIS IS NOT A GCSE SUBJECT

Preparing for THE WORLD OF TOMORROW (all stages)

This is an interdisciplinary learning area where we encourage a love for learning , as well as a personal development journey toward enabling young people to engage socially in a variety of community initiatives , guidance in being responsible citizens and learning vital tools to living healthy, productive and joyous lives.

Curriculum Topics:
• personal, social and emotional growth and development (age appropriate)
• knowledge and understanding of the world and our responsible part in it
• environmental awareness
• physical and creative tools to understand in dealing with stress and pressures
• How to conduct oneself well and in a healthy manner within society
• Suicide awareness
• The importance of taking healthy responsibilities
• Learning to control one’s thoughts and actions in a positive and uplifting manner

We at Avicci Academy are concerned with the health and wellbeing of our students, parents and teachers from a physical, emotional and mental perspective.

We realise and value the importance of giving of ourselves, our families and our environment in a healthy way, and we wish to share these views to create a better future for all.