IGCSE (Years 10 and 11)
The IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is a two-year programme of study which students at Berlin British School typically follow between the ages of 14 and 16. Designed and administered by the University of Cambridge International Examinations Board (CIE), IGCSE has been specifically created for international students, though it is also taught by top national schools in countries such as the UK. The two-year course is taught in over 700 British and international Schools in over 100 countries. The programme leads to a certificate that is internationally recognised. It has been accepted as a preliminary requirement for entry into all UK universities, and is recognised by universities and colleges around the World.
Assessment
Every subject within The IGCSE programme is assessed on an eight-point scale of grades from A* to G. Any student failing to reach a grade G is awarded a grade U (Unclassified). An A* is an exceptional grade, given to approximately the top 7 % of students within each subject.
In some subjects, there is a choice between Core and Extended curriculum papers, allowing teachers and students to decide on the most appropriate level of instruction and testing for the candidate. The Core curriculum in each subject is within the ability range of all students. It provides a full overview of the subject and is targeted at students expected to achieve between grades C and G. The Extended curriculum comprises the Core curriculum plus additional and more challenging material. This has been designed for the more academically able student, who is expected to achieve between grades A* – C. The majority of students at Berlin British School take most subjects at the Extended level.
Method of Assessment
The method of assessment varies from subject to subject. In all subjects, however, a significant percentage of the final grade will be based on the examination results taken at the end of Year 11 (16 years old). In some subjects there is a coursework component.
Subjects Available at Berlin British School
At Berlin British School, students normally study between 7 and 10 IGCSE subjects. Some subjects are compulsory for all students. These are:
English Language
English Literature
Mathematics
Co-ordinated Science (double award)
German (as a First or Foreign Language)
ICT
In addition, students can choose to take three additional subjects, from:
Business Studies
History
Geography
Art
Music
French
Spanish
PE
It should be noted that although these are the subjects taught at Berlin British School, students may arrange to sit examinations in other subjects in which they are already very skilled. Typically this has included foreign language examinations including Italian and Arabic.
Progression to the IB diploma
For students wishing to study in the IB diploma programme at Berlin British School in Year 12, the minimum requirement of 6 grades between A* and C is expected. This must include Mathematics and English. Students who fail to achieve the necessary standard in 6 subjects have the option of taking part in the IB Certificates Programme. These students also have the option of re-taking IGCSE examinations in November or in June.
