IGCSE Curriculum

A globally recognized qualification

The Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations are a globally recognized qualification for students aged 14 to 16 years. The IGCSE exams are designed to assess students’ knowledge and skills across a broad range of subjects and are equivalent to the UK GCSEs.

Key Features of Cambridge IGCSE Examinations

Here is an overview of the Cambridge IGCSE subjects offered at Balance and what a Cambridge qualification would mean to our students.

1. Wide Range of Subjects:

  • Over 70 subjects are offered, including languages, humanities, social sciences, mathematics, creative and technical subjects, and sciences.
  • Students at Balance will be offered nine option choices of which they will have to choose SIX Subjects.

2. International Recognition:

  • Cambridge IGCSE is recognized by universities, colleges, and employers worldwide as a standard of academic achievement.
  • It provides a solid foundation for further study.

3. Flexible Curriculum:

  • The flexible structure allows schools to offer a combination of core subjects and elective subjects that suit students’ interests and career aspirations.
  • At Balance students will have to take English, Mathematics and Thai. They can then choose another THREE option subjects offered at Balance.

4. Assessment Methods

  • Assessment is through written, oral, coursework, and practical examinations.
  • Examinations are conducted between May and July, with results issued in August.
  • Coursework allows students to demonstrate their learning through projects and assignments, which are assessed by teachers and moderated by Cambridge.

5. Grading System:

  • IGCSE uses a grading scale from A* (highest) to G (lowest), with U (ungraded) indicating a performance below the required standard.
  • Some subjects also offer a Core and Extended curriculum, with the Core curriculum targeting grades C to G and the Extended curriculum targeting grades A* to E.

6. Core and Elective Subjects:

  • Core subjects typically include English, Mathematics, and Thai.
  • Elective subjects allow students to explore their interests and talents in areas such as foreign languages, history, geography, business studies, art and design, and information technology.

7. Language Options:

Students can choose from a wide range of languages, including: first, second, and foreign languages.

  • Accommodates diverse linguistic backgrounds
  • Promoting bilingualism and multilingualism.

Subjects Offered in IGCSE at Balance

  • Languages:
    • First Language English, English as a Second Language, French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, etc.
  • Humanities and Social Sciences:
    • Business Studies and Geography
  • Sciences:
    • Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Coordinated Sciences (Double Award).
  • Mathematics:
    • Mathematics, Additional Mathematics.
  • Creative and Technical:
    • Art and Design, Music, ICT

Preparing for IGCSE Examinations at Balance

Curriculum Planning:

  • At Balance we plan a two-year program leading up to the IGCSE exams at the end of year 11, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus and alignment with Cambridge standards.

Teaching Resources:

  • Cambridge provides a wealth of teaching and learning resources, including textbooks, past papers, mark schemes, and online platforms.
  • Teachers receive professional development opportunities to enhance their instructional practices and stay updated with curriculum changes.

Student Support:

  • Schools offer various forms of support, such as extra tutoring, revision classes, and study skills workshops, to help students prepare effectively for their exams.
  • Mock exams and practice tests are taken in January of Year 11 and are commonly used to familiarize students with exam formats and timing.

Assessment Preparation:

  • Regular assessments, quizzes, and feedback help students gauge their understanding and progress throughout the course.
  • Emphasis on developing exam techniques, such as time management, answering strategies, and handling different types of questions.

Benefits of Cambridge IGCSE

  • Strong Academic Foundation: Provides a solid base for advanced study and specialisation in various fields.
  • Skill Development: Emphasises critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and independent learning skills.
  • Global Perspective: Encourages an understanding of global issues and promotes cultural awareness and sensitivity.
  • University and Career Readiness: Prepares students for the demands of higher education and the global workforce with recognized and respected qualifications.

In summary, the Balance Cambridge IGCSE examinations offers our students a rigorous and internationally recognized qualification that prepares students for future academic and professional success. The flexible and comprehensive curriculum, combined with robust assessment methods, ensures that students develop a deep understanding of their subjects and essential skills for lifelong learning.

Why choose us

We know that providing what students need to become exceptional adults requires more than just academics, therefore we embrace the philosophy of preparing well-rounded students for the world and better prepare them to face the challenges of the future. 

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