Aile World School
Where Education Meets Innovation and Sustainability
IGCSE
At Aile World School, our 5-year integrated secondary curriculum seamlessly merges Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) and Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11) into a continuous program that prepares students aged 11-12 for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. This program develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of academic content, while also instilling our core values of environmental stewardship, global citizenship, and sustainable living.
Years 7-11 Integrated Secondary Curriculum Overview
Year 7 (Foundation Year):
- Introduction to secondary education with a focus on the transition from primary learning.
- Emphasis on developing independent study skills, critical thinking, and foundational knowledge in core subjects.
- Exploration of sustainability and environmental awareness across all disciplines.
- Extracurricular activities and clubs to foster personal interests and social development.
Year 8 (Consolidation and Exploration Year):
- Consolidation of foundational knowledge with increased depth in subject matter.
- Introduction to basic research skills and project-based learning.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary studies that connect subjects such as science and geography to global environmental issues.
- Encouragement of community service and involvement in eco-friendly initiatives.
Year 9 (Preparation for IGCSE Year 1):
- Begin aligning the curriculum more closely with IGCSE subject requirements.
- Advanced development of analytical and problem-solving abilities in preparation for IGCSE coursework.
- Introduction to subject-specific vocabulary and concepts that underpin the IGCSE framework.
- First choices made regarding IGCSE subjects, with guidance from educators to ensure a balanced and personalized curriculum.
Year 10 (Preparation for IGCSE Year 2):
- In-depth study of chosen IGCSE subjects with a focus on exam preparation and coursework.
- Continued emphasis on the application of knowledge to real-world problems, particularly in the context of sustainability and global challenges.
- Practice of past IGCSE papers and mock exams to familiarize students with the exam format and expectations.
- Additional support and intervention as needed to ensure all students are on track for success in IGCSE exams.
Year 11 (IGCSE Examination Year):
- Final preparation for IGCSE examinations with a focus on revision strategies, exam techniques, and stress management.
- Completion of IGCSE coursework and practical assessments where applicable.
- Regular feedback from mock exams to identify areas for improvement and consolidate understanding.
- Support for students in planning post-IGCSE pathways, including guidance on A-Level choices, vocational education, or other post-secondary options.
Throughout the 5-year Secondary Program, Aile World School ensures that students experience a rich and diverse curriculum, with core and elective subjects designed to provide both breadth and depth of knowledge.
Subjects Across Years 7-11:
English Language and Literature
- Comprehensive development of language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
- Study of a wide range of literature to understand different genres, cultures, and historical periods.
- Enhancement of critical thinking through analysis, discussion, and essay writing.
- Preparation for IGCSE English Language and Literature exams with a focus on comprehension, composition, and commentary skills.
Mathematics (Core and Extended)
- Progressive mastery of mathematical concepts including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability.
- Introduction to more advanced topics such as calculus and trigonometry in preparation for IGCSE exams.
- Application of mathematical reasoning to solve environmental, scientific, and real-world problems.
- Regular assessment and targeted support to build confidence and competence in mathematical skills.
Science (Double & Single Award)
- Integrated approach to biology, chemistry, and physics, encouraging a holistic understanding of scientific principles.
- Practical laboratory work to develop experimental skills and apply scientific inquiry methods.
- Focus on global environmental issues and sustainability within scientific contexts.
- Specific preparation for IGCSE examinations in Coordinated Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, including alternative to practical exams.
Foundation Subjects
To meet our IGCSE program requirements, students need to top up with other subjects depending on their future path. Our standared program requirments include:
- 3 Core Subjects
- 2 Complementory Subjects
- 1 Future Career Related Subject
- 1 Curriculum Related Subject
Students are advised to choose at least one subject from each of the following categories:
- Language Group 1 (eg. English Literature, Arabic, French, Spanish,…).
- Steam related subjects, Groups 4 and 5 (eg. Computer science, Art and Design…).
- Humanities related subjects, Groups 3 , 6, and 7 (eg. history, geography, Psychology…).
- Earth Science related subjects, Group 2 (eg. Geography , Environmental Science,…)
Elective options may include:
Group 1
- Languages (e.g., English Literature, Arabic, Spanish, French, Chinese, Russian, Turkish,…)
Group 2
- Environmental Science
- Marine Science
- Geography
Group 3
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Travel and Tourism
Group 4
- Computer Science
- Information and Communication Technology
- Design and Technology
Group 5
- Art & Design
- Media Studies
- Music
Group 6
- History
- Psychology
- Film Studies
Group 7
- Sociology
- Economics
- Global Citizenship
However, students planning their path should consider timetabling options (eg. if History is timetabled at the same Group as Sociology, they can only take one).
Cross-Curricular Themes
- Environmental Education: Integrating sustainable practices and green technologies across all subjects.
- Global Citizenship: Encouraging awareness of global issues, cultural diversity, and ethical considerations.
- Technology and Innovation: Utilizing digital tools and fostering an innovative mindset to solve complex problems.
Assessment and Support
- Continuous assessment through homework, classwork, projects, and regular exams to monitor progress.
- Personalized learning support, including additional help sessions, mentoring, and tailored resources.
- Regular parent-teacher meetings to discuss student progress and strategies for improvement.
Extracurricular and Personal Development:
- A wide range of clubs, societies, and sports to foster personal interests, teamwork, and leadership skills.
- Community service and eco-initiatives to promote social responsibility and environmental action.
- Workshops, seminars, and guest lectures to enhance students’ exposure to various career paths and global perspectives.
- Opportunities for students to participate in local and international competitions and events related to their interests and academic subjects.
Career Guidance and Further Education Planning:
- Career counseling sessions to help students identify their interests and potential career paths.
- Assistance with understanding different post-IGCSE pathways, including A-Levels, International Baccalaureate, vocational training, or specialized programs.
- Support with university and college applications, including preparation for entrance exams, personal statements, and interview skills.
Final IGCSE Examination Preparation:
- Intensive revision sessions and study groups in the lead-up to the final exams.
- Strategies for effective revision, including time management, mind mapping, and active recall techniques.
- Stress management and well-being workshops to help students maintain a balanced approach to exam preparation.
School’s 5-year integrated secondary curriculum is designed to be dynamic, challenging, and supportive, ensuring that every student is prepared for the demands of the IGCSE examinations and ready to make informed decisions about their future education and career. Our holistic approach not only emphasizes academic excellence but also the development of the whole person, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
1. English
Aile World School’s English curriculum for the secondary program is a comprehensive course of study that prepares students for the linguistic and analytical demands of IGCSE examinations and beyond. It is designed to develop proficient communicators with a deep appreciation for literature and an ability to think critically.
Level 7-9 English Curriculum:
Reading and Comprehension:
- Students will explore a diverse range of texts including novels, short stories, plays, poetry, and non-fiction.
- Focus on developing inferential and evaluative comprehension skills.
- Introduction to critical literary theories and approaches.
- Regular in-class discussions and written responses to various texts to enhance understanding and interpretation.
Writing Skills
- Emphasis on crafting well-structured and coherent written work across different forms: narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, and argumentative.
- Development of a strong writing process from brainstorming and drafting to revising and editing.
- Mastery of tone, style, and register appropriate to different writing contexts.
- Reinforcement of accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Oral Communication
- Regular opportunities for speaking and listening through presentations, debates, dramatic readings, and group discussions.
- Focus on developing clear diction, effective rhetoric, and active listening skills.
- Activities that promote confidence in public speaking and the ability to articulate thoughts coherently.
Language Conventions
- In-depth study of grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary to support precise and nuanced expression.
- Exercises in identifying and correcting errors in written English.
- Exploration of etymology and word origins to build a rich and varied vocabulary.
Literature Study
- Exposure to a wide range of literary genres and periods, including a study of Shakespeare, modern drama, classic and contemporary novels, poetry, and short stories.
- Analysis of literary devices and techniques such as symbolism, metaphor, meter, and narrative perspective.
- Consideration of historical and cultural contexts of literary works.
- Encouraging personal responses and interpretations of literature.
Research and Inquiry
- Developing research skills for gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing information.
- Introduction to citation and referencing techniques to support academic integrity.
- Projects and assignments that require independent inquiry and critical thinking.
Media Literacy:
- Critical engagement with various media texts including advertisements, news, social media, and visual texts.
- Understanding the impact of media on society and individuals, as well as the role of language in shaping media messages.
- Analysis of the techniques used in media to persuade and inform audiences, and the creation of students’ own media texts.
Creative Writing and Expression
- Encouragement of personal expression through poetry, short stories, and other creative forms.
- Workshops to develop voice, style, and literary techniques.
- Opportunities for publication and sharing of work within the school community or in broader forums.
Drama and Performance
- Study and performance of dramatic texts to explore their thematic and emotional depth.
- Understanding the elements of drama including stagecraft, direction, and acting techniques.
- Participation in school productions or class plays to apply practical skills and build teamwork.
Cross-Curricular Integration
- Projects that integrate English with other disciplines such as history, art, or environmental science, emphasizing the importance of language in all areas of knowledge.
- Use of language skills to research and present on topics from other subject areas, reinforcing the interconnectedness of the curriculum.
Assessment
- A variety of assessment methods including formative assessments like quizzes and in-class activities, and summative assessments such as essays, projects, oral presentations, and exams.
- Regular feedback to guide progress and individualized support to target areas for improvement.
Preparation for IGCSE
- Gradual introduction to the types and formats of tasks found in IGCSE English Language and Literature exams.
- Practice with past exam papers and specific exam strategies to build familiarity and confidence.
Throughout the Year 7-9 English curriculum at Aile World School, students are encouraged to become not just skilled users of the English language but also thoughtful readers, writers, and communicators who are aware of the power of language in a global context. The curriculum is designed to be dynamic, responding to students’ interests and global trends while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
2.Mathematics
At Aile World School, our Mathematics curriculum is developed to ensure a solid grounding in mathematical principles while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the subject’s real-world applications, particularly in environmental and sustainable contexts. The program encourages students to recognize the global importance and interconnectedness of math across various disciplines. The secondary school curriculum spans from Year 7 (age 11-12) to Year 11 (age 15-16), leading up to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations. The curriculum not only emphasizes mastery of mathematical concepts but also cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the role of mathematics in addressing global challenges.
level 7-9 Mathematics Curriculum:
Numbers:
- Mastery of fundamental arithmetic, including fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and proportion.
- Introduction to concepts of number theory, prime numbers, factors, and multiples.
- Focus on real-life applications such as financial mathematics, exploring interest rates, budgeting, and sustainable resource management.
Algebra:
- Foundations of algebraic thinking, manipulation of expressions, and solving linear equations and inequalities.
- Introduction to sequences, functions, and graphical representation of linear relationships.
- Problem-solving using algebraic methods, including formula manipulation and simple quadratic equations.
Geometry and Measures:
- Understanding geometric properties, including angles, parallel lines, polygons, and circles.
- Introduction to basic trigonometry, Pythagoras’ theorem, and their application in real-world contexts.
- Study of measurement in 2D and 3D shapes, including perimeter, area, volume, and surface area.
Statistics and Probability:
- Collection and representation of data using various methods such as charts, graphs, and tables.
- Calculation and interpretation of averages and measures of spread.
- Basic probability concepts, including the probability of single and combined events.
Problem-Solving and Reasoning:
- Development of strategic problem-solving skills, including identifying patterns, logical reasoning, and systematic approaches to complex problems.
- Encouragement of mathematical reasoning and communication through discussions and written explanations of solutions.
Year 10-11 Mathematics Curriculum (IGCSE Preparation):
Extended Number Concepts:
- Further exploration of surds, indices, and standard form, including calculations with powers and roots.
- Advanced financial mathematics, including compound interest, depreciation, and exchange rates.
Advanced Algebra:
- Development of skills in manipulating more complex algebraic expressions, quadratic equations, and simultaneous equations.
- Introduction to algebraic functions, variations, and the basics of calculus, such as differentiation and integration.
Further Geometry and Trigonometry:
- Study of more complex geometric figures and their properties, including the introduction to geometric proofs.
- Exploration of trigonometric identities, the sine and cosine rules, and solving trigonometric equations.
- Application of trigonometry to real-world problems, such as navigation, surveying, and architecture, emphasizing sustainable practices.
Higher-Level Statistics and Probability:
- Introduction to more advanced statistical concepts, including standard deviation, variance, and the use of normal and binomial distributions.
- Deeper exploration of probability, including conditional probability and the use of tree diagrams and Venn diagrams to solve complex problems.
- Utilization of statistics in understanding and interpreting data related to global issues such as environmental change, population trends, and health studies.
Pre-Calculus and Introduction to Calculus:
- Familiarization with the concept of limits and introductory calculus, including differentiation and integration.
- Applying calculus to practical problems, such as rate of change in scientific and economic contexts, and optimizing solutions in design and engineering projects.
Mathematical Applications and Modelling:
- Engaging with mathematical modelling to represent and solve problems taken from a variety of authentic contexts.
- Applying mathematics to cross-curricular topics, such as physics for force and motion problems, biology for growth rates, and economics for analyzing trends.
IGCSE Exam Preparation:
- Systematic review of all mathematical topics covered in preparation for the IGCSE exams.
- Practice with past exam papers, mock exams, and targeted revision sessions to build confidence and exam technique.
- Development of time-management skills and strategies to approach different types of exam questions.
Throughout the Year 7-11 Mathematics curriculum, Aile World School emphasizes the importance of a strong mathematical foundation for academic success and real-world problem-solving. The curriculum is designed to be progressive, ensuring that each year builds on the last, while also being flexible enough to cater to individual student needs and learning styles.
Assessment methods include regular quizzes, homework assignments, classwork, projects, and formal examinations to monitor progress and provide feedback. The curriculum also integrates technology and digital tools to enhance learning and prepare students for the technological demands of the future. Through this holistic approach, students develop a deep understanding of mathematics and its applications, preparing them for the IGCSE examinations and beyond.
3. Science
Aile World School’s Science curriculum for the secondary program is an integrated course designed to provide students with a strong foundation in scientific principles and methodologies. It prepares students for the IGCSE examinations while fostering a sense of curiosity, environmental stewardship, and an understanding of science’s role in addressing global challenges.
Level 7-9 Science Curriculum:
Biology:
- Cells and Organ Systems: Introduction to cell structure and function, human body systems, and basic physiology.
- Plants and Ecosystems: Study of photosynthesis, plant biology, and the principles of ecology and biodiversity.
- Reproduction and Genetics: Understanding of the basics of human and animal reproduction, heredity, and introduction to genetics.
Chemistry:
- Matter and Elements: Exploration of states of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, and chemical bonding.
- Reactions and Compounds: Investigation of types of chemical reactions, simple compound formation, and balancing equations.
- Acids, Bases, and Solutions: Introduction to the properties and reactions of acids and bases, and an understanding of solubility and concentration.
Physics:
- Forces and Motion: Concepts of speed, velocity, acceleration, and Newton’s laws of motion.
- Energy and Work: Study of different forms of energy, energy transfer, and the principles of work and power.
- Waves and Light: Exploration of wave properties, sound, light, reflection, and refraction.
Scientific Inquiry and Experimentation:
- Development of scientific questioning, hypothesis formulation, and experimental design.
- Data collection techniques, analysis, and interpretation, including graphing and statistical evaluation.
- Emphasis on lab safety, accurate measurement, and use of scientific equipment.
Environmental Science and Sustainability:
- Integrated study of human impact on the environment, conservation, and sustainable resource management.
- Investigation of global environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and renewable energy.
Level 10-11 Science Curriculum (IGCSE Preparation):
Biology (IGCSE level):
- Enhanced study of cell biology, human physiology, genetics, and evolution.
- In-depth exploration of ecology, environmental management, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.
- Application of biological knowledge to biotechnology, agriculture, and medical advancements.
Chemistry (IGCSE level):
- Advanced study of the periodic table, including trends and group behaviors.
- Exploration of chemical bonding, structure, and the properties of matter in depth.
- Chemical calculations involving mole concepts, stoichiometry, and concentrations.
- Investigation of organic chemistry, including hydrocarbons, functional groups, and polymers.
- Analysis of reaction kinetics, energy changes in reactions, and reversible reactions and equilibria.
Physics (IGCSE level):
- Deeper understanding of forces, motion, and energy, including detailed work on dynamics, momentum, and energy resources.
- Study of electricity and magnetism, including electric circuits, electromagnetism, and electronic components.
- Exploration of thermal physics, covering temperature, heat, and the laws of thermodynamics.
- Investigation into waves, sound, and light, with a focus on lens and mirror optics, wave properties, and the electromagnetic spectrum.
- Introduction to modern physics topics such as atomic and nuclear physics, quantum phenomena, and the universe.
Practical Skills and Assessment:
- Regular laboratory work to develop hands-on skills in scientific investigation and experimentation.
- Focus on accuracy, precision, and reliability in conducting experiments and recording results.
- Preparation for IGCSE practical assessments, including alternative to practical examinations for students to demonstrate their understanding of experimental methods and data analysis.
Science, Technology, and Society:
- Discussions on the interplay between science, technology, and societal issues.
- Ethical considerations in scientific research and the impact of technological advances on the environment and society.
- Encouragement of critical thinking about the role of science in addressing global challenges such as health, sustainability, and climate change.
IGCSE Exam Preparation:
- Comprehensive review of all key concepts and principles covered in the IGCSE syllabus.
- Practice with past exam papers and sample questions to build familiarity with the format and expectations of the exams.
- Development of exam strategies, including time management, question analysis, and effective answering techniques.
Throughout level 7-11 Science curriculum, Aile World School places a strong emphasis on the importance of scientific literacy for all students. The curriculum is designed to be progressive, ensuring that students build on their knowledge and skills each year. It also aims to inspire a lifelong interest in science and its applications, preparing students for further education and careers in science-related fields.