GCSE Grading

GCSEs and International GCSEs (IGCSEs) use a nine point numerical grading system (with a Grade 9 being the top mark). For Maths, Foreign Languages and Sciences, there are two tiers that you can be entered for: higher or foundation. Higher tier exams are awarded grades 9-4, while foundation tier exams are awarded grades 5-1. Decisions about which tier will be appropriate for you will be made with your teachers in the January / February before your GCSE exams in Year 11.

Current Grading

9 8 7

Old Grading

The proportion of students who would have previously achieved a grade A or above should be about the same as those who will achieve a grade 7 or above today.

A* A

The proportion of students who would have previously achieved a grade C or above should be about the same as those who will receive a grade 4 or above today.

English Language

English Language will help you broaden your knowledge and understanding of non-fiction texts and writing styles. You will read and compare contemporary nonfiction texts from different world cultures as well as use different forms of non-fiction writing for a particular purpose, for example, to create the text of a leaflet that gives your opinion on a topic. You will also develop your own piece of personal or creative writing, as well as discuss poetry and short prose texts together.

What will I learn?

How will I be assessed?

- One exam paper (worth 60% of the IGCSE)

- Two pieces of written coursework (each worth 20% of the IGCSE)

You will learn to read a wide range of texts fluently and with good understanding as well as read critically and use knowledge gained from wide reading to inform and improve your own writing. Additionally, you will learn to use Standard English appropriately and apply accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling to your own writing. You will also acquire and apply a wide variety of vocabulary alongside your knowledge and understanding of grammatical terms, and linguistic conventions for reading and writing.

English Literature

English Literature includes a range of prose fiction, poetry and drama texts, from the heritage times of Shakespeare, through the 19th century, to modern times. The set texts are engaging, popular and suitable for all learners, and draw from a diverse range of writers and poets, such as John Steinbeck, Harper Lee, J.B. Priestley, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, John Agard, Imtiaz Dharker, Alice Walker, John Keats, Christina Rossetti and Vernon Scannell.

How will I be assessed?

- One exam paper (worth 60% of the IGCSE)

- Two pieces of written coursework (each worth 20% of the IGCSE)

What will I learn?

You will learn to engage with and develop the ability to read and respond to a wide range of literary texts from around the world, developing an appreciation of the ways in which writers use literary effects as well as the skills needed for literary study. In exploring the writer’s use of language to create effects, the syllabus will encourage you to find enjoyment in reading literature while understanding its influence on individuals and societies.