English Language and Literature
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE Navigation Head of Department: Mrs J. Mundawarara. Members of Staff: Ms Y. Ahsing, Mrs D. Birditt, Ms L. Chimbunde, Mrs C. Geach, Ms C. Hall, Ms C. Jinya, Mrs J. Mwendamberi, Mrs F. Odwee and Mrs M. Warren-Codrington. Departmental Aims Pupils of all abilities are taught improved reading and are introduced to drama and poetry, in a stimulating environment, with a view to personal and academic growth. Through discussion, their speaking and listening skills are developed as they are encouraged to participate orally, to be creative and think for themselves, and to have the courage of their convictions. In addition, they are taught to develop self-confidence and empathy. Forms 1 & 2 English Langauge All pupils study creative writing, comprehension, grammatical foundations and the application thereof. In addition, they are taught informal and formal letter writing, are introduced to novels on which they must write a review and poetry recitation. Use of the Library is taught by the Librarian during Form 1, and in Form 2, there is a Library period during each cycle. IGCSE Level (Form 3 & 4) English Language/Literature in English The College ascribes to the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), and therefore the syllabus for English Language is as prescribed: two papers – one Reading Passages, the other Directed Writing and Composition. To this end, the following components are taught: Summary Writing; Writer’s Effects; Reports; Newspaper Articles – both Feature and News; Speech; Dialogue/Conversation/Script; Journal Entry and Composition: Descriptive and Narrative. Likewise, texts studied for Literature are syllabus-based: one Shakespeare play and one other play; a collection of 14 poems and one novel. AS Level (Lower 6) English Langauge This subject is compulsory for all who join L6, and consists of two papers for examination: Paper 1: Reading; Paper 2: Writing. A2 Level (Upper 6) English Langauge Students have the option to continue the subject at this level, although numbers are limited to 20. There are two papers for examination: Paper 3: Language Analysis; Paper 4: Language Topic. AS/A2 Literature in English Why Literature? It is a fact that cognitive discourse occupies almost the entire secondary school curriculum. Affective discourse (the arts) gets scant recognition on the timetable. The imbalance is both huge and frightening. To stop examining literature would be to remove from large numbers of pupils an affective discourse to which they are exposed to at school. Firstly, the study of literature is a pleasurable experience. Reading structures and extends experience, provides practical insights into life, and affects what one knows and believes. The vicarious experience of literature leads to personal discovery, providing for the education of the emotions in a way no other subject can. Literature is the vehicle for our cultural heritage. It is morally educative, in the sense that it teaches pupils how to lead their lives and treat other people. They learn to make value judgements based largely on the Judaeo-Christian ethic. Literature alone involves all of the higher thinking skills. It develops comprehension skills. It teaches pupils how to relate to parts of a whole; that is, to see interrelationships. Exposure to literature develops a pupil’s capacity to reason, to analyse, to rationalise and to make decisions. It exposes pupils to the nuances of the language, encouraging critical appreciation and a conscious recognition of artistry. Literature affords a general education unavailable in any other way – pupils have to develop a wide range of knowledge involving allusions to science, philosophy, literature, history, religion, psychology, anthropology etc. Good literature provides examples of good writing, exposing pupils to the best minds of both past and present. Because it requires analysis and discussion, the study of literature leads to the development of advanced verbal and writing skills. The study of literature results ultimately in a well-rounded, balanced human being. Literature alone involves all of the higher thinking skills. The examination has four components: Paper 1 (Drama and Poetry) and Paper 2 (Prose and Unseen) at AS; and Paper 3 (Shakespeare and Drama) and Paper 4 (Pre-and Post-1900 Poetry and Prose) at A2. The texts to be studied in 2021-2023 are: Paper 1 – Much Ado About Nothing, Gillian Clarke’s Selected Poems; Paper 2 – Petals of Blood by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o; Paper 3 – King Lear, Indian Ink by Tom Stoppard; Paper 4 – Derek Walcott or Stephen Spender’s Selected Poems; Persuasion by Jane Austen. Entry Requirements and Recommendations: Passes in both Language and Literature at IGCSE Level are essential. Students who do not enjoy self-motivated reading should not try to do AS & A Level. This subject as there is a great deal of compulsory reading. There is a lot of essay writing involved. Career Prospects: As well as helping students to succeed in other A Level subjects, the skills developed in both English courses are useful in a number of careers or degrees, for example, journalism, publishing, advertising, law, teaching, public relations, the theatre, the film industry, politics, the media, and writing. It is a complementary subject to all disciplines hence the requirement that all students study this subject.
Biology
BIOLOGY Navigation Head Of Department : Mrs A. Stangroom. Members of Staff: Ms B. Chiponda, Mrs B. Dean, Mr F. Mugoni . IGCSE Students begin their two-year IGCSE Biology course in Form 3 (Year 10), with teaching shared between several members of staff. Students are scheduled 5 lessons a cycle in one of the three well-equipped laboratories; lessons include as much practical work as possible. Students are introduced to microscope work and basic skills of use of equipment for measuring and recording data, analysis, and interpretation. They are given an understanding of scientific method and how it may be limited or improved. The CAIE Biology syllabus is designed to give flexibility both to teachers and candidates; it emphasises understanding and application of scientific concepts and principles rather than recall of factual material, whilst still giving a thorough introduction to the study of the subject. Our departmental aim is to make students more aware of how living things work and our responsibility for the environment. Classes are tested regularly and take internal examinations at mid-year and year end. The papers are set according to the style and standard of the final IGCSE papers. There are three CAIE examinations at the end of the two years: Multiple Choice Alternate to Practical Structured Questions A-Level The syllabus’ subject content is divided into an AS, done in Lower 6 (Year 12), and A2 done in Upper 6 (Year 13). There are two classes at each level, taught by qualified A-Level teachers. The department offers well-equipped laboratories, with all students having access to their own electric light microscopes. There is an emphasis on practical work particularly in AS Level.Course Aims Aims that are assessed include knowledge with understanding. Students should also be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relation to factors such as Scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts, theories Scientific vocabulary, terminology, conventions (including symbols, quantities and units) Scientific instruments and apparatus used in biology, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety Scientific quantities and their determination Scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications Students must be able to handle information and solve problems using oral, written, symbolic, graphical and numerical forms of presentation, while also experimenting with their newly-acquired skills and investigations. AS Candidates Students begin the AS course as soon as they return from Service Projects and Lower 6 selection. A good grounding in Chemistry and Mathematics are recommended as well as an A grade at IGCSE. The AS introduces cellular ultra-structure, biochemistry and enzymes, transport at a cellular level, cell and nuclear division, genetic control, mass transport in plants and humans, infectious diseases and immunity, gas exchange and diseases of the gas exchange system with an emphasis on the effects of smoking.There are three AS examinations done at the end of the year: Multiple Choice Advanced Practical Written Structured Questions Paper. A2 Candidates The A2 course begins when the Lower 6 (Year 12) students have finished their examinations in November. It includes a Core and an Applications of Biology section, which is studied, in its entirety, by all A2 candidates. Topics in the core include photosynthesis, respiration, regulation, inherited change, and selection and evolution. The applications build on these topics to introduce students to topical fields of biology such as biodiversity and conservation, gene technology, biotechnology. Students do some of their own research on the internet. There are two A2 examinations: Written Structured Questions Written Practical Planning, Analysis and Evaluation. Career Prospects: Apart from the Biological Sciences themselves, Biology at the Advanced Level can lead to further study and/or careers in a wide variety of fields. Some of these are Agriculture, Agronomy, Biochemistry, Dentistry, Information Science, Medicine, Ecology, Teaching, Veterinary Medicine, Genetics and Biotechnology.
Chemistry
CHEMISTRY Navigation Head of Department: Mr R. Nkomo. Members of Staff: Mr A. Chamba, Mr I. Marimira, Mrs S. Moyo, Ms S. Rahman. Form 1 & 2 Science In Forms 1 and 2, students have opportunities to apply scientific and technological knowledge and ideas, and are able to develop their awareness of the role and importance of science in everyday life. Building on their earlier experiences in science, their growing scientific knowledge, understanding and increasing maturity, they will have opportunities to study how science is applied in a variety of contexts. Form 1 and 2 science is a balance curriculum including biology, physics and chemistry, giving students a solid foundation for their IGCSE studies that commence in form 3. IGCSE Level (Form 3 & 4) Chemistry Sets 1 – 4 are taught Pure Chemistry with Core and Extended options available dependent on ability and performance. Set 5 sit Core Physical Science which is a combination of Chemistry and Physics A-level Chemistry is not for the faint-hearted, as it is a rigorous and demanding subject! Pupils use principles and concepts that are within the syllabus and apply them in a logical, reasoned or deductive manner to novel situations. Candidates must have a genuine interest in and enjoyment of chemistry, be prepared to read widely and work independently. In addition, the ability to communicate clearly and unambiguously is vital. Often, students tend to underestimate the course’s demands. Foundations are laid in lower six and lack of consistency can result in disillusionment and an unfulfilling upper sixth year. Entry requirements IGCSE Chemistry – at least a B grade IGCSE Physical Science – Grade A* or A and Mathematics grade B AS / A2 (Sixth Form) Chemistry Chemistry (CIE) 9701 AS topics cover the three main sections of chemistry and three examination papers are written at the end of lower six, including a multiple choice paper, a structured response paper and a practical examination. A2 topics re-visit AS topics and develop these further. Applications of chemistry forms part of the structured response paper and introduces students to modern techniques used in chemistry and applications in industry. A further paper is written on experimental design, analysis and evaluation of results. These two papers are then written at the end of the upper sixth year. Suitable combinations Chemistry is traditionally, but not necessarily, studied in conjunction with other sciences. Career prospects Of all the science subjects, chemistry offers the widest range of options. As a discipline (B.Sc.Chem), it has an input into most scientific fields, eg environmental protection, health sciences (including toxicology), biological sciences (including genetic engineering), forensic science, transportation industries (including aviation), teaching, research, development production, industry, marketing, quality control, brewing technology and food processing. Other degrees for which chemistry is appropriate include chemical engineering, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, bio-chemistry, agriculture, geology and oceanography. A-level chemistry is required by most universities for entry into medical and veterinary studies.
Mathematics
MATHEMATICS Navigation Head of Department: Mr I. Shone. Members of Staff: Mr E. Mutombwa, Mr F. Mushonga, Ms M. Dzwowa, Mr G. Samukange, Mr F. Mugoni, Mr C .Moyo, Mr A. Dambire, Mr M. Phiri and Mrs T Chipangura. Departmental Aims To develop critical thinking and analytical problem-solving skills as well as to prepare students for future Mathematics studies and applications. Mathematics Department Expectations The department has high expectations for each student.Mathematics should be studied as a tool for effective citizenship, as a tool for functioning in a technological world, as a system in its own right, or as a fulfillment of requirements — high school graduation or college entrance. St George’s College Mathematics Department supports students in these endeavours through well-planned lessons that prepare them for public assessments. Form 1 & 2 In Form 1 and 2 (Year 8 & 9), students start right away with IGCSE basic concepts and are able to follow the internal syllabus based on the CIE structure which will be later developed in Form 3 & 4 (Year 10 & 11). They are clearly made aware of the need to develop critical thinking in high order. Emphasis is on introducing the base for IGCSE Mathematics. Form 3 & 4 Sets 1 to 4 do Extended Mathematics based on the Syllabus code 0580. The setting is purely on merit after a thorough rank order system that is done at the end of Form 2. Sets 5 and 6 do Core Maths and again based on the Syllabus code 0580. Advanced Subsidary/Advanced Level Mathematics (CIE 9709) AS papers cover Pure Mathematics 1(Paper 1) and Statistics 1(Paper 5). Candidates sit for these two papers at the end of Lower 6 (Year 12). Depending on the results, candidates may rewrite in Upper 6 (Year 13) or they just concentrate on the other two A2 papers. A2 papers cover Pure Mathematics 3(Paper 3) and Mechanics 1(Paper 4). Candidates sit for these at the end of Upper 6. New Fr Hugh Ross Mathematics Centre The College’s old science gallery was completed in the mid-1950s but, was earmarked for bigger and better things through its refurbishment programme. The structure of the gallery is still sound thus, refurbishment focussed on re-wiring and installing new lighting. The upper gallery was hollowed out and by the end of 2019, will have been converted into six new maths classrooms and offices. Taking cognisance of the Jesuit document (Rio de Janeiro) 2017, all the beautiful old wood will have been recycled into modern classroom furniture, so that the Centre is both contemporary and historical. Career Prospects: Mathematics is required at A Level for entry into most degree courses locally, regionally and internationally. It is essential for careers in Architecture, Commerce, and Engineering Science, among others. Recent Cambridge Award Winning Students Garikai Gijima – Top in the world – AS Level (2019) Garikai Gijima – Top in Zimbabwe – A Level (2020)
Physics
PHYSICS Navigation Head of Department: Mr A. Tobve. Members of staff:Mr M Marimira, Mr W Mahwehwe and Ms S. Rahman. Courses The Physics Department boasts of having three fully qualified teachers who are capable of teaching Physics up to A level, and well-equipped laboratories that allow the learners exposure to a teaching programme with considerable emphasis on practical work. IGCSE Level (Form 3 & 4) Physics Sets 1 – 3 are taught the IGCSE Physics Extended option and Set 4 takes the Core option of the syllabus. However, some exceptional learners in the latter are allowed to sit the Extended examination. Set 5 take up Core Physical Science which is a combination of Chemistry and Physics. The Physical Science course is not considered to be adequate preparation for further studies at A level. Learners embark on various projects and take part in practical work to enhance their learning and skills, and at the end of the course, they write Multiple Choice, Structured and Alternative to Practical examinations. AS and A Level (Sixth Form) Physics Physics is a popular subject at A level, with three classes at both AS and A2 level each year, of between 15 and 20 learners per class. The minimum entry requirement is a B grade in Pure Physics and an A* grade in Physical Science at IGCSE level. A level Physics is a highly demanding subject and learners need to be diligent in their approach! Learners design, analyse and perform experiments using principles and concepts that are within the syllabus. Cooperative learning is hugely encouraged and from time to time learners are assigned projects. The AS syllabus topics cover the three main sections of Physics and three examination papers are written at the end of Lower Six, including a Multiple-Choice paper, a Structured Response paper and a Practical examination. A2 topics are a continuation of AS topics and two examination papers are written at the end of Upper Six (Year 13). These A2 topics together with applications of Physics in Electronics, Telecommunication as well as in the Medicine form part of the Structured Response paper, and a further paper is written on experimental design, analysis and evaluation of results. Career Prospects Industries employing physicists are varied and include aerospace and defence, education, energy and renewable energy, engineering, health and medicine, instrumentation, manufacturing, meteorology and climate change, nanotechnology, oil and gas, science and telecommunications. Physics graduates also move into careers outside of science. Popular options include banking and finance, as well as the software, computing and consultancy industries. Other areas include accountancy, law and transport.
Art and Design
ART AND DESIGN Navigation Head of Department: Mrs V. Murombedzi. Members of staff: Mrs E. Magaya, Mrs T. Janda. Departmental Aims To equip students with artistic skills and knowledge that would help them throughout their lives to be able to appreciate art as a creative factor, and also to express themselves through it. To help senior students who would decide to make art as their professional career to make an easy transformation from high school into any institution of their choice. Art at St George’s College The Form 1 syllabus is focused on making students understand basic elements of art, such as line, shape, value, form, colour, texture and space, and their use in creating pictorial compositions. At the end of the first year, students make their choices based on their results and love for the subject. Some will continue doing Art while others can opt to study History as an alternative. The Form 2 Syllabus is focused on solidifying the knowledge and skills acquired during the previous year. At the end of this year, students are offered a choice between Art / History or Business Studies. The Form 3 and 4 syllabus is aimed at developing each individual’s artistic abilities to prepare them for their IGCSE examinations. Further studies are based on the experiences gained in Form 1 and 2. Style development becomes more complex, the use of perspective is studied, as well as figure and portraiture drawing, portraying mood and atmosphere in studies of nature. More demanding studies are sought through indoor and outdoor observation. There is an introduction to the variety of different mediums such as water colours, charcoal, chalk pastels, oil pastels, ink and the use of mixed media in artwork production. At the end of Form 4, the pupils are prepared for their IGCSE examination, which comprises two components. Component 1 is observational/Interpretative Assignment and is an 8 hour examination. Compnent 2 is Coursework Assignment which consists of a variety of work produced throughout Form 3 and 4, under painting and related media area of study. AS & A Level Syllabus The development of skills and knowledge learned up to Form 4 are further developed at this level, with the emphasis on individuality and personal expression and imagination. More emphasis is placed on the development of an individual’s style in still life, portraiture, landscape studies or abstract and figurative compositions. At the end of first year of Advanced level some students may choose to do AS Level examination and their result will be carried forward to the final year of study or they may choose to do A Level at the end of the second year. During the course of two years of studies students would attend art camps at Lake Chivero and Nyanga. At the end of thier A Levels, students receive consultation on their future career choices, as they are then ready to enroll in any art institution. Career Prospects: Art is the discipline of practical dreamers and innovators. The visual art industry is one of the fastest growing and diversified in the modern world. Art is regarded as requisite skill at university level in disciplines such as Advertisement, Multimedia Art and Animation, Architecture, Film production, Industrial design. Graphic design as well as in such careers as curatorship and web-designing. Employment in graphic designing is growing faster than the average of all other occupations as demand continues to grow from advertisers, publishers, and computer designing firms. Multimedia Art is also growing just as fast in both developed and developing countries.
Accounting
ACCOUNTING Navigation Head of Department : Member Of Department : Mrs O Matanhire IGCSE (Form 3 & 4) Accounting The IGCSE Accounting syllabus introduces students to the theory and concepts of accounting, and the ways in which accounting is used in a variety of modern economic and business contexts.Students focus on the skills of recording, reporting, presenting and interpreting financial information, forming an ideal foundation for further study, and for a future career within the profession. A & AS Level (Sixth Form) Accounting The A and AS Level accounting syllabus enables students to apply their accounting knowledge and understanding inn order to analyse and present information, give reasoned explanations and make judgements and recommendations.The syllabus covers topics such as the recording of financial information, accounting principles and control systems, and the preparation of final accounts for a variety of different organisations and businesses. Students learn more about raising capital by shares and loans, ratio analysis and cost accounting, and also study the preparation of cash flow statements, cash flow analysis, the repayment of share capital, and standard costing and investment appraisal, among other topic Career Prospects: Accounting is a useful introduction to a Bachelor of Accounting degree or any of a number of Business Degrees. Accounting can lead to financial and management accounting in Commerce and Industry, accounting and auditing for Local and Central Government and into Business Management.
Business Studies
BUSINESS STUDIES Navigation Head of Department: IGCSE Level (Form 3 & 4) Business Studies The IGCSE Business Studies syllabus develops students’ understanding of business activity in the public and private sectors, and the importance of innovation and changes. Students learn 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. AS & A Level (Sixth Form) Business Studies The Business Studies syllabus enables students to understand and appreciate the nature and scope of business, and the role it plays in society. The syllabus covers economic, environmental, ethical, governmental, legal, social and technological issues, and encourages a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. Students examine the management of organisations and, in particular, the process of decision-making in a dynamic external environment. Entry Requirements and Recommendations: A minimum of a C at IGCSE Level in English and Mathematics; and a C for Business Studies is required. In addition: Ability and commitment to work hard, and keeping up to date with regular assignments, notes and homework. Ability to develop analytical and evaluation skills for use in a specific business context. Ability to construct and deliver strong essay work.Preparedness to learn and understand many new concepts in a subject which is high in content. Subjects which complement Business Studies include: Accounts, English Literature, History, Mathematics and Economics. Career Prospects: Further education lies in a number of business courses at the University and Technikon level. Job opportunities exist in the fields of Business Management, Journalism, Marketing, Occupational Psychology, Personnel Management, Production Management and Accountancy.
Economics
ECONOMICS Navigation Head of Department: Mr N. Gasure. A & AS Level (Sixth Form) Economics Through the A and AS Level Economics syllabus, students learn how to explain and analyse economic issues and arguments, evaluate economic information, and organise, present and communicate ideas and judgements clearly. The syllabus covers a range of basic economic ideas, including an introduction to the price system and government intervention, international trade and exchange rates, the measurement of employment and inflation, and the causes and consequences of inflation. Pupils also study the price system, the theory of the firm, market failure, macroeconomic theory and policy, and economic growth and development. Career Prospects: Economics is a component in many Commerce and Science degrees, and will prepare students for a number of careers in the business sector, as well as numerous other professions.
Subjects in more detail
SUBJECTS IN MORE DETAIL Navigation Students in Form 1 and 2 are divided into mixed ability classes and follow an academic curriculum designed by the College, in preparation for their International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). The IGCSE curriculum is offered to the Form 3 and 4 students and culminates in a Cambridge public examination at the end of the Form 4 year. Sixth Form students are offered numerous academic options. These include the Cambridge Advanced Supplementary (AS) and Advanced (A) level programmes. There are over 20 diverse subjects for our students to choose from and this ensures that all students are able to study subjects that they will enjoy and will thrive in.