IGCSE TUITION
Illuminating the Importance of the IGCSEs
The IGCSE is an international examination offered by the University of Cambridge. The IGCSE examination is equivalent in standard to Singapore’s GCE O-Levels and British GCSE. IGCSE is mainly exam-based and rigorously tests aptitude and knowledge in a range of subjects. The IGCSE prepares students for higher academic study such as A-Level, IB Diploma Programme and other equivalents.
In Singapore, IGCSE is offered by many international schools such as the Australian International School, Canadian International School and United World College South East Asia. There are over 70 subjects offered in 6 main subject groups – Creative and Professional, English Language and Literature, Humanities and Social Sciences, Languages, Mathematics and Sciences. The IGCSEs require students to take up between 5 to 14 IGCSE subjects. Some mandatory subjects include IGCSE English, Mathematics and Science. In order to pass, students are required to attain at least a ‘C’ or above for at least 5 subjects.
The IGCSE is widely acknowledged to be as challenging as the GCE O-Levels. Consequently, many international students struggle while preparing for the IGCSE examination. Many have turned to the convenience and effectiveness of private IGCSE home tuition in Singapore. Some of the more commonly requested IGCSE tuition subjects include IGCSE English, Literature, Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. Performing well at the IGCSE is important because it opens a pathway to higher education institutions such as Junior Colleges (JC) or Polytechnics. As such, parents should not skimp on quality IGCSE tuition which serves as an academic aid to students.
Inclined to Take the IGCSEs in Singapore?
Aside from taking the IGCSEs as a candidate in international schools, the exam can also be taken privately through the British Council Singapore. The IGCSEs are a competitive examination and candidates should explore their options for additional academic help. While having an additional academic mentor is worthwhile, it would also be useful to note the IGCSE subject offerings and assessment.
Making the Grade: Core and Extended Syllabus
Just as the GCE O-Levels offer Pure and Combined subjects, the IGCSEs offer subjects with the Core and Extended syllabus. The IGCSE/International GCSE Core curriculum is suitable for students who expect to achieve grades C to G. The Extended curriculum offers more challenging content for students aiming for grades A* to C. It covers broader topics and is more rigorous in its assessment. This makes the Extended curriculum similar to the assessment of GCE O-Level Pure subjects. Students should take a balance of Core and Extended subjects, in line with their academic inclination.
Subject Groups
The IGCSE offers a wide range of subjects, of which IGCSE English, Mathematics, Science and a Foreign Language courses are the compulsory subjects for most international schools in Singapore. These IGCSE subjects are classified into the following 6 subject groups.
Group: English Language and Literature
English is a widely used language of administration and commerce around the world. The IGCSE English syllabus is used to develop:
- effective and accurate communicative skills in speaking and writing
- a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
- attentiveness to audience, style and purpose of various medium and content
Students are also encouraged to read broadly, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge IGCSE English also hones imperative analytical and communicative skills such as inference and the ordering and effective presentation of facts and opinion.
Group: Mathematics
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics encourages the development of mathematical knowledge as an essential life skill, and as a strong basis for more advanced study. The syllabus aims to build students’ competence and confidence through the exposure of important mathematical concepts, methods and skills. The Mathematics syllabus also places a strong emphasis on solving problems and presenting and interpreting results. Students also gain an understanding of how to communicate and reason using these mathematical concepts.
Group: Science
Cambridge IGCSE Science offers students various science disciplines such as Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students gain an understanding of the basic principles of each subject through a mix of theoretical and practical application, while developing an appreciation of scientific skills essential for further study. Students learn how science is studied and practised, gaining an awareness of various sociological and environmental implications.
Group: Humanities and Social Science
Cambridge IGCSE Humanities syllabus examines the changes in society and human development. By emphasising the intersection between economic, geographical, social and political processes, students gain a greater insight of the various world issues from a macro and micro perspective. As a result, students are put in good stead in understanding the various forces and influences in society and how to shape it as they become global citizens. Some IGCSE Humanities subjects include: Economics, Geography, History and more.
Group: Languages
The Cambridge IGCSE foreign language syllabuses aim to develop students’ ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication. The course emphasises vital language skills of listening, reading, speaking and writing. It also aims to offer insights into the culture and civilisation of countries where the language is spoken, thus inculcating a positive attitude towards the language and speakers of foreign languages. Some IGCSE Languages on offer include: Chinese, Spanish, Bahasa Indonesia, French, Russian and more.
Group: Creative and Professional
In this unique category, these creative and professional courses are ideal for students who want to enter the working force immediately, and would like to hone their skills for the workplace. These courses also provide a solid foundation for those who have a career path in mind and would like to specialise while at school. Some IGCSE Creative courses include: IGCSE Accounting, Business Studies, Food and Nutrition and more.
3 Important Benefits of IGCSE Tuition
There are multiple benefits of IGCSE tuition:
Curriculum Coverage
As the IGCSE curriculum is unfamiliar to many, getting good coverage and revision of IGCSE subjects is important. In this respect, private IGCSE tutors can ensure that students are adequately prepared for their examinations. They are able to provide additional academic aid to students who may need extra academic coaching.
Exam Expertise
Since IGCSEs are less common than the GCE O-Levels and A-Levels, it is important to find a private tutor who is familiar with the examination components and requirements. A qualified private IGCSE tutor will be able to impart important examination tips and techniques in order to achieve better grades. Without a tutor who is well-verse with the requirements, students tend to perpetuate their mistakes and remain stagnated in their learning.
Convenience
Private IGCSE tuition allows you to learn from the comfort and convenience of student’s homes. This ensures that every dollar and minute spent on tuition is funnelled into learning and improving grades. Furthermore, tutors provide students with the flexibility of scheduling sessions themselves. Students benefit from this time and cost saving form of tuition.
Nanyang Academics: Providing Impeccable IGCSE Tutors!
While IGCSE is a widely recognised certification, it can be difficult to find tuition centres or private home tutors specialising in the IGCSE syllabus. However, with Nanyang Academics, we will be able to pair you with the best IGCSE tutors in Singapore. Whether it is IGCSE English, Mathematics (Core or Extended), Biology, Chemistry or Physics, we will help your child achieve impeccable results!
Don’t hesitate, request for a private IGCSE tuition assignment today!
