Cambridge Secondary 1 offers schools a flexible curriculum that can be developed to suit their needs. There is a curriculum framework for each subject – English, English as a second language, mathematics and science – providing a clear teaching structure. Many schools use the integrated assessments to monitor learners’ progress. Each curriculum framework is designed to engage learners in an active and creative learning journey.
English
Cambridge Secondary 1 English enables learners to communicate confidently and effectively and to develop the skills to respond to a range of information, media and texts with understanding and enjoyment. Learners who follow this framework will develop a first language competency in English based on a curriculum designed to be successful in any culture and to promote cross-cultural understanding.
English as a second language
This curriculum framework develops learners’ speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in English. The curriculum has been developed in conjunction with Cambridge English Language Assessment and is based on the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), used across the world to map learners’ progress in English.
Mathematics
The curriculum framework explores six content areas: number, algebra, geometry, measure, handling data and problem solving. The first five content areas are all underpinned by problem solving, which provides a structure for the application of mathematical skills. Mental strategies are also an important part of the number content. The curriculum focuses on principles, patterns, systems, functions and relationships, so that learners apply their mathematical knowledge and develop a holistic understanding of the subject.
Science
This curriculum framework covers four content areas: scientific enquiry, biology, chemistry and physics. Scientific enquiry is about considering ideas, evaluating evidence, planning investigative work, and recording and analysing data. The scientific enquiry objectives underpin biology, chemistry and physics, which are focused on developing confidence and interest in scientific knowledge. Environmental awareness and some history of science are also part of the curriculum.