Prerequisites

Students choosing this course should be focused on a U.S. college application. They are expected to have:

• Consistently achieved A-grade results in G2

• Finished with 7+ on the 1–9 scale

• Enjoyed the challenge of reading diverse extracts across a variety of topics

• Demonstrated critical thinking skills and an understanding of basic principles of persuasive writing

Course Outline

The AP English Language course hones students’ ability to understand how authors use rhetoric and language to convey purpose. Students are expected to apply these techniques to their own writing and research projects.

Key skills developed include:

• Identifying an author’s purpose and intended audience

• Recognizing rhetorical devices and strategies in an author’s work

• Demonstrating proper use of citations in research papers

• Applying rhetorical techniques to students’ own writing

• Creating and organizing arguments supported with evidence and reasoning

• Planning, writing, and revising cogent, well-structured essays

Prerequisites

Students choosing this course should be focused on a U.S. college application. They are expected to have:

• Regularly achieved A/A-grade results in G2

• Finished with 7+ on the 1–9 scale

• Enjoyed independent reading, particularly responding to fictional texts

• Appreciated listening to and analyzing interpretations of others

Course Outline

The AP English Literature and Composition exam tests students’ ability to understand and interpret the form and content of poems and fictional passages. It also requires students to write essays analyzing literary techniques used by poets, playwrights, and fiction writers.

At SCIE, the AP Literature course exposes students to a variety of texts by diverse authors across multiple time periods, from the English Renaissance to the present.

The course is organized into four main units:

• The Tempest by William Shakespeare

• Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

• The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

• A Collection of Poems

These units are supplemented by short extracts of prose fiction and unseen poems.

Throughout each unit, students will focus on key literary aspects as defined by the AP Literature Course and Exam Description:

• Character: Understanding how characters reflect values, beliefs, assumptions, biases, and cultural norms

• Setting: Considering not only time and place but also the values associated with that setting

• Structure: Analyzing how the arrangement of parts of a text influences interpretation

• Narration: Examining how a narrator’s or speaker’s perspective shapes reader experience

• Figurative Language: Exploring how literal representations shift to figurative meaning, inviting interpretation

• Literary Argumentation: Communicating interpretations through reasoned arguments supported by textual evidence

Prerequisites / Recommended Background

Successful completion of Pre-Calculus or an equivalent course covering algebra, trigonometry, logarithms, and functions (including exponential, inverse, parametric, and trigonometric functions) is required.

Students should have:

• Proficiency in algebraic manipulation and problem-solving skills

• Comfort with graphical analysis and interpreting functions in different forms (graphical, numerical, analytical)

• A basic understanding of limits and the concept of approaching values (these will be further developed in the course)

Please note that both the AP Calculus and AP Statistics examinations require the use of a powerful graphing calculator (such as the Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CX-C CAS). Students must purchase their own calculator to fully benefit from the course.

Course Outline

The AP Calculus BC course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of differential and integral calculus, extending the concepts introduced in AP Calculus AB. The course covers a wide range of topics, including—but not limited to—limits, derivatives, integrals, and series.

Students will explore:

• The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus

• Techniques of integration

• Applications of calculus in real-world problems

• Parametric equations

• Polar coordinates

• Vectors

• Infinite series, including convergence tests and power series

By the end of the course, students are expected to apply these concepts to solve complex mathematical problems and to be fully prepared for the AP Calculus BC exam. The course emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of mathematical reasoning.

Prerequisites

• AL Mathematics S1

• Students must be proficient with powerful graphic calculators (e.g., Texas TI-Nspire CX-C CAS), required for AP Calculus and AP Statistics exams.

Recommended Background

• Grade B or higher in AL Mathematics

• Minimum 36/50 in Statistics

• For students without S1 scores, a placement test will be conducted in the first week; a minimum of 36/50 is expected.

Course Outline

AP Statistics is an introductory statistics course suitable for students interested in social sciences, health sciences, business, or STEM fields. It equips students with tools to collect, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.

The course covers four major conceptual themes:

1. Exploring Data – Describing patterns and identifying deviations

2. Sampling and Experimentation – Planning and conducting studies

3. Anticipating Patterns – Using probability and simulations to model random phenomena

4. Statistical Inference – Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses

By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in statistics, preparing them for college-level study and further exploration in data-driven fields.

Prerequisites / Recommended Background

Students should have a very strong foundation in high school–level biology and chemistry, as well as proficiency in English. Ideally, students should have taken IGCSE Biology and Chemistry and received A/A* in both subjects. Additionally, students are expected to have experience with scientific inquiry, basic lab skills, and a foundational understanding of quantitative data analysis.

AP Biology is well-suited for students who have demonstrated high academic performance in science and are enthusiastic about exploring advanced biological concepts. Students should be self-motivated, capable of independent study, and willing to engage in in-depth laboratory work. They should also have a firm foundation in English comprehension and English prose writing, as exam questions require advanced skills in paragraph analysis and extended free-response writing. A solid background in high school biology and chemistry is highly recommended.

Course Outline

AP Biology covers a wide range of topics that provide a rigorous understanding of biological concepts and processes. The course places emphasis on developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and experimental design. Topics include Evolution, Cellular Processes (such as energy and communication), Genetics and Information Transfer, and Ecology.

The course also places strong emphasis on biology-based statistics, as students are expected to display skills in probabilities—such as using the t-test or the chi-squared test—to analyze data obtained. By the end of the course, students should be able to apply biological principles to novel situations, analyze data, and articulate scientific arguments clearly.

Recommended Background

Students are expected to have studied Chemistry previously at a level equivalent to IGCSE. A minimum grade of A is strongly recommended.

Course Outline

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation that supports future advanced coursework in chemistry. Students deepen their understanding of chemical principles through inquiry-based investigations while exploring major content areas, including:

• Atomic structure and properties

• Molecular and ionic compound structure and properties

• Intermolecular forces and properties of substances and mixtures

• Chemical reactions

• Kinetics

• Thermochemistry

• Equilibrium

• Acids and bases

• Thermodynamics

• Electrochemistry

In addition to conceptual knowledge, the course is built around science practices—a set of interrelated skills that develop students’ ability to think scientifically, apply reasoning, and analyze data effectively.

This course requires that 25% of instructional time be devoted to hands-on laboratory work, with a focus on inquiry-based investigations. These labs provide students opportunities to:

• Design experimental procedures

• Make predictions

• Collect and analyze data

• Apply mathematical routines

• Develop scientific explanations

• Communicate findings effectively

Because many colleges require evidence of laboratory experience before awarding credit, students must maintain a formal laboratory notebook containing detailed records and reports of all completed experimental work.

Prerequisites

• Students should have achieved A/A* in both IGCSE Physics and Maths (or equivalent).

• Students should have studied or be starting calculus.

Recommended Background

• Familiarity with the content of AP Physics 1, especially mechanics, is highly advisable, as AP Physics C: Mechanics builds upon it.

• Students should be comfortable planning and carrying out experiments, as well as collecting and analyzing data.

Course Outline

This is a one-year, university-level course that uses calculus to explore mechanics and analyze complex physical systems.

Students will:

• Gain an advanced understanding of classical physics of moving bodies, which serves as a foundation for other areas of physics, such as electricity and magnetism.

• Develop a portfolio of experimental work, demonstrating the ability to independently plan, conduct, and analyze inquiry-based experiments.

Assessment:

• Exam 1: 80-minute multiple-choice exam with 40 questions

• Exam 2: 100-minute free-response exam with 4 questions

This course prepares students for college-level physics and develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Prerequisites

• Advanced mathematical skills are not required, but a strong command of written English is essential.

• Students will be expected to evaluate resources and write mini-essays, which demands clear and effective communication.

Recommended Background

• Ideally, students should have successfully completed IGCSE Geography or an equivalent course.

• Other courses such as Global Perspectives, Biology, History, Physics, and Chemistry can also provide valuable foundational knowledge and skills.

• The most important prerequisite is a genuine curiosity about the human and physical world.

• Students who struggle with reading large volumes of English text may find AP-level Geography challenging.

• It is recommended that students have attained at least a B grade in IGCSE English or an equivalent level of proficiency.

Course Outline

AP Human Geography explores the systematic study of human patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, utilization, and modification of the Earth’s surface.

Students will:

• Engage with spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental impacts

• Learn about the methodologies and tools used by geographers in both scientific research and practical applications

The curriculum emphasizes independent learning through reading assignments and related homework. Key topics include:

• Diffusion: the spread of ideas, innovations, and cultural practices

• Cultural traits: understanding how beliefs, traditions, and practices shape societies

• Religion: its distribution, role, and influence on human activity

• Population clusters: patterns of population distribution and density

Students are expected to grasp complex concepts and apply their understanding to a variety of geographic contexts and real-world scenarios.

Prerequisites

• Strong reading comprehension and essay-writing skills

• Ability to think critically and analyze historical events

• Basic knowledge of geography and foundational historical concepts is helpful, but not required

Recommended Background

• Prior experience in subjects that develop reading and writing skills, such as:

  • IGCSE History

  • GCSE English Language or Literature

Prerequisites / Recommended Background

A deep interest in art and history. Strong time management skills. Excellent study habits and good recall for facts. The ability to speak in class and hold discussions. Strong analytical skills, because you will be comparing and contrast different artworks within social, formal and conceptual contexts. The willingness to draw, even if your skills are not strong. Drawings are not graded, but it is part of the way study art and create recall strategies. Students should be able to read a college-level textbook and write grammatically correct, complete sentences.

Course Outline

There will be 250 artworks studied, with another 50 used for historical and cultural contexts that start at 30,000 BCE to contemporary art. This is a fast-paced class that requires a proven experience with time management skills, and the ability to engage in cooperative learning, as students will work with different small groups throughout the course.

Prerequisites

It is recommended that students enrolling in AP Computer Science A have successfully completed a first-year high school algebra course. They should have a strong foundation in:

• Basic linear functions

• Composition of functions

• Multi-step problem-solving strategies requiring multiple approaches and collaborative thinking

Students should also be able to use a Cartesian coordinate system and demonstrate comfort with logical reasoning.

Recommended Background

This course provides a solid platform for students who wish to pursue further learning in computer science. A keen interest in computers and technology is essential. Prior programming experience—especially in Python or Java—is advantageous but not required.

Course Outline

The AP Computer Science A course reflects the core goals identified by computer science teachers, professors, and researchers for an introductory, college-level programming course. Students will develop skills in the following areas:

• Program Design and Algorithm Development

Determine the necessary code segments to produce a specified output.

• Code Logic

Analyze program code to determine outputs, values, or results based on given initial conditions.

• Code Implementation

Write, implement, and refine program code using appropriate programming structures and techniques.

• Code Testing

Evaluate program code for correctness, logical equivalence, efficiency, and errors.

• Documentation

Describe program behavior clearly and explain the conditions required to produce expected results.

• Ethical Computing

Understand the ethical, social, and real-world implications of computing and technology use.

Prerequisites

• The course requires basic mathematical skills and a strong command of written English.

• Students will be expected to evaluate resources and answer structured questions, which demands clear and effective communication.

Recommended Background

• AP Microeconomics provides foundational knowledge of economic concepts on a smaller scale, helping students better understand market behaviours, supply and demand dynamics, and the role of government in economic regulation.

• IGCSE Economics gives essential grounding in both micro- and macroeconomic principles, which are further expanded in AP Macroeconomics.

• Students with prior experience in these courses are generally better equipped to engage with the AP Macroeconomics curriculum.

Course Outline

AP Macroeconomics is designed to give students a thorough understanding of economic principles in analyzing aggregate economic behaviour.

Students will learn to:

• Understand and evaluate measures of economic performance, including GDP, inflation, and unemployment, and apply them to assess macroeconomic conditions.

• Use key analytical tools, particularly the aggregate demand and aggregate supply (AD-AS) model, to analyze and determine national income.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies in promoting economic growth and maintaining stability.

• Examine the impact of international trade and finance on national economies, recognizing the global nature of economics.

• Explore various economic schools of thought as solutions to economic problems are considered.

The course emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and application of economic theory to real-world scenarios.

Prerequisites

• The course requires basic mathematical skills and a strong command of written English.

• Students will be expected to evaluate resources and answer structured questions, which demands clear and effective communication.

Recommended Background

• IGCSE Economics provides essential grounding in both micro- and macroeconomic principles, which are further expanded in AP Microeconomics.

Course Outline

AP Microeconomics is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of economic principles as they apply to individual decision-making units, including households and firms.

Students will:

• Study the theory of consumer behaviour and how individuals make choices based on preferences and constraints.

• Explore the theory of the firm, including how profit-maximizing firms operate under various market structures.

• Evaluate the efficiency of market outcomes with respect to price, output, consumer surplus, and producer surplus.

• Examine the behaviours of households and businesses in factor markets, including how factor prices, wages, interest, and rent influence the distribution of income.

• Analyze market failures and explore public policy alternatives aimed at improving the efficiency of private markets.

The course emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and the application of economic theory to real-world situations, preparing students for further studies in economics or related social sciences.

Prerequisites

• Students should have an IGCSE Music certificate to progress to AP Music Theory.

Recommended Background

• Students should hold Grade 5 Music Theory (ABRSM or equivalent).

Course Outline

The AP Music Theory course is equivalent to two semesters of introductory college-level music theory and aural skills.

Students will:

• Recognize, understand, describe, and produce the basic elements and processes of performed and notated music.

• Study fundamentals such as pitch, rhythm, timbre, and expression, progressing to concepts like harmonic function, phrase relationships, and tonicization.

• Analyze both heard and notated music, focusing on identification of musical features, relationships, and procedures within full musical contexts.

• Work with repertoire ranging from European Baroque to global folk and pop music.

• Develop musicianship skills through melodic and harmonic dictation, sight singing, and error detection exercises.

• Strengthen writing skills in music through exercises emphasizing foundational harmonic and voice-leading procedures in Western art music.

This course prepares students for the AP Music Theory Exam and provides a solid foundation for higher-level music studies.

Prerequisites

• No formal prerequisites for enrollment.

• Recommended indicators for success:

  • Strong performance in courses with heavy reading and analysis, such as Humanities or Literature.

  • Some familiarity with basic biological concepts can be helpful, but is not required.

Course Outline

AP Psychology introduces students to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The course is structured into five units:

1. Biological Bases of Behavior – Neuroscience, hormones, sleep

2. Cognition – Memory, attention, and thinking processes

3. Development and Learning – Moral development, conditioning, and learning theories

4. Social Psychology and Personality – Group behavior, motivation, and emotion

5. Mental and Physical Health – Stress, depression, schizophrenia, and related disorders

Skills Developed

Students will develop a range of analytical and research skills, including:

1. Data Interpretation – Reading graphs and drawing conclusions

2. Evaluating Theories or Experiments – Assessing claims in primary and secondary sources

3. Application of Methods – Designing and conducting experiments

4. Making Connections – Comparing theories and linking them through shared principles

5. Formulating Arguments – Developing evidence-based arguments

6. Identifying Biases and Ethical Considerations – Recognizing cultural, ethical, and methodological limitations

This course prepares students for higher-level psychology studies while enhancing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills applicable across disciplines.