Entry requirementsNo previous study is required to access any of our GCSE courses, but they do require basic literacy and numeracy skills.
Academic titleGCSE courses are available in a variety of subjects and they are by far the most common qualification taken by students wanting to gain a firm understanding of a topic.
Virtually all candidates take GCSEs in English, Mathematics and Science. In addition, many careers also require that students take English literature and at least one modern foreign language, while also favouring students to have at least one social science.
Course descriptionWith more than 400 million speaking, Spanish is now the fourth most spoken language around the globe. It’s the official language of Spain and most Latin America countries. If you’re thinking of living or working in a Spanish speaking country, your employer has business links with one, or whatever your goal, taking a GCSE in Spanish with ICS will broaden your horizons and career options.
Develop a foundation level understanding of spoken and written forms of Spanish, and learn to communicate these in general everyday situations, using role play and practical examples. You’ll also gain insight and awareness of Spanish culture and customs.
Study Time
To complete this course it will take in the region of 100 study hours which can be spread over a 12 month period to suit the student.
Support and Benefits
o Flexible terms times
o Stepped learning approach
o Access to a dedicated ICS tutor to mentor and motivate you throughout
o Access to the ICS online Student Community, allowing you to interact with other students and browse our resource library
Key Topics
o My World
o Holiday, Time & Travel
o Work & Lifestyle
o The Young Person in Society
Further Reading and Book List
You will be provided with advice and a list of titles if required once you purchase your course.
Grading
At the end of the GCSE course, each student receives a grade for each subject. The pass grades, from highest to lowest, are:
o A*, A, B, C, D, E, F, G
GCSEs are part of the National Qualifications Framework. A GCSE at grades D–G is a Level 1 qualification, while a GCSE at grades A*–C is a Level 2 qualification. Those who fail a course are given a U (unclassified). Students can also receive an X grade which signifies that they have only completed part of the course or key elements such as coursework are missing and so an appropriate mark cannot be given.
Structure
In many subjects, there are two different 'tiers' of examination offered:
o Higher, where students can achieve grades A*–D
o Foundation, where they can achieve grades C–G
If a candidate fails to obtain a G on the foundation tier or a D on the higher tier they will fail the course and receive a U (though there is a safety net allowing those who narrowly miss a D on the higher tier to receive an E). In non-tiered subjects, the examination paper allows candidates to achieve any grade. Coursework also always allows candidates to achieve any grade.