Biology

Biology is the science of life. The course will help you to develop an appreciation and understanding of living thing from the smallest cell organelle to the complex interactions of organisms within our global environment.

There are four basic biological concepts that run throughout the biology course: structure and function, universality versus diversity, equilibrium within systems and evolution. It is the concept of evolution that draws together the other themes. Studies are supported through practical work, the use of ICT and project based learning. All students participate in an interdisciplinary Group 4 project.

Chemistry

Chemistry contributes to our quality of life by enabling us to make new substances ranging from detergents and plastics to anti-cancer drugs; by helping us to monitor the environment, detect crime and much more. It is hard to imagine any product of today which did not require the creative talents of a chemist at some stage in its development.

In this course you will study organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, considering numbers infinitely large and particles infinitesimally small. You will learn crucial facts, as well as a wider range of transferable skills which will last a life time. The global environmental issues connected with chemistry will provide an international dimension to the course.

Studies are supported through practical work, the use of ICT and project based learning. All students participate in an interdisciplinary Group 4 project.

Physics

Physics is concerned with the nature of matter, energy and addressing the momentous questions concerning the existence and properties of the Universe.

Physics is a truly international enterprise with constant communication and co-operation between physicists in different countries. The technological applications of physics have a huge impact across the globe. As well as acquiring rigorous knowledge of the subject and developing skills of scientific inquiry, you will also address the moral, social, ethical economic and environmental aspects of physics and its applications globally.

The core course topics include: kinetics, forces, energy, waves, thermal physics, electricity and electric fields, atomic and nuclear physics and global energy and climate change. Studies are supported through practical work the use of ICT and project based learning. All students participate in an interdisciplinary Group 4 project.

Design Technology

In Design Technology you will use practical experimental investigation and project work to develop your skills and understanding. All activities are set against a background of problem solving using skill and knowledge to propose solutions that can be tested against original intentions.

Areas offered are: graphic design, product design and textiles. Topics for investigation include: elasticity of materials, the electrical and thermal properties of material, the properties of plastic, superconductors, ceramics and glass.

The international dimension will include consideration of the ethical, moral, socio economic and environmental implications of design and technology. Students participate in an interdisciplinary Group 4 project.

Environmental Systems and Societies

This course is offered at standard level only.

Environmental Systems and Societies explores global environmental issues and sustainability giving a balanced view of the major issues and the difficulties involved in addressing them.

Environmental Systems and Societies is for those of you who have a real interest in contemporary environmental issues. Through your studies you will develop an understanding of your own relationship with the environment and the significance of your lifestyle choices. The course will provide you with a good scientific perspective on the environment. It connects the fields of Biology, Geography, Chemistry and Physics covering aspects of climate, ecology, pollution, and land management.

Studies are supported through practical work, the use of ICT and project based learning. Field work forms an integral part of the course.

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Here are the IBD subject groups…

1 English
2 Modern Languages
3 Social Sciences
4 Experimental Sciences
5 Mathematics
6 Arts and Electives
Core Subjects
Introduction