NATURAL SCIENCES

BIOLOGY | CHEMISTRY

BIOLOGY

TEACHERS

ALEXANDROU ELENA 

BSc Biomedical Sciences

MSc Medical Microbiology

MSc Haematology

University of Manchester

Manchester Metropolitan University

 

KARMIOTIS KYRIAKOS

BSc Biological Sciences

MSc Molecular Medicine

University of Liverpool

University of Sheffield

 

VARNAVIDOU EVI

BSc Biology

University of Witwatersrand, Johannersburg, South Africa

PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate of Education)

UNISA University of South Africa

 

PAPADAKIS ANDREAS

BSc Biology

MSc Medical Chemistry

University of Patra, Greece

Trainship in University of Upsala, Sweden

Trainship in University of Cambridge, UK

 


CHEMISTRY

TEACHERS

AZAS MICHAEL (Headmaster / Head of Natural Sciences and Chemistry)

BSc, MSc

Kings College, University of London

National College of Rubber Technology, UK

 

MENELAOU MARIOS 

BSc, PhD

Louisiana University, USA

 

MAVROMMATI RANIA

BSc Chemistry

University of Cyprus

 

ZENONOS CHRISTIANA

Queen Mary University

BSc in Chemistry

University College London

PhD Physical Chemistry

PGCE Science Institute of Education

 


CHEMISTRY

Grades 1, 2, 3: In grade one, students are given an introduction in basic Chemistry as part of a broad-based science course. They look into types of matter, the particle model and understand how particles behave in different conditions. They understand principals like diffusion and how particles behave as substances change state or undergo differences in temperature and pressure. The Chemistry course in grades two and three covers the basic principles of the subject such as atomic structure, periodicity and its effect on the properties of the substance, elements and their valencies. They learn to name compounds and correctly write chemical formulas and balanced equations. They learn about acids and bases, metals and their properties as well as their chemical reactions. The differences between a compound and a mixture and methods of separating mixtures. The look into more modern types of materials and their properties. They also have a chance to research into modern chemistry, like nanochemistry, and forensics as well as environmental chemistry as they undertake a project designed to promote team work and develop communication and presentation skills.

Grades 4 & 5 (elective): Chemistry offered at IGCSE deals with basic principles such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, the concept of mole, balancing equations and periodicity. It also covers the study of properties of the elements, basic electrochemistry, energetics, reaction rates and equilibria, and includes an introductory course in Organic Chemistry. The role of chemistry in modern society is emphasized and environmental hazards such as acid rain and the greenhouse effect are discussed.

Grade 6 (elective): The course at this level covers fundamental topics in Physical, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry which include Atomic Structure, Bonding, Molecular Shapes, Energetics, Rates, Equilibria, Redox Reactions and Periodicity as well as the chemistry elements of Groups 2 and 7. Organic Chemistry covers Nomenclature, Isomerism, Alkanes and Alkenes, Alcohols and Hydrogenoalkanes. The basic practical skills needed for the preparation and the purification of an organic compound such as distillation, heating under reflux and crystallisation will be covered in the Required Practical experimental investigations.

Grade 7: This course at this level covers the quantitative aspects of Physical Chemistry topics at more depth such as Rates, Equilibria, Chemical Thermodynamics, Acid-Base Equilibria and Electrochemistry. Organic Chemistry focuses on Aromatic Carbonylic Carboxylic Organic Nitrogen compounds as well as Organic Synthesis and Reaction mechanisms. The basic topic covered in Inorganic Chemistry is the Chemistry of Transition Metals.

 


BIOLOGY

Grades 1,2 and 3: In grade 1 biology is taught as part of a broad-based science foundation course. It is followed in the second and third grades with an introduction to Human Biology. Learners will develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of biology. Students will participate in practical work and projects which are designed to promote team work, communication and presentation skills which are all important in the scientific world.

Grades 4 and 5 (elective): With an emphasis on human biology, the IGCSE syllabus helps learners to understand the technological world in which they live, and take an informed interest in science and scientific developments. Learners gain an understanding of the basic principles of biology through a mix of theoretical and practical studies. They also develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for further study at A Level, which are useful in everyday life. As they progress, learners understand how science is studied and practised, and become aware that the results of scientific research can have both good and bad effects on individuals, communities and the environment.

Grades 6 and 7 (elective): A Level Biology builds on the skills acquired in the IGCSE level. The syllabus includes the main theoretical concepts which are fundamental to the subject, a section on some current applications of biology, on diseases (i.e. cancer), on systems of living organisms, on the environment and a strong emphasis on advanced practical skills. Practical skills are assessed throughout the two years of the subject in a variety of interesting practical work.

The emphasis during the A level course is on the understanding of concepts and the application of biology ideas in novel contexts as well as on the acquisition of knowledge. The course encourages creative thinking and problem-solving skills which are transferable to any future career path. A Level Biology is ideal for learners who want to study biology or a wide variety of related subjects at university or to follow a career in science.