A LEVEL

INFORMATION
BOOKLET

2024 1
TABLE OF CONTENT

Why Cambridge A Level 1 Chemistry (9701) 12-13

Is Cambridge A Level Suitable For

2 Physics (9702) 14-15
You?

Structure Of Cambridge A Level

3 Biology (9700) 16-17
Program

Subjects Offered By SJIS 4 Computer Science (9681) 18-20

How To Choose Your Subjects ? 5 Information Technology (9626) 21-22

Prerequisite 5 Accounting (9706) 23-24

Field Of Study In The Future 6 Business (9609) 25-26

Mathematics (9709) 7-8 Economics (9708) 27-28

Further Mathematics (9231) 9-11 Psychology (9990) 29-30

WHY CAMBRIDGE
A LEVEL?

A Levels are considered to be the traditional

route following GCSEs and are the most Qualifications are
common qualification for admission to “Gold standard” of
administered by
university. A Levels is an 18-months pre-university
Cambridge
programme qualifications which give you a qualifications and
Assessment
chance to study an existing GCSE subject in UK-based
International
greater depth, or perhaps try a completely education system.
Education (CIE).
new subject like psychology. You can
expect an increase in difficulty compared
to GCSEs, and will see differences in the
Preparation for
way you are taught and what is expected. Engages students
entry to not only
in a small number
world-renounced
Conducted by Cambridge Assessment of subjects and
International Education (Cambridge), this
British universities,
develops in-dept
programme provides students with a wealth of but also universities
knowledge.
options to study a wide range of professional globally.
courses at the best universities in the world. It
also equips them with reasoning and thinking
skills that are necessary for degree courses.

The CAL consists of two levels:

the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level
and the Advanced 2 (A2) Level.

Cambridge Cambridge
A Level Learners
strives to
produce
quality
learners
1
IS CAMBRIDGE A TO HELP YOU TO MAKE YOUR FINAL
LEVEL SUITABLE CHOICES, YOU MIGHT WANT TO
CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
FOR YOU? ▪ Do your chosen subjects work well
together? Is there a good balance?

▪ Are you good at these subjects?

What are your predicted results?
Where do you, your family, and your
Do you like... teachers think that your strengths lie?

100% exam based assessment? ▪ What are the specific entry

requirements for each subject?

Fast pace as it is a 18 months ▪ Will these subjects help you on the

program? path to your chosen career or
university course?
Keen on gaining in-depth
▪ Are you interested in, and will you
knowledge? enjoy, these subjects?

2
STRUCTURE OF
CAMBRIDGE A LEVEL PROGRAM

Option One Option Two Option Three

Year 2
Cambridge International
AS Level
(remainder of A Level)
Cambridge international
A Level

Year 1
Cambridge International AS Cambridge International
Level AS Level
(standalone AS) (AS is first half of A Level)

Learners take the Cambridge Learners take the Learners take all papers
International AS Level only. Cambridge International of the Cambridge
The syllabus content for AS Level in Year 1 and in International A Level
Cambridge International AS Year 2 complete the course in the same
Level is half od a Cambridge Cambridge International A examination series,
International A Level Level. usually at the end of the
programme. second tear of study.

St. Joseph’s International School opt for Option 2.

3
SUBJECTS OFFERED

Humanities and Social

Creative and Professional Science and Maths
Sciences

Economics Accounting Biology

Psychology Business Chemistry

Information Technology Physics

Computer Science Mathematics

Further Mathematics

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SUBJECTS ?

Choose subjects that you will likely enjoy. It is always easier to excel at
1 something when you enjoy doing it.

Choose subjects that suit your strengths. Some subjects require

2 creativity, while others may challenge your analytical skills.

Choose subjects that relate to the field of study / future career you are
3 interested in.

4
 DID YOU KNOW?

Students can take 4 subjects For the 4th subject,

and may change a maximum students can opt to sit
of 1 Subject in Year 12 within for AS level only and not
the first week of February. continue in A2 level.

Prerequisite

Science orientated subjects Non-science orientated subjects

SPM/IGCSE/other equivalent certifications SPM/IGCSE/other equivalent certifications

recognized by Malaysian Ministry of Education recognized by Malaysian Ministry of Education

5 Credits or higher in the subjects to be taken 5 Credits or higher, including English and
at A Levels, including English and Mathematics Mathematics

5
FIELD OF STUDY
IN THE FUTURE

Different recommended subject combinations are available, providing students with a

balanced mixture of subjects to meet the subject entry requirements for their university
studies. Students can choose either three or four subjects from one of the combinations.

DEGREE RECOMMENDED SUBJECTS

Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy,

Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics
Medical Science, Nutrition

Engineering Mathematics, Physics, Further Mathematics

Mathematics, Information Technology,

Technology – Related
Computer Science

Finance, Commerce, Accounting, Investment,

Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics
Property Management, Business Analytics

6
MATHEMATICS (9709)

Cambridge International AS and A Level Mathematics develops a set of transferable skills. These include
the skill of working with mathematical information, as well as the ability to think logically and
independently, consider accuracy, model situations mathematically, analyse results and reflect on
findings. Learners can apply these skills across a wide range of subjects and the skills equip them well for
progression to higher education or directly into employment.

The key concepts are:

 Problem solving - fundamentally problem  Mathematical modelling - can be applied to
solving and representing systems and models in many different situation and problems, leading
different ways. to predictions and solutions. A variety of
mathematical content areas and techniques
 Algebra - this is an essential tool which supports
may be required to create the model. Once
and expresses mathematical reasoning and
the model has been created and applied, the
provides a means to generalise across a
results can be interpreted to give predictions
number of contexts.
and information about the real world.
 Geometrical technique - algebraic
representations also describe a spatial
relationship, which gives us a new way to
understand a situation. STRUCTURE OF AS LEVEL AND A LEVEL MATHEMATICS

 Mechanical models - these explain and predict

how particles and objects move or remain AS Level Mathematics A Level Mathematics
stable under the influence of forces.
 Calculus - this is a fundamental element which Paper 1 and Paper 2
describe change in dynamic situations and Pure Mathematics (No progression to A Level)
underlines the links between functions and only
graphs.
 Statistical methods - these are used to quantify
and model aspects of the world around us. Paper 1 and Paper 4
Pure Mathematics Paper 1, 3, 4 and 5
probability theory predicts how chance events Pure Mathematics,
and Mechanics
might proceed, and whether assumptions and Mechanics and
chance are justified by evidence. Probability &
Statistics
 Communication - mathematical proof and Paper 1 and Paper 5
reasoning is expressed using algebra and Pure Mathematics
and Probability & Paper 1, 3, 5 and 6
notation so that others can follow each line of
Statistics Pure Mathematics
reasoning and confirm its completeness and and Probability &
accuracy. Mathematical notation is universal. Statistics
Each solution is structured, but proof and
problem solving also invite creative and original
thinking.
AS - Paper 1 and 4/5
A2 - Paper 3 and 5/6
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

7
Assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Pure Mathematics 1 1 hour 50 minutes
 10 to 12 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 1 subject
content 60% 30%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [75 marks
Paper 2 Pure Mathematics 2 1 hour 15 minutes
 6 to 8 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 2 subject content 40% -
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [50 marks]
Paper 3 Pure Mathematics 3 1 hour 50 minutes
 9 to 11 structured questions based on the Pure Mathematics 3 subject
content - 30%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [75 marks]
Paper 4 Mechanics 1 hour 15 minutes
 6 to 8 structured questions based on the Mechanics subject content 40% 20%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [50 marks]
Paper 5 Probability & Statistics 1 1 hour 15 minutes
 6 to 8 structured questions based on the Probability & Statistics 1 subject
content 40% 20%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [50 marks]

Paper 6 Probability & Statistics 2 1 hour 15 minutes

 6 to 8 structured questions based on the Probability & Statistics 2 subject

- 20%
content
 Written examination
 Externally assessed [50 marks]

For examination in June 2022 series onwards.

8 MATHEMATICS (9709)
FURTHER MATHEMATICS (9231)

Cambridge International AS & A Level Further Mathematics develops a set of transferable skills. These
include the skill of working with mathematical information, as well as the ability to think logically and
independently, consider accuracy, model situations mathematically, analyse results and reflect on
findings. Learners can apply these skills across a wide range of subjects and the skills equip them well for
progression to higher education or directly into employment. Learners will find that the additional time
spent studying this subject will support their understanding of A Level Mathematics.

The key concepts are:

 Problem solving - Mathematics is fundamentally  Communication - Mathematical proof and

problem solving and representing systems and reasoning is expressed using algebra and
models in different ways. These include: notation so that others can follow each line of
reasoning and confirm its completeness and
– Algebra: this is an essential tool which accuracy. Mathematical notation is universal.
supports and expresses mathematical Each solution is structured, but proof and
reasoning and provides a means to problem solving also invite creative and original
generalise across a number of contexts. thinking.
– Geometrical techniques: algebraic  Mathematical modelling – This can be applied
representations also describe a spatial to many different situations and problems,
relationship, which gives us a new way to leading to predictions and solutions. A variety of
understand a situation. mathematical content areas and techniques
– Calculus: this is a fundamental element may be required to create the model. Once
which describes change in dynamic the model has been created and applied, the
situations and underlines the links between results can be interpreted to give predictions
functions and graphs. – Mechanical models: and information about the real world.
these explain and predict how particles and
objects move or remain stable under the
influence of forces.
STRUCTURE OF AS LEVEL AND A LEVEL
– Statistical methods: these are used to FURTHER MATHEMATICS
quantify and model aspects of the world
around us. Probability theory predicts how AS Level Further A Level Further
Mathematics Mathematics
chance events might proceed, and whether
assumptions about chance are justified by
evidence. Paper 1 and Paper 3
Further Pure
Paper 1, 2, 3 and 4
Mathematics 1 and
Further Pure
Further Mechanics
Mathematics 1 and
2, Further
Mechanics and
Paper 1 and
Further Probability
Paper 4
and Statistics
Further
Mathematics 1 and
Further Probability
& Statistics

9
Assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Further Pure Mathematics 1 2 hours
 6 to 8 structured questions based on the Further Pure Mathematics 1 subject
content
 Answer all questions 60% 30%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed
 Compulsory for AS Level and A Level [75 marks]
Paper 2 Further Pure Mathematics 2 2 hours
 7 to 9 structured questions based on the Further Pure Mathematics 2 subject
content
 Answer all questions - 30%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed
 Compulsory for A Level only [75 marks]
Paper 3 Further Mechanics 1 hour 30 minutes
 5 to 7 structured questions based on the Further Mechanics subject content
 Answer all questions 40% 20%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed
 Offered as part of AS Level or A Level [50 marks]
Paper 4 Further Probability & Statistics 1 hour 30 minutes
 5 to 7 structured questions based on the Further Probability & Statistics
subject content
 Answer all questions 40% 20%
 Written examination
 Externally assessed
 Offered as part of AS Level or A Level [50 marks]

For examination in June 2023 series onwards.

10 FURHER MATHEMATICS (9231)

Routes through AS & A Level Mathematics and
AS & A Level Further Mathematics

11 FURHER MATHEMATICS (9231)

CHEMISTRY (9701)

Universities value learners who have a thorough understanding of key concepts in chemistry, an in-depth
knowledge of chemistry’s most important themes and strong practical skills. Cambridge International AS
and A Level Chemistry helps learner develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare them for
successful university study. Learners also develop lifelong skills of scientific enquiry, confidence in
technology, and communication and teamwork skills.

The key concepts are:

 Atoms and forces - matter is built from atoms  Chemical bonds - the understanding of how
interacting and bonding through electrostatic chemical bonds are made and broken by the
forces. The structure of matter affects its movement of electrons allows us to predict
physical and chemical properties, and patterns of reactivity.
influences how substances react chemically.  Energy changes – The energy changes that
 Experiments and evidence - chemists use take place during chemical reactions can be
evidence gained from observations and used to predict both the extent and the rate of
experiments to build models and theorises of such reactions.
the structure and reactivity of materials.
 Patterns in chemical behaviour and reactions -
by identifying patterns in chemical behaviour
we can predict the properties of substances AS - Paper 1, 2 and 3
and how they can be transformed into new A2 - Paper 4 and 5
Marks from AS carried forward to A2
substances by chemical reactions. This allow us
to design new materials of use to society.
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour 15 minutes
 40 multiple-choice questions 31% 15.5%
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 2 AS Level Structured Questions 1 hour 15 minutes
 Structured questions 46% 23%
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills 2 hours
 Practical work and structured questions
 Questions are based on the experimental skills in the Practical assessment 23% 11.5%
section of the syllabus.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 4 A Level Structured Questions 2 hours
 Structured questions
 Questions are based on the A Level syllabus content; knowledge of material - 38.5%
from the AS Level syllabus content will be required.
 Externally assessed [100 marks]
Paper 5 Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 1 hour 15 minutes
 Questions based on the experimental skills of planning, analysis and
evaluation. - 11.5%
 The context of the questions may be outside the syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]

For examination in June 2022 series onwards.

13 CHEMISTRY (9701)
PHYSICS (9702)

Universities value learners who have a thorough understanding of key concepts in physics, an in-depth
knowledge of physics' most important themes and strong practical skills. Cambridge International AS and
A Level Physics helps learner develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare them for successful
university study. Learners also develop lifelong skills of scientific enquiry, confidence in technology, and
communication and teamwork skills.

The key concepts are:

 Models of physical systems - physics is the  Matter, energy and waves - everything in the
science that seeks to understand the behaviour Universe comprises matter and/or energy.
of the Universe. The development of models of Waves are a key mechanism for the transfer of
physical systems is central to physics. Models energy and are essential to many modern
simplify, explain and predict how physical applications of physics.
systems behave.  Forces and fields - the way that matter and
 Testing predictions against evidence - physical energy interact is through forces and fields. The
models are usually based on prior observations, behaviour of the Universe is governed by
and their predictions are tested to check that fundamental forces that act over different
they are consistent with the behaviour of the scales and magnitudes. These include the
real world. This testing requires evidence, often gravitational force and the electromagnetic
obtained from experiments. force.

 Mathematics as a language and problem

solving tool - Mathematics is integration physics,
as it is the language that is used to express
physical principles and models. It is also a tool AS - Paper 1, 2 and 3
to analyse theoretical models, solve A2 - Paper 4 and 5
quantitative problems and produce Marks from AS carried forward to A2
predictions.

14
 Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour 15 minutes
 40 multiple-choice questions 31% 15.5%
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 2 AS Level Structured Questions 1 hour 15 minutes
 Structured questions
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus 46% 23%
 content.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills 2 hours
 Practical work and structured questions
 Questions are based on the experimental skills in the Practical assessment 23% 11.5%
section of the syllabus. The context of the questions may be outside the
syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 4 A Level Structured Questions 2 hours
 Structured questions
 Questions are based on the A Level syllabus content; knowledge of material - 38.5%
from the AS Level syllabus content will be required.
 Externally assessed [100 marks]
Paper 5 Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 1 hour 15 minutes
 Candidates answer two compulsory questions.
 Questions are based on the experimental skills in the Practical assessment - 11.5%
section of the syllabus. The context of the questions may be outside the
syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]

For examination in June 2022 series onwards.

15 PHYSICS (9702)
 BIOLOGY (9700)

Universities value learners who have a thorough understanding of key concepts in biology, an in-depth
knowledge of biology’s most important themes and strong practical skills. Cambridge International AS
and A Level Biology helps learners develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare them for successful
university study. Learners also develop lifelong skills of scientific enquiry, confidence in technology, and
communication and teamwork skills.

The key concepts are:

 Cells as the units of life - a cell is the basic unit  Organisms in the environment - all organisms
of life and all organisms are composed of one interact with their biotic and abiotic
or more cells. there are two fundamental types environment.
of cell: prokaryotic and eukaryotic.
 Observation and experiment - The different
 Biochemical processes - cells are dynamic: fields of biology are intertwined and cannot be
biochemistry and molecular biology help to studied in isolation: observation and enquiry,
explain how and why cells function as they do. experimentation and fieldwork are
fundamental to biology.
 DNA, the molecule of heredity - cells contain
the molecule of heredity, DNA. Heredity is
based on the inheritance of genes.
 Natural selection - the major mechanism to AS - Paper 1, 2 and 3
explain the theory of evolution. A2 - Paper 4 and 5
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

16
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour 15 minutes
 40 multiple-choice questions
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus 31% 15.5%
 content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 2 AS Level Structured Questions 1 hour 15 minutes
 Structured questions 46% 23%
 Questions are based on the AS Level syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Practical Skills 2 hours
 Practical work and structured questions
 Questions are based on the practical skills in the Practical assessment section 23% 11.5%
of the syllabus.
 The context of the questions may be outside the syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 4 A Level Structured Questions 2 hours
 Structured questions
 Questions are based on the A Level syllabus content; knowledge of material - 38.5%
from the AS Level syllabus content will be required.
 Externally assessed [100 marks]
Paper 5 Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 1 hour 15 minutes
 Questions are based on the practical skills of planning, analysis and
evaluation. - 11.5%
 The context of the questions may be outside the syllabus content.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]

For examination in June 2022 series onwards.

17 BIOLOGY (9700)
COMPUTER SCIENCE (9618)

Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science encourages learners to meet the needs of
Higher Education courses in computer science as well as twenty-first century digital employers. It
encourages learners to think creatively, through applying practical programming solutions, demonstrating
that they are effective users of technology.

Our approach in Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science encourages learners to be:
 confident, using a range of technology and programming paradigms
 responsible, using technology ethically
 reflective, as programmers, improving their own programming solution
 innovative, creating efficient solutions to problems
 engaged, in technology, how it is built and how software solutions are developed.

The key concepts are:

 Computational thinking - Computational  Computer architecture and hardware -
thinking is a set of fundamental skills that help Computer architecture is the design of the
produce a solution to a problem. Skills such as internal operation of a computer system. It
abstraction, decomposition and algorithmic includes the rules that dictate how components
thinking are used to study a problem and and data are organised, how data are
design a solution that can be implemented. This communicated between components, to allow
may involve using a range of technologies and hardware to function. There is a range of
programming languages. architectures, with different components and
 Programming paradigms - A programming rules, that are appropriate for different
paradigm is a way of thinking about or scenarios.
approaching problems. There are many All computers comprise of a combination of
different programming styles that can be used, hardware components, ranging from internal
which are suited to unique functions, tools and components, such as the Central Processing
specific situations. An understanding of Unit (CPU) and main memory, to peripherals. To
programming paradigms is essential to ensure produce effective and efficient programs to run
they are used appropriately, when designing on hardware, it is important to understand how
and building programs. the components work independently and
 Communication - Communication is a core together to produce a system that can be
requirement of computer systems. It includes used. Hardware needs software to be able to
the ability to transfer data from one device or perform a task.
component to another and an understanding Software allows hardware to become
of the rules and methods that are used in this functional. This enables the user to
data transfer. Communication could range communicate with the hardware to perform
from the internal transfer of data within a tasks.
computer system, to the transfer of a video
 Data representation and structures - Computers
across the internet.
use binary and understanding how a binary
number can be interpreted in many different
ways is important. Programming requires an
AS - Paper 1 and 2
A2 - Paper 3 and 4 understanding of how data can be organised
Marks from AS carried forward to A2 for efficient access and/or transfer.

18
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Theory Fundamentals 1 hour 30 minutes
 Paper 1 will assess sections 1 to 8 of the syllabus content. 50% 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions. [75 marks]
Paper 2 Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills 2 hours
 Paper 2 will assess sections 9 to 12 of the syllabus content.
 Candidates will need to write answers in pseudocode. 50% 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions.
[75 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Theory 1 hour 30 minutes
 Paper 3 will assess sections 13 to 20 of the syllabus content. - 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions. [75 marks]
Paper 4 Practical 2 hours 30 minutes
 Paper 4 will assess sections 19 to 20 of the syllabus content, except for low-
level and declarative programming.
 Candidates will submit complete program code and evidence of testing. - 25%
 Candidates will be required to use either Java, VB.NET or Python
programming languages. Externally assessed. Candidates answer all
questions on a computer without internet or email facility. [75 marks]

For examination in June 2023 and November 2023 series.

19 COMPUTER SCEINCE (9618)

 Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Theory Fundamentals 1 hour 30 minutes
 Paper 1 will assess sections 1 to 8 of the syllabus content. 50% 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions. [75 marks]
Paper 2 Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills 2 hours
 Paper 2 will assess sections 9 to 12 of the syllabus content.
 Candidates will need to write answers in pseudocode. 50% 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions.
[75 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Theory 1 hour 30 minutes
 Paper 3 will assess sections 13 to 20 of the syllabus content. - 25%
 Written paper.
 Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions. [75 marks]
Paper 4 Practical 2 hours 30 minutes
 Paper 4 will assess sections 19 to 20 of the syllabus content, except for low-
level and declarative programming.
 Candidates will submit complete program code and evidence of testing. - 25%
 Candidates will be required to use either Java (console mode), Visual Basic*
(console mode) or Python (console mode) programming languages.
Externally assessed. Candidates answer all questions on a computer without
internet or email facility. [75 marks]

For examination in June 2024 onwards.

* Visual Basic in this syllabus refers to any .Net versions of the Visual Basic programming language.
Candidates are asked to use one of these versions of the software and not Visual Basic 6.0 or earlier
versions of this programming language.

20 COMPUTER SCEINCE (9618)

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
(9626)

In a world where Information Technology (IT) is constantly changing, individuals increasingly need
technological and information literacy skills that include the ability to gather, process and manipulate
data.

The syllabus encourages learners to become effective and discerning users of IT. It helps them to develop
a broad range of IT skills, knowledge and understanding. Learners study the structure and use of IT systems
within a wide range of organisations, including the use of a variety of computer networks. As a result,
learners gain an understanding of IT system life cycles, and how these affect the workplace. They also
learn about the wider impact of IT on society in general and study simple programming for the web
relevant to their own use of IT.

The key concepts are:

 Impact of IT - on all aspects of everyday life is  The internet - a global communications network
immense. The enormity of the impact can be that allows computers worldwide to connect
seen in industry and commerce, transport, and share information in many different forms.
leisure, medicine and the home. The impact on Examples include email, web pages, and audio
the work force is a very important factor to and video files. The impact of the internet on
consider and communications using new our lives is profound. While it provides huge
technologies have made the world seem benefits to society, security of data is an issue,
smaller. both in the workplace and for personal data.

 Hardware and software - many hardware  System cycle of life - Information systems are
components and software applications are developed within a planned continuous cycle
used in IT systems. It is important to understand that covers the initial development of the
how these work, and how they interact with system through ts scheduled updating or
each other and within our environment. redevelopment. Each phase of development is
organised into separate stages.
 Network - computer systems can be connected
together to form networks allowing them to  New technologies - as the information industry
share resources. changes so rapidly, it is important to keep track
of new and emerging technologies and
consider how they might affect everyday life.

AS - Paper 1 and 2
A2 - Paper 3 and 4
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

21
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Theory 1 hour 45 minutes
 Questions are based on sections 1–11 of 50% 25%
 the subject content. Candidates answer all questions on the paper.
 Externally assessed [70 marks]
Paper 2 Practical 2 hours 30 minutes
 The tasks in this practical paper test sections 8–11 of the subject content.
Candidates apply knowledge and understanding from sections 1–7 of the
subject content. All tasks are compulsory. 50% 25%
 Candidates select the most appropriate software and must use the most
efficient methods to solve each task.
 Externally assessed
[90 marks]
Paper 3 Advanced Theory 1 hour 45 minutes
 Questions are based on sections 12–20 of the subject content. Sections 1–11
are assumed knowledge and understanding. Candidates answer all - 25%
questions on the paper.
 Externally assessed [70 marks]
Paper 4 Advanced Practical 2 hours 30 minutes
 The tasks in this practical paper test sections 17–20 of the subject content.
The paper includes tasks from sections 8–10 within a problem-solving context.
Candidates apply knowledge and understanding of all subject content. All - 25%
tasks are compulsory.
 Candidates select the most appropriate software and must use the most
efficient methods to solve each task.
 Externally assessed [90 marks]

For examination in November 2023 and June 2024 series.

22
ACCOUNTING (9706)

The study of Cambridge International AS & A Level Accounting allows learners to take the first step
towards a career in accountancy and business. With a good understanding of the subject, students can
progress to a degree in a related field, or go on to study for the professional qualifications of one of the
major accounting bodies.

Learners will develop:

 an understanding of how to plan, budget and manage financial resources
 an ability to critically apply, analyse and evaluate accounting policies and practices.
 an understanding how to use accounting information to make viable business decisions.
 a solid foundation for further study

The key concepts are:

 A true and fair view - financial statements are  Business entity - a business is a separate legal
designed to give a true and fair view of the entity from the owner of a business. The
business to internal and external stakeholders. accounting records must relate only to the
business and not to the personal assets and
 Duality (double-entry) - recognises that every spending of the owner.
financial transaction has a double (or dual)
effect on the position of a business as recorded  Money measurement - financial accounts only
in the accounts. include transactions that can be expressed in
terms of money. For example, the purchase of
 Consistency – consistency in the treatment of raw material is recorded in the accounts
financial transactions enables the performance whereas staff creativity is not.
of a business to be compared meaningfully
over different time periods.

23
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Multiple Choice 1 hour
 30 multiple-choice questions 28% 14%
 Questions are based on sections 1 and 2 of the subject content.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]
Paper 2 Fundamentals of Accounting 1 hour 45 minutes
 Four structured questions 72% 36%
 Questions are based on sections 1 and 2 of the subject content
 Externally assessed [90 marks]
Paper 3 Structured Questions 1 hour 30 minutes
 Three structured questions
 Questions are based on section 3 of the subject content; knowledge of - 30%
material from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessedstructure questions on cost and management accounting
[75 marks]

Paper 4 Cost and Management Accounting 1 hour

 Two structured questions

- 20%
 Questions are based on section 4 of the subject content; knowledge of
material from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessed [50 marks]

For examination in June 2023 and November 2023 series onwards.

AS - Paper 1 and 2
A2 - Paper 3 and 4
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

24 ACCOUNTING (9706)
BUSINESS (9609)

The study of Cambridge International AS ad A Level Business allows learners to take the first step towards
a career in private or public organisations or progress with confidence to a degree in business and
management related subjects.

Learners will develop:

 the capacity to analyse characteristics and  the opportunity to reflect on how successful
activities of business organisations and how business organisations engage in financial and
they respond to the changing demands of their accounting practices to maximise value for
environments. stakeholders value.
 an understanding of how effective managers  development of knowledge that relates to
and leaders develop successful organisations in strategic planning and decision-making to
terms of customer focus and the ensure business survival, change, and
products/services they offer. sustainable success.
 a solid foundation for further study.

The key concepts are:

 Change is the only constant. Exciting new  Creating value is the core reason why any
enterprises are often created in response to organisation exists. Effective organisations aims
economic, cultural or technological changes. to maximise stakeholder value. For most
Existing businesses must adapt to change if they businesses this will be about maximising
are to survive and grow. shareholder value, but social enterprises will
also have other, non-financial, aims.
 Management is relevant to every person in a
Stakeholders also need to measure the value
business. Good leadership, strong motivation in
that is created.
workers, effective systems and clear
communication are hallmarks of successful  Strategy is about knowing where you are,
businesses. where you want to get to and how you are
going to get there. Managers need to think
 Customer focus means a business will design
about, decide on and put into action major
and produce goods and services that people
long term plans such as buying other business,
want to buy. Customers provide the revenue
entering a new market or developing a new
which sustains a business. Successful businesses
technology.
really understand their customers and strive to
provide products that their customers love.
 Innovation enables business to re-invent itself
and stay ahead of the competition. The
business world is dynamic and companies must
seek to innovate through product
development, more efficient processes and
finding better ways ‘to do business’.

25
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Business Concepts 1 1 hour 15 minutes
 Section A: four short answer questions. There are two parts to the first three
questions.
 Section B: one essay from a choice of two. There are two parts to each 40% 20%
essay.
 Questions are based on the AS Level subject content.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]
Paper 2 Business Concepts 2 1 hour 30 minutes
 Two data response questions. There are six parts to each question. 60% 30%
 Questions are based on the AS Level subject content.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]
Paper 3 Business Decision-Making 1 hour 45 minutes
 Five questions based on a case study. There are three parts to Question 3
and two parts to Question 4. - 30%
 Questions are based on the A Level subject content; knowledge of material
from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]

Paper 4 Business Strategy 1 hour 15 minutes

 Two essay questions based on a case study.

- 20%
 Questions are based on the A Level subject content; knowledge of material
from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessed [40 marks]

For examination in June 2023 and November 2023 series onwards.

AS - Paper 1 and 2
A2 - Paper 3 and 4
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

26 BUSINESS (9609)
ECONOMICS (9708)

The study of Cambridge International AS & A level Economics allows learners to explore concepts and
theories which can be applied to the way that modern economies work.

Learners will study how to explain and analyse economic issues and arguments, evaluate economic
information, and organise, present and communicate ideas and judgements clearly.

The syllabus covers a range of basic economic ideas, including an introduction to the price system and
government intervention, international trade and exchange rates, the measurement of employment and
inflation, and the causes and consequences of inflation. Learners also study the price system, the theory
of the firm, market failure, macroeconomic theory and policy, and economic growth and development.

The key concepts are:

 Scarcity and choice - the fundamental problem  Regulation and equity - there is a trade off
in economics is that resources are scarce and between, on the one hand, freedom for firms
wants are unlimited, so there is always a choice and individuals in unregulated markets and, on
required between competing uses for the the other hand, greater social equality and
resources. equity through the government regulation of
individuals and markets.
 The margin and change - decision making by
individuals, firms and governments is based on  Progress and development - economics studies
choices at the margin; that is, once behaviour how societies can progress in measurable
has been optimised, any change will be money terms and develop in a wider more
detrimental as long as conditions remain the normative sense.
same.
 Equilibrium and efficiency - prices are set by
markets, are always moving in to and out of
equilibrium, and can be both efficient and
inefficient in different ways and over different
time periods.
AS - Paper 1 and 2
A2 - Paper 3 and 4
Marks from AS carried forward to A2

27
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 AS Level Multiple Choice 1 hour
 30 multiple-choice questions 33% 17%
 Questions are based on the AS Level subject content.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]
Paper 2 AS Level Data Response and Essays 2 hours

 Section A: one data response question (20 marks)

 Section B: one essay from a choice of two focusing mainly on
microeconomics; there are two parts to each essay question (20 marks) 67% 33%
 Section C: one essay from a choice of two focusing mainly on
macroeconomics; there are two parts to each essay question (20 marks)
 Questions are based on the AS Level subject content.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]
Paper 3 Multiple Choice 1 hour 15 minutes
 30 multiple-choice questions
 Questions are based on the A Level subject content; knowledge of material - 17%
from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessed [30 marks]
Paper 4 Data Response and Essays 2 hours
 Section A: one data response question (20 marks)
 Section B: one essay from a choice of two focusing mainly on
microeconomics; the essay questions are unstructured with no parts
(20 marks)
 Section C: one essay from a choice of two focusing mainly on - 33%
macroeconomics; the essay questions are unstructured with no parts
(20 marks)
 Questions are based on the A Level subject content; knowledge of material
from the AS Level subject content is assumed.
 Externally assessed [60 marks]

For examination in June 2023 and November 2023 series onwards.

28 ECONOMICS (9708)
PSYCHOLOGY (9990)

Cambridge International AS & A Level Psychology is accepted by universities and employers as proof of
knowledge and ability. The syllabus aims to encourage an interest and appreciation of psychology
through an exploration of the ways in which psychology is conducted. The exploration includes a review
of a number of important research studies and an opportunity to look at the ways in which psychology
has been applied.

The syllabus uses a wide variety of assessment techniques that will allow learners to show what they know,
understand and are able to do. The emphasis is on the development of psychological skills as well as the
learning of psychological knowledge.

The key concepts are:

 Nature verses nurture - the debate is a crucial  No one view in psychology is definitive -
discussion running through all aspects of psychological theories are developed by
psychology in order to explain behaviour. posing hypotheses which are then tested
Behaviours could be seen as resulting from through research. The research will be
innate, genetic factors (nature) or behaviours influenced by the psychological approach of
could be explained in terms of the the researcher and the time and context they
environmental influences that begin to shape are working in. A single topic is likely to be
us from the moment of conception (nurture). studied in more than one psychological
The foucs of contemporary psychology is to approach, and each approach has its own
consider the relative contributions of each assumptions, strengths and weaknesses. These
influence. different explanations can work together or be
in opposition, so psychologists have to balance
 Ethics in psychological research - the need for the evidence for each explanation.
ethical research constrains the investigation of
some topics, or the use of some research  Relevance of psychology in contemporary
techniques. Our approach to ethics has society - psychology is now used to underpin
changed over time, so some of the earlier many aspects of our lives. It is used in organising
studies that were the basis of the discipline are businesses, in planning our shops and homes, in
now no longer acceptable. Ethics must be treating medical conditions and to improve
considered when designing a psychological how we learn. Every study is undertaken with a
investigation to ensure that data is gathered specific purpose in mind which can then be
without compromising the wellbeing of the applied in everyday life whether it is improving
participant(s). our lives in general, understanding how groups
of people behave or treating a disorder. By
 Choice of psychological research methods - understanding psychology we can improve
Psychologists have to carefully choose the how we live our lives and society in general.
research method they use in terms of the
information they wish to gather. Every research
method, whether quantitative or qualitative,
has strengths and weaknesses, and the
psychologist must evaluate how the method AS - Paper 1 and 2
they have chosen supports the validity and A2 - Paper 3 and 4
reliability of their specific investigation and Marks from AS carried forward to A2
contributes to the wider body of psychological
research.

29
Structure and assessment overview

Weighting
Component
AS Level A Level
Paper 1 Approaches, issues and debates 1 hour 30 minutes
• Candidates answer all questions
• Short answer questions and an essay question, based on core studies. 50% 25%
• Candidates answer each question in the spaces provided on the question
paper.
[60 marks]
Paper 2 Research methods 1 hour 30 minutes
• Candidates answer all questions.
• Section A : Short answer questions, some based on the core studies
(22 marks).
• Section B : Scenario-based questions (24 marks). 50% 25%
• Section C : A design-based questions divided into two parts (14 marks).
• Candidates answer each question into the spaces provided on the question
paper.
[60 marks]
Paper 3 Specialist options: theory 1 hour 30 minutes
• Candidates answer two questions from two specialist options. Each specialist
option is out of 30 marks.
• Question 1 : The question is divided into three parts (12 marks). - 25%
• Question 2 : Structured essay-based question divided into two parts
(18 marks)
[60 marks]
Paper 4 Specialist options: application 1 hour 30 minutes
• Candidates answer questions from two specialist options.
• Section A : Candidates answer two questions from a choice of four
(30 marks). Each of these questions is based on stimulus material
and is divided into four parts. - 25%
• Section B : Candidates answer one design-based question from a choice of
four (18 marks). Each question is divided into two parts.
• Section C : Candidates answer one essay question from a choice of four
(12 marks).
[60 marks]

30 PSYCHOLOGY (9990)
NOTES

31
 Education Beyond
the Ordinary

St. Joseph’s International School (SAS. 8001 / YUBV001)

Lot 419, Section 58, KTLD,
Jalan Tan Sri Datuk William Tan,
93450 Kuching,
Sarawak

T: +60 82 411 575 / 550 575

M: +60 13 857 3821

E: [email protected]
W: stjosephkuching.edu.my

Disclaimer:
All information provided is correct at the time of print and the school accepts no
liability for errors or omissions. Details can be subject to change without notice.

Published on January 2024.

© St. Joseph’s International School 2024

32