Examinations - CAPE - Subjects
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Communication Studies Overview
Electrical and Electronic Technology Overview
Environmental Science Overview
Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering (GMED) Overview
Informational Technology Overview
Literatures in English Overview
Management of Business Overview
Statistical Analysis Overview
Accounting is the financial information system that provides relevant information to anyone who owns, manages or uses economic resources or engages in economic activity. The CAPE Accounting Syllabus provides a foundation for further study of Accounting at pre-professional and professional levels. It provides opportunities for students to acquire relevant competencies, attitudes and values for the work environment and to develop an awareness of the social and ethical responsibilities of accountants and users of financial information.
Applied Mathematics
Applied Mathematics is a discipline that attempts to solve real-life problems by using symbolic, graphical, numerical, physical and verbal techniques. The main emphasis of the Applied Mathematics Syllabus is on developing the ability of the students to start with a problem in non-mathematical form and transform it into mathematical language. This will enable them to bring mathematical insights and skills in devising a solution, and then interpreting this solution in real-world terms.
Students engage in mathematical thinking and modelling to examine and solve problems arising from a wide variety of disciplines including, but not limited to, economics, medicine, agriculture, marine science, law, transportation, engineering, banking, natural sciences, social sciences and computing.
Art and Design involves the application of creative skill and imagination to produce a piece of work that is visual, such as a painting or a work of sculpture. The Art and Design Syllabus is based on innovative and traditional perspectives that bring together the diversity of cultural practices in the Caribbean. It seeks to develop artistic knowledge, critical thinking and problem solving skills and explore creative practices in a variety of media. It also seeks to prepare students to participate in their community as art and design practitioners as well as productive and innovative citizens. The syllabus aims to develop knowledge and critical understanding of the art and design trends of different historical eras, traditions and cultures and an appreciation for the cultural diversity and creative arts of the Caribbean region.
Biology is the scientific study of living organisms. The study of this subject leads to an understanding and appreciation of the concepts of life at all levels and hence to a greater respect and reverence for life. The interconnected web of life and the unique role of the human species are integral to the dynamic value of the biosphere. The CAPE Biology Syllabus prepares students to acquire knowledge about how to protect, sustain, conserve and improve the variety of life in the ecosphere. It also provides a foundation for persons wishing to pursue careers in biological, environmental, agricultural, medical, paramedical and applied science.
Caribbean Studies is an interdisciplinary subject that provides students with the opportunity to study issues relevant to the distinctive physical, political and socio-economic challenges facing the small states which comprise the region. The CAPE Caribbean Studies Syllabus defines the Caribbean region in terms of its geography, common historical experiences, participation in the global community, intermixing of diverse ethnic and racial groups, and its continuing struggle for survival and sovereignty. Persons who successfully complete this course will have developed an appreciation of the challenges and potential of being Caribbean citizens. They will understand their roles and responsibilities in preserving and contributing to their Caribbean heritage and the importance of regional co-operation for the development of the Caribbean.
Chemistry is a branch of science concerned with the properties and interactions of the substances of which matter is composed. This CAPE Chemistry Syllabus provides the specific knowledge base and the skills and attitudes associated with advanced study of the subject. It is structured to ensure that students become aware of their moral, social and ethical responsibilities, as well as the benefits to be derived from the practical application of scientific knowledge. Completion of the course of study outlined in this syllabus will enable persons to apply chemical principles to societal concerns such as birth control, communicable diseases, environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of natural resources.
Communication Studies is an interdisciplinary subject that focuses on the principles, systems and processes within which language use has context, achieves coherence, and is enhanced. This main emphasis of the CAPE Communication Studies Syllabus is the development of advanced competencies in Standard English and an appreciation of the linguistic diversity of the Caribbean and the implications of this diversity for social, cultural and economic transactions. The role of technology in the enhancement or retardation of communication is also an important consideration in this syllabus.
Computer science is the study of the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their implementation and application in computer systems. The CAPE Computer Science Syllabus provides persons with advanced knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable them to understand the uses and the impact of computer technologies, and to use the technology to create new computer applications for all areas of human activity. This syllabus provides opportunity for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes as preparation for further studies in Computer Science and the world of work. The syllabus aims to develop an understanding of the components of a computer-based system, comprising hardware, software, communication and end-user.
Economics is the study of how society provides for itself by making the most efficient use of scarce resources so that both private and social welfare may be improved. The CAPE Economics Syllabus is intended to promote knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of economics and to foster an appreciation of the various methods used by economists in analysing economic problems. The knowledge and skills acquired will enable students to continue their education to contribute to the economic and social development of the Caribbean.
Electrical and Electronic Technology
Electrical and Electronic Technology is a field of study that provides both theoretical and "hands-on" knowledge of current electrical and electronic devices and circuits. The Electrical and Electronic Technology (EET) Syllabus is designed to provide the essential or fundamental knowledge and the analytical, practical and experimental skills necessary for a lifelong career in the field of Electrical and Electronic Technology. The syllabus articulates with programmes provided by institutions of higher learning such as universities, community colleges, technical institutes and teachers' colleges. It also provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills for the workplace.
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary branch of science that deals with the interactions among physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment. The subject employs qualitative and quantitative approaches to the study of environmental systems. The CAPE Environmental Science Syllabus provides opportunities for students to acquire knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and solve problems and prepares them for careers in diverse fields related to environmental management and to sustainable development of the Caribbean Region. The aims of the syllabus include development of an understanding of the interdisciplinary and holistic nature of the environment and the interactions between people and the environment.
Food and Nutrition is a field of study devoted to the preservation of sustainable healthy living through the raising of standards in food science, food preparation and service. The CAPE Food and Nutrition Syllabus is designed to prepare students for employment in the rapidly growing hospitality service industry. In addition, it seeks to provide opportunity for access to further studies in existing tertiary level education programmes. The syllabus exposes persons to the main principles of food science, including those related to safety practices and standards currently used in large-scale food preparation and service.
These syllabuses aim to give persons a deeper understanding of themselves as members of a wider Caribbean community which is multi-lingual and multi-cultural and of their place in a global setting. The syllabuses emphasise the development of the four language skills of listening, responding, reading and writing, and the acquisition of knowledge of Francophone and Hispanic cultures through the study of selected topics and contemporary writings of relevance to Caribbean society. While the topics have been selected to provide knowledge and understanding of issues pertinent to Caribbean people in a global context, the emphasis is on language competence rather than on content knowledge. The objectives and approaches that guide the teaching and define the assessment have been designed to equip persons to meet the needs and evolving circumstances of Caribbean society and to function appropriately in the wider world.
Geography is the study of the physical features of the earth and how it is impacted on by human activity. The development of geographical understanding and the ability to appreciate how physical and human forces interact to give identity to places and to create recognisable spatial patterns is central to the study of this syllabus. It facilitates an understanding of the causal relationships at different geographic scales - local, regional and global. In addition, it contributes to an understanding of the central issues emerging from human exploitation of natural resources. It seeks to prepare persons for the increasing number of work situations in which integrative and graphical skills are important. Moreover, the syllabus focuses on the development of an awareness and understanding of the inter-relatedness of people and the environment, the need for the sustainable use of environmental resources and the consequences of misuse.
Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering Drawing (GMED)
Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering Drawing (GMED) is the practice of creating accurate representations of objects for technical, architectural and engineering needs. The syllabus for Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering Drawing focuses on both theory and practice. The syllabus also aims to stimulate interest in drafting and engineering as career options. A student who completes this syllabus would be competent in the use of the latest developments in drawing technology, including Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and in the application of the British Standards (BS 8888), ISO Standards, Caribbean Uniform Building Codes (CUBIC) and local codes.
History is the continuous, systematic study, through research, of events over time, that are of importance to communities, societies, countries and ultimately, the human race. The CAPE History Syllabus seeks to enhance the interests, capabilities, skills and attitudes of students to enable them to develop as autonomous human beings capable of acting as rational and ethical individuals, and as responsible members of their community. The selection, structure and content of themes and modules have been informed by a desire to promote an understanding of the historical as well as the contemporary relationships among the nations and societies on the Atlantic shores. The syllabus has been organised to enhance the in-depth study of themes that will enable persons to acquire and practise the skills of a historian.
Information Technology is the study, design, development, implementation, support and management of computer-based information systems, including software applications and computer hardware. The CAPE Information Technology Syllabus will enable students to use technology to participate in, and contribute to the new technological world. They will become conscious of the impact of Information and Communication Technologies, and how the appropriate use of Information Technology can help to solve the problems, including those of an economic, social or personal nature. This syllabus emphasises the importance of Information Technology to the economic and social development of the region.
Law is a system of rules usually enforced though a series of institutions. The CAPE Law Syllabus assists persons who wish to embark on further study and training for entry into the legal profession, it also addresses the needs of other persons engaged in occupations which require some knowledge of the law, such as clerks, paralegals, administrators, managers, the police and other public officers. It serves to inform persons of their rights and obligations, and to inculcate in them certain positive values, which are necessary in a civilised society.
Literature is a body of written works related by subject-matter, language or place of origin. In Western culture the most basic literary types include poetry and prose, fiction and non-fiction. The Caribbean experience has provided the context for a rich and varied literature which has earned a crucial place in the global family of literatures in English. The CAPE Literatures in English Syllabus aims to develop an understanding of the nature and function of literature and the methods of literary study. It seeks to encourage critical reading, interpretation, evaluation and an appreciation of, and an informed personal response to literature. On completion of the syllabus, students should understand, and be able to use the vocabulary of literary criticism and develop informed, sensitive, and balanced responses to the complexity of human nature as portrayed in literary works.
Management of Business is an interdisciplinary subject that focuses on the theories, principles and procedures involved in managing a successful business enterprise. The CAPE Management of Business Syllabus provides a comprehensive approach to management. Students doing this subject will develop an understanding of the integrated nature of business organisations and the environment in which they operate. The syllabus also provides opportunities for acquisition of prerequisite knowledge and skills necessary for further studies and career development in the field.
Physics is the study of nature, conducted in order to understand how the world around us behaves. Physics study matter and its motion, as well as space and time and explores concepts such as force, energy, mass, and charge. The CAPE Physics Syllabus will enable persons to be aware of the laws and theories of Physics that influence every aspect of their physical existence and to acquire understanding and knowledge of technological and scientific application of Physics, especially in the Caribbean context. The CAPE Physics Syllabus is structured to ensure that students become aware of their moral, social, and ethical responsibilities as well as the benefits intrinsic to the practical application of scientific knowledge in careers in the field of science. The syllabus also helps to develop an understanding of the scientific process, its usefulness and its limitations.
Mathematics is a body of knowledge centered on such concepts as quantity, structure, space, and change. Mathematicians seek out patterns in numbers, space, science, computers, imaginary abstractions, or elsewhere to formulate new conjectures and establish their truth by rigorous deduction from appropriately chosen axioms and definitions. The CAPE Pure Mathematics Syllabus will enable persons to develop mathematical thinking, understanding and creativity; communicate through the use of mathematics; and use mathematics to model and solve real world problems. The syllabus will also help to develop a spirit of mathematical curiosity and creativity, and improved appreciation of the importance and usefulness of mathematics.
Sociology is the study of the social lives of humans, groups and societies. Sociology is interested in our behavior as social beings; thus the sociological field of interest ranges from the analysis of short contacts between anonymous individuals on the street to the study of global social processes. The CAPE Sociology Syllabus aims to provide students with the necessary skills for an understanding of the structures, organisation and development of societies, particularly those in the Caribbean. It introduces them to the knowledge of the theories and basic research methods of Sociology, the sociological perspective, and the processes of social structural change with specific emphasis on the development and modernisation of societies.