Examinations - CSEC - Subjects
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Agricultural Science
The Agricultural Science Syllabus is designed to allow students to develop knowledge and understanding of the interaction between the component parts of agriculture and the scientific principles that explain the processes that take place when inputs are transformed into outputs. The syllabus requires students to treat with certain conceptual and theoretical issues associated with the discipline, while at the same time providing them with the opportunity to develop a wide range of practical skills and an awareness of the technologies associated with agriculture. The syllabus provides for study leading to a Single Award or a Double Award in the subject and is arranged in five sections, namely, Sections A (The Business of Farming); B (Crop Production); C (Animal Production); D (Horticulture) and E (Animal Management). Candidates presented for the Single Award examination must complete Sections A, B and C only, while candidates presented for the Double Award examination must complete Sections A to E (all five sections).
Biology
Biology explores the levels of organization of life, from the molecular level, through cellular to higher levels. It includes developing an understanding of the interactions within and between organisms and between organisms and their environment. The study of biology recognizes, however, that humans have a greater influence on the environment than other species. The study of biology, therefore, is designed to assist students to recognize their responsibility to conserve, protect, maintain and improve the quality of the biological environment for future generations.
The Biology Syllabus is designed to allow students to work individually and with others in practical, field and interactive activities that are related to theoretical concepts in the course. It is expected that students will apply investigative and problem-solving skills, effectively communicate scientific information and appreciate the contribution that a study of biology makes to their understanding of the world. The syllabus will assist students to develop positive values and attitudes towards the living components of the environment and will also provide a sound foundation for those who wish to pursue further studies in the sciences.
The syllabus is arranged in five sections as follows:
Section A - Organisms in the Environment
Section B - Life Processes
Section C - Continuity and Variation
Section D - Disease and its Impact on Humans
Section E - The Environment and Human Activities
Caribbean History
The construction of this syllabus has been guided by a particular view of the nature of history as a discipline and of the educational needs of students.
History as a discipline has three aspects - its content, its organising principles and its methods of enquiry. The substantive content of Caribbean History is the activities of the peoples of the islands from the Bahamas to Trinidad as well as those of the peoples of Belize and the Guianas, from the coming of the Indigenous Americans to the present.
There is no attempt in this syllabus to promote one organising principle or interpretation of Caribbean History. While a thematic arrangement has been imposed on the course of Caribbean History, the content within each theme has been stated in such a way as to permit exploration of a variety of organising principles. Nevertheless, the selection of themes and their content has been informed by a desire to promote a distinctly Caribbean perspective.
The methods of studying history, the remaining aspect of the discipline, have determined the aims and objectives stated in the syllabus. In the course of their work, historians raise questions, formulate hypotheses, gather evidence from a variety of data sources, collate and interpret information, make judgments draw conclusions and report their findings. The student activities implied by the aims and objectives of the syllabus are directly related to the procedures used by historians in the study of their discipline.
Thus, the objectives of the syllabus were derived from considerations of the nature of history as well as from the perceived needs and interests of students within the Caribbean community. These objectives have informed the evaluation procedures and have the further attribute of suggesting a variety of appropriate teaching approaches; project work, individual enquiry and research, creative representations and such traditional techniques that have helped develop historical understanding in students.
The syllabus consists of a Core and ten themes, the latter arranged in Sections A to D. Students are required to study the Core and one theme from each of the four sections.
Chemistry
Chemistry is concerned with the physical and chemical properties of substances and the interaction of energy and matter. Principles of Chemistry are applied to the search for solutions to societal concerns and problems, including the depletion of known sources of energy, the extinction of some species through environmental pollution and the struggles of humans to create the conditions for sustainable development.
The study of Chemistry involves an investigation into chemical reactions and processes. The discipline attempts to explain and predict events at the atomic and molecular level. The study of chemistry, therefore, provides students with an understanding of the nature of matter and the behaviour of substances.
The Chemistry Syllabus is designed to allow students to work individually and with others in practical, field and interactive activities that are related to theoretical concepts in the course. It is expected that students will apply investigative and problem-solving skills, effectively communicate scientific information and appreciate the contribution that a study of chemistry makes to their understanding of the world. The syllabus will assist students to develop positive values and attitudes towards the environment and will also provide a sound foundation for those who wish to pursue further studies in the sciences.
The syllabus is divided into three sections:
Section A - Principles of Chemistry
Section B - Descriptive Chemistry
1. Organic Chemistry
2. Inorganic Chemistry
Section C - Chemistry in the Home
Economics
The Economics Syllabus introduces students to relevant economic concepts and principles that will provide the foundation necessary for a proper understanding of how economies work, especially the economies of small states like those in the Caribbean. It also gives students the critical knowledge and skills to communicate ideas using the language and tools of the discipline of Economics.
The Economics Syllabus provides a useful foundation not only for further study in Economics but also for study in other Social Science subjects, including History, Politics, Business and International Relations.
In summary, the syllabus seeks to equip students with the basic tools necessary for an understanding and interpretation of economic phenomena experienced by Caribbean people and for communicating, intelligently and effectively, on economic issues in the region and the wider international community.
The syllabus is arranged in seven sections, sub-divided into specific objectives and corresponding content.
Section 1 - The Nature of Economics
Section 2 - Production, Economic Resources and Resource Allocation
Section 3 - Markets and Prices
Section 4 - The Financial Sector
Section 5 - Economic Management: Policies and Goals
Section 6 - International Trade
Section 7 - Caribbean Economies in a Global Environment
Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM)
The Electronic Document Preparation and Management Syllabus is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills for jobs such as clerical assistants, administrative assistants and receptionists. The knowledge gained from this syllabus will foster personal growth and development. Further, it will enhance decision-making capabilities of students and cultivate a disciplined and ethical workforce.
The syllabus is arranged in nine modules, sub-divided into specific objectives and corresponding content.
Module I - Keyboarding Mastery
Module II - File Management
Module III - Selection and Use of Stationery
Module IV - Production - Principles
Module V - Business Correspondence
Module VI - Production - Display
Module VII - Production - Tabulations and Presentations
Module VIII - Production - Forms
Module IX - Planning and Organisation
The syllabus replaces CSEC Typewriting and uses the computer instead of the typewriter. Unlike the CSEC Information Technology Syllabus, CSEC EDPM emphasises computer applications related to the production, filing and retrieval of documents, skills that are crucial in today’s office environment.
English
Students explore receptively and expressively three major literary modes, Drama, Poetry, and Prose Fiction, in order to become aware of the many functions and purposes of language. In doing so, they discover that the four facets of language arts, namely, listening, speaking, reading and writing, are closely linked together and are interdependent.
Syllabus objectives are organised under understanding and expression in order to guide curriculum development, to give meaning to a teaching programme and to define an assessment scheme that reinforces an English syllabus which has been conceived as an integrated approach to language teaching and which enables students to appreciate the holistic nature of language learning.
The English Syllabus is organised for examination as English A and English B. The former emphasises the development of oral and written language skills among students through a variety of strategies. The latter provides opportunities for students to explore and respond critically to specific literary texts as they observe and appreciate the author’s craft.
Geography
Geography is concerned with spatial expression, human and natural systems and the interrelationships between them. It facilitates an understanding of both the issues emerging from human exploitation of natural resources and how natural resources may be managed to assure sustainability. It contributes to an awareness and understanding of the natural environment and fosters an appreciation of its sustainability. It also encourages the development of a sense of responsibility in using and conserving the natural resources of the planet.
Spatial expression and map reading skills are essential to a study of the subject. These skills enable an individual to operate better in space by being able to establish a location and an orientation whether inside a town or a rural area, or on a mountainside and to be able to read the landscape as well as assess the forces which have shaped them.
The study of Geography, therefore, prepares an individual not only for a career in fields such as environment planning and management, international relations and geographical information systems, but also helps to develop skills that contribute to more meaningful and enjoyable travel and related leisure activities.
The Geography Syllabus, though not limited to a study of the Caribbean, focuses on areas of study that are particularly relevant to Caribbean students. The syllabus utilizes Field Studies to concretize the link between the subject matter of Geography and the methods of investigation associated with it. Students have an opportunity to observe, experience, reflect on, and draw conclusions about the intricate inter-dependence and inter-relationships that comprise the human and natural systems.
The syllabus is organised under four main sections, namely, Map Reading and Field Study; Natural Systems; Human Systems and Human-Environment Systems.
Home Economics Management
Home Economics makes a contribution to the whole curriculum when it is viewed as a design for successful living, personal development, technical expertise and career opportunities for both boys and girls. Home Economics also provides the opportunity to utilise modern technology for developing the skills and capabilities necessary for meeting the demands in the world of work. Home Economics can produce well rounded, informed citizens.
Home Economics is offered for examination in three disciplines, namely, Home Economics: Management, Clothing and Textiles and Food and Nutrition. The disciplines offered articulate with tertiary level education programmes, which allow students to acquire skills for advanced learning and for industry and business.
The syllabus for Home Economics: Management is designed to enable students to develop knowledge, attitudes and skills to manage available resources to attain family goals. The course of study is intended to provide students with a range of management capabilities, including problem-solving, decision-making, management and practical skills to assist them in leading more effective lives, as individuals and as members of a community.
The syllabus for Clothing and Textiles is designed to enable candidates to make intelligent decisions about the choice and importance of clothing and other sewn products, to acquire skills that enable them to produce these products and to utilize the acquired skills for employment and leisure.
The syllabus for Food and Nutrition is intended to provide opportunities for the development of skills in the planning, preparation and presentation of foods. This is a basic requirement for health and well being. In addition, the course provides an understanding of the nature of food and the principles of nutrition.
Human and Social Biology
The Human and Social Biology Syllabus is designed to allow students to work individually and cooperatively, utilizing theoretical concepts of the course in interactive and practical activities. Students are expected to apply investigative and problem solving skills, be effective in communicating scientific knowledge and demonstrate an appreciation for all living organisms in their environment.
The syllabus provides students with a foundation for further study in fields where an understanding of the structure and functioning of the human body and the application of biological principles to the maintenance of health have relevance. It also helps to provide students with knowledge and skills that are important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The syllabus is organised under five main sections:
Section I - Living organisms and the environment
Section II - Life processes
Section III - Heredity and variation
Section IV - Disease and its impact on humans
Section V - The impact of human activities on the environment
Industrial Technology
The Industrial Technology Syllabuses aim at providing technical training in the use of both traditional and new materials, systems and processes related to industry. Each syllabus organized as a Unit provides a relevant course of study for secondary school students aspiring to careers related to the Electrical and Electronic, Mechanical Engineering or Building Technology area, and in so doing responds to the need to provide persons with entry level skills for the various fields. Each Unit or syllabus should be covered in the final two years of the full secondary school programme and students are allowed to select one or more Units for study, but only one option (Construction or Woods) in Building Technology.
Information Technology
This syllabus is designed to provide a coherent view of the significance of information in a socio-economic context. Emphasis is placed on application of knowledge and the use of the computer. This approach has been adopted in recognition of the impact that changes in the availability of information can have on the educational process. The focus is on getting students to develop skills for life in an increasingly technological world, rather than on students absorbing a myriad of seemingly unrelated facts which may have only short term relevance.
The syllabus aims to provide the kind of practical experience which includes an element of discovery, and fosters self-confidence, together with the practical skills that will prepare students to meet the region’s need for greatly increased productivity and cost effective procedures. The syllabus has been organized to offer certification at the General Proficiency only.
The syllabus is organised under eight main sections.
1. Fundamentals of Hardware and Software
2. Problem-Solving and Program Design
3. Program Implementation
4. Applications and Implications of Information and Communications Technology
5. Information Processing
6. Wordprocessing, Presentation and Web Page Design
7. Spreadsheets
8. Database Management
Integrated Science
The syllabus is based on four themes – The Organism, The Home/Workplace, Recreation and Transport – chosen because they adequately represent the common areas of human activity and experience. These themes form the unifying points of the syllabus which should therefore be seen as a coherent unit; one should not attempt to identify within its separate science subjects. Integrated Science (Single Award) is a subject in its own right, rather than one comprising sections of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Indeed, if such distinctions were made, other components such as Earth Sciences and Meteorology would also be recognized.
The Integrated Science Syllabus is intended to contribute to the science education needs of secondary level students in the following groups:
i. those whose abilities, aptitudes and choice of courses will allow them to pursue only one science subject, or who wish to pursue a science course in the interest of a rounded general education;
ii. those who study science-related subjects such as Home Economics and Agricultural Science, or who intend to go on to studies at the tertiary level, for careers in areas such as nursing and teaching.
Mathematics
The guiding principles of the Mathematics Syllabus direct that Mathematics as taught in Caribbean schools should be relevant to the existing and anticipated needs of Caribbean society, related to the abilities and interests of Caribbean students and aligned with the philosophy of the educational system. These principles focus attention on the use of Mathematics as a problem solving tool, as well as on some of the fundamental concepts which help to unify Mathematics as a body of knowledge. The syllabus explains general and unifying concepts that facilitate the study of Mathematics as a coherent subject rather than as a set of unrelated topics.
Every citizen needs basic computational skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) and the ability to use these mentally to solve everyday problems. All citizens should recognize the importance of accuracy in computation as the foundation for deductions and decisions based on the results. In addition, the citizen should have, where possible, a choice of mathematical techniques to be applied in a variety of situations. A ‘range of mathematical techniques’ is therefore, specified in recognition of the need to accommodate different levels of ability. Citizens need to use Mathematics in many forms of decision-making: shopping, paying bills, budgeting and for the achievement of personal goals: critically evaluating advertisements, taxation, investing, commercial activities, banking, working with and using current technologies, measurements and understanding data in the media. Improving efficiency and skills in these matters will be beneficial to the community as well as to the individual.
The syllabus seeks to provide for the needs of specific mathematical techniques in the future careers of students, for example, in agriculture and in commercial and technical fields. By the end of the normal secondary school course, students should appreciate that the various branches of Mathematics are not rigidly segregated and that the approach to the solution of any problem is not necessarily unique.
Modern Languages
The Modern Languages Syllabus focuses on developing students’ ability to communicate in two of the languages in use in the Caribbean region. As students develop the competence to listen, speak, read and write in French and Spanish and interpret aspects of the culture in which the languages are embedded, they acquire the means to facilitate deeper interaction with our Caribbean neighbours. The topics selected for the syllabus reflect areas of interest to secondary school students. Language learning, therefore, provides an opportunity for students to compare their own experiences with those of their peers in Francophone and Hispanic Caribbean countries.
Music
In offering the CSEC Music Syllabus, the Caribbean Examinations Council is providing opportunities for the development of a practical knowledge of music and of the skills of analysis that can form the basis for further studies in teaching, performing, conducting, composing and/or arranging, the music business and other music-related fields. The syllabus is rooted in Caribbean musical expressions, as well as in the musical expressions of other cultures. The syllabus is organized under three Profile Dimensions or major areas of study, namely, Listening and Appraising (LIAP), Performing (PERF) and Composing (COMP). Candidates are required to complete three papers, one paper based on Listening and Appraising; a second paper based on Performing and Composing and the third paper or School-Based Assessment (SBA) based on the Listening and Appraising and Performing profile dimensions.
Office Administration
This Office Administration Syllabus is designed to provide students with the knowledge and the technical and inter-personal skills to function, effectively, within a modern office environment. The syllabus aims to provide students with opportunities for immediate access to entry-level positions as clerical assistants, receptionists, record management clerks, accounting clerks and factory and dispatch clerks. The syllabus adopts a practical approach, aimed at equipping students with the technical and professional skills to perform, effectively, and for mobility as administrative support personnel within an organization. Further, the syllabus seeks to nurture and improve students’ social and personal management skills that will foster the development of a positive work ethic. In addition, the syllabus provides the foundation for students desirous of furthering their education in any field related to business.
The syllabus is arranged in 12 modules, sub-divided into specific objectives and corresponding content.
Module I - Office Orientation
Module II - Communication
Module III - Records and Information Management
Module IV - Reception and Hospitality
Module V - Meetings
Module VI - Travel Arrangements
Module VII - Human Resources
Module VIII - The Accounts Office
Module IX - Purchasing and Stock Control
Module X - Sales and Marketing
Module XI - The Factory, Dispatch and Transport Offices
Module XII - Recruitment and Orientation
Physical Education and Sport
The Council, in offering the syllabus, is providing opportunities for the attainment of a working knowledge of Physical Education and Sport and its component parts. Such knowledge can form the basis for further studies in Physical Education and related fields in health and sport. The Physical Education and Sport Syllabus takes into consideration the multicultural nature of the Caribbean people and consequently, endeavours to respond to a wide range of Physical Education and Sport experiences. The syllabus comprises a Compulsory Core and three Options that are to be completed during the two-year course of study. Each candidate must complete the Compulsory Core, ONE sport from each of the three sports from at least two different options.
Physics
Physics is concerned with systems, laws, models, principles and theories that explain the physical behaviour of the universe. Physics is regarded as a fundamental scientific discipline since all advances in technology can be traced, either directly or indirectly, to these fundamental physical laws and theories. The study of Physics provides students with knowledge and understanding of how the principles of Physics are applied to the development and production of machines and devices that contribute to the technological advance of societies.
The Physics Syllabus is designed to allow students to work individually and with others in practical, field and interactive activities that are related to theoretical concepts in the course. It is expected that students will apply investigative and problem-solving skills, effectively communicate scientific information and appreciate the contribution that a study of physics makes to their understanding of the world. The syllabus will assist students to develop positive values and attitudes towards the physical components of the environment and will also provide a sound foundation for those who wish to pursue further studies in the sciences.
The syllabus is arranged in six sections, namely:
A. Physical Measurements and Units
B. Mechanics
C. Thermal Physics and Kinetic Theory
D. Waves and Light
E. Electricity and Magnetism
F. The Physics of the Atom
Principles of Accounts
Principles of Accounts is a course of study that provides an introduction to the principles and techniques that accountants employ in measuring, processing, evaluating and communicating information about the financial performance and position of a business.
The course in Principles of Accounts helps students to develop an understanding of a range of theoretical and practical techniques used in accounting. It helps to develop skills that should enable them to participate more effectively and responsibly in today’s business environment, to improve the management of personal financial activities, such as, budgeting, savings and investment. In addition, this course prepares students for post-secondary and professional studies in accounting.
The syllabus is arranged in 14 sections consisting of specific objectives and related content.
Section 1 - Introduction to Principles of Accounts
Section 2 - The Classified Balance Sheet
Section 3 - Books of Original Entry
Section 4 - Ledgers and the Trial Balance
Section 5 - The Preparation and Analysis of Financial Statements of the Sole-trader
Section 6 - End of Period Adjustments
Section 7 - Control Systems
Section 8 - Incomplete Records
Section 9 - Accounting for Partnerships
Section 10 - Accounting for Corporations (Limited Liability Companies)
Section 11 - Accounting for Co-operative Societies
Section 12 - Accounting for Non-Trading (Non Profit) Organizations
Section 13 - Manufacturing Accounts
Section 14 - Payroll Accounting
Principles of Business
Principles of Business focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of business activities. It provides a framework to assist in more informed decision-making by individuals in their role of producers or consumers.
An understanding of business principles in this course of study prepares students to become productive members of society. The syllabus provides opportunity for students to develop entrepreneurial and managerial skills necessary to survive and prosper in a local, regional and global dynamic business environment.
The Principles of Business Syllabus engages students in conducting research which helps to improve their communication and critical thinking skills and creates an awareness of business ethics and social responsibilities.
The syllabus is arranged in into 10 sections consisting of specific objectives and related content.
Profile Dimension 1 - Organizational Principles
Section 1 - The Nature of Business
Section 2 - Internal Organizational Environment
Section 3 - Establishing a Business
Section 4 - Legal Aspects of Business
Profile Dimension 2 – Production, Marketing and Finance
Section 5 - Production
Section 6 - Marketing
Section 7 - Business Finance
Profile Dimension 3 - The Business Environment
Section 8 - Role of Government in an Economy
Section 9 - Social Accounting and Global Trade
Section 10 - Regional and Global Business Environment
Religious Education
The Religious Education Syllabus is designed to provide students with opportunities to participate in the age-long search of human beings for the meaning and purpose of life, and to facilitate an appreciation and an affirmation of their own sense of uniqueness and identity. It is intended to assist them in understanding the concept of god in religions. It also seeks to help them become aware of the interconnectedness among God, human beings and the world. The syllabus exposes students to different religious ideas, values and ways of expressing them so that they can interact meaningfully with people of different religious and cultural persuasions in the Caribbean and the world.
Further, the syllabus seeks to foster understanding, appreciation and respect for the religious, ethnic, cultural, political and other aspects of plurality in the Caribbean. It is intended that the study of the Religious Education Syllabus will help students to understand their society and the belief systems of others, clarify their own belief systems, deal with problems, and resolve conflicts.
The Religious Education syllabus is made up of a Compulsory Core and four Options. Each candidate must study the Compulsory Core and ONE Option. Initially, only Option A is being offered.
Social Studies
Social Studies contributes to the effective development of the learner by increasing personal and social awareness, and by placing emphasis on values as well as on social and interpersonal relationships. In addition, it introduces students to concepts from the various social science disciplines and enables them to recognize the significance of these experiences as they seek to understand more about themselves and the complex social relationships of which they are a part. An interpretation of this kind makes the Social Studies programme not only relevant to the learners but also facilitates the smooth transition of the student from secondary to tertiary education and to the wider society.
The continued development of the Caribbean region will depend on the individual’s understanding of his or her roles and responsibilities in families, groups, social institutions, government, sustainable development and use of resources, the regional integration process and global issues. These are critical to the individual’s personal development and the social, political and economic well-being of his or her country and region.
This syllabus seeks to ensure that students develop the necessary skills and at the same time introduces them to knowledge of social phenomena that may enhance their effectiveness as social participants in the Caribbean community. It is also intended that, through the syllabus, the process of valuing would be made conscious so that persons become aware of their position, thus enabling them to bring conscious criteria to bear on their choices as social participants.
Although the main focus of the syllabus is the Caribbean, opportunities have been provided for the treatment of international issues which have a bearing on Caribbean development.
The Syllabus content is organised into three major sections. Students are required to complete Sections A and B and one Option from Section C.
Section A - Individual, Family and Society
Section B - Sustainable Development and Use of Resources
(i) Development and Use of Resources
(ii) Regional Integration
Section C - Options
C1 - Communication
C2 - Consumer Affairs
C3 - Tourism
Technical Drawing
The Technical Drawing course is an integral component of the Technical/Vocational Education (TVET) programme offered by the Council. The syllabus is examined for certification at the General Proficiency and candidates have the option of using either the Traditional Drawing Method (drawing board and tee square) or Computer-Aided Drafting method/applications to complete the objectives of the syllabus. The syllabus is divided into three Units, namely, Plane and Solid Geometry; Building Drawing and Mechanical Engineering Drawing. Candidates are required to complete the Unit on ‘Plane and Solid Geometry’ and select either the Unit on Building Drawing or the Unit on Mechanical Engineering Drawing.
Theatre Arts
The Theatre Arts Syllabus is organized to be taught and experienced under three main organizing principles namely, Analyzing and Appreciating; Performing and Creating through Dance, Drama; and Stagecrafts. The syllabus was designed to provide experiences that would enable candidates to appreciate and communicate theatrical events with their minds as well as their senses, emotions and their bodies, thereby fostering self-confidence, self-discipline and self-motivation. The syllabus is made up of a Compulsory Core, three options or main areas of study and two projects that are to be completed during year two of the programme. Each candidate must select the Compulsory Core, ONE of the three options or main areas and the TWO Projects.
Visual Arts
The Visual Arts Syllabus offers students the opportunity to acquire a variety of experiences and skills in art, craft and design. The syllabus also helps students to develop intellectually and seeks to refine their critical thinking skills and judgments through research and the making of art. The syllabus is particularly oriented towards the Caribbean, since there is a pressing need for the people of the region to develop an aesthetic awareness and appreciation of their cultural heritage. The Visual Arts Syllabus consists of three components, namely, Two-Dimensional Expressive Forms, Three-Dimensional Expressive Forms and the Theory and Practice of Visual Arts (Reflective Portfolio). The Theory and Practice of Visual Arts (Reflective Portfolio) is an integral part of the delivery of content and evaluation of coursework. The Two-Dimensional Expressive Forms are Drawing; Painting and Mixed-media; Graphic and Communication Design; Printmaking; Surface Design and Manipulation and the Three-Dimensional Expressive Forms are Sculpture and Ceramics; Leathercraft; Fibre Arts and Decorative Craft.