CSEC

Subjects

Additional Math

This Additional Mathematics course provides a variety of topics with related attributes which would enable Caribbean students to reason logically using the prior knowledge gained from the CSEC General Proficiency Mathematics. Candidates are expected to enter this course of study with a solid foundation of algebraic knowledge and mathematical reasoning. On completing this course students will be able to make a smooth transition to higher levels of study in Mathematics, or move on to career choices where a deeper knowledge of the general concepts of Mathematics is required. This course of study, which includes fundamentals of Pure and Applied Mathematics, caters to diverse interests enabling students to develop critical-thinking skills applicable to other subject areas. This course thus provides insight into the exciting world of advanced mathematics, thereby equipping students with the tools necessary to approach any mathematical situation with confidence.

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.

Biology

Biology is the discipline in science, which seeks to understand the organisation of the organic world through an exploration of the structure and function of life forms at the molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels, as well as the complex interactions and interdependencies which occur at each of these levels. This knowledge provides the foundation for understanding the opportunities for promoting the well-being of humans and other living organisms in the environment. It generates an awareness of the importance of our biodiversity and the unique role of humans in conserving, protecting and improving the quality of the biological environment for future generations. The CSEC Biology Syllabus is redesigned with a greater emphasis on the application of scientific concepts and principles. It recognises the need for an understanding of some of the basic principles of Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics, and, therefore seeks to strengthen the inter-relationship with these subjects. It also recognises the inter-relatedness among the topics in Biology, and social and environmental issues. Such an approach is adopted to develop those long-term transferable skills of ethical conduct, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation and communication. It encourages the use of various teaching and learning strategies to inculcate these skills that will prove useful in everyday life, while at the same time catering to multiple intelligences and different learning styles and needs. It will provide a sound foundation to pursue the study of Life Sciences and related professions at the postsecondary level.

Caribbean History

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. This perspective acknowledges the need for a respect of human life and a cultural heritage that values harmony and cherishes diversity as a strength. The thematic approach has been adopted because it lends itself to detailed treatment of the type that allows the student to practise the various skills of the historian. However, by grouping themes and by requiring students to study an overview, a core of topics, the syllabus seeks to maintain chronology as an important aspect of the study of history.

Chemistry

Chemistry is concerned with the physical and chemical properties of substances and the interaction of energy and matter. The study of Chemistry involves an investigation into chemical reactions and processes. The discipline seeks to explain and predict events at the atomic and molecular level. Through the principles of Chemistry, students will understand everyday life, nature and technology, and the significance of the well-being of man and the environment. The CSEC Chemistry Syllabus is redesigned 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 places greater emphasis on the understanding and application of chemical concepts and principles and different learning styles and needs, so that students will develop skills that will be of long term value in an increasingly technological world, rather than focusing on large quantities of factual information. In addition, it encourages the use of various teaching and learning strategies while at the same time catering to multiple intelligences.

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.

Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM)

The Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM) syllabus is designed to equip students with knowledge and computer-related skills required to enhance the performance of clerical and administrative tasks. The EDPM syllabus will provide a holistic approach to acquisition of knowledge and the development of candidates’ decision-making and problem-solving skills. It is suited for candidates pursuing any discipline, as the competencies and skills developed in the preparation and management of electronic documents are interdisciplinary and imperative in the world of work or in the pursuit of further studies.

English

Students who do the English course will 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 will 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.

French

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 syllabus is organised around three main concepts: Functions and Notions, Settings and Topics and Grammar and Lexis. In the syllabus, emphasis is placed on the student’s ability to use the target language in a functional way. Therefore, the basic functions needed for communication are identified. Functions, however, are performed in particular contexts and, therefore, the settings in which the functions are likely to be performed are identified. This approach used in organising the syllabus seeks to shift attention away from a purely structural approach to a more communicative one. It is expected that students following this syllabus will be able to carry out these functions in the target language based on the following topics – Home and Family, School and Career, Sports and Recreation, Daily Routines, Shopping and Travel.

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. 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 utilises Field Studies to concretise 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 interdependence and interrelationships 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

Home Economics is an interdisciplinary field of study that comprises three major options: Family and Resource Management; Textiles, Clothing and Fashion; and Food, Nutrition and Health. Students pursuing this syllabus will develop competencies in an appropriate mix of knowledge, skills and abilities. The syllabus is geared towards helping learners matriculate to higher learning, sustain lifelong learning, integrate readily and attain employment in industry in a wide variety of careers in Family Support Services, Health Sector Food and Hospitality industries, Fashion and Interior Design. This field of study incorporates competencies and experiences which are responsive to the Caribbean context of vulnerability to natural disasters, food insecurity, and instability in family life and lifestyle diseases. Additionally, the availability of a variety of materials which can be transformed into products that contribute to economic growth and sustainability underscores the need for this syllabus.

Human and Social Biology

Human and Social Biology is concerned with the study of the structure and functioning of the human body. It also involves the application of biological principles, knowledge and skills, and technological advances, to the maintenance of health and to solve the problems of living together. The subject incorporates the view that human beings have a responsibility to their environment and, as such, have an obligation to conserve, protect, maintain and improve its quality. The CSEC 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.

Industrial Technology

The Industrial Technology syllabuses is a qualitative response by the Caribbean Examinations Council to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) needs which are relevant to manufacturing and industrialisation in the Caribbean Region. The cognitive, psychomotor and affective outcomes aimed for in the syllabuses are geared at equipping students with a solid technical foundation for lifelong learning and to enable the students to matriculate seamlessly into entry level occupations in a wide variety of careers and postsecondary institutions. Candidates who successfully complete the CSEC examinations in the Industrial Technology programmes will be awarded two sets of certificates; the CSEC Technical Proficiency and a CVQ Unit award.

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, problem-solving using the computer, and proficiency in using productivity tools. This approach has been adopted in recognition of the impact that changes in the availability of information can have on the educational process. Focus is placed 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 expose candidates to a wide range of Information and Communication Technologies, affording learning experiences which include an element of discovery, and foster self-confidence. Candidates would also acquire computer-related practical skills that will prepare them to meet the region’s need for increased productivity and efficiency in a fast changing technological world. The syllabus has been organized to offer certification at the General Proficiency only.

Integrated Science

The CSEC Integrated Science Syllabus is based on three themes, The Organism and Its Environment, The Home and Workplace, and Earth’s Place in the Universe which adequately reflect 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. The syllabus is redesigned with a greater emphasis on the integration and application of scientific concepts and principles. Such an approach is adopted to develop those long-term transferable skills of ethical conduct, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation and communication. It encourages the use of various teaching and learning strategies to inculcate these skills that will prove useful in everyday life, while at the same time catering to multiple intelligence and different learning styles and needs.

Mathematics

The Mathematics syllabus explains general and unifying concepts that facilitate the study of Mathematics as a coherent subject rather than as a set of unrelated topics. 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.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers design power-producing machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Mechanical engineers design other machines inside buildings, such as elevators and escalators.

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 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. Further, the syllabus enables regional peoples to participate in the continuing development of Caribbean musical culture and to contribute to, and draw from, the pool of knowledge that constitutes world music.

Office Administration

Office Administration is a Business Education subject concerned with the study of administrative principles, policies, procedures and technological competencies governing the modern office environment. The content and teaching strategies used reflect current trends in the modern office. The syllabus aims to provide students with knowledge, skills and attitudes for immediate access to entry-level positions such as administrative assistants, clerical assistants, receptionists, record management clerks, accounting clerks and factory and dispatch clerks and other related positions. 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 organisation. Further, it seeks to nurture and improve students’ social and personal management skills and foster the development of a positive work ethic. In addition, the syllabus provides the foundation for students desirous of furthering their education in other related fields.

Physical Education

The study of Physical Education and Sport, not only allows students to work individually and cooperatively in the theoretical and practical components of the subject but also assists them in developing critical life skills. As a curricular inclusion, it provides students of varying abilities with experiences that facilitate physical, social, intellectual, cultural, spiritual and emotional growth. Skills related to decision-making, problem solving and critical thinking, and the use of sport technology are acquired by students undertaking a course of study in Physical Education and Sport.

Physics

This course is survey of major concepts, methods, and applications of physics. Topics include a description of motion, Newton’s Laws, conservation principles (energy and momentum), waves, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics, and modern physics.

Physics

Physics is a science that deals with matter and energy and their interactions. It is concerned with systems, laws, models, principles and theories that explain the physical behaviour of our world and the universe. Physics is regarded as a fundamental scientific discipline since all advances in technology can be traced either directly or indirectly to the physical laws and theories. The CSEC Physics Syllabus is redesigned with a greater emphasis on the application of scientific concepts and principles. Such an approach is adopted in order to develop those long-term transferrable skills of ethical conduct, teamwork, problem solving, critical thinking, innovation and communication. In addition, it encourages the use of various teaching and learning strategies to inculcate these skills while, at the same time catering to multiple intelligences and different learning styles and needs. 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 science.

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 postsecondary and professional studies in 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. This 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. It also 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.

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. 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.

Spanish

Technical Drawing

The Technical Drawing syllabus focuses on the development of competencies in geometric construction, descriptive geometry, engineering designs and graphics, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing and construction drafting. These are geared toward the development of students’ spatial visualisation, technical communication, interdisciplinary and employability skills. These skills are useful for careers in drafting, architecture, surveying, civil engineering, interior designing, design engineering and in the general construction and manufacturing industries. In addition, the programme of studies in the syllabus caters for those students who will seek entry level employment in related fields.

Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts employs a variety of arts, such as, dance, choreography, acting, playwriting and directing. It also uses the crafts of the carpenter, painter, artist and designer, and the skills of organisation, co-ordination, and stage management of activities. Consequently, Theatre Arts also contributes invaluably to the creative economy of the region. Dance and Drama are two major components of Theatre Arts. The third component, Stage Crafts, links Dance and Drama by providing the crafts and skills required for producing theatre. Thus, the Theatre Arts Syllabus is organised to be taught and experienced under three main principles: Appreciating and Analysing, Creating and Performing through Dance, Drama and Stage Crafts. As such, Theatre Arts should not be conceived of as three distinct disciplines. Rather, the Theatre Arts Syllabus has been designed to provide experiences that enable students to appreciate, create 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.

Visual Arts

In the Caribbean, much knowledge and information are communicated through images and spectacle and the visual arts serve to interpret this information and build bridges to understanding the role of art in interpreting our contemporary, historical, cultural and visual world. The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) syllabus in the Visual Arts will help to promote and encourage tolerance and diversity among students of different ethnic backgrounds, cultures and points of view in the region. 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 knowledge, understanding, skills and values to be gained from the CSEC Visual Arts Syllabus are organized in three components namely:

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CSEC

Subjects

Additional Math

Agricultural Science

Biology

Caribbean History

Chemistry

Economics

Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM)

English

French

Geography

Home Economics

Human and Social Biology

Industrial Technology

Information Technology

Integrated Science

Mathematics

Mechanical Engineering

Music

Office Administration

Physical Education

Physics

Physics

Principles of Accounts

Principles of Business

Social Studies

Spanish

Technical Drawing

Theatre Arts

Visual Arts

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CSEC

Subjects

Additional Math

Agricultural Science

Biology

Caribbean History

Chemistry

Economics

Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM)

English

French

Geography

Home Economics

Human and Social Biology

Industrial Technology

Information Technology

Integrated Science

Mathematics

Mechanical Engineering

Music

Office Administration

Physical Education

Physics

Physics

Principles of Accounts

Principles of Business

Social Studies

Spanish

Technical Drawing

Theatre Arts

Visual Arts

Products

Features

Get Started

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