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Welcome to A-levels
I am pleased to introduce the Islamic College for Advanced Studies. The College offers a range of exciting opportunities, facilities and resources for full-time students. At ICAS students are able to develop the full potential of their academic strengths without compromising their faith and way of life.
In an academically challenging atmosphere, young people can progress in the company of like-minded companions. The college and its staff recognize the diversity of the Muslim community and the responsibilities this imposes on us. ICAS is a safe, caring environment where sound moral and ethical foundations underpin the educational philosophy to which all staff and students subscribe.
The new-style modular A-levels are being promoted by the government instead of the traditional, so-called linear courses leading to a final exam, as a way of encouraging students to try a broader program of study. Although the modular approach is found to be more suited to Physics and Mathematics than to English and Geography, students are allowed to retake failed modules, but the number of times taken will show as well.
The move follows a review carried out by exam advisers into whether A-level standards have been maintained over the past 20 years. Although they concluded that the exams are as difficult as ever, they have pinpointed significant areas that need improving. These changes are intended to appease traditionalists by putting more emphasis on Britain's historical and literary heritage. Additionally, Mathematics courses will put greater emphasis on algebra. Graphing calculators will be barred on some Mathematics papers, and scientific calculators (which cannot solve equations, plot graphs or store formulae) will be permitted instead. At least one-quarter of the marks must come from papers where calculator use is restricted. Dictionaries will also be banned in foreign language exams. There is a synoptic paper in all subjects, requiring knowledge of the entire course, which addresses the criticism that existing modular exams are not challenging enough.
With the new system, students are encouraged to study four or five subjects in the first year of their study, leading to the AS exams. They may then choose to take on all or at least three of these to A-level standard in the second year by completing the A2 section. All courses are divided into six modules for all subjects, to be taken throughout the year.
I hope you will want become a member of the Islamic College for Advanced Studies. I look forward to welcoming you here in person.
Dr M. Esmail Mesbahi
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