Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1)
Years 10 & 11 Curriculum
The iGCSE Academic Learning Journey.
A structured, term-by-term roadmap through the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE specifications for Chemistry (4CH1), Biology (4BI1), Physics (4PH1), Mathematics A (4MA1), and English Language (4EA1) & Literature (4ET1). Engineered for Grade 9 mastery, daily 1-to-1 coaching, hands-on laboratory investigation, and synoptic exam confidence.
Board: Pearson Edexcel
Grading: 9 to 1 Standard
Duration: 6 Terms (2 Academic Years)
Pedagogy: 1-to-1 Coaching + AI Spaced Retrieval + Practical Labs
Dual Track: Catalyst AI Diploma Integrated
Select Subject (In-Page View)
Dedicated Standalone Journeys
Filter Academic Year
Search Topics
Pearson Edexcel iGCSE Academic Programme
Five Core Disciplines. One Seamless Journey.
At Catalyst, iGCSE study is built on high-cadence 1-to-1 instruction with specialist tutors, real-time AI-powered diagnostic checkpoints, and comprehensive coverage of Pearson Edexcel international specifications. Choose an individual subject above to focus on its specific papers, topics, and practicals, or scroll through the integrated termly timetable below.
Autumn Term
September – DecemberPrinciples of Chemistry & Atomic Model
Chem 4CH1- States of matter: Particle kinetic theory, heating/cooling curves, diffusion & dilution.
- Separation techniques: Filtration, crystallisation, simple/fractional distillation, paper chromatography & $R_f$ values.
- Atomic structure: Protons, neutrons, electrons, isotopes, calculating relative atomic mass $A_r$.
- The Periodic Table: Electron configuration, group trends, metals vs non-metals.
🧪 Core Practical: Chromatography & Formula of MgO
⚡ AI Tutor: Daily atomic mass & isotope drills
Cell Biology, Enzymes & Transport
Bio 4BI1- Variety of living organisms: MRS H GREN, eukaryotic kingdoms (plants, animals, fungi, protoctists), prokaryotes & viruses.
- Cell organization: Organelle ultrastructure, cell specialization, stem cells.
- Biological molecules: Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids & food test reagents.
- Movement of substances: Diffusion, osmosis, active transport, surface area to volume ratio.
- Enzymes: Active sites, lock-and-key model, temperature & pH denaturation.
🔬 Core Practical: Food tests & Osmosis in potato cylinders
⚡ AI Tutor: Enzyme kinetics graphical simulations
Forces, Motion & Kinematics
Phys 4PH1- Movement & position: Scalar vs vector quantities, distance-time graphs, velocity-time graphs.
- Uniform acceleration: Equations of motion ($v=u+at$, $v^2=u^2+2as$, $s=\frac{u+v}{2}t$).
- Newton's laws of motion: Balanced/unbalanced forces, $F=ma$, terminal velocity, stopping distance.
- Elastic deformation: Hooke's law, elastic limit, spring constant.
- Momentum & moments: $p=mv$, conservation of momentum in collisions, car safety features, principle of moments.
⏱️ Core Practical: Acceleration with light gates & Hooke's Law
Number Mastery, Algebra & Equations
Maths 4MA1- Number theory: Fractions, recurring decimals to fractions, prime factor decomposition, HCF/LCM, standard form, error intervals & bounds.
- Algebraic manipulation: Expanding binomials, factorising quadratics, algebraic fractions, index laws with fractional and negative exponents, surds simplification & rationalising denominators.
- Linear equations & inequalities: Multi-step linear equations, double inequalities on number lines, simultaneous equations by elimination & substitution.
- Sequences: $n^{\text{th}}$ term of linear and quadratic sequences.
⚡ AI Math Engine: Dynamic surds & bounds problem generator
Non-Fiction Analysis & Modern Prose
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Language Paper 1 (Anthology Non-Fiction): Detailed stylistic analysis of Adichie (The Danger of a Single Story), Alagiah (A Passage to Africa), and Herbert (The Explorer's Daughter).
- Reading skills (AO1 & AO2): Selecting judicious textual evidence, analysing sentence structures, rhetorical strategies, and evocative word choices.
- Transactional writing fundamentals: Writing persuasive articles, formal speeches, and opinion editorials (audience, register, purpose, ethos/pathos/logos).
- Literature Paper 1 (Modern Prose text): Contextual, character, and thematic study of modern set prose (e.g. Of Mice and Men / To Kill a Mockingbird).
✍️ Writing Clinic: Crafting grade 9 thesis statements
🏁 Autumn Milestone Checkpoint
Baseline diagnostics across all 5 subjects, practical lab book validation, and Unit 1 Catalyst AI Diploma project proposal.
Spring Term
January – MarchBonding, Structure & Quantitative Chemistry
Chem 4CH1- Chemical calculations: The mole concept, Avogadro's constant, molar mass, empirical and molecular formulae, reacting mass stoichiometry, percentage yield.
- Ionic bonding: Dot-and-cross diagrams, giant ionic lattices, electrostatic forces, melting points & conductivity.
- Covalent structures: Simple molecules vs giant covalent allotropes (diamond, graphite, fullerene $C_{60}$, silicon dioxide).
- Metallic bonding: Delocalised electrons, thermal/electrical conductivity, malleability.
🧪 Core Practical: Water of crystallisation in hydrated $CuSO_4$
⚡ AI Tutor: Multi-step stoichiometric calculation trainer
Physiology: Nutrition, Respiration & Gas Exchange
Bio 4BI1- Plant nutrition & photosynthesis: Equation, leaf anatomy (palisade, stomata, cuticle), limiting factors, mineral requirements (nitrates, magnesium).
- Human nutrition & digestion: Alimentary canal, mechanical/chemical digestion, peristalsis, digestive enzymes (amylase, protease, lipase), bile, villi adaptations.
- Respiration: Aerobic vs anaerobic respiration in animals and yeast, role of ATP.
- Gas exchange: Thorax anatomy, ventilation mechanism, alveoli adaptations, biological impacts of smoking.
🔬 Core Practical: Light intensity on photosynthesis with Elodea
Mains Electricity & Electric Circuits
Phys 4PH1- Mains electricity: Domestic 3-pin plug (live, neutral, earth), fuses, circuit breakers, insulation, power equations ($P=IV$, $P=I^2R$, $E=IVt$).
- Current & voltage in circuits: Current as charge flow ($Q=It$), voltage as energy transfer ($E=QV$), Ohm's law ($V=IR$).
- Circuit components: Series vs parallel arrangements, $I-V$ graphs for resistors, filament lamps, diodes, LDRs, and thermistors.
- Electrostatics: Charging by friction, electrostatic field lines, practical uses and hazards (paint spraying, refuelling).
⚡ Core Practical: $I-V$ characteristic curves for components
Quadratics, Coordinate Geometry & Proportion
Maths 4MA1- Quadratic equations: Factorising $ax^2+bx+c$, quadratic formula, completing the square, graphical roots and turning points.
- Coordinate geometry: Gradient between points, equation of straight line $y=mx+c$, parallel and perpendicular lines ($m_1 m_2 = -1$), line segment midpoints and lengths.
- Proportion & rates of change: Direct and inverse proportion equations ($y \propto x$, $y=k/x^2$), compound units (speed, density, pressure), compound interest & percentage depreciation.
- Angles & polygons: Interior and exterior angles of polygons, circle perimeter and sector area.
⚡ AI Math Engine: Step-by-step algebraic solver & error analysis
Anthology Poetry & Imaginative Narrative
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Language Paper 2 (Poetry & Prose): Close literary analysis of Owen (Disabled), Frost (Out, Out—), Harrison (Bright Lights of Sarajevo), and Tremain (Significant Cigarettes).
- Creative narrative & descriptive writing: Establishing narrative hooks, structural shifts, sensory motifs, figurative language (metaphor, pathetic fallacy, synecdoche), and sentence rhythm.
- Literature Paper 1 Section A (Poetry comparison): Developing comparative thematic frameworks (conflict, identity, memory) with comparative connectors.
- Spoken language preparation: Formulating persuasive arguments, evidence backing, and rhetorical delivery.
🎙️ Spoken Language: Presentation research & debate topic chosen
🏁 Spring Milestone Checkpoint
End-of-term formal written assessments in Sciences & Maths. Spoken Language Endorsement formal recordings.
Summer Term
April – JulyInorganic Chemistry & Metals Reactivity
Chem 4CH1- Group 1 (Alkali metals): Physical properties, trends in reactivity with water and air, electron loss rationales.
- Group 7 (Halogens): Chlorine, bromine, iodine colors, physical states, displacement reactions, redox half-equations.
- Atmospheric gases: Composition of air, lab preparation of $O_2$ and $CO_2$, greenhouse effect, climate impacts.
- Reactivity series: Displacement reactions, extraction of metals with carbon, blast furnace extraction of iron, phytomining.
🧪 Core Practical: Displacement reactions of halogens & metals
Internal Transport Systems & Ecology
Bio 4BI1- Transport in plants: Xylem vs phloem, water absorption in root hair cells, transpiration stream, potometer investigations.
- Transport in humans: Blood composition (erythrocytes, leucocytes, platelets, plasma), immune response (phagocytosis, antibodies, memory cells, vaccination), cardiac cycle, coronary heart disease.
- Ecology & ecosystems: Communities, abiotic and biotic factors, food chains/webs, pyramids of numbers, biomass and energy transfer.
- Nutrient cycles: Carbon cycle and nitrogen cycle (nitrifying, nitrogen-fixing, denitrifying bacteria).
🔬 Core Practical: Potometer transpiration & Quadrat field sampling
Waves, Optics & Electromagnetic Spectrum
Phys 4PH1- Wave properties: Transverse vs longitudinal, wavefront, amplitude, wavelength, frequency, time period ($T=1/f$), wave equation ($v=f\lambda$), Doppler effect.
- Electromagnetic spectrum: Properties, uses, communication, and ionizing hazards across radio, microwave, IR, visible, UV, X-ray, and gamma.
- Light & sound: Reflection, refraction, Snell's law ($n=\frac{\sin i}{\sin r}$), total internal reflection and critical angle ($\sin c = 1/n$), optical fibres, speed of sound and oscilloscope analysis.
📐 Core Practical: Refractive index of glass block & Speed of sound
Trigonometry, Transformations & Statistics
Maths 4MA1- Trigonometry & Pythagoras: SOHCAHTOA in right-angled triangles, angles of elevation and depression, exact trig ratios for $30^\circ, 45^\circ, 60^\circ$.
- Geometric transformations: Reflections in line equations, rotations about arbitrary centers, translations with column vectors, enlargements with fractional and negative scale factors.
- Statistical representations: Frequency tables, cumulative frequency curves, median, quartiles, interquartile range, box plots.
- Histograms: Unequal class intervals, frequency density calculations, area proportional to frequency.
⚡ AI Math Engine: Adaptive histogram & cumulative frequency tutor
Comparative Synthesis & Dramatic Heritage
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Language Paper 1 Unseen synthesis (AO3): Pairing anthology texts with 19th/20th/21st-century unseen non-fiction extracts; synthesising perspectives and contrasting rhetorical methods.
- Literature Paper 2 (Shakespeare / Drama text): Exploration of dramatic conventions, tragic hero arc, soliloquies, dramatic irony, staging and thematic conflicts (e.g. Macbeth or Romeo and Juliet).
- Coursework / Exam essay structuring: Integrating contextual backdrop seamlessly without losing focus on linguistic analysis.
🎭 Drama Clinic: Shakespeare soliloquy line-by-line analysis
🏆 Year 10 Summer Mock Examination
Full-length formal mock examinations across all 5 subjects under strict iGCSE exam conditions. End-of-year review & Y11 academic forecast.
Autumn Term
September – DecemberAcids, Salts, Energetics & Reaction Kinetics
Chem 4CH1- Acids, alkalis & titrations: pH scale, indicators (phenolphthalein, methyl orange), acid-base neutralisation, volumetric titrations.
- Salt preparations: Soluble salts from insoluble bases, titration salts, insoluble salts by precipitation.
- Analytical chemistry & ion tests: Flame tests, testing for cations ($Cu^{2+}, Fe^{2+}, Fe^{3+}, NH_4^+$), anions ($Cl^-, Br^-, I^-, SO_4^{2-}, CO_3^{2-}$), and gases ($H_2, O_2, CO_2, Cl_2, NH_3$).
- Energetics: Exothermic/endothermic profiles, $\Delta H$, calorimetry ($Q=mc\Delta T$), bond energy calculations.
- Rates of reaction: Collision theory, activation energy, catalysts, effect of surface area, concentration, and temperature.
🧪 Core Practical: Acid-base titration & Rate of reaction experiments
Excretion, Coordination & Homeostasis
Bio 4BI1- Excretion & the kidney: Nephron histology, ultrafiltration in Bowman's capsule, selective reabsorption of glucose, loop of Henle, ADH and osmoregulation.
- Nervous coordination: CNS, sensory/relay/motor neurons, reflex arc, synapse neurotransmission.
- The human eye: Light refraction, pupil reflex, accommodation for near and distant objects.
- Endocrine control: Adrenaline, insulin, glucagon, plant tropisms and auxin distribution.
- Homeostasis: Negative feedback, skin anatomy, thermoregulation (vasodilation, vasoconstriction, sweating).
🔬 Core Practical: Investigation of eye reflexes & skin sensitivity
Energy Resources, Thermal Physics & Gas Laws
Phys 4PH1- Energy transfers: Energy stores, mechanical/electrical pathways, Sankey diagrams, efficiency calculations.
- Work, power & energy: $W=Fd$, gravitational potential energy ($\Delta GPE=mgh$), kinetic energy ($KE=\frac{1}{2}mv^2$), power ($P=W/t$).
- Density & pressure: $\rho=m/V$, $p=F/A$, hydrostatic pressure in fluids ($p=\rho gh$).
- Thermal physics: Particle models of matter, specific heat capacity ($\Delta Q=mc\Delta T$), absolute zero in Kelvin, gas laws ($\frac{p_1 V_1}{T_1} = \frac{p_2 V_2}{T_2}$).
⏱️ Core Practical: Density of irregular solids & Specific heat capacity
Advanced Trig, Circle Theorems & Functions
Maths 4MA1- Non-right-angled trigonometry: Sine rule ($\frac{a}{\sin A} = \frac{b}{\sin B}$), Cosine rule ($a^2=b^2+c^2-2bc\cos A$), Area of triangle ($\frac{1}{2}ab\sin C$), 3D trigonometry and bearings.
- Circle theorems: Angle subtended at centre, angle in semicircle, angles in same segment, cyclic quadrilaterals, alternate segment theorem, tangent theorems with rigorous geometric proofs.
- Vectors & geometric proof: Vector addition/subtraction, scalar multiples, collinearity, geometric ratio proofs.
- Functions: Function notation $f(x)$, domain and range, composite functions $fg(x)$, inverse functions $f^{-1}(x)$.
⚡ AI Math Engine: 3D vector & circle theorem visual proof assistant
Unseen Poetry, Analytical Essays & Rhetoric
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Literature Paper 1 Section A (Unseen poetry): Methodical framework for analysing unseen poems: voice, meter, structural turning points, figurative devices, tonal shifts.
- Literature Paper 1 Section B (Prose essays): Constructing Grade 9 academic essays with conceptualised thesis statements, embedded micro-quotes, and multi-layered analysis.
- Language Paper 1 Section B (High-scoring transactional writing): Mastering distinct registers for formal letters, speeches to international assemblies, and published critiques.
📝 Timed Sprint: 45-minute unseen poetry comparative essays
🏁 Year 11 Autumn Mock Series 1
Formal Paper 1 mock exams across all subjects. Diagnostic analysis highlighting individual syllabus gaps for winter term coaching.
Spring Term
January – MarchEquilibria, Electrolysis & Organic Chemistry
Chem 4CH1- Reversible reactions & equilibria: Dynamic equilibrium, Le Chatelier's principle, effect of temperature and pressure shifts on yield.
- Electrolysis: Molten salts vs aqueous solutions, predicting products at anode and cathode, ionic half-equations.
- Organic Chemistry: Homologous series, functional groups, naming rules (IUPAC), structural isomerism.
- Hydrocarbons & polymers: Crude oil fractionation, alkanes vs alkenes, addition polymerisation, condensation polymers (polyesters & polyamides).
- Alcohols, carboxylic acids & esters: Ethanol production (fermentation vs ethene hydration), esterification reactions.
🧪 Core Practical: Electrolysis of aqueous $CuSO_4$ & Synthesis of an ester
Reproduction, Genetics, Evolution & Biotech
Bio 4BI1- Reproduction: Asexual vs sexual reproduction, flower pollination and fertilization, human reproduction, menstrual cycle (FSH, LH, oestrogen, progesterone), placenta.
- Inheritance & DNA: DNA structure, transcription and translation, alleles, monohybrid crosses, codominance, polygenic inheritance.
- Variation & evolution: Mutations, natural selection, antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
- Genetic modification & cloning: Restriction enzymes, DNA ligase, recombinant plasmids, transgenics, micropropagation and mammal cloning.
🔬 Core Practical: Conditions required for seed germination
Electromagnetism, Radioactivity & Astrophysics
Phys 4PH1- Magnetism & motor effect: Magnetic fields, Fleming's left-hand rule, electric motors, loudspeakers, electromagnetic induction in generators, transformers ($\frac{V_p}{V_s} = \frac{n_p}{n_s}$).
- Radioactivity & nuclear physics: Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation properties, decay equations, half-life calculations, ionizing radiation hazards, nuclear fission (U-235 chain reactions) & nuclear fusion in stars.
- Astrophysics: Planetary motion, orbital speed ($v=\frac{2\pi r}{T}$), stellar evolution (protostar, main sequence, red giant/supergiant, white dwarf, neutron star, black hole), Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams, cosmology, red-shift, and Big Bang evidence (CMBR).
⚡ AI Physics Lab: Half-life simulations & H-R stellar diagram analyzer
Calculus, Graph Transformations & Probability
Maths 4MA1- Calculus: Differentiation of powers of $x$ ($\frac{dy}{dx} = nx^{n-1}$), gradient of curve, equations of tangents and normals, stationary points, maximum/minimum optimization problems, kinematics ($v=\frac{ds}{dt}$, $a=\frac{dv}{dt}$).
- Graph transformations: Quadratic, cubic, reciprocal, and exponential graphs, equations of circles ($x^2+y^2=r^2$), curve transformations ($f(x+a)$, $f(x)+a$, $af(x)$, $-f(x)$).
- Advanced probability: Tree diagrams with and without replacement, conditional probability, Venn diagrams, set notation ($\cup, \cap, \xi, A'$).
- Algebraic inequalities: Solving quadratic inequalities, graphical inequalities and shaded regions.
⚡ AI Math Engine: Higher-tier calculus & optimization drill series
Full Specification Synoptic Rehearsals
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Literature Paper 2 (Drama & Heritage): Detailed textual breakdown of tragic turning points, character arcs, and historical contextual impact.
- Language Paper 2 Section B (Creative storytelling): Perfecting narrative pacing, circular structures, motif development, and tonal control.
- Examiner commentary review: Dissecting actual Edexcel candidate exemplar scripts at Grade 7, 8, and 9 to understand discrimination criteria.
🎯 Masterclass: Deconstructing Chief Examiner exemplar scripts
🏁 Year 11 Mock Series 2 (Full Walking-Talking Mocks)
Full-length papers across all components under strict timed conditions, followed by comprehensive question-by-question examiner walk-throughs.
Summer Term
April – JunePaper 1C & 2C Final Mastery Sprints
Chem 4CH1- Synoptic problem solving: Integrating quantitative moles, organic synthesis pathways, and analytical ion identification.
- Paper 1C (2h, 110 marks): Core concepts, experimental methods, inorganic trends.
- Paper 2C (1h 15m, 70 marks): Advanced chemistry, quantitative equilibria, organic polymers.
- 1-to-1 examiner coaching: Error minimization drills and full mark scheme mastery.
🎓 Official Pearson Edexcel 4CH1 Examinations
Paper 1B & 2B Final Mastery Sprints
Bio 4BI1- CORMMSS experimental design: Mastering the 6-mark experimental planning question format.
- Paper 1B (2h, 110 marks): Broad syllabus coverage across ecology, physiology, cell biology.
- Paper 2B (1h 15m, 70 marks): Deep genetic inheritance, biotechnology, kidney ultrafiltration.
- Data analysis questions: Evaluating anomalous results and drawing valid scientific deductions.
🎓 Official Pearson Edexcel 4BI1 Examinations
Paper 1P & 2P Final Mastery Sprints
Phys 4PH1- Equation recall & multi-step calculations: Unit conversions, standard form handling, rearranging complex formula combinations.
- Paper 1P (2h, 110 marks): Core physics, mechanics, electricity, waves, energy resources.
- Paper 2P (1h 15m, 70 marks): Extended topics: momentum impulse, astrophysics, induction, gas laws.
- Graphical analysis: Line of best fit, gradient calculation with units, error evaluation.
🎓 Official Pearson Edexcel 4PH1 Examinations
Paper 1H & 2H Grade 9 Elite Clinics
Maths 4MA1- Paper 1H & Paper 2H: Two 2-hour calculator papers (100 marks each, 50% each).
- Targeting the final 20 marks: Unseen geometric vector proofs, calculus optimization, algebraic kinematics, composite function challenges, 3D trigonometry.
- Time management drills: Maintaining speed, checking working methods, securing method marks.
🎓 Official Pearson Edexcel 4MA1 Examinations
English Language & Literature Final Exams
Eng 4EA1 / 4ET1- Language Paper 1 (2h 15m, 60%): Non-fiction text reading, unseen comparison, transactional writing.
- Language Paper 2 (1h 30m, 40%): Poetry/prose text analysis, imaginative narrative writing.
- Literature Paper 1 & 2: Poetry anthology, unseen poetry, modern prose, and drama examinations.
- Pacing strategies: Strict planning time allocation, proofreading for technical SPaG accuracy.
🎓 Official Pearson Edexcel 4EA1 & 4ET1 Examinations
🎓 Final Assessment & AI Diploma Viva
Completion of all Pearson Edexcel written papers followed by the public viva defence of the student's 5-unit Catalyst AI Diploma engineering portfolio.
Official Examination Structure
Pearson Edexcel iGCSE Assessment Blueprint.
Every subject is formally certified under the international 9–1 numerical grading scale. Below is the exact paper weighting, duration, and assessment style for each discipline.
| Subject & Code | Component | Duration | Marks | Weighting | Tiering & Permitted Aids |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry Edexcel 4CH1 |
Paper 1C (Core Chemistry) | 2 hours | 110 marks | 61.1% | Untiered · Calculator allowed |
| Paper 2C (Advanced Topics) | 1 hour 15 mins | 70 marks | 38.9% | Untiered · Calculator allowed | |
| Biology Edexcel 4BI1 |
Paper 1B (Core Biology) | 2 hours | 110 marks | 61.1% | Untiered · Calculator allowed |
| Paper 2B (Advanced Topics) | 1 hour 15 mins | 70 marks | 38.9% | Untiered · Calculator allowed | |
| Physics Edexcel 4PH1 |
Paper 1P (Core Physics) | 2 hours | 110 marks | 61.1% | Untiered · Calculator allowed |
| Paper 2P (Advanced Topics) | 1 hour 15 mins | 70 marks | 38.9% | Untiered · Calculator allowed | |
| Mathematics A Edexcel 4MA1 |
Paper 1H (Higher Tier) | 2 hours | 100 marks | 50.0% | Higher (Grades 4–9) · Calculator allowed |
| Paper 2H (Higher Tier) | 2 hours | 100 marks | 50.0% | Higher (Grades 4–9) · Calculator allowed | |
| English Language A Edexcel 4EA1 |
Paper 1: Non-fiction & Transactional | 2 hours 15 mins | 90 marks | 60.0% | Untiered · No dictionaries |
| Paper 2: Poetry/Prose & Imaginative | 1 hour 30 mins | 60 marks | 40.0% | Untiered · Anthology provided | |
| Spoken Language Endorsement | 10 mins presentation | Pass / Merit / Dist. | Separately reported | Internal assessment · Externally moderated |