Syllabus

Cambridge IGCSE
Combined Science

0653
For examination in June and November 2017 and 2018.
Also available for examination in March 2017 and 2018
for India only.

Cambridge Secondary 2

Version 1

Changes to syllabus for 2017 and 2018

The syllabus has been revised. You are advised to read the whole of the syllabus before planning your
teaching programme. The most significant changes are outlined below.
Significant changes to the syllabus are indicated by black vertical lines at the side of the text.
Changes to the structure of the assessment
The practical option Paper 4: Coursework has been withdrawn.
A new Multiple Choice paper for Extended candidates has been introduced. This paper is now Paper 2.
Core candidates will now take Paper 1: Multiple Choice (Core), Paper 3: Theory (Core) and either
Paper 5: Practical Test or Paper 6: Alternative to Practical.
Extended candidates will now take Paper 2: Multiple Choice (Extended), Paper 4: Theory (Extended), and either
Paper 5: Practical Test or Paper 6: Alternative to Practical.
Changes to other sections of the syllabus
1. Introduction
In the introductory section, some small changes have been made to wording to align this syllabus with the
equivalent section in the IGCSEs for Biology, Physics and Chemistry.
2. Syllabus content at a glance
This section has been revised.
5. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives
This section has been updated to align this syllabus with the other science IGCSEs and are to ensure
coherence across the IGCSE science suite.
The syllabus aims have been amended to more fully reflect the skills and knowledge promoted by study of
the course.
The assessment objectives have been revised slightly for clarity. The meaning of the assessment objectives
remains unchanged.
7. Practical assessment
The wording of this section has been revised to align this syllabus with the equivalent sections in the other
science IGCSEs.
8. Appendix
Notes on safety in the laboratory and on presentation of data have been added to align this syllabus with the
equivalent sections in the other IGCSE science syllabuses.

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Centre.
IGCSE is the registered trademark of Cambridge International Examinations.
Cambridge International Examinations 2015

Contents
1. Introduction..................................................................................................................... 2
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5

Why choose Cambridge?

Why choose Cambridge IGCSE?
Why choose Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science?
Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education)
How can I find out more?

2. Teacher support............................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Support materials
2.2 Endorsed resources
2.3 Training

3. Syllabus content at a glance............................................................................................ 6

4. Assessment at a glance.................................................................................................. 8
5. Syllabus aims and assessment objectives.................................................................... 10
5.1 Syllabus aims
5.2 Assessment objectives
5.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components
5.4 Grade descriptions
5.5 Conventions (e.g. signs, symbols, terminology and nomenclature)

6. Syllabus content............................................................................................................ 15
6.1 Biology
6.2 Chemistry
6.3 Physics

7. Practical assessment..................................................................................................... 41
7.1 Teaching experimental skills
7.2 Description of Components, Paper 5: Practical Test and
Paper 6: Alternative to Practical

8. Appendix........................................................................................................................ 46
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
8.8

Symbols, units and definitions of physical quantities

Electrical symbols
Safety in the laboratory
Notes for use in qualitative analysis
The Periodic Table of Elements
Mathematical requirements
Presentation of data
Glossary of terms used in science papers

9. Other information.......................................................................................................... 54

Introduction

1. Introduction
1.1 Why choose Cambridge?
Cambridge International Examinations is part of the University of Cambridge. We prepare school students
for life, helping them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning. Our international
qualifications are recognised by the worlds best universities and employers, giving students a wide range of
options in their education and career. As a not-for-profit organisation, we devote our resources to delivering
high-quality educational programmes that can unlock learners potential.
Our programmes set the global standard for international education. They are created by subject experts,
are rooted in academic rigour, and provide a strong platform for progression. Over 10000 schools in 160
countries work with us to prepare nearly a million learners for their future with an international education
from Cambridge.

Cambridge learners
Cambridge programmes and qualifications develop not only subject knowledge but also skills. We
encourage Cambridge learners to be:
confident in working with information and ideas their own and those of others
responsible for themselves, responsive to and respectful of others
reflective as learners, developing their ability to learn
innovative and equipped for new and future challenges
engaged intellectually and socially, ready to make a difference.

Recognition
Cambridge IGCSE is recognised by leading universities and employers worldwide, and is an international
passport to progression and success. It provides a solid foundation for moving on to higher level studies.
Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/recognition

Support for teachers

A wide range of materials and resources is available to support teachers and learners in Cambridge schools.
Resources suit a variety of teaching methods in different international contexts. Through subject discussion
forums and training, teachers can access the expert advice they need for teaching our qualifications. More
details can be found in Section 2 of this syllabus and at www.cie.org.uk/teachers

Support for exams officers

Exams officers can trust in reliable, efficient administration of exams entries and excellent personal support
from our customer services. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers
Our systems for managing the provision of international qualifications and education programmes
for learners aged 5 to 19 are certified as meeting the internationally recognised standard for quality
management, ISO 9001:2008. Learn more at www.cie.org.uk/ISO9001

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Introduction

1.2 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE?

Cambridge IGCSEs are international in outlook, but retain a local relevance. The syllabuses provide
opportunities for contextualised learning and the content has been created to suit a wide variety of schools,
avoid cultural bias and develop essential lifelong skills, including creative thinking and problem-solving.
Our aim is to balance knowledge, understanding and skills in our programmes and qualifications to enable
students to become effective learners and to provide a solid foundation for their continuing educational
journey.
Through our professional development courses and our support materials for Cambridge IGCSEs, we
provide the tools to enable teachers to prepare learners to the best of their ability and work with us in the
pursuit of excellence in education.
Cambridge IGCSEs are considered to be an excellent preparation for Cambridge International ASand
A Levels, the Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) Group Award,
Cambridge Pre-U, and other education programmes, such as the US Advanced Placement program
and the International Baccalaureate Diploma programme. Learn more about Cambridge IGCSEs at
www.cie.org.uk/cambridgesecondary2

Guided learning hours

Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses are designed on the assumption that learners have about 130 guided learning
hours per subject over the duration of the course, but this is for guidance only. The number of hours
required to gain the qualification may vary according to local curricular practice and the learners prior
experience of the subject.

1.3 Why choose Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science?

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science gives learners the opportunity to study biology, chemistry and physics
within a scientifically coherent syllabus and is accepted by universities and employers as proof of essential
knowledge and ability. As well as a subject focus, the combined science syllabus enables learners to:
better understand the technological world, with an informed interest in scientific matters
recognise the usefulness (and limitations) of scientific method, and how to apply this to other disciplines
and in everyday life
develop relevant attitudes, such as a concern for accuracy and precision, objectivity, integrity, enquiry,
initiative and inventiveness
develop an interest in, and care for, the environment
better understand the influence and limitations placed on scientific study by society, economy,
technology, ethics, the community and the environment
develop an understanding of the scientific skills essential for both further study and everyday life.

Prior learning
We recommend that learners who are beginning this course should have previously studied a science
curriculum such as that of the Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme or equivalent national educational
frameworks. Candidates should also have adequate mathematical skills for the content contained in this
syllabus.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Introduction

Progression
Cambridge IGCSE Certificates are general qualifications that enable candidates either to progress directly to
employment, or to proceed to further qualifications.

1.4 Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education)

Cambridge ICE is a group award for Cambridge IGCSE. It gives schools the opportunity to benefit
from offering a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the achievements of learners who pass
examinations in a number of different subjects.
Learn more about Cambridge ICE at www.cie.org.uk/cambridgesecondary2

1.5 How can I find out more?

If you are already a Cambridge school
You can make entries for this qualification through your usual channels. If you have any questions, please
contact us at info@cie.org.uk

If you are not yet a Cambridge school

Learn about the benefits of becoming a Cambridge school at www.cie.org.uk/startcambridge. Email us at
info@cie.org.uk to find out how your organisation can register to become a Cambridge school.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Teacher support

2.

Teacher support

2.1 Support materials

We send Cambridge syllabuses, past question papers and examiner reports to cover the last examination
series to all Cambridge schools.
You can also go to our public website at www.cie.org.uk/igcse to download current and future syllabuses
together with specimen papers or past question papers and examiner reports from one series.
For teachers at registered Cambridge schools a range of additional support materials for specific
syllabuses is available from Teacher Support, our secure online support for Cambridge teachers. Go to
http://teachers.cie.org.uk (username and password required).

2.2 Endorsed resources

We work with publishers providing a range of resources for our syllabuses including print and digital
materials. Resources endorsed by Cambridge go through a detailed quality assurance process to ensure
they provide a high level of support for teachers and learners.
We have resource lists which can be filtered to show all resources, or just those which are endorsed by
Cambridge. The resource lists include further suggestions for resources to support teaching.

2.3 Training
We offer a range of support activities for teachers to ensure they have the relevant knowledge and skills to
deliver our qualifications. See www.cie.org.uk/events for further information.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus content at a glance

3.

Syllabus content at a glance

The syllabus content that follows is divided into three sections: Biology (B1B10), Chemistry (C1C12) and
Physics (P1P12). Candidates must study all three sections.
Candidates can either follow the Core syllabus only, or they can follow the Extended syllabus which includes
both the Core and the Supplement. Candidates aiming for grades A* to C should follow the Extended
syllabus.
It is important that, throughout this course, teachers should make candidates aware of the relevance of the
concepts studied to everyday life, and to the natural and man-made worlds.
Biology
B1. Characteristics of living organisms
B2. Cells
B3. Enzymes
B4. Nutrition
B5. Transportation
B6. Respiration
B7. Co-ordination and response
B8. Reproduction
B9. Energy flow in ecosystems
B10. Human influences on the ecosystem
Chemistry
C1. The particulate nature of matter
C2. Experimental techniques
C3. Atoms, elements and compounds
C4. Stoichiometry
C5. Electricity and chemistry
C6. Energy changes in chemical reactions
C7. Chemical reactions
C8. Acids, bases and salts
C9. The Periodic Table
C10. Metals
C11. Air and water
C12. Organic chemistry

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus content at a glance

Physics
P1. Motion
P2. Matter and forces
P3. Energy, work and power
P4. Simple kinetic molecular model of matter
P5. Matter and thermal properties
P6. Transfer of thermal energy
P7. Waves
P8. Light
P9. Electromagnetic spectrum
P10. Sound
P11. Electricity
P12. Electric circuits

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Assessment at a glance

4. Assessment at a glance
All candidates must enter for three papers.
Core candidates take:
Paper 1

Extended candidates take:

Paper 2

45 minutes

45 minutes

A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40

items of the four-choice type.

A multiple-choice paper consisting of 40

items of the four-choice type.

This paper will test assessment objectives

AO1 and AO2. Questions will be based on
the Core syllabus content.

This paper will test assessment objectives

AO1 and AO2. Questions will be based on
the Extended syllabus content (Core and
Supplement).

This paper will be weighted at 30% of the

final total mark.

This paper will be weighted at 30% of the

final total mark.

and:
Paper 3

and:
Paper 4

1 hour 15 minutes

1 hour 15 minutes

A written paper consisting of short-answer

and structured questions.

A written paper consisting of short-answer

and structured questions.

This paper will test assessment objectives

AO1 and AO2. Questions will be based on
the Core syllabus content.

This paper will test assessment objectives

AO1 and AO2. Questions will be based on
the Extended syllabus content (Core and
Supplement).

80 marks

80 marks

This paper will be weighted at 50% of the

final total mark.

This paper will be weighted at 50% of the

final total mark.

All candidates take:

either:
Paper 5

or:
1 hour 30 minutes

Paper 6

1 hour

Practical Test

Alternative to Practical

This paper will test assessment objective AO3.

This paper will test assessment objective AO3.

Questions will be based on the experimental

skills in Section 7.

Questions will be based on the experimental

skills in Section 7.

The paper is structured to assess grade ranges

A*G.

The paper is structured to assess grade ranges

A*G.

30 marks

60 marks

This paper will be weighted at 20% of the final

total mark.

This paper will be weighted at 20% of the final

total mark.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Assessment at a glance

Candidates who have studied the Core syllabus content, or who are expected to achieve a grade D or
below, should be entered for Paper 1, Paper 3 and either Paper 5 or Paper 6. These candidates will be
eligible for grades C to G.
Candidates who have studied the Extended syllabus content (Core and Supplement), and who are expected
to achieve a grade C or above, should be entered for Paper 2, Paper 4 and either Paper 5 or Paper 6. These
candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G.

Availability
This syllabus is examined in the June and November examination series. This syllabus is also available for
examination in March for India only.
This syllabus is available to private candidates.
Detailed timetables are available from www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Combining this with other syllabuses

Candidates can combine this syllabus in an examination series with any other Cambridge syllabus, except:
syllabuses with the same title at the same level
0610 Cambridge IGCSE Biology
0620 Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry
0625 Cambridge IGCSE Physics
0652 Cambridge IGCSE Physical Science
0654 Cambridge IGCSE Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award)
5054 Cambridge O Level Physics
5070 Cambridge O Level Chemistry
5090 Cambridge O Level Biology
5129 Cambridge O Level Combined Science
Please note that Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate and Cambridge
OLevel syllabuses are at the same level.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

5.

Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

5.1 Syllabus aims

The syllabus aims listed below describe the educational purposes of a course based on this syllabus. These
aims are not intended as assessment criteria but outline the educational context in which the syllabus
content should be viewed. These aims are the same for all learners and are not listed in order of priority.
Some of these aims may be delivered by the use of suitable local, international or historical examples and
applications, or through collaborative experimental work.
The aims are:
1. to provide an enjoyable and worthwhile educational experience for all learners, whether or not they go
on to study science beyond this level
2. to enable learners to acquire sufficient knowledge and understanding to:
b
 ecome confident citizens in a technological world and develop an informed interest in scientific
matters
be suitably prepared for studies beyond Cambridge IGCSE
3. to allow learners to recognise that science is evidence-based and understand the usefulness, and the
limitations, of scientific method
4. to develop skills that:
are relevant to the study and practice of science
are useful in everyday life
encourage a systematic approach to problem-solving
encourage efficient and safe practice
encourage effective communication through the language of science
5. to develop attitudes relevant to science such as:
concern for accuracy and precision
objectivity
integrity
enquiry
initiative
inventiveness
6. to enable learners to appreciate that:
science is subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and cultural influences and limitations
t he applications of science may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual, the community
and the environment.

10

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

5.2 Assessment objectives

AO1: Knowledge with understanding
Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
1. scientific phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts and theories
2. scientific vocabulary, terminology and conventions (including symbols, quantities and units)
3. scientific instruments and apparatus, including techniques of operation and aspects of safety
4. scientific and technological applications with their social, economic and environmental implications.
Syllabus content defines the factual material that candidates may be required to recall and explain.
Candidates will also be asked questions which require them to apply this material to unfamiliar contexts and
to apply knowledge from one area of the syllabus to another.
Questions testing this assessment objective will often begin with one of the following words: define, state,
describe, explain (using your knowledge and understanding) or outline (see the Glossary of terms used in
science papers).

AO2: Handling information and problem solving

Candidates should be able, in words or using other written forms of presentation (i.e. symbolic, graphical
and numerical), to:
1. locate, select, organise and present information from a variety of sources
2. translate information from one form to another
3. manipulate numerical and other data
4. use information to identify patterns, report trends and draw inferences
5. present reasoned explanations for phenomena, patterns and relationships
6. make predictions and hypotheses
7. solve problems, including some of a quantitative nature.
Questions testing these skills may be based on information that is unfamiliar to candidates, requiring them
to apply the principles and concepts from the syllabus to a new situation, in a logical, deductive way.
Questions testing these skills will often begin with one of the following words: predict, suggest, calculate or
determine (see the Glossary of terms used in science papers).

AO3: Experimental skills and investigations

Candidates should be able to:
1. demonstrate knowledge of how to safely use techniques, apparatus and materials (including following a
sequence of instructions where appropriate)
2. plan experiments and investigations
3. make and record observations, measurements and estimates
4. interpret and evaluate experimental observations and data
5. evaluate methods and suggest possible improvements.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

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Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

5.3 Relationship between assessment objectives and components

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives are summarised in the table
below.
Assessment objective

Papers
1 and 2

Papers
3 and 4

Papers
5 and 6

Weighting of
AO in overall
qualification

AO1: Knowledge with

understanding

63%

63%

50%

AO2: Handling information

and problem solving

37%

37%

30%

100%

20%

30%

50%

20%

AO3: Experimental skills and

investigations
Weighting of paper in
overall qualification

5.4 Grade descriptions

The scheme of assessment is intended to encourage positive achievement by all candidates.
A Grade A candidate will be able to:
recall and communicate precise knowledge and display comprehensive understanding of scientific
phenomena, facts, laws, definitions, concepts and theories
apply scientific concepts and theories to present reasoned explanations of familiar and unfamiliar
phenomena, to solve complex problems involving several stages, and to make reasoned predictions and
hypotheses
communicate and present complex scientific ideas, observations and data clearly and logically,
independently using scientific terminology and conventions consistently and correctly
independently select, process and synthesise information presented in a variety of ways, and use it to
draw valid conclusions and discuss the scientific, technological, social, economic and environmental
implications
devise strategies to solve problems in complex situations which may involve many variables or complex
manipulation of data or ideas through multiple steps
analyse data to identify any patterns or trends, taking account of limitations in the quality of the data and
justifying the conclusions reached
select, describe, justify and evaluate techniques for a large range of scientific operations and laboratory
procedures.

12

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

A Grade C candidate will be able to:

recall and communicate secure knowledge and understanding of scientific phenomena, facts, laws,
definitions, concepts and theories
apply scientific concepts and theories to present simple explanations of familiar and some unfamiliar
phenomena, to solve straightforward problems involving several stages, and to make detailed
predictions and simple hypotheses
communicate and present scientific ideas, observations and data using a wide range of scientific
terminology and conventions
select and process information from a given source, and use it to draw simple conclusions and state the
scientific, technological, social, economic or environmental implications
solve problems involving more than one step, but with a limited range of variables or using familiar
methods
analyse data to identify a pattern or trend, and select appropriate data to justify a conclusion
select, describe and evaluate techniques for a range of scientific operations and laboratory procedures.
A Grade F candidate will be able to:
recall and communicate limited knowledge and understanding of scientific phenomena, facts, laws,
definitions, concepts and theories
apply a limited range of scientific facts and concepts to give basic explanations of familiar phenomena,
to solve straightforward problems and to make simple predictions
communicate and present simple scientific ideas, observations and data using a limited range of
scientific terminology and conventions
select a single piece of information from a given source, and use it to support a given conclusion
and to make links between scientific information and its scientific, technological, social, economic or
environmental implications
solve problems involving more than one step if structured help is given
analyse data to identify a pattern or trend
select, describe and evaluate techniques for a limited range of scientific operations and laboratory
procedures.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

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Syllabus aims and assessment objectives

5.5 Conventions (e.g. signs, symbols, terminology and

nomenclature)
Syllabuses and question papers will conform with generally accepted international practice.
In particular, attention is drawn to the following documents, published in the UK, which will be used as
guidelines.
(a) Reports produced by the Association for Science Education (ASE):
SI Units, Signs, Symbols and Abbreviations (1981)
Chemical Nomenclature, Symbols and Terminology for use in school science (1985)
Signs, Symbols and Systematics: The ASE Companion to 1619 Science (2000)
(b) Reports produced by the Society of Biology (in association with the ASE):
Biological Nomenclature, Standard terms and expressions used in the teaching of biology,
fourthedition (2009)
Litre/dm3
To avoid any confusion concerning the symbol for litre, dm3 will be used in place of l or litre.
Decimal markers
In accordance with current ASE convention, decimal markers in examination papers will be a single dot on
the line. Candidates are expected to follow this convention in their answers.
Numbers
Numbers from 1000 to 9999 will be printed without commas or spaces. Numbers greater than or equal to
10000 will be printed without commas. A space will be left between each group of three whole numbers,
e.g. 4256789.

14

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus content

6.

Syllabus content

The syllabus content that follows is divided into three sections: Biology (B1B10), Chemistry (C1C12) and
Physics (P1P12). Candidates must study all three sections.
Candidates can either follow the Core syllabus only, or they can follow the Extended syllabus which includes
both the Core and the Supplement. Candidates aiming for grades A* to C should follow the Extended
syllabus.
Note:
1. The syllabus content is designed to provide guidance to teachers as to what will be assessed in the
overall evaluation of the candidate. It is not meant to limit, in any way, the teaching programme of any
particular school or college.
2. The content is set out in topic areas within biology, chemistry and physics. Each topic area is divided
into a number of sections. The left-hand column provides amplification of the Core content, which
all candidates must study. The right-hand column outlines the Supplement content, which should be
studied by candidates following the Extended syllabus.
The syllabus content below is a guide to the areas on which candidates are assessed.
It is important that, throughout this course, teachers should make candidates aware of the relevance of the
concepts studied to everyday life, and to the natural and man-made worlds.
In particular, attention should be drawn to:
the finite nature of the worlds resources, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the
need for recycling and conservation
economic considerations for agriculture and industry, such as the availability and cost of raw materials
and energy
the importance of natural and man-made materials, including chemicals, in both industry and everyday
life.
Specific content has been limited in order to encourage this approach, and to allow flexibility in the design
of teaching programmes. Cambridge provides science schemes of work which teachers may find helpful;
these are available from Teacher Support. Go to http://teachers.cie.org.uk

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

15

Syllabus content

6.1 Biology
Core

Supplement

B1. Characteristics of living organisms

1 List and describe the characteristics of living
organisms.
B2. Cells
2.1 Cell structure and organisation
1 State that living organisms are made of cells.
2 Identify and describe the structure of a plant
cell (palisade cell) and an animal cell (liver
cell), as seen under a light microscope.

3 Relate the structures seen under the light

microscope in the plant cell and in the
animal cell to their functions.

4 Describe the differences in structure

between typical animal and plant cells.
5 Calculate magnification and size of biological
specimens using millimetres as units.
2.2 Movement in and out of cells
1 Define diffusion as the net movement of
molecules from a region of their higher
concentration to a region of their lower
concentration down a concentration gradient,
as a result of their random movement.
2 Describe the importance of diffusion of
gases and solutes and of water as a solvent.
B3. Enzymes
1 Define enzymes as proteins that function as
biological catalysts.
2 Investigate and describe the effect of
changes in temperature and pH on enzyme
activity.

16

3 Explain the effect of changes in

temperature and pH on enzyme activity.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus content

Core

Supplement

B4. Nutrition
4.1 Nutrients
1 List the chemical elements that make up:
carbohydrates
fats
proteins.
2 Describe the structure of large molecules
made from smaller basic units, i.e.
simple sugars to starch and glycogen
amino acids to proteins
fatty acids and glycerol to fats and oils.
3 Describe tests for:
starch (iodine solution)
reducing sugars (Benedicts solution)
protein (biuret test)
fats (ethanol).
4 List the principal sources of, and describe
the importance of:
carbohydrates
fats
proteins
vitamins (C and D only)
mineral salts (calcium and iron only)
fibre (roughage)
water.
5 Describe the deficiency symptoms for:
vitamins (C and D only)

6 Describe the use of microorganisms in the

manufacture of yoghurt.

mineral salts (calcium and iron only).

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

17

Syllabus content

Core

Supplement

4.2 Plant nutrition

1 Define photosynthesis as the fundamental
process by which plants manufacture
carbohydrates from raw materials using
energy from light.

2 Explain that chlorophyll traps light energy

and converts it into chemical energy for
the formation of carbohydrates and their
subsequent storage.

3 State the word equation for the production

of simple sugars and oxygen.

4 State the balanced equation for

photosynthesis in symbols

5 Investigate the necessity for chlorophyll,
light and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis,
using appropriate controls.
7 Describe the intake of carbon dioxide and
water by plants.

6CO2 + 6H2O

light
chlorophyll

C6H12O6 + 6O2

6 Investigate and state the effect of

varying light intensity on the rate of
photosynthesis (e.g. in submerged aquatic
plants).

8 Identify and label the cuticle, cellular and

tissue structure of a dicotyledonous leaf,
as seen in cross-section under the light
microscope.
4.3 Animal nutrition
1 State what is meant by the term balanced
diet and describe a balanced diet related to
age, sex and activity of an individual.

2 Describe the effects of malnutrition in

relation to starvation, coronary heart
disease, constipation and obesity.

3 Identify the main regions of the alimentary

canal and associated organs, including
mouth, salivary glands, oesophagus,
stomach, small intestine: duodenum and
ileum, pancreas, liver, gall bladder, large
intestine: colon and rectum, anus.
4 Describe the functions of the regions of the
alimentary canal listed above, in relation to
ingestion, digestion, absorption, assimilation
and egestion of food.
5 Define digestion as the break down of
large, insoluble food molecules into small,
water-soluble molecules using mechanical
and chemical processes.
6 Identify the types of human teeth and
describe their structure and functions.
7 State the causes of dental decay and
describe the proper care of teeth.
8 State the significance of chemical digestion
in the alimentary canal in producing small,
soluble molecules that can be absorbed.

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9 Define absorption as movement of digested

food molecules through the wall of the
intestine into the blood.
10 Identify the small intestine as the region for
the absorption of digested food.
B5. Transportation
5.1 Transport in plants
1 State the functions of xylem and phloem.
2 Identify the positions of xylem tissues as
seen in transverse sections of unthickened,
herbaceous, dicotyledonous roots, stems
and leaves.
3 Identify root hair cells, as seen under the
light microscope, and state their functions.
5 Investigate, using a suitable stain, the
pathway of water through the above-ground
parts of a plant.

4 Relate the structure and functions of root

hairs to their surface area and to water
and ion uptake.

6 Define transpiration as evaporation of water

at the surfaces of the mesophyll cells
followed by loss of water vapour from plant
leaves, through the stomata.
7 Describe the effects of variation of
temperature, humidity and light intensity on
transpiration rate.

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5.2 Transport in humans

1 Describe the circulatory system as a system
of tubes with a pump and valves to ensure
one-way flow of blood.

2 Describe the double circulation in terms

of a low-pressure circulation to the lungs
and a high-pressure circulation to the body
tissues, and relate these differences to
the different functions of the two circuits.

3 Describe the structure of the heart, including

the muscular wall and septum, atria,
ventricles, valves and associated blood
vessels.

4 Describe coronary heart disease in terms

of the blockage of coronary arteries and
state the possible causes (diet, stress and
smoking) and preventive measures.

5 Describe the function of the heart in terms

of muscular contraction and the working of
the valves.
6 Investigate the effect of physical activity on
pulse rate.

7 Investigate, state and explain the effect of

physical activity on pulse rate.

8 Identify red and white blood cells as

seen under the light microscope on
prepared slides, and in diagrams and
photomicrographs.
9 Describe the structure and functions of
arteries, veins and capillaries.

10 Explain how structure and function are

related in arteries, veins and capillaries.

11 List the components of blood as red blood

cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma.
12 State the functions of blood:
red blood cells haemoglobin and
oxygen transport
white blood cells phagocytosis and
antibody formation
platelets causing clotting (no details)
plasma transport of blood cells, ions,
soluble nutrients, hormones and carbon
dioxide.

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B6. Respiration
6.1 Respiration and energy
1 Define respiration as the chemical reactions
that break down nutrient molecules in living
cells to release energy.
2 State the uses of energy in the body of
humans: muscle contraction, protein
synthesis, cell division, growth, the passage
of nerve impulses and the maintenance of a
constant body temperature.
3 State the word equation for aerobic
respiration.

4 Define aerobic respiration as the release

of a relatively large amount of energy
in cells by the breakdown of food
substances in the presence of oxygen.
5 State the equation for aerobic respiration
using symbols
(C6H12O6 + 6O2 6CO2 + 6H2O).

6.2 Gas exchange

1 Identify on diagrams and name the larynx,
trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli and
associated capillaries.

2 List the features of gas exchange surfaces

in animals.
3 Explain the role of mucus and cilia in
protecting the gas exchange system from
pathogens and particles.
4 Describe the effects of tobacco smoke
and its major toxic components (tar,
nicotine, carbon monoxide, smoke
particles) on the gas exchange system.

5 State the differences in composition

between inspired and expired air.
6 Use limewater as a test for carbon dioxide
to investigate the differences in composition
between inspired and expired air.
7 Investigate and describe the effects of
physical activity on rate and depth of
breathing.

8 Explain the effects of physical activity on

rate and depth of breathing.

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B7. Co-ordination and response

7.1 Hormones
1 Define a hormone as a chemical substance,
produced by a gland, carried by the blood,
which alters the activity of one or more
specific target organs and is then destroyed
by the liver.
2 State the role of the hormone adrenaline
in chemical control of metabolic activity,
including increasing the blood glucose
concentration and pulse rate.
3 Give examples of situations in which
adrenaline secretion increases.
7.2 Tropic responses
1 Define and investigate geotropism (as a
response in which a plant grows towards or
away from gravity) and phototropism (as a
response in which a plant grows towards or
away from the direction from which light is
coming).

2 Explain the chemical control of plant

growth by auxins including geotropism
and phototropism in terms of auxins
regulating differential growth.

B8. Reproduction
8.1 Asexual and sexual reproduction
1 Define asexual reproduction as the process
resulting in the production of genetically
identical offspring from one parent.
2 Define sexual reproduction as the process
involving the fusion of haploid nuclei to
form a diploid zygote and the production of
genetically dissimilar offspring.

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8.2 Sexual reproduction in plants

1 Identify and draw, using a hand lens if
necessary, the sepals, petals, stamens,
anthers, carpels, ovaries and stigmas of one
locally available, named, insect-pollinated,
dicotyledonous flower, and examine the
pollen grains under a light microscope or in
photomicrographs.

2 Use a hand lens to identify and describe

the anthers and stigmas of one locally
available, named, wind-pollinated flower.

3 State the functions of the sepals, petals,

anthers, stigmas and ovaries.
4 Candidates should expect to apply their
understanding of the flowers they have
studied to unfamiliar flowers.
5 Define pollination as the transfer of pollen
grains from the male part of the plant (anther
or stamen) to the female part of the plant
(stigma).
6 Name the agents of pollination.
8 Investigate and state the environmental
conditions that affect germination of seeds:
requirement for water and oxygen, suitable
temperature.

7 Compare the different structural

adaptations of insect-pollinated and
wind-pollinated flowers.

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8.3 Sexual reproduction in humans

1 Identify on diagrams of the male
reproductive system: the testes, scrotum,
sperm ducts, prostate gland, urethra and
penis, and state the functions of these parts.

2 Compare male and female gametes in

terms of size, numbers and mobility.

3 Identify on diagrams of the female

reproductive system: the ovaries, oviducts,
uterus, cervix and vagina, and state the
functions of these parts.
4 Describe the menstrual cycle in terms of
changes in the uterus and ovaries.
5 Describe fertilisation in terms of the joining
of the nuclei of male gamete (sperm) and the
female gamete (egg).
6 Outline early development of the zygote
simply in terms of the formation of a ball of
cells that becomes implanted in the wall of
the uterus.

7 Indicate the functions of the amniotic sac

and amniotic fluid.
8 Describe the function of the placenta and
umbilical cord in relation to exchange of
dissolved nutrients, gases and excretory
products (no structural details are
required).
9 Describe the advantages and
disadvantages of breast-feeding compared
with bottle-feeding using formula milk.

10 Describe the methods of transmission

of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV),
and the ways in which HIV/AIDS can be
prevented from spreading.

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11 Outline how HIV affects the immune

system in a person with HIV/AIDS.

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B9. Energy flow in ecosystems

1 State that the Sun is the principal source of
energy input to biological systems.
2 Define the terms:
food chain as showing the flow of
energy (food) from one organism to
the next, beginning with a producer
(e.g.mahogany tree caterpillar
song bird hawk)
food web as a network of interconnected
food chains showing the energy flow
through part of an ecosystem
producer as an organism that makes
its own organic nutrients, usually
using energy from sunlight, through
photosynthesis
consumer as an organism that gets its
energy by feeding on other organisms
herbivore as an animal that gets its
energy by eating plants

3 Describe energy losses between trophic

levels.
4 Define the terms:
decomposer as an organism that gets
its energy from dead or waste organic
matter
ecosystem as a unit containing all of
the organisms and their environment,
interacting together, in a given area,
e.g. decomposing log or a lake
trophic level as the position of an
organism in a food chain or food web.
5 Explain why food chains usually have
fewer than five trophic levels.

carnivore as an animal that gets its

energy by eating other animals.
6 Describe the carbon cycle.

7 Discuss the effects of the combustion

of fossil fuels and the cutting down of
forests on the oxygen and carbon dioxide
concentrations in the atmosphere.

B10. Human influences on the ecosystem

1 List the undesirable effects of deforestation
(to include extinction, loss of soil, flooding,
carbon dioxide build-up).
2 Describe the undesirable effects of pollution
to include:
water pollution by sewage and chemical
waste
air pollution by greenhouse gases
(carbon dioxide and methane)
contributing to global warming.
6 Describe the need for conservation of:
species and their habitats
natural resources (limited to water and
non-renewable materials including fossil
fuels).

3 Describe the undesirable effects

of overuse of fertilisers (to include
eutrophication of lakes and rivers).
4 Discuss the causes and effects on
the environment of acid rain, and the
measures that might be taken to reduce
its incidence.
5 Explain how increases in greenhouse
gases (carbon dioxide and methane) are
thought to cause global warming.

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C1. The particulate nature of matter

See P4.1 and P4.2 for details of common
content.
1 Demonstrate understanding of the terms
atom and molecule.
C2. Experimental techniques
1 Describe paper chromatography.
2 Interpret simple chromatograms.
3 Describe methods of separation and
purification: filtration, crystallisation,
distillation, fractional distillation.
4 Suggest suitable purification techniques,
given information about the substances
involved.
C3. Atoms, elements and compounds
3.1 Physical and chemical changes
1 Identify physical and chemical changes, and
understand the differences between them.
3.2 Elements, compounds and mixtures
1 Describe the differences between elements,
compounds and mixtures.

2 Demonstrate understanding of the

concepts of element, compound and
mixture.

3.3 Atomic structure and the Periodic Table

1 Describe the structure of an atom in terms of
electrons and a nucleus containing protons
and neutrons.
3 State the relative charges and approximate
relative masses of protons, neutrons and
electrons.

2 Describe the build-up of electrons in

shells and understand the significance
of the noble gas electronic structures
and of valency electrons (the ideas of the
distribution of electrons in sand p orbitals
and in d block elements are not required).

4 Define atomic (proton) number and mass

(nucleon) number.
5 Use proton number and the simple structure
of atoms to explain the basis of the Periodic
Table (see section C9), with special
reference to the elements with proton
numbers 1 to 20. (A copy of the Periodic
Table will be provided in Papers 1 and 3.)

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(A copy of the Periodic Table will be provided

in Papers 2 and 4.)

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3.4 Ions and ionic bonds

1 Describe the formation of ions by electron
loss or gain.
2 Describe the formation of ionic bonds
between elements from Groups I and VII.

3 Explain the formation of ionic bonds

between metallic and non-metallic
elements.

3.5 Molecules and covalent bonds

1 State that non-metallic elements form nonionic compounds using a different type of
bonding called covalent bonding involving
shared pairs of electrons.

2 Draw dot-and-cross diagrams to represent

the sharing of electron pairs to form single
covalent bonds in simple molecules,
exemplified by H2, Cl2, H2O, CH4 and HCl.
3 Draw dot-and-cross diagrams to represent
the multiple bonding in N2, C2H4 and CO2.

C4. Stoichiometry
1 Use the symbols of the elements to write
the formulae of simple compounds.
2 Deduce the formula of a simple compound
from the relative numbers of atoms present.
3 Deduce the formula of a simple compound
from a model or a diagrammatic
representation.

4 Determine the formula of an ionic

compound from the charges on the ions
present.

5 Construct and use word equations.

6 Construct and use symbolic equations

with state symbols.
7 Deduce the balanced equation fora
chemical reaction, given relevant
information.

C5. Electricity and chemistry

1 State that electrolysis is the chemical effect
of electricity on ionic compounds, causing
them to break up into simpler substances,
usually elements.
2 Use the terms electrode, electrolyte, anode
and cathode.

3 Describe electrolysis in terms of the

ions present and the reactions at the
electrodes.

4 Describe the electrode products, using inert

electrodes, in the electrolysis of:

5 Predict the products of the electrolysis of

a specified binary compound in the molten
state.

molten lead(II) bromide

aqueous copper chloride.

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C6. Energy changes in chemical reactions

1 Relate the terms exothermic and
endothermic to the temperature changes
observed during chemical reactions.

2 Demonstrate understanding that

exothermic and endothermic changes
relate to the transformation of chemical
energy to heat (thermal energy), and vice
versa.

C7. Chemical reactions

7.1 Rate of reaction
1 Describe the effect of concentration, particle
size, catalysis and temperature on the rate of
reaction.
2 Describe a practical method for investigating
the rate of a reaction involving gas evolution.

5 Define catalyst as an agent which increases

rate of reaction but which remains
unchanged.

3 Interpret data obtained from experiments

concerned with rate of reaction.
4 Describe and explain the effects of
temperature and concentration in terms of
collisions between reacting particles (the
concept of activation energy will not be
examined).

7.2 Redox
1 Define oxidation and reduction in terms of
oxygen loss/gain, and identify such reactions
from given information.
C8. Acids, bases and salts
8.1 The characteristic properties of acids and bases
1 Describe neutrality and relative acidity and
alkalinity in terms of pH (whole numbers
only) measured using full-range indicator and
litmus.
2 Describe the characteristic reactions of acids
with metals, bases (including alkalis) and
carbonates.
3 Describe and explain the importance of
controlling acidity in the environment (air,
water and soil).

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8.2 Preparation of salts

1 Describe the preparation, separation and
purification of salts using techniques
selected from section C2.1 and the reactions
specified in section C8.1.

2 Suggest a method of making a given

salt from suitable starting material, given
appropriate information.

8.3 Identification of ions and gases

1 Use the following tests to identify:
aqueous cations:
ammonium, copper(II), iron(II), iron(III)
and zinc by means of aqueous sodium
hydroxide and aqueous ammonia as
appropriate (formulae of complex ions
are not required)
anions:
carbonate by means of dilute acid and
then limewater
chloride by means of aqueous silver
nitrate under acidic conditions
nitrate by reduction with aluminium
sulfate by means of aqueous barium ions
under acidic conditions
gases:
ammonia by means of damp red litmus
paper
carbon dioxide by means of limewater
chlorine by means of damp litmus paper
hydrogen by means of a lighted splint
oxygen by means of a glowing splint.
C9. The Periodic Table
1 Describe the way the Periodic Table
classifies elements in order of atomic
(proton) number.

2 Use the Periodic Table to predict

properties of elements by means of
groups and periods.

9.1 Periodic trends

1 Describe the change from metallic to
non-metallic character across a period.

2 Describe the relationship between Group

number, number of outer-shell (valency)
electrons and metallic/non-metallic
character.

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9.2 Group properties

1 Describe lithium, sodium and potassium
in Group I as a collection of relatively soft
metals showing a trend in melting point and
reaction with water.

2 Predict the properties of other elements in

Group I, given data where appropriate.

3 Describe the trends in properties of chlorine,

bromine and iodine in Group VII, including
colour, physical state and reactions with
other halide ions.

4 Predict the properties of other elements in

Group VII, given data where appropriate.

9.3 Transition elements

1 Describe the transition elements as a
collection of metals having high densities,
high melting points and forming coloured
compounds, and which, as elements and
compounds, often act as catalysts.
9.4 Noble gases
1 Describe the noble gases as being
unreactive.

2 State the uses of the noble gases in

providing an inert atmosphere, i.e. argon
in lamps, helium for filling balloons.

C10. Metals
10.1 Properties of metals
1 Distinguish between metals and non-metals
by their general physical and chemical
properties.

2 Identify and interpret diagrams that

represent the structure of an alloy.

3 Explain why metals are often used in the

form of alloys.
10.2 Reactivity series
1 Place in order of reactivity: potassium,
sodium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron,
hydrogen and copper, by reference to the
reactions, if any, of the elements with:
water or steam
dilute hydrochloric acid (except for alkali
metals).

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2 Describe the reactivity series to the

tendency of a metal to form its positive
ion, illustrated by its reaction, if any, with:
the aqueous ions of other listed
metals
the oxides of the other listed metals.
3 Deduce an order of reactivity from a given
set of experimental results.

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10.3 Extraction of metals

1 Describe the use of carbon in the extraction
of copper from copper oxide.

2 Describe the essential reactions in the

extraction of iron in the blast furnace.
3 Relate the method of extraction of a metal
from its ore to its position in the reactivity
series, limited to Group I and II metals,
aluminium, iron and copper.

C11. Air and water

1 State a chemical test for water.
2 Describe and explain, in outline, the
purification of the water supply by filtration
and chlorination.
3 Describe the composition of clean air as
being a mixture of 78% nitrogen, 21%
oxygen and small quantities of noble gases,
water vapour and carbon dioxide.

4 Explain why the proportion of carbon

dioxide in air is increasing, and why this is
important.

5 State the formation of carbon dioxide:

as a product of complete combustion of
carbon-containing substances
as a product of respiration
as a product of the reaction between an
acid and a carbonate
as a product of thermal decomposition.
6 Describe the rusting of iron in terms of a
reaction involving oxygen and water, and
simple methods of rust prevention, including
paint and other coatings to exclude oxygen.

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C12. Organic chemistry

12.1 Fuels
1 Recall coal, natural gas and petroleum as
fossil fuels that produce carbon dioxide on
combustion.
2 Name methane as the main constituent of
natural gas.
3 Describe petroleum as a mixture of
hydrocarbons and its separation into useful
fractions by fractional distillation.
5 State the use of:
refinery gas for bottled gas for heating
and cooking

4 Understand the essential principle of

fractional distillation in terms of differing
boiling points (ranges) of fractions related
to molecular size and intermolecular
attractive forces.

gasoline fraction for fuel (petrol) in cars

diesel oil/gas oil for fuel in diesel engines.
12.2 Hydrocarbons
1 Describe the properties of alkanes
(exemplified by methane) as being generally
unreactive, except in terms of burning.
2 State that the products of complete
combustion of hydrocarbons, exemplified by
methane, are carbon dioxide and water.
3 Name, identify and draw the structures of
methane, ethane, ethene and ethanol.

4 Recognise alkanes and alkenes from

their chemical names or from molecular
structures.
5 Describe the manufacture of alkenes by
cracking.
6 Distinguish between alkanes and alkenes
by the addition reaction of alkenes with
bromine.

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6.3 Physics
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P1. Motion
1 Define speed and calculate average speed
total distance
from:
total time
2 Plot and interpret a speed-time graph and a
distance-time graph.
3 Recognise from the shape of a speed-time
graph when a body is:
at rest
moving with constant speed
moving with changing speed.

7 Demonstrate a qualitative understanding

that acceleration is related to changing
speed.

4 Recognise linear motion for which the

acceleration is constant, and calculate the
acceleration.
5 Recognise motion for which the
acceleration is not constant.
6 Calculate the area under a speed-time
graph to work out the distance travelled for
motion with constant acceleration.

P2. Matter and forces

2.1 Mass and weight
1 Be able to distinguish between the mass
and weight of an object.
2 Know that the Earth is the source of a
gravitational field.

3 Describe, and use the concept of, weight

as the effect of a gravitational field on a
mass.

2.2 Density
1 Describe an experiment to determine the
density of a liquid and of a regularly shaped
solid, and make the necessary calculation
using the equation:
density = mass/volume or d = m/V
2 Describe the determination of the density
of an irregularly shaped solid by the method
of displacement, and make the necessary
calculation.

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2.3 Effects of forces

1 Know that a force is measured in newtons
(N).
2 Describe how forces may change the size,
shape and motion of a body.
3 Plot and interpret extension-load graphs
and describe the associated experimental
procedure.

4 State Hookes Law and recall and use the

expression:
force = constant extension (F= kx).
5 Recognise the significance of the
term limit of proportionality for an
extension/load graph.

P3. Energy, work and power

3.1 Energy
1 Know that energy and work are measured
in joules (J), and power in watts (W).
2 Demonstrate understanding that an object
may have energy due to its motion (kinetic
energy, K.E.) or its position (potential
energy, P.E.), and that energy may be
transferred and stored.
4 Give and identify examples of energy
in different forms, including kinetic,
gravitational, chemical, nuclear, thermal
(heat), electrical, light and sound.
5 Give and identify examples of the
conversion of energy from one form to
another, and of its transfer from one place
to another.

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3 Recall and use the expressions

K.E. =

1
2

mv2 and P.E. = mgh

6 Apply the principle of energy conservation

to simple examples.

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3.2 Energy resources

1 Distinguish between renewable and
nonrenewable sources of energy.
2 Know that the Sun is the source of energy
for all our energy resources except
geothermal and nuclear.
3 Describe how electricity or other useful
forms of energy may be obtained from:
chemical energy stored in fuel
water, including the energy stored in
waves, in tides, and in water behind
hydroelectric dams
geothermal resources
heat and light from the Sun (solar cells
and panels)
wind.
4 Give advantages and disadvantages of each
method in terms of reliability, scale and
environmental impact.
5 Demonstrate a qualitative understanding of
efficiency.

6 Recall and use the equation:

efficiency =

useful energy output

100%
energy input

3.3 Work
1 Relate (without calculation) work done to
the magnitude of a force and the distance
moved.

2 Describe energy changes in terms of work

done.
3 Recall and use W = F d

3.4 Power
1 Relate (without calculation) power to work
done and time taken, using appropriate
examples.

2 Recall and use the equation P = E/t in

simple systems.

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P4. Simple kinetic molecular model of matter

4.1 States of matter
1 State the distinguishing properties of solids,
liquids and gases.
4.2 Molecular model
1 Describe qualitatively the molecular
structure of solids, liquids and gases.

2 Relate the properties of solids, liquids and

gases to the forces and distances between
molecules and to the motion of the
molecules.
3 Interpret the temperature of a gas in terms
of the motion of its molecules.

4.3 Evaporation
1 Describe evaporation in terms of the
escape of more energetic molecules from
the surface of a liquid.
2 Relate evaporation to the consequent
cooling.
P5. Matter and thermal properties
1 Describe qualitatively the thermal
expansion of solids, liquids and gases.
2 Identify and explain some of the everyday
applications and consequences of thermal
expansion.
3 State the meaning of melting point and
boiling point.
P6. Transfer of thermal energy
6.1 Conduction
1 Describe experiments to demonstrate the
properties of good and bad conductors of
heat.

2 Explain heat transfer in solids in terms of

molecular motion.

6.2 Convection
1 Recognise convection as the main method
of heat transfer in liquids and gases.

2 Relate convection in fluids to density

changes.

3 Describe experiments to illustrate

convection in liquids and gases.

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6.3 Radiation
1 Recognise radiation as the method of heat
transfer that does not require a medium to
travel through.
2 Identify infra-red radiation as the part of the
electromagnetic spectrum often involved in
heat transfer by radiation.

3 Describe experiments to show the

properties of good and bad emitters
and good and bad absorbers of infra-red
radiation.

6.4 Consequences of energy transfer

1 Identify and explain some of the everyday
applications and consequences of
conduction, convection and radiation.
P7. Waves
7.1 General wave properties
1 Describe what is meant by wave motion as
illustrated by vibration in ropes and springs
and by experiments using water waves.

2 Distinguish between transverse and

longitudinal waves and give suitable
examples.

3 State the meaning of and use the terms

speed, frequency, wavelength and
amplitude.

4 Recall and use the equation v = f

5 Identify how a wave can be reflected off a
plane barrier and can change direction as its
speed changes.

P8. Light
8.1 Reflection of light
1 Describe the formation and give the
characteristics of an optical image formed
by a plane mirror.

2 Perform simple constructions,

measurements and calculations based on
reflections in plane mirrors.

3 Use the law:

angle of incidence, i = angle of reflection, r.

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8.2 Refraction of light

1 Describe an experimental demonstration of
the refraction of light.
2 Identify and describe internal and total
internal reflection using ray diagrams.
3 Describe, using ray diagrams, the passage
of light through parallel-sided transparent
material, indicating the angle of incidence i
and angle of refraction r.
4 State the meaning of critical angle.

5 Describe the action of opticalfibres,

particularly in medicine and
communications technology.

8.3 Thin converging lens

1 Describe the action of a thin converging
lens on a beam of light, using ray diagrams.
2 Use the terms principal focus and focal
length.
P9. Electromagnetic spectrum
1 Describe the main features of the
electromagnetic spectrum.

2 State that all electromagnetic waves travel

with the same high speed in vacuo.

3 Describe the role of electromagnetic waves

in:
radio and television communications
(radio waves)
satellite television and telephones
(microwaves)
electrical appliances, remote controllers
for televisions and intruder alarms
(infra-red)
medicine and security (X-rays).
4 Demonstrate an awareness of safety
issues regarding the use of microwaves
and X-rays.

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Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Syllabus content

Core

Supplement

P10. Sound
1 Describe the production of sound by
vibrating sources.

2 Describe transmission of sound in air in

terms of compressions and rarefactions.

3 State the approximate human range of

audible frequencies.
4 Demonstrate understanding that a medium
is needed to transmit sound waves.
5 Describe an experiment to determine the
speed of sound in air.

6 State the order of magnitude of the speed

of sound in air, liquids and solids.

7 Relate the loudness and pitch of sound

waves to amplitude and frequency.
8 Describe how the reflection of sound may
produce an echo.
P11. Electricity
11.1 Electrical quantities
1 Demonstrate understanding of current,
potential difference and resistance, and use
with their appropriate units.
2 Use and describe the use of an ammeter
and a voltmeter.
11.2 Electric charge
1 Describe simple experiments to show the
production and detection of electrostatic
charges.
2 State that there are positive and negative
charges.
3 State that unlike charges attract and that
like charges repel.
5 Distinguish between electrical conductors
and insulators and give typical examples.

4 Describe an electric field as a region in

which an electric charge experiences a
force.

11.3 Current and potential difference

1 State that current is related to the flow of
charge.
2 State that the current in metals is due to a
flow of electrons.
3 Use the term potential difference (p.d.) to
describe what drives the current between
two points in a circuit.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

39

Syllabus content

Core

Supplement

11.4 Resistance
1 State that resistance = p.d./current and
understand qualitatively how changes in
p.d. or resistance affect current.
2 Recall and use the equation R = V/I.
4 Describe an experiment to determine
resistance using a voltmeter and an
ammeter.

3 Relate (without calculation) the resistance

of a wire to its length and to its diameter.

11.5 Electrical energy

1 Recall and use the equations
P = IV and E = IVt
11.6 Dangers of electricity
1 Identify electrical hazards including:
damaged insulation
overheating of cables
damp conditions.
2 Demonstrate understanding of the use of
fuses.
P12. Electric circuits
12.1 Circuit diagrams
1 Draw and interpret circuit diagrams
containing sources, switches, resistors
(fixed and variable), lamps, ammeters,
voltmeters and fuses.
12.2 Series and parallel circuits
1 Demonstrate understanding that the
current at every point in a series circuit is
the same.
3 Calculate the combined resistance of two
or more resistors in series.
4 State that, for a parallel circuit, the current
from the source is larger than the current in
each branch.

2 Recall and use the fact that the sum of the

p.d.s across the components in a series
circuit is equal to the total p.d. across the
supply.
5 Recall and use the fact that the current
from the source is the sum of the currents
in the separate branches of a parallel circuit.

6 State that the combined resistance of

two resistors in parallel is less than that of
either resistor by itself.
7 State the advantages of connecting lamps
in parallel in a lighting circuit.

40

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Practical assessment

7.

Practical assessment

Scientific subjects are, by their nature, experimental. It is therefore important that an assessment of a
candidates knowledge and understanding of science should contain a practical component (see assessment
objective AO3).
Schools circumstances (e.g. the availability of resources) differ greatly, so two alternative ways of
examining the practical component are provided. The alternatives are:
Paper 5: Practical Test
Paper 6: Alternative to Practical (written paper).
Whichever practical assessment route is chosen, the following points should be noted:
the same assessment objectives apply
the same practical skills are to be learned and developed
the same sequence of practical activities is appropriate.
Candidates may not use textbooks in the practical component, nor any of their own records of laboratory
work carried out during their course.
Calculators may be used in all parts of the assessment.

7.1 Teaching experimental skills

The best preparation for these papers is for learners to pursue a course in which practical work is fully
integrated so that it is a normal and natural part of the teaching.
Teachers are expected to identify suitable opportunities to embed practical techniques and investigative
work throughout the course, rather than as an isolated aspect of preparation for examination. This approach
will not only provide opportunities for developing experimental skills but will increase the appeal of the
course, and the enjoyment of the subject. Practical work helps learners to acquire a secure understanding
of the syllabus topics and to appreciate how scientific theories are developed and tested. It also promotes
important scientific attitudes such as objectivity, integrity, co-operation, enquiry and inventiveness.

Experimental work
Experimental work is an essential component of all science and should form a key part of teachers delivery
plans for this syllabus.
Experimental work within science education:
gives candidates first-hand experience of phenomena
enables candidates to acquire practical skills
provides candidates with the opportunity to plan and carry out investigations into practical problems.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

41

Practical assessment

Note on taking readings

When approximate volumes are used, e.g. about 2cm3, it is expected that candidates will estimate this and
not use measuring devices.
A measuring instrument should be used to its full precision. Thermometers may be marked in 1C intervals
but it is often appropriate to interpolate between scale divisions and record a temperature to the nearest
0.0C or 0.5C. Measurements using a rule require suitable accuracy of recording, such as 15.0cm rather
than 15cm; the use of millimetres when appropriate should be encouraged. Similarly, when measuring
current, it is often more appropriate to use milliamperes rather than amperes.

Apparatus list
The list below details the apparatus expected to be generally available for both the teaching and the
examination of Paper 5. The list is not exhaustive: in particular, some items that are commonly regarded as
standard equipment in a science laboratory are not included.
The Confidential Instructions, provided to Centres prior to the examination of Paper 5, will give the detailed
requirements for the examination.
rulers capable of measuring to 1mm
metre rule
mounted needles or seekers or long pins with large heads
means of cutting biological materials, such as scalpels, solid edged razor blades or knives
scissors
forceps
means of writing on glassware
beakers, 100cm3, 250cm3
polystyrene or other plastic beakers of approximate capacity 150cm3
test-tubes (Pyrex or hard glass), approximately 125mm 16mm
test-tubes, approximately 125mm 16mm
boiling tubes, approximately 150mm 25mm
delivery tubes
conical flasks, within the range 150cm3 to 250cm3
means of measuring small volumes of liquids, such as syringes (with needles removed)
measuring cylinders, 100cm3, 50cm3, 25cm3, 10cm3
dropping pipettes
white tiles
spotting tiles
water-bath
large containers (e.g. plastic bowl) to hold cold water
hand lens 6 magnification
thermometers, 10C to +110C with 1C graduations
stopclocks (or wall clock or wrist-watch), to measure to an accuracy of 1s
Petri dishes
glass rods
spatulas

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Practical assessment

wooden splints
chemicals (e.g. for food tests, limewater test)
indicators (e.g. litmus paper, Universal Indicator paper, full range Universal Indicator, hydrogencarbonate
indicator)
burettes, 50cm3
pipettes, 25cm3
pipette fillers
filter funnels and filter paper
wash bottle
ammeter FSD1A, 2A
voltmeter FSD1V, 5V
electrical cells (batteries) and holders to enable several cells to be joined
connecting leads and crocodile clips
d.c. power supply, variable to 12V
low-voltage filament lamps in holders
various resistors and resistance wire
switches
good supply of masses and holders
2cm expendable springs
clamps and stands
pendulum bobs
newton meters
Plasticine or modelling clay
wooden boards
converging lens with f = 15cm
glass or Perspex block, rectangular and semi-circular
glass or Perspex prism, triangular
optics pins
plane mirrors
ray box

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

43

Practical assessment

7.2 Description of Components, Paper 5: Practical Test and

Paper 6: Alternative to Practical
These papers are based on testing experimental skills. The questions do not assess specific syllabus
content from Section 6: Syllabus content. Any information required to answer these questions is contained
within the question paper or from the experimental context and skills listed below.
Questions are structured to assess across the grade range A*G.

Experimental skills tested in Paper 5: Practical Test and Paper 6: Alternative

to Practical
Questions may be set requiring candidates to:
carefully follow a sequence of instructions
describe, explain or comment on experimental arrangements and techniques
select the most appropriate apparatus or method for a task and justify the choice made
draw, complete or label diagrams of apparatus
perform simple arithmetical calculations
take readings from an appropriate measuring device or from an image of the device (e.g. thermometer,
rule, protractor, measuring cylinder, ammeter, stopwatch), including:
reading analogue and digital scales with accuracy and appropriate precision
interpolating between scale divisions when appropriate
correcting for zero errors when appropriate
plan to take a sufficient number and range of measurements, repeating where appropriate to obtain an
average value
describe or explain precautions taken in carrying out a procedure to ensure safety or the accuracy of
observations and data, including the control of variables and repetition of measurements
identify key variables and describe how, or explain why, certain variables should be controlled
record observations systematically, for example in a table, using appropriate units and to a consistent
and appropriate degree of precision
process data, using a calculator where necessary
present and analyse data graphically, including the use of best-fit lines where appropriate, interpolation
and extrapolation, and the determination of a gradient, intercept or intersection
interpret and evaluate observations and experimental data
draw an appropriate conclusion, justifying it by reference to the data and using an appropriate
explanation
comment critically on a procedure or point of practical detail, and suggest an appropriate improvement
evaluate the quality of data, identifying and dealing appropriately with any anomalous results
identify possible causes of uncertainty, in data or in a conclusion
make estimates or describe outcomes which demonstrate their familiarity with an experiment,
procedure or technique
plan an experiment or investigation, including making reasoned predictions of expected results and
suggesting suitable apparatus and techniques.

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Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Practical assessment

Biology
Candidates may be asked questions on the following experimental contexts:
the use of familiar, and unfamiliar, techniques to record observations and data, process them and make
deductions from them
recall of simple chemical tests, e.g. for food substances and the use of limewater, hydrogencarbonate
indicator, litmus and Universal Indicator paper
recognise, observe, record and measure images of familiar, and unfamiliar, biological specimens
make a clear line drawing from an image of a specimen, calculating the magnification and adding labels
as required.

Chemistry
Candidates may be asked questions on the following experimental contexts:
simple quantitative experiments involving the measurement of volumes and/or masses
rates (speeds) of reaction
measurement of temperature based on a thermometer with 1C graduations and energetics
problems of an investigatory nature, possibly including suitable organic compounds
filtration
electrolysis
identification of ions and gases
metals and the reactivity series
acids, bases, oxides and the preparation of salts
redox reactions and rusting.

Physics
Candidates may be asked questions on the following experimental contexts:
measurement of physical quantities such as length or volume or force or density
cooling and heating
springs and balances
timing motion or oscillations
electrical circuits, circuit diagrams and electrical symbols
optics equipment such as mirrors, prisms and lenses
procedures using simple apparatus, in situations where the method may not be familiar to the candidate
use or describe the use of common techniques, apparatus and materials, for example ray-tracing
equipment or the connection of electric circuits
explain the manipulation of the apparatus to obtain observations or measurements, e.g.:
when determining a derived quantity, such as the extension per unit load for a spring
when testing/identifying the relationship between two variables, such as between the p.d. across a
wire and its length
when comparing physical quantities, such as two masses, using a balancing method.

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Appendix

8. Appendix
8.1 Symbols, units and definitions of physical quantities
Candidates should be able to state the symbols for the following physical quantities and, where indicated,
state the units in which they are measured. Candidates should be able to define those items indicated by an
asterisk (*). The list for the Extended curriculum includes both the Core and the Supplement.
Core

46

Supplement

Quantity

Symbol

Unit

Quantity

length

l, h

km, m, cm, mm

area

m2, cm2

volume

m3, dm3, cm3

weight

mass

m, M

kg, g

density*

d,

kg / m , g / cm

time

h, min, s

speed*

u, v

km/h, m/s, cm/s

acceleration

acceleration of free
fall

force

F, P

work done

Symbol

Unit

N*

mg
3

ms

acceleration*

m/s2

force*

N*

W, E

work done by a force*

J*

energy

power

temperature

, T

frequency

Hz

frequency*

Hz*

wavelength

m, cm

wavelength*

m, cm

focal length

cm, mm

angle of incidence

degree ()

angle of reflection,
refraction

degree ()

critical angle*

degree ()

potential difference/
voltage*

V, mV

potential difference*

current

A, mA

current*

e.m.f.

e.m.f.*

resistance*

J*, kW h
power*

W*

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

V*

Appendix

8.2 Electrical symbols

Candidates are expected to be able to recall and use the standard electrical symbols listed below.
Core
switch

cell

battery of cells

or

earth or ground

power supply

ammeter

a.c. power supply

voltmeter

junction of conductors

fuse

lamp

variable resistor

fixed resistor

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47

Appendix

8.3 Safety in the laboratory

Responsibility for safety matters rests with Centres. Further information can be found in the following UK
associations, websites, publications and regulations.

Associations
CLEAPSS is an advisory service providing support in practical science and technology, primarily for UK
schools. International schools and post-16 colleges can apply for associate membership, which includes
access to the CLEAPSS publications listed below.
http://www.cleapss.org.uk

Websites
http://www.ncbe.reading.ac.uk/NCBE/SAFETY/menu.html
http://www.microbiologyonline.org.uk/teachers/safety-information

Publications
Safeguards in the School Laboratory, ASE, 11th edition, 2006
Topics in Safety, ASE, 3rd edition, 2001
CLEAPSS Laboratory Handbook, updated 2009 (available to CLEAPSS members only)
CLEAPSS Hazcards, 2007 update of 1995 edition (available to CLEAPSS members only)
Safety in Science Education, DfES, HMSO, 1996
Hazardous Chemicals Manual, SSERC, 1997
Hazardous Chemicals. An interactive manual for science education, SSERC, 2002 (CD)

UK Regulations
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 and subsequent amendment in 2004
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/2677/contents/made
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/3386/contents/made
A brief guide may be found at
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg136.pdf

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Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Appendix

8.4 Notes for use in qualitative analysis

Tests for anions
anion

test

test result

carbonate (CO32)

add dilute acid

effervescence, carbon dioxide

produced

chloride (Cl )
[in solution]

acidify with dilute nitric acid, then add

aqueous silver nitrate

white ppt.

nitrate (NO3)
[in solution]

add aqueous sodium hydroxide, then

aluminium foil; warm carefully

ammonia produced

sulfate (SO42)
[in solution]

acidify with dilute nitric acid, then add

aqueous barium nitrate

white ppt.

Tests for aqueous cations

cation

effect of aqueous sodium hydroxide

effect of aqueous ammonia

ammonium (NH4 )

ammonia produced on warming

copper(II) (Cu2+)

light blue ppt., insoluble in excess

light blue ppt., soluble in excess,

giving a dark blue solution

iron(II) (Fe2+)

green ppt., insoluble in excess

green ppt., insoluble in excess

red-brown ppt., insoluble in excess

red-brown ppt., insoluble in excess

white ppt., soluble in excess, giving a

colourless solution

white ppt., soluble in excess,

giving a colourless solution

3+

iron(III) (Fe )
2+

zinc (Zn )

Tests for gases

gas

test and test result

ammonia (NH3)

turns damp red litmus paper blue

carbon dioxide (CO2)

turns limewater milky

chlorine (Cl 2)

bleaches damp litmus paper

hydrogen (H2)

pops with a lighted splint

oxygen (O2)

relights a glowing splint

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

49

50

45
39

40
38

39
37

Sc

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

72

Th

thorium

232

Ac

140
90

139
89

actinium

Ce

cerium

La

58

rutherfordium

Rf

104

178

hafnium

Hf

lanthanum

57

actinoids

89103

lanthanoids

91

zirconium

Zr

48
40

titanium

Ti

22

Mn

231

protactinium

Pa

91

141

Tc

55
43

Nd

60

seaborgium

Sg

106

184

tungsten

74

96

238

uranium

144
92

neptunium

Np

93

promethium

Pm

61

bohrium

Bh

107

186

rhenium

Re

75

molybdenum technetium

Mo

52
42

manganese

Cr
chromium

25

24

praseodymium neodymium

Pr

59

dubnium

Db

105

181

tantalum

Ta

73

93

niobium

Nb

51
41

vanadium

23

relative atomic mass

plutonium

Pu

150
94

samarium

Sm

62

hassium

Hs

108

190

osmium

Os

76

101

ruthenium

Ru

56
44

iron

Fe

26

27

28

Co

29

30

Ni

Ds

110

195

platinum

Pt

78

106

palladium

Pd

59
46

nickel

Cu

Rg

111

197

gold

Au

79

108

silver

Ag

64
47

copper

Cn

112

201

mercury

Hg

80

112

cadmium

Cd

65
48

zinc

Zn

americium

Am

152
95

europium

Eu

63

curium

Cm

157
96

gadolinium

Gd

64

berkelium

Bk

159
97

terbium

Tb

65

californium

Cf

163
98

dysprosium

Dy

66

meitnerium darmstadtium roentgenium copernicium

Mt

192
109

iridium

Ir

77

103

rhodium

Rh

59
45

cobalt

The volume of one mole of any gas is 24 dm3 at room temperature and pressure (r.t.p.)

actinoids

lanthanoids

Ra

radium

88

87

Fr

137

133

francium

barium

caesium

5771

56

Ba

55

Cs

89

88

85

yttrium

Sr

strontium

Rb

rubidium

scandium

Ca

calcium

24
20

23
19

potassium

21

Mg

magnesium

Na

sodium

9
12

7
11

name

atomic symbol

Be

beryllium

Li

lithium

atomic number

einsteinium

Es

165
99

holmium

Ho

67

204

thallium

Tl

115
81

indium

In

70
49

gallium

Ga

27
31

aluminium

Al

11
13

boron

fermium

Fm

167
100

erbium

Er

68

flerovium

Fl

114

207

lead

Pb

82

119

tin

Sn

73
50

germanium

Ge

28
32

silicon

Si

12
14

carbon

mendelevium

Md

169
101

thulium

Tm

69

209

bismuth

Bi

83

122

antimony

Sb

75
51

arsenic

As

31
33

phosphorus

14
15

nitrogen

nobelium

No

173
102

ytterbium

Yb

70

livermorium

Lv

116

polonium

Po

84

128

tellurium

Te

79
52

selenium

Se

32
34

sulfur

16
16

oxygen

lawrencium

Lr

175
103

lutetium

Lu

71

astatine

At

127
85

iodine

80
53

bromine

Br

35.5
35

chlorine

Cl

19
17

fluorine

VIII

radon

Rn

86

131

xenon

Xe

84
54

krypton

Kr

40
36

argon

Ar

20
18

neon

Ne

4
10

helium

VII

hydrogen

VI
2

He

IV

III
1

Group

II

Key

8.5 The Periodic Table of Elements

Appendix

Appendix

8.6 Mathematical requirements

Calculators may be used in all parts of the assessment.
Candidates should be able to:
add, subtract, multiply and divide
use averages, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios and reciprocals
use standard notation, including both positive and negative indices
understand significant figures and use them appropriately
recognise and use direct and inverse proportion
use positive, whole number indices in algebraic expressions
draw charts and graphs from given data
interpret charts and graphs
determine the gradient and intercept of a graph
select suitable scales and axes for graphs
make approximate evaluations of numerical expressions
recognise and use the relationship between length, surface area and volume and their units on metric
scales
understand the meaning of angle, curve, circle, radius, diameter, circumference, square, rectangle and
diagonal
solve equations of the form x = y + z and x = yz for any one term when the other two are known.

8.7 Presentation of data

The solidus (/) is to be used for separating the quantity and the unit in tables, graphs and charts, e.g. time/s
for time in seconds.
(a) Tables
Each column of a table should be headed with the physical quantity and the appropriate unit,
e.g.time/s.
The column headings of the table can then be directly transferred to the axes of a constructed graph.
(b) Graphs
Unless instructed otherwise, the independent variable should be plotted on the x-axis (horizontal
axis) and the dependent variable plotted on the y-axis (vertical axis).
Each axis should be labelled with the physical quantity and the appropriate unit, e.g. time/s.
The scales for the axes should allow more than half of the graph grid to be used in both directions,
and be based on sensible ratios, e.g. 2cm on the graph grid representing 1, 2 or 5 units of the
variable.
The graph is the whole diagrammatic presentation, including the best-fit line when appropriate. It
may have one or more sets of data plotted on it.
Points on the graph should be clearly marked as crosses (x) or encircled dots ().
Large dots are penalised. Each data point should be plotted to an accuracy of better than one half
of each of the smallest squares on the grid.

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Appendix

A best-fit line (trend line) should be a single, thin, smooth straight-line or curve. The line does not
need to coincide exactly with any of the points; where there is scatter evident in the data, Examiners
would expect a roughly even distribution of points either side of the line over its entire length. Points
that are clearly anomalous should be ignored when drawing the best-fit line.
The gradient of a straight line should be taken using a triangle whose hypotenuse extends over at
least half of the length of the best-fit line, and this triangle should be marked on the graph.
(c) Numerical results
Data should be recorded so as to reflect the precision of the measuring instrument.
The number of significant figures given for calculated quantities should be appropriate to the least
number of significant figures in the raw data used.
(d) Pie charts
These should be drawn with the sectors in rank order, largest first, beginning at noon and
proceeding clockwise. Pie charts should preferably contain no more than six sectors.
(e) Bar charts
These should be drawn when one of the variables is not numerical. They should be made up of
narrow blocks of equal width that do not touch.
(f) Histograms
These are drawn when plotting frequency graphs with continuous data. The blocks should be drawn
in order of increasing or decreasing magnitude and they should touch.

8.8 Glossary of terms used in science papers

It is hoped that the glossary (which is relevant only to science subjects) will prove helpful to candidates as a
guide (i.e. it is neither exhaustive nor definitive). The glossary has been deliberately kept brief, not only with
respect to the number of terms included, but also to the descriptions of their meanings. Candidates should
appreciate that the meaning of a term must depend, in part, on its context.
1. Define (the term(s) ... ) is intended literally, only a formal statement or equivalent paraphrase being
required.
2. 
What do you understand by/What is meant by (the term(s) ... ) normally implies that a definition should
be given, together with some relevant comment on the significance or context of the term(s) concerned,
especially where two or more terms are included in the question. The amount of supplementary
comment intended should be interpreted in the light of the indicated mark value.
3. State implies a concise answer with little or no supporting argument (e.g. a numerical answer that can
readily be obtained by inspection).
4. List requires a number of points, generally each of one word, with no elaboration. Where a given
number of points is specified, this should not be exceeded.
5. Explain may imply reasoning or some reference to theory, depending on the context.
6. Describe requires the candidate to state in words (using diagrams where appropriate) the main points
of the topic. It is often used with reference either to particular phenomena or to particular experiments.
In the former instance, the term usually implies that the answer should include reference to (visual)
observations associated with the phenomena.
In other contexts, describe should be interpreted more generally (i.e. the candidate has greater
discretion about the nature and the organisation of the material to be included in the answer). Describe
and explain may be coupled, as may state and explain.
7. Discuss requires the candidate to give a critical account of the points involved in the topic.
8. Outline implies brevity (i.e. restricting the answer to giving essentials).

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Appendix

9. Predict implies that the candidate is not expected to produce the required answer by recall but by
making a logical connection between other pieces of information. Such information may be wholly given
in the question or may depend on answers extracted in an earlier part of the question.

Predict also implies a concise answer with no supporting statement required.

10. Deduce is used in a similar way to predict except that some supporting statement is required
(e.g. reference to a law, principle, or the necessary reasoning is to be included in the answer).
11. Suggest is used in two main contexts: either to imply that there is no unique answer (e.g. in Chemistry,
two or more substances may satisfy the given conditions describing an unknown), or to imply that
candidates are expected to apply their general knowledge to a novel situation, one that may be formally
not in the syllabus.
12. Find is a general term that may variously be interpreted as calculate, measure, determine, etc.
13. Calculate is used when a numerical answer is required. In general, working should be shown, especially
where two or more steps are involved.
14. Measure implies that the quantity concerned can be directly obtained from a suitable measuring
instrument (e.g. length, using a rule; or mass, using a balance).
15. Determine often implies that the quantity concerned cannot be measured directly but is obtained by
calculation, substituting measured or known values of other quantities into a standard formula
(e.g. resistance or the formula of an ionic compound).
16. Estimate implies a reasoned order of magnitude statement or calculation of the quantity concerned,
making such simplifying assumptions as may be necessary about points of principle and about the
values of quantities not otherwise included in the question.
17. Sketch, when applied to graph work, implies that the shape and/or position of the curve need only be
qualitatively correct, but candidates should be aware that, depending on the context, some quantitative
aspects may be looked for (e.g. passing through the origin or having an intercept).
In diagrams, sketch implies that simple, freehand drawing is acceptable; nevertheless, care should be
taken over proportions and the clear exposition of important details.

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

53

Other information

9.

Other information

Equality and inclusion

Cambridge International Examinations has taken great care in the preparation of this syllabus and
assessment materials to avoid bias of any kind. To comply with the UK Equality Act (2010), Cambridge has
designed this qualification with the aim of avoiding direct and indirect discrimination.
The standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers for candidates with disabilities
or learning difficulties. Arrangements can be put in place for these candidates to enable them to access the
assessments and receive recognition of their attainment. Access arrangements will not be agreed if they
give candidates an unfair advantage over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.
Candidates who are unable to access the assessment of any component may be eligible to receive an
award based on the parts of the assessment they have taken.
Information on access arrangements is found in the Cambridge Handbook which can be downloaded from
the website www.cie.org.uk/examsofficers

Language
This syllabus and the associated assessment materials are available in English only.

Grading and reporting

Cambridge IGCSE results are shown by one of the grades A*, A, B, C, D, E, F or G indicating the standard
achieved, A* being the highest and G the lowest. Ungraded indicates that the candidates performance fell
short of the standard required for grade G. Ungraded will be reported on the statement of results but not
on the certificate. The letters Q (result pending), X (no results) and Y (to be issued) may also appear on the
statement of results but not on the certificate.

Entry codes
To maintain the security of our examinations, we produce question papers for different areas of the world,
known as administrative zones. Where the component entry code has two digits, the first digit is the
component number given in the syllabus. The second digit is the location code, specific to an administrative
zone. Information about entry codes can be found in the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries.

54

Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science 0653. Syllabus for examination in 2017 and 2018.

Cambridge International Examinations

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Cambridge International Examinations February 2015

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