Associate Degree Handbook

© Copyright Caribbean Examinations Council 2005 

CXC ® , CSEC ® and CAPE ® are registered trademarks of the Caribbean Examinations Council. 

For further information, please contact: 

Customer Services/Public Information Officer 

Caribbean Examinations Council 

The Garrison 

St Michael 20 

Barbados 

Tel: +1 246 436-6264 

Fax: +1 246 429-5421 

E-mail: cxcezo@cxc.org 

Website: www.cxc.org

Contents 

Content 

Page 

Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… (ii) 

Foreword ….…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… (iii) 

Section 1: Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1 

Overall Objectives ….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1 

Content ….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 1 

Assessment ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 

Quality Assurance ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 

Credits and Grade Points ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 

Section 2: Associate Degree Requirements …………………………………………………………………………………… 4 

Business Studies …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4 

Computer Science ….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9 

Environmental Science .………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 14 

General Studies ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 

Humanities …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 20 

Mathematics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 25 

Modern Languages .….…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 30 

Natural Sciences …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 34 

Technical Studies ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 39 

Section 3: Summary of Subjects ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Accounting …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 49 

Art and Design ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 49 

Applied Mathematics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Biology …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Caribbean Studies ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 49 

Chemistry ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Communication Studies ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Computer Science ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Economics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Electrical and Electronic Technology ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 50 

Environmental Science ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 50 

Food and Nutrition ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 51 

French and Spanish ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 51 

Geography ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 51 

Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering Drawing ……………………………………………………………………… 51 

History ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 51 

Information Technology ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 51 

Law ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 

Literatures in English …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 

Management of Business ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 

Physics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 52 

Pure Mathematics …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 52 

Sociology ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 52 

Statistical Analysis ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 

Section 4: Assessment for CAPE Units ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 53

Mission Statement 

Our mission is to provide the region with: 

• syllabuses of the highest quality; valid and 

reliable examinations and certificates of 

international repute for students of all 

ages, abilities and interests 

• services to educational institutions in the 

development of syllabuses, examinations, 

and examination administration 

in the most cost-effective way.

FOREWORD 

Foreword 

The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), at its meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in December 

2004, agreed to award Associate Degrees in response to the changing educational demands of the 

region. The Associate Degrees will be based on clusters of subjects taken by candidates for the 

Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). 

This award will enable persons to select for study, subjects that will meet specific requirements for 

work and for further education. 

In taking the decision to award Associate Degrees, the Council recognizes the need for close 

collaboration among institutions in the region to provide articulated programmes of study. This 

articulation is necessary in order to facilitate the transfer of credits and to increase opportunity for 

more persons to obtain tertiary education through collaborative and cost-effective strategies. The 

Council will, therefore, work closely with institutions in the region to identify equivalencies in 

programmes so that persons with CXC Associate Degrees will be at an advantage when entering 

other degree programmes. 

The Council looks forward to collaborating with its partners in the implementation of its Associate 

Degree programme. 

Professor The Honourable Kenneth Hall O.J. 

Chairman, Caribbean Examinations Council 

(iii)

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION 

Introduction 

The Caribbean Examinations Council will award Associate Degrees based on performance at 

Grades I to V in clusters of seven Units of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination. The 

clusters provide coherent programmes of study, typically over two years. The certification in Units 

for the Associate Degree may, however, be acquired over a maximum period of five years. The 

Associate Degree programme will begin in 2005 and it is anticipated that the first awards will be in 

2006. 

In 2005, the Council will examine 44 Units which provide persons with a wide range of options. 

Overall Objectives 

 

 

 

 

To offer a qualification based on successful completion of a coherent programme of postsecondary 

education that allows for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes required 

for the workplace, for continuing tertiary level education, and for effective local, regional and 

global citizenship. 

To provide articulation with other degree and tertiary level programmes. 

To enable persons to obtain Associate Degrees through flexible arrangements. 

To indicate areas of focus for persons continuing education at the post-Caribbean Secondary 

Education Certificate (CSEC) level. 

Content 

Associate Degrees will be awarded in the following areas: 

Business Studies 

Computer Science 

Environmental Science 

General Studies 

Humanities 

Mathematics 

Modern Languages 

Natural Sciences 

Technical Studies 

Details of the clusters for each Associate Degree are given in Section 2 and a brief description of 

each subject is given in Section 3. A detailed syllabus is also available from CXC for each subject. 

Subjects for CAPE are arranged as 1-Unit or 2-Unit courses. In the CAPE scheme, there are four 

1-Unit core courses. Persons seeking to earn an Associate Degree must acquire the relevant 

knowledge, skills and attitudes identified in two of these core courses, namely, Caribbean Studies 

and Communication Studies. 

Most of the other subjects are offered as 2-Unit courses. Within several of the areas listed above, 

persons may opt for breadth of study by taking a combination of single Units from the available 

1-Unit and 2-Unit courses. Alternatively, persons may opt for greater depth by taking both Units 

of several 2-Unit courses. Each Unit consists of three Modules and requires approximately 

150 hours of work; this includes contact time and time spent on projects and other assignments. 

Seven Units, selected in accordance with specifications, must be completed for the award of each 

Associate Degree. Candidates may however opt to take additional (extra) Units if they so desire. 

Each Unit can be certified separately. A single certificate is provided for each examination sitting. 

This arrangement will facilitate persons who wish to accumulate Units to satisfy the Associate 

Degree requirements within a five-year period. A separate Associate Degree certificate is provided 

when persons satisfy the criteria.


Assessment 

The assessment scheme used for measuring, recording and reporting candidates’ performance in 

CXC Associate Degrees has been designed to reflect two main curriculum principles, namely, that 

assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning, and that assessment significantly 

influences the way persons respond to courses and how they plan and conduct their studies. 

The assessment for each Unit effectively spans the three Modules and so encourages persons 

preparing to write the examinations to adopt a consistent approach while studying. The time and 

resources specified for completing the courses facilitate persons’ engagement in activities across 

classrooms, laboratories, libraries and the work place. 

Internal and external assessments are required for each Unit. The internal assessment is designed 

to assist students in acquiring knowledge, skills and attitudes associated with the subject. 

Guidelines are provided in each syllabus for selecting appropriate tasks for internal assessment. 

This form of assessment provides opportunities for persons to individualize parts of the curriculum 

to meet their needs. This could contribute to the building of the self-confidence of persons as they 

proceed with their studies. Internal assessment, therefore, makes a significant and unique 

contribution to the development of relevant skills, and the assessing and rewarding of persons for 

the development of these skills. 

The internal assessment also provides valuable opportunity for reinforcement and application of 

generic skills, for example, skills of communication, analysis, synthesis and problem-solving. 

Examples of internal assessment are short assignments, portfolios, class tests, research, extended 

essays, projects, laboratory activities and the production of other creative pieces of work. For 

most Units, some of the marks awarded in the internal assessment component are for 

communicating information in a logical way using correct grammar. 

The external assessment usually comprises two written papers. Details on the assessment of each 

Unit are given in Section 4. 

Quality Assurance 

The CAPE syllabuses are developed by subject panels comprising curriculum development, 

measurement and content specialists drawn from practising teachers, university lecturers and 

other professionals from across the region. Draft syllabuses prepared by these panels are widely 

circulated for comment from teachers and other resource persons before they are finalized and 

approved by the Council. 

Examinations for each subject are developed by an Examining Committee comprising a Chief 

Examiner and an Assistant Chief Examiner. Each Committee is guided by a CXC Measurement and 

Evaluation Officer. For each subject there is an external moderator who verifies the accuracy of 

content, and the quality and demands of the examination papers. The Examining Committee is 

responsible for quality control during the marking of scripts, and for grading the work of 

candidates in accordance with CXC policy guidelines. An independent Technical Advisory 

Committee oversees the grading processes and advises a Final Awards Committee on the award of 

grades. 

CXC has developed an extensive network of educators and resource persons across the region. 

Through this network, it is able to obtain feedback which informs timely modifications to ensure 

high standards and relevance of syllabuses and validity and reliability of examinations. 

2


Credits and Grade Points 

Credits 

The 150 hours required for the completion of each Unit is equivalent to 10 credits. The cluster 

of seven Units is, therefore, equivalent to 70 credits which are within the requirements of 

60-70 credits for an Associate Degree. This requirement is stipulated in the second edition of the 

‘Procedures and Guidelines for the Regional Mechanism for Accreditation, Equivalency and 

Articulation’ (May 2000) compiled by the Tertiary Level Institutions Unit of the University of the 

West Indies and published by the Association of Caribbean Tertiary Institutions (ACTI). The ACTI 

publication equates six CAPE Units to at least 60 credits in its Revised Qualification Framework. 

Grade Points 

The grades awarded by CXC can be equated to Grade Points as shown in the table below. 

GRADE 

I 

II 

III 

IV 

V 

POINTS 

4.0 

3.5 

3.0 

2.5 

2.0 

3

SECTION 2: ASSOCIATE DEGREE REQUIREMENTS 

Associate Degree Requirements 

Business Studies 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Business Studies.) 

NO. UNIT SUBJECT CODE MAJOR TOPICS 

1 Unit 1 Caribbean Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 

Caribbean Society and Culture 

• Location and Definition of the Caribbean Region 

• Characteristics of Caribbean Society and Culture 

• Impact of Historical Processes 

• Impact of Societal Institutions on Caribbean People 

• Caribbean-Global Interactions 

CRS 2 

Issues in Caribbean Development 

• Concepts and Indicators of Development 

• Factors that Promote or Hinder Development 

• Globalisation and Development 

• The Integration Movement 

• Contributions of Sport 

CRS 3 

Investigating Human and Social Development in the 

Caribbean 

• Nature and Purpose of Research 

• Characteristics of Research Objectives 

• Methods and Instruments of Data Collection 

• Format of Presenting Data 

• Conclusion and Recommendation 

2 Unit 1 Communication 

Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 

Gathering and Processing Information 

• Structural Competence (oral and written) 

• Levels of Comprehension 

• Study and Summary Skills 

• Current Issues: Evaluating Sources 

CS 2 

Language and Community 


• Defining Language 

• Characteristics of Creole Languages 

• Language in Society 

• Technology, Culture and Communication 

CS 3 

Speaking and Writing 


• Process of Communication 

• Forms of Communication 

• Contexts of Communication 

• Types of Speaking and Writing 

• Organizing Skills (oral and written) 

4



3 Unit 1 Management of 

Business 

(Compulsory) 

MB 1.1 

Business and its Environment 

• Types of Business Activity 

• Business and Economic Systems 

• Caribbean Business Environment 

• Impact of Trade Liberalisation and Globalisation 

• Decision Making 

MB 1.2 

The Management of People 

• The Applications of the Functions of Management 

• Characteristics of the Formal Organisational Structure 

• Team Management and Conflict 

• Strategies for Managing Conflict 

• Human Resource Management 

MB 1.3 • Business Finance and Accounting 

• Use of Accounting Information 

• Accounting Procedures and Methods 

• Financial Statements and Analysis 

• Budgetary Accounting 

• Major Accounting Concepts 


Business 

(Compulsory) 

MB 2.1 

Production and Operations Management 

• Major Decisions in Production 

• Factors Involved in Production 

• Strategies for Production Planning 

• The Dimensions of Quality 

• Total Quality Management (TQM) 

MB 2.2 

Fundamentals of Marketing 

• The Concept of Marketing 

• Roles of Marketing in Society 

• Marketing Management 

• Pricing Strategy 

• The Environment of Markets 

At least two Units from Nos. 5 – 8 

MB 2.3 

Small Business Management 

• The Nature and Characteristics of Entrepreneurship 

• Major Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs 

• Skills Required for Small Business Management 

• Micro- and Macro-Environmental Factors which Affect 

Small Businesses 

• Agencies that Assist Small Businesses 

• Types of Assistance Offered to Small Businesses 

5 Unit 1 Accounting 

AC 1.1 

Accounting Theory, Recording and Control Systems 

• The Nature and Scope of Financial Accounting 

• Conceptual Framework of Accounting 

• Recording Financial Information 

• Accounting and Administrative Control Systems 

AC 1.2 

Preparation of Financial Statements 

• Forms of Business Organizations 

• Accounting for Changes in Ownership Structure 

• Income Statement Preparation 

• Balance Sheet Preparation 

AC 1.3 

Financial Reporting and Interpretation 

• Disclosure Requirements 

• Preparation of Cash-flow Statements 

• Ratio Analysis and its Limitations 

• Liquidation and Receivership 

5



6 Unit 2 Accounting 

AC 2.1 

Costing Principles 

• Introduction to Cost and Management Accounting 

• Accounting for Manufacturing Enterprises 

• Elements of Cost 

AC 2.2 

Costing Systems 

• Job Costing 

• Process Costing 

• Activity-Based Costing 

• Service Sector Costing 

• Marginal Costing and Absorption Costing 

AC 2.3 

Planning and Decision Making 

• Budgeting 

• Standard Costing 

• Short-term Decision Making 

• Long-term Decision Making 

7 Unit 1 Economics 

EC 1.1 

Methodology of Economics and Demand and Supply 

Analysis 

• Central Problem of Economics 

• Tools of Economic Analysis 

• Theory of Consumer Demand 

• Theory of Supply 

EC 1.2 

EC 1.3 

Market Structure and Market Failure 

• Market Structure 

• Market Failure 

Distribution Theory and Application of Recent 

Theoretical Developments 

• The Theory of Income Distribution 

• Decision Making with Incomplete Information 

8 Unit 2 Economics 

EC 2.1 

Models of Macroeconomy 

• National Income 

• Basic Keynesian Models: The relationship between 

aggregate demand and income determination 

• Investment 

EC 2.2 

Macroeconomic Policy Analysis 

• Demand and Supply of Money 

• Monetary Policy 

• Fiscal Policy 

EC 2.3 

Growth, Development and International Economic 

Relations 

• Growth and Development 

• International Trade 

• Economic Integration 

• Balance of Payments 

• Exchange Rates 

• Globalisation 

6



No more than one Unit from Nos. 9 – 14 

9 Unit 2 Law 

LW 2.1 

Tort 

• The Law of Tort 

• Areas of Uncertainty, Difficulty or Controversy 

• Specific Torts 

• Alternative Methods of Compensation 

LW 2.2 

Law of Contract 

• The Role and Function of Contract Law 

• Contractual Theories and Concepts 

• Legal Rules Governing Formation of Contracts 

• Mistake and the Role of Mistake 

• Legal Rules Relating to Remedies 

• Defences 

LW 2.3 

Real Property 

• Definition of the term ‘Real Property’ 

• Land Ownership Systems in the Commonwealth 


• Interests in Land 

• Types of Tenure 

• Transfer of Interests 

• Remedies to Affirm Title 

10 Unit 1 Information 

Technology 

IT 1.1 

Information Systems 

• Information Processing 

• Automated Information Processing Systems 

• Telecommunications 

• Appropriateness of Information Technology Systems 

• Impact of Information Technology 

IT 1.2 

Information Processing and Presentation 

• Software 

• Productivity Tools 

• Problem Solving and Research 

IT 1.3 

Information and Communication Skills 

• Information 

• Information Sources 

• Information Technology Tools 

11 Unit 1 Spanish 

SP 1.1 

El individuo, la familia y la vida diaria 

SP 1.2 

La sociedad y los asuntos sociales 

SP 1.3 

El medio ambiente 


SP 2.1 

Las actualidades 

SP 2.2 

La industria, el comercio y los asuntos económicos 

SP 2.3 

La ciencia y la tecnología 

7



13 Unit 1 French 

FR 1.1 

FR 1.2 

L’individu, la famille et la vie journalière 

La société et les affaires sociales 

FR 1.3 

L’environnement 


FR 2.1 

L’actualité 

FR 2.2 

L’industrie, le commerce et l’économie 

FR 2.3 

La science et la technologie 

8



(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Computer Science.) 



(Compulsory) 


Studies 

(Compulsory) 

3 Unit 1 Computer Science 

(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 

CRS 2 

CRS 3 

CS 1 

CS 2 

CS 3 

CSC 1.1 

CSC 1.2 

CSC 1.3 






































Components of Computer Systems 

• Components of a Computer System 

• System Software 

• Networks 

• Appropriateness of a Computer-Based System 

Applications of Computers 

• Computer Applications 

• Role of Computers Within an Organization 

• Communication and Information Needs 

• Data Security 

• Implications of Computer Applications 

Computer-Based Problem Solving 

• Problem Solving 

• Computer-Based Tools 



9




(Compulsory) 

CSC 2.1 

Software and Systems Development 

• Software Development 

• Analysis Phase: Activities, Tools and Techniques, and 

Deliverables 

• Design Phase: Activities, Tools and Techniques, and 

Deliverables 

CSC 2.2 

Programming Languages 

• Algorithms 

• Programming Languages 

• Structured Programming Concepts 

• Object-Oriented Paradigm 

• Procedural Paradigm 


CSC 2.3 

Program Development 

• Event Driven Programming 

• Abstract Data Types (ADTs) 

• Object-Oriented Approach 

• Programming Environment Tool 

• Program Implementation 

5 Unit 1 Pure Mathematics 

MA 1.1 

Basic Algebra and Functions 

• The Real Number System – R 

• The Modules 

• Algebraic Operations 

• Functions 

• Indices and Surds 

MA 1.2 

Plane Geometry 

• Co-ordinate Geometry 

• Trigonometric Functions, Identities and Equations (all 

angles will be assumed to be in radians) 

• Complex Numbers 

• Vectors 

MA 1.3 

Calculus I 

• Limits 

• Differentiation I 

• Integration I 


MA 2.1 

Calculus II 

• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions 

• Differentiation II 

• Integration II 

MA 2.2 

Sequences, Series and Approximations 

• Sequences 

• Series 

• The Binomial Theorem for Positive Integral Index 

• Errors 

• Roots of Equations 

MA 2.3 

Counting, Matrices and Modelling 

• Counting 

• Matrices and Systems of Linear Equations 

• Mathematical Modelling 

10



7 Unit 1 Applied Mathematics 

AM 1.1 

(Compulsory) 

Discrete Mathematics 

• Linear Programming 

• Graph Theory and Critical Path Analysis 

• Logic and Boolean Algebra 

AM 1.2A 

(Optional) 

Probability and Distributions 

• Probability 

• Discrete Random Variables 

• Continuous Random Variables 

AM 1.2B 

(Optional) 

Particle Mechanics 

• Coplanar Forces and Equilibrium 

• Kinematics and Dynamics 

• Projectiles 

• Work, Energy and Power 

AM 1.3A 

(Optional) 

Statistical Inference 

• Sampling Distribution and Confidence Intervals 

• Hypothesis Testing 

AM 1.3B 

(Optional) 

Rigid Bodies, Elasticity, Circular and Harmonic Motion 

• Equilibrium of a Rigid Body 

• Uniform Motion in a Circle 

• Hooke’s Law 

• Simple Harmonic Motion 

8 Unit 1 Statistical Analysis 

SA 1.1 

Collecting and Describing data 

• Sources of Data 

• Data Collection 

• Data Analysis 

SA 1.2 

Managing Uncertainty 

• Probability Theory 

• Random Variables 

• Binomial Distribution 

• Normal Distribution 

SA 1.3 

Analysing and Interpreting data 

• Sampling Distribution 

• Confidence Intervals 


• t-test 

• Chi-square test 


Technology 

IT 1.1 







IT 1.2 


• Software 



IT 1.3 





11




10 Unit 1 Physics 

PY 1.1 

Mechanics 

• SI Units 

• Motion 

• Effects of Forces 

• Conservation of Energy 

PY 1.2 

Oscillation and Waves 

• Properties of Waves 

• Water Waves 

• Electromagnetic Waves 

• Sound Waves 

• Mechanical Waves 

PY 1.3 

Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Matter 

• Design and Use of Thermometers 

• Thermal Properties 

• Heat Transfer 

• The Kinetic Theory of Gases 

• First Law of Thermodynamics 


PY 2.1 

Electromagnetism 

• Electrostatic Phenomena 

• Electrical Quantities 

• Electrical Circuits 

• Electric Fields 

• Capacitors 

PY 2.2 

Electronics 

• The p-n Junction Diode 

• Alternating Currents 

• Transducers 

• Operational Amplifiers 

• Logic Gates 

PY 2.3 

Atomic and Nuclear Physics 

• Particulate Nature of Electromagnetic Radiation 

• Atomic Structure 

• The Mass-Energy Relationship 

• Radioactivity 


Business 

MB 1.1 







MB 1.2 







MB 1.3 

Business Finance and Accounting 






12




Business 

MB 2.1 







MB 2.2 







MB 2.3 









13



(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Environmental Science.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 







CRS 2 







CRS 3 









Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 






CS 2 







CS 3 








14



3 Unit 1 Environmental 

Science 

(Compulsory) 

ES 1.1 

Fundamental Ecological Principles 

• Ecological Terms and Concepts 

• The Structure of Ecosystems 

• Community Ecology 

• Ecosystem Stability and Diversity 

• Population Ecology 

• Human Interactions with Natural Ecosystems 

ES 1.2 

People and the Environment 

• Demographic Characteristics of Human Populations 

• Principal Impacts and Mitigation Measures 

• Temporal and Spatial Trends in Consumption Patterns 

• Factors Affecting Population Growth 

• Management, Conservation and Sustainable 

Development 

ES 1.3 

Sustainable Use of Natural Resources 

• Major Categories of Natural Resources in the Caribbean 

• Factors Affecting Natural Resource Use 

• Environmental Impacts of Natural Resource Use 

• Natural Resource Conservation 

• Measures and Tools for Conservation 

4 Unit 2 Environmental 

Science 

(Compulsory) 

ES 2.1 

ES 2.2 

Sustainable Agriculture 

• Introduction to Agriculture 

• Roles of Agriculture 

• Technological, Economic and Socio-environmental issues 

related to Agricultural Systems 

• Environmentally Sustainable Practices in Agricultural 

Systems 

• Non-traditional Agricultural Systems 

Sustainable Energy Use 

• Forms of Energy 

• Primary Energy Sources 

• Factors Affecting Energy Use and Supply 

• Energy Conservation and Efficiency 

• Impacts of Energy Extraction, Transport and Use 

ES 2.3 

Pollution of the Environment 

• General Sources and Nature of Pollutants 

• General Causes of Pollution 

• Types of Pollution 

• General Mitigation Measures 

• Global Agreements and Conventions 

15



At least two Units from Nos. 5 - 9 

5 Unit 1 Geography 

GY 1.1 

Population and Settlement 

• Population Distribution and Density 

• Population Structure 

• Population and Population Change 

• Migration 

• Location and Functions of Settlements 

• Urbanisation 

GY 1.2 

Hydrological, Fluvial, Coastal and Limestone 

Environments 

• Hydrology 

• Fluvial Processes and Landforms 

• Coastal Processes and Landforms 

• Processes and Landforms in Limestone Regions 

GY 1.3 

Natural Events and Hazards 

• Natural Events and Hazards 

• Flooding 

• Plate Tectonics 

• Plate Movements as Natural Events 

• Volcanoes and Earthquakes as Hazards 

• Response to Hazards 


GY 2.1 

Climate, Vegetation and Soils 

• Atmosphere and Weather Systems 

• Vegetation Types 

• Soil Formation and Soil Conservation 

GY 2.2 

Economic Activity 

• Agriculture 

• Industry 

• Tourism 

7 Unit 1 Biology 

GY 2.3 

BY 1.1 

Development and Disparity in the Caribbean 

• The Concept of Regions in Regional Development 

Planning 

• The Role of History in the Spatial Development Process 

• Models of Development 

• Disparities in Caribbean Development 

• Regional Development Policies 

Cell and Molecular Biology 

• Aspects of Biochemistry 

• Cell Structure 

• Membrane Structure and Function 

• Enzymes 

BY 1.2 

Reproductive Biology 

• Structure and Roles of Nucleic Acids 

• Mitotic and Meiotic Cell Division 

• Reproduction in the Flowering Plant 

• Reproduction in Humans 

BY 1.3 

Genetics, Evolution and Principles of Classification 

• Patterns of Inheritance 

• Variation and Natural Selection 

• Principles of Classification 

• Biodiversity and its Conservation 

16




BY 2.1 

Bioenergetics 

• Cellular Energetics 

• Photosynthesis and Energy Production 

• Respiration and Energy Release 

• Ecological Systems 

• Energy Flow and Nutrient Cycling 

BY 2.2 

Systems Maintenance 

• The Uptake and Transport of Water and Minerals 

• Transport in the Phloem 

• The Circulatory System of Mammals 

• Homeostasis 

• The Kidney, Excretion and Osmoregulation 

BY 2.3 

Applications of Biology 

• Health and Disease 

Social and Preventative Medicine 

Aspects of Genetic Engineering 

9 Unit 1 Chemistry 

CH 1.1 

Fundamentals in Chemistry 

• Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table 

• Forces of Attraction 

• The Mole Concept 

• Redox Reactions 

• Kinetic Theory 

CH 1.2 

The Chemistry of Carbon Compounds 

• Structure and Formulae 

• Reaction Mechanisms 

• Functional Group Analysis 

• Macromolecules 

• Carbon Compounds and Industry 

CH 1.3 

Analytical Methods and Separation Techniques 

• Uncertainty in Measurements 

• Titrimetric (Volumetric) Methods of Analysis 

• Gravimetric Methods of Analysis 

Spectroscopic Methods of Analysis 

Chromatographic Methods of Separation 

No more than one Unit from Nos. 10-13 


MA 1.1 





• Functions 


MA 1.2 






• Vectors 

MA 1.3 

Calculus I 

• Limits 



17




Technology 

IT 1.1 







IT 1.2 


• Software 



IT 1.3 






SA 1.1 

Collecting and Describing Data 




SA 1.2 






SA 1.3 

Analysing and Interpreting Data 




• t-test 



CH 2.1 

Kinetics and Equilibria 

• Rates of Reactions 

• Principles of Chemical Equilibrium 

• Acid Base Equilibria 

• Solubility Product 

• Redox Equilibria 

CH 2.2 

Chemistry of the Elements 

• Period Sodium to Argon 

• Group II Elements 

• Group IV Elements 

• Group VII Elements 

• First Row Transition Elements 

CH 2.3 

Industry and the Environment 

• Industry 

18


General Studies 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in General Studies.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 







CRS 2 







CRS 3 









Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 






CS 2 







CS 3 








Any Other Five CAPE Units 

19


Humanities 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Humanities.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 







CRS 2 







CRS 3 









Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 

CS 2 












At least four Units from Nos. 3 – 10 

CS 3 








3 Unit 1 History 

HY 1.1 

Indigenous Societies 

• Social, Economic and Political Activities 

• Atlantic Connections 

HY 1.2 

Slave Systems: Character and Dismantlement 

• Experiences and Strategies of Survival of Enslaved 

Peoples 

• Disintegration of Slave Systems 

HY 1.3 

Freedom in Action 

• Transformations in Caribbean Societies to 1900 

• Nationalism and Nation Building 

20




HY 2.1 

HY 2.2 

HY 2.3 

Atlantic World: Interactions 

• Atlantic Settlements to 1800 

• Atlantic Revolutions and Independence Movements to 

1800 

Atlantic Development: Identity and Industry 

• Industrial Revolutions and Colonialism 

• American Nationhood and Development 

International Relations: Conflict and Liberation 

• Global Conflict and Totalitarianism 

• Decolonisation and Liberation 

5 Unit 1 Literatures in 

English 

LE 1.1 

Drama 

• Shakespearean Drama 

• Non-Shakespearean Drama 

LE 1.2 

Poetry 

• One work of Poetry 

LE 1.3 

Prose Fiction 

• One work of Prose Fiction 


English 

LE 2.1 

LE 2.2 

Drama 



Poetry 


LE 2.3 

Prose Fiction 


7 Unit 1 Sociology 

SY 1.1 

Sociology, Culture and Identity 

• The Sociological Perspective 

• Culture and Identity 

SY 1.2 

Social Institutions: Family, Religion, Education 

• Family 

• Religion 

• Education 

SY 1.3 

Social Stratification and Social Mobility 

• Concepts of Stratification in a Comparative Perspective 

• Theoretical Perspectives 

• Education, Equality and Social Mobility 

• Changing Patterns of Caribbean Stratification 

• Education and Gender 

21




SY 2.1 

Population Studies 

• Concepts and Quantitative Measures Used in Population 

Studies 

• Population Statistics from Developed and Developing 

Countries 

• Population Theories 

• Population Growth Rates in Selected Countries 

• Population Control Policies 

• Population and Development in the Caribbean 

SY 2.2 

Social Order, Social Control and Deviance 

• Concepts 

• Theoretical Perspectives on Deviance 

• Institutions of Social control 

• Social Distribution of Crime 

• Issues of Deviance 

SY 2.3 

Social Development and Poverty 

• Social Development 

• Theories of Development and Under-development 

• Issues in Caribbean Development 

• Poverty 

• Theoretical Perspectives on the Causes and Persistence 

of Poverty 

• Categories of the Poor 

• Contribution of Sociology to the Analysis of Poverty 

9 Unit 1 Law 

LW 1.1 

Caribbean Legal Systems 

• Concepts of the Phrase ‘Sources of Law’ 

• Classification of Law 

• The Legal Profession: training, discipline and role of 

lawyers 

• Legal Aid 

• The Ombudsman 

• Law Reform and Law Revision 

LW 1.2 

Principles of Public Law 

• One Commonwealth Caribbean Constitution – its 

characteristics (viewed historically), independence, 

entrenchment, fundamental rights protection 

• The Ultra Vires Doctrine 

• Judicial Review 

• Locus Standi 

LW 1.3 

Criminal Law 

• Criminal Liability 

• Offences against the Person 

• Sexual Offences 

• Offences against Property 

• Inchoate Offences 

• Defences 

• Sentencing 

22



10 Unit 2 Law 

LW 2.1 

LW 2.2 

LW 2.3 

Tort 

• The Law of Tort 

• Areas of Uncertainty, Difficulty or Controversy 

• Specific Torts 

• Alternative Methods of Compensation 

Law of Contract 

• The Role and Function of Contract Law 

• Contractual Theories and Concepts 

• Legal Rules Governing Formation of Contracts 

• Mistake and the Role of Mistake 

• Legal Rules Relating to Remedies 

• Defences 

Real Property 

• Definition of the Term ‘Real Property’ 

• Land Ownership Systems in the Commonwealth 


• Interests in Land 

• Types of Tenure 

• Transfer of Interests 

• Remedies to Affirm Title 




GY 1.1 

GY 1.2 

GY 1.3 

GY 2.1 

GY 2.2 

GY 2.3 

Population and Settlement 

• Population Distribution and Density 

• Population Structure 

• Population and Population Change 

• Migration 

• Location and Functions of Settlements 

• Urbanisation 

Hydrological, Fluvial, Coastal and Limestone 

Environments 

• Hydrology 

• Fluvial Processes and Landforms 

• Coastal Processes and Landforms 

• Processes and Landforms in Limestone Regions 

Natural Events and Hazards 

• Natural Events and Hazards 

• Flooding 

• Plate Tectonics 

• Plate Movements as Natural Events 

• Volcanoes and Earthquakes as Hazards 

• Response to Hazards 

Climate, Vegetation and Soils 

• Atmosphere and Weather Systems 

• Vegetation Types 

• Soil Formation and Soil Conservation 

Economic Activity 

• Agriculture 

• Industry 

• Tourism 

Development and Disparity in the Caribbean 

• The Concept of Regions in Regional Development 

Planning 

• The Role of History in the Spatial Development Process 

• Models of Development 

• Disparities in Caribbean Development 

• Regional Development Policies 

23



13 Unit 1 Art and Design 

AD 1.1 

Cultural Studies 

• Art History with Specific Reference to the Caribbean 

• Caribbean Heritage 

• Critical Studies - comprising methodologies of art, 

criticism, aesthetic theories and contemporary aesthetic 

issues 

AD 1.2 

Two-Dimensional Art and Design 

• Media, Materials and Methods 

• Elements and Principles 

• Exploration of Materials. Media and Techniques 

• The Artistic and Historical Origins of Media and 

Techniques 

AD 1.3 

Three-Dimensional Art and Design 



• Exploration of Materials, Media and Techniques 


Techniques 


AD 2.1 

Design 


• Fundamental Elements and Principles of Design 

• Exploration of Appropriate Techniques 

• Artistic and Historical Use of Media and Techniques 

AD 2.2 

Applied Arts 

• Ceramics 

• Printmaking 

• Textiles 

AD 2.3 

Creative Projects 



• Exploration of Techniques 

• Artistic and Historical Origins of Creative Media Projects 

and Perspectives 


FR 1.1 


FR 1.2 


FR 1.3 



SP 1.1 


SP 1.2 


SP 1.3 


24


Mathematics 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Mathematics.) 



(Compulsory) 


Studies 

(Compulsory) 


(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 

CRS 2 

CRS 3 

CS 1 

CS 2 

CS 3 

MA 1.1 

MA 1.2 

MA 1.3 










































• Functions 







• Vectors 

Calculus I 

• Limits 



25




(Compulsory) 

MA 2.1 

Calculus II 




MA 2.2 


• Sequences 

• Series 


• Errors 


MA 2.3 


• Counting 




(Compulsory) 

AM 1.1 

(Compulsory) 





AM 1.2A 

(Optional) 





AM 1.2B 

(Optional) 






AM 1.3A 

(Optional) 

AM 1.3B 

(Optional) 










(Compulsory) 

SA 1.1 

SA 1.2 










SA 1.3 





• t-test 


26



No more than one Unit from Nos. 7 - 13 


PY 1.1 

Mechanics 

• SI Units 

• Motion 



PY 1.2 







PY 1.3 








PY 2.1 







PY 2.2 

Electronics 






PY 2.3 







CSC 1.1 




• Networks 


CSC 1.2 







CSC 1.3 






27




CSC 2.1 




Deliverables 


Deliverables 

CSC 2.2 







CSC 2.3 








Technology 

IT 1.1 







IT 1.2 


• Software 



IT 1.3 






CH 1.1 







CH 1.2 







CH 1.3 





• Spectroscopic Methods of Analysis 

• Chromatographic Methods of Separation 

28




CH 2.1 







CH 2.2 







CH 2.3 


• Industry 

29


Modern Languages 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Modern Languages.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 







CRS 2 

CRS 3 















Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 






CS 2 







CS 3 









(Compulsory) 

SP 1.1 

SP 1.2 



SP 1.3 


30




(Compulsory) 

SP 2.1 

SP 2.2 

Las actualidades 

La industria, el comercio y los asuntos económicos 

SP 2.3 

La ciencia y la tecnología 


(Compulsory) 

FR 1.1 

FR 1.2 




(Compulsory) 

FR 1.3 

FR 2.1 

FR 2.2 


L’actualité 

L’industrie, le commerce et l’économie 

FR 2.3 

La science et la technologie 



English 


English 

LE 1.1 

LE 1.2 

LE 1.3 

LE 2.1 

Drama 



Poetry 

One work of Poetry 

Prose Fiction 


Drama 



LE 2.2 

Poetry 


LE 2.3 

Prose Fiction 



SY 1.1 

Sociology, Culture and Identity 

• The Sociological Perspective 

• Culture and Identity 

SY 1.2 

Social Institutions: Family, Religion, Education 

• Family 

• Religion 

• Education 

SY 1.3 

Social Stratification and Social Mobility 

• Concepts of Stratification in a Comparative Perspective 

• Theoretical Perspectives 

• Education, Equality and Social Mobility 

• Changing Patterns of Caribbean Stratification 

• Education and Gender 

31




Business 

MB 1.1 







MB 1.2 







MB 1.3 








Business 

MB 2.1 







MB 2.2 







MB 2.3 










HY 1.1 

HY 1.2 

Indigenous Societies 

• Social, Economic and Political Activities 

• Atlantic Connections 

Slave Systems: Character and Dismantlement 

• Experiences and Strategies of Survival of Enslaved 

Peoples 

• Disintegration of Slave Systems 

HY 1.3 

Freedom in Action 

• Transformations in Caribbean Societies to 1900 

• Nationalism and Nation Building 

32




HY 2.1 

Atlantic World: Interactions 

• Atlantic Settlements to 1800 

• Atlantic Revolutions and Independence Movements to 

1800 

HY 2.2 

HY 2.3 

Atlantic Development: Identity and Industry 

• Industrial Revolutions and Colonialism 

• American Nationhood and Development 

International Relations: Conflict and Liberation 

• Global Conflict and Totalitarianism 

• Decolonisation and Liberation 

33


Natural Sciences 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Natural Sciences.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 

CRS 2 













CRS 3 









Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 






CS 2 







CS 3 








34



At least four Units from Nos. 3 – 8 


PY 1.1 

Mechanics 

• SI Units 

• Motion 



PY 1.2 







PY 1.3 








PY 2.1 







PY 2.2 

Electronics 






PY 2.3 







CH 1.1 







CH 1.2 







CH 1.3 







35




CH 2.1 







CH 2.2 








CH 2.3 

BY 1.1 


• Industry 





• Enzymes 

BY 1.2 






BY 1.3 







BY 2.1 

Bioenergetics 






BY 2.2 







BY 2.3 



• Social and Preventative Medicine 

• Aspects of Genetic Engineering 

• Bioenergetics 

36



No more than one Unit from Nos. 9 - 12 


MA 1.1 





• Functions 


MA 1.2 






• Vectors 

MA 1.3 

Calculus I 

• Limits 




MA 2.1 

MA 2.2 

MA 2.3 

Calculus II 





• Sequences 

• Series 


• Errors 



• Counting 




CSC 1.1 




• Networks 


CSC 1.2 







CSC 1.3 






37




CSC 2.1 




Deliverables 


Deliverables 

CSC 2.2 







CSC 2.3 







38


Technical Studies 

(Seven Units must be completed for the award of the Associate Degree in Technical Studies.) 



(Compulsory) 

CRS 1 

CRS 2 













CRS 3 









Studies 

(Compulsory) 

CS 1 






CS 2 







CS 3 








39




3 Unit 1 Geometrical and 

Mechanical 

Engineering Drawing 

GME 1.1 


• Conic Sections and Loci 

• Centroids 

• Cams 

• Computer-Aided Drawing 

GME 1.2 

Solid Geometry 

• Pictorial Projections 

• Orthographic Projections 

• Intersection of Solids 

• Surface Development 


GME 1.3 


• Assembly Drawing 

• Working Drawings 

• Detailed Drawing 

• Free-Hand Sketching 

• Design 

4 Unit 2 Geometrical and 

Mechanical 


GME 2.1 

Mechanics of Machines 

• System of Forces by Graphical Methods 

• Gears 


GME 2.2 

Engineering Materials and Processes 

• Manufacturing Processes 

• Materials 

• Bearings and Seals 

• Lubrication 


GME 2.3 

Engineering Design Elements 

• Transmission of Motion and Power 

• Design Details 

• Design Principles 

• Design Process 


5 Unit 1 Electrical and 

Electronic 

Technology 

EEC 1.1 

DC Circuit Theory 

• DC Theory 

• Electrostatics 

• Inductance 

EEC 1.2 

Analogue Electronics and Communications 

• Semi-conductor Diodes 

• Bipolar Junction Transistor 


• Electromagnetic (EM) Waves 

• Modulation 

EEC 1.3 

Introduction to Power Systems 

• Electromagnetism 

• DC Rotating Equipment 

• Introduction to Power Supply Protection 

• Introduction to SCADA Systems 

40



6 Unit 2 Electrical and 

Electronic 

Technology 

EEC 2.1 

EEC 2.2 

AC Circuit Theory 

• AC Theory 

• Impedance and Reactance 

• Filters 

Digital Electronics and Data Communications 

• Electronic Switches 

• Combinational Logic 

• Sequential Logic 

• Memory Circuits and Converters 

• Data Communications 

EEC 2.3 

Introduction to AC Machines 

• Transformers 

• Synchronous Rotating Generators 

• Induction Motor 


AD 1.1 

Cultural Studies 

• Art History with Specific Reference to the Caribbean 

• Caribbean Heritage 

• Critical Studies - comprising methodologies of art, 

criticism, aesthetic theories and contemporary aesthetic 

issues 

AD 1.2 

Two-Dimensional Art and Design 



• Exploration of Materials. Media and Techniques 


Techniques 

AD 1.3 

Three-Dimensional Art and Design 



• Exploration of Materials, Media and Techniques 


Techniques 


AD 2.1 

Design 



• Exploration of Appropriate Techniques 

• Artistic and Historical Use of Media and Techniques 

AD 2.2 

Applied Arts 

• Ceramics 

• Printmaking 

• Textiles 

AD 2.3 

Creative Projects 



• Exploration of Techniques 

• Artistic and Historical Origins of Creative Media Projects 

and Perspectives 

41



9 Unit 1 Food and Nutrition 

FN 1.1 

Principles of Nutrition and Health 

• Eating Behaviour 

• Dietary Guides and Nutrition Standards 

• Food and Nutrient Requirements 

• Nutritional Status of Children 

• Nutrition-Related Disorders 

FN 1.2 

Food Selection and Meal Planning 

• Meal Plans and Meal Patterns 

• Food Guide Systems Available for Meal Planning 

• Chemically and Genetically Engineered Foods 

• Meal Planning 

• Storage and Handling of Food 

FN 1.3 

Food Preparation and Service: Principles and Methods 

• Kitchen Planning 

• Scientific Principles Underlying Food Preparation 

• Methods 

• Food Preparation 

• Basic Food Service 

• Recipe Modification and Conversion 

10 Unit 2 Food and Nutrition 

FN 2.1 

Caribbean Food ways and Food systems 

• Factors Influencing Food Choices and Practices 

• Indigenous Caribbean Foods and Dishes 

• Food Systems in the Caribbean 

• Food Hygiene Sanitation 

• Factors to be Considered before, during and after 

Disasters 

FN 2.2 

Food Science and Technology 

• Constituents of Food 

• Food Additives 

• Food Processing and Preservation 

• Food and Nutrition Labelling 

• Food Merchandising 

FN 2.3 

Food Preparation and Service: Large Quantity and 

Commercial 

• Meal Planning 

• Menu Planning 

• Costing: Budgeting and Control 

• Portion Control in Preparation and Serving Food in Large 

Quantity 

• Safety and sanitation in Quantity Food Preparation and 

Service 

• Preparing, Cooking and Serving Various Dishes and 

Meals 

42



No more than three Units from Nos. 11 – 26 


Technology 

IT 1.1 







IT 1.2 


• Software 



IT 1.3 






CSC 1.1 




• Networks 


CSC 1.2 







CSC 1.3 







CSC 2.1 




Deliverables 


Deliverables 

CSC 2.2 







CSC 2.3 







43




PY 1.1 

Mechanics 

• SI Units 

• Motion 



PY 1.2 







PY 1.3 








PY 2.1 







PY 2.2 

Electronics 






PY 2.3 







BY 1.1 





• Enzymes 

BY 1.2 






BY 1.3 






44




PY 2.1 

Bioenergetics 






BY 2.2 







BY 2.3 



• Social and Preventative Medicine 

• Aspects of Genetic Engineering 

• Bioenergetics 


CH 1.1 







CH 1.2 







CH 1.3 








CH 2.1 







CH 2.2 







CH 2.3 


• Industry 

45




MA 1.1 





• Functions 


MA 1.2 






• Vectors 

MA 1.3 

Calculus I 

• Limits 




MA 2.1 

Calculus II 




MA 2.2 


• Sequences 

• Series 


• Errors 


MA 2.3 


• Counting 




AM 1.1 

(Compulsory) 





AM 1.2A 

(Optional) 





AM 1.2B 

(Optional) 






AM 1.3A 

(Optional) 




AM 1.3B 

(Optional) 






46




SA 1.1 





SA 1.2 






SA 1.3 





• t-test 



Business 

MB 1.1 







MB 1.2 







MB 1.3 








Business 

MB 2.1 







MB 2.2 







MB 2.3 









47



26 

Unit 1 

French 

FR 1.1 


FR 1.2 


FR 1.3 


OR 

Unit 1 

Spanish 

SP 1.1 


SP 1.2 


SP 1.3 


48

SECTION 3: SUMMARY OF SUBJECTS 

Summary of Subjects 

Accounting 

This syllabus provides a foundation for further study of Accounting at pre-professional and 

professional levels. It provides opportunities for individuals to acquire relevant competencies, 

attitudes and values for the work environment and to develop an awareness of the social and 

ethical responsibilities of accountants and users of financial information regionally and 

internationally. 

Art and Design 

This syllabus is based on innovative and traditional perspectives that bring together the diversity 

of cultural practices in the Caribbean. It seeks to develop artistic knowledge, critical thinking and 

problem-solving skills and explore creative practices in a variety of media. It also seeks to prepare 

Caribbean persons to participate in their community as art and design practitioners as well as 

productive and innovative citizens. The syllabus aims to develop knowledge and critical 

understanding of the art and design trends of different historical eras, traditions and cultures and 

an appreciation for the cultural diversity and creative arts of the Caribbean region. 

Applied Mathematics 

This syllabus explores problems using symbolic, graphical, numerical, physical and verbal 

techniques in the context of finite or discrete real-world situations. The syllabus utilises 

mathematical thinking and modelling to examine and solve problems arising in a wide variety of 

disciplines including, but not limited to, economics, medicine, agriculture, marine science, law, 

transportation, engineering, banking, natural sciences, social sciences and computing. This 

syllabus makes provision for a diversity of specialised interests through three carefully articulated 

options that may be pursued. Each option has a central core of discrete mathematical concepts 

which establish the importance of reasoning, counting, modelling and algorithmic thinking. The 

syllabus aims to develop an awareness of the application of mathematics to the resolution of 

real-world issues. 

Biology 

This syllabus provides an understanding and appreciation of the concepts of life at all levels and 

hence leads to a greater respect and reverence for life. The interconnected web of life and the 

unique role of the human species are integral to the dynamic value of the biosphere. This syllabus 

provides knowledge and skills about how to protect, sustain, conserve and improve the variety of 

life in the ecosphere. It also provides a foundation for persons wishing to pursue careers in 

biological, environmental, agricultural, medical, paramedical and applied science. 

Caribbean Studies 

This syllabus defines the Caribbean region in terms of its geography, common historical 

experiences, participation in the global community, intermixing of diverse ethnic and racial groups, 

and its continuing struggle for survival and sovereignty. This interdisciplinary subject provides 

persons with the opportunity to study issues relevant to the distinctive physical, political and socioeconomic 

challenges facing the small states which comprise the region. Persons who successfully 

complete this course will have developed an appreciation of the challenges and potential of being 

Caribbean citizens. They will understand their roles and responsibilities in preserving and 

contributing to their Caribbean heritage and appreciate the importance of regional co-operation for 

the development of the Caribbean. 

50


Chemistry 

This syllabus provides the specific knowledge base and the skills and attitudes associated with 

advanced study of the subject. It is structured to ensure that persons become aware of their 

moral, social and ethical responsibilities, as well as the benefits to be derived from the practical 

application of scientific knowledge. Completion of the course of study outlined in this syllabus will 

enable persons to apply chemical principles to societal concerns such as birth control, 

communicable diseases, environmental pollution and the depletion of natural resources. 

Communication Studies 

This syllabus focuses specifically on the development of advanced competencies in standard 

English and, at the same time, attempts to develop an appreciation of the linguistic diversity of the 

Caribbean and the implications of this diversity for social, cultural and economic transactions. It 

emphasises the wider framework of communication principles, systems and processes within which 

language use has context, achieves coherence, and is enhanced. The role of technology in the 

enhancement or retardation of communication is also an important consideration in this syllabus. 


This syllabus provides persons with advanced knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable them to 

understand the uses and the impact of computer technologies, and to use the technology to create 

new computer applications. This syllabus also provides opportunity for the acquisition of 

knowledge, skills and attitudes as preparation for further studies in Computer Science and the 

world of work. The syllabus aims to develop an understanding of the components of a computerbased 

system, comprising hardware, software, communication and end-user. It aims to develop 

problem-solving skills using the computer-related technologies as tools. Further, the syllabus aims 

to develop competence in using essential tools and techniques in systems development. 

Economics 

This syllabus develops the understanding of how society provides for itself by making the most 

efficient use of scarce resources so that both individual and social welfare are improved. The 

subject covers the study of households, firms, governments and international financial institutions, 

and advances logical, critical and impartial thinking on a range of important economic issues. The 

knowledge gained from a course in Economics will be of life-long value and will also serve as 

preparation for further study or for careers in accounting, economics, finance or law. The syllabus 

will also help those who wish to engage in activities that promote and contribute to the economic 

and social development of the Caribbean. 

Electrical and Electronic Technology 

This syllabus provides the essential knowledge necessary for a career in the field of Electrical and 

Electronic Technology. It aims to develop analytical, practical and experimental skills in the use of 

electrical and electronic technology in industry and articulates with programmes provided by 

institutions of higher learning such as universities, community colleges, technical institutes and 

teachers’ colleges. The syllabus also helps to develop an appreciation of the pivotal role of 

electricity in the socio-economic development of the Caribbean. 


This syllabus provides opportunities for persons to acquire knowledge and skills that will enable 

them to identify, prevent and solve environmental problems. This syllabus prepares persons for 

careers in diverse fields related to environmental management for the sustainable development of 

the Caribbean region. The aims of the syllabus include development of an understanding of the 

interdisciplinary and holistic nature of the environment and the interactions between people and 

the environment. 

51


Food and Nutrition 

The syllabus prepares persons for employment in the rapidly growing hospitality service industry. 

In addition, it seeks to provide opportunity for access to further studies in existing tertiary level 

education programmes. The syllabus exposes persons to the main principles of food science, 

including those related to safety practices and standards currently used in large-scale food 

preparation and service. 

French and Spanish 

These syllabuses give persons a deeper understanding of themselves as members of a wider 

Caribbean community which is multi-lingual and multi-cultural, and of their place in a global 

setting. The syllabuses emphasise the development of the four language skills of listening, 

responding, reading and writing, and the acquisition of knowledge of Francophone and Hispanic 

cultures through the study of selected topics and contemporary writings of relevance to Caribbean 

society. While the topics have been selected to provide knowledge and understanding of issues 

pertinent to Caribbean people in a global context, the emphasis is on language competence rather 

than on content knowledge. The objectives and approaches that guide the teaching and define the 

assessment have been designed to equip persons to meet the needs and evolving circumstances of 

Caribbean society and to function appropriately in the wider world. 

Geography 

This syllabus provides for development of geographical understanding and the ability to appreciate 

how physical and human forces interact to give identity to places and to create recognisable spatial 

patterns. It facilitates understanding of the causal relationships at different geographic scales – 

local, regional and global. In addition, it contributes to an understanding of the central issues 

emerging from human exploitation of natural resources. It seeks to prepare persons for the 

increasing number of work situations in which integrative and graphical skills are important. 

Moreover, the syllabus focuses on the development of an awareness and understanding of the 

inter-relatedness of people and the environment, the need for the sustainable use of 

environmental resources and the consequences of misuse. 

Geometrical and Mechanical Engineering Drawing 

This syllabus focuses on both theory and practice. The syllabus also aims to stimulate interest in 

drafting and engineering as career options. A person who completes this syllabus would be 

competent in the use of the latest developments in drawing technology, including Computer-Aided 

Drafting (CAD), and in the application of the British Standards (BS 8888), ISO Standards, 

Caribbean Uniform Building Codes (CUBIC) and local codes. 

History 

This syllabus enhances the interests, capabilities, skills and attitudes of persons to enable them to 

develop as autonomous human beings capable of acting as rational and ethical individuals, and as 

responsible members of their community. The selection, structure and content of themes and 

modules have been informed by a desire to promote an understanding of the historical as well as 

the contemporary relationships among the nations and societies on the Atlantic shores. The 

syllabus has been organised to enhance the in-depth study of themes that will enable persons to 

acquire and practise the skills of a historian. 

Information Technology 

This syllabus enables persons to use technology from an operator’s perspective; to use technology 

to gather, manipulate, analyse and disseminate information; and to understand the impact of 

Information Technology in our modern world. It also teaches how the appropriate use of 

Information Technology can help to solve problems, including those of an economic, social or 

personal nature. This syllabus emphasises the importance of Information Technology to the 

development of the region. 

52


Law 

This syllabus not only provides a foundation for persons who wish to embark on further study and 

training for entry into the legal profession, it also addresses the needs of other persons engaged in 

occupations requiring knowledge of the law, such as clerks, paralegals, administrators, managers, 

police and other public officers. The syllabus serves to inform persons of their rights and 

obligations, to engage them in the study of law as a discrete discipline requiring analytical and 

problem-solving skills, and to inculcate in them certain positive values which are necessary in a 

civilized Caribbean society. 

Literatures in English 

This syllabus develops an understanding of the nature and function of literature and the methods 

of literary study. It seeks to encourage critical reading, interpretation, evaluation and an 

appreciation of, and an informed personal response to literature. On completion of the syllabus, 

persons should understand, and be able to use the vocabulary of literary criticism and develop 

informed, sensitive, and balanced responses to the complexity of human nature as portrayed in 

literary works. 

Management of Business 

This syllabus adopts a comprehensive approach to management. Persons studying this subject will 

develop an understanding of the integrated nature of business organisations and the environment 

in which they operate. The syllabus also provides opportunities for acquisition of prerequisite 

knowledge and skills necessary for further studies and career opportunities in the field of business. 

Physics 

This syllabus enables persons to be aware of the laws and theories of Physics that influence every 

aspect of their physical existence, and to acquire understanding and knowledge of technological 

and scientific application of Physics, especially in the Caribbean context. The syllabus is structured 

to ensure that persons become aware of their moral, social, and ethical responsibilities as well as 

the benefits intrinsic to the practical application of scientific knowledge in careers in the field of 

science. The syllabus also helps to develop an understanding of the scientific process, its 

usefulness and its limitations. 

Pure Mathematics 

This syllabus will enable persons to develop mathematical thinking, understanding and creativity; 

communicate through the use of mathematics; and use mathematics to model and solve realworld 

problems. The syllabus also helps to develop a spirit of mathematical curiosity and 

creativity, and improved appreciation of the importance and usefulness of Mathematics. 

Sociology 

This syllabus aims to provide persons with the necessary skills for an understanding of the 

structures, organisation and development of societies, particularly those in the Caribbean. It 

introduces them to the knowledge of the theories and basic research methods of Sociology, the 

sociological perspective, and the processes of social structural change with specific emphasis on 

the development and modernisation of societies. 

Statistical Analysis 

This syllabus places emphasis on concepts, practical applications, projects and continuous 

assessment. It is designed to promote habits of making valid decisions in real-world situations by 

addressing appropriate methods of data collection and analysis. The syllabus fosters desirable 

qualities of enquiry, open-mindedness, creativity, self-reliance and the appreciation of statistics as 

a useful tool for dealing with uncertainty. 

53

SECTION 4: ASSESSMENT FOR CAPE UNITS 

Assessment for CAPE Units 

SUBJECT 

PAPERS 

Paper 01 Paper 02 Paper 03A Paper 03B 

Accounting 

27 multiple choice 

questions 

3 extended response 

questions 

2500 word project 3 extended response 

questions 

6 short answer 

questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Applied 

Mathematics 


questions 


questions 

1500 – 2000 word 

assignment 


questions 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Art & Design 

Unit 1 


questions 

Paper 02: Production 

paper 

Paper 04: 1000 – 1200 

word research paper 

NA 

1 of 4 extended 

response questions 

Paper 03: Production 

paper 

Paper 05 – (3 pieces) 

Practical Skills Portfolio 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 6 hrs 

Paper 06 – (3 pieces) 


Art & Design 

Unit 2 

Production paper 

Production paper 

Paper 03: (2 pieces) 


NA 

Paper 04: (2 pieces) 


Paper 05: Creative 

Portfolio & Illustrated 

Time: 6 hrs 

Time: 6 hrs 

Time: 6 hrs 

Biology 

9 structured questions 


3 of 6 essay questions 

Laboratory practical 

exercises assessing 

5 skills 

NA 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 


Studies 


questions 



2000 – 2500 word 

project 

Written paper 3 of 5 

questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 3 hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Chemistry 






4 skills 

NA 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

54


SUBJECT 

PAPERS 


Communication 

Studies 

Paper 1A: 10 short 

answer questions 

Time: 1 hr 

Paper 1B: 4 short 

answer questions 

Time: _ hr 


questions and 1 worded 

or illustrated question 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Portfolio of 3 pieces of 

work: expository 

(10 min oral), reflective 

(2 pieces: 1 written, 

other may be oral - 

total 1200 words/ 

5 mins) and analytical 

(writing - 350 words) 

3 compulsory 

extended response 

questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Computer 

Science 


questions 

3 of 6 structured 

questions 

1800 – 2000 word 

report 

3 compulsory 


questions 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Economics 


questions 



2000 – 2500 word 

project 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Electrical & 

Electronic 

Technology 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 


questions 

Time: 2_ hrs 

3 mini projects/3 

practical assignments 

NA 

Environmental 

Science 


questions 



Unit 1: 2000 – 2500 

word project 

3 Extended response 

questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Unit 2: 600 – 750 word 

written paper 

6 laboratory exercises 

Journal with 4 entries 

Food and 

Nutrition 


questions 

1 compulsory extended 

response question 



Portfolio with 2 

assignments: 

1 research activity and 

1 practical assignment 

NA 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

French 


questions 

2 passages and 

questions 


(250 – 300 words) 

Paper 03 

1 of 4 literary excerpts 

with 4 – 5 questions 

and 1 of 4 thematic 

essay questions based 

on texts studied 

Papers 04A and 04B 

Oral examination: 

based on prepared 

topic, topic 

conversation, general 

conversation 

Time: 1 hr 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 15 minutes 

Geography 


Time: 1_ hrs 

1 compulsory question 

and 3 of 6 extended 


Time: 3 hrs 

Portfolio of 3 

assignments (each 

approximately 700 

words) 

3 compulsory 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

55


SUBJECT 

PAPERS 


Geometrical 

and Mechanical 

Engineering 

Unit 1 

9 short answer/ 

structured questions 

Time: 2 hrs 



Time: 3 hrs 

Portfolio compulsory 

6 drawing assignments 

NA 

History 


questions 

3 of 9 document based 

and extended response 

questions 

1 document based and 


questions 

1500 - 2000 word 

research paper 

Written paper: 

Short answer and 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 40 mins 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Information 

Technology 

15 structured 

questions 



1500 – 2000 word 

project 

Written paper: 


questions 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Law 


questions 

1 compulsory question 

and 3 of 9 extended 


2000 – 2500 word 

research project 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Literatures in 

English 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 


Time: 2_ hrs 

3 critical appreciation 

essays on unseen 

passage 

NA 

Management of 

Business 


questions 



2000 – 2500 word 

project 


questions based on a 

case study 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Pure 

Mathematics 


questions 


questions 

3 teacher-made tests 

(1 – 1_ hours each) 


questions 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Physics 


Time: 1_ hrs 



Time: 2_ hrs 



4 skills 

NA 

Sociology 


questions 


questions 

1800 – 2000 word 

research project 


questions 

Time: 1_ hrs 

Time: 2_ hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

56


SUBJECT 

PAPERS 


Spanish 


questions 

2 passages and 

questions 


(250 – 300 words) 

Paper 03 

1 of 4 literary excerpts 

with 4 - 5 questions 

1 of 4 thematic essay 

questions based on 

texts studied 

Papers 04A and 04B 

Oral examination: 

based on prepared 

topic, topic 

conversation, general 

conversation 

Time: 1 hr 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 15 mins 

Statistical 

Analysis 


questions 


questions 

1800 – 2000 word 

project 


questions 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 2 hrs 

Time: 1_ hrs 

57


58 

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Associate Degree Handbook - Caribbean Examinations Council

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