Subjects

Mathematics Department

Name Qualifications Position
Mr Yamikani Kwatiwani BSc MBA Head of Mathematics
Mr Moses Mereka BEd Teacher of Mathematics
Mr Lyton Mhango BEd Teacher of Mathematics and Geography
Mr George Mzengo BSc Teacher of Mathematics, Housemaster
Mrs Mavis Mazizi BSc MSc Teacher of Mathematics, Housemistress
Mrs Fatima Kweteza BEd Teacher of Mathematics, Housemistress

Mathematics is such an interesting subject in that one finds it fun and involved until their curiosity is meant. It is a subject provided to all students at their early stage. Students are taught different procedures and methods which help them in different subjects as well. It is a subject that helps students to be able to apply rules to specific problems as they produce answers that are good. The problem-solving techniques used help the learners to improve their problem solving skills which are essential in decision making situations. They acquire critical thinking in solving mathematics as it enables them to understand, manipulate and apply logic and reasons to comprehend that something works. It also helps them to sharpen their mind and memory even as mental arithmetic skills which are useful in everyday life as one uses the head to get results. As it involves quantitative problems one has to analyze each statement said whether it is true or false or a generalization. Hence mathematics opens up many different paths and helps with life skills. They look at numbers, formulas and shapes which help them to choose a good mathematical method to use. It helps one to work independently and be able to work easily in a team.

CURRICULUM

As mathematics provides an effective way of building mental discipline and encourages logical reasoning and mental rigor, students need to understand the concepts in order to gain the above mention. Students need to use mathematical ideas and procedures so as to be able to explain and explore it in depth. Students should be able to promote appropriate presentation and interpretation of results so they will be able to communicate and reason mathematically. They should develop a positive attitude towards the subject and appreciate its practical application in life. They will develop problem solving skills and the ability to use mathematics in everyday life. Mathematics brings discipline in the mind of the learner.

ASSESSMENT

The form assessments are done in the three terms for forms 1 to 4. As term one is a term for continuous assessment grading, the department has 3 form tests and 2 class tests spread across the two halves. The second term Form 5 and 6 have mock exams and the Form 1 to 4 have mid-year exams. Then the form 1 to 4 have end of year exams. The forms 3, 5 and 6 have external exams as shown below:

  • Form 3 write Checkpoint examinations at the beginning of the third term.
    • Length Type
    Paper 1 1 hour Non-calculator
    Paper 2 1 hour Calculators may be used
  • Form 5: mathematics will take two papers. If one is studying Core syllabus they will take Paper 1 and Papers 3. If they are studying Extended syllabus they will take Paper 2 and Paper 4.
    • Length Type Of Questions
    Paper 1 (core) 1 hour Short answer question
    Paper 2 (Extended) 1 hour 30 minutes Short answer questions
    Paper 3 (core) 2 hour Structured questions
    Paper 3 (Extended) 2 hour Structured questions
  • Form 6; it is done in two years and students should have 4 mathematics components as follows Mathematics Pure 1, Mathematics Pure 3, Mechanics and Statistics 1.
    • Year Paper Length Type Of Questions
    Lower 6 Pure mathematics (P 1) 1 hour 30 minutes Structured questions
    Lower 6 Mechanics ( P4) 1 hour 15 minutes Structured questions
    Upper 6 Pure Mathematics (P3) 1 hour 30 minutes Structured questions
    Upper 6 Statistics (P5) 1 hour 15 minutes Structured questions
    PREP

    The department gives at least two preps in a week in relation to the number of mathematics lesson per class, which is, two double and two single lessons for Form 1 to % and eight lessons for the Lower and Upper six.

    ENRICHMENT AND EXTRA- CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
    • Clinic compulsory for Form 5 students to help them prepare for the IGCSE examinations
    • Participation in Old Mutual Mathematics Olympiad competition (yearly event)
    • Participation in Medi-Chanco Mathematics competition with awards for top performers

    Curriculum Overview

    Form 1

    Number Geometry & Measure Algebra Statistics & Probability
    Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division Properties of two-dimensional shapes Algebra beginnings - using letters for unknown numbers Data collection and sampling
    Order of operations Area of triangles Manipulating algebraic expressions Organizing and presenting data
    Multiples and factors Properties of three-dimensional shapes Algebraic expressions and formulae Probability and the likelihood of events
    Rounding and estimation - calculations with decimals Transformations of two-dimensional shapes Introduction to equations and inequalities Mode, mean, median, and range
    Fractions, decimals, and percentages Angle properties Sequences Probability and outcomes
    Percentages of whole numbers Visualizing three-dimensional shapes Introduction to functions Probability experiments
    Squares, square roots, cubes, and cube roots Coordinates and two-dimensional shapes Linear functions
    Ratio Converting units Graphs and rates of change

    Form 2

    Number Geometry & Measure Algebra Statistics & Probability
    Multiplication and division Hierarchy of quadrilaterals Expressions, formulae and equations Data collection and sampling methods
    Order of operations Parallelograms, trapezia and circles Manipulating algebraic expressions Recording, organizing and representing data
    Factors and multiples Properties of three-dimensional shapes Algebraic expressions and formulae Complementary events
    Decimals and place value Transformation of 2D shapes Equations and inequalities Comparing and interpreting data
    Fractions and decimals Constructions, lines and angles Describing sequences Combined events
    Percentage increase and decrease 2D representations of 3D Functions Probability experiment
    Square, square roots, cubes and cube roots Geometry and translation Graphs and equations of straight lines
    Ratio Distance and bearings Reading and interpreting graphs

    Form 3

    NUMBER GEOMETRY & MEASURE ALGEBRA STATISTICS & PROBABILITY
    Indices and Standard form Pythagoras theorem Order of operations with algebra Data collection and sampling
    Rational and Irrational Numbers Large and small units Manipulating algebraic expressions Record, organize and represent data
    Rounding and Estimating numbers Surface area and volume Further algebraic expressions and formulae Mutually exclusive events
    Further Fractions and decimals Further transformation Further algebraic equations and inequalities Further data interpretation
    Compound percentages Further constructions, polygons and angles Linear and quadratic equations Combined events
    Estimating surds Scale and area factors of enlargement Functions and their representations Probability - expected and relative frequency
    Direct and inverse proportion Coordinates and straight line segments Linear functions and solving simultaneous equations
    Bearing and scale drawings Compound measure

    Form 4-5

    TOPIC TOPIC
    1 Number and language 20 Similarity and congruence
    2 Accuracy 21 Angle properties
    3 Calculation and order 22 Symmetry
    4 Integers, Fraction, Decimals and Percentages 23 Set Notation and Venn Diagrams
    5 Algebraic indices 24 Functions
    6 Indices, Standard Form and surds 25 Straight line Graphs
    7 Further percentages 26 Sequences
    8 Ratio and proportion 27 Graphing Inequalities and Regions
    9 Proportion (Variation) 28 Differentiation and Gradient function
    10 Time 29 Graphs of Functions
    11 Graphs In Practical situations 30 Median, mean, mode and range
    12 Money and Finance 31 Collecting and displaying Data
    13 Algebraic Representation and Manipulation 32 Cumulative Frequency
    14 Equations and Inequalities 33 Vectors
    15 Geometrical language and construction 34 Transformation
    16 Bearings 35 Probability
    17 Trigonometry
    18 Measures
    19 Mensuration

English Department

Name Qualifications Position
Miss Carol Katemanyoka BA(Hons) Teacher of English
Mrs Natasha Mankhwazi BA PGCE Teacher of English
Mrs Tabonga M’manga BA MBA Teacher of English, Housemistress
Mr Kwame Nyangulu BEd Teacher of English
Mrs Veronica Mhango BEd Teacher of English
Senior Housemistress
Cambridge Checkpoint English

The department offers candidates the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum from year 7 to year 9, towards the end of which candidates sit the Cambridge Checkpoint Examinations. This marks the progress they have made in the first 3 years of secondary education and measures their preparedness for the next level, which is the IGCSE First Language English course and the IGCSE Literature in English course in years 10 and 11.

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English

The Cambridge IGCSE First language English course prepares candidates to be able to develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when speaking and writing; to learn to use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation, as well as to develop a personal style of speaking and writing and an awareness of audience. These are the skills that are tested at the end of the course.

Cambridge IGCSE Literature in English

The IGCSE Literature in English course aims to enable students to enjoy the reading of literature; to understand and respond to literary texts in different forms and from different periods and cultures; to communicate an informed personal response appropriately and effectively as well as appreciate different ways in which writers achieve their effects. Students are also able to experience literature’s contribution to aesthetic, imaginative and intellectual growth and also explore the contribution of literature to an understanding of areas of human concern.

Cambridge Advanced Level Literature in English

Cambridge International AS and A Level Literature in English provides learners with the opportunity to gain further knowledge and understanding of international poetry, prose and drama, by studying all three genres at both levels.

A wide range of inspiring set texts are selected to offer a breadth and depth of literary study and to encourage lively and stimulating classroom discussion.

Staffing

The department has a staff of 6 full-time teachers responsible for delivering curriculum content through planning and delivering lessons, conducting formative as well as summative assessments through prep, class tests and form tests. These activities build up to external examinations at the end of year 9, 11, 12 and 13, that is, Checkpoint, IGCSE, AS and A Level respectively.

DEPARTMENT OF MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES FRENCH AND CHINESE

Bonjour Ni hao

Communication is essential in any interaction. The learning of French and Chinese opens another communication avenue throughout the World.

French and Chinese are offered as compulsory subjects from Form one to Form three. In Form four, they become optional subjects. French is also offered as an optional subject at A Levels.

The main objective for learning French or Chinese is to communicate with speakers of the two languages or understand documents in the two languages on matters affecting every day life.

Name Qualifications Position
Mr Tamali Banda BEd MEd Head of Modern Languages Teacher of French
Mr Harry Kamsesa BSc Teacher of Mandarin Chinese Deputy Safeguarding Lead

Law

Name Qualifications Position
Mr Richard Hewitt BA MA Head of Law & Psychology
Mr Jackson Kam’mayani BEd MA Teacher of Biology, Chemistry & Psychology
Miss Erna Ngoma BA Teacher of PE, Literacy and Psychology
Introduction to Law at Kamuzu Academy

Law was re-introduced to the Sixth Form of Kamuzu Academy in 2006. The Lower Sixth course (Advanced Subsidiary) consists in a general introduction to English Law, which is mother to Malawi Law. Pupils examine topics that include: Common Law and Statute, Civil and Criminal Procedure, Law Reform, Equity and Human Rights.

Lower Sixth Course

The Lower Sixth course (Advanced Subsidiary) consists of a general introduction to English Law, which is the foundation of Malawi Law. Pupils examine topics such as Common Law and Statute, Civil and Criminal Procedure, Law Reform, Equity, and Human Rights.

Upper Sixth Course

The Upper Sixth course (Advanced Level) allows for in-depth study. Pupils focus on two areas of Civil Law – Contract and Tort – similar to the first year of a Law Degree.

Sixth Form Moot Court

In recent years, it has become a tradition to mark the end of the academic year with a Moot Court. Lower Sixth lawyers compete against Upper Sixth lawyers before an audience of their peers. The Moot Court has been filmed on two occasions.

Co-Curricular Activities

The Law Department complements its program with various co-curricular activities relevant to Malawi Law.

Legal Aid Bureau

Thanks to the generosity of successive generations of Chief Legal Aid Advocates and their officers, pupils in the Lower Sixth have had the opportunity to intern at the Legal Aid Bureau. Such internships are not usually available at the secondary level, so this is a considerable privilege. Work includes: manning front-line desks, entering prisons to take depositions, and preparation of legal briefs for court hearings. It offers invaluable practical experience of how the Law operates in Malawi, which is also important for university applications. The programme was conducted for twelve years. Every year up to ten pupils served for one month in the four offices of the Legal Aid Bureau. The programme was suspended in 2020 owing to the pandemic. It is hoped that it will be renewed in due course!

Law Essay Prize

For the past six years, Upper Sixth lawyers have been invited to produce, as an elective, extended essays on matters of Malawi legal interest. Primary research is encouraged. In 2020, the competition was extended to Lower Sixth lawyers.

Alumni Year Education and Career
Miss Mphatso Mwale 2021 Currently reading for the LL.B. at Keele University (UK).
Miss Alinuswe Ngosi 2018 Completed the B.A. (Hons.) in Law & Practice at Coventry University (UK).
Miss Walinase Chinula 2014 Secured the Phyllis Barclay-Smith C.B.E. Memorial Scholarship to read Law at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge (UK). Called to the Malawi Bar in 2020 and is Associate Partner at Savjani & Co. (Blantyre, Malawi). Currently reading for the LL.M. at the University of Leeds (UK).
Miss Mary Jiyani 2011 Read Law at the University of Cape Town (South Africa). Completed D.Phil. in Jurisprudence at Balliol College, Oxford (UK) with a thesis on Land Law in Malawi. Currently lecturing in Law at the University of Kent at Canterbury (UK).
Miss Hazel Miseleni 2009 Read Law at Cardiff University (UK). Currently Senior Legal Aid Advocate in the Mzuzu Office of the Legal Aid Bureau.
Miss Chikondi Mandala 2008 Took a Law Degree from the University of Malawi. Became Senior Resident Magistrate in Blantyre. Secured a Mandela Washington scholarship to study at Howard University, Washington D.C. (USA). Completed LL.M. at Harvard Law School. Lecturing in Law and pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Kent at Canterbury (UK).

There is further information at https://law-psych.fritillary.org.

Chemistry

Biology

PHYSICS

The study of Physics fires pupils’ curiosity about phenomena in the world around them and offers opportunities to find explanations. It engages learners at many levels, linking direct practical experience with Physics ideas. Experimentation and modelling are used to develop and evaluate explanations, encouraging critical and creative thought. Pupils learn how knowledge and understanding in Physics are rooted in evidence. They discover how Physics ideas contribute to technological change – affecting industry, business and medicine and improving quality of life. They trace the development of Physics worldwide and recognise its cultural significance. They learn to question and discuss issues that may affect their own lives, the directions of societies and the future of the world.

CURRICULUM AIMS

There are a number of key concepts that underpin the study of Physics and how Physics works. Students need to understand these concepts in order to deepen and broaden their knowledge, skills and understanding. Using Physics ideas and models to explain phenomena and developing them creatively to generate and test theories.

  • Critically analyzing and evaluating evidence from observations and experiments.
  • Exploring how the creative application of Physics ideas can bring about technological developments and consequent changes in the way people think and behave.
  • Examining the ethical and moral implications of using and applying Physics.
  • Recognizing that modern Physics has its roots in many different societies and cultures and draws on a variety of valid approaches to Physics practice.
  • Sharing developments and common understanding across disciplines and boundaries.

GROUPING

In Year 7 Students learn general Science in mixed ability groups. The general Science combines the basic Sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This continues up to years 8 and 9 as they build grounding for the individual Sciences.

In Year 10 they start learning the individual Sciences separately as they embark on a path for a qualification in each of them at the end of year 11.

Just like the other Sciences Physics continue up to Advanced level but now at an optional mode.

ASSESSMENT

Just like most of the subjects summative assessment in Physics is done twice a year during mid-year exam in February and end of year exam in June for year 10. In year 11 the mid-year exams are replaced by mock exams.

The assessment is modelled at the actual IGCSE exam papers which comprises multiple choice paper, structured paper and practical paper. In working out the final mark for each pupil the actual IGCSE weighting is used which stipulates 30% multiple choice, 50% structured and 20% practical.

HOMEWORK

Continuous assessment continues to play its right role through preps, projects and end of topic tests. In performance reporting for students both summative and continuous assessment are put into perspective and achievements and action points properly determined.

ENRICHMENT AND EXTRACURRICULAR

Outside classroom, the Physics department offers extra lessons to students with less ability to lessen the gap with their colleagues. At the separate Sciences level the students are taught in setted groups to teach similar ability students together so that each ability level is taught at its own pace.

Besides the Physics department runs a physics club to broaden the students experience and delve into the real life practical aspects of Physics.

During official school functions like Founder’s day and sports day Physics students mount displays which parents and visitors come to view as the students themselves explain to them. More often such students build more confidence in the subject and have always excelled

INFRASTRUCTURE

The Physics department runs three labs which are well equipped and boasts of state of the art teaching and learning apparatus. This stimulates students and their hands on experience consolidates assimilation which culminates in Physics being one of the best performing subjects at the Academy.

Kamuzu Academy - Department of Geography

Welcome to the Geography Department at Kamuzu Academy. Below, you'll find valuable information about the department's staff, the importance of geography, the curriculum structure, enrichment activities, and assessment details.

Members of Staff
Mr. McDonald Gunde Head of Department
Ms. Stawa Shaibu Teacher and Dame
Mr. Lyton Mhango Teacher
Mr. Dennis Phiri Teacher
Mrs. Alice Ngumbira Teacher
The Importance of Geography

Geography is crucial as a subject because it:

  • Encourages students to appreciate local environmental problems
  • Helps students understand the ways in which people interact with each other and with the environment
  • Provides them with skills to reduce or solve environmental problems
  • Develops in them an understanding of their important role in the global village in the 21st century
Geography Curriculum at Kamuzu Academy

The Geography curriculum is split into four parts:

  • Lower School Geography Curriculum: Students in Form 1 to Form 3 are taught a mixture of topics taken from Physical Geography and Human Geography. The aim is to lay the foundations for IGCSE Geography, taught in Form 4 and Form 5.
  • IGCSE Geography: Students in Form 4 and Form 5 follow the Cambridge IGCSE Geography syllabus for two years, writing the IGCSE Geography exam at the end of Form 5.
  • Advanced Subsidiary Level Geography: Lower 6 students follow the Cambridge AS Level Geography syllabus, a one-year course, writing the Cambridge AS Geography exam at the end of Lower Six.
  • Advanced Level Geography: Upper 6 students follow the Cambridge A Level Geography syllabus, a one-year course, writing the Advanced Level Geography exam at the end of Upper Six.
Enrichment and Extra-curricular Activities

The Geography Department at Kamuzu Academy offers student support, enrichment, and extra-curricular activities, including special coaching sessions, clinics, and intensive guidance to help students excel in external examinations.

Assessment

The Geography Department utilizes formative and summative assessments, including preps, long-term assignments, end-of-topic/unit assessments, mid-term tests, end-of-term tests, mid-year examinations, end-of-year examinations, and external examinations.

Kamuzu Academy - Department of Geography

Enrichment and Extra-curricular Activities

The Geography Department at Kamuzu Academy offers student support, enrichment, and extra-curricular activities, including special coaching sessions, clinics, and intensive guidance to help students excel in external examinations.

Assessment

The Geography Department utilizes formative and summative assessments, including preps, long-term assignments, end-of-topic/unit assessments, mid-term tests, end-of-term tests, mid-year examinations, end-of-year examinations, and external examinations.

ART

At Kamuzu Academy, we are dedicated to providing a vibrant and supportive environment where students can explore their artistic talents, develop their skills, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the transformative power of art and design. Art and Design is a dynamic and integral part of our comprehensive educational program. It is a subject that encourages students to explore their creativity and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through a diverse range of artistic mediums and techniques, students have the opportunity to interpret, express, and appreciate the beauty and significance of visual arts.

Our art department is dedicated to nurturing an exciting learning environment where students can freely explore their artistic interests and develop a sense of individuality. From painting and drawing to sculpture and digital media, students engage in a wide array of artistic practices that promote self-expression, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. Through hands-on experiences and creative problem-solving, students not only refine their technical abilities but also develop a broader understanding of art's role in society.

CURRICULUM AIMS

The Art and Design curriculum at Kamuzu Academy aims to inspire students to explore, experiment, and create with confidence. Through visual and sensory experiences, students develop their artistic competencies, imaginative thinking, and appreciation for diverse artistic expressions. They learn to analyze and critically reflect on their own work as well as the work of others, gaining a deeper understanding of artistic techniques, context, and meaning. By thinking and acting as artists, craftspeople, and designers, students cultivate their creative intelligence and develop a lifelong appreciation for the significance of art, craft, and design in enriching their lives and the broader cultural landscape.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment in the art department at Kamuzu Academy is primarily formative, emphasizing the value of constructive feedback and meaningful dialogue. Verbal feedback plays a significant role in guiding students' artistic development, allowing for ongoing conversations and opportunities for improvement. We believe and place trust in the artistic process, where each new artwork becomes a stepping stone towards growth and self-discovery.

Rather than focusing solely on individual pieces, our assessment approach considers the overall artistic journey of each student. Prep works receive recognition and appreciation, as they contribute to the development and refinement of larger projects. Students can expect to receive written or verbal feedback from their teacher and peers, providing valuable insights and suggestions for further exploration. Regular book reviews ensure that students have continuous opportunities to reexamine and enhance their earlier work, fostering continuous growth and improvement.

PREP

Prep assignments in Art and Design serve as essential opportunities for students to consolidate their skills, demonstrate independence, and deepen their knowledge and understanding. At Kamuzu Academy, students can expect to receive approximately 4-5 art preps per term during forms 1 - 3. It is recommended that students dedicate between one or two hours for each task.

For forms 4 and 5 students, we encourage a minimum of two hour per week of independent art practice outside of school to fully explore their artistic potential.

ENRICHMENT & EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

To further enrich the artistic experiences of our students, the art room at Kamuzu Academy is open during lunchtimes and after school hours. This provides a dedicated space where students can further develop their artistic skills, explore new techniques, and collaborate with their peers. Our well-equipped art room offer access to resources that facilitate the completion of art preps and enables students to engage with various mediums.

Structured art activities are organized on Thursdays after school, offering students the opportunity to participate in collaborative projects, art exhibitions, and workshops conducted by visiting artists. These activities broaden students' artistic horizons, foster creativity, and provide valuable practical experiences.

We offer after school sessions for IGCSE students to work on their projects. These sessions also offers additional guidance and support from experienced teachers, ensuring that IGCSE students have the resources and assistance they need to excel in their art coursework.

Additionally, we organize regular field trips that encourage students to engage with galleries, artists, and cultural events, as well as to showcase their own artworks beyond the classroom. This not only nurtures their artistic sensibilities, but also exposes them to a diverse range of creative influences.

STAFFING

Mr M Ndalama – Head of Art and Design

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology was introduced to the Sixth Form of Kamuzu Academy in 2019.

The Lower Sixth course (Advanced Subsidiary) consists in an introduction to research methods and the detailed study of twelve experiments and case studies, which illustrate the Biological, Cognitive, Learning and Social approaches to Psychology.

The Upper Sixth course (Advanced Level) allows study in depth. Pupils specialise in two of the following areas: Psychology and Abnormality, the Psychology of Consumer Behaviour, Psychology and Health, and Psychology and Organisations.

The debate between Nature and Nurture is a recurrent theme throughout the course.

The Psychology Department seeks to complement its programme with a number of co-curricular activities of specific relevance to Psychology in Malawi. We are pleased (2023) to have arranged our first visit to the St. John of God Hospitaller Services in Lilongwe.

Experimental Psychology Prize

Psychologists are invited to design and conduct research projects to put their theoretical skills to the test. The Prize is now in its fourth year.

Department

Psychology is taught by Mr. R. L. Hewitt, Mr. J. Kam’mayani and Miss E. Ngoma.

Further Information

There is further information at https://law-psych.fritillary.org. .

The Vision of the History Department at Kamuzu Academy

Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda

The Founder of Kamuzu Academy

Image description

Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, the Founder of Kamuzu Academy who was also the first President of the Republic of Malawi, said:

Partner 1
Partner 2

CONTACT

  • Kamuzu Academy
  • Private Bag 1
  • Mtunthama
  • Kasungu
  • Malawi.
  • +(265)111 259 288
  • +(265)111 659 264
  • headmaster@ka.ac.mw

USEFUL LINKS

SOCIAL MEDIA

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