CBC Subjects, Pathways
& Skills Framework

Develops advanced reading, writing, oral communication, and literature competencies. English is the primary medium of instruction across all subjects and is therefore foundational to academic success at Senior School.

• Language Use: Grammar, syntax, vocabulary development, register and style in academic and creative contexts
• Reading & Comprehension: Unseen passages, inferencing, critical reading of print and digital texts
• Writing: Essays, reports, letters, narratives, summaries; formal and informal registers
• Oral Communication: Speeches, debates, interviews, presentations, listening skills
• Literature: Set texts in prose, poetry, drama; analysis and response; Kenyan and African literature included

Kenya's national and co-official language. Kiswahili is compulsory for all Senior School learners. Kenya Sign Language (KSL) is offered as an equivalent alternative for learners with hearing impairment, in line with the KICD inclusive education framework.

• Fasihi (Literature): Riwaya, mashairi, tamthilia — Kenyan and East African Kiswahili literary works
• Lugha (Language): Sarufi (grammar), uandishi, matumizi ya lugha, maneno ya kisasa
• Mawasiliano: Mazungumzo, hotuba, uandishi wa barua rasmi na zisizo rasmi
• KSL (where applicable): Sign vocabulary, grammar, conversational KSL, Deaf culture and community awareness

All Senior School learners take either Core Mathematics (for STEM and more mathematically oriented learners) or Essential Mathematics (applied, contextualised mathematics for Social Sciences and Arts & Sports Science learners). Both are KCSE-examined.

• Numbers & Algebra: Polynomials, surds, logarithms, indices, sequences & series, quadratic & simultaneous equations
• Calculus: Differentiation, integration, rates of change, maxima & minima, applications in STEM contexts
• Statistics & Probability: Data collection, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency & dispersion, probability models
• Geometry & Trigonometry: Coordinate geometry, circles, transformations, sine & cosine rules
• Financial Mathematics: Compound interest, depreciation, loan repayments, investment analysis
• Vectors & Matrices: Operations, determinants, applications in geometry

• Number and operations in real-world contexts; percentages, ratios, proportional reasoning
• Financial mathematics: budgeting, taxation, loans, savings, insurance
• Basic statistics and data handling for social, arts and business contexts
• Geometry for practical applications: measurements, scale, area, volume

Community Service Learning is a structured, credit-bearing learning experience that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection. It is compulsory for all Senior School learners and contributes to the KCSE score. CSL is allocated 3 lessons per week.

• Community Engagement: Identifying community needs, designing service projects, implementation and documentation
• Civic Responsibility: Understanding rights and responsibilities, active citizenship, national values
• Reflection: Journal writing, portfolio documentation, connecting service to curriculum learning
• Leadership & Teamwork: Group project management, communication, conflict resolution
• Environmental Stewardship: Sustainability projects, conservation activities, waste management initiatives

Explores living systems at the cellular, organismal, and ecosystem level. Develops scientific inquiry, laboratory techniques, and understanding of life processes relevant to medicine, agriculture, and environmental management.

• Cell Biology: Cell structure, cell division (mitosis & meiosis), transport mechanisms
• Genetics & Heredity: DNA structure, Mendelian genetics, mutation, genetic engineering, biotechnology
• Human Physiology: Nutrition, transport, respiration, excretion, reproduction, nervous & endocrine systems
• Ecology & Environment: Food webs, nutrient cycles, population dynamics, conservation, climate change
• Microbiology & Immunology: Microorganisms, disease causation, vaccines, antibiotics
• Plant Biology: Photosynthesis, plant transport, growth hormones, reproduction

Develops deep understanding of matter, its properties, reactions, and applications. Practical chemistry is central — learners spend significant time in labs performing titrations, preparations, and qualitative analysis.

• Atomic Structure & Periodicity: Electronic configuration, periodic trends, chemical bonding
• Stoichiometry: Mole concept, balancing equations, yield calculations, empirical formulae
• Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons, functional groups, reactions, polymers, petrochemicals
• Thermochemistry: Enthalpy changes, Hess's Law, bond energies, energy profiles
• Electrochemistry: Electrolysis, galvanic cells, corrosion, applications
• Industrial Chemistry: Haber process, Contact process, water treatment, polymer manufacture

Explores the fundamental laws governing matter and energy. Develops engineering intuition, measurement precision, and analytical skills underpinning all physical technology — from electronics to aviation and renewable energy.

• Mechanics: Motion, Newton's Laws, momentum, energy, circular motion, simple machines
• Electricity & Magnetism: Circuits, electromagnetic induction, AC/DC, motors & generators
• Waves & Optics: Wave properties, reflection, refraction, diffraction, lenses, mirrors, sound, light
• Thermodynamics: Heat transfer, thermal expansion, gas laws, kinetic theory
• Modern Physics: Radioactivity, nuclear reactions, photoelectric effect, X-rays
• Electronics: Semiconductors, diodes, transistors, logic gates

An integrated science elective offering a broader coverage of biology, chemistry, and physics concepts for learners not specialising in a single science. Particularly relevant for learners targeting health sciences, environmental studies, or teaching.

• Integrated life sciences: cells, body systems, ecology and environment
• Physical sciences: matter, forces, energy, waves
• Earth and space science: geology, climate, astronomy basics
• Science, technology and society: the role of science in Kenya's development

Applies scientific knowledge to farming systems, land management, food security, and agribusiness. Highly relevant to Kenya's agricultural economy and livelihoods across all 47 counties.

• Crop Production: Soil science, planting systems, pest & disease management, irrigation, post-harvest handling
• Animal Production: Livestock breeds, nutrition, health management, dairy & poultry production
• Agribusiness: Farm records, value chain analysis, agricultural marketing, financial planning
• Soil & Water Management: Soil testing, conservation, water harvesting, hydroponics, agroforestry

Prepares learners for Kenya's digital economy. Covers programming, data structures, networks, databases, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies — aligned with the Kenya ICT Authority's digital transformation agenda.

• Programming & Algorithms: Python/JavaScript, control structures, functions, recursion, sorting & searching
• Data & Databases: SQL, database design, data validation, spreadsheet modelling
• Computer Systems: Hardware, operating systems, memory management, binary representation
• Networks & Internet: Network topologies, protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP), cloud computing, IoT
• Cybersecurity & Ethics: Digital security, privacy, encryption basics, Kenya's cybercrime laws
• Emerging Technologies: AI basics, machine learning concepts, robotics, mobile development

Applies biology, chemistry, and nutrition science to food technology, textile science, and household management. Strongly linked to hospitality, dietetics, consumer science, and early childhood development careers.

• Food science: nutrients, food processing, preservation, food safety and labelling
• Textile science: fibres, fabric care, pattern drafting, garment construction, Kenyan textile traditions
• Consumer education: budgeting, household management, environmental sustainability
• Child development and family health

An innovative STEM elective covering the science and technology of flight, aerospace systems, meteorology, and aviation safety. Prepares learners for careers in commercial aviation, aerospace engineering, and Kenya's growing aviation sector.

• Principles of flight: aerodynamics, lift, drag, thrust
• Aircraft systems and navigation basics
• Meteorology and weather interpretation for aviation
• Aviation safety, regulations, and KCAA framework

A cluster of technical and applied STEM electives available where schools have appropriate workshops and qualified teachers. Learners choose one: Building Construction, Electricity, Metalwork, Power Mechanics, Wood Technology, Marine & Fisheries Technology, or Media Technology.

• Building Construction: Masonry, carpentry, plumbing, drawing, site safety
• Electricity: Circuit theory, installation, electrical safety, renewable energy systems
• Metalwork: Metal properties, fabrication, welding, machining, design
• Power Mechanics: Internal combustion engines, automotive systems, servicing
• Wood Technology: Timber properties, joinery, furniture making, finishing
• Media Technology: Print, digital, broadcast media production and design
• Marine & Fisheries Technology: Marine ecosystems, fish farming, boat handling, aquaculture

Develops historical consciousness, civic awareness, and understanding of how governments and societies evolve. Encourages critical reading of sources, debate, and active citizenship. Note: This subject replaces the former "History & Government" title under CBC.

• Kenyan History: Pre-colonial societies, colonialism, independence movements, post-independence development, devolution
• African History: Pre-colonial civilisations, Trans-Atlantic slave trade, colonisation of Africa, liberation movements, AU
• World History: World Wars, Cold War, United Nations, globalisation, international relations
• Citizenship & Governance: Kenya's Constitution 2010, governance structures, human rights, democratic participation, devolved government
• Source Analysis: Primary and secondary sources, bias detection, oral history, document analysis

Analyses the physical and human world — landforms, climate, population, settlement, and resource management. Fieldwork and GIS tools bring geography to life in real Kenyan environments.

• Physical Geography: Plate tectonics, weathering, drainage systems, climatic zones, soils
• Human Geography: Population, migration, urbanisation, settlement patterns, economic activities
• Environmental Geography: Deforestation, desertification, water scarcity, climate change impacts in East Africa
• Map Work & Fieldwork: Topographic maps, aerial photos, GIS basics, transect surveys
• Kenya's Physical & Economic Geography: Landforms, rivers, lakes, highlands, agriculture zones, tourism

Develops entrepreneurial thinking, financial literacy, marketing skills, and understanding of how businesses operate in Kenya's economy — directly applicable to SME development and formal commerce careers.

• Entrepreneurship: Business planning, innovation, start-up financing, social enterprise models
• Accounting: Double-entry bookkeeping, trial balance, income statements, balance sheets, cash flow
• Marketing: Market research, consumer behaviour, pricing, promotion, distribution channels
• Business Environment: Types of business organisations, business ethics, labour relations, taxation in Kenya
• ICT in Business: Spreadsheet modelling, e-commerce, digital marketing, mobile money systems (M-Pesa)

Develops ethical reasoning, moral values, and understanding of the Christian faith in the context of Kenyan society. Encourages respect for religious diversity and application of Christian values to contemporary issues.

• Old and New Testament study: themes, context, significance
• Christian ethics and moral decision-making
• The church in Kenya: history, role in society, ecumenism
• Contemporary moral issues: justice, human rights, environmental stewardship

Develops knowledge of Islamic principles, moral conduct, and the history of Islam in East Africa. Encourages ethical reasoning and responsible citizenship grounded in Islamic values.

• Quranic studies, Hadith, Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh)
• Moral conduct, Islamic ethics and character development
• Islamic civilisation in East Africa and Kenya
• Contemporary issues from an Islamic perspective

Introduces Hindu scripture, dharma, ethics, and the contributions of Hindu traditions to Kenyan culture and society.

• Hindu scriptures, Dharma and ethical principles
• Rituals, festivals and their significance
• Hindu contributions to Kenyan history and culture
• Interfaith dialogue and contemporary social issues

An advanced literary studies elective going beyond the core English component. Focuses on critical literary analysis, Kenyan and African literature, and the social contexts of texts.

• Prose, poetry, drama — Kenyan, African, and world literature
• Literary theory and criticism; context and meaning
• Oral literature traditions in Kenya
• Creative writing: narrative, poetry, scriptwriting

Advanced Kiswahili literary studies as a standalone elective. Develops deep engagement with Kiswahili prose, poetry, and drama across Kenyan and East African literary traditions.

• Riwaya (novels), mashairi (poetry), tamthilia (drama) — set texts and unseen
• Fasihi simulizi: hadithi, methali, vitendawili, ngano
• Literary criticism and analysis in Kiswahili
• Uandishi wa ubunifu (creative writing in Kiswahili)

Learners may take one foreign language as a Social Sciences elective. Available options (subject to school staffing) include Arabic, French, German, and Mandarin Chinese.

• Arabic: Conversational, reading, writing, and cultural study; aligned to Kenya's East African trade connections
• French: Communication skills, grammar, culture; useful for EAC, AU, and international careers
• German: Language skills and German-speaking world culture
• Mandarin Chinese: Communication, writing, and Chinese culture; aligned to Kenya-China bilateral relations

Preserves and promotes Kenya's rich linguistic heritage by offering indigenous Kenyan languages as formal elective subjects for study and KCSE examination.

• Language structure, grammar and vocabulary of selected indigenous language
• Oral literature, proverbs, riddles and folk tales
• Cultural practices and their expression through language
• Written communication in the indigenous language

Kenya Sign Language as a full elective subject, enabling all learners — not just those with hearing impairment — to develop KSL proficiency and promote inclusive communication in Kenyan society.

• KSL vocabulary and grammatical structure
• Deaf culture, identity and community in Kenya
• Conversational and academic KSL use
• Interpreting and inclusive communication skills

Combines practical athletic training with the scientific study of human movement, exercise physiology, and sports management. Prepares learners for coaching, sports administration, physical therapy, and professional sport.

• Exercise Physiology: Musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular response, energy systems, VO₂ max, recovery
• Sports Coaching & Officiating: Rules of selected sports, coaching pedagogy, referee certification pathways, game analysis
• Sports Psychology: Motivation, goal setting, concentration, anxiety management, team dynamics
• Sports Nutrition: Macronutrients, hydration, meal timing, weight management, supplements ethics
• Sports Management: Event organisation, sports administration, sponsorship, media relations
• Injury Prevention & First Aid: Common sports injuries, RICE method, taping, safe training practices

Develops musical literacy, performance skills, dance technique, and cultural appreciation across Kenyan, African, and world music and dance traditions. Learners engage in both theoretical study and practical performance.

• Music Theory: Notation, scales, harmony, rhythm, time signatures, chord progressions, ear training
• Music History: African traditional music, Western classical, development of Kenyan popular music (benga, ohangla, taarab)
• Performance: Vocal technique, instrumental skills (voice, keyboard, guitar, percussion, traditional instruments), ensemble
• Composition & Arrangement: Writing melodies, harmonising, adapting traditional songs, DAW use
• Dance: Kenyan traditional dances, contemporary dance, choreography, Labanotation basics
• Music Technology: Recording, sound engineering basics, music production

Combines dramatic performance with film production skills. Prepares learners for Kenya's growing film, television, and theatre industries. Aligned with Kenya's ICT and creative economy policy goals.

• Stage Acting: Character development, improvisation, script analysis, physical theatre, voice and movement
• Theatre Production: Directing, set design, lighting, costume, sound, stage management
• Playwriting: Dramatic structure, dialogue, theme, audience awareness, Kenya Schools Drama Festival standards
• Film Pre-production: Concept development, scriptwriting, storyboarding, production planning
• Camera & Production: Shot composition, exposure, cinematography, direction for camera
• Post-production: Video editing, colour grading, sound mixing; animation fundamentals (2D, stop-motion)
• Media Ethics: Copyright, responsible content creation, broadcasting standards

Develops artistic expression, design skills, and visual communication across traditional and digital media. Prepares learners for careers in fine art, graphic design, fashion, architecture, and the creative economy.

• Drawing & Painting: Life drawing, perspective, colour theory, watercolour, oil and acrylic media
• Graphic Design: Typography, layout, branding, poster design, digital tools
• Sculpture & 3D Design: Clay modelling, assemblage, installation art, product design
• Textile & Fashion Design: Fabric properties, pattern drafting, garment construction, Kenyan textile traditions
• Art History & Criticism: African art traditions, contemporary Kenyan artists, critique methodology