Heading Into IB Diploma Territory: A Quick Guide For Parents
The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) is a rigorous educational program that offers students a comprehensive and well-rounded academic experience. As parents, it is important to understand the intricacies of the IBDP and how to support your child as they navigate through this challenging journey.
This article serves as a quick guide for parents, providing an overview of the IBDP, subject options, and core requirements.
The IBDP consists of six subject groups, including Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts. Students are required to choose at least one subject from each category and must take three higher level (HL) and three standard level (SL) courses to obtain the IB diploma.
The Core of the diploma encompasses Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).
Throughout the IBDP years, students will be assessed through a combination of written examinations, coursework, and in-school assessment tasks. It is important for parents to understand the grading system, which ranges from 7 to 1, with 7 being the highest. To pass the diploma, students need to achieve a minimum of 24 points and complete the Core requirements.
This article aims to provide parents with the necessary information and support to help their children succeed in the IBDP. By understanding the program's structure and requirements, parents can play an active role in their child's educational journey.
Key Takeaways
- Students study 6 subjects in the IBDP: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts.
- Students must choose at least one subject from each category.
- Students take 3 higher level (HL) and 3 standard level (SL) courses to achieve the IB diploma.
- The Core of the diploma includes TOK, EE, and CAS.
IBDP Overview
The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) is a rigorous program that requires students to study six subjects, including Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts, with at least one subject chosen from each category.
Students must take three higher level (HL) and three standard level (SL) courses to achieve the IB diploma.
The Core of the diploma includes Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).
Subjects are assessed through written examinations, coursework, and in-school assessment tasks. Grades range from 7 to 1, with 7 being the highest grade.
To pass the diploma, students need to achieve 24 points and complete the Core requirements.
The IBDP offers a wide range of subject options in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts, providing students with the opportunity to explore their interests and strengths.
Subject Options
Students in the International Baccalaureate Diploma program have a range of subject options to choose from, including:
- Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Individuals and Societies
- Sciences
- Mathematics
- The Arts
Within the Language and Literature category, students can choose:
- Language A: Literature
- Language A: language and literature
- Literature and performance
In the Language Acquisition category, students can opt for:
- Language ab initio
- Language B
The Individuals and Societies category offers subjects such as:
- Business Management
- Economics
- Geography
- History
- Global Politics
For Sciences, students can select from:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Design Technology
- And more
Mathematics options include:
- Analysis and approaches at SL/HL
- Applications and interpretations at SL/HL
Lastly, the Arts category provides choices such as:
- Dance
- Music
- Film
- Theatre
- Visual Arts
- And other subjects
These subject options allow students to explore their interests and strengths while meeting the requirements of the IB Diploma program.
Core Requirements
To fulfill the requirements of the International Baccalaureate Diploma program, students must complete the Core, which consists of TOK, EE, and CAS.
TOK, or Theory of Knowledge, is a course that explores the nature of knowledge and its implications in different areas of knowledge. It encourages critical thinking and reflection on the ways in which we acquire and evaluate knowledge.
The Extended Essay (EE) is an independent research project that allows students to delve into a topic of their choice, demonstrating their research and writing skills. It is an opportunity for students to explore a topic in depth and develop their academic abilities.
CAS, or Creativity, Activity, Service, requires students to engage in a range of activities that foster creativity, physical well-being, and community service. It aims to develop students' personal and interpersonal skills outside of the classroom.
Overall, the Core requirements in the IB Diploma program provide students with a well-rounded education that goes beyond subject-specific knowledge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) program offers a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience for students.
With its focus on six subject areas and the inclusion of Core requirements such as Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service, the IBDP provides students with a well-rounded education.
It is important for parents to be aware of the subject options available to their children and to provide support throughout the IBDP years.
By understanding the requirements and available resources, parents can help their children succeed in the IBDP program.
