The modern education system is entirely different from the traditional one. The hyper-globalisation of economies is shaping the entire world into a global village. Students are not confined to domestic Tokyo schools and curriculums. They are competing with international students from all across the globe. Preparing to excel on a global pedestal requires excellence, and that’s what the International Baccalaureate Diploma is designed to deliver. Read on to learn more about the IB Diploma and its requirements.
What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma was originally developed in Switzerland during the 1960s. It is a comprehensive 2-year educational program internationally recognized and accepted by top universities. The IB Diploma is designed for students between 16 to 19 years old (class X onwards) and is taught across 140 countries worldwide. Students enrolled in the IB Diploma earn an internationally accepted qualification for higher education after successfully passing the exams.
The schools offering this Diploma must be certified as IB schools, just like the International School.
Anatomy of the International Baccalaureate Diploma
The IB Diploma program’s curriculum has two main components: the core and the class requirements. Let’s take a quick look into what both these sections entail.
Class Requirements
Earning an IB Diploma is far from easy. As per the class requirements criteria, students have to choose from six available subjects as per their preference. However, there are certain restrictions imposed. For example, all students must choose one course from each group (between 1 and 5) and either one from group 6 or a substitute program from groups 1 to 4. Here’s a quick glimpse into the groups and courses available.
IB Group 1
The IB Group 1 is named Studies in Language & Literature. It contains three courses: Language A: Literature, Language A: Language & Literature, and Literature & Performance (SL Only).
IB Group 2
The IB Group 2 is titled Language & Acquisition. The list of courses includes Modern Languages (Language ab initio & Language B), Classical Languages (Latin & Classical Greek).
IB Group 3
The group name for IB Group 3 is Individuals & Societies. This group’s courses include Business Management, Geography, Economics, Global Politics, Psychology, History, Philosophy, World Religions, Social & Cultural Anthropology, and Information Technology in a Global Society.
IB Group 4
The IB Group 4 is named Sciences. It contains all subjects related to the science field, including Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design Technology, Physics, Sport, Exercise & Health Science, Environmental Systems & Societies.
IB Group 5
The IB Group 5 is titled Mathematics. This group contains courses related to mathematics. The list of subjects here includes Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches, Mathematics Applications & Interpretation.
IB Group 6
The last group, i.e., IB Group 6, is known as The Arts. It includes subjects related to the Arts discipline, including Dance, Music, Film, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
The Core
In addition to the Class Requirements, students must complete the Core. The Core has three main components: Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, and Service. Let’s take a quick look into each.
Theory of Knowledge
The Theory of Knowledge classes take a philosophical approach that reflects on the nature of knowledge. It also sheds light on “how we know what we claim to know”. In short, the emphasis is laid on more significant global issues. Students can write 1600 word essays or give an oral presentation to qualify.
Extended Essay
The Extended Essay isn’t a class. Students must choose a relevant topic approved by the IB and deliver a 4000-word mini-thesis. It is recommended to select a topic that one enjoys for this section.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
CAS is a three-tiered project that is focused on extracurricular activities. The Creativity part compels students to get involved in a creative space, for example, learning an instrument. The Activity part is usually related to sports & fitness. Finally, the Service part focuses on societal well-being and can be explained as a component of traditional community service.
Conclusion
The IB program can be beneficial for students who desire to earn a globally recognized diploma. The diploma will help students to secure admission to some of the best international universities. Make sure you receive proper guidance before enrolling in the program.
