Choice of subjects in the IB Diploma Programme
IB Diploma students choose a subject from the frist 5 groups and an extra subject from either group 6 (The Arts) or a second subject from either groups 1 to 4.
Certain subjects will be studied at Higher level (HL), whereas others will be at Standard Level (SL).
HL and SL courses differ in scope but are measured according to the same grade descriptors.
However, students at HL are expected to demonstrate a greater body of knowledge, understanding and skills at this higher level. Each student must take at least three (but no more than four) subjects at higher level, and the remaining at standard level.
Standard level subjects require 150 teaching hours whereas the higher level are comprised of 240 hours.
Group 1 : Literature Studies
In group 1, students study literature, especially translated literacy works. Students take their studies in a language in which they are academically competent.
Through each course in group 1, students are able to develop:
- a personal appreciation of language and literature
- skills in literary criticism using a range of texts from different periods, styles and genres
- an understanding of the formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of texts
- strong powers of expression, both written and oral
- an appreciation of cultural differences in perspective
Through studies in language and literature, the DP aims to develop a student’s lifelong interest in language and literature, and a love for the elegance and richness of human expression.
Group 2 : Language Acquisition
The main emphasis of the modern language courses is on the acquisition and use of language in a range of contexts and for different purposes while, at the same time, promoting an understanding of another culture through the study of its language.
Language B (SL and HL) : French, English or German
Language B Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) are language acquisition courses for students with some previous experience of learning the language.
While studying the language, students also explore the culture(s) connected with it.
Higher and standard levels are differentiated by the recommended teaching hours, the depth of syllabus coverage, the required study or literature at HL, and the level of difficulty and requirements of the assessment tasks and criteria.
The range of purposes and situations for using language in the language B courses extends well beyond those for language ab initio.
The course is organised into themes.
Three core themes are required: communication and media, global issues, and social relationships.
In addition, at both HL and SL, teachers select two more themes from five options provided.
Finally, two works of literature are studied at HL only.
Group 3 : Individuals and Societies
Subjects available are:
- Business and Management in English or French,
- History in English or French.
Studying any one of these subjects provides for the development of a critical appreciation of:
- human experience and behaviour
- the varieties of physical, economic and social environments that people inhabit
- the history of social and cultural institutions.
In addition, each subject is designed to foster in students the capacity to identify, to analyse critically and to evaluate theories, concepts and arguments relating to the nature and activities of individuals and societies.
- Business and management
The business management course is designed to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques.
Students learn to analyse, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels.
The course covers a range of organisations from all sectors, as well as the socio-cultural and economic contexts in which those organisations operate.
The course covers the key characteristics of business organisation and environment and the business functions of human resource management, finance and accounts, marketing and operations management.
- History
The Diploma Programme history course aims to promote an understanding of history as a discipline, including the nature and diversity of its sources, methods and interpretations. It also helps students to gain a better understanding of the present through critical reflection upon the past. The IB Diploma History course provides both structure and flexibility, fostering an understanding of major historical events in a global context. It requires students to make comparisons between similar and dissimilar solutions to common human situations, whether they be political, economic or social. It invites comparisons between, but not judgments of, different cultures, political systems and national traditions. It also requires the development of critical thinking and understanding of the multiple interpretations of history.
Group 4 : Sciences
Two subjects are offered in this group :
- Biology in French,
- Chemistry in English
Students study concepts, theories, models and techniques which underlie each subject and therefore deepen their understanding of scientific methodology. The compulsory project encourages students to appreciate the environmental, social and ethical implications of science. This interdisciplinary exercise is carried out as group work. It allows students the possibility to explore scientific solutions to world problems.
Group 5 : Maths
Two courses in Mathematics are available: Mathematics at SL and HL in English and French.
These two courses serve to accommodate the range of needs, interests and abilities of students, and to fulfil the requirements of various university and career aspirations.
The aims of these courses are to enable students to:
- develop mathematical knowledge, concepts and principles;
- develop logical, critical and creative thinking;
- employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalisation.
Students are also encouraged to appreciate the international dimensions of Mathematics and the multiplicity of its cultural and historical perspectives.
Group 6 : The Arts
The following subject is available to students in French at higher level or standard level and at SL in English: Cinema
The subjects in the Arts allow a high degree of adaptability to different cultural contexts. The emphasis is on creativity in the context of disciplined, practical research into the relevant genres.
In addition, each subject is designed to foster critical, reflective and informed practice, help students understand the dynamic and changing nature of the arts, explore the diversity of arts across time, place and cultures, and express themselves with confidence and competence.
D.S. (Tests) : IB Assessment
