The International Baccalaureate (IB) is renowned globally for its comprehensive and internationally recognized education model. Established in 1968, the IB offers a holistic approach to learning, emphasizing inquiry-based education, cultural diversity, and the development of diverse talents and skills.
It comprises four programs tailored for different age groups: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). These programs are carefully designed to meet students' developmental needs at various academic levels, earning the IB global acclaim for shaping future leaders and promoting critical thinking skills worldwide.
Aimed at students aged 3 to 12, the PYP focuses on nurturing inquiry skills, developing a love for learning, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. The Trans-disciplinary nature of the curriculum encourages students to make connections across subjects and think critically about real-world issues.
Targeting students aged 11 to 16, the MYP builds on the foundation laid by the PYP. It provides a balanced education that combines academic rigor with personal development, preparing students for the challenges of the DP. The MYP places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to explore their interests and passions.
Catering to students aged 16 to 19, the DP is a rigorous two-year program that culminates in the awarding of the IB Diploma. Students engage in a broad and balanced curriculum, including six subject groups, the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). The DP is renowned for its academic depth and its ability to foster critical thinking and research skills.
Designed for students aged 16 to 19, the CP combines academic subjects with practical skills and real-world experience. It offers a unique blend of academic and career-related courses, allowing students to pursue their passions while gaining the skills necessary for success in the workforce.
One of the distinctive features of the IB is its commitment to developing internationally minded individuals. The curriculum encourages students to explore global issues, appreciate different perspectives, and embrace cultural diversity. Through the study of multiple languages, a focus on global contexts, and an emphasis on open-mindedness, the IB equips students with the tools to navigate an interconnected world.
At the core of the IB philosophy is the concept of inquiry-based learning. Students are not passive recipients of information but active participants in their educational journey. The IB encourages students to ask questions, seek answers, and develop a deep understanding of concepts. This approach not only promotes academic excellence but also instills a lifelong love of learning.
The IB Diploma is widely recognized by universities and educational institutions globally. Its reputation for academic rigor, emphasis on critical thinking, and commitment to holistic development make IB graduates highly sought after by universities. Moreover, the IB's focus on developing skills such as research, communication, and collaboration prepares students for success not only in academia but also in their future careers.
The exam pattern of the International Baccalaureate (IB) varies across its different programs, primarily the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP).
The International Baccalaureate (IB) employs a dual approach to assessment in the Middle Years Programme (MYP), incorporating both internal and optional external assessment, known as eAssessment.
MYP assessment revolves around tasks devised and evaluated by classroom teachers. These educators possess the expertise to discern and appraise student achievements.
The assessment tasks are robust and encompass a diverse array of evaluation strategies.
MYP teachers meticulously evaluate the prescribed subject-group objectives, utilizing specific assessment criteria tailored to each subject group in each academic year.
In the concluding year of the MYP, students undertake the development of an independent personal project. This project is externally validated by the IB.
The personal project serves as a comprehensive review, offering insight into the student's capacity for sustained independent work and creativity.
Schools have the option to register for eAssessment, an external evaluation mechanism, for all other elements of the MYP.
Successful completion of eAssessment provides students with the opportunity to acquire a formal, internationally recognized certificate, contingent upon meeting specific success criteria.
Students enrolled in schools that opt for eAssessment can engage in two types of examinations:
These portfolios encompass coursework assessments, including a mandatory ePortfolio dedicated to the personal project.
Students can participate in on-screen examinations, each ranging in duration from one hour and 45 minutes to two hours.
The diagram provided offers a breakdown of how on-screen examinations and ePortfolios are allocated across the varied subject groups within the MYP. Notably, the assessment approach for Language Acquisition includes a dual evaluation method, consisting of both an on-screen examination and an internally assessed individual speaking assessment.
The compulsory personal project and the elective ePortfolio coursework undergo external moderation, ensuring a review of the internal marks assigned by teachers. Conversely, on-screen examinations are externally assessed by IB examiners who have received specialized training.
Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, Design.
Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, Design.
During these years, students can select courses from six out of the eight subject groups, offering flexibility within specified limits to cater to local requirements and individual learning preferences.
Each academic year involves students in at least one collaboratively planned nterdisciplinary unit, integrating content from a minimum of two subject groups.
MYP students undertake a comprehensive long-term project annually. This involves choosing a subject of interest, assessing existing knowledge, identifying additional information needed, and creating a proposal or criteria for successful project completion. This process encourages self-directed learning and effective project management skills.
The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum consists of six subject groups and a core, including theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS), and the extended essay. The DP core encourages students to contemplate the essence of knowledge, conduct independent research, and engage in projects, often tied to community service.
Studies in language and literature | Language A: Literature | Language A: language and literature | Literature and performance* | Language acquisition |
Classical languages | Language Ab initio | Language B | Individuals and societies | Business management |
Digital society | Economics | Geography | Global politics | History |
Language and culture* | Philosophy | Psychology | Social and cultural anthropology | World religions |
Sciences | Biology | |||
Chemistry | Computer science | Design technology | Environmental systems and societies* | Physics |
Sports, exercise and health science | Mathematics | Analysis and approaches | Applications and interpretation | Arts |
Dance | Film | Music | Theatre | Arts |
Visual arts | DP core | Creativity, activity, service | The extended essay | Theory of knowledge |
A core component of the IB Diploma Programme, CAS encourages students to engage in creative pursuits, physical activities, and community service. The IB encourages students to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities to complement their academic studies and contribute to their personal development.
A 4,000-word independent research project undertaken by IB Diploma students on a topic of their choice, contributing to the development of research and writing skills.
A core component of the IB Diploma Programme, TOK explores the nature of knowledge and the ways in which we acquire and evaluate it.
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