What are IB Classes?

Thinking about taking your high school experience to the next level? Maybe you’re looking for a curriculum that challenges you academically and prepares you for the rigors of college. If so, then IB classes might be the perfect fit for you! It is offered in over 160 countries and 5,700 schools around the world for students aged 3–19.

IB classes prepare you to become well-rounded global citizens by emphasizing international understanding and fostering critical thinking skills. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about IB classes: what they are, what subjects are offered, and the many benefits they can bring to your academic journey.

Overview of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program, established in 1968, is a well-regarded educational program for students in school aged 3 to 19. It has gained significant popularity worldwide as a challenging and rewarding alternative to traditional curricula. It offers a well-rounded curriculum that goes beyond just memorizing facts. Students develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills through a variety of subjects and projects. The program also emphasizes personal growth and encourages students to become active and compassionate members of their communities.

The International Baccalaureate Organization offers four programs, catering to different age groups. The most well-known is the Diploma Programme (DP). It is a rigorous two-year course for students in grades 11 and 12. It’s considered an internationally accepted alternative to high school qualifications like GCSE, A Levels, AP, HSC, VCE, or NCEA, depending on your location.

Students in the DP program engage in a rigorous course of study that emphasizes both subject-specific knowledge and the development of well-rounded critical thinking skills. The program is designed to prepare students for success at the university and beyond. Learners complete three core requirements that focus on research, critical thinking, communication, and self-management. They also study six subject areas chosen from a broad range of academic disciplines.

How Does the IB Diploma Program Work?

As of June 2021, the IB DP has become a widely recognized pre-university program offered in over 5,500 schools across nearly 160 countries. More than half of these schools provide the IB DP, specifically designed for students aged 16–19. However, the program is particularly well-suited for those with a strong intellectual curiosity and a desire to be challenged.

The IB DP curriculum offers a rigorous academic experience, exposing you to college-level coursework while you’re still in high school. This internationally standardized program ensures a consistent level of difficulty and breadth of knowledge across all member schools.

Throughout the program, you take six subjects, traditionally one from each of the six established groups (though some flexibility exists). Each course culminates in an IB assessment that can involve tests, presentations, portfolios, or projects. These assessments are scored on a 1–7 scale, with 7 being the highest. To graduate with an IB diploma, students must complete at least three courses at the higher level and achieve a total score of at least 24 points across all six subjects.

The value of an IB diploma extends beyond high school graduation. Many universities recognize the program’s rigor and award college credit for strong IB scores. This can translate to fulfilling your general education requirements or even starting your university career with advanced placement in certain subjects.

What Are the IB Diploma Program Courses?

Within the IB Diploma Program, you can choose between standard-level (SL) and higher-level (HL) courses.

• Standard-level courses: These are typically one year in duration and culminate in an IB exam. They offer a solid foundation in a subject.

• Higher-level courses: These demand a deeper look, requiring two years of study and a final IB exam. They are designed for students seeking a more challenging academic experience.

You aren’t required to complete the entire program to benefit. You can choose to take individual IB courses, both SL and HL, and still earn college credit, depending on the institution’s policy. This allows you to tailor your studies to your interests and academic goals.

The IB Diploma Program Core

The IB Diploma Program goes beyond traditional academics by incorporating three unique core elements that all learners must engage with: Theory of Knowledge (ToK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS).

• Theory of Knowledge (ToK): This thought-provoking course challenges you to critically reflect on the nature of knowledge itself. Through a 1,600-word essay and an oral presentation, you explore how we know what we claim to know, questioning the foundation and limitations of different knowledge areas.

• Extended Essay (EE): This independent research project prepares you for the rigors of university-level research. The EE requires you to study a topic of your choice, conduct in-depth research, analyze information, and synthesize your findings into a 4,000-word research paper.

• Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS): This dynamic program encourages you to become well-rounded individuals by engaging in real-world experiences. CAS offers flexibility and allows you to choose from (or combine) creativity, physical activity, or service projects that align with your interests. There’s no minimum requirement. You can choose to complete one project or explore all three areas.

The 6 Subject Groups of the IB Diploma Program

The IB Diploma Program offers a broad curriculum structured around six areas of study:

• Studies in Language and Literature: This group deepens your appreciation for written and stylistic expression through analyzing and comprehending texts. You must choose at least one course from this area.

• Language Acquisition: You develop proficiency in a second language, either modern (like French or Mandarin) or classical (like Greek or Latin). Taking a language acquisition course is mandatory.

• Individuals and Societies: These courses explore human behavior and social structures. You develop critical thinking skills by analyzing theories, arguments, and the history of social institutions. Subject options include philosophy, psychology, and business management, but may vary depending on the school. You must select one course from this group.

• Sciences: Understanding how science solves global challenges is a core aspect of the IB DP. You delve into at least one scientific discipline, with options including biology, physics, and chemistry.

• Mathematics: You develop your mathematical skills by taking one course at either the Standard Level (one year) or the Higher Level (two years).

• The Arts: The arts program fosters creativity and self-expression through subjects like dance, film, music, theater, and visual arts. You have the flexibility to choose an additional course from Sciences, Individuals and Societies, or Language Acquisition instead of an Arts course. This allows you to tailor your studies to your interests.

Can You Take IB Courses Online?

There are two options for taking IB courses online. The first option is available to students currently enrolled in an IB program at a traditional school. These students can supplement their coursework with online classes offered by Pamoja Education if their school doesn’t offer a particular subject. The online courses are designed to meet the same rigorous standards as in-person classes and cover the same content.

The second option is a pilot program just launched in 2022. This program allows a small number of students to complete the entire two-year IB Diploma Program online. This is a good option for students who are unable to attend a physical school due to extenuating circumstances. However, it’s important to note that this program is still in its early stages and is not widely available.

What Are IB Exams?

IB exams stand for International Baccalaureate exams. They are a series of challenging final assessments taken by students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) at authorized IB World Schools. These exams are designed to test a broad range of knowledge and skills across six subject groups. This pushes you to not just memorize facts but also analyze information, solve problems creatively, and think critically.

Passing IB exams is a requirement for earning the IB diploma. The exams themselves are a combination of written responses, essays, and practical assessments, depending on the specific subject. Here’s a breakdown:

Exams:

• Format: IB tests feature objective short-answer questions, essays, and structured problems designed to assess knowledge and critical thinking.
• Duration and scoring: These exams typically take place over a day or several days and are graded by independent reviewers to maintain fairness.

Teacher assessments:

In addition to exams, IB teachers comprehensively evaluate students through:

• Oral exams: Assessing communication and presentation skills.
• Lab work: Evaluating practical skills and scientific understanding.
• Artistic performances: Demonstrating artistic proficiency and creativity (in relevant subjects).

Grading system:

• Scale: Both standard-level and higher-level courses use a 1–7 point scale.
• Diploma Requirements: To earn the IB diploma and its associated benefits (like potential college credit), you need a minimum of 24 points, which translates to an average score of 4 across all six of your chosen subjects.

College credit

Universities have the discretion to award college credit based on your IB exam scores. This offers a significant advantage:

• Flexibility: Students aren’t limited to taking exams in all six subjects for the diploma. They can strategically choose subjects relevant to their desired college major and earn credit without aiming for a full diploma.

From the Desk of Yocket

The IB program focuses on interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. It provides you with a well-rounded understanding of various subjects and the ability to analyze information from multiple perspectives. This can be a significant benefit in universities where you are expected to think across disciplines and solve complex problems.

Furthermore, the IB program’s emphasis on global awareness prepares you to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. By studying a variety of cultures and perspectives, you gain a broader understanding of the world’s challenges and opportunities. This international outlook can be valuable in future careers and personal lives.

However, the IB program’s demanding workload can be a significant challenge for some students. The program requires a high level of commitment and time management skills. Additionally, not all universities give explicit credit for the IB diploma, although it is widely recognized and respected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What subjects are offered in the IB Diploma Program?

The IB DP offers a wide range of subjects across six groups: languages, social sciences, humanities, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. You can choose six subjects, with three at a higher level (more in-depth) and three at a standard level.

Is it hard to get into an IB Diploma Program?

Admission requirements vary by school, but generally, students with strong grades and a willingness to work hard are good candidates. Some schools may have a selective enrollment process.

What is the IB Diploma Program?

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a rigorous two-year academic program for students in their junior and senior years of high school. It emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and global awareness.