FAQ about the IB Program
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What is the International Baccalaureate Program?
The International Baccalaureate Program (IB) is a challenging academic curriculum that focuses on the learning process. The goal is to teach students how to learn, how to analyze, and how to reach considered conclusions about society and the world in which we live. The IB diploma is an academic passport, recognized around the world as a symbol of intellectual promise and achievement. The IB curriculum was designed to ensure a cohesive, comprehensive education for students, no matter where they lived in the world.
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What are the advantages of an IB education?
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Challenging learning environment surrounded by intellectual peers
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Rigorous academic preparation in the humanities, mathematics, and sciences
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Exposure to outstanding teachers who have received specialized IB training
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Opportunities to participate in a wide variety of academic, cultural, and community service activities
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Internationally acclaimed educational program
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Shared experiences that create a special camaraderie among the students and their teachers
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Development of time management and study skills
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Advanced placement and/or sophomore standing in many prestigious colleges and universities
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Who should register for the IB Diploma Program?
The IB Diploma Program (DP) is open to all qualified students seeking a challenging, rigorous educational experience with a unique international focus and a high standard of achievement. All students must have completed Algebra I, Geometry, English 9, English 10, Biology 1, Chemistry 1 or ICP, and two or three levels of French, Spanish, German or Japanese by the end of 10th grade. It is also recommended that students have earned their Health, PE, and Technology credits before the start of 11th grade.
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How do students register for the IB Diploma Program?
Sophomores interested in the IB Diploma Program will sign up with their school counselor. It is recommended that interested students contact Mrs. Wallace in A139 to shadow IB classes.
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What courses do students take in the IB Diploma Program?
The curriculum contains six subject groups as well as the required DP Core areas which unify students’ learning skills across the curriculum.
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Literature (English)
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Language Acquisition (World Language)
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Individuals and Societies (History)
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Math
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Science
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The Arts
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DP Core
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Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
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Extended Essay (EE)
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Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
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Are there any fees for the IB Program?
The Diploma Programme candidates must take six examinations. Examination fees for the IB diploma are approximately $700. Costs vary for certificate candidates depending on the number of examinations they take. (IBO sets all testing fees yearly)
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How do IB courses compare to AP courses?
IB courses are similar to AP courses in that both are programs of study that are designed to challenge students through a college preparatory curriculum. Both programs require students to take end-of-course assessments in May with the possibility of earning college credit. AP curriculum promotes individual classes that are independent from each other. IB courses are holistic, using common threads to link subject areas and tie everything together with the Theory of Knowledge class—a philosophy course taught from a worldview perspective. International Baccalaureate fosters a lifelong interest in learning as well as informed and responsible citizenship.
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How much time does the DP take?
Most IB students are involved in extra and co-curricular activities, sports, and hold part-time jobs. Students are able to practice time management to complete school work as well as pursue outside interests. An IB education encourages students to follow their passions and get involved with the community they are a part of.
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What does IB mean for me as a parent?
As a parent, you will notice that your child is asking more questions and inquiring about the world around them. Foster this curiosity by asking questions of your own or talking about the process you would follow to seek answers to those questions. Instead of asking, “What did you do today in school?” try asking, “What did you inquire about today?” Students will become more aware of their surroundings and the impact they can have on their local and global community. Encourage your child to apply their learnings to real-life situations and discuss with them how they can take action in the community. As a parent, you can support your child and encourage them to take ownership of their learning experiences.