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Navigating the IB Curriculum: A Guide for Parents and Students
Choosing the right International Baccalaureate (IB) courses for junior and senior year can feel overwhelming, but with the right information, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're a student looking to challenge yourself academically or a parent seeking to support your child’s educational journey, this guide will help you understand the IB curriculum, course options, and how to make informed decisions that align with college goals and personal interests. Let’s explore the best path forward together!
The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum is a rigorous, globally recognized academic program designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and a well-rounded education. It consists of six subject groups: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts. Students take courses at either the Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL), with a requirement to complete three HL courses. In addition to coursework, students engage in the Core components: the Extended Essay (EE), a 4,000-word independent research paper; Theory of Knowledge (TOK), which explores the nature of knowledge; and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), which encourages personal growth beyond academics. The IB program prepares students for success in college and fosters global awareness, analytical skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
You will need to select one course from each of the six subject groups. For the sixth group, you have the option to take Visual Arts, Theater, or choose an additional course from Groups 2, 3, or 4—covering World Languages, Individuals and Societies, or Sciences.
Here is more information on each of the courses you may choose from:
Group One: Literature
Language A
Group Two: World Language
Language B
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
IB Global Politics
IB History HL
IB Psychology
Group 4: Sciences
IB Biology
IB Chemistry
IB Environmental Systems and Societies
IB Physics
Group 5: Maths
IB Maths Analysis and Approaches
IB Applications and Interpretations
Group 6: The Arts
IB Theatre
IB Visual Arts
Curriculum Night PowerPoint Presentation