DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

CURRICULUM – SECONDARY SCHOOL: GRADES 11-12

The IB Diploma Programme consists of six academic subjects that are studied concurrently. Diploma candidates must select one subject from each of the six groups, although a second subject from groups 1 to 4 may be substituted for group 6. At least three but not more than four are taken at higher level (HL), while the others are standard level (SL); HL courses represent a minimum of 240 teaching hours, while SL courses cover 150 hours. Students are thus able to explore some subjects in depth and others more broadly, a deliberate compromise between the early specialization of some national systems and the breadth found in others. The science- oriented student is challenged to learn a foreign language and the natural linguist becomes familiar with laboratory procedures. The subjects are continually reviewed and revised to meet contemporary needs. The list below serves as a current guide:

DIPLOMA PROGRAMME (DP) CURRICULUM MODEL and Grade Descriptors

Group 1 – Studies in Language and Literature - More than 80 languages have been offered for examination as part of the IBO’s policy of encouraging students to maintain strong ties to their own cultures. The international perspective given through world literature studies complements very good writing and oral skills and respect for the literary heritage of the student’s first language. ISU offers Group 1 language studies in English and Mongolian. ISU also offers the School-Supported Self-Taught (SSST) option in Group 1, which is available to any DP1 student whose best or home language is not taught at ISU.

Group 2 – Language Acquisition - All diploma candidates are examined in a second language. Several options accommodate near-bilingual students with a very high level of fluency, genuine second language learners with previous experience learning the language, and beginners. The principal aim for the subjects in Group 2 is to enable students to use the language in a range of context and for many purposes; the courses focus on written and spoken communication. ISU offers Group 2 language instruction in Chinese, Spanish and French.

Group 3 – Individuals and Societies - Subjects included in this group are: Business Management, Economics, and History. Each can be studied at Standard or Higher level. Studying any one of these subjects provides for the development of a critical appreciation of human experience and behavior; the history of social and cultural institutions; and the varieties of economic and social environments that people inhabit. In addition, each subject is designed to foster in students the capacity to identify, to analyze critically and to evaluate theories, concepts and arguments relating to the nature and activities of individuals and societies.

Group 4 – The Sciences The subjects available in Group 4 are: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Each can be studied at Standard or Higher level. Practical laboratory skills are developed and collaborative learning is encouraged through an interdisciplinary group project. Students develop an awareness of moral and ethical issues, and examining local and global issues fosters a sense of social responsibility.

Group 5 – Mathematics All candidates for a diploma are required to complete a mathematics course, and four options are available to cater for different abilities and levels of student interest. Each course aims to deepen a student’s understanding of mathematics as a discipline and to promote confidence and facility in the use of mathematical language. ISU offers instruction in Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or Mathematics Application and Interpretation. Each can be studied at Standard or Higher level.

Group 6 – The Arts This group includes Visual Arts at ISU with an emphasis placed on practical production by the student and exploration of a range of creative work in a global context. Students may elect a second course from subjects from Group 3 or Group 4, for example, instead of taking Visual Arts.

Creativity, Activity and Service The IBO’s goal is to educate the whole person and foster responsible, compassionate citizens. The CAS programme encourages students to share their energy and special talents with others. Students may, for example, participate in theatre or musical production, sports, and community service volunteer activities. Students should, through these activities, develop greater awareness of themselves, concern for others, and the ability to work cooperatively with other people.

Theory of Knowledge The most important curricular tool through which students make connections between their individual subject disciplines is through the study of the TOK course. The TOK course plays a special role in the DP by providing an opportunity for students to reflect on the nature of knowledge, and to make connections between different areas of knowledge. In this way, students become more aware of their own perspectives and those of the various groups whose knowledge they share. TOK supports the development of interdisciplinary understanding by providing a discussion forum about the nature of knowledge and the similarities and differences in the ways that knowledge is gained in different disciplines. Links to TOK are identified in all DP subject guides, and all DP teachers are encouraged to help students to identify TOK knowledge questions in their subject lessons.

Extended Essay Each student has the opportunity to investigate a topic of special interest. The essay requirement acquaints diploma candidates with the kind of independent research and writing skills expected by universities. The IBO recommends that a student devote a total of about 40 hours of private study and writing time to the essay, which may be written in one of 60 subjects, including many languages. The essay permits students to deepen their programmes of study, for example by selecting a topic in one of their higher level (HL) courses. Or, in certain circumstances, they might add breadth to their academic experience by electing to write in a subject not included in their programme choices.