The language A: literature aims at exploring the various manifestations of literature as a particularly powerful mode of writing across cultures and throughout history. The course aims at developing an understanding of factors that contribute to the production and reception of literature—the creativity of writers and readers, the nature of their interaction with their respective contexts and with literary tradition, the ways in which language can give rise to meaning and/or effect, and the performative and transformative potential of literary creation and response. Through close analysis of a range of literary texts in a number of literary forms and from different times and places, students will consider their own interpretations as well as the critical perspectives of others, to explore how such positions are shaped by cultural belief systems and to negotiate meanings for texts.

The aims of studies in language and literature courses are to enable students to: 

• engage with a range of texts, in a variety of media and forms, from different periods, styles and cultures 

• develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, presenting and performing 

• develop skills in interpretation, analysis and evaluation

• develop sensitivity to the formal and aesthetic qualities of texts and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and open up multiple meanings develop an understanding of relationships between texts and a variety of perspectives, cultural contexts, and local and global issues, and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and open up multiple meanings

• develop an understanding of the relationships between studies in language and literature and other disciplines communicate and collaborate in a confident and creative way foster a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of language and literature.

e: emiel.stegeman@uwccostarica.org

The language A: language and literature course aims at studying the complex and dynamic nature of language and exploring both its practical and aesthetic dimensions. The course will explore the crucial role language plays in communication, reflecting experience and shaping the world, and the roles of individuals themselves as producers of language. Throughout the course, students will explore the various ways in which language choices, text types, literary forms, and contextual elements all effect meaning.

Through close analysis of various text types and literary forms, students will consider their own interpretations, as well as the critical perspectives of others, to explore how such positions are shaped by cultural belief systems and to negotiate meanings for texts.

The aims of studies in language and literature courses are to enable students to:

•  engage with a range of texts, in a variety of media and forms, from different periods, styles, and cultures

• develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, presenting, and performing

• develop skills in interpretation, analysis, and evaluation

• develop sensitivity to the formal and aesthetic qualities of texts and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and open up multiple meanings

• develop an understanding of relationships between texts and a

• variety of perspectives, cultural contexts, and local and global issues,

• and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and

• open up multiple meanings

• develop an understanding of the relationships between studies in language and literature and other disciplines

• communicate and collaborate in a confident and creative way

• foster a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of language and literature

e: christine.breitenbach@uwccostarica.org 

El curso de lenguaje A: lenguaje y literatura tiene como objetivo estudiar la naturaleza compleja y dinámica del lenguaje y explorar sus dimensiones prácticas y estéticas. El curso explorará el papel crucial que desempeña el lenguaje en la comunicación, reflejando la experiencia y dando forma al mundo, y los roles de los propios individuos como productores de lenguaje. A lo largo del curso, los estudiantes explorarán las diversas formas en que las elecciones de idioma, los tipos de texto, las formas literarias y los elementos contextuales afectan el significado .

Mediante un análisis minucioso de varios tipos de texto y formas literarias, los estudiantes considerarán sus propias interpretaciones, así como las perspectivas críticas de los demás, para explorar cómo esas posiciones son formadas por los sistemas de creencias culturales y para negociar los significados de los textos.

Los objetivos de los estudios en cursos de lengua y literatura son permitir a los estudiantes:

•   Interactuar con una variedad de textos, en una variedad de medios y formas, de diferentes períodos, estilos y culturas

• Desarrollar habilidades para escuchar, hablar, leer, escribir, ver, presentar y actuar

• Desarrollar habilidades de interpretación, análisis y evaluación.

• Desarrollar la sensibilidad a las cualidades formales y estéticas de los textos y una apreciación de cómo contribuyen a diversas respuestas y abren múltiples significados

• Desarrollar una comprensión de las relaciones entre textos y un variedad de perspectivas, contextos culturales y problemas locales y globales ,y una apreciación de cómo contribuyen a diversas respuestas y abrir múltiples significados

• Desarrollar una comprensión de las relaciones entre los estudios de lengua y literatura y otras disciplinas.

• Comunicarse y colaborar de manera segura y creativa

• Fomentar un interés y disfrute del lenguaje y la literatura de por vida. 

e: rolando.cubero@uwccostarica.org 

The language A: literature aims at exploring the various manifestations of literature as a particularly powerful mode of writing across cultures and throughout history. The course aims at developing an understanding of factors that contribute to the production and reception of literature—the creativity of writers and readers, the nature of their interaction with their respective contexts and with literary tradition, the ways in which language can give rise to meaning and/or effect, and the performative and transformative potential of literary creation and response. Through close analysis of a range of literary texts in a number of literary forms and from different times and places, students will consider their own interpretations as well as the critical perspectives of others, to explore how such positions are shaped by cultural belief systems and to negotiate meanings for texts.

The aims of studies in language and literature courses are to enable students to: 

• engage with a range of texts, in a variety of media and forms, from different periods, styles and cultures 

• develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing, presenting and performing 

• develop skills in interpretation, analysis and evaluation

• develop sensitivity to the formal and aesthetic qualities of texts and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and open up multiple meanings develop an understanding of relationships between texts and a variety of perspectives, cultural contexts, and local and global issues, and an appreciation of how they contribute to diverse responses and open up multiple meanings

• develop an understanding of the relationships between studies in language and literature and other disciplines communicate and collaborate in a confident and creative way foster a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of language and literature.

Students opting to study SSST Lit. will need to arrange a language tutor at their own expense.

THIS SUBJECT IS AVAILABLE AT STANDARD LEVEL ONLY

e: rolando.cubero@uwccostarica.org 

Offered at SL only, language ab initio is a language acquisition course designed for students with no previous experience in—or very little exposure to—the target language.

Language ab initio students develop their receptive, productive and interactive skills while learning to communicate in the target language in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

Students develop the ability to communicate through the study of language, themes and texts. There are five prescribed themes: identities,experiences, human ingenuity, social organization and sharing the planet. While the themes are common to both language ab initio and language B, the language ab initio syllabus additionally prescribes four topics for each of the five themes, for a total of 20 topics that must be addressed over the two years of the course.

The following language acquisition aims are common to both language ab initio and language B.

• Develop international-mindedness through the study of languages, cultures, and ideas and issues of global significance.

• Enable students to communicate in the language they have studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes.

• Encourage, through the study of texts and through social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of a variety of perspectives of people from diverse cultures.

• Develop students’ understanding of the relationship between the languages and cultures with which they are familiar. 

• Develop students’ awareness of the importance of language in relation to other areas of knowledge.

• Provide students, through language learning and the process of inquiry, with opportunities for intellectual engagement and the development of critical- and creative-thinking skills.

• Provide students with a basis for further study, work and leisure through the use of an additional language.

• Foster curiosity, creativity and a lifelong enjoyment of language learning.

e: enrique.fernandez@uwccostarica.org (Spanish)

Language B is a language acquisition course designed for students with some previous experience of the target language. Students further develop their ability to communicate through the study of language, themes and texts. There are five prescribed themes: identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organization, and sharing the planet.

Both language B SL and HL students learn to communicate in the target language in familiar and unfamiliar contexts. The distinction between language B SL and HL can be seen in the level of competency the student is expected to develop in receptive, productive, and interactive skills.

At HL, the study of two literary works originally written in the target language is required, and students are expected to extend the range and complexity of the language they use and understand in order to communicate. Students continue to develop their knowledge of vocabulary and grammar, as well as their conceptual understanding of how language works, in order to construct, analyse, and evaluate arguments on a variety of topics relating to course content and the target language culture(s).

The following language acquisition aims are common to both language ab initio and language B.

• Develop international-mindedness through the study of languages, cultures, and ideas and issues of global significance.

• Enable students to communicate in the language they have studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes.

• Encourage, through the study of texts and through social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of a variety of perspectives of people from diverse cultures.

• Develop students’ understanding of the relationship between the languages and cultures with which they are familiar. 

• Develop students’ awareness of the importance of language in relation to other areas of knowledge.

• Provide students, through language learning and the process of inquiry, with opportunities for intellectual engagement and the development of critical- and creative-thinking skills.

• Provide students with a basis for further study, work, and leisure through the use of an additional language.

• Foster curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong enjoyment of language learning.

e: andres.montero@uwccostarica.org (French)

e: ana.alavarado@uwccostarica.org (Spanish)

e:  nicholas.stone@uwccostarica.org  (English)

The IBDP Global Politics course explores the fundamental political concepts of power, sovereignty, legitimacy and interdependence in a range of contexts. It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity and processes, as well as to explore political issues affecting their own lives. The course helps students to understand abstract political concepts by grounding them in real-world examples and case studies. It also invites comparison between such examples and case studies to ensure a wider and transnational perspective.

Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources. The study of global politics enables students to critically engage with different and new perspectives and approaches to politics in order to comprehend the challenges of the changing world and become aware of their role in it as active global citizens. 

The aims of the global politics course are to enable students to:

• understand key political concepts and contemporary political issues in a range of contexts

• develop an understanding of the local, national, international, and global dimensions of political activity

• understand, appreciate, and critically engage with a variety of perspectives and approaches in global politics

• appreciate the complex and interconnected nature of many political issues, and develop the capacity to interpret competing and contestable claims regarding those issues.

e: ryan.buchanan@uwccostarica.org 

Economics is an exciting, dynamic subject that allows students to develop an understanding of the complexities and interdependence of economic activities in a rapidly changing world. At the heart of economic theory is the problem of scarcity. Owing to scarcity, choices have to be made. The economics course, at both SL and HL, uses economic theories, models and key concepts to examine the ways in which these choices are made: at the level of producers and consumers in individual markets (microeconomics); at the level of the government and the national economy (macroeconomics); and at an international level, where countries are becoming increasingly interdependent (the global economy). The DP economics course allows students to explore these models, theories and key concepts, and apply them, using empirical data, through the examination of six real-world issues. Through their own inquiry, students will be able to appreciate both the values and limitations of economic models in explaining real-world economic behaviour and outcomes. By focusing on the six real-world issues through the nine key concepts (scarcity, choice, efficiency, equity, economic well-being, sustainability, change, interdependence and intervention), students of the economics course will develop the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes that will encourage them to act responsibly as global citizens.

The aims of the DP economics course are to enable students to:

• develop a critical understanding of a range of economic theories, models, ideas and tools in the areas of microeconomics, macroeconomics and the global economy

• apply economic theories, models, ideas and tools, and analyse economic data to understand and engage with real-world economic issues and problems facing individuals and societies

• develop a conceptual understanding of individuals’ and societies’ economic choices, interactions, challenges and consequences of economic decision-making.

e: brian.lupao@uwccostarica.org 

Social and cultural anthropology is the comparative study of culture and human societies and the exploration of the general principles of social and cultural life. The course places emphasis on comparative perspectives that make cultural assumptions explicit, and contributes to an understanding of contemporary real-world issues such as war and conflict, the environment, poverty, injustice, and human rights.

Social and cultural anthropology is distinct from other social sciences in its research tradition of participant observation and in-depth, empirical study of social groups. Areas of anthropological inquiry in this course are: belonging; classifying the world; communication, expression and technology; conflict; development; health, illness and healing; movement, time and space; production, exchange and consumption; and the body. These areas are explored through the key anthropological concepts of belief and knowledge, change, culture, identity, materiality, power, social relations, society, and symbolism.

The course engages students with the concepts, methods, language and theories of the discipline. At the heart is the practice of anthropologists, and the insights they produce in the form of ethnographic material. Through authentic anthropological practice, students engage with anthropological approaches and develop critical, reflexive knowledge. It contributes a distinctive approach to intercultural awareness and understanding, which embodies the essence of an IB education, and fosters the development of globally aware, internationally minded, and ethically sensitive citizens.

The aims of the social and cultural anthropology course at SL and HL are to enable students to:

•  explore the characteristics and complexities of social and cultural life

•  develop new ways of thinking about the world that demonstrate the interconnectedness of local, regional and global processes and issues

•  foster an awareness of how cultural and social contexts inform the production of anthropological knowledge develop as critical thinkers who are open-minded, reflective and ethically sensitive

• apply anthropological understanding in order to reflect on their own lives and experiences, as well as those of others, transforming their actions in the world

e: jeff.lile@uwccostarica.org 

At the core of the DP psychology course is an introduction to three different approaches to understanding behaviour: the biological, cognitive and sociocultural approaches. Students study and critically evaluate the knowledge, concepts, theories and research that have developed the understanding in these fields.

The interaction of these approaches to studying psychology forms the basis of a holistic and integrated approach to understanding mental processes and behaviour as a complex, dynamic phenomenon, allowing students to appreciate the diversity as well as the commonality between their own behaviour and that of others.

The contribution and the interaction of the three approaches is understood through the four options in the course, focusing on areas of applied psychology: abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, health psychology, and the psychology of relationships. The options provide an opportunity to take what is learned from the study of the approaches to psychology and apply it to specific lines of inquiry.

Psychologists employ a range of research methods, both qualitative and quantitative, to test their observations and hypotheses. DP psychology promotes an understanding of the various approaches to research and how they are used to critically reflect on the evidence as well as assist in the design, implementation, analysis and evaluation of the students’ own investigations. Surrounding the approaches and the options are the overarching themes of research and ethics. A consideration of both is paramount to the nature of the subject.

The aims of the psychology course at SL and at HL are to:

• develop an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour

• apply an understanding of the biological, cognitive and sociocultural factors affecting mental processes and behaviour to at least one applied area of study

• understand diverse methods of inquiry

• understand the importance of ethical practice in psychological research in general and observe ethical practice in their own inquiries

• ensure that ethical practices are upheld in all psychological inquiry and discussion

• develop an awareness of how psychological research can be applied to address real-world problems and promote positive change

• provide students with a basis for further study, work and leisure through the use of an additional language

• foster curiosity, creativity and a lifelong enjoyment of language learning.

e: karlina.cartin@uwccostarica.org

El curso de historia del PD es un curso de historia mundial basado en un enfoque comparativo y multi-perspectiva de la historia. Implica el estudio de una variedad de tipos de historia, incluidos los políticos, económicos, sociales y culturales, y proporciona un equilibrio de estructura y flexibilidad. 

El curso enfatiza la importancia de alentar a los estudiantes a pensar históricamente y desarrollar habilidades históricas, así como a adquirir conocimientos fácticos. Pone especial importancia en desarrollar las habilidades del pensamiento crítico y en desarrollar una comprensión de las múltiples interpretaciones de la historia. De esta manera, el curso implica una exploración crítica desafiante y exigente del pasado. Los maestros enseñan explícitamente habilidades de pensamiento e investigación como la comprensión, el análisis de textos, la transferencia y el uso de fuentes primarias. 

Hay seis conceptos clave que tienen un protagonismo particular a lo largo del curso de historia del PD: cambio, continuidad, causalidad, consecuencia, importancia y perspectivas. 

Los objetivos del curso de historia del PD son permitir a los estudiantes:

• Desarrollar una comprensión y un interés continuo en el pasado.

• Alentar a los estudiantes a participar con múltiples perspectivas y apreciar la naturaleza compleja de los conceptos, problemas, eventos y desarrollos históricos

• Promover la mentalidad internacional a través del estudio de la historia de más de una región del mundo.

• Desarrollar una comprensión de la historia como disciplina y desarrollar una conciencia histórica que incluya un sentido de cronología y contexto, y una comprensión de diferentes perspectivas históricas.

• Desarrollar habilidades históricas clave, incluida la interacción efectiva con las fuentes

• Aumentar la comprensión de los estudiantes de sí mismos y de la sociedad contemporánea fomentando la reflexión sobre el pasado. 

e: norman.duran@uwccostarica.org

Environmental systems and societies (ESS) is an interdisciplinary course offered only at the standard level (SL). This course can fulfill either the individuals and societies or the sciences requirement. Alternatively, this course enables students to satisfy the requirements of both subject groups simultaneously while studying one course.

ESS is firmly grounded in both a scientific exploration of environmental systems in their structure and function, and in the exploration of cultural, economic, ethical, political, and social interactions of societies with the environment. As a result of studying this course, students will become equipped with the ability to recognize and evaluate the impact of our complex system of societies on the natural world. The interdisciplinary nature of the DP course requires a broad skill set from students, including the ability to perform research and investigations, participate in philosophical discussions, and problem-solving. The course requires a systems approach to environmental understanding and promotes holistic thinking about environmental issues. Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, knowledge transfer, and use of primary sources. They encourage students to develop solutions at the personal, community, and global levels.

The aims of the DP environmental systems and societies course are to enable students to:

• acquire the knowledge and understanding of environmental systems and issues at a variety of scales

• apply the knowledge, methodologies, and skills to analyse environmental systems and issues at a variety of scales

• appreciate the dynamic interconnectedness between environmental systems and societies

• value the combination of personal, local, and global perspectives in making informed decisions and taking responsible actions on environmental issues

• be critically aware that resources are finite, that these could be inequitably distributed and exploited, and that management of these inequities is the key to sustainability

• develop awareness of the diversity of environmental value systems

• develop critical awareness that environmental problems are caused and solved by decisions made by individuals and societies that are based on different areas of knowledge

• engage with the controversies that surround a variety of environmental issues

• create innovative solutions to environmental issues by engaging actively in local and global contexts.

e: florian.schmitt@uwccostarica.org 

Sistemas y sociedades ambientales (ESS) es un curso interdisciplinario que se ofrece solo a nivel estándar (SL). Este curso puede cumplir con los requisitos de individuos y sociedades o con las ciencias. Alternativamente, este curso permite a los estudiantes satisfacer los requisitos de ambos grupos de asignaturas simultáneamente mientras estudian un curso. 

ESS está firmemente basado en la exploración científica de los sistemas ambientales en su estructura y función, y en la exploración de las interacciones culturales, económicas, éticas, políticas y sociales de las sociedades con el medio ambiente. Como resultado de estudiar este curso, los estudiantes estarán equipados con la capacidad de reconocer y evaluar el impacto de nuestro complejo sistema de sociedades en el mundo natural. La naturaleza interdisciplinaria del curso de DP requiere un amplio conjunto de habilidades de los estudiantes, incluida la capacidad de realizar investigaciones e investigaciones, participación en la discusión filosófica y resolución de problemas. El curso requiere un enfoque de sistemas para la comprensión ambiental y promueve el pensamiento holístico sobre los problemas ambientales. Los maestros enseñan explícitamente habilidades de pensamiento e investigación como la comprensión, el análisis de textos, la transferencia de conocimientos y el uso de fuentes primarias. Alientan a los estudiantes a desarrollar soluciones a nivel personal, comunitario y global. 

Los objetivos del curso de sistemas y sociedades ambientales del PD son permitir a los estudiantes:

• adquirir el conocimiento y la comprensión de los sistemas y problemas ambientales en una variedad de escalas

• aplicar los conocimientos, las metodologías y las habilidades para analizar los sistemas y problemas ambientales en una variedad de escalas

• apreciar la interconexión dinámica entre los sistemas ambientales y las sociedades.

• valorar la combinación de perspectivas personales, locales y globales para tomar decisiones informadas y tomar acciones responsables en temas ambientales

• ser críticamente consciente de que los recursos son limitados, que estos podrían ser distribuidos y explotados de manera desigual, y que el manejo de estas inequidades es la clave para la sostenibilidad

• Desarrollar conciencia sobre la diversidad de los sistemas de valores ambientales.

• Desarrollar una conciencia crítica de que los problemas ambientales son causados ​​y resueltos por decisiones tomadas por individuos y sociedades basadas en diferentes áreas de conocimiento.

• participar en las controversias que rodean una variedad de problemas ambientales

• crear soluciones innovadoras para los problemas ambientales al participar activamente en contextos locales y globales. 

e: adriana.rincon@uwccostarica.org

Biology is the study of life. The vast diversity of species makes biology both an endless source of fascination and a considerable challenge.

Biologists attempt to understand the living world at all levels, from the micro to the macro, using many different approaches and techniques. Biology is still a young science, and great progress is expected in the 21st century. This progress is important at a time of growing pressure on the human population and the environment.

By studying biology in the DP, students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the sciences. Teachers provide students with opportunities to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers, and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP biology course is to enable students to:

1. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities

2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology

3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology

4. develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information

5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies

7. develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science

8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology

9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology

10. develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

e: jeff.norris@uwccistarica.org

Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills. Chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in which we live and all biological systems. Chemistry is often a prerequisite for many other courses in higher education, such as medicine, biological science and environmental science.

Both theory and practical work should be undertaken by all students as they complement one another naturally, both in school and in the wider scientific community. The DP chemistry course allows students to develop a wide range of practical skills and to increase facility in the use of mathematics. It also allows students to develop interpersonal and information technology skills, which are essential to life in the 21st century.

By studying chemistry students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the subject.

Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP chemistry course are to enable students to:

1. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities

2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology

3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology

4. develop an ability to analyse, evaluate, and synthesize scientific information

5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies

7. develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science

8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology

9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology

10. develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

e: karina.alvarez@uwccostarica.org 

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, observations remain essential to the very core of the subject. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations.

Besides helping us better understand the natural world, physics gives us the ability to alter our environments. This raises the issue of the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists.

By studying physics students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the subject.

Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP physics course are to enable students to:

1. appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities

2. acquire a body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology

3. apply and use a body of knowledge, methods, and techniques that characterize science and technology

4. develop an ability to analyse, evaluate, and synthesize scientific information

5. develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities

6. develop experimental and investigative scientific skills, including the use of current technologies

7. develop and apply 21st-century communication skills in the study of science

8. become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology

9. develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology

10. develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

e: erick.loria@uwccostarica.org 

The IB DP Mathematics: analysis and approaches course recognizes the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics. The focus is on developing important mathematical concepts in a comprehensible, coherent and rigorous way, achieved by a carefully balanced approach.

Students are encouraged to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve abstract problems as well as those set in a variety of meaningful contexts. Mathematics: analysis and approaches has a strong emphasis on the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments. Students should expect to develop insight into mathematical form and structure, and should be intellectually equipped to appreciate the links between concepts in different topic areas. Students are also encouraged to develop the skills needed to continue their mathematical growth in other learning environments.

The internally assessed exploration allows students to develop independence in mathematical learning. Throughout the course students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas.

The aims of all DP mathematics courses are to enable students to:

• develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and appreciate its elegance and power

• develop an understanding of the concepts, principles, and nature of mathematics

• communicate mathematics clearly, concisely, and confidently in a variety of contexts

• develop logical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem solving to instil confidence in using mathematics

• employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization

• take action to apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge, and to future developments in their local and global communities

• appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics influence each other

• appreciate the moral, social, and ethical questions arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics

• appreciate the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, international, and historical perspectives

• appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course

• develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others

• independently and collaboratively extend their understanding of mathematics.

e: chris.kennedy@uwccostarica.org

The IB DP Mathematics: applications and interpretation course recognizes the increasing role that mathematics and technology play in a diverse range of fields in a data-rich world. As such, it emphasizes the meaning of mathematics in context by focusing on topics that are often used as applications or in mathematical modelling. To give this understanding a firm base, this course includes topics that are traditionally part of a pre-university mathematics course such as calculus and statistics. Students are encouraged to solve real-world problems, construct and communicate this mathematically and interpret the conclusions or generalizations.

Students should expect to develop strong technology skills, and will be intellectually equipped to appreciate the links between the theoretical and the practical concepts in mathematics. All external assessments involve the use of technology. Students are also encouraged to develop the skills needed to continue their mathematical growth in other learning environments.

The internally assessed exploration allows students to develop independence in mathematical learning. Throughout the course students are encouraged to take a considered approach to various mathematical activities and to explore different mathematical ideas.

The aims of all DP mathematics courses are to enable students to:

• develop a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics, and appreciate its elegance and power

• develop an understanding of the concepts, principles and nature of mathematics

• communicate mathematics clearly, concisely and confidently in a variety of contexts

• develop logical and creative thinking, and patience and persistence in problem solving to instil confidence in using mathematics

• employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization

• take action to apply and transfer skills to alternative situations, to other areas of knowledge and to future developments in their local and global communities

• appreciate how developments in technology and mathematics influence each other

• appreciate the moral, social and ethical questions arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics

• appreciate the universality of mathematics and its multicultural, international and historical perspectives

• appreciate the contribution of mathematics to other disciplines, and as a particular “area of knowledge” in the TOK course

• develop the ability to reflect critically upon their own work and the work of others

• independently and collaboratively extend their understanding of mathematics.

THIS COURSE IS OFFERED AT STANDARD LEVEL ONLY

e: juan.martinez@uwccosta.org

e: carolina.buitrago@uwccostarica.org 

El curso IB DP Matemáticas: aplicaciones e interpretación reconoce el papel cada vez más importante que juegan las matemáticas y la tecnología en una amplia gama de campos en un mundo rico en datos. Como tal, enfatiza el significado de las matemáticas en contexto al enfocarse en temas que a menudo se usan como aplicaciones o en modelos matemáticos. Para darle a esta comprensión una base firme, este curso incluye temas que tradicionalmente son parte de un curso de matemáticas preuniversitario, como cálculo y estadística. Se alienta a los estudiantes a resolver problemas del mundo real, construir y comunicar esto matemáticamente e interpretar las conclusiones o generalizaciones.

Los estudiantes deben esperar desarrollar habilidades tecnológicas sólidas y estarán equipados intelectualmente para apreciar los vínculos entre los conceptos teóricos y prácticos en matemáticas. Todas las evaluaciones externas implican el uso de tecnología. También se alienta a los estudiantes a desarrollar las habilidades necesarias para continuar su crecimiento matemático en otros entornos de aprendizaje.

La exploración evaluada internamente permite a los estudiantes desarrollar independencia en el aprendizaje matemático. A lo largo del curso, se alienta a los estudiantes a adoptar un enfoque considerado de diversas actividades matemáticas y a explorar diferentes ideas matemáticas.

Los objetivos de todos los cursos de matemática del PD son permitir a los estudiantes:

• Desarrollar una curiosidad y disfrute de las matemáticas, y apreciar su elegancia y poder.

• Desarrollar una comprensión de los conceptos, principios y naturaleza de las matemáticas.

• Comunicar las matemáticas de manera clara, concisa y segura en una variedad de contextos.

• Desarrollar un pensamiento lógico y creativo, y paciencia y persistencia en la resolución de problemas para infundir confianza en el uso de las matemáticas.

• Emplear y refinar sus poderes de abstracción y generalización.

• Tomar medidas para aplicar y transferir habilidades a situaciones alternativas, a otras áreas de conocimiento y a desarrollos futuros en sus comunidades locales y globales

• Apreciar cómo los desarrollos tecnológicos y matemáticos se influyen mutuamente

• Apreciar las cuestiones morales, sociales y éticas que surgen del trabajo de los matemáticos y las aplicaciones de las matemáticas.

• Apreciar la universalidad de las matemáticas y sus perspectivas multiculturales, internacionales e históricas.

• Apreciar la contribución de las matemáticas a otras disciplinas y como un "área de conocimiento" particular en el curso TOK

• Desarrollar la capacidad de reflexionar críticamente sobre su propio trabajo y el trabajo de otros.

• Ampliar de manera independiente y colaborativa su comprensión de las matemáticas. 

e: ericka.martinez@uwccostarica.org

The IB Diploma Programme visual arts course encourages students to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. It is a thought-provoking course in which students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. In addition to exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with, and critically reflect upon a wide range of contemporary practices and media. The course is designed for students who want to go on to further study of visual arts in higher education, as well as for those who are seeking lifelong enrichment through visual arts.

The aims of the arts subjects are to enable students to:

1. enjoy lifelong engagement with the arts

2. become informed, reflective, and critical practitioners in the arts

3. understand the dynamic and changing nature of the arts

4. explore and value the diversity of the arts across time, place, and cultures

5. express ideas with confidence and competence

6. develop perceptual and analytical skills.

In addition, the aims of the visual arts course at SL and HL are to enable students to:

7. make artwork that is influenced by personal and cultural contexts

8. become informed and critical observers and makers of visual culture and media

9. develop skills, techniques, and processes to communicate concepts and ideas.

e: melissa.maclean@uwccostarica.org 

Theatre is a practical subject that encourages discovery through experimentation, risk-taking and the presentation of ideas. The IB DP theatre course is multifaceted and gives students the opportunity to actively engage in theatre as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble.

Students learn to apply research and theory to inform and to contextualize their work. Through researching, creating, preparing, presenting and critically reflecting on theatre, they gain a richer understanding of themselves, their community and the world. Students experience the course from contrasting artistic and cultural perspectives. They learn about theatre from around the world, the importance of making theatre with integrity, and the impact that theatre can have on the world. It enables them to discover and engage with different forms of theatre across time, place and culture, promoting international-mindedness and an appreciation of the diversity of theatre.

The aims of all DP arts subjects are to enable students to:

1. enjoy lifelong engagement with the arts

2. become informed, reflective and critical practitioners in the arts

3. understand the dynamic and changing nature of the arts

4. explore and value the diversity of the arts across time, place and cultures

5. express ideas with confidence and competence

6. develop perceptual and analytical skills

In addition, the aims of the HL theatre course are to enable students to:

7. explore theatre in a variety of contexts and understand how these contexts inform practice (theatre in context)

8. understand and engage in the processes of transforming ideas into action (theatre processes)

9. develop and apply theatre production, presentation and performance skills, working both independently and collaboratively (presenting theatre)

10. understand and appreciate the relationship between theory and practice (theatre in context, theatre processes, presenting theatre).

e: andres.montero@uwccostarica.org