International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

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1 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a rigorous two-year course of study that was introduced at ISL in September The International Baccalaureate Diploma is accepted worldwide as a superior pre-university qualification for students between sixteen and nineteen. It gives students access to college and university study throughout the world, and universities rightly perceive that a student who has completed the requirements of the IB Diploma is well prepared for the demands of higher education. The IB Diploma offers both breadth, in terms of the range of courses offered, and depth, in that students must take each course for two years. It is a deliberate compromise between the specialisation required by some national systems and the breadth preferred in others. The ISL International Baccalaureate Experience The International School of Lausanne has provided an exceptional academic and extra-curricular programme for the local and international community since The school offers all three IB programmes, including the Primary Years Programme (IBPYP) and Middle Years Programme (IBMYP). The IBDP or IB certificates are offered to all students in Year 12 and 13 with each year group consisting of around 53 students. The dedicated, experienced and well-qualified teachers provide a secure and happy environment where students are stimulated to learn and have the satisfaction of realising their full potential. The relatively small classes and a good student teacher ratio ensure that each child receives the close supervision and individual attention which he or she deserves. The IB Diploma Results of students at the International School of Lausanne are excellent, with a mean points score each year of points, well above the world mean and amongst the best nonselective IB Diploma schools globally. The IB Diploma Curriculum Students take six subjects for the IB diploma; three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). Each student must take one course from each of six groups.

2 Generally, subjects studied at Higher Level will reflect the student s area of interest and specialisation, and will be covered in greater depth and breadth than subjects studied at Standard Level. Higher Level courses involve about 50% more work and are also more demanding. When choosing courses, it is essential to choose one subject from each of the six option blocks, A to F. (see end page). The option blocks are designed to allow the maximum different subject combinations, given some necessary scheduling constraints. At ISL we anticipate the following choices will be available in August 2015: Group 1 Studies in Language and Literature English A Literature This is a literature course for native or near-native speakers offered at both HL and SL. The course in other languages may be available by special arrangement. Thirteen (HL) and ten (SL) works of literature are studied, three of which are World Literature in translation. English A Language & Literature The course focuses on literary or non-literary texts. Together, the four parts of the course allow the student to explore English through its cultural development and use, its media forms and functions, and its literature. French A Language & Literature The course focuses on literary or non-literary texts. Together, the four parts of the course allow the student to explore French through its cultural development and use, its media forms and functions, and its literature.

3 Group 2 Language Acquisition French B Language B is a foreign language course for students with previous experience of learning the language. It is not primarily a literature course, though literature is studied as a means of understanding the complex use of the language. The emphasis is on communicative skills in speech and writing, and understanding the culture of the language. French B Ab Initio (Beginners) Offered at SL only, this is a foreign language learning programme for absolute beginners. German B A second language course for students with some knowledge of German. Spanish B A second language course for students with some knowledge of Spanish. English B A second language course for students with some knowledge of English. Mandarin B Ab initio (Beginners) ONLINE An online course offered via Pamoja Education Group 3 - Individuals and Societies Geography Geography is the interface of the humanities and the sciences. Students are concerned with urbanisation, population, development and environmental quality. The course examines the spatial processes and perceptions of humans, as well as the inter-relations between the human and natural environments. All students undertake fieldwork in the local area and further afield. Economics Individuals, firms and governments must constantly make choices, which will affect their own economic wellbeing and that of society as a whole. How these choices are made and the analysis of their consequences is central to the field of economics. Both HL and SL students cover the same topic but in the HL course the topics, other than Developmental Economics, are studied in more depth. History Both History HL and SL classes study a selection of twentieth century world history topics. At HL students also study one regional option in depth. Students develop the ability to interpret a wide variety of source material and to discuss and debate the divergent views of historians. Global Politics All SL and HL students complete a common core entitled "People, Power and Politics". This consists of four core units: Power, sovereignty and international relations, Human rights, Development and Peace and conflict. All students also undertake an engagement activity

4 through which they study a political issue of interest experientially. HL students also examine two contemporary global political challenges, through a case studies approach. Group 4 - Experimental Sciences Biology In the study of the science of living things and how they function, students cover a variety of topics including Cells, Genetics, Biochemistry, Human Health, Ecology, Applied Plant and Animal Science, Physiology of Exercise, Diet and Human Nutrition, and Evolution. Chemistry Chemistry is a pre-requisite for many science higher education courses. It is an experimental science that combines academic study with practical and investigational skills. The course includes the following themes: Atomic Theory, the Periodic Table, Bonding and Structure, Organic Chemistry, and Energetics. Physics This is the study of the properties and interactions of matter and energy. Physics at SL is not calculus-based, and includes the study of History of Ideas in Physics. Main themes include Mechanics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, Waves, Heat, and Electricity and Magnetism. No specific level of achievement in mathematics is required for any IB science course, but HL Physics students are often advised to combine it with HL Mathematics. Sports Exercise and Health Science This is the study is the study of the science relating to physical performance in sport and health. It includes a consideration of the physiological, biomechanical and psychological demands relating to high level performance in an activity. The course is largely classroom-based and follows normal scientific inquiry. There are the traditional disciplines of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition. Computer Science Computational thinking lies at the heart of the course and is integrated with other topics. This will be supported by practical activities including programming. Candidates will learn programming skills as a critical element of developing higher-level skills applicable to virtually all fields of study. Four course options are available; databases, modelling and simulation, web science, object-oriented programming. Algorithmic thinking will only be externally assessed at the level of pseudo-code. Group 5 Mathematics

5 Mathematics HL This HL course is a very challenging mathematics programme, designed for students with a strong background and good ability in mathematics. Students may choose this level if they are planning to continue their education in physics or engineering, or simply because they enjoy mathematics. Mathematics SL This course caters for students who already possess a knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply mathematical techniques correctly. Students who choose this course will be able mathematicians who may be preparing for future studies in subjects such as chemistry, economics, or psychology. Mathematical Studies SL This is a SL course and is to equivalent in status to mathematics SL. It is designed for students with varied mathematical backgrounds and abilities and has an emphasis on applications of mathematics. It prepares students to be able to solve problems in a variety of settings, to develop more sophisticated mathematical reasoning and to enhance their critical thinking. Students taking this course are well prepared for university courses in social sciences, humanities, languages or arts. Group 6 - Arts and Electives Visual Arts All students entering the Visual Arts programme should have an interest in both historical and contemporary art. There are two parts to the course: Studio Work and the Research Workbook. HL students study both; SL students choose to focus on either practical work or theory. Music Involving aspects of the composition, performance and critical analysis of music, the course exposes students to forms, styles and functions of music from a wide range of historical and socio-cultural contexts. Students create, participate in, and reflect upon music from their own background and those of others. HL students are required to present both creating and solo performing. Theatre This course is a multifaceted theatre-making course of study. It gives students the opportunity to make theatre as creators, designers, directors and performers. It emphasizes the importance of working both individually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. It offers the opportunity to engage actively in the creative process, transforming ideas into action as inquisitive and productive artists. Film SL (Online) This is an online course provided by Pajoma Education. IB Diploma Film aims to develop students skills so that they become adept in both interpreting and making film texts. Through

6 the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making, the course explores film history, theory and socio-economic background. The sixth subject chosen may be another subject from Groups 2, 3 or 4. At the centre of the IB Diploma model are three elements that ensure the IB Diploma is a unique educational programme. Theory of Knowledge (ToK) This course aims to stimulate critical reflection on knowledge. Students acquire an awareness of what they and others know. They are encouraged to analyse concepts and arguments, and to examine the nature of value judgments. From birth we learn. By various means we accumulate knowledge and grow. We adopt, accept, evaluate, analyse, appreciate, believe, espouse, and reject knowledge. In this way, we become who we are. How does this happen? The aims of this course are to engage students in reflection, and in the questioning of the bases of knowledge. The course is divided into three parts: 1. Knowers and Knowing 2. Ways of Knowing 3. Areas of Knowledge

7 The Extended Essay A piece of research of 4000 words is written under the guidance of one of the subject teachers. Excellent preparation for higher education, it is an opportunity to demonstrate to university and college admissions tutors an interest in a subject beyond the bounds of the syllabus. The extended essay is completed in October of Year 13. CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) The CAS requirement provides a counterbalance to the academic programme. Participation in a variety of activities including drama productions, sports and community service, encourages young people to share their energies and special talents whilst developing awareness, concern, and the ability to work cooperatively with others. The CAS programme aims to develop students who are: reflective thinkers they understand their own strengths and limitations, identify goals and devise strategies for personal growth willing to accept new challenges and new roles aware of themselves as members of communities with responsibilities towards each other and the environment active participants in sustained, collaborative projects balanced they enjoy and find significance in their activities Through their involvement in these components of the course students develop skills that set them apart from other students when they progress to university or college. The student who satisfies the demands of the International Baccalaureate Diploma demonstrates a strong commitment to learning, both in terms of the mastery of subject content and in the development of skills and discipline necessary for success in a competitive world. Assessment and the Grading System The IB Diploma is not granted after an accumulation of credits. This assessment is based primarily on external examinations taken in all subjects in May of Year 13. However, all courses include at least 20% internal assessment. Each subject is graded on a scale of 1 (minimum) to 7 (maximum). In order to earn the Diploma a student must meet defined standards and conditions including a minimum total of 24 points and the satisfactory completion of the three diploma requirements outlined above: Theory of Knowledge (ToK); the Extended Essay; and CAS (creativity, action and service) activities.

8 The minimum score of 24 is based on the notion that a grade 4 represents a passing level in each of the six subjects. Excellent performance in the six subject areas results in a grade 7 for each, or a total of 42 points. Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay combine to contribute a possible 3 additional points to the overall score, giving a maximum diploma score of 45 points. University recognition world-wide IB Diploma holders gain admission to colleges and universities throughout the world. These include well-known European and American institutions such as Oxford, Yale and the Sorbonne. Many offer advanced standing or course credit to students with strong IB Diploma examination results. In the United States the IB Diploma is valued as an honours program of exceptional merit. The Background of the International Baccalaureate The IB programme began in Geneva in the 1960s to unify the educational demands on all European students, to meet the needs of highly motivated and academically oriented secondary students, to facilitate geographical and cultural mobility, and to promote international understanding through a shared academic experience. Today there are approximately 3500 diploma schools in 141 countries. The IB headquarters are in Geneva, with administrative offices in London, New York, Buenos Aires and Singapore. Every year some 4000 individual subject examiners worldwide participate in the assessment of student work. The International Baccalaureate Organization website, which contains up-to-date information about the IB programmes, can be found at If you have any questions about the IB Diploma Programme at ISL, please contact Mr Simon Foley, Assistant Principal - IB Diploma Coordinator. International School of Lausanne Chemin de la Grangette Le Mont-sur-Lausanne Switzerland Phone: Fax: info@isl.ch IB office phone: IB office dpcoordinator@isl.ch

9 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme IB Diploma Subject Groups Language 1 English A Literature HL or SL English A Lang & Literature HL or SL French A Lang & Literature HL or SL 3. Individuals and Societies Economics HL or SL Geography HL or SL History HL or SL Global Politics HL or SL 2. Language 2 French B HL or SL, French ab initio SL German B HL or SL, Spanish B HL or SL* Mandarin SL ab initio (online) English B HL or SL 4. Experimental Sciences Biology HL or SL Chemistry HL or SL Physics HL or SL Sports Exercise & Health Science SL Computer Science HL or SL 5. Mathematics Mathematics HL or SL Mathematical Studies SL 6. Arts and Electives Visual Arts HL or SL Theatre HL or SL Music HL or SL Film (online) SL Or another subject from groups 2, 3 or 4 Online IB Diploma Subject Choices August