Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 2015

Transcription

1 Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 2015

2 Overview Overview... 4 A1 The Diploma Programme A1.1 The IB programme continuum... 5 A1.2 The Diploma Programme...5 A1.3 Choosing subjects for a diploma... 7 A1.4 Exceptions and prohibitions...9 A1.5 Core requirements of the diploma A1.6 The bilingual diploma...11 A1.7 A non-regular diploma A1.8 Diploma Programme courses online...12 A2 Session calendars A2.1 May examination session calendar A2.2 November examination session calendar...21 A3 Administration A3.1 The role of the Diploma Programme coordinator A3.2 Diploma Programme courses online: The role of the site-based coordinator...32 A3.3 Examination dates...33 A3.4 The IB information system (IBIS) A3.5 Contacting the IB A3.6 Confidentiality and discretion...38 A3.7 Applying to become an IB examiner A3.8 Common abbreviations used by the IB A4 Subject availability A4.1 Availability of subjects: terminology...40 A4.2 Availability of subjects for May A4.3 Availability of subjects for November A4.4 Availability of subjects for May A4.5 Availability of subjects for November A5 Registration A5.1 Candidate registration A5.2 Registration categories A5.3 Summary for additional subjects and core elements...73 A5.4 Advance notice requirements A5.5 Deadlines for the registration of candidates...78 A5.6 Deadlines for retake candidates A5.7 How to register candidates on IBIS...82 A5.8 Registration status codes A5.9 Candidates taking one or more subjects again A5.10 Considerations during the registration procedure...93 A5.11 The early session arrangement A6 Fees A6.1 Assigned currencies...97 A6.2 Billing offices A6.3 Fees for services for schools A6.4 Registration, subject, core and late subject fees A6.5 Payment of the registration, subject, core and late subject fees A6.6 Appeals against a decision of the final award committee A6.7 Reimbursement of costs A6.8 Transfer candidates A6.9 Alternative examination venue A6.10 Special circumstances A6.11 Non-payment of fees A6.12 The scale of fees A7 Services A7.1 Services included within the annual fee A7.2 By-request services A7.3 The IB grant A7.4 Programme evaluation A8 Academic honesty A8.1 Academic honesty A8.2 The authentication of candidates work A8.3 Alleged academic misconduct during an examination Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 1

3 A8.4 The improper conduct of an assessment A8.5 Actions to be taken by the IB for alleged breaches to the regulations A9 Assessment access and special circumstances A9.1 Inclusive assessment arrangements A9.2 Adverse circumstances A9.3 Conflicts with or between IB examinations A9.4 Transfer candidates A9.5 Requesting copyright for a candidate s work A9.6 Candidates with incomplete work for assessment A10 Assessment procedures A10.1 Mailings from the IB Assessment Centre A10.2 Submission details for assessment material A10.3 Mailing assessment material A10.4 Teacher feedback on examinations A10.5 External assessment A10.6 Predicted grades A10.7 Internal assessment A10.8 Subject-specific information about moderation samples A10.9 Assessment that requires an audio recording A10.10 Assessment that requires a video recording A11 Results issue A11.1 The schedule A11.2 Issue of results to schools A11.3 Issue of results to candidates A11.4 Candidates and the IB Alumni Network A11.5 Issue of results to universities and admission centres A11.6 Early session entries A11.7 The interpretation of results A11.8 Diploma requirement codes A11.9 Candidates affected by special circumstances A11.10 Candidates suspected of academic misconduct A11.11 Legalization of examination results A11.12 Results certification A11.13 Feedback on the performance of candidates B1a Group 1 Language A: literature B1a.1 Publications B1a.2 Summary of latest arrival dates: May and November 2015 sessions B1a.3 Available and special request languages B1a.4 School s courses of study B1a.5 Languages A: literature not offered as a course by the school B1a.6 Language A: literature standard level school supported self-taught candidates B1a.7 Written assignment B1a.8 Internal assessment: Taught candidates B1a.9 Individual oral commentary B1a.10 Individual oral presentation B1a.11 Use of descriptors and record forms during the course B1a.12 Samples for moderation B1b Group 1 Language A: language and literature B1b.1 Publications B1b.2 Summary of latest arrival dates: May and November 2015 sessions B1b.3 Availability of languages A: language and literature B1b.4 School s courses of study B1b.5 Language A: language and literature not offered as a course by the school B1b.6 Written tasks B1b.7 Internal assessment B1b.8 Further oral activity B1b.9 Use of descriptors and record forms during the course B1b.10 Samples for moderation B2 Group 2 Language acquisition B2a Language B B2b Language ab initio B2c Classical languages B3 Group 3 Individuals and societies Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 2

4 B3.1 Publications B3.2 Summary of latest arrival dates: May and November 2015 sessions B3.3 Internal assessment B3.4 Business and management HL and SL: Case study B3.5 Information technology in a global society: Project B3.6 Information technology in a global society higher level: Case study B3.7 Psychology: Ethical guidelines for internal assessment B4 Group 4 The sciences B4.1 Publications B4.2 Summary of latest arrival dates: May and November 2015 sessions B4.3 Internal assessment requirements: Biology, chemistry, physics, design technology and sports, exercise and health science B4.4 Internal assessment requirements: Computer science B4.5 Summary of the coordinator s requirements B4. 6 Examination materials B5 Group 5 Mathematics B5 Mathematics B6 Group 6 The arts B6a Visual arts B6b Music B6c Theatre B6d Film B6e Dance B7 The extended essay B7.1 Current guide B7.2 Summary of latest arrival dates B7.3 Regulations B7.4 Subject availability B7.5 Completion of the extended essay cover B7.6 Submission of extended essays B7.7 Submission of predicted grades B8 Theory of knowledge B8.1 Current guide B8.2 Summary of latest arrival dates B8.3 Regulations B8.4 Response languages for theory of knowledge B8.5 External assessment: The essay B8.6 Internal assessment: The presentation B8.7 Submission of predicted grades B9 Creativity, action, service B9.1 Current guide B9.2 Summary of latest arrival dates B9.3 Regulations B9.4 CAS programme approval B9.5 CAS sampling B9.6 CAS monitoring B9.7 CAS programme evaluation and completion B10 Interdisciplinary subjects B10a Environmental systems and societies B10b Literature and performance B11 School-based syllabuses B11.1 School-based syllabuses: General regulations B11.2 Summary of latest arrival dates: May and November 2015 sessions B11.3 Responsibilities B11.4 Approval of a new school-based syllabus B11.5 Curriculum review B11.6 Internal assessment B11.7 Mailing instructions Forms and coversheets Forms and coversheets Essential reading Important resources Examinations in May and November Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 3

5 Overview The Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme (henceforth handbook ) is mainly for Diploma Programme coordinators (henceforth coordinators ). However, it is essential that subject teachers, extended essay supervisors and examination invigilators receive a copy of sections that are relevant to their role in the Diploma Programme. Teachers can access relevant sections of this handbook on the online curriculum centre (OCC). In order to teach each subject, administer the programme requirements for creativity, action, service (CAS) and theory of knowledge, and know how to supervise candidates for their extended essay, additional publications will be required. IB publications can be purchased through the online IB store found on the IB public website. Because all invigilators of IB examinations must be fully acquainted with the arrangements for conducting the written examinations, a separate document (The conduct of IB Diploma Programme examinations May 2015 and November 2015) on this topic will be available in the Library on IBIS. The examination schedules for May 2015 and November 2015 are available under the Essential reading tab. Part A of this handbook concerns the general administration of the Diploma Programme, while part B is group/subject specific. The relevant sections in part B must be available to subject teachers or heads of department, as appropriate. Throughout the handbook latest arrival dates are shown in bold. The first date applies to the May examination session, and the second date applies to the November session. When a time and date are stated, the time refers to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) on that day. For example, all marks for internal assessment and predicted grades must be entered on IBIS before midnight GMT on 10 April/10 October. The forms referred to in this edition of the handbook are those that must be used for examination sessions in 2015, unless otherwise stated. Forms from a previous edition may not be suitable and using them may place candidates at a disadvantage or even jeopardize the issue of their grades. For more information about forms, click on the Forms and coversheets link. Because of the complex development work involved in enabling the upload of candidates work, rather than submitting hardcopy directly to examiners, it is not possible at the time of writing the handbook to be certain that all electronic procedures will be in place for the following year. Consequently, the handbook will be updated at least twice after its publication. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 4

6 A1.1 The IB programme continuum The International Baccalaureate (IB) offers four high-quality programmes of international education to a worldwide community of schools. The four programmes for students aged 3 to 19 help develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills required to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalizing world. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 12 focuses on the development of the whole child in the classroom and in the world outside. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11 to 16 provides a framework of academic challenge and life skills, achieved through embracing and transcending traditional school subjects. The Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 16 to 19 is a demanding two-year preuniversity curriculum leading to final examinations and a qualification that is welcomed by leading universities around the world. The IB Career-related Certificate (IBCC) for students aged 16 to 19 is a rigorous and challenging programme for students who wish to focus on a particular career-path. Each programme includes a curriculum and pedagogy, student assessment where appropriate, professional development for teachers and a process of school authorization and evaluation. Although the four IB programmes have their own unique characteristics, the educational philosophy is consistent across all of the programmes. All four place strong emphasis on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship. The PYP, MYP and DP are free-standing and a school may opt to offer one, or any combination of these three programmes. However, if a school chooses to offer consecutive IB programmes, the programmes must be continuous, with students moving from one programme to the next without any gap years. Currently, a school wishing to offer the IBCC must also offer the DP. As the PYP and MYP can be considered an excellent preparation for the IBCC and the DP, schools are encouraged to consider offering the full continuum of IB programmes where a school structure allows this. In cases where a school offers more than one programme, IB offices will deal with each programme as a separate entity. Correspondence and documents from the IB will be sent to the relevant programme coordinator in the school. Fees will be invoiced separately. A1.2 The Diploma Programme The IB Diploma Programme is a challenging two-year pre-university curriculum, primarily aimed at students aged 16 to 19. It leads to a qualification that is widely recognized by the world s leading universities. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 5

7 Students learn more than a body of knowledge. The Diploma Programme prepares students for university and encourages them to: ask challenging questions learn how to learn develop a strong sense of their own identity and culture develop the ability to communicate with and understand people from other countries and cultures. The curriculum contains six subject groups together with the DP core: creativity, action, service (CAS); the extended essay (EE); and theory of knowledge (TOK). This is illustrated by the below Diploma Programme model. Candidates for the diploma study six subjects selected from the subject groups. Normally three subjects are studied at higher level (courses representing 240 teaching hours), and the remaining three subjects are studied at standard level (courses representing 150 teaching hours). All three parts of the core extended essay, theory of knowledge and creativity, action, service are compulsory and are central to the philosophy of the Diploma Programme. The extended essay has a prescribed limit of 4,000 words. It offers the opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest, and acquaints students with the independent research and writing skills expected at university. The interdisciplinary theory of knowledge course is designed to provide coherence by exploring the nature of knowledge across disciplines, encouraging an appreciation of other perspectives. Participation in the CAS programme encourages candidates to be involved in artistic pursuits, sports, and community service work. The programme fosters students awareness and appreciation of life beyond the academic arena. All higher level subjects, the core and at least one standard level subject must be taught over the two years of the programme. Up to two standard level subjects may be taught, should circumstances require, during the first year and assessed at the end of that first year as anticipated subjects. It is also permissible, should circumstances require, to teach one standard level subject during the first year and one standard level during the second year with assessment requirements met at the end of each corresponding year. It should be noted that this exception is designed to offer flexibility to schools where a genuine need for this arrangement exists due to unavoidable scheduling constraints. This is not intended to be a routine aspect of Diploma Programme design; all courses are designed as two-year learning experiences. Languages ab initio and pilot subjects must be taught over the two years of the programme. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 6

8 Since the May 2014 examination session, Diploma Programme course students (previously known as certificate candidates) are permitted to register for one, two or all three of the core elements: theory of knowledge, CAS and/or the extended essay. If a course student is registered for both theory of knowledge and the extended essay, the matrix of additional points used for diploma candidates will not apply, grades alone will be issued on the scale of A down to E. For more information about the matrix refer to section A At the end of the two-year programme, candidates are assessed both internally and externally in ways that measure individual performance against stated curriculum and assessment objectives for each subject. In nearly all subjects at least some of the assessment is carried out internally by teachers, who mark individual pieces of work produced as part of a course of study. Examples include oral exercises in language subjects, projects, student portfolios, reports, class presentations, practical laboratory work, mathematical investigations and artistic performances. Some assessment tasks are conducted and overseen by teachers, but are then marked externally by examiners. Examples include written assignments or tasks for language subjects in groups 1 and 2, the essay for theory of knowledge and the extended essay. Because of the greater degree of objectivity and reliability provided by the standard examination environment, externally marked examinations form the larger share of the assessment for most subjects. The grading system is criterion-related (results are determined by performance against set standards, and not in relation to the performance of other students); validity, reliability and fairness are the watchwords of the Diploma Programme s assessment strategy. A1.3 Choosing subjects for a diploma A1.3.1 Selecting subjects from groups 1 to 6 Section A4 lists subjects that are automatically available for examinations in 2015 and 2016 and by special request for When selecting subjects for a diploma: at least three and not more than four subjects must be offered at higher level (HL) and the others at standard level (SL) one or two subjects at standard level (excluding languages ab initio and pilot subjects) can be completed at the end of the first year of the Diploma Programme. If one subject is completed at the end of the first year it is also permissible for a second standard level subject (excluding languages ab initio and pilot subjects) to be taught and completed during the second year of the programme. At least one standard level subject and Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 7

9 all higher level subjects must be taught over the two years of the programme, and requirements of the core also met over the same two-year period. one subject must be selected from each of groups 1 to 5 a mathematics subject must be selected from group 5 the sixth subject may be selected from group 6 or from groups 1 to 5. Note that since the May 2014 session, computer science is a group 4 subject. A candidate may include alternatives to mainstream subjects within a diploma, provided that certain conditions are met. These alternatives include pilot subjects, interdisciplinary subjects and school-based syllabuses. It is essential to establish whether a particular combination of subjects constitutes a diploma as soon as a candidate begins his or her courses of study. If necessary, contact IB Answers to ask for advice. Exceptions to prohibitions will not be authorized. A1.3.2 Pilot subjects The IB may develop new subjects on a pilot basis, which a limited number of schools may offer on the understanding that the syllabus content and assessment requirements may change during the teaching of a two-year course. When recruiting schools to join a pilot, schools will be invited to submit a request via a message in Diploma Programme Coordinator's notes and through the e-newsletter IB Global News. The number and range of schools required to take part in a pilot depend on the stage the pilot is at and the needs of pilot development. When a waiting list has been generated and vacancies occur for a pilot, schools that applied earlier may be invited to join. A pilot subject cannot be taken as a one-year course. The following subject is offered on a pilot basis for examinations in 2015: Global politics HL and SL group 3 (May) A1.3.3 Interdisciplinary subjects An interdisciplinary standard level subject meets the requirements of two groups through a single subject. A sixth subject must then be chosen to meet the requirements of the diploma. The additional subject may be chosen from any of the groups in the programme model, including a group already covered by the interdisciplinary subject. For further details refer to section B10. Environmental systems and societies SL this course meets the requirements of groups 3 and 4. Literature and performance SL this course meets the requirements of groups 1 and 6 and is a mainstream subject from May 2013 onwards. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 8

10 A1.3.4 School-based syllabuses In addition to the bullet points below, coordinators must read section B11 on school-based syllabuses (SBS) before considering whether an SBS subject can be offered to Diploma Programme candidates. Only schools that have already entered candidates for two Diploma Programme examination sessions may offer a school- based syllabus. A school-based syllabus may only be offered at standard level. A candidate may include a school-based syllabus as one of the six diploma subjects. School-based syllabuses are currently available in groups 2, 3, 4 and 6 and count as the candidate s selection in that group. Some syllabuses meet the requirements of two groups, in which case the candidate must nominate in which group the subject is being studied. A school-based syllabus cannot contribute to a bilingual diploma. No diploma candidate may study more than one school-based syllabus, or do a pilot subject and a school-based syllabus as subjects for their diploma. The IB collaborates with a school or schools on the development of a school-based syllabus and provides support in the writing of the guide. Once the syllabus has been authorized, for operational reasons the IB must own copyright of the guide. Therefore, when submitting an outline proposal it must be accompanied by written confirmation that, if authorized, the IB will own copyright of the syllabus. Schools wishing to submit a proposal for a new school-based syllabus do so on this understanding. A1.4 Exceptions and prohibitions A1.4.1 Exceptions A candidate may offer a second group 1 subject instead of a group 2 subject. Instead of a group 6 subject a candidate may offer: an additional subject chosen from groups 1 to 4 further mathematics HL in addition to another mathematics subject (usually mathematics HL because the content of mathematics HL is presumed knowledge for further mathematics HL) an interdisciplinary subject. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 9

11 A1.4.2 Prohibitions The status codes in section A5.8 provide the definitive list of circumstances that are not accepted for candidate registration in However, attention is drawn to the following subject prohibitions that are occasionally overlooked when registering diploma candidates. No candidate may count towards the diploma: the same subject twice, regardless of whether higher level or standard level (also applicable to course registrations) the same language for literature, language and literature, language B and/or language ab initio (also applicable to course registrations) more than one language A literature SL as a school supported self-taught subject (also applicable to course registrations) any two of mathematics HL, mathematics SL and mathematical studies SL (also applicable to course registrations) more than one school-based syllabus or pilot subject (also applicable to course registrations) a school-based syllabus and a pilot subject (not applicable to course registrations) more than one interdisciplinary subject (not applicable to course registrations) literature and performance SL with theatre (not applicable to course registrations) literature and performance SL cannot be taken in the same language as a literature, language and literature, language B and/or language ab initio course (also applicable to course registrations). Note that the same subject would include, for example, history registered for different regional options/routes, or music taking different options. If any candidate is taking two mathematics subjects, one of the subjects must be further mathematics HL, which would normally be taken in conjunction with mathematics HL. Specific prohibitions apply to particular school-based syllabuses. Schools are informed about such prohibitions when they are authorized to offer a school-based syllabus. With effect from the May 2016 session, the prohibition on diploma candidates taking more than one interdisciplinary subject will no longer apply. A1.5 Core requirements of the diploma In addition to completing the assessment requirements of six subjects, in order to be eligible for the award of the diploma a candidate must also meet the requirements of theory of knowledge, the extended essay and creativity, action, service (CAS). Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 10

12 Note that a course candidate can now register for one, two or all three core elements. A1.5.1 Theory of knowledge (TOK) A diploma candidate must follow a theory of knowledge (TOK) course. The IB recommends that TOK is an independent course of at least 100 teaching hours evenly distributed over the two-year period of study, and the course must meet the theory of knowledge assessment requirements that include giving a presentation and submitting an essay on one of the six prescribed titles for the examination session. The prescribed titles for May 2015 are released in September 2014, and those for November 2015 in March A1.5.2 Extended essay (EE) A diploma candidate must complete and submit an extended essay (EE), which is a substantial piece of independent research of up to 4,000 words. Work on the extended essay is expected to occupy approximately 40 hours. The work for an extended essay must be done under the direct supervision of an appropriate teacher at the IB World School that is registering the candidate for the examination session. A1.5.3 Creativity, action, service (CAS) A diploma candidate must engage in a programme of extra-curricular activities known as creativity, action, service (CAS). Schools entering candidates for the diploma undertake to ensure that three to four hours each week are available to all candidates for CAS activities. A minimum of 150 hours during the two years of the Diploma Programme is required. A1.6 The bilingual diploma A bilingual diploma will be awarded to a successful candidate who fulfills one or both of the following criteria: completion of two languages selected from group 1 with the award of a grade 3 or higher in both completion of one of the subjects from group 3 or group 4 in a language that is not the same as the candidate's nominated group 1 language. The candidate must attain a grade 3 or higher in both the group 1 language and the subject from group 3 or 4. Pilot subjects and interdisciplinary subjects can contribute to the award of a bilingual diploma, provided the above conditions are met. For certain IB projects in groups 3 and 4 candidates may be permitted to write their examinations and other forms of assessment in languages other than English, French or Spanish. If the conditions detailed above are met, this will lead to the award of a bilingual diploma. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 11

13 The following cannot contribute to the award of a bilingual diploma: a school-based syllabus a subject taken by a candidate in addition to the six subjects for the diploma. A1.7 A non-regular diploma If the conditions of entry into an institution of higher education require a candidate to offer a choice of subjects different from that specified in the regulations for the Diploma Programme, the candidate may be allowed to make a reasonable substitution on presentation to the IB of the appropriate documentary evidence. This evidence, which may take the form of pages from a university prospectus, must be submitted in support of all requests. A candidate will be authorized to take a non-regular diploma only if the proposed higher education course allows no other alternative. The possibility of offering a subject as an additional seventh subject (that does not contribute to the diploma) must be considered before submitting a request for a non-regular diploma and is advised up to the approval of the request. In no circumstances will a candidate be exempt from taking a group 1 and a group 2 subject. (Note that a diploma candidate can be registered for two group 1 subjects instead of a group 1 and a group 2 subject.) See section A5.4.6 for information on how to submit a request for a non-regular diploma. A1.8 Diploma Programme courses online Schools now have the opportunity of offering Diploma Programme courses online to widen a student s choice of courses. These are designed, developed and delivered by IB-approved course providers. They comply with all IB requirements and are led by Diploma Programme experienced teachers. The IB recognizes that Diploma Programme courses online can: extend subject choice for students in IB World Schools create international and intercultural classrooms in ways that cannot be envisaged in many schools enable students, increasingly socialized in the digital world, to develop essential skills that will equip them for life after school enable students who cannot attend IB World Schools to benefit from an IB educational experience. (The IB has started a pilot project with the collaboration of IB World Schools to analyse the feasibility of offering Diploma Programme courses online to students who are not enrolled in IB World Schools.) Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 12

14 Students enrolled in Diploma Programme courses online take the Diploma Programme assessments in the same way as students enrolled in face-to-face courses and must comply with the same requirements. Detailed information about Diploma courses online and the role of the site based coordinator can be found in the document Diploma Programme Courses Online: An Overview for Schools, available on the OCC. Information about the Diploma courses online being currently offered can be found on the IB public website. A2.1 May examination session calendar September 2014 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 Pay the annual fee Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 1 September May 2014 The IB Assessment Centre publishes subject reports on IBIS and the OCC when each report becomes available IBIS and OCC From 1 September May 2014 Last date for requesting enquiries upon results IBIS 15 September May 2014 Request return of design technology HL/SL design projects, if required to ibid@ibo.org 15 September May 2014 Language A: literature school supported selftaught candidates: IB makes available to schools questions for all genres IBIS, OCC and Diploma Programme Coordinator's notes 15 September October 2014 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline No events or actions for October 2014 Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 13

15 November 2014 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 First candidate registration deadline IBIS 15 November May 2015 Music SL group performance: enter number of group performances to be assessed IBIS 15 November May 2016 Language A: literature: send special requests with justification and proposed course of study IBIS 15 November May 2016 Classical languages and subjects in groups 3 to 6: send special requests IBIS 15 November May 2016 Non-regular diplomas: send requests for authorization IBIS 15 November December 2014 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends extended essay covers to schools Courier Sent by 15 December May 2015 Language A: literature and literature & performance send notice of works studied IBIS 1 December May 2016 The IB Assessment Centre authorizes special requests for subjects in group 1, and groups 3 to 6 1 December May 2015 School-based syllabuses: send proposed examination papers and markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier 14 December May 2015 Pay the total of all registration and subject fees for candidates registered by the first registration deadline of 15 November 2014 Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 15 December Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 14

16 January 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2014 A candidate may request replacement results certification from the IB without involving the school at which he/she was registered Online system available on the IB public web site From 1 January May 2015 Second candidate registration deadline and the last opportunity to reorder candidate session numbers IBIS 15 January May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre issues approval for or amendments to school-based syllabus examination papers and markschemes (for schools setting their own examination papers) Hard copy sent to school 28 January May 2015 Deadline for registration of candidates from November 2014 session taking one or more subjects in May 2015 (to avoid increased fees) IBIS 29 January February 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 The entry screens for internal assessment marks and predicted grades become available on IBIS IBIS 1 February May 2015 Address notifications available on IBIS for early components (deadline 15 March) not being uploaded electronically IBIS 20 February May 2015 School-based syllabuses: send amended examination papers and/ or markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier 21 February Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 15

17 March 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 Address notifications available on IBIS for coursework not being uploaded electronically: internal assessment IBIS 15 March theatre (all components) film (all components) musical investigations school-based syllabuses. May 2015 Send requests for rescheduling examinations IBIS 15 March May 2015 Submission deadline for: extended essays theory of knowledge Courier or electronic upload, as notified by the IB 15 March language A: literature written assignment language A: language and literature written tasks literature and performance written coursework language B written assignments language ab initio written assignments. May 2016 Confirm candidate entries for special request languages A: literature IBIS 15 March Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 16

18 April 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 School-based syllabuses: send final approved version of examination papers and markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier 7 April May 2015 Enter marks for internal assessment and predicted grades, including predicted grades for extended essays and theory of knowledge IBIS 10 April May 2015 Visual arts: upload materials as required for option and level in accordance with the Visual arts guide Upload on IBIS 10 April May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends examination papers and other examination material to schools Courier April May 2015 Final candidate registration deadline IBIS 15 April May 2015 Address notifications of scanning centre(s) available on IBIS for scripts IBIS 15 April May 2015 Send internal assessment sample work and forms to moderators (or electronic upload as appropriate) Preferably by courier 20 April May 2015 School-based syllabuses: send final approved copy of examination papers to schools (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier or Sitescape 22 April May 2015 Theatre: send research investigations, each with form 6/TRI (HL) or form 6/ TRI (SL), to the examiner Preferably by courier 30 April May 2015 Theatre: send practical performance proposal to examiner(s), each with form 6/Tproposal (HL) or form 6/Tproposal (SL) Preferably by courier 30 April Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 17

19 May 2015 Music: send musical links investigations, each with form 6/MLI, to the examiner Preferably by courier 30 April May 2015 Film: send independent study to the examiner, each with form 6/FISCS Preferably by courier 30 April May 2015 Film: send film presentation (CD) to the examiner, each with form 6/FPCS Preferably by courier 30 April May 2015 Examination period Not applicable 30 April 26 May May 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 Report arrival of examination papers IBIS 1 May May 2015 Last opportunity for coordinators to withdraw retake, diploma or anticipated candidates from session, so May 2015 does not count towards their three diploma sessions IBIS 1 May May 2016 Candidates with learning support requirements: send requests for inclusive assessment arrangements IBIS 1 May May 2015 Send requests for transcript results service to universities and colleges in all countries, except Canada and USA IBIS 1 May May 2015 Candidates with adverse circumstances: notify the IB Assessment Centre IBIS Immediately May 2015 Language A: literature SL school supported selftaught candidates: submit audio recordings and related material IBIS 7 May May 2015 Teachers send their comments about the May examination papers to the IB Assessment Centre OCC Within 28 days after the examination Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 18

20 June 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 Indicate on IBIS which candidates have and have not completed the CAS requirement (if appropriate) IBIS 1 June May 2015 Send requests for exclusive copyright on behalf of candidates to the IB Assessment Centre Form Exclusive copyright 1 June May 2015 Send requests for legalization of results documentation IBIS 15 June July 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 Send requests for transcript results service to universities and colleges in Canada and USA IBIS 1 July May 2015 Issue of results to schools and universities IBIS 5 July May 2015 Enquiry upon results: requests can be submitted from this date IBIS 5 July May 2015 Results are made available to candidates via candidates.ibo.org Internet 6 July May 2015 Component marks and grades are made available on IBIS IBIS 7 July May 2015 Statistics on global and school results are made available on IBIS IBIS 9 July May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre releases internal assessment feedback IBIS 12 July Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 19

21 August 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends IB Diplomas, Diploma results and Course results to schools (this mailing includes Course results for May 2014 anticipated candidates who did not register for the diploma in May 2015 Courier August September 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline May 2016 Pay the annual fee Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 1 September May 2015 The IB Assessment Centre publishes subject reports on IBIS and the OCC when each report becomes available IBIS and OCC From 1 September May 2015 Last date for requesting enquiries upon results IBIS 15 September May 2015 Request return of design technology HL/SL design projects, if required to ibid@ibo.org 15 September May 2017 Language A: literature SL school supported self-taught candidates: IB makes available to schools questions for all genres for internal assessment IBIS, OCC and Diploma Programme Coordinator's notes 15 September Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 20

22 A2.2 November examination session calendar March 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 Pay the annual fee Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 1 March November 2014 The IB Assessment Centre publishes subject reports on IBIS and the OCC when each report becomes available IBIS and OCC From 1 March November 2014 Last date for requesting enquiries upon results IBIS 15 March November 2014 Request return of design technology HL/SL design projects, if required to ibid@ibo.org 15 March November 2015 Language A: literature school supported selftaught candidates: IB makes available to schools questions for all genres IBIS, OCC and Diploma Programme Coordinator s notes 15 March April 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline No events or actions for April 2015 May 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 First registration deadline IBIS 15 May November 2015 Music SL group performance: enter number of group performances to be assessed IBIS 15 May November 2015 Classical languages and subjects in groups 3 to 6: send special requests IBIS 15 May November 2016 Non-regular diplomas: send requests for authorization IBIS 15 May Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 21

23 June 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends extended essay covers to schools Courier Sent by 15 June November 2015 Language A: literature send advance notice of works studied IBIS 1 June November 2016 The IB Assessment Centre authorizes special requests for subjects in group 1, and groups 3 to 6 1 June November 2015 School-based syllabuses: send proposed examination papers and markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier 14 June November 2015 Pay the total of all registration and subject fees for candidates registered by the first registration deadline of 15 May 2015 Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 15 June Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 22

24 July 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2014 A candidate may request replacement results certification from the IB without involving the school at which he/she was registered Online system available on the public website From 1 July November 2015 Second registration deadline and the last opportunity to re-order candidate session numbers IBIS 15 July November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre issues approval for or amendments to school-based syllabus examination papers and markschemes (for schools setting their own examination papers) Hard copy sent to school 28 July November 2015 Deadline for the registration of candidates from May 2015 retaking one or more subjects in November 2015 (to avoid increased fees) IBIS 29 July August 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 The entry screens for internal assessment marks and predicted grades become available on IBIS IBIS 1 August November 2015 Address notifications available on IBIS for early components (deadline 15 September) not being uploaded electronically IBIS 20 August November 2015 School-based syllabuses: send amended examination papers and/ or markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools not setting their own examination papers) Courier 21 August Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 23

25 September 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 Address notifications available on IBIS for coursework not being uploaded electronically internal assessment IBIS 15 September theatre (all components) film (all components) musical investigations school-based syllabuses. November 2015 Send requests for rescheduling examinations IBIS 15 September November 2015 Submission deadline for: extended essays theory of knowledge Courier or electronic upload as notified by the IB 15 September essays language A: literature written assignments language A: language and literature written tasks literature and performance written coursework language B written assignments language ab initio written assignments. November 2015 Confirm candidate entries for special request languages A: literature IBIS 15 September Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 24

26 October 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 School-based syllabuses: send final approved version of examination papers and markschemes to the IB Assessment Centre (for schools not setting their own examination papers) Courier 7 October November 2015 Enter marks for internal assessment and predicted grades, including predicted grades for extended essays and theory of knowledge IBIS 10 October November 2015 Visual arts: upload materials as required for option and level in accordance with the Visual arts guide Upload on IBIS 10 October November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends examination papers and other examination materials to schools Courier October November 2015 Final candidate registration deadline IBIS 15 October November 2015 Address notifications of scanning centres available on IBIS for scripts IBIS 15 October November 2015 Send internal assessment sample work and appropriate forms to moderators, or electronic upload as appropriate Preferably by courier 20 October November 2015 School-based syllabuses: send final approved copy of examination papers to schools (for schools setting their own examination papers) Courier or Sitescape 22 October November 2015 Theatre: send research investigations, each with form 6/TRI (HL) or form 6/ TRI (SL), to the examiner Preferably by courier 30 October November 2015 Theatre: send practical performance proposal to examiner, each with form Preferably by courier 30 October Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 25

27 6/Tproposal (HL) or form 6/Tproposal (SL) November 2015 Music: send musical links investigations, each with form 6/MLI, to the examiner Preferably by courier 30 October November 2015 Film: send independent study to examiner, each with form 6/FISCS Preferably by courier 30 October November 2015 Film: send film presentation (CD) to examiner, each with form 6/FPCS Preferably by courier 30 October November 2015 Examination period Not applicable 30 October 24 November November 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 Report arrival of examination papers IBIS 1 November November 2016 Last opportunity for coordinator to withdraw retake, diploma or anticipated candidates from session, so November 2015 does not count towards their three diploma sessions IBIS 1 November November 2016 Candidates with learning support requirements: send requests for inclusive assessment arrangements IBIS 1 November November 2015 Send requests for transcript results service to universities and colleges for all countries except Canada, Singapore and the USA IBIS 1 November November 2015 Candidates with adverse circumstances: notify the IB Assessment Centre IBIS Immediately November 2015 Language A: literature SL school supported self-taught: submit audio recordings and related material IBIS 7 November November 2015 Teachers send their comments about the November 2015 examination papers to the IB Assessment Centre OCC Within 28 days after the examination Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 26

28 December 2015 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 Indicate on IBIS which diploma/retake candidates have and have not completed the CAS requirement (if appropriate) IBIS 1 December November 2015 Send requests for exclusive copyright on behalf of candidates to the IB Assessment Centre Form Exclusive copyright 1 December November 2015 Send requests for legalization of results documentation IBIS 15 December January 2016 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 Send requests for transcript results service to universities and colleges in Canada and USA IBIS 1 January November 2015 Issues results to schools and universities IBIS 5 January November 2015 Enquiry upon results: requests can be submitted from this date IBIS 5 January November 2015 Results available to candidates via candidates.ibo.org Internet 6 January November 2015 Component marks and grades are made available on IBIS IBIS 7 January November 2015 Statistics on global and school results are made available on IBIS IBIS 9 January November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre releases internal assessment feedback IBIS 12 January Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 27

29 February 2016 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre sends IB Diplomas, Diploma results andcourse results to schools (this mailing includes Course results for November 2014 anticipated candidates who did not register for the diploma) Courier February November 2015 Send requests for transcripts of results service to universities in Singapore IBIS 15 February March 2016 Session Event or action Method Date/Deadline November 2016 Pay the annual fee Cheque to appropriate billing office or bank transfer 1 March November 2015 The IB Assessment Centre publishes subject reports on IBIS and the OCC when each report becomes available IBIS and OCC From 1 March November 2015 Latest date for requesting enquiries upon results IBIS 15 March November 2015 Request return of design technology HL/SL design projects, if required to ibid@ibo.org 15 March November 2017 Language A: literature SL school supported self-taught candidates: IB makes available to schools questions for all genres for internal assessment IBIS, OCC and Diploma Programme Coordinator's notes 15 March Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 28

30 A3.1 The role of the Diploma Programme coordinator The IB does not provide job descriptions for Diploma Programme coordinators. The writing of a job description for any faculty/ staff member is normally the responsibility of the school s administration, and this includes the very specific duties of the coordinator. However, it must be stated that the role of the Diploma Programme coordinator in an IB World School is diverse and crucial to the success of the programme. It is important that the job description of the coordinator includes recognition of the leadership function, in addition to the management roles involved in general programme administration and communication with stakeholders. Diploma Programme implementation requires significant expertise in change management and a detailed understanding of the principles and practices of the programme. The coordinator, acting together with other school leaders, needs the authority to plan and manage the processes of change necessary for developing the programme. They also require a good knowledge of the regulations and procedures described in this handbook and the General regulations: Diploma Programme. Without sufficient time and resources to undertake the many duties required of the position, a coordinator cannot successfully implement and manage the various demands of the Diploma Programme. For it to be done well, sufficient release time, dedicated office space, administrative support, an adequate budget, printer and photocopying facilities must be available. New coordinators should receive IB-approved professional development that will equip them with a clear understanding of their role and responsibilities. In general, the demands on the coordinator are proportional to the number of Diploma Programme candidates and faculty/staff, and the number of subjects offered by the school. Fundamentally, the coordinator is responsible for providing information, guidance and administrative support to candidates, colleagues and other stakeholders. The coordinator is also responsible for the management of all activities related to the Diploma Programme, although specific responsibilities, such as the coordination of creativity, action, service (CAS) or theory of knowledge, may be delegated to other members of the faculty/staff. One of the most crucial duties of a coordinator is to communicate information, such as changes to curriculum and assessment, to subject teachers. The following is a list of tasks related mainly to administration and communication that may be undertaken by a Diploma Programme coordinator. The list is not intended to be prescriptive, chronological or comprehensive; it is included here as guidance to new coordinators on the potential breadth of the role. Some tasks may be delegated and others may not be relevant to some school situations. Handbook of procedures for the Diploma Programme 29