IB Diploma & Course Descriptions 2015-2016
Busan International Foreign School Guiding Statements Vision Our students will develop and pursue their passions, be successful and contribute to a positive global future. Mission We are a diverse, supportive and dynamic international school that inspires and challenges students to explore, discover and thrive in the global community to which we belong. We Believe Students are to be at the center of all that we do. Education is the shared responsibility of our entire community. In being an independent non-denominational international family school. In being unified and respectful in our diversity. In providing the very best inquiry-based, relevant, and experiential education for each student. Students are to give back through community service.
Busan InternatIonal ForeIgn school united in our Diversity, thriving in our Individuality IB Diploma & Course Descriptions 2015-2016
Table of Contents Introduction... 3 International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at BIFs... 3 IB subjects offered at BIFs... 4 languages a and B :... 5 language a - language and literature (sl and hl)... 5 language a school supported self taught literature sl... 5 language B - english B (hl)... 6 language B - spanish B (sl and hl)... 6 language B - spanish ab initio (sl only)... 6 language B - Korean B (sl and hl)... 6 Individuals & society :... 7 geography (sl and hl)... 7 Psychology (sl and hl)... 7 Information technology in a global society (sl and hl)... 7 economics (sl and hl)... 7 experimental science :... 8 Biology (sl and hl)... 8 chemistry (sl and hl)... 8 Design technology (sl)... 8 Physics (sl and hl)... 9 Mathematics :... 9 Mathematics (sl and hl)... 9 Mathematical studies (sl only)... 9 the arts :... 10 Visual art (sl and hl)... 10 Music (sl and hl)... 10 theory of Knowledge (tok), extended essay (ee), and creativity, action and service (cas)... 10 theory of Knowledge... 11 extended essay... 11 creativity, action and service... 11 IB application... 12 checklist for BIFs IB Diploma Program application... 13 considerations and expectations... 14 requirements and Process of acceptance/review... 15 letter of Intent... 16 2 Busan International Foreign school
Introduction the purpose of this handbook is to offer parents, guardians and students an overview of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme courses offered at Busan International Foreign school for grades 11 and 12. each year, the school reviews and examines the available IB courses and determines the most viable and appropriate curriculum options. For the 2015-2016 exam cohort, the school has done everything possible to take into consideration the potential and future plans of IB Diploma students, IB course students and students in our own curriculum (that utilizes the content and pedagogical methodology of the Diploma Programme) in order to provide a rich, holistic and international educational experience. For further information, please refer to the International Baccalaureate organization website at http://www.ibo.org, contact the BIFs IBDP coordinator or contact the individual subject teachers. International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at BIFS the IB Diploma Programme provides the basis for our pedagogical approach and subject content in grades 11 and 12. as an IB World school, our students have the opportunity to partake in the IB Diploma Programme or the IB Diploma courses program. each program provides a challenging, rewarding and college-preparatory course of study where, upon successful completion and external moderation, students may be able to apply for college or university credit at their tertiary institution. the subjects are designated into six groups : language a : native or Fluent language language B : second language Individuals and societies experimental sciences Mathematics the arts Most subjects are offered at standard level (sl) and higher level (hl) except where noted. the main difference between the two courses is amount and level of content, assessment criteria and time allotted for study of the subject. In all cases, higher level classes require more time, commitment and engagement from the student. higher level classes are more likely to be accepted by colleges and universities as undergraduate advanced credit. If a student pursues the IB Diploma Programme, the student must abide by certain rules and regulations in order to receive the full diploma. Please contact the BIFs IBDP coordinator or consult the IBo website for further details. IB Diploma & course Descriptions 3
IB Subjects Offered at BIFS 1 the following IB subjects are currently offered at BIFs for the 2015-2016 testing cohort: Grades 11 and 12 groups groups course offerings language a english a language and literature Korean a language and literature school supported selftaught literature language B english language B spanish language B Korean language B spanish ab initio Individuals & society geography Psychology Itgs economics experimental sciences Design technology Biology chemistry Physics Mathematics Math hl Math sl Math studies the arts art Music 1 Please note : although BIFs makes every attempt to offer all subjects listed in this handbook, staffing, student interest, and resources may not allow for a course to be offered for a particular cohort. 4 Busan International Foreign school
Languages A and B : Language A - Language and Literature (SL and HL) language a - language and literature courses are first language courses for students who intend to study or work in that language after high school. two language and literature courses are offered at BIFs: english and Korean. as the curriculum language, english language and literature is required for all students. Korean language and literature is for students who wish to continue developing their academic language in Korean and become academically bilingual. the language a courses comprise of four parts - two relate to the study of language and two to the study of literature. a key aim of the language a - language and literature course is to encourage students to question the meaning generated by language and texts. helping students to focus closely on the language of the texts they study and to become aware of the role of each text s wider context in shaping its meaning is central to the course. Wider aims of the courses are the development of an understanding of critical literacy. In view of the international nature of the IB and its commitment to intercultural understanding, the courses do not limit the study of texts to the products of one culture or of the cultures covered by any one language. Language A School Supported Self Taught Literature SL the language a courses comprises of four parts - two relate to the study of language and two to the study of literature. students need to be proactive and highly motivated to make a success of this independent course of study. It is required that students find a tutor outside of school. It is possible that the school may be able to help find a tutor, but it is not the responsibility of the school to do so. the tutor will be paid by the parent. the school will help the tutor by providing the appropriate IBo materials, such as syllabus and literature-in-translation lists. the ideal tutor will be familiar with the IB program and preferably in country. however, students have had success working with online tutors from another country who are experienced IBo teachers. self-taught course aims to encourage student s appreciation of literature, to develop their capacity to read responsively and to give you the tools necessary to discuss and analyze literary texts. In this course students will explore techniques for reading responsively, key aspects of literary texts, terms and concepts useful for literary analysis, and the fundamental formats of literary commentary and analysis (close reading, commentary, essay). IB Diploma & course Descriptions 5
Language B - English B (HL) english language B is a second language course designed to further develop students literacy skills and improve their academic english skills across other subject areas. the focus of the course is on language acquisition and the development of the four areas and skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In addition, the course strives to expose students to a range of english texts and experiences in order to expand and enhance their knowledge and understanding of how language is used in a variety of contexts. Language B - Spanish B (SL and HL) spanish language B is a second language course designed for students with a minimum of 1-2 years of previous experience in the language and who have achieved a reasonable level in that time. the focus of the course is on language acquisition and the development of the four areas and skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In addition, the course strives to expose students to a range of spanish texts and experiences in order to expand and enhance their knowledge and understanding of the multiple cultures, civilizations, societies and traditions of spanish speaking people from around the world. Language B - Spanish ab initio (SL only) spanish ab initio is a course designed for any student who would like to learn a new language. no prior experience or learning is necessary for the ab initio course. In the two years of study, students can be expected to have a solid foundation of language skills for further development in a social and academic context. Language B - Korean B (SL and HL) Korean language B is a second language course designed for students with a minimum of 1-2 years of previous experience in the language, who have achieved a reasonable level in that time. the focus of the course is on language acquisition and the development of the four areas and skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading and writing. In addition, the course strives to expose students to a range of Korean texts and experiences in order to expand and enhance their knowledge and understanding of the multiple cultures, civilizations, societies and traditions of Korean speaking people from around the world. 6 Busan International Foreign school
Individuals & Society: Geography (SL and HL) the IB geography course engages students in interrelationships between people, places, spaces and the environment by developing a concern for human welfare and the quality of the environment, and an understanding of the need for planning and sustainable management. By developing a global perspective of diversity and change, the subject analyzes contemporary issues and challenges from a geographical point of view. Psychology (SL and HL) IB Psychology aims to develop an awareness of how research findings can be applied to better understand human behavior and how ethical practices are upheld in psychological inquiry. By understanding the biological, cognitive and socio cultural influences on human behavior, students explore multiple explanations of why humans behave the way they do. In addition, the course attempts to develop a student s critical and methodological awareness of the discipline and how psychological research contributes to our knowledge and understanding of the world. Information Technology in a Global Society (SL and HL) Itgs explores the advantages and disadvantages of information technology locally, nationally, and globally. the course provides an introduction to computers and computer applications including the study of word processing software, spreadsheets, web-page development, internet apps and devices, multimedia, and databases. the course aims to give students a framework to make informed judgments and decisions about the use of information in the digital age. Economics (SL and HL) the economics course at BIFs focuses on the concept of scarcity and the problems associated with resource allocation. through the development and formulation of economic theories and questions, students apply their understandings to real-life situations and scenarios that are historical, geographical, psychological, sociological and political. topics include the study of Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, International economics and finally, Development economics. IB Diploma & course Descriptions 7
Experimental Science: Biology (SL and HL) the Biology course aims to encourage the scientific study of biological and environment processes in order to provide the knowledge, methods and techniques necessary for students to analyze, synthesize and evaluate information. thus, the course is both scholarly and experiential through laboratory work, class study and group projects. the course seeks to encourage a global, that promote, regulate and administer scientific study in Biology and beyond. Chemistry (SL and HL) chemistry at BIFs seeks to illuminate how the study of chemical principles forms the foundation of, and connection between, the physical environment and biological processes. students will cover a range of topics including quantitative chemistry, atomic structure, periodicity, kinetics and organic chemistry. through both study and practical work, students gain an understanding and appreciation of how chemistry relates to a larger, real-world context and their lives. Design Technology (SL) Design technology at BIFs seeks to teach students not only design and technology, but also how to adapt to new experiences and how to approach problems with the appropriate skills and techniques to identify the problem s important elements and develop optimum solutions. It assumes no previous experience in either design technology or designing. the process is divided into the following stages : analysis of a design opportunity conceptual Design Development of a detailed design testing and evaluation the incremental process allows the designer to go from identifying a design opportunity to the testing and evaluation of a solution. the process leads to invention. at the higher level, the following two stages are added. commercial production Marketing strategies 8 Busan International Foreign school
Physics (SL and HL) as a fundamental component to the experimental sciences, the Physics course seeks to introduce and explain the basic elements to understanding our universe: from the smallest particles to the vastness of the galaxies. this involves the study of complex interactions of matter and energy. students will be provided with a survey of the physical laws pertaining to classical newtonian mechanics, wave motion and interference, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and einsteinian relativity. through theoretical investigation, historical conceptualization and practical experimentation, students develop a broad, sophisticated understanding of physics as a human endeavour that continually influences technological and sociological development throughout the world. Mathematics: Mathematics (SL and HL) Both the Mathematics sl and hl courses are designed for students with a strong interest and background in mathematics. as well as being competent in a range of analytical and technical skills, students need a strong work ethic. Most students completing these courses will have an expectation of using a reasonable level of mathematics for their future study and, especially for hl students, as a major component of their university and career aspirations. Both sl and hl courses work through traditional areas such as algebra, trigonometry, statistics and calculus. they are strong candidate courses for university credit. Mathematical Studies (SL only) Mathematical studies, this course is a standard level course and carries the same value! It provides students with a functional, practical understanding of mathematical principles and their application to the everyday world. the course aims to link and apply mathematics to real-life contexts and situations through the students other subjects, common world occurrences and topics related to home, work and leisure activities. Projects and personal research form the basis for mathematical investigation, which enables students to create their own understanding of mathematics, guided and supported by their teacher. IB Diploma & course Descriptions 9
The Arts: Visual Art (SL and HL) Individual artistic exploration and theoretical development are the hallmarks of the IB Visual art program at BIFs. through the critical study of artists, movements, and practices, students form the foundation necessary for the furthering of their own techniques, styles and mediums. students may choose different options that balance studio work with a research based notebook at both the sl and hl level that meets their current and future artistic needs. Music (SL and HL) BIFs Music at the IB level provides students with a greater knowledge and appreciation of a wide range of musical traditions from Western to International to Popular. Designed as an ab initio course, students may enter the program with little to no previous musical instruction but do need a strong interest and desire to learn music. the class work is related to musical perception and analysis, individual and group work developing performance and composition skills, and independent research. students will be introduced to music from a variety of cultures, styles and historical periods for analysis and musical perception. Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) three core components form the connective, interdisciplinary foundation of the IB Diploma Programme : theory of Knowledge, the extended essay, and creativity, action and service. students who participate in the Diploma programme are required to complete each of the three components to a satisfactory standard in order to be awarded the Diploma. students may be awarded up to three points for a combined score from tok and the ee. 10 Busan International Foreign school
Theory of Knowledge theory of Knowledge is a critical, interdisciplinary course based upon a central epistemological question: how do we know what we know? through reflection, constructive dialogue, and critical study of multiple ways in which we acquire knowledge (the Ways of Knowing: language, sense perception, emotion, reason, imagination, faith, intuition, and memory), students develop an ongoing examination on the reliability, variability, and historicity of knowledge in areas of Knowledge: mathematics, the natural sciences, the human sciences, the arts, history, ethics, religious knowledge systems, and indigenous knowledge systems. the theory of Knowledge course encourages students to expand their ideological positions, develop solid argumentation skills and acknowledge multiple viewpoints, as well as the strengths and limitations, in the human search for knowledge. Extended Essay the extended essay is an approximately 4,000 word, self-directed essay on a focused topic from one of the Diploma Programme s subjects. as an in-depth research-based study, the essay promotes collegepreparatory research and writing skills, intellectual discovery and creativity. With the guidance of a supervisor, students select their own topic as well as their approach to conducting the appropriate research for the topic. the final product is a major piece of formally presented and assessed structured writing that confirms a student s scholarly abilities. Creativity, Action and Service In order to encourage students to partake in diverse activities outside of the classroom, the IB Diploma Programme requires all students to participate in creativity, action and service. guided by eight learning outcomes that foster reflection and personal growth, students should participate in a variety of creative activities (art, music, drama or other areas where artistic conceptualization is at the forefront), action activities (team sports, individual sports, personal activity goals, or other areas where the student is doing or performing ), and service activities (actions that provide a sense of giving without self-interest or personal gain). student-directed, cas activities are limited only by the imagination, skill and personal desire of the individual participant. the cas supervisor supports students in their endeavours and facilitates the management of the IB requirements and guidelines. students are encouraged to meet with the cas supervisor regularly to seek out cas opportunities, to collaborate with other IB students and to ensure the eight learning outcomes are met. IB Diploma & course Descriptions 11
IB Application Dear IB candidate, Welcome to Busan International Foreign school. We are pleased that you have made the decision to become a part of our family and look forward to assisting you in achieving your academic and personal goals in a challenging, engaging and inclusive environment. as part of our curriculum, the IB Diploma Program offers students an opportunity to broaden and develop their education for future academic study at top institutions around the world. Due to this, the IBDP is a highly demanding program and requires a strong academic background, dedication, and a formidable set of study skills. the following application assesses a student s academic background and qualities in order to provide the student and parent/guardian with a realistic understanding of the prerequisites of the IBDP as well as to recommend them the most suitable course of study here at BIFs. We look forward to receiving your application. Kind regards, Daun c. Yorke BIFs IBDP coordinator & school curriculum Director email: dyorke@bifskorea.org 12 Busan International Foreign school
Checklist for BIFS IB Diploma Program Application First name : Family name : IB Application Required Items : IB Diploma application Form letter of Intent form IB course selections form (online through google Forms) If continuing from BIFS : teacher recommendations for proposed higher level courses (see internal teacher recommendation form) If applying from outside of BIFS : academic transcripts of grade 9 and 10 and/or Igcse scores two teacher recommendations attesting to academic ability (you may use the teacher recommendation forms attached here) IB Diploma & course Descriptions 13
Considerations and Expectations as a highly demanding course of study, the full IB Diploma Program requires a number of considerations for both parents/guardians and students. students and parents/guardians who wish to pursue the DP Program should take into account the following: 1. commitment : students should be committed to completing the full two-year course at BIFs. since every school has the autonomy to choose its own subjects and how they are taught, moving from one IB school to another midway through a course is complicated and, at times, unmanageable. 2. Independent, self-directed learner : the DP requires certain tasks (extended essay, cas) to be completed with minimal support or direction from teachers or supervisors. students should reflect upon their abilities to accomplish projects and tasks autonomously. 3. organization and effective time Management : one of the more challenging aspects of the DP is time management and organization. IBDP students take 6 college preparatory course as well as theory of Knowledge, write an extended essay of 4,000 words and participate in creativity, action and service. students need to be able to manage their subjects, the work load, the assessment items and their extracurricular activities effectively. 4. homework expectations : the DP course requires a significant amount of content and learning tasks to be covered as homework. students should expect between two to two and a half hours of homework per night. although the IB team at BIFs will do whatever it can to minimize overloading students with work, at certain busier points during the year, this homework load may increase significantly. 5. english Proficiency : although students pursue the development of two languages in the IBDP, english is the language of instruction at BIFs. thus, students must have a level of academic english that provides them the opportunity to engage in scholarly work in all subjects. 14 Busan International Foreign school
Requirements and Process of Acceptance/Review students who wish to pursue the IB Diploma Program must display both the personal and academic qualities required for an honours-level, college preparatory course. automatic entry requirements 1. accepted application with statement of Intent and letters of recommendation 2. high academic standing: grade 10 transcripts / test scores (one or more may apply) a. accredited high school : 3.5 gpa (if available) b. Igcse : subject scores of B or better for sl entry / a or better for hl entry c. MYP : overall score of 4.75. subject scores of 4 or better for sl entry / subject scores of 5 or better for hl entry Provisional entry requirements If a student does not meet the above criteria for automatic entry, the student may still enter the IB Diploma Program at BIFs on a provisional basis at the discretion of the IB coordinator. the process for full acceptance is as follows : stage one : Provisional entry (conclusion of 10 th grade year / beginning of 11 th grade year) 1. accepted application with statement of Intent and letters of recommendation by IB coordinator. 2. student and Parents/guardians meet with high school Principal, IB coordinator and college counsellor to discuss process of acceptance and review of provisional entry. IB coordinator outlines the possible options/outcomes for student. 3. academic review committee is notified of provisional candidate. 4. student registers for all classes as a full DP student and begins to undertake the core requirements: cas, ee and tok. stage two : academic review committee evaluation (end of 11 th grade semester one) 1. at the completion of semester one, the academic review committee will meet to evaluate provisional candidates at a time designated on the academic calendar. 2. students will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis with consideration of the candidate s semester one achievements and behaviour. IB subject teachers, advisors, the homeroom teacher and the administration provide input and feedback. 3. student and Parents/guardians will be provided a written recommendation 2 for a future plan of study at BIFs : a. student is recommended to continue the IBDP Program unconditionally b. student is recommended to consider the BIFs Diploma with IB certificates program c. student is recommended to consider the BIFs Diploma program 2 note : all recommended routes allow for possible application to international institutions of higher learning. IB Diploma & course Descriptions 15
Letter of Intent In your own words, please describe why you would like to participate in the IB Diploma. Please note that this is a formal writing sample. (Maximum 300 words) I have written this statement without any assistance from others. student signature : Date : 16 Busan International Foreign school
50 Gijang-daero, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, 46081, Korea Ph : +82 51 742 3332 Fax : +82 51 742 3375 E-mail : enquiries@bifskorea.org Website : www.bifskorea.org