IB programme covers all levels of study:
- Primary Years Programme (PYP) for children from 3 to 12 years old
- Middle Years Programme (MYP) for children 11–16 years old
- Diploma Programme (DP) for students from 16 to 19 years old
primary years programme (pyp)
The PYP is a dynamic curriculum that places emphasis on inquiry-based learning and the development of essential skills. Subjects are interconnected through transdisciplinary themes. Through a combination of rigorous academics, personal development, and an emphasis on fostering a love for learning, the PYP lays a solid foundation for future academic success. Students are encouraged to be inquisitive, open-minded, and reflective, preparing them to be active, compassionate members of a global community.
Subjects: Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Arts, and Physical Education.
middle years programme (myp)
The MYP is a holistic programme that focuses on academic excellence, personal development, and service to the community. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking skills, creativity, and a deep understanding of global issues. In addition to traditional subjects, the MYP includes the study of approaches to learning (ATL), which equips students with the skills necessary for success in further education and the workforce.
Subjects: Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, Design.
diploma programme (dp)
The DP is a rigorous and challenging programme recognised worldwide for its academic excellence. The DP is characterised by a holistic approach, encouraging students to excel academically while also developing essential life skills. Students choose six subjects from different disciplines, including Languages, Sciences, Humanities, and Arts.
In addition, instead of DP, you can study the Career-related Programme. It is mostly focused on professional training. The British International School is an accredited educational centre for the IB curriculum of the Diploma programme. We teach it to the senior classes at School 3. Now we will tell you about it in more detail.
IB DIPLOMA PROGRAMME CURRICULUM
The IB DP learning curriculum is designed for 2 years and serves to give high school students deep theoretical knowledge and good practical skills that will be needed for further study and work. The programme is a good choice for those who are going to a foreign university after school, as it is highly appreciated by educational institutions around the world.
SUBJECT CHOICES
Before starting the programme, students choose six subjects, one from each subject group. Three of them will be studied at the standard level, and three more at the advanced level. In the International Baccalaureate scoring system, students can get a maximum of 7 points in each of the six subjects.
It is also obligatory to take courses in the theory of knowledge (TOK); the creativity, action, service (CAS) and, lastly, to write an extended essay of 4000 words (approximately 10–11 A4 pages). They are the core of the IB programme:
CORE COMPONENTS OF IB DP
THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK)
Overview: TOK is a unique interdisciplinary course that encourages students to explore the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know. It challenges students to think critically about the bases of knowledge and to consider the implications and perspectives of different areas of study. The course takes about 100 hours over two years.Focus Areas: TOK explores key knowledge questions, examining the role of language, perception, reason, and emotion in shaping our understanding of the world. Students engage in discussions, reflective writing, and activities that prompt them to question assumptions and develop a deeper awareness of the complexity of knowledge.
Assessment: Evaluation in TOK is based on an externally assessed essay and an oral presentation, where students critically analyse knowledge issues, demonstrating their ability to think critically and reflect on the nature of knowledge.
EXTENDED ESSAY (EE)
Overview: The Extended Essay is an independent research project that allows students to explore a topic of personal interest in-depth. It provides an opportunity for students to develop research and writing skills, preparing them for the academic challenges of higher education.Research and Writing: Students choose a subject area, conduct independent research, and produce a 4,000-word essay that showcases their analytical and critical thinking abilities. The process involves formulating a research question, conducting extensive research, and presenting a coherent argument supported by evidence.
Assessment: The Extended Essay is externally assessed and contributes to the overall IB Diploma score. It is evaluated based on criteria such as research, analysis, presentation, and engagement with academic sources.
CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY, SERVICE (CAS)
Overview: CAS is a core component focused on experiential learning beyond the classroom. It aims to develop students' personal and interpersonal skills through involvement in creative activities, physical activities, and community service.Three Pillars: CAS is organised into three pillars — Creativity, where students engage in artistic and creative pursuits; Activity, involving physical activities and sports; and Service, where students contribute to their communities through volunteer work. A crucial aspect of CAS is the reflection component, where students document their experiences, assess their personal development, and consider the impact of their activities on both themselves and the communities they serve.
Assessment: While CAS is not formally assessed in the same way as exams, students are required to complete a CAS portfolio, detailing their experiences and reflections. Successful completion of CAS is a mandatory requirement for obtaining the IB Diploma.
IB DIPLOMA SUBJECT GROUPS
LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
In the course, students delve into the intricacies of language, exploring how it shapes and reflects culture, society, and individual identity. Emphasising a multifaceted approach, students analyse literature, media, and a variety of texts. This course not only hones linguistic skills but also encourages an appreciation for diverse literary traditions and an understanding of the power of language to influence thought and emotion.LANGUAGE ACQUISITION
The Language Acquisition course focuses on developing proficiency in a second language. Whether it be through the study of classical languages, modern languages, or ab initio courses for beginners, students gain both linguistic competence and cultural insight. The emphasis is on effective communication, encouraging students to express themselves in a new language while fostering an appreciation for the cultural nuances that shape linguistic expression.INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES
The course encompasses subjects such as History, Geography, Economics, and Psychology. It encourages students to explore the complexities of human behaviour, societal structures, and historical events. By critically examining the past and present, students develop analytical skills and a broader understanding of the interconnectedness of global issues. The course fosters an awareness of diverse perspectives and promotes responsible citizenship.SCIENCES
The Sciences course provides a rigorous exploration of the natural world through subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Students engage in hands-on experiments, data analysis, and critical inquiry to understand scientific principles. The emphasis is not only on acquiring knowledge but also on developing the ability to think scientifically, solve problems, and make informed decisions. The course encourages an appreciation for the ethical implications of scientific advancements.MATHEMATICS
Mathematics in the IB Diploma Programme is designed to develop logical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. The course caters to varying levels of mathematical proficiency, offering options such as Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation. Students explore abstract mathematical ideas, apply mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems and develop a solid foundation for further study in mathematics or related fields.ARTS
The Arts course encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including Visual Arts, Theatre, Music, and Dance. This course encourages students to express themselves creatively while developing a deep understanding of artistic techniques and theories. Through practical exploration and theoretical inquiry, students hone their artistic skills and gain insights into the cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape artistic expression. The Arts course fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
International Baccalaureate Grading System
To receive an International Baccalaureate diploma at the end of 2 years, you are to:
- Score at least 24 points (out of 45).
- Get grades above 1 in all the six subjects completed.
- Have no more than one grade of 2 in subjects studied at the standard level.
- Receive no more than three marks of 3 and below.
- In total, score at least 12 points in advanced subjects (for each not less than 3).
- Get at least 9 points in subjects of the standard level.
- Obtain at least a D grade in the theory of knowledge and for your extended essay (if A is the highest, and E is the lowest).
- Comply with all CAS requirements.
The higher the total final score is in the International Baccalaureate grading system, the more chances you have to enter a prestigious university. To go to study, for example, in the USA, it would be nice to have at least 34-38 points.
Benefits of IB education system
IB (International Baccalaureate) is taught in more than 5,000 educational institutions around the world. Let's figure out why it is so popular:
- The best universities in more than 150 countries are ready to accept International Baccalaureate graduates. Many of them prioritise the IB scores, and applicants with A-levels are asked to take additional entrance exams.
- The programme not only provides good academic knowledge, but also develops the most important qualities necessary for university studies and future work: independence, responsibility, critical thinking and the skills of research work.
- Some prestigious universities believe that IB prepares for higher education better than A-level.
- Foreign universities often offer special scholarships and grants for IB graduates.
- The English course passed within the programme is counted on admission instead of IELTS and TOEFL.
Disadvantages of IB education system
When deciding to study IB, a high school student should weigh the pros and cons. Despite the large number of advantages, you need to take into account the disadvantages that the programme has:
- There are about 50 IB accredited schools in Russia. The majority is situated in St. Petersburg and Moscow as well as the BIS.
- It is not easy to study according to the programme. The student will be required to show independence and good research skills.
Post-ib opportunities
The creators of the International Baccalaureate programme work closely with schools, colleges and universities around the world. The content of the courses, the IB programme grading system, and the requirements for applicants are being improved from year to year. The goal is to educate curious, smart and caring young people who will help to create a better and safer world based on intercultural understanding and respect.
Guided by this common goal, universities have specific requirements for IB graduates.
- Most UK universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, accept IB as readily as they do the traditional English A-levels.
- In Canada, for example, some universities enrol graduates of the International Baccalaureate directly to the second year.
- In Germany, universities often impose additional requirements to applicants: to retake a foreign language exam, to pass specialised mathematics, etc.
- Some countries, such as Turkey and Peru, do not consider DP to be the equivalent of a high school diploma. So there can be problems with admission to local universities.
- Australian universities are happy to accept IB diplomas and often offer scholarships and credits to those who have high IB scores.
- In France and China, students after the International Baccalaureate can also enter universities without difficulties.
Ib at british international school
The British International School was first accredited as an IB Learning Center in 2002. Since then, we have successfully passed every re-accreditation. You can get an International Baccalaureate diploma in our School 3. Pupils study the programme from the twelfth to the thirteenth year under the guidance of experienced coordinators. No matter how difficult the learning may seem, the results of our graduates are usually very high. For many years, The British International School 3 continues to outperform global averages, both with the school average IB result and subject average grade results. The world average IB Score for May 2023 was 30.2 and our school’s average score was 35.
If you want to graduate from IB DP and continue your studies abroad, be sure that the British International School can help to make your dreams come true. For 20 years of working with IB, we have developed the most effective teaching system. Our educators are experts who have many years teaching experience. Our graduates are now students of the best universities in the world.
