Are you seeking a high school curriculum that caters to your diverse educational needs? In this article, The Planner introduces the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, a globally recognized education framework accepted by universities and international schools in over 156 countries.
This blog explores what the IB curriculum is? Who is best suited for the curriculum? And if you are considering tutoring for the IB exam or looking for the best IB tutoring center in Bangkok, why choose The Planner Education? This article provides the insights you need.
What is the IB?
IB or The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is a globally recognized educational program designed to foster critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and lifelong learning.
IB Program established in 1968 by International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), the IB offers a rigorous and holistic curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal development. The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a comprehensive educational program that caters to students aged 3 to 19.
The IB system is an integrated approach to education, training students to develop critical thinking skills. Students not only acquire knowledge from textbooks but also gain insights beyond traditional academic boundaries through experiential learning, extracurricular activities, and life skill development.
In Thailand, there are schools fully adopting the IB system, such as NIST International School. Additionally, some schools, like Bangkok Pattana School, integrate the British system, such as IGCSE, before transitioning to the IB program.
Graduates of the IB curriculum can apply to universities worldwide due to its international recognition, making it a valuable choice for students seeking global educational opportunities.
The IB curriculum is structured across three levels:
- IB Primary Years Programme (PYP): For children aged 3 to 12, focusing on developing foundational skills and curiosity.
- IB Middle Years Programme (MYP): For students aged 11 to 16, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and global contexts.
- IB Diploma Programme (IBDP): For students aged 16 to 19, offering a challenging two-year curriculum that includes six subject groups and the IB Core.
These programs aim to cultivate well-rounded individuals by blending academic rigor with skills like communication, ethical reasoning, and community engagement. The IB’s mission is to create a better, more peaceful world through education.
How Is the IB Score Calculated?
IB assessments blend coursework, internal assessments, and final exams. Each subject is graded on a scale of 1 to 7, with the highest possible score being 7.
Students in the Diploma Programme can earn up to 45 points, combining 42 points from six subjects and 3 additional points (bonus points) from the TOK and EE components.
Components of the IB Score
The total IB score includes results from multiple assessment components. For most subjects, about 75% of the grade comes from external exams conducted at the end of the program, while the remaining 25% comes from coursework or internal assessments completed during the two-year period.
In addition to subject grades, students’ performance in the core elements: Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and the Extended Essay (EE), can contribute up to 3 bonus points, making the highest possible score 45 points.
IB Grading Scale
The 1-7 grading scale evaluates how well students meet the course standards:
- 7: Exceptional understanding and application across various contexts.
- 6: Strong understanding, applied in familiar and some new situations.
- 5: Solid comprehension and effective application in familiar contexts.
- 4: Basic understanding with partial achievement of course standards.
- 3: Limited grasp of required knowledge and skills.
- 2: Minimal demonstration of course requirements.
- 1: No evidence of achievement.
Understanding Additional Points
TOK and EE scores combine to add up to 3 extra points:
- A in both TOK and EE: 3 points
- B in both TOK and EE: 2 points
- C in either TOK or EE: 1 point
- D or E in both TOK or EE: No additional points
What is CAS on IB?
Another key component of the IB Core is CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), which involves participation in creative endeavors, physical activities, and community service.
Although CAS does not directly contribute to the overall IB score, it is a mandatory requirement for earning the diploma. Students must engage in CAS activities for 18 months (approximately 150 hours), demonstrating commitment and personal growth throughout the program.
How Does IB Compare with IGCSE/A-LEVEL and GED Diploma?
The IB differs significantly from other curricula like the IGCSE/A-LEVEL and the GED. While the IGCSE and A-LEVEL systems focus on subject-specific depth, the IB emphasizes a balanced approach, requiring students to study a range of subjects across six groups.
Conversely, the GED is more suitable for individuals seeking a high school equivalency diploma and focuses on core competencies in fewer subjects.
The IB’s inclusion of the Core-comprising the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS), sets it apart by fostering interdisciplinary learning and personal development.
The IB is ideal for students aiming for global higher education opportunities, whereas IGCSE/A-LEVEL are often tailored to UK-centric education systems, and the GED is more aligned with U.S. high school standards.
Read more on Where’s the Best Place to Study A-Level? Student Reviews from The Planner Click Here
Who Fits the Most with This Curriculum?
The IB curriculum is ideal for students who are curious, motivated, and open to exploring diverse perspectives. It appeals to learners who thrive in rigorous academic environments and have aspirations for international education or global careers.
The program’s emphasis on independent research, time management, and analytical thinking makes it an excellent fit for those seeking to develop a comprehensive skill set.
Additionally, the IB is particularly suitable for students who are still exploring their academic and career paths. By offering a diverse range of subjects and activities, it provides opportunities for students to broaden their horizons while discovering their interests and strengths.
The program not only prepares them for the academic demands of university but also equips them with practical life skills and a global outlook. Balancing in-depth academic content with personal growth, the IB fosters well-rounded individuals ready to tackle future challenges.
Why Choose IB Tutoring Course at The Planner?
At The Planner Education, students are taught by professional teachers who bring expertise, techniques, and direct knowledge of IB subjects as well as other international courses. Our tutors use proven strategies to help students master their subjects and excel in their exams.
In addition to academic support, Students can also manage their study schedules flexibly with the help of our administrative team, ensuring that their timetables align with their personal needs and commitments.
With glowing reviews and testimonials from successful students, The Planner has a proven track record of delivering exceptional results across IB and other international courses like GED, IGCSE/A-level, SAT, and IELTS. We provide a transformative learning experience with effective study techniques, targeted exam preparation, and unwavering support.
From understanding course requirements and preparing for tests to navigating university admissions, The Planner’s All-in-One service ensures students receive full support until they achieve their goals.
Ready to achieve high IB scores and secure admission to your dream university with The Planner? Add our LINE Official: @theplanner to plan your IB tutoring and get expert support every step of the way.
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