The IB Diploma Programme is a broad-based, two-year course of study for juniors and seniors, presented through six academic areas. Students study two modern languages (or a modern language and a classical language); a humanities or social science subject; an experimental science; mathematics; and one of the creative arts or an additional course from the previous subjects. This comprehensive range of subjects makes the Diploma Programme a demanding course of study that prepares students effectively for college. In each of the academic areas, students have flexibility in making their choices, enabling them to select subjects that may wish to study during the college careers. Learn more about the Diploma Programme:
Attend a DP Informational Session Families and students may attend an upcoming Diploma Programme information session:
- Thursday, November 16, 6-7:30 p.m. (High School Small Auditorium)
- Wednesday, January 17, 6-7:30 p.m. (High School Small Auditorium)
- Saturday, January 20, 10-11:30 a.m. (High School Small Auditorium)
Core Elements Of The Diploma ProgrammeAll Diploma Programme students participate in the three requirements that make up the essential core:
- The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course encourages students to think about the nature of knowledge, to reflect on the process of learning in all the subjects they study as part of their Diploma Programme course, and to make connections across the academic areas.
- The Extended Essay (EE), a substantial piece of independent research and writing of up to 4,000 words, enables students to investigate a self-selected topic of special interest.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) involves students in experiential learning through a range of artistic, sporting, physical, and community service activities.
IB Diploma Requirements
During their junior and senior years, IB Diploma candidates are required to complete coursework in all six areas of study (English, a second world language, history, science, mathematics and the fine arts or an IB elective). Students also must complete at least three (and not more than four) Higher Level courses and three Standard Level courses.
Students will achieve the IB Diploma based upon successful completion of their six courses, their Extended Essay, the Theory of Knowledge (TOK I and II) courses, and the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) component.
IB Diploma Programme Courses offered by Shaker
Shaker provides a variety of courses across the subject areas to ensure a degree of flexibility and specialization for candidates. Students are invited to review our course planner to explore our courses and choose which ones might be best for their interests, strengths, and aspirations.
IB Assessments
IB students are evaluated according to both internal (evaluation by classroom instructors) and external (written exams taken at the end of the course that are marked by IB examiners) assessments. All assessments are criterion-based. Student scores for each course range from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest). Students must achieve a minimum score of 24 points through their performance on six IB exams in order to earn the IB Diploma. Students may earn up to three additional points for their combined results in Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay.
Honor Code
All IB Diploma Candidates will be expected to abide by the IB Honor Code. The Honor Code outlines the expectations for academic honesty for all IB learners as well as potential consequences for infractions.
Fees
Families are responsible for the costs associated with the IB examinations. Currently, International Baccalaureate charges a $120 fee for each Higher Level and Standard Level exam. Thus, families of Diploma Programme candidates can expect a minimum financial cost of $720. Test fees are billed in September of the student’s testing year.
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