An Introduction to the IB Diploma Programme
At British International School of Boston, we know that no program will prepare your child for the future like the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) — widely regarded as one of the best pre-university curricula worldwide. The IBDP is a comprehensive two-year program at the end of High School that focuses on intensive academic study and personal growth.
Students who have progressed through our school have a strong understanding of their own learning style and are well-prepared to take on the broad and challenging scope of the IB diploma. Other students choose to join the British International School of Boston at the start of the IBDP, giving them an impressive capstone on their High School years and making them more attractive to competitive universities.
IB Diploma Subjects
All IB Diploma candidates follow six subjects, one from each of the six subject groups. (Another subject from Groups 2–4 may be taken in place of an Arts subject in Group 6).
They must take at least three subjects at Higher Level (HL) and three subjects at Standard Level (SL).
- Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
- English A: Literature
- English A: Language and Literature
- Group 2: Language Acquisition
- French or Spanish B
- French or Spanish Ab Initio
- Group 3: Individuals and Societies
- Business Management
- History
- Psychology
- Group 4: Sciences
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Environmental Systems and Societies
- Group 5: Mathematics
- Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations
- Group 6: The Arts
- Film
- Visual Arts
The IB Core
Students also study a “Core” that’s divided into the following three areas:
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Students get involved in a variety of activities alongside their academic studies. They become involved in the arts and creative thinking (Creativity), stay physically active and healthy (Activity), and give back to the community (Service).
- The Extended Essay (EE): The EE is a 4,000-word independent, primary research paper on a topic related to one of the student’s six subjects. This in-depth study is a powerful preparation for college research projects.
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): TOK is a critical thinking course aimed at helping students better understand how and why knowledge is gained. TOK helps the students develop a unified view of their six courses.
