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The Diploma Programme

IB DP Curriculum graphic

During their junior and senior years, IB Diploma candidates are required to take at least one course in all six areas of study:  English, world language, social science, science, math, and the fine arts (or an additional IB science or social science course). Of these six courses,  three will be Higher Level (HL) courses that span two years and offer a more in-depth study. The remaining three courses will be one-year, Standard Level (SL) courses. Many universities offer college credit for IB coursework. 

The IB Diploma Programme fosters the development of personal, social, and emotional skills as well as intellectual growth. In order to nurture students as whole individuals,  the program consists of three core components:

  1. Theory of Knowledge (TOK): TOK is a two-year course that encourages students to think critically about the nature of knowledge. It explores how knowledge is acquired, evaluated, and applied in different areas of study and in everyday life. 

  2. Extended Essay (EE): The EE is an independent writing project in which students delve deeply into a subject of their choice. With the support of a faculty supervisor, the EE serves as a valuable introduction to sustained, academic research.

  3. Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): CAS provides experiential learning in the areas of creativity, physical activity, and service within students’ local and global communities. It promotes personal growth, social responsibility, and a holistic approach to education.

 

IB Courses Offered at HF

Language & Literature

  • HL English Language & Literature

Mathematics

  • SL Math: Analysis & Applications (2 Years)
  • HL Math: Analysis & Applications
  • SL Math: Applications & Interpretation w. Sports Data

Science

  • HL Biology
  • SL Sports Exercise and Health Science
  • HL Design Technology-Design Tech
  • SL Design Technology-STEM

Individuals & Societies

  • SL Cultural & Social Anthropology
  • SL Economics
  • SL Psychology
  • SL Business Management
  • SL Global Politics

Language Acquisition

  • SL Chinese (2 Years)
  • SL French (2 Years)
  • SL Spanish (2 Years)
  • SL Ab Initio Chinese (2 Years)
  • SL Ab Initio French (2 Years)
  • SL Ab Initio Spanish (2 Years)

Fine Arts

  • SL Visual Arts
  • SL Film
  • SL Theatre
  • SL Dance
  • SL Design Technology-Arts

 

Earning the IB Diploma

In order to earn the IB Diploma, students must:

  • Take six IB courses, including three HL (higher level) and three SL (standard level)

  • Score at least 24 out of 45 possible points on their six IB exams

    • Each exam is scored 0-7

    • Students cannot earn a 1 on any exam

    • Students must earn at least 9 points on their three SL exams

    • Students must earn at least 12 points on their three HL exam

  • Students must pass the core components:
    • Theory of Knowledge
    • The Extended Essay
    • The Creativity, Activity, and Service project

Section Guide

 

For more information

Libby Day
IB Diploma Coordinator
(708) 335-5799 
LDay@hf233.org