Introduction to The Diploma Programme (DP)
- International Baccalaureate Philosophy
- The IB DP is an internationally recognized program that encourages learners to become responsible global citizens. It strives to provide a balanced, challenging education that promotes international understanding and cultural mobility.
- The IB DP was first created by teachers at the International School of Geneva, aiming to offer a global perspective and a broad range of subjects that enhance both academic and personal growth.
- Program Features at EIS
- International Perspective: The program is neutral and unbiased towards any specific national education system.
- Seamless Continuity: The DP complements the existing PYP (Primary Years Programme) and MYP (Middle Years Programme) at Elite International School, providing a consistent, integrated learning experience.
- Rigorous Assessment: Learners are evaluated through a comprehensive criterion-based and inquiry-driven assessment system, ensuring depth in learning.
- Curriculum Flexibility: The curriculum is tailored to meet the individual needs of learners, encouraging them to engage with the subjects that best suit their interests and academic aspirations.
- University Pathway: The DP is widely recognized by universities worldwide, with evidence suggesting that DP learners have higher university acceptance rates compared to non-IB learners.
- The IB Diploma Programme Curriculum Model
© International Baccalaureate Organization 2024
The curriculum is structured into six subject groups:
- Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
- Group 2: Language Acquisition
- Group 3: Individuals and Societies
- Group 4: Sciences
- Group 5: Mathematics
- Group 6: The Arts or an elective subject from Groups 3-5
Additionally, learners must complete three core components:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): A course that challenges learners to reflect on the nature of knowledge.
- Extended Essay (EE): An independent research project on a topic of the learner’s choice.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A requirement that encourages learners to engage in extracurricular activities that foster personal growth and community involvement.
- Approaches to Teaching and Learning (ATL) Skills
The IB DP emphasizes the development of key ATL skills, which are divided into clusters:
- Thinking Skills
- Communication Skills
- Social Skills
- Self-management Skills
- Research Skills
These skills are developed progressively and are aimed at making learners self-regulated learners. As learners progress, they move through stages:
- Novice: Introduction to the skill.
- Learner: Developing the skill with guidance.
- Practitioner: Confident and effective use of the skill.
- Expert: Mastery of the skill, including teaching others.
These ATL skills ensure that learners are not only knowledgeable but also adept at managing their learning and collaborating with others.
- Concept-Driven Curriculum
The DP’s concept-driven curriculum encourages learners to explore broad concepts that transcend specific subject content. By fostering critical thinking and inquiry, the curriculum enables learners to develop a deep understanding of how knowledge is connected and applied in the real world.