THE IB Diploma Programme IN DETAIL
A two-year integrated course
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a two-year integrated course for students seeking a globally endorsed matriculation alternative to the NSW Higher School Certificate. Widely recognised as effective preparation for the independent style of learning required for university study, the IB Diploma offers a broad curriculum of six subjects, which are chosen from a range of subject groups.
An individual student’s pattern of study includes six subjects: one from each of Groups 1 to 5 plus a sixth subject from Group 6 or a second subject from Groups 2 to 4. Three subjects must be studied at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
The following courses of study are offered at Kambala. The majority of subjects are offered at both Higher and Standard level, the exceptions being SL Spanish Ab Initio and SL Mathematics Applications and Interpretations.
Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
Language A:
English Literature
Group 2: Language Acquisition
French SL/HL, Latin SL/HL,
Mandarin SL/HL, Spanish ab initio SL
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
Economics SL/HL, Global Politics SL/HL, History HL/SL, Psychology SL/HL
Group 4: Sciences
Biology SL/HL, Chemistry SL/HL,
Physics SL/HL,
Sport, Exercise and Health SH/HL
Group 5: Mathematics
Mathematics:
Applications and Interpretations SL,
Approaches and Analysis SL/HL
Group 6: The Arts
Music SL/HL,
Visual Arts SL/HL
In addition to the six subjects, all students must undertake three core elements:
- Theory of Knowledge
- Extended Essay
- Creativity, Activity, Service.
Additionally, IB Diploma students complete mandatory core requirements of an independently researched Extended Essay, a Theory of Knowledge course and a program of Creativity, Action and Service. Making connections between core elements and their other subjects ensures that the student is central to the IB educational philosophy, which encourages responsibility, initiative and reflection.
Students who are independent learners with an enquiring, open-minded approach to global diversity, a desire to create a better and more peaceful world and who strive to achieve a balanced intellectual, physical and emotional wellbeing in their personal lives are ideal candidates for this international course of study.
I am especially glad that Kambala offered the IB curriculum. This rigorous course has prepared me well for University and has allowed me to develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Angela Ye OG23