INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) PROGRAM

In Grades 11 & 12, Brent follows a program based on the curriculum of the International Baccalaureate Organization. All students are required to study the full curriculum of the IB Diploma, but in practice, they fall into three groups:

a.     those actually taking the full IB Diploma

b.     those taking some IB examinations to gain individual certificates

c.     those following IB courses but not taking IB examinations

The IB Diploma program is based on the principle of learning to learn. It requires all students to take three subjects at Subsidiary Level.  A good pass at Higher Level   normally gains credits toward North American College courses.

Where students do not actually take I.B. examinations, they are assessed internally and they may also take Advanced Placement (AP) tests in subjects where they are studying I.B. Higher subjects. 

Additional International Baccalaureate Requirements

Internal Assessments

Each subject area in the I.B. programme has an internally assessed component that is graded by teachers before being moderated by the I.B. overseas. Generally these components are significant pieces of work in their own right and require students to undertake individual research and production of a written report that varies from subject to subject: English, for example, requires a polished Oral production which is recorded for moderation; History requires a 2 500 word essay while Biology focuses on individual research and scientific reporting. In each case, teachers provide a structured guideline and continued support, although I.B. limits the extent of the nature of this support. In most cases the internal assessment is completed in Grade 12.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

Theory of Knowledge is a unique feature of the IB program and examines the origins and validity of various forms of knowledge. Its purpose is to stimulate critical reflection upon what has been learned in the classroom.  Discussion is an important part of classes and TOK aims to help students appreciate the nature of information, thought and ideas. Usually, a number of faculty are involved, as well as outside resources. Students must complete and achieve a passing grade for their TOK Essay in order to graduate from Brent or to receive the I.B. Diploma.

Extended Essay

The Extended Essay is a substantial research essay of 4000 words, completed by students in Grade 11 on a topic of their choice, although this topic must be within a subject in which they are registered. Some class time is provided, though this is an individual project undertaken under the supervision of the subject area teacher. The Extended Essay is completed in Grade 11 so as not to impact with the Internal Assessments completed in Grade 12. The Essay must be completed and achieve a passing grade in order for a student to Graduate from Brent, or to receive the I.B. Diploma

Creativity, Action and Service Program (CAS)

This unique I.B. requirement is for all I.B. students (as well as those doing a Brent Diploma) to participate in activities both in the school and broader community, and is in keeping with the I.B. philosophy of encouraging well-rounded, involved students. Students are required to keep a logbook of activities, monitored through the year by a CAS Supervisor.