The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (Grades 11 & 12)
The Post Oak School is authorized as an IB World School to offer the IB Diploma Program for grades 11 and 12. IB schools share a common philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education.
All students in grades 11 and 12 participate in the IB Diploma Program and all seniors sit for the IB exams in May.
The IB Diploma Program Overview
The program involves work in nine areas:
- English Language and Literature
- Second Languages
- Individuals and Societies (e.g., studies of history)
- Natural Sciences
- Mathematics
- Arts
- Theory of Knowledge course
- Extended Essay (independent research paper)
- Creativity, Activity, and Service work (extending student beyond school)
The courses may be offered at a Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). Students choose three courses to take at each level. Descriptions of the courses can be found under the High School curriculum. Complete information about the IB Program at Post Oak can be found in the Upper Level Program Guide.
What is special about the IB Diploma Program? (from ibo.org)
- IB programs are recognized around the world and ensure an increased adaptability and mobility for IB students.
- The curriculum and pedagogy of IB programs focus on international perspectives of learning and teaching, while insisting that students fully explore their home culture and language.
- IB World Schools must undergo an exhaustive authorization process in order to offer one or more of the programs , which includes a study of the school’s resources and commitment to the IB mission and philosophy.
- IB teachers participate in a wide variety of professional development opportunities to constantly update their knowledge and share their expertise with colleagues around the world.
- Many students graduating from the Diploma Program find that it enhances their opportunities at tertiary institutions. The IB works closely with universities around the world to gain recognition for IB programs.
- The core components of IB programs encourage students to participate in creative and service-oriented activities, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of reflection on a personal and academic level.
