The language A: language and literature course aims to develop skills of textual analysis and the understanding that texts, both literary and non-literary, can relate to culturally determined reading practices. The course also encourages students to question the meaning generated by language and texts. An understanding of the ways in which formal elements are used to create meaning in a text is combined with an exploration of how that meaning is affected by reading practices that are culturally defined and by the circumstances of production and reception. The study of literature in translation from other cultures is especially important to IB DP students because it contributes to a global perspective. Texts are chosen from a variety of sources, genres and media.

The aims of language A: language and literature courses are to:

• Introduce students to a range of texts from different periods, styles and genres

• Develop in students the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of individual texts and make relevant connections

• Develop the students’ powers of expression, both in oral and written communication

• Encourage students to recognize the importance of the contexts in which texts are written and received

• Encourage an appreciation of the different perspectives of other cultures, and how these perspectives construct meaning

• Encourage students to appreciate the formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of texts

• Promote in students an enjoyment of, and lifelong interest in, language and literature

• Develop in students an understanding of how language, culture and context determine the ways in which meaning is constructed in texts

• Encourage students to think critically about the different interactions between text, audience and purpose.

Language B is a language acquisition course designed for students with some previous experience of the target language. Students further develop their ability to communicate through the study of language, themes and texts. There are five prescribed themes: identities, experiences, human ingenuity, social organization and sharing the planet.

Both language B SL and HL students learn to communicate in the target language in familiar and unfamiliar contexts. The distinction between language B SL and HL can be seen in the level of competency the student is expected to develop in receptive, productive and interactive skills.

The aims of language B: language acquisition courses are to:

• Develop international-mindedness through the study of languages, cultures, and ideas and issues of global significance.

• Enable students to communicate in the language they have studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes.

• Encourage, through the study of texts and through social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of a variety of perspectives of people from diverse cultures.

• Develop students’ understanding of the relationship between the languages and cultures with which they are familiar.

• Develop students’ awareness of the importance of language in relation to other areas of knowledge.

• Provide students, through language learning and the process of inquiry, with opportunities for intellectual engagement and the development of critical- and creative-thinking skills.

• Provide students with a basis for further study, work and leisure through the use of an additional language.

• Foster curiosity, creativity and a lifelong enjoyment of language learning.

Business Management: The business management course is designed to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques. Students learn to analyse, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels. The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors, as well as the sociocultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate.

Biology is the study of life. The vast diversity of species makes biology both an endless source of fascination and a considerable challenge. Biologists attempt to understand the living world at all levels from the micro to the macro using many different approaches and techniques. Biology is still a young science and great progress is expected in the 21st century. This progress is important at a time of growing pressure on the human population and the environment.

By studying biology in the DP students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the sciences. Teachers provide students with opportunities to design investigations, collect data, develop manipulative skills, analyse results, collaborate with peers and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Chemistry is an experimental science that combines academic study with the acquisition of practical and investigational skills. Chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in which we live and all biological systems. Chemistry is often a prerequisite for many other courses in higher education, such as medicine, biological science and environmental science.

Both theory and practical work should be undertaken by all students as they complement one another naturally, both in school and in the wider scientific community. The DP chemistry course allows students to develop a wide range of practical skills and to increase facility in the use of mathematics. It also allows students to develop interpersonal and information technology skills, which are essential to life in the 21st century.

By studying chemistry students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the subject.

Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. Despite the exciting and extraordinary development of ideas throughout the history of physics, observations remain essential to the very core of the subject. Models are developed to try to understand observations, and these themselves can become theories that attempt to explain the observations.

Besides helping us better understand the natural world, physics gives us the ability to alter our environments. This raises the issue of the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists.

By studying physics students should become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. While the scientific method may take on a wide variety of forms, it is the emphasis on a practical approach through experimental work that characterizes the subject. Teachers provide students with opportunities to develop manipulative skills, design investigations, collect data, analyse results and evaluate and communicate their findings.

Through the overarching theme of the nature of science, the aims of the DP Biology, Chemistry, and Physics course are to enable students to:

• Appreciate scientific study and creativity within a global context through stimulating and challenging opportunities.

• Acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.

• Apply and use a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.

• Develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information.

• Develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities.

• Develop experimental and investigative scientific skills including the use of current technologies.

• Develop and apply 21st century communication skills in the study of science become critically aware, as global citizens, of the ethical implications of using science and technology.

• Develop an appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of science and technology.

• Develop an understanding of the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge.

Mathematics Application and Interpretation

Mathematics is the mother of knowledge and much needed in all aspect of our life. As part of seven years teaching cycle, IBDP review the current mathematics lesson in order to allow enough flexibility to address the needs of all students in the modern world. We believe the new DP mathematics subjects will offer more choice for a greater number of students as well as offer schools greater flexibility in the way that they group students, schedule lessons and teach the content. Mathematics application and Interpretation is designed to cater students who  enjoy describing the real world and solving practical problems using mathematics; those who are interested in harnessing the power of technology alongside exploring mathematical models and enjoy the more practical side of mathematics. Taking the course, students not only develop their mathematical skills but also building their 21st century skills while continuously increase  the joy of learning.

Mathematics Analysis and Approach

Analytic methods with an emphasis on calculus – appropriate for pure mathematicians, engineers, scientists, economists, those with an interest in analytic methods – current HL mathematics calculus option content will form part of the HL course. This subject is aimed at students who will go on to study subjects with substantial mathematics content such as mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences, or some economics.

Visual Arts

The IB Diploma Programme visual arts course encourages students to challenge their own creative and cultural expectations and boundaries. It is a thought-provoking course in which students develop analytical skills in problem-solving and divergent thinking, while working towards technical proficiency and confidence as art-makers. In addition to exploring and comparing visual arts from different perspectives and in different contexts, students are expected to engage in, experiment with and critically reflect upon a wide range of contemporary practices and media. The course is designed for students who want to go on to further study of visual arts in higher education as well as for those who are seeking lifelong enrichment through visual arts.

The role of visual arts teachers should be to actively and carefully organize learning experiences for the students, directing their study to enable them to reach their potential and satisfy the demands of the course. Students should be empowered to become autonomous, informed and skilled visual artists.

The aims of the arts subjects are to enable students to:

• Enjoy lifelong engagement with the arts.

• Become informed, reflective and critical practitioners in the arts.

• Understand the dynamic and changing nature of the arts.

• Explore and value the diversity of the arts across time, place and cultures.

• Express ideas with confidence and competence.

• Develop perceptual and analytical skills.

In addition, the aims of the visual arts course at SL and HL are to enable students to:

• Make artwork that is influenced by personal and cultural contexts.

• Become informed and critical observers and makers of visual culture and media.

• Develop skills, techniques and processes in order to communicate concepts and ideas.