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This is the
25th Anniversary of the Foss IB
Program
1982-2007INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAM
Welcome Parents
and Students!
I would like to
welcome you to the web site for the International Baccalaureate
Program at Henry Foss High School.
At Henry Foss High School we encourage all students who want to challenge themselves intellectually and academically to consider entering the International Baccalaureate Program. If you have any questions about the program, please call or e-mail. Cynthia
Lenihan
The Profile of a successful International Baccalaureate student:
What is the IB Program?
The International Baccalaureate at Henry Foss
High SchoolThe IB Organization In 1965, in Switzerland, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) set out to establish a program of studies that would assure quality educational standards for students studying in international schools throughout the world. Today, the International Baccalaureate Program is offered in more than 700 schools located in more than 90 countries. The Curriculum and Assessment Center in Cardiff, Wales, is responsible for continuously updating the curriculum, developing examinations, assessing student work, training teachers, and evaluating the program with input from IB teachers worldwide. In the fall of 1982 Henry Foss High School became an official member of the International Baccalaureate Organization, a prestigious, worldwide program that offers a rigorous two-year, pre-university course of study, leading to examinations, that meets the needs of the highly motivated eleventh and twelfth grade student. Beyond completing college-level courses and examinations, IB students are also required to engage in community service, individual research, and an inquiry into the nature of knowledge. The IB provides students of different linguistic, cultural, and educational backgrounds with the intellectual, social, and critical perspectives necessary for the adult world that lies ahead of them. While students may take individual IB courses separately, those students who wish to challenge themselves and to receive an excellent preparation for their college studies should plan their junior and senior schedules to pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Underclassmen need to carefully schedule their ninth and tenth grade years by taking recommended “pre-IB” (Honors) courses which prepare them to enter the IB Diploma program. The Course of Study The diploma candidates must take courses in each of the six subject groups listed below. Each subject culminates in a standardized exam given each May. Three subjects are pursued at the higher level, no more than four, and three at the standard level. HL courses represent a recommended minimum of 240 teaching hours, SL courses cover 150 hours. In addition to successfully completing the six subject exams, each diploma candidate must complete The Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS(Creativity Action Service). Students are thus able to explore some subjects in depth and others more broadly. A deliberate compromise between the early specialization in some countries and the breadth found in others. The science-oriented student is challenged to learn a foreign language and the natural linguist becomes familiar with laboratory procedures. Active citizenship and global perspectives are encouraged in each area of the curriculum. The subjects are continually reviewed and revised to meet contemporary needs. The list below serves as a current guide only. * Language A1: English and English literature promotes an appreciation of literature and a knowledge of a student’s own culture and that of other societies. These courses are designed to develop students’ powers of expression, both in oral and written communication, by emphasizing the skills involved in writing and speaking one’s native language in a variety of styles and situations. * Foreign Language: French, Russian, German, and Spanish are the languages available for study. The aim of the course is to prepare students to use the language appropriately in a range of situations and contexts and for a variety of purposes. The course also allows students to develop an awareness and appreciation of the culture(s) of the countries in which the target language is spoken. For juniors and seniors, these courses are offered at both the standard and higher level. * Individuals & Societies: Social studies courses that engage the student in the study of Geography, Civics, World History and United States History, all of which culminates in an in-depth study of the history of the Americas. Through these courses, students strengthen their skills in written analysis and oral presentation. * Experimental Science: are offered to provide students with opportunity for search and discovery, development of and understanding of the knowledge of science principles and concepts, development of the application of knowledge and skills to generate new knowledge, and encourage an awareness of the impact of science on society to prepare for life in a technological age. * Mathematics: The courses seek to provide students with mathematical knowledge and principles. They help students develop logical and creative thinking in mathematics and use abstraction and generalization to reach conclusions. *Arts & Electives: IB Theater Arts, IB Visual Arts, IB Music Theory. The students gain an understanding of the arts and learn to express themselves artistically by creating, producing or performing works of art. Other elective choices - 2nd Foreign language. Other Program Requirements: Theory of knowledge: One of the most important elements of the program is the theory of knowledge course, which challanges students to question the bases of knowledge - to reflect critically on how they know what they believe to be facts or truth. It consists almost entirely of exploring questions about different sources of knowledge(perception, language, emotion, reason) and different kinds of knowledge(scientific, artistic, mathematical, historical). The Extended Essay: Following their junior year, diploma candidates conduct an in-depth study of a topic of special interest, culminating into an extended essay , of at most 4,000 words. The experience and skills gained in carrying out independent research and producing a structured, substantial piece of of writing provide excellent preparation for independent study at university level. Creativity, Action, Service(CAS): Over the course of the program, diploma candidates must perform 150 hours of CAS. This includes community service, arts, athletics, civic organizations, and participation in clubs. For further class information, click on links below.
Group 1
Reminders:
- Students in Honors courses will be introduced to the skills, assessment techniques, and analytical expectations to meet their needs once they enter their IB English years. - By the end of the Honors English 10 course, students, under the advisement of their teacher, may opt to pursue IB English 11 either at the Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL). - Grades in IB English 11 and 12 HL are weighted by universities for admission purposes, if the student passes the exam with a 3 or higher.
Group 2 Reminders: - The sequence identified above applies to the majority of students wishing to continue through the IB Language program. If, however, a student enters Foss with more (or less) experience than those in the normal sequence, the teacher will assess that student’s skills and knowledge level and place him or her in the appropriate course. - Based on performance and teacher assessments, a student can opt to take either the Standard or the Higher Level exam. IB Diploma candidates pursuing the Higher Level exam must complete the two-year sequence during Grades 11 and 12. Students pursuing a Standard Level exam can complete the two-year sequence either in 10th and 11th grades or in the 11th and 12th grades.
Group 3 Reminders: - Students in the 9th and 10th grade years will be introduced to the research and study skills, assessment techniques, and analytical expectations designed to meet their needs once they enter their IB years (Grades 11 and 12). - If a student decides not to complete the IB History sequence after having completed Honors World Cultures, then that student must complete a US History course, a Civics Class and World Issues. If they leave IB after taking Contemporary World History they will need Civics.
Group 4
Reminders:
*These courses may be taken in any sequence. Order given will depend on the biannual rotation. HL = Higher Lever; SL = Standard Level - These sequences are recommended, and as such, different sequences for each IB science can often be pursued with advice for the IBDP coordinator, the science department, or the guidance department. - It is strongly recommended that Grade 9 students entering Chemistry should have received a “C” or better in Honors Algebra in Grade 8. For those Grade 9 students choosing to enter Chemistry, it is strongly recommended that they earn a “B” or better in Algebra.
Group 5 Reminder: SL = Standard Level HL = Higher Level - Which math sequence an IB student should follow depends on several considerations. First is when the student took Algebra 1. Most potential IB math candidates will have taken it in Grade 8. Some, however, will not have started it until Grade 9. Students (and parents), through the advice of each successive year’s math teacher, should determine which of the IB Math courses best suits the student’s needs. IB Mathematics SL is for students anticipating taking math course(s) in college. IB Mathematical Studies SL is designed for students who are more humanities-oriented and who will probably not take much math in college. - These sequences are recommended, and as such, different sequences for each IB math course can often be pursued with advice from the IB coordinator, the math department, or the guidance department.
Visual Arts Reminders: - Higher Level students are required to complete the IB Visual Arts HL requirements within a two-year period while Standard Level students are encouraged to within a two-year period, but may do so in one year with permission from, and under the supervision of the instructor. - IB Diploma candidates opting to take IB Art at the Higher Level must take it over the junior and senior years only. Theatre Arts Reminders: - Higher Level students are required to complete the IB Theatre Arts HL requirements within a two-year period while Standard Level students are encouraged to within a two-year period, but may do so in one year with permission from, and under the supervision of the instructor. - IB Diploma candidates opting to take IB Theatre Arts HL must take it over the junior and senior years only. Music Reminders: - IB Music SL students must enroll in an instrumental music performance class every year through the completion of their IB Music course. - IB Music SL is a one-year course and can be taken either in Grade 11 or 12. Full IB Diploma candidates wishing to take IB Music as their Group 6 requirement must take Music Theory for two years. - Note: Students will be placed into an instrumental music performance class by the instructor according to student’s capacities and abilities, not grade level. Theory of Knowledge The IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course challenges students in the areas of critical thinking and integration of knowledge. The focus of the TOK course is studying what we know in the various fields of knowledge and how we know it. Students develop a critical awareness of the fields of knowledge: study of procedures, processes, and methodologies of each field; recognize the biases inherent in each discipline; understand and appreciate the importance of inquiry as a basis of knowledge; and apply standards of logic and reasoned argument to intellectual problems. Topics of study include comparing four ways of thinking: analytical, empirical, moral and aesthetic. Assessment is based on a journal, in-class essays, research assignments, reading assignments and participation. Some assignments are prepared for internal and external assessment and are completed for a portion of the IB score. Students are required to take both semesters of the course. TOK is a required course for all diploma candidates. Grade 11 and Grade 12 Second semester grade 11,First semester grade 12 Extended essay The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, culminating in a 4,000-word paper. As a required component, it provides: practical preparation for the kinds of undergraduate research required at tertiary level an opportunity for students to engage in an in-depth study of a topic of interest within a chosen subject. Emphasis is placed on the research process: formulating an appropriate research question engaging in a personal exploration of the topic communicating ideas developing an argument. Participation in this process develops the capacity to analyse, synthesize, and evaluate knowledge. Students are supported throughout the process with advice and guidance from a supervisor (usually a teacher at the school). The Six Academic Subjects These are studied concurrently. Students are required to study both the humanities and the sciences. Diploma Program (DP) students must select one subject from each of the six groups. At least three and not more than four are taken at Higher Level (HL), the others at Standard Level (SL). HL courses represent a recommended minimum of 240 teaching hours, SL courses cover 150 hours. Students are thus able to explore some subjects in depth and others more broadly. A deliberate compromise between the early specialization in some countries and the breadth found in others. The science-oriented student is challenged to learn a foreign language and the natural linguist becomes familiar with laboratory procedures. Active citizenship and global perspectives are encouraged in each area of the curriculum. The subjects are continually reviewed and revised to meet contemporary needs. The list serves as a current guide only. Group 1
– Language A1
More than 80 languages have been offered for examination as part of the IBO’s policy of encouraging students to maintain strong ties to their own cultures. Students ideally develop strong written and oral skills, respect for the literary heritage of their first language, and an international perspective. At Foss High School we currently test at both the HL and SL in English. Group 2 – Second Language All Diploma Program students are examined in a second language. The principal aim for these subjects is to enable students to use the language in a range of contexts and for many purposes; the courses focus on written and spoken communication. Foss currently tests in German, Spanish, French, and Russian. SL and HL Group 3 – Individuals and Societies Subjects included in this group are: History of the Americas and 20th Century World History. SL and HL Group 4 – Experimental sciences The subjects available in are biology, chemistry, and physics. Practical laboratory skills are developed and collaborative learning is encouraged through an interdisciplinary group project. Students develop an awareness of moral and ethical issues and a sense of social responsibility is fostered by examining local and global issues. SL and HL Group 5 – Mathematics All Diploma Program students are required to complete a mathematics exam, and three options are available to cater to different abilities and levels of student interest: Mathematics and Mathematical Studies. Group 6 – The Arts and Electives This group includes visual arts, music and theater arts, with emphasis placed on practical production by the student and exploration of a range of creative work in a global context. SL and HL Options: Instead of a group 6 subject, a student may select an additional subject from group 2 or 4. Assessing Student Work and Awarding the Diploma: Classroom teachers and IB examiners work in partnership to ensure that students have ample opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned. Grades reflect attainment of knowledge and skills relative to set standards, which are applied equally to all schools. Top grades are not, for example, awarded to certain a percentage of students. Responsibility for all academic judgments about the quality of candidates’ work rests with over 5,000 IB examiners worldwide, led by chief examiners with international authority in their fields. Each year approximately 80% of candidates who attempt the diploma succeed in earning it. Examinations are offered in May for northern hemisphere schools and in November for those in the southern hemisphere. Diploma Required Core: 1.The Extended Essay is an original research paper of no more than 4,000 words. • The student must have a Foss teacher mentor who will guide the student through this effort. • The final draft for senior must be submitted to teacher/mentors in duplicate on the assigned deadline. • An external examiner will grade the papers. 2.Theory of Knowledge (TOK) requires students spend 100 hours on the assigned syllabus. • Requires 1 paper. • Develop an oral presentation for evaluation. • Paper is scored externally. 3.Creativity (Community), Action, and Service (CAS) component asks students to review their involvement in the community, recording details and impressions of the experiences. • School course credit and pay for services do not count. • Each student’s file will be active pending any review by the IBO. Diploma candidates must select three of the above subjects to be studied at the Higher Level and three subjects to be studied at the Standard Level (or a maximum of four at HL and two at SL). In addition to the successful completion of the six subjects and their respective external exams, the Diploma candidate must also take a unique course entitled “Theory of Knowledge.” TOK is offered both during and after school. Its purpose is to stimulate critical reflection upon the knowledge and experiences acquired both inside and outside the classroom, to evaluate the basis of knowledge and experience and to develop a personal mode of thought based on critical examination of evidence and argument. Diploma candidates must meet two additional requirements:
IB Exams - Every student
is expected to take the IB exam and complete all IB assessments for
each course.
- Students on free or reduced lunch are granted a fee waiver by the State of Washington. - Students who are in need of financial assistance for exams must notify the IB Coordinator during the registration process. Internal/External Grading - Teachers will determine
students’ grades each quarter in accordance with TPS
grading policy. The TPS grade is
independent of IB Exam score.
- Many IB courses have requirements
that some assignments or materials, such as lab notebooks, be
sent to the IB Curriculum and Assessment Center for moderations.
These will be graded by the teacher
first. Make copies of
all the papers
and
materials sent to IB just in case your work is lost in
shipping.
- When the exam scores come out in July, IB candidates will be able
to access their scores via the internet.
Each candidate will be provided with specific instructions on
how to find their scores.- In April, candidates who wish to have their exam scores sent to a college or university will be given a sheet to fill out. This sheet must be returned immediately to the IB Coordinator. There is no charge for the first transcript. IB Exam Marks TOK and Extended Essay Marks 1 very poor E elementary 2 poor D mediocre 3 mediocre C satisfactory 4 satisfactory B good 5 good A excellent 6 very good 7 excellent **Detailed assessment criteria for TOK and Extended Essay are located later in this handbook. International Baccalaureate Diploma Requirements: - Each candidate is required to
take six exams, at least three—but no more than four—at
the Higher Level and the others at the Standard Level. Candidates
are required to sit for exams in six different subject groups.
- In addition to successfully completing the six subject exams, each diploma candidate must complete the following: 1. Extended Essay: An original piece of piece of research and writing under the supervision of a teacher in school 2. Theory of Knowledge: Taken during second semester of junior year and first semester of senior year. It is internally assessed and externally moderated. 3. CAS (Creativity Action Service): A minimum of 150 hours of activity not connected with IB courses (extra curricular activities mostly) that are evenly distributed between all three areas. All activity must be documented in a timely and thoughtful manner. Conditions: The Diploma will be awarded to
candidates whose total score, including the six exams and bonus
points from TOK and the Extended Essay, reaches or exceeds 24
points and does not contain any of the following failing
conditions:
1. Higher Level Subjects:
- A mark of 2
- A mark of 3 not compensated by a
mark of 5+ in another HL subject
2. Standard Level Subjects:- A mark of 1
3. Overall Result:- More than one mark of 2 - More than three marks of 3
- More than one mark of 3 if there is a mark of 2 at SL Candidates with only one failing condition as detailed above, but with a total score of at least 28 points, including any bonus points, will be awarded the Diploma. However, the Diploma cannot be awarded, whatever the total score, to candidates who have earned a mark of 1 in any HL subject. Diplomas are mailed in August or early September. IB Certificate Candidates who do not pursue the Diploma may take one or more IB courses. Such candidates will be classified as Certificate candidates and will receive a certificate in late August or September with their scores. Candidates who do not fulfill the requirements for the Diploma will receive an IB certificate and scores for each exam. Candidates for the Diploma wishing to take IB subjects in excess of the six required may register as EXTRA Certificate candidates for the additional subject(s). Results obtained from the extra exams cannot be applied to the award of a Diploma.
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