
IBDP Core
Theory of Knowledge (ToK)
TOK gives students an opportunity to reflect on the nature of knowledge and how we know what we claim to know. This involves examining the process of knowing and exploration of knowledge questions (KQs) that are contestable and focus on knowledge itself. TOK focuses on the connections and comparisons between areas of knowledge (AoKs) with the hope of encouraging students to increase awareness of their own perspectives and the perspectives of others. This course is meant to be thought-provoking, empowering and applicable to all of their other DP subjects.
TOK is mandatory and central to the educational philosophy of the DP and is part of the DP core. It is assessed through an exhibition and a 1,600 word essay on a prescribed title.
In the TOK exhibition students must explore how TOK manifests in the real world by creating an exhibition in which 3 objects are linked to one of 35 IA prompts. The TOK essay is based on one of 6 prescribed titles that take the form of a knowledge question, assigned in each examination session.
Extended Essay (EE)
The extended essay is a self-guided, academic independent research paper that gives students an opportunity to investigate a special-interest topic of their choice. This leads to the creation of a 4,000 word piece of structured writing that focuses on communicating ideas and findings from the students personal research in the chosen subject. Under the guidance of a supervisor, the EE promotes high-level academic writing, creativity, and personal growth through self-reflection on the research process.
Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS)
CAS provides students with an opportunity to engage in experiential learning. Over a minimum of 18 months, throughout the course of the DP, students are required to plan, engage in, and reflect on a range of self-directed experiences based around the three strands of CAS- Creativity, Activity, and Service. Throughout the programme students set and aim to achieve goals- both personal and also based on the CAS learning outcomes- with a view to expanding their own interests and passions, engaging with their local and global communities, and becoming a lifelong learner.