If you’re a student or a parent looking for the best educational options in Singapore, you may have heard of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme. This globally recognized programme offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that aims to develop well-rounded, knowledgeable, and curious individuals who can thrive in a rapidly changing world. But with so many subjects to choose from, it can be a daunting task to navigate the different IB programme subjects in Singapore. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to give you a closer look at the syllabus and assessment criteria for each subject. Whether you’re interested in science, math, humanities, or the arts, we’ll help you discover the right IB programme subjects that suit your interests and aspirations. So, let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of IB programme subjects in Singapore!
Understanding the IB Programme Subjects
The IB Programme is divided into three levels: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP is designed for students aged 3-12, while the MYP is for students aged 11-16. The DP is the most advanced level and is intended for students aged 16-19. The DP is the most popular level for students in Singapore, as it offers a wide range of subjects that prepare students for university and beyond.
The DP subjects are grouped into six subject groups, which students must choose from to complete their IB Diploma. These subject groups include:
1. Studies in Language and Literature
2. Language Acquisition
3. Individuals and Societies
4. Sciences
5. Mathematics
6. The Arts
Each subject group comprises several subjects that students can choose from based on their interests and academic abilities. In addition to the DP, the IB Programme also offers a Career-related Programme (CP) for students who want to focus on specific career pathways. The CP combines academic subjects with career-related courses and practical experience, and is an excellent option for students who want to pursue vocational careers.
IB Diploma Programme (DP) Subjects and Syllabus
The IB Diploma Programme is a challenging two-year programme that prepares students for university and beyond. Students must choose one subject from each of the six subject groups to complete their IB Diploma. The DP subjects are designed to be rigorous and comprehensive, and students must develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills to excel in these subjects.
The Studies in Language and Literature subject group includes subjects such as English, Chinese, and Spanish. This group focuses on developing students’ language skills and their ability to analyze and interpret literary texts. Students will also learn about the cultural and social contexts in which these texts were produced.
The Language Acquisition group includes subjects such as French, German, and Japanese. This group is designed for students who want to learn a new language or improve their language skills. Students will learn about the grammar, vocabulary, and culture of the language they choose.
The Individuals and Societies group includes subjects such as History, Geography, and Economics. This group focuses on developing students’ understanding of human behavior and society. Students will learn about the political, social, and economic systems that shape our world.
The Sciences group includes subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. This group is designed for students who are interested in science and want to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Students will learn about the fundamental principles of science and how they apply to real-world problems.
The Mathematics group includes subjects such as Mathematics Analysis and Approaches and Mathematics Applications and Interpretation. This group is designed to develop students’ mathematical skills and their ability to solve complex problems. Students will learn about algebra, calculus, and statistics.
The Arts group includes subjects such as Visual Arts, Music, and Theatre. This group is designed for students who are interested in the arts and want to develop their creative and expressive skills. Students will learn about the history, theory, and practice of their chosen art form.
Assessment Criteria for the DP Subjects
The IB Programme uses a rigorous and comprehensive assessment system that evaluates students’ performance in each subject. The assessment system includes both internal and external assessments, and students must achieve a certain level of performance to receive their IB Diploma.
Internal assessments are conducted by the school and are moderated by IB examiners. These assessments include coursework, essays, and projects that students complete throughout the two-year programme. External assessments are conducted by IB examiners and include written exams that students take at the end of the programme.
Each DP subject is assessed using assessment criteria that measure students’ understanding, knowledge, and skills in the subject. These criteria include:
1. Knowledge and understanding
2. Application and analysis
3. Synthesis and evaluation
4. Use of subject-specific terminology
5. Critical thinking
6. Communication
To receive their IB Diploma, students must achieve a certain level of performance in each subject and must also complete a theory of knowledge course, a creativity, activity, and service programme, and an extended essay.
IB Career-related Programme (CP) Subjects and Syllabus
The IB Career-related Programme is designed for students who want to focus on specific career pathways. The CP combines academic subjects with career-related courses and practical experience, and is an excellent option for students who want to pursue vocational careers.
The CP includes four components:
1. Two or three DP subjects
2. A career-related study
3. Personal and professional skills
4. A reflective project
The DP subjects in the CP are chosen based on the student’s career aspirations and can include any of the six subject groups. The career-related study is designed to provide students with practical skills and knowledge related to their chosen career pathway. The personal and professional skills component is designed to develop students’ interpersonal and leadership skills. The reflective project is a culminating project that allows students to reflect on their learning and career aspirations.
Assessment Criteria for the CP Subjects
The assessment criteria for the CP subjects are similar to those for the DP subjects, but with a greater emphasis on practical skills and knowledge related to the student’s chosen career pathway. Students must achieve a certain level of performance in each component to receive their IB CP certificate.
The DP subjects in the CP are assessed using the same assessment criteria as the DP subjects, but with a greater emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to real-world problems. The career-related study is assessed based on the student’s ability to apply their knowledge and skills to their chosen career pathway. The personal and professional skills component is assessed based on the student’s ability to demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. The reflective project is assessed based on the student’s ability to reflect on their learning and career aspirations.
IB Courses in Singapore
The IB Programme is offered in many schools in Singapore, and students can choose from a wide range of subjects. Some of the most popular schools that offer the IB Programme in Singapore include:
1. Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)
2. Australian International School
3. Canadian International School
4. Dover Court International School
5. Dulwich College (Singapore)
6. GEMS World Academy (Singapore)
7. Hwa Chong International School
8. International Community School (Singapore)
9. ISS International School (Singapore)
10. Singapore American School
Each school may offer different subject combinations, so it’s important to research the schools and their programmes carefully to find the right fit for you.
Choosing the Right IB Programme and Subject Combination
Choosing the right IB Programme and subject combination can be a daunting task, but it’s important to consider your interests, academic abilities, and career aspirations. Here are some tips to help you choose the right IB Programme and subject combination:
1. Consider your interests and strengths
2. Research the different IB subjects and syllabus
3. Talk to your teachers, counsellors, and parents
4. Visit schools and attend information sessions
5. Consider your career aspirations and university plans
Remember that the IB Programme is designed to be challenging and rigorous, so it’s important to choose subjects that you’re passionate about and that will help you achieve your academic and career goals.
Success Stories of IB Graduates in Singapore
Many IB graduates in Singapore have gone on to achieve great success in their academic and professional careers. Here are some examples of IB graduates in Singapore and their achievements:
1. Tan Min-Liang, co-founder and CEO of Razer Inc., graduated from Hwa Chong International School with an IB Diploma in 1995.
2. Kevin Kwan, author of the bestselling novel “Crazy Rich Asians,” graduated from Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) with an IB Diploma in 1990.
3. Elizabeth Tan, Singapore’s first female Olympic swimmer, graduated from Singapore American School with an IB Diploma in 2013.
4. Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Manpower and Trade and Industry, graduated from Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) with an IB Diploma in 1980.
These success stories demonstrate the value of the IB Programme in preparing students for success in their academic and professional careers.
Conclusion
The IB Programme offers a challenging and comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for university and beyond. With a wide range of subjects to choose from, students can tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations. By understanding the different IB Programme subjects and their syllabus and assessment criteria, students can make informed decisions about their academic and career paths. Whether you’re interested in science, math, humanities, or the arts, the IB Programme has something for everyone. So, take the time to research the IB Programme and find the right subjects that will help you achieve your academic and career goals.