IBDP Subject Requirements and Availability at Concordian
Diploma candidates are required to select six subjects; one from each of the six groups. At least three and not more than four are taken at Higher Level (HL) with the remaining at Standard Level (SL). HL courses are taught over 240 teaching hours and SL courses over 150 hours.
Within each of the six subject groups, the following subjects will be offered at Concordian.
Group 1: Language A1 (First/’best’ language)
English, Thai, Chinese Literature and Language and Literature (SL/HL)
Group 2: Language B or ab initio (Second modern language)
English B HL, Mandarin B (SL/HL), Mandarin ab initio (SL), French and Spanish ab initio (SL)
Group 3: Individuals and Societies
History of East, South East Asia and Oceania; Economics (SL/HL) and Business and Management (SL), Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS) SL/HL
Group 4: Experimental Sciences
Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Design and Technology (SL/HL)
Group 5: Mathematics
Math HL; Math SL and Math Studies SL, Computer Science (HL/SL)
Group 6: Arts
Visual Arts/Art and Design and Theater (SL/HL)
Uniques Learning Opportunities through the additional core requirements
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – an internally and externally assessed interdisciplinary component that explores the different concepts of knowledge found in the subject areas. Because the Diploma students study six subjects simultaneously, TOK teachers can, for example, ask their students to compare a historian’s approach to problem-solving with that of a scientist or an artist.
The TOK component of the program is central to the educational philosophy of IB. It challenges the students and their teachers to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing; How do we know? and the areas of knowledge; What do we know? It encourages students to become aware as thinkers, to become aware of the complexity of knowledge, and to recognize the need to act responsibly in an increasingly interconnected world. The TOK is composed entirely of questions, the most central being “How do I, or how do we, know that a given assertion is true, or a given judgment is well founded?”
Extended essay (EE) – an externally assessed independent research assignment of 4,000 words on a specific topic chosen from a list set by IB. The topic chosen need not be from the six subjects being studied.
The EE is defined as an in-depth study of a limited topic within a subject. Its purpose is to provide students with an opportunity to engage in personal independent research and to integrate the communication of ideas and information in a logical and coherent manner. Students select their own topic of interest within the framework set by IBO and are guided by a supervisor.
Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) – serves to develop the whole individual with involvement in creative, physical and service activities within the local community. The CAS requirement allows students to gain real-life experience beyond the classroom.
The CAS requirement takes seriously the importance of life outside the academic world. The creative, physical and social development of students can be shaped by their own experiences. Participation in CAS encourages students to share their energies and special talents while developing awareness, concern and ability to work cooperatively with others. The spirit of CAS is to extend the students and challenge them to develop a value system by which they enhance their personal growth. Throughout the process students should develop attitudes and values that transcend race, religion, gender and politics in achieving international understanding.
