IB Diploma PathwayOption for Sixth Form
The IB Diploma is an international and globally recognised qualification, offered in the Sixth Form at Godolphin and Latymer since 2004. It furthers key approaches to learning and teaching which we already foster in the Lower and Middle School. Holistic and coherent, with a learner profile which is consistent across all subjects, it encapsulates our school mission to develop in our girls shared values, especially international mindedness, and a wide range of transferable and enduring skills.
In order to obtain the Diploma students must take one subject from each of Groups 1-6, choosing three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). The main difference between Higher Level and Standard Level is the depth in which the subject is covered. The way in which subjects can be combined across Higher and Standard Level allows students to build a curriculum which complements their strengths and suits their Higher Education aspirations. The IB also provides the opportunity for students to specialise in the Humanities, in the Sciences or in Languages by allowing them to choose a second subject from Group 2, 3 or 4 instead of an Arts subject in Group 6. All options are offered at Higher or Standard level unless marked * when they are offered at standard level only.
Group 1: ENGLISH
English Literature
Group 2: LANGUAGES
French; German; Italian; Spanish; Latin; Greek; Italian ab initio; Mandarin*
Group 3: INDIVIDUALS AND SOCIETIES (HUMANITIES)
History; Economics; Global Politics; Philosophy; Geography; History of Art*
Group 4: EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES
Biology; Chemistry; Physics
Group 5: MATHEMATICS
Analysis and Approaches; or Applications and Interpretations*
Group 6: CREATIVE ARTS AND ELECTIVES
Music; Theatre Studies; Visual Arts. A second subject chosen from Group 2, 3 or 4 can be taken instead of an Arts subject.
THE IB CORE
The Core elements are the Extended Essay, CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) and Theory of Knowledge.
The Extended Essay is an exciting academic challenge involving independent research on a topic of the student’s choice in consultation with a subject expert supervisor. The 4000 word extended investigation helps to develop strong organisational skills and intellectual confidence in the style of a University assignment.
The Theory of Knowledge is a holistic approach to thinking. Through stimulating group activities and discussions it teaches students HOW to think and the skills developed are universal and can be applied to all six subjects studied as part of the IB course and beyond.
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) is a celebration of students’ non academic interests and learning. Students choose their own unique programme of creative, active and service experiences through which to make a positive impact on the school and local community and develop skills for lifelong learning.