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International BaccalaureateThe IB Programme:The International Baccalaureate Diploma programme* is a two year course which students may The International Baccalaureate diploma is an internationally recognised university entry Students study three subjects at Higher Level (H) and three subjects at Standard Level (S). Candidates will also follow a Theory of Knowledge course which stimulates critical reflection on the knowledge The introduction of Environmental Systems and Societies, a transdisciplinary subject covering Group 3 and Group 4, offers greater flexibility of option choices. It is now possible to opt for up to 3 subjects in Groups 2, 3 & 4 and 2 subjects in Group 6. ![]() The Curriculum:The International Baccalaureate ProgrammeAt least three subjects are taken at Higher Level (H), the others at Standard Level (S). Candidates are required to select one subject from each of the six subject groups, except Group 6 which is optional. Environmental Systems and Societies covers both Group 3 and Group 4. At present the College is offering the following programme: Group 1 Language A1
Group 2 Modern/Second Language
Group 3 Individuals & Societies
Group 4 Experimental Sciences
Group 5 Mathematics
Group 6 The Arts & Electives
Duration:2 Years Independent Study Time:For the International Baccalaureate, students will be required to undertake at least 15 hours of independent study per week in addition to attendance at lectures and personal tutorials. This is equivalent to a programme of 4 A levels. Modern study facilities are available in the College and successful students use these effectively. Entry Requirements and Student Suitability:Five GCSEs at grade C or above in a broad range of subjects, including English & Mathematics. Grade A or B in subjects appropriate to Higher Level options. A good standard of written and spoken English is required. Profile:As a group, the IB students of Truro College are lively, enthusiastic and willing to get involved; however, there is no such thing as a typical IB student. The entry requirements are identical to those for 'A' Level programmes and the qualifications of our current IB students cover a wide range of GCSE results. Academically, you need to be a reasonably competent, all round student who enjoys a range of subjects. What is perhaps most important is the way in which you approach your studies - students who gain the highest grades in the IB diploma tend, characteristically, to be well motivated and well organised, with the ability to work independently. Methods of Study:Practical work, class discussion, lectures, research and private study. Assessment and Coursework:A variety of methods are used, including both internal and external assessment. Subjects include a written examination at the end of the course and specialised forms of assessment are used as appropriate to the nature of a given course. These range from portfolios of art work, to audio recordings of oral work, to fieldwork reports, to science practicals, to research studies - all reflecting the balance and educational diversity of the IB programme. Progression and the Future:Students with an IB Diploma are strongly sought after by universities and employers world-wide. It is anticipated that the majority of IB students will progress to Higher Education. The broadly based curriculum means that options could be available in all spheres of professional life. The international framework may enhance opportunities to study and work abroad. The Curriculum:Group 1 language A1English (Higher & Standard)The course aims to foster an interest in literature and an appreciation of the ways in which writers use language. An exciting aspect of the course is that it offers a blend of English 'classics,' with World literature (in translation) and contemporary writing. A wide range of authors will be studied, from Chaucer and Shakespeare, to modern writers such as Toni Morrison and Grace Nichols. Assessment caters for different strengths and includes written course work (20%), oral presentations (30%), and final examination (50%). Group 2 Modern LanguageFrench, German, Spanish (Higher & Standard)You will develop existing spoken and written skills and work from a variety of audio and printed sources. Emphasis is placed on developing fluency and accuracy and learning to express views and opinions in discussions. Topics are studied in the context of the countries where the language is spoken, including social and environmental issues, new developments, media, the arts and leisure. At Higher Level a literary component is also included. You should make extensive use of TV, magazines, CD-ROM and links with native speakers, which are made available at the College. Oral skills are internally assessed during class activities in the final year (30%). The final examination tests text comprehension, writing skills and communication. The presentation of ideas, as well as the quality of language, is taken into consideration. Spanish, Italian (Ab initio) (Standard)No previous knowledge of the language is required. You learn the language to communicate in a variety of contexts in speech and writing. You will be working on controlled tasks in the early stages and progress to more open ones. You will use spoken and written materials in class and should also make extensive use of the facilities provided at the College, e.g. TV, magazines, CD-ROM and links with native speakers. The course covers a range of topics including:
Oral skills are assessed during class activities in the final year (30%). The final examination tests text comprehension, writing skills and communication. The presentation of ideas, as well as the quality of language is taken into consideration. Group 3 Individuals & SocietiesBusiness & Management (Higher & Standard)Business and Management is an academic discipline that examines how business decisions are made and how these decisions make an impact on internal and external environments. The ideals of international co-operation and responsible citizenship are at the heart of this subject. The programme is designed to give students an understanding of business principles, practices and skills. A fundamental feature of the subject is the concept of synergy. It necessitates a style of teaching and learning based on integrating and linking the modules (as outlined below), to give students by the end of the course, a holistic view. Modules studied include:
The programme enables students to assimilate the principles of business and management, and to become critical and effective participants in local and world affairs. 75% external examination Economics (Higher & Standard)Economics involves the formulation of theory; however, it is not a purely theoretical subject: economic theories can be applied to real world examples. It is not a discreet subject, as economics incorporates elements of History, Geography, Psychology, Sociology and Political Studies. By studying the Economics IB course you will: possess core knowledge of economics; be able to think critically about economics; gain an understanding and awareness of internationalism in economics and recognise your own tendencies for bias. Modules studied include
Higher Level and Standard Level students cover all five sections of the syllabus. Method of Assessment: Standard Level: 75% examination, 25% internal assessment. Higher Level: 80% examination, 20% internal assessment. Psychology (Higher & Standard)This course aims to provide students with analytical skills with which to evaluate theories and concepts relating to human behaviour across different cultures and societies. An understanding of research methods, data analysis and ethical issues will be integrated into all topic areas. The course will include the following units:
Students are internally assessed by submission of one experimental report, with external assessment by examination. History (Higher & Standard)This course is concerned with individuals and societies and develops an awareness of political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural developments and their impact upon continuity and change. The course will examine the craft of the historian and the interpretation of issues and events. The course covers a range of C20th topics including:
The course is assessed both internally and externally through an in-depth study and through examination papers. Geography (Higher & Standard)The course will provide an awareness and understanding of our human and natural environment. It deals with many of the major causes and concerns of our times. Issues are dealt with on a local, regional, national and global scale. Standard and Higher level core:
Standard and Higher level options:
Higher Level extension:
Fieldwork is an essential feature along with general techniques, map work, sketch maps and satellite imagery interpretation. Assessment is by two pieces of internally assessed coursework and externally marked formal examinations. Social & Cultural Anthropology (Higher & Standard)Social and Cultural Anthropology is concerned with studying different cultures and communities anywhere in the world. These may be nation states or small indigenous tribes, but for all we look at issues of poverty and injustice, beliefs and how cultures develop. At Standard Level we will study:
Higher Level will also study the San. Whilst we look at societies, we also look at individuals and explore how different people see the world. In summary, we seek to develop an appreciation of the diversity of humankind. Environmental Systems & Societies (Standard)This course will give you the opportunity to investigate the structure and functioning of environmental systems and interactions. You will study the interdependence of the living and material world including the impact of human activities. Emphasis will be on relating theory to local field situations. Practical field studies will play an integral part in furthering your understanding. You will study core subjects that includes:
You will have the opportunity to study ecosystems in the environment in depth and relate your findings to issues of pollution and conservation. 20% Coursework/practical assessment Please note: Ecosystems and Societies is a transdisciplinary subject that covers both Group 3 and Group 4. Thus, in addition to options in Groups 1, 2 and 5 a student who chooses Ecosystems and Societies will opt for two further subjects using 0, 1 or 2 choices from Groups 2, 3, 4 and 6. e.g. English (Group 1), French (Group 2), Maths (Group 5), Ecosystems and Societies (Groups 3/4) plus:- History and Psychology; or Physics and Chemistry; or Spanish (B) and Italian (ab initio); or Music and Theatre Arts; or Chemistry and Spanish (ab initio); or Geography and Art/Design etc... Group 4 Experimental SciencesEnvironmental Systems & Societies (Standard)Environmental Systems & Societies (Standard) in Group 3 above Physics (Higher)The course is designed for students with a sound background at GCSE Level (or equivalent) in Science and Mathematics who wish to extend their knowledge of the most fundamental of the sciences. Practical work forms an important part of the course and is used to both illuminate and extend the theory. The pace of delivery of the course will be brisk and students will be encouraged to develop good self-discipline with regard to consolidating work covered in the lectures. Year 1:
Year 2:
Options (2):
24% coursework based on practical work and one project 76% examination Chemistry (Higher)The course is designed to develop a broad general understanding of modern Biology by studying basic concepts and themes. There is an emphasis on practical experimental work to complement the theoretical coverage. Hence you will learn about scientific methods as well as gaining an insight into current understanding of living organisms. The course is built around four themes:
Linked to these themes are a range of core topics (including cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, ecology and physiology) and two chosen options such as evolution, behaviour and microbiology. 24% internal assessment of practical skills. Biology (Higher & Standard)This course is designed for students with a strong scientific and mathematical background. It is a challenging but rewarding course covering both basic and applied Chemistry. Emphasis is placed on the understanding and application of scientific details, as well as analysis and interpretation of experimental data. The course covers a range of units including:
24% internal assessment of practical work, scientific investigation and data analysis. Group 5 MathematicsMathematical Studies (Standard)This is a course for students not wishing to specialise in Mathematics. It will build confidence and develop skills learned at GCSE level. The emphasis is on enquiry and practical work leading to a development of analytical techniques. Topics covered include:
A scientific calculator (which may be graphical) is required. Assessment is by a written examination and a Project. A 'fast track' option may be available. This would lead to sitting the examination for Mathematical Studies in May of your first year. Mathematical Studies (Standard) + A level MathematicsThis course is for students who wish to study at a higher level than that afforded by Mathematical Studies alone. It is designated for students with a strong mathematical background (grade A or A* at GCSE). It allows students to study topics covered in Mathematical Studies in more depth and also introduces new topics in both Pure Mathematics and Statistics. It is a demanding and rigorous course with a strong algebra content. Students will study both AS level Mathematics and the Mathematical Studies course in their first year at College followed by A level Mathematics in their second year. Students most likely to select this subject will be those who expect to study Mathematics at university, or subjects which have a significant mathematical content, for example Physics of Engineering. Candidates are required to have a graphical display calculator. Mathematical Studies (at the end of Year 1) – Two written papers and a project. AS/A level Maths – Six modules assessed by written exams. These can be sat in either January or May/June exam sessions. In addition, one A2 module has an assessed piece of coursework which counts for 20% of the module mark. Group 6 Arts & ElectivesVisual Arts (Higher & Standard)This is a practical course, which gives you the opportunity to develop a diverse range of skills and approaches to help you realise your strengths. You will be encouraged to adopt an imaginative and original approach, developing new working processes which explore the creative potential of ideas, materials and techniques. Students will initiate and formalise their own project briefs that could encompass a wide range of visual and creative disciplines and starting points. All work will be derived, initially from first hand observation and a broad range of subject matter, such as: portraiture, still life and the figure, landscape and visual phenomena. Conceptual ideas taken from observation will further enhance the students' work. The use of Investigation Work Books (sketchbooks) is integral to the course and will underpin the studio work of other artists, art and cultures. Students will be expected to visit galleries and museums, etc and may wish to take part in study visits within this country and abroad offered within the art & design programme area, to further expand their knowledge and experiences. 60% external assessment (Studio work) Music (Higher & Standard)The Standard Level is designed to develop the students' existing musical skills and at Higher Level it is designed for the specialist music student with a background in performance and composition. 50% of the work is assessed internally and 50% is assessed externally. At Standard Level the course includes one of three options:
At Higher Level the course includes:
All Standard and Higher options includes Musical Perception and Analysis consisting of:
Theatre Arts (Higher & Standard)This course offers students the opportunity to develop performance skills through a broad range of World Theatre practices and texts. Whilst acting is the focus; students will also extend their knowledge using other performance techniques explored through practical workshops. Students will be required to participate in at least 2 performances which will involve at least one public production. The plays and practitioners selected for study allow students to explore the origins and traditions of a variety of theatre practices from around the world, giving an international perspective of Theatre Arts. The course explores all aspects of creating theatre, including technical theatre skills, script writing, directing and analysing performance which will complement the practical work. Visits to see external performances are a necessary component of the course providing students with an opportunity to broaden their understanding of theatre. In the second year an individual project will be undertaken by all students allowing specialisation on one aspect of Theatre Arts, chosen to reflect the individual's own strengths and interests. 50% external assessment (Written and oral presentation) The course is open to all students; GCSE Drama is not a requirement. Film Studies (Higher & Standard)Fancy yourself as the next Spielberg or Fellini? Or simply interested in learning about Film as both a powerful communication medium and an art form? This course aims to develop the skills necessary to achieve creative and critical independence in your knowledge and enjoyment of film. The course uses a combination of analysis, research, theory and creative work to study examples from British, American and World Cinema. You will examine film production, form and reception, and relate these to cultural, social and political contexts. Over the duration of the course you will be assessed and expected to produce: An oral presentation (25%) A documentary script on an independent research topic concerning an aspect if film theory and/or history (25%) A short film project including supporting production portfolio (50%) The course would appeal to anyone with an interest in film or the arts in general, especially visual arts and literature. By encouraging both creative thinking and practical skills and by promoting critical autonomy, the course provides an excellent grounding for those who may wish to follow career pathways in the media and creative industries. Diploma Programme curriculum Core requirements:Theory of Knowledge (TOK)This course is an integral and compulsory part of the IB programme. The object of the course is not to learn new 'knowledge' but to increase your understanding of what you have already learnt and to help you reflect upon it. The main components of the Theory of Knowledge course are:
Assessment is both oral and written. Individual or small group presentations are assessed internally. An essay of 1200 - 1600 words in length is assessed externally. Extended EssayAll IB students will undertake an in-depth study of a topic of limited scope within a subject. The outcome of this project is an essay of no more than 4,000 words. The purpose of the extended essay is to provide an opportunity to engage in personal research, thus giving an introduction to the kind of independent study required at University. A total of about 40 hours of private study and writing time is recommended. Creativity, Action & Service (CAS)Students will be involved for the equivalent of around three hours a week over two years in either a balanced range of different activities or in a single project. The CAS element for each student will be negotiated on an individual basis and will be monitored and evaluated by both the College and the student. IB Induction & Residential:Everyone comments on the special friendly atmosphere of the IB group. Various activities during the first weeks of the course contribute to this strong group identity. Induction at TomperrowEach September, on the day before Year 1 students officially start their courses at Truro College, the new IB students get together for a day out. Whether going to Tehidy, Bodmin, Tomperrow or Lusty Glaze, by the end of this day students have shared time outside the academic environment - travelling, problem solving, eating and invariably getting wet - together! So when lessons start the next day IB students are surrounded by familiar and friendly faces. CAS ResidentialAt the end of the first half term you get the opportunity to clock up some CAS hours working with the National Trust. Students stay for two nights at Youth Hostels and contribute to conservation work on the Lizard. The experience of living together for a few days - shopping, cooking, eating, working and keeping each other entertained - helps to form relationships that last beyond the two years of the IB programme. Internationalism, Results & UCAS Offers:Internationalism:"Beyond intellectual rigour and high academic standards, strong emphasis is placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship…IB students may become informed participants in local and world affairs, conscious of the shared humanity that binds all people together, while respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that makes for the richness of life." (Taken from the IBO Mission Statement) We seek to follow this educational philosophy primarily through the curriculum itself. For example, through global topics studied in Group 3; through studying a foreign language in Group 2; and through sampling a range of literature, music and art from around the world in Groups 1 and 6. IB students also have a wealth of opportunity to travel. In addition to participating in Language Exchanges in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, IB students have travelled to various destinations on field trips. The following trips have been offered during recent years: Paris, Berlin, Venice and London (Art), Moscow (History), Morocco (Geography / Psychology / Social and Cultural Anthropology), Toronto (Geography), Brittany (Biology / Environmental Systems), Dublin (Social & Cultural Anthropology), Swaziland (CAS). None of these trips are compulsory; yet many IB students have been able to broaden their horizons by taking part in a foreign visit during their time at Truro College. Responsible citizenship is encouraged by the CAS programme and this has found an international dimension through the Shewula Project (otherwise known as Boom Shewula Wula!). Following annual visits to the remote Shewula region on the Swaziland / Mozambique border since 2001, IB students have set up a fund to support schools for orphans of AIDS victims and a scheme to sponsor the education of individual Swazi children. This is an ongoing project and a further visit to Swaziland is planned for July 2010. While you don't need to be committed to internationalism to study the IB, many students do develop an interest in the wider world. Some hope to eventually study / work abroad and many plan to take a GAP year abroad. Results & UCAS Offers:Our first seven groups of IB Students have achieved very successful results in their examinations (May 2001 - 2007). So far we have a pass rate of 95% with a top mark of 44 points (the maximum being 45 points). This year 5 students scored above 40 points, which is in the top 4.5% worldwide. The average score for a Truro?College IB student has been 33-34 points for each year. Most good universities make offers in the 30-34 point range, so this has been a fantastic achievement by all involved in the IB programme. We have a good record of successful applications to Oxbridge and Medical Schools. UCAS Offers:The IB is fully recognised by all British Universities and over 80 countries, worldwide. Offers made to our students for 2000 - 2009 have been fair. From 2009 UCAS has introduced a new tariff for the Truro College IB Diploma. 34 points (the average IB score of Truro College) is worth 512 UCAS points. It is expected that universities will make even more generous offers to IB students in the future. Below is a sample of UCAS offers accepted from September 2001 to 2009 by IB students from Truro College:
Quotes:Student Quotes:What The Students Say "There is a feeling of togetherness within the group. These relationships have been helped by group activities such as the induction at Tomperrow and the National Trust residential. Both these activities allowed us to try things which we would not otherwise have had the chance to do..." "The range of subjects also means that getting through the day is rarely a drag..." "The most positive thing about the IB experience has been the people. Because this is the only college in Cornwall running the IB course there are people from all over the county taking part..." "The lessons are hard work but still enjoyable, learning subjects that I didn't have the chance to take at GCSE, such as Psychology, Environmental Systems, Anthropology and Theory of Knowledge..." "The small class sizes are really good, as you get less distractions, but also more individual attention from the lecturers. The lecturers are really friendly and are always willing to listen..." "I like the international aspects of the course such as the chance to visit Africa..." "The IB allows me to keep my university options open, as well as giving me a competitive UCAS point score..." (Comments taken from a survey of First year IB students.) University Quotes:What The Universities Say The University of Bath: ..."welcomes students offering the International Baccalaureate and usually asks for an IB Diploma with a total of 30 points. This University has wide experience with IB students over a number of years." The University of Bristol: ..."welcomes applications from candidates offering the International Baccalaureate qualification and values the broad educational experience represented by a high standard of attainment in the Diploma." The Royal Veterinary College (University of London): ..."accepts candidates offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma. They would normally require IB candidates to obtain the Diploma with a minimum grade 6 in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics at Higher level with good grades in the Standard subjects." The University of Cambridge: ..."The International Baccalaureate is highly regarded by Admissions Tutors at Cambridge University for entry to all subjects." (Quotations from the "IB Universities Recognition Handbook") Further Information:About Truro College:Truro College is one of the newest Colleges in the country. The main site of Truro College is located on the outskirts of the cathedral city of Truro in the heart of the county of Cornwall on a green field site. Truro is an attractive city with a range of excellent facilities. It is well served by public transport which makes it accessible from many parts of the county. The College opened to students in 1993 and is able to offer purpose built accommodation with resources and facilities of an exceptionally high standard. The many facilities offered include purpose-built Libraries which are open during the evenings, Hairdressing & Beauty Salon, Study Centres, IT Suites, Recording Studios and Theatres. There is also a Swimming Pool which Carrick District Council runs on a corner of the campus site. The College has excellent facilities for sport and fitness including a well-equipped Sports Hall, Multi-gym, Dance Studio, Sports Performance Laboratory as well as several practice and match pitches. A large number of computers are available for student use together with an extensive range of software. College Facilities:
Services For Full Time Students:
Other Activities:
How To Join The College:Call Truro College on (01872) 267000 for detailed course information and application forms. Please ask if you would like to arrange an advisory interview before completing an application form.
How to Apply:Application forms are available from schools or from the College. Further information about this subject may be obtained by contacting Andy Wildin (IB Coordinator) on 01872 267000 or by email AndyW@Truro-Penwith.ac.uk |
