Int'l Baccalaureate
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAM
Diploma Program - Grades 11 and 12
IB Program - Grades 9 and 10
What is the International Baccalaureate Program?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, whose headquarters are based in Geneva, Switzerland, with North American headquarters in New York City, is a rigorous pre-university course of studies that results in internationally recognized achievement. In September 1999, Foothill High School became a fully authorized International Baccalaureate Diploma School and the first class of IB Diploma Candidates was graduated in 2001.
The IB Diploma Program offers students challenging, comprehensive course work in the traditional disciplines. In addition, diploma candidates write a four thousand word extended research essay (EE) and complete 150 hours of creativity, action and service (CAS). The diploma also requires a Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class that examines the relationship among academic disciplines, and investigates how one arrives at knowledge and develops reasoning skills.
The program promotes organization and time management skills, a facility in oral and written communication and a commitment to community service and extracurricular activities. Additionally, the proficiency in six demanding areas (English, Foreign Language, Social Science, Science, Math and an elective) gives students an advantage in gaining admission to the college or university of their choice. In recognition of their efforts, students may receive advanced placement or college credit for each exam passed.
Who is eligible to enter the IB Program?
Although academic excellence is certainly an essential criterion, success in the program also depends to a great degree on motivation and character. Therefore, students considering the program should possess the dedication required to complete a rigorous, four-year program marked by conceptual thinking, creative expression, and writing across the curriculum. Students entering the IB program should ideally have completed Algebra I as a prerequisite to enroll in Geometry as freshmen.
What is the main difference between an IB and AP schedule over the course of four years?
The courses listed below are the only differences found between an IB schedule and a traditional honors/AP schedule:
IB | AP |
9th grade | 9th grade |
World History Honors-IB | World History Honors |
10th grade | 10th grade |
European History AP | European History AP |
or World History Honors | |
11th grade | 11th grade |
English A1 HL 1 | English Lang AP |
Theory of Knowledge (spring) | |
12th grade | 12th grade |
English A1 HL 2 | English Lit AP |
History of Americas HL | Econ AP/Am Gov AP |
Math SL | Calculus AB or BC AP or |
Theory of Knowledge (fall) | Statistics AP |
Why enter the IB Program?
IB presents students with a challenging and stimulating curriculum. IB emphasizes the philosophy of applied knowledge and the process of learning. IB involves students in an interdisciplinary education with “global” perspective. IB rewards students for being well-rounded and responsible citizens. IB offers the possibility of course credit in many colleges and universities and enhances students’ chances of admission. IB aids students in making a smooth transition from high school to college. Please contact Victoria Owens at (714) 730-7464 x 629 or email vowens@tustin.k12.ca.us for more information on the International Baccalaureate Program.