Sciences

In This Section

Sciences

Science is a cooperative venture between individuals and the international community; it is constantly evolving and is influenced by social, economic, Environmental Systems & Societies, Sports, Exercise & Health Science and Computer Science in the IB. The study of science should include an awareness and understanding of its limitations, as well as its uses for our planet. The development of scientific skills and attitudes is inextricably linked to the development of ideas in science.

Biology

BIOLOGY

You will learn about the core scientific principles, theories and processes governing living organisms, biological systems and natural phenomena. At one end of the scale is the cell, its molecular construction and complex metabolic reactions. At the other end of the scale, biologists investigate the interactions that make whole ecosystems function. The curriculum emphasises conceptual understanding of biological concepts and application of science practices to novel situations. This is accomplished through case studies, inquiry based laboratory experiences and modeling. You will also have the chance to conduct an individual investigation into an area of biology you find of particular interest.

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (20%) and final examinations (80%).

IB Programme Brief - Biology - SL

IB Programme Brief - Biology - HL

Ms. Hellendag talks about IB Biology

Chemistry

CHEMISTRY

You will acquire a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterise chemistry as a scientific discipline. You will develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise chemical information and will develop a critical awareness of the need for, and the value of, effective collaboration and communication during chemical activities. Through experimental practise and investigative chemistry, including the use of current technologies, you will enjoy studying areas including stoichiometric relationships, atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics and organic chemistry. You will also have the chance to conduct an individual investigation into an area of chemistry that inspires you.

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (20%) and final examinations (80%).

IB Programme Brief - Chemistry - SL

IB Programme Brief - Chemistry - HL

Physics

PHYSICS

The IB physics course has both depth and breadth, covering mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity, field theory, quantum and nuclear physics and power generation. The HL course covers each of these topics in increased detail. This course also offers an option: astrophysics, relativity, engineering physics or imaging. You will develop your ability to reason about physical phenomena using important science process skills such as explaining causal relationships, designing experiments, analysing data and making connections across multiple topics within the course. You will enjoy exploring concepts and relationships via practical activities involving small teams, getting your hands on a variety of equipment. These learning experiences will help you to understand and articulate the laws of the physical world and to problem solve.

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (20%) and final examinations (80%).

IB Programme Brief - Physics - SL

IB Programme Brief - Physics - HL

What IB Physics is like?

Computer Science

COMPUTER SCIENCE

You will learn software development, the inner workings of the computer system and systems analysis skills. You will develop computational thinking skills which are used in all aspects of industry to solve complex problems. You will be a creator developing new programmes starting with the basics but, by the end of the course, you’ll be a proficient Java programmer. Your problem solving, critical thinking and creativity skills will be fostered. While touching upon the ethical nature of using computers in an automated society, we will look at the current developments in technology and how they may affect our lives. Learning through doing, you will spend significant time developing your programming skills. HL students study three additional units (Abstract Data Structures, Control and Case Study).

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (SL 35% or HL 25%) and final examinations (SL 65% or HL 75%).

IB Programme Brief - Computer Science - SL

IB Programme Brief - Computer Science - HL

SPORTS EXERCISE & HEALTH SCIENCE (SEHS)

The field of sports, exercise & health science involves the application of scientific principles to the promotion, maintenance and enhancement of sport and exercise related behaviours. You will incorporate traditional disciplines of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition which are studied in the context of sport, exercise and health. You will be drawing on fields such as physiology and biomechanics to measure what is happening in a sports person’s body; psychology to analyse the role of the mind in performance and nutrition to help athletes fuel their bodies correctly. You will run investigations in both the laboratory and field settings to acquire the knowledge and understanding necessary to apply scientific principles and critically analyse your human performance.

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (20%) and final examinations (80%).

IB Programme Brief - Sciences: Sports, exercise and health science

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS & SOCIETIES (ESS) (SL ONLY)

As an interdisciplinary course, you will understand the interrelationships between environmental systems and societies, developing an ability to see different perspectives, devise solutions and make decisions about the problems our environment faces. You will learn to use a broad set of experimental and geographical skills to analyse a situation and evaluate data. Topics include a foundation on systems thinking and environmental viewpoints, ecology, aquatic and terrestrial food production, atmospheric systems, energy resources and climate change, resource use and conservation. You will be able to debate issues. Students have enjoyed the student centred approach to the course with several field trips and the opportunity to explore controversial topics systematically but with personal perspectives.

You are externally assessed by the IB through coursework (25%) and final examinations (75%).

IB Programme Brief - Environmental Systems and Societies - Standard Level