Theory of Knowledge

Aside from the IB curriculum, all students are required to complete the following three core components during their junior and senior years:

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed 4000-word research paper. The EE helps provide research preparation that is required at the college level, and it gives students an opportunity for an in-depth study of a topic that interests them. Emphasis is placed on formulating an appropriate research question, engaging in a personal exploration of the topic, communicating ideas and developing an argument. Students will ask a faculty mentor to support and supervise them throughout the process with advice and guidance.

Creativity, Activity and Service, otherwise known as the (CAS) requirement takes seriously the importance of life outside the world of academics and provides a counterbalance. Creativity is interpreted broadly to include a wide range of arts and activities as well as the creativity students demonstrate in designing and implementing service projects. Activity can include not only participation in individual and team sports but also taking part in local or international projects. Service encompasses both community and social service activities. Some examples include helping children with special needs, visiting hospitals and working with refugees or homeless people. A system of self-evaluation encourages students to reflect on the benefits of CAS participation to themselves and to others.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a required interdisciplinary class that offers students an opportunity to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and on areas of knowledge while considering the role and nature of knowledge in their own culture, in the cultures of others and

in the wider world. Also, it prompts students to be aware of themselves as thinkers, encouraging them to become more acquainted with the complexity of knowledge and recognize the need to act responsibly in an increasingly interconnected but uncertain world.

From www.ibo.org