1 A Level v IB What is the difference between the different styles of curriculum? David Foster and Karen Prout 1

2 Frequently asked questions IGCSE v MYP A Level v IB Overview Frequently asked questions IGCSE v MYP A Level v IB Summary conclusions Opportunity for questions 2

3 How is the curriculum different between American and British Schools? FAQs Can my son or daughter go to an American university if they study a British style curriculum? How is the curriculum different between American and British Schools? Are IGCSEs and A Levels recognised by all universities around the world? IB students undertake Creativity Action Service (CAS). What is the Harrow equivalent? IB students undertake an extended essay. What is the Harrow equivalent? Plus much more……….. Post it exercise

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5 Everything is c-o-n-n-e-c-t-e-d

6 The Prep Leadership CurriculumSchool Year Age The Harrow Curriculum Year 6-8 10 to 13 The Prep Leadership Curriculum Shell (Year 9) 13 to 14 Shell Leadership Curriculum Remove & Fifth (Year 10 to 11) 14 to 16 IGCSE curriculum Lower & Upper Sixth (Year 12 to 13) 16 to 18 A Level Curriculum AS Level (Y12) + A2 Level (Y13) = A Level Year 14+ 18+ University undergraduate MYP (From Y7) IB

7 The MYP is designed for students aged 11 to 16 What is the MYP (Middle Years Programme- Pre IB)? A framework of academic challenge and lifeskills The MYP is designed for students aged 11 to 16 Students develop knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills to participate actively in a changing world. Based on the fundamental concepts of holistic education, communication and intercultural awareness. The MYP is for grades It is a complete curriculum that is flexible enough to integrate the Wisconsin State Standards. It offers a holistic education with an emphasis on intercultural awareness and global connections. 7

8 Philosophy: What are the fundamental concepts of the MYP?Holistic learning Intercultural awareness Communication The MYP fundamental concepts are dimensions of the IB mission statement, developed in the learner profile, that need to be highlighted and especially developed in the MYP. These 3 fundamental concepts provide guidance for schools in developing their school culture. Page 8 8

9 The MYP Curriculum Through approaches to learning, teachers provide students with tools to: Take responsibility for their own learning and discover how they learn best Develop problem solving and decision making Take an active part in the communities in which they live, thereby encouraging responsible citizenship Accept responsibility for maintaining an environment fit for the future One of the most important aspects of the MYP curriculum is that it helps students to take responsibility for their own learning and to become good decision makers. Our young people need to learn to be responsible citizens and the MYP curriculum helps students to have the tools to take an active part in their community. 9

10 What does the MYP curriculum containWhat does the MYP curriculum contain? Students study subjects from eight subject groups through five areas of interaction: Areas of interaction: approaches to learning community and service human ingenuity environment health and social education 10

11 The MYP Curriculum Personal ProjectStudents in Grade 10 (Year 11) must complete a personal project to earn the MYP Certificate (3 out of 7). This can take various forms, for example: an essay a piece of creative writing an original science experiment the organisation of an event. 11

12 Assessment: How is student learning assessed in the MYP?Involves a range of task types: Assessment of knowledge, concepts, skills and attitudes Criterion referenced Internally assessed (by teachers) Externally moderated for global standardisation Page 12

13 Prep Leadership CurriculumEncouraging the development of both essential and transferable learner skills Core English and Mathematics Challenge and discovery through Science, Computing, Humanities, Creative Arts and Languages Rigour of the UK National curriculum More discrete subject classes Prep School Challenge Days Prep Extended Project 13

14 Shell (Year 9) curriculumSubjects reflect IGCSEs to follow Some students begin IGCSE programmes Careers profiling Option choices for Year 10 Exchange programmes and wider curriculum e.g. MUN Duke of Edinburgh Award Essential and transferable learner skills 14

15 The IGCSE programme Core subjects - English and MathematicsFirst Language Thai core for Thai nationals Take at least one Science Students choose at least four more subjects ‘breadth and balance’ in choices made Opportunities for extended learning e.g. languages, astronomy, development studies Able to personalise the curriculum 15

16 Prep and SR5 Phase at Harrow BangkokComparison Prep and SR5 Phase at Harrow Bangkok MYP Usually has a core curriculum determined by the school or local law Broader curriculum for all students Students can choose more subjects of interest Students have to choose all 8 from the list IGCSE provides externally recognised awards on individual subjects of study Internally assessed with moderation: personal project A widely recognised award by all universities Optional external e-assessment now available Allows schools to personalise the curriculum to the student Develops skills in preparation for the IB programme Currently accepted for entry to Thai University (5 IGCSES at A*-C Not formally accredited for UK universities but most universities do accept MYP assessment as evidence of providing GCSE equivalence 16

17 IB Diploma Programme Curriculum is made up SIX subject groups (assessed by examination at the end of Year 13 in May- there are no module re-sit opportunities during the course) Core curriculum: Theory of knowledge (TOK) (externally assessed coursework) Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) Extended Essay (externally assessed coursework) The IB curriculum is a broad based curriculum.  There are many similarities to the United Kingdom AS and A2-level curriculums. 17

18 IB Diploma Programme- Six SubjectsGroup 1- First Language Group 3- Individuals and Society Group 2- Second Language Group 5- Mathematics Group 4- Science Group 6- Arts 18

19 IB Diploma Programme- Six SubjectsThe six subject groups are: Studies in language and literature Language acquisition Individuals and societies Sciences. Mathematics The Arts. At least 2 languages are studied. Three courses are usually taken at Higher Level with more teaching time and Three course taken at Standard Level with less teaching time. All courses are assessed with the same level of rigour and equally weighted 19

20 IB Diploma Programme- total score of 45 points20

21 IB Diploma Programme- Six SubjectsMust include English, another Language, Maths, a Science and a Humanities subject. May opt to study an additional sciences, individuals and societies, or languages course, instead of a course in the arts. Students take some subjects at higher level (HL) and some at standard level (SL).  HL and SL courses differ in depth and skill but are measured according to the same grade descriptors Each student takes at least three (but not more than four) subjects at higher level, and the remaining at standard level. 21

22 IB Diploma Programme- Six SubjectsFor example: Four courses in mathematics are available: Mathematical studies SL (for students who are not strong at mathematics) Mathematics SL Mathematics higher level Further Mathematics higher level Science: Biology Computer Science Chemistry Design Technology Physics sports, exercise and health science (standard level only) 22

23 IB Diploma Programme- Six Subjects23

24 IB Diploma Programme- Six Subjects24

25 IB Diploma Programme TOK: oral presentation and a 1,600 word essay.Example essay questions ( 6 titles are issued each year by IB):  “ ‘There is no reason why we cannot link facts and theories across disciplines and create a common groundwork of explanation.’ To what extent do you agree with this statement?” “There is no such thing as a neutral question. Evaluate this statement with reference to two areas of knowledge.” “ ‘The task of history is the discovering of the constant and universal principles of human nature.’ To what extent are history and one other area of knowledge successful in this task?” 25

26 IB Diploma Programme- CASThe three strands of CAS: Creativity – arts, and other experiences that involve creative thinking. Activity – physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle, complementing academic work elsewhere in the DP. Service – an unpaid and voluntary exchange that has a learning benefit for the student. The rights, dignity and autonomy of all those involved are respected. In order to demonstrate these concepts, students are required to undertake a CAS Project and complete 60 hours of community service. 26

27 IB Diploma Programme: Extended Essay (EE)It is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. The extended essay provides: practical preparation for undergraduate research an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of special interest to them develop skills in: formulating an appropriate research question engaging in a personal exploration of the topic communicating ideas developing an argument.  Example of an essay title: “The effects of sugar-free chewing gum on the pH of saliva in the mouth after a meal.” or “A study of malnourished children in Thailand and the extent of their recovery after a period of supervised improved nutrition.”

28 IB Diploma assessment for CAS, TOK and EEThe theory of knowledge (TOK) and extended essay (EE) components are awarded individual grades and, collectively, can contribute up to 3 additional points towards the overall Diploma score. Creativity, Action, Service – the remaining element in the DP core – does not contribute to the points total but authenticated participation is a requirement for the award of the diploma. 28

29 6 SL-Additional Language 6 HL-Humanities The most competitive universities require usually 38 points or above on IB Achieving 38 points means a profile means minimum scores of: 7 HL- maths 7 HL- science 6 SL-English Language 6 SL-Additional Language 6 HL-Humanities 5 SL-Creative Arts or replacement subject Additions- 3 points for ToK essay and Extended Essay

30 What are AS and A Levels?? AS and A levels are the traditional qualifications offered by schools and colleges for 16-19 year olds. They are highly valued by universities and employers and focus on academic subjects, although some are work-related. AS levels can be taken as a stand-alone qualification, or as the first part of an A level course. AS levels are completed at the end of Year 12 A2 exams are added on to an AS level at the end of Year 13 bringing it up to A level standard.

31 AS Level (Y12) A2 Level (Y13)= A LevelWhat are A Levels?? AS Level (Y12) + A2 Level (Y13)= A Level An AS-Level is worth exactly half of a full A-level. 4 AS-levels normal; some students do 3 or a few even do 5.

32 A Level at Harrow, BangkokStudents will study either C.I.E ( Cambridge International Examination Board) or International Edexcel Examination Board for AS and A Level Students are able to re-sit A Level modules over 2 years and complete a 4th AS Level at the end of Year 12 Examination board websites: 32

33 Sixth Form Curriculum 4 AS Levels moving to 3 or 4 A LevelsExtended Project Qualification (EPQ) Academic mentoring and wider reading programme- Oxbridge Programme, Academic Societies SAT/ACT/Oxbridge test prep opportunities Encouraged to be involved in leadership opportunities within House, Sixth Form, sports and LIA programmes

34 How are A Levels assessed??AS/A levels are mostly assessed by written exams, although there’s also some coursework in most subjects. In subjects like science and art, the student’s practical skills are also assessed. Subjects, such as Art, and Media Studies and Travel and Tourism involve coursework as part of the assessment Student can sit modules over the course of 2 years and are able to re-sit modules to improve their performance during the 2 year programme.

35 Courses we offer at AS and A Level at Harrow, BangkokMathematics Further Mathematics Chemistry Biology Physics Geography History Art and Design Computer Science IT Economics Business Studies French Mandarin Japanese Spanish PE Music Music Technology Travel and Tourism English Literature Psychology Media Studies Accounting Students choose fewer subjects but have a freer choice- choose what you like and you are good at 35

36 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)Equivalent to an AS Level (AQA Examination Board) Individual research based essay (approx words) Highly regarded by universities worldwide Demonstrates evidence of wider reading, independent research and passion for an area of interest Develops the skills required for university Students taught in U-Prep class- academic writing and referencing, primary data collection, presentations skills and have a subject mentor to support them through the process 36

37 EPQ student project titles37

38 Our Wider Curriculum at Harrow BangkokHarrow Prize (endorsed by Edexcel), awarded at graduation who have achieved high academic standards and contributed to the wider school community over a number of years. Criteria includes: 7 GCSE’s A*-C and 4 AS Levels A-E Cultural element- such as music, art, dance, drama Physical element- such as school teams, DoE expeditions, adventure races, sports activities Communication element- such as debating, MUN, writing for the school magazine Service element- such as, House Leadership position, charity work conservation work, Prefect, raising money for charity Skills element- such as, First Aid, PADI open water diving, counselling course, sailing course 38

39 Harrow Prize at GraduationOver 60% of Year 13 each year are awarded the Harrow Prize and graduate with distinction 39

40 A Levels Studied: IGCSEs Studied: Student profilesKrisgun Chirasanta (Smile) Imperial College, London to study Mechanical Engineering A Levels Studied: Physics, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Mathematics IGCSEs Studied: ICT, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, First Language English, First Language Thai, Physical Education, Business and Communication Systems 40

41 A Levels Studied: IGCSEs Studied:Student profiles Thuy Tien Nguyen (Mini) University of British Columbia to study Bachelor of Arts A Levels Studied: Art and Design, Economics, Mathematics, Chinese(AS) IGCSEs Studied: Mandarin Chinese, Business Studies, Chemistry, First Language English, Geography, Literature (English),Art and Design, Mathematics,Drama 41

42 Leadership and extra curricular achievements:Student profile Studying Engineering at U Penn A Levels Studied: Physics Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics Completed SAT I SAT II Subject Tests in Maths and Physics Peak ex-B13 Leadership and extra curricular achievements: Senior Prefect ( Co-Chair of Student Council), House Captain, Sports including Golf and Basketball, Community Service- Lionheart Society 42

43 A Levels and Sixth Form at HarrowComparison IB Diploma A Levels and Sixth Form at Harrow 6 subjects- must study English, Mathematics, additional language, one science and one humanities Select 4 subjects and drop to 3 subjects in Year 13 Free choice of subjects- can specialist in specific areas e.g. maths, further maths, physics and chem Assessed by examination - one sitting for all subjects at the end of Year 13 Module exams at the end of Year 12. Can re-sit examinations during Year 13 Must complete all 6 courses and sit all 6 subject exams to be awarded the full diploma Can drop one subject after AS results at the end of Year 12 Extended Essay and ToK essay (worth 3 IB points) Compulsory to complete it EPQ qualification Worth the equivalent of AS Level Stand alone qualification CAS- Creativity, Activity, Service- must have evidence of 60 hours of community service over IB diploma Community Service Programme- student led activities and trips, leadership in Action Programme Harrow Prize awarded at Graduation Internationally recognised qualifications for access to universities worldwide For the US colleges will need to also complete SAT/ACT tests) 43

44 Requirements for University

45 A Level and IB are both internationally recognised qualifications.Direct entry to any university worldwide from Canada, USA, Australia, UK, Europe, Japan and the rest of Asia 45

46 University entrance In comparison to UK A levels, Oxford University on its website states that the exam results from the IB will generally be equivalent to the following: grades AAB or AAA in British A-levels will be considered equal to 38 points in the IB.  Cambridge University states that for the IB is normally sufficient to be considered for most courses- (the reality is students will need to achieve over 40 points for many courses).  Cambridge also states that for some courses a 7 will be required in specific subjects. 46

47 Imperial College London- Mechanical Engineering47

48 University of Cambridge- Economics48

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54 http://www. telegraph. co To choose between A-levels and IB, ask whether you are a specialist or an all-rounder. “Such a spread of subjects suits all-round pupils who don’t wish to drop from around 10 GCSEs to three or four AS subjects; the emphasis on personal research undoubtedly prepares pupils effectively for the academic and organisational rigours of university life. However, all six subject groups must be completed, meaning that one weaker subject can drag down an entire IB score. Many regard this as the fundamental weakness of the IB. A poor showing in an area of the curriculum that a student is not actually very interested in could cost him or her their university place” 54

55 Important E-mails to ask for advice/questionsPoint of Contact Role address David Foster Director of Studies Kathryn Gavin Head of SR5 Karen Prout Head of Sixth Form Alex Prout Director of Houses Amanda Poel Head of Careers and University Guidance Maggie Espley-Jones Careers and University Guidance

56 Questions