At 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
- English Literature (H & S)
Group 2 Modern/Second Language
- French (H & S)
- German (H & S)
- Spanish (H & S)
- Spanish (ab initio) (S)
Group 3 Individuals & Societies
- Geography (H & S)
- History (H & S)
- Psychology (H & S)
- Social and Cultural Anthropology (H & S)
Group 3/4
- Environmental Systems and Societies (S)
Group 4 Experimental Sciences
- Biology (H & S)
- Chemistry (H)
- Physics (H)
Group 5 Mathematics
- Mathematical Studies (S)
- Mathematical Studies (plus A level)
Group 6 The Arts & Electives
- Visual Arts (H & S)
- (or a choice from one of the other subjects in groups 2, 3 & 4)
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 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.
