The IB Diploma Programme Core
In addition to study in the six subject groups, IB Diploma students also complete the IB Diploma Programme Core:
1. Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course in which students reflect on the nature of knowledge and on how all areas of knowledge are distinct and connected. It explores how we know what we know and the reliability and validity of all. The TOK course is required for IB Diploma programme candidates, and students must be enrolled during both years of the IBDP programme. IB Diploma candidates begin TOK coursework studies in the spring of their Junior year and complete their TOK studies in the fall of the Senior year. In addition to studying specific areas of knowledge and how they perceive themselves as knowers students complete the required assessments: The Exhibition and The TOK Essay on each year's prescribed titles.
2. The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper. Students choose a topic from any content area within IB guidelines and will develop the essay under guidance from TOK classes and under the mentorship of a supervisor.
Our Anderson IB Diploma students have written exemplary Extended Essays in the following subjects:
- Biology
- Dance
- English
- Film
- Global Politics
- History
- Latin
- Literature and Performance
- Psychology
- Visual Arts
- World Religions
3. Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) in which students document and reflect on experiences that fulfill specific learning outcomes. This component of the diploma enables students to enhance their personal interpersonal development as a balance to their academic studies. Students complete a reflective portfolio of creative, active, and service experiences over an 18-month span during their time in full IB Diploma studies.
IB gives you so much practice with writing at a higher academic level which has been a huge advantage at college so far. You have about 5 months to research and write about basically anything that interests you which at least in my experience ended up being a good creative outlet. The experience is also very bonding as the smaller class sizes allow you to form meaningful connections with your peers.
- Jean IB Diploma, Class of 2026