CHANGES IN THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM FOR THE 2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR

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There are three levels of International Baccalaureate (IB) Program:

• Primary Years Program (PYP) for grades K-5
• Middle Years Program (MYP) for grades 6-10
• Diploma Program for grades 11-12

Primary Years Program (PYP), for grades K-5, introduces specific vocabulary and concepts including inquiry-based learning, PYP attitudes/character traits, and the learner profile. School staff members develop units of inquiry that connect subject areas so students can view their studies holistically. The PYP emphasizes academic development, international understanding, and service to society. The curriculum framework includes five essential elements: Concepts, Actions, Skills, Knowledge, and Attitudes.

Middle Years Program (MYP), for grades 6-10, emphasizes the learner profiles and focuses on an intensive study of core subjects integrating internationalism and areas of interaction: Approaches to Learning, Community and Service, Health and Social Education, Environment, and Human Ingenuity. Students study a variety of disciplines and how these relate.

Diploma Program (DP), for grades 11-12, is a two-year curriculum and the most academically rigorous program offered in high school. The program emphasizes intellectual and international understanding, as well as responsible citizenship and community service. Students sit for international exams with the opportunity to earn the IB Diploma, a highly esteemed qualification widely recognized by institutions of higher learning.

Schools apply for authorization from the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The authorization process requires several years as the school trains staff, modifies the curriculum to IB specifications, and learns to implement the IB program at the level expected by the IBO. CMS currently has four authorized PYP for grades K-5, four MYP for grades 6-10, and five authorized Diploma Programs. The remaining prospective IB schools are currently in the process of completing expectations for authorization.

Additional information about the International Baccalaureate program can be found at www.ibo.org.

Entrance Requirements: Students entering middle or high school must be promoted at the end of the school year in which the application is made.  Students entering grades 6 and 9 must score at or above grade level (level III or IV) in Reading and Math proficiency based on EOG tests taken in the school year prior to attending.  Students who retest must meet level III or IV on the first retest.  Students entering grades 7 and 8 must score at or above grade level (level III or IV) in Reading and Math proficiency. Students entering grade 10 must score at or above grade level (level III or IV) in English and Math proficiency on EOC tests taken in the school year prior to attending. In order to enter the IB Program in grade 11, a student must meet the following prerequisites:  English I; English II; Geometry; Algebra 2; Environmental Science and/or Biology; Chemistry and/or Physics; World History; Civics and Economics; and Level III of Language B (e.g., French, German, or Spanish).  Students entering in grade 11 must apply through the Reassignment/Transfer request and a transcript analysis must be completed by the prospective school.  Only students currently enrolled in an IB Diploma Program will be accepted into grade 12.

Please note that students must apply to the IB high school that serves their transportation zone.

Special Features

• Study of World Languages starting in Kindergarten
• Emphasis on advanced study skills, including time management, goal setting, advanced research skills, test-taking, note-taking, and independent study
• Required research assignments and community service
• Instructional techniques and strategies to extend depth of knowledge

Is This Program a Good Fit for Your Child?

• Take the International Baccalaureate Student Profile Quiz to find out!

School(s) offering this Magnet Program for the 2012-2013 School Year:

Transportation Information: School Magnet Program Locations