WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM? 

The International Baccalaureate program is a rigorous pre-university course of studies taught in grades 11 and 12, and provides a well-rounded education meeting the needs of highly motivated students by promoting excellence, self-directed learning, responsible citizenship, and international understanding. 

Since IB is a program for the last two years of a student’s high school experience, we have created a grade 10 honours program which we use as a foundation year in which students build the skills and attitudes necessary for grades 11 and 12.

The IB Diploma (full IB) is obtained by completing 3 higher level (HL) and 3 standard level (SL) courses (one in each of 6 categories). In addition, candidates must take the "Theory of Knowledge" course, complete an "Extended Essay" and participate in CAS (Creativity, Action, Service).The IB diploma is a balanced curriculum, which may be used for university: admission, scholarships and advanced credit (depending on the level of success and university requirements).

The IB Course student takes some (minimum of two) of their courses in the IB program and some in the regular Alberta curriculum classes. Students who meet the university requirements in an HL course may receive advanced credit. Course students are also required to participate in CAS and take a Theory of Knowledge course.

Who Should Take IB?

IB students are critical and compassionate thinkers who are informed participants in local and world affairs. These students value the shared humanity that binds all people. IB students are mature, motivated, accountable students who love to learn and have demonstrated previous academic success. These students are planning on continuing their education at a post-secondary institution. This program is not intended to be only for the academic elite.

How Is IB Unique At Diefenbaker?

We have a relatively small IB cohort. This allows for increased levels of student-teacher interaction and higher levels of student support. We use CAS as a philosophical base for the program. CAS participation is required of all IB students (honours, course and full).

How To Apply To The IB Program At Diefenbaker

Diefenbaker is the designated IB school in Area II for the Calgary Board of Education. Applications will be accepted between February 1st and March 15. Click here to access the Expression of Interest Form.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Creativity, activity, service (CAS) is one of the three essential elements that every student must complete as part of the IB Program at Diefenbaker.

Studied throughout their time at the school, CAS involves students in a range of activities alongside their academic studies.

It is not formally assessed. However, students reflect on their CAS experiences as part of the program, and provide evidence of achieving the seven learning outcomes for CAS.   

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have time to pursue extracurricular activities?
We use the IB program to develop well-rounded students, and it would be impossible to do that without extra-curricular activities. In fact, our CAS program (Creativity, Action, Service) ensures each student engages with the community and the world at large in their own way in order to become motivated and educated citizens. 

If I join IB, will my marks drop?
IB students are not penalized for participating in a more challenging academic program. Since all IB students also participate in the Alberta program of study, we use assessments based on these local courses to generate marks. While IB courses are in progress, all assessments count towards course marks, the final marks are generated with Alberta courses in mind. The underlying principle of IB at Diefenbaker is that no student will get lower marks for participating in a more challenging program of study. 

What are some benefits of joining IB?
IB develops a rigorous academic mindset, allowing for the development of strong studying habits and excellent time management skills. Having taken IB is an excellent advantage for students to manage the normally difficult transition between High School and University. Some universities offer first year credit for select IB courses, meaning you can sometimes skip first year courses if your marks are high enough. 

Can my IB marks be used to apply for University?
Students who are in IB have the opportunity to choose between using their IB marks or their Alberta marks in many Universities. There is often a section in the websites of IB accommodating universities (eg. University of Calgary, University of Alberta, McGill, Queens, etc) regarding IB students. IB students often receive special privileges unavailable to other students. For example, University of Alberta offers a priority access to course registration and residence application for IB Diploma students. 

What if I try IB and decide it isn't for me?

Students have opportunity for course changes at the beginning of each semester. School counsellors will work with students to assure placement in classes that are best suited to the student's ability. Changes are dependent on space availability in courses.

Students who request placement in a 30-Level IB course will be expected to fulfill their commitment to the program not withstanding unforeseen circumstances. Withdrawal from a 30-level IB course will be granted only with the IB Coordinator's consent, not at the student or parents’ request. Not achieving the grades you would like is not a reason to request an exit from the IB program.

Contacts

For more information on the IB program, contact our coordinator, Ms. Tamara Ulanicki at tjulanicki@cbe.ab.ca

For more information on the IB CAS program, contact Ms. Kelly Bobrosky at krbobrosky@cbe.ab.ca