The International Baccalaureate Program is an esteemed program that will improve students’ critical thinking skills, but the reality is that it can be overwhelming. Between Student Athletes, Student Artists, and everyone in between, students have many extracurricular activities and obligations! However, with some tips and tricks I’ll provide, it may lessen the stress!

 

1. You have some choices! Take electives and classes that genuinely interest you!

In this two-year program, you will have to take most of the same classes for both years, so take an arts class and a science class that you like! I chose IB Music and IB ESS, both of which interested me and lessened the stress of taking a class I don’t like or feel I don’t understand. 

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2. Practice time management! 

When you sign up to take the full IB diploma, you must take an IB Core class, in which you will be required to write your 4,000 word Extended Essay on a topic of your choice! I suggest getting as much work done on it as possible during your Core class (don’t worry, Mrs. Rigg will give you many opportunities and resources to help you work on it). Additionally, you may have a few late nights spent between your school work, standardized testing prep, community service, and extracurriculars. 

 

3. Use the time in class to work on Internal Assessments!

Between the other work and exams that you are supposed to complete with your IB classes, you have the Internal Assessments. Be sure to use the time teachers give you in class to work on this paper! As tempting as doing nothing productive during class is, you will thank yourself in the long run!

 

4. Don't be afraid to ask questions!
The expectations in the IB program are a little different (especially for writing), so be cognizant about how your writing may need to be adjusted so you can excel! Be sure to ask questions and focus on improving the steps you can take to get there. 

 

5. Choose your HL and SL courses carefully!

When doing HL and SL declarations, you are expected to have 3 HL (higher level) courses and 3 SL (standard level) courses. Choose subjects you perform best in, take them at the HL level, and take SL-level courses in subjects you may not feel comfortable with. 

 

This upcoming year may seem stressful for juniors, but don’t worry too much about the IB diploma. Since you were recommended to take these courses, your teachers believe you can take on these challenging subjects. From my experience, I’ve become a better learner, reader, writer, and student with higher critical thinking skills because of the IB diploma. Good luck to the IB diploma candidates in the class of 2027!