Why choose IB?
The IB course offers six subject groups, along with three core elements that shape IB. Theory of knowledge, the extended essay and CAS (creative, activity, service). The IB curriculum reflects our teaching philosophy at Edcellent where students are encouraged to be critical and creative thinkers who are empowered to drive their learning, whilst being inspired to be culturally aware as global citizens. A study in 2021 also shows that IBDP students demonstrate higher levels of critical thinking, global mindedness and better preparation for post-secondary education. For us, learning has no limits and we are committed to nurturing our students’ agency, curiosity, imagination, and creativity.
So, what are the differences between VCE and IB?
Both VCE and IBDP are great pathways to prepare students to pursue their studies at the university. It all comes down to personal preferences. Although VCE may allow specialisation in certain areas of interest, the VCE program is a more content-driven curriculum with a grade ranking system; whereas IBDP is more focused on the social and academic development of students, especially through required assignments like the theory of knowledge and extended essays.
IBDP is also more specific in the levels and number of subjects taken to study. It requires students to select 3 standard level and 3 higher-level subjects from a broad field of studies, such as language, mathematics, science, and humanities subjects. In comparison, IBDP may seem particularly demanding with the additional essays required to submit. But, the workload is not all that different compared to VCE students.
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IB - International Baccalaureate
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VCE – Victorian Certification of Education
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Mix of academic, social development courses (internationally focused) |
Content-driven courses, available in all Victorian secondary schools |
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Each subject scores based on 0-7, additional assessments worth 3 marks |
Grade ranking system and standardised, receives study score and ATAR |
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Assessed internally and externally |
Assessed internally |
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Complete six subject areas |
Ability to choose subjects to specialise in |
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Additional assessments: theory of knowledge, extended essay and CAS |
Curriculum divided into four units |
Why choose Edcellent for IBDP English?
At Edcellent, we create an authentic, impactful, and holistic learning experience through engagement, collaboration and application with students and parents. As we strive to be one of the most impactful education hubs in Australia, the IBDP curriculum can optimise our students’ growth which reflects our values at Edcellent.
We achieve this by ensuring our students feel comfortable learning and sharing their ideas with peers without judgement, so that they are confident in their classroom, workplace and beyond. We also recognise students learn in different ways. That is why we provide consistent feedback for growth and ensure that students and parents get involved in learning. Most of all, we want to empower and inspire students to go beyond their potential!
Next time, we will explore the DIFFERENCES between the IB English options. So, make sure you leave a like and follow our Facebook page for future blog and video posts!
Sources
Key findings on the impact of IBDP (IBO): https://www.ibo.org/globalassets/publications/ib-research/key-findings-from-research-on-the-impact-of-the-dp-en.pdf
IB benefits for students (IBO): https://www.ibo.org/benefits/benefits-for-students/