How to Decide If the IB Board Syllabus Is Right for Your Child

It is that time of the year again! Admissions for various schools are open, and parents need to make a crucial decision that will set their child’s life trajectory for the rest of their life. 

The IB board is undoubtedly one of the best you can enrol your child in. It offers benefits that far exceed traditional academic expectations. As global starts replacing the local, IB is the obvious choice to secure your child’s future. But how do you know the IB syllabus is right for your child? As much as IB is a brilliant mode, your child can only thrive if it is the right fit for them.

Read this guide to understand the questions parents must ask and the factors they must consider before enrolling their child in IB curriculum schools.

What is the IB Board?

The International Baccalaureate was founded in 1968, designed to offer international education to develop well-rounded, knowledgeable, and caring young people who are motivated to contribute to the world and be successful. Today, the IB board is one of the best curriculum frameworks with a core philosophy that revolves around the holistic development of students. The IB syllabus aims to prepare students not just for university but for life in a globalised society.

Wondering what is the IB board and the defining questions that guide its philosophy? Have a look below.

• Who are we?
• Where are we in place and time?
• How do we express ourselves?
• How does the world work?
• How do we organise ourselves?
• How can we share the planet?

From early childhood and the education stage, the IB board encourages students to find answers to such questions throughout their education journey.

IB Syllabus – A Brief Overview

The IB syllabus is designed to create and nurture well-rounded, independent, and lifelong learners. The curriculum deviates from the traditional rote-learning system and emphasises inquiry-based learning that combines critical thinking with a global understanding. The IB syllabus consists of subjects and concepts that encourage students to apply themselves and learn by doing rather than learn by memorising.

The IB curriculum is divided into four main programs based on age groups:

• Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged between 3 and 12.
• Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged between 11 and 16.
• Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged between 16 and 19
• Career-related Programme (CP) for students aged between 16-19 who want to pursue vocational interests.

Each program is structured to encourage students to question, explore, and connect their learning to real-world issues, promoting both academic and personal growth.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the IB Syllabus for Your Child

Choosing the right school for your child is of utmost importance. Now that you know all that the IB syllabus entails, here are some factors to consider before making a final decision.

• Natural Curiosity – The IB syllabus requires one to explore their curiosity and learn by asking questions. You should consider your child’s nature and whether they are naturally curious. 

• Self-Motivation – To conquer the various challenges of the IB board, it is important to be self-motivated. A huge chunk of the syllabus requires one to indulge in extra learning on their own accord. 

• Experiential Learning – The IB syllabus focuses on the learning experience of students. It encourages students to learn in groups and take the initiative to take part in practical activities.

• Open Mindset – The IB curriculum is based on a global perspective and needs students to have an open mindset where they can learn about different cultures and approaches to problems.

• Communication Skills – Strong communication skills are the cornerstone of the IB board syllabus. Students are also encouraged to learn new languages and indulge in activities that improve their oral and written communication skills.

• Taking on Challenges – The IB syllabus is challenging and requires students to work hard and manage their time effectively. It is important for a child to have a “can-do” attitude for success. 

Here are some questions you may want to ponder before deciding if the IB syllabus is right for your child.

• Does your child enjoy experiential and inquiry-based learning?
• Does your child have strong communication skills?
• Does your child have an interest or propensity for learning languages?
• Is your child a team player and open to collaboration?
• Is your child academically strong?
• Can your child handle the pressure that comes with being enrolled in an IB syllabus?
• Can your child manage their time well and do various things at once?

It is important to note that the IB Diploma has a passing rate of 80%. This can pose a significant challenge; however, proper contemplation and evaluation will certainly help you make the perfect decision for your child. 

To Sum Up

The IB syllabus is highly rewarding and helps students develop individualism. It has various benefits, but it can also get quite rigorous. As parents, you must do your research and understand whether the curriculum aligns with your child’s temperament. Involve your child in your decision to ensure they can go on to become a successful student and adult in the future.

OWIS, one of the top IB schools in Bangalore, India, is known for offering the best quality education in tandem with the standards set by the International Baccalaureate. Our teachers and counsellors are highly trained and do their best to ensure that students adapt to the IB curriculum properly. To know more about our teaching and selection methods, get in touch with us today!