IB Diploma Program (DP): Grades 11 & 12

The IB Diploma Program curriculum at Smoky Hill High school consists of six groups:

1. Language and Literature: IB English (which includes the study of World Literature)
2. Language Acquisition: Spanish, Japanese or Latin
3. Individuals and Societies: IB European History OR IB History of the Americas in 11th grade and IB History of the Contemporary World in 12th grade or IB Psychology
4. Sciences: IB Biology, IB Chemistry, IB Environmental Systems and Societies, IB Physics, and IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science
5. Mathematics: IB Math Applications
6. The Arts / Sixth Subject: IB Business Management, IB Dance, IB Digital Media, IB Film, IB Music, IB Theatre Arts, IB Visual Arts, or a second Science/Math course

Further Requirements: Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)

Extended Essay (EE) is an independent, self-directed research paper on a topic chosen by the student. It is intended to promote high-level research and writing skills, intellectual discovery, and creativity while engaging students in personal research. This leads to a major piece of formally presented, structured writing of up to 4,000 words. This is completed during the student's senior year with the supervision of a teacher whom they select.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course taken during the second semester of junior year and the first semester of senior year. This course explores the relationships between the various disciplines and ensures that students engage in critical reflection and analysis of the knowledge acquired within and beyond the classroom.

Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) requires students to take part in a range of student service learning experiences, activities, and projects. During the span of their junior and senior years, students must accrue and document 18-months of CAS experiences.

IB Exams

All IB Diploma Candidates are required to test in one subject from each of the six groups. At least three but not more than four of the six subjects are tested at the Higher level, with the others at the Standard level. Each subject's exam is graded on a scale of 1 (minimum) to 7 (maximum). The award of the IB Diploma requires a minimum of 24 points total, in addition to the satisfactory completion of the Extended Essay, TOK, and CAS. Bonus points may be awarded for exceptional essays and/or performances in Theory of Knowledge. Exams will take place starting the end of April through mid-May every year.

• Exam Informational Slide Show
• Payment Link via RevTrak

Colorado Revised Statues §23-1-13.3 = 24 college credits for an IB Diploma

Students who complete the IB Diploma Programme shall, at a minimum, receive 24 semester credits, which shall apply to general education, elective or major requirements -- at the public institution’s discretion -- for IB exams administered as part of the Diploma Programme on which the student receives a score of 4 or higher, per §23-1-13.3, Colorado Revised Statute. Students who did not complete the IB Diploma Programme can still earn college credit for the IB exams listed on the state-approved exam list. The credit is guaranteed to transfer but it is not guaranteed to apply to degree requirements.

• Colorado Department of Higher Education - IB
• International Baccalaureate (IB) Exam Cut Scores for Colorado Public Colleges & Universities for GT Pathways General Education Credit

Questions? Contact our IB DP Coordinator, Mr. Christopher Ritchie at 720-886-5491 (critchie@cherrycreekschools.org)