UPPER SCHOOL
Grade 9 - 12
IGCSE exams are globally recognized qualifications by Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). They are academically challenging and prepare students for the IB Diploma program. Exams are usually in May/June.
The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum is made up of six subject groups and the DP core, comprising theory of knowledge (TOK), creativity, activity, service (CAS) and the extended essay.
Through the Diploma Programme (DP) core, students reflect on the nature of knowledge, complete independent research and undertake a project that often involves community service
IGCSE Curriculum (Grade 9 - 10)
Learning Opportunities
Students at ISU have the opportunity to study for IGCSE examinations in subjects identified by the Bavarian government as core subjects:
English Language (First Language), and English Literature (additional award), German as a First Language or German as a Foreign Language, History, Geography, Mathematics, Coordinated Sciences (double award).
Students will also have the opportunity to study from among the following IGCSE subjects: Visual Arts, French, Spanish, English (Second Language).
Developing Talents
The IGCSE examinations are internationally recognized qualifications administered by CIE (University of Cambridge International Examinations). They are acknowledged to be academically rigorous and ideal preparation for students wishing to embark on the IB Diploma programme. Most Cambridge IGCSE examinations are held in May/June of the academic year.
Developing Awareness
Students at ISU have the opportunity to study for IGCSE examinations in subjects identified by the Bavarian government as core subjects:
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English Language (First Language)
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English Literature
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German as a First Language or German as a Foreign Language
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History
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Geography
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Mathematics
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Coordinated Sciences (Double Award)
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Students will also have the opportunity to study from among the following subjects:
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Visual Arts
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French
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Spanish
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English (Second Language)
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Information Communication Technology (ICT)
IB Curriculum (Grade 11 - 12)
Developing Talents
The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) is an assessed programme for students aged 16 to 19. It is respected by leading universities across the globe
IB Diploma students must complete the Core curriculum made up of CAS, the extended essay and Theory of Knowledge.
The emphasis of CAS is that of experiential learning and allows students to demonstrate the attributes of the IB Learner Profile in real and practical ways.
At ISU, students participate in a wide variety of projects for example theatre productions and music, sports and community service activities.
The Theory of Knowledge course stimulates critical reflection upon the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom.
Students undertake the extended essay, a piece of original research investigating a topic of special interest of not more than 4000 words. This is an excellent project that allows students to develop the skills needed to be able to complete similar assignments in future at university whilst focussing on a topic of great interest to them.
Programme
Group 1 - Studies in language and literature: German or English Language and Literature Course (HL & SL)
Group 2 - Language Acquisition: Second modern language English and German (HL & SL)
Group 3 - Individuals and societies: History, Geography (HL & SL)
Group 4 - Sciences: Biology, Physics (HL & SL)
Group 5 - Mathematics: Mathematics (HL & SL)
Group 6 - Arts and Electives: French, Spanish, and Chemistry (HL & SL)
Theory of Knowledge is a required course of 100 hours over the two years that stimulates critical reflection upon the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom.
Developing Awareness
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Creativity—exploring and extending ideas leading to an original or interpretive product or performance
Activity—physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle
Service—collaborative and reciprocal engagement with the community in response to an authentic need
Students have opportunities to explore their interests and express their passions, personalities and perspectives through experiences and projects.
Criteria for completion:
A balance between the 3 strands for 18 months
Complete a project: student-initiated, in collaboration & a minimum of 1 month
Hold a portfolio
Meet the 7 outcomes
3 interviews
