Frequently Asked QUestions about IB
Is the Middle Years Programme (MYP) a scripted curriculum?
No. MYP is a WAY of teaching rather than WHAT to teach. MYP provides broad learning objectives by subject which allow our teachers to assess both IB objectives and our local learning standards. More about the MYP curriculum can be found on the IB Curriculum Page and more information about the International Baccalaureate Organization can be found at www.ibo.org Is the Middle Years Programme (MYP) a selective program for only the highest achieving students? No. All 6th through 8th grade students participate in the MIddle Years Programme. The instruction is differentiated to meet the needs of all students of all ability levels. In our experience, students who have struggled in a typical classroom often excel in a MYP classroom because of the supports given for "learning to learn," the conscious development of confidence, and the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in a variety of ways. On the opposite side of the spectrum, high achieving students respond to the rigor and high expectations of the program and it provides an excellent foundation for high school IB programmes, including the selective Diploma Programme. Isn't the IB Programme only offered in high schools? Though most IB programmes in Chicago are at the high school level, IB actually offers three levels of programming - the Primary Programme for students in preschool through fifth grades, the Middle Years Programme for students in 6th through 10th grades, the Diploma Programme for students in 11th and 12th grades, and the IB Career-related Certificate for students in 11th and 12th grades. How will the Middle Years Programme (MYP) help to prepare my child for high school? First, the MYP will offer your child more options in the high school selection process. With three years of the MYP, your child will be able to seamlessly transition to a high school MYP in freshman year or a Diploma program in their junior year. Even if your child does not choose an IB high school, the program will have prepared them for a challenging high school course load. We build high school structures into our MYP, such as block scheduling, so that students are comfortable when they encounter these systems in high school. We also accustom our students to confronting challenging real world issues through their work and utilizing critical thinking skills. We support the development of their communication skills so that they feel confident expressing themselves through speaking, writing, and other art forms in a new and often larger school environment. Lastly, we encourage goal setting and reflection. We believe all of our students are capable of success at the university level and beyond and work to instill a strong work ethic and support their schooling and career aspirations. |
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