The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a rigorous pre-university curriculum for students aged 16 to 19, recognised by leading universities worldwide. Language acquisition is a core component of the IB, and our school offers preparation in French, German, Spanish, and Japanese at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL).
Programme Structure
The IB language courses are divided into two main strands:
| Strand | Description |
|---|---|
| Language B (SL / HL) | Designed for students with previous experience in the language. Focuses on developing practical communication skills and cultural understanding. |
| Language B (Ab Initio) | Designed for beginners with no prior experience. Available at Standard Level only and covers essential language skills for everyday communication. |
Most students with two to five years of prior study typically enrol in Language B SL or HL, while beginners are placed in Ab Initio.
Topic Areas Covered
IB language courses are organised around five core themes, which provide a framework for exploring language in meaningful contexts:
| Theme | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Identities | Personal attributes, health and well-being, beliefs and values, lifestyle choices. |
| Experiences | Leisure activities, travel and exploration, life stories, celebrations and traditions. |
| Human Ingenuity | Creativity and innovation, technology, scientific progress, entertainment and media. |
| Social Organisation | Education, employment, social relationships, community, legal and political systems. |
| Sharing the Planet | Environment and sustainability, global issues, diversity, human rights, peace and conflict. |
At Higher Level, students also study two literary works in the target language, allowing for deeper engagement with cultural and textual analysis.
Assessment Components
IB language examinations assess four core skill areas:
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Reading | Understanding and interpreting a range of written texts, from everyday materials to more complex articles and literary extracts. |
| Writing | Producing coherent, well-structured texts in various formats, such as letters, blogs, reviews, and opinion pieces. |
| Listening | Comprehending spoken language across different contexts, including interviews, conversations, and presentations. |
| Speaking | Demonstrating oral proficiency through individual presentations and interactive discussions with the examiner. |
Languages Offered
| Language | Why Study It? |
|---|---|
| French | Widely spoken across Europe, Africa, and the Americas; ideal for international relations, arts, and diplomacy. |
| German | A leading language in European business and academia; highly valued in engineering, science, and philosophy. |
| Spanish | One of the most spoken languages globally; essential for trade, tourism, and Latin American studies. |
| Japanese | A gateway to Asian markets and culture; valuable in technology, business, and media. |
Grading and Recognition
IB language courses are graded on a 1 to 7 scale, with 7 being the highest. A score of 4 or above is generally considered a passing grade and is widely accepted by universities for admission.
Our Preparation Courses
We offer comprehensive IB language preparation tailored to each student’s level and goals, including:
Contact Us
For more information about our IB French, German, Spanish, or Japanese courses, please email us. We would be happy to assist you in choosing the right level and designing a preparation plan suited to your needs.