International Baccalaureate at West High School

The IB Program at West High is for academically disciplined students who desire a curriculum that presents subject matter from a worldwide perspective. Students who are highly motivated and productive will benefit from this course of study. Students are admitted for 9th grade through an application process, which begins in November of 8th grade. Selection is based on grades, teacher recommendations, and evidence of motivation. Students who complete the IB Program at a standardized level of competency earn a high school diploma and the internationally recognized IB Diploma. Students may earn college credit and advanced standing at institutions of higher learning throughout the world.

The six IB subject areas and the courses offered at West High are:

• Language A (best language) - English
• Language B (second modern language) - French, German, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Arabic
• Individuals and Societies – World History, Geography, Business & Management, Economics, Psychology, Environmental Systems and Societies, and Art History
• Experimental Sciences - Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Systems and Societies
• Mathematics - Math Methods, Math Studies, Math Higher Level (Discrete Math)  
• Arts and Electives – Music Theory, Studio Art, Theatre Arts, Dance, Film, Art History, and Computer Science

Students at West have the flexibility to build their IB diploma by selecting courses that satisfy their interests and build upon their passions. 

West High School Pre-IB and IB Curricula

The West High School Pre-IB course of study is offered to students in 9th and 10th grades as preparation for the two-year IB Program in 11th and 12th grades. West High School Pre-IB students take English, a foreign language, social studies, science, and mathematics. The IBO defines the IB student as one who is in either 11th or 12th grade. Thus, it is in the last two years of high school that students prepare specifically for the IB examinations and diploma requirements. Courses in the junior and senior years continue to stress content, writing skills, critical thinking, and the application of concepts in the six subject groups and in a Theory of Knowledge course, which stimulates critical reflection upon the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom.

IB Diploma Requirements

To be eligible for the IB Diploma, students must meet the following requirements:

• Complete course work and IB examination requirements in three higher-level disciplines and in three standard-level disciplines selected from the six subject areas listed above during 11th and 12th grade.
• Write an extended essay (4,000 words) on a student selected topic in one of the IB subject areas.
• Complete the Theory of Knowledge course.
• Complete 150 hours of creativity, action, and community service activities.