IB Courses
Any junior or senior can choose to take an IB course (six subject groups). IB courses are offered at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) so that students can challenge themselves at a level they feel comfortable with. Most IB courses are offered in a two year sequence with an external exam in May of the second year. Students will also complete and internal assessment for each course that allows for student choice, authentic research and assessment.
All juniors will be enrolled in the IB Language and Literature (SL) course and those who have a particular interest in this field of study can challenge themselves in the (HL) level of IB Language and Literature.
For more information visit the Parent FAQ tab.
What is the Diploma Programme?
The IB Diploma Programme is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education, with final examinations, that prepares students aged 16 to 19 for success at university and in life beyond. It has been designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of students. The programme has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities.
International Baccalaureate Organization 2017. DP BrochureCurriculum
At the center of an IB education is the Learner Profile surrounded by Approaches to Teaching and Approaches to Learning. The Diploma Programme consists of six subject groups and the Core. Students who want to receive an IB Diploma will need to choose courses from each of the six subject groups as well as complete the Core requirements. Interwoven into all courses is the concept of International Mindedness which instills the notion that we are a global society and that our students accept and respect other cultures and beliefs.
Pathways to the Diploma
PVHS has developed four pathways for students to follow in order to achieve an IB diploma. Each one was designed to meet the needs of all of our students and allow them to focus on particular subjects of interest.
Recognition of the IB Diploma Program
Parents and students often have questions about how colleges and universities recognize the IB program. Here is a link to the IB site that explains the post-secondary benefits in great detail. If you scroll down, you will see an Excel spreadsheet listing the college credits students can potentially earn. Oh, and the Common Application has a box where students can check if they are Diploma Candidates!
ibo.org/university-admission/recognition-of-the-ib-diploma-by-countries-and-universities/