IB Individuals and Societies Courses
Group 3 courses focus on developing a critical understanding of:
- Human experience and behavior
- The diverse physical, economic, and social environments people live in
- The history of social and cultural institutions
These courses are designed to help students identify, analyze, and critically evaluate theories, concepts, and arguments related to the nature and actions of individuals and societies, fostering a deeper insight into both historical and contemporary issues.
Overview
Focus:
- Exploration of real-world issues through the lens of culture, society, and human behavior.
- Development of analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Key Philosophical Questions:
- How do human actions and behaviors shape societies and the environment?
- In what ways can global and local contexts influence decision-making and ethical responsibility?
Course Structure:
- SL (Standard Level): Focus on foundational understanding and analysis of key concepts over one year.
- HL (Higher Level): More intensive study with deeper analysis and exploration of advanced topics over two years.
- Weighted 5.0
IB Assessments:
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IB Business Management SL
- Internal Assessment: Students complete a business project or case study analysis, applying business theories to real-world scenarios.
- End-of-Year Exam: A written exam assessing students' understanding of business concepts, terminology, and the ability to analyze business situations.
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IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL
- Internal Assessment: Students conduct scientific investigations or fieldwork projects related to environmental issues, demonstrating their understanding of environmental science and societal impact.
- End-of-Year Exam: A written exam evaluating students' knowledge of both environmental science and the societal aspects of sustainability, including data analysis and application of key concepts.
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IB Global Politics SL
- Internal Assessment: Students research and analyze a global political issue, applying theoretical concepts and discussing real-world implications.
- End-of-Year Exam: A written exam testing students' ability to analyze political theories, evaluate global issues, and apply their understanding to specific case studies.
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IB History HL
- Internal Assessment: Students complete an independently researched historical investigation, demonstrating their ability to engage with primary and secondary sources.
- End-of-Year Exam: A written exam that tests knowledge of key historical events and themes, requiring students to analyze and interpret historical sources and concepts critically.
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IB Psychology SL
- Internal Assessment: Students design and conduct a psychological experiment or study, demonstrating their ability to apply psychological concepts and research methods.
- End-of-Year Exam: A written exam assessing students' understanding of psychological theories, research studies, and the ability to apply concepts to real-life situations.
Couse Information
Course Options:
- IB Business SL - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 503)
Explore IB Business Management SL
- IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL** - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 525)
Explore IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL
- IB Global Politics SL* - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 587)
Explore IB Global Politics SL
- IB History HL* - 2 years/1 period - Year 1 (Code: 529) / Year 2 (Code: 530)
Explore IB History HL
- IB Psychology SL - 1 year/1 period - (Code: 527)
Explore IB Psychology SL
* IB History and IB Global Politics can be used to satisfy the US Government graduation requirement
** IB Environmental Systems and Societies can fulfill the group 3 or group 4 course option for IB Diploma students
For the most up-to-date course information and descriptions, see the Academic Programs and Pathways resource
Quick Links
Example Careers
Example careers for students interested in Group III courses and topics:
Immediate Opportunities (High School or 2-Year College):
- Marketing Assistant: Support campaigns, research, and content creation.
- HR Assistant: Assist with recruitment and employee relations.
- PR Assistant: Draft press releases and manage media outreach.
- Customer Relations Specialist: Resolve issues and assist customers.
- Data Entry/Market Research: Organize and analyze business data.
After 2-Year College/Trade School:
- Junior Business Analyst: Collect data and support strategy improvements.
- Environmental Consultant: Assess sustainability and compliance efforts.
- Research Assistant (Psychological/Political): Support research projects and analysis.
- HR Coordinator: Manage hiring, training, and engagement.
After 4-Year College/University:
- Business Analyst: Analyze data to enhance efficiency.
- Environmental Consultant: Advise on sustainability and regulations.
- Political Analyst: Study policies and trends for informed decisions.
- Marketing/PR Manager: Develop and execute branding strategies.
- HR Manager: Oversee recruitment and workplace culture.
- International Relations Specialist: Handle global projects and policies.
Military Careers:
- Public Affairs Specialist: Manage military communications and media.
- Intelligence Analyst: Analyze data for security and operations.
- HR Specialist: Oversee recruitment and personnel management.
- Military Diplomat: Represent military interests abroad.
Entrepreneurship/Freelance:
- Consultant: Advise in business, marketing, or sustainability.
- Freelance Writer: Create specialized content or articles.
- Digital Marketing Agency Owner: Offer SEO and social media strategies.
- Freelance Analyst: Provide research and insights.
- Sustainability Consultant: Help implement eco-friendly practices.