IB Core Requirements
Theory of Knowledge(TOK)
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course that asks students to explore and contemplate the essence of knowledge. TOK asks students to examine how individuals acquire and assert their knowledge through diverse avenues of understanding and the various forms of knowledge that exist. TOK allows students to investigate personal beliefs and foster a deeper awareness of their assumptions through thought-provoking inquiries in order to allow students the opportunity to explore the richness and significance of differing cultural perspectives. The outcome of the course is an exhibition and a 1,600 word essay. TOK is a 2 semester course which students take during the Spring of Junior year and Fall of Senior year.
Extended Essay (EE)
During their junior year, IB-Diploma-seeking students begin their Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS) requirements. Through their TOK course, students receive instruction in the independent research required to conduct a thorough, in-depth study of an EE question, which each student develops in regards to their personal interest in one of 22 Diploma Programme subjects. For approximately one year, from November of their junior year through mid-November of their senior year, the students research and write their 4,000-word Extended Essay. In addition to receiving instruction from their TOK teacher, the students work one-on-one with an EE-trained faculty member who supervises the process.
Community, Activity, Service (CAS)
According to the IB website, the purpose of CAS is to embark IB-Diploma seeking students on “a challenging and enjoyable personal journey of self-discovery.” CAS provides a counterbalance to academic studies by engaging students in creative endeavors, physical activity, and community service. Elgin High School’s CAS supervisor assists students with developing and implementing their personal CAS programs. Students are expected to be involved in CAS activities throughout their two years in the IB Diploma Programme and to reflect on their experiences, in writing, on a regular basis.
Information derived from: Homewood Flossmoor High IB Prep Academy and IB Diploma Programme Handbook: School Four Year Overview
Theory of Knowledge(TOK)
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is a course that asks students to explore and contemplate the essence of knowledge. TOK asks students to examine how individuals acquire and assert their knowledge through diverse avenues of understanding and the various forms of knowledge that exist. TOK allows students to investigate personal beliefs and foster a deeper awareness of their assumptions through thought-provoking inquiries in order to allow students the opportunity to explore the richness and significance of differing cultural perspectives. The outcome of the course is an exhibition and a 1,600 word essay. TOK is a 2 semester course which students take during the Spring of Junior year and Fall of Senior year.
Extended Essay (EE)
During their junior year, IB-Diploma-seeking students begin their Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS) requirements. Through their TOK course, students receive instruction in the independent research required to conduct a thorough, in-depth study of an EE question, which each student develops in regards to their personal interest in one of 22 Diploma Programme subjects. For approximately one year, from November of their junior year through mid-November of their senior year, the students research and write their 4,000-word Extended Essay. In addition to receiving instruction from their TOK teacher, the students work one-on-one with an EE-trained faculty member who supervises the process.
Community, Activity, Service (CAS)
According to the IB website, the purpose of CAS is to embark IB-Diploma seeking students on “a challenging and enjoyable personal journey of self-discovery.” CAS provides a counterbalance to academic studies by engaging students in creative endeavors, physical activity, and community service. Elgin High School’s CAS supervisor assists students with developing and implementing their personal CAS programs. Students are expected to be involved in CAS activities throughout their two years in the IB Diploma Programme and to reflect on their experiences, in writing, on a regular basis.
Information derived from: Homewood Flossmoor High IB Prep Academy and IB Diploma Programme Handbook: School Four Year Overview