Diploma candidates must select one subject from each of the six groups.  Students are thus able to explore some subjects in depth and others more broadly, a deliberate compromise between the early specialization of some national systems and the breadth found in others. The science-oriented student is challenged to learn a foreign language and the natural linguist becomes familiar with laboratory procedures.  Active citizenship and global perspectives are encouraged in each area of the curriculum.

The list below serves as a guide to the classes offered at Abby Senior.  The terms Higher Level and Standard Level denote the number of required hours to complete the course over two years (Higher Level courses require more course hours than Standard Level courses).  Further description can be explored by clicking on the navigation bar at left.

Group 1 - language A1
English class takes on a significantly international flavour as students study three works in translation over two years.  At Abby Senior both Higher and Standard Level IB English courses are offered.

Group 2 – second language
All diploma candidates are examined in a second language.  Abby Sr. offers excellent instruction in French as a Second Language.   

Group 3 - individuals and societies
Abby Senior offers two subjects included in this group: Geography and History, both of which are Higher Level courses.

Group 4 – experimental sciences
The subjects available in group 4 are: Biology (at Standard Level), Chemistry (Higher Level) , and Physics (Higher Level).

Group 5 – mathematics
All candidates for a diploma are required to complete a mathematical methods course (Standard Level).  This course aims to deepen a student's understanding of mathematics as a discipline and to promote confidence and facility in the use of mathematical language.

Group 6 – the arts
This group includes Visual Arts, Theatre Arts, and TV/Film (all Higher Level), with emphasis placed on practical production by the student and exploration of a range of creative work in a global context.

Options

Instead of choosing a Group 6 subject, a student may choose to study another Group 4 course.