FAQ

Q: Can an IB student test Standard Level (SL) or High Level (HL) in any of the subject areas? Meaning are some subject exams only offered in SL or only offered in HL?

A: Each subject area/group has both HL and SL exam options. Please let Mr. Teschner know your plans to make sure that you are prepared for that particular test level.

Q: Does Higher Level (HL) mean that the test is harder than the Standard Level (SL)?

A: No. The Higher Level test is broader - knowledge is spread further.

Q: Can an IB student take two tests in the Science or Language subject area in place of the Art Elective area?

A: Yes. The Elective/Arts course can be replaced by a second social science, a second experimental science, or a third language. Of the six exams, three are taken at the standard level (after a minimum of 1 full class) and three are taken at the higher level (after a minimum of 2 full classes). Please check with Mr. Teschner to make sure that the correct classes are completed in order for this to be successful.

Q: Can volunteering at our Public Library count as part of CAS' service?

A: No. Volunteering at our Public Library is a very good thing to do, but the IB Organization's goal is that the student pushes him/herself to help outside of the student's comfort zone and focus on the world community.

Q: Does helping at my family's garage sale qualify for service hours?

A: No. The IB Organization's aim is to stretch the student's knowledge of the International community.

Q: How do I show how many hours I have contributed to the CAS requirement?

A:  Please see Mr. Teschner for the appropriate forms.

Q: Can I take an IB exam without taking the IB course in that subject?

A: No. Part of the student's final IB grade comes from work done in the classroom, so it is impossible to take an IB exam without having participated in the IB course in that subject.

Q: When are the IB exams taken?

A: They are taken in May.

Q: Are Full IB candidates required to take Senior Seminar?

A: No. Full IB candidates are not required to take Senior Seminar.