The Cambridge International Examinations created the Cambridge Advanced Level A Level programme, which is an international curriculum. Just like that, the International Baccalaureate Organization established the International Baccalaureate in 1968 with the intention of offering students a consistent and academically challenging high school curriculum.
Read ahead to find out more about both these curriculums. Which curriculum should you enroll in?
Grading scale:
The highest mark at the A-level is an A*, while the IBDP curriculum grades students on a scale of 1 to 7 for each subject, with 24 points required to receive a diploma (out of which 12 points should be obtained on the higher level subjects).
Subject selection:
A minimum of three subjects is required for A-levels, but for the IBDP, you must take 6 subjects, three at higher level and three at standard level. While there are no required subjects for the A Levels, which allows for greater subject flexibility, the IB students must take a variety of humanities, sciences, and languages to ensure a well-rounded curriculum.
Learning style:
As A Levels are textbook-based, parents are more involved in the learning process. However, some parents feel less connected with IBDP because internal evaluations and essays are research-based and student-specific.
Depth and breath:
A levels emphasise exam-focused learning and promote in-depth knowledge. Students who take A Levels tend to specialise more and concentrate on three to four topic areas that correspond to the course of study they would likely pursue in college. The IBDP curriculum promotes a global perspective through inquiry-based learning, internal assessments, and tests that are evenly spaced between them. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme maintains the comprehensive and balanced approach to learning that is typically seen in school curricula.
There is no better or best. Both these programs have their own ways of explaining their curriculum systems. You know your requirements better than anybody else. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each program before you make a choice.
IBDP and A Levels with Rostrum Education:
Rostrum Education understands the rigour that goes into preparing for these curriculums. The IB and the A Levels are two of the most challenging high school programs globally. Given that, we understand the kind of aid a student requires while preparing for exams. We offer subject specific tutoring and coursework for both, IBDP and A-Levels. Contact us for a free consultation today!