Why IGCSE Is The Best Preparation Programme For IB Diploma Programme?

Two of the most respected certifications of pre-university study are the IGCSE and IBDP. While functioning at different levels of education, both designs are to meet the educational and professional challenges of the 21st century. The quality of the two programs in terms of depth of content and approaches to learning make them the best combination for preparing for higher studies. Let’s take a deeper look into why IGCSE is the best way to prepare for IBDP.

Internationally Recognised Curriculum

It is important to note that IGCSE and IBDP offer internationally recognised curricula. With IGCSE, students develop a global outlook towards everyday concepts and ideas. IGCSE offers a course called “Global Perspectives”, which encourages students to view the world through a multicultural lens. At the same time, it motivates students to ask questions, think outside the box and test their theories. These skills come in handy when students opt for IBDP, where they are required to think analytically throughout the coursework.

IGCSE Subjects Set The Stage For IBDP Coursework

The IGCSE curriculum allows the students to choose at least 5 subjects from 5 subject groups namely:

• Languages
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Mathematics
• Creative and Professional

Within these groups, students can select subjects that best align with their interests and abilities that further help them in their desired career path. The subjects students choose here also lay the foundation for the courses they select at IBDP. The diploma course offers six subject groups for students to choose one from each group. They are required to pick three subjects at the Standard Level and the other three at High Level from the groups of:

• Studies in Language and Literature
• Language Acquisition
• Individuals and Societies
• Sciences
• Mathematics
• The Arts

Focus On In-Depth Study

The two-year programme of IGCSE requires the students to study specific topics in great detail instead of covering a wide variety of topics at the surface level. This in-depth studying helps the students to understand concepts better and apply them to their own lives. This way they can make lasting connections to the concepts they have studied and be prepared for further studies.

Similar to IGCSE, students of IBDP have to learn to complete in-depth studies on specific topics while conducting their research. This course requires the students to think outside the curriculum and expand their subject knowledge.

Relying On External Assessments

Students opting for IGCSE are required to complete external assessments in Grade 10. This experience helps them when they are enrolled in IBDP because the programme demands completion of external assessments as well in Grade 12. The assessments students take up in IGCSE are designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the programme. These assessments help them manage their time better when they take a formal written exam. IGCSE students feel better prepared to take up exams at Grade 12 under IBDP because they have already had the experience of completing external assessments.

The rigorous curriculum of IGCSE and IBDP together is what students need to expand their critical thinking and develop skills that will prove beneficial during higher studies. Knowledgeum Academy offers a rare chance to students to learn the IGCSE curriculum for three years and then have a seamless transition into IBDP, also offered at the campus. These two courses will lay a strong foundation for your higher studies and pave the path to their professional success.