The International Baccalaureate (IB), Program provides motivated students with an opportunity to pursue a rigorous university preparatory curriculum. The program is an integral part of both Palm Harbor University and St. Petersburg High Schools. Students enrolled in the program are encouraged to participate in extracurricular and athletic activities The IB diploma is awarded to students who pass external examinations in six academic subject areas; complete guided in-class coursework, complete a course of study in the theory of knowledge, present an extended essay reflecting independent research and analysis, and complete a creative, action, or service(CAS) project. Requirements for the IB diploma are structured to meet the entrance requirements for the best universities throughout the world while striving to meet the ideal of an international education. Originally designed in 1967 for international schools, the IB diploma is now a significant force in more than 40 countries. The IB diploma is recognized by prestigious universities such as Cambridge, Harvard, Yale, Emory, M.I.T. and Johns Hopkins. Special Features *The highest level of instruction in mathematics, science and the humanities *Inquiry skills and theory of knowledge courses *Student-centered learning *International curriculum *Academic coaching *Emphasis on critical thinking skills *Special service activity project *Recognition by universities worldwide *Intensive college and financial aid counseling *College credit
Admission Criteria Target Group I: These students must meet the following criteria: * Standardized achievement test composite score at the 90th percentile or above OR * Standardized achievement test stanines of 8 or 9 in total reading, total language and total mathematics AND * Final academic grades of B or above in grades six and seven * Successful completion of the following prerequisite courses by the end of their eighth-grade year * At least one year of a foreign language * One credit of Algebra I Honors Target Group 2: If a student does not meet all of the above criteria, the admission committee will recommend one of the following: * The applicant has the potential for the program and should be placed in Target Group 2. * The applicant appears to lack potential and, therefore, does not qualify for the program. An appeal procedure exists. Curriculum Students prepare for the IB program in grades 9 and 10. Preliminary IB work includes the following: * Composition and literature * Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, Precalculus * Biology, Chemistry, Physics * Social Studies and Inquiry Skills * Elective courses in the traditional high school In grades 11 and 12, students take IB courses. These courses include: * Language A-English * Language B-Foreign language * Study of Individuals in Social Societies * Biology, Chemistry, Physics * Mathematics * Elective course in the traditional high school
Advantages * Challenging and exciting classes focusing on writing, thinking, communicating and experimenting. * Rigorous and comprehensive education based on a global perspective * A commitment to community and human welfare * High standard of teaching required by the IB program * Possibility of entering college with advanced standing * High standards in all subjects * Participation in a community of scholars * Opportunity to earn a universally recognized, world class credential
Application Procedures
Applications are available in the guidance offices of all middle schools -------- and are due in the IB program office no later than October 15. All applicants are placed in random order by computer. Should there be a greater number of qualified applicants than available positions in Target Group l or 2, applicants-will be p1aced according to their random number. A waiting list of all qualified students who are not placed will be maintained for each target group
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