Middle Years Programme curriculum

The curriculum is illustrated by an octagon with eight academic areas or subject groups surrounding the five areas of interaction. The personal project appears at the centre.

The emphasis is on the fluidity of the curricular framework and the interrelatedness of the subjects. Aspects of the areas of interaction are addressed naturally through the distinct disciplines. In particular, the framework is flexible enough to allow a school to include other subjects not determined by the IB but which may be required by state or national authorities.

The overall philosophy of the programme is expressed through three fundamental concepts that support and strengthen all areas of the curriculum. These concepts are based on:

• intercultural awareness
• holistic learning
• communication.

Under certain conditions, schools may deliver the programme in any language, although IB services are provided in:

• English
• French
• Spanish
• Chinese

Where local conditions prevent a school teaching all five years of the programme, authorization may be granted for that school to teach the programme over fewer years.

Taken as a whole, the curriculum provides a balanced education that will equip young people for effective participation in the modern world.