| "is that why grades (gpas) are somewhat deflated?"
For my son, the difference is in what generates the grades. His IB score will be generated primarily by the IB exam, and by some specific assessments, but his letter grade is generated by tests, quizzes, and homework over the course of the semester. So. for example, he's taking the IB SL math test today and tomorrow, but the "IB" course he's actually taking is essentially AP Calculus BC (he's also taking the AP test today!). The IB exam covers mainly precalc material, which he had last year. So there may be some connection between his IB score, his AP score, and his class grades, but it's very easy to imagine that he might get a high score on the standardized tests but get a B on his transcript for the semester. Similarly, his semester grade in French will depend entirely on grades given by his teacher, while his IB score will depend on more standardized assessments. Thus, for example, if a student simply fails to hand in a few homework assignments, he could get a B on his transcript, while still doing very well in his IB scores. |