To IB or not to IB ... That is the question

2dsdad
Sat, 23 Sep 2006 12:12:15 +0000

xiggi-“Inasmuch as Marite answered you in a very tactful way…”

Was I being tactless in my response to marite? I apologize if I was. I was providing a comparison with the pass rates for the IB Diploma in this country. I am aware that other countries have other systems for admission to higher education that, in some cases, depend on a single exam and failure means no admission.

And I am also aware that the original intent of the IB program was to provide a standardized college prep program in parts of the world where such programs were not available. I think this quote about the original purpose of the IB program has already been referenced here:

“Its original purpose was to facilitate the international mobility of students preparing for university by providing schools with a curriculum and diploma recognized by universities around the world.”

xiggi-“Further, you may want to do some reading on the issues of predicted IB scores. Even if this issue has a larger impact on international students, it is part of the IB.”

Thank you. I tried to ejamacate myself and it is true that predicted grades are a part of the process. In searching the IBO website regarding predicted scores, I found 37 references, 36 of which dealt with non-US programs. One dealt with the IB evaluation program overall and would apply to the US. Under the heading of How Students are Assessed: Principles and Practice, there is this description of predicted grades-

“The predicted grade is the teacher’s prediction of the grade
the candidate is expected achieve in the subject, based
on all the evidence of a candidate’s work and the teacher’s
knowledge of IB standards. Predicted grades are also
required for Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay.
Predicted grades are used by grade award meeting when
considering grade distributions. They may also be used by
the Final Award Committee as additional information about
candidates who are subject to special consideration.”
-A Guide to the IB Diploma Programme for Univeristies and Colleges (page 8)
http://■■■■■■■.com/fmr7g

So, it is correct that predicted grades are used and have some influence on the final grades. In those programs where the final scores and the awarding of the IB Diploma may determine admission to college, I am sure predicted grades are given great importance. In the US, where high school graduation and college admission are not tied to the IB scores or the Diploma, they may not be discussed as much. In my children’s school, although I am sure the teachers provide predicted scores, they are not discussed at all. Hence my questions for those who mentioned the importance of predicted scores. And were you not the one who started this thread on the appropriateness of IB in US public schools?

"However, for one who is seemingly wrapped up in the virtues of a program that purports to have a “global” scope, you may want to shed a few provincial views. "

The use of an ad hominem argument suggests you have run out of meaningful points to make about the original subject.