The IB Core

At the heart of the IB Diploma Programme (DP) is the Core, designed to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. The three interconnected components of the Core—Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)—encourage students to reflect on their learning and grow as balanced, global citizens.

 

TOK invites students to explore the nature of knowledge itself.

• Students ask big questions like “How do we know what we claim to know?”
   
• They make connections across disciplines, cultures, and perspectives.
   
• The course helps students become critical thinkers who evaluate knowledge claims with evidence and reasoning.

 

The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed research project.

• Students investigate a question of interest within one of their DP subjects.
   
• They produce a formal essay of up to 4,000 words.
   
• The EE strengthens students’ skills in research, writing, and academic integrity while preparing them for university-level work.

 

CAS is at the heart of developing well-rounded learners.

• Creativity: Arts and creative thinking experiences.
   
• Activity: Physical exertion that promotes health and well-being.
   
• Service: Collaborative and reciprocal engagement with the community.
   

Through CAS, students learn to balance academics with personal growth, wellness, and community action.

The Core is what makes the IB Diploma Programme distinctive. It develops students who are:

• Deep thinkers and inquirers.
   
• Reflective learners.
   
• Compassionate, service-minded leaders.
   
• Prepared for the demands of higher education and life beyond the classroom.

At our school, we celebrate the IB Core as a pathway that shapes students not only into successful graduates but also into thoughtful, caring, and globally minded citizens.