Learning Through Academics

Pearson College has partnered with the International Baccalaureate (IB) to offer an academic program that allows students an opportunity to earn a diploma that is accepted by universities in many countries. The IB Diploma is a deliberate compromise between the specialization required in some national systems and the breadth provided in others. All students study from five to six different academic areas. All courses, with the exception of self-taught languages, are studied for two years. More information about the IB can be found at www.ibo.org.

Courses

Studying the IB encourages students to ask challenging questions, to develop a strong sense of their own identity and culture, and to develop the ability to communicate with and understand people from other backgrounds. There is scope for variety as well as specializing in the IB program, since as part of the academic program, students

• study three subjects at higher level and three at standard level
• conduct an in-depth study on a subject of the student’s choice (the Extended Essay)
• participate in the distinctive Theory of Knowledge course

The Academic Curriculum consists of six subjects and three core areas:

The following is a brief description for the six areas and the courses that fall under each area. Most courses are offered at Higher and Standard Level, unless otherwise indicated. With the exception of Mathematics, and courses only available at one level, students may select which courses they will study at the Higher and Standard Level at the end of their first year.

Reports

Teachers report on students’ progress, in academics, activities and residential life. These are forwarded to parents, selection committees and students twice each year. 

On leaving the College, each student receives a certificate indicating the courses and activities in which he or she has participated. In early August, the International Baccalaureate Office issues a Diploma to successful students.

Success

The College has maintained a superb academic program during its history. On average, 60% of our students receive higher than 35 points on their diplomas out of a possible 45. This compares to the 20-30% of students worldwide who claim the same achievement.

More than 3,300 students have graduated from Pearson College. Today they are working in a vast array of professions and capacities in every corner of the world and are applying in their lives the ideals which we have encouraged here. They share a determination to make a difference and work in their communities as a positive force for peace and sustainability.

Pearson College IB Courses

For 2011-2012, the following courses will not be offered:

• Spanish B
• Anthropology to second years
• History to first years
• Biology standard
• Further math

Group 1: Language A1

This is your “best” language or mother tongue. At Pearson College, instruction is offered in English, French and Spanish. Where a student’s mother tongue is not taught, a student may (with a few exceptions) study this language at Standard Level as a “self-taught”.

It is through the study of your “best” language or mother tongue that students are encouraged to develop greater interest in the richness of the literature that underlies and gives insight into your culture.

Students registered in the self-taught Language A1 course will receive teaching in World Literature and general preparation for the examination. Most of your study is completed independently.

If you are taking a self-taught language, you will receive more information by mail or email. 

Group 2: Language Ab Initio / A2

This is study in your second language. At Pearson College students may select from:

AB INITIO: French or Spanish

Ab Initio languages courses in French and Spanish are offered to absolute beginners in the language. You cannot have studied the selected language previously. Emphasis is placed on communication skills. These courses are available only at the Standard Level.

LANGUAGE B

Second language instruction for non-beginners is offered in English, French, and Spanish. Emphasis is placed on oral and written communication. If you have studied the chosen language previously, this is where you will be placed.

English A2

This course is designed as an alternative to English B for those with a very strong background in the language. Students will develop capacity in the language through the study of literature and themes such as the relationships between language and culture, and media and culture. While A2 requires less linguistic fluency than A1, candidates will develop linguistic skills through the study of texts of both a literary and non-literary nature. 

Important notes regarding language study.

As English is the primary language of instruction at the College, any student not wishing to study English as a language must demonstrate “A1 level” proficiency in a placement test.

If you possess the skills to do so, you may select a second A1 language in lieu of a group 2 subject.

In recognizing that English and French are the two official languages of Canada, we expect Canadian students to achieve and/or demonstrate fluency in both languages. Canadians must demonstrate an “A1” ability in English on the placement test on arrival to be exempt from English and an “Advanced” proficiency in French to be exempted from French.

Group 3: Individuals and Societies

Subject matter in group 3 courses is contestable; study of these courses requires students to tolerate some uncertainty. Studying multiple perspectives fosters an appreciation of change, continuity, similarity and difference, and the diverse backgrounds of Pearson College students contribute greatly to discussions and explorations.   The disciplines’ major theories, concepts, methods and arguments are investigated in order to develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills, providing a solid foundation for university. No previous knowledge of the subjects is required. 

ECONOMICS

After learning micro and macroeconomics, the focus turns to international trade and economic development. Students are asked to approach economic issues by applying theory from the points of view of different nations and cultures and by evaluating economic policies in a critical sense. Students are required to complete essays which discuss and attempt to resolve economic issues by using extracts from various news media.

HISTORY

In your first year, students are introduced to an interpretative approach to history, where critical thinking and analysis are actively encouraged. Content is based on an in-depth study of the origins, nature, and worldwide repercussions of the First World War. In the second year, students can choose to study at the Higher Level (East Asia regional emphasis), or Standard Level (origins and outcome of the Cold War).

PHILOSOPHY

This is the study of ideas. Although the course introduces students to the ideas of historically prominent philosophers from a variety of traditions, its primary aim is to encourage students to develop your own rationally justifiable position on fundamental questions such as ‘What does it mean to be a human being?’, ‘What is a just society?’, ‘Does God exist?’ and ‘What is the human condition?’

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY

This is the comparative study of culture and human societies. Students will use ethnography, theory and field research to help make sense of relationships between human groups and individuals on local and global scales. Questions explored include ‘What is society?’, ‘What is culture?’, ‘What is globalization?’, ‘How do people meet their physical and emotional needs in similar and different ways?’ and, ‘How does political and economic restructuring affect humans?’

Group 4: Experimental Sciences

The science programs at Pearson College are all based on an experimental approach to learning in our well-equipped laboratories. The courses also take full advantage of our natural environment, using the forest, the ocean and the sky as nature’s classrooms. Through a study of topical issues, students are taught to think critically and to develop a deeper understanding of some of the most pressing issues of global concern. An interdisciplinary group project completed during the first year also gives students an opportunity to experience the collaborative nature of scientific work. 

BIOLOGY

The emphasis in the biology course is on developing a broad understanding of the following concepts as they apply to living organisms: structure and function, universality versus diversity, equilibrium within systems, and evolution. The topics covered include: ecology, molecular biology and genetics, biochemical processes, plant science and human physiology. Field-work at Race Rocks Ecological Reserve is an important part of the work. There is no prerequisite for this course, although some knowledge of chemistry is useful.

MARINE SCIENCE

The location of the College on the ocean makes it ideally suited to the scientific study of the marine environment. Students will study the physical and chemical make-up of the ocean, plankton as common to all marine ecosystems, and the variety of marine ecosystems in existence. This is a school-based course that was offered for the first time in September 2008. It is offered only at the Standard Level.

CHEMISTRY

This is described as the central science as chemical principles underpin both the physical environment and biological systems. The course includes a study of atomic theory, chemical bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria, and organic chemistry.

Through selected ‘option’ topics, applications of chemistry in industry, medicine and the environment are discussed. The course at Higher Level covers the topics in more depth than at Standard Level, and requires a greater level of mathematical analysis. 

PHYSICS

This course offers an opportunity for students to explore many facets of physics through experimental enquiry and class discussion. Topics covered include classical mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electromagnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, energy, power and climate change, relativity and astrophysics. Students have an opportunity to use a variety of laboratory equipment including an astrophysical observatory. No prior knowledge in physics is required at the standard level, however some background is beneficial at the higher level.

Group 5: Mathematics

All candidates for a diploma are required to complete a mathematics course, and four options are available to cater to different abilities and levels of student interest.

Each course aims to deepen a student’s understanding of mathematics as a discipline and to promote confidence and facility in the use of mathematical language. 

HIGHER MATHEMATICS

The Higher Level course is primarily intended to meet the needs of students interested in pursuing mathematics, physics, computer science or engineering at university. The course includes the topics of matrices, three dimensional vector geometry, trigonometry, probability, algebra and calculus.

STANDARD MATHEMATICS (Standard Level Only)

This is a techniques course best suited for students needing mathematics as a tool in your subject of major interest but not wanting the rigors of the Higher Level course. The topics covered are similar to those of Higher Level.

MATHEMATICAL STUDIES (Standard Level Only)

Mathematical Studies offers a thorough grounding in the kind of practical mathematics used in many university subjects. After a general review of numbers, algebra, sets, probability theory and functions, students are introduced to financial mathematics, statistical analysis and differential calculus all of which are widely used in Humanities and Social Science courses. Students are required to complete a mathematical project which often leads to a statistical investigation.

FURTHER MATHEMATICS

Second year Higher Level students with a particular interest and aptitude for mathematics may choose to study Further Mathematics in addition to the Higher Level course. Further Mathematics is a demanding course and is intended for the mathematics enthusiast. Topics covered include differential equations, Taylor series, statistics, graph theory, group theory, number theory and Euclidean geometry.

Group 6: Art and Theatre Arts

In Group 6 emphasis is placed on practical production by the student and exploration of a range of creative work in global context. Theoretical aspects of the discipline are also studied. Students do not need to have previous experience in these disciplines. 

VISUAL ART

Artistic expression is common to all cultures and students should feel comfortable approaching this subject, regardless of previous art training. Emphasis is placed on personal development, discovery, and opportunity for visual self-expression. The course involves regular studio work; this is the practical hands-on use of various techniques and materials. Students also learn the historical, cultural and social aspects of visual art.

THEATRE

Students will be expected to study forms of theatre from cultures and eras other than your own, and to practice performance and production skills. Students will attend local theatre productions and develop an ability to offer informed critiques. Students will learn about major developments and techniques in the theatrical history of more than one culture/era. You will acquire sufficient technical skills to produce satisfactory work in at least one of the theatrical arts or crafts.

IB Core

All students are required to undertake the Theory of Knowledge course and The Extended Essay as a part of their diploma. (Information regarding CAS is included in the "Services and Activities".)

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK)

This is an interdisciplinary requirement intended to stimulate critical reflection on the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom. The course challenges students to question the bases of knowledge, to be aware of subjective and ideological biases and to develop the ability to analyse evidence that is expressed in rational argument.

TOK is a key element in encouraging students to appreciate other cultural perspectives. Students study this course during their first year.

THE EXTENDED ESSAY (4,000 WORDS)

All students will write a 4,000 word essay as a part of your diploma.

The essay encourages students to deepen your programs of study and acquaints diploma candidates with the kind of independent research and writing skills expected by universities.