Group Studies

Please see insert for specific list of courses available

GROUP ONE – Studies in Language and Literature

The courses offered in this group are available in three languages: English, German and Mandarin. Students should undertake the course that is presented in their native language.

There are two types of English courses offered in Group 1: 1) Literature 2) Language and Literature

Literature is a course designed around key works of literature, and Language and Literature is a course designed around both literature and text from non-literary sources.

If the student’s native language is other than English, German or Mandarin, he or she has the option of undertaking Standard Level School Supported Self Taught study with the support of a Literature teacher and a native language tutor. The School Supported Self Taught option is only available if an appropriate native language tutor is available.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated, and will include a taped oral component, a written examination and a world literature essay.

GROUP TWO – Language Acquisition

The aim of this course is to allow students to use a second language in a range of contexts for various purposes. The focus of the course is on written and spoken communication.

There are three levels of language study in Group 2: 1) Language B HL (approaching fluency) 2) Language B SL (advanced foreign language) 3) Language ab initio SL (beginner)

All Diploma candidates must study at least two languages; one from Group 1 and the second from either Group 1 or Group 2.

The Bilingual IB Diploma Students earn a bilingual diploma when they complete all of the diploma requirements and study two languages at the Group 1 level.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated, and can include: a taped oral component, a written examination and a portfolio of writing tasks.

GROUP THREE – Individuals and Societies

Ridley offers a wide range of courses in this subject group for students with diverse interests.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated, and can include: a written examination and a portfolio of written tasks.

GROUP FOUR – Sciences

A range of subjects, including the three core sciences, are available in this group.

Environmental Systems and Societies is a transdisciplinary course available at the SL level only. In all courses, practical laboratory skills are developed along with collaborative learning and problem-based enquiry.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated, and will include a written examination and a portfolio of laboratory work.

GROUP FIVE – Mathematics

Mathematics Studies are designed for students of diverse backgrounds and abilities. The objective of these courses is to build confidence and encourage appreciation of Mathematics in students who do not anticipate a need for Mathematics in future studies.

Mathematics is offered at three levels: 1) Mathematics Studies SL 2) Mathematics SL 3) Mathematics HL

Mathematics SL is designed for students who have an understanding of foundational mathematical concepts. Mathematics HL is designed for students who have an advanced understanding of foundational mathematical concepts. The objective of both Mathematics SL and HL courses is to prepare students who envision future studies involving mathematics.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated, and will include a written examination and a portfolio of mathematical investigations.

GROUP SIX – The Arts

Courses available in this group encompass a range of disciplines. In all of these courses, students will focus on practical production and the exploration of a range of creative work from different periods and cultures.

Students may elect to take another course in Groups 1–4, instead of a Group 6 course. Conversely, students who take Group 4: Environmental Systems and Societies, may elect to take two Group 6 courses.

Major assessments will be externally examined or moderated.