Diploma Program

In Grades 11 and 12, independence and critical thinking skills gain even more focus. Students plan their own pathway with the support of our academic dean and director of college counseling.  Students will choose a course from each of the six groups: English, an additional Language, History, Experimental Sciences and Mathematics. For the sixth group, students can choose from the Arts (dance, theater or visual arts) or choose a second course from additional languages, Individuals & Societies (Psychology or Economics) or Experimental Sciences. 

The full IB Diploma Program is understood by selective universities as the most rigorous program offered. At St. Timothy’s School, we believe in the value of a liberal arts education, as represented by the full Diploma Program, to expose students to varied ways of knowing and thinking across the disciplines. 
Students are required to choose one subject from each of the six academic areas, although they can choose a second subject from groups 1 to 5 instead of a group 6 (Arts) subject. Normally, three subjects (and not more than four) are taken at a higher level (HL), and the others are taken at standard level (SL). Subjects at HL are studied in greater depth and breadth than at SL. At both levels, many skills are developed, especially those of critical thinking and analysis. At the end of the course, students' abilities are measured by means of external assessment. Many subjects contain some element of coursework assessed by teachers.
IB APPROACHES TO TEACHING AND LEARNING
Teaching:
  • Based on inquiry
  • Focused on conceptual understanding
  • Developed in local and global contexts
  • Focused on effective teamwork and collaboration
  • Differentiated to meet the needs of all learners
  • Informed by assessment (formative and summative)
Learning Skills:
  • Thinking
  • Communication
  • Self-management
  • Research
  • Social
THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK)
Theory of Knowledge is an interdisciplinary course designed to stimulate critical thinking and reflection. It challenges students to question the bases of knowledge, be aware of bias and learn to analyze the evidence used in presenting an argument. Students come to understand different points of view and how one's background can affect one’s perception of truth. 

EXTENDED ESSAY
The Extended Essay is a 4,000-word essay that students write on a topic of special interest drawn from their studies. With the guidance of a Teacher Advisor, each student conducts independent research, prepares her ideas and organizes material for her essay. The skills and techniques honed in creating the Extended Essay provide valuable practice for university work. 

CREATIVITY, ACTIVITY, SERVICE (CAS)
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) encourages students to involve themselves beyond the curriculum in the arts, athletics and through service to others. Students participate in the three CAS areas, developing and sharing their energies and talents, and completing a CAS project, while learning to work cooperatively. 

CENTER FOR LEARNING AND TEACHING
Differentiation is important for helping students find success as learners. Our CLT program offers a differentiated support model for students both in and out of the classroom, as well as early intervention. Students are scheduled during a free block to meet one-on-one with the learning specialist to ensure proper support.
 
CLT provides support to both students and faculty. CLT supports student learning by doing the following:
  • Helping students identify their individual learning strengths and needs.
  • Helping students develop learning strategies that match their individual learning profiles.
  • Supporting students with the development of planning, organization and time management skills.
  • Helping teachers build a repertoire of teaching strategies to differentiate classroom instruction.
  • Assisting students with testing accommodations.
8400 Greenspring Avenue | Stevenson, Maryland 21153
410-486-7400 | admis@stt.org