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IB vs. BC curriculum

In 2016, the British Columbia curriculum underwent a significant redesign to focus more on personalized learning, critical thinking and inquiry-based approaches. This shift in the curriculum aligned it more closely with the principles and philosophy of IB programs, which also emphasize similar skills and competencies. As a result, there is now considerable overlap between the goals and teaching methodologies of the IB programs and the BC curriculum, reducing the distinctiveness that IB once offered.

Area

International Baccalaureate (IB)

BC CurriculumKey Differences

Subjects

  • Science
  • Mathematics
  • Arts
  • Physical and Health Education
  • Design
  • Language Acquisition
  • Language and Literature
  • Individuals and Societies
  • Science 
  • Mathematics
  • Arts
  • Physical and Health Education
  • Applied Design, Skills & Technology (ADST)
  • Core French or other second language
  • English Language Arts
  • Social Studies
  • Career Education

Names of subjects.

Teaching Methodology

Learning focused on understanding (concepts), developing skills (competencies) and knowledge (content) through inquiry, project-based learning and service learning. Learning process is important.

Learning Standards focused on Know (content), Do (curricular competencies) and Understand (big ideas) to support learning through inquiry, cross curricular and community projects. Content is used as a vehicle to teach skills, furthering deeper understanding through the learning process.

Slight difference in terminology used.

 

Core Competencies

  • Thinking skills
  • Research skills
  • Communication skills
  • Self-management skills
  • Social skills

Thinking: 

  • Critical and reflective 
  • Creative 

Communication:

  • Idea expression
  • Collaboration

Personal and social:

  • Personal awareness and responsibility
  • Positive personal and cultural identity
  • Social awareness and responsibility

No significant differences. 

Community Service / Projects

Creativity, Activity and Service project (CAS)—also called the Personal Project – is completed for PYP, MYP and DP.

In the redesigned curriculum, students practice inquiry and research skills with project opportunities throughout K-12. Specifically, Career Life Education 10 and Career Life Connections 12 include capstone projects that connect students’ personal passions and contributions to their community (similar to CAS).

No significant differences.

Educational Outcomes

The IB Learner Profile supports the development of internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity help to create a better and more peaceful world. See the full IB learner profile

BC’s curriculum enables students to graduate as “Educated Citizens”, with the necessary qualities to seize a wide array of global opportunities. See the full description of the educated citizen

Similar themes but categorized differently.  

Assessment

IB uses a 7-point proficiency scale for PYP, MYP and DP.

 

 

BC uses a 4-point proficiency scale grades K-10 and letter grades/percentages grade 11-12.

 

 

Assessment differences make it challenging for families to clearly understand their child’s progress. Students are graded with BC’s 4-point scale K-5, the 7-point IB scale grade 6-10, and letter grades/percentages in grades 11-12. 

Curriculum Overview

MYP encourages students aged 11 to 16 to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, preparing them for success in further study and in life. MYP aims to develop active learners and internationally minded young people who can empathize with others and pursue lives of purpose and meaning. 

 

British Columbia’s curriculum is learner-centred and flexible and maintains a focus on literacy and numeracy, while supporting deeper learning through concept-based and competency-driven approaches. The curriculum supports the development of citizens who are thinkers and communicators, and who are personally and socially competent in all areas of their lives. 

No significant differences. 

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