FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
For whom is the IB Program designed?
The IB Program is designed for the academically able student who is eager to learn. This student will display efficient time management skills, a high level of motivation, and a well-considered balance between academic and social activities. While grades are certainly an important factor, it is the right attitude and determination that will help a student succeed in the IB Program.
Do IB students have a "normal" high school experience?
Since IB students learn the essence of time-management, they are typically able to incorporate many activities into their schedule as well as retain a "normal" student lifestyle. IB students are encoraged to participate in any activities that fit their interests. Our students are often active in Student Government, Athletics, Band, Drama, National Honor Society, Newspaper, Azalea Trail Maid, Scouting and many other activities, both at school and through their chosen religious institutions.
What is involved in the Pre-IB Program?
In order to prepare for the academic rigor of the 11th and 12 grade IB courses, all Pre-IB students follow the 9th and 10th grade Pre-IB course of study (see Course of Study). Most classes are taught at the Pre-IB/Honors level. Students must be ready to move to the fourth year of foreign language instruction in their 11th grade year. Near the end of the 10th grade year all Pre-IB studens are evaluated for placement in the IB Diploma Program. Placement is not automatic.
What is involved in the IB Program?
All IB students follow the curriculum set down by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The courses specific to Murphy High School are listed in the Course of Study. All IB students sit for their Group 6 elective (IB Geography, IB Visual Art or IB Music) examination at the end of their 11th grade year. They sit for their Group 1-5 examinations at the end of their 12th grade year. English, History and Biology examinations are at the Higher Level. All other examinations are at the Standard Level. Some of the work done in an IB course is part of the IB exam in that subject. It usually counts as 20% of the final exam grade and is internally assessed by the teacher and extenerally moderated by IBO examiners. Internal assessment may be research papers, oral exams, projects, or a combination; it varies by the subject. The written exams (1-3 per subject) constitute the remainder of the IB exam and are externally assessed by IBO examiners in different countries all around the world. Each examined subject is graded on a scale of 1 (minimum) to 7 (maximum). The award of the diploma requires students to meet defined standards and conditions including a minimum total of 24 points and the satisfactory completion of the extended essay, Theory of Knowledge course (TOK) and CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) volunteer activities. The maximum score of 45 points includes three bonus points for an exceptional essay and work in TOK.
What is the average amount of time one should expect to spend on homework each night in Pre-IB and IB?
From one to fours hours per night: your study style is your own, but it is advisable to exercise good time-management skills.

What are the eductional advantages of the IB Program?
--Challenging and exciting classes focusing on writing, critical thinking, communcation and ethics.
--Rigorous and comprehensive education based on a global perspecitve.
--A commitment to community and human welfare
--High standards of teaching required by the International Baccalaureate Organization
--High expectations of students and the development of full academic potential in all areas of study.
--Students do college-level work which teaches them about time management, research methods and
   project development.
--Participation in a community of scholars.
--Possibility of entering college with advanced standing (college credits).
--Opportunity to earn universally recognized, world-class credentials. IB sets internationally recognized,
   world-class standards. Its six graduation exams and extended essay are authentic assessments,
   externally reviewed by examiners from all over the world following an established grading criteria - an
   exemplary model of standards-based education that is valid, trustworthy, and does not discriminate by
   ethnicity or cultural background.
--Exceptional preparation for collegiate studies.
--Colleges and universities across the globe recognize the IB Diploma not only for its high quality of
   education, but also because IB students have proven to be very successful in their college career.

How important is the IB Program to colleges when deciding whether or not to accept a student?
What is most important to colleges is the rigor of a student's courses. The IB curriculum represents the highest level of rigor of ANY high school program.
How does one avoid burn-out?
Focus on one thing at a time; steer clear of negative people; don't be a perfectionist; don't fret; and work on your time management skills. Once you are invested in the program, keep plugging along! Incentives become more and more evident the deeper one gets into the program. If, however, it is necessary to transfer out of the program, it has been demonstrated that the experience, in and of itself, is a marketable commodity, as students still can maintain advanced studies' course selections and high goals.
What does one accomplish in earning the IB Diploma?
A great sense of pride and accomplishment, and a credential that proves beyond argument that you rank among the very best in the world.
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