Complete IBDP Subject-Selection Guide for Grade 10 Students
The transition from Grades 10 to IB Diploma Programme is a significant academic change. One of the most confusing questions for students and parents is: How to select the subjects for the IBDP?
The choice should not be dictated by the easiest list of subjects, or by friends who are choosing subjects. Subject selection should relate academic strengths, university requirements, career interests and realistic workload.
What Subjects do IBDP Students Choose?
The IBDP is organised around six subject groups: Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts. Normally, students will choose one subject from groups 1–5 and one from groups 6&7, but there are some subject options in the IB where students may choose an alternative subject within each group, such as an Arts subject for groups 6&7.
The IB core: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) are also completed with students.
Should Grade 10 Students Make Subject Choices based on University Plans?
Yes, but there should be more than just university planning.
An aspiring doctor may get to focus on Chemistry and Biology, and an aspiring engineer on Mathematics and Physics. Economics, psychology, law and computer science students are advised to explore subject expectations at their target universities.
The IB suggests that students take the DP courses in the light of their post DP plans.
How Should Students Choose Between HL and SL?
This is one of the most crucial decisions.
At Higher Level (HL), IBDP students study three to four subjects and at Standard Level (SL), they study the other subjects. The amount of teaching time and the scope of HL courses are greater than those of SL courses.
So students should select subject options that they are both academically interested in and able to cope with the extra demands of HL.
Should Students Pick Their Strongest Subjects?
Strength in academics is important, but so is relevance.
If a student is doing well in a subject, that is a good option if it would also aid in further university plans. But picking subjects for the sake of ease can lead to difficulties later on when it is found that the combination of subjects is not accepted by the University for entry.
What Mistakes should Grade 10 Students Avoid?
Typical errors are selecting subjects based on friends' choices, underestimating the workload of HL, and ignoring the university requirements and selecting too many challenging subjects without taking into account the overall IB workload.
Pupils should also be mindful of the availability of subjects in different schools.
How Can Professional Subject Guidance Help?
Career interests and university aspirations before subject selection are made, can be linked to a student's academic profile through an informed subject-selection process.
At Anil Khare, subject-selection guidance involves assessing a student's academic capabilities and assisting families in their informed decisions on school subjects and future courses. Dr Anil Khare also has academic expertise in the delivery of IB, A-Level and other international curricula.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When to begin selecting IBDP subjects in Grade 10?
Students should start researching ideas early enough before the last date for their school to make final subject selections.
How many HL subjects are required?
Normally three subjects are taught at the HL level with a maximum of 4 subjects at the HL level.
Should university requirements influence IBDP subject choices?
Yes. Students are advised to confirm subjects with their intended degrees and Universities before subject selections.
Can IBDP subject choices affect university options?
Yes. Early planning is important as certain courses in university demand specific subjects or level.
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