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Delving into the IB Language ab initio syllabus offers a clear insight into the skills and knowledge you'll develop throughout the course. In this post we will break down the IB Language ab initio syllabus, providing you with a clearer picture of what to expect on your learning journey.
IB Language ab initio Syllabus + Topics
It is important to mention that the syllabus remains the same no matter which language you choose. Hence, this guide is be applicable to all IB Langauge ab initio choices.
The IB Language ab initio syllabus does not provide specific topics or concepts that students must apprehend. Instead, the syllabus has been divided into 5 main themes:
- Identities
- Experiences
- Human ingenuity
- Social organization
- Sharing the planet
The themes themself are quite vague and provide a very general framework, allowing for flexibility in what is covered and how it is approached, ultimately depending on your teacher's choice.
Theme 1: Identities
In this theme, student will explore the nature of the self and how we express who we are. Students will reflect on how they present themselves to others and express their identity. They will also examine the importance of achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
In this theme, students will explore the following topics:
- Personal attributes
- Personal relationships
- Eating and drinking
- Physical well-being
Theme 2: Experiences
In this theme, students will explore and tell the stories of the events, experiences and journeys that shape our lives. Students will consider how travel broadens our horizons and how life might differ if we lived in another culture. They will also reflect on the challenges of being a teenager and explore the similarities and differences in customs and traditions across cultures.
In this theme, students will explore the following topics:
- Daily routine
- Leisure
- Holidays
- Festivals and celebrations
Theme 3: Human ingenuity
In this theme, students will explore the ways in which human creativity and innovation affect our world. Students will examine how science and technology impact their daily lives, how they engage with media, and what entertainment reveals about different cultures.
In this theme, students will explore the following topics:
- Transport
- Entertainment
- Media
- Technology
Theme 4: Social organisation
In this theme, students will explore the ways in which groups of people organize themselves, or are organized, through common systems or interests. Students wil examine the purpose of rules and regulations in society, their own role within that society, and the various options available to them in the world of work.
In this theme, students will explore the following topics:
- Neighbourhood
- Education
- The workplace
- Social issues
Theme 5: Sharing the planet
In this theme, students will explore the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals and communities in the modern world. Students will reflect on how they can contribute to helping the environment, how their surroundings influence their way of life, and what actions they can take to make the world a better place.
In this theme, students will explore the following topics:
- Climate
- Physical geography
- The environment
- Global issues
Texts
While exploring the 5 themes outlined above, IB Language ab initio students will concurrently study different text types. These include:
- Personal texts, such as:
- Blog, Diary, Email, Invitation, Journal, List, Personal letter,
- Professional texts, such as:
- Blog, Brochure, Catalogue, Email, Essay, Formal letter, Interview, Invitation, Literature, Personal statement/CV, Questionnaire, Recipe, Report,
- Mass media texts, such as:
- Advertisement, Article (newspaper, magazine), Blog, Brochure, Film, Flyer, Interview, Leaflet, Literature, News report, Newsletter, Podcast, Poster, Public commentary
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog.
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