CURRICULUM IN IB

Group I - Language A
MYP English 9 (9th grade)
MYP English 10 (10th grade)
+IB English HL I (11th grade)
+IB English HL II (12th grade)

Group II - Language B
MYP Spanish II (8th or 9th grade)
MYP Spanish III (9th or 10th grade)
+IB Spanish IV (10th or 11th grade)
+IB Spanish V SL/HL (11th or 12th grade)

MYP French II (8th or 9th grade)
MYP French III (9th or 10th grade)
+IB French IV (10th or 11th grade)
+IB French V SL/HL (11th or 12th grade)

MYP German II (8th or 9th grade)
MYP German III (9th or 10th grade)
+IB German IV (10th or 11th grade)
+IB German V SL (11th or 12th grade)

Latin I – +Latin IV SL (8th-12th grade)

+IB Spanish A2 (11th or 12th grade)

Group III - History and Societies
MYP World History (9th grade)
+MYP/AP Comparative Government (10th grade)
+IB History of the Americas HL I (11th grade)
+IB 20th Century Topics HL II (12th grade)

IB Electives
+Economics SL (11th or 12th grade)
+Social and Cultural Anthropology SL (11th or 12th grade)
+Geography SL (11th or 12th grade)
+Business Management SL (11th or 12th grade)

Group IV – Experimental Sciences
MYP Biology (9th grade)
MYP Chemistry (10th grade)
MYP Earth Science (10th or 11th grade)
+IB Biology HL I (11th grade)
+IB Biology HL II (12th grade)
+IB Chemistry HL I (11th grade)
+IB Chemistry HL II (12th grade)
SOL Physics (10th or 11th grade)
+IB Physics SL (11th or 12th grade)
+IB Environmental Systems SL (11th or 12th grade)

Group V – Mathematics
MYP Algebra I (7th, 8th or 9th grade)
MYP Geometry (8th, 9th or 10th grade)
MYP Algebra II (9th, 10th or 11th grade)
MYP Algebra II/trig (9th,10th or 11th grade)
Advanced Mathematics (11th grade)
+Math Studies SL (12th grade)
+Math SL I (11th grade)
+Math SL II (12th grade)
+Math HL I (11th grade)
+Math HL II (12th grade)

IB Electives
+Computer Science SL (11th or 12th grade)
+Computer Science HL (12th grade)

Group VI – Arts
MYP Art I (9th grade)
MYP Band (9th grade)
MYP Choir (9th grade)
MYP Orchestra (9th grade)
MYP Intro to Speech and Theater (9th grade)
+IB Visual Arts I (11th grade)
+IB Visual Arts II (12th grade)
+IB Music I (11th grade)
+IB Music II (12th grade)

Group VII – Physical Education
MYP PE I (9th grade)
MYP PE II (10th grade)

Group VIII – Technology
MYP Technology instruction and assessment is integrated in the following courses:

MYP Biology
MYP Geometry
MYP English 9
MYP World History

Overview of Language A1:
The language A1 courses promotes an appreciation of literature and a knowledge of a student's own culture and that of other societies. These courses are designed to develop students' powers of expression, both in oral and written communication, by emphasizing the skills involved in writing and speaking one's native language in a variety of styles and situations. (back)

MYP English 9 - MYP English 9 is an advanced course of study for students with average and above-average abilities in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical analysis skills. During the year, students will acquire public speaking skills by making oral presentations of creative assignments and of group and individual research. Students will also study grammar and vocabulary as well as analyze literature. As writers, students will engage in thesis development and offer proofs in all basic expository modes. (back)

MYP English 10 – MYP English 10 is designed to prepare students planning to enroll in IB English courses in Grades 11 and 12. Students in this class will meet all objectives for English 10 through an accelerated program for learners whose intellectual maturity permits challenging in-depth readings as well as teaching methods centered on abstract concepts. Students will be expected to produce frequent formal writings that will be evaluated for evidence of close analysis, elaboration of detail, and fluid articulation of ideas. (back)

+IB English I (HL) - IB English I is part one of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma. The students in this class will meet all of the objectives for English 11. The course develops an appreciation of literature and a knowledge of the culture of the student's own society and that of other societies. Literature will include a detailed study of at least four works of American literature and four works of world literature. Students will produce two essays that will be externally assessed by the International Baccalaureate Organization. (back)

+IB English II (HL) - IB English II is part two of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma earned through internally assessed oral exams and externally assessed essays and exams. The course promotes an appreciation of both the wealth and subtleties of language and seeks to facilitate the clear expression of ideas and argument. A detailed study of four individual works and an integrated study of at least four works in context comprise the literature of the course. (back)

Overview of Language B:
Language B is designed for foreign language learners and focuses principally on the interaction between speakers and writers of the target language. The aim of the course is to prepare students to use the language appropriately in a range of situations and contexts and for a variety of purposes. The course also allows students to develop an awareness and appreciation of the culture(s) of the countries in which the target language is spoken. For juniors and seniors, these courses are offered at both the standard and higher level. (back)

+IB Latin IV - IB Latin IV is a classical language course. Students who have successfully completed Level III may enroll in their junior or senior year. It is the aim of this course to prepare students to read and analyze original Latin texts through an accelerated and rigorous manner. In addition, students will develop an awareness and understanding of the Roman World and its contribution to modern culture.
Students will demonstrate advanced interpretive and analysis skills in working with Latin texts. Students will take the IB Latin SL examination at the end of the course. (back)

+IB French IV, +IB Spanish IV, +IB German IV - IB Foreign Language IV is designed to develop proficiency in highly motivated language students. Students will be expected to master all the objectives of the Level IV curriculum in a more rigorous and accelerated manner. The course seeks to develop all skills emphasizing language for communication, using authentic materials in preparation for the International Baccalaureate Language B Exam. An introduction to the International Baccalaureate Language B Program will be an integral part of this class. (back)

+IB French V, +IB Spanish V, +IB German V - This is an advanced level course designed to strengthen fluency and proficiency in both oral and written foreign languages and to prepare students for the International Baccalaureate Language B Exam. The student will be able to speak the language with sufficient accuracy to participate in formal and informal conversations with ease. The student will be able to appreciate, discuss and comment (orally and in writing) on various literary forms. The in-depth study of literary works, contemporary articles and the review of complex linguistic structures will substantiate the course. Compositions will be on literary and issue-oriented themes. Self-expression will be encouraged through individual and group activities, oral presentations, and writing assignments. (back)

+IB Spanish A2 - This is course is based on the study of both Literature and Language designed for students with a high level of competence in the target language. The aims of the Language A2 program are to: promote insight into Spanish culture; develop students' powers of expression in both oral and written communication and to provide the opportunity of practicing and developing the skills of writing and speaking in a variety of styles and situations; introduce students to a range of texts in different genres, media, styles and contexts; and develop students ability to engage in close, detailed and critical examination of text. (back)

Group III - Individuals & Societies

Overview of Individuals & Societies:
Subjects included in this group span the humanities and social sciences, and are the following: business and management; economics; geography; history; Islamic history; information technology in a global society (at SL only), philosophy; psychology; social and cultural anthropology.

An essential characteristic of the disciplines in Group 3 is that their subject matter is contestable and that their study requires students to tolerate some uncertainty.

Studies of local situations and of global perspectives foster an appreciation of change and continuity as well as of similarity and difference. Students evaluate the major theories, concepts and research findings of the respective disciplines and learn each discipline's methodology. (back)

MYP World History (9th grade) - MYP World History is a survey course of World History from the 16th Century through the 20th Century. Social, economic, political and religious themes will be stressed. Students are trained in historical interpretation and analysis demonstrated by discussion, research, oral and written presentation. Students will also develop an understanding of historiography by learning to analyze documents for their origin, purpose, value and limitations. (back)

+MYP/AP Comparative Government (10th grade) - This government course includes the body of knowledge equivalent to that of introductory college courses in American and Comparative Government. The fall semester focuses on American Government. Topics include constitutional underpinnings, political behavior, political parties, institutions, civil rights, and civil liberties. In the spring, students will examine the politics of Great Britain, France, Russia, Canada, the PRC, Mexico, and Latin America. Emphasis will be on research, data analysis, analytical writing, and verbal presentations. In May, students will take Advanced Placement examinations to qualify for advanced standing and/or college credit. (back)

Note : Students who intend to pursue the IB Diploma are encouraged to take this course as a sophomores. The senior year schedule for the IB Diploma candidate does not include the government course required by the Commonwealth of Virginia. IB students who are planning to enroll in IB History as certificate candidates are encouraged to take this course during their sophomore or junior year.

+IB History I: History of the Americas (HL) (11th grade) - IB History of the Americas is a survey course of United States, Canadian, and Latin American history that explores the region's history from the first recorded European contacts with American Indians and the people of the First Nation through the 20th Century including analysis of the U.S. Civil War, industrialization, expansion, and the Latin American dictatorships. This academically rigorous course focuses on the American region's historical experience as well as its development of political, economical, and social systems. Students will refine and apply their skills of historical interpretation and analysis as demonstrated by discussion, presentation, and written work. The IB History Internal Assessment is started in this course. This is the first course in a required two-year sequence of IB diploma level history. The sequence culminates with a series of external examinations including a full examination on this regional study. (back)

+IB History II (HL) (12th grade) - IB History II is a survey course of 20th Century World History. The course will focus on important 20th Century topics such as cause, practices, and effects of war; the rise and rule of single-party states; East-West relations after 1945; nationalists and independence movements; decolonization; and the emergence and problems of new nations. This course will continue to stress political, economic, and social systems as well as require students to further develop their skills of interpretation and analysis through historiography. The course culminates in a series of external assessments that include document-based questions, short essay response and research papers. This is the second in a two course sequence for the IB history certificate. It is required for the IB diploma. (back)

+IB Economics (SL) - IB Economics is a social science, closely related to other academic disciplines such as sociology, political science, and anthropology. History, geography, and mathematics also provide background material for the study of economics. The academically rigorous course focuses on the choices that must constantly be made by individuals, firms, and governments, which will affect both their own economic well being and that of society as a whole. Topics will be approached from an international perspective. IB Economics puts great emphasis on the issue of development in the belief that the study of economics and economic development are part of the solution to contemporary real world problems. Students will sit for an external exam. (back)

+IB Social Anthropology (SL) - IB Social Anthropology is the comparative study of human societies and cultures. It explores both the universal principals of social and cultural life and characteristics of specific societies and cultures. IB Social Anthropology focuses on small groups as well as on kinship relationships, symbolism, exchange, political organizations, social control and gender. IB Social Anthropology examines society from the small scale to the complex industrial scale, as well as modern nation states. Asa discipline, IB Social Anthropology will provide students with a link for all social sciences. Students will sit for an external examination. (back)

+IB Business and Management (SL) - The program in IB Business and Management is designed to provide a broad-ranging introduction to the principles and some of the practices of organizations currently pursuing the activities outlined below, and set in a scene of international markets, exchange, and production. Organization Studies incorporates a wide range of activities designed to manage efficiently the production, distribution and exchange of goods and services, at the minimum cost and within the framework of a personnel-oriented employment policy. (back)

+Geography IB (SL) - IB Geography is a  course focusing on various geographical themes related to human geography:  population, economic development, food supply, water, energy and urbanization.  In addition, there are topics covered in physical geography:  map work, earth movements, erosion, the atmosphere, the work of rivers, climate, deserts and biogeography. (back)

Group IV - Experimental Sciences

Overview of Group IV - Experimental Sciences:
Experimental science subjects promote an understanding of the concepts, principles and applications of the respective disciplines, together with an appreciation of the methodology of the experimental sciences. Students develop practical laboratory skills as well as the ability to work collaboratively through participating in an interdisciplinary group project. A common curriculum model offers a parallel structure at both higher and standard levels whereby all candidates study a core of material which is supplemented by various options. Examination of local and international examples helps students develop an awareness of moral and ethical issues and promotes social responsibility.

Group IV Experimental Science courses Biology (HL), Chemistry (HL), Physics (SL), and Environmental Systems (SL) share a common structure:

• CORE material that is studied at both HL and SL
• ADDITIONAL higher level material that is studied at HL only
• OPTIONS which may be for HL only, for SL only or for both levels
• GROUP 4 PROJECT which is a cross-disciplinary project for all science students.

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MYP Biology - MYP Biology is a survey of the animal, plant and protist kingdoms, including consideration of the classification, distribution, and life processes of the major groups of each kingdom. Students will use scientific research methods to investigate scientific principles. Extensive laboratory work will be a part of the course, and students are required to submit written lab reports. Students will explore the skills used by practicing biologists and how biology can help solve environmental problems. (back)

MYP Earth Science - MYP Earth Science is designed for the IB student that wishes to concentrate on rigorous earth science principles and processes that will lead to more qualitative sciences. Students will investigate the natural sciences of Astronomy, Oceanography, Meteorology, and Geology. The IB internal assessment will serve as a guide as students apply the scientific method. (back)

MYP Chemistry - This course includes the major concepts of chemistry, including atomic structure and bonding, formulas and equations, stoichiometry, oxidation-reduction reaction, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, acid-based theory, and simple organic chemistry. Students will use scientific research methods to investigate scientific principles. Laboratory experiments are designed to illustrate major concepts and to reinforce the IB Group IV rubric. Students will be required to submit written laboratory reports. (back)

+IB Chemistry I (HL) - IB Chemistry is the first year of a survey course of the major principles of chemistry including the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical equilibrium, chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, acid-base theory, and organic chemistry. Emphasis is on problem solving, proficiency in mathematical usage, and improvement and expansion of laboratory techniques as related to contemporary chemistry to include experimental design. Students will be required to submit written laboratory reports. Mandatory participation in the Group IV Interdisciplinary research Project occurs during the first year of the IB HL Chemistry. (back)

+IB Chemistry II (HL) - This course is the second year of a survey course of the major principles of chemistry. Emphasis is on research techniques, advanced problem solving and synthesis of prior knowledge to investigate IB option topics. With a satisfactory IB exam score, students may receive credit for introductory college chemistry. Students will be required to submit written laboratory reports. (back)

+IB Biology I (HL) - IB Biology is the first year of an interview of the major principles and processes in the areas of molecular and cellular biology, genetics, ecology, and organisms. Key points of the course are structure and function, universality versus diversity, and equilibrium within systems. Laboratory work is an integral part of this course and students are required to submit written laboratory reports. Mandatory participation in the Group IV Interdisciplinary research Project occurs during the first year of the IB HL Biology. (back)

+IB Biology II (HL) - IB Biology II is an introduction to advanced anatomy and physiology and plant biology. A review of IB Biology I principles and processes in the areas of molecular and cellular biology, genetics, ecology, and organisms is included. Students are required to take the IB examinations at the end of the course. With a satisfactory score, students may receive credit for introductory college biology. Laboratory work is an integral part of this course and students are required to submit written laboratory reports. With a satisfactory IB exam score, students may receive credit for introductory college biology. (back)

SOL Physics - SOL Physics is a preparatory course for those students planning to pursue IB Physics. Students will study mechanics, heat, electromagnetism, light, and sound. This course will be taught at an accelerated pace and students will be expected to have strong study skills and the ability to work independently. Students will design their own laboratory investigations and submit written laboratory reports. (back)

+IB Physics (SL) - IB Physics I is an extremely face-paced, rigorous course following the IB Standard Level curriculum. Building on their background from SOL Physics, students will study mechanics, heat, electromagnetism, light, sound, and modern physics in greater depth. Students will design and implement their own laboratory investigations and will be graded using IB assessment criteria. They will participate in the interdisciplinary "Group IV Project" and will sit for the Standard Level examination at the end of the course. (back)

+IB Environmental Systems (SL) - The intent of this course is to help students develop a coherent perspective on the environment. The course uses the concepts and terminology associated with a systems approach to study. These principles are subsequently applied to the study of natural ecosystems; their component parts and the functional relationships that maintain their dynamic integrity. Topics include global cycles and physical systems, human population, freshwater ecosystems, conservation and biodiversity, and pollution. Students are required to take the IB Environmental Systems exam. Diploma candidates taking IB Biology may not use this course as their sixth subject. (back)

Group V – Mathematics

Overview of Group V - Mathematics:
All candidates for a diploma are required to complete a mathematics course, and four options are available to cater for different abilities and levels of student interest. Each course aims to deepen a student's understanding of mathematics as a discipline and to promote confidence and facility in the use of mathematical language. Computer science is an elective subject in group 5; it is not compulsory.

Mathematics at the higher level caters to candidates with a good background in mathematics, who are competent in a range of analytical and technical skills. The majority of candidates will be expecting to include mathematics as a significant component of their university studies, either as a subject in its own right, or within courses such as physics, engineering and technology. Others may take it because they have a strong interest in mathematics and enjoy meeting its challenges and engaging its problems. The higher-level course is a demanding one, requiring candidates to study a broad range of topics through a number of different approaches. The course contains considerable mathematical rigor and proof. (back)

MYP Algebra I - MYP Algebra I includes all objectives in the Algebra I curriculum for Prince William County Schools and the Commonwealth of Virginia Standards of Learning. In addiction, enrichment and extension topics such as linear programming, absolute value functions, and real-life math applications are emphasized. Critical thinking skills and use of graphing calculator technology are also important components in this course. Alternative assessments such as projects, oral and written communication and cooperative learning activities are a regular part of this course. (back)

MYP Geometry - MYP Geometry is an accelerated program of study for students interested in pursuing the IB level math courses. The course includes all objectives from the Geometry curriculum with particular emphasis on algebraic connections. Additional topics in trigonometry and transformational graphing are included and the graphing calculator is used throughout the course. (back)

MYP Algebra II - MYP Algebra II is the pre-requisite for IB Math Studies and IB Math SLI at GFHS. The course incorporates and expands the knowledge from both MYP Algebra and Geometry. The course includes all objectives from the Algebra II curriculum with particular emphasis on the development and completion of projects emphasizing the areas of interaction of the Middle Years Program and internationalism. A graphing calculator is used throughout the course. As in all MYP courses, students will acquire technical writing skills within the mathematics curriculum. (back)

MYP Computer Science - MYP Computer Science is the first courser of a two-year sequence. The focus of this course is to provide the student with a conceptual background in computer science. Topics include computer architecture, data representation, operating systems, computing systems in society, and software development. Students will implement the major stages of software development using the high level language JAVA. Topics in JAVA will include loops, selections, and arrays. (back)

MYP Algebra II/Trigonometry - This course is the prerequisite for IB Math SL I and IB Math Methods 1A. The content of this course extended and expands the topics explored in Algebra II and Trigonometry. (back)

+IB Mathematical Studies SL: This course caters for students with varied backgrounds and abilities in mathematics. More specifically, it is designed to apply previously learned concepts to real-world problems, build confidence, and encourage an appreciation of mathematics in students who do not necessarily need a great deal of mathematics in their future studies. As such, the course will reinforce basic skills, show connections between the various branches of mathematics and be composed of applications problems. In keeping with the philosophy of the IB Math Studies program, investigations, group work, and activities are used in addition to direct instruction throughout the year. Each student will spend approximately half of the year preparing a project on a mathematical topic of her/his choice. Students will be introduced to a broad range of mathematical topics, which includes: Numbers, Algebra, Sets, Logic, Probability, Functions, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics, Differential Calculus, and Financial Mathematics.
Students completing the course sit for the IB Mathematical Studies examination. (back)

+IB Mathematics SL: IB Standard Level Math is a two year  math sequence. This course caters for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply simple mathematical techniques correctly. The majority of these students will expect to need a sound mathematical background as they prepare for future studies in subjects such as chemistry, economics, psychology and business administration. It is a demanding course since it contains a variety of mathematical topics and requires a strong mathematical background. Topics will be covered in algebra and functions, circular functions and trigonometry, and calculus. Part of the course is the completion of at least three portfolio assignments. These assignments allow students to increase their understanding of mathematical concepts and processes through mathematical writing. They will be assessed using an IB rubric.
Students who complete the 2 year course sequence will sit for the IB Mathematical Standard Level Examination in May of their senior year. (back)

+IB Mathematics Higher Level: IB Higher Level Mathematics is a rigorous, two-year course of study. The first year encompasses calculus topic, including Functions, Graphs Limits & Continuity, Differential Calculus, Differential Applications, Integral Calculus, Integral Applications, and Sequences & Series. These topics assume thorough background knowledge in algebra, axiomatic geometry, trigonometry and analytic geometry. The second year of IB HL Mathematics includes topics such as Vectors, Matrices & Transformations, Complex Numbers, Probability & Statistics, Functions & Equations, Circular Functions & Trigonometry and Vector Geometry. IB HL Mathematics requires college-level performance and work habits. A five-hour external IB examination is given at the end of the senior year that accounts for eighty per-cent of the grade. An internal assessment consisting of three assignments accounts for twenty percent of the grade. (back)

+IB Computer Science (SL) - IB Computer Science (SL) is the second year of a two-year curriculum. Arrays, records, and file manipulation are addressed and the software development process is implemented. System life cycle, network topologies, and computers in society are covered. Students are required to produce a dossier demonstrating the knowledge of the software development cycle and mastery of the basic constructs of the programming language. Students are also required to sit for the SL examination. (back)

+IB Computer Science (HL) - The course covers advanced topics in computer science. Advanced topics in software development included sorting and searching algorithms, dynamic data structures, stacks and queues, recursion, and algorithm evaluation. Additional topics in Boolean logic, data representation, and system life cycles will be taught. Students are required to produce a dossier and to take the IB Computer Science (HL) examination. (back)

Group VI Arts

IB Visual Arts - Overview of Arts:
This includes visual arts, music and theater arts, with emphasis placed on practical production by the student and exploration of a range of creative work in a global context.

+IB Visual Arts I (HL) - IB Visual Arts is the first year of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma. The course is intended for highly motivated students committed to serious study in art. The aim of this course is to provide opportunities to develop the aesthetic, imaginative, and creative faculties as well as to train visual, perceptual, and critical awareness of arts of various cultures. The portfolio, compiled by the student, will demonstrate intensive concentration in studio work and/or research in preparation for the required IB assessment at the end of the second year.

+IB Visual Arts II (HL) - IB Visual Arts is the second year of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma. The course is intended for highly motivated students committed to serious study in art. Students will combine persistent research with regular studio work, developing appreciation, creativity, technical skills, and a feeling for the fundamentals of design. Students are required to take part in the IB assessment process.

+IB Music I (HL) - IB Music I is part of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma. The course develops an in-depth understanding of music theory. Study will include intervals, choral development, transposition, composition, analysis, car training, sight-singing, and basic piano skills. Students will be required to participate in high school performing organizations and take private lessons during the course.

+IB Music II (HL) - IB Music II is part two of a two-year program resulting in an International Baccalaureate Certificate or Diploma. The course is a continuation of IB Music I, with an emphasis on music history. Students will explore all time frames of music history. Topics covered will include Gregorian Chant, baroque music, classical music, 20th Century music, and score reading. Students will be required to keep a composition portfolio and perform a lecture-recital. Depending on their skill and experience, students may prepare for either higher level or subsidiary level examinations. Students will prepare for the IB Music HL exam.