Subjects Offered at Arendal vgs
IB Diploma students at Arendal videregående skole choose one subject from each of six groups. The subjects currently offered at our school are:
Group 1 – Studies in Language and Literature (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/language-and-literature/)
Group 2 – Language Acquisition (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/language-acquisition/)
Group 3 – Individuals and Societies (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/individuals-and-societies/)
- History
- Psychology
- Global Politics
Group 4 – Sciences (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/sciences/)
Group 5 – Mathematics (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/mathematics/)
- Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
Group 6 – The Arts (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/the-arts/)
Visual Arts is offered as the Group 6 subject at Arendal vgs. However, the course is subject to teacher availability and student interest. If not offered, students may instead choose an additional subject from Group 3 or Group 4.
Core Programme Components
All IB Diploma students complete the following three core elements:
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/dp-core/theory-of-knowledge/)
TOK is a course that explores how knowledge is produced and evaluated across disciplines. It encourages students to reflect on the nature of knowledge and their own perspectives as learners.
Extended Essay (EE) (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/dp-core/extended-essay/)
The Extended Essay is an independent research project of up to 4,000 words. Students choose their own topic and are supported by a supervisor throughout the process. The EE helps students develop academic writing, research, and time management skills.
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) (https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/dp-core/creativity-activity-and-service/)
CAS is a non-academic component that encourages students to engage in creative pursuits, physical activity, and community service. Students complete a variety of experiences and at least one long-term project over the two years of the programme.
Student Activities and CAS
IB students at Arendal vgs participate in a wide range of activities that support personal growth and community engagement. These include:
- CAS projects such as volunteering, creative workshops, and physical challenges
- Student-led initiatives and clubs
- Study trips and collaborative projects
- Opportunities to explore global issues through coursework and extracurricular activities
International Profile
The IB Diploma Programme at Arendal vgs is taught in English and welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, including those transitioning from Arendal International School (AiS). The programme fosters global awareness and prepares students for international higher education.