Curriculum & Policies

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) at Sandia High School is a rigorous course of study open to juniors and seniors that prepares students to succeed in college and to effectively participate in an increasingly global society. The IB DP helps students become confident learners and critical thinkers who desire to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. The IB Diploma is highly regarded worldwide as an excellent preparation for college readiness and success.

Six Core Subjects

The IB curriculum is comprised of 6 subject areas in which students are tested, surrounding a unifying core. These core requirements are intended to unify the subject areas and give students ownership of their educational experience.

The 6 core subjects that all students must study are:

• Language Arts - Language and Literature
• Second Language - French, Spanish
• Individuals and Societies - History of the Americas
• Experimental Sciences - Biology (1 year), Chemistry, Physics
• Mathematics - Analysis and Approaches (integrated Advanced Algebra, Statistics, and Calculus)
• The Arts and Electives - Visual Arts; Sports, Health and Exercise Science; Business Management; Computer Science (1 year); Music

Diploma candidates must meet three requirements in addition to the six academic subjects.

• Theory of Knowledge unifies the six subject areas and develops inquiry and critical thinking. Students learn the development of cognition and to identify how and why cultural norms exist.  
• Creativity, Action, Service requires students to be involved in sports, artistic pursuits, and community service with a goal of providing a balance between academic and social life.  
• The Extended Essay offers an opportunity to investigate a topic of special interest at length and to become familiar with the research and writing skills expected at the university level. It provides for a mentor teacher to assist students in developing this “mini-thesis.”