The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Modern American School
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) at Modern American School offers a rigorous, globally recognized education that prepares students for success in university and beyond. This comprehensive two-year curriculum combines academic excellence with personal development, creating well-rounded graduates ready to thrive in an interconnected world.
Our mission aligns perfectly with the core values of the IB programme4developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who are motivated to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society. We cultivate an environment where students are encouraged to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
The IB Learner Profile serves as the foundation of our educational approach, guiding students to become:
Inquirers who nurture curiosity and develop skills for inquiry and research
Knowledgeable thinkers who engage with issues of global significance
Principled individuals who act with integrity and honesty
Open-minded learners who appreciate their own cultures and personal histories
Caring members of the community who show empathy and respect
Risk-takers who approach uncertainty with determination
Balanced students who understand the importance of intellectual, physical, and emotional balance
Reflective thinkers who thoughtfully consider their own ideas and experiences
At MAS, we don't just teach these attributes4we live them through our curriculum, our teaching methodologies, and our school culture, preparing students to become true global citizens equipped to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex world.
Curriculum Framework
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Modern American School follows a comprehensive and balanced curriculum framework designed to provide students with both academic rigor and personal development opportunities. This holistic approach ensures that graduates emerge not only with exceptional subject knowledge but also with the critical thinking skills and personal qualities needed for success in higher education and beyond.
Programme Structure
The IBDP curriculum consists of two major components:
Six Subject Groups
Students select one subject from each of the following groups, studying some at higher level (HL) and others at standard level (SL):
Studies in Language and Literature (Arabic A SL at MAS)1.
Language Acquisition (English B HL at MAS)2.
Mathematics (Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL at MAS) 3.
Individuals and Societies (Business Management at MAS)4.
Sciences (Biology HL, Chemistry HL, or Physics SL at MAS)5.
The Arts or an additional subject from groups 1-5 (NA)6.
The IBDP Core
Complementing the six subject groups are three core components that form the heart of the IB experience:
Theory of Knowledge (ToK): A course that explores the nature of knowledge across disciplines
Extended Essay (EE): An independent, self-directed research project culminating in a 4,000word paper
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): A project-based program that fosters experiential learning outside the classroom
This balanced approach to education ensures that MAS students develop not only deep subject knowledge but also the research, critical thinking, and community engagement skills that universities and employers value highly in today's complex global society.
Grade 11 Entry Requirements
Students typically enter the IBDP in Grade 11. Successful applicants will:
Demonstrate strong academic performance in previous coursework, particularly in subjects they wish to pursue at Higher Level
Show evidence of good attendance and positive behavior records
Display the ability to manage a challenging workload and meet deadlines
Exhibit qualities aligned with the IB learner profile
Score satisfactorily on the MAS entrance assessment
Applications are reviewed holistically, considering not only academic achievements but also personal qualities, interests, and potential for growth. Our admissions team carefully evaluates each candidate to ensure they have the foundation needed to succeed in our challenging yet supportive IBDP environment.
IBDP Scholarship Program
Our scholarships are specifically designed for incoming IBDP students entering Grades 11-12. These merit-based awards acknowledge exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and alignment with IB values. Scholarships may cover partial or full tuition costs depending on the candidate's qualifications and available funding.
Eligibility Criteria
Exceptional academic record with consistently high grades in previous coursework
Strong performance on the MAS entrance assessment and scholarship examination
Demonstrated leadership abilities through extracurricular activities, community service, or other initiatives
Embodiment of the IB learner profile attributes
Maintaining Scholarship Status
All scholarships are subject to annual review to ensure recipients maintain the high standards expected of scholarship awardees. To maintain scholarship status, students must:
Maintain a minimum grade average as specified in the scholarship agreement
Demonstrate active participation in the full IB Diploma Programme, including all core components
Exhibit exemplary behavior and adherence to school policies
Serve as positive ambassadors for the IBDP program and Modern American School
Our scholarship program reflects our commitment to making educational excellence accessible to deserving students regardless of financial circumstances. We encourage all qualified applicants to explore these opportunities during the admissions process. For detailed information about application deadlines and specific scholarship opportunities, please contact our admissions office.
IB Core: Theory of Knowledge (ToK)
Theory of Knowledge (ToK) stands as one of the most distinctive and intellectually stimulating components of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Modern American School. This course sits at the heart of the IB philosophy, challenging students to reflect critically on the nature of knowledge itself and develop a nuanced understanding of how we claim to know what we know.
Question Knowledge
Examine how knowledge is constructed, evaluated and justified across disciplines
Apply Critically
Apply critical thinking to real-world scenarios and global issues
Course Structure and Content
Analyze Perspectives
Explore different cultural and disciplinary approaches to knowledge
Make Connections
Identify links between knowledge areas and personal experience
In ToK classes at MAS, students explore fundamental questions about knowledge through structured discussions, debates, presentations, and reflective writing. The course examines knowledge questions across multiple areas, including:
Knowledge frameworks: How different disciplines organize, produce, and evaluate knowledge
Ways of knowing: Exploring reason, emotion, language, perception, faith, memory, imagination, and intuition as tools for understanding the world
Personal and shared knowledge: Understanding the interplay between individual understanding and collective knowledge
Real-life situations: Applying knowledge questions to contemporary issues and ethical dilemmas
Assessment
ToK assessment consists of two components: an exhibition and an essay. The exhibition requires students to select objects that demonstrate how ToK manifests in the real world, while the prescribed title essay addresses a specific knowledge question from a range of perspectives. These assessments challenge students to articulate sophisticated epistemological thinking clearly and coherently.
Through Theory of Knowledge, MAS students develop intellectual humility, open-mindedness, and a greater appreciation for the complexity of knowledge. These qualities serve them well not only in their IB studies but throughout their academic careers and professional lives, fostering the critical thinking skills essential for navigating an increasingly complex information landscape.
IB Core: Extended Essay (EE)
The Extended Essay represents a cornerstone of the International Baccalaureate experience at Modern American School, offering students an unparalleled opportunity to engage in independent research and scholarly writing that mirrors university-level academic work. This 4,000-word research paper allows students to delve deeply into a topic of personal interest within one of their IB subjects, developing crucial skills that prepare them for higher education and professional research environments.
A Journey of Intellectual Discovery
The Extended Essay process at MAS guides students through a comprehensive research journey spanning approximately 40 hours of work over several months. This process includes:
Topic Selection and Research Question
Students identify a subject area and develop a focused, manageable research question with guidance from faculty advisors.
Drafting and Revision
Students produce multiple drafts, receiving structured feedback from their supervisor throughout the writing process.
Preliminary Research
Students gather scholarly sources, conduct literature reviews, and develop research methodologies appropriate to their chosen discipline.
Final Submission
Students refine their work to produce a polished academic paper that meets IB standards for scholarly writing and research ethics.
Faculty Supervision
Each student is assigned a faculty supervisor with expertise in their chosen subject area. These dedicated educators provide approximately 3-5 hours of individual guidance throughout the process, helping students refine their research questions, develop appropriate methodologies, and navigate the challenges of independent academic work. Regular check-ins and structured reflections ensure students remain on track while developing autonomy as researchers.
Skills Development
Through the Extended Essay experience, MAS students develop essential skills for academic and professional success, including:
Formulating precise research questions and hypotheses
IB Core: Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) forms the experiential heart of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Modern American School, challenging students to engage with the world beyond academics through meaningful personal growth experiences. This core component ensures that IBDP graduates develop not only intellectually but as well-rounded individuals with a commitment to positive community impact.
At MAS, we believe that some of life's most powerful learning experiences occur outside the classroom. The CAS program provides a framework for students to discover new interests, develop existing talents, and make meaningful contributions to their communities while reflecting deeply on their personal growth throughout the two-year IB journey.
CAS requires students to engage in a balanced program of experiences across three interconnected strands:
Creativity: Exploring and extending ideas leading to an original or interpretive product or performance
Activity: Physical exertion contributing to a healthy lifestyle
Service: Collaborative and reciprocal engagement with the community in response to an authentic need
CAS Requirements
Over the two-year programme, MAS students must:
Maintain a balance of experiences across all three CAS strands
Document participation in CAS experiences regularly through our digital portfolio system
Demonstrate achievement of the seven CAS learning outcomes through evidence and reflection
Plan and execute at least one collaborative CAS project of significant duration
Engage in meaningful reflection throughout the CAS experience
CAS at MAS: Beyond Requirements
Our CAS program goes beyond minimal requirements, offering a rich array of opportunities including:
Arts and Cultural Initiatives
School theater productions, musical ensembles, and visual arts exhibitions
Athletic Opportunities
Sports teams, fitness classes, outdoor adventure expeditions, and recreational clubs
Service Learning
Local community partnerships, global awareness campaigns, environmental initiatives, and peer tutoring programs
Language A: Arabic A SL
Arabic A Standard Level at Modern American School offers students a profound engagement with Arabic literature and language, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world while developing sophisticated critical analysis skills. This course is designed for students with a high level of competence in Arabic, whether as native speakers or those with extensive exposure to the language.
Course Overview
The Arabic A SL course at MAS follows the IB Language A: Literature framework, focusing on developing students' understanding and appreciation of literary texts original to the Arabic language. Through close reading, critical analysis, and thoughtful discussion, students explore how literary works reflect cultural contexts, stylistic choices, and thematic concerns. The course cultivates not only language proficiency but also a deeper appreciation of Arabic literary traditions and their place in world literature.
Curriculum Structure
The course explores a carefully selected range of literary texts spanning different periods, genres, and styles. Our curriculum includes:
Works in translation: Study of literature translated from other languages into Arabic, offering cross-cultural perspectives
Detailed study: Close analysis of specific works from various genres including poetry, prose, and drama
Literary genres: In-depth exploration of a specific genre such as poetry, autobiography, or short stories
Free choice: Study of works freely chosen by teachers from a prescribed list to suit student interests and local context
Skills Development
Through the Arabic A SL course, MAS students develop:
Literary Analysis
The ability to interpret texts through multiple lenses, recognizing stylistic features, structural choices, and thematic developments
Oral Communication
Confidence in expressing complex ideas in spoken Arabic, responding to texts
Written Expression
Advanced writing skills in Arabic, including clear argumentation, effective organization, and appropriate use of evidence
Cultural Awareness
Deep understanding of Arab cultural contexts and the ability to make
Language B: English B HL
English B Higher Level at Modern American School provides students with an advanced pathway to English language mastery in a global context. This course is designed for students with substantial previous exposure to English who wish to develop sophisticated communication skills for academic success and international engagement. As a Higher Level IB subject, English B at MAS offers comprehensive language development through immersion in diverse texts, contexts, and communicative situations.
Course Philosophy
At MAS, we approach English B HL as more than just language acquisition4it's a gateway to global citizenship. Our program empowers students to navigate complex Englishlanguage environments with confidence, whether in academic, professional, or social contexts. The course explores not only language mechanics but also how language shapes culture, influences thinking, and facilitates cross-cultural understanding.
Through this course, students develop the linguistic competence and cultural sensitivity needed to engage meaningfully with Englishspeaking communities worldwide. The emphasis on authentic communication prepares students for the realities of university study in English-medium institutions and international career paths.
Core Themes and Topics
The English B HL curriculum at MAS explores five prescribed themes through which students develop their language skills:
Identities: Exploring the nature of self, personal values, beliefs, and relationships
Experiences: Examining events, journeys, migrations, and their impact on individuals
Human ingenuity: Investigating innovation, creativity, and how they shape our world
Social organization: Understanding communities, social relationships, and systems of governance
Sharing the planet: Addressing environmental challenges, peace, conflict, and equality
Skills Development
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL at Modern American School provides students with a balanced and rigorous exploration of mathematical concepts, emphasizing analytical methods, abstract reasoning, and practical applications. This course is ideal for students who enjoy developing mathematical arguments, formulating problems, and exploring real and abstract applications with a strong emphasis on calculus.
Course Philosophy
At MAS, we recognize mathematics as both a language and a tool for understanding the world. Our Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL course develops students' mathematical thinking through inquiry, problem-solving, and application. We emphasize conceptual understanding alongside procedural fluency, encouraging students to appreciate the elegance of mathematical structures while developing the skills to apply them in real-world contexts.
This course is particularly well-suited for students with strong algebraic skills who enjoy the challenge of mathematical problem-solving and abstract thinking. It provides excellent preparation for students considering further studies in fields such as mathematics, engineering, physical sciences, and some economics programs.
Curriculum Content
The Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL curriculum explores five core branches of mathematics:
Number and Algebra
Sequences and series, laws of logarithms and exponentials, complex numbers, proof by induction, and binomial theorem
Functions
Properties of functions and their graphs, transformations, solving equations both analytically and graphically
Calculus
Limits, differentiation, integration techniques, and applications to optimization, kinematics, and area
Geometry and Trigonometry
Trigonometric functions and equations, vector operations in two dimensions, and applications
Statistics and Probability
Data presentation and analysis, correlation, regression, probability distributions, and hypothesis testing
Individuals and Societies: Business
The IB Business course at Modern American School offers students a dynamic exploration of business decision-making, organizational behavior, and strategic planning in local and global contexts. This fascinating subject bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications, preparing students to understand the complex business environment they will navigate as professionals, entrepreneurs, or informed citizens.
Our approach to business education at MAS emphasizes critical analysis of real-world business scenarios, ethical considerations in commercial activities, and the technical knowledge needed to evaluate business performance. Students develop both quantitative analytical skills and qualitative reasoning abilities, learning to consider multiple perspectives when addressing business challenges.
The course is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate, adapt to changing environments, and create value for stakeholders. Through case studies, simulations, and engagement with local businesses, students gain insights into the practical realities of business management while developing theoretical frameworks for analysis.
Core Curriculum Areas
The Business course covers five interdependent content areas that provide a holistic view of business operations:
Business Organization and Environment
Exploring organizational structures, stakeholder interests, external influences, and the impact of globalization on business operations
Human Resource Management
Examining workforce planning, recruitment, training, motivation theories, and organizational culture
Sciences Overview at MAS
The science program within the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Modern American School represents our commitment to developing scientifically literate global citizens equipped with the knowledge and skills to address complex challenges through evidence-based reasoning. Our comprehensive approach to science education emphasizes the interplay between theoretical understanding and practical investigation, preparing students for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
The MAS Science Experience
At Modern American School, we believe that science education should be inspiring, rigorous, and relevant. Our state-of-the-art laboratories provide the perfect environment for students to develop their scientific curiosity through hands-on experimentation and investigation. Expert faculty members guide students through a curriculum that balances depth of understanding with breadth of scientific exposure.
The IBDP sciences at MAS are distinguished by several key features:
Inquiry-Based Learning
Students develop scientific questions and design investigations to explore phenomena, rather than simply following prescribed laboratory procedures
Advanced Technology Integration
Use of digital data collection tools, simulation software, and scientific modeling applications to enhance learning
Science Course Offerings
Extensive Laboratory Work
A minimum of 40 hours (SL) or 60 hours (HL) of practical work, including the Group 4 collaborative project
Global Perspective
Exploration of scientific issues in international contexts, emphasizing the universal nature of scientific inquiry
MAS offers multiple science courses within the IBDP, allowing students to select disciplines that align with their interests and future aspirations:
Biology HL: A comprehensive exploration of living systems from molecular to ecosystem levels, with extended laboratory investigations
Chemistry HL: An in-depth study of matter, its properties, and transformations, with extensive practical work in analytical and organic chemistry
Physics SL: A balanced examination of classical and modern physics concepts, emphasizing mathematical models and experimental verification
TheCollaborativeScienceProject
Biology HL
Biology Higher Level at Modern American School offers an exceptionally rich exploration of life sciences, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of biological principles and their applications in today's rapidly evolving scientific landscape. This challenging course delves into the complexity of living systems from molecular interactions to ecosystem dynamics, with particular emphasis on laboratory investigation and scientific inquiry.
Course Overview
Biology HL at MAS is designed for students with a strong interest in biological sciences and potentially pursuing careers in medicine, research, environmental science, or related fields. The higher level designation reflects both the breadth and depth of content covered, as well as the additional laboratory hours and extended topics explored beyond the standard level curriculum.
Our approach balances theoretical understanding with practical application, ensuring students develop both conceptual knowledge and the technical skills needed for scientific investigation. The curriculum explores the fascinating interconnections between structure and function across biological systems, encouraging students to appreciate the unity of life alongside its remarkable diversity.
Core Curriculum
The Biology HL course addresses 4 concepts in depth:
Unity and diversity
Water / Nucleic acids / Origins of cells / Cell structure / Viruses / Diversity of organisms / Classification and cladistics / Evolution and speciation / Conservation of biodiversity
Interaction and interdependance
Enzymes and metabolism / Cell respiration / Photosynthesis / Chemical signalling Neural signalling / Integration of body systems / Defence against disease / Populations and communities / Transfer of energy and matter
Form and function
Carbohydrates and lipids / Proteins / Membranes and membrane transport / Organelles and compartmentalization / Cell specialization / Gas exchange/ Transport / Muscle and motility / Adaptation to environment / Ecological niches
Continuity and change
DNA replication / Protein synthesis / Mutations and gene editing / Cell and nuclear division / Gene expression / Water potential / Reproduction / Inheritance Homeostasis / Natural selection / Sustainability and change / Climate change
Chemistry HL
Chemistry Higher Level at Modern American School invites students into the fascinating world of molecular interactions, providing a rigorous exploration of matter and its transformations. This demanding course combines theoretical concepts with extensive laboratory investigations, offering students profound insights into the central science that bridges physics with biology and explains the material basis of our universe.
As a Higher Level subject, Chemistry at MAS delves into chemical principles with exceptional depth and mathematical rigor. The course develops students' understanding of chemical theories while honing their experimental abilities through sophisticated laboratory work. Our approach emphasizes the applications of chemistry in addressing global challenges, from environmental sustainability to medical innovations.
Led by experienced faculty with strong academic backgrounds and research experience, our Chemistry HL program prepares students for success in university science programs and careers in fields such as medicine, engineering, environmental science, and chemical research.
Core Content Areas
The Chemistry HL curriculum at MAS explores two organizing concepts:
Structure
Structure refers to the nature of matter from simple to more complex forms
Structure 1
Models of the particular nature of matter
Structure 2
Models of bonding and structure
Structure 3
Classification of matter
Physics SL
Physics Standard Level at Modern American School offers students a balanced exploration of the fundamental laws that govern our universe, from the subatomic realm to cosmic scales. This course develops both conceptual understanding and mathematical problem-solving skills, allowing students to appreciate how physics underpins technological innovation and scientific advancement in the modern world.
Course Philosophy
At MAS, we approach physics as both a theoretical and experimental science. Our Physics SL course emphasizes conceptual understanding alongside mathematical applications, helping students see how abstract principles manifest in observable phenomena. We cultivate scientific curiosity by connecting classroom learning to real-world applications and current scientific developments.
While the Standard Level designation means the course covers core topics with moderate mathematical complexity, the curriculum nonetheless provides a robust foundation in classical and modern physics. This balanced approach makes Physics SL accessible to students with varied mathematical backgrounds while still preparing them for further studies in scientific and technical fields.
Core Curriculum
The Physics SL curriculum explores eight essential areas of physics:
Space, time and motion
Kinematics / Forces and momentum / Work, energy and power / Rigid body mechanics / Galilean and special relativity
The particulate nature of matter
Thermal energy transfers / Greenhouse effect / Gas laws / Thermodynamics / Current and circuits
Wave behavior
Simple harmonic motion / Wave model / Wave phenomena / Standing waves and resonance / Doppler effect
Fields
Gravitational fields / Electric and magnetic fields / Motion in electromagnetic fields / Induction
Nuclear and quantum physics
Structure of the atom / Quantum physics / Radioactive decay / Fission Fusion and stars
Support and Guidance for IB Students
At Modern American School, we recognize that success in the demanding International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme requires more than just excellent teaching4it demands comprehensive support systems designed to nurture each student's academic and personal development. Our multi-faceted approach to student support ensures that every IBDP participant receives the guidance needed to thrive throughout their IB journey.
Personalized Academic Support
MAS provides targeted academic assistance through several key initiatives:
IBDP Coordinator
Our dedicated IBDP Coordinator oversees all aspects of program implementation, serves as a liaison between students, teachers, and the IB organization, and provides individualized guidance on course selection and program requirements
Subject-Specific Tutorials
Additional instructional support through scheduled tutorial sessions, peer tutoring programs, and digital learning resources tailored to IB curriculum requirements
Social-Emotional Support
Progress Monitoring
Regular assessment and tracking systems identify areas for improvement early, with data-informed interventions to address specific learning needs
Extended Essay Supervision
Personalized guidance from faculty supervisors throughout the research and writing process, including structured check-ins and feedback sessions
We understand that well-being is essential for academic success, particularly in a rigorous program like the IBDP. Our support systems include:
School Counselors: Professional counselors provide confidential support for personal, social, and emotional challenges, helping students develop resilience and coping strategies
Stress Management Workshops: Regular sessions teaching practical techniques for managing academic pressure, including mindfulness, time management, and work-life balance
Peer Support Networks: Structured opportunities for IB students across grade levels to connect, share experiences, and support one another
Technology and Resources
MAS provides IBDP students with access to extensive resources to support their learning:
University Preparation and Pathways
At Modern American School, we recognize that the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme serves as a gateway to outstanding higher education opportunities worldwide. Our comprehensive university preparation program ensures that MAS graduates not only gain admission to prestigious institutions but arrive fully prepared to excel in their chosen fields of study.
The IBDP's global recognition as a gold standard for university preparation gives our students a significant advantage in the increasingly competitive higher education landscape. Universities worldwide value IB graduates for their advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, time management capabilities, and global perspective4qualities that our dedicated university counseling team helps each student effectively demonstrate throughout the application process.
College Counseling Program
Our structured college counseling program begins in Grade 10 and intensifies throughout the IBDP years, featuring:
Self-Assessment and Exploration
Personality and interest inventories, career exploration workshops, and individual counseling sessions to identify student strengths and aspirations
Application Strategy
Personalized guidance on university selection, application timelines, essay development, and interview preparation
University Research
Access to comprehensive university databases, virtual tours, alumni connections, and visiting university representatives from global institutions
Transition Support
Preparation for university life including cultural adjustment strategies, and academic readiness
