Since 1991, ISB has offered an International Curriculum for students between the ages of 11 and 16. This curriculum is the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme which is offered under the auspices of the International Baccalaureate Office in Geneva. In this programme, an approach to teaching and learning is offered which embraces, yet transcends the focus on traditional school subjects. While insisting upon thorough study of eight disciplines, the programme accentuates the inter-relatedness of them and so advances a holistic, intercultural, communicative view of knowledge.
| 1. Language A: | the language of instruction and/or mother tongue |
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| 2. Language B: | a taught language: Norwegian and/or French | |
| 3. Humanities: | history, geography, religion, ethics and philosophy | |
| 4. Sciences: | physics, chemistry, biology | |
| 5. Mathematics | mathematics and extended mathematics | |
| 6. Technology: | problem solving in computer and/or design technology | |
| 7. Physical Education: | includes health education | |
| 8. The Arts: | performing - music, drama and visual art |
The eight disciplines are related to one another through five areas of interaction: the Environment, Health and Social Education, Homo Faber (the creativity of Man), Community and Service, and Approaches to Learning (ATL). Students are encouraged to challenge themselves through participation in community and service. In ATL, students are encouraged to become aware of their own learning and the processes involved.
Assessment is continuous and internal and is monitored by the International Baccalaureate Curriculum and Assessment Centre. All final year students complete a Personal Project which illustrates their understanding of the five areas of interaction and which is assessed by a visiting external examiner. Final year students are awarded an achievement portfolio which includes a certificate of achievement. In addition, final year students receive a Norwegian state school leaving certificate, Vitnemål for grunnskolen.