HS Program of Studies

THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK) I / II

Course Description:

The aim of this course is to increase the students’ understanding of what they have already learned.  Its primary function in the IB is to ensure that the students reflect upon their existing knowledge and the learning in the Diploma program.  The secondary function of the TOK course is to promote the integration of what the students know, and in a more general way, with what they have experienced.

The TOK course does not consist of a study of philosophical texts in themselves, but rather it invites students and teachers to ask themselves questions about the fundamental nature of different types of knowledge. Students will investigate and explore many different areas of knowledge and make connections between their personal experiences in and out of school, classical philosophical questions, and current and global issues.

Assessment in TOK consists of two main tasks. In Junior year, students complete an exhibition of objects that demonstrate how TOK manifests itself in the real world and in Senior year students write a 1600 essay responding to one six prompts provided by the IB. 

Prerequisites:

Eligibility:

Only 11th and 12th IB diploma students may register for TOK

Credit:

0.5 credit per semester

Length of Course:

2 semesters (Part I is offered the 2nd semester of 11th grade and Part II the 1st semester of 12th grade.) Part I must be taken before Part II.