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Page 1
IB
Handbook
published by the
International Baccalaureate
Parents Organization
Mira Loma High School
4000 Edison Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95821
Page 2
IB Parent Guide
2
Glossary of Frequently Used Acronyms
AP
Advanced Placement
ATS
Academic Talent Search
ACE
Accelerated College Entrance
CAS
Creativity, Action and Service
CML
California Math League
EE
Extended Essay
GSE
Golden State Exam
HL
Higher Level (exam)
HOA
History of the Americas
HSEE
High School Exit Exam
IB
International Baccalaureate
IBO
International Baccalaureate Organization
IBPO
International Baccalaureate Parents Organization
MYP
Middle Years Program
ROP
Regional Occupational Program
SL
Standard Level (exam)
TOK
Theory of Knowledge
SAT
Scholastic Aptitude Test (verbal and math)
SATII
Scholastic Aptitude Subject Test
SAT/9
Stanford Achievement Test, Version 9
SJUSD
San Juan Unified School District
STAR
Standard Testing and Reporting Program
VAPA
Visual and Performing Arts
About This Booklet
IB is many things. On its most local and intimate level, it is a commu-
nity of students, staff, and parents working to achieve excellence in education
and encourage critical thinking. The IB curriculum also must be integrated
within the framework of our state and local requirements. And finally, IB is
an international governing body that must set policy and oversee implemen-
tation in order to promote and maintain the high standards it represents.
All together, the road to completing an IB Diploma is not always a
simple one. Use this book as a guide, a place to find the answers to your
questions or where to go for answers. But remember that policies and
procedures can always change much faster than this booklet can be reprinted.
To stay current with IB, remember to read the IB page in Mat Matters each
month and attend IB parent meetings. You can always call the IB Parents
Organization, the IB Counselor, the IB Middle Years Coordinator or the IB
Diploma Program Coordinator for further clarification.
Page 3
3
IB Parent Guide
CONTENTS
Overview
4
The International Baccalaureate Organization
6
History * Why IB? * Mission Statement
IB at Mira Loma
8
IB Diploma and Middle Years Programs * IB or IS?
The Mira Loma IB Parents Organization
9
How to Apply to the Mira Loma MYP / IB Program
10
Churchill IB Middle Years Students * Other San Juan School
District Students * Private School Students * Out-of-District Students
IB Middle Years Program
12
Philosophy * Features * IB MYP at Mira Loma * Courses * Certificate
Requirements * Certificate Benefits * Personal Project * Community Service
IB Diploma Program (Grades 11-12)
15
IB Diploma * Mira Loma Associate Diploma * IB Certificates
* Extended Essay * Theory of Knowledge * Creativity, Action, Service
IB Certifications Available at Mira Loma High School
16
San Juan District Graduation Requirements
18
College Admission Requirements
18
Computer Challenge Test
18
Student Testing
19
International Baccalaureate Testing
19
District and State Testing
20
*
STAR (SAT/9)
*
California High School Exit Exam (HSEE)
*
Golden State Exams
*
Governor's Scholarship Programs
College Admissions and Scholarship Testing
21
*
PSAT/NMSQT
*
SAT I
*
SAT II Subject Tests
*
ACT Assessment
Other Optional Testing
22
*
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
*
Math Exams
Educational Resources Outside Mira Loma
24
Academic Talent Search
24
Los Rios Community College District/American River College
24
Summer Programs
25
Planning Your Mira Loma IB Schedule
26
Counseling * Summer School * Challenge Tests * Independent Study
* P.E. Options * How to Plan a Four-Year Schedule
Mira Loma IB SAMPLE SCHEDULE
28
Department Options
30
English * Foreign Language * Mathematics * Science * Social Science
Electives ~ Art * Drama * Music * Anthropology * Economics * TOK
Other Requirements ~ Health / Drivers Education * Computers
Mira Loma IB Courses Offered
38
Page 4
IB Parent Guide
4
OVERVIEW
International Baccalaureate Program
at Mira Loma High School
Mira Loma High School is a member of the International Baccalaureate
Organization (IBO), which supervises a comprehensive and rigorous academic
curriculum. The IBO awards an IB Diploma recognized by colleges and
universities worldwide to students who complete all IB course work and
requirements during grades 11 and 12. The IBO also offers an IB Middle
Years Certificate for students who complete the IB Middle Years course work
and requirements from grades 6-10.
IB Middle Years Program ­ Grades 9 and 10
Students must qualify to enter the Mira Loma IB program in grades 9 and 10.
Students coming from San Juan Unified School District middle schools can
qualify based on the district's policy for all high school honors classes.
Students who are applying from outside the district will be admitted based on
grades, standardized test scores and math placement tests.
All Mira Loma 9th and 10th grade IB students participate in the IB Middle
Years Program (MYP) curriculum. Students who have participated in the
Churchill Middle Years program for all three years, out-of-district students,
in-district students from other Middle Schools (public or private) or those
students who remained on the Churchill Middle Years waiting list are eligible
to earn an IB Middle Years Certificate by successfully completing the MYP
coursework, performing community service each year and completing the
Sophomore Personal Project.
IB Diploma Program ­ Grades 11 and 12
Mira Loma students who qualify based on their work in grades 9 and 10 can
choose to pursue the full IB diploma, the Mira Loma Associate Diploma, or IB
certificates for exams they may take during grades 11 and 12.
IB Diploma
Students who seek a full IB Diploma must plan their four years at Mira Loma
carefully to fulfill coursework requirements mandated by the state and the San
Juan Unified School District, meet college entrance requirements and meet the
requirements for an IB diploma (see schedule planning guidelines beginning
on page 26). Ideally, diploma candidates should complete non-IB requirements
before the junior year.
Page 5
5
IB Parent Guide
A full IB Diploma candidate normally will take at least six courses and 60
units per year. In order for most IB students to meet all of their state, district
and IB requirements, they will have to plan on attending summer school,
usually for P.E. Due to budget constraints, permission to take a seven-period
day is rarely granted. Scheduling choices include early or late start days (zero
or 7th period), summer school courses, course challenges, independent study
and physical education options.
The IB Diploma curriculum is divided into Higher Level (HL) courses (320
hours or two years of study) and Standard Level (SL) courses (196 hours or
one year of study), taken during grades 11 and 12. Within the five academic
areas, students may choose which areas they want to be tested in at the Higher
Level and at the Standard Level, remembering that they must take at least 3
but no more than 4 Higher Level exams.
To receive the IB Diploma awarded by the IBO, students must:
·
Pass examinations in at least 6 subjects: 3 Higher Level (maximum of 4)
and 3 Standard Level (minimum of 2). Exams must be taken in all five
academic areas: English, foreign language, individuals and society (history),
mathematics and science, plus an IB elective. During the junior year
students may take only two Standard Level examinations.
·
Write an Extended Essay of about 4000 words in one of the six subjects,
·
Complete a course entitled Theory of Knowledge, which explores the nature
of values and the essence of truth in various disciplines, and
·
Complete 150 hours of Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) activities.
Mira Loma Associate Diploma
Some Mira Loma students, due to scheduling choices or extracurricular
demands, find themselves unable to meet all the requirements for the full IB
Diploma but want to continue with their challenging coursework. To be
recognized for their pursuit of academic excellence, these students can become
candidates for the Associate Diploma which is awarded to them by Mira Loma
High School (not the IBO). To receive the Associate Diploma, students must:
·
Pass two Higher Level and two Standard Level examinations,
·
Complete the Theory of Knowledge course,
·
Complete 100 hours of Creativity, Action, Service (CAS).
IB Certificates
The IBO awards certificates for each Higher Level and Standard Level
examination that a student passes, whether or not the student receives an IB
Diploma. IB students who choose not to take tests will not receive certificates.
Page 6
IB Parent Guide
6
The International Baccalaureate Organization
The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), a non-profit educational
foundation based in Switzerland, offers the Diploma Program for students in
the final two years of secondary school (junior and senior years of the Ameri-
can high school), the Middle Years Program for students in grades 6-10, and
the Primary Years Program for students in kindergarten through 5
th
grade.
As a membership organization, the IBO provides curriculum and assessment
development including teacher evaluation and student examinations, teacher
training and administrative seminars, electronic networking and mentoring,
and other educational services to its 750 participating schools in over 90
countries around the world. To maintain consistent standards of performance,
a multinational team of IB educators and examiners headquartered in Wales
continually develops curriculum materials and samples evaluated student work
from member programs.
Website: www.ibo.org
History
Founded in 1962, the IBO grew out of international school efforts to establish
a common curriculum and university entry credentials for geographically
mobile students, predominantly the children of diplomats and international
business leaders. International educators were also motivated by an idealistic
vision: to provide a shared academic experience emphasizing critical thinking
and an exposure to a variety of viewpoints that would foster tolerance and
intercultural understanding. Concentrating on the last two years of secondary
school, they sought to build a comprehensive curriculum leading to a bacca-
laureate, a diploma awarded on the basis of passing a series of extensive
exams that could be administered in any country and recognized by universi-
ties around the world.
Because of its balanced curriculum and high standards of assessment, the
Diploma Program has evolved from its original purpose as a service to the
international community into an internationally recognized program of
academic excellence available in national systems across the globe. The
program was introduced to the United States in 1974. The Middle Years
Program was added in 1992 and the Primary Years Program in 1997.
Why IB?
IB is more than just a rigorous set of fast-paced, advanced-level classes. First
off, IB is an educational philosophy. IB classes teach students to become
critical thinkers and creators of knowledge. The emphasis is not so much on
how many facts a student can memorize and recall on an exam (although there
Page 7
7
IB Parent Guide
is some of that) but more on how a student can take those facts, analyze them,
integrate them with other strands of knowledge and synergistically create
something new. Critical thinking and its companion, innovation, are success
tools for life and give IB students the competitive edge in college and careers
over many of their peers.
Second, IB is a standardized curriculum taught by IB trained and mentored
teachers. Whereas the content and difficulty of high school honors classes can
vary greatly from school to school and teacher to teacher, all IB students
around the world take the same exams on the same day. These exams are not
graded by the student's own teachers, but sent off across the globe to be graded
by independent IB assessors. In addition, IB teachers themselves undergo
assessment, sending off student work to IB mentors who examine the work
and give the teacher a grade and comments for improvement. IB teachers
attend regular curriculum conferences and communicate across the globe with
each other via e-mail in order to maintain and expand their high standards.
The universal commitment to excellence by every IB staff member is difficult
to find in any other program. Colleges and universities know exactly what the
IB curriculum is and what each student is capable of, which is a great benefit
when they are assessing students for admission. Check the IB website for more
information regarding university IB diploma recognition.
Website
:
www.ibo.org, click on Services/Universities
Finally, IB is flexible. Whereas the Diploma Program meets the needs of the
highly motivated student, the Associate Diploma and Certificate programs are
also available. Talented students who have other interests or activities may
want the challenge of the IB curriculum in the academic areas that they excel
in, without the pressure of meeting the full diploma requirements.
International Baccalaureate Organization
Mission Statement
Through comprehensive and balanced curricula coupled with
challenging assessments, the International Baccalaureate Organiza-
tion aims to assist schools in their endeavors to develop the indi-
vidual talents of young people and teach them to relate the experi-
ence of the classroom to the realities of the world outside. Beyond
intellectual rigor and high academic standards, strong emphasis is
placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible
citizenship, to the end that IB students may become critical and
compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners and informed participants
in local and world affairs, conscious of the shared humanity that
binds all people together while respecting the variety of cultures and
attitudes that makes for the richness of life.
Page 8
IB Parent Guide
8
IB at Mira Loma
In 1989, Mira Loma became the first high school in the Sacramento area to
offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. The Mira Loma IB
program has grown exponentially, attracting students of exceptional academic
and extracurricular talent not only from the San Juan Unified School District
but from the greater Sacramento area as well. From the first full IB graduating
class in 1993, Mira Loma IB students have consistently maintained an exam
pass rate of 93% or above, an outstanding performance among all IB programs
and a tribute to well-developed curriculum and dedicated IB teaching staff at
Mira Loma.
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program is an intensive and chal-
lenging two-year curriculum for students in the 11
th
and 12
th
grades. All
students admitted to the Mira Loma IB program as incoming freshmen are
considered to be full diploma candidates and are expected to take all of the
required coursework in the 9
th
and 10
th
grades in preparation for participating
in the Diploma Program as juniors and seniors. Recognizing that during their
four-year IB career some students may make choices or experience circum-
stances that prevent them from completing all of the requirements of the full
IB Diploma Program, Mira Loma offers the Mira Loma Associate Diploma or
individual IB Certificates in recognition of their participation.
In 1998, the San Juan Unified School District introduced the IB Middle Years
Program, a comprehensive 5-year curriculum from 6
th
grade to 10
th
grade,
offered conjointly at Churchill Middle School and Mira Loma. Students
eligible to earn an IB Middle Years Certificate either: (1) began the Middle
Years Program in 6
th
grade at Churchill Middle School and participated in it
for all three years; (2) did not have access to the Churchill IB Middle Years
Program, including out-of-district students and in-district students who
attended a different middle school (public or private); or (3) were Churchill
students who remained on the MYP waiting list. Students in these three
groups are eligible to earn the certificate by completing the 9
th
and 10
th
grade
Middle Years course work, meeting the community service requirement, and
completing the Sophomore Personal Project.
All IB students at Mira Loma are enrolled in the Middle Years curriculum in
the 9
th
and 10
th
grades in preparation for the IB Diploma classes in 11
th
and
12
th
grades, but participation in the IB Middle Years Certificate process is
NOT a requirement for entering the IB Diploma Program as a junior.
IB or IS ?
Mira Loma is privileged to offer two academically challenging programs with
an international perspective ­ the International Baccalaureate and Interna-
tional Studies. Both programs offer courses at the college-prep level or above,
Page 9
9
IB Parent Guide
each taught by excellent staff. The major differences are that IB offers an
internationally recognized diploma with its own set of graduation require-
ments including passing a series of IB exams, and the courses are taught
according to the IB philosophy and curriculum. In general, the IB coursework
is academically more difficult and time-consuming.
IB Parents Organization
The International Baccalaureate Parents Organization is a non-profit corpora-
tion established to support the IB and MYP programs at Mira Loma. This
parent group helps sustain the high quality of the program by providing both
financial and volunteer resources to support the students, teachers, and staff.
The IB program has many needs beyond those of the typical high school
program. There are expenses for the IB examination process, special class-
room materials not provided by the district, information resources for students,
families, and the community, financial assistance for student teams participat-
ing in national competitions, and professional development for the faculty.
Many of the resources and activities that the IB Parents Organization provides
are of benefit to all Mira Loma students, not just IB students. Each year the IB
Parents Organization raises funds and provides support such as:
To accomplish all this, the IB Parents Organization relies on fund-raising and
parent volunteers. A donation appeal letter is sent each fall and your tax-
deductible contribution can be made in monthly installments. The IBPO also
participates in the school-wide Bingo fund-raiser two or three nights during
the school year. Parent participation, whether on an occasional or on-going
basis, is crucial to the success of our many programs and activities.
The IB Parents Organization is run by a volunteer board and all parents with a
student taking one or more IB classes are considered members. During the
school year the IBPO hosts bimonthly general meetings on specific topics of
interest to IB parents. Monthly board meetings are open to all parents. Check
Mat Matters for meeting dates and times.
Website
:
www.sanjuan.edu/schools/miraloma/IB/
Classroom Support
Supplementary textbooks
and subscriptions
Educational software
Art and science supplies
Lab equipment
Audiovisual equipment
and technology upgrades
Curriculum resources
Program Support
IB publications and website
8th grade outreach/
information nights
Mat Matters support
Exam proctoring
IB teacher recognition
and support
Academic competitions
Student Support
College/Career Center
SAT practice exams
College Sunday
IB Senior Dinner
IB Alumni Breakfast
IB exam scholarships
Carpool and
telephone lists
Page 10
IB Parent Guide
10
How to Apply to the Mira Loma MYP / IB Program
As 8
th
graders, all prospective students should plan on attending one of the IB
Outreach Programs held at private homes and at Churchill Middle School,
usually in October, and/or the IB Information Night, held at Mira Loma in
November. Students are also encouraged to participate in a visitation day,
usually scheduled for late November and early December.
Churchill IB Middle Years Program Students
The student must be doing A and B work in the Churchill IB Middle Years
program. You will receive an application to the Mira Loma MYP/IB program
from your school in November. You must fill out and return this application to
be admitted. If you are currently attending Churchill's IBMYP but live out of
the district, you must also apply for an inter-district transfer from your home
school district office and approval must be granted by your district and by the
San Juan Unified School District. The transfer must be renewed annually.
Other San Juan School District Middle School Students
If you currently attend any other SJUSD Middle School, including the
Churchill High Achiever Program, you may pick up an admissions application
in November when you attend the IB Information Night at Mira Loma. To be
eligible for the Mira Loma MYP/IB program, students must have A's and B's
and score in the 85
th
percentile or higher on standardized testing such as the
SAT/\9. Students accepted into the program will be sent a letter of acceptance
to take with them to Open Enrollment. If Mira Loma is your home school, you
will be automatically enrolled at Mira Loma and placed in the IB program. If
Mira Loma is
NOT
your home school, you must go through San Juan's open
enrollment process, in January of the 8
th
grade year. You will need to take your
letter of acceptance with you.
Private School Students Residing in San Juan District
Students who reside within the boundaries of the San Juan Unified School
District and currently attend a private school, must also have A's and B's and
score in the 85
th
percentile or higher on a nationally normed standardized test.
You need to complete an admission application, which is available at the
November IB Information Night at Mira Loma. Students accepted into the
program will be sent a letter of acceptance to take with them to Open Enroll-
ment. If Mira Loma is your home school, you will need to complete a registra-
tion packet for Mira Loma High School. If Mira Loma is
NOT
your home
school, you must go through San Juan's open enrollment process, which
usually occurs in January of the 8
th
grade year and take your letter of accep-
tance with you. All private school students need to take the math placement
test in April.
Page 11
11
IB Parent Guide
Out-of-District Students
Applications for the MYP/IB program are available at the IB Information
Night at Mira Loma in November. To qualify for admission to the program,
students should have A's and B's in the most challenging courses available to
them, should be identified as a gifted student, and should score in the 85
th
percentile or higher on standardized testing such as the Stanford tests. In
April, prospective out-of-district students who have met the above criteria are
invited to come to Mira Loma for a math placement test. It is important for the
student to talk with their current math teacher to determine their current level.
The student should be ready to study at least geometry and preferably Algebra
II in 9
th
grade to be accepted for transfer to Mira Loma. Successful candidates
register for 9
th
grade classes at this time and are given a letter to take to their
home school district office to begin the inter-district transfer process. This
process should be started immediately and the transfer must be renewed with
your home school district on an annual basis. See the guidelines below on the
Inter-District Transfer Process for more information. Once the inter-district
transfer is approved by BOTH districts, the student will need to fill out the
Mira Loma registration packet.
Inter-District Transfer Process ­
Once you have received your acceptance letter
from the Mira Loma MYP/IB program, you need to take it to your home school
district office and fill out an Inter-District Transfer Request. You need to begin this
paperwork as soon as you receive the acceptance letter because it may take several
weeks to complete the approvals. Some school districts give immediate approval,
but many do not. You should receive a copy of the approval in the mail. This
approval may be forwarded to the SJUSD offices by your home school district, or
they may ask you to hand-carry the approval to the SJUSD offices. It is important to
ask who is responsible (you or the school district) for getting the approval to the
SJUSD offices in order to avoid unnecessary delays. Once both districts have
approved the transfer request, both you and Mira Loma will be notified, and then
you need to go to Mira Loma and fill out the registration packet.
Renewal of a Transfer ­
The inter-district transfer must be
renewed
on an annual
basis. The earlier it is started the better! The end of the first semester, which occurs
in mid-January, is usually a good time to start the process. Every school district has
different requirements for approving the renewal request. Some require a letter from
Mira Loma verifying the student's progress in the MYP/IB program; others want to
see a copy of the student's transcript, and some just need the renewal application
filled out. Check with your home school district office for a complete list of
requirements.
When the
renewal
of your inter-district transfer is granted, you should receive
written confirmation. Just as with your first inter-district transfer (see above), you
must clarify who is responsible for making sure SJUSD receives the paperwork.
After SJUSD grants approval of the transfer renewal request, both you and Mira
Loma will receive a copy of the approval. This process can take several weeks and
it is always a good idea to follow up at each step if you are not receiving confirma-
tions in the mail.
Page 12
IB Parent Guide
12
IB Middle Years Program
The IB Middle Years Program (MYP) is a five-year program that spans from
6
th
grade through 10
th
grade. Introduced in 1992 by the IB Organization (IBO),
the Middle Years Program is now offered in 32 countries. The Mira Loma/
Churchill Middle Years Program began in 1998 and is the fourth MYP to be
certified in the state of California.
Philosophy
In addition to the overall International Baccalaureate philosophy, the goal of
the IB Middle Years Program is to promote global citizenship and to insure a
rigorous curriculum focused on critical thinking skills and personal reflection
on the learning process.
Program Features
The IB Middle Years Program features:
·
International focus
·
Intercultural awareness
·
Interdisciplinary thematic instruction
·
Integrated curriculum covering Language A, (English), Language B
(Foreign Language), Math, Science, Humanities, Art, Technology,
and Physical Education
·
Five Areas of Interaction: Environment, Health and Social Issues,
Learning Approaches, Community Service and Homo Faber (Man as
Maker)
·
Internationally standardized assessment rubrics
·
10
th
grade Personal Project
·
Community service
IB MYP at Mira Loma
ALL
IB students entering Mira Loma as freshmen or sophomores are consid-
ered Middle Years students and attend Middle Years classes in preparation for
the IB Diploma Program classes in junior and senior year.
Students who began the Middle Years Program in 6
th
grade at Churchill
Middle School and participated in it for all five years (three years at Churchill,
two years at Mira Loma), who perform their community service hours and
who complete the Sophomore Personal Project will receive an IB Middle Years
Certificate from the IB Organization.
With prior approval from the MYP Coordinator, incoming 9
th
grade students
who did not have access to the Churchill IB Middle Years Program ­ includ-
ing out-of-district students, in-district students who attended a different
Page 13
13
IB Parent Guide
middle school (public or private) or those Churchill students who remained on
the MYP waiting list ­ are also eligible for the IB Middle Years Certificate by
completing the 9th and 10
th
grade Middle Years course work, meeting the
community service requirement, and completing the Sophomore Personal
Project.
Participation and satisfactory completion of the IB MYP Certificate require-
ments (Middle Years Curriculum, CAS, Personal Project) is recommended but
NOT
required in order to enter the IB Diploma program.
In order to proficiently meet the IB diploma testing requirements in foreign
language, IB students must take a minimum of four years of the same lan-
guage. All students have the option of choosing among Spanish, French,
German, Japanese or Chinese beginning in their freshman year. IB MYP
Certificate candidates from Churchill are encouraged to continue with the
foreign language they began in Middle School (Spanish or Japanese) but it is
not required. All MYP Certificate Candidates, whether participating in the
five-year or two-year program, must be able to meet the highest-level assess-
ment criteria in foreign language, which may be more difficult for those
choosing a new language in the 9
th
grade.
Courses
Because the Middle Years Program is a five-year program spanning two
campuses (Churchill and Mira Loma), the course numbering may be confus-
ing. Whereas we traditionally expect the freshman year to be Year 1, sopho-
more Year 2, and so on, in the Middle Years Program Year 1 begins in 6
th
grade, so all 9
th
graders are in Year 4 and 10
th
graders are in Year 5. The IB
Diploma Program, being a two-year program, considers the 11
th
grade to be
Year 1 and 12
th
grade to be Year 2.
For this reason, a freshman student is enrolled in MYP English 4 and MYP
World History 4, a sophomore is in MYP English 5 but a junior would be in IB
English 1. The numbers refer to the year in the IB Middle Years or Diploma
Program not to the year in high school.
Certificate Requirements
To receive the IB Middle Years Program Certificate, students must:
·
Successfully complete all required IB Middle Years classes, including
Middle Years PE, for as long as they are in a Middle Years School
(Churchill and/or Mira Loma)
·
Complete the required Community Service requirements for as long
as they are in a Middle Years School
·
Successfully complete and present a Personal Project in the spring of
10
th
grade
Page 14
IB Parent Guide
14
Certificate Benefits
IB Middle Years Program certificate recipients will receive:
·
Notation on their high school transcript that they have successfully
completed the program
·
A special cord to wear at graduation
·
Letters of recommendation for college admission for completing the
most rigorous program available
·
New knowledge, skills and experience to make them a better and
more successful student in the IB Diploma program in 11
th
and 12
th
grades
·
The satisfaction of researching a topic of special interest or creating a
project that they would probably not have found the time to do unless
it was required
·
A personal sense of achievement for beginning and accomplishing a
difficult and challenging program
Personal Project
Begun in the spring of 9
th
grade, students define a topic of interest they would
like to explore more in depth and are assigned mentor teachers to assist them
in refining, planning and producing a Personal Project to be presented in the
spring of 10
th
grade. The Personal Project must illustrate a student's in-depth
knowledge in two of the Areas of Interaction plus Approaches to Learning.
Personal Projects can either be a research paper of approximately 2000 to 2500
words or a physical product. Either format also requires a personal statement.
Projects and papers are presented before a panel of judges, who score the
student's efforts on a scale of 1 to 7. Students must earn a score of 3 to be
eligible for the Middle Years Certificate. Assessment includes planning,
development, research, application, analysis, creativity, organization, oral
presentation and attitude.
Community Service
Community Service is an important component of all IB programs, including
the Middle Years Program. Each fall, students will receive an IB MYP
Community Service Packet which contains the requirements, procedures and
forms necessary to complete the Community Service requirement. IB MYP
students are required to complete 20 hours of community service before
May 1
st
of each year. The 20 hours for each year should be completed on ONE
project and must be pre-approved. It is important that students keep record
sheets that have supervisor signatures and descriptions of the work performed.
The IB CAS Coordinator monitors, pre-approves and signs off on students'
Community Service Hours.
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15
IB Parent Guide
IB Diploma Program (Grades 11-12)
IB Diploma
To receive the IB Diploma from the International Baccalaureate Organization,
the student must:
·
Enroll and pass exams in at least one course from each of the six core
subject areas:
Language A (English)
Science
Language B (Foreign Language)
Social Science
Mathematics
Art OR other Elective
·
Pass 3 Higher Level (HL) and 3 Standard Level (SL) or 4 HL and 2 SL tests
·
Complete the Theory of Knowledge course
·
Complete the Extended Essay
·
Complete 150 Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) hours
Tests are scored on a scale of 1 to 7 points, with 7 as the highest possible
score. Students can also earn up to three extra points total for a superior
performance on the Extended Essay and the Theory of Knowledge papers.
Students must earn a minimum of 24 points out of a possible 45 (42 points for
the 6 tests plus three bonus points for the EE and TOK) to be awarded an IB
Diploma.
Remember, a student must attend classes in a subject for two years in order to
take the HL test. SL tests are available for all one-year classes and some two-
year classes.
Mira Loma Associate Diploma
To be awarded the Mira Loma Associate Diploma, candidates must:
·
Enroll in a minimum of two 2-year and two 1-year IB classes
·
Pass a minimum of 2 HL and 2 SL tests
·
Complete the Theory of Knowledge course
·
Complete 100 CAS hours
IB Certificates
To be awarded IB certificates candidates must:
·
Be admitted to the IB program and enroll in any IB class
·
Pass any HL or SL test
Extended Essay
All full IB Diploma candidates must complete a 4,000-word Extended Essay
by February of their senior year. These papers are forwarded to IB examiners
around the world for evaluation. The purpose of the Extended Essay is to
provide candidates an opportunity to engage in an independent research
project on an introductory level. Emphasis is placed on the research process,
Page 16
IB Parent Guide
16
clear communication of ideas and presenting the information in a logical and
coherent essay. On the average, it will take a student about 40 hours to prepare
and write the Extended Essay. Mira Loma staff act as consulting advisers and
many students find it helpful to work with other experts in their chosen
research field as well. There are IB regulations defining acceptable subjects
and topics for the Extended Essay, so the topic must be approved before the
student begins any research. Candidates should choose their subject by the end
of their junior year and begin their research during the summer between junior
and senior year.
Theory of Knowledge
All full Diploma and Associate Diploma candidates must take the Theory of
Knowledge course during their senior year. This interdisciplinary course on
the philosophy of learning is often described as the essence of the IB curricu-
lum. The course requires students to reflect on the origin, validity, and value
of various kinds of knowledge and make comparisons between them. In other
words, how do we know what we know? Two major papers are required in this
course, but only the papers by the full Diploma candidates are forwarded to IB
examiners for assessment.
Creativity, Action and Service (CAS)
Often referred to as the community service requirement, the CAS component
of the IB curriculum is intended to encourage each student to develop indi-
vidual skills and interests, provide a well-rounded balance to the demands of
academic scholarship and to challenge the student to become aware of their
responsibility to contribute to their community in a meaningful way.
Students are required to complete their CAS hours over two years (junior and
senior year). The hours are to be evenly divided among three focus areas:
Creativity, Action and Service.
For the Full Diploma:
Complete 150 CAS hours: 50 Creativity, 50 Action, and 50 Service.
For the Mira Loma Associate Diploma:
IB Certifications Available
Certification Type
Certifying Body
Transfer from
Churchill
Full IB Diploma
IBO (11
th
­ 12
th
grade)
ML Assoc. IB Diploma
MLH (11
th
­ 12
th
grade)
IB Certificate (per exam)
IBO (11
th
­ 12
th
grade)
IB MYP
IBO (6
th
­ 10
th
grade)
Yes
IB MYP
IBO (9
th
­ 10
th
grade)
No
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17
IB Parent Guide
Complete 100 CAS hours: 33
1
/
3
Creativity, 33
1
/
3
Action and 33
1
/
3
Service.
Creativity
includes a wide range of artistic endeavors (art, dance, music,
drama), including the creativity a student employs in designing and complet-
ing service projects.
Action
involves physical activities such as sports and athletic training and also
includes the physical activities required to implement creative or service
projects such as building, planting or coaching.
Service
is volunteer (not paid nor for school credit) community or social
service, including environmental or international projects.
CAS packets are available in the library from the CAS Coordinator. CAS
activities must be pre-approved and the student is responsible for keeping
accurate record sheets and obtaining adult signatures for verification. Students
are also required to complete a minimum of four written reflections on
activities that span over 20 hours.
Up to half of a student's CAS hours (in any focus area) may be obtained from
participating in Mira Loma activities. Regular club meetings and activities do
NOT count toward CAS, but if you are an officer or special event chair, you
may count your planning and organizing hours. Band and Drama hours do
NOT count if you are in these classes for credit. If you participate in music or
drama activities as an extracurricular activity, you may count your perfor-
mance hours. Sports team practices do NOT count; performance and game
hours DO.
When in doubt about whether an activity or project counts for CAS hours,
CHECK with the CAS Coordinator. As a general rule, performance hours
count, practice hours do not.
If you want your Service hours to appear on your high school transcript for
your college applications, you must complete your hours and turn in your
verified Record Sheets and written Reflections to the CAS Coordinator by
December 1 of your senior year. The hours will be reviewed by the Coordina-
tor, who will submit them to the Business Office to be recorded on your
transcript. If you are applying to college under Early Decision, the deadline for
submitting your Service hours for review is October 1.
at Mira Loma High School
Personal
CAS
Extended
Theory of
IB
Project
Hours
Essay
Knowledge
Exams
No
150 total
Yes
Yes
6
No
100 total
No
Yes
4
No
0
No
No
1 or more
Yes
20/yr.
No
No
No
Yes
20/yr
No
No
No
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IB Parent Guide
18
San Juan District Graduation Requirements
In addition to IB requirements, there are San Juan Unified School District
graduation requirements that must be met. To receive a diploma from SJUSD,
students must:
·
Pass all courses required for graduation, earning a minimum of 220 units
·
Complete the Computer Competency course
OR
pass the challenge test
(see guidelines on facing page)
·
Complete a one-year course in Visual and Performing Arts (art, music,
drama)
·
Complete two years of Physical Education
(see also page 27)
·
Complete the
two-year
IB History of the Americas/Global Studies course
sequence
OR
complete one semester of American Government and one of
Economics
OR
pass the challenge test
(see page 26)
·
Complete one semester of Health/Driver's Education
OR
complete a
private driver's training course
AND
complete Health Education in
summer school, independent study
OR
by passing the challenge test
College Admission Requirements
The full-diploma IB curriculum plus our own district requirements meets or
exceeds most public, private and highly selective college admission require-
ments. As a benchmark we have included the University of California require-
ments, which are on par with most highly selective colleges. Requirements
may vary for different majors and programs. It is recommended that you begin
checking early on with the colleges that you are interested in for specific
requirements.
(See pages 28-29 and 38-39 for more information.)
·
English
4 years
·
World History
1 year
·
US History
1 year or 1 semester plus 1 semester
of American Government
·
Government
1 year or 1 semester plus 1 semester
of US History
·
Mathematics
3-4 years
·
Science
2-3 years
·
Arts
1 year of the same class,
NOT
2 semesters
of different classes
·
Foreign Language
2-3 years
·
Electives
2 years
Computer Challenge Test
The Computer Competency Challenge Test is a three-hour exam consisting of
three parts: Word Processing, Spreadsheets, and Database Management. Tests
are offered in both Mac and PC formats. At this time, the test is graded on a
Pass/Fail basis. Students must answer all the questions correctly in order to
pass. They can use key commands or menu-driven commands with a mouse,
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19
IB Parent Guide
and they can use the online help menu. They only need to pass each section
once. If students fail a section, they must register to take the test again, but
they only have to complete those sections they did not pass the first time.
Computer Challenge Test Guidelines
The test begins with the
database section
. You must pass the database section
in order to continue on to the other two sections. You will be given an existing
database that has been entered for you. Your assignment will be to modify the
database, use the query and filter functions and create a report. For the
spreadsheet section
, you will be given an existing spreadsheet and be asked to
modify the spreadsheet, format the text, perform basic mathematic functions
and print reports using formulas and values. No graphs, linking files or
macros are required. Using the
word processing program
, you will be asked to
create two different documents, format and print them. The guidelines below
are published by the district; the examples were added based on information
provided by the district but not officially published by the district.
Computer Minimum Competency General Information
Software: Microsoft Works or Office
Revision: November 2000
Database
* Open a new or existing
document
* Create a new document
* Change field name
* Create a query or filter
* Create a report
* Create and print labels
* Return to original
database
* Insert a new field
* Format a field
* Delete a field
* Insert a new record
* Sort the database
* Show all records
* Save
* Print
Examples:
Set up a database with
information on at least 10
friends. Include first and
last name, address with
city and state and zip code,
favorite music, hobby, etc.
Sort the database by
favorite singles.
Set up database of music
CDs in categories. Sort by
individual artists.
Spreadsheet
* Open an existing
document
* Create a new document
* Insert a row
* Format a cell, column,
or row
* Functions
Sum
Average
* Formulas
Addition, Subtraction,
Multiplication, Division
* Save
* Copy and paste
* Insert text
* Change cell content
* Save
* Print with values
* Print with formulas
Examples:
Order a few things from a
catalog: Include single
cost, compute cost for 10
items, provide total for all
items, compute sales tax
and final total
Set up your checking
account to compute your
bank balance
Word Processing
* Open an existing
document
* Create a new document
* Insert text
* Cut and paste
* Change margins
* Change spacing
* Change alignment
* Change attributes:
size, bold, etc.
* Indent
* Insert page numbers
* Insert headers and
footers
* Find/search and
change/replace
* Spell check
* Save
* Print
Examples:
Create a report, number
the pages, change margins,
spacing, etc.
Page 20
IB Parent Guide
20
Student Testing
There are many tests for students to take during their high school years.
Some are required for the IB certificates and diplomas, some are required
district and state competency tests, some are required for college admission,
and some are optional tests for recognition in subject areas. The following is a
brief description of these tests. For more detailed information, check with the
counseling office or appropriate websites.
International Baccalaureate Testing
IB testing takes place in the spring of 11
th
and 12
th
grades. The exams take
place during the school day at Mira Loma and at La Sierra Community Center.
IB candidates must register for exams and pay the testing fees in October prior
to the spring testing. Some financial assistance is available through the IB
Parents Organization. The subject exams range from one to four hours long,
depending on their format and content. The exams usually contain multiple
choice, short answer and essay sections and some exams are split into two or
three parts over several days. All IB exams are offered on the same days across
the globe and there are no make-up exams. Students will not be allowed in
after the test has begun, so good health and promptness are essential during
exam time. The exams are proctored by parent volunteers. After each test, the
exams are gathered and sent immediately to a predetermined location some-
where around the world where independent IB assessors will grade them. IB
test scores range from 0 to 7, with 7 being the highest possible score. Mira
Loma is proud of its excellent overall pass rate and high number of tests with
scores of 6 and 7. Individual test results are usually available in July. Overall
subject test results for Mira Loma can be accessed on the web at the following
website.
Website: www.ibnet.ibo.org, click on diploma/results/subject stats
For students who get a qualifying score on an IB exam, thousands of colleges
worldwide will grant college credit or advanced placement. Check with your
chosen university's admissions office or registrar for details or go to the IB
website.
Website: www.ibo.org, click on Services/Universities
District and State Testing
STAR
The state-mandated
Standard Testing and Reporting Program (STAR)
is
given in the spring of the 9
th
, 10
th
and 11
th
grades. The exams are given at
Mira Loma during the regular school day. The STAR testing program consists
of two primary components: the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT/9) series and
the California Standards Tests. Testing covers reading, math, science, lan-
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21
IB Parent Guide
guage arts, vocabulary, social science and history. Stanford test scores indicate
how well a student performs in comparison to their peers in the United States.
The California Standards Tests evaluate how well a student does in relation to
the content standards established for all California students.
Website: for general information: www.cde.ca.gov/statetests/star/star.html
For test results: www.star.cde.ca.gov
California High School Exit Exam (HSEE)
The High School Exit Exam is aligned with the California Content Standards,
which are more difficult than the content tested on the Stanford Test. There
are two components to the test: language arts and math. Beginning with the
class of 2004, all California students are required to pass both parts of this
exam prior to graduation in order to receive a high school diploma.
All students in grade 10 are required to take the HSEE, beginning with the
2001-2002 school year. Students may take the exam during each subsequent
administration until they have passed each section of the exam. The exams are
given at Mira Loma during the regular school day.
Website: www.cde.ca.gov/statetests/hsee/hsee.html
Golden State Exams
Several different subject tests are offered yearly at Mira Loma as part of
California's Golden State Exam program. There are six different achievement
levels on these exams. A student who achieves level 6 is awarded High
Honors; level 5 is awarded Honors; level 4 is awarded Recognition; and levels
3 or below are awarded Participation. California public school students can
receive the Golden State Seal of Merit Diploma if they attain a level 6, 5, or 4
on six Golden State Exams. Check out the website for more information on
this recognition program.
Website: www.cde.ca.gov/statetests/gse/gse.html
Governor's Scholarship Programs
Two new merit-based scholarship programs were initiated in late 2000.
Students in 9
th
, 10
th
and 11
th
grades who demonstrate high academic achieve-
ment on the STAR exams can earn scholarships of $1000 per year for a
maximum of $3000. An additional scholarship of $2500 will be awarded to
those students who first win the $1000 scholarship and then go on to achieve
specific scores on AP or IB math and science exams. For more information
visit the website.
Website: http://www.scholarshare.com
Page 22
IB Parent Guide
22
College Admission and Scholarship Testing
PSAT/NMSQT
The Preliminary Scholastic Achievement Test/National Merit Scholarship
Qualifying Test is co-sponsored by the College Board and the National Merit
Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). This test measures critical reading, math,
problem-solving, and writing skills. Test scores range from 20 to 80. The
PSAT/NMSQT gives students first-hand practice for the SAT I exam and the
SAT II Writing exam, both also administered by the College Board. The
PSAT/NMSQT also gives students a chance to qualify for the National Merit
scholarship and recognition programs. A student can take the exam for
practice in the 9
th
and 10
th
grades, but it is the exam taken in the fall of
11
th
grade that is used for scholarship consideration. Applications for the
PSAT are available in the counseling office and the exam is given at Mira
Loma, usually in October. Website: www.nationalmerit.org
SAT I
The SAT I measures verbal and math reasoning abilities. The test lasts three
hours and consists of seven sections. Test scores range from 200 to 800 and
the verbal and math scores are often added together to give an overall com-
bined score. The test is administered by the College Board and is offered
several times a year. Many colleges require this exam for admission. Students
usually take the test beginning in the spring of their 11th grade or early in
12th grade Be aware that if the test is taken more than once, universities have
different policies regarding which score they will accept and use for admis-
sions purposes. Before deciding to take the test in the fall of the senior year,
the student should check with each university to make sure the test will meet
their deadlines. SAT 1 applications are available in the counseling office, or
students can register and pay online. Check the website for dates, testing
locations, fees, registration deadlines and other information. It is highly
recommended to register for tests as early as possible because test sites fill up
quickly. Website: www.collegeboard.com
SAT II Subject Tests
The SAT II subject tests are one-hour-long, single-subject tests consisting
primarily of multiple-choice questions. The subject tests measure knowledge
or skills in a particular subject and the ability to apply that knowledge. Many
colleges, especially the UC System, require or recommend one or more of the
subject tests (usually English which includes an essay, Math, and one elective)
for admission and/or placement. Like the SAT I, SAT II test scores range from
200 to 800. The tests are administered by the College Board. It is recom-
mended that students take the SAT II test as soon as possible after completing
course work in a particular subject while the knowledge is still fresh, even if
they are 9
th
or 10
th
grades. Also, students should avoid scheduling more than
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23
IB Parent Guide
two SAT II tests for the same test day ­ they can be exhausting. It's best to
take just one test at a time. SAT II applications are available in the counseling
office, or students can register and pay online. Check the College Board
website for a list of subjects offered, dates, testing locations, fees and registra-
tion deadlines. Website: www.collegeboard.com
ACT Assessment
The ACT Assessment is designed to assess high school students' general
educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The
test covers four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading and science read-
ing. ACT test scores range from 0 to 30. Many colleges accept either this test
or the SAT I for college admission. ACT applications are available in the
counseling office, or students can register and pay online. Check the website
for dates, testing locations, fees, registration deadlines and other information.
Website: www.act.org
Other Optional Testing
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
Advanced Placement classes offer a fast-paced curriculum to prepare students
to take the Advanced Placement tests offered by the College Board. Sometimes
families will question whether a student should participate in the IB program
or go to a school that offers many AP classes. AP classes are academically
challenging and students who score well (usually 4 or 5) on the tests are
offered course credit by many universities. But AP classes by themselves are
not the same as participating in a cohesive program like the International
Baccalaureate designed to build a community of globally aware, critically
thinking scholars. Nor is there the sense of achievement that comes from
completing and receiving an internationally recognized diploma.
Currently, Mira Loma offers two AP preparation classes; AP U.S. History and
AP Calculus. In addition, students may take AP exams in a variety of subjects
by taking that subject in high school and doing test preparation on their own.
The College Board administers these exams and currently offers exams in 33
subjects. AP exams are scored on a scale of 0 to 5, with scores of 4 and 5
usually qualifying for college credit. The AP exams are usually not as difficult
as IB exams. It is recommended that students check with the college of their
choice to see what their AP policy is, what their qualifying scores are, and if
they grant credit or advanced placement. Registration for the two tests given at
Mira Loma is handled through the AP course teachers. Fees are usually due in
March and the exams administered in May. Test results are mailed directly to
the student. Refer to the College Board website for a complete listing of
exams, dates, locations, subjects, fees, deadlines and other information about
the AP exams. Website: www.collegeboard.com
Page 24
IB Parent Guide
24
Math Exams
Through the Mathematics department at Mira Loma, students may choose to
participate in some optional math competitions. Mira Loma conducts the
California Math League (CML) competition six times a year, on the second
Tuesday of the month. The competition takes place after school and usually
lasts 30 minutes. The competition consists of 5 to 6 questions. More than 200
California schools participate in this competition. Scores can be obtained
online. Website: www.mathleague.com
Mira Loma also conducts the American Mathematics Competition (AMC 12)
which allows students to qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics
Exam (AIME). The AMC is given in February at Mira Loma during the
school day. The test is two hours long. The AIME is given in the spring at
Mira Loma and is three and a half hours long. The scores are available online.
Website: www.unl.edu/amc
Educational Resources Outside Mira Loma
Academic Talent Search
Academic Talent Search offers a variety of enrichment classes for gifted and
talented students in the 6
th
through 9
th
grades at CSU, Sacramento. Although
some classes are offered on Saturdays during the school year, the majority of
their classes are held during the summer. The one-week Keyboarding class is
an excellent way to prepare students for the demands of typing all those essays
and reports. Upon completion of some classes, students will receive recom-
mendations for a specific number of high school credits. Do NOT assume that
these classes will satisfy any of your high school requirements, especially
math. These classes are fun and interesting and a great way for gifted students
to explore new areas of interest, but they are not a substitute for course work
nor are they thorough enough to prepare a student to test out of a class in
order to placed in a higher level section. If you have any questions about using
an ATS class for high school credit, please contact the IB counselor.
Website: http://edweb.educ.csus.edu/Projects/ATS/sitemap.html
Los Rios Community College District
/ American River College
Qualified high school students can take courses for enrichment at the commu-
nity college level. This is a great way for students to explore new interests or
to delve more deeply into a subject they enjoy. The Los Rios Community
College District includes American River College, Sacramento City College,
and Cosumnes River College and smaller outreach centers. Many Mira Loma
students have taken classes at the American River College campus nearby.
Once students have chosen a class and have its course number, they need to
make an appointment with the IB counselor in the guidance office to fill out
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25
IB Parent Guide
an Advanced Education form. Then they need to make an appointment with a
community college counselor to fill out an application and register. In most
instances they will also have to take an English or Math placement exam as a
prerequisite. Remember, Advanced Ed students have the lowest priority at
registration so there is always a chance they may not get the class they want.
Students can pick up an add card at the Registrar's desk and attend the first
class meeting, if there is enough room, the teacher will usually add the
student. Remember, these classes are only for enrichment purposes, only under
rare and extreme circumstances, with prior approval from the IB counselor,
can community college credit be used to satisfy high school credit.
Website: www.arc.losrios.cc.ca.us
Summer Programs
Many colleges and universities throughout the United States offer summer
programs for high school students and these may vary from year to year. The
following list is just a sample of what is offered. Check with the counseling
office or the college of your choice to see what is available.
Academic Talent Search (ATS) and Accelerated College Entrance
(ACE) at California State University, Sacramento
The Academic Talent Search (ATS) program (see facing page) offers summer
classes (June through August) as well as several four-week Saturday sessions
during the school year. When students "graduate" from ATS, they can partici-
pate in the Accelerated College Entrance (ACE) program that offers enroll-
ment opportunities at CSUS for high school students.
Website: http://edweb.educ.csus.edu/Projects/ATS/sitemap.html
Website http://edweb.csus.edu/Projects/ACE
California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science
(COSMOS) at University of California (Davis, Irvine, Santa Cruz)
A 4-week academic program for talented students completing grades 8-12.
Website: http://www.ucop.edu/cosmos
Summer College for High School Students at Stanford University
An 8-week residential program of undergraduate courses for students who
have completed grade 11; also 3-week Summer Discovery Institutes in creative
writing, philosophy or theater for students completing at least grade 10.
Website: http://summerinstitutes.stanford.edu
Mathematics Camp (SUMAC) at Stanford University
A 4-week intensive program for talented math students entering grades 11 or 12.
Website: http://math.stanford.edu/main.html
Summer Studies at University of Chicago
Several programs, 3 to 9 weeks, for students entering grades 10-12.
Website: http://www.grahamschool.uchicago.edu/summer/highschool
Page 26
IB Parent Guide
26
Research Science Institute (RSI)
at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
A selective 6-week academic research program for 50 U.S. and 25 interna-
tional high school students who have completed grade 11.
Website: http://www.cee.org/rsi/index.shtml
International Baccalaureate Summer Schools
at Harvard/MIT, Oxford and Cambridge
Oxford Study Courses, U.K., offers a summer program that coordinates with,
but does not substitute for, the regular IB curriculum. The program includes
pre-IB and mid-IB courses for students entering 11
th
or 12
th
grade, respectively.
Summer Programs at Other Universities
Many other summer programs for motivated high school students are offered
at universities, including Harvard, Brown, Penn, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern
and more. Information is available in the College and Career Center in the
Mira Loma library and in the counseling office.
Planning Your Mira Loma IB Schedule
Although there are not many choices within the IB curriculum, keep in mind
that
EVERY
choice you and your student make will have an impact on
whether your student meets all the requirements to graduate with a full IB
diploma, a Mira Loma Associate Diploma or with individual IB Certificates.
Advancement to the next course level in each academic area requires the
student to achieve a grade of B or better and/or teacher recommendation.
Counseling ­
The IB Parents Organization sponsors a planning meeting for
parents each February at their General Meeting. If you have questions about
your schedule, please contact the IB Counselor in the Counseling Office, the
IBMYP Coordinator or the IB Diploma Program Coordinator.
Summer School and Other Scheduling Options­
There is
not enough time
within your four-year high school career to complete both the IB requirements
and San Juan Unified School District's graduation requirements. In order to
fulfill both sets of requirements, students usually take one or two summer
school classes. At Mira Loma, many students take PE and other classes during
the summer after the 8
th
and 9
th
grades. Health/Driver's Education may be
taken in summer school after 9
th
grade. Some students may choose to take a
math course in an approved summer school to enrich or accelerate their math
studies. Challenge tests, independent study, and zero-period classes are
available for certain subjects with the approval of the counseling office. The
district offers some alternatives to the P.E. requirement for athletes in school-
sponsored sports or those in year-round physical activities outside the school.
Challenge Test
s ­
The school district currently allows students with impacted
schedules to challenge the following requirements: Computer Competency,
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27
IB Parent Guide
Health Education, and American Government and Economics. Students who
successfully complete a challenge test will have the appropriate credit posted
on their transcript. Information about test dates, applications, requirements
and preparation are available in the counseling office. Test dates and contact
information is also published throughout the year in Mat Matters.
Independent Study ­
With the IB Counselor's approval, some students with
impacted schedules can complete certain required courses through the
district's Independent Study program. Students usually meet with an Indepen-
dent Study teacher at Encina or Bella Vista high schools once a week to
receive assignments and gauge progress. Upon successful completion of all
assignments and tests, students will receive a semester grade for the
coursework on their transcript.
PE Options ­
The district offers two programs in which qualified students can
receive PE credit while participating in a rigorous physical training program.
Check with the district for the list of approved athletic activities and qualifica-
tions for either Alternative PE or Athletics In Lieu of PE.
For Alternative PE the student must be enrolled in a year-round program of
physical training at a high level of competition or performance (e.g., swim-
ming or dance). The student must apply a semester IN ADVANCE and be
approved by a district-level committee. Then the student must document their
hours and have their coach or instructor sign as proof of the time spent. The
student will be on the roll of a regular PE class and will receive a grade and
PE credit once the school PE department and principal have approved the
activity.
For Athletics In Lieu of PE, Students also must be enrolled in a PE class and
must take a test to receive a waiver. If they pass the test, they are excused from
attending PE for that semester. If for some reason during the semester the
student is no longer participating in athletic activities, the student must return
to PE. The In Lieu test has two sections; the first is a comprehensive written
test on fitness and nutrition which the student must pass in order to continue
on to the physical fitness test. Information about registration and testing is
available in the Counseling office. Testing is usually done at the beginning of
each semester, so it is important to register early.
How to Plan a Four-Year Schedule
The next two pages (pages 28-29) show a
SAMPLE
schedule for a student's
four-year program. Parents and students can use the sample as a starting point
to discuss the student's interests, options, and goals. Remember, it is just a
sample and students should make individual choices to suit their needs.
The following pages (pages 30-37) offer a more detailed listing of the course
options by departments, for all subject areas and electives. The last table
(pages 38-39) lists all of the courses offered in the Mira Loma IB program.
PLEASE NOTE: Every effort has been made to offer a comprehensive and
accurate listing, but courses are subject to change.
Page 28
IB Parent Guide
28
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
English
MY English 4
MY English 5
(Language A)
Foreign Language
MY Foreign
MY Foreign
(Language B)
Language 1-2
Language 3-4
Mathematics
Algebra 2
Precalculus
Science
Honors Chemistry
Honors Physics
(If Alg. 2 or above)
Social Science
MY Honors
MY Honors
World History
US History
6
th
Subject / Electives
Social Science
Visual & Performing Arts
X
OR
X
OR
Physical Education
X
X
Theory of Knowledge (IB required)
Other Requirements
Health / Drivers Ed
x
(1 semester)
Computer Competency
x
(1 semester)
UC "college prep"
Mira Loma International Baccalaureate
Page 29
29
IB Parent Guide
11th GRADE
IB Test
12th GRADE
IB Test SJUSD
UC/CSU
Option
Option Required 2003 Req
IB English 1
IB English 2
SL/HL 4 yrs
4 yrs
IB Foreign
SL
IB Foreign
SL/HL
2 yrs
Language 1
Language 2
same
language
AP Calculus
IB Math 2
SL
2 yrs
3 yrs
(Methods)
IB Biology 1
IB Biology 2
HL
1 yr Life 1 yr
Science Biology
IB History 1
IB History 2
SL/HL 3 ½ yrs 2 yrs US
(History of the Americas)
(Global Studies)
History &
Govt.
Anthropology
SL
IB Art Seminar
SL
1 yr
1 yr
2 yrs
Theory of Knowledge
(TOK)
½ yr
½ yr
(Upper level IB courses meet this requirement)
1 yr
SAMPLE SCHEDULE
See Department listings for other options
OR
Page 30
IB Parent Guide
30
Mira Loma International Baccalaureate
Department Options
English
All students are required to take four years of English. Seniors may choose to
take the SL or HL test in English. Although most SL tests only require one
year of preparation, English requires two years of preparation for both SL and
HL tests. Juniors take an Oral Examination in March of the Junior year.
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
English (Language A)
MY English 4
MY English 5
(Honors English 1)
(Honors English 2)
Foreign Language
Mira Loma currently offers IB tests in Spanish, French, German, and Chi-
nese. Testing in Japanese will become available to the class of 2008 and
through individual arrangements with the Japanese teacher and the IB
Coordinator. Students with previous foreign language experience are encour-
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
Language B
MY Foreign
MY Foreign
No previous experience
Language 1-2
Language 3-4
Advanced Option
MY Foreign
MY Foreign
Language 3-4
Language 5
MY Spanish beginning
MY Spanish 4
MY Spanish 5
in 6
th
grade
MY Japanese beginning
MY Japanese 4
MY Japanese 5
in 6
th
grade
Page 31
31
IB Parent Guide
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
IB English 1
Orals
IB English 2
SL/HL
Juniors may NOT take the English SL test.
Students are required to complete a Performance Review once a quarter.
Performance Reviews require the student to attend and critique a dramatic,
artistic or cultural event or venue such as a stage play, musical performance,
art or history museum, Chinese New Year Festival, etc.
aged to remain with that language in order to test at the highest possible
level. The IB Foreign Language curriculum is an accelerated program,
achieving 5 years of instruction in 4 years. If you plan to test in a foreign
language you must take four years of the same language.
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
IB Foreign
IB Foreign
Language 1
Language 2
SL
IB Foreign
IB Foreign
Language 1
Language 2
SL/HL
IB Spanish 1
SL
IB Spanish 2
SL/HL
IB Japanese 1
SL
IB Japanese 2
Page 32
IB Parent Guide
32
Math
There are many math options to suit the needs and talents of IB students. Most
IBMYP students have finished Algebra 1 and possibly Geometry and enter the
ninth grade ready to take Geometry or Algebra 2. Students enrolled in Geom-
etry are also enrolled in IBMYP Science. Students enrolled in Algebra 2 or
higher may take Honors Chemistry. Students wishing to take Geometry in
summer school so they can be enrolled in Algebra 2 and Honors Chemistry
need to be aware that ATS classes are not acceptable and that district summer
school courses are primarily remedial and priority is given to those students
who have failed the course. The math choices in the junior and senior year
depend on many factors: student interest in mathematics, teacher recommen-
dations, and testing options. Only students who have completed IB Math 3 and
4 (Higher and Further Math) may take the HL test. The IB Math 1 and Math 2
combination does NOT prepare the student enough for the HL exam.
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
Math
Math A
Math B
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra
Algebra 1
Algebra 1
Geometry
Geometry
Algebra 2
Algebra 2
Pre-Calculus
Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus
AP Calculus
Calculus BC
Page 33
33
IB Parent Guide
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
Bus Math
none
Algebra 1
none
Geometry
none
Geometry
none
Algebra 2
none
Algebra 2
none
IB Math 1
SL
Pre-Calculus
none
IB Math 1
SL
Pre-Calculus
none
Pre-Calculus
none
IB Math 1
SL
AP Calculus
none
IB Math 1
SL
AP Calculus
none
AP Calculus
none
IB Math 2
SL
IB Math 3
(Teacher Rec.)
SL
IB Math 2
SL
IB Math 3
SL
IB Math 3
SL
IB Math 4
SL/HL
IB Math 3
SL
IB Math 4
SL/HL
IB Math 1 = Math Studies
IB Math 2 = Math Methods, required for State of California
Governor's Scholar Program scholarship
IB Math 3 = Higher Math
IB Math 4 = Further Math
To qualify for additional money from the Governor's Scholarship Program,
students MUST test in Math Methods or higher and in IB Biology. The Math
Studies test does not qualify. As an alternative, students may take tests in AP
Calculus and AP Biology to qualify. However, students cannot mix IB and AP
tests to qualify for the scholarship money.
Page 34
IB Parent Guide
34
Social Science
IB History 1 = History of the Americas
IB History 2 = Global Studies
Most IB students begin their freshman year with Honors World History.
Sophomore year students can choose between Honors US History or AP US
History and take the AP Test. Taking the AP Test in no way impacts your
choices in IB. The difference between the two courses is that in order to cover
all the necessary material for the AP Test, the AP US History class is faster
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
Social Science
World History
US History
MY Honors World History Honors US History
or
AP US History
Science
The HL test in Biology is required for additional money from the Governor's
Scholarship Program in addition to a test in either Math Methods or Higher Math.
Your science options depend on your freshman math level. Freshmen enrolled in
Algebra 2 or higher may choose to enroll in Honors Chemistry. If you are unable to
or choose not to enroll in Honors Chemistry as a freshman, you will still be able to
enroll in either IB Biology or IB Environmental Science as a junior. The only
difference is that you will not be able to take Physics. IB Biology is a two-year
Core IB Subject Area 9th GRADE
10th GRADE
Science
MY Science
Honors Chemistry or
Chemistry or Biology
Honors Chemistry
Honors Physics+ or
(Algebra 2 required)
Physics
MY Science
Chemistry
Page 35
35
IB Parent Guide
paced and covers more material with less depth. Full IB Diploma candidates
must take IB History 1 (History of the Americas) and IB History 2 (Global
Studies) and take the HL test in order to be exempt from the district's Eco-
nomics and American Government requirement. HOA, as it is often referred
to, is a two-year course. There is not an SL option at the end of one year. As
an elective, many IB students choose to take either IB Anthropology or IB
Economics. Testing in either of these classes counts as your elective exam as
well as fulfilling your social science requirement for graduation.
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
Economics/
none
none
American Government
IB History 1
none
IB History 2
HL
Economics/
none
American Government
IB Anthropology
SL
IB Economics
SL
or
IB Economics
SL
or
IB Anthropology SL
course, there is not an SL option. Environmental Systems is also a two-year
course because it covers such a broad spectrum of material, however only the
SL test is offered at this time. An integral part of both the IB Biology and IB
Environmental Systems classes is participation in the Group 4 Creek Project
(Science is the 4
th
academic group in the IB subject list.). Students are assigned
to teams, are trained by student leaders, and perform research studies in
several different areas of the Arcade Creek. Participation in the Creek Project
is mandatory and will require time outside of the school day
.
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
IB Environ. Systems1 none
IB Environ. Systems 2 SL
IB Biology 1
none
IB Biology 2
HL
IB Biology 1
none
IB Biology 2
HL
IB Biology 1 or
IB Environmental Systems
Biology or no science none
or no science
none
Physics or no science none
Biology or no science none
Page 36
IB Parent Guide
36
Electives
Full diploma candidates must take one IB test in an elective area. IB Anthro-
pology and IB Economics count as elective exams as well as IB Art, IB
Drama, and IB Music. IB Art, Music and Drama also fulfill the district's and
UC System's Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) requirement. If you choose to
test in either Anthropology or Economics for your elective exam, you can
fulfill your VPA requirement at any time with a one-year course in either art,
music or drama. Taking two different one-semester courses does not count.
All full diploma and associate diploma candidates must take the Theory of
Knowledge course in their senior year. Although there is not an IB exam for
this course, it will be marked on your IB Record from IBO which also lists
your exams and their scores and your Extended Essay (if you did one).
All students are required to complete two years of physical education in order
to graduate. Students pursuing a Middle Years Certificate must complete two
years of Middle Years PE by the end of their sophomore year, either during
the freshman and sophomore years or in summer school BEFORE the
freshman and sophomore years or a combination of school year and summer
school. Because of IB curriculum requirements, only Middle Years PE classes
taken at Mira Loma count. All Freshmen are required to take PE and most
students take either one or two of the other required semesters of PE in
summer school, freeing up a period during the sophomore year for either the
VPA elective or Health and Driver Education. It is highly recommended that
full diploma candidates NOT plan on taking any PE courses during the junior
or senior years.
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
6
th
Subject / Electives
Visual / Performing Art
Art/Music/Drama
Art/Music/Drama
Elective
Elective
Physical Education
MY PE
MY PE
Other Requirements
Health/Driver Education
Health & Safety/
Driver Education
(1 semester)
Social Science electives
Computer Competency
Class or Challenge Test
Class or Challenge Test
Page 37
37
IB Parent Guide
Health and Safety and Driver Education is also a required course for gradua-
tion. Registration priority is given to those students who will be 15 ½ during
the semester they are taking the course. Many IB students choose to take
private driver education instruction or attend either public or private summer
school. Students need to present their driver's license to the registrar PRIOR
to graduation in order to have their transcripts complete. The Health and
Safety requirement can be met in several ways. Students can complete it in
summer school, independent study, or take the district challenge test (dates
are in Mat Matters). See the counseling office for more information.
San Juan Unified School District requires that all students either take a one-
semester computer skills class or pass the Computer Competency Challenge
Test (either Apple or Microsoft operating systems) at any time within their
four-year high school career. Seniors have priority for taking the test, but IB
students are encouraged to sign up as early as possible. The dates for the
challenge tests are published in Mat Matters. Most IB students choose to take
the challenge test since their schedules are so full, but they can choose to take
a zero-period computer course for one semester or complete the course by
doing independent study in lieu of taking the test. The requirements are
currently under revision; it is
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
that you get an
updated table from the counseling office when you are ready to prepare for
the exam. Test guidelines are published by the district and have been in-
cluded on page 19 of this booklet.
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test
Option
Option
IB Art Seminar
SL
IB Art Seminar
SL
IB Drama
SL
IB Drama
SL
IB Music
SL
IB Music
SL
IB Anthropology
SL
IB Economics
SL
IB Theory of Knowledge
(TOK)
Class or Challenge Test
Class or Challenge Test
Page 38
IB Parent Guide
38
NOTES:
Most students will need to take P.E. or Health/Driver Education during one of the summers or request a zero period.
Computer competency requirements can be met through a challenge test. (See pages 26 and 40.)
+ Honors courses receive weighted credit.
To qualify for the Governor's Scholars Program, students must take the IB Math 2
(Methods)
and IB Biology exams.
Mira Loma International Baccalaureate Program
Core IB Subject Area
9th GRADE
10th GRADE
English (Language A)
MY English 4
+
MY English 5
+
Language B
(No previous experience)
MY Foreign Language 1-2
MY Foreign Language 3-4
Advanced Option
MY Foreign Language 3-4
MY Foreign Language 5
MY Spanish or Japanese
MY Spanish or Japanese 4
MY Spanish or Japanese 5
Mathematics
Algebra 1
Geometry
Geometry
Algebra 2
Algebra 2
Pre-Calculus
Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus
+
AP Calculus
+
Calculus BC
Science
MY Science
Honors Chem
+
, Chem,
or Biology
Honors Chemistry
+
(Alg. 2 or above)
Honors Physics
+
or Physics
Social Science
MY Honors World History
+
MY Honors US History
+
or AP US History
+
6
th
Subject / Electives
Social Science elective
Physical Education
MY P.E.
MY P.E.
Visual & Performing Arts
Art
Art
Drama
Drama
Music
Music
Theory of Knowledge
(IB required)
Other Requirements
Health / Drivers Ed
x
(1 semester)
Computer Competency
x
(1 semester)
UC "college prep"
Page 39
39
IB Parent Guide
Courses Offered
See school course catalog for other options
11th GRADE
IB Test 12th GRADE
IB Test SJUSD req UC/CSU
IB English 1
+
Orals
IB English 2
+
SL/HL
4 yrs
4 yrs
IB Foreign Language 1
+
SL
IB Foreign Language 2
+
SL/HL
2 yrs
(same
IB Foreign Language 1
+
IB Foreign Language 2
+
SL/HL
language)
IB Spanish or Japanese 1
+
SL
IB Spanish or Japanese 2
+
SL/HL
Algebra 2
none
IB Math 1
+
(Studies)
SL
Pre-Calculus
none
IB Math 1
+
(Studies)
SL
Pre-Calculus
none
Pre-Calculus
none
IB Math 1
+
(Studies)
SL
AP Calculus
+
none
IB Math 1
+
(Studies)
SL
AP Calculus
+
none
AP Calculus
+
none
IB Math 2
+
(Methods)
SL
OR
IB Math 3
+
(Higher, w/rec)
SL
IB Math 2
+
(Methods)
SL
IB Math 3
+
(Higher)
SL
IB Math 3
+
(Higher)
SL/HL
IB Math 4
+
(Further)
SL/HL
IB Math 3
+
(Higher)
SL/HL
IB Math 4
+
(Further)
SL/HL
IB Env. Systems1
+
none
IB Env. Systems 2
+
SL
1 yr Life
1 yr
IB Biology 1
+
none
IB Biology 2
+
HL
IB Biology 1
+
none
IB Biology 2
+
HL
IB History 1
+
(History of Americas)
IB History 2
+
(Global Stud.)
SL/HL 3 ½ yrs
2 yrs
(incl.
IB Anthropology
+
SL
IB Economics
+
SL
US History
IB Anthropology
+
SL
Economics/American Government
& Govt.)
IB Anthropology
+
SL
IB Economics
+
SL
2 yrs
IB Art Seminar
+
SL
IB Art Seminar
+
SL
1 yr
1 yr
IB Drama
+
SL
IB Drama
+
SL
IB Music
+
SL
IB Music
+
SL
Theory of Knowledge
+
(TOK)
½ yr
½ yr
(Upper level IB courses meet this requirement)
1 yr
Page 40
Published September, 2001
by the
Mira Loma
International Baccalaureate
Parents Organization
with thanks to the
Editors and Contributors:
Mira Loma IB Parents Organization
(916) 971-5360 x6696
Mira Loma High School
4000 Edison Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95821
(916) 971-7465
Dawn Jeske
Smokey Murphy
Julie Owens
Sabas Chois
Meera Deshmane
Chris Evans
William Evans
Charles Routt
Edith Thacher
IB
Handbook