top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Magnet Program?

  • Magnet schools are free public schools that are renowned for their special programs and high academic standards. The GHS IB Magnet has a focus on international education with more "hands on--minds on" and uses inquiry based learning.

What is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program?

  • The IB Program is a two-year, college preparatory, internationally standardized program for academically motived high school students around the world. 

Who is the program designed for?

  • It is designed for highly motivated students who seek the challenge of a well-rounded, liberal arts, international curriculum.

What are International Honors courses?

  • Courses designated as IB are taken in the 11th and 12th grade. International Honors courses are taken in the 9th and 10th grade years for the development of academic skills needed to be successful in the IB Program.

What is the IB's curriculum focus?

  • The IB curriculum offers courses int he humanities and sciences.  Diploma candidates must select from each of the six IB groups: English, Second Language, History, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts.

What are the benefits of earning the IB Diploma?

  • The Diploma program equips students witht he skills and attitudes necessary for success in higher education.  The goal is to provide students with the values and opportunities that will enable them to develop sound judgement, make wise choices, and respect others in the global community.

What incentive is there for my child to go through such a rigorous program when GISD has several other Magnet options?

  • The IB Program is for the academically motivated student who seeks a more holistic, interantional approach to education.  Students in the IB International Honors and IB courses receive additional grade points.

How is the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program SIMILAR to the College Board Advanced Program (AP)?

  • Both are exceptinal preparations for higher education and offer rigourous curriculua.  Succces in either program is an excellent indicator for success in college.  IB and AP give studetns the opportunity to place out of college courses. Additionally, both are taught by specially trained teachers and requre several hours of homework on or off-campus each day.

How is the IB Diploma DIFFERENT from AP?

  • The IB curriculum has a metacognitive apporach to learning.  Students are expected to make connections between different academic disciplines and not to study subjects in isolation.  This is based on the belief that the total educational experience is more than the sum of its parts.  Therefore, each student is required to study six IB Academic subjects, write an Extended Essay intended to promote high-level research writing skills and intellectual discovery, complete the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) component, and participate in a Theory of Knowledge course that challenges students to apply their knowledge and understanding in real-life contexts.

Is IB recognized by Colleges?

  • IB diploma holders gain admission to selective universities throughout the world. Recognizing the high standards of the IB program, admissions officers look favorably on applicants enrolled in IB courses.

  • Texas Senate Bill 111 directs Texas public colleges and universities to award no less than 24 hours credit to all IB Diploma Programme graduates.

 

bottom of page