International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate (IB) program academically challenges students – typically aged 16 to 19 – with the objective of preparing them for success at university known as Diploma Programme (DP). The program aims to develop students who have excellent breadth and depth of knowledge – students who flourish physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically. At Universal Advance Academy, we share the same purpose – “The goal to deliver citizens who are well-balanced, principled inquirers with an understanding of their responsibilities to our society and a commitment to academic excellence”
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) prepares students aged 3 to 12 to become active, caring, lifelong learners who demonstrate respect for themselves and others and have the capacity to participate in the world around them. It focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer, both within and beyond the classroom.
Middle Years Programme (MYP) is for students aged 11-16. The MYP is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world.
Courses within the program are divided into six main categories: languages, social studies, experimental sciences, mathematics and visual or performing arts. In Canada, some courses are recognized as equivalent to university courses and students may receive first year credit for courses in the program.
Students can either work towards an IB certificate or diploma. To get a certificate, only one IB course and externally-assessed exam is required.
Any IB World School teaching the MYP can register for eAssessment, using the IB information system (IBIS). Students can also take Language and literature examinations in Chinese (Mandarin) Simplified & Chinese (Mandarin) Traditional.
Challenge Examination
Consider earning graduation credit for prior learning by challenging a specific Grade 11 or 12 course that’s been approved by the Ministry of Education or local school board. All universities in Canada accept our Language Challenge exam marks. UBC accepts Challenge credits for pre-requisite requirements for courses and second-language requirements but does not accept Challenge marks as part of the GPA calculation for admission. It is highly recommended that you check with your intended university for their admissions requirements.
Challenge Examination Specifications for Language Grade 11 & 12
- Mandarin 11 (simplified)
- Mandarin 11 (traditional)
- Mandarin 12 (traditional)
- Mandarin 12 (simplified)
COMPONENTS OF THE EXAMINATION
The examination consists of:
i. an audio component (25% — 30 minutes*)
ii. a reading component (25% — 50 minutes*)
iii. a writing component (25% — 50 minutes*)
iv. an oral component (25%)
*times are approximate, Students should be prepared to spend the day at the evaluation centre. e.g. The above components are the standard of Since 2006/2007 School Year.