Group 3 - Individuals and societies. Offered at HL and SL
Studying History offers students insights into the past, and helps them understand the world today. Students develop an understanding of and empathy with peoples of different times, places, and cultures. History is well-regarded by universities as providing a solid grounding in many areas that are useful to students of any discipline at university, not just for those wishing to study History.
Ideally students wishing to study History in the IB should:
The emphasis is on developing the skills of analysis and criticism. Teachers will expose students to a variety of different periods, themes, and events. Teachers will utilise different methods and work with supplementary texts to develop students’ understanding. There will be ample opportunities to practise and develop ideas and techniques needed to coherently and persuasively answer questions orally and in writing.
The programme followed will depend partly on whether a student is following the HL or SL syllabus, and the individual interests of staff members teaching the course each year.
History is well-regarded by universities as providing a solid grounding in many areas that are useful to students of any discipline at university, not just for those wishing to study History. It is also appreciated by employers. History teaches students to conduct research, analyse often contradictory material, argue and debate, make decisions based on evidence, and express complicated ideas clearly and confidently. History is seen as good training for journalism, business, banking, and law.
IB History HL Subject Brief
IB History SL Subject Brief