DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

The Diploma Programme (DP) is recognized internationally as a qualification for university entrance.

The Programme
Students share an educational experience that emphasizes critical thinking as well as intercultural understanding and respect for others in the global community.
We recognize that students in this age group are particularly sensitive to social and cultural influences and are struggling to define themselves and their relations to others.

The Curriculum
The DP offers a broad and balanced curriculum in which students are encouraged to apply what they learn in the classroom to real world issues and problems.
Students study six courses selected from six subject groups.

Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
One of the most important components of the DP is the Theory of Knowledge course, which challenges students to question the bases of knowledge – to reflect critically on how they know what they believe to be facts or the truth.

Creativity, Action and Service (CAS)
To fulfill this requirement, students must take part in artistic activities (creativity); sports, expeditions or local or international projects (action); or community or social-service projects (service). Participation in CAS raises students’ awareness of community needs and gives them an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to address those needs.

• The Extended Essay
The experience and skills gained in carrying out independent research and producing a structured, substantial piece of writing provide excellent preparation for research at university level.

A student who completes the Diploma Programme at Sekolah Tunas Muda will have the option to continue their academic path with other higher education institutions, both national and overseas.

The Diploma Programme of Sekolah Tunas Muda provides a positive and demanding academic experience for students aged 16 to 18.

In Year 11 to Year 12 (SMA 2 and SMA 3), Sekolah Tunas Muda integrates the National Curriculum with the Diploma Programme (DP) of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

• Six Subject Groups
There are six academic subjects studied concurrently in Year 11 and Year 12. Students select one subject from each of the six subject groupings. At least 3 subjects, and not more than 4 subjects are studied at a higher level (HL) and the remaining subjects are studied at a standard level (SL). The recommended minimum teaching hours for the HL courses is 240 hours and for the SL courses 150 hours. This allows students to explore some subjects in depth and others more broadly.

Active citizenship and global perspectives are explored throughout the student’s study of all subjects.

Sekolah Tunas Muda will, in conjunction with students and parents, select subjects that will be available in each of the groupings. This will be based on demand and the availability of teaching staff to provide subjects. The Diploma Coordinator will meet with parents and students in the second semester of Year 10 to finalise subject selection for Year 11 and 12 and the levels at which they will be studied.

Group 1 – Language A1. Students will be encouraged to choose the language that they are linguistically strongest in. In most cases this will be Indonesian; however some students may be able to choose English. In future years the school may be able to offer other languages. Students will have the opportunity to develop strong written and oral skills, respect for the literary heritage of their first language, and an international perspective.

Group 2
– Second Language. All DP students are examined in a second language. Several options will be available to cater for the differing needs of students; those with a high level of fluency, those who are genuine second language learners and those who are beginners. The courses in group 2 focus on written and spoken communication and enable students to use language in a range of contexts and for different purposes.

Group 3 – Individuals and Societies. Subjects that may be included in this grouping are History, Geography, Business and Management, Economics, Social and Cultural Anthropology, Philosophy and Psychology.

Group 4 Experimental Sciences. Subjects included in this group are Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design Technology and Environmental Systems. Practical laboratory skills are developed. Collaborative learning is encouraged through an Interdisciplinary Group Project. Through their study and the project, students also have the opportunity to develop an awareness of ethical issues and a sense of social responsibility as they examine local and global issues.

Group 5 – Mathematics and Computer Sciences. All students are required to complete a mathematics course. There will be a number of options available to cater for student ability and interest. The options that may be available are Mathematics (HL), Mathematics (SL), Mathematical Methods or Mathematical Studies. Each mathematical course aims to deepen the student’s understanding of mathematics as a discipline and to promote confidence and competence in the use of mathematical language. Computer Science is not compulsory; however it can be chosen as an elective instead of choosing a subject from Group 6.

Group 6
– The Arts. Subjects included in this group are Visual Arts, Music, Theatre Arts with the emphasis placed on practical production and the exploration of a range of creative work in a global context. Group 6 also allows the option for students to choose their sixth subject from Groups 1 to 4 or further Mathematics (SL) or Computer Science from Group 5.

Assessment of Student Work
Students work is assessed by external examiners. The external examiners will work in partnership with the subject teachers at Sekolah Tunas Muda to ensure students have every opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned. Set standards are set internationally and are applied equally to each school and the students. The grades students achieve for their knowledge and skills are based on these standards. There is no quota on high grades.

Awarding of the Diploma
This is the responsibility of the International Baccalaureate Organisation through the examiners in the field. Students who are awarded the Diploma will know that they have earned a quality qualification and valuable experiences which will prepare them for their future life-long learning experiences.