Locust Valley High School juniors and seniors explored the opportunities and expectations of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme during an orientation on Oct. 22. The event introduced juniors to the rigorous two-year curriculum and gave seniors an opportunity to share their work through Theory of Knowledge (TOK) presentations.
A core component of the IB Diploma Programme, TOK challenges students to examine how knowledge is developed, communicated and understood. Students explore and reflect on the nature of knowledge, the process of knowing, and the principles of knowledge underlying different areas of knowledge, cultures, and belief systems.
Senior Sofia Wilde explored the challenges of communicating knowledge, using the word “natural” on food labels as one of her examples. Her presentation examined how labeling language can influence consumers’ understanding of a product.
“Because you can use the term natural on a food product with it still having artificial ingredients or modified products,” she said.
For senior Olivia Tomlinson, an investigation into technology in sports prompted a closer look at artificial intelligence and its role in her learning.
“It made me reflect on my use of AI, because now instead of relying solely on AI, maybe to help me come up with ideas, I now realize that it’s not totally accurate,” Olivia said. “I thought doing this exhibition made me realize a bunch of new things about AI that I didn’t know.”
Locust Valley High School’s IB program offers open enrollment to juniors and seniors seeking an academic challenge. Students can take one or more IB courses or pursue the full IB Diploma Programme, with opportunities to earn college credit.
“The IB program opens doors for students to explore their interests, pursue their career goals, and develop the skills to thrive in college and beyond. Through challenging coursework and experiences like Theory of Knowledge, students learn to think critically, consider different perspectives, and communicate with confidence. IB is an important part of our district’s commitment to expanding opportunities and preparing students for a successful future,” said Dr. Kristen Turnow.
IB courses use varied assessment methods and give students opportunities to explore their interests while developing research, communication and critical-thinking skills.
"The IB program challenges students to think critically, conduct thorough research, and communicate their ideas with clarity in both writing and speech. These essential skills provide a strong foundation that prepares our students to adapt, lead, and excel in college, their professional careers, and everyday life,” said International Baccalaureate Coordinator Michael LoGerfo.
Locust Valley High School has been an IB World School for more than 20 years, offering students access to the internationally recognized IB Diploma Programme.