Economics for IB students
As we go about our daily lives, we are experiencing the effects of economic issues all the time, even without being aware of it. The money in our pockets, why and how we spend that money as we do, our dealings with banks and the government’s influence over all of us, all involve aspects of economics.

Our syllabus for economics aims to familiarise students with these and other concepts, as we all need an understanding of economics in order to make informed decisions about a range of issues - personal and global - that affect our lives. Answers to questions like: if the price of Coca-Cola doubled, would you still buy it? Are some countries richer than others? What is the impact of congestion charging? How will privatisation affect the Post Office? What are the effects of globalisation?

These issues are all around us, all of the time. Hence, we aim to ensure that our students are provided with a core knowledge of economics, that they are encouraged to think critically about the subject and to develop awareness and understanding of international economic issues. Students will be encouraged to develop as independent learners, capable of learning from observation and enquiry. And, all of our students will learn to distinguish between positive and normative economics as well as coming to recognise their own (unavoidable) tendencies for bias.

Students will not only be prepared for examination, they will be prepared to take an active and informed interest in economic issues and how they affect their lives.

Assessment
In general terms, standard and higher level subjects are both studied throughout years 12 and 13. There are no examinations in Year 12 as all IB examinations take place in May of Year 13. In addition to the examinations you must complete a CAS journal, the theory of knowledge component and an extended essay. Each subject studied carries seven points and final grades are awarded according to a points system. The maximum mark is 45 points, made up of a potential seven points for each of the six subjects, plus three points that are available for the theory of knowledge and extended essay components.

Specifically relating to economics, standard level students will find 75% of marks available via two written examinations and the remaining 25% based upon coursework centring on a portfolio of commentaries. Higher level students will take three written examinations, which carry 80% of marks, and undertake similar coursework, which accounts for the remaining 20% of the marks available.

Enrichment activities
Students taking economics at IB level will be able to participate in links with international schools and visits to places of major economic influence such as the European Parliament. They will have regular access to the Internet and other sources of economic up-dates and are encouraged to research and present topical economic issues on a regular basis as they build their portfolio of commentaries for coursework. All of the activities have a clear and strong focus on economy related matters and help to add context and value to what is learnt. These practical enrichment activities will also prove productive for inclusion in CVs and further education or job applications.

Beyond the sixth form
Having economics as a component of their IB programme will be invaluable to students as economics has a continual involvement in our lives. An understanding of the subject is productive in helping us to become good international citizens, making us properly aware and informed in relation to events that influence us. And, of course, taking economics at IB level provides a gateway into university courses and careers in areas such as economics, business, law, marketing, central or local government, human resources, accountancy, banking and many other fascinating fields.