Theory of Knowledge ToK

Theory of Knowledge is central to the IB Diploma Programme and is compulsory for all Diploma students.

It challenges students and their teachers to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and areas of knowledge, and to consider the role which knowledge plays in a global society. It encourages students to become aware of themselves as thinkers, to become aware of the complexity of knowledge, and to recognise the need to act responsibly in an increasingly interconnected world.

The classes are predominantly discussion-based and key topics which are explored include: ways of knowing such as emotion, reason, perception and language; and, areas of knowledge such as the natural sciences, the human sciences, history, the arts, ethics, and mathematics.

School-based assessment of the course comprises class discussion, oral presentations, journal work and essays. At the end of the second year, IB Diploma students are required to submit one essay of 1200-1600 words in length for external assessment. In addition each student gives an oral presentation which is internally assessed.