Starbuck Middle School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School for the Middle Years Programme (MYP). The IB MYP is a framework for teaching that benefits all students. It addresses a wide variety of learning styles, involves all students in their own unique learning processes and gives students a standard, internationally accepted foundation of knowledge.
The implementation of the MYP develops the knowledge, attitudes and skills young adolescents need to participate actively and responsibly in a changing and increasingly interrelated world. This means interacting with a curriculum which calls for more than "knowing." It involves reflective thinking, both critical and creative, problem-solving, analysis and discussion of personal thoughts.
Students who participate in the IB MYP become independent learners who can recognize relationships between school subjects and the world outside. Through the IB Programme, Starbuck offers an inquiry-based curriculum that empowers students to become responsible world citizens and lifelong learners.
In keeping with an international MYP focus, all students are required to have a minimum of 50 hours in Individuals and Societies (Social Studies), Science, Math, Language and Literature, Language Acquisition (Spanish or French), Arts, Physical and Health Education and Design (Technology).
Three Fundamental Concepts of the IB Programme
Holistic learning
In holistic learning, the curriculum meets the needs of the whole person and shows students links between subjects and real-world issues so that students see knowledge as an interrelated whole.
Intercultural Awareness
A principle of the MYP is that students should develop an international-mindedness. They will be encouraged to consider issues from multiple perspectives and, in this way, build understanding and respect.
Communication
Communication is of fundamental importance in an IB Programme. In MYP subject areas, communication is key, as it supports understanding and allows student reflection and expression.
Grading Procedures
The International Baccalaureate Programme uses rubrics to grade assessments. Students are given a score between 0-8 for each criteria they are working on. Students are issued IB Report Cards at the end of each semester.
Click here for an example of one of the rubrics.
Learner Profile
The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world. To this end, we at Starbuck strive to help foster the IB Learner Profile Traits in all of our students.
IB learners strive to be:
- risk-takers
- thinkers
- inquirers
- knowledgeable
- caring
- balanced
- open-minded
- communicators
- reflective
- principled