Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is central to the educational philosophy of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and is designed to help students apply knowledge in and across all subjects, providing coherent thinking.
Extended Essay and TOK focused together results in three parts of the overall IB score. TOK is a course about critical thinking and inquiring into the process of knowing rather than learning about a specific body of knowledge. It is a core element which all IB Diploma Programme students undertake.
TOK is a critical tool to help IB Diploma students become aware about how they evaluate different ways of knowing, which gives them the ability to go out confidently in different learning situations and embrace learning at higher levels due to having that awareness of their own learning capabilities.
The course will enable students to:
- Reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and specific areas of knowledge
- Consider the role and nature of knowledge in their own culture and those of others
- Be aware of themselves as thinkers, encouraging them to become more acquainted with the complexity of knowledge and its application to real life situations
- Recognise the need to act responsibly in an increasingly interconnected but uncertain world
- Become aware of the interpretative nature of knowledge, including personal ideological biases, regardless of whether, ultimately, these biases are retained, revised or rejected.
There are 2 parts to the assessment:
1. Oral presentation to the class—approximately 10 minutes per student and
the written presentation planning document and presentation marking form including:
- The knowledge issue that is the focus of the presentation
- A summary in note form of the knowledge issues to be treated during the presentation
2. 1200–1600 word Essay
One essay on a title chosen from a list of six titles prescribed by the IB for each examination session.
One essay planning and progress form including
- Choice of prescribed title and reason for choice
- Outline of development of ideas in relation to chosen title.
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1 |
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2 |
1 |
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| E |
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Failing condition |
Failing condition |
Failing condition |
Failing condition |