What each IB DP subject is really like, what MYP grades you should aim for, and how to go beyond the syllabus.
Group 4 — Sciences
DP Physics is heavily mathematical and conceptual. You'll study mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity, magnetism, circular motion, atomic/nuclear physics, and energy production. HL adds fields, electromagnetic induction, and quantum physics.
DP Chemistry bridges abstract theory and practical application. Core topics include stoichiometry, atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids/bases, and redox. HL dives deeper into organic chemistry, measurement, and option topics.
DP Biology is content-heavy with a focus on understanding living systems. Topics include cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and human physiology. HL adds neurobiology, biotechnology, and deeper biochemistry.
Group 5 — Mathematics
Maths AA focuses on algebraic methods, calculus, proof, and mathematical thinking. It's the more "pure" of the two courses and is required for many STEM university courses. HL is significantly harder with complex calculus, series, and proof.
Maths AI focuses on modelling, statistics, and using mathematics in real-world contexts. It uses technology (GDC) extensively. HL is strong in statistics, probability, and Voronoi diagrams. SL is the most accessible DP maths option.
Group 1 — Studies in Language & Literature
You'll analyse literary and non-literary texts, exploring how language constructs meaning, identity, and culture. Expect close reading, comparative essays, and individual oral assessments. HL requires deeper analysis and more texts.
Group 3 — Individuals & Societies
DP History is source-based and essay-driven. You'll study prescribed subjects (e.g., military leaders, Cold War), world history topics, and HL regional history. Strong essay technique and source evaluation skills are essential.
DP Geography covers population, global climate, global resource consumption, and geopolitics. You'll do fieldwork and an internal assessment investigation. HL adds geopolitical topics and deeper case study analysis.
DP Economics covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics, and development economics. Expect lots of diagrams, real-world applications, and policy evaluation. HL adds quantitative techniques (calculations, theory of the firm).
DP Psychology explores biological, cognitive, and sociocultural approaches to behaviour. You'll evaluate research studies, consider ethics, and examine abnormal psychology. HL adds qualitative research and deeper study options.
Group 6 — The Arts
DP Visual Arts involves creating a body of artwork, a comparative study of artists, and a process portfolio. Both HL and SL require strong independent work ethic and creative exploration across media.
DP Music involves creating, performing, and analysing music across diverse cultural contexts. You'll compose original works, give solo/group performances, and write a musical investigation (exploration).
DP Theatre covers performance, directing, devising, and theatre theory. Assessments include a solo theatre piece, a director's notebook, a collaborative project, and a research presentation. It's practical and analytical.
Group 4 — Computer Science
DP Computer Science covers system fundamentals, computer architecture, networks, computational thinking, and abstract data structures. HL adds OOP, control systems, and more complex data structures. You'll code your internal assessment solution in Java (or an approved language).