Introduction to DP Core
Central to the working practice of the Diploma Programme are the 3 components that comprise what is known as 'The Core'. These are: the Extended Essay (EE), Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Creativity, Action and Service (CAS).
Each of these components constitutes a discrete element in its own right, and yet together they play a key role in the realization of the IB's interest in an integrated, holistic education - one that focuses as much on the development of personal and interpersonal qualities and attributes alongside those more traditionally defined as 'academic' or cognitive.
The Extended Essay invites students to develop skills of independent research and writing through a 4000 word assignment; Theory of Knowledge develops abilities critical thinking and enquiry, and Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) seek to nurture qualities associated with activities that sit outside but very much alongside typical classroom practices.
The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge carry with them a maximum of 3 bonus points for students, and these are awarded as detailed in the following table:
| TOK | |||||||
| A | B | c | D | E | N | ||
| A | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | Fail | Fail | |
| B | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 | Fail | Fail | |
| EE | C | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | Fail | Fail |
| D | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Fail | Fail | |
| E | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | |
| N | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | Fail | |