Students in Singapore have the option of sitting for the Singapore-Cambridge A-level exam, which is a different version of the international A-level examination. Has the International Baccalaureate (IB) better than the A-levels in terms of preparing a student to enter a recognized and prestigious university?

It really depends on the student’s academic strengths. The IB is more about a comprehensive educational style, while the A-levels puts more emphasis on individual subject knowledge. An IB student must take six subjects, three at higher level and three at standard, which must include maths, a science, English, and at least one foreign language, while A-levels with three subjects studied in depth. So, if words aren’t the student’s strength, then the language component of the IB (including the compulsory 4000-word essay) may pull the student’s overall IB score down.

On the other hand, if the student is well-rounded and copes confidently with Arts subjects as well as Maths and Science, then the IB programme may be ideal for the learner. Experts believe the A-levels give a student depth of knowledge, while the IB gives a broad education. They also believe that the IB may prepare a child better for facing the challenges of a university education.

If parents wonder if the IB would suit their child, they should talk to the teachers and their child before coming to an educated and well-informed decision.

1. The Singapore-Cambridge A-level exam is conducted based on the international A-level examination.

                                                                                                __________

2. The IB is more suitable for all-around students, while the A-levels focus more on a particular field.

                                                                                                __________  

3. The IB programme includes six subjects at international levels.                                 __________

4. A student who is not very good at language write another document instead of the 4000- word essay.

                                                                                                __________

5. A-levels help students study three science subjects in depth.                                 

6. The IB programme may be ideal for the learner who is good at both Arts subjects and Science subjects.                                                                                         __________

7. The IB is not suitable for students who may meet some challenges at the university environment.

                                                                                                __________  

8. Parents and teachers can decide whether the student should follow the IB or not.        __________

7. UNIT 7. Education options for school-leavers