
IB Curriculum
Pathway Selection
At Melbourne Montessori College, students select their pathway during the first semester of Year 10, choosing between the Montessori Careers Programme or the IB curriculum. We encourage each student to choose the pathway that aligns with their personality and will help them achieve their personal best.
The pathway selection process involves a series of tasks and activities, allowing students to present their preferred choice and provide evidence demonstrating their preparedness for the programme. Success in this process heavily relies on the student’s commitment to their chosen pathway and their ability to self-manage their school-life balance.
In the second semester of Year 10, students can further showcase their readiness for their selected programme, with subjects focusing on the foundational knowledge required. After selecting their pathway, students will then choose their subjects within the IB curriculum.
ib subjects
The Diploma Programme (DP) curriculum consists of the DP core and six subject groups.
The DP core, made up of three required components, aims to broaden students’ educational experience and challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills effectively.
The three core elements are:
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK): Students reflect on the nature of knowledge and consider how we know what we claim to know.
- Extended Essay (EE): This independent, self-directed piece of research culminates in a 4,000-word paper.
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS): Students engage in projects that encompass creativity, physical activity, and service to the community.
The six subject groups are:
- Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
- Group 2: Language Acquisition
- Group 3: Individuals and Societies
- Group 4: Sciences
- Group 5: Mathematics
- Group 6: The Arts
Each subject group offers a variety of courses, providing students with diverse options to tailor their learning experiences.
Choosing Subjects
Students are required to select one subject from each of the six subject groups. However, if offered by the school, students may choose to study an additional science (Group 4) or Individuals and Societies (Group 3) in place of an Arts subject (Group 6).
All students must take at least three (but no more than four) subjects at Higher Level (HL), while the remaining subjects will be at Standard Level (SL). HL and SL courses differ in scope, with HL courses demanding a greater depth of knowledge, understanding, and skills. Both levels are assessed according to the same grade descriptors, ensuring consistency in evaluation.
Subjects at MMC
We revise and expand our subjects every year to meet the requests of the incoming cohort as much as possible. Below is a selection of subjects that we have been able to offer.
Group 1 Language and Literature
- English A: Language and Literature
Group 2 Language Acquisition
- Italian B
- Italian Ab Initio
- French Ab Initio
- Spanish Ab Initio
- Mandarin Ab Initio
- Japanese Ab Initio
For other subjects please contact the school.
Group 3 Humanities
- Business Management
- History
- Psychology
Group 4 Sciences
- Sports Exercise and Health Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Group 5 Mathematics
- Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
- Mathematics: Analyses and Approaches
Group 6 the Arts
- Visual Arts
- Film
Subject Briefs IN THE IB CURRICULUM
The subject briefs below explain in detail what the aims, the IB curriculum and assessment requirements are for each subject.
Additional Information: Group 5 – Mathematics
The Mathematics IB curriculum has recently undergone a revision. Below are the key distinctions between the two new Mathematics courses:
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
- Focus on modelling and statistics
- Develop strong skills in applying mathematics in real-world contexts
- Utilise technology for solving practical mathematical problems
- Suitable for students with an interest in social sciences, natural sciences, health studies, statistics, business, some branches of economics, psychology, and design
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
- Focus on algebraic methods and calculus
- Develop strong mathematical thinking skills
- Engage in both real-world and abstract mathematical problem-solving
- Ideal for students with an interest in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences, and certain areas of economics