At the core of the IB Diploma lies the Theory of Knowledge (ToK) course. It is a central element of IB studies, bringing together the threads of knowledge in the different subjects which students take. The ToK course “encourages critical thinking about knowledge itself, to try to help young people make sense of what they encounter” (ToK Subject Guide). For every subject, it is important to ask what knowledge is and how it is acquired. In that sense ToK is the glue that binds the different academic components of the IB Diploma together.

Ultimately, the IB ToK course is assessed by two components:

- An essay of 1200-1600 words, written on a title chosen from a list of ten offered by the IB. More information can be found on the section “IB ToK Essay” on this website. There are 40 marks available for the ToK essay.

- A presentation (approximately 10 minutes per presenter) that explores some aspect of the ToK course, relating it to an important or interesting real life situation. More information can be found on the section “IB ToK Presentation” on this website. There are 20 marks available for the ToK Presentation.

QUESTIONS? Email Dr. Williams or Mr. Atherton

Useful IB Theory of Knowledge documents