By: Eleni King Martin

Within McCaskey’s IB Diploma program lies a much more complex set of classes. The International Baccalaureate (IB) Science department allows students to explore many different fields of study, while still gaining the valuable experience of a well-rounded education. IB prioritizes critical thinking and solving problems, both of which go hand-in-hand with a scientific education. McCaskey offers five different IB science classes, including IB Biology, IB Chemistry, IB Physics, IB Environmental Systems and Societies, and IB Marine Science. Each of these classes gives students a unique look into the world of science, while still being interesting and engaging. 

Each class follows a different curriculum. However, there are similarities within the coursework. The IB Science courses each complete an Internal Assessment, which is a research report chosen and completed by the student, with the help of the instructor. Each class also completes various labs throughout the course of the year. Labwork is a hands-on way for students to learn about their chosen science. The labs are specific to each class, but are sure to be an exciting part of the class! 

IB Chemistry is one of the various IB Science courses offered here at McCaskey. It is offered as both a standard level class, taken for one year, or a higher level class, taken for two years. Although the IB Chemistry curriculum is grueling, it is extremely rewarding when it comes to completing labs. Chemistry labs can range from burning fuels, to creating silver! These lessons are engaging and interesting for students from all areas of study. 

IB Biology is one of the more popular courses chosen by upperclassmen. It showcases learning about cells and nature. IB Biology is also offered as a standard level and a higher level class. Many students enjoy having Mr. Cruz as a teacher, with Junior Ruby Proud stating, “Mr. Cruz makes the lessons super fun and engaging, even for people who don’t understand science as much.” Though the coursework is demanding, many students enjoy the challenge!

Another popular course is IB Physics. This is another class that can be taken as a standard level, or a higher level. This class is perfect for those who love math and science, as it combines these two elements of school. Junior Mya Hammond says, “Mrs. Pearson [IB Physics teacher] integrates a bunch of lessons from other IB courses, specifically math. It really helps to get a well rounded understanding of these classes.” This combination helps students to better understand other higher level courses, as well as science. This is especially helpful for those pursuing the IB Diploma! 

IB Marine Science is an amazing experience for those who want to learn more about the oceans and how they work. This class is only offered as a standard level course, and it has only been offered once at McCaskey. However, it is expected to make a return in the 2026-2027 school year. Many students loved this class, and are excited for its return! 

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) is one of the more unique courses offered here at McCaskey. It is only offered as a standard level class. It gives students the opportunity to explore the science behind wildlife and how we as humans interact with it. “I think the ESS class is really important because it teaches us about important issues, like climate change. It’s really important for students to learn about these things,” says Senior Benjamin High. 

Ben brings up a really good point: these classes help to give students a view into actual, real world problems. The IB program is so important to prepare students for the real world, as well as the challenges that come with college-level coursework. “IB science gives students a great experience; it’s not only an academic course, but it’s also a class that teaches you to critically think about important issues,” says IB coordinator Mr. Deardorff. So, to any and all of the 9th, 10th, and 11th grade students reading this article, I encourage you to explore your options in the IB Science department. Good luck!