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International School of London

Sciences

Through study of Natural Sciences, IB Diploma students are scientifically literate, able to engage with questions with global societal impact. Students learn about the underlying processes of nature from the subatomic scale to the interconnection of human activity with global ecosystems. They develop the critical thinking skills to elaborate hypotheses about their ideas and the skills for practical experimentation to test them. They explore the relationship between science and technology. 

At Higher Level, Natural Sciences provides a rigorous grounding in the disciplines of science that prepare them well for further study at university, whether in physical sciences, computing, biological or medical science. 

Our Aims in the Sciences

  • Develop awareness of how scientists work and communicate with each other, and the need for effective collaboration especially when addressing complex problems.  

  • Develop understanding of the scientific method, with emphasis on practical and experimental work. 

  • Appreciate scientific study and creativity.  

  • Acquire and apply a body of knowledge, methods and techniques that characterize science and technology.  

  • Develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesize scientific information. 

  • Develop experimental and investigative scientific skills.  

  • Become critically aware, as citizens of the world, of the ethical implications of using science and technology.  

  • Appreciate the possibilities and limitations of science and technology. 

  • Explore the relationships between scientific disciplines and their influence on other areas of knowledge. 

Individuals & Societies 

Through study of Individuals and Societies, ISL students develop a critical understanding of human behaviour, and the ways in which societies are organised and function.

Super-curricular Science Opportunities

  • As part of their studies for Natural Sciences, students engage in a wide variety of lectures, presentations and laboratory experiences within London and beyond, such as attending Physics in Action or Science Live lectures, visiting Greenwich Observatory, on work experience placement in Cambridge University’s genetics laboratories. They participate in international competitions such as the Biology Olympiad. They also leave the classroom and laboratory to investigate in the field – from environmental impact studies in the locality of London to residential fieldwork in the UK or Morocco.