One of the most unique and demanding subjects in the IB DP is Theater Studies. It is often misunderstood at the same time. As someone who has written a lot for the IB, I can say that students often think IB Theatre Studies will be an easier arts subject, but they learn pretty quickly that it takes reflection, organization, and deep academic thought.

Some think the IB Film Studies subject is a fun way to take a break from regular schoolwork, while others worry it could be tougher than it seems. I think the truth is somewhere in the middle. From my years of dealing with IB students, I can say that Film Studies is neither an easy subject nor a difficult one. Rather, it gives benefits to a certain kind of student.

I believe students undervalue or are hesitant to choose the IB Visual Arts subject because it is often misunderstood. The course promotes creativity, but it also requires organization, preparation, and introspection. Visual Arts honors students who can strike a balance between creative work and careful explanation, as far as I can tell from the overall IB requirements.

The IB Music subject tends to elicit a wide range of reactions. Some learners think it’s a nice, creative break from all the essays and exams, but others worry about how they’ll do and keeping up with the workload.

I can tell who is excited and who is scared when students ask me about the IB Philosophy subject. This course is one of the most misinterpreted parts of the Diploma Programme. But it frequently becomes the class that teaches students how to think, debate, and write.

At first, choosing IB Anthropology may seem a little out of the ordinary, particularly because fewer students discuss it than History or Psychology. Nonetheless, I think it’s among the most enlightening and fresh courses offered by the IB Diploma. It emphasizes real people, genuine cultures, and real cultural behavior.