IB DIPLOMA TUTORING
Expert IB Theory of Knowledge Tutors
in Hong Kong
Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is one of the core components of the IBDP, and many find it challenging. Students are asked to interrogate the world around them across two projects, the Exhibition and the Essay. Based in Hong Kong, BartyED’s team of TOK tutors support students throughout the TOK through both exercises and assessment support.
Common IBDP Theory of Knowledge challenges
| The challenge | How BartyED helps |
|---|---|
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Understanding concepts |
There are many concepts within TOK that can be challenging to understand (AOKs, frameworks, philosophical ideas). This is why BartyED's IB TOK tutors spend time with students to develop a secure understanding of each one. |
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Selecting objects (Exhibition) |
BartyED's IB TOK tutors are adept in guiding students to select an effective TOK Exhibition prompt, and later the objects themselves. We support students to choose unique objects that raise identifiable knowledge claims and questions that can be explored throughout the Exhibition. |
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Structuring the TOK Essay |
Ask any IBDP student and they will identify structuring the TOK Essay as one of the trickiest tasks on the programme. BartyED's IB TOK tutors draw from their wealth of experience to help students develop a strong and easy to follow structure for their essay. |
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Developing nuanced and clear arguments |
The TOK course guide places great emphasis on nuance and clarity of argument for both the Exhibition and Essay. BartyED's TOK tutors help students prioritise these qualities throughout their TOK work. |
BartyED ensures high-quality IB Theory of Knowledge tutoring
From our strict hiring process, through our comprehensive on-going tutor training, BartyED places a strong emphasis on teaching quality. Our reputation for rigour is at the heart of what we do.
| Quality marker | What it involves | Impact on teaching |
|---|---|---|
|
3-phase hiring process |
Our 3-phase hiring process consists of a structured interview with Jerome, a written exam across proposed subject areas, and an engagement session to assess teaching style. |
A strong CV is not enough: candidates need to demonstrate strong subject knowledge, resilience and adaptability. We place our bar deliberately high in the full knowledge that most candidates will fail. Our students will benefit from the strong communication skills and pedagogical passion of the best applicants. |
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Rigorous training programme |
Once hired, candidates undergo a six-month training programme to ensure deep subject and curriculum knowledge. This is conducted by our Heads of STEM and English/Humanities, and overseen by our Director of Studies. |
The IB examiners know their own curriculum, so it's essential that we do, too. Our training programmes are designed to instil strong academic rigour, and consistent teaching across subjects. |
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On-going professional development |
Whether in IBO-led workshops on the latest changes to the Theory of Knowledge marking criteria, or knowledge sharing across the team in informal sessions to improve our support of SEN students, BartyED's IB TOK tutors enjoy continued professional development. |
International curricula like the IBDP, A-Levels and IGCSEs are subject to change and adaptation. It's essential for teaching quality that our IB TOK tutors are ready and aware of all developments so we can maintain our exemplary support of all students. |
THE BARTYED DIFFERENCE
Why BartyED for IB Theory of Knowledge Tutoring
TOK-specialist tutors
Our IB TOK tutors have studied at Oxford, Warwick and ANU, among others. They bring a high-quality of philosophical and critical understanding to their work with TOK students.
Close attention to structure
At BartyED, we understand that the structure of responses in the assessments can be the trickiest part. Our tutors advise students carefully on structure and prioritise clarity and thorough evaluation, just as advised by the assessment instruments.
Reliable feedback
From suggesting rebuttals to knowledge claims within the TOK Essay, to providing feedback on full drafts of the Exhibition, BartyED's tutors offer feedback that students can rely on.
Comprehensive support
Each TOK tutor at BartyED understands that students face distinct challenges throughout the IBDP, including the TOK. Our team supports their students throughout the entire process, from brainstorming to the final proofreads before submission.
WHAT CLIENTS SAY
Success stories
Our students have gone on to Oxford, Edinburgh, UCL, Duke, Brown, and Harvard.
How Theory of Knowledge is Graded
There are two compulsory TOK assessments: the Exhibition and the Essay. While the Exhibition is marked internally, the Essay is graded externally. Both assessment components are marked out of 10, which is then translated into a letter grade and into the core point matrix, along with the student’s Extended Essay grade.
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| Component | Details | Characteristics of high-scoring students |
|---|---|---|
|
Exhibition |
Students select a prompt and choose 3 objects that illustrate how concepts from TOK manifest in the world around them. Internally assessed, this is usually completed in the first year of the IBDP. (33% of final grade) |
Convincing, lucid, precise, focused |
|
Essay |
Students respond to 1 of 6 essay titles in a 1,600 word essay that utilises arguments and counterarguments to present a thorough examination of the title. As the titles change every year in August, the essay is completed in the second year of the IBDP. (67% of final grade) |
Insightful, convincing, accomplished, lucid |
WHAT WE COVER
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Applications & Interpretation (AI) SL/HL
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Frequently asked questions
The questions we get asked most about the Theory of Knowledge.
Theory of Knowledge is one of 3 core components of the IBDP, along with the Extended Essay and Community, Action and Service.
TOK is graded across two assessments: the Exhibition and the TOK Essay. While the Exhibition is internally assessed, the Essay is examined externally. Students must complete both to receive their diploma.
Above all else, examiners are looking for students who can present considered and thoughtful arguments clearly and thoroughly. The TOK assessment instruments are very explicit about the need for clarity in all responses.
The TOK essay counts for 67% of your overall TOK grade.
Many students find aspects of TOK challenging, but rewarding. Perhaps the trickiest aspect is the structure used in assessments, as students are expected to balance nuanced and well-developed arguments with the need for clarity.
The TOK is a compulsory component for all IBDP students. If you are an IBDP student, you will have to complete the TOK course in order to receive your diploma.
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FURTHER READING