The Theory of Knowledge (TOK) revolves around the central question, ‘How do we know that?’ and encourages students to recognize the value of asking that question. Students consider their own perspectives and ‘the importance of values, responsibilities, and ethical concerns'. Students are also encouraged to be open-minded in their consideration of ‘ambiguity, uncertainty, and questions with multiple plausible answers.’  

For the first major assessment task “students are required to create an exhibition of three objects with accompanying commentaries that explore how TOK manifests in the world around us.”  After students select a prompt (from a list of 35 questions provided by the IBO) they select objects that help them explore that prompt. Students then write a commentary of no more than 950 words that justifies the inclusion of each of the objects. 

Finally, students are given an opportunity for their completed exhibitions to be showcased to an audience.  This year, students are displaying their TOK exhibitions in a “virtual exhibition”. The site has been designed to allow viewers to provide questions and feedback to students, and we invite you to engage with the exhibition pieces.

Dave Feren
Theory of Knowledge teacher