Time Alloted
Standard Level (SL) – 1.25 hours
World Religions SL
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Of Ascend Now Students got 6+/7 in IB DP World Religions
83%
Improved their IB DP World Religions score by 1 point or more
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What is IB DP World Religions? Why Study it?
The IB World Religions course is a systematic, analytical yet empathetic study of the variety of beliefs and practices encountered in five main religions of the world. The course seeks to promote an awareness of religious issues in the contemporary world by requiring the study of a diverse range of religions. The religions will be studied in such a way that students acquire a sense of what it is like to belong to a particular religion and how that influences the way in which the followers of that religion understand the world, act in it, and relate and respond to others
Your track record in the World Religions SL course is one of the key factors that will determine your college acceptances. Work with certified World Religions SL Examiners to get that 7/7.
Speak to an advisor todayIB DP World Religions Syllabus: Topics + Overview
Topic
SL
Introduction to World Religions
Recommended Learning:
±33 Hours
Sub-topics
Five world religions will be studied from a choice of nine, at least one to be chosen from each of the following three categories:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism
Judaism, Christianity, Islam
Taoism, Jainism, Baha'i Faith
The following three questions underpin the study of all world religions:
What is the human condition?
Where are we going?
How do we get there?
Recommended Learning: 50 Hour
Additional Sub-topics
In-depth Studies (Two Religions)
Recommended Learning:
±33 Hours
Sub-topics
Two world religion to be studied from a choice of six, one to be chosen from each category:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism
Judaism, Christianity, Islam
The study of each religion will be guided through the following themes:
Rituals
Sacred texts
Doctrines/beliefs
Religious experience
Ethics and moral conduct
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours
Additional Sub-topics
Introduction to World Religions
Topic
Recommended Learning:
±33 Hours
Included in both SL and HL
Sub-topics
Five world religions will be studied from a choice of nine, at least one to be chosen from each of the following three categories:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism
Judaism, Christianity, Islam
Taoism, Jainism, Baha'i Faith
The following three questions underpin the study of all world religions:
What is the human condition?
Where are we going?
How do we get there?
Recommended Learning: 50 Hour
Only HL
Additional Sub-topics
In-depth Studies (Two Religions)
Topic
Recommended Learning:
±33 Hours
Included in both SL and HL
Sub-topics
Two world religion to be studied from a choice of six, one to be chosen from each category:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism
Judaism, Christianity, Islam
The study of each religion will be guided through the following themes:
Rituals
Sacred texts
Doctrines/beliefs
Religious experience
Ethics and moral conduct
Recommended Learning: 80 Hours
Only HL
Additional Sub-topics
Download full sub-topic list for the IB DP Math AI SL and HL
Download SyllabusIB DP Math AI Exams and Past Papers: Overview
Paper 1
Only SL
30% of SL Final Exam Grade
NA
Example Question
Hinduism
Explain the significance of rituals in Hinduism and how they shape communal identity.
Paper 2
Only SL
45% of SL Final Exam Grade
NA
Example Question
Buddhism and Islam
Compare and contrast the role of sacred texts in Buddhism and Islam, focusing on their interpretation and authority.
Internal Assessment
Only SL
25% of SL Final Exam Grade
NA
Example Topic
An exploration of the role of pilgrimage in contemporary Islam and its impact on personal faith.
Download all the free past papers
Download Free Test PaperIs IB DP World Religions Difficult?
The difficulty of the IBDP World Religions course depends on the student’s ability to engage critically with a wide range of religious concepts and practices, as well as their openness to exploring different belief systems. The course requires strong analytical skills, as well as the ability to understand and empathize with perspectives different from one’s own. Students who enjoy studying human behavior, ethical issues, and cultural diversity will find this course rewarding, though the complexity of some religious concepts and the depth of analysis required in in-depth studies can be challenging.
May 2023 Score Distribution
Standard Level
Higher Level
2,011
Number of SL Students
4.7
SL Mean Score
Ascend Now Examiner Tips
Engage with Primary Sources
"Reading and analyzing primary religious texts is crucial for developing a nuanced understanding of each religion. Engage deeply with these texts to appreciate the perspectives they offer."
Approach the Investigative Study with Curiosity
"Choose a topic for your IA that genuinely interests you. The more passionate you are about your chosen subject, the more insightful and engaging your analysis will be."
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