ToK asks “How do we know what we know?” Students study four Ways of Knowing—sense perception, language, reason and emotion—and five Areas of Knowledge: natural sciences, human sciences, history, mathematics and the arts. Classes mix discussions, reflections and object-based exhibitions. Assessment includes a three-object exhibition and a 1,600-word essay. Students develop critical thinking, self-awareness and clear communication skills.

Students will first build core knowledge of key concepts, then apply and analyze those concepts in context, and finally evaluate perspectives and produce their own informed arguments and exhibitions.

Remember & Understand

• Know the definitions and roles of the four Ways of Knowing (sense perception, language, reason, emotion) and the five Areas of Knowledge.
• Be able to summarize core ideas and explain how different disciplines acquire and justify knowledge.

Apply & Analyze

• Know the methods and tools used in natural sciences, history, mathematics, the arts and human sciences, as well as ethical considerations in research.
• Be able to identify and deconstruct knowledge questions in real-world examples and compare methods of inquiry across Areas of Knowledge.

Evaluate & Create

• Know a range of perspectives on knowledge claims, including the effects of bias, uncertainty and cultural context.
• Be able to construct coherent, balanced arguments; design and present a TOK exhibition; and compose structured essays that integrate multiple viewpoints.