Contrary to popular belief, Business Management is not accounting or finance. The course is in fact designed to help students explore the five key areas of a business. Namely, how businesses are formed and grow, how they recruit, train and motivate staff, how managers oversee the daily running of the business and problem solve, how products are designed, researched and marketed and finally how businesses operate in global international markets. There is a small section relating to analysis of the accounts and performance ratios but this is less than 10% of the course structure.
Business is an evolving, dynamic subject and students are encouraged to learn the subject using project based learning, team presentations and real world case studies based on successful businesses and entrepreneurs. Students who excel in the subject are those who develop the key learning skills of self directed learning, reading around the subject and working with other class members to enhance their subject knowledge.
This course is a good choice for students who are studying demanding courses in other areas of the IB and those wishing to study Business, Marketing, Journalism or other humanities based subjects. It is also recommended for students who may wish to take up an apprenticeship in accounting or finance after school or who wish to start their own business in the near future.
Higher Level
External:
Paper 1 (35%) 135 minutes
A. Long Pre-seen case study
B. Syllabus; case study short answers
C. Syllabus; Long answer question
Paper 2 (40%) 135 minutes
Section A: Finance
Section B: 2 Data questions all topics
Section C: Long answer data question
Internal:
Written Report (2000 words). Conduct Primary Research on an existing business.
Standard Level
External
Paper 1 (30%) 75 minutes
Section A: Pre seen case study
Section B: Dara question.
Paper 2 (45%) 105 minutes
Answer 3 case study questions from 5 available
Internal
Written commentary (1,500 words) on an existing business. Secondary research project.