IB vs. Cambridge: What I’ve Noticed in Class

A discussion in Cambridge / IB / Merdeka Curriculum on the SpeakWise Indonesia teacher forum.

So, I've been reflecting on the differences between the IB and Cambridge English programs while teaching here in Indonesia, and I thought I’d share a bit. Last Tuesday, I had a class of Year 11s that highlighted some key contrasts. In the IB program, my students tend to engage more deeply with the material. For instance, we were discussing a poem, and I found that they were really eager to connect it with their own experiences. It felt like they were not just memorizing for exams but actually processing the content, and honestly, it was refreshing to see that level of engagement.

On the other hand, with Cambridge, I notice a stronger emphasis on preparing for assessments. My Year 10s are more focused on grammar rules and writing structured essays. To be fair, that practice really sharpens their language skills, but sometimes it lacks that personal touch. It’s like they’re ticking boxes instead of genuinely exploring ideas.

I’ve been trying to incorporate more reflective activities with my Cambridge classes, like asking them to write a reflective journal about their thoughts on a topic, not just the facts. And it’s been nice to see some growth in their willingness to share more personal insights. I guess it’s all about finding that balance, right? Just wanted to share what’s been working for me!