1. HL vs SL: What Makes the Levels Different?
Across the IB Diploma, HL courses typically require around 240 instructional hours, while SL courses need about 150 hours. HL demands more advanced study, extended coursework, and deeper assessment requirements—this applies even within Group 6 curriculum. You’ll find these key differences explained in How Many Subjects Do You Need to Take in the IB? A Comprehensive Guide from RevisionDojo.
2. Group 6 Structure: Core Similarities, HL Additions
Group 6 includes Arts subjects—**Dance, Film, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts—**all available at SL or HL, plus Literature & Performance (SL only). HL tracks have more extensive assignments and deeper explorations of artistic techniques, theory, and cultural contexts. RevisionDojo’s guides on HL vs SL workload explain why HL is more rigorous across all subject groups, including the arts.
3. Coursework and Assessment Differences by Art Subject
🎬 Film
- SL: short film (4–5 min), two films analyzed in Independent Study, 10‑minute oral presentation
- HL: longer film (6–7 min), analysis of four films in Independent Study, 15‑minute oral presentation
(Details from reliable IB outlines)
🎨 Visual Arts
Includes studio work + Investigation Workbook. At HL, the portfolio is broader, with an optional recorded interview or a 1000-word reflective statement. HL submissions are evaluated with more depth.
🎭 Theatre, 🎶 Music, 🕺 Dance
HL versions include increased time, deeper analytical essays (e.g., 2500-word research investigation for Theatre vs 1500 at SL), extended performances/compositions, and extra reflective components. The added weight is academically demanding.
4. Workload, Skills & Content Depth
HL Group 6 subjects deliver:
- Larger portfolios or performance pieces
- Longer written investigations or reflective work
- Greater expectation for synthesis, cultural depth, and creative thinking
These requirements mirror SL concept but at a higher complexity level—aligning with the broader HL vs SL comparison taught in How Many Subjects Do You Need to Take in the IB? A Comprehensive Guide.
5. Why Choose HL or SL in Group 6? Strategic Considerations
Choose HL if:
- You’re applying for creative/art degrees (e.g. Fine Arts, Film, Theatre, Music)
- You want to develop advanced artistic or analytical skills
- You’re prepared for extra workload and rigorous assessment
Choose SL (or alternative elective) if:
- You enjoy the subject but want to maintain balanced workload
- It’s a personal interest rather than university-specific requirement
- You prefer more concise assignments and lighter performance/demo demands
RevisionDojo’s article How to Choose IB Subjects Strategically helps you weigh the options based on workload and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are HL and SL marked equally?
Yes—both levels use the same grade descriptors (1–7), but HL expectations are higher and assessed with greater depth. RevisionDojo covers this in multiple guides like the comprehensive subject planning articles.
Q2: How many hours does each level require?
Approximately 240 hours for HL, 150 for SL. The same ratios apply in arts subjects where HL includes additional components. See How Many Subjects Do You Need to Take in the IB?.
Q3: Can SL satisfy university requirements for art degrees?
Not always—some creative programs expect HL-related coursework and depth. HL demonstrates serious commitment and ability.
Q4: Do internal assessments differ by level?
Yes—HL IAs are typically longer, more analytical, and involve more complex performances or portfolios. SL IAs are shorter and less demanding.
Q5: Will choosing HL over SL impact other subjects?
Yes—HL requires more time and energy. Ensure you maintain balance among your HL and SL subjects so that Group 6 doesn’t overload your schedule.
Q6: How can RevisionDojo help with deciding HL vs SL?
Explore support in RevisionDojo’s Choose IB Subjects Strategically and Subject Planning Tools. These resources align workload, university goals, and personal interests to help you pick the optimal level.
Conclusion
HL Group 6 subjects go beyond SL in both depth and artistic expectations—requiring more time, extended investigations, and advanced performance or portfolio work. Whether you choose HL or SL should depend on your academic goals, workload capacity, and future aspirations, especially if pursuing a creative or visual arts path. Use RevisionDojo’s planning guides and tools to make an informed decision confidently.
Plan Your Arts-Level Strategy with RevisionDojo
Visit RevisionDojo to access subject comparison tools, workload calculators, and decision-making frameworks tailored to HL and SL options in Group 6 subjects. Start your free trial today for focused guidance on your creative subjects!
