Wayne Lavold
Data based on 4 reviews.
What kind of test questions does this teacher use most often (choose one):
Multiple ChoiceIs the teacher available for extra help during study halls, lunchtime, before or after school, etc.?
Almost AlwaysThe teacher responds to emails promptly. Do you...
Strongly AgreeThe teacher posts in-class materials online for reference (slides, etc.):
Almost AlwaysThe teacher lets us know at the beginning of the course and along the way how much each part of the class (homework, papers, quizzes and tests) counts towards our total grade:
Strongly AgreeHow much homework does this teacher assign?
Way too muchThe amount of writing required in this class is:
Very HighThe teacher allows us to use technology in class (e.g. laptop, calculator, smart pen, etc.)
Almost AlwaysHow much memorization is required to do well in this teacher’s course?
Very HighWhat advice would you give yourself if you were just starting the class now?
Class of 2022
Definitely do your extra reading and pay attention! One blink of an eye and the class is on a whole other chapter, so don't fall behind. He definitely pushes his IB kids harder - even the best students are feeling the pressure, so don't get discouraged! The content is fascinating - you can do it!
Class of 2023
Learn how to take notes properly and don't think that the slides have all of the information. The stuff Lavold says is very important and is most of the detail so listen to him very carefully. Essays are a huge part of this class and need to be taken seriously, which means understanding how to write them (he will go over this) and knowing what is going on. I recommend staying well ahead in reading the textbook as it is something Lavold expects people to read. If he suspects no one did pop-quizzes may happen. Overall this is a great class and Lavold is very funny but it is important to remember this is IB and is going to be an uphill battle. Bottom line, study the material.
Class of 2021
IB social is gruelling. The essays you have to write require you to know your points going in, know them well, and get to the point while knowing what you're doing. Notes are very necessary, but you will not have trouble writing notes if you can keep with the pace; you are give adequate time to write. To succeed, you must know that you have to read (or at least skim) the chapters assigned, know how to take notes (Mr. Lavold usually goes over this, but put down what he emphasizes and don't just copy off the board), and learn how exactly to write essays. This class is great fun, but some of the most fair challenges you'll do in school.
Additional Comments
Class of 2021
Mr. Lavold obviously loves what he does, knows exactly how to do it, and is the prime example of a teacher loving his job enough to make his students love the course. While challenging, his IB courses feel extremely fair in their challenge, and he sets you up for success at every step if only you are willing to put in the effort. If you get Mr. Lavold, prepare to work very hard every class, but know that this work won't have a dull moment. You get things such as roleplay debates, dramatic storytelling, and note-taking that is simply interesting just because of the way he says it. If you did not really like social the previous year, prepare to have the largest love-hate relationship with the subject. If you did like social, this will likely be one of your favourite core courses. It is the most fair social class you can have, and by far the most interesting.