IB PYP Programme Curricular Guide - Skola.doc

International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP)A Curricular Guide for Students, Parents and GuardiansINTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SCHOOL2010 - 2011Correct as of 1/09/10. ContentsPageINTRODUCTION TO THE PYP 3 Mission statements from the IBO and ICS 3 How does the PYP work? 3 What will your child be learning? 4 How will your child be learning? 6 How does inquiry based learning work? 6 How will I know how my child is doing (Assessment) 6SUBJECT AREAS 9 Language 9 Mathematics 9 Science 10 Social Studies 11 Personal, Social and Physical Education 12 The Arts 13UNIT OUTLINES FOR 2010-2011 14 Nursery and Reception 14 Year 1 16 Year 2 19 Year 3 22 Year 4 25 Year 5 28 Year 6 31CURRICULAR STRANDS 33INTRODUCTION TO THE IB PYPMission statements from the IB and ICSThe mission statement of the International Baccalaureate:‘The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment. These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.’ (IB 2009). www.ibo.orgThe mission statement of the International Community School:‘ICS aims for educational excellence by developing independent, inquiring and collaborative learners within a safe, enjoyable and stimulating environment. We believe in equality of opportunity and a celebration of diversity, and we support our students in becoming successful world citizens.’How does the PYP work?The PYP is a curriculum designed for students (ages 3-11). Its main purpose is to develop the attributes and traits as identified in the IB learner profile – developing international mindedness. Students are encouraged to develop the learner profile through all experiences at school such as whole class, group and independent activities; social interaction at school extending into everyday life. Inquirers They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.Knowledgeable They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.Thinkers They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.Communicators They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.Principled They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.Open-minded They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.Caring They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.Risk-takers They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.Balanced They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.Reflective They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. What will your child be learning?The PYP is a concept driven curriculum which integrates subject areas to support inquiry and learning in meaningful contexts. The transdisciplinary nature of the curriculum enables students to experience how subject knowledge and understanding work together in the real world, while also experiencing individual components as well. Classes from Year 1 to Year 6 are actively involved in six units of inquiry each per year, each one being approximately six weeks in length. Nursery and Reception experience four units of inquiry, one whi。