At CISB, the Program of Inquiry (POI) is grounded in the essential subjects of Social Studies and Science. These subjects provide students with a framework to explore their surroundings, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in inquiry-based learning.
Alongside Social Studies and Science, we offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes English Language, Math, Mandarin Language, Visual Arts, Music, and Physical Education. Each of these subjects has its own dedicated curriculum, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
The integration of these subject-based curricula into the POI is designed to create meaningful connections between disciplines. Subject teachers collaborate with homeroom teachers whenever there is an authentic connection for a unit, allowing for a more cohesive learning experience. This collaboration enhances students’ understanding and helps them apply their knowledge across various subjects.
Our commitment to an integrated curriculum prepares students to engage with the world in a thoughtful and informed manner, equipping them with the skills necessary for future success.
Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Elementary Ages 6-12 Years at CISB
At CISB, our Primary Years Programme (PYP) is designed for children aged 6 to 12 years, providing a rich and engaging learning environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Building on the foundational skills developed in Early Years, our PYP framework fosters a holistic approach to education, preparing students for academic success and personal growth.
Key Features of Our PYP Programme:
1. Concept-Based Inquiry Learning:
Concept-based inquiry learning is at the heart of our curriculum. It is a powerful vehicle for learning that promotes meaning and understanding, and challenges learners to engage with significant ideas that drive their inquiries, allowing them to make connections across various subjects. Students are prompted to ask questions and investigate topics deeply, facilitating critical thinking and encouraging them to relate their learning to real-world contexts. This method fosters a love for exploration and helps students understand the relevance of their learning experiences.
2. Transdisciplinary Themes:
Transdisciplinary learning in the PYP refers to learning that is not confined within the boundaries of traditional subjects but is enriched and supported by them. The curriculum is organized around six transdisciplinary themes:
- Who We Are
- Where We Are in Place and Time
- How We Express Ourselves
- How the World Works
- How We Organize Ourselves
- Sharing the Planet
These themes provide learners with authentic, relevant, and transformative learning experiences that extend beyond subject boundaries. By addressing personal, local, global, and planetary issues, students engage in collaborative exploration with their peers and teachers.
3. Learner Profile:
We promote the development of the PYP Learner Profile attributes, including being inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective. These attributes guide students in becoming responsible global citizens and lifelong learners.
4. Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills:
Opportunities for ATL development are prevalent in our PYP classrooms. Students enhance a variety of skills through adult-facilitated inquiries and collaborative projects. For example:
- Thinking Skills: Analyzing and evaluating information to solve problems.
- Research Skills: Conducting investigations and gathering data effectively.
- Communication Skills: Articulating thoughts and ideas clearly in discussions and presentations.
- Social Skills: Collaborating with peers and developing empathy.
- Self-Management Skills: Demonstrating resilience and managing emotions during challenges.
5. Student Action and Agency:
We empower students to take action based on their learning. They are encouraged to express their ideas, make choices, and engage in projects that reflect their interests and passions. As an integral part of the learning process, action can be embarked upon at any point and can take many forms, depending on individual development, learning, and experiences. Students take responsibility for their learning and collaborate with teachers and other students to plan, present, and assess learning needs.
- Student action and agency are evident through active participation and exploration. Students select activities that intrigue them, fostering curiosity and excitement. Collaborative projects enable them to work together, share ideas, and reflect on their learning experiences in a supportive environment.
- The learning showcase provides students with opportunities to demonstrate their understanding and creativity. Through presentations, exhibitions, and storytelling, they share their projects with peers and educators, reinforcing their sense of agency and pride in their achievements.
- The PYP Exhibition serves as a culminating demonstration of student action and agency to end up the PYP learning journey. During this exhibition, students engage in individual or collaborative project that integrates their learning across various subjects and themes. They take the initiative to choose a topic of personal interest, conduct in-depth research, and chose various ways to showcase their findings. This process allows them to demonstrate their understanding, creativity, apply essential skills and ability to work as a team. The exhibition not only reinforces their sense of agency but also provides a platform for them to reflect on their learning journey and celebrate their achievements.
Preparing for the MYP Learning Stages
As students transition from the PYP to the Middle Years Programme (MYP), they are well-prepared to embrace new challenges and deepen their learning experiences. The PYP equips students with essential skills and attitudes that serve as a solid foundation for their continued education. This preparatory phase ensures that students are not only ready for the academic demands of the MYP but also equipped with the social and emotional skills necessary for personal development in an increasingly interconnected world.
