Frequently asked questions about PYP

What makes the PYP special?
It is inquiry based – taking a student from where they are in their understanding and using inquiry to further develop their knowledge and understanding. Learners constructing meaning. The PYP places a huge focus on the developing international mindedness.

How is the PYP international?
The Learner Profile is the expression of the philosophy of the PYP and contributes to the development of international awareness. There are 10 attributes that make up the Learner profile. At ISPP we also have General Learning Targets that actively contribute towards developing international awareness.

Does it help my child fit in another PYP school?
Yes all PYP school use the same pedagogical approach; inquiry based learning.  Big picture concepts that are transferable to new situations.

Is it easier or more difficult than such and such a curriculum?
The IB offers a curriculum framework and it is expected that schools will develop curriculum based on that framework. It has rigor but it is about supporting and guiding students so they develop enduring understandings. At ISPP we are developing our own curriculum K-12 using IB framework, other curriculum and our GLT’s.

Will my child find it easy to fit back into the Aus/UK/ American curriculum?
Yes curriculum frameworks are similar all over the world. It is the pedagogy that is perhaps different.

Will there be gaps in English/ Mathematics?
Very doubtful. The frameworks have been developed from curriculum all over the world by people who are experts in a subject.

How does mathematics and language work as part of the units of inquiry?
Where there is a natural integration, concepts are taught. The PYP believe student learning is best done when it is authentic – relevant to the “real” world and transdisciplinary.

Does it (PYP) help them to move into MYP?
The PYP is based on skills, knowledge, concepts, attitudes and action which are transferable learning experiences and understandings. The programmes do not lead into each other but there are a number of aspects that dove tail.

What is “action” or community service in the PYP?
The PYP has an action component which is where students use their own initiative to demonstrate their commitment to what they have learned. Action often comes as the result of deep inquiry that becomes personal and is meaningful. At its most authentic, action occurs outside of the classroom—at home, or within the larger school or local community and can occur at any time.

How do Student lead conferences help my child?
Student Led conferences allow your child to discuss with you their progress and their understanding of new knowledge, concepts or skills. It is a powerful assessment strategy that uses self reflection as the tool to measure progress.

What is the exhibition?
It is a requirement of the PYP that students in their final year of elementary school engage in an exhibition where all their skills, knowledge, understanding of concepts and ability to take “action” are used in a unit of inquiry.

How is the PYP international?
The Learner Profile is the expression of the philosophy of the PYP and contributes to the development of international awareness. There are 10 attributes that make up the Learner profile. At ISPP we also have General Learning Targets that actively contribute towards developing international awareness.

What are the Units of Inquiry?
Each year, classes work through a cycle of 6 units of inquiry. The units mainly have a Science of Social Studies focus, however we do have some that are more “arts” related. Many areas of the curriculum can be linked to a current unit and so specialist teachers often work with classroom teachers to create a transdisciplinary approach to learning.