Mathematics Science Social Studies English Language Arts

What is IB PYP?

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) is designed for students aged 3–12 years. The programme nurtures young learners through inquiry-based, concept-driven education that encourages curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and independent thinking. Students learn by exploring meaningful real-world questions while developing academic knowledge, personal responsibility, and international-mindedness.

PYP Subject Areas
  • Language
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Arts
  • Personal, Social & Physical Education (PSPE)
The Exhibition (Final Year of PYP)

Students in the final year of the Primary Years Programme complete the PYP Exhibition—an in-depth collaborative inquiry project that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and attributes they have developed throughout the programme. The Exhibition encourages research, critical thinking, teamwork, and meaningful action.

Teaching & Assessment Structure
How Students are Assessed

The PYP does not use external examinations. Assessment is continuous and designed to support learning through observation, class discussions, projects, presentations, portfolios, quizzes, reflections, and teacher feedback. Students demonstrate understanding through authentic learning experiences rather than traditional tests alone.

Inquiry

Questioning & Exploring
Students investigate ideas through inquiry and research.

Conceptual Understanding

Big Ideas
Students connect concepts across different subjects and real-life situations.

Skills Development

Approaches to Learning (ATL)
Students build communication, thinking, research, self-management and social skills.

Reflection & Action

Applying Learning
Students reflect on learning and take meaningful action in their communities.

Assessment Approach

Teachers use formative and summative assessments throughout the year. Evidence of learning is collected through observations, projects, discussions, journals, presentations, self-assessment, peer assessment, and portfolios. Assessment focuses on student growth rather than comparison.

IB Learner Profile

The PYP develops internationally minded learners who strive to become:

  • Inquirers
  • Knowledgeable
  • Thinkers
  • Communicators
  • Principled
  • Open-minded
  • Caring
  • Risk-takers
  • Balanced
  • Reflective
Subject-by-Subject Learning Overview
Mathematics Learning Focus:
Students develop number sense, measurement, geometry, patterns, algebra, statistics and problem-solving through inquiry and practical applications.

How to Prepare:
  • Practice mental maths and number fluency.
  • Solve real-world mathematical problems.
  • Use manipulatives and visual models.
  • Encourage mathematical reasoning and explanation.
  • Explore patterns, measurement and data interpretation.
  • Develop confidence through regular practice and games.
Science Learning Focus:
Students investigate the natural world through observation, experimentation, questioning, and scientific inquiry while developing curiosity about living things, Earth, physical sciences and technology.

How to Prepare:
  • Conduct simple experiments at home.
  • Develop observation and recording skills.
  • Encourage asking questions and predicting outcomes.
  • Explore environmental and sustainability topics.
  • Use diagrams, models and investigations.
Social Studies Learning Focus:
Students explore communities, history, geography, culture, economics and global citizenship while understanding how people interact with the world.

How to Prepare:
  • Use maps, timelines and atlases.
  • Discuss current events appropriate for children.
  • Explore different cultures and traditions.
  • Develop research and presentation skills.
  • Encourage discussions from multiple perspectives.
Language Learning Focus:
Students build skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening and viewing while communicating effectively across a variety of contexts.

How to Prepare:
  • Read a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction books.
  • Practice creative and informational writing.
  • Develop vocabulary through regular reading.
  • Encourage discussions and oral presentations.
  • Strengthen grammar and comprehension skills.
Arts Learning Focus:
Students express ideas creatively through visual arts, music, drama and performance while developing imagination and artistic appreciation.

How to Prepare:
  • Practice drawing, painting and craft activities.
  • Explore music and rhythm.
  • Participate in drama and storytelling.
  • Reflect on artistic choices and creative processes.
  • Maintain an art portfolio.
Personal, Social & Physical Education (PSPE) Learning Focus:
Students develop physical wellbeing, emotional intelligence, resilience, teamwork, healthy lifestyles and positive relationships.

How to Prepare:
  • Participate in sports and physical activities.
  • Develop teamwork and communication skills.
  • Practice goal setting and self-reflection.
  • Encourage healthy habits and wellbeing.
  • Build confidence through collaborative activities.
Transdisciplinary Learning The 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

How to Strengthen Learning:
  • Connect learning across multiple subjects.
  • Ask meaningful inquiry questions.
  • Research authentic real-world issues.
  • Encourage collaboration and problem-solving.
  • Reflect regularly on new learning.
PYP Exhibition The Exhibition is the culminating inquiry project completed in the final year of the Primary Years Programme. Students work collaboratively to investigate real-world issues while demonstrating research, communication, self-management, and critical-thinking skills.

Tips:
  • Choose a meaningful inquiry topic.
  • Plan research carefully.
  • Collect reliable information from multiple sources.
  • Create engaging presentations and displays.
  • Reflect on both the learning process and outcomes.
Practical Tips
  • Encourage curiosity by asking open-ended questions.
  • Read daily across different genres.
  • Support inquiry-based learning at home.
  • Create opportunities for hands-on investigations.
  • Build strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Develop independent learning habits.
  • Use reflection journals to monitor progress.
  • Connect classroom learning with everyday life.
  • Celebrate creativity and problem-solving.
  • Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorization.