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  Introduction to PYP Student Profile PYP Themes PYP Units of Inquiry The Big Question PYP Progress at Blackfriars  

 

  

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE PYP

After a year of investigation, planning and training Blackfriars introduced the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP) in 2005. In the spirit of inquiry which underpins the program, I’ve taken the liberty of asking a few questions that parents often ask about it.

What does the PYP mean for my son?
  Along with fundamental literacy and numeracy skills, your son will investigate carefully selected topics of global significance using a structured method of inquiry.

The program challenges students to ask important questions, conduct in-depth research, analyse findings, report in a variety of ways and reflect on their responsibility as global citizens. In doing so we seek to develop higher order thinking skills, positive attitudes toward learning and promote the values that characterize our school’s Dominican ethos.

 

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What about students who may have difficulty learning or need extension?

Basic literacy and numeracy skills remain high priorities. The PYP is an integrated program that exists alongside the usual subjects that make up the South Australian Curriculum Framework.

 

 

Contemporary teaching techniques are employed that allow for different learning styles – this includes setting realistic goals for all students and providing higher order thinking challenges.

We ask each student to work at achieving their personal best.

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What does this program mean for parents?

As parents of PYP students you can best gauge how to lend your support by taking an interest in your son’s PYP Units of Inquiry. Some of the planned units for this year (at various year levels) include “My Community and Me”, “What a Wonder-filled World”, “Water, Water Everywhere”, “Art in Action” and “Oceans Ahoy!” All provide opportunities for meaningful investigation and a lot of fun along the way.

We urge you to encourage your sons to:

  • be true inquirers/investigators – (ask lots of questions)

  • think about the way things are connected

  • view matters from different perspectives

  • respect the environment

  • value cultural difference

  • develop their understanding of international events

  • get involved in their community and seek to make positive impact
     

 

 

Parents should aim to help their sons to tap into their natural curiosity about the way the world works and achieve their personal best without doing it for them.

Now there’s a challenge!


If you’d like to know more about the PYP please feel free to contact me or speak to your son’s class teacher. You can also find articles in the school newsletter or check out this website for periodic updates.

JOHN NIEDZWIECKI
IBPYP Co-ordinator
Email:  jniedzwiecki@bps.sa.edu.au
 

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