IB Programmes » Five Essential Elements

Five Essential Elements

There are five key components to the IB/PYP curriculum: Attitudes, Knowledge, Key Concepts, Skills, and Action.
 
Attitudes

There are twelve attitudes we want students to value and exhibit. They are interwoven throughout every aspect of the curriculum.
  • Appreciation
  • Commitment
  • Confidence
  • Cooperation
  • Creativity
  • Curiosity
  • Empathy
  • Enthusiasm
  • Independence
  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Tolerance
 
Knowledge

There are six transdisciplinary themes students will investigate throughout the school year. These themes are globally significant and cover concepts that are interconnected, can be addressed in all disciplines (subjects), and can be applied to real life.
  • 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
 
Key Concepts
 
There are eight key concepts that drive instructions through inquiry, questions, and investigation.
  • Form - What is it like?
  • Function - How does it work?
  • Causation - Why is it like it is?
  • Change - How is it changing?
  • Connection - How is it connected to other things?
  • Perspective – What are the points of view?
  • Responsibility – What is our responsibility?
  • Reflection – How do we know?
 
Skills
 
There are five transdisciplinary skills students develop as they involve themselves in the learning environment.
  • Thinking Skills
  • Research Skills
  • Self-management Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Social Skills
 
Action

Students are encouraged to reflect, to make informed choices and to take action that will help their peers, school staff, and the wider community.

These are student initiated responses to what they are understanding and learning about themselves and the world in which they live.