In the fall of 2023, La Scuola International School embraced an exciting opportunity to participate in the International Baccalaureate (IB) trial of new transdisciplinary theme descriptors for the Primary Years Program (PYP). This experience has led to a thoughtful integration of these descriptors into our recently updated Program of Inquiry (POI), marking a significant step in our educational journey.
The Heart of PYP: Transdiscplinary Themes
At the core of the PYP framework lie six transdisciplinary themes, serving as the backbone for our inquiry-based learning approach. These themes provide a structure that enables students to forge meaningful connections across subjects, diving deep into broad concepts that transcend individual disciplines. By exploring these themes, our students develop a rich understanding of both the human and natural worlds around them.
Each grade level from 1 to 5 engages with all six themes through carefully crafted units of inquiry. Our early years program (Pre-K and Kindergarten) typically explores four to five units each year. Central to each unit is a conceptual statement – the “central idea” – supported by three or four lines of inquiry linked to specific subject areas.
Subjects at La Scuola
At La Scuola, we integrate a wide range of subjects into our POI:
Languages: Italian, English, Spanish (grades 4 and 5)
Mathematics
Arts: Visual Arts and Music
Science: Homeroom inquiries, Environmental Studies, Technology, and Robotics
Social Studies: Storia, Geografia, Racial Literacy (Pollyanna curriculum)-
Personal, Social, and Physical Education (PSPE): Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Physical Education (PE)
While we strive to incorporate these subjects into our transdisciplinary units, we also recognize the importance of subject-specific inquiries. This balanced approach allows for both integrated learning and focused, in-depth exploration of individual disciplines.
Embracing Evolution: The New Descriptors
The recent update to the transdisciplinary theme descriptors marks an important evolution in the PYP framework. As the IB’s PYP Subject Guidance transition guide states:
“The transdisciplinary themes remain the same and continue to be central to the structure of the programme of inquiry. So, what has changed? The descriptors have moved from commonalities of human experience to a balance between human and natural worlds.”
This shift broadens the scope of each theme, inviting more diverse perspectives and encouraging greater transdisciplinary connections. For instance, the “Who We Are” theme now extends beyond human experiences, encompassing inquiries into other species and our relationship with the environment.
La Scuola’s Journey of Implementation
Our eight-week review process, led by a dedicated task force of six PYP educators, revealed exciting opportunities within the new descriptors:
1. Increased Inclusivity: The updated themes encourage a more holistic view of the world, moving beyond human-centered perspectives.
2. Diverse Knowledge Systems: Particularly within the “How the World Works” theme, there’s now room to explore Indigenous knowledge and practices alongside traditional scientific inquiry.
3. Cross-Subject Integration: Previously, certain subjects naturally aligned with specific themes. Now, all subjects are invited into every theme, promoting a more interconnected and dynamic learning experience.
4. Improved Format and Clarity: there has been significant change in the format of the descriptors. The previous version used linear paragraphs with separations marked by semicolons. In contrast, the new descriptors are structured with an opening statement followed by three bullet points. This new format offers several advantages:
- Enhanced comprehension for teachers, students, and parents
- Greater brevity and clarity in conveying key ideas
- Easier translation into other languages, including Italian, with reduced ambiguity
This structural change improves understanding and also aligns with our commitment to clear communication across our multilingual community.
Reflection and Moving Forward
As we implement these changes, we remain committed to our role as lifelong learners. This update to our POI is not just an improvement in the curriculum; it’s a reflection of our dedication to staying at the forefront of educational innovation.
We recognize that education, like the world around us, is constantly evolving. By embracing these new descriptors, we’re providing our students with a more nuanced, inclusive, and interconnected view of the world. This approach enriches their learning experience and also prepares them to be thoughtful, adaptable citizens of our global community.
As we move forward, we’ll continue to reflect on our practices, always seeking ways to improve and adapt. We invite our entire school community – students, parents, and educators alike – to join us in this exciting journey of growth and discovery. Together, we’re not just teaching subjects; we’re nurturing curious minds and compassionate hearts, ready to engage with the complex, beautiful world around us.
In embracing change and fostering reflection, we reaffirm our commitment to providing an education that is as dynamic and multifaceted as the students we serve. We look forward to the new insights, questions, and discoveries that this updated Program of Inquiry will bring to our classrooms and beyond.
For more information on the International Baccalaureate program, visit the IB website. You can learn more about La Scuola International School here.
Written by:
Leticia O’Sullivan, IB-PYP Coordinator and Elementary Ed Tech Teacher
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