PYP

 What is a Central Idea

A central idea is the lens that drives the Transdisciplinary Theme. A central idea is introduced at the beginning of each unit of inquiry. Central ideas may be co-constructed or created prior by the year level teachers. During the introduction of the central idea the class will brainstorm their understandings of new vocabulary.  ‘Unpacking’ is a strategy where students deconstruct the central idea to ensure a clear and agreed understanding by the class. During this, students may be introduced as a whole class or work in groups to discuss and develop greater meaning. 

A central idea enables students to continue throughout their unit of inquiry revisiting and consolidating their understandings.  

What are Lines of Inquiry? 

The lines of inquiry are statements that define the inquiry. These are used to clarify the Central Idea and extend the inquiry. These lines of inquiry give focus and deepen students’ understandings.  

Olivia Year 2 

Central Idea: A balanced lifestyle is influenced by the choices we make. 

Lines of inquiry:  

What it means to have a healthy and balanced lifestyle 

Spiritual, social and physical health (mind body spirit) 

Making healthy food choices 

We are just starting our new Central Idea. Our central idea I think might be about how you should try and think about other people not just yourselves. 

I think our lines of inquiry are about not just eating bad food and trying to get strong and fit with healthy food. 

I think the next line of inquiry is about your emotions, like when you are angry take a deep breath and calm down. Ms Maxwell says, “smell the rose and blow out the candle’ that’s how we calm down.  

Finn Year 5  

Central Idea: Past Events shape the present and the future. 

Lines of inquiry:  

European settlement in Australia 

Asian migrants in Australia 

Impacts of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders 

Our central idea is past events shape the present and the future. 

We started this unit of inquiry last week. So far it is about when the British took over Australia. There were free settlers, people who had a choice to go to Australia. Convicts, which were forced. People from the gold rush, some who chose to go and some when they came here were discriminated.  

What has been interesting so far is that I didn’t know that free settlers came so early or about the gold rush. 

Ada Year 6 

Central Idea: Present day cultures are influenced by cultures from the past. 

Lines of inquiry:  

Events leading to Australia’s involvement in war since Federation 

The changing face of Australian society throughout the 20th Century 

Migration 

The contribution of individuals and groups to the development of Australian society 

We have been creating a play to explain a defining moment in Australian history and how it shaped the present day. I am looking at the Port Arthur Massacre and how it this made changes in our society. 

What has been interesting about this unit is when we visited the Shrine for our school excursion. We learnt more about the impacts on the soldiers that have fought in wars that Australia has been involved in.