PYP

Transdisciplinary Themes in the PYP

The PYP curriculum is structured around six Transdisciplinary Themes, which provide the framework for inquiry-based learning. These themes help students explore a wide range of topics that connect different subjects and areas of knowledge. They encourage students to make connections across disciplines and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

The six Transdisciplinary Themes are:

Who we are

Where we are in place and time

How we express ourselves

How the world works

How we organise ourselves

Sharing the planet

What is a Central Idea?

A Central Idea is the core concept that drives the inquiry within a unit in the Primary Years Programme (PYP). It serves as the foundation for students’ learning and exploration within a Transdisciplinary Theme. The Central Idea is introduced at the start of each unit to set the focus for the inquiry journey ahead.

During the introduction, students often engage in a brainstorming session to explore new vocabulary and concepts related to the Central Idea.

A key teaching strategy is unpacking the Central Idea. This involves breaking down the statement to ensure that students have a shared understanding. This process may be done as a whole class or in smaller groups, allowing students to discuss, question, and develop a deeper meaning of the Central Idea together.

Throughout the unit, the Central Idea is revisited and reflected upon, providing students with an opportunity to refine and consolidate their learning as they make connections to their ongoing inquiry.

What are Lines of Inquiry?

Lines of Inquiry are statements that further define and guide the exploration of the Central Idea. They help clarify the key aspects of the inquiry, offering a more focused direction for students’ learning. These lines serve as stepping stones that deepen students' understanding of the topic and allow them to explore various angles of the Central Idea.

By providing specific areas of investigation, Lines of Inquiry give structure to the inquiry process and help students explore the Central Idea in more meaningful ways. They also encourage critical thinking, reflection, and the development of inquiry skills.

A Big Thank You to Our PYP Student Leaders

Thank you to our Year 6 PYP student leaders, Aiden and Jack, who interviewed some of our Beaumaris North students about what they are inquiring about in classrooms around the school