THE IB PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME AT WSPS

What is a ‘Unit of Inquiry’? 

At the heart of the PYP Philosophy is a commitment to structured Inquiry as the leading vehicle for learning. Inquiry is the process initiated by the students or the teacher that moves the students from their current level of understanding to a new and deeper level of understanding.

A unit of inquiry is an in-depth exploration of a concept. The unit of inquiry can go from 4-8 weeks or some that are taught all year round. Students will inquire into a central idea by being guided by lines of inquiry and teacher questions.Parts of a unit of inquiry include central Idea, summative assessment, lines of inquiry, teacher and students questions and provocations, summative assessments, learning experiences, resources, student inquiries and actions, and extensive Reflections on the teaching and learning and student agency at the heart. 

At Wales Street Primary School we communicate our units of inquiry through our unit Brochures. These are sent to all parents via compass/seesaw during each unit allowing you to understand the basis of each unit your child’s learning. 

Here is some photos of some inquiry work samples:  

THE LEARNER PROFILE : INQUIRER 

Inquirer

Students who are INQUIRERS are curious about the world. They can conduct research independently. They love learning and discovering new things and will carry this love of learning with them throughout life.

How can parents help to develop students who are Inquirers at home?

• Encourage areas of your child’s interest by visiting the library to borrow books that explore these topics.
• Develop an understanding of the Internet. Work with your son or daughter when the Internet is being used and try to instill the understanding that some Internet sites are not reputable.
• Model being an inquirer. Admit when you don’t know the answer to a problem or a question and seek out answers in front of your child.