The IB Middle Years Programme

Approaches to learning (ATL) skills

Through approaches to learning (ATL) students develop skills that have relevance across the curriculum and help them ‘learn how to learn’. ATL skills can be learned and taught, improved with practice and developed incrementally. They provide a solid foundation for learning independently and with others. They provide a common language that students and teachers can use to reflect on, and articulate on, the process of learning. (MYP: From principles into practice, 2014, p. 20). 

Additionally, in the Australian Curriculum, general capabilities equip young Australians with the knowledge, skills, behaviours, and dispositions to live and work successfully. General capabilities are developed through the learning areas (https://v9.australiancurriculum.edu.au/f-10-curriculum/f-10-curriculum-overview/general-capabilities). Similar to the IB philosophy and MYP ATLS they include: critical and creative thinking, digital literacy, ethical understanding, intercultural understanding, literacy, numeracy and personal and social capability. 

Year 6 students recently utilised the ATL and ACARA general capability skill of creative thinking (mind mapping). Firstly, we explored how mind mapping is an invaluable skill for creative writing. This visual tool helped the class organise their thoughts, brainstorm ideas, and make connections between different poetic concepts, to generate more decisive and interesting details. By allowing students to visually map out their identities (hobbies, sports, friends, food preferences), mind mapping encouraged a free flow of ideas and helped overcome writer's block, making the writing process more engaging and less intimidating (see samples). 

Additionally, as you can see in some of the poems, it aids in the development of critical thinking as students could easily see how their ideas interconnected. This method enhanced our creativity but also is starting to improve the overall writing quality, as students can plan their poems, explore poetic devices and interesting details to develop their work more effectively.

Service across cohorts

In a wonderful display of collaboration and service within our school community. This term the Year 6B Product Design class painted wooden frames for the Junior school corridor display about “The Leader in Me”.

Students artistically considered the purpose and function of the frame and decorated with flair and personality. Constructed by the Junior School staff for students it reflects how at Oakleigh Grammar we serve the needs of others and use the skills and talents within our community.

You can see the display in the downstairs corridor.

Greatness is reflected in all of us.

Well done all!