IB- Primary Years Program

A TRANSDISCIPLINARY PROGRAMME OF INQUIRY

Some learning is subject specific, for example learning a process for addition, understanding how words are spelt, learning to decode words in reading or the structure of a narrative text. Other learning is transdisciplinary. Transdisciplinary learning is when knowledge and skills from across subject areas are utilised to inquire into meaningful purposeful themes, problems or concepts.

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) develops units of inquiry around six transdisciplinary themes of global significance. Each transdisciplinary theme develops understandings that are enduring and significant to all students regardless of where they are in the world or their cultural background.

The 6 transdisciplinary themes are revisited throughout the students’ years in school, developing a broad and deep understanding of each theme.

The 6 transdisciplinary themes are:

Who we are

An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships, including families, friends, communities and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human.

Where we are in place and time

An inquiry into orientation in place and time; personal histories; homes and journeys; the discoveries, explorations and migrations of humankind; the relationships between, and the interconnectedness of, individuals and civilizations, from local and global perspectives.

How we express ourselves

An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic.

How the world works

An inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the

An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organisations; societal decision-making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the environment.

Sharing the planet

An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution.

The Murrumbeena Primary School Programme of Inquiry maps the transdisciplinary units of inquiry students will explore each year and throughout their 7 years at Murrumbeena Primary School. The units of inquiry are constantly reviewed to ensure authentic, engaging, relevant and current real world learning occurs. Units of inquiry are carefully planned to teach the required learning areas and capabilities of the Victorian Curriculum.

You can view our current programme of inquiry on the Murrumbeena Primary School website.

Please note, the order and timing of units of inquiry may change due to a range of circumstances, for example remote learning, availability of excursion, current events…

Angela Houghton

PYP Co-ordinator