“Elementary school buildings are all blunt and the same” someone once said. But some elementary schools are exceptionally well-known for special reasons. Welcome to Koto Elementary School. It is a place where young minds blossom. Here, education extends beyond textbooks.
But let me tell you more about elementary schools in general. The IB PYP enables students to learn why they should know something. It shows them how it connects to other subjects. It helps them relate to the world.
At OIS Elementary School students develop social skills. They gain academic skills too. This happens within seven classes of active inquiry. Students study the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. Group engagements are planned by sixteen teachers. They bring expertise from various countries. These countries include America, Australia and Brazil. Canada, Japan, Sweden, Trinidad and Tobago, and the UK are also represented. Teachers plan together weekly. This ensures students learn effectively. They can share their thinking in a supportive environment. Throughout the year students demonstrate their learning. These demonstrations include assemblies and class displays. Concerts are also held.
The curriculum is organized around six broad themes. These themes ensure structured inquiry. They promote the construction of knowledge. The six themes unify curriculums in PYP schools worldwide. These themes are Who We Are and Where We Are in Place and Time. Also How We Express Ourselves and How the World Works. How We Organize Ourselves and Sharing the Planet are included too. All six themes are covered in each grade level from grade 1 to grade 5. Teachers design units of inquiry for each theme collaboratively. Through this process students develop an understanding of important concepts. They acquire essential skills and knowledge. Students develop attitudes and learn to take socially responsible action.
In the spirit of internationalism, students learn a second language. This is in addition to the school’s language of instruction.
Experiences in the early years lay the foundation for future learning. A rapid rate of development occurs in the physical domain. It also occurs in the emotional, social and cognitive domains. The brain and body develop faster than at any other time in a child’s life. Early Years education is child centered. It is driven by the needs of the young learner.
In the early years program play is the primary driver of inquiry. Children learn about themselves through play. They discover the world around them. Play allows young learners to explore their interests. They construct meaning from their interactions. These meanings are continuously built upon as experiences grow.
Students take initiative. They express interest. They make choices. Students are aware of their learning goals. They monitor and adjust their learning as needed. Students offer feedback to others. They consult on decisions that affect them.
At OIS, elementary students have access to various areas. The purpose-built early childhood area is a safe space. It welcomes the youngest learners. All students use the library and music room regularly. They also access the art studio, gyms, sports field and swimming pool. In G1-G5 all students use their own Chromebooks. They learn to be responsible users.
Art classes develop each child’s perceptions. They nurture feelings and imagination. Creative activities encourage students to take risks. Students broaden their knowledge gained in units of inquiry.
Music lessons offer children music experiences. They listen to music from around the world. They sing and play instruments. Drama and dance are part of the curriculum.
The Physical Education program provides opportunities. It fosters the development of motor skills. It promotes physical fitness. A variety of activities encourage movement. They encourage the enjoyment of activity.
Assessment is integral to the learning process. Students are aware of expectations. In grades 1 to 5 students take Measures of Academic Progress assessments. These tests assess their skills. The results provide feedback for curriculum development.
It is a requirement of the PYP. Students in their final year engage in an exhibition. All their skills and knowledge are used in a unit of inquiry. It is the culmination of their development.
Elementary students participate in after-school activities. These activities extend their skills. They learn new ones with a wider range of peers. Activities are diverse. They complement the PYP curriculum.
Koto Elementary School is more than bricks and mortar. It is a place of discovery. It fosters growth and prepares students for the world.