IB Primary Years Programme (KG - Grade 5)

At Kodaikanal International School (KIS), we offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), an educational framework for students aged 3 to 12. The PYP emphasizes inquiry-based, transdisciplinary learning, fostering the development of young learners as active, caring, and lifelong participants in a global society.

Inquiry-Based and Transdisciplinary Curriculum

The PYP curriculum is designed to encourage students to explore beyond traditional subject boundaries, promoting a deeper understanding of the world around them. It is organized around six transdisciplinary themes:

1. Who We Are: Exploring aspects of identity, beliefs, and human relationships.
2. Where We Are in Place and Time: Understanding personal histories and the exploration of human migrations.
3. How We Express Ourselves: Investigating ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, and values.
4. How the World Works: Delving into the natural world and the impact of scientific and technological advances.
5. How We Organize Ourselves: Studying human-made systems and communities, including economic activities.
6. Sharing the Planet: Considering rights and responsibilities in sharing finite resources and understanding peace and conflict resolution.

Developing the IB Learner Profile

Central to the PYP is the development of the IB Learner Profile, which outlines ten attributes that KIS strives to nurture in all students:

• Inquirers: Developing natural curiosity and a love for learning.
• Knowledgeable: Exploring concepts and issues of local and global significance.
• Thinkers: Engaging in critical and creative thinking to approach complex problems.
• Communicators: Expressing ideas confidently and creatively in various ways.
• Principled: Acting with honesty, fairness, and respect for others.
• Open-Minded: Appreciating different cultures and perspectives.
• Caring: Showing empathy and a commitment to making a positive difference.
• Risk-Takers: Approaching unfamiliar situations with courage and resilience.
• Balanced: Understanding the importance of intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being.
• Reflective: Thinking about our own learning and experiences to improve.

Student-Centered Learning Approach

The PYP at KIS is characterized by a student-centered approach, where learners are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning through inquiry-based methods. This approach fosters a deep understanding of content and the development of skills necessary for lifelong learning.

Preparing for Lifelong Learning

The PYP at KIS aims to develop students who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also caring and active participants in their communities. By fostering these attributes, KIS ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future, embodying the principles of international education and global citizenship.