The IB Primary Years Program at Pine Street School 2023-24 Junior KG Curriculum Guide

Junior Kindergarten

Curriculum Guide

PineStreetSchoolisaninternationally-mindedcommunitydedicatedto providinganinnovative,engaging,multilingual,andmulticulturaleducationthat inspiresandempowersourstudentstotakemindfulactionforequityandthe environment,makingapositiveimpactintheworld.

Primary Years Program at Pine Street School

What Is the Primary Years Program?

The Primary Years Program (PYP) is a curriculum framework that is designed for students 3-12 years of age. The PYP focuses on the whole child and through the teaching and learning experiences, helps each child develop into a globally minded citizen of the world. Pine Street School provides the PYP curriculum for students in Preschool through 5th Grade. The Twos curriculum has been designed with the same philosophy and aims to prepare our youngest students to begin their PYP journey at age 3 in our Preschool.

What Is the PYP Curriculum Like?

The PYP curriculum is engaging, relevant, challenging, and significant. It aims to help students develop conceptual understanding, knowledge, and skills through a hands-on, minds-on inquiry approach. The inquiry approach allows students to have an active role in learning and to take responsibility for that learning. The units of inquiry are organized into 6 transdisciplinary themes designed to facilitate the growth of conceptual understanding, knowledge, and skills through carefully planned and designed learning engagements. Transdisciplinary themes cut across disciplines and encourage students to explore the connections between traditional subjects as related to the concepts being studied Students, consequently, develop deeper conceptual understandings, improve skills, and gain useful knowledge.

Who Do We Strive to Become?

The aim of all the PYP program is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and sharedguardianshipoftheplanet,helptocreateabetterandmore peacefulworld.

The attributes of the Learner Profile represent a broad range of human capacities and responsibilities that encompass intellectual, personal, emotional, and social growth. The development and demonstration of these attributes are foundational to students becoming internationally minded, active, and caring community members who respect themselves, others, and the world around them.

Attributes of the Learner Profile

INQUIRERS KNOWLEDGEABLE ? THINKERS COMMUNICATORS PRINCIPLED

We nurture our curiosity, developing skills for inquiry and research. We know how to learn independently and with others. We learn with enthusiasm and sustain our love of learning throughout life

We develop and use conceptual understanding, exploring knowledge across a range of disciplines We engage with issues and ideas that have local and global significance.

We use critical and creative thinking skills to analyze and take responsible action on complex problems. We exercise initiative in making reasoned, ethical decisions.

We express ourselves confidently and creatively in more than one language and in many ways We collaborate effectively, listen carefully to the perspectives of other individuals and groups

We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

OPEN-MINDED CARING RISK-TAKERS BALANCED REFLECTIVE

We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience.

We show empathy, compassion, and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.

We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.

We understand the importance of balancing different aspects of our lives - intellectual, physical, and emotional - to achieve wellbring for oursevles and others. We recognize our interdependence with other people and with the world in which we live.

We thoughtfully consider the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.

What Is Essential in the PYP?

Knowledge:

Significant, relevant content that we wish the students to explore and know about, taking into consideration their prior experience and understanding

Concepts:

Powerful ideas that have relevance within the subject areas but also transcend them and the students must explore and re-explore in order to develop a coherent in-depth understanding.

Approaches to Learning (skills):

Those capabilities that the students need to demonstrate to succeed in a changing, challenging world, which may be disciplinary or transdisciplinary in nature.

Attitudes:

Dispositions that are expressions of fundamental values, beliefs and feelings about learning, the environment and people.

Action:

Demonstrations of deeper learning in responsible behavior through responsible action; a manifestation in practice of the other essential elements.

What Do We Want Our Students to Know?

Knowledge

In the PYP, knowledge is gained through Units of Inquiry. The Units of Inquiry are organized through a set of six transdisciplinary themes that provide the framework for transdisciplinary learning. Transdisciplinary learning in the PYP refers to learning that is not confinedwithintheboundariesoftraditionalsubjects,butissupportedandenrichedbythem.

These themes are globally significant and support the acquisition of knowledge, concepts and skills of traditional subjects. These themesarerevisitedandreinforcedyearlyintheUnitsofInquiry

Who We Are Where We Are in Place & Time

An inquiry into the nature of the self.

Beliefsandvalues

Personal,physical, mental,social,and spiritualhealth

Humanrelationships, includingfamilies, friends,communities, andcultures

Rightsand responsibilities

Whatitmeanstobe human

How We Express Ourselves

An inquiry into orientation in place and time.

Personalhistories

Homesandjourneys

Thediscoveries, explorations,and migrationsof humankind

Relationshipand interconnectedness ofindividualsand civilizations,from localandglobal perspectives

How the World Works

An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs, and values.

Thewaysinwhich wereflecton,extend, andenjoyour creativity

Ourappreciationof theaesthetic

An inquiry into the natural world and its laws, the interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies.

Howhumansusetheir understandingof scientificprinciples

Theimpactofscientific andtechnological advancesonsociety andonthe environment

How we Organize Ourselves

An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities.

Thestructureand functionof organizations

Societaldecisionmaking Economicactivities andtheirimpacton humankindandthe environment

Sharing the Planet

An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and other living things.

Peaceandconflict resolution

Accesstoequal opportunities

Communitiesand therelationships withinandbetween them

What Do We Want Our Students to Understand? Concepts

Concepts are "big ideas" that add depth and rigor in student thinking to the traditional "two-dimensional" curriculum consisting of factsandskillsTheyarepowerful,broad,andabstractorganizingideasthatmaybetransdisciplinaryorsubject-based.Theyrepresent the vehicle for students' inquiry into the opportunities and challenges of local and global significance. Concepts are concise; they are usuallyrepresentedbyoneortwowords.

The PYP identifies seven keyconcepts. Together, these key concepts form the component that drives the teacher- and/or studentconstructed inquiries that lie at the heart of the PYP curriculum. Key concepts drive learning experiences and help to fram a Unit of Inquiry By identifying and investigating key concepts, students learn to think critically about big ideas This may be done through broad, open-ended questions in an inquiry. When concepts are viewed as a set of questions, the inquiry is directed, purposeful, and manageable

Form

What is it like?

The understanding that everything has a form with recognizable features that can be observed, identified, described, and categorized.

Function Causation

How does it work?

The understanding that everything has a purpose, a role, or a way of behaving that can be investigated.

Why is it as it is?

The understanding that things do not just happen; there are causal relationships at work, and that actions have consequences.

Change

How is it transforming?

The understanding that change is the process of movement from one state to another. It is universal and inevitable

Connection Perspective Responsibility

What are our obligations?

The understanding that people make choices based on their understandings, beliefs, and values, and the actions they take as a result do make a difference.

What are the points of view?

The understanding that knowledge is moderated by different points of view leading to different interpretations, understandings, and findings; Perspectives may be individual, groups, cultural, or subject-specific.

How is it linked to other things?

The understanding that we live in a world of interacting systems in which the actions of any individual element affect others.

In addition to learning these key concepts, children learn relatedconcepts in all curriculum areas. Instead of simply gaining knowledge and skills, they deepend their understanding of more complex ideas. Related concepts explore key concepts in greater detail and also add depth to the program. In contrast to the broad key concepts, related concepts are more narrowly focused. All subjects have associatedconceptsthatreflectthenatureofitsspecificcontent

For example, in Science, "adaptation" could be a related concept connected to the key concept of "change"; in Social Studies, "sustainability"couldbearelatedconceptassociatedwiththekeyconceptsof"change"and"responsibility"

What Do We Want Our Students to Understand?

Approaches to Learning (skills)

Approaches to Learning (ATL) are an integral part of an IB education and complement the learner profile, knowledge, conceptual understanding, and inquiry. Approaches to Learning are grounded in the belief that learning how to learn is fundamental to a student's education. Five categories of interrelated skills and associated sub-skills support students of all ages to become self-regulated learners. Through a variety of strategies, teachers collaboratively plan for implicit and explicit opportunities to develope ATL skills both insideandoutsidetheProgramofInquiryinage-appropriateways.

Collaborative inquiry requires learners to demonstrate many of the Approaches to Learning skills that have been indentified for the Primary Years Program Examine the skills outlined here to identify skills that learners would need to apply to fully participate in an inquiryapproach:

Thinking Skills

5 Categories of Interrelated Skills

Critical-thinking skills (analyzing and evaluating issues and ideas)

Creative-thinking skills (generating novel ideas and considering new perspectives)

Transfer skills (using skills and knowledge in multiple contexts)

Reflection/Metacognitive skills ((re)considering the process of learning)

rmation-literacy skills (formulating and planning, data gathering and recording, synthesizing and interpreting, evaluating and communicating)

Media-literacy skills (interacting with media to use and create ideas and information

Ethical use of media/information (understanding and applying social and ethical technology)

Research Skills

Communication Skills

Exchanging-information skills (listening, interpreting, speaking)

Literacy skills (reading, writing, and using language to gather and communicate information)

ICT skills (using technology to gather, investigate, and communicate information)

Developing positive interpersonal relationships and collaboration skills (using self-control, managing setbacks, supporting peers)

Developing social-emotional intelligence

SSocial kills

SelfManagement Skills

Organization skills (managing time and tasks effectively)

States of mind (mindfulness, perseverance, emotional management, self-motivation, resilience)

What Do We Want Our Students to Value, Demonstrate, and Feel? Attitudes

The PYP includes a set of 12 attitudes embedded in the definitions of the Learner Profile. At Pine Street School, we see these as integral to the growth and development of students and choose to highlight them within the Learner Profile and independently. Pine Street School focuses on the development of personal attitudes: toward people, toward the environment, and toward learning. These attitudes contribute to the well-being of the individual and the group, as well as fostering the development of international-mindedness

Appreciation

Appreciatingthewonderand beautyoftheworldanditspeople.

Commitment

Beingcommittedtoownlearning, perservering,andshowingselfdisciplineandresponsibility.

Enthusiasm

Enjoyinglearningandwillingly puttingeffortintotheprocess.

Integrity

Beinghonestanddemonstrating aconsideredsenseoffairness

Creativity

Beingcreativeandimaginativein ownthinkingandapproach.

Respect

Respectingthemselves,others,and theworldaroundthem.

Empathy

Imagininginanother'ssituationin ordertounderstandhisorher reasoningandemotions,soastobe open-mindedandreflectiveabout theperspectivesofothers.

Confidence

Feelingconfidentinownabilityaslearners, havingthecouragetotakerisks,applying whathasbeenlearnedandmaking appropriatedecisionsandchoices.

Independence

Thinkingandactingindependently, makingownjudgmentsbasedon reasonedargument,andbeingableto defendownjudgments.

Cooperation

Cooperating,collaborating,andleading andfollowingasthesituationdemands.

Curiosity

Beingcuriousaboutthenatureoflearning, abouttheworld,itspeopleandcultures.

Tolerance

Acceptingandbeingsensitiveabout differencesanddiversityintheworldand beingresponsivetotheneedsofothers

Pine Street School | © Green Ivy Schools

How Do We Want Students to Act? Action

Responsibility and appropriate action is planned for an is an expected outcome of student exploration and learning through the Units of Inquiry. As an integral part of the learning process, action can be embarked upon at any point and can take many forms, depending on individual development, learning,andexperiences.

Action can be short- or long-term, revisited or ongoing. It may be individual or collective, small- or large-scale, and may take place at home, at school, or in local or wider communities. Some actions may not always be visible or immediately impactful; they might appear in the form of impressions left on students, or small things that go unnoticed because they are part of daily life of the learningcommunity.

For early years students, the foundation of action comes from an understanding of self and a responsibility toward relationships with peers and the wider community Members of the learning community support this understanding by modeling the appropriate useoflanguageandsocialbehaviors.

Action Participation

contributing as an individual or group

Advocacy

action to support social, environmental, political change

Social Justice

Turn off the lights when leaving a room. Don't waste food.

relation to rights, equality and equity, social well-being, and justice

Social Entrepreneurship

innovative, resourceful, and sustainable social change

Lifestyle Choices

consumption, impact of choices

The PYP Exhibition

In their final year of the PYP (5th Grade), students embark on a culminating project: The PYP Exhibition The PYP Exhibition serves as a celebration of the learning gained throughout the student's time in the PYP. It also serves as a final assessment, in which students are expected to demonstrate ownership of learning, conceptual understanding, knowledge of subject matter, approaches to learning (skills), and action.

The PYP experience has provided the students with the tools they need to be life-long learners. The Exhibition allows students to make choices, share their voice, choise, and take ownership of their learning To accomplish this, the Exhibition requires students to present an in-depth, collaborative, transdisciplinary inquiry in which they identify local or global issues, research and investigate, offer solutions, and take significant action. The Exhibition is a culminating learning experience and celebration that involves the entire school community and serves as the culmination of the students' PYP experience.

Assessment at Pine Street School

Assessment is central to the PYP goal of thoughtfully and effectively supporting students through the acquisition of subject-specific knowledgeandskills,theunderstandingofconceptsandthedevelopmentofapproachestolearning

At Pine Street School, we believe that the purpose of assessment is to inform and improve teaching and learning. Assessment involves collecting and analyzing assessment information, which is used to drive teaching and learning and to communicate effectively with stakeholders within, as well as outside of, the community. Assessment will be reflected upon and should effectively guide students throughthefiveessentialelementsoflearning:

Acquisitionofknowledge•Understandingofconcepts•Masteringofskills•Developmentofattitudes•Decisiontotakeaction

Assessment Types

AtPineStreetSchool,weusethreetypesofassessmentstoinformandimproveteachingandlearning

1.DiagnosticAssessments:

Allows teachers to determine prior knowledge, understanding, and skills prior to instruction. This information is used to plan learning engagementsandtoshowgrowthovertime.

2.FormativeAssessments:

Frequentassessmentusedtoevaluatestudentlearninginordertoprovideongoingfeedbackthatcanbeusedbyteacherstoimprovetheir teaching and by students to improve their learning. Formative assessment aims to promote learning by giving regular and frequent feedback. This helps learners to improve knowledge and understanding, to foster enthusiasm for learning, to engage in thoughtful reflection,todevelopthecapacityforself-assessment,andtorecognizethecriteriaforsuccess.

3.SummativeAssessments:

Aimtogiveteachersandstudentsaclearinsightintostudents'understanding.Asummativeassessmentistheculminationoftheteaching and learning process, and gives the students opportunities to demonstrate what has been learned. It can assess several elements simultaneously: it informs and improves student learning and the teaching process; it measures understanding of the central idea, and promptsstudentstowardaction.Itoccursattheendoftransdisciplinaryanddisciplinarystudies.

Reporting

Reporting happens on a semester schedule and include mid-semester checklist progress reports, full reports, and conferences. Please refer to the Pine Street School Assessment Policy for more information.

Target Language Curriculum

At Pine Street School, all teachers are language teacher as language transcends curriculum areas. Through the IB language programs, we aim to development confident, curious, highly proficient and enthusiastic readers, writers, viewers, presenters, spreakers, and listeners. Language is always taught meaningfully and in context. These contexts vary, but often involve the use of real-life scenarios, native speakers, the local area, and a wide variety of text types. We advocate the learning through inquiry, allowing students to make connections with context, to explore and investigate. The learning of any language is developmental by nature, building constructively onwhateachindividualstudentknowstohelpmovethemforward

The Preschool offers a dual language immersion program, using Spanish or Mandarin as the target language and English, embracing the principles of the PYP. Teachers plan and organize the classroom, such that working in English and the target llanguage becomes a part of our school day - from songs, to children's literature, small group work, larger inquiries, transitions, and routines. Learners spend approximately50%oftheirclasstimeinEnglishand50%inSpanishorMandarin.

In the Elementary School program, daily language immersion instruction continues in small, proficiency-based groups. These language ability groups allow us to meet each student at their language level in a supportive environment, address each student’s individuallanguageneeds,andtomaximizetheirlinguisticdevelopmentinwriting,reading,andspeaking.

The inquiry-based instructional approach continues in our immersion groups as language teachers create and present customized curriculum that is integrated with their transdisciplinary academic work This method ensures that students not only remain engaged, but that their rate of language acquisition is increased as they have ample opportunity to use the target language within the meaningfulcontextoftheirdailyschoolexperience

Language Learning Beliefs & Values

Weunderstandthatourlearnerscomewith manydifferentlanguagebackgrounds andwillallprogressatdifferentpaces.

Wegive ongoingfeedback onlearners'progress inalllanguages ofinstruction.

Weviewtheongoing languagedevelopmentfor ourlearnersasthe responsibilityofall teachers,parents,and learners.

We use language as a medium of inquiry, providing opportunities to challenge first language learners and to develop second language learners.

Weteachlanguagethroughcontext

iandrelatenew nformationto existingknowledge.

Weprovide meta-linguistic learningstrategies forthelearners.

Weaccommodate differentlearningstyles withdifferentiated instructionaccordingto individualneeds.

Performance Indicators for Language Learners

INTERPERATIVE

I can identify the general topic and some basic information in both very familiar and everyday contexts by recognizing practiced or memorized words, phrases, and simple sentences in texts that are spoken, written, or signed

INTERPERSONAL

I can communicate in spontaneous spoken, written, or signed conversations on both very familiar and everyday topics, using a variety of practiced or memorized words, phrases, simple sentences, and questions.

PRESENTATIONAL

I can present information on both very familiar and everyday topics using a variety of practiced or memorized words, phrases, and simple sentences through spoken, written, or signed language.

I can understand the main idea and some pieces of information on familiar topics from sentences and series of connected sentences within texts that are spoken, written, or signed.

I can understand the main message and supporting details on a wide variety of familiar and general interest topics across various time frames from complex, organized texts that are spoken, written, or signed

I can participate in spontaneous spoken, written, or signed conversations on familiar topics, creating sentences and series of sentences to ask and answer a variety of questions.

I can communicate information, make presentations, and express my thoughts about familiar topics, using sentences and series of connected sentences through spoken, written, or signed language.

I can maintain spontaneous spoken, written, or signed conversations and discussions across various time frames on familiar, as well as unfamiliar, concrete topics, using series of connected sentences and probing questions. I can deliver detailed and organized presentations on familiar as well as unfamiliar concrete topics, in paragraphs and using various time frames through spoken, written, or signed language.

English Language Curriculum

Language is a social construct and is learned through social interactions, experiences, and relationships Language learning involves both receptive (receiving and constructing meaning) and expressive (creating and sharing meaning) language. The Pine Street School curriculum allows students to construct both receptive and expressive language in relevant, engaging, challenging, and significant context.Understandingthesocialconstructsoflanguageisfundamentaltotheneedandabilitytocommunicate.

Thecurriculumisdividedinto4strandsforPreschooland5strandsforElementary:

Listening & Speaking

Oral language exposes the thinking of the learner. It is a means by which their thoughts and ideas can be communicated and share to negotiate and construct meaning and develop deeper levels of understanding.

Viewing & Presenting

Viewing and presenting are fundamental processes that are historically and universally powerful and significant The receptive processes (viewing) and the expressive processes (presenting) are connected and allow for reciprocal growth in understanding; neither process has meaning except in relation to the other It is important to provide a balanced program with opportunities for students to experience both viewing and presenting.

Reading

Reading is a developmental process that involves constructing meaning from text. The process is interactive and involves the reader's purpose for reading, the reader's prior knowledge and experience, and the text itself. Reading helps us to clarify our ideas, feelings, thoughts, and opinions. Literature offers us a means of understanding ourselves and others and has the power to influence and structure thinking. Children learn to read by reading. In order to develop life-long reading habits, learners need to have extended periods of time to read for pleasure, interest, and information experiencing an extensive range of quality fiction and non-fiction texts.

Writing

Writing is a way of expressing ourselves. It is a personal act that grows and develops with the individual. From the earliest lines and marks of young learners to the expression of mature writers, it allows us to organize and communicate thoughts. ideas, and information in a visible and tangible way. Writing is primarily concerned with communicating meaning and intention. When children are encouraged to express themselves and reveal their own "voice," writing is a genuine expression of the individual. Over time. writing involves developing a variety of structures, strategies, and literary techniques (spelling, grammar, plot, character, punctuation, voice) and applying them with increasing skill and effectiveness.

Conventions

Conventions are generally accepted and practiced rules of a language. Conventions include phonics and grammar. Elementary only

Math Curriculum

Students at Pine Street School are challenged in the area of mathematical understanding and knowledge at the appropriate levels of cognitive development. Students explore mathematical concepts and construct meaning starting with concrete and moving to more abstractunderstanding Itisthroughrelevant,realistic,real-lifecontextthattheseskillsandunderstandingsaretaughtandlearned As students construct their understandings through concrete, real-life experiences, they will advance their abstract understanding of mathematicalconceptsbytransferringmeaningintosymbolicnotation.Studentswillbeinvolvedindiscussionstoexplaintheirunderstanding andexperienceswithsymbolicrepresentationastheylearnandtransfertheirunderstandingintoconventionalmathematicalnotation.

Once students have developed their own constructs and progressed to the abstract reasoning of using conventional symbolic notations, they will be asked to apply their understanding through authentic, real-life learning engagements. These engagements allow for hands-on problem-solving,realisticsituations,andstudentagencyastheydemonstratetheirunderstandinginavarietyofways.Thisprocessallowsfor deepunderstandingandvalidationsofthestudents'learningastheypresenttheirideas,receivefeedback,andreflectontheirlearning.

The mathematics curriculum is divided into 5 strands. The Twos curriculum only has 3 strands: Number (Number Sense & Operations), Pattern&Function(Pattern&AlgebraicThinking).

Number Sense & Operation Pattern & Algebraic Thinking

Our number system is a language for describing quantities and the relationships between quantities. For example, the value attributed to a digit depends on its place within a base system.

To identify pattern is to begin to understand how mathematics applies to the world in which we live The repetitive features of patterns can be identified and described as generalized rules called "functions." This builds a foundation for the later study of algebra.

Organizing & Interpreting Information

Data handling allows us to make a summary of what we know about the world and to make inferences about what we do not know.

A. Data can be collected, organized, represented, and summarized in a variety of ways to highlight similarities, differences, and trends; the chosen format should illustrate the information without bias or distortion.

B. Probability can be expressed qualitatively by using terms such as "unlikely," "certain," or "impossible." It can be measured quantitatively on a numerical scale.

Measurement

To measure is to attach a number to a quantity using a chosen unit. Since the attributes being measured are continuous, ways must be found to deal with quantities that fall between numbers. It is important to know how accurate a measurement needs to be or can ever be.

Geometry

To identify pattern is to begin to understand how mathematics applies to the world in which we live. The repetitive features of patterns can be identified and described as generalized rules called "functions." This builds a foundation for the later study of algebra.

Science Curriculum

Science in the PYP emcompasses science and its applications In the PYP the science component of the curriculum should be driven by concepts and skills rather than by content. The key concepts are inevitably influential in driving the curriculum, but there are many other related science concepts that provide further understanding of the subject.

At Pine Street School, we begin with the PYP philosophy and infuse the Next Generation Science Standards into the PYP framework. Through the transdisciplinary units of study, our approach allows students to develop conceptual understandings and the big ideas in science, develop an understanding of the scientific method, innovate with technology, gain critical thinking and problem-solving skills, conduct and present research, and much more. Students will also learn to apply many scientific skills such as:

The science curriculum is divided into 4 strands:

Living Things

The study of characteristics, systems, and behaviors of humans and other animals, and of plants; the interactions and relationships between and among them, and with the environment.

Earth & Space

The study of planet Earth and its position in the universe, particularly its relationship with the sun; the natural phenomena and systems that shape the planet and the distinctive features that identify it.

Material & Matter

The study of properties, behaviors, and uses of materials, both natural and human-made; the origins of humanmade materials and how they are manipulated to suit a purpose.

Forces & Energy

The study of energy, its origin, storage and transfer, and the work it can do; the study of forces; the application of scientific understanding through inventions and machines.

Observecarefullyinordertogatherdata

Useavarietyofinstrumentsandtoolsto measuredataaccurately

Usescientificvocabularytoexplaintheir observationsandexperiences

Identifyorgenerateaquestionorproblemto beexplored

Planandcarryoutsystematicinvestigations, manipulatingvariablesasnecessary

Makeandtestpredictions

Interpretandevaluatedatagatheredinorder todrawconclusions

Considerscientificmodelsandapplications ofthesemodels(includingtheirlimitations)

Science Curriculum

Social studies in the PYP is essentially about people: how they think, feel, and act; how they interact with others; their beliefs, aspirations, and pleasures; the problems they have to face; how and where they live (or lived);howtheyinteractwiththeirenvironment;theworktheydo;andhowtheyorganizethemselves.

At Pine Street School, we begin with the PYP philosophy and infuse our social studies and history learner outcomes or big ideas in social studies and history into the PYP framework. Through the transdisciplinary units of inquiry, our approach allows students to develop conceptual understandings and grasp big ideas in bothsocialstudiesandhistory. Theydevelopmanyimportantlifeskillssuchas:

The social studies curriculum is divided into 5 strands:

Human Systems & Economic Activities

The study of how and why people construct organizations and systems; the way in which people connect locally and globally; the distribution of power and authority.

Social Organization & Culture

The study of people, communities, cultures, and societies; the ways in which individuals, groups, and societies interact with each other.

Formulateandask questionsaboutthepast, thefuture,placesandsociety

Useandanalyzeevidence fromavarietyofhistorical, geographical,andsocietal sources

Orientateinrelationtoplace andtime

Humans & Natural Environments

The study of the relationships between people and events through time; the past, its influences on the present and its implications for the future; people who have shaped the future through their actions.

Resources & the Environment

Identifyroles,rights,and responsibilitiesinsociety

Assesstheaccuracy,validity, andpossiblebiasofsources

The study of the distinctive features that give a place its identity; how people adapt to and alter their environment; how people experience and represent place; the impact of natural disasters on people and the built environment.

The interaction between people and the environment; the study of how humans allocate and manage resources; the positive and negative effects of this management; the impact of scientific and technological developments on the environment

Personal, Social, and Physical Education (PSPE)

PSPE provides the models, processes, vocabulary for handling social and personal issues, and ensuring health and well-being. Students are prepared to address moral issues in their lives and act upon a set of positive values such as appreciation, empathy, and respect. They should be given guidance to help develop positive attitudes and behaviors in order to meet challenges, make healthy lifestylechoices,andserveasresponsible,respectfulmembersofsociety.

PSPEconsistsof3strands:

Identity

An understanding of our own beliefs, values, attitudes, experiences, and feelings and how they shape us; the impact of cultural influences; the recognition of strengths, limitations, and challenges as well as the ability to cope successfully with situations of change and adversity; how the learner's concept of self and feelings of selfworth affect their approach to learning and how they interact with others.

Active Living

An understanding of the factors that contribute to developing and maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle; the importance of regular physical activity; the body's response to exercise; the importance of developing basic motor skills; understanding and developing the body's potential for movement and expression; the importance of nutrition; understanding the causes and possible prevention of ill health; the promotion of safety; rights and responsibilities we have to ourselves and others to promote well-being; making informed choices and evaluating consequences, and taking action for healthy living now and in the future.

Interactions

An understanding of how an individual interacts with other people, other living things and the wider world; behaviors, rights and responsibilities of individuals and their relationships with others, communities, society, and the world around them; the awareness and understanding of similarities and differences; an appreciation of the environment and an understanding of, and commitment to, humankind's responsibility as custodians of the Earth for future generations.

While the PSPE curriculum is woven through all disciplines and aspects of the school day, Physical Education classes are a prime catalyst to learn and master many of the PSPE skills.

The Arts

The PYP states that arts are integral to the program. They are a powerful mode of communication through which students explore and constructasenseofselfanddevelopanunderstandingoftheworldaroundthem.Artsprovidestudentswithawiderangeofopportunities andmeanstorespondtotheirexperiencesandengagewithhistorical,socialandculturalperspectives.Thestudentsarestimulatedtothink andtoarticulatetheirthoughtsinnewways,andthroughavarietyofmediaandtechnologies ThePYPrecognizesthatnotalllearningcan be supported solely through language, and that arts as a medium of inquiry also provide opportunities for learning, communication and expression. Learning about and through arts is fundamental to the development of the whole child, promoting creativity, critical thinking, problem-solvingskillsandsocialinteractions.

Theartsconsistsof2strands:

Responding Creating

The process of responding provides students with opportunities to respond to their own and other artists' works and processes, and in so doing, develop the skills of critical analysis, interpretation, evaluation, reflection, and communication.

The process of creating provides students with opportunities to communicate distinctive forms of meaning, develop their technical skills, take creative risks, solve problems and visualize consequences. Students are encourages to draw on their imagination, experiences, and knowledge of matierals and processes as starting points for creative exploration.

While the arts curriculum is woven through all disciplines and aspects of the school day, music, visual art, and design technology classes and experiences are prime catalysts to enhance the arts curriculum.

I-DEA Curriculum Framework

Inclusion via Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism

The IB Curriculum is rooted in fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, awareness, and advocacy The Pine Street School I-DEA Curriculum FrameworkfitsfirmlyintoandgainsimmediaterelevancefromthePYP.OurFrameworkscaffoldsstudents’inquiryintoconceptsofequality, equity, inclusion, social justice, fairness, belonging, prejudice, and privilege, helping them to better understand the social construct of race andethnicityintheUnitedStates.

Units of Inquiry provide students with multiple opportunities throughout the year to explore and share in their own cultures, languages, and traditions, and those of their classmates and the wider community. Throughout these units, students gain crucial knowledge about the history of race in the United States, awakening their awareness and building understanding, all while engaging in authentic, meaningful classroom and community experiences and through literature from diverse sources and cultures, which provoke and scaffold discussions of raceandracisminourcountry.

Pine Street School | Program of Inquiry 2023-2024

WHO WEARE WHEREWEAREIN PLACEANDTIME

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

Central Idea:

Our bodies are made up of interconnected systems and we have inherited and acquired traits that are part of our growth and change

Key Concepts:

Form, Function, Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Role of different body systems

2 Connection between different body systems

3 Change in systems over time

Central Idea: People have personal beliefs and belief systems that inform how they act and interpret others.

Key Concepts:

Connection, Perspective, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Personal beliefs and belief systems

2 How beliefs affect the individual and society

3. Perspectives within cultural and individual beliefs

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

Central Idea: Exploration of our universe leads to discoveries, opportunities, and new understandings

Key Concepts: Change, Connection, Responsibility

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Our universe

2 How theories of the universe have changes over time

3. Impact of exploration

Central Idea: Technological innovation can disrupt societal thinking, behavior, and human relationships.

Key Concepts:

Connection, Change, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Connections between technology and human needs and wants

2 Innovation design process

3 Coding as a language

HOWWEEXPRESS 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

Central Idea: Cooperative and purposeful teamwork enables and empowers people to improve their lives and communities

Key Concepts: Change, Connection, Causation Lines of Inquiry:

1 Global needs

2. Local needs

3 Sustainable solutions

4 Effective teamwork

YEAR-LONGPYPEXHIBITION

Central Idea: Language can be used to influence our thinking, emotions, and behavior in many ways.

Key Concepts: Function, Responsibility, Perspective

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Features, forms, techniques used in persuasive communications

2 How persuasive communication works

3 Impact of persuasive communication

HOWTHEWORLD WORKS SHARING THEPLANET

An inquiry into the natural world and its laws, the interaction between the natural world and human societies; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; impact of scientific and technological advances on society and the environment

Central Idea: People produce and use different types of energy which leaves and environmental footprint

Key Concepts: Function, Causation, Change Lines of Inquiry:

1 Types of energy

2. Non-renewable vs. renewable energy

3 Responsible energy use

HOWWEORGANIZE OURSELVES

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

Central Idea: Governmental systems and decisions can promote or deny equal opportunities and social justice

Key Concepts:

Responsibility, Function

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Purpose of government

2. Organizations of government

3 Impacts of decisions and actions on members of society

4. How beliefs about power and authority impact a society

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

Central Idea: Distribution of wealth affects communities' and individuals' access to equal opportunities

Key Concepts:

Connection, Perspective, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Relationship between wealth and power

2 Impactofwealthdistribution

3. Equitable access to resources and opportunities

Central Idea: Analysis of data and patterns can shape actions people take

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Connection, Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Earth's physical changes over time

2 Interconnectedness of hydrosphere, biosphere, geosphere, atmosphere

3 How data drives direction

Central Idea: Signs and symbols are part of human-made systems that facilitate local and global communication.

Key Concepts:

Connection, Form, Function

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Specialized systems of communication

2. How visual language facilitates communication

3 Cultural and historical context of how signs and symbols develop

Central Idea: Raising awareness of institutions, individuals, and organizations about climate change issues can encourage people to take initiative

Key Concepts:

Responsibility, Causation, Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Sustainable Development Goals

2 How human actions have impacted climate change

3 Actions that can reverse climate change

WHO WEARE WHEREWEAREIN PLACEANDTIME

Central Idea: The mosaic of our everdeveloping identities ultimately informs and influences our attitudes about ourselves and others

Key Concepts: Perspective, Connection, Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1 What makes me, me

2 How others view me; How I view others

3 Evolution of our identities

Central Idea:

Making balanced choices should enable people to have a healthy lifestyle

Key Concepts:

Responsibility, Connection, Form

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Daily habits and routines

2 The impacts of balanced choices

3. Healthy lifestyles

Central Idea: The legacy of ancient civilizations influences people and society today.

Key Concepts: Connection, Form, Function

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Types of civilizations

2 Elements of civilizations

3. Legacies of civilizations

HOWWEEXPRESS OURSELVES

Central Idea: Architecture is the built realization of human ingenuity

Key Concepts: Perspective, Causation, Form Lines of Inquiry:

1. What is architecture

2 Elements of architecture

3 Human ingenuity and creativity in design

Central Idea: Relationships are enhanced by effort and compromise

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Perspective, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Relationships with ourselves

2 Relationships with communities

3 Relationships with other groups of people

Central Idea: The geography, history, and people make our city unique in its past, present, and future

Key Concepts: Change, Causation, Form Lines of Inquiry:

1 Location and geography of the city

2 People who inhabited the region over time

3. How and why the city has developed

YEAR-LONGUNIT

Central Idea: The Earth’s cycles and patterns have impacted how people live their lives.

Key Concepts: Connection, Form, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Earth’s cycles and patterns

2 How cycles and patterns impact our lives

3 How cycles and patterns impact other people’s lives

Central Idea: Folklore reflects and shapes culture.

Key Concepts: Connection, Perspective, Form Lines of Inquiry:

1 Elements of folklore

2 Similarities and differences among versions of folklore

3 The role of folklore in culture

Central Idea: Stories allow our imagination to discover new worlds

Key Concepts: Connection, Perspective, Function

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Story elements

2 Human connections in stories

3 Exploring perspectives through stories

HOWTHEWORLD WORKS SHARING THEPLANET

Central Idea: Understanding forces can help humans design effectively

Key Concepts: Form, Causation, Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Natural laws of motion

2 Different forces

3 Using principles of physics to solve problems

HOWWEORGANIZE OURSELVES

Central Idea: Human migration can be a response to challenges, risks, and opportunities impacting individuals and communities

Key Concepts: Perspective, Change, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Reasons why people migrate

2 Migration throughout history

3 Effects of migration on communities, cultures, and individuals

Central Idea: Biodiversity ensures natural sustainability for all life on the planet.

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Form, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Diversity of living things

2. Role of biodiversity in the natural world

3 Impact of interruption in biodiversity

Central Idea: The Earth continuously changes due to natural forces.

Key Concepts: Change, Causation, Form Lines of Inquiry:

1 Internal changes

2 External changes

3. Human attempts to manage consequences of changes

Central Idea:

The organization of marketplaces reflects the needs and wants of communities

Key Concepts:

Responsibility, Connection, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1. How a market economy works

2 How goods and services are produced and consumed

3 Responsible production and consumption

Central Idea: The Earth has extensive ecosystems which are a vital part of its functioning

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Causation, Form

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Ecosystems around the world

2 Balance in ecosystems

3. Things that disrupt the balance in ecosystems

Central Idea: Understanding the way materials behave and interact determine how people use them

Key Concepts: Change, Form, Function Lines of Inquiry:

1 Behavior and uses of materials

2 Changing properties of materials

3. Manipulations of materials for specific purposes

Central Idea: Food is a central element of global interconnectedness

Key Concepts:

Causation, Connection, Form Lines of Inquiry:

1. Food and its origins

2 Connection between food and geography

3. Cultural and historical significance of food

Central Idea: Living things have specific shapes and structures related to their function which help them survive, grow, and reproduce

Key Concepts: Form, Function, Connection Lines of Inquiry:

1. Characteristics of living things

2 Structure and function of living things

WHO WEARE WHEREWEAREIN PLACEANDTIME

Central Idea: People's skills, attitudes, and interests should enable them to benefit from and contribute to their community

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Connection, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Skills,attitudes,interests, talents

2. How people benefit from commuity

3. How people contribute to community

Central Idea: Exploring our personal histories and the groups we belong to informs our understanding of who we are

Key Concepts: Connection,Perspective,Change

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Family origins and stories

2 Influence of groups we belong to

3. Understanding the connection between histories in our communities

Central Idea: Homes reflect personal identity and local culture

Key Concepts: Form, Function, Connection

Lines of Inquiry:

1 What is a home

2. Different kinds of homes

3 Circumstances that determine where and how people live

HOWWEEXPRESS OURSELVES

Central Idea: Through poetry, people express, explore, and interpret ideas and feelings

Key Concepts: Perspective, Form, Connection

Lines of Inquiry:

1 What is poetry

2. Word use in poetry

3 Exploring ideas through poetry

Central Idea: Stories can take on different forms, have cultural elements, and can be told in many ways

Key Concepts: Perspective, Form, Function Lines of Inquiry:

1. What is a story

2 Ways to tell stories

3 Stories from different cultures

Central Idea: We learn about the world though our senses

Key Concepts:

Connection, Perspective, Form, Function

Lines of Inquiry:

1. Our senses

2 How we learn through our senses

3 How our senses enrich our lives

Key Concepts: Form, Perspective, Reflection Lines of Inquiry:

1 Artists from around the world

2 Artistic styles

3. Exploring forms of art

HOWTHEWORLD WORKS SHARING THEPLANET

Central Idea: Understanding how light and sound work influences how people interact with the world

Key Concepts: Form, Function, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Sources

2. Properties

3 Function

Central Idea: People apply their understanding of forces and energy to invent and create

Key Concepts: Connection, Form, Function Lines of Inquiry:

1 Forces and energy

2. Simple machines and tools

3 Innovating to solve problems

Central Idea: Artists have unique styles through which they communicate their ideas and feelings.

HOWWEORGANIZE OURSELVES

Central Idea: Transportation systems are developed to respond to the needs of communities

Key Concepts:

Form, Function, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Transportation systems

2. How transport systems respond to the needs of the community

3. How transport systems have changed over time

Central Idea:

By purposefully organizing spaces, people learn how to respect and use their environment effectively.

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Form, Function Lines of Inquiry:

1 How spaces are organized

2 Effective organization

3. Responsibilities involved in maintaining organization

Central Idea: Sound impacts and enriches our lives

Key Concepts: Function, Causation

Lines of Inquiry:

1 How sound works

2. Producing and receiving sounds

3 How sound impacts our personal lives

Central Idea: In urban spaces, a balance between the needs of humans and other living things can be a challenge

Key Concepts: Responsibility, Connection, Form

Lines of Inquiry:

1 Purposeful design of an urban space

2. Connection between human needs and the natural world

3. Human responsibility

Central Idea: Plants are essential to our lives in many ways and need specific conditions to grow

Key Concepts: Form, Function, Responsibility Lines of Inquiry:

1 Structure and needs of a plant

2 Life cycle of plants

3 How plants help living things

Central Idea: All living things have life cycles

Key Concepts: Form, Function, Change Lines of Inquiry:

1 Living things

2. Life cycles of different types of animals

3 How animals are suited to where they live

JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN LEARNING OUTCOMES

PERSONAL SOCIAL

Identity

Conceptual Understandings

Each person is an individual.

As people grow and change, they develop new skills, understandings and abilities

Emotions, attitudes, and beliefs influence the way we act. Positive thoughts help us to develop a positive attitude.

Developmental Tasks

Learners:

Identify themselves in relation to others (for example, family, peers, ethnicity, gender)

Describe how they have grown and changed

Describe some physical and personal characteristics and preferences

Talk about similarities and differences between themselves and others

Identify their feelings and emotions and explain possible causes

Recognize that others have emotions, feelings and perspectives that may be different from their own

Interactions

Conceptual Understandings

Interacting with others can be fun

Group experiences depend on cooperation of group members. Ideas and feelings can be communicated with others in a variety of modes.

Developmental Tasks

Learners:

Enjoy interacting, playing and engaging with others

Take turns

Listen respectfully to others

Share their own relevant ideas and feelings in an appropriate manner

Knowing how we are similar to and different from others helps shape our understanding of self

Reflecting on our experiences helps us to understand ourselves better Developing independence builds self-worth and personal responsibility.

Identify and explore strategies that help them to cope with change

Identify positive thoughts and attitudes in themselves and others

Willingly approach and persevere in new situations

Reflect on their experiences in order to build a deeper understanding of self

Demonstrate a sense of competence with developmentally appropriate daily tasks and seek support to develop independence when needed

Our relationships with others contribute to our well-being (for example, parent–child; teacher–student; friend–friend).

Our behavior affects others.

Caring for local environments fosters appreciation.

Ask questions

Celebrate the accomplishments of others

Reach out for help when it is needed for themselves or others

Identify when their actions have impacted on others

Talk about their interactions with the environment

Data Handling

Conceptual Understandings

We collect information to make sense of the world around us

Organizing objects and events helps us to solve problems

Events in daily life involve chance.

Developmental Tasks

When constructing meaning, learners:

Understand that sets can be organized by different attributes

Understand that information about themselves and their surroundings can be obtained in different ways

Discuss chance in daily events (impossible, maybe, certain)

When transferring meaning into symbols, learners:

Represent information through pictographs and tally marks

Sort and label real objects by attributes

Measurement

Conceptual Understandings

Measurement involves comparing objects and events. Objects have attributes that can be measured using non-standard units. Events can be ordered and sequenced.

Developmental Tasks

When constructing meaning, learners:

Understand that attributes of real objects can be compared and described, for example, longer, shorter, heavier, empty, full, hotter, colder

Understand that events in daily routines can be described and sequenced, for example, before, after, bedtime, story time, today, tomorrow.

When transferring meaning into symbols, learners:

When applying with understanding, learners:

Create pictographs and tally marks

Create living graphs using real objects and people

Describe real objects and events by attributes

When applying with understanding, learners:

Describe observations about events and objects in real-life situations Use non-standard units of measurement to solve problems in real-life situations involving length, mass, and capacity.

Identify, compare and describe attributes of real objects, for example, longer, shorter, heavier, empty, full, hotter, colder

Compare the length, mass and capacity of objects using non-standard units

Identify, describe, and sequence events in their daily routine, for example, before, after, bedtime, story time, today, tomorrow.

Shape and Space

Conceptual Understandings

Shapes can be described and organized according to their properties

Objects in our immediate environment have a position in space that can be described according to a point of reference

Developmental Tasks

When constructing meaning, learners:

Understand that 2D and 3D shapes have characteristics that can be described and compared

Understand that common language can be used to describe position and direction, for example, inside, outside, above, below, next to, behind, in front of, up, down

When transferring meaning into symbols, learners:

Sort, describe and compare 3D shapes

Describe position and direction, for example, inside, outside, above, below, next to, behind, in front of, up, down

Pattern and Function

Conceptual Understandings

Patterns and sequences occur in everyday situations.

Patterns repeat and grow

Developmental Tasks

When constructing meaning, learners:

Understand that patterns can be found in everyday situations, for example, sounds, actions, objects, nature

When transferring meaning into symbols, learners:

Describe patterns in various ways, for example, using words, drawings, symbols, materials, actions, numbers.

When applying with understanding, learners:

Explore and describe the paths, regions, and boundaries of their immediate environment (inside, outside, above, below) and their position (next to, behind, in front of, up, down)

When applying with understanding, learners:

Extend and create patterns

Numbers are a naming system.

Numbers can be used in many ways for different purposes in the real world.

Numbers are connected to each other through a variety of relationships

Making connections between our experiences with number can help us to develop number sense

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

When constructing meaning, learners:

Understand one-to-one correspondence

Understand that, for a set of objects, the number name of the last object counted describes the quantity of the whole set

Understand that numbers can be constructed in multiple ways, for example, by combining and partitioning

Understand conservation of number

Understand the relative magnitude of whole numbers

Recognize groups of zero to five objects without counting (subitizing)

Understand whole-part relationships

Use the language of mathematics to compare quantities, for example, more, less, first, second

When transferring meaning into symbols, learners:

Connect number names and numerals to the quantities they represent

When applying with understanding, learners:

Count to determine the number of objects in a set

Use number words and numerals to represent quantities in real-life situations

Use the language of mathematics to compare quantities in real-life situations, for example, more, less, first, second

Subitize in real-life situations

Use simple fraction names in real-life situations

Oral Language (Listening & Speaking)

Conceptual Understandings

Spoken words connect us with others.

People listen and speak to share thoughts and feelings

People ask questions to learn from others.

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Use gestures, actions, body language and/or words to communicate needs and to express ideas

Listen and respond to picture books, showing pleasure, and demonstrating their understanding through gestures, expression and/or words

Name classmates, teachers and familiar classroom and playground objects

Interact effectively with peers and adults in familiar social settings

Tell their own stories using words, gestures, and objects/ artifacts

Repeat/echo single words

Use single words and two-word phrases in context

Visual Language (Viewing & Presenting)

Conceptual Understandings

Visual language is all around us.

The pictures, images, and symbols in our environment have meaning. We can enjoy and learn from visual language

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Attend to visual information showing understanding through play, gestures, facial expression

Reveal their own feelings in response to visual presentations, for example, by showing amusement, curiosity, surprise

Observe visual cues that indicate context; show understanding by matching pictures with context

Recognize familiar signs, labels, and logos, for example, pedestrian walking sign, emergency exit sign, no dogs allowed; identify similarities and differences

Join in with poems, rhymes, songs and repeated phrases in shared books

Understand simple questions and respond with actions or words

Follow classroom directions and routines, using context cues

Realize that people speak different languages

Use the mother tongue (with translation, if necessary) to express needs and explain ideas

Realize that word order can change from one language to another

Use own grammar style as part of the process of developing grammatical awareness

Make personal connections to visual texts, for example, a picture book about children making friends in a new situation

Use body language to communicate and to convey understanding, for example, pointing, gesturing, facial expressions

Select and incorporate colors, shapes, symbols, and images into visual presentations

Show appreciation of illustrations in picture books by selecting and rereading familiar books, focusing on favorite pages

Locate and use appropriate technology iconography to activate different devices, for example, computer games, iPad, television

Listen to terminology associated with visual texts and understand terms such as color, shape, size

Written Language (Reading)

Conceptual Understandings

Illustrations convey meaning.

Print conveys meaning

People read for pleasure

Stories can tell about imagined worlds.

Printed information can tell about the real world. There are established ways of setting out print and organizing books.

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Enjoy listening to stories

Choose and “read” picture books for pleasure

Locate and respond to aspects of interest in self- selected texts (pointing, examining pictures closely, commenting)

Show curiosity and ask questions about pictures or text

Listen attentively and respond to stories read aloud

Participate in shared reading, joining in with rhymes, refrains and repeated text as they gain familiarity

Make connections to their own experience when listening to or “reading” texts

Begin to discriminate between visual representations such as symbols, numbers, technology iconography, letters and words

Written Language (Writing)

Conceptual Understandings

Writing conveys meaning. People write to tell about their experiences, ideas and feelings.

Everyone can express themselves in writing.

Recognize their own first name

Express opinions about the meaning of a story

Show empathy for characters in a story

Distinguish between pictures and written text, for example, can point to a picture when asked

Indicate printed text where the teacher should start reading

Handle books, showing an understanding of how a book works, for example, cover, beginning, directional movement, end

Realize that the organization of on-screen text is different from how text is organized in a book

Join in with chants, poems, songs, word games and clapping games, gaining familiarity with the sounds and patterns of the language of instruction

Talking about our stories and pictures helps other people to understand and enjoy them

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Experiment with writing using different writing implements and media

Choose to write as play, or in informal situations, for example, filling in forms in a pretend post office, writing a menu or wish list for a party

Differentiate between illustrations and written text

Use their own experience as a stimulus when drawing and “writing”

Show curiosity and ask questions about written language

Participate in shared writing, observing the teacher’s writing and making suggestions

Listen and respond to shared books (enlarged texts), observing conventions of print, according to the language(s) of instruction

Begin to discriminate between letters/characters, numbers and symbols

Show an awareness of sound–symbol relationships and begin to recognize the way that some familiar sounds can be recorded

Write their own name independently.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Active Living

Conceptual Understandings

Our daily practices can have an impact on our well-being.

We can observe changes in our bodies when we exercise Our bodies change as we grow.

We can explore our body’s capacity for movement. Our bodies can move creatively in response to different stimuli. Safe participation requires sharing space and following rules.

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Engage in a variety of different physical activities

Demonstrate an awareness of how being active contributes to good health

Demonstrate an awareness of basic hygiene in their daily routines

Identify some of the effects of different physical activity on the body

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

Responding

Conceptual Understandings

We enjoy and experience different forms of arts

The art is a means of communication and expression

People make meaning using symbols.

Dance

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Show curiosity about live and recorded dance performances

Explore and reflect on the changing capabilities of the human body

Develop a range of fine and gross motor skills

Explore creative movements in response to different stimuli Recognize that acting upon instructions and being aware of others helps to ensure safety

People share art with others

We express our responses to artwork in a variety of ways

We reflect on our artwork and the work of others.

Describe the ideas and feelings communicated through body movements

Identify and explain why certain body postures and movements communicatecertain ideas and feelings

Display audience etiquette and appropriate responses such as watching, listening and responding to favorite parts of the performance

Respond to dance through spoken, written, visual and/ or kinesthetic mediums

Drama

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Respond to live performances, stories and plays from other times and/ or places

Talk about ideas and feelings in response to dramatic performances

Display audience etiquette and appropriate responses

Music

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Use voice to imitate sounds and learn songs

Bring music from home to share

Describe the differences in music

Move their bodies to express the mood of the music

Describe how music makes them feel

Distinguish the sounds of different instruments in music

Visual Arts

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Enjoy experiencing artworks

Show curiosity and ask questions about artworks

Describe what they notice about an artwork

Identify the materials and processes used in the creation of an artwork

Analyze the relationships within an artwork and construct meanings

Realize that dramatic conventions are used to craft performance

Use materials to symbolically show location and character

Respond to dramatic ideas through spoken, visual, auditory, and kinesthetic mediums

Listen to music and create their own work in response

Express their responses to music in multiple ways (drawings, games, songs, dance, oral discussion)

Explore body and untuned percussion instrument sounds

Recognize different sources of music in daily life

Recognize that sound can be notated in a variety of ways.

Communicate their initial responses to an artwork in visual, oral or physical modes

Make personal connections to artworks

Express opinions about an artwork

Create artwork in response to a variety of stimuli

Creating

Conceptual Understandings

We can enjoy and learn from creating art. The creative process involves joining in, exploring, and taking risks. In creating art, people make choices to construct meaning about the world around them.

Dance

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Respond to word, rhythm and/or music through movements

Communicate and express feelings through body movements

Explore the dynamic flow of body movements such as fast, slow, big, small, strong, smooth, sharp, tension and relaxation

Move freely through the space to show levels of low, medium, and high and change of direction

Use stimulus materials to extend the body and enhance body movements such as streamers, scarves, props and costumes

Drama

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Engage in imaginative play using a range of stimuli

Develop the ability to cooperate and communicate with others in creating drama

Music

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Use vocal sounds, rhythms and instruments to express feelings or ideas

Create and accompany music using a variety of sounds and instruments

Play untuned percussion instruments in time with a beat

Use the voice and body to create musical patterns

Explore sound as a means of expressing imaginative ideas

We can express ourselves through arts. Our experiences and imagination can inspire us to create.

Develop physical awareness in using isolated body movements and gross motor skills

Explore different types of movements such as travelling, jumping and turning

Develop the ability to cooperate and communicate with others in creating dance

Work individually or in groups with trust and confidence

Explore basic bodily movements and the use of space

Explore familiar roles, themes and stories dramatically

Create roles in response to props, set and costumes

Work individually or in groups with confidence

Recreate sounds from familiar experiences

Participate in performing and creating music both individually and collectively

Record their personal, visual interpretation of elements of sound (for example, loud/soft, high/low, fast/slow)

Create their own basic musical instruments.

Visual Arts

Developmental Tasks/Learning Outcomes

Learners:

Engage with, and enjoy a variety of visual arts experiences

Select tools, materials and processes for specific purposes. Combine different formal elements to create a specific effect

Realize that their artwork has meaning

Use their imagination and experiences to inform their art making

Create artwork in response to a range of stimuli

Take responsibility for the care of tools and materials

Take responsibility for their own and others’ safety in the working environment

Participate in individual and collaborative creative experiences.