The Programme of Inquiry is organized into six transdisciplinary themes called Units of Inquiry. Within the Units of Inquiry, grade-level students explore concepts through these themes in order to develop knowledge. Primary Years Programme (PYP) Units of Inquiry approaches learning as transdisciplinary in nature. Teachers use structured inquiry to guide students through each unit while incorporating perspectives from a variety of fields of knowledge —scientific, mathematical, technological, artistic, musical, linguistic, historical, cultural, and social, to name a few — to build on their experiences and reach new understandings.
The six transdisciplinary themes are addressed at each grade level. Units of Inquiry are all unique and explore different aspects of knowledge contained under each theme. In addition to these six units, students receive daily instruction in math, reading, and writing, ensuring continued development in these foundational subject areas.
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 impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment.
How We Organize 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.
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.