IB PYP Primary Years Programme

Preschool & Primary Years Programme

​

Preschool

​

Nestled at the back of our campus, the preschool classrooms are open to lush greenery and open play spaces. Our PreK and Kindergarten classes are the building blocks for the first stages of the PYP programme at ZIS. As an inquiry-based programme, the PYP fosters student-centred learning and inquiry, both of which are of fundamental importance for our 3 and 4-year-olds. Focusing on play-based activities, our preschool team collaboratively works together to support our youngest learners. A shared art space connects the two spacious rooms, which also spill open to a large play space used for water play and various exploratory and role-play opportunities.

​

Primary Years Programme

​

Students from Grades 1 – 5 are members of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) community at ZIS. At the heart of the PYP is structured inquiry as a vehicle for learning. Inquiry learning gives the students ownership of learning and develops their research and critical thinking skills. It allows them to pursue their own interests and make meaningful connections with what they are learning to their home, community, and the world.

As shown on the outside of the model, each unit of inquiry explores a different globally significant theme. Teachers and students structure the units of inquiry using key questions that are concept-based. This allows for the integration of the six different disciplines (subject areas). As a result, they acquire and apply transdisciplinary skills while developing an understanding of these important concepts. The development of learning attitudes and the expectation of socially responsible behaviour are at the core of the inquiry model.

Emphasis is also given to differentiated instruction of literacy and mathematical skills to help students navigate their own inquiries. With the benefit of low teacher-to-student ratios, we pride ourselves at ZIS on knowing individual student needs and tailoring our programme to best support students' needs. At each year level, teachers assess students' prior knowledge and skills and support them to take their learning to the next level.

The overall aim of the PYP is for the students to become internationally minded. Ten attributes called the Learner Profile underpin all that the students do and learn.