Qatar Academy’s Grade 5 students culminated their months-long research and hard work through the annual PYP Exhibition, a requirement for the completion of the International Baccalaureate’s primary curriculum. The 33 presentations, however, was more than just an assignment to accomplish; in more ways than one it is both a reflection of the students’ growth through the programme and a look into what issues are relevant to their minds as learners.
Primary School Principal Sandy Sheppard commended students for their efforts. Beginning with a central idea aligned with the PYP trans-disciplinary theme ‘Who we are’, students focused on a specific issue guided by different lines of inquiry. By following the 6-step inquiry cycle involving Tuning In, Finding Out, Sorting Out, Going Further, Making Conclusion and Taking Actions, students emerge as confident speakers, fully knowledgeable about their topics and able to answer questions correctly.
QA’s own Amazing Race likewise added another layer of creativity to the exhibition, fully integrating the school’s 21st Century Learning program into their projects. As a result, groups produced animation and film, songs, artworks and games specifically made for their project. In the Grade 5 pod and surrounding hallways where the exhibition was held, there were nose sculptures and full length mirrors, art works on sale for charitable causes, catchy slogans like ‘No Belt, Know Pain’ and a straight to the point message to ‘Stop Bullying’, all inviting the parents and community members to listen to presentations, participate in discussions and take action.
Most topics deal with the prevalent issues of our time: health — diabetes, cancer and smoking to name a few — traffic safety, animal welfare, and even the emerging topics of online and social media.
