Introduction to the International Baccalaureate Program: IBPYP&IBMYP

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program not only includes the university preparatory diploma program (IBDP) but also extends down to middle school (MYP) and primary school (PYP). The initial intention behind its establishment was to cater to the children of diplomats who often relocated and faced significant differences in educational and assessment systems across various countries. To address this, the IB aimed to create a globally recognized curriculum. Thus, the IB Diploma Program was established in 1968, and after years of development and rapid global recognition by universities, the middle school program (MYP) was introduced in 1994, followed by the primary program (PYP) two years later. In recent years, the IB Organization has also introduced a Career-related Program (CP) for students aged 16-19 to prepare them with certain skills before entering the workforce. Below is a brief introduction to the primary and middle school programs to help parents better understand the curriculum.

International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP)

The IB Primary Years Programme is designed for students aged 3-12 and consists of six subject areas. This curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, developing various skills—both disciplinary and interdisciplinary—across these six academic domains. The goal is for students to cultivate independence, take responsibility for their own learning, understand the world, and establish personal values through this program.

Six Subject Areas

• Language

• Social Studies

• Mathematics

• Arts

• Science

• Physical, Social and Personal Education

What is most distinctive about the IBPYP is that, aside from the seemingly similar subject offerings found in local primary schools, it uses six transdisciplinary themes as bridges for inquiry-based learning, allowing students to engage in interdisciplinary studies. These themes encourage students to compare and synthesize from different topics and backgrounds, helping them discover effective learning strategies and acquire lifelong skills.

Six Transdisciplinary Themes

• Who We Are

• Where We Are in Place and Time

• How We Express Ourselves

• How We Organize Ourselves

• How the World Works

• Sharing the Planet

  
  

Program Features

The IBPYP aims to develop students into active participants in lifelong learning. Schools focus on the progress of each child's learning abilities rather than just their current knowledge. Students engaged in this mode of learning begin to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as learners and participate actively in their education.

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IBMYP)

The IBMYP is designed for students aged 11-16 and consists of eight elective courses. Each elective subject requires a minimum of 50 teaching hours per year, and students in this program not only build on the skills learned in PYP but also prepare for the subsequent IBDP or CP. The design philosophy of this program encourages students to explore the diversity of learning, focusing not just on local issues but also on international topics. Therefore, there are no rigid elective subjects; specific subjects depend on the school's faculty allocation.

Elective Categories

• Language Acquisition (Second Language)

• Language and Literature

• Individuals and Societies

• Mathematics

• Design

• Arts

• Sciences

• Physical and Health Education

Starting in 2016, the IBMYP program has introduced an assessment system, requiring students to complete a personal project while enrolled. Each student defines their own project, including the conceptual framework, execution timeline, details, and project objectives, all of which must be completed independently. Teachers primarily take on a guiding role to ensure students complete their projects on time, fostering self-management and learning skills. Additionally, schools may require students to complete electronic learning portfolios or online exams for various subjects.

Program Features

The IBMYP has a high level of global recognition and is applicable in IB schools worldwide, connecting with the IBDP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme). This international recognition makes it easier for IBMYP students to transfer between IB schools globally and provides them with a competitive edge when applying to universities. Many renowned international universities and educational institutions recognize the academic value of the IBMYP, providing students with broad prospects for international development.

Each educational system has its unique features, and finding the right system for your child to thrive is key to achieving success in assessments. If parents are interested in learning more about international school options or want to know which system might suit their child best, please feel free to contact us.