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The learner profile appears at the center of the diagram, and the personal project is the culminating activity.
Students are required to study at least two languages (as part of their multilingual profile), Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical & Health Education, and Design. In their final year of the program, students will also undertake the ’Personal Project' to demonstrate the development of their skills and understanding.
The MYP: a unique approach, relevant for today’s global society
The MYP’s core features six contexts for learning that provide powerful opportunities to engage in the study of issues that affect students today. Using a common language, teachers organize the curriculum through the following Global Contexts:
Identities and relationships
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.
Orientation in space and time
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.
Personal and cultural expression
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.
Scientific and technical innovation
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.
Globalization and sustainability
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.
Fairness and development
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.
The emphasis is on the fluidity of the curricular framework and the interrelatedness of the subjects. Aspects of the Global Context are addressed naturally through distinct disciplines. In particular, the framework is flexible enough to allow a school to include other subjects not determined by the IB but which may be required by state or national authorities.
The overall philosophy of the program is expressed through three fundamental concepts that support and strengthen all areas of the curriculum. These concepts are based on:
- intercultural awareness
- holistic learning
- communication.