Month: March 2024
Everyone loves a story
Everyone grew up with storytelling. The importance of storytelling for children cannot be underestimated. Storytelling is part of everybody’s childhood. During this stage, children are filled with questions, creativity, imagination, inspiration, and ideas. Storytelling helps children develop empathy and respect for others while also improving fundamental reading and writing skills.
The meaning of storytelling
Storytelling is the activity of sharing or presenting a story for different purposes such as learning and entertainment. It is a two-way interaction between the storyteller and one or more listeners. Stories can be sad, dramatic, or funny. Telling a story builds an emotional connection between the storyteller and the listener. Text to self, text to text, and text to world connections are also developed.
The importance of storytelling for children
- Improves language skills
Storytelling improves language skills by introducing children to varied vocabulary, new words, phrases, sentence structures and develop their reading skills.
- Enhances cognitive skills
Listening to and taking part in storytelling improve understanding, memory, and critical thinking abilities and communication skills.
- Develops moral understanding
Many stories teach important lessons about right and wrong, good or bad and taking decisions. Children learn important lessons such us kindness, generosity and honesty as well as cultural values from stories.
- Promotes imagination and creativity
Storytelling is an effective technique to encourage children’s imagination and curiosity. It can help children improve their communication and creativity. Both fiction and non-fiction stories develop their imaginative and creative thinking skills.
- Develops social skills
Listening and discussing stories in a group encourage interaction among the children. Children learn how to take turns and share ideas.
- Improves memory
Retelling stories help children increase memory by remembering the characters, plot, setting, problem, and solution.
Indeed, storytelling is important for children’s development. Children enjoy stories. Storytelling helps to deliver information in a meaningful and enjoyable way, making it easier for children to grasp and remember concepts. It also helps children create their new world, emotions, and ideas.
By: Eka Fridayanti
Elementary Co-Teacher
BINUS School Simprug
efridayanti@binus.edu
Of Chocolates and Surprises: A Teacher’s PYPX Musings
As a fifth-grade PYP (Primary Years Programme) teacher, I embark on a journey with my fifth-grade students through the IB PYP Exhibition every year. Whenever our calendar hits this time of the year, the atmosphere in the classroom undergoes a subtle shift, tinged with anticipation and purpose. There’s a palpable sense of heightened urgency and intentionality. The stress level also differs, but the excitement is conspicuous in the eyes of the students, teachers, mentors and parents. My ultimate hope each year is that my students will enjoy the journey, have an authentic inquiry and demonstrate agency in different ways.
This year’s exhibition theme in my school revolves around How We Express Ourselves. During one of our English Language Arts inquiries, we explored the vibrant and interesting world of figurative language. As part of our exploration, my class engaged in an Exit Ticket activity where they were tasked with interpreting a line from the movie Forrest Gump: “Life is like a box of chocolates.” Understandably, none of them was familiar with the movie, yet their responses were remarkably insightful. One response, in particular, stood out to me: “The quote means that life is full of surprises, just like the PYP Exhibition.” It dawned on me that the Exhibition is indeed as unpredictable and diverse as a box of chocolates.
The Exhibition, like a box of chocolates, presented a variety of topics, each student choosing a unique inquiry about the issue that intrigued them and the form of self-expression that would allow them to celebrate their personalities. At first glance, it appeared daunting, similar to staring at an array of assorted chocolates, unsure of which to pick. I watched them delve into subjects ranging from environmental sustainability to mental health, much like selecting different chocolates from a box. Just as life surprises us with unexpected flavors, my students encountered challenges in their research, navigating through the complexities of their chosen topics. Some faced the bitter taste of setbacks and lack of progress while others enjoyed the sweet satisfaction of finding solutions and breakthroughs. The Exhibition unfolded one phase at a time, revealing the depth of my students’ abilities, passions and even limitations.
Guiding the students through the Exhibition was akin to navigating the assortment of chocolates in a box, with each one requiring a different approach. Some needed gentle support, like the delicate truffle, while others demanded a firmer touch, much like unwrapping a resilient nougat. The process was a rollercoaster of emotions, reminiscent of the various tastes in a box of chocolates. There were moments of frustration and moments of joy.
Then came the Exhibition itself – a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. Like presenting a nicely wrapped box of chocolates, the students showcased their learning with confidence and pride. They spontaneously interacted with parents, teachers and visitors, explaining their inquiry and sharing their passion. From the side, I watched with a sense of fulfillment, much like when I had opened and eaten a box of chocolates.
When the Exhibition concluded, it can be said that it was a journey filled with surprises, challenges and, most importantly, the sweet taste of accomplishment. Through the IB PYP Exhibition, the students tasted the richness of knowledge, the sweetness of collaboration and the joy of discovery filled with endless possibilities waiting to be explored just like a delightful box of chocolates. Cliche as it may sound, the Exhibition is a reminder to us PYP educators that the journey of education is as diverse and delightful as the flavors our learners bring into the learning environment.
By:
Remmuel S. Santiago
Grade 5 Homeroom Teacher
Mentari Intercultural School, Jakarta
Write up for SEL in MISJ
At MISJ, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is ingrained in our daily routine, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment. Our commitment to student well-being is evident through the daily Heartfulness relaxation sessions, setting the tone for a centered start to the day. The curriculum seamlessly integrates various SEL activities, such as emotion checks, mindfulness practices, and initiatives like “I wish my teachers knew” and “Who filled Your Bucket Today?”
Diverse grade levels benefit from personalized approaches, with some classrooms featuring Zen corners for reflection, while others embrace affirmation centers to promote positive self-talk. Our guidance and counseling services are highly responsive, ensuring each class receives dedicated sessions every month, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being. At MISJ, SEL isn’t just a program; it’s a fundamental aspect of our educational ethos, nurturing students holistically for success in both academic and life pursuits.
Our commitment to Social Emotional Learning extends beyond students to our valued faculty. Through initiatives like “TGIT – Thank God It’s Thursday,” we foster a sense of community and relaxation with celebrations featuring various soothing games. World Mental Health Day is a special occasion where our multi-purpose hall transforms into a cozy haven for teachers, complete with mind-relaxing activities, a book corner, and spaces for meditation.
Recognizing the importance of self-care, we go the extra mile by inviting therapists for foot massages and coffee trucks for delightful meet-and-greet sessions and pottery sessions. These events provide our dedicated teachers with opportunities to unwind, connect, and have fun, free from work-related discussions. At MISJ, prioritizing the well-being of both students and faculty is at the heart of our educational culture.
Completing the circle of holistic growth, MISJ organizes workshops for parents and teachers, ensuring a collaborative approach to Social Emotional Learning. These sessions extend beyond the classroom, involving our cleaning service department and security personnel.
Through these inclusive discussions, we emphasize our school’s mission and vision, portraying it as a home where learning is perpetual, fostering the holistic growth of all stakeholders. At MISJ, everyone plays a vital role in creating an environment that goes beyond education, embodying a shared commitment to continuous learning and well-being.
Growing Minds, Glowing Hearts: Pre-K’s Journey of Discovery
By Christania Anthonny
B.B. King, the renowned American guitarist and singer-songwriter, once shared a profound insight: “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” This impactful sentiment resonates deeply, particularly within education, prompting thoughtful reflection.
Such contemplation became evident as the Pre-K students of North Jakarta Intercultural School (NJIS) joyously celebrated the culmination of their “How the World Works” unit. The unit’s central idea emphasized the significance of animals to our lives and highlighted how our actions influence their existence in the natural world. These young and vibrant minds embarked on a transformative journey that began with tuning into the topic, followed by thorough investigation, creative exploration, and application, culminating in meaningful actions and reflective practices.
Let’s delve into the fascinating chapters of their learning expedition…
Tuning In
In the initial phase, students were encouraged to actively share their knowledge about animals and their habitats. Paired with their buddies, they engaged in collaborative discussions, translated their thoughts into imaginative drawings, and presented their collective findings. This marked an opportune moment to gauge the extent of the student’s pre-existing understanding of the subject matter.
Investigating
The investigative phase looked deeper into the intricacies of animals and their habitats. The wealth of new knowledge that unfolded during this exploration captivated the children.
Beyond this, we seamlessly integrated mathematical concepts into the learning experience. Students not only delved into the specifics of animal habitats but also applied mathematical principles to categorize animals according to their environments. They also crafted simple graphs to represent their preferences and interests in various animals visually. This interdisciplinary approach added depth and richness to their learning journey.
Creating and Applying
Now, let’s dive into the exciting segment: the individual project! For their project, the students eagerly embraced the opportunity to exercise agency by selecting their preferred animal and conducting in-depth research on their chosen species. Despite the extended time required for this stage, it flew by for them as they reveled in completing projects that would ultimately be showcased to their parents.
Throughout this creative process, they journeyed to find images of their selected animals, brainstormed about the creatures’ needs and distinctive characteristics, and delved into research to substantiate their findings. Guided by the teacher, they were provided visuals encapsulating their research, which they artfully incorporated into their projects. Upon completing their vibrant posters, the students engaged in practice sessions, presenting their projects to the class before confidently sharing them with their parents.
Witnessing these 4 to 5-year-olds navigate this intricate learning process, enhancing their critical thinking and research skills, and culminating in improved communication abilities by the project’s end was truly heartwarming.
Taking Action
In this phase, we fostered collaboration with the music and Mandarin teachers to inaugurate the Celebration of Learning. The students enthusiastically participated in singing the classic “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” song in both English and Mandarin. Additionally, they expanded their musical horizons by learning to play the tune using various musical instruments.
And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the grand finale, the Celebration of Learning! This marked a pivotal juncture for the students to showcase their transformative learning journey and present their meticulously crafted projects to their parents. Not only did they get to work on their ATL skills, like being effective communicators and enhancing their research and thinking skills, but this experience also played a significant role in nurturing their confidence as individuals, as they adeptly addressed and engaged with large audiences during the event.
While it may not have been a flawless showcase, the experience was undeniably meaningful. Acknowledging the challenges encountered throughout the process, we embrace the opportunity for reflection and continuous improvement. The Celebration of Learning transcended being merely an “event”; it encapsulated a profound facet of purposeful learning. For our young learners, it wasn’t just a presentation—it was their world of adventure, a canvas on which they painted the colors of exploration, growth, and discovery.
Reflections from the IB Dunia Early Years Job Alike Session – March 2nd – 2024 Global Jaya School
The learning environment is so important in early childhood education. As teachers, we put careful thought into designing our classrooms to be warm, welcoming, and engaging places for young children to learn and grow. When I think about my kindergarten classroom, I try to make it feel like a home away from home with different learning centers for art, science, reading, math, dramatic play, and more. I want the children to feel comfortable and safe to explore their interests.
According to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), in a resource on the Primary Years Programme (PYP) titled ‘Learning Spaces’.
“A fundamental part of effective education in the PYP early years is the creation of safe, stimulating and inviting learning spaces that promote exploration, wonder, creativity, risk-taking and learning through play.”
This full-day workshop exploring how to intentionally design learning spaces for young students, was very stimulating. I loved hearing perspectives from teachers across schools. It was a lively, collaborative day that gave me many takeaways. The physical environment impacts everything from student motivation and collaboration to nurturing curiosity and inclusion. Key elements include making spaces age- appropriate, flexible, warm, and welcoming; the room layout, organization, and displays should all be closely to learning outcomes.
Arranging the furniture and learning materials in a way that promotes collaboration and discovery. Low, open shelves allow children to access materials independently and make choices. Round tables encourage children to talk and share ideas together. Interest centers with rich, open-ended materials spark curiosity, creativity and imagination. Displays of student work and documentation on the walls validate the children as capable learners. Even small details like lamps, plants, soft rugs, and family photos work to create a nurturing environment. As a teacher, I see myself as a warm facilitator of learning as the children engage with the thoughtfully prepared classroom environment. I continuously reflect on how to improve our space to best support the learning, development and joy of each unique child.
Also, I think that involving the students more in reorganizing classroom areas based on their interests and needs, perhaps creating a cozier reading corner with soft seating and baskets of books to invite deep reading time, could be beneficial. Continue to refresh displays with student work and documentation that make the learning visible.
Here are some examples of learning environments in an early childhood classroom:
* Reading Corner – This area is filled with comfortable cushions, pillows, bean bag chairs, and rocking chairs along with a wide selection of books organized by topics, reading levels, genres, etc. This invites children to cozy up and enjoy books independently or with friends.
* Drama/Pretend Play Area – Filled with child-sized wooden kitchen appliances, costumes, puppets, play food and accessories. This area sparks roleplay and imagination as children engage in dramatic scenarios.
* Block/Construction Area – Stocked with wooden blocks, Lego bricks, Magna-Tiles, and other building materials. Children design and create structures while developing spatial reasoning and cooperation skills.
* Art Center – An open space with a variety of art media including paint, clay, collage materials, pipe cleaners, beads, etc. Promotes creativity and self-expression.
* Science/Discovery Area – Materials for hands-on exploration of science concepts like magnets, gears, natural specimens, magnifying glasses, measuring tools, etc. Nurtures curiosity and inquiry.
* Math Manipulatives – Wide array of counting bears, pattern blocks, scales, rulers, and other math materials. Develops math sense and problem solving in a tactile way.
* Outdoor Classroom – Garden beds, logs, playhouse, sand/water tables and more take learning outside. Being in nature brings concepts alive.
As teachers, we should not underestimate the power of the physical environment you create. Even small details can have a significant impact on learning. The key is creating diverse spaces for active, meaningful, joyful learning through play and exploration. The environment is the teacher! It takes work, but I am sure it is rewarding.
By
Ria Agustina
Kindergarten Teacher
ACG School Jakarta
BINUS SCHOOL Simprug’s First-Ever Rubik’s Cube Competition
“Rubik’s cube is more than just a colourful puzzle. It is also a symbol of curiosity, creativity, and overcoming challenges,” Ms. Richel Langit-Dursin, BINUS SCHOOL Simprug’s Early Years and Elementary vice principal and Primary Years Programme coordinator stated in her inspirational message to students and teachers during the first-ever Rubik’s Cube Challenge last March 15.
The Rubik’s Cube Competition at BINUS School Simprug was launched to enhance student’s talents and abilities, showcase problem-solving skills, and improve critical thinking as well as creative thinking. Students from grades 1 to 5 participated in the competition. Each grade level had six participants competing against each other.
During the competition, students were tasked with solving one or two sides of the cube within five minutes. They tapped the bell upon completing one side and continued solving the whole puzzle until finished. The winner was determined by the participant who finished the cube the quickest or solved the most cubes in five minutes.
Grades 1, 2 and 3 used 2×2 cubes, while grades 4 and 5 used 3×3 cubes. Winners from each level then competed for another challenge.
Solving a Rubik’s cube can be fun and challenging, requiring creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Students who joined the Rubik’s Cube Competition were praised for their achievements, as they encouraged bravery, confidence, and a growth mindset.
Most students expressed their excitement for the challenge and looked forward to participating in another thrilling Rubik’s Cube Competition next year. The event, organized by the grade 3 team, provided students with an opportunity to demonstrate perseverance, one of the BINUS values, and the IB learner profile attributes, “thinker”, “risk-taker” and “knowledgeable”.
By: Zaida Puyo
Elementary Level Head
BINUS SCHOOL Simprug
zpuyo@binus.edu
PYPx CARES: Together For A Better World
For three special days on Tuesday, 27th February – Thursday, 29th February, our Tunas Muda School Kedoya transformed into a bustling village of ideas, passions, actions, and inspirations. Our annual PYP Exhibition was when 41 young learners showed us how they plan to change the world. With their hearts set on making a difference and supported by an amazing and dedicated team of 40 mentors, our school
community, and friends beyond our school’s gate, all came together to make these days meaningful and unforgettable.
Our big family
Think of our school as one big caring family. This Exhibition was like our family album filled with stories of who we are and what we dream of.
It’s a time when we all – students, teachers, parents, and everyone involved – get to show that learning isn’t just about books, tests, and
academic excellence. It’s about caring, sharing, and preparing to make the world a better place.
Together, we’re stronger
Imagine trying to lift something very heavy – it is tough if you are on your own, right? But, when everyone joins hand in hand, it becomes easier.
That is exactly how we pulled off this year’s PYP Exhibition. Everyone took part —teachers, parents, our friends from places like WWF, Mentari
book publishers, and many more. It was a team effort, showing that when we work together, we can lift anything—even big ideas!
Stories of Change
Each project was like a personal storybook, filled with chapters of learning, discovery, and plans for action. Whether through campaigns,
games, performances, or a cool project, the PYPx students found their way to tell their stories. It was amazing to see how different and
creative each one was. These stories weren’t just for showing and telling; they were about doing, making a difference, and an invitation for the
visitors to be companions in this quest to make the world a better place.
A Festival of Ideas
Our school turned into a festival of sorts, buzzing with excitement and creativity. Some performances made us think, presentations wowed us,
and activities got everyone involved. It felt like the whole school was tied together in unity with a big ribbon of enthusiasm and joy, celebrating
the hard work and big hearts of our students.
Sharing The Planet
This year, we all dove into the big idea of “Sharing the Planet.” It’s about understanding that we’re all roommates on this big, beautiful Earth,
and we need to take care of it and each other. The projects showed us ways to help our planet, from recycling to protecting animals, and
supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reminding us that even the smallest actions can make a big difference.
Wrapping Up
These three days at Tunas Muda School Kedoya were about more than just a school project. They were a celebration of what happens when
we all come together for something we believe in. Our students showed us that no matter how young you are, you can dream big and make
those dreams come true. With the support of our incredible mentors and the whole community, we saw that change is possible when it starts
with us. If you missed it, you can visit our Gsites anytime here https://bit.ly/TMSK_PYPxCares_Gsite or watch our performance here
https://bit.ly/TMSK_PYPxCARES_Performance
So here’s to our young changemakers and everyone who helped make the PYP Exhibition not just an event, but a movement. We’re reminded
that together, we can do so much. Let’s keep this spirit alive, not just for today, but for all our tomorrows.
#TogetherForABetterWorld
#PYPxCares
Yap Meilianny
Tunas Muda School Kedoya PYP Coordinator
Embracing Cultural Differences
Diversity isn’t merely a concept; it’s the foundation of our existence, woven
intricately into our cultures, histories, traditions, and beliefs. Recognizing this,
our students embarked on a journey of discovery, seeking to understand,
appreciate, and celebrate the diverse tapestry that is the world.
There’s no better place to witness beauty in diversity than in the classrooms
where young minds are nurtured. Our Grade 2 students embarked on an
exciting cultural journey, inquiring into the depths of the world’s rich heritage
as part of their “Where We Are in Place and Time” unit.
Our cultural journey began by inviting parents and teachers to share
information about their ethnic group or country of origin. From experiencing
traditional games and reading folktales to treating everyone to delicious
traditional delicacies, these visits were not only educational but also
delightfully enjoyable for everyone.
Moreover, our cultural journey provided students with the opportunity to
showcase their own unique cultural backgrounds. Each student
enthusiastically interviewed their parents and shared personalized treasure
boxes filled with artifacts and elements from their ethnic group or country of
origin. This interactive showcase celebrated diversity and empowered the
students to express pride in their family’s cultural legacy.
Our journey continued with a field trip to Taman Mini, where students explored
traditional houses inspired by West Sulawesi. Delving into the history and
significance of these houses. The culinary delights of our Food Fiesta also
added a savory dimension to our cultural exploration. Students shared
bite-sized samples of a diverse variety of tasty delicacies from their ethnic
group or country of origin, fostering a deep understanding of similarities and
differences among cultures and respect for one another.
The culmination of this unit was the Grade 2 Inquiry Showcase, where each
class represented tribes from Indonesia’s largest islands. With the help of the
IS teachers, students presented captivating traditional dances and
showcased unique cultural elements of each island, leaving visitors in awe
and with an appreciation for Indonesia’s diverse culture.
These enriching experiences not only promoted a deeper understanding of
cultural diversity but also fostered a sense of pride and appreciation for
students’ own heritage. In our Grade 2 classroom, diversity is not just a word;
it’s embraced as the essence of our shared humanity. Through exploration
and celebration, we pave the way for a more inclusive and harmonious world.
By:
Jam Gomez, Anj Saguano, Jeana Robrigado, Carla Matias, Geyan Laroza
Grade 2 Homeroom Teachers
Mentari Intercultural School Jakarta
PYP Dunia Blog 