PYP Exhibition 2026
By Ms. Julie Hoffman, PYP 5/6 Teacher
Our PYP 6 students proudly showcased their learning during the PYP Exhibition (PYPX) Celebration on Friday, April 17th. The event marked the culmination of their Primary Years Programme (PYP) journey, as students presented months of inquiry, research, and action to peers, teachers, and the school community.
At the beginning of the school year, the sixth graders chose to focus on “How the World Works” for the theme for PYPX this year. They explored how scientific knowledge is always changing and has an impact on people.
Students started the Exhibition journey by tuning in to the concept of How the World Works. They worked in guidebooks to brainstorm our interests and journal about their passions. They worked to create central ideas. They researched all sorts of new technologies and scientific advances and honed in on an area of interest!
During the “Finding Out” phase, they started researching. They met mentors and started having weekly meetings. They shared information with mentors and with each other. They started interviewing people to learn more about their perspectives. Some students sent out surveys to gather data and took local trips to learn more from the community.
They began to plan out research papers from the information they gathered. Students sorted through all the different research they had read, watched and heard. They edited many drafts of their research papers. They then began to talk about how to use this information to teach others or to take action. They created action plans.
They thought about how they could change the way other people might think about these topics. They thought about the “so what” and this was a difficult piece!
Students took meaningful action by applying their learning in creative ways. Some designed interactive slideshows and digital theme parks, while others built models or taught younger students, using their knowledge to raise awareness and inspire change.
Throughout the process, students developed key transdisciplinary skills, including research, communication, and self-management, as they worked collaboratively and independently.
The goal of the PYP is to develop internationally-minded people. The profiles focused on were being inquirers, thinkers and being balanced. Students were inquirers as they developed skills for inquiry and research and learned independently and with others. They also focused on being thinkers because they learned a lot about new technology and how it affects people. Lastly, they had to be balanced because they had all their normal class work and homework to do, but also had to keep up with PYPX projects, too.
Several projects aimed to raise awareness about how scientific advances have impacted people or the environment over time. Each student developed a unique central idea to guide their inquiry. These topics reflected a wide range of interests, from technology and sports to environmental sustainability and the arts:
- Maxwell (Mentor: Mr. Ryan)
Innovation in animation and media transforms how stories are created and experienced. - Samantha (Mentor: Mr. McGuire)
The evolution of piano design affects how people learn, perform, and enjoy music. - Iskandar (Mentor: Mr. Exaudi)
As technology evolves, the design of basketball shoes impacts how players move and compete. - Nicholas (Mentor: Mr. Gaetano)
Advances in roller coaster technology improve safety and accessibility over time. - Blinka (Mentor: Ms. Bridget)
Innovation in technology can support ecosystem restoration and improve environmental sustainability. - Noer Hélѐne (Mentor: Mr. Andy)
The growing use of AI in art is changing how people view creativity and artists. - Ameena (Mentor: Ms. Desy)
Developing technology changes how runners train and requires responsible and fair use.
The PYP Exhibition is a significant milestone, and this year’s students demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and commitment throughout their journey. Congratulations to all our sixth graders, and thank you to the mentors who generously supported their learning.
