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Grade 6 Exhibition

Exhibition is a student-based culminating project of the Primary Years Programme.

Glossary 

central idea A central idea is a conceptual understanding, written as a statement, that invites inquiry and reflects the transdisciplinary theme.
lines of inquiry Lines of inquiry are statements or phrases that define the scope of a unit of inquiry

Connecting to the Community

Students start by considering issues or problems that exist in their local community. These issues could be related to social or environmental concerns and could also relate to issues that people around the world experience. Students are asked to discuss their ideas with teachers, parents, and other students. Student ideas need to be discussed and considered carefully if they are to develop into the basis of their investigation.

Central Idea and Lines of Inquiry

When an issue has been identified, the next step is to define a Central Idea, which is a broad statement detailing the focus of the investigation. Students need to ask questions to help them determine the Central Idea and the Lines of Inquiry. Lines of Inquiry should connect closely to the central idea, giving students a clear and focused direction for their investigation.

Discussion with teachers, parents, and peers continues throughout the development of both the Central Idea and the Lines of Inquiry, allowing individuals to determine a realistic and achievable focus.

The whole process demonstrates the learning that has taken place in the PYP. Teachers assess the planning and learning, including the reflections, the methods used, the clarity of the link between the organizing themes and the final presentation, and future actions identified as part of the investigation.

Gathering Materials

Next, students need to choose appropriate resources and materials. Choosing various information sources enables students to improve the quality of their completed project. Students are encouraged to use the BIG 6 to help them plan and organize.

1. TASK DEFINITION: What needs to be done?

2. INFORMATION SEEKING STRATEGIES: What resources can I use?

3. LOCATION AND ACCESS: Where can I find these resources?

4. USE OF INFORMATION: What can I use from these resources?

5. SYNTHESIS: How can I organize and present the information?

5. EVALUATION: How will I know I did my job well?

Examples of sources of information include:

  • Interview people
  • Field trips
  • Guest speakers
  • Read or listen to news updates
  • Discuss issues with others
  • Take photos of people and issues in the environment
  • Be observant in ordinary places
  • Visit places outside your comfort zone

Reflection

 
Throughout the project, students must reflect on their learning in a written journal. Journal entries should be regular and consistent. They should include ideas, goals, actions taken, and decisions made throughout the process.
 

Presentation

Towards the end of the project, students will participate in the Exhibition. This SPH community event will display the outcome of the students' inquiries. Students need to consider how they will display their work at the Exhibition. The best presentations often include:

  • An exhibition that makes the results of the inquiry clear, informative, and appropriate for all ages
  • A student who is well-prepared and able to speak confidently about the material presented
  • Drawings, pictures, or other items that make the presentation visually attractive

There are many ways to present the findings, including:

  • Written work (posters)
  • Oral presentations (demonstrations, experiments)
  • Models, dioramas, mobiles
  • Slide shows or movies
  • Dance, drama, or music
  • Mixed media
  • Many other options, limited only by your imagination.