Language learning in PYP

Language learning only includes learning the language of instruction of the school.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

Language learning includes the development of the home and family languages, the languages of the school, additional languages and the development of literacy.

The Learner Profile attribute which links most strongly with language learning is 'Balanced'.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) beliefs and values about language are embedded implicitly throughout the learner profile and explicitly through the attribute of “communicator”.

IB schools are committed to multilingualism as a means of affirming cultural identity and developing international-mindedness.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

The term “multilingualism” in the PYP refers to linguistic ability in more than one language, and recognizes that each of a student’s languages may be developed to different levels, and within different contexts, depending on their social and academic experiences.

PYP students learn at least two additional languages from the age of seven.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

PYP students learn at least one additional language from the age of seven in addition to the language of the school.

All students have a unique language profile shaped by relationships and interactions within their own family, culture and the wider world.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

The complex and diverse language profiles among students may mean that they are learning in a language additional to that of their home and family, or of their prior educational experience. School may be the first time that students encounter an additional language or they may already be proficient in several languages.

Multiliteracies involve students in different ways of accessing and making meaning.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

Multiliteracies involve students in different ways of accessing and making meaning, including digital technologies and their vast potential for expression and audience.

Inquiry is not dependent on language learning.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

Language is intrinsic to learning. It underpins the capacity to think critically and creatively, to inquire and collaborate.

In PYP, it's mandatory to communicate with students in the language of instruction.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

Using home and family languages in school supports students who are new to the language of instruction. It engages them quickly in learning by helping them to access their prior knowledge.

The IB does not promote the use of home language at school.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

It is important to create environments where students use their home language with pride, and access host or global languages to engage with the world.

All teachers are language teachers as all learning takes place through language.

• False (Red)

• Partially true or not sure (Yellow)

• True (Green)

Answer explanation

Language provides an intellectual structure for conceptual and critical thinking within and beyond the PYP transdisciplinary framework. All teachers are language teachers as all learning takes place through language.