At the Canadian International School of Hefei (CISH), students in Grades 1–5 continue their journey in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), which is designed for learners ages 3–12. Through a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based approach, students connect their learning across subject areas while developing skills that prepare them for lifelong learning. 

Each year, students engage in six Units of Inquiry that are carefully designed to build conceptual understanding, foster curiosity, and promote action. Central ideas and lines of inquiry guide students to explore meaningful, real-world contexts and make connections across disciplines. Our curriculum outcomes align with the New Brunswick curriculum and are further developed through the IB scope and sequence documents. 

Above all, the PYP in Grades 1–5 emphasizes agency, collaboration, and international-mindedness, helping learners grow not only as knowledgeable students but also as caring, principled members of a global community. 

PYP Subjects

PYP Subjects

Through Inquiry, students continue to develop strong foundations in Language, Mathematics and specialist subjects. Homeroom and specialist teachers collaborate to design rich learning experiences, ensuring balance, challenge, and relevance across the curriculum. 


• Languages: English Language Arts, Mandarin and German 

• Math 

• Inquiry (incorporating social studies, science and connections to other subjects) 

• ICT (including robotics) 

• Visual Arts 

• Music 

• Physical, Social and Personal Education 

Programme of Inquiry

The IB program is a continuum, and the foundation built in the Primary Years Programme prepares students as they progress into the MYP and DP. In Grades 1–5 at CISH, students build the skills they need for an unknown future — from problem-solving and critical thinking to communication and collaboration. Through inquiry and reflection, they learn to adapt to change, take action in their learning, and grow as socially aware citizens ready to make a positive impact. 

Programme of Inquiry
CISH PROGRAMME OF INQUIRY 

The Five Essential Elements

The five essential elements of the Primary Years Programme:
The five essential elements of the Primary Years Programme:
These five essential elements are the heart of the Primary Years Programme and are used to guide our planning, teaching, and assessment practices. 
Knowledge
Knowledge
Concepts
Concepts
Attitudes
Attitudes
Skills
Skills
Action
Action

Sample Schedule

Sample Schedule

Guided Reading: Students begin each day with literacy stations that include Q&A, reading responses, sound- and word-based activities, independent and partner reading, listening to stories, phonics practice, developing reading strategies, and whole-class reading sessions. For students still building foundational skills, targeted practice is provided through phonics games, blending, and segmenting activities. 

Students can choose from a wide range of after-school activities offered by the school, as well as additional paid activities provided by outside organizations. 

A snack is provided by the school (fruit or yoghurt), but students can bring in their own snack if they choose to. Suggested snack items include cut and peeled fruit, raw vegetables, crackers and cheese, dried fruits, or a granola bar.  

 

Home learning: Students are encouraged to read on a regular basis in addition to the activities the teachers provide.