By: Ian Jenkins, Mont’Kiara International School Head of Grade 5 & Homeroom Teacher
The Grade 5 Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition (PYPx) is held annually at Mont’Kiara International School (M’KIS)
The energy in the room was unmistakable as Grade 5 students gathered for the official launch of this year’s Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition (PYPx) at Mont’Kiara International (M’KIS). This milestone event marked the beginning of a ten week journey that will challenge students to explore their passions, think globally, and take meaningful action.
The central idea guiding this year’s Exhibition is Activating Change Through Expression. From the outset, students were introduced to the purpose of the PYPx and what it truly represents within the Primary Years Programme. The Exhibition is the culminating experience of the PYP, where students independently inquire into a real life issue, problem, or opportunity that matters to them. It is a celebration of voice, choice, and agency. Rather than working within a teacher designed unit of inquiry, students develop their own central idea, construct lines of inquiry, and take ownership of their research and action.
During the launch event, teachers helped students understand that the PYPx is not simply a project, but a process. It begins with discovering or rediscovering what genuinely interests them. Students were encouraged to think deeply about their passions, including those they may not yet fully recognise in themselves. From there, they were challenged to think bigger: How does this passion connect to something global? Who is affected? What needs to change? How can I take action?
Teachers also outlined what success will look like over the coming weeks. Each student will develop a central idea and two to three clear lines of inquiry to guide their research. They will gather both primary sources, such as interviews and surveys, and secondary sources from books and reputable online materials. Students will write about a person who has inspired them in relation to their topic and collect artifacts that document their process, including reflections, photographs, and connections to prior learning. Importantly, every student will take action in a way that aligns with their learning and personal strengths.
A key message shared during the event was that while the Exhibition is independent, students are not alone. The familiar Inquiry Cycle remains at the heart of the process. Students will continue to tune in, find out, sort out, go further, make conclusions, and take action, just as they have done throughout their PYP journey. The difference is that this time, the central idea belongs entirely to them.
The launch also highlighted the development of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile attributes. Students were reminded that they will need to be open minded, reflective, principled, and balanced as they navigate challenges and new learning. Academic honesty was emphasised as an essential expectation, reinforcing the importance of responsible research and ethical use of information. Students will engage in regular self and peer assessment to strengthen both their thinking and communication skills.
To give students space to process their thoughts and emotions about the journey ahead, the Compass Points thinking routine was introduced. Students reflected on what excites them (E), what worries them (W), what they need to know (N), and their current stance (S) toward the PYPx. This activity surfaced a range of responses. Many students expressed excitement about choosing their own topics and having greater independence. Some shared understandable worries about public speaking, managing time, or narrowing down their ideas. Their questions demonstrated curiosity and a genuine desire to understand the process clearly. By making these feelings visible, teachers were able to reassure students and emphasise that growth often begins just outside of our comfort zones.
The goal for this first week is simple but powerful: remain open minded. As students begin brainstorming possible topics, they are being encouraged to explore widely before narrowing their focus. Tuning in at this stage is about curiosity, not perfection. It is about asking thoughtful questions, sharing ideas honestly, and listening carefully to others.
Ultimately, the PYP Exhibition aims to empower students as capable inquirers and change makers. Through sustained research, reflection, and action, they learn that their ideas have value and that their voices can influence the world around them. The skills developed throughout this process extend far beyond Grade 5. Students strengthen their ability to think critically, communicate effectively, manage long term projects, and collaborate with mentors and peers. They also deepen their understanding of global issues and their own responsibility within a connected world.
The launch event successfully generated enthusiasm and purpose among the cohort. There was a sense that something significant had begun. Over the coming weeks, classrooms will transform into hubs of inquiry, discussion, and creativity. As students move from passion to purpose, they will not only learn about the world, but also discover the role they can play in shaping it.
The journey has officially begun.
