Exploring transdisciplinary themes in the PYP

Transdisciplinary Themes 

Learning in the PYP is guided by six transdisciplinary themes. Each theme is selected for their relevance to the real world. Themes are structured to support transdisciplinary learning. Students explore the six themes each year of the program with the exception of Early years (EY3&4, Kindergarten) who explore four themes to allow more time for organized and creative play.  The descriptors for each theme are listed below.






Who we are 

Inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; person, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; and human relationships. 


Where we are in place and time

 Inquiry into our orientation in place and time; personal histories; the discoveries and explorations of humankind; and the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations. 


How we express ourselves 

Inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values. 


How the world works 

Inquiry into the natural world and its laws, the interaction between the natural world and human societies; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment. 


How we organize ourselves

 Inquiry into the interconnectedness of human made systems and communities; the structure and function of organizations; and their impact on humankind and the environment. 


Sharing the planet 

Inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and other living things; access to equal opportunities; and peace and conflict resolution. 

Source: From Principles Into Practice - ibo.org 


What is Transdisciplinary Learning?

 To fully understand transdisciplinary learning, it is important to first understand disciplinary learning.   Disciplinary learning refers to subjects such as Math, Social Studies and Science. In a disciplinary teaching model, each subject is taught separately without overlap. Many adults experienced disciplinary learning throughout their schooling years.  Multidisciplinary learning refers to the subjects connecting. Think of it as the subjects working together to solve a problem. Each subject is taught separately, but they connect through a common problem or idea. In short, one subject adds to another.   In interdisciplinary learning the subjects overlap to achieve new, integrated understanding. Boundaries between disciplines are blurred.   In transdisciplinary learning, the subjects are blended and there is no separation of the disciplines. In the transdisciplinary style, students learn new content in the context of the real world and learn to apply skills and knowledge across all subjects to solve complex problems.   


To learn more: 

•  Visit the IB website 

•  Attend school meetings and events 

•  Speak with your school’s PYP coordinator by registering for a drop in session

•  Explore the PYP Playlist- International Baccalaureate®


Frequently asked questions about the Primary Years Programme

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