Who we are An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal, physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities; what it means to be human. | Where we are in place and time An inquiry into orientation in place and time; personal histories; homes and journeys; the discoveries, explorations and migrations of humankind; the relationships between and the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations, from local and global perspectives. | How we express ourselves An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings, nature, culture, beliefs and values; the ways in which we reflect on, extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic. | How the world works An inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on society and on the environment. | How we organize ourselves An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the structure and function of organizations; societal decision-making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the environment | Sharing the planet An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite resources with other people and with other living things; communities and the relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace and conflict resolution. |
Central Idea Relationships enrich our lives and require nurturing in order to develop.
Key concepts: responsibility, connection, causation
Related concepts: interdependence, conflict, cooperation Lines of inquiry Why relationships are needed How relationships are made and kept Characteristics that develop healthy relationships.
| Central Idea Homes reflect life experiences and local culture. Key concepts: causation, perspective Related concepts: diversity, identity Lines of inquiry How families express their culture through their homesHow our lifestyle affects the home we live inThe impact of local culture on our home | Central Idea We use our imagination to help us to think create and express ourselves. Key concepts: Causation, perspective, reflection Related concepts: invention, transformation Lines of inquiry How people demonstrate and enjoy our imaginationThe value of imagination | Central Idea Understanding the way materials behave and interact determines how people use them. Key concepts: form, function, change Related concepts: behavior, prediction Lines of inquiry Behavior and uses of materialsChanging properties of materials Manipulation of materials for specific purpose. | Central Idea Systems need to be in place to maintain organization. Key concepts: connection, responsibility perspective Related concepts- interdependence, organization, systems Lines of inquiryThe concept of organizationDifferent systems of organization that we use personallyDifferent systems of organization in our community.Collection, storage and use of information for organization. | Central Idea People can take action to conserve the earth’s resources. Key concepts: change, reflection, responsibility Related concepts: lifestyle, resources Lines of inquiry The limited nature of the earth’s resourcesPersonal choices that can help sustain the environment The steps we can take to manage waste in our community. |