At the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS), science education transcends traditional rote learning, fostering a vibrant ecosystem where curiosity thrives and students develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex world. As the first and only full continuum International Baccalaureate (IB) World School in Mainland China, WISS offers a rigorous and cohesive science curriculum spanning the Primary Years Programme (PYP) through the Diploma Programme (DP), shaping scientifically literate and globally aware citizens.
Primary Years Programme (PYP): Igniting the Spark of Scientific Inquiry
In the Primary Years Programme (PYP), science is integrated into transdisciplinary units of inquiry, encouraging students to explore scientific concepts within broader, real-world contexts. Ms. Nani Yip, the PYP Coordinator, emphasizes that hands-on activities are central to the PYP approach, enabling students to develop essential skills while exploring fundamental concepts related to the natural world and scientific phenomena. The curriculum focuses on the basics of the scientific method, the complexities of the natural world, and scientific phenomena. This approach nurtures students’ innate curiosity, encouraging them to ask probing questions and investigate the world around them with a scientific lens.
Ms. Michelle Lam, a Lower Elementary Teacher, exemplifies this approach, detailing how pre-K students investigate weather patterns, connecting their observations to everyday life. Students discuss appropriate attire for different weather conditions and conduct research projects on weather-related topics, fostering a deeper understanding and encouraging further inquiry.
Middle Years Programme (MYP): Deepening Conceptual Understanding through Inquiry-Based Learning
As students transition into the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the science curriculum becomes more focused, delving into the core disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics while emphasizing inquiry-based learning. Mr. Jose Luis de la Hera, Head of Science, explains that the MYP curriculum challenges and empowers students through a student-centered approach, stretching their curiosity through inquiry-based tasks complemented by teacher-guided instruction and hands-on activities.
The curriculum explicitly connects scientific concepts to real-world issues. For example, biology units explore the applications of medicine and the importance of biodiversity conservation, while chemistry units address environmental protection and physics units investigate cutting-edge materials science. The MYP Sciences integrate biology, chemistry, and physics. Mr. Pinck Steiner, MYP Coordinator, illustrates this interdisciplinary approach with the Grade 8 waves unit, which combines physics and biology by having students dissect an eye to understand vision after learning about wave properties. Students also research a topic of interest to see how science solves a vision problem.
Ms. Rajashree Basu, IBDP Coordinator, highlights an interdisciplinary unit in Grade 6 where students explore forces and motion through creativity, designing and building a product to teach primary students, which becomes a service project.
IB Diploma and Career-Related Programmes: Rigorous Preparation for Future Scientific Endeavors
In the IB Diploma and Career-Related Programmes (DP and CP), the science curriculum reaches its zenith, providing students with a rigorous and comprehensive preparation for university-level studies in science-related fields. The curriculum becomes more structured, focusing on developing advanced experimental skills and a deep understanding of core scientific principles. Ms. Alba Ortega, a biology teacher, emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to ask questions and explore their scientific interests.
Students engage in sophisticated experiments that connect classroom learning to practical applications. For example, Ms. Ortega cites a yogurt-making experiment where students compare bacterial growth by manipulating variables such as sugar concentration, temperature, pH, and milk type. Students then analyze the bacterial growth using microscopes, solidifying their understanding of microbiology and experimental design.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources
WISS provides students with state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support their scientific explorations. The campus boasts modern science and technology labs with advanced equipment, including 3D printers and laser cutters, enabling students to engage in cutting-edge research and design projects.
The Enduring Importance of Science Education
Science education at WISS extends beyond the acquisition of factual knowledge. By nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, WISS empowers students to become innovative thinkers and responsible global citizens. As our world faces increasingly complex challenges, a strong scientific foundation is essential for addressing issues such as climate change, disease prevention, and sustainable development. WISS prepares students to be informed, engaged citizens and future leaders in a rapidly changing world.
WISS offers the Primary Years Programme (IBPYP), the Middle Years Programme (IBMYP), the Diploma Programme (IBDP), and the Career-related Programme (IBCP). The IB programme enhances classroom learning at WISS through various core elements. WISS students develop their knowledge, skills, and conceptual understanding through inquiry facilitated by caring and supportive teachers. By fostering a deep appreciation for the scientific process and providing students with the tools they need to succeed, WISS cultivates a new generation of scientific leaders equipped to positively impact the world.
