IB/MYP Program

 

 

 Franklin Academy Cooper City is excited to be an authorized IB Worlds School offering the Middle years Programme (MYP)!  We are the first public charter school in Florida to be authorized to offer this program. As we continue to implement and expand this exciting and rigorous program in middle school, we hope you familiarize yourself with the IB mission statement and learner profile. The learner profile is also provided below with a discussion of how this will be incorporated into sciences program.

What does this mean for science class?

Inquirers
They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
**This means that there will be more focus on students ASKING QUESTIONS and EXPLORING POSSIBLE EXPLANATIONS rather than RECEIVING FACTS. Some examples might include making observations, formulating hypotheses, and designing and testing experiments. One particular strategy science teachers use for classroom inquiry is the 5E learning cycle, which you can read more about by clicking on the link.
Knowledgeable 
They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
**This means there will be more focus on how each of the NGSSS science standards relates to real world issues. In doing this, students in science class might work on cross curricular projects with social studies, math, ELA, computer, and health and PE.
Thinkers 
They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
**Building on the first two elements, students will use their knowledge and inquiry skills to approach problems in a variety of ways that doesn't necessarily lead to one correct answer. There will be an emphasis on project-based learning, and student assessments (tests and quizzes) will include extended response answers that pull from prior knowledge and utilize critical thinking skills.  
Communicators 
They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.
**This means science class will include more class discussions and open-ended questions, with whole class participation expected. There will also be an increased emphasis on writing including science process writing, communicating experimental results, and informational research.
Principled 
They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
** In conjunction with our Character Counts and KITE Philosophy, many learning activities will incorporate elements of social justice and responsibility such as environmental stewardship, how science relates to human rights issues, and building a sense of community in and out of the classroom.
Open-minded 
They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.**Again, relating to Character Counts and the KITE Philosophy, students will be asked to consider issues from multiple perspectives, including those of other classmates and others in the world around them.
Caring 
They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.
**Students will be challenged to think about how the knowledge they gain in class can be used to better the world, and also how their choices impact those around them.
Risk-takers 
They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.
**We ask that students understand that not knowing the right answer is OK,  that value lies in investigation, and questioning is the source new discovery. We will work together to develop a supportive classroom environment in which students feel safe to take a risk in their thoughts, ideas, and work.
Balanced 
They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others. **Students will be encouraged to share their experiences with the class community in order to have a more balanced classroom. Remembering that science concepts relate to a variety of areas of life including sports, health, food, and everyday habits, we encourage students to consider those connections.
Reflective 
They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.  
**Every student brings their own unique background experiences, skills, and knowledge to the classroom.  In order to help students become more self reflective, we will be implementing more opportunities for self assessment through rubrics and learning journals.