International Baccalaureate MYP
Welcome to Thompson K-8 International Academy,
an International Baccalaureate Candidate School!
This school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy- a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that Thompson K-8 International Academy believes is important for our students.
* Only schools authorized by the International Baccalaureate (IB) as IB World Schools can offer any of its three academic programmes: the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), or the IB Diploma Programme. Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted.
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB-MYP) is an approach to learning designed for middle school learners (ages 11- 16). At Thompson K-8 International Academy the IB-MYP Curriculum focuses on concepts in the following subject areas: Language Arts, Mathematics, Sciences, Social Studies, Technology, Spanish, Physical Education, and the Arts. Teachers collaboratively plan across the grade levels and disciplines to develop cross-curricular themes, issues, methods, and strategies of learning. The curriculum is illustrated by an octagon with eight academic areas/subject groups surrounding the five areas of interaction. The IB Learner Profile is at the center.
The IB Learner Profile
According to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), the aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.
IB learners strive to be...
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.
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.
Thinkers...
They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Balanced...
They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.
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.
