Maths
Bar-model problem solver
Represent relationships in word problems with bar models, write linked number sentences and check a solution with units.
IB Primary Years Programme
Let their questions take the lesson somewhere new.
Start with what your learners notice. Explore a provocation, gather their questions and shape a next step that leaves room for choice, connection and reflection.
Choose for your class
Start with an idea, then check the age range, learning goal and subject content against the curriculum or programme your class follows.
Start with the thinking you need.
Choose a task, inspect the source and decide what pupils should explain for themselves.
Collect and explain data.
Count the fictional bird tallies, draw a bar chart with one square for two birds and explain a pattern.
CountRepresentQuestion
Leave something for pupils to explain.
Answer a question from the chart, then plan a safe real observation with adult guidance.
Try the teaching idea, then explore the full activity.
Resources for this teaching context
Explore tasks relevant to this teaching context. Check the learning goal and the programme version your class follows.
Languages and literacy
Book recommendation poster
Create a book recommendation that gives identifying details, a personal response and a reason a friend might enjoy the book.
Languages and literacy
Book review and reading log
Record reading, support an opinion with a reason and recommend books to an audience.
Maths
Birds at our bird feeder: collect and graph data
Pupils should convert all six tallies to frequencies, draw bars at two birds per square and answer comparison questions using the chart. They should also specify where, when and for how long a proposed survey would run.
Languages and literacy
Gail the Snail: ai and ee reading
Read words containing ai and ee, follow a short illustrated story and answer questions by referring back to the text.
Maths
Fractions three ways: show, compare and share
Represent fractions visually, recognise equivalent fractions, compare values and find a fraction of an amount.
Languages and literacy
Four sentence types: recognise and punctuate
Identify four sentence types and use suitable end punctuation in a set of examples and original sentences.
Science
Floating and sinking: test shape as well as material
Record predictions and observations for eight familiar objects, compare plasticine in two shapes and use the results to write a conclusion.
Science
Bees and pollination: know, wonder and learn
Use an inquiry chart to connect prior ideas, questions and information learned from a short text.
Languages and literacy
Narrative writing planner
Plan and write a short narrative with an ordered beginning, build-up, problem, resolution and ending, using sentence punctuation and selected descriptive vocabulary.
Languages and literacy
Non-fiction text features organiser
Identify common non-fiction text features, explain their purpose for a reader, and retrieve stated facts efficiently by skimming and scanning.
Maths
Place value and column calculation
Represent three-digit numbers in hundreds, tens and ones, partition them and calculate addition or subtraction in columns, exchanging when required.
Science
Process flowchart organiser
Represent a process in order, explain each step in their own words and show where a cycle returns or repeats.
Maths
Reasoning prompt cards
Explain a mathematical claim using an example, representation or calculation, then listen to a partner’s reasoning, compare approaches and explain why.
Languages and literacy
Billy Goats Gruff: story mapping and retelling
Identify characters and setting, sequence key events and retell a story in your own words using time-joining words.
Maths
Rounding to 10 and 100
Round whole numbers to the nearest ten or hundred and explain which digit or position determines the result.
Languages and literacy
Writing editing checklist
Use a staged checklist and agreed editing marks to identify possible changes in punctuation, grammar, cohesion and vocabulary, then give feedback about the writing rather than the writer.
View more in the Library
6 templates shown
Prepare it for your class.
Add the context that matters, keep the learning goal clear and check the new draft before sharing it.
- Confirm the class and prior learning.
- Check the source content and programme version.
- Keep an independent response for pupils.
Birds at our bird feeder: collect and graph data
Copy your brief into PLAI™, then review the draft for your class.
Questions about using PLAI™ for PYP teaching
Do I need to explain the PYP in every prompt?
Start by checking the programme context in the conversation. Your next request can focus on the task itself. Add class or unit details when they would change the activity.
Will PLAI™ know our school's current programme of inquiry?
Check what information it is using rather than assuming it has your latest school plan. Add the relevant unit details if they are missing.
Can I bring a topic of my own?
Yes. Replace the topic with the idea your class is exploring. Ask for an opening question or activity that gives learners room to investigate.
How can I make the activity suitable for younger learners?
State the age group when it matters. Ask for concrete materials, simpler language or a way to respond through talk, movement or drawing, then review the activity for your class.
Bring your next teaching task.
Start with one learning goal and shape the support around your class.
Start with PLAI™