Planning the IB PYP Way: A Beginner's Guide to Unit Planning and Collaboration

Demystifying Planners, Central Ideas, and Team Teaching for the IB PYP Classroom Are you new to the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and feeling overwhelmed by the "planner," "central ideas," and collaborative unit design meetings? You're not alone—and this guide is here to help. Planning the PYP Way breaks down the core elements of transdisciplinary planning into clear, practical steps. Whether you're coming from a national curriculum or just starting your IB journey, this book offers the clarity and confidence you need to create meaningful, student-centered units of inquiry. What You'll Learn Inside: What exactly a UOI (Unit of Inquiry) is and what it isn't How to write a strong central idea and effective lines of inquiry The structure of a typical PYP planner (without the jargon) Practical ways to integrate ATL skills, learner profile traits, and key concepts How to collaborate in planner meetings without losing your mind What to do when your unit veers off course (because it will sometimes!) Written by an experienced PYP educator, this guide is filled with real-world tips, plain-language explanations, and ready-to-use tools that make planning in the PYP not just manageable, but inspiring. Bonus Tools Included: Editable UOI Planner Template Unit Planning Checklist 20 Collaboration Conversation Starters Reflective Journal Pages for Teachers Whether you're a classroom teacher, subject specialist, coordinator, or homeschooler adapting the PYP model, this pocket-sized powerhouse will make you say, "***Now I get it!***"