Essential Agreement: A Fundamental Component of the PYP
The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is an international baccalaureate (IB) programme designed for children aged 3-12 years. As an inquiry-based approach to learning, the PYP fosters curiosity, self-reflection, and a lifelong love of learning. One of the core components of the PYP is the Essential Agreement, which is a fundamental aspect of building a safe and supportive learning environment.
What is an Essential Agreement?
An Essential Agreement is a set of guidelines or rules that the class or learning group creates together. The aim of the Essential Agreement is to establish a set of shared expectations and behaviours that everyone in the group agrees to follow. The Essential Agreement is an essential component of the PYP because it promotes a sense of community and responsibility within the class.
Why is an Essential Agreement Important?
An Essential Agreement is important for several reasons:
1. Establishes a Safe and Supportive Environment
Creating an Essential Agreement provides students with a sense of ownership and control over their learning environment. It helps to establish a safe and supportive learning space where everyone feels valued and respected.
2. Encourages Responsibility
The process of collaboration and negotiation that goes into creating an Essential Agreement fosters a sense of responsibility among students. When students agree to follow a set of guidelines, they take ownership of their behaviour and become more accountable for their actions.
3. Promotes Self-Reflection
Creating an Essential Agreement encourages students to reflect on their behaviour and the impact it has on others. It helps them to recognise their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth.
4. Supports the PYP Learner Profile
The PYP Learner Profile identifies ten attributes that are essential for successful learning. The Essential Agreement can support the development of these attributes by fostering respect, cooperation, and empathy among students.
How to Create an Essential Agreement
Creating an Essential Agreement is a collaborative process that involves the whole class or learning group. Here are the steps you can follow to create an Essential Agreement:
1. Brainstorm Ideas
Begin the process by asking students to brainstorm ideas for guidelines or rules that everyone in the class should follow. Encourage them to think about the behaviours and actions that would support a safe and supportive learning environment.
2. Categorise Ideas
Once students have generated a list of ideas, categorise them into themes. This will help to identify common themes and group similar ideas together.
3. Create a Draft
Using the categorised ideas, create a draft Essential Agreement. This should include a set of guidelines or rules that everyone in the class agrees to follow.
4. Finalise the Agreement
Discuss the draft Essential Agreement with the class and make any necessary revisions. Once the Essential Agreement is finalised, display it in the classroom where everyone can see it.
Conclusion
The Essential Agreement is a fundamental component of the PYP. It provides students with a sense of ownership and control over their learning environment, encourages responsibility, promotes self-reflection, and supports the development of the PYP Learner Profile attributes. By creating an Essential Agreement together, students become active participants in their learning and build a strong sense of community.