TMSE IB Newsletter

The International Baccalaureate® aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to develop challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.

These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

The TMSE Inquirer - September 2026

As we move into October we want to inquire into "Why IB?" to answer questions such as, but not limited to; Why is TMS-E an IB school? Why is IB a great program? Why does IB work?

TMS-E students are encouraged to ask questions. Additionally, we strive to inspire our parents, community members, and all stakeholders to do the same.

"Research plays a central role in the development, quality assurance and assessment of IB programme outcomes. The IB commissions research to leading research institutions and universities around the world, and also conducts a small number of studies in-house." (International Baccalaureate, Research, © International Baccalaureate Organization, 2005-2026)

Below you will find links to various IB publications that include important research and information that reinforce the efficacy of the International Baccalaureate Organization.

"The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a global leader in international education—developing inquiring, knowledgeable, confident, and caring young people. Our programmes empower school-aged students to take ownership in their own learning and help them develop future-ready skills to make a difference and thrive in a world that changes fast." (International Baccalaureate, About the International Baccalaureate (IB), © International Baccalaureate Organization, 2005-2026)

Third graders are digging into an exciting inquiry about the amazing ways plants and animals are built to grow, adapt, and survive! Throughout this unit, students are making connections across science, literacy, and hands-on learning as they explore the structures and adaptations found in the natural world. From gardening and germination to owl pellets, animal adaptations, and designing a brand-new species, our third graders are learning that every structure has a purpose, and discovering just how fascinating survival can be!

Central Idea: Animals and plants have structures that serve various functions in growth and survival.

Exploring Plant Structures & Growth

Through classroom investigations and garden lessons, students are examining seeds, roots, germination, plant life cycles, and seed dispersal. They are discovering how different plant structures have specific functions that help plants grow, reproduce, and survive in their environments.

Investigating Animal Adaptations

Students are becoming animal scientists as they explore how physical and behavioral adaptations help animals survive. One especially exciting investigation has been dissecting owl pellets! Students examined the bones they discovered, identified evidence of an owl's prey, and compared rodent skeletons to the human skeleton.

Connecting Science & Literacy

Their learning extends into reading, too! They are reading Poppy by Avi and a variety of nonfiction texts about animal adaptations. Through these texts, students are strengthening literacy skills such as identifying main ideas and supporting details, comparing and contrasting, and using evidence while deepening their understanding of the science concepts they are studying.

Applying their Learning

At the end of the unit, students will put everything they have learned to work by creating an entirely new animal! They will design its appearance, determine its habitat, identify what it eats and what might prey on it, and create unique adaptations that help their animal survive. Students will then present their newly created species to their classmates and explain how its structures and adaptations give it a survival advantage.

In November, third-grade students will visit the Birmingham Zoo, where they will have the opportunity to observe animals and their unique adaptations firsthand, making real-world connections to what they have learned about animal structures, habitats, and survival.

The IB learner profile consists of ten attributes that are fostered in students to develop well-rounded, internationally minded learners who are prepared to take meaningful action and make a positive difference in the world.

Inquirers: Curiosity and a love for learning are at the heart of being an inquirer. IB students are encouraged to ask questions, seek answers, and engage deeply with knowledge. This active engagement not only enhances their understanding of various subjects but also instils a lifelong passion for learning.

Knowledgeable: Being knowledgeable means more than just acquiring facts; it involves understanding and applying knowledge across various disciplines. IB students develop a broad and balanced perspective, enabling them to make connections between different areas of study and apply their learning in real-world contexts.

Thinker: Critical and creative thinking are fundamental to the IB philosophy. Students are taught to analyze information, evaluate different viewpoints, and generate innovative solutions to problems. This emphasis on thinking skills prepares students to tackle complex issues with confidence and creativity.

Communicators: Effective communication is crucial in both personal and academic life. IB students learn to express their ideas clearly, listen actively, and collaborate with others. These skills are essential for building relationships, working in teams, and contributing positively to their communities.

Principled: Ethical decision-making, integrity, and responsible behavior are core to being principled. IB students are taught to act with honesty and fairness, making principled choices that reflect their values and beliefs.

Open-minded: Being open-minded involves appreciating diverse perspectives and fostering empathy. IB students learn to value different viewpoints and develop the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate an interconnected world.

Caring: Empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards others are at the heart of being caring. IB students are encouraged to develop these character traits to nurture an inclusive and supportive community.

Risk-Taker: Risk-taking involves embracing challenges and stepping out of comfort zones. IB students learn to approach new situations with confidence and resilience, developing the adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Balanced: Maintaining balance between academic pursuits and other aspects of life is essential for overall well-being. IB students are taught to nurture their physical, emotional, and mental health, ensuring they lead balanced lives.

Reflective: Reflectiveness is crucial for personal growth and continuous improvement. IB students learn to reflect on their experiences, set goals, and adapt their approaches to become lifelong learners.

© International Baccalaureate Organization 2024

Parents and caregivers are important members of the PYP learning community. All members of the learning community from the youngest learners to school leaders to parents, educators and beyond, have a responsibility to be guided by the IB and the learner profile attributes. We encourage parents and caregivers to learn more through the following:

• Visit the IB website at www.ibo.org

• Attend school meetings and events

• Speak with your school’s PYP coordinator

• Speak with your child’s PYP classroom teacher

• Speak with your child