The International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) is designed to nurture young learners into active, inquisitive, and thoughtful individuals who are prepared for the complexities of the modern world. A key component of this educational framework is the Programme of Inquiry (POI)—a structured yet dynamic approach to learning that integrates transdisciplinary themes across different grade levels.

At the heart of the PYP Programme of Inquiry is the belief that students learn best when they are engaged in meaningful, real-world investigations that encourage critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and reflection. Each grade level explores six transdisciplinary themes that provide a framework for inquiry-based learning:

The Six Transdisciplinary Themes

Who We Are: exploring identity, personal development, relationships, and well-being

Where We Are in Place and Time: investigating historical events, heritage, migration, and exploration

How We Express Ourselves: understanding the diverse ways people communicate through art, literature, and creativity

How the World Works: examining scientific and technological phenomena, innovation, and the natural world

How We Organize Ourselves: analyzing human-made systems, governance, and economic structures

Sharing the Planet: investigating environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and global citizenship

Each theme is explored through units of inquiry, which help students connect concepts across multiple disciplines and apply their learning in authentic ways. Following is a closer look at how these units unfold across different grade levels.

The PYP Programme of Inquiry: Highlights by Grade Level

Early Years: Kindergarten and Reception

In the early years, inquiry is centered around discovery, play, and foundational learning experiences.

Kindergarten students explore concepts such as personal identity ("We are all special people who like and do different things"), artistic expression ("We can express the changes in nature through art"), and the role of community helpers. They also develop an understanding of materials through hands-on exploration.

Reception students inquire into imagination, storytelling, and their relationship with the environment. Units such as "Minibeasts play a vital role in our environment" encourage curiosity about nature, while the study of endangered animals introduces early ideas of conservation and responsibility.

PYP1: Building Foundations for Inquiry

Students in PYP1 begin to explore how their choices influence their well-being, how families are connected across time, and how artistic performances help communicate emotions and culture. Science-based inquiries include "Weather systems and changes impact our daily lives," while social inquiries examine the role of communities in supporting safety and belonging.

PYP2: Understanding the World and Our Place in It

At this stage, students engage in deeper inquiries about rights and responsibilities, migration, storytelling, and sustainability. Highlights include:

•  "People migrate for various reasons, affecting their lives and the places they go to" – a historical and cultural exploration of migration.
•  "The Earth is a unique planet in a vast and fascinating universe" – encouraging scientific inquiry into the solar system.
•  "People can establish practices to sustain and maintain the Earth’s resources" – a unit that promotes eco-friendly habits and environmental responsibility.

PYP3: Innovation and Creativity

This year emphasizes creativity, historical perspectives, and engineering:

• "People enjoy expressing and extending their creativity through the Arts" – a celebration of artistic expression.
• "Simple machines make work more efficient" – introducing fundamental engineering concepts.
• "Humans are responsible for actions that change the environment" – exploring the impact of human activities on nature.

PYP4: Exploring Systems and Change

Students in PYP4 begin to analyze more complex systems and their effects on society:

• "Exploration and discovery change how we see and understand the world" – investigating the role of explorers and scientists.
• "Critical consumers understand the persuasive techniques used in media" – developing media literacy skills.
• "Engineers use scientific laws and the design cycle to solve problems" – hands-on experimentation with engineering and physics.

PYP5: Preparing for the PYP Exhibition

As the culminating year of the PYP, PYP5 students take ownership of their learning through independent inquiries and leadership roles. Highlights include:

•   The PYP Exhibition – a student-led research project that demonstrates deep inquiry into a self-chosen topic.
•   "Humans develop systems to organize and govern themselves" – exploring government structures and decision-making.
•   "Equal opportunity is essential for building a just and inclusive society" – encouraging advocacy and action for social justice.

The Impact of the Programme of Inquiry

The Programme of Inquiry is more than just a curriculum—it’s a framework that encourages lifelong learning, curiosity, and action. Through hands-on projects, student-led discussions, and cross-disciplinary connections, students develop essential skills, such as:

• Critical thinking: analyzing information and forming reasoned conclusions
• Collaboration: working with peers to solve complex problems
• Communication: expressing ideas effectively across various mediums
• Global awareness: understanding different perspectives and cultures

With each year, students build upon previous knowledge, developing a strong foundation for the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and beyond.

A Journey of Inquiry and Discovery

The PYP Programme of Inquiry ensures that students develop intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and the ability to think critically about the world around them. Whether they’re investigating the water cycle, exploring historical civilizations, or analyzing how media influences perception, each unit of inquiry provides opportunities for meaningful, real-world learning.

By fostering a love for learning, collaboration, and global citizenship, the PYP Programme of Inquiry prepares students not just for academic success, but for a future where they can think, innovate, and make a difference.

At our school, the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is the backbone of community involvement, enriching student life, supporting teachers, and bringing families together. From organizing social events to running fundraisers and supporting essential school programs, the PTO plays an invaluable role in making our school a vibrant and welcoming place. Here’s a look at JUST SOME of the amazing work they do!

Bringing Families Together: Community Events

One of the PTO’s main missions is to create opportunities for parents, students, and staff to connect. They host a variety of events throughout the year, giving everyone a chance to socialize and build strong relationships. Following are some of these events:

• Coffee Mornings (June 5, 8:00 a.m. in the MYP Lounge) – A wonderful opportunity for parents to gather over coffee, share experiences, and discuss school-related topics in a relaxed setting.
• Happy Hour (May 14, 3:30 p.m. in the PYP Lounge) – A chance to unwind, meet other parents, and enjoy the spring season together.
• Parents & Tots Gatherings (Every Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. in the Kindergarten area) – A special event for families with younger children to come together, play, and bond.
• Teacher Appreciation Week (June 10–12) – To show gratitude, the PTO organizes Teacher Appreciation Week, where parents can volunteer to help celebrate and recognize the dedication of our educators.
• Summer Fair (June 13, 12:30 p.m.) – A fun-filled event where students, parents, and staff come together for games, activities, and community bonding, the PTO works hard to organize and prepare for this exciting day, ensuring it’s an unforgettable experience for all.

These events foster a sense of belonging and ensure that every family feels connected to the school.

Giving Back: Fundraisers & Donations

The PTO also spearheads fundraising initiatives that directly benefit the school and its students.

• Gooding & Schulengel Online Shopping Donations – Through these platforms, parents can turn their regular online shopping into a fundraising opportunity. A percentage of every purchase goes directly to supporting school initiatives at no extra cost to shoppers. Learn more at www.gooding.de/strothoff-international-school-117501.
• Second-Hand Uniform Shop (Mondays, 2:15–3:30 p.m. in the MYP Lounge) – Families can donate or purchase pre-loved school uniforms at affordable prices, making school attire accessible while promoting sustainability. Check out the stock at docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a85QNMd07dlrHTBURqfXNYqrblfjHZK6zsPy2dIkW_Q/edit.

Welcoming New Families: PTO Welcome Book & Survey

Transitioning to a new school can be challenging, but our PTO ensures that every new family feels at home.

• The PTO Welcome Book is a fantastic guide full of information about the school, local recommendations, and helpful tips for new families.
• Parents are invited to share their favorite parks, restaurants, and museums through a short survey, helping to enhance this resource for newcomers. You can add your own favorites to their survey at docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfckJpRijipCHFuGU_k3Zh7XKDc-tQJxFeosUZZoSBKwPNAkg/viewform.

Looking Back: Highlights from This Year

In addition to the exciting events planned for the coming months, the PTO has already hosted some unforgettable celebrations that brought joy to students, staff, and families.

Halloween Party – Every year the PTO puts together an epic, spook-tacular event with costumes, decorations, and fun activities that have students and parents enjoying a day of festive thrills! From creative costumes to exciting games, this event is always a huge success and an annual favorite!

Thanksgiving Feast – Bringing a taste of tradition to our school, the PTO organized a heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration where students and staff enjoyed a festive meal together. It was a beautiful way to reflect on gratitude and share a sense of community.

Winter Market – Just before the holidays, the PTO transformed the school into a festive marketplace filled with delicious treats and seasonal cheer.

These past events are a testament to the dedication and passion of the PTO in creating memorable experiences for our school family.

How You Can Get Involved

The PTO is always looking for parents who want to contribute their time, ideas, and talents to make our school community even stronger. Whether it's helping with an event, sharing expertise, or joining the leadership team, there are many ways to get involved.

Contact the PTO at:

• General inquiries: pto.core.sis@gmail.com
• Events: pto.events.sis@gmail.com
• Second-hand uniform shop: pto.uniform.sis@gmail.com
• Welcome committee: pto.welcome.sis@gmail.com

For a full list of activities and updates, visit the PTO Linktree: linktr.ee/PTOSIS

Thank You, PTO!

We are incredibly grateful for all your hard work and dedication of our PTO members. Your efforts make our school a better place for students, parents, and teachers alike. Whether it’s organizing a fun event, showing appreciation for staff, or supporting students through fundraising, your impact is felt throughout the school community!

Let’s continue to support and celebrate our PTO as they bring positive change and create unforgettable experiences for all of us!

At our school, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our After School Activities program offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, skill levels, and age groups. Whether students want to explore sports, arts, technology, or academic enrichment, we provide an engaging environment where they can learn, grow, and have fun. Here's a closer look at our activities and what makes them special.

A Variety of Activities for All Ages
Our after-school program is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop new skills, discover passions, and build friendships. With clubs running across all weekdays, students can participate in a variety of engaging activities.

Sports and Physical Activities
For students who enjoy staying active, our sports clubs offer a fantastic way to build teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. Some of our most popular sports activities include:

• Football/Soccer – A favorite among many students, fostering teamwork and agility
• Gymnastics – Helping students develop flexibility, strength, and coordination
• Tennis – Available for both PYP and MYP students, perfect for those who love racket sports
• Judo & Self-Defense – Teaching discipline, respect, and self-protection techniques
• Badminton & Volleyball – Offering a mix of competition and fun for students across different grade levels
• Track and Field Club – An excellent choice for students looking to improve their running and athletic abilities
• Ballschule – Designed for young learners to develop motor skills through engaging ball games

Creative and Performing Arts
For those with a creative spark, our arts-focused clubs provide a space to express their talents:

• Breakdance & Hip Hop Dance – Encouraging students to develop rhythm, coordination, and confidence
• Jewelry Club – Allowing students to craft their own beautiful accessories
• Elements of Art – A creative space where students explore different artistic techniques
• Lego Club – Inspiring creativity and problem-solving through fun and engaging projects
• Origami – Teaching the traditional Japanese art of paper folding
• Comics Club – A gathering space for students passionate about storytelling and drawing

Academic and STEM Enrichment
For students who love challenges and problem-solving, our academic and STEM clubs provide intellectually stimulating environments:

• Chess Club – Helping students develop strategic thinking and patience
• Coding Club – Introducing students to programming and problem-solving in an interactive way
• Mathematics Club – Offering additional support and challenging math problems to enhance learning
• Robot Games – A fun introduction to programming and robotics for younger students
• English and German Language & Literature – Supporting students with their language studies
• German Language Assistance (LA) – Providing additional support for students learning German

Wellness and Mindfulness
For students looking to relax and focus on their well-being, we offer:

• Yoga – Helping students develop mindfulness and flexibility
• Mental Health Club – Providing a supportive space to discuss emotional well-being

Specialized Clubs for Young Learners
We ensure that our youngest students have clubs tailored to their needs. Our Kindergarten, Reception, and PYP clubs are designed to be interactive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate:

• After-School Clubs for Kindergarten & Reception – Led by experienced staff, these clubs provide a structured yet playful environment
• Energy Cubes Club – Encouraging physical activity in a fun and dynamic way

Why Join an After-School Club?
Our after-school clubs are more than just extracurricular activities. They provide students with opportunities to:

•  Develop new skills and talents
•  Build confidence and social connections
•  Enhance their academic knowledge in a relaxed setting
•  Stay active and improve their physical health
•  Engage in a safe and supervised environment after school

Join Us Today!

With so many exciting options available, there’s something for every student in our after-school club program. Whether your child is interested in sports, arts, STEM, or personal development, we encourage them to explore and participate in an activity that excites them.

For more information on specific clubs, schedules, and how to sign up, please contact the school’s after-school activities coordinator, Mr. Bedirhan Kucuk at bedirhan.kucuk@sischool.de.

Let’s make after-school hours fun, engaging, and meaningful!

As we wrap up the IB DP2 mock exams today, February 5, at Strothoff International School, we take a moment to reflect on the significance of this crucial academic experience. These exams, held from January 27 to February 5, have provided our students with an invaluable opportunity to test their knowledge, refine their skills, and build confidence ahead of the final International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations.

The Purpose and Benefits of Mock Exams

Mock exams serve as a critical checkpoint for DP2 students, simulating the conditions of the final IB exams. The primary objectives of these exams include:

• Assessment of Readiness: By taking the mock exams under timed and realistic exam conditions, students can gauge their preparedness, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
• Stress Management Practice: Experiencing exam pressure in a controlled environment helps students develop strategies to manage stress and time effectively.
• Refining Exam Techniques: Mock exams allow students to practice answering different types of IB questions, improving their ability to structure responses and apply concepts effectively.
• Feedback for Improvement: The results and teacher feedback from these exams offer students targeted insights into where they need to focus their efforts in the coming months.

A Moment of Pride and Congratulations

Today marks the last day of this intensive assessment period, and we could not be prouder of our DP2 students. Their hard work, dedication, and perseverance throughout this process have been truly commendable. Each student has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to excellence, which will undoubtedly serve them well in their final exams and future endeavors.

As we move forward, we encourage our students to take the lessons learned from these mock exams and use them to fine-tune their studies. We are confident that their efforts will lead to outstanding results in the final IB examinations.

Congratulations to all our DP2 students—you have shown remarkable dedication, and we celebrate your achievements! Keep striving for success, and know that your school community is behind you every step of the way.

At our school, we are thrilled to continue PETS—Practicing Empathy, Tierheim Support—a club led by Mrs. Slough-Kuß and Mr. Slough. PETS is dedicated to helping our local humane society in Dreieich (Tierheim Dreieich e.V.) through meaningful, hands-on service. This club, part of our students' Service and Action activities and CAS projects, allows students from DP1 and MYP to make a tangible impact in their community. Here’s a closer look at the vision and efforts behind PETS, shared by the club's leaders.
 
The Mission of PETS: Think Global, Act Local
 
The heart of PETS lies in its mission: “Think global, act local.” The club aims to foster a lasting, supportive relationship with the Dreieich humane society, which provides care for animals in need. By gathering donations and providing essential supplies, PETS members are ensuring that the humane society can continue its work while building connections within the community. Mrs. Slough-Kuß and Mr. Slough envision PETS as a sustainable initiative that encourages empathy and kindness toward animals.
 
How It Works: Donation Drives and On-Campus Pet Store
 
One of PETS's most successful initiatives is their on-campus pet store, where students and parents can purchase pet supplies that are immediately donated. The process is simple and effective: the club members stock items for sale in the school lobby, and anyone can purchase them and place them in a designated shopping cart. From there, all donations go directly to the humane society.
 
This system has proven to be a hit, with regular drop-offs to the humane society. Mrs. Slough-Kuß notes that the donation cart is always available in the lobby, allowing for ongoing contributions. Items that are especially needed include wet cat and dog food (dry food is also accepted, but the humane society specifically needs wet food), blankets, towels, pet beds, and supplies for smaller animals like rabbits and birds. Cleaning supplies are also in high demand, as they help the humane society maintain a safe and sanitary environment for the animals.
 
Upcoming Initiatives and Parent Involvement
 
PETS is also working closely with the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) to maximize their outreach and participation. As more parents come into the school during PTO events, the club is planning to increase the frequency of their sales to align with these events, with hopes of hosting one sale per month. This collaboration will allow the club to make an even greater impact and engage a larger portion of the school community.
 
Beyond donations, PETS has some ambitious plans in the works. One project Mr. Slough is exploring includes purchasing an industrial-grade air filter for the humane society, which would help keep the shelter clean and safe for the animals and the employees. However, finding the right device has proven challenging. PETS would love to connect with any parents in our school community who work for industrial device companies and could offer insight or assistance in locating an appropriate air filter.
 
Celebrating Pets as Part of the Family
 
PETS also celebrates the bond between students and their pets. As part of this initiative, anyone in the school who has a pet is encouraged to send in a picture of themselves with their pet, along with their name and the pet’s name. These photos are then displayed on a “Pet Wall,” which has been growing week by week. This special wall reminds everyone that pets are more than animals—they’re family members, too.
 
Looking Forward: Education and Long-Term Goals
 
While PETS is still in its early stages, the club leaders have exciting long-term goals. They hope to invite speakers from the humane society to visit our school and share insights into animal welfare, stray animals in Germany, and the responsibilities of pet ownership. PETS is even exploring the possibility of inviting a veterinarian to educate students on animal care. By creating these opportunities, PETS aims to deepen students' understanding and empathy for animals while fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion.
 
Get Involved and Make a Difference with PETS
 
The PETS club is making a real impact in Dreieich, and they invite the entire school community to get involved. Whether it’s through donating supplies, purchasing items from the pet store, or simply sending in a photo for the Pet Wall, every contribution helps. For parents or guardians with professional expertise in industrial devices, your knowledge could greatly assist PETS in securing the air filter that would make a significant difference for the humane society.
 
Through these efforts, PETS demonstrates how a small group of committed students, supported by dedicated teachers and parents, can make a big difference. PETS is more than a school club—it’s a movement towards empathy, community connection, and the well-being of all creatures in need.

At Strothoff, the IB program's focus on inquiry-based learning and real-world applications is evident in the way we prepare students for their Internal Assessments (IAs). Mrs. Binish, one of our experienced science teachers, sheds light on how we build students' skills for these assessments throughout their time in secondary school.

“We start as early as MYP1, where students begin working on science lab reports," Mrs. Binish explains. "Over the course of five years, they continuously build on these skills, so by the time they reach DP1 and DP2, they're ready to take on more complex investigations.”

In DP1 and DP2, students are asked to design and evaluate small investigations. Mrs. Binish notes, “We break the process into manageable steps. For instance, I might ask them to design the experiment and then pose questions about how they would evaluate the data. Through these smaller tasks, they gradually develop the ability to design their own full investigations.”

One example is when students learn about photosynthesis in biology. "We discuss how to measure photosynthesis through various methods, and students then design their own small experiments," Mrs. Binish says. "For instance, we explore which pigments are essential for photosynthesis, like chlorophyll, and students investigate factors that could impact it."

She highlights some recent student projects: “One student is exploring how different levels of nitrogen available to plants affect their ability to perform photosynthesis. Another is measuring photosynthesis in plants with different-colored leaves—purple, yellow, red, green—to determine if the rate of photosynthesis changes based on leaf color.”

These investigations allow students to extend their learning beyond the classroom. "It’s about applying classroom concepts to real-world scenarios," Mrs. Binish explains. "Students aren’t just memorizing facts; they’re developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills by designing their own experiments."

By the time students complete their IAs, they’ve gained valuable experience in scientific inquiry, data evaluation, and experimentation—skills that will serve them well in higher education and beyond.

For families and students new to Germany, learning German can feel like a challenge. However, Ms. Jameela, one of our dedicated German teachers, has shared some valuable advice to help newcomers ease into the language and culture.

One of her top recommendations for students is to join sports clubs. "This is a great way to learn German," Ms. Jameela explains. "Kids have a natural ability to connect with others, even with language barriers. Being involved in activities after and outside of school allows them to pick up the language in a fun and interactive setting."

For parents, she encourages involvement in school activities. "We have many parents who are active in the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization), and some of them don't speak German at first. However, through participation, they start learning the language alongside their children. It's a fantastic way for families to learn together."

Ms. Jameela also recommends some practical tips for language learning at home. "I often tell students to watch shows like Peppa Pig in both English and German. They can watch an episode in English first and then in German. This method has helped many of my students make connections between the two languages. One student recently shared that he realized 'Wutz' means 'pig' in German just from watching these episodes, and he's learned a lot of new vocabulary this way."

Reading is another essential tool for language acquisition. "I encourage students to read as much as they can, starting with appropriately leveled books. The more they read, the more their vocabulary expands. We provide plenty of time in the school library for students to select books, and we also offer bilingual books in both English and German. This is a great resource not only for students but for parents as well. When children bring these books home, parents can join in the learning process by reading with them, exploring the meanings of new words, and practicing pronunciation together."

Ms. Jameela also emphasizes the importance of listening to German regularly. "I provide parents with a list of kid-friendly shows that are not only suitable for their child’s language level but enjoyable for them to watch together. This helps both students and parents build confidence in understanding spoken German."

At Strothoff, we support students and their families in every step of their journey toward fluency in German. With a combination of engaging activities, resources, and guidance from our teachers, learning German can be an enriching experience for newcomers.