Investigating issues of personal interest
In the final year of the MYP, all of our students undertake personal projects to explore, in depth, a topic of interest.
They establish their learning goals; they devise ways in which they will pursue them that draw not only on the MYP curriculum, but on their initiative as independent learners; and they determine how to demonstrate what they've learned through a significant piece of independent work.
This piece of work draws on many aspects of what they’ve learnt while studying the MYP. In the past, Personal Projects have included students making a short film, writing a book of poetry, starting up a small business, building a computer, organising a charity fundraiser, and hosting a football tournament to improve community relations.
How long does the project last?
The MYP Personal Project is a significant undertaking that’s carried out over several months. During this time, each student will receive one-to-one guidance from a supervisor.
How is it assessed?
Each student is assessed on three aspects of the Personal Project:
A process journal that documents their thinking, research process and the development of their initial ideas.
The product or outcome they create, which demonstrates their communication and social skills.
A report or presentation that explains what they have done and learned, and evaluates the quality of their product or outcome against the criteria they set for it.
Example of a personal project
As part of her MYP Personal Project, Grade 10 student Arabella Greve wrote a book titled Search For The Hero Inside Your Cells
The aim of the book is to encourage young people to register as a stem cell donor to help save people’s lives.
As a result, the charity Team Margot has asked if they can offer Arabella’s book as a digital download as part of their Giving to Help Others education programme for primary schools.
Giving to Help Others explains to children why it’s important that adults donate blood, stem cells and bone marrow, and encourages them to share this information with their parents and other adults.
Example of a personal project
As part of her MYP Personal Project, Grade 10 student Talia created a video titled International Girl
Talia captured her life as a student attending an international school from Early Years and what it means.
She reflects on the moments of having to adapt to new surroundings, make new friends, and bid farewell to friends.
In her inspiring video, she embraces change, cherishes friendships, and makes the most of the remarkable experiences that an international school offers.
To watch the video: https://youtu.be/aJzaDgy9TC8