The Program of Inquiry (POI) is the framework for necessary learning in
order to be an educated person. It is comprised of 6 consistent
transdisciplinary themes at each grade level. These themes include "Who we
are", "Where we are in place and time", "How we express ourselves", "How
the world works", "How we organize ourselves", and "Sharing the Planet".
The detailed descriptions of each theme are as follows:
Who we are
An inquiry into the nature of the self; beliefs and values; personal,
physical, mental, social and spiritual health; human relationships including
families, friends, communities, and cultures; rights and responsibilities;
of what it means to be human.
Where we are in place and time
An inquiry into orientation in place and time; personal histories; homes and
journeys; the discoveries, explorations and migrations of humankind; the
relationships between and the interconnectedness of individuals and
civilizations, from local and global perspectives.
How we express ourselves
An inquiry into the ways in which we discover and express ideas, feelings,
nature, culture, beliefs, and values; the ways in which we reflect on,
extend and enjoy our creativity; our appreciation of the aesthetic
How the world works
An inquiry into the natural world and its laws; the interaction between the
natural world (physical and biological) and human societies; how humans use
their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and
technological advances on society and on the environment.
How we organize ourselves
An inquiry into the interconnectedness of human-made systems and
communities; the structure and function of organizations; societal decision-
making; economic activities and their impact on humankind and the
environment.
Sharing the Planet
An inquiry into rights and responsibilities in the struggle to share finite
resources with other people and with other living things; communities and
relationships within and between them; access to equal opportunities; peace
and conflict resolution.
Making It Happen, IBO, 2007
Sarah Smith's Program of Inquiry is on display in the school lobby. Please
note that the Program of Inquiry should be viewed as a "living" document in
that rather than remaining static, it will undergo improvements as
necessary. If you have any suggestions or comments, please feel free to
contact me at jjohnston@atlanta.k12.ga.us or just click the mailbox on the
homepage of this website.
