Welcome to our IB newsletter! This publication is your source for the latest updates, achievements, and upcoming events related to the International Baccalaureate program at our school.
We’re excited to share the vibrant world of IB with our community!
January 2026
Visible Thinking and Learning
Recently, several of our teachers attended the first session of a three-part workshop series offered by the Riverside School Board, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics (based on Peter Liljedahl’s book). This approach is guided by a clear philosophy: students learn mathematics more deeply, joyfully, and independently when they are actively thinking rather than passively following procedures. Sound familiar?
This emphasis on active, collaborative learning aligns perfectly with the IB framework and echoes last month’s IB Spotlights post on Conceptual Learning in the PYP: Why Conceptual Learning Matters.
…Metacognition, “thinking about thinking,” plays a significant role in this process. Students learn to plan how they will approach a task, check their understanding as they work, and reflect on what strategies help them learn best. These skills help students become self-directed, adaptable learners who take ownership of their learning. They do not just learn facts, but rather understand how those facts connect. (IB Spotlights-November2025)
Rich thinking emerges when teachers intentionally design tasks, routines, spaces, and interactions that empower students to actively reason, collaborate, and take ownership of their learning (also known as LEARNER AGENCY). Learning becomes social and collective (also known as the CONSTRUCTING KNOWLEDGE). In this model, the teacher serves as a guide on the side, a thinking activator, rather than merely a provider of knowledge or instructions.
At CPI, our teachers continue to be equipped with actionable strategies, tools, and resources for the classroom. It’s inspiring to see evidence of learning and visible thinking displayed right on the walls! (See photos below.)
For further information on how active thinking/learning happens in an IB classroom, follow the link here.
See PDF below for all pictures