Third graders at our International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) schools are wrapping up their Sharing the Planet unit, where they explored the central idea that living things have structures and behaviors that help them survive.

After studying the five major biomes – desert, forest, grassland, tundra, and aquatic – Susan Lindgren students became researchers, diving into a variety of sources to learn more about how living things survive in these environments.

They used this research to imagine and “discover” a brand-new plant or animal species uniquely suited to one of the biomes. Each species featured three physical adaptations and three behavioral adaptations designed to help it survive, grow, and reproduce. From camouflage strategies to clever food-finding behaviors, their ideas were thoughtful, evidence-based, and often wildly creative!

At our recent celebration event, students proudly presented their species to families and peers. Through this hands-on, minds-on experience, they didn’t just build science knowledge – they grew as communicators, researchers, and problem-solvers.

Here are a few snapshots from the day – we hope you enjoy this window into their learning, curiosity, and creativity!