Reflections

Reflection: Comparing the IB to Common Core Practices

I have noticed a shift into concept-focused learning from the US public education system I grew up with to the modern Common Core curriculum I teach now. For example, in 5th Grade I remember learning the process of multi-digit multiplication, but I never understood fully why we added a zero when multiplying the tens place value. I focused on accuracy and speed when I was in 5th Grade, but now teaching 5th Grade I have my students focus on why they did each step and challenging them with complex problems. This is a major similarity I find between IB and Common Core along with IB’s focus on learning in a community (small groups) and accommodating the needs of all students. The major difference I notice between the Common Core Curriculum and the IB is IB’s focus on inquiry-based learning throughout the primary years. I am familiar with an exploratory learning environment for children younger than elementary age, but to carry that freedom of learning and choice throughout schooling takes creativity from the curriculum coordinators and teaching staff. In IB, instead of presenting students with a division problem and explaining how to solve it with pictures, steps, etc; the teacher would perhaps present the students with a division problem and an answer, and have students work together to explain and show why the answer is correct. Also, the Common Core does not purposely plan use of globally-focused materials nor does it acknowledge common challenges everyone faces in the world (UNESCO’s Global Goals). IB aims to do this within its curriculum standards, and I am interested to know how IB teachers incorporate it into learning.