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Tag: IPC curriculum

Inside Exit Points: Learning Through Real-World Projects

Posted on by Gary Ly

Exit Points are a celebration of learning at Anne Hill International School.

At Anne Hill International School (AHI), students demonstrate their learning in different ways, including through Exit Points, where they apply their knowledge and present their understanding through projects. However, as parents, it can sometimes be difficult to understand how these activities contribute to your child’s academic progress, especially when there is no traditional test involved. Understanding how Exit Points work, how students are assessed and how you can support your child can offer a clearer picture of this learning process.

What Is an Exit Point?

An Exit Point is the concluding stage of a unit in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). It gives students an opportunity to bring together their learning, reflect on what they have understood and share their ideas with others. In the IPC, the International Curriculum Association (ICA) describes Exit Points as a way for children to consolidate their learning and celebrate their achievements.

Photo: Year 7 students presenting on the topic of Relationships.

At AHI, Exit Points celebrate students’ learning at the end of each unit. Through project-based learning, students demonstrate their knowledge and skills while working towards their final presentations, performances or exhibitions. Projects like these help students develop critical thinking skills by making meaningful connections between different subjects and the unit’s Big Idea. Understanding how their learning applies to real-world contexts helps students transfer their knowledge to new situations and solve problems beyond the classroom (National Research Council, 2000).

Exit Points contribute to students’ overall summative assessment, which consists of an Exit Point evaluation and a subject assessment. Throughout the project, teachers observe and evaluate how effectively students collaborate, communicate and apply their learning from across the unit. In terms of grades, students receive an overall attainment judgement using four levels: Working Below, Working Towards, Working At or Greater Depth. Together, these provide a holistic measure of each student’s achievement.

Learn more about the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) at AHI

Read more about the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) at AHI
View this reel to know what Exit Point looks like at AHI: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1108958372055080

Preparing for Exit Points: How Parents Can Help

Photo: Year 8 students proudly presenting their group work to a parent.

IMYC Exit Points require a considerable amount of preparation, creativity and teamwork. Over the course of each unit, students work towards producing exhibitions that may include presentations, models, dioramas, posters, interactive displays and other creative projects. While students are given time in school to prepare, they are also expected to contribute to their Exit Point projects at home.

As Exit Points often involve group work, students need to take responsibility for their individual contributions. This may involve completing assigned tasks independently at home or arranging opportunities to meet and work collaboratively with their group members.

Photo: A parent supporting Year 9 students during their Exit Point.

Parents can support their children by encouraging them to manage their time, communicate with group members and share responsibilities fairly. They can also help with practical arrangements, such as gathering materials or organising group meetings. Lastly, show an interest in their child’s learning. Parents may ask questions about the project’s connection to the unit’s Big Idea or how it applies in a real-world context to spark your child’s curiosity and deepen their engagement with the topic.

As Mr. Matthew, Vice-Principal (Academic & Pastoral Care Y4–Middle Years), advises:

“Offer encouragement and guidance, but ensure the work remains your child’s own.”

Ultimately, Exit Points are an important opportunity for students to develop independence, responsibility and collaboration. With parental support and the freedom to take ownership of their work, students can build confidence in their abilities and take pride in their achievements.

Learning That Lasts: Holistic Education at AHI

Photo: Mr Sean, Head of School, learning about the Year 9 students’ work and discoveries.

At AHI, holistic education is central to the school’s vision of nurturing “well-rounded, globally-minded, lifelong learners”. The IPC supports this vision by combining academic learning with personal and international development. Through Exit Points, students apply their knowledge to real-world contexts, make connections between subjects and explore different perspectives.

Learn more about Holistic Education at AHI.

As students develop their projects, they practise values such as resilience, empathy, collaboration and respect. Taking responsibility for their contributions, working through challenges with their peers and presenting their ideas also helps them build confidence, independence and communication skills.

These experiences extend beyond the completion of an Exit Point. By diligently preparing for and carrying out a group project, students develop the skills and values needed to navigate new challenges, understand different perspectives and continue growing as learners.

Discover AHI’s learning environment:

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an Exit Point in school?

An Exit Point is the concluding stage of a unit in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) or International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). Students bring together what they have learnt and share their understanding through projects, presentations, exhibitions or other creative activities.

2. How is an Exit Point different from a test?

Unlike a traditional written test, an Exit Point allows students to demonstrate their learning through practical projects and presentations. Students apply their knowledge, make connections across subjects and develop skills such as communication, collaboration and creative thinking.

3. Are Exit Points graded?

Yes. Exit Points contribute to students’ overall summative assessment. Teachers evaluate students’ work as part of the Exit Point assessment, which is considered alongside a subject assessment. Students receive an overall attainment judgement of Working Below, Working Towards, Working At or Greater Depth.

4. What is the difference between IPC and IMYC?

The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is designed for primary-aged students, while the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) is designed for students in the middle years. Both use thematic units to connect learning across subjects.

5. How can parents support their child before an Exit Point?

Parents can help their children plan their time, organise materials and communicate with group members. Most importantly, parents should offer guidance while allowing their children to take responsibility for their own contributions.

References